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Editorial

Let’s get back to work — and keep tipping generously

Our economy appears poised to roar back from the shutdowns and slowdowns caused by the coronavirus and government restrictions meant to prevent the virus’ spread. However, a very serious lack of workers to run that economy could hold us back. From manufacturers to retailers to the hotel and restaurant industry, businesses up and down the economic ladder have struggled for weeks to recruit workers to fill the positions they need to meet the growing demand for their products or services as life slowly returns to normal. In response, employers have dug into their coffers to offer ...

Kids need experience like coffee shop

Oftentimes, a hands-on experience provides the best experience. That’s why Alcona High School’s new Alcona Tea and Bean coffee shop excites us so. The shop, run by the school’s Entrepreneurship Marketing class, opened May 18 in a converted former concession stand and serves high school students and teachers. Teacher Aimee Renchenski said the students had to conduct market research, decide which beverages to serve, create the recipes, and determine how much they would cost. “This right here is another good example of us learning real world problems and solving them,” ...

Honoring 2021 grads with special web videos

High school graduations are something we dream about for most of our K-12 years. It’s a journey that seems to take an entire lifetime, and in a way, it does. From roughly ages 5 to 18, we wake up each morning and head to school. We meet teachers, school staffers and fellow students who fundamentally shape us and make us who we are, as children, as teenagers and finally, as adults. Simply put, the influence and importance of the people we meet and the relationships we form in our school years cannot be understated. And for many of us, there’s a friend, family member, teacher or ...

Always use extra care, caution when recreating in, on water

Although it’s still a bit chilly to do very much swimming, you can bet a lot of people are going to recreate in and out on the water this long holiday weekend, never mind the brisk temperatures. If that’s you, or someone you know, taking some basic, common-sense precautions can help prevent a tragedy. “Even experienced boaters and swimmers can run into trouble,” Lt. Tom Wanless, Michigan Department of Natural Resources state boating law administrator and recreational safety, education and enforcement supervisor, said in an agency press release. “Having the proper equipment ...

Memorial Day honors heroes who have made ultimate sacrifice

50 years ago, Memorial Day became an official federal holiday but the origins of the observance go much farther back. Originally, it was called Decoration Day when it was launched in the years following the civil war. Unofficially, it marks the start of the summer season for many folks who get out to enjoy the (hopefully) warmer weather with family and friends. But we hope in addition to having fun, people observe the holiday for its real intention: honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2021 will occur this coming Monday, May ...

A month to support foster care efforts across the state

May is Foster Care Month, which provides all Michiganders an opportunity to consider how they can help with the goal of providing a safe and supportive home for children who need temporary out-of-home care. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a proclamation to increase awareness about the importance of foster families and recognize all they do for children. “Every child deserves to have an adult in their life who is their champion and a home where they feel safe and secure,” Whitmer said. “Parenting isn’t easy, and sometimes families need extra support. Foster parenting is one ...