Editorial

Prison workers worth money being paid — and then some

There are few professions that are inherently more stressful, grueling, and, indeed, dangerous than that of a modern-day prison guard. The people employed by the Michigan Department of Corrections every day face a mixed bag of murderers, rapists and thieves. The inevitable result is terrible wear and tear on these workers with symptoms of alcoholism that can sometimes reach 20% of the workforce — and that’s according to the MDOC itself. One recent study found that nearly 1 in 4 of all MDOC workers met the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder while 47% screened positive for ...

Editorial cartoon for June 22, 2026

Thanking local medical staff for fast response on illness

Bouquet — From Jean Rohr, Gladstone: Dr. Aaron Cutlip (and the nurse, Michelle) recognized immediately the seriousness of my illness and began searching for a specialist. Dr. Shum, Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wis., and Dr. Cutlip agreed time was of the essence and I needed to be transferred to Milwaukee, NOW. Thank you to Rampart Ambulance, Escanaba, for agreeing to be my driver. And my ambulance companion, Andy — I’m sorry, I can be stubborn at times. Thank you, Jesus, and my angel, Brittany. Check the Faith.

Editorial cartoon for June 20, 2026

UP State Bank helps keep Gladstone rail history on track

This week’s Bouquets — From the Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine No. 730 Authority members, organization and John Pickard, president: During the month of May and half of June of this year, the Upper Peninsula State Bank in Gladstone opened more than just its doors and its tower; it opened its heart to the rich history that helped shape the City of Gladstone. As proud stewards of Gladstone’s Soo Line railroad legacy, the Soo Line Steam Engine No. 730 Authority was overwhelmed by the support and hospitality shown by Branch Manager Todd Salo and the entire U.P. State Bank ...

Remembering a hero from long past

It’s our sincere belief that warts or no warts, these United States of America remains a singular force for good in the world, which can be demonstrated many ways but one in particular grabbed our attention recently that may have passed unnoticed to many people. Last Saturday, flags at state buildings in Michigan were flown at half-staff in honor of a fallen hero from a war long ago. U.S. Army Cpl. George F. Sepsey in late 1942 was assigned to Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division, and deployed in present-day Papua New Guinea. Sepsey, who grew up in downstate ...