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The no-shows

Letters to the Editor

On Wednesday evening this past week, the League of Women Voters, a non-partisan organization, hosted a school board candidate forum at the First Presbyterian Church in Alpena. The forum was intended as a way for the public to become acquainted with the school board candidates and their vision for Alpena Public Schools. This year the League enlisted a new format for this forum where the candidates rotated to different tables to speak directly with community members. Attendees were able to ask questions and interact directly with the candidates. There are eight candidates vying for ...

An invitation to build hope in Northeast Michigan

Editorials and columns

A few months ago, I wrote in this space about why Northeast Michigan needs Habitat for Humanity — about the housing crisis playing out quietly behind front doors across our five counties, and about an organization built to answer it one home at a time. Today I want to tell you how you can be ...

Appreciation for Tricia Udell's facts

Letters to the Editor

I would like to take a moment to recognize and express my appreciation for Alpena County resident, Tricia Udell, who consistently takes the time to share accurate and reliable information with our community regarding the Alpena County Fair and Fair Board, and Alpena County Commissioners. In a time when information can spread quickly-whether it is accurate or not-it is refreshing to see someone make an effort to check the facts, provide context, and communicate information responsibly. Tricia’s willingness to educate others and help separate facts from misinformation is a valuable ...

Is downtown headed for a downturn?

Editorials and columns

Over the summer, there seemed to be a higher number than usual of businesses closing their doors or facing significant changes. Thunder Bay Winery moved from the Center Building to their manufacturing facility on Water Street. Sweet Baby James closed its doors. Noise & Toys relocated outside ...

What's wrong with our schools?

Editorials and columns

Author and activist Nikole Hannah-Jones published an emotional essay in the New York Times Magazine last week titled "In Fighting for Every Black Child, Did I Betray My Own?" In the piece, Hannah-Jones writes about the consequences of having deliberately selected a school for her daughter, ...