10/30/2025

WATERSMEET - The Watersmeet St. Vincent DePaul food pantry, is asking for the communities help. Typically, the pantry assists more than 60 families every month, and with the current political climate and government shutdown, that number is expected to increase with the upcoming holiday season. Right now, there isn’t enough funding to provide turkeys for Thanksgiving and hams for Christmas to all families in need. The potential delays in SNAP benefits will only make matters worse. In Michigan, approximately 13% of households, 1.4 million people—rely on SNAP, many of whom are children, older adults, or individuals with disabilities. Any delay in benefits will increase the demand on the pantry and other local agencies. Monetary donations can be sent to the Pantry’s PO Box, and product donations are needed and welcome at the township offices.

10/30/2025

N. WISCONSIN - Republicans Paul Wassgren and Michael Alfonso have launched bids for Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District this week.  Wassgren is a conservative businessman and attorney from Ashland. A press release announcing Wassgren’s campaign describes him as a proud supporter of President Donald Trump. Wassgren says he will focus on the needs of northern Wisconsin by creating economic opportunities, fighting against lawfare, building stronger communities and protecting Wisconsin’s outdoor heritage.  Michael Alfonso was born in Vilas County Alfonso says he will fight for the people of Wisconsin, restore hope for all Americans and deliver the MAGA agenda. Some of his key issues include restoring power to the states, fixing immigration, bringing back freedom in education and ending corruption in Congress.  Alfonso is the son-in-law of former congressman and current Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.  Republican Jessi Ebben announced her candidacy last month at an event in Rothschild.  Two Democrats, Chris Armstrong and Fred Clark, have also launched bids.  The 7th congressional seat which includes most of Northern Wisconsin, is up for grabs after Rep. Tom Tiffany announced his run for Wisconsin governor last month.

10/30/2025

N. WISCONSIN - Newly introduced laws aim to improve emergency medical services. The plan includes lowering the cost of EMS training, encouraging more people to join the field.  Senate Bill 182, signed by Governor Evers on October 24, will establish a reimbursement program for any EMS education at Wisconsin technical colleges. This includes Emergency Medical Responder, Emergency Medical Technician, and Paramedic training in the state.  After successfully completing their certification or license, students can apply for reimbursement.