Michigan’s governor says he’s still weighing the pros and cons of signing a bill to end straight-ticket voting in the state. The bill to do away with the check box for Democrat or Republican at the top of your ballot was passed by both the Michigan House and Senate late …

Researchers at the University of Michigan will receive $250,000 to develop materials that can prevent concussions. Professor Ellen Arruda with U of M’s Mechanical Engineering Department says they’re studying how to minimize the effects of hits to the head. The university was one of five winners in the final phase …

Some state lawmakers are making sure a Christian Nativity scene can be seen on the Capitol lawn this holiday. Senator Ken Horn bought the Nativity from Bronner’s Christmas store, which is being displayed next to the Capitol. He says Senator Rick Jones has volunteered to set up the Nativity each …

Many people are heading to the airports this time of year with the promise that they will be home for Christmas. With the increased security at all airports, there are some important regulations to keep in mind as you pack. If you are planning to bring gifts with you, you …

Portage Lake District library has a new director. Dillon Geshel was hired into the position after a unanimous vote by the Library’s Board of Trustees. Geshel has been serving as interim director since the previous director retired. Geshel says he grew up in the area, so he’s familiar with the …

HANCOCK, Mich. – UP Health System – Portage is proud to welcome Debbie Lorenz, NP to its internal medicine staff in Hancock. Lorenz is partnering with Dr. Katriina Hopper and began seeing patients in late November. Lorenz will also be working with Nephrologist Dr. David Woltmann in the coming months to …

The trial against 36-year-old Isaac Laplander will not begin in a couple of weeks as scheduled. The Calumet man was set to face a jury trial starting on January 6th. Instead, he is expected to plea that day in accordance with a plea agreement that is in the works. Houghton …

Transgendered–a term more and more people are becoming familiar with, and not just because of pop culture. Gender identity is an issue facing many people right here in the Copper Country, and it can be tough especially on teenagers. The key to understanding is knowing the difference between sex and …

Calumet, Michigan—The Calumet High School Drama Club is pleased to announce it has received a $3,000 grant from the Keweenaw Community Foundation Youth Endowment Fund. These funds will support the Acting On It: Skills Development through Theatre program, which will provide students (grades 9-12) with opportunities for skills development and …

Michigan’s unemployment rate was slightly higher in November. State officials say the jobless rate rose one-tenth of a percent in November from October to 5.1 percent. The workforce rose by 21,000, total employment advanced by 15,000, while the number of unemployed increased by 6,000. The jobless rate is 1.4 percent …