News Archives - Page 30 of 309

Health Division Encourages to Ready Kindergarteners

by orionontv | May 1, 2024 | Regional News

Oakland County Health Division Encourages Parents to Ready Their Kindergarteners for the Upcoming School Year

Post Date:05/01/2024 1:01 PM

Pontiac, Mich. – Parents and guardians whose children will enroll in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year should take steps now to ensure their kids meet Michigan’s requirements to enter the classroom. These requirements include dental, hearing, and vision screenings and specific vaccinations.

Screenings and immunizations are available at Oakland County Health Division if a child does not have a healthcare provider.

“Kindergarten is an exciting time for families. Screenings and immunizations help keep kids healthy and on track during their first year of school,” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, director of Oakland County Health and Human Services. “Be proactive and talk to your child’s healthcare providers so you can be confident that they are ready to take on this milestone.”

Michigan’s requirements for kindergarteners for the upcoming school year are:

Kindergarten Dental Screenings: Senate Bill 280 (Public Act 316 of 2023) requires children going into kindergarten to have a dental screening. Children who have dental problems may have trouble sleeping and eating which affects their ability to learn.
Hearing and Vision Screenings: The Michigan Public Health Code (Act 368 of 1978) mandates children to complete hearing and vision screenings before entering kindergarten. These screenings help children develop and learn by identifying a hearing or vision problem early.
Immunizations: State law requires kindergarteners to have specific vaccines before beginning the school year. Vaccines are safe and effective tools to prevent diseases that are more readily spread in group settings like classrooms.

Call Oakland County’s Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 to schedule screening appointments with the Health Division. Screenings are available to children who live or learn in Oakland County. There is no charge.

Immunizations do not require an appointment. Oakland County Health Division clinics are walk-in only and located in Southfield (27725 Greenfield Road) and Pontiac (1200 N. Telegraph Road, Building 34 East). Clinic hours are:

8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tuesdays
7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursdays

No one will be denied access due to the inability to pay for immunizations. There is a discounted/sliding fee schedule available for those who are under or uninsured. The Health Division accepts health insurance, as well as Medicaid, Medicare, Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, cash, and credit. VFC offers vaccines at no cost for eligible children. There is a $7 fee per vaccination, per client. There are additional fees for credit card payments.

More information about kindergarten readiness can be found on the Health Division’s website at oakgov.info/kindergarten-readiness or by contacting Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 or [email protected]. Nurse on Call is available 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For up-to-date public health information, follow @publichealthOC on Facebook and X (formally known as Twitter).

For media inquiries only please contact Bill Mullan, Oakland County media and communications officer, at 248-858-1048.

Bipartisan Bills to Strengthen Health Services

by orionontv | Apr 30, 2024 | Regional News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 30, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Bills to Strengthen Health Services and Criminal Justice

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation that aims to establish a licensure framework for dietitian nutritionists. The governor also signed legislation that delivers ongoing funding for trial courts across the state, reducing costs for local municipalities.

“Today’s commonsense, bipartisan bills will improve health care licensing for dietitian nutritionists and protect critical funding for trial courts,” said Governor Whitmer. “Together, we will continue delivering on the issues that make a real difference in people’s lives, from health care to public safety. Let’s keep working together to build a brighter, safer future for Michigan.”

House Bill 4608, sponsored by state Representative Laurie Pohutsky, establishes licensing requirements and standards for dietitians and nutritionists. By doing so, the bill seeks to ensure that individuals who provide dietary advice and guidance meet certain qualifications and adhere to professional standards.

“I sponsored House Bill 4608 to protect Michiganders and help make sure crucial healthcare is accessible and affordable,” said Speaker Pro Tem Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia). “Now, when individuals are looking to receive a dietician’s opinion, individuals can easily identify qualified and trustworthy providers — that is very important when it comes to health and wellness. Licensure will also help ensure medical nutrition therapy is covered by insurance, making it much more accessible for countless Michiganders. It is a win to have the governor sign this into law today.”

House Bill 5392, sponsored by state Representative Sarah Lightner, provides essential funding to ensure trial courts have the necessary resources to operate effectively. By supporting our courts, Michigan becomes a safer place for all its residents.

“This bill is a step forward toward our shared goal of courts that are funded fairly all across Michigan while maintaining the independence of the judicial branch,” said State Court Administrator Tom Boyd. “We look forward to providing the Governor and Legislature with the data, information, and recommendations they need to take the next steps in this process as we work together to develop and implement a long-term funding plan that delivers justice for all.”

“We appreciate the legislature acting in a bipartisan fashion to extend the expiring sunset,” said Dan Gilmartin, Executive Director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League. “With Governor Whitmer taking swift action to sign this legislation, we ensure the seamless functioning of the district and municipal courts supported by cities across the state.”

Oxford will have a new Girls Basketball Coach next season

by orionontv | Apr 29, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Oxford will have a new Girls Basketball Coach next season.

Written Saturday April 27th at 7:05 PM

The Wildcats will have a new Girls Basketball Coach next winter.

Oxford coach Rachel Bryer stepped down coaching the program after eight years coaching the program.

The move was confirmed by Athletic Director Tony DeMare and Oxford Assistant Athletic Director Brandon.

The Wildcats were 94-68 in her eight years since taking over for Coach Steve Emert in the 2016-2017 season. Oxford went 19-5 in the 2022-2023 season which was Bryer’s best season as coach.

The Wildcats went 11-12 but they played a very tough schedule this season. Oxford fell to Grand Blanc 60-38 in the district finals, it was the third time in the postseason that the Bobcats won over the Wildcats.

According DeMare, he confirmed that there are three candidates for the coaching job which interviews are expected to start next week.

Whoever the new coach will have a proven team with a ton of experience in Allison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Mia Champagne, Emma Buggs, Claire Bruski, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Katelyn Brockway, and Jaylen Jacobsen coming back. They will also be in the Red with West Bloomfield, Ferndale, Stoney Creek, Clarkston, and Lake Orion next season.

Bryer did a ton of good for the program and she’ll be missed.

Program strength will be very interesting for the new coach as well.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Groves will have a new Girls Basketball Coach next season

by Becky Andrus | Apr 29, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Groves will have a new Girls Basketball Coach next season.

Written Tuesday April 23rd at 1:50 PM

Groves will have a new girls basketball coach next season.

Falcons Coach Alison Hidey has stepped down according to Athletic Director Tom Flynn.

“I would like to thank Alison Hidey for what she did for our program” Flynn wrote on X.

Hidey was 25-44 since taking over for Coach AntJuan Simpkins three years ago. Hidey went 8-14 last season falling to Royal Oak 47-35 in the district semifinals.

Groves will be in the White next season with Rochester, Seaholm, Troy, Royal Oak, and Bloomfield Hills. They will have a proven lineup with Harlem Simpson, Jacey Roy, Anaiyah White, Sophie Schwinik, and Micah White coming back. Program strength will be a concern for the Falcons next season.

It will be very interesting to see where Flynn goes with the coaching search. He will be retiring at the end of the school year.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Here is the tweet confirming the news

https://twitter.com/GrovesAthletics/status/1782810590798340243

Financial Literacy Month Reverse Mortgages

by orionontv | Apr 29, 2024 | Regional News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 29, 2024

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Concludes Financial Literacy Month with Re-issue of Reverse Mortgages Consumer Alert

LANSING – After finding themselves in dire financial straits, some homeowners will look to reverse mortgages as a solution to their money woes. As we come to the end of Financial Literacy month, Attorney General Dana Nessel re-issues her Reverse Mortgages alert to inform residents of the pros and cons related to this kind of loan.

A reverse mortgage is a type of home equity loan extended, in most cases, to those who are 62 years of age or older. It can be used to make home repairs, pay for medical expenses, or to supplement retirement income. A lender makes monthly payments to you based on the equity in your home, using your home as collateral. As long as you retain ownership of the home and pay the property taxes, the loan will not become due.

“While reverse mortgages can provide financial relief for some, they also come with significant risks and obligations,” said Nessel. “Financial literacy means recognizing the potential pitfalls and long-term impacts a reverse mortgage can have on your financial future. I urge all homeowners considering this kind of loan to seek professional guidance and carefully weigh their options before signing on the dotted line.”

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), other requirements to qualify for a reverse mortgage, in addition to being 62 years of age or older, include:

Home must be your principal residence.
Home must be owned outright or have a low mortgage balance that can be paid off when you close on the reverse mortgage.
Cannot owe any federal debt, such as federal income taxes or federal student loans. The reverse mortgage can be used to pay off these debts.
Part of the reverse mortgage funds must be set aside for expenses like taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repairs.
Home must be in good shape. If not, the lender will require repairs before paying the reverse mortgage.
Completion of HUD-approved reverse mortgage counseling to discuss eligibility, financial implications, and alternatives, like:
- Refinancing – a new traditional mortgage could lower monthly mortgage payments;
- Downsizing – selling your home in favor of a more affordable residence may be your best option for reducing expenses;
- Lowering expenses – many states and localities have programs offering help with property taxes, utilities, and repairs.
- Home equity line of credit (HELOC) – this might be a cheaper way to borrow cash against equity, but qualifying for one depends on your income and credit. They also carry risks and usually require monthly payments.
- Waiting – you can wait until you are older to take out a reverse mortgage when you have less income and higher healthcare costs.

Several types of reverse mortgages are offered, and it is important to understand which one will be most beneficial for you.

Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) – This is the most popular type of reverse mortgage. It is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), which guarantees that the federally-approved lenders meet their obligations.
Single-Purpose Reverse Mortgage – Often only available to low-to-moderate-income homeowners, the payments from his type of reverse mortgage must be used for the specified purpose indicated by the homeowner, such as home improvements, home repairs, or property taxes.
Proprietary Reverse Mortgages – These are not FHA-insured and not backed by the companies that provide them. They are a bank’s own loan instruments.

If you decide that taking out a reverse mortgage is the right option for you, the CFPB has a list of scams targeting older homeowners that you should be on the lookout for, such as:

A family member or caregiver coercing an elderly homeowner into applying for a reverse mortgage, or impersonates the elderly relative during the loan process.
A bad actor uses an elderly homeowner’s identity, Social Security number, or other personally identifiable information without their knowledge to secure the loan.
A scammer tells reverse mortgage holders they should use the loan money to invest in a “sure thing” or tries to convince them to take out a reverse mortgage to pay for expensive repairs.
A scammer convinces reverse mortgage borrowers to sign over their power of attorney, giving the scammer sole access to the reverse mortgage loan money.

AG Nessel recommends homeowners protect themselves by not only seeking advice from a financial counselor, but also confirming whether the loan is federally insured, whether the reverse mortgage repayment is limited to the value of your home once the loan becomes due, and if the mortgage payments are made directly to you. Remember that most reverse mortgages come with a right of rescission, which means you can cancel them within 3 days of closing without penalty.

Reverse mortgages can be a lifeline if you are an older homeowner whose expenses surpass your income. If you know the potential pitfalls of this type of loan, you can proceed with caution. Understanding the risks associated with these financial instruments is key to protecting your financial future and your home equity.

AED and CPR Training Requirements in Schools

by orionontv | Apr 29, 2024 | Regional News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 27, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills Strengthening AED and CPR Training Requirements in Schools to Protect Student Athletes in Michigan

DETROIT, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two bipartisan bills that will better protect student athletes during practice and competition by ensuring all high school coaches maintain valid certification for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AED). The legislation also guarantees schools have a cardiac emergency response plan in place to quickly react in the event that a student athlete experiences a cardiac issue.

“All children should be safe when they participate in school sports,” said Governor Whitmer. “Today, I am proud to sign commonsense, bipartisan bills that will require coaches to be trained in CPR and AED use and ensure all public and private schools have a plan in the event of an on-field medical emergency and practice it. By taking proactive measures, we can keep our kids safe while they play.”

“We’re doing something to tackle sudden cardiac arrest,” said Speaker of the House Joe Tate (D-Detroit). “The swift passage and signing of the AED legislation is one more way we’re showing Michiganders that we hear them. We are delivering on the promises made to improve the overall public safety and well-being of students, staff and visitors in our schools.”

House Bill 5527, sponsored by state Representative John Fitzgerald, amends the Fire Prevention Code to modify the requirements regarding the implementation of a cardiac emergency response plan for the governing body of a school.

“Today is another big step in our ongoing work to keep people safe across Michigan,” said state Representative John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming). “With the signing of House Bills 5527 and 5528, we’re ensuring that every school has the tools and the knowledge needed to save those suffering from a cardiac emergency.”

House Bill 5528, sponsored by state Representative Tyrone Carter, amends the Revised School Code to require any individual that serves as an athletic coach at a high school—public or private—to maintain a valid certification in CPR and use of an AED. This certification must be issued by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or a comparable organization or institution approved by the Department of Education.

“Sudden cardiac arrest impacts victims of all ages, races and genders, including those who are entirely healthy and have expressed no prior signs or symptoms — that’s what makes SCA such a serious issue. It can happen to anyone, anywhere and without warning,” said state Representative Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit). “The training and use of AED in schools across the state will help us be proactive in case of an emergency. I’m thankful for the swift action on signing this important legislation into law.”

“Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in young athletes, and in those instances, every second counts,” said state Senator Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), Chair of the Senate Health Policy Committee. “Growing up, we lost a tennis player at my high school from cardiac arrest, and I saw the impact that had on his family, fellow classmates and the entire community. An AED can mean the difference between life and tragedy, and having these devices accessible at every Michigan school will help ensure our educational institutions are equipped to safeguard the health of students.”

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, cutting off blood flow to essential organs like the brain. According to the American Heart Association, nearly seven in ten children survive cardiac arrest in schools with AEDs, which is seven times higher than the overall average survival rate.

Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin is a firsthand witness how CPR and an AED can be lifesaving, having experienced a cardiac arrest during a televised NFL game. Following his recovery, Hamlin has been a staunch advocate for protecting student athletes by urging schools to have coaches trained in CPR and AED use. Today, he joined Governor Whitmer at the bill signing ceremony, where he also donated 50 AEDs to schools in Michigan to further support this initiative.

AED 1

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