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Houghton County reacts to disaster funding award for rapid snowmelt

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has awarded almost $11 million of Disaster Funding to counties across Michigan, including Houghton County. On Monday, Whitmer announced that $10,997,209 from Michigan’s Disaster and Emergency Contingency Fund would be spread out amongst 17 counties across the Upper and Lower Peninsula. The announcement comes after the state has had three state of emergency declarations in only 16 months.  “Today’s disaster assistance will help Michiganders in 17 counties recover after tornadoes, flooding, and rapid snowmelt,” Whitmer said. “By declaring these ...

Get ready to race

The Annual Verna Mize Triathlon will return to Houghton this Saturday, Aug. 3. There is a $5 entry fee to be paid the morning of the event, which will begin at 8 a.m. at the Ray Kestner Waterfront Park in Houghton.  The triathlon is focused on all levels of competition. Long-time athletes and first-timers are all welcome. The event consists of two races, the Mini-Mize and the Main-Mize. The race begins at the beach at the Kestner Park and winds through the hills of Houghton, where participants will end with a run along the canal park.  The Main-Mize involves a half-mile swim, ...

CCHS calls for public to spay/neuter pets

In a recent Facebook post, the Copper Country Humane Society (CCHS) reminded the public of the benefits, and necessity, of spaying and neutering pets.  “Lately, we have had a huge influx of pregnant mama cats and tons of kittens,” the Humane Society wrote. “Please, please, please get your pets fixed! Animal overpopulation is a real problem and shelters all over are filling.” According to CCHS’s website, there are a variety of benefits that come with fixing household pets.  First of all, it can help with your pet’s physical safety. Cats and dogs that are not fixed are ...

Brewfest draws hundreds

HOUGHTON — More than 270 beers were ready for pouring Saturday as hundreds filled the downtown pier in Houghton for Keweenaw Brewfest. The annual event, now in its 12th year, is put on by Houghton Rotary. Brewfest typically draws around 800 people, said Rotary President Eli Karttunen. ...

New uphill challenge at Ontonagon County Fair

GREENLAND — Antique tractors, ninja courses and rodeos all shared space as residents enjoyed the annual Ontonagon County Fair. Possibly because of the concurrent CopperFest, turnout had been quiet but steady, said fair secretary Gale Kocher. But those who made it to the exhibit ...

Hydrant flushing begins today

The City of Houghton will begin the process of flushing hydrants in the city today. The undertaking is scheduled to be completed by August 9. Work on the hydrant system will take place between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily.  During the hydrant flushing process, water may look cloudy or discolored. This is normal, and officials recommend letting cold water run until the water is clear before using it. The City of Houghton apologies for any inconveniences, and encourages residents to direct questions to 906-482-1700.  Hydrant flushing is a regular part of water system maintenance. It helps ...