environment

The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Mental Health Repercussions On Society Are Still Lingering

As the world grapples with the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, a concerning trend emerges: a surge in mental health challenges across various demographics. 

According to kff.org, symptoms of anxiety and depression have soared, particularly among those facing household job loss, young adults, and women. Adolescent females, in particular, report heightened feelings of hopelessness and sadness compared to their male peers.

Furthermore, drug overdose deaths have sharply risen, more than doubling among adolescents, with disproportionately high rates among American Indian, Alaska Native, and Black communities. Alcohol-induced deaths also surged, notably impacting people of color and rural residents.

Despite efforts such as expanded telehealth and crisis hotlines, suicide rates, and self-harm instances are climbing again, especially among adolescent females. As the pandemic’s toll persists, the future of mental health services remains uncertain, with potential interruptions looming as emergency declarations end.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Port Huron Native Teams Up With Lifetime For New Original Films Celebrating African American Women

Acclaimed author Terry McMillan, a Port Huron native, has a new partnership venture with Lifetime. The collaboration aims to bring forth a series of new, original films focusing on the intricate love stories and lives of African American women, coinciding with Lifetime’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Born in Port Huron, Michigan, McMillan’s prolific literary career has also inspired hit films like “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” and “Waiting to Exhale.”

She highlighted the importance of authenticity in storytelling, praising Lifetime for providing a platform to share women’s narratives genuinely.

This isn’t the first time McMillan and Lifetime have joined forces; their previous collaboration in 2014 resulted in the film “A Day Late and a Dollar Short.” Now, under the banner of “Terry McMillan Presents,” upcoming movies will continue this tradition, with announcements regarding titles and casting expected later this year. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Jaime Greene Hosts Homeschool Freedom Forum To Address Proposed Changes In Michigan

State Rep. Jaime Greene extends an invitation to local residents to participate in a Homeschool Freedom Forum on Friday, February 9th, in Imlay City. The event aims to discuss proposed changes that could affect the rights of homeschooling families in Michigan.

Greene, slated to be on the panel, expresses concerns about potential infringements on parental rights and privacy, highlighting the necessity of rejecting governmental overreach in educational matters.

Scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church on 6835 Weyer Road, the forum offers an opportunity for parents and concerned citizens to engage in dialogue and gain insights into legislative developments affecting homeschooling. This initiative underscores the importance of parental autonomy in shaping children’s education.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Introduces Innovative Resident Response Team For Enhanced City Services

The City of Port Huron is gearing up to launch its new Resident Response Team this week, a pioneering initiative aimed at expediting service requests and complaints from residents. 

Led by City Manager James Freed, the cross-functional team is dedicated to promptly addressing issues such as potholes, equipment malfunctions, and service concerns. The team’s mobile-friendly website, set to go live later this week, enables residents to effortlessly file complaints or upload relevant photos. 

Once logged, complaints are diligently tracked using BS&A software, ensuring swift resolution by the appropriate department. City Manager Freed emphasized the team’s commitment to continuous improvement, underscoring the mission to deliver unparalleled customer service to Port Huron’s residents.

The link will go live later this week. For those interested, you can visit the site at: porthuron.org/resident_response_team.php.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority Established For Community-Led Revitalization

A significant step towards revitalizing the Southside neighborhood of Port Huron has been taken with the establishment of the Port Huron Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority (NIA). Led by the City and supported by the Southside Initiative, the NIA comprises residents and community members dedicated to fostering engagement and driving redevelopment efforts.

At their inaugural meeting, board members collaborated with Double Haul Solutions to appoint officers, establish by-laws, and develop engagement strategies. Their primary goal is to facilitate active participation from residents, business owners, and stakeholders in shaping the neighborhood’s future. 

Co-Chairs Joe Bixler and Mary Williams underscored the importance of community involvement in creating a comprehensive development and tax increment financing plan. This plan will address housing, infrastructure, and strategic planning, guiding short-, mid-, and long-term reinvestment goals. The NIA invites all Southside residents to contribute to the neighborhood’s transformation.

For more information, visit: porthuron.org/government/boards___commissions/southside.php.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Temporary Spikes In Hydrogen Sulfide Levels Near Landfill Prompt Community Health Response

Reports of intermittent increases in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) levels near a landfill have prompted action from local authorities. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) recently shared findings indicating brief elevations in H2S levels, attributed to calm, foggy weather conditions. 

While these levels remain below regulatory thresholds, residents may experience symptoms such as headaches, and nose, throat, and eye irritation. Dr. Remington Nevin, Medical Director at the Health Department, emphasized the importance of seeking medical advice for concerned individuals. 

The County has initiated continuous air monitoring through Tetra Tech, expanding capabilities for comprehensive assessment. Results will be made available online, alongside ongoing collaboration with EGLE to develop mitigation strategies. Community health remains a priority as officials work towards addressing resident concerns and ensuring environmental safety.

Results of this information will be available via link at: stclaircounty.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell