Appointments made to state boards and commissions

October 16, 2026

MARQUETTE — An Upper Peninsula resident has been appointed to a key state commission by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Whitmer also named a member of the Michigan Technological University Board of Trustees. George Lindquist of Negaunee was named to the Natural Resources Commission. He is retired and a past president of Michigan United Conservation Clubs. Lindquist is a member of U.P. Whitetails of Marquette County, the Big Bay Sportsmen’s Club and the U.P. Sportsmen’s Alliance. Lindquist previously served on the Lake Superior Citizens Advisory Council, the West U.P Citizen’s Advisory ...

Haunted Barn at fairgrounds has old favorites, new frights

October 15, 2026

NORWAY — Something wicked is stirring at the Dickinson County Fairgrounds in Norway, where the Haunted Barn is getting ready to unleash a fresh batch of frights, creepy new scenes and plenty of Halloween surprises. The group Friends of the Dickinson County Fair is bringing back the ...

Objections raised about prayers before Dickinson board’s regular meetings

October 15, 2026

IRON MOUNTAIN — A citizen has asked Dickinson County commissioners to drop their policy that allows prayers before regular meetings and instead observe a moment of silence. County resident John Trester told the board Monday that its policy approved in January 2025 is “unnecessary and divisive.” Implementing a moment of silence “maintains strict legal safety” for the county, while allowing individuals of all backgrounds to pray or reflect privately “according to their own conscience,” he said. Before the board’s prayer policy was approved, attorney Steven Tinti of ...

IM school board gets update on plans for building improvements

October 15, 2026

IRON MOUNTAIN — The Iron Mountain School Board received an update from Superintendent Jerry Sardina on district building improvements being considered. HVAC upgrades are needed at several buildings as well as a new fire suppression system at North Elementary. District officials are working to create a more detailed list and timelines for repairs. Some other items include window replacement, track resurfacing, field house repairs, plumbing and electrical work, roofing and concession stand repairs. Some modifications need to be made to renovation plans at the industrial arts building, ...

Rain brings relief, new challenges for DNR crews fighting UP wildfires

October 15, 2026

MARQUETTE AND BARAGA COUNTIES — Rain has helped reduce two Upper Peninsula wildfires, giving firefighters an opportunity to improve access to remote areas and strengthen containment lines. However, muddy roads, slippery rocks and underground burning continue to pose hazards for crews. ...

What’s all the buzz about yellowjackets this fall?

October 15, 2026

LANSING — Yellowjackets are a commonly found pest flying around your residence during the summer and fall. They sting, bite and are more aggressive than your average bumble bee. A noticeable rise in yellowjacket populations in Michigan has left people wondering: Why am I getting stung so ...