Local News

Elevated levels of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found in surface water drainage ditches in Fort Gratiot Township. PFAS are man-made chemicals that break down very slowly over time and can accumulate in the human body and the environment. The chemicals are found in many different consumer goods and are also used in manufacturing and firefighting.

The testing that found elevated levels was preliminary, and further testing over the next few weeks will be conducted by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Officials say there is no data that suggests a risk to public health. No PFAS have been detected in the drinking water, and the water remains drinkable. Fort Gratiot Township purchases drinking water from the City of Port Huron and the water is tested monthly for PFAS. As a general precaution, residents who have pets that come into contact with water in ditches or storm water retention ponds should rinse the pet thoroughly with fresh water.

Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.

The Algonac Lions Club is in need of medical equipment, because the group receives and maintains medical equipment that is used by area residents. The equipment is provided free of charge for as long as the individual needs it. The Lions club supplies items like canes, crutches, hospital beds, shower chairs, walkers, wheelchairs, and more. 

Algonac Lions Club Secretary Rocky Gillis said, [the group is] “in need of wheelchairs and walkers with brakes and wheels,” but did say they have “plenty of hospital beds.” When asked what communities they served, Gillis explained that “the club does not limit what they do, they serve wherever there is a need,” as they don’t “ put a border on need.” Donated equipment can either be picked up or dropped off to the organization. Arrangement for equipment can be made by contacting Rocky through the group’s Facebook page, or calling 810-531-2416.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is sharing some new statistics and warnings about vaping and e-cigarette products that were shared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Friday. Here are the facts: as of October 8th, there have been nearly 1300 cases of lung injuries due to vaping or e-cigarettes across the country. Of the 1300 cases, 26 people have died in 21 states. Since August 2019, in Michigan alone, there have been 35 confirmed or probable vaping related lung injury cases and one death. The age range of the cases is from 16 to 69 years of age. 

The CDC and MDHHS are telling people not to use e-cigarette or vaping products that contain THC or nicotine. They also say that vaping and e-cigarette products should not be used by young people or pregnant women. Vaping products should not be purchased off the street, especially if it is said to contain THC. The agencies also caution citizens not to modify or add any substances to vaping products.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reports that breast cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer in women after skin cancer. At the half-way point of the month, it’s a sobering statistic to realize that one in eight women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. 

Early detection and treatment can be key to surviving a breast cancer diagnosis. Women ages 40-49 should be talking with their doctor about when to start getting a mammogram, and how often they should get one. It is advised that women ages 50-74 should get a mammogram every two years. Risk for breast cancer can be higher if a close member of a person’s family has had breast cancer or ovarian cancer. A discussion about risks and a testing is important between doctor and patient.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv

With businesses like Bell’s Beer and Founders Brewing, Michigan has positioned itself as one of the top craft brewing states in the nation. Last week, the Michigan Craft Beverage Council (MCBC) launched a new website that hopes to provide support and resources to the growing industry. Luke Lyons from Earl Smith Distributing, a local company to St. Clair County said, “The new MCBC website will connect industry resources into one single point of contact which will better serve Earl Smith’s beer, wine, cider, and spirits producers and consumers.”

The website is divided into four sections: research, grow, craft, and drink. The research section has a searchable database that new makers can use to learn more about topics ranging from invasive pests that could pose a risk to hops and new grape varieties to hops production just to name a few. The “grow” part of the site shares grower news, resources, and conferences.  In the craft area, business support is the focus. It helps to connect crafters with licensing requirements and organizational partners. Crafters are really the people behind the product. Last are some wine and beer trail maps that can be located by clicking on the drink button, as well as transportation and events statewide. Locally, St. Clair County is home to hops farms like Hoppily Ever After at the southern end of the county and Harsens Island Brewery in Marysville just to name a few.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv

A local nurse was recently honored with the Michigan Public Health Nurse Administrator Forum’s Leadership award. Registered nurse (RN) Liz King was nominated by her co-workers for being passionate, principled, and action-oriented. She was described as a tireless public health nursing advocate, visionary, and leader. Liz is the Nursing and Community Health Director at the St. Clair County Health Department, and has been the director there for the past five years. She has been with the department for a total of 16 years. King has an Associate of Nursing Degree from St. Clair County Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree from U of M Flint. Liz oversees 50 employees and 11 different programs, and said she was honored to receive the award.

Reporting for WGRT, Karly Hurley