9/09/2025

IRONWOOD – Friday we first announced the decision by Aspirus to end OB/GYN services at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital Now Upper Peninsula legislators have expressed anger and frustration with the decision. Sen. Ed McBroom called it “outrageous,” citing a lack of notice and previous surprises, including the 2023 closure of its Ontonagon facility and the ending of OB/GYN services at a Keweenaw facility. He noted the U.P. is now left with only six places to have a baby. Rep. Greg Markkanen accused Aspirus of lying about the Ontonagon closure and betraying his district. Over $1 million secured to help Ironwood’s OB/GYN services after the Ontonagon closure was apparently never used, leaving residents facing long distances for care. Rep. Dave Prestin called it a “bitter pill,” blaming state neglect and the hospital’s failure to deliver on promises. Rep. Karl Bohnak vowed to find a solution to help the communities recover.

9/09/2025

GOGEBIC COUNTY - At its last meeting the Gogebic County Board of Commissioners discussed retaining Ashley Dennis as full-time 4-H coordinator for the MSU Extension Office. District 1 Director Paul Putnam advocated for Dennis after learning the commission’s plans to return her to part-time, citing the increased number of volunteers and projects, as well as the impact of travel time on her hours. However, Commissioner Daniel Wood questioned the need for a full-time position, noting the program’s limited reach beyond Ironwood. Chairman Daniel Siirila and Commissioner James Lorenson requested more information on 4-H outreach. Lorenson also criticized the Extension office’s appointment-only policy and compared Gogebic County’s limited 4-H offerings, mainly livestock-focused, to Iron County’s broader programs. Commissioner Peter Matonich agreed that current activity reports don’t justify full-time status.

9/09/2025

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — David Crowley has launched a bid for Wisconsin governor. Yesterday Crowley joined the battleground state’s Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez as the two highest profile Democratic candidates in the 2026 race to replace Gov. Tony Evers. There are two announced Republicans, with several others in both parties considering getting in. The primary is 11 months away in August.