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Avoid dangerous situations with power and power lines

As outlined in this space on Tuesday, severe weather can strike quickly with lightning creating a variety of dangerous situations when you’re caught outdoors. But it can also create danger relating to power lines and power within the home. With this in mind, Upper Peninsula Power Company suggests the following the safety tips: Power lines — Always consider a power line to be energized even if it is on the ground. Do not touch a downed line or try to move it in any way. Call the police or your power company as soon as possible. Generators — An electric generator can be ...

Late-night TV: Not like it used to be

By CAL THOMAS 2Stephen Colbert’s “The Late Show” has been canceled by CBS, effective next May. Critics of the decision are claiming politics is the reason. They are right, except the show has been too political. During its 10-year run it has been a conduit for Democrats to attack ...

When thunder roars, go indoors

In the midst of these summer months, we know that thunderstorms can develop quickly. One of the biggest dangers thunderstorms bring are lightning strikes. After Wisconsin observed Lightning Safety Awareness Day recently, ReadyWisconsin encouraged everyone to learn how to stay safe and be prepared before storms occur. “Lightning is not just a seasonal or regional threat. It can occur in any state, at any time of day, and in any season,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle. “By understanding the risks and taking precautions, everyone can reduce injuries ...

Take steps to keep your vehicle secure

July marks Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, a timely reminder for drivers to take proactive steps to protect their vehicles. In 2024 alone, more than 850,000 vehicles were stolen nationwide, highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention. AAA urges drivers to lock their vehicles, stow valuables out of sight and park in well-lit areas. In addition, using anti-theft devices and technology can dramatically reduce the risk of theft. “It only takes a few seconds for a thief to steal a car that’s been left vulnerable,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA—The Auto ...

Government doesn’t work without citizen participation

We’ve all had complaints at one time or another about government and what we consider to be its failures. We’ve all had concerns about rising taxes and how that money is spent. It turns out that in small-town America, governance requires participation, collaboration and a variety of viewpoints to get the job done. It’s our civic duty to pay our taxes and follow the law, but our civic responsibility does not end there. Boards and commissions in your municipality probably have some empty seats. Some of these bodies are provided for by state statute, like planning commissions, ...

Extracurricular activities can help youth mental health

The Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health recently came out with information that should not be a surprise: Youth can get mental health benefits from extracurricular activities. The office detailed the connections between extracurricular activities and youth mental health in its most recent fact sheet at https://children.wi.gov/Pages/ResearchData/FactSheets.aspx. Research found that kids who participate in extracurriculars such as lessons, sports, afterschool clubs or community ser­vice tend to have better mental health, according to the fact sheet. Extracurriculars are ...