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A week to consider finding ways to save

This is America Saves Week, when Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services encourages residents to conduct a financial check-in. But it’s likely assessing finances has already been front and center for most people these days — and with higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods, money to put aside might be scarce. Still, a review could yield some avenues to better adjust to the current economic conditions and perhaps even manage to salt some funds away for the future. “DIFS is committed to supporting Michiganders as they improve their financial wellness, ...

Ice unstable this time of year

In all likelihood, Superiorland is in for a another dose or two of winter weather before spring arrives. That said, the warmer temperatures and clearer skies in recent days probably will bring out the spring fever in some people. The National Weather Service in Negaunee Township has called for temperatures in the 30s and 40s this week. According to well-established science, temps above 32 degrees mean melting ice. So, common sense suggests people should use caution on Great Lakes and other waterways because of unstable ice. Although ice might look sturdy, people are at risk of falling ...

State to focus this month on enforcing Hands-Free Law

If you haven’t done it already, time to put down the phone when getting behind the wheel — law enforcement will be watching. With a rise in the use of handheld devices by drivers on Michigan roadways and in support of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, police agencies throughout the state are teaming up with the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning for a high-visibility enforcement effort in April, according to a news release. A recent observational study from Michigan State University found mobile device use by drivers increased from 5.2% in 2024 to 5.7% in 2025. ...

Animals are not good Easter presents

We don’t want to rain on anyone’s Easter parade, but if you’re thinking it might be cute to get the kids some chicks, ducklings or even a bunny for their Easter basket, we’d ask that you think again. Animal experts warn that very much like puppies and kittens at Christmas time, chicks, ducklings and bunnies are not good Easter basket stuffers. They grow quickly and the owners are typically unprepared to care for them properly. Local animal shelters are often where these unwanted critters end up, putting additional stress on resources of that sort that are already ...

Residents encouraged to join organ donor registry

Have you considered becoming an organ donor? It’s admittedly not the most pleasant topic, since it means contemplating what happens after dying. But it’s an important one to address. Making that decision now potentially keeps your family from facing those questions later, under what likely would be traumatic circumstances. And it can make a life-altering — sometimes life-saving — difference for a host of people now on waiting lists. During Donate Life Month, the Michigan Department of State is encouraging residents to join the millions already on the Michigan Organ Donor ...

Emphasizing safe and responsible alcohol use

For Alcohol Awareness Month in April, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is promoting moderation and making responsible choices and informed decisions when it comes to alcohol consumption. “While drinking alcohol is a part of many of our celebrations and times of relaxation, drinking responsibly is crucial for the safety of everyone,” MLCC Chair Kristin Beltzer said in a news release. “During Alcohol Awareness Month, we join with our partners in the alcoholic beverage industry and public health community to highlight the importance of safe and responsible alcohol ...