Breaking News

Press Releases

AG Nessel provides update on public integrity cases

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is announcing the outcomes of five public integrity investigations, which resulted in charges in four cases involving law enforcement officers and clearing a fifth case of any criminal wrongdoing. The cases were reviewed and evaluated for the proper charges by the Department’s Public Integrity Unit (PIU). The investigating agency that worked alongside the Department is mentioned in the case summaries below. “It is imperative that those willing to protect and serve do so with utmost integrity,” Nessel said. “In instances where ...

Aspirus Health welcomes Audrey Schaefer, PA-C, to its family medicine team

LAURIUM – Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital and Clinics proudly welcomes Certified Physician Assistant Audrey Schaefer, PA-C, to its team of family medicine providers. Schaefer earned her master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho, and her ...

Dry conditions mean fire danger is high or very high across much of northern Michigan

With high temperatures and limited rainfall expected for the next several days, fire danger is high or very high across much of northern Michigan. That means taking precautions to prevent wildfires through the weekend when working or playing outdoors. “With conditions this dry, a lot of different things can set off fires,” said Jeff Vasher, fire specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “A spark from a campfire can do it. Heat from an ORV or equipment can do it. A chain dragging from a trailer can do it, or a downed power line.” Burn permits for yard debris ...

MDHHS shares improvements to Michigan’s child welfare system

LANSING – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and court-appointed federal monitors today shared continued significant improvements made to the state’s child welfare system. Accomplishments continue under the administration of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who took office in Jan. 2019. Today’s updates came during a virtual federal court hearing to address progress during the first six months of 2020 – when the state made inroads even amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, MDHHS child welfare staff continued to make important regular ...

State Land Bank seeking demolition bids

LANSING – The State Land Bank Authority (SLBA) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the demolition of three blighted residential properties in Lincoln Park, Burton, and Mohawk, Michigan. Between one and three contractors will be selected to demolish these blighted structures scattered throughout the state. “This is yet another way the State Land Bank Authority works at the local level to remove vacant and abandoned structures from neighborhoods, and prepares the areas for developments that spark future investment, expansion and growth,” said Emily Doerr, Executive Director ...

$2M in COVID-19 workplace safety grants available to further protect workers

LANSING — As the economy continues to open back up and employers strive to keep their employees, customers and communities safe from COVID-19, the State of Michigan has launched another round of funding for the Michigan COVID-19 Safety Grant Program. These grants will provide small businesses, including eligible childcare centers, matching funds of up to $10,000 to decrease the risk of COVID-19 spread through safety and health-related equipment purchased and training. The grant application window will be open from Monday, June 7 through Friday, June 18, with awards given shortly ...