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Thousands of returning citizens issued IDs, driver’s licenses through MDOS, MDOC partnership

The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) has provided more than 5,000 state identification cards and driver’s licenses to returning citizens since the start of its joint initiative with the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC). The program, which ensures newly paroled Michiganders receive a driver’s license or state ID, has increased the number of these transactions by more than 10 times the amount conducted prior to the program. “By providing identification to returning citizens, we are opening doors that enable them to re-enter the work force and their communities,” said ...

Aspirus antibody treatment highly effective, but not a perfect alternative to COVID-19 vaccination

WAUSAU, Wis. – COVID-19 cases continue to surge throughout the Midwest according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This will increase the need to treat those who become severely ill from the virus. Studies on antiviral pills from Pfizer and Merck have yielded promising results combating the worst outcomes of COVID-19. Those treatments still need approval by federal regulators before being available to the public. Throughout the pandemic, Aspirus Health has worked to offer local access to advanced treatments. For example, Aspirus began using monoclonal antibody ...

Caregiver Incentive Project continues scholarship program

MARQUETTE — Caregiver Incentive Project (CIP), the nonprofit organization focused on improving the lives of the cared for by supporting caregivers, continues its scholarship program and is now accepting applications from U.P. college students. CIP will award various scholarships of $500 and up to students working as caregivers. For every hour the student works as a caregiver, they will receive $1 of their scholarship from CIP. The scholarship program allows CIP to further its mission of incentivizing students to become or continue working as paid in-home caregivers within the existing ...

Gov. Whitmer and Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board support $45.6 million for outdoor recreation in Michigan

LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board recommended Wednesday to the Michigan Legislature that 117 recreation development projects and land acquisitions totaling $45,592,200 be funded in 2022. The board this year considered a total of 136 applications seeking over $59.1 million in funding. In a competitive process, all eligible applications were evaluated based on scoring criteria approved by the Trust Fund board. “The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund continues to provide the significant investment that creates better, broader ...

MDHHS will issue face mask advisory for the holiday season due to rise in cases of flu and COVID-19

LANSING – With the increasing rise in COVID-19 and flu cases, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will be issuing a face mask advisory and offering guidance to keep loved ones safe and prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses during the holidays. MDHHS will issue a Public Health Advisory that recommends everyone over the age of two should wear a face mask at indoor gatherings regardless of their vaccination status. In addition, establishments should implement a policy to ensure that all persons entering or seeking services, including employees, wear a mask. ...

MDHHS recognizes World AIDS Day and encourages Michiganders to get tested for HIV

LANSING – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is bringing awareness to World AIDS Day to reflect upon and highlight the worldwide response to the continuing HIV epidemic. This year marked 40 years since the first cases of HIV were reported in the United States. Since then, tremendous progress has been made in the detection, prevention and treatment of HIV. As part of World AIDS Day, MDHHS is encouraging Michiganders to get tested to know their HIV status. It is estimated that 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV, and nearly 13% of those people do not know ...