Port Huron Schools Launches Aggressive Anti-Vaping Campaign In Collaboration With St. Clair County Health Department

In a proactive move to address the rising concerns of vaping among students, Port Huron Schools has joined forces with the St. Clair County Health Department for an intensive anti-vaping campaign. 

On December 6th, high school students witnessed a live presentation by Daniel Ament, a Grosse Pointe resident and the first person to undergo a double lung transplant attributed to vaping-related damage. Ament, once a state-recognized student athlete, shared his harrowing experience to raise awareness. 

The Health Department will extend its outreach to middle and high school students, delivering vital information on vaping dangers. The campaign will also engage parents through the Superintendent’s weekly e-newsletter, reaching 10,000 subscribers and linked to the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce’s weekly e-newsletter. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Secretary Of State Jocelyn Benson Highlights Resources For Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

In observance of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week from December 4th – 8th, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is urging Michigan residents to explore resources provided by the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) for continuous education on safe driving at any age. 

Emphasizing the importance of road safety, Benson encourages older drivers and their families to visit Michigan.gov/AgingDriver for valuable resources. The Safe Drivers Smart Options website offers information to empower and guide older drivers, promoting safe transportation planning. 

According to May 2023 MDOS data, almost 25% of Michigan’s 7.34 million licensed drivers are aged 65 or older, with approximately 383,000 drivers aged 80 or above. The initiative aims to keep older drivers engaged in the community while prioritizing road safety.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Developmental Housing Holds Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser

On January 11th, 2024, at 7 p.m., the Detroit Red Wings will play a crucial game against the Edmonton Oilers at the Little Caesars Arena for a special fundraiser. The event aims to raise funds for Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc. 

Tickets are for Section 101, and are priced at $130, plus transaction fees. Purchasers will not only witness an exciting game but will also receive a complimentary t-shirt to wear at the event. The first 56 ticket buyers stand a chance to ride on the exclusive party bus, while the first 150 will receive a swag bag. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Blue Water Developmental Housing, supporting employee education and emergency funds. 

Fun Fact: Port Huron native, Jack Campbell, plays the goalie position for the Oilers.

For more information, contact: Ashley Lueth at lueth@bwdh.org or (810) 388-1200.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Public Service Commission Grants Enbridge Controversial Permit For Line 5 Pipeline Replacement Amid Climate Concerns

In a contentious decision, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) has issued a permit to Canadian oil giant Enbridge, allowing the replacement of the existing Line 5 dual oil pipelines in the Straits of Mackinac with an untested underground pipeline tunnel. 

The MPSC’s approval has sparked criticism from environmental groups, including the Michigan Climate Action Network (MiCAN), represented by the Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC). Dr. Denise Keele, Executive Director of MiCAN, expressed disappointment, emphasizing the unnecessary and dangerous investment in new fossil fuel infrastructure. 

Experts argue that the tunnel’s construction will worsen the climate crisis, emitting an estimated 27 million metric tons of CO2 annually. Despite the MPSC’s decision, ELPC Managing Attorney Scott Strand notes potential hurdles, citing necessary permits from federal agencies and ongoing legal challenges that could impact the project’s future.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Ohio Reports Alarming Outbreak ’White Lung Syndrome,’ Prompting Global Concerns

In a disturbing development, Ohio has become the first U.S. state to declare an outbreak of pediatric pneumonia, raising fears of a potential connection to similar surges in China and worldwide, according to newsnationnow.com.

Dubbed “white lung syndrome,” the illness has afflicted an alarming 142 children in Warren County since August, with an unusually high hospitalization rate. While officials from the Warren County Health District (WCHD) insist it’s not a new respiratory disease, the spike exceeds normal pneumonia cases, triggering concerns. 

Affected children, averaging 8 years old with the youngest at 3, exhibit symptoms like cough, fever, and fatigue. Authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation, collaborating with the Ohio Department of Health, children’s hospitals, and primary care providers. As global concerns rise, the World Health Organization seeks information from China, and reports emerge of similar spikes in the Netherlands and Denmark.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Jaime Greene Warns Of Soaring Electricity Bills As DTE Energy Gets Nod For $368 Million Rate Hike

In response to the Michigan Public Service Commission’s approval of DTE Energy’s $368 million rate increase, State Rep. Jaime Greene, R-Richmond, issued a stark warning on Friday.

She criticized the move as a precursor to a more significant crisis, alleging that utility companies are exploiting the shift to green energy, leaving consumers to bear the brunt. According to Greene, the rate hike is tied to the closure of reliable natural gas and coal-fired power plants in favor of less dependable green energy initiatives. 

She blames Lansing Democrats for lifting rate hike caps, ensuring utility profits at the expense of Michigan families facing tighter budgets. DTE claims the increase aligns with existing clean energy goals, but Greene insists that new mandates banning natural gas plants will escalate costs for residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell