environment

Heatwaves In Michigan Spark Surge In Rodent Infestations, Warns Expert

As Michigan grapples with summer heatwaves, residents are facing an unexpected consequence: a rise in rodent activity. 

Zachary Smith, from Smith’s Pest Management, warns that the intense heat and drought conditions are driving rodents from the wild into homes, seeking food and shelter. “The summer heatwaves have created the perfect storm for increased rodent invasions,” says Smith.

With vegetation dying and natural food sources dwindling, rodents like rats and mice are turning to homes for survival. Common signs of infestations include droppings, gnaw marks, and scurrying sounds in walls. Smith urges homeowners to seal entry points, store food properly, and eliminate water sources.

“The time to act is now,” Smith advises, stressing that prevention is the best way to protect homes from rodent infestations this summer.

Source: smithspestmanagement.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Free Concert Series At Riverview Plaza Park

Spice up your Labor Day weekend with St. Clair’s Rockin’ in the Plaza at Riverview Plaza Park located at 201 N. Riverside Ave. in St. Clair. From Sept. 6-8, this event will be hosted by the St. Clair Chamber of Commerce. 

This free summer concert series features performances by local bands including Dusk Til Dawn on Sept. 6 (7-11 p.m.), Northbound on Sept. 7 (7-11 p.m.), and BlueBlaze on Sept. 8 (2-6 p.m.).

Guests are invited to bring chairs or blankets, though seating is available in the courtyard and nearby restaurants. Enjoy food from local restaurants such as War Water Brewery, Hamlin Pub, and The Anchor Pointe Bistro.

For more information, visit: the St. Clair’s Rockin’ in the Plaza event page on Facebook.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Be An Angel Day Promotes Acts Of Kindness On August 22

On Aug. 22, National Be an Angel Day encourages people to perform good deeds and spread kindness to others. This day is dedicated to supporting those in need and recognizing the “angels” in our lives who have offered comfort or assistance during difficult times.

Whether it’s a kind word, a hug, or simply listening, small gestures can make a big impact. On this day, be someone’s angel by offering patience, understanding, and compassion. Recognize the struggles beneath the surface, and offer a hand to those who need it.

Founded in 1993 by Jayne Howard Feldman, the day inspires acts of generosity and gratitude. Use #BeAnAngelDay on social media to share your stories and thank those who have been angels to you.

Source: nationaldaycalendar.com

Reporting to WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Awards $20.5 Million In Grants For School Mental Health And Safety

Children in 76 Michigan intermediate school districts, public school districts, and public charter schools will benefit from nearly $20.5 million in grants from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). Funded by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, signed by President Joe Biden, the grants aim to expand mental health services and enhance school safety initiatives.

“These grants will make our schools safer and more supportive for our students,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice.

Funds from the Stronger Connections Grant Program will be used to foster safe, healthy, and supportive school environments, provide mental health services, implement anti-bullying plans, and train educators. The goal is to improve student well-being, aligning with Michigan’s Strategic Top 10 Education Plan.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Sheriff Warns Community Of Bitcoin Scam Posing As Law Enforcement

Sheriff Mat King is alerting St. Clair County residents about a scam involving a local 810 number impersonating law enforcement. 

The scammer, claiming to be “Deputy Mark Williams” or “Lt. McMillan,” informs victims that they have outstanding warrants and must pay via a Bitcoin kiosk to avoid arrest. The caller uses official-sounding language and local names to appear legitimate, and the voicemail mimics that of the St Clair County’s Sheriff’s Office.

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that it will never contact individuals about warrants or demand payments, especially via Bitcoin or gift cards. Residents are urged to be cautious when answering unfamiliar calls and to avoid sharing personal information. If you receive a suspicious call, do not send money—contact the Sheriff’s Office at 810-987-1700 to verify its legitimacy.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan State Police Warn Parents About Online Safety As School Year Begins

As the new school year approaches, and parents begin to flood their social media pages with their children’s back to school information, the Michigan State Police (MSP) issued a warning urging parents to protect their children’s privacy when sharing back-to-school photos online.

“Before you hit post, remember to protect your child’s privacy,” MSP shared on social media platform X. They advised against including personal details such as names, school names or locations, grade levels, ages, and teachers’ names in photos.

The warning highlights the risks of sharing identifying information that could lead unwanted individuals to the school. The timely reminder aims to help families keep their children safe as they head back to school.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell