In Michigan’s slice of Trump Country, some communities say the federal stimulus isn’t worth the hassle. Their neighbors may get the money instead.
Upper Peninsula
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Record elk hunting applications fuel conservation efforts
More than 49,000 hunters applied to hunt Michigan elk in 2021, a record that is part of a steady decade-long rise, state wildlife officials say.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan education chief pushes reforms to get more teachers in classrooms
A teacher shortage in the state’s public schools has grown worse during the pandemic. State Supt. Michael Rice wants to make it easier to certify teachers while providing financial incentives to get more young people into the profession.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Deer expert: Expect fewer hunters in the Michigan woods this year
An uptick in deer hunting during COVID last year prompted whispers of a renaissance for a sport that has been losing participants for decades. Early numbers suggest many of the new hunters aren’t coming back.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
As hunting wanes, fear of a southern Michigan deer invasion grows
With deer hunting in decline and land development pushing humans and deer ever-closer together, Michigan’s deer population may be headed toward an uncontrollable boom.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Facing COVID vaccine mandates, these Michigan residents just said no
A looming federal mandate means 2 million Michigan residents must prove they’ve been vaccinated, submit to weekly tests or lose their jobs. A weatherman, dentist, nurse and pastor explain why they refused.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Proposed body cameras on Michigan conservation officers draw opposition
The bill by state Rep. Beau LaFave, R-Iron Mountain, would require conservation officers to wear body cameras while working in the field.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Why are so many Michigan water systems finding lead? They're looking harder
New rules, imposed after Flint, forced public water providers to look harder for lead leaching into drinking water. Violations of state lead standards are up nearly 50 percent, with new urgency to remove lead from water lines.
Posted inQuality of Life
Custer and other Michigan historical markers may get a history update
The Michigan Historical Commission has begun reviewing historical markers to weed out inaccuracies and omissions that don’t tell the subject’s full history, including the roles played by Blacks and Native Americans. The process may get messy.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan schools would decide on opening before Labor Day under House bill
The debate pits education advocates who want independent control of their school-year calendars against tourism leaders who want to ensure families can book vacations through Labor Day.