The Issues
Recent Articles
Zero Migration: Implications for the U.P.
New analysis highlights how strict immigration policies and declining birth rates are reshaping population trends—especially in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With more deaths than births and fewer immigrants arriving, long-term population decline and labor shortages may pose serious economic challenges for the region and beyond.
What it Means to Be a Citizen of the United States of America (Part 2 of 3)
What does it mean to be a U.S. citizen? Barry Kaye continues his discussion around this question in Part 2 of 3 in this series.
Michigan Political Parties Holding Nominating Conventions, and Some Trivia
Michigan Political Parties Holding Nominating Conventions, and Some Trivia. Read this week’s Rural Whispers, Noise & Rumors by David Haynes.
From Michigan Advance: Voters being misled about the cause of Michigan’s economic decline
Michigan Advance’s Rick Haglund writes, “A recent statewide poll conducted for the Detroit Regional Chamber found voters think Michigan fares about average compared to other states in education, reading, income and jobs. But the stark reality is that the state is near the bottom in almost every one of those categories.”
What it Means to Be a Citizen of the United States of America (Part 1 of 3)
What does it truly mean to be a citizen of the United States? From Lincoln’s time to today, the question of unity, liberty, and responsibility remains as relevant as ever. Read Part 1 of 3 of Barry Kaye’s thoughtful reflection shaped by a lifetime of experience.
Surviving the Snow of the Decade, New Big Bay Environmental Center, Access to Higher Education, UP Gas Prices, Millages, & NCAA Playoff Representation
Surviving the Snow of the Decade, New Big Bay Environmental Center, Access to Higher Education, UP Gas Prices, Millages, & NCAA Playoff Representation. Read this week’s Rural Whispers, Noise & Rumors by David Haynes.
A strong foundation of local democracy in the U.P.
Local democracy often gets overshadowed by national politics, but the health of our communities starts closer to home. New research looking at Upper Peninsula local officials shows how leaders here view the strength of democracy at the federal, state, and local levels. The results offer an interesting snapshot of how democracy is functioning across the U.P.
President Trump, Canada, the Upper Peninsula and Tourists
Fewer Canadians are crossing the border into Michigan, and U.P. businesses are beginning to feel the impact. New data shows a sharp decline in cross-border travel and its potential effects on the local economy.
Prayers for Massey Family, LSSU Gets Large Grant, Tightening of Michigan Voter Rules, Michigan K-12 Reform, Veterans Hotline, and Michiganders in Mexico
Prayers for Massey Family, LSSU Gets Large Grant, Tightening of Michigan Voter Rules, Michigan K-12 Reform, Veterans Hotline, and Michiganders in Mexico. Read this week’s Rural Whispers, Noise & Rumors by David Haynes.
Maintenance, Not Growth: U.P. Local Leaders Reflect Statewide Funding Strains
A new Michigan Public Policy Survey report highlights what many U.P. communities have been feeling for years: local governments are stretched thin, costs are rising, and there are limited options to bring in new revenue.
