M-STEP standardized test scores were released earlier this week, and in some cases they represented a pleasant surprise. For the state as a whole, scores were down across the board in reading and math for grades three through eight. Many districts had trouble getting students to show up after they …

Thanks to a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the City of Hancock’s Fire Hall will have a new generator soon. The council approved Erico Electric’s bid to install the potentially life saving power backup for a little over $42,000. Manager Mary Babcock says that the federal agency is …

As received from the Ryan Funeral Home: John James Shute 87, passed away on August 20, 2021. He was born on November 20, 1933 to Mike and Mary Shute of Calumet. Johnny attended Calumet school, worked at the bar and for the Village Street Department. In 1953 he enlisted in …

As received from the Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes: Jeanette C. Kujala, 89, of Toivola, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2021, in Okemos, MI. She was born to Charles and Miriam (Wiitala) Lindgren on April 24, 1932. She married Isaac Edwin Kujala on February 17, 1951. Jeanette was …

During Sunday’s Copper Country Today, MTU Associate Professor Sigrid Resh discussed the Keweenaw Invasive Management Species Area, and where it finds funding for its activities. Resh says that over the summer three projects supported the employment of nine students. KISMA works near Lake Gratiot, the Swedetown Trail System, and many …

The Hancock Recreation Committee is trying to secure tens of thousands of dollars for a new dog park near the trailhead for the Maasto Hiihto system by the Four Seasons Chalet. So far, tails should be wagging as two of the milestones of the three goals have been met. The …

The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department is finalizing purchase plans for a new Panther System machine, which allows for assay testing on a broad range of health concerns. Yes, it will be used for COVID-19, but Chief Executive Kate Beer there are several other tests of public concern that will …

In an email missive Tuesday night, Hancock School District Superintendent Steve Patchin says that bus routes about to be published in the local newspaper are not finalized and were not provided by the district. Patchin says a completed map will be emailed to district parents by the end of the …

The top two officials of the Food and Drug Administration’s Vaccines Research and Review Division are resigning. Marion Gruber has been with the agency for 32 years, and the head of the pivotal board for over a decade. Her deputy, Phil Krause, is leaving in November. Becker’s Hospital Review is …

Carole Sue Tambellini of Rhinelander, Wi., former Copper Country resident passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2021 from complications following a surgery at the age of 79. Her kind soul, sense of humor and infectious laugh will be greatly missed. Carole will always be remembered for her love of family, …