Winter Storms Affect Blood Supply

When winter storms move across the area, they affect more than road safety and school schedules. The American Red Cross is reporting a decline in blood products from donation shortfalls caused by heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and ice storms both here in Michigan and across the country.

Blood donations help patients in a variety of ways in hospitals for both emergency situations and routine surgeries. One recent recipient of donated blood, Tina Rocco, began hemorrhaging badly after welcoming her new baby by C-section and was saved by her medical team and several pints of blood.

“You never truly know when you, or someone you know, might need [a blood transfusion],” said Rocco.

The need for blood is constant, but even more so during periods of serious weather that reduce donations. Currently, the American Red Cross is urging health individuals, especially those with type O blood, to give now and ensure the availability of this life-saving treatment for future patients.

Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org or visit the Events page at WGRT.com <HERE> for a list of blood drives in the Blue Water Area.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

3 Arraigned in DTF Raid

Port Huron, MI — More than $5000 worth of crack cocaine was seized, along with other drugs during a pair of St. Clair County Drug Task Force raids on February 16th.

According to Sheriff Mat King, members of the DTF conducted an investigation into the sales of narcotics in the Port Huron area.  The investigation culminated with a search warrant being executed in the 1300 block of Nelson Street and another in the 1300 block of Water Street in the city of Port Huron at about 9:00 p.m. last Tuesday.

Once inside the residence, members of the Drug Task Force located and seized $5300 worth of crack cocaine, along with powder cocaine, analogue pills and cash.

Three people have been arraigned in 72nd District Court following their arrest during the raids.  Dion Johnson, a 39 year old Port Huron man is charged with delivery/manufacture of less than 50 grams of cocaine, possession of less than 25 grams of cocaine, possession of analogue drugs, maintaining a drug house, driving while license suspended second offense and being a habitual 4th offender.  Johnson’s bond was set at $125,000 cash/surety.  Fifty year old Anthony Stevenson of Port Huron is charged with possession of less than 25 grams of cocaine, maintaining a drug house, driving while license suspended 2nd offense and being a habitual 4th offender.  His bond was set at $25,000 cash/surety.  Erin Holt, a 43 year old Port Huron woman is charged with possession of less than 25 grams of cocaine, possession of analogue drugs and maintaining a drug house.  Her bond was set at $10,000 cash/surety.

All three are scheduled to be back in court for probable cause hearings before Judge John Monaghan on March 2nd at 9:00 a.m.

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team also assisted in the raids.

Submitted by the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force

Antibody Therapy Available for Treating Severe COVID-19

Tri-Hopsital EMS is now providing an innovative therapy to COVID-19 patients to reduce their symptoms. Through a partnership with the State of Michigan, Bamlanivimab infusion therapy can now be administered to symptomatic individuals in their own homes by licensed health professionals from Tri-Hospital EMS.

Ken Cummings, CEO of Tri-Hospital EMS, said in a press release, “Our team of skilled medics is proud to be taking another step onto the frontlines and administering this treatment that is helping fight the pandemic in Michigan. This innovative therapy is helping reduce COVID-19 symptoms and the need to visit the hospital for treatment.”

Bamlanivimab is an FDA approved monoclonal antibody therapy that has been administered approximately 2,000 times since December. Individuals 12 and older who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at risk for developing severe illness that would require hospitalization can speak to their doctor to see if the treatment is right for them.

Patients must meet certain criteria related to age, immune system health, and the presence of chronic diseases, and a prescription from a doctor is required.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

 

 

SC4 Hosts Film Discussion

Port Huron, MI — As part of their recognition of Black History Month, St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron is offering a special event to discuss the film, A Continuing Series of Small Indignities. The discussion will take place on Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 25th.

The film, made by Michael Pfaendtner, may be viewed prior to the event on Vimeo. The documentary is based on the reflections of Rodney Harris, a retail management worker in Macomb County. The theme of the film is Harris’ lifelong challenges because of his race. Harris, along with the filmmaker will be part of the discussion panel.

Also on the panel will be Dofonso Fernando, military veteran, SC4 Alumnus, and current Ferris State University student. Fernando will offer his perspective as a recent graduate of SC4 pursuing educational and career goals.

The presentation is offered by SC4’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the SC4 Democratic Learning Committee. It is open to students, faculty, staff, and the community. Information about signing up for the presentation is at WGRT.com.

To reserve your spot and receive login information, email dei@sc4.edu

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Drive Thru St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast

Adaptability has continued to be a necessity for organizations who plan events and fundraisers, and the United Way of St. Clair County is planning a fun drive-thru St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast designed to keep people safe and provide a fun break from the norm.

The March 17th breakfast includes a hot meal prepared by Chef Mike Moretz and his team along with a some “spirited swag and bountiful cheer.” The United Way family will welcome guests as they drive through the south driveway of their home office and pull up to the Carriage house to pick up their breakfasts.

Registration is required online at the United Way’s website <HERE>, and the cost is $13.95 per person through March 10th. There is also an opportunity to purchase an array of St. Patrick’s Day gear which can be picked up at the United Way’s office or on the day of the event.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand