Local News

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is sharing the recent test results related to injuries from vaping. Preliminary test results from five vaping related illnesses in Michigan found that the cases varied in terms of the vaping products, but that there were commonalities. 

One hypothesis the state is investigating is that contaminants in THC vapes, including vitamin E acetate, may be related to the outbreak. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health for the MDHHS said, “The outbreak is still under investigation, and the exact substance or devices that are causing the outbreak are unknown.” As of October 25, Michigan has had 44 confirmed and probable lung injury cases and one death. 81% of patients reported using a product containing THC. The CDC reports that as of October 24th there have been over 1600 lung injury cases associated with the use of e-cigarette or vaping products nationwide and 34 deaths.

Reporting for WGRT, EBW.tv

Huron Shores Golf Course in Port Sanilac has new owners. Tom and Sandy Miller purchased the golf course in a deal that was finalized on Friday. There had previously been speculation that the golf course would be closed permanently. But, new owner Tom Miller said that he thought it would be a loss for the community if they closed the course and he didn’t want to see it go. Tom, who is retired, takes care of lawns in the area, and thought caring for the golf course would be a good fit. 

The Millers said they are working on getting things ready for next year’s season, and that they will re-open in April 2020. They are planning on additional services and activities in the club house and will soon have membership rates, league information, and tournaments scheduled. The course had previously been owned by Greg and Sue McConnell. The course is located just over 30 miles from Port Huron and is just north of Port Sanilac on North Lakeshore Road.

Reporting for WGRT, EBW.tv

The Port Huron Police Department informed the public of a tragic incident that took place in Port Huron last week. Last Monday, at approximately 8:30 p.m., the department responded to a welfare check and discovered a six-year-old male and his 35-year-old father, both Port Huron residents, deceased. A preliminary investigation showed evidence that a handgun was used in what appears to be a murder-suicide. The names of the deceased are Robert William Lagrow, the 35-year-old male and Weston Keith Lagrow who was just six-years-old. In light of the tragedy, the Port Huron Police Department has expressed their deepest condolences to the family and now, the community has come together to support young Weston’s mother and family. On Saturday, November 2nd, a spaghetti dinner with a suggested $10 donation will be held at the Port Huron VFW Hall while t-shirts have also been made to remember the boy’s life. T-shirts can be ordered through Lakeshore Graphics for $6-$10.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv.

Lake Huron Medical Center (LHMC) is pleased to announce its October 2019 Employee of the Month, Linda Sweppy, and its October 2019 Volunteer of the Month, Mary Hoffman. LHMC is honored to have a strong team of staff and volunteers working hard to deliver high-quality care to the Blue Water Area.

Linda is a Pharmacy Technician in the Retail Pharmacy and has been with LHMC since 2014. She was nominated by a peer who commented, “During our recent “code” event, Linda went above and beyond for a customer.  A gentleman arrived at our pharmacy with a high level of frustration. It turned out he was the husband of an employee. His wife had just had a baby and they needed supplies & equipment. We are unable to provide the items needed through our pharmacy, but he had been turned down & rejected already several times.  He needed supplies for his wife and couldn’t find anyone to cover it. Linda spent over an hour making phone calls trying to find out where he could go to get the supplies he needed for his wife. This was all occurring during the code event. Knowing we couldn’t personally get the equipment for him, she tried all resources known to try to find some help and directions for him.”

Mary volunteers with the Better Breathers Club and has been volunteering at LHMC since June 2012.  Her anonymous nomination reads: “Mary is a very kind and gentle person. She demonstrates her caring heart with the members of the Better Breathers Club.  She has been a diligent and faithful volunteer for over 7 years, ever since the Breathers Club began. Mary takes her volunteer position seriously. You can find her at the center keeping equipment clean, bringing water to the members, folding flyers, or giving a helping hand wherever she is needed.  The members look forward to seeing Mary and all that she brings to the program. She is truly an inspiration and as asset to Lake Huron Medical Center. Mary, we are thankful for you!”

Lake Huron Medical Center is proud of each of its employees and volunteers; and extends a special thank you and congratulations to all our team members, especially Linda and Mary as we celebrate their accomplishments.

Melissa Davey has been named the Employee of the Month for September. She has worked at McLaren Port Huron for 24 years and is currently an administrative charge nurse.

Davey was nominated by her peers because she always strives to do what’s best for patients and staff. She is an extremely hard worker who gives 100 percent every day. With over 20 years of experience, Davey’s knowledge of the hospital and its procedures makes her a very helpful and resourceful administrative charge. Her professionalism and positive attitude are apparent at all times, whether she is working with patients or hospital staff. She always finds the good in every situation, is willing to learn, and helps others be the best they can be.

This employee recognition is given to individuals who consistently live the values, mission and performance standards of McLaren Port Huron. Honorees are nominated by a co-worker, physician, volunteer, and/or customer.

To learn more about McLaren Port Huron, visit www.mclaren.org/porthuron.

The Fort Gratiot Department of Public Works (DPW) staff will be flushing fire hydrants through December. The goal of flushing the hydrants is to remove the accumulated sediments that may be in the system, and the township wants residents to know that they may notice a slight decrease in water pressure or discoloration of the water. The discoloration is a result of disturbances of the normal water flow with the township’s pipe system. The short-term change in flow may stir up naturally occuring minerals and sediment that settle within the water main. The township says that if the water discoloration occurs, residents should try to refrain from using hot water and run cold water faucets until the water appears clear again. Questions can be directed to the Fort Gratiot Township DPW.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv.