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TikTok challenge demonstrates what internet has become

Although the dust has far from settled on the issue, enough is known about a prank of sorts Friday that resulted in the closure of nearly a dozen schools in the Upper Peninsula alone to broadly condemn what happened. For any readers who might be a half-step behind, a good number of schools shuttered their doors Friday after police became aware of a potential threat of violence that reportedly originated from the online service, TikTok. Never heard of TikTok? Lots and lots of people have. Millions upon millions of people log on daily to watch short videos of people falling on their ...

Resources to combat winter blues during the holiday season

As Michigan enters a second holiday season during the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) officials are offering tips and resources to help Michiganders cope with winter, or seasonal, blues that are common at this time of year. “The shorter, darker days of winter can be difficult for many people,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “This season often deepens anxiety, depression and feelings of grief or isolation – especially after everything we’ve experienced these past two years. It is always okay to ask for help, and our ...

Use moderation with alcohol during holidays

For those who plan to celebrate the holidays by drinking alcohol, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) wants to remind citizens to do so in moderation and never drink and drive, as Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Parents and guardians are also reminded to keep alcohol out of the hands of minor children especially when hosting holiday parties at home. Make safety a priority. For adults who choose to drink alcohol, stick with no more than one “standard” drink a day for women or two for men in accordance with federal dietary guidelines. Be aware that what actually counts as ...

Holiday fire safety begins at home

With the holiday season and colder temperatures upon us, the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs is reminding Michiganders that this is a peak season for home fires. Unattended candles, space heaters, worn lights, and dry Christmas trees increases the risk of having a home fire this time of year. “It is vital that all Michiganders follow basic fire safety tips to help keep friends and family safe and avoid tragedy this holiday season,” said State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer. “A dry Christmas tree is extremely flammable, and these types of fires can turn deadly within ...

State refunds good news for drivers who have suffered high rates

After years of the suffering highest auto insurance rates in the nation, Michigan drivers finally will have something to show for their high payments — a refund of $400 per vehicle from the surplus in the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association fund. While many were pleased to hear the news last week, the timeline and logistics of the situation remained major questions for people and insurance agencies across the state. However, the state earlier this week issued further information and guidance, including imposing a May 9 deadline for insurance companies to issue refunds to all ...

Supreme Court must now install transparency in redistricting process

Only in Michigan could a government panel created to bring transparency to a political process find a way to shroud its decisions in secrecy. Well, maybe it could happen elsewhere, but there’s no denying the default setting for most government operations in the Mitten state seems to be murky with a dash of disdain for the public. Maybe’s that’s why we’re disappointed with — albeit not surprised by — the shenanigans pulled in recent weeks by the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission. That 13-member board in charge of redrawing political district maps in ...