Health Division Encourages to Ready Kindergarteners

Health Division Encourages to Ready Kindergarteners

by | 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

Bipartisan Bills to Strengthen Health Services

by | Apr 30, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

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.”

 

 

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Financial Literacy Month Reverse Mortgages

Financial Literacy Month Reverse Mortgages

by | Apr 29, 2024 | Regional News

Nessel Email Header
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

AED and CPR Training Requirements in Schools

by | Apr 29, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

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.

 

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Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

by | Apr 25, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the MEDC Executive Committee.

 

“To keep growing our economy and ensure we can compete to lead the future of cars, chips, and clean energy, I am proud to make several appointments to the MEDC Executive Committee that span industry and geography,” said Governor Whitmer. “Since I took office, we have secured more than 37,000 auto jobs, brought the supply chain of electric vehicle batteries and semiconductor chips home, and produced more clean American energy using American workers. With skilled MEDC leadership, we will keep our foot on the accelerator and build a brighter future for Michigan.”

 

The appointees announced this week build on Governor Whitmer’s work to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Sixty percent of Whitmer’s appointees since day one have been women or people of color, and the Whitmer cabinet is the most diverse in Michigan history.

 

MEDC Executive Committee

 

April Clobes, of Bath Township, is president and CEO of Michigan State University Federal Credit Union. In addition, she is also the CEO of Roseda Group.  She holds a Bachelor of Arts in marketing and Master of Arts in advertising and public relations from Michigan State University and a Master of Business Administration from Western Michigan University. April Clobes is reappointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028.

 

Krista Flynn, of Ada, is the Midwest regional executive for PNC Bank, where she previously served as West Michigan market leader. Prior to joining PNC, Flynn was the West Michigan president for Huntington Bank. Flynn is dedicated to service and currently sits on the Grand Rapids Convention and Arena Authority, the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and the Grand Action 2.0 Executive Committee. Flynn earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from University of Michigan and a Master of Science in finance from Walsh College. Krista Flynn is reappointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028.

 

Fadwa Hammoud, of Dearborn, is an attorney and the Detroit managing member of the Miller Johnson law firm. Prior to private practice, Hammoud served as Chief Deputy Attorney General and, from 2019 to 2022, as Michigan’s Solicitor General. She is a past member of the Dearborn Board of Education, Henry Ford Community College Board of Trustees, and the Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs. Hammoud holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and communications from the University of Michigan Dearborn and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Fadwa Hammoud is appointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028. Hammoud succeeds Phillip Shaltz, whose term is expired.

 

Bobby J. Hopewell, of Kalamazoo, is currently the president and CEO of Mobile Health Resources (MHR), an entity that supports emergency medical services nationwide, including patient billing services. MHR is also the largest provider of EMS patient experience surveying in the county. Prior to his current position, Hopewell was the longest serving mayor of Kalamazoo, where he focused on comprehensive community development, public safety services, accountability, equality, innovation and efforts to prepare young people for the world. In addition to his work as mayor, Hopewell served as the administrative director of Borgess Health Park in Battle Creek and hospitality services director at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. Before joining Borgess, Hopewell served as the community relations manager for Bronson Healthcare—and before Bronson, as operations manager at Life EMS Ambulance.  Hopewell has served as chair of the Michigan Urban Core Mayors Association and as a board member for the Michigan Municipal League and Pretty Lake Camp. Bobby Hopewell is reappointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028.

 

Thomas Lutz, of White Lake, is the executive secretary treasurer of the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights (MRCC), one of the largest skilled trades unions in Michigan, representing more than 14,000 carpenters, millwrights, and floorlayers throughout the state. Since joining the MRCC 34 years ago, Lutz has worked as a business agent, apprenticeship instructor, marketing director and recently served as president of the organization. He has also served on a variety of boards and commissions, including the Michigan Manufactured Housing Commission, the Michigan Works Workforce Development Board, and the Oakland County Construction Labor Advisory Board. Lutz earned an associate degree from Schoolcraft College and has obtained numerous professional certifications. Thomas Lutz is reappointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028.

 

Sheldon Neeley, of Flint, is the current mayor of Flint and a lifelong resident. Mayor Neeley spent much of his professional career working as a broadcast engineer for WJRT-12 in Flint and, until 2020, was the local union president for the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-Communications Workers of America. He was elected to the Flint City Council for the first time in 2005, and later served in the Michigan House of Representatives, before being elected mayor in 2019. While in the House, Neeley served as chair of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus. Neeley earned an associate degree from Delta Community College and attended Saginaw Valley State University. Sheldon Neeley is reappointed to represent public entities for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028.

 

Anthony Tomczak, of Commerce, is the vice president of electric sales and marketing for DTE Energy. Previously, Tomczak served as vice president of corporate services and chief procurement officer where he was responsible for strategic management of the company’s procurement, supplier performance management, warehousing, fleet, facilities and real estate organizations. He is a member of numerous boards and commissions across the state and nation cocused in economic growth, energy, and conservation. Tomczak earned a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from Purdue University, and a Master of Science in industrial operations from Lawrence Technological University. Anthony Tomczak is reappointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028.

 

Bob Sutherland, of Maple City, is the President and Owner of Cherry Republic, a retail line of more than 200 cherry-based products growing out of a love for Northern Michigan. Sutherland is also the former board president of the Michigan Land Use Institute, a founding member of the Great Lakes Business Network, and a former Leelanau County Commissioner. Sutherland is also a board member of the Michigan League of Conversation Voters. Sutherland earned a Bachelor of Arts in education, speech, and English from Northern Michigan University. Bob Sutherland is appointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028. Bob Sutherland succeeds Fay Beydoun, whose term is expired.

 

Carla Walker-Miller, of Detroit, is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Walker-Miller Energy Services, the state’s first company owned by a Black woman to obtain a B Corporation Certification. Walker-Miller is a champion for equity and the promotion of a clean energy ecosystem. In addition to running her company, she serves on numerous boards and committees, including the Mayor of Detroit’s Workforce Development committee, and the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council.  She is also the Executive Committee Chair for the Detroit Means Business Coalition and a trustee for the Hudson-Webber Foundation. Walker-Miller received her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Tennessee State University.  Walker-Miller is appointed to represent business for a term commencing April 25, 2024, and expiring April 5, 2028. Carla Walker-Miller succeeds Ryan Waddington, whose term is expired.

 

The MEDC Executive Committee provides policy direction and guidance to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation regarding economic development program and initiatives, approves the MEDC corporate budget, and appoints the chief executive officer who administers all programs, funds, personnel, and all other administrative transactions of the MEDC. The MEDC Executive Committee supports the MEDC through governance, support to enable results-based action, and advocacy for the organization and economic development in Michigan.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Phishing and Smishing and Skimming and Shimming

Phishing and Smishing and Skimming and Shimming

by | Apr 25, 2024 | Regional News

Nessel Email Header
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 25, 2024

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Phishing and Smishing and Skimming and Shimming: AG Nessel Encourages Public to Watch Out for Common Scams During NFL Draft

LANSING – As the NFL Draft gets ready to electrify fans across Detroit, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging consumers to be on guard against scammers targeting their excitement.

“Hosting an event of this stature is exciting for the city of Detroit, Detroit businesses, football fans, and the State at large,” Nessel said. “Sadly, these large-scale events are also a breeding ground for scams, and bad actors will likely try just about anything to scam you out of your hard-earned money.”

Scammers may employ various tactics to steal personal information and financial data. Phishing emails and smishing texts, for example, may appear to be from legitimate sources like the NFL, containing links that lead to fake websites designed to steal login credentials, credit card details, or other sensitive information.

If consumers receive a suspicious email or text, they should:

  • Not download any attachments in the message. Attachments may contain malware such as viruses, worms, or spyware.
  • Not click links that appear in the message. Links in phishing messages direct consumers to fraudulent websites.
  • Not reply to the sender. Ignore any requests from the sender and do not call any phone numbers provided in the message.
  • Report it. Forward suspected phishing emails to the Anti-Phishing Working Group. Consumers who receive a smishing text message should forward it to SPAM (7726), then report the smishing attack to the FTC.

If consumers receive a suspicious phone call that seems to be a phishing attempt, they are advised to:

  • Hang up or end the call. Be aware that area codes can be misleading. If their caller ID displays a local area code, this does not guarantee that the caller is local.
  • Not respond to the caller’s requests. Legitimate companies will never call consumers to request personal information. Never give personal information to the incoming caller.

The Attorney General also advises attendees to be on the lookout for those attempting to steal their credit card information through ATMs by skimming and shimming.

Consumers can avoid becoming a victim by:

  • Using cash whenever possible.
  • Examining their bank/credit card statements often and looking for any unauthorized charges.
  • Trying not to use stand-alone ATMs like those found in convenience stores. These machines are not as well-maintained or secure as bank ATMs.
  • Covering the PIN pad with their hands as they type in their PIN. This may not prevent their card data from being collected and used at point-of-sale terminals, but it may prevent criminals from emptying their bank accounts since they do not have their PINs.

Victims of credit card fraud should contact their local police department and then they can contact the Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team, which can be reached at:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form