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Health System Launches Social Care HotlineHealth System Launches Social Care Hotline

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com A local hospital system is emphasizing a new hotline service to assist area residents in need. Mercy Health and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, which together comprise the Michigan region of Trinity Health, implemented a social care hotline earlier this year to connect individuals with needed support, including access to food, transportation, health insurance, medication assistance, dependent care and more. Dave Spivey, vice president of Community Health and Well Being for Trinity Health Michigan, said they recognize that the “social determinants of health” like food insecurity and lack of health insurance, are major factors in poor health outcomes and that the COVID-19 pandemic has only escalated those challenges. "Now more than ever people are struggling with job loss and other life changes and may not be sure where to begin finding needed services." Spivey says anyone, whether they are associated with a Trinity Health institution or not, is invited to call the hospital hotline Monday through Friday between 8am and 6pm at 1-833-247-1258. They will be greeted by a recorded message that will ask them to press 2 for west Michigan or 3 for southeast Michigan. From there they will be connected with a hospital representative who will help locate resources in their area. Spivey adds that with open enrollment currently taking place now through Dec. 15, 2020, staff are available to help enroll callers in health insurance programs such as Medicaid or Health Insurance Marketplace. Since its launch in June, more than 5,000 people have been helped across the state by calling the hotline, with top needs including access to COVID-19 testing, transportation to medical appointments, housing support and food. The St. Joseph Mercy Health System operates eight facilities in the region including St. Joe Mercy Livingston Hospital in Howell and the St. Joe Brighton Health Clinic.

Brighton Man Killed In I-696 CrashBrighton Man Killed In I-696 Crash

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com A crash on I-696 this morning killed a Livingston County man. Michigan State Police say they were dispatched at about 5:30am to a reported crash in Farmington Hills. A preliminary investigation revealed that the driver, identified as a 45-year-old Brighton man, was eastbound on 696 when his vehicle left the roadway and struck a bridge abutment. The driver, whose name was not released, was killed in the crash which closed down the freeway for several hours. He was the only occupant in the vehicle and no other vehicles were involved in the crash, which remains under investigation.

New Pure Michigan Small Business Relief InitiativeNew Pure Michigan Small Business Relief Initiative

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By Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com A new grant program aims to meet the urgent need of small businesses disproportionately impacted the COVID-19 virus in Livingston County and across the state. The Pure Michigan Small Business Relief Initiative will utilize federal CARES Act funding to provide $10 (m) million in grants to small businesses. The initiative is intended to meet the urgent need of Michigan businesses including restaurants and bars, lodging providers, live event venues and movie theaters, conference and meeting facilities, indoor recreation facilities, and gyms and fitness centers. Grants of up to $15,000 will be awarded to support eligible businesses facing drastic reductions in cash flow and the continued support of their workforce. The grants can be used for working capital to support payroll expenses, rent, mortgage payments, or utility expenses. Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the program at a recent press conference. She says as they continue to take necessary precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19, many of Michigan’s small businesses are experiencing additional strain, particularly now during the holiday season and heading into winter. Region 9, which includes Livingston, Washtenaw, Jackson, Hillsdale, Lenawee and Monroe Counties, has been allocated $900,000. Businesses can begin applying December 15th. Funds will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis. More information can be found through the provided link.

Report Details Disability Needs In Livingston CountyReport Details Disability Needs In Livingston County

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com A new report has identified an inclusion gap for Livingston County’s disabled population. The Abilities Alliance, a workgroup of the Livingston Human Services Collaborative Body, on Tuesday released their report regarding the Disability Needs in Livingston County. Anne Richardson of the Arc Livingston said the alliance continues to work together to identify gaps and needs that interfere with people with disabilities accessing and being included in the community and that their goal “is to continue to share these important disparities, and to advocate for continued change that will break down barriers to access and inclusion for all.” Livingston County residents with disabilities were surveyed in late 2019 in order to gather data for the needs assessment. Unemployment, access to appropriate employment assistance, access to transportation, and access to support that promotes living more independently are a few of the needs that were reported through the survey. Information regarding utilization of local services, barriers and additional unmet needs was also gathered. To learn more about the Abilities Alliance workgroup for the Livingston County Human Services Collaborative Body, visit: https://www.livgov.com/hscb/Pages/Abilities-Alliance.aspx or check out the group's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/livingstonabilitiesalliance. To obtain more information, contact Amy Johnston at 810.772.4827 or at ajohnston@cmhliv.org>

Howell City Council Approves Tree Maintenance ContractHowell City Council Approves Tree Maintenance Contract

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By Jessica Mathews/News@whmi.com After a year hiatus, a tree maintenance program is returning to the City of Howell. At a recent virtual meeting, City Council voted to award the contract in the amount of $39,200 to the low bidder, Arbor Master Tree Service of Pinckney. The contract calls for 48 tree removals and approximately 265 trims throughout the northwest and southeast quadrants of the City. A memo states the DPS budgeted for the program in the 2020-2021 fiscal year and publicly advertised requesting proposals. Since the City did not budget or perform any tree program last year, there are now an increased number of trees that need to be removed or trimmed. The memo states City staff feels the program is necessary to continue to provide a beautiful and safe urban forestry. Howell became a designated Tree City USA Community in 1987 and has maintained that status each consecutive year since. All of the trees slated to be removed are said to be in a severe state of decline, dead or deemed a hazard by a third party certified arborist. Mayor Pro-Tem Steve Manor thanked staff for including the item, stating the City has been falling behind on the forestry management program. Manor said he’s familiar with some of the trees on the list and was thankful they survived some of the recent wind storms, adding they do a lot of damage when they come down so he hopes they can get the company in for the work pretty quickly. Staff was asked about the selected company and reported that other municipalities and entities were very happy, noting they have a number of arborists on staff that evaluates trees as they trim them. It was stated that arborists are always good to have on staff because unlike some other companies that might come through and sort of clear cut areas, an arborist will make sure the tree will survive and not be trimmed back to something unsightly. In accordance with the City’s Tree Removal Policy, designated trees will be posted at least five days prior to removal. Photo - Scofield Park at Thompson Lake

Michigan AG Argues Men Should Face Jury On Murder ChargesMichigan AG Argues Men Should Face Jury On Murder Charges

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com The Michigan Attorney General’s Office says the two men charged with the deaths of 11 Livingston County residents should face a jury. In a pair of filings Tuesday, the AG’s Office refuted a motion by attorneys for Barry Cadden and Glenn Chin that the second degree murder charges they face should be dismissed. The men were charged last year for their roles in running the New England Compounding Center where authorities say lax conditions were allowed to infect steroids that led to the 2012 outbreak that killed more than 100 people nationwide and sickened nearly a thousand others. Investigators connected the compounding pharmacy to Michigan clinics, including Michigan Pain Specialists in Genoa Township, which had dispensed the NECC contaminated steroids. The brief argues that Cadden, who was the co-owner of NECC “knowingly created a very high risk of death or great bodily harm knowing that death or such harm would be the likely result of his actions” while Chin, as supervising pharmacist, “put in motion a force that could and did in fact cause great bodily harm and death.” The defendant’s attorneys have both asked Livingston County Circuit Court Judge Michael Hatty to overturn the decision in August by 53rd District Court Judge Shauna Murphy to send the case to trial. The AG’s Office argues that decision was correct and based in law and that the issue of whether they committed 2nd Degree-Murder “must be left for a jury’s consideration.” Originally the motions were to have been heard at hearings set this week, but they have now been rescheduled for December 10th for Cadden and December 17th for Chin.

Livingston County COVID Death Toll ClimbingLivingston County COVID Death Toll Climbing

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By Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com The COVID-19 death toll and hospitalization rates continue to rise in Livingston County. On Wednesday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported two additional COVID deaths in Livingston County, bringing the total to 49 confirmed deaths and another probable death. As of November 2nd, there were 34 deaths recorded in the county – marking 16 deaths in the last 30 days. That equates to about 1/3 of all deaths since the pandemic began in mid-March. The Livingston County Health Department reported 5,444 confirmed cases, 518 probable cases and 174 hospitalizations as of Wednesday. Area hospitals are nearing capacity as cases surge locally and statewide. St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital in Howell was reported to be at 53% capacity with 11 inpatient confirmed COVID cases and 1 case that was discharged to recover at home/self-care on Wednesday. The most recent capacity data for other hospital systems was reported Monday on the state’s website. The University of Michigan Hospital System was at 78% capacity with 101 patients and 27 in the Intensive Care Unit. Ascension Providence Hospital in Novi was at 80% capacity with 79 patients and 2 in ICU. Sparrow Hospital in Lansing was at 82% capacity with 105 patients and 14 in ICU. Huron Valley Sinai Hospital was listed at 48% capacity with 20 patients. Meanwhile across Michigan on Wednesday, there were 373,197 confirmed Michigan cases reported and 9,405 deaths. There were 6,955 daily confirmed cases and 81 daily deaths reported.

Giuliani To Republicans: Pressure Legislature On Biden WinGiuliani To Republicans: Pressure Legislature On Biden Win

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LANSING, Mich. (AP) — President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer urged Michigan Republican activists on Wednesday to pressure, even threaten, the GOP-controlled Legislature to “step up” and award the state’s 16 electoral votes to Trump despite Democrat Joe Biden’s 154,000-vote victory. Rudy Giuliani made baseless claims of “massive fraud, all over the country,” which he later restated to a Republican-led legislative committee while pressing legislators to intervene. Just a day before, Attorney General William Barr declared the Justice Department had uncovered no evidence of widespread voter fraud that could change the outcome of the 2020 election. GOP legislative leaders have said they will not try to replace Michigan’s electors. Giuliani said the U.S. Constitution empowers legislatures to appoint electors directly, even though the Legislature long ago passed a law allotting them to the popular vote winner. Biden won the state by 2.8 percentage points. The result was certified by the state’s bipartisan election board last week. “They’re the ones who should have the courage to step up,” Giuliani said of lawmakers during a virtual event hosted by the Michigan Republican Party. “You have state legislators who are so frightened that they have a hard time focusing on it. You have got to get them to remember that their oath to the Constitution sometimes requires being criticized. Sometimes it even requires being threatened.” Later, he told the House Oversight Committee in a 4 1/2-hour evening hearing that lawmakers can “take back the power” to select electors. “It’s your responsibility to stand up.” The electors will meet on Dec. 14. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, who was among GOP lawmakers who attended an extraordinary meeting with Trump at the White House less than two weeks ago, reiterated Tuesday that the Legislature will not undermine the voters’ will. “We will follow the law and follow the normal process regarding Michigan’s electors,” he tweeted. “Assertions that Michigan legislators have authority different from what is expressly found in state law are inaccurate.” In a highly unusual step, the Republican chairman of the panel, Rep. Matt Hall, ceded the meeting to Giuliani — who in turn began calling and questioning witnesses. The first was Jessy Jacob, a furloughed Detroit worker who was temporarily assigned to the city clerk’s office. She repeated claims in her affidavit that was submitted in a lawsuit in which GOP poll challengers unsuccessfully sought to stop the certification of votes in the Democratic stronghold of Wayne County, home to Detroit. She said, for example, that she saw other workers coaching voters to cast ballots for Biden and she was instructed not to ask voters for photo ID. A judge denied the suit, ruling that the interpretation of events by the plaintiffs — who ascribed “sinister, fraudulent motives’ to the city and its election workers — was “incorrect and not credible.” Trump’s legal team and his allies have lost repeatedly in courts in Michigan and other states. Giuliani made wild claims of “massive cheating,” particularly by Detroit Democrats, that he said resulted in 500,000 to 700,000 “illegal” votes, even though there were only 250,000 total votes cast in the city. Despite Republicans’ questioning of vote counting in the city, nothing was amiss statistically, though. Biden won 240,936 votes to Trump’s 12,889. Four years ago, Hillary Clinton received 234,871 votes to Trump’s 7,682. Biden’s victory was powered by gains in big, vote-rich counties such as Oakland near Detroit and Kent, which includes Grand Rapids — amid a record 5.5 million people casting ballots. Biden won Oakland by 14 points, besting Clinton’s 8-point edge in 2016. He carried Kent by almost 6 points after Trump netted it by 3 points four years ago. Democrats blasted the hearing. In a tweet, state Attorney General Dana Nessel called it “a state-sponsored disinformation campaign geared toward undermining our electoral system.” House Minority Leader Christine Greig said in a statement: “The fact that we are even entertaining any more of these conspiracy theories after the election was certified is damaging to our nation.” There is no evidence of wholesale fraud in the election. In fact, election officials from both political parties have stated publicly that the election went well and international observers confirmed there were no serious irregularities. None of the legal challenges, like GOP challengers being unable to scrutinize the counting of absentee ballots in Detroit, have shown evidence that the election outcome was impacted. FILE - In this Nov. 19, 2020, file photo, former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, a lawyer for President Donald Trump, speaks during a news conference at the Republican National Committee headquarters, in Washington. Giuliani urged Michigan Republican activists on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2020, to pressure the GOP-controlled Legislature to "step up" and award the state's 16 electoral votes to Trump despite Democrat Joe Biden's 154,000-vote victory. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

Additions To Electronic Meeting Rules In Green Oak ApprovedAdditions To Electronic Meeting Rules In Green Oak Approved

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By Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com Green Oak Township has adopted an addendum to board rules and procedures dealing with the Temporary Open Meetings Act and electronic meetings. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing, the Open Meetings Act was amended via Public Act 228 to allow public bodies to hold remote or electronic meetings under certain circumstances. It lays out different time periods when different rules are to apply for when electronic meetings and remote attendance are permitted. The Act states the board can meet electronically for any reason through December 31st. The next period covers January 1st through December 31st of 2021 and stipulates the board is generally to meet in person at a physical place. However, it states the board must have rules in place to accommodate electronic meetings or remote attendance for members who are absent due to either active military duty or a medical condition, or the existence of a declared statewide or local state of emergency or disaster. The final period covers January 1st of 2022 and beyond and states the board must met in person at a physical place but have rules to accommodate members absent due to military duty only. The board met virtually Wednesday night and approved an addendum to township board rules incorporating the set forth Temporary Open Meetings Act procedures. The addendum was described as boiler plate and came from the township attorney to ensure the township remains in compliance. Supervisor Mark St. Charles reported the document is pretty straight forward, commenting it will be interesting and they’ll have to work through it. For instance, he said after January 1st if there’s a board member with medical condition but still wishes to participate and have an in-person meeting, then that could create a little bit of technical issues for the township. St. Charles said he doesn’t necessarily see that happening but it’s something they would have to think through about how it could be done. St. Charles said he believes there’s currently a 25 person limit for meetings in a closed building, joking that’s normally not a problem at typical in-person board meetings. However, he added that if there’s a larger public hearing, like some municipalities have experienced and numbers meet that threshold, then they basically have to adjourn the meeting or be in violation of state law. St. Charles said he really doesn’t think any of those issues or anything in the addendum will apply. If a State of Emergency is declared, the township can hold electronic meetings and St. Charles said that’s something the board will have to look at. If there is still a pandemic and danger of passing any type of virus from one member to another member where they can’t socially distance, St. Charles said he would hope the board would elect to do the video meetings. St. Charles said he thinks the State of Emergency will still exist after the first of the year and also doesn’t see COVID-19 just disappearing but these are the rules they’ll need to follow and work through.

Wristband Fundraiser Promotes LGTBQ+ Education & ToleranceWristband Fundraiser Promotes LGTBQ+ Education & Tolerance

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com A fundraising initiative seeks to both raise money for a local organization as well as raise awareness about learning to accept others for who they are. The Pride Alliance of Livingston (PAL) is featuring a social media pop up shop to sell its “More Love Less Hate” wristbands. Now through December 13th, the $20 purchase price will allow one of the wristbands to be delivered in time for Christmas. All of the profits will benefit the Pride Alliance of Livingston in their efforts to promote an all-inclusive community through LGBTQ+ education, collaboration and advocacy. PAL is part of the Livingston Diversity Council and Board President Nicole Matthews-Creech tells WHMI the bracelet has a specific design to enhance their message. It features the phrase “More Love Less Hate” surrounding by a series of colorful hearts. The first is a broken heart, which she says is an encouragement for people to love all, even those who are broken. "I think that is a pretty strong statement right now with everything that is going on. I feel like to some degree we're all a little broken whether about sexuality or gender issues or whether its just about pandemic, school or work or family or whatever." Meanwhile, PAL is also seeking Livingston County business owners who are interested in helping show the community that All Are Welcome! with a 4" x 4" window cling that is available to place in the front window or door of their business or organization to identify them as a safe space for all. Creech says they do ask that organizations displaying the cling follow their social agreement to disrupt intolerance and support all who enter their establishment. Details on the clings can be found through the link below. Matthews-Creech will also be our guest this Sunday morning at 8:30 on WHMI’s Viewpoint program.

Lawsuit Against Light Of The World Academy DismissedLawsuit Against Light Of The World Academy Dismissed

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By Mike Kruzman / news@whmi.com A lawsuit between a Livingston County charter school and a former principal has been dismissed. James Reese was hired in August of 2015 and worked until June of 2018 as a principal for Light of the World Academy in Pinckney. In his time there, he was accountable for making sure the Academy operated in accordance with state and federal law. His 2019 lawsuit against Light of the World and its director and founder Kathy Moorehouse claimed that the academy failed to meet minimum education standards since its inception as a public charter school. Reese also accused Moorehouse of unethical acts to buoy test scores. According to his complaint, intervening to stop such practices and opposing the interjection of religion into a graduation ceremony led to his termination. Livingston County Court records indicate that on November 10th, the case was dismissed by 44th Circuit Court Judge Michael Hatty with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. A request for comment was made to the attorney representing the school as to the circumstances surrounding the dismissal, but no reply was made.

Matching Money Monday Set For December 7Matching Money Monday Set For December 7

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By Mike Kruzman / news@whmi.com An annual event will again give area residents a chance to maximize their holiday giving. The Livingston County United Way’s Matching Money Monday is scheduled for this coming Monday, December 7th. This yearly event was born from the 2008 recession when the needs of the community were higher than the funding the United Way had available to help. Twelve years later, Matching Money Monday is the largest single day fundraiser in Livingston County. Campaign sponsors, coming from all walks of life including businesses, organizations, and families, have pledged to throw in and match donations that come in from the public on that day, effectively doubling one’s giving. Funds raised are used to help assist families with basic needs like food, shelter and utilities. Campaign Co-Chair Rick Todd says it shows people coming together to help meet the needs of hundreds, if not thousands of families in Livingston County. Penny Murphy, the campaign’s other Co-Chair, said preparing this year’s event, like much else, has been a challenge during the pandemic. She said with so many people unemployed or working from home, they haven’t had the avenues for getting funds that they’ve had in the past. Murphy said she hopes they see results that allow them to help everybody who needs it. Todd challenged businesses, school districts, and municipalities that can to get involved and have some fun with it while helping others. Donations may be made in-person, by mail, online, or by phone. Due to COVID-19, there will only be one physical drop-off location this year: The Livingston County United Way’s office at 2890 Dorr Road, in Genoa Township. Interested donors can make that drop off Monday while staying in their vehicle between 7am and 7pm on the 7th. For more information on the United Way and Matching Money Monday, visit their website, www.lcunitedway.org. (Photo - Livingston County United Way Facebook)

Toys For Tots In "Dire Need" Of DonationsToys For Tots In "Dire Need" Of Donations

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By Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com Donations of toys and gifts are being sought for kids across Livingston County to ensure they have a Merry Christmas. The Marine Corps League Toys for Tots campaign is done in partnership with the Salvation Army of Livingston County every holiday season. Due to COVID-19, drop-off and pick-up procedures have changed. Livingston County Toys for Tots Coordinator/Director Gary Dunn says they’re trying to make things as convenient as possible for people. Dunn tells WHMI locally they serve between 2,300 to 2,400 kids on a normal basis. He says this year they’re anticipating a much higher turnout and were told to expect double or triple that usual amount. Dunn said they haven’t really seen that surge come in yet but are preparing because as of Thursday, they were at where they ended last year and there’s still a few weeks to go until Christmas. Dunn says the problem this year is that they normally receive many donations and host fundraisers but haven’t been able to because of the ongoing pandemic. He says they normally put out around 250 boxes to collect toys and this year they only have 81. Dunn says that’s a significant downturn in collections, adding donations to date have been scarce and they’re in dire need. Gifts are needed for boys and girls age 0 – 3 years old and then for older boys and girls age 8 - 16. A toy warehouse has been set up again by the old Carson’s store at 3600 East Grand River in Howell, where the distribution is held. The latest that toys can be dropped off is December 16th, as everything collected will be given out during coordinated distribution events December 17th, 18th and 19th and then the 21st and 22nd. Details about drop-off locations and ways to donate can be found through the provided web link, along with information for anyone in need of toys to apply.

Whitmer: COVID-19 Order Could Be Extended But No Decision YetWhitmer: COVID-19 Order Could Be Extended But No Decision Yet

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By Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com There’s still no formal decision on whether current COVID-19 orders will be extended. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a three-week order in November that closed high schools to in-person instruction, stopped organized sports, prohibited indoor restaurant dining and closed various entertainment businesses. The order is supposed to expire on Tuesday. At a press conference Thursday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer said no decision has been made but they’re looking at data every day and trying to make decisions with the best information they have. Whitmer said as they get a few more days of information, they’ll be in a much a stronger position to assess if there are some things that are safer to do. She said having to make some extensions of the current pause in some realms is “sadly possible” because of the sheer volume of COVID-19. Whitmer said they’ll continue to look at data and case positivity rates while working closely with health systems to know how serious the impact has been. She noted there was a concerning amount of activity that happened around Thanksgiving that will make this month and possibly next month because of Christmas potentially spreading events. The Governor urged people to take things seriously and do their part by wearing a mask and avoiding gatherings and travel – adding if everyone could stay in place for three weeks, this virus would be gone. The availability of a COVID-19 vaccine and new quarantine recommendations were also highlighted during the press conference. MDHHS Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said Michigan has seen a slight decline in the rate of new cases over past 13 days but case rates remain alarmingly high – adding rates are five times than in the beginning of October. Many hospitals were said to be at or near capacity and Khaldun reported that 81% of hospital ICU beds are full across the state. She says they continue to work with local health departments on reaching out to positive cases to identify their close contacts and potential outbreaks but at the current rates, state and local public health workers are not able to keep up so outbreak data is limited. Khaldun said they’re also still identifying many outbreaks across the state associated with long term care facilities, K-12 schools, manufacturing, healthcare, office settings, restaurants and bars. Khaldun said Michigan has continued to follow the latest science and data for quarantine based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recently revised quarantine guidelines for people who may have been exposed to the virus. Based on the new data, the CDC has offered options for how to potentially shorten the quarantine period in certain circumstances. Khaldun said 14 days still remains the gold standard and is safest way to know someone won’t develop an infection after exposure to COVID-19 but local and state public health staff now have the option to allow people who have not developed symptoms during the ten days after an exposure to be released from quarantine. However, she says people should still continue to check for symptoms daily for the entire 14 days after exposure. Khaldun added that the MDHHS will continue to evaluate data to potentially reduce the quarantine period further in the safest way possible. Khaldun said they’re working with various partners and hospitals to plan and be ready for when a vaccine is available, which could be as early as December 15th. She said it’s exciting and they want people to start thinking about their plans to get the vaccine as it becomes available. Khaldun stressed they will not promote any vaccine in Michigan unless the science is clear that it is safe and effective.

Theis & SOS Verbally Spar Over Data MemoTheis & SOS Verbally Spar Over Data Memo

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com State officials are pushing back against criticism by a trio of Republican State Senators who have questioned the timing and motivation of a memo by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. Benson issued the memo, which is posted below, Tuesday to all county clerks in the state ordering the deletion of all electronic pollbook software and associated files, an action they say is standard and in line with past practice. Despite that, State Senators Lana Theis of Brighton Township, Aric Nesbitt of Lawton and Tom Barrett of Charlotte, said the order, “does not make sense, with requests for a forensic audit of the state’s Nov. 3 election results having been formally made,” adding that, “the timing of the directive seems questionable at best, regardless of precedent, given the audit requests and the ongoing legislative hearings concerning alleged election fraud and irregularities experienced throughout the state.” The statement went on to say that “For the sake of our state’s elections process, state and local government must stop at nothing to ensure its integrity. In our view, this means retaining the very files Benson is ordering deleted and making them available for an independent forensic audit, and we call on the secretary of state to ensure they are retained intact. Little is more sacred in our constitutional republic than transparent, fair and honest elections. Everyone, no matter their political ideology, should be able to trust the execution and result of every election, at every level, every time. Michiganders should not be satisfied until we regain that trust, and, as senators, we are committed to doing whatever we can to ensure it.” In response to the statement, Jake Rollow, the Director of Communications & External Affairs for Secretary of State Benson, told WHMI that the memo also included the statement that the deletion of the data should only occur, “unless a petition for recount has been filed and the recount has not been completed, a post-election audit is planned but has not yet been completed, or the deletion of the data has been stayed by an order of the court or the Secretary of State.” Rollow said that “countless local, state and federal officials” have confirmed that Michigan’s election was “secure and transparent and the results are an accurate reflection of the will of the voters. The election will be audited, and all materials needed for audits are preserved, including printouts of all data on e-pollbooks. Suggestions to the contrary are completely false. Rollow says the Bureau of Elections memo sent to clerks is the same memo that has been sent to clerks for years, including under the administration of Republican State Senator Ruth Johnson when she served as Secretary of State. He says the fact that state senators chose to ignore those facts, "demonstrates they have no interest in preserving the integrity of our elections or democracy.” He provided WHMI with a nearly identical memo, also posted below, issued by the Bureau of Elections following the 2018 General Election. However, State Senator Theis said that was not an adequate answer, telling WHMI that, “The Secretary of State has said a risk limiting audit would be performed following the election, just as was conducted after the August primary election. However, a risk limiting audit is not the same as an independent forensic audit that myself, numerous colleagues, and thousands of Michiganders have requested.” Theis continued by saying that the November 3rd election was “unlike anything we have seen in decades, if not ever, and to insinuate that preserving in place the electronic pollbook software and data on individual clerk’s systems is not in the best interest of election integrity is asinine. Given the many requests for an independent forensic audit and the ongoing legislative hearings about alleged election fraud and irregularities, the argument that ‘this is the way we’ve always done it’ is unacceptable under these circumstances. Neither do we believe it fulfills the language of our state constitution, added by voters in 2018, describing the right of a qualified Michigan voter to, quote, ‘have the results of statewide elections audited, in such a manner as prescribed by law, to ensure the accuracy and integrity of elections.’ What we did before hasn’t helped and doing it over again won’t help either. Theis concluded by saying that she and Senators Nesbitt and Barrett “desire nothing more than to ensure the integrity of our elections process, and part of that is having a government that is open and honest so we can rule out improprieties. If the allegations are inaccurate as Secretary Benson claims, then she should be welcoming an independent forensic audit with open arms.” But Rollow said that the notion the pollbook data was needed to provide proof of the election’s integrity didn’t stand up to scrutiny, pointing out that “High ranking members of the Trump Administration, including Attorney General William Barr, the FBI and CISA, have confirmed that this was the most secure election in history and there is no evidence of fraud on any scale to overturn the outcome of the presidential election. In Michigan, no evidence of widespread fraud has been identified whatsoever. In Detroit, which has inaccurately and deviously been the subject of so many allegations, the election was executed far more effectively than in the past, with 72% of precincts in balance or explained, compared to 58% in August and 42% in November of 2016. Had a recount been requested, the 72% would have likely increased further when ballot containers were opened in accordance with state law. Further, the risk-limiting audit pilot conducted following the March primary – the largest ever in the nation with 277 Michigan jurisdictions participating – immediately confirmed the accuracy of the state’s ballot tabulation machines. Indeed, only the people most frustrated by President Trump’s loss are buying into and amplifying the contrary, false and widely debunked conspiracy theories. They do so recklessly and at the risk of our democracy.” Rollow concluded by saying Michigan’s November election will be, “comprehensively audited in accordance with state law, our state constitution, and the facts and data of the election, not the fantasies conjured by the losing candidate and his supporters and enablers. Electronic poll book data, which is removed after every election to safeguard personal identifying information, and is separately preserved on paper records, is not needed to conduct any reasonable type of audit that could conceivably be requested, because paper versions of the pollbook are always maintained and used for audits. The term ‘forensic audit’ does not appear anywhere in Michigan election law, and could not serve any purpose that is not already served by Michigan’s time-tested set of checks and balances to the election process—including the canvass, recount and procedural audit processes. Those with no background in election administration or only basic knowledge of Michigan election law continue to use buzzwords without context in increasingly transparent attempts to delay the inevitable.”

Fifth Grade Students Sought For Missing Children Poster ContestFifth Grade Students Sought For Missing Children Poster Contest

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By Mike Kruzman / news@whmi.com Fifth grade students across Livingston County can enter a contest that could help locate missing kids. There are nearly 700 missing children in Michigan. The Michigan State Police Missing Children’s Clearinghouse is inviting fifth graders across the state to participate in the 2021 National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest. Held annually, the contest creates an opportunity to promote child safety while tackling the topic of missing and exploited children. The winner will be entered into the national contest for a shot at winning free trip to Washington D.C. where their artwork will be featured. Contestants from Michigan have won the national award twice before, in 2015 and 2018. Posters must be submitted with a complete application which includes a description of the artwork and brief biography of the artist. It should reflect the “Bringing Our Missing Children Home,” with the phrase appearing on the piece. The finished poster should be 8.5-by-14-inches. Digitally produced images, collages, cut-outs, and stamping will not be eligible for consideration. A link to the application is below. The deadline to enter is January 29th.

Brighton Kiwanis Club Celebrates 60 Years Of Holiday Bell RingingBrighton Kiwanis Club Celebrates 60 Years Of Holiday Bell Ringing

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By Mike Kruzman / news@whmi.com Saturday marks a landmark day for a local organization that works to meets the needs of children across the community. For 60 years the Brighton Kiwanis Club has rang the bell for the Salvation Army outside participating establishments each holiday season. Kiwanians began this tradition on the first Saturday of December in 1951, and have continued it to this day. April Dertian, Development Director for the Salvation Army of Livingston County, notes that Kiwanis Club members have volunteered over 1,000 hours of bell ringing and have raised more than $75,000 on their day. It’s not uncommon for the Kiwanis Club Red Kettle to be the kettle that receives the most donations. Dennis Dimoff reflected on the Brighton Kiwanis Club’s 6 decades of bell ringing in a release- remembering weather ranging from in between zero and 55 degrees, to days where 7 inches of snow fell on them. This year, the Brighton Kiwanis with the Brighton Aktion Club and the Hilton Cub Scouts will be ringing from 10am to 8pm outside of JC Penney’s in the Green Oak Village Place shopping center. The Brighton Aktion Club is a Kiwanis service club for disabled adults.

Hartland Man Enters Plea To Barn FireHartland Man Enters Plea To Barn Fire

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By Jon King / jking@whmi.com A Hartland Township man accused of setting a large barn fire in September has entered a plea. 33-year-old Michael Paul Nester was charged with arson and malicious destruction of property charges that stemmed from a suspicious fire and property damage that occurred at a property located off of Clyde Road, east of Hartland Road, in the early morning hours of September 8th. In court Friday, he entered a no contest plea. In exchange, prosecutors agreed to lower Nester's status from a fourth-time habitual offender to a third-time habitual offender. A no-contest plea is not an admission of guilt but is treated as such at sentencing. Nester was arrested after he was identified as a person of interest in the barn fire and was taken into custody on a probation violation for a previous larceny conviction. Responding Livingston County Sheriff’s deputies determined that a barn at the location was fully involved and that a vehicle on scene had fresh damage that was not related to the fire. The property owner also reported that a boat on the property had recently been intentionally damaged. Nester faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced January 7th.

Theis Bill To Ensure Concealed Pistol Licenses Get IssuedTheis Bill To Ensure Concealed Pistol Licenses Get Issued

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By Mike Kruzman / news@whmi.com A local legislator says her bill would help preserve Second Amendment rights through the pandemic and beyond. Earlier this week, the Michigan Senate Regulatory Reform Committee approved a bill sponsored by State Senator Lana Theis that ensures county clerks issue and renew concealed pistol licenses regardless of any government shutdown. Senate Bill 1219 exempts county clerks from shutdown orders for this purpose. The clerk’s office and law enforcement would also be required to provide fingerprinting services necessary for obtaining a new license. Theis, a Republican from Brighton Township, said in a release, “Unfortunately and infuriatingly, county clerks across the state have infringed on law-abiding citizens’ Second Amendment rights during the pandemic by refusing or delaying issuing or renewing concealed pistol licenses.” The bill also enables county clerks and the Michigan State Police to provide personal identification numbers to concealed pistol license holders so that they may renew their licenses online during any declared emergency. Theis says that “State law is clear: County clerks shall issue concealed pistol licenses to those who are qualified and my bill will ensure that this essential service continues regardless of any declared state of emergency or executive order.” She added that “the right of the people to exercise their constitutional freedoms to defend their life and property doesn’t stop during an emergency- in fact it may be even more necessary.” The bill is now in the full Senate for consideration.

Voting Ends Monday For "Deck the Windows" ContestVoting Ends Monday For "Deck the Windows" Contest

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By Jessica Mathews/News@whmi.com There’s just a few days left to cast votes in the "Deck the Windows" Storefront Decorating Contest in downtown Howell. The "Deck the Windows" Storefront Decorating Contest is an annual tradition in which businesses throughout the Downtown Development Authority District decorate their storefronts, or in some cases the front door, chimney, rooftop or entire building, in order to further beautify downtown and celebrate the holiday season. DDA Director Kate Litwin tells WHMI local merchants have created some amazing displays this year and they ask public to come downtown and vote for their favorite. She says the promotion not only gets people out to enjoy the magic of the season but helps generate traffic for local businesses, which have put a lot of time and energy into their displays – adding it’s one of the few events they’ve still been able to do this year amid the pandemic. Litwin says they usually have a theme but with 2020, they decided to just throw it to the wind and say “whatever goes”, adding she thinks that people who visit the downtown will be surprised by a few of the displays this year. Two downtown businesses will win the friendly competition by collecting the most votes for 'People's Choice Award' or being selected as the best storefront by Mayor Nick Proctor to win the 'Mayor's Choice' Award’. Voting can be done online or by texting different codes located in each window display. Voting runs through Monday. A $250 cash prize is awarded to the People’s Choice as well as the Mayor’s Choice. A link to more information is provided.
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