Local News

The City of Hancock has gone on record supporting an effort to repeal a state law that prevents local communities from banning plastic grocery bags. The Michigan law was passed in late 2016, in response to a movement by cities across the country to ban items that aren’t biodegradable. That …

Sixth and seventh graders from schools across the Copper Country got some hands-on STEM experience yesterday, as the first Copper Country Science and Engineering Festival was held at Hancock High School. The Michigan Tech Mind Trekkers brought an engaging array of displays and activities to inspire the kids’ interest in …

Hancock’s city leadership will remain intact next year. At last night’s meeting, the city council unanimously voted for Paul LaBine to continue as mayor, with Will Lytle as mayor pro tem. One long-time civic leader is stepping down, though. Pete Wickley will retire from the Downtown Development Authority after 39 …

The vast majority of people who filled out Hancock’s online survey about recreational marijuana support the general concept of allowing it to be grown and sold commercially within the city. Results of the poll were presented by Mayor Pro Tem Will Lytle at last night’s Hancock City Council meeting. 70 …

Architectural schematics are complete, as the Dollar Bay-Tamarack City School District presses forward with renovations approved by voters in August. At its meeting Monday night, Superintendent Christina Norland told the Board of Education that the money from the bond sale has been received. The high school travel club shared information …

The date has been set for the next Raise the Woof Comedy Club. The evening of fun raises money for the Copper Country Humane Society. Mark your calendar for January 18th at the Orpheum in Hancock. Doors will open at 7:00, and the show, which typically features three comedians, will …

An Alpha man convicted of murdering his step-daughter will not get a new trial. 68-year-old Alfred Michael Saario was sentenced two years ago to a prison term of 25 to 40 years. At his trial, he claimed he shot 29-year-old Jamie Lee James in self-defense. There was a history of …

The Career and Technical Education programs offered by the Copper Country Intermediate School District continue to expand. At last night’s CCISD Board meeting, CTE Director Shawn Kolbus and welding instructor Tim Stites outlined a plan that will create new welding booths and fabrication space for students to use. Some machine …

The Hancock City Council will consider a federal equipment grant at its meeting tonight. A public hearing will be held at 6:00 in the council chamber. Council members will review the results of the marijuana survey that’s been posted on the city’s website. They’ll also address several resolutions, including one …

The Village of Calumet will continue to run its own police department. Tuesday night, the village council decided to post a part-time position. Village Manager Caleb Katz told us the new officer will work no more than 30 hours per week, and will be the only one on staff. The …