8/28/2026

UPPER MICHIGAN - The Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative, released findings this week from an Impact Research survey that questioned 300 teachers. It showed 91% of teachers are deeply dedicated to student success. However, 25% are strongly considering leaving the profession within the next year. That climbs to over half likely leaving the profession in the next five years.

8/28/2026

UPPER MICHIGAN - Michigan Democrats are again pushing a package of bills to help families manage the pressure of a difficult economy. House and Senate Democrats have refiled nine bills designed to lower costs and provide long-term financial relief for people across the state. Lawmakers ay Governor Gretchen Whitmer vetoed earlier versions of the measures on a technicality, after House Republicans fought the proposals in court for nearly two years. Representative Brenda Carter has reintroduced a previously approved bill that revises the types of properties exempt from bankruptcy.

0:08  "Instead of being a punitive bill, my bankruptcy bill would hopefully open the door to give more opportunities to people who are struggling financially."

Carter says the change is meant to give people overwhelmed by debt more breathing room as they try to recover from financial setbacks. She argues that housing costs and everyday expenses are still weighing heavily on many households, and Michiganders need to protect more of what they've earned. Republicans argue that the Democratic economic and relief package relies too heavily on expanding state programs and adding administrative costs.

8/26/2026

SAXON - The Iron County Sheriff’s Office reports that at approximately 10AM yesterday morning, a parked, unoccupied semi-truck rolled into an open excavation site associated with a Line 5 valve project near Sitan Road in the Town of Saxon. The truck struck the pipeline, resulting in the release of natural gas liquids (NGLs).  Video showed a large white cloud coming from the rupture encompassing the entire work site.  No injuries have been reported. As a precaution, nearby homes were evacuated. The affected section of pipeline has been isolated, and local emergency responders and haz-mat teams are on site.  Sitan Road is closed until further notice to allow emergency crews to safely respond. A temporary no-fly zone has also been established in the area. Due to safety concerns, power in the affected area has been shut down, and arrangements are being made to assist those affected by the temporary power outage. The public is asked to avoid the area and follow instructions from emergency personnel.  NGLs are hydrocarbons—including ethane, propane, butane, isobutane, and natural gasoline—that are separated from natural gas during processing. They are used as fuels and as feedstocks in the production of products such as plastics, medical supplies, electronics, clothing, and fertilizers.