The Issues
Recent Articles
NMU Professor Publishes New Book, 2026 Ballot Proposals, Food Insecurity Programs in the UP, and Michigan: A Poor State?
NMU Professor Publishes New Book, 2026 Ballot Proposals, Food Insecurity Programs in the UP, and Michigan: A Poor State? Read this week’s Rural Whispers, Noise & Rumors by David Haynes.
Fewer Hands, More Pressure: Local Government Challenges in the U.P.
Communities in the U.P. rely on residents stepping up, but new survey data shows local governments are struggling to find people willing to run for office or serve on boards. In small towns, participation isn’t optional–it’s what keeps communities running.
Food Insecurity in the UP, a Cemetery for UP Veterans, MTU Creates New Degree, & Requiring Proof to Vote in Michigan?
Food Insecurity in the UP, a Cemetery for UP Veterans, MTU Creates New Degree, & Requiring Proof to Vote in Michigan? Read this week’s Rural Whispers, Noise & Rumors by David Haynes.
Major Richard Star Act
U.S. Army veteran Jim Hay argues that combat-wounded veterans shouldn’t be penalized for their sacrifice, and that it’s time to fix this.
Marquette Area Public Schools: A Case for Modernization
Marquette Area Public Schools is proposing a $60 million bond to address urgent building repairs, improve safety, and modernize learning spaces across all district schools. Eric Smith argues that this plan focuses on cost-effective renovations—not replacements—to enhance student learning environments, ensure accessibility, and invest in the region’s future workforce.
What it Means to Be a Citizen of the United States of America (Part 3 of 3)
Barry Kaye concludes his analysis of what it means to be an American citizen in Part Three of this series.
A chance to reclaim your state government
Tom Watkins wrote in Michigan Advance recently about the need for a Constitutional Convention in Michigan.
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.
