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County board correct on ‘people’s resolution’

A handful of sparks flew at the usually laid back, relatively speaking, Marquette County Board of Commissioners meeting earlier last week when the panel voted 3-2 in favor of a resolution entitled, "Resolution in Support of the People." This innocuous label obscured what the document was really about: keeping the federal government, specifically Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, out of Marquette County or, as an alternative, somehow compelling them to behave decently if ever they do show up here. Commissioners Karl Numinen, Dana LaLonde and Karen Alholm voted yes on the ...

State offers resources for dealing with flooding

With many parts of Michigan experiencing severe flooding due to melting snow and rain, state officials are advising residents what to do if in an area under threat. If more rain falls — the National Weather Service predicts up to 3 inches in some areas — conditions could worsen, with additional flooding and even flash flooding possible. Risks from flooding, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, can include — — Exposure to contaminants in flood water, including E. coli, heavy metals and petrochemicals; — Injury from floating debris; — Power ...

Farmers markets offer many positives

Maybe it's just our appreciation for freshly grown produce, great music and artisan goods, but we believe area farmers markets provide a nice accent to living in this area. One of the largest and most robust of the markets — and there are more than handful — takes place in the Marquette Commons each Saturday. In fact, the people that organize the Marquette market, the city's Downtown Development Authority, has invited community members to its annual market preview from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 25. This special event offers a first look at the upcoming market season and ...

A week for those who handle emergency calls

This week recognizes the people behind the calm, steady response when reporting an emergency. Their vital contributions are the focus of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week that runs through Sunday, according to the State 911 Committee. “Let’s take a moment to honor the incredible individuals behind every 911 call — the telecommunicators,” Amy Thomas, State 911 administrator, said in a news release. “More than just a voice on the other end of the line, they are compassionate, resilient and dedicated professionals who serve our communities with unwavering ...

AG shares ways to guard against scams

Most scams have common characteristics. By equipping themselves with the tools to recognize a scam, Michiganders can be alert to its key features and avoid becoming victims. “Scammers are creative, coming up with new and more effective ways to trick you into handing over your hard-earned money or personal information,” Nessel said in a news release. “Arming yourself with knowledge about their current tactics is the best way to make sure you don’t get scammed.” Common signs of scams include when residents are — — Contacted out of the blue with an urgent request. — ...

Even if it isn’t frozen, rain can make driving dangerous

Though recent forecasts had a chance of snow after recent icy events earlier this month, highs are now reaching the 40s, 50s and maybe even 60s. It puts rain reliably as the main form of precipitation motorists will have to deal with in the near future, especially as spring warms up. And while winter conditions definitely test drivers, wet roads present their own challenges, according to AAA. Rain reduces traction and limits visibility, fueling crashes, breakdowns and costly mistakes when drivers underestimate changing road conditions, AAA warns in a news release. “Wet pavement ...