Stay away from foam on the water when out on lakes, rivers, and streams in Michigan. Per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, could be lurking in the foam, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

If swimmers or boaters or beach walkers come in contact with suspected PFAS foam, it’s a good idea to rinse off to prevent any accidental swallowing of the foam. This is especially important for children, for whom negative health effects have been evaluated by MDHHS.

PFAS foam is generally bright white in color and lightweight. Natural foam is usually off-white or brown and has an earthy or fishy scent and is usually found in bays, eddies, or at river barriers such as dams.

PFAS substances are long-lasting “forever” chemicals often used in waterproofing and firefighting foam that have made their way to water sources throughout the state.

Suspected PFAS foam can be reported to MDHHS. A link can be found at WGRT.com.

https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse/investigations/lakes-and-streams/foam?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Lake Huron Medical Center has been named to the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals List for the second time. The Port Huron medical center has been recognized as one of the top-performing medium community hospitals in the nation.

Lake Huron Medical Center, CEO, Jose Kottoor “Choosing a hospital for you and your loved one’s healthcare can be challenging, but hospital ratings can help you make your decision.”

Kottoor said, “We are so excited to be named among the US 100 Top Hospitals, as released by Fortune/Merative. This acknowledgment helps the community choose a safe and high-rated hospital that stands out among the rest in this community.

The hospitals were evaluated by Merative, a data, analytics, and technology partner in the health industry, who recognized excellence in clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, patient experience, and financial health.

According to Kottoor, “This recognition is a testament to the quality and compassionate care provided by our physicians and staff.”

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Blue Water SandFest is back this summer, and organizers are celebrating the return of what has become one of the most important sand sculpture competitions in the United States.

SandFest takes place at the Fort Gratiot Light Station on August 5-7th this year, and over 550 tons of sculpt-able sand will be deposited around the grounds of the park. The family-friendly event draws visitors throughout the weekend as they return each day to see the progress on the sand sculptures.

Sand sculptors are a mix of Master and Advanced Amateur
Sculptors from around North America, and the event was named one of USA Today’s Top 10.

This year’s event includes several sculpting competitions, a live music festival, cornhole tournament, and a Kid’s Zone. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

Cost is $6 per person and tickets are available both online and at the gate. Children under 4 and all Heroes and Educators are free. Active duty military and veterans, first responders, border patrol, and education employees can show their ID at the gate to receive free admission all weekend.

For more information, visit bluewatersandfest.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

4-H ambassadors, Nick and Jake Glombowski and Brooke Strauch share details about this year’s St. Clair County 4-H & Youth Fair, coming to Goodells County Park on July 18-23, 2022.

Learn more about the St. Clair County 4-H & Youth Fair here:

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