The Issues
Recent Articles
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.
Ice and Ice, Warming Centers in Your UP Community, and Four Dead People to Dine With
Ice and Ice, Warming Centers in Your UP Community, and Four Dead People to Dine With. Read this week’s Rural Whispers, Noise & Rumors by David Haynes.
Viewing Nature: An Analysis of Exposure to Nature in the Upper Peninsula
New research shows that trees and greenspace don’t just make our communities look better–they actively support mental and physical health. In the U.P.’s cities, tree cover varies widely, meaning some neighborhoods benefit more than others. Planting trees is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to improve long-term health outcomes.
