local news

MDHHS’ Family Impact Teams Transforming Lives Across 12 Counties

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) proudly announced the remarkable success of its innovative initiative, the Family Impact Teams (FIT), which has provided crucial services to over 500 families at risk of neglect in 12 counties within a span of less than two months. Director Elizabeth Hertel visited the MDHHS office in Port Huron to discuss the project’s accomplishments. 

FIT integrates family resource specialists with child protection and foster care staff, offering families support in accessing benefits, Medicaid, and other economic aids. The program aligns with MDHHS Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda, aiming to prevent child neglect through economic assistance, ensuring children can thrive safely with their parents or facilitating reunification if foster care is necessary. 

The first phase of FIT, initiated in August, spans counties including Allegan, Barry, Chippewa, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Luce, Mackinac, Oakland, Sanilac, St. Clair, and Wayne.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Homeschooled Children May Be Required To Register With The Government

State Representative Jaime Greene, R-Richmond, strongly opposed the recent proposal by the Democrat chair of the House Education Committee to implement new policies mandating the registration of homeschool students with the government. 

In her statement, Rep. Greene emphasized that such a requirement constitutes a severe violation of parental rights, an invasion of privacy, and an unjustifiable government overreach. Greene argued that parents should have the autonomy to choose the best educational path for their children without intrusive oversight. 

Instead of imposing additional administrative burdens on homeschool families, she urged efforts to enhance public education and child protective services. Greene criticized the proposed registration as a misguided focus on regulating a legitimate educational choice, diverting attention and resources from addressing systemic issues within government agencies.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Schools Launches Aggressive Anti-Vaping Campaign In Collaboration With St. Clair County Health Department

In a proactive move to address the rising concerns of vaping among students, Port Huron Schools has joined forces with the St. Clair County Health Department for an intensive anti-vaping campaign. 

On December 6th, high school students witnessed a live presentation by Daniel Ament, a Grosse Pointe resident and the first person to undergo a double lung transplant attributed to vaping-related damage. Ament, once a state-recognized student athlete, shared his harrowing experience to raise awareness. 

The Health Department will extend its outreach to middle and high school students, delivering vital information on vaping dangers. The campaign will also engage parents through the Superintendent’s weekly e-newsletter, reaching 10,000 subscribers and linked to the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce’s weekly e-newsletter. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Secretary Of State Jocelyn Benson Highlights Resources For Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

In observance of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week from December 4th – 8th, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is urging Michigan residents to explore resources provided by the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) for continuous education on safe driving at any age. 

Emphasizing the importance of road safety, Benson encourages older drivers and their families to visit Michigan.gov/AgingDriver for valuable resources. The Safe Drivers Smart Options website offers information to empower and guide older drivers, promoting safe transportation planning. 

According to May 2023 MDOS data, almost 25% of Michigan’s 7.34 million licensed drivers are aged 65 or older, with approximately 383,000 drivers aged 80 or above. The initiative aims to keep older drivers engaged in the community while prioritizing road safety.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Developmental Housing Holds Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser

On January 11th, 2024, at 7 p.m., the Detroit Red Wings will play a crucial game against the Edmonton Oilers at the Little Caesars Arena for a special fundraiser. The event aims to raise funds for Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc. 

Tickets are for Section 101, and are priced at $130, plus transaction fees. Purchasers will not only witness an exciting game but will also receive a complimentary t-shirt to wear at the event. The first 56 ticket buyers stand a chance to ride on the exclusive party bus, while the first 150 will receive a swag bag. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Blue Water Developmental Housing, supporting employee education and emergency funds. 

Fun Fact: Port Huron native, Jack Campbell, plays the goalie position for the Oilers.

For more information, contact: Ashley Lueth at lueth@bwdh.org or (810) 388-1200.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Public Service Commission Grants Enbridge Controversial Permit For Line 5 Pipeline Replacement Amid Climate Concerns

In a contentious decision, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) has issued a permit to Canadian oil giant Enbridge, allowing the replacement of the existing Line 5 dual oil pipelines in the Straits of Mackinac with an untested underground pipeline tunnel. 

The MPSC’s approval has sparked criticism from environmental groups, including the Michigan Climate Action Network (MiCAN), represented by the Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC). Dr. Denise Keele, Executive Director of MiCAN, expressed disappointment, emphasizing the unnecessary and dangerous investment in new fossil fuel infrastructure. 

Experts argue that the tunnel’s construction will worsen the climate crisis, emitting an estimated 27 million metric tons of CO2 annually. Despite the MPSC’s decision, ELPC Managing Attorney Scott Strand notes potential hurdles, citing necessary permits from federal agencies and ongoing legal challenges that could impact the project’s future.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell