Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Walmart suicidal man in custody - Police were called to Walmart in Mt. Pleasant last night. All over social media were reports of shoppers being rushed out of the store due to a suicidal man in the break room who allegedly had a gun. Michigan State Police later issued a statement saying the man was taken into custody without incident. There was no active shooter, that was incorrectly reported by individuals on social media. This incident remains under investigation.
Suspect who shot at Alma cops undergoes competency exam - Tyler Joe Moreno, the man who shot at several Alma police officers in October has now undergone a psychiatric exam to see if he’s competent to stand trial. He faces 18 charges, including three of attempting to murder police officers. The exam will determine if 1, he’s criminally responsible for committing the crimes. 2, to see if he understands the charges against him and 3, is competent to make decisions regarding his case.
521 infected across 74 new coronavirus outbreaks at Michigan schools - Last week, Michigan health officials identified 74 different COVID-19 outbreaks across Michigan’s K-12. That’s in addition to 168 ongoing outbreaks from previous weeks. For more statewide data, visit MLive’s coronavirus data page, here.
Five Defendants in Plot to Kidnap Governor Whitmer Appear in Federal Court Tuesday - Five of the defendants in the alleged plot to kidnap Governor Whitmer were in a federal courtroom yesterday. Defense attorneys plan to argue that their clients were entrapped in the plot by the government and are looking at a motion to to have the charges dismissed. One of their attorneys says the FBI was involved in driving the alleged plot forward. However, prosecutors say the defendants took the concrete steps towards planning the kidnapping, and they believe one of their sources was a double agent.
White House: "Extremely Dangerous Situation" Between Russia, Ukraine - The White House is warning about rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine – and suggests a Russian attack against Ukraine could be imminent. Press Secretary Jen Psaki warned about severe economic consequences if Russia invades Ukraine, she also noted that a diplomatic solution is still possible. All this as Secretary of State Antony Blinken travels to Europe to engage allies in efforts to ease tensions.
Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests Are Now Available - Free at-home COVID-19 tests are now available, courtesy of the federal government. You can order one set of four rapid antigen COVID-19 tests by going to COVIDtests.gov. There's a button to click on that leads to a Postal Service page where you can enter your info and order your tests. There's a limit of one order per household. The tests will typically ship 'within seven to 12 days. The CDC recommends testing five days after exposure to COVID-19 or as soon as symptoms occur.
War Of Words As 5G Rollout Hits A Snag - We had the story a few weeks ago about AT&T and Verizon are delaying the launch of 5G near some airports. Airlines have warned that hundreds of thousands of planes could be grounded over concerns that 5G cellphone signals will interfere with flight technology. Well now a spokesperson for AT&T said they're "frustrated by the FAA's inability to do what nearly 40 countries have done, which is to safely deploy 5G technology without disrupting aviation services. President Biden said his administration has been working with wireless carriers and airlines to chart a path forward for 5G deployment and aviation to safely co-exist.
Tuesday, January 18, 2022
Shepherd Schools - To help deal with the large number of overall illness in both students and staff, Shepherd schools will be moving to virtual learning for rest of this week. The plan is to return to in-person learning Monday, January 24th.
Meijer employee throws jarred feces, urine on another - At Meijer in Mt. Pleasant last week, an argument between two employees ended with one of them throwing a jar of human waste on the other. The thrower was fired on the spot and employees had the mess cleaned up before police arrived.
Cedar Point has increased its walk-up admission price to $85 for 2022, although most visitors won’t pay that much. - Heading to Cedar Point this summer, pull a little extra out of the ATM, admission prices are going up to $85 a person. If you want to save some money, season passes are $135 and they’re good for unlimited visits throughout the season.
Meijer stores announce free home delivery to help with pandemic - In an attempt to help customers with the challenges of the pandemic, Meijer stores across the Midwest are doing free home delivery now thru January 29th. As long as your order is $35 or more you can shop online, use the Meijer app..and schedule your free delivery.
Fauci: It's Too Soon To Tell Whether Omicron Marks Last Wave - Dr. Anthony Fauci says it's still too soon to say whether the Omicron Covid variant will be the final wave of the pandemic. The omicron variant is highly transmissible and less severe than other variants, so it's sparked hope that it could bring Covid down to the level of a seasonal flu.
Twitter Expands Feature For Flagging Misleading Tweets: Twitter is expanding its feature that lets users flag a tweet as "misleading" to more countries across the globe. The feature was first launched in August in the U.S., South Korea and Australia – it’s now coming to Brazil, Spain and the Philippines. Twitter said it has received three-million reports from users since its initial test launch.
Betty White Challenge Nets Big Bucks For Animal Charities - It was a good day for animal shelters all over the country, thanks to a certain 'Golden Girl.' Fans who wanted to honor Betty White on what would have been her 100th birthday were encouraged to participate in the #BettyWhiteChallenge. It involved people donating at least $5 to their local rescues and animal shelters. It worked, local shelters across the country saw a bump in donations
Monday, January 17, 2022
Isabella County investigators want to find this person of interest - The Isabella County Sheriff’s Office is asking for your help in identifying a person of interest in relation to an assault case. Photos of the person are available on the Sherrif’s Office facebook page and by clicking the morningsun.com. If anyone has info, please contact the Isabella county sherrif’s office.
Clare opens skating rink in Shamrock Park - Grab your skaes…another outdoor rink in central Michigan I open. Clare’s outdoor rink in Shamrock Park is now open and will remain as long as mother nature cooperates. The rink is in the park’s large pavilion and is open 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. every day,
Fewer major Gratiot road projects on tap in 2022 - Road construction season is still months away but planners in Gratiot County have their orange barrel season set with only 2 major projects this year. One - Two miles of Wisner Road from Lincoln Road to M-46 on the border of Bethany and Wheeler townships will get an asphalt overlay and TWO - One mile of Barry Road between Madison and Jefferson roads in Wheeler Township will be crushed, shaped and paved
Events across Michigan to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. - It is Martin Luther King Jr. Day today with the day being celebrated with marches, keynote speakers and community service in remembrance of the slain civil rights activist. Born Jan. 15, 1929, King was the chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement. The campaign for a federal holiday in his honor began soon after his assassination in 1968. President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law in 1983, although it wasn’t officially observed in all 50 states until 2000.
The University of Michigan President Removed After Investigation - The UofM Board of Regents have removed Dr. Mark Schlissel as President of the University. In early December the board received an anonymous complaint that Dr. Schlissel may have been involved in an inappropriate relationship with a University employee. An investigation followed. The board has named former U-M president Mary Sue Coleman as Interim President
Pine Knob is back as storied venue changes name again - It’s about time, the wishes of fans and musicians alike finally came true and DTE Energy Music Theater will once again be named Pine Knob. The amphitheater, changed its name to the DTE in 2000 but it never caught on with fans who continued to refer to it as Pine Knob. Now 313 Presents, which promotes and produces events at the theater, is reinstalling the Pine Knob name.
North Korea Launches Fourth Presumed Missile Test In A Month - It appears that North Korea is going through with another missile test. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff says the nation fired at least one projectile into the ocean this morning. The Japanese Prime Minister's office also confirmed the test. This comes after a pair of launches last week and one the week before as the North Korean regime continues trying to develop a missile program.
Friday, January 14, 2022
Supreme Court halts COVID-19 vaccine rule for US businesses - The U.S. Supreme Court has dealt a blow to the Biden administration by blocking enforcement of the vaccine mandate on large businesses. The 6-3 court majority argued the mandate is too broad. More than two dozen Republican-led states filed suit to block the mandate, which covered companies with 100 or more employees. Meantime, justices did give a green light to vaccine mandates for healthcare workers in facilities that receive federal funding. The President went on to say that large companies are still free to require vaccinations on their own, as many have already done.
Officials in Midland County notified of gate issue at Beaverton Dam - Yesterday morning one of the flood gates at the Beaverton Dam was stuck open allowing water to flow freely thru the gate. Midland County Emergency Management sent out a message saying the free flowing water could increase water levels and speed downstream thru Edenville, Sanford Lake, Sanford Dam, and the City of Midland. The flowing water will impact the stability of both ice and open water and make it unsafe for ice fishing, walk, or anything else on the river. The public is asked to be aware of the potential changes and to stay off the river over the next few days.
Mid-Michigan childcare providers get $4.5 million - Mid-Michigan childcare providers will be getting some state cash to provide bonuses to staff and keep childcare facilities open for Michigan families.
DTE Energy’s $5 million donation to outreach agencies will help customers - Help is available for anyone having trouble with their heating bills this winter. DTE Energy just announced a $5 million donation to help low income residents across the state this winter. The company donated a bunch of money to non profit organizations all across the state to help DTE customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills, while also helping them enroll in affordable payment plans, including DTE’s Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP) payment program. For more information or help visit dteenergy.com/lsp
North Korea Launches A Third Missile - North Korea launched another missile overnight – the third test in two weeks. While no one know why the first two took flight, it seems this one was the result of the United States imposing sanctions over North Korea's previous missile launches. The missile ended up landing in the sea between China and Japan not causing any harm
More Snow, Bitter Cold Heading East Again - Heavy snow and bitter cold are in the forecast for millions of Americans this weekend. A storm system from Canada – dubbed Winter Storm Izzy – began impacting North Dakota last before heading further south…and then east. Forecasters say more than four-inches of snow across a wide area is likely. Sections of North Dakota down to Iowa could even get eight inches. Out to the east, New England will be brushed by a strong storm system tomorrow. That'll possibly bring some snow to places like Maine. But the big story? The bitterly cold temperatures.
Robert Kennedy Assassin Sirhan Sirhan Denied Parole - California Gov. Gavin Newsom has denied parole for Sen. Robert F. Kennedy's assassin. Sirhan Sirhan. Newsom wrote that he has failed to address the "deficiencies" that led him to assassinate Kennedy, even after decades in prison.
Thursday, January 13, 2022
Mt. Pleasant to hold hearing for downtown alley assessment - Mt. Pleasant city commissioners are looking for your input on 2 alley projects. During January 24th’s regular meeting they’re going to talk about the alley between Michigan, Main, University and Broadway streets; and the alley in the block between Broadway and Michigan from University east of Franklin. Anyone interested can attend either virtually or in person
Mt. Pleasant schools to offer free meals as they to switch online learning - We had the story yesterday about COVID causing Mt. Pleasant schools to switch to virtual learning for the rest of January. Now the district announced that they’ll be providing free meals to any students who want or need them. Lunch and Breakfast will be available for pickup at Ganiard and the High School. Pick on Jan.13, 18, and 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and they’re available for any student age 0 to 18. Any students up to age 26 receiving special education services
Dozens of kinds of packaged salads recalled due to listeria risk - Check the fridge, there’s another recall. Dole has issued a voluntary recall of packaged salads that were processed at their Springfield, Ohio and Soledad, Calif. production facilities due to listeria. Check your packages a product lot code beginning with the letter “W” and a “Best if Used By” date between December 22, 2021 and January 9, 2022, and a product lot code beginning with the letter “B” and a “Best if Used By” date between December 23, 2021 and January 8, 2022.
More emergency food assistance benefits to be issued in January - Gov. Whitmer ok’d an extra food assistance payment to help Michigan families in. If you have one, the benefits will be loaded onto your Bridge card without any extra paperwork as a separate payment from the assistance that you got earlier in the month.
Massive Asteroid To Make Closest Pass By Earth Next Week: - A skyscraper-sized asteroid will make its closest pass by Earth next week. NASA says it’ll pass within one-point-two million miles of Earth at more than 43-thousand miles per hour. This is the closest the asteroid will come to Earth over the next 200 years. According to the website EarthSky, it'll be close enough to observe with a small telescope.
Delta Is The Most Deadly Covid Strain. Not Omicron - For all the rising panic over the Omicron variant, researchers have confirmed that the Delta variant of the coronavirus is still the most deadly strain in the U.S. In fact, Omicron is half as likely to cause hospitalization and when it comes to death? It’s 91% LESS likely when compared to Delta. CDC Director Rochelle Walensky says she feels the deaths that are happening right now are left over from the wave of Delta cases last year.
US inflation soared 7% in past year, the most since 1982 - Bank account a little lighter lately, you’re not alone. Inflation jumped faster than it has in the last 40 years last month. Experts say the 7% spike from this time last year is increasing household expenses, eating into wage gains that anybody made last year. Some Economists say prices may cool off a little bit as supply chain ease, but inflation will remain high throughout 2022.
Wednesday, January 12, 2022
Michigan projects COVID-19 surge won’t peak for some weeks - Officials are now saying we won’t see Omicron’s worst until late January or early February. Cases and hospitalizations are expected to peak late January, early February before beginning to drop. Health leaders, who are hesitant to reinstate restrictions or mandates, are urging Michiganders to get vaccinated, get a booster shot, wear a mask and avoid large gatherings.
Mt Pleasant Schools - Mt. Pleasant Schools announced last night that they’ll be closed today due to illness and will be making the move to virtual learning tomorrow thru the end of the month
Michigan Medicine CEO: ‘Health care is truly in a crisis’ amid COVID surge, staffing shortage - Saying that Michigan’s health care system is in crisis is an understatement. The Omicron surge plus the most severe staffing shortage the health system has ever seen is painting a not so good picture for Michigan’s hospitals, and that’s not good. Medical officials are saying they’ve never seen this many kids hospitalized with COVID. Hospitalizations are way up for babies up to 4 years old who aren’t eligible for vaccines.
IRS announces tax filing start date, new Tax Day this year - The IRS has announced a start date for this year’s tax season. They’ll start accepting and processing 2021 returns on Monday, Jan. 24. Your filing deadline to submit returns is Monday, April 18 for most taxpayers, a change from the typical date. If you file for an extension you have until Monday, Oct.17, to file.
American Red Cross Declares National Blood Crisis - For the first time in their history, the American Red Cross has declared a National Blood Crisis. With their inventory at an all time low it’s forcing hospitals to make difficult decisions about which patients get blood and which don’t. The Red Cross is urging everyone….it doesn’t matter where you give blood, it’s just important now, if you’re eligible, to give blood.
Girl Scout Cookies Season Is Officially Underway: Girl Scout Cookies season is here. The organization said each Girl Scout council sets its own price for the 12 cookie varieties, but four- to seven-dollars a box is the usual range. A spokesperson said some specialty products, like gluten-free varieties, might be priced higher. Girl Scouts sell about 200-million boxes of cookies every year. Revenue from the cookie sales stays with local councils and troops.
Tuesday, January 11, 2022
Mt. Pleasant parks’ ice rink opens for season - Mt. Pleasant’s much anticipated outdoor ice rink finally opened yesterday. The rink, located in Island Park will stay open as long as the weather allows. It’ll be open from 8am to 11pm each day.
Police seek tips to identify Hobby Lobby thieves - Mt. Pleasant police need your help in identifying 4 women suspected of stealing from Hobby Lobby in Mt. Pleasant. Descriptions and surveillance pics of the women are available at themorningsun.com. If you know anything, please contact the Mt. Pleasant Police.
Confirmed omicron cases more than double in Michigan - Calling it one of the most if not the most contagious virus that we have seen in the modern era, officials report that the number of confirmed omicron cases in Michigan more than doubled in the last week. Michigan now has 617 total cases in 41 of 83 counties. A week ago, there were less than 300 confirmed cases in 18 counties.
Arctic Blast, Feet Of Snow Coming For Parts Of U.S. - Parts of the U.S. are about ready to feel Mother Nature's bad attitude as a powerful winter blast hits. Wind chills in parts of the upper Midwest could get as low as 45 degrees below zero, while in the Northeast and New England, it could feel like it is 35 below zero. Meantime, lake effect snow is ramping up as well. Places that see the snowfall, like Buffalo and Syracuse, New York along with Cleveland, Ohio, could see up to two-feet of the white stuff.
Biden Administration Says Private Insurers Will Reimburse Home Test Costs - The Biden administration will require private health insurers to reimburse people for home COVID-19 tests. The new guidance requires reimbursement for up to eight over-the-counter home tests, per person, every month, beginning next Monday (January 17th).
North Korea Launches Another Possible Missile Into Sea - Less than a week after their last apparent missile test, it looks like North Korea just launched another ballistic missile. The weapon apparently flew for more than 400-miles before dropping into the ocean. The U.S. said they were aware of the test and said it did not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel, territory, or allies. This comes as the U.N. Security Council met in New York yesterday to discuss the first missile test. The U.S. and five other countries condemned that launch, calling it "a threat to international peace and security."
Monday, January 10, 2022
Mt. Pleasant Public Schools seeks community feedback for utilizing potential relief funds - If they get it, how should they spend their Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds (ESSER). That’s the question Mt. Pleasant schools asked all December long after applying for the money to address learning recovery from the impact of COVID-19. A few of the top answers were:
The full results of the survey will be available soon. For more information, visit mtpleasantschools.net.
Michigan Lt. Governor Gilchrist tests positive for COVID-19 - Yesterday Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist announced he has tested positive for COVID-19 after his daughter showed symptoms. He said he is not showing symptoms himself, and his daughter’s symptoms are improving. Gilchrist said he is isolating and plans to continue to work remotely
Parents of accused Oxford High School shooter denied bond reduction - Friday an Oakland County judge said no to reducing the bond for James and Jennifer Crumbly from 500K to 100K. The Crumbly’s are the parents of accused Oxford Schools Shooter Ethan Crumbley and according to the judge..a flight risk.
Clare Public Schools Transitioning From Six to Five Bus Routes Due to Bus Driver Shortage - Friday Clare Public Schools announced that due to a bus driver shortage, they’ll be running 5 instead of 6 bus routes starting today. They’re not the only ones facing changes due to a shortage of bus drivers. At Fulton Schools, if your child rides bus number eight this is the temporary plan. Pompeii kids will be on bus number three. Perrinton kids will be on bus number five. And Middleton kids will be on bus number one. Fulton schools asks Parents to be flexible with bus times as we accommodate all bus riders in this temporary plan.
Hospitalization Risk From Omicron Variant Is Much Less Than Delta - While much has been made of the omicron variant and hospitalizations in recent weeks, a new study shows that vaccinated people are actually two-thirds less likely to be hospitalized because of the Omicron variant as opposed to the Delta variant. The research has also shown that that the risk of Omicron illness requiring emergency care or hospitalization is about half of that for Delta.
US/Russia Talks Begin Today - The U.S. is preparing to discuss missile deployment with Russia today. At issue? The increasing tensions in the region as Russia has been increasing its presence along the Ukrainian border amid growing fears of an invasion. According to White House officials, they hope both Russian and Ukraine will agree to restrict their military exercises and missile deployments in the region.
Mega Millions results for 01/07/22; did anyone win the $278 million jackpot? - The Mega Millions jackpot continues to climb as there was no winner of the $278 million jackpot for the drawing held on Friday, Jan. 7. That means the drawing on Tuesday, Jan. 11 will be worth $300 million with a cash option of $206.7 million.
Friday, January 07, 2022
Mid Michigan College joins push for nursing degree changes - Mid Michigan College is joining other community colleges in a push to be able to award bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Right now a nurse needs to enroll in a university after completing their associate degree at a community college. There’s legislation in Lansing that would allow nurses to stay in their communities, get their degrees, and continue to work in rural hospitals where they’re already providing care. The bill will soon be voted on in the Michigan House of Representatives followed by the Senate.
US hospitals seeing different kind of COVID surge this time - The Omicron variant is throwing hospitals a curve ball a different kind of COVID surge. This time it’s staff shortages because so many health care workers are getting sick with the fast-spreading variant. At the same time people aren’t as sick as those who came in during the Delta surge. Intensive care units aren’t as full, and ventilators aren’t needed as much. The pressure is still prompting hospitals to scale back non-emergency surgeries and close wards, while National Guard troops have been sent in in several states to help at medical centers and testing sites.
Up to another foot of snow to fall over part of southwest Michigan, recipe for road pile-ups - We didn’t end up with much snow here, but the widespread snow on the West side of the state yesterday has now evolved into a heavy lake-effect snow and it’s not done. The forcast today looks like the southwest corner of Lower Michigan’s looking at another 6-12 inches. The northern Lake Michigan shore from Ludington to Frankfort should get another 6 to 10 inches of snow, and some spots in the Upper Peninsula could get another foot of snow.
CDC now says everyone 12 and older should receive mRNA booster shot - The CDC now says children 12 to 17 should their COVID boosters. Previously, the CDC had said children 16 and 17 may receive third shots and all fully vaccinated adults should receive booster shots. Now, the agency is saying everyone 12 and older should have the additional shots.
‘Flurona’ cases are spreading. What are symptoms of flu + coronavirus double infection? - As if COVID wasn’t enough meet FLURONA. COVID + the Flu = FLURONA. It’s basically when you get COVID and the flu at the same time. Don’t want to get it…prevention is the same. Social distancing, wearing masks and avoiding large crowds
January 6th Anniversary Marked On Capitol Hill - Yesterday marked one year since our nation hit a crossroads. Speaking at the Capitol, Biden said a violent mob tried to stop the peaceful transfer of power a year ago, And while not calling his predecessor by name, Biden made clear that he blamed now-former President Trump for inspiring the attack. He also scolded the former president for watching the attack on TV for hours at the White House and "doing nothing" to stop it.
State police seek tips on stolen school bus - If you happen to notice a stolen school bus around anywhere, Lakeview police are looking for it. A 1996 Bluebird school bus was stolen from the Stanton area earlier this week. If you have any info please contact the Lakeview State Police Post.
Thursday, January 06, 2022
A record 4.5 million Americans quit their jobs in November - In a sign that the US job market may be bouncing back, a record 4.5 million American quit their jobs in November while employers posted 10.6 million job openings. As it sits right now the unemployment rate has fallen to 4.2%, close to what economists consider full employment.
Whitmer announces children’s art contest for State of the State program - What makes Michigan special to you? If you’re a K-12 student Gov. Whitmer wants to know. She just announced an art contest for the 2022 State of the State program cover and “Why do you believe in Michigan” is the theme. Grab your crayons, markers, paint, whatever medium you love and illustrate what makes MI special to you. You can submit your artwork at the state of Michigan link in this story at the morningsun.com (somgovweb.state.mi.us/GovContest)
Democrat elected to lead Isabella county board - Keeping in like with tradition of operating as a non-partisan group, last night the republican majority Isabella County Board of Commissioners elected Tobin Hope, a Democrat, to lead them. Tobin Hope, is a Mt. Pleasant Democrat from District 7
Whitmer tests negative for COVID-19 after her husband contracted coronavirus, will continue remote work - The results are in…and it’s a negative for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Her PCR test came back negative after her husband tested positive for COVID on Tuesday. The Gov. says she feels healthy and doesn’t have any symptoms but plans on working remotely this week as a precaution
Mt. Pleasant City Commission Vacancy - There is one open seat on the Mt. Pleasant City Commission…..interested? Nominating petitions are available at City Hall and need to be filed with the City Clerk before Tuesday January 18th. The City election will take place on Tuesday, May 3, 2022.
TikTok Is The Worst App For A Good Night’s Sleep - If you’re someone who likes to wind down before you go to bed by scrolling TikTok you may want to think twice about it. A new report suggests that the social media app may be keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep. In fact, after scrolling through TikTok it takes users one hour and seven minutes to fall asleep and they only spend 14% of their sleep cycle in REM sleep, half the recommended amount for a healthy adult. And TikTok isn’t the only app that’s bad for you: Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and Facebook also make the list
Gas Prices - Gas prices in MI held steady over the last week. The statewide average remains around $3.10 a gallon. The Northern MI average is closer to $3.20 a gallon. Experts say if crude oil prices continue to increase, pump prices will likely follow suit.
Tuesday, January 04, 2022
Effort to recall 3 Alma city commissioners fails - The group attempting to recall 3 Alma city commissioners failed to get enough signatures by the Dec. 31st deadline. That means no recall for Roxann Harrington, Audra Stahl and Nick Piccolo, however all three are up for reelection in 2022 if they choose to run again.
Omicron variant of coronavirus now in 18 Michigan counties, latest data shows - With cases now confirmed in 18 Michigan counties including Clinton, Genesee, and Saginaw, Monday the number of omicron COVID cases in Michigan jumped from 75 to almost 300. Officials say there are likely far more cases. Routine COVID testing doesn’t identify variants, and only a small number of tests undergo genomic sequencing to determine variants.
FDA authorizes Pfizer booster shots for kids 12 to 15 - Monday the FDA ok’d Pfizer booster shots for children 12 to 15. They also shortened the time between your primary and booster shots from 6 months to 5 for people 12 and older. Right now the Pfizer vaccine is the only of the three vaccines available in the United States ok’d for to children.
U.S. Recorded 1M COVID Cases Monday - The US broke a COVID record yesterday after 1 million people tested positive yesterday. Yesterday's record is almost twice the previous daily record that was set four days earlier. The surge is caused by the highly infectious omicron variant, however the Delta variant is the one causing most of the hospitalizations
Powerball Jackpot Rolls Over – Again - Time to go to work today – that’s because, no…you didn’t win the Powerball jackpot last night. Which means the next powerball jackpot stands at 575-million dollars.
Super Car Guy Jim Sisson dies at 76 - Some sad news, Mt. Pleasant’s Jim Sisson “Super Car Guy,” who ran Heritage Chrysler and Tradition Oldsmobile in Mt. Pleasant, passed away on Dec. 28th. A private family memorial service will be held on Jan. 7.
Some Schools Expecting Virus Surge Go Online, Cancel Classes - Rising COVID numbers and an expected surge following the holidays has prompted some school in Michigan to start the new semester virtually. Detroit Schools, Ann Arbor, Oak Park, Southfield, even Lansing schools all moving to virtual learning for all or part of the next week or two in an effort to ward off any possible omicron COVID surge
Monday, January 3, 2022
CMU to require COVID-19 booster shot for full vaccinated status for campus community - As students and staff return to CMU the university will now require a COVID booster shot for staff and students to be counted as fully vaccinated. Staff and students aren’t required to get a COVID-19 vaccine, however anyone on campus who’s not fully vaccinated must get tested weekly COVID-19. Students and staff have until Jan. 17 to get their booster shot and to update their vaccination status on the COVID-19 Health Screen app.
Michigan Schools To Hire Hundreds Of Mental And Physical Health Professionals - Schools all across Michigan are adding over 550 mental and physical health professionals. The move is being paid for by the new $17.1 billion state budget that the governor signed last summer. Officials say the increase in mental and physical health professionals is needed after years of understaffing and overburdening schools. School districts have until March 1 to hire and to be eligible to apply for grants to fully fund positions with state money.
The Shepherd Police Department announced Friday that they have identified those responsible for property damage done to Shepherd Public Schools and the Shepherd Elevator. - The suspects responsible for the vandalism at the Shepherd Schools Athletic Complex have been identified. Sometime between Dec 28th and 29th someone spray painted vulgar sayings at the stadium. The case will now be turned over to the Isabella County Prosecutor’s Office for criminal charges.
Powerball results for 01/01/22; did anyone win the $518 million jackpot? - Four players brought home at least $1 million, but there was no winner of the $518 million Powerball jackpot for the drawing held on Saturday, Jan. 1. That means the drawing on Monday, Jan. 3 will be worth $522 million with a cash option of $371.5 million.
Fauci Hints More Changes Coming For Covid Guidelines - Last week the the CDC changed their guidance on COVID isolation from 10 to 5 days and also ok’d a return to the world without retesting. Now Dr. Fauci is recommending that people do get tested after the 5 day isolation period and it looks like the CDC will be making that adjustment in their COVID guidelines.
Verizon, AT&T CEOs Reject Government Request To Delay Overall 5G Rollout:
Verizon and AT&T will not delay this week's planned rollout of 5G wireless service…not exactly. In a joint letter, the CEOs of the two companies said they won't deploy 5G around airports for six months. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg [[BOOT-edge-edge]] and FAA Director had asked AT&T and Verizon to delay the start of 5G service for two weeks. They're concerned that the technology might interfere with sensitive aircraft electronics and disrupt flights. The telecoms CEOs said the exclusion zone they're proposing is used safely in Fra
Thursday, December 30, 2021
Mid Nursing Students Achieve 100% Licensure Pass Rate - Once a nursing student finishes classes they need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to obtain their license. Nationally, NCLEX pass rate are sitting at about 80.45%. In 2020, Mid Michigan College’s Mt. Pleasant nursing students achieved the first 100% NCLEX pass rate for their cohort, and just one year later in 2021, the Harrison campus nursing students also achieved their cohort’s first 100% NCLEX pass rate. Each cohort continues to see high pass rates as future cohorts have completed testing.
MP school board member survives recall effort - Looks like at least one of the Mt. Pleasant school board members targeted for recall will keep her seat. Recall organizers say they won’t have enough signatures by a Jan. 1 to trigger the recall of trustee Wiline Pangle. Because of the terms by which she took office, the deadline for Pangle’s petition is shorter than the other two. Organizers say they will continue collecting signatures for the other two — board president Amy Bond and trustee Courtney Stegman.
Mega Millions results for 12/28/21; jackpot worth $201 million - Three players in Michigan came within one number of winning it all, but there was no winner of the $201 million Mega Millions jackpot for the drawing held on Tuesday, Dec. 28. That means the drawing on Friday, Dec. 31 will be worth $221 million with a cash option of $159.6 million.
MDHHS Issues Statement On Recent CDC Guidance - The Michigan Health Department announced that despite the CDC’s new shortened quarantine and isolation periods they’ll be sticking to their current quarantine and isolation guidelines, including guidelines for school and care facilities. They did however say they’ll look at updating the state’s guidance when more information is available from the CDC.
Thousands of Air Travelers Still Stranded - It was anything but a happy holiday for those traveling by plane. Thousands of people across the country are still trying to get home after thousands of flight delays and cancellations. Several airlines say the majority of those cancellations are because of crew members have been exposed to COVID and are out sick
Biden To Hold Phone Call With Russian President Putin - President Biden is set to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone today.The White House released a statement stating the two leaders will cover a range of topics that include upcoming diplomatic engagements with Russia. Biden has already been speaking with leaders across Europe regarding Russia's presence near the Ukrainian border. Meanwhile, the U.S. Air Force flew a reconnaissance mission over eastern Ukraine two days after Russia promised to withdraw troops from its border.
Wednesday, December 29, 2021
-MICHIGAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS CAN NOW USE NON – TEACHING STAFF AS SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS THE REST OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR UNDER A NEW LAW DESIGNED TO ADDRESS A SHORTAGE DURING THE PANDEMIC. GOVERNOR WHITMER HAS SIGNED THE BILL, CALLING IT A TEMPORARY STOP GAP. IT LETS SECRETARIES, PARAPROFESSIONALS AND OTHER SCHOOL EMPLOYEES WITHOUT A TEACHING CERTIFICATE WORK AS SUBS IF THEY HAVE A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA. MICHIGAN GENERALLY REQUIRES SUBS TO HAVE AN ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE OR AT LEAST 60
HOURS OF COLLEGE CREDIT.
-LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES ACROSS MICHIGAN ARE ONCE AGAIN ADDING EXTRA PATROLS TO THE ROADWAYS OVER THE HOLIDAYS, LOOKING FOR DRUNK DRIVERS. THE ANNUAL “DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER” CAMPAIGN CONTINUES THRU NEW YEAR’S DAY. DECEMBER HAS BEEN PROCLAIMED AS NATIONAL IMPAIRED DRIVING PREVENTION MONTH AS A REMINDER TO PEOPLE THAT PREVENTING IMPAIRED DRIVING DEATHS AND INJURIES IS EVERY DRIVER’S RESPONSIBILITY.
Michigan redistricting commission adopts final Congressional map - Michigan’s independent redistricting commission ok’d a final Congressional political district map for the next decade of elections. The map, labeled the “Chestnut” map by the 13-member panel, was approved Tuesday. You can view the new maps by clicking the story a mlive.com
Omicron 4 times more contagious than delta; new variant now in 9 Michigan counties - The number omicron COVID cases in Michigan more than quadrupled in five days. As of Monday the state had a total of 54 cases, that’s up from 13 last Wednesday. Omicron is four times more contagious than delta leading health officials to prepare for a spike in infections and hospitalizations, which could and has the potential to be our largest surge yet
Powerball results for 12/27/21; did anyone win the $429 million jackpot? - Lottery players will have one more chance to win in 2021. There was no winner of the $429 million jackpot for the drawing held on Monday, Dec. 27. That means the drawing on Wednesday, Dec. 29 will be worth $441 million with a cash option of $317.5 million.
Get Ready For $4 Gas: If you’re looking for some lousy news to kick off your 2022, you need look no further than the GasBuddy app. They’re predicting that the national average for gas in 2022 will jump up to $3.41 a gallon, up from the $3.02 that’s currently being paid. But wait, it gets worse, that average is expected to go up to around $3.79 in May, around Memorial Day, and potentially flirt with a $4-a-gallon average at its peak, before finally coming back down again. Where does the blame lie? Factors that’ll cause the spikes include demand continuing to outweigh supply, production cuts that still haven’t been boosted back to pre-COVID levels, and refinery shutdowns.
Tuesday, December 28, 2021
Mt. Pleasant will be picking up discarded Christmas trees in early January - Remember…2 tags. The City of Mt. Pleasant will be around picking up Christmas trees from Jan. 3-14. Put them at the curb with 2 refuse tags on them. If you miss the January 14th cutoff, you’ll have to take the tree to the MRF yourself.
Alma refugee center preps for opening - Despite all the controversy, Bethany Christian Services is set to open their Transitional Home at the former Warwick Living Center after the new year. The center will provide meals, shelter, educational classes, counseling, recreational activities and around the clock supervision for male refugees ages 12-17 for up to 45 days.
CDC recommends shorter isolation, quarantine for those with COVID - Yesterday, U.S. health officials cut isolation restrictions for COVID from 10 days to five days. They also shortened the time that close contacts need to quarantine. CDC officials said the new guidance is in keeping with growing evidence that people with COVID are most infectious in the two days before and three days after symptoms develop.
MBS to receive federal assistance - Thanks to President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, MBS International Airport will be getting nearly $7.8 million in federal grant funding over the next five years. The money will be used to replace the maintenance building that was built in 1979. They also plan to rehabilitate their secondary runway and associated taxiways.
Experts Say Grocery Prices Will Rise In 2022 - Higher prices at the grocery store are on the way in 2022. Companies including General Mills, Campbell Soup, Kraft Heinz, and others say that some items could increase as much as 20% in the new year. Food prices are estimated to rise five percent in the first half of 2022, but the actual amount prices rise will vary by grocers and regions.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu Dies At 90 - In a statement issued Sunday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Archbishop Desmond Tutu passed away at the age of 90. Tutu reportedly passed peacefully. He was known for his work as a human rights campaigner and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his efforts in ending white minority rule in South Africa.
Monday, December 27, 2021
Bandit acquires Remus-area manufacturer - In what’s been called a time of expansion, Bandit Industries has purchased Trelan Manufacturing in Remus. Bandit says they plan to continue manufacturing, selling, and supplying parts from the Trelan line. They also plan to construct three new facilities and hire additional employees.
FDA authorizes emergency use of two COVID-19 pills to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 - Last week the FDA ok’d emergency use for two antiviral pills to treat mild to moderate COVID Both the Pfizer pill and the Merck pills are available for prescription only and should be started as soon as possible after a diagnosis Both have been shown to reduce hospitalization and death in patients with COVID-19
Mega Millions results for 12/24/21; $1 million winner sold in Michigan - A player in Michigan won $1 million, but there was no winner of the $187 million Mega Millions jackpot for the drawing held on Friday, Dec. 24. That means the drawing on Tuesday, Dec. 28 will be worth $201 million with a cash option of $144 .1 million.
Mount Pleasant Discovery Museum Working To Build New Exhibit - Happy anniversary. The Mount Pleasant Discovery Museum celebrates its ninth anniversary today and what better way to celebrate than by building a a new exhibit. Once it’s finished, 3-2-1 Blast Off will take kids on a trip through outer space. In the meantime the museum will be having a birthday party today and a masquerade gala on New Year’s Eve
Skaters await freezing weather for Mt. Pleasant rink - Mt. Pleasant’s new community ice rink is as ready it’s Mother Nature that’s the problem now. The outdoor ice rink, set up on a softball field at Island Park, is ready for below freezing temperatures to freeze the shallow water. Officials hope the rink will be usable sometime in January when temps are a little more steady
Midland schools - Midland Superintendent Michael Sharrow announced Wednesday morning that there will be two additional days off for students and staff next semester. The added non-school days are Jan. 14 and Feb. 21. Students and staff will not report to school these days.
Thursday, December 23, 2021
COVID-19 cases in Michigan show substantial increase - New COVID-19 cases in Michigan were right around 6,843 for for Tuesday and Wednesday this week, that’s a lot higher than the 4,666 last week. Yesterday’s case total brought the state’s total confirmed number of cases to 1,448,523 and deaths to 26,376 since the start of the pandemic. In a statement Gov. Whitmer said as Omicron becomes the dominant COVID-19 variant in the United States, we all have to step up this holiday season to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe
Michigan hospitals ‘teetering’ under current COVID-19 surge - Hospitals in southeast Michigan are in worse shape today than they were during the first surge of the pandemic and with the holidays approaching hospital administrators are concerned. Officials say the infrastructure of the healthcare system across the state of Michigan is at a “tipping point.” Healthcare officials say this is being caused by an onslaught of preventable COVID-19 infections. In her press conference Tuesday, Gov. Whitmer asked everyone in the state to get vaccinated.
FDA Investigating Listeria Outbreak In Fresh Express Packaged Salad - The FDA is investigating a listeria outbreak in Fresh Express Packaged Salad. The outbreak has been associated with a handful of illnesses in in Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Fresh Express voluntarily ceased production at their Streamwood, Illinois, facility and recalled certain varieties of their salads produced in that facility. The recall includes all use-by dates of fresh salad items with product codes Z324 through Z350. If you have some…throw it away
MPSC Approves $27M Rate Increase for Consumers Energy Electric Customers - It’s a little bit lower than they had originally asked for but yesterday the Michigan Public Service Commission ok’d a rate increase for Consumers Energy. A typical customer who uses 500 kilowatt hours per month will see an increase of 59 cents (0.64%) on their monthly bill starting in January 2022.
Supreme Court To Hear Arguments On Biden Vax Mandates - The Supreme Court says they will listen to arguments over the cases challenging President Biden's vaccine mandates on January 7th. The mandates are facing multiple challenges across the country. The Supreme Court also deferred ruling on whether to block the new rules until after hearing the challenges.
-COUNTY COMMISSIONERS IN MICHIGAN WILL HAVE FOUR–YEAR TERMS BEGINNING WITH THE FALL ELECTION IN 2024. GOVERNOR WHITMER HAS SIGNED THE BI–PARTISAN SUPPORTED BILLS WHICH SUPPORTERS SAY WILL HELP COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOCUS ON GOVERNING, AND NOT “ELECTION YEAR POLITICS” EVERY TWO YEARS.
-THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AND MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY ARE REQUIRING ALL STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF TO RECEIVE THEIR COVID BOOSTER FOR NEXT SEMESTER IN AN EFFORT TO STOP THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS. BOTH SCHOOLS MENTIONED THE OMICRON VARIANT AS A DRIVER TO IMPLEMENT THE NEW RULES.
Wednesday, December 22, 2021
Police warn of two phone scams making the rounds - Don’t give out financial info over the phone! Police in central Michigan are warning us about 2 different phone scams going on right now. 1 says a relative is being held hostage and you need to pay ransom, the other says there’s a warrant for your arrest and you need to send money. Police are reminding people Please be vigilant when you receive a request to send money or share any personal financial data with anyone.
Whitmer predicts tough 4-6 weeks in COVID-19 battle - In her first press conference cince June, Gov. Whitmer, said we’re in for another tough month or two in the pandemic battle. She didn’t issue lockdowns or restrictions and, in fact, said one of her goals is to keep schools and businesses open. She did however urge masking, social distancing and testing, but most importantly vaccines and boosters.
Mt. Pleasant will be picking up discarded Christmas trees in early January - Christmas is still a few days away but for those that are planners, the City of Mt. Pleasant will be picking up Christmas trees from Jan. 3-14. Drop them at the curb with 2 refuse tags on them.
Extra food assistance being issued to Michiganders in December in response to coronavirus - Gov. Whitmer ok’d an extra food assistance payment to help Michigan families this holiday season. Roughly 700,000 households, will get an additional food assistance payment on their Bridge Card this month, and you don’t need to do anything, the money will be added without any extra paperwork as a separate payment.
Biden Lays Out Omicron Strategy - President Biden is outlining steps to deal with the Omicron variant. Saying that unvaccinated people will continue to be at the highest risk, he’s deploying one-thousand military doctors, nurses and paramedics to U.S. hospitals. Government emergency response teams are being sent to six states that have been hit hard by the latest COVID surge including Michigan. FEMA is also working with states to expand hospital bed capacity
U.S. Population Growth In 2021 Slowest Since Nation's Founding - Population growth in the United States has dropped to the lowest level since our country became a country. The US Census Bureau says the population of the US grew just 0.1 percent in 2021. They attribute the drop to rising death rates in the aging population and falling rates in both births and migration and COVID.
Tuesday, December 21, 2021
Taco Boy owner says ZBA vote dooms his business - Despite a petition showing support, city commissioners rejected Taco Boy’s application to keep their drive thru open. Owners had asked the city to allow them to operate a low-traffic drive-thru with a reduced minimum amount of space for traffic waiting to order after he was told in August that the drive thru didn’t meet requirements under the zoning ordinance. Owners opened the drive-thru service in response to the COVID shutdown and said it was the only thing that kept them going under.
Multi-year Velsicol cleanup continues - Cleanup at the former Velsicol plant site in St. Louis has been going on for years and will likely take several more years before it’s finished. Officials say more than $150 million has been spent on the cleanup so far and that number could reach a half-a-billion dollars by the time it’s done. If you want a little more info, click themorningsun.com
Whitmer Signs Massive Economic Development Deal Into Law - Gov. Whitmer signed a huge economic development bill yesterday. The package is designed to give businesses incentives to set up shop in Michigan, more businesses means more jobs.
Omicron Sweeps Across Nation, Now 73% of US COVID-19 Cases - The Omicron variant is now the dominant COVID variant in the U.S. accounting for 73% of new infections The CDC said they saw a 6 fold increase in the numbers in just last week. Scientists in Africa first discovered omicron less than a month ago and since then the variant has since shown up in about 90 countries.
Santa tracking: Best ways to follow the sleigh this holiday - To help you keep tabs on Santa this year we’ve gathered a few of our favorite Santa tracking services.
First Known Omicron U.S. Death In Texas - The first known death in the U.S. from the omicron COVID-19 variant has happened in Texas. While it hasn’t proven to be deadlier than its previous incarnations, the omicron variant appears to be much more infectious than earlier forms of the virus. In fact, Houston Methodist hospital reported 82% of new cases are omicron after three weeks, a milestone the delta variant took three months to reach.
Officials Confirm 6.2 Quake Struck Off Northern California Coast - The U.S. Geological Survey reported an earthquake off the coast of Northern California yesterday. The six-point-two quake struck around Noon local time about 45 miles southwest of Eureka. So far no reports of injury or serious damage but people reported feeling the quake up and down the coast from Crescent City to San Jose and as far east as Sacramento.
Monday, December 20, 2021
Sam’s Club may soon add a fuel station to their store - Driving to Alma or Clare to fill up your tank? You’re not alone, with gas prices in Mt. Pleasant running about 67 cents a gallon more than the state’s cheapest stations, many have been doing just that. Relief could be coming. Sam’s Club is planning on building a new gas station at their location in Mt. Pleasant which should put some downward pressure on gas prices in the area. Construction hasn’t started yet, but if you want some more info on this story, click it at themorningsun.com
OSHA vaccine mandate penalties to start Jan. 10 - Friday a federal appeals court reinstated Biden's vaccine mandate for large companies (those with 100 or more employees). Going into effect January 4th, OSHA has said they won’t start issuing fines until the 10th. They want to give companies time to adjust and implement plans.
Powerball results for 12/18/21; did anyone win the $352 million jackpot? - One player brought home $2 million, but there was no winner of the $352 million Powerball jackpot for the drawing held on Saturday, Dec. 18. That means the drawing on Monday, Dec. 20 will be worth $363 million with a cash option of $265 million.
Fauci Warns Holiday Travel Presents COVID Risk - The nation's top infectious disease expert says holiday travel will give the omicron COVID-19 variant an increased risk of spreading. Dr. Anthony Fauci said that if you do travel, make sure you’re vaccinated, boosted, and wear a mask inside places like airports. Fauci warned that regardless of how careful people are, there are going to be breakthrough infections, especially given how contagious the omicron variant is.
Mt. Pleasant police beef up security over TikTok videos - There were a few more police officers walking the halls of Mt. Pleasant High School last Friday thanks to a TikTok video urging users to make threats of violence against their schools. TikTok officials said they are working with law enforcement to uncover who was responsible.
Wealthy Parents Competing For Used Must-Have Christmas Toys - While store shelves are stocked with all kinds of toys and games, some of the “hottest toys of the year” are hard to find which is leading some parents to do something they’ve never done before…buy used. To get her hands on a Gabby’s Dollhouse, one mom said she bought used and paid $200…that’s nearly 4 times the 55$ retail price. Some parents are even getting into ebay bidding wars for things like the Galactic Snackin’ Grogu and the Nintendo Switch.
One entry per email
01/14/22 - Logan Blake of Mt. Pleasant
Won this week's CLICK TO WIN contest,
a $50 Gift Card to Celebration Cinema, Mt. Pleasant
01/14/22 - Heather Kullman of Mt. Pleasant
Won this week's FREE FOOD FRIDAY contest, a $50 Gift Card to Ponderosa, Mt. Pleasant
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