News

As residents and visitors enjoy Michigan’s winter recreational opportunities, Consumers Energy officials advise residents to use extreme caution when on or near the ice surrounding its generating and hydroelectric plants.Consumers Energy representatives said it has installed safety buoys, warning signs and has coordinated with local emergency officials to reduce the risk of accidents near its 13 dams on five Lower Peninsula rivers.“Conditions near dams can change rapidly, making ice thin and dangerous,” said Lisa Douglas, manager of emergency management and public safety for Consumers Energy.“Even with these measures, it is the responsibility of individuals visiting the sites to remain vigilant about potential dangers.”The Michigan Department of Natural Resources offers the following ice safety tips:• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

ARENAC COUNTY—Ron Alley, County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) for Arenac County Veterans Affairs will meet with fellow veterans and committee members on the first Tuesday of every month for coffee and donuts.The program is free and all veterans and spouses are welcome.

The City of Standish is pursuing a grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to build a new nature trail and park.

The Quad County Childcare Coalition (QCCC), a four-county Regional Child Care Planning Coalition which includes Alcona, Arenac, Iosco and Ogemaw Counties, has released their Childcare Innovation Grant Report.In March 2023, Develop Iosco (DI) was awarded a $203,000 regional childcare planning grant from the Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC).