Dear Reader:

Saying that these are difficult and challenging times for all of us is an understatement. As we face the days and weeks of uncertainty ahead, the staff of the Daily Mining Gazette wants you to know that we will be there to keep you informed and support our community during these difficult times.

Here at the Daily Mining Gazette, we have devoted the lion’s share of our resources to covering the coronavirus pandemic and how it is impacting the four-county area we call home. We are keeping you up to date with local news developments and how they have touched the lives and livelihoods of our neighbors, businesses, charities and just about every aspect of life. We are running articles with helpful tips and information on how to make your life easier and less confusing during these times.

We also plan to feature articles of the kindness, charity and compassion Yoopers are known for. Now more than ever, we need to hear these stories of hope.

We are also aiding local businesses by compiling a list of essential service businesses that remain open. Although we urge everyone to obey Gov. Whitmer’s Stay Safe, Stay Home executive order, we want you to know that these businesses are open and ready to serve you if you need their essential services. We also provide a listing of area restaurants that offer takeout service. They have been hit heavily by this crisis. Please support them.

Although the coronavirus pandemic has taken over everyone’s life, we are still keeping track of other local issues. Our reporters continue to cover local government and schools. There were a host of issues on the minds of local residents before the pandemic hit. They have not gone away. The area still faces issues ranging from damage from the catastrophic flooding of 2018 to the future plans by Meijer to build a new store in Portage Township. We will continue to cover these issues as they develop.

You will see Daily Mining Gazette reporters and other staff out and about as we gather the news, distribute newspapers, and serve our advertisers. Rest assured, we have taken precautions to safeguard their health and safety. Our employees use safe practices such as social distancing. Those who are able to work from home do so.

Remember, this will not last forever. It will come to an end. Until then, be kind to each other and stay safe.