Sarnia is reshaping how it manages public parks with the addition of an in-house ecologist, who will oversee the city’s public lands from an ecological perspective. This new role, approved in the ’25 budget, aligns with the $600k investment into Germain Park, a key green space in the city. The ecologist will guide efforts like plant restoration, habitat support, and biodiversity, while advancing sustainability goals in parks. Though some local leaders question the cost, others believe the position will help Sarnia manage its parks more efficiently, ultimately saving money and enhancing the city’s green infrastructure.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office received full accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners for the 10th year. This accreditation highlights their commitment to high-quality forensic pathology and death investigations. The Chief Medical Examiner praised the team’s dedication emphasizing the importance of this achievement in providing excellent services to residents and law enforcement. The rigorous accreditation process ensures high standards in their practices.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

As the ’25 legislative session begins, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network urges Michigan legislators to improve cancer care access and increase funding for tobacco control. The network requests an additional $5 million dollars for tobacco prevention, addressing nearly 32% of cancer deaths linked to smoking. They also advocate for copay accumulator legislation to help patients afford treatments. With over 64,000 new cancer diagnoses last year, lawmakers can reduce future cases by investing in these programs. These efforts could help prevent more Michiganders from hearing the dreaded cancer diagnosis.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Farmers and crop professionals attended the Crop and Pest Management Update hosted by Michigan State University Extension last Friday at the Franklin Inn in Bad Axe. The event, which ran from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., had a $40 registration fee that included lunch and a ’25 Weed Guide, courtesy of Michigan Corn, Soybean, and Wheat groups. Experts covered topics like weather impacts on weeds, crop diseases, soil fertility, and more. Attendees earned 4 RUP and 5 CCA credits.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet