George James

Port Huron to Participate in Historic Opioid Settlement

Eleven people overdosed on drugs in the City of Port Huron this September alone. One of those overdoses was fatal. Nine of those overdoses were known to be from the use of heroin.

Port Huron could soon be getting help from the historic settlement between states’ Attorneys General and the makers and promoters of highly addictive opioid pain relievers that can lead to heroin use and substance abuse disorders.

The settlement is the result of years of negotiation and the clock is ticking to ensure participation and guarantee payout. Michigan’s Office of Attorney General acknowledges that the money won’t immediately end the opioid epidemic, but it will help local governments to “commence with meaningful change” to curb addiction, overdose, and death.

The City of Port Huron is taking the necessary steps to participate in the settlement process, according to a memo from City Manager James Freed.

The multi-billion dollar payouts will be spread out over up to 18 years and priority is given to the states which have been the most affected by opioid abuse.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Mark S. White Named 2020 Michigan Professional Emergency Manager of the Year

Mark S. White has been named the 2020 Michigan Professional Emergency Manager of the Year by the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division.

White is the Deputy Director for St. Clair County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. White drafted the emergency management framework in the midst of the pandemic, which allowed for all county agencies to coordinate their efforts.

White is also credited with spearheading the Local Emergency Planning Committee in St. Clair County. The Committee brings together the resources of both public and private entities to expand resources and expertise in emergencies.

Captain Kevin Sweeney, Commander of the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, said, “Mr. White’s dedication to emergency management over the last three decades has helped his community prepare for and respond to disasters, ensuring their health and safety. His continued efforts to educate others and improve emergency response statewide are more than deserving of this award.”

Mark S. White started his career in public service 35 years ago as a firefighter with the Port Huron Fire Department.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Michigan Part of Push to Preserve Local Journalism

Local journalism could be fading fast, with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) used in writing and the competition for advertising dollars that support local media. The Local Journalism Sustainability Act of 2021, if passed, will incentivize preserving local journalism.

Attorneys General nationwide, including Michigan’s, are asking Congress to pass legislation that can help sustain local media outlets. The proposed legislation would give tax credits to those who subscribe to locally produced news and those who advertise with local media. They also propose a payroll credit for media outlets that hire local journalists.

It is difficult to get regional and relevant news for a lot of markets. The letter to Congress says, “Local news is essential to the health of our states, communities, and our democracy. Local news organizations across the country have been struggling for many years because of significantly reduced revenue and the transition to online news. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges.”

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

MDARD Proposes Firewood Quarantine to Prevent Invasive Pests

In an attempt to keep invasive plant pests and plant diseases at bay, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is proposing an Exterior Firewood Quarantine and is inviting public comments. 

The proposed exterior firewood quarantine would mean that firewood can’t be shipped into Michigan unless it is heat-treated. Kiln-dried lumber, wood chips smaller than one inch, and wood shipped directly to mills for immediate processing would be exempt from the quarantine. 

Mike Philip, MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director explained the reason for the proposal, saying, “Harmful invasive species, some of which are invisible to the naked eye, can hide in or on firewood. While most cannot move too far on their own, these pests and diseases can be transported undetected on traveler’s firewood, starting new infestations in locations hundreds of miles away.” 

Philip said, “These infestations can be devastating and pose a serious threat to Michigan’s agriculture, natural resources and the environment.”

Members of the public interested in providing feedback on this proposed quarantine can submit their comments to Mike Bryan, MDARD Export and Compliance Specialist by emailing BryanM@Michigan.gov. The deadline for comments is Friday, November 19, 2021. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Invasives and on MDARD’s plant pest quarantine webpage.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Calendar for Sale to Benefit Art on the River

The Citizens for a Vibrant Community group has released the 2022 Blue Water Area Calendar. Proceeds from sales of the calendar go toward the Art on the River event, which is a free art and music festival held during the second weekend of June each year, in Downtown Port Huron.

This year’s calendar features scenes from the Blue Water Area. Twenty-five photographers submitted photos and thirteen were chosen for the calendar.

Citizens for a Vibrant Community President Trina Avedisian said that the calendar is sold all over the country and Canada and is considered a collector’s item by some.

This is the 7th year in which the calendar has been offered.

The calendars can be purchased at Wolverine Market Port Huron and Marysville, Uniquely Me Boutique, Border Keep Games, and Thumb Coast CBD. There is also a link at CVCPH.org for purchasing the calendar. The cost is a $6 donation.

Art on the River features local artists, crafters, and bands. The family-friendly event also has workshops, food, and a variety of entertainment.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland