Choze Powell

Study Highlights Significant Gaps In Vision Care Coverage For Medicaid Enrollees

A study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), published in Health Affairs, reveals alarming disparities in vision care coverage for Medicaid enrollees across the United States. According to the study, 6.5 million enrollees (12%) live in states where routine adult eye exams are not covered, and 14.6 million (27%) reside in states that do not provide coverage for eyeglasses.

It found significant variability in coverage, with 20 states excluding glasses under fee-for-service Medicaid, and seven states offering no coverage for either eye exams or glasses. Additionally, 35 states do not cover low vision aids, such as magnifiers, leaving many, particularly older adults, without essential vision support.

The findings highlight an urgent need for policy changes at the state level to address these gaps, especially as the aging U.S. population faces a projected doubling of vision impairment cases by 2050.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Operation Safe Neighborhoods Seizes 675 Illegal Guns In Michigan Crackdown

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II announced that 675 illegal guns have been removed from Michigan streets as part of Operation Safe Neighborhoods, a statewide initiative aimed at reducing gun violence. Since the operation’s launch, law enforcement officials have conducted 6,424 check-ins with felony offenders, leading to the seizure of illegal firearms, drugs, and ammunition.

Lt. Governor Gilchrist emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “Operation Safe Neighborhoods is keeping Michiganders safe by getting 675 illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals before they can hurt or kill anyone.” The program targets high-risk individuals with prior weapons-related offenses, reinforcing Governor Whitmer’s broader efforts to enhance public safety across the state. 

Since taking office, Whitmer has invested over $1.5 billion in public safety, including significant funding for law enforcement and violence prevention initiatives.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Friends Of The St. Clair River Urge Float Down Participants To Keep Waterways Clean

As thousands prepare for the annual Float Down on Sunday, Aug. 18, at Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron, Friends of the St. Clair River is urging participants and spectators to keep the river clean. 

Their “A Clean River is a Fun River” campaign highlights the importance of preserving the St. Clair River’s pristine waters, which are vital for drinking water and fish habitats. The group asks floaters and onlookers to responsibly dispose of trash and recyclables, reducing the litter and plastic waste that can accumulate from the event. 

Executive Director Sheri Faust emphasized the river’s significance, stating, “The St. Clair River is a vital resource for 60,000 people. We all have a responsibility to protect and celebrate this precious resource.”

For more information about the campaign, email: info@scriver.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Step Back in Time at the Michigan Renaissance Festival Starting August 17

Experience the magic of the 16th Century at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, kicking off on August 17 and running through September 29. Held on weekends, with special dates on Labor Day and Friday, September 27, this immersive festival transports visitors to a European village filled with excitement.

With 17 stages of live entertainment, including musicians, magicians, jugglers, and full-contact armored jousting, there’s something for everyone. Over 100 artisans will showcase their handcrafted goods in the bustling marketplace, offering endless shopping opportunities. Visitors can also savor a variety of food fit for royalty while interacting with memorable characters.

The festival, located at 12600 Dixie Hwy., Holly, MI, operates from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on event days. 

For more information, visit: michrenfest.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

be-YOU-tiful Workshop Series Empowers 5th-Grade Girls In Port Huron

A Beautiful Me is hosting a special four-part be-YOU-tiful Workshop Series at their Training and Empowerment Suite in Port Huron. 

Designed for 5th-grade girls, the workshop runs on August 20, 21, 27, and 28 from 2:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This transformative program aims to boost self-esteem and leadership skills through engaging activities, conflict resolution strategies, and meaningful discussions.

Located at 310 Huron Ave., the workshop provides a safe space for young girls to explore their unique strengths, navigate emotions, and build positive relationships. With limited seating available, parents are encouraged to register their daughters soon. A Beautiful Me also welcomes donations to sponsor future workshop tickets, making this empowering experience accessible to all. Secure your spot today to support your daughter’s journey to self-confidence and resilience.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Ferndale’s Live Crispy Won Last Year’s MI Snack Competition, Now Eyeing Bigger Markets

Ferndale-based entrepreneur Dave Shammas, owner of Live Crispy, won the grand prize at the second annual MI Snack Competition in Port Huron, taking home $30,000. Despite not placing in the previous year, Shammas’ all-natural dehydrated fruit snack won both the Mindful Munchies category and the overall competition, earning him $15,000 for each win.

The 2023 MI Snack Competition attracted over 50 snack makers statewide, with more than $50,000 in prizes awarded. In addition to the cash prize, Shammas secured a distribution deal with All Star Services, a break room services company.

Shammas, who launched Live Crispy in 2020, has since expanded his product’s reach, including a listing on Amazon. As he gears up for larger markets like Target, he’s also being courted by the TV show Shark Tank. The 2024 competition is set for Sept. 14, with entries due by August 12.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell