1/29/2026

IRONWOOD - The Gogebic Community College (GCC) Board of Trustees approved the resignation of President, Chris Patritto, effective July 1, 2026, at their regular monthly meeting and authorized administration to begin a search for his replacement.   Patritto has decided to step away to spend more time with family, which requires increased time, attention, and flexibility. Patritto has expressed willingness to remain in the role until a qualified successor is appointed or through a transition period.  The Board of Trustees, along with college administration, will conduct a search for the college’s next president, with a formalized plan to be announced in the coming weeks. Planning is already underway, including the establishment of a search committee to assist in the process.

1/29/2026

UPPER MICHIGAN - The Michigan DNR’s Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative (DHIPI) is offering competitive grants for Upper Peninsula private land deer habitat enhancement. For 2026, the budget has been doubled to $200,000, providing $5,000 to $25,000 grants that require a 25% match. Funded by hunting license revenue, the program has invested nearly $1.3 million across 162+ projects over almost two decades. The expansion aims to continue to provide tangible improvements, build long-term partnerships, and benefit the public. Applications are due or must be postmarked by Friday, March 6, with notifications by Friday, March 27. Find the application at Michigan.gov/DNRGrants.

1/29/2026

UPPER MICHIGAN - The latest census data is available, and Michigan is showing signs of growth. Nearly 28,000 new residents have come to Michigan in 2025, according to new census data. That’s a 0.3% increase.  Although the dataset didn’t provide county specifics, four out of 15 U.P. counties saw an increase in population from 2023 to 2024.   This is the fourth consecutive year the state’s population has increased.  Governor Gretchen Whitmer attributes the growth to an affordable, good quality of life in the state.