  State, CDC differ in isolation, quarantine times.
Update-MDHHS released this statement on Friday: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will be updating its quarantine guidance for the general public to reflect the recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Just hours after DHD#10 sent out a press release Wednesday announcing the latest CDC guidelines for quarantine and isolation that dropped the times for isolation and quarantine the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a statement of their own urging residents “to continue to follow Michigan’s current quarantine and isolation guidance to keep themselves and their family as safe as possible.” The statement added: “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued new guidance for quarantine and isolation that modified or shortened the quarantine and isolation period in some circumstances. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) intends to review the supporting evidence behind this guidance, while awaiting additional information from the CDC, specifically for special populations and in high-risk settings.In the interim, MDHHS will retain current quarantine and isolation guidelines including guidelines for K-12 and congregate care settings. MDHHS will update Michigan’s guidance when additional information becomes available from the CDC. Today DHD#10 responded: District Health Department #10 announces they will proceed with the CDC’s updated quarantine and isolation for the general population, and ask that special populations, including schools, congregate care settings, daycares, jails, etc., continue to follow existing guidelines until updated guidance is provided. Today, Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued a release declaring that the state will wait to proceed with the CDC’s new guidance and continue to follow existing quarantine and isolation guidelines for all populations, including general and special populations, until further guidance is provided by the CDC. At this time, DHD#10 plans to proceed with CDC’s updated guidelines for the general population only but emphasize that masking during days 6-10 is crucial for this approach to be effective. “We understand that the difference in guidance between the CDC and MDHHS is causing frustration and confusion,” stated DHD#10 Health Officer, Kevin Hughes. “At this time, DHD#10 stands by our decision to move forward with the new CDC guidance for quarantine and isolation for the general population but urge individuals to closely follow the masking requirement spelled out for days 6-10. For special populations, such as schools, residential care facilities, daycares, and jails, we ask that these groups continue to follow the guidance they currently have in place while the CDC and MDHHS work to determine the best approach to quarantine and isolation.” On December 27, the CDC released updated guidelines for quarantine and isolation for the general population effective immediately. In the release, the CDC announced that, given what is currently known about COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, they are shortening the recommended timeframe for isolation and quarantine from others for those who have COVID-19 and are asymptomatic as well as those who have been exposed to COVID-19. The CDC also stated that the change was motivated by science demonstrating that most SARS-CoV-2 transmission occurs early in the course of illness, generally in the 1-2 days prior to onset of symptoms and the 2-3 days after. For current CDC guidelines see the previous article: https://www.nearnorthnow.com/news/quarantine-isolation-times-cut-in-half
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 Dad claims self defense. Bond denied
Darrell Dakan, 69, appeared in front of Judge Kevin Drake Wednesday accused of killing his son Joshua Dakan 2 days ago on the property they both lived in north of White Cloud. Court records indicate Joshua Dakan was sitting in the passenger seat of a friend;s car when his father came out and confronted him about leaving a cable across the driveway that ended up damaging the elder Dakan’s truck. As they argued, the father got a rifle from his trailer aiming it at his son. His friend reported that Joshua Dakan at one point said ‘Just shoot me”. Then, according to the friend, Darrell Dakan fired the .22 caliber rifle at his son. Joshua struggled with his father for a short time before collapsing with the bullet piercing his heart and lung. Darrell Dakan admitted to the shooting but claimed self defense. Prosecutor Ellsworth Stay stated in court that the younger Dakan had been shot in the back. Bond for Darrell Dakan was denied.  DHD#10 Adopting Changes Effective Immediately
Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) is adopting the strategy released by the CDC on December 27 for quarantine and isolation effective immediately. In the release, the CDC announced that, given what is currently known about COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, they are shortening the recommended timeframe for isolation and quarantine from others for those who have COVID-19 and are asymptomatic as well as those who have been exposed to COVID-19. Below is the breakdown of the new guidance: If you test positive for COVID-19 (Isolate) Everyone, regardless of vaccination status:
If you have been boosted OR completed the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine within 6 months OR completed the primary series of Johnson & Johnson vaccine within the last 2 months:
 Will face charges in court today
On December 27th, at 7:15pm, Deputies were dispatched to the 800 block of E. Pierce Road in Monroe Twp. for a shots fired complaint. When Deputies arrived on scene, they located a 38 year old male on the ground with a gunshot wound. Deputies rendered aid until EMS arrived on scene. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. A 69 year old male (victims father) was taken into custody and lodged into Newaygo County Jail on Murder charges, and is expected to be formally charged later today. The incident remains under investigation. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Michigan State Police, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and Medical Examiner's Office.  Gerber Foundation Online Application is Open The Gerber Foundation sponsors three competitive college scholarships for students graduating from a high school in Newaygo County, including home-schooled students residing in Newaygo County, who are pursuing postsecondary education at colleges, universities, as well as trade and vocational schools. Newaygo County seniors may apply for one of the below listed scholarships:
In addition, high school students graduating from Holton, Muskegon, Ravenna, Hart, Pentwater, Shelby, and Walkerville high schools may apply for the Merit Scholarship. There are approximately 25 scholarships available to seniors from these Muskegon and Oceana County high schools. Students must complete their application online at https://gerberfoundation.smartsimple.com. A personal statement and letter of reference are required for each scholarship. Applications are due Monday, February 28, 2022, at 4:00pm. Individual winners will be announced at each high school graduation awards ceremony. Additional scholarship information can be found on the Foundation’s website at www.gerberfoundation.org. For questions, contact the Gerber Foundation at 231.924.3175 or by email at [email protected].   Suspect faces 21 charges Last week saw a domestic incident in the Fremont mobile home community known as Meadowview that led to the arrest of 30 year old Adam Thompson. Thompson allegedly had assaulted his mother in the home and taken her phone to not allow her to call for help. She managed to escape the residence and when a Fremont police officer arrived he heard gunshots and called for backup. After a perimeter was established and neighbors evacuated Thompson attempted to escape through a bedroom window holding a shotgun and a BB gun. When he appeared to raise the shotgun a Newaygo County sergeant fired at him and Thompson surrendered and was taken into custody. The next day Thompson appeared in front of Judge Kevin Drake who read the 21 charges against him, which included several felony firearm charges, assault on an officer, domestic abuse on his mother and resisting and opposing an officer. Though no one was hit by the shots fired, the residence had several gunshot holes and the sergeant from the Sheriff’s department was put on administrative leave, the usual protocol for any officer involved shooting. December 20, 2021 – District Health Department #10 announces their holiday hours in observance of the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s holidays. In observance of Christmas, DHD#10 offices will be closed: Friday, December 24 and Monday, December 27.Offices will reopen on Tuesday, December 28. In observance of New Year’s, DHD#10 offices will be closed: Friday, December 31 and Monday, January 3. Offices will reopen on Tuesday, January 4. For those needing to submit water samples to the DHD#10 Water Lab, please note that the lab is unable to accept samples on Thursday, December 23 or Thursday, December 30 due to holiday closures and needing 24 hours to test samples. These COVID-19 Testing Clinics will be closed: Kalkaska – 12/26 Mason – 12/24, 12/26, 12/31 Mecosta – 12/24, 12/27, 12/31, 1/1, 1/3 Newaygo – 12/20, 12/24, 12/31 Wexford – 12/24, 12/27, 12/31, 1/3 The entire staff at DHD#10 wishes you and your loved ones a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year! For questions, email us at [email protected] or call 888-217-3904.  Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association adopts Gov's plan to deliver $400 refund checks per vehicle to drivers.
Lansing- In a move that will put money back into the pockets of Michigan drivers, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) announced that the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (MCCA) has acted upon the governor’s call to return surplus funds to Michigan policyholders and will immediately begin the process of refunding $400 per vehicle to Michigan drivers. Drivers are expected to receive checks in the second quarter of 2022. “These refunds and the recently announced statewide average rate reductions are lowering costs for every Michigan driver,” said the Governor. “Michiganders have paid into the catastrophic care fund for decades, and I am pleased that the MCCA developed this plan so quickly after unanimously approving my request to return surplus funds to the pockets of Michiganders. We are working together to put Michigan drivers first, and I am directing DIFS to ensure that the MCCA and Michigan’s auto insurance companies accurately, fairly, and promptly issue these refunds.”  Dr. Todd DeKryger - Receives Master Farmer Associate Award
Todd has been named recipient of the 2021 Master Farmer Associate Award by the Michigan Vegetable Council. This award is presented annually to an individual or business actively supporting the vegetable production industry in Michigan. It recognizes leadership roles in industry and community organizations and support of vegetable crop research. Todd is the Regional Supplier Development Manager - Agriculture at Nestlé Nutrition North America (Gerber) in Fremont, Michigan. In a nutshell that means that Todd is invaluable to both the fruit and vegetable growers in Michigan that grow produce for Gerber baby foods. Todd has worked at Gerber for a long time and he has succeeded by building a network of growers, employees, and extension. His passion seems to be this network, which allows him to find solutions to the needs of Michigan’s produce industry. Todd spends more time in the office these days, but relishes the occasions when he can get out and scout the fields, like at Crystal Valley Organics. Two projects Todd has provided great knowledge and leadership in are vital to vegetable production. Marketable carrots cannot taste woody. Aster Yellows is a plant disease that can cause woodiness in carrots. Aster leafhoppers carry this disease and infect plants. Todd’s work with Michigan State University research scientists has helped improve our control over this disease. Gerber baby products feed the youth of this nation. Todd is leading the way to make sure that these products contain safe ingredients without any natural contaminants. Newaygo County Prosecuting Attorney Worth Stay announced that charges were issued today against two juveniles involving threats made against Newaygo County schools. A juvenile, age 15, was charged with making a threat of terrorism against Newaygo High School on December 6, 2021. This incident was investigated by the Newaygo Police Department. Additionally, a juvenile, age 12, was charged with threatening to commit an act of violence against Newaygo Middle School on December 8, 2021. This incident was investigated by the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office. Although this demonstrates a disturbing increase in the number of school threats, this is unfortunately not a new problem. On November 12, 2021, charges were issued against a juvenile, age 14, for a bomb threat made against Hesperia High School on November 8, 2021. This incident was investigated by the Michigan State Police. All juveniles charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. While all these threats were eventually found to be not credible, each will be treated by this office as the serious offenses that it is. Each and every threat made in our community will continue to be fully investigated by local law enforcement and treated as legitimate until proven otherwise. Where sufficient evidence is forwarded to meet the elements of a crime, offenders will be prosecuted.  “If you’re vaccinated, you’re very unlikely to be hospitalized, need the ICU or die; and if you’re unvaccinated, that risk goes up substantially,” said Darryl Elmouchi, MD, President of Spectrum Health West Michigan. Find a vaccine near you at vaccine.gov. Current COVID status via Health Dept. Stats and a link to an article by a West Mich. physician Ok, Near Northians, here is the latest COVID info from DHD#10.This week we are including a compelling piece describing the current situation in our local hospitals. If you are among the folks who either don’t believe in getting vaxed or perhaps, despite a staggering number of COVID related deaths, remain steadfast in dismissing the existence of this pandemic, what follows will likely not alter your views. However, if you remain open minded about the validity of the vax and recognize the reality of this infectious scourge, we implore you to access this story. With vaccination rates still low and outbreaks threatening to overwhelm hospitals and put all patients at risk, it’s a worthy read and a good take on what worries one emergency physician: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/08/opinion/covid-michigan-surge.html Sound like a familiar place to you? It should. Now combine the story with the recent stats found below and the percentage of hospitalizations among the unvaccinated found above and you hopefully get the picture. Get the Vax. Step up for yourself, your family, your neighbors and your community. There are any number of reasons we’ve heard to not receive this poke that has provided some hope for a post- pandemic life. But remember, you can feel free to get it and not tell your anti-vax friends, get it and continue to deny its efficacy, get it and maintain belief in any conspiracy theory out there you wish to be a part of, etc. But for pity’s sake… Get the vax. And now, back to this week’s stats from Health Department Epidemiologist Jordan Powell MPH: As of today, all of our counties remain in the high transmission level categories. At the time of this email there are no known Omicron variants in our ten county jurisdiction. There are currently 580 confirmed Delta variants in our jurisdiction: 64 in Crawford, 7 in Kalkaska, 14 in Lake, 10 in Manistee, 111 in Mason, 97 in Mecosta, 37 in Missaukee, 41 in Newaygo, 87 in Oceana, and 112 in Wexford. Our hospitals continue to experience elevated capacity levels, as there are 18 COVID-19 inpatients in Munson Cadillac, 13 in Munson Grayling, 8 in Munson Manistee, 22 at Spectrum Health Big Rapids, 13 at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial, and 14 at Spectrum Health Ludington today. Below are graphics from the Munson and Spectrum System websites highlighting vaccination status of hospitalized patients both as of 12/7/21.   Consumers Energy Reschedules Siren Test Near Rogers, Hardy and Croton Dams to December 14
Consumers Energy has rescheduled a test of emergency public warning siren systems near its Rogers, Hardy and Croton hydroelectric generating plants on the Muskegon River to Tuesday, Dec. 14, at about 9:30 a.m. The test was originally scheduled for this morning. As previously planned, the tests will include a voice message, a 30-second siren and a second voice message. The public does not need to take any action during the test.
 The Dragon in Winter. Photo courtesy NC Parks Stanwood, Michigan – Dec. 6, 2021 – BlueTriton Brands, Inc. (BTB), in collaboration with Fremont Area Community Foundation, is pleased to announce the 2021 recipients of grants awarded through the Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund (IMESF). The IMESF supports the long-term sustainability of the Muskegon River and its ecosystems by funding environmental conservation projects and programs throughout the watershed. The Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund was established through Fremont Area Community Foundation in 2002 by Nestlé Waters North America (NWNA), now BlueTriton Brands. Grants awarded through the IMESF help sustain the waters and water-dependent natural resources of the Muskegon River by supporting conservation, enhancement, and restoration projects. The fund provides up to approximately $50,000 annually, with individual grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000. “We are proud to provide grant support to these outstanding organizations doing important work along the Muskegon River,” said Shelly Kasprzycki, president and CEO of Fremont Area Community Foundation. “We are also grateful for the generosity and ongoing support of BlueTriton Brands and for their commitment to the conservation and restoration of the Muskegon River watershed.” County of Newaygo Project Name: Michigan's Dragon at Hardy Dam This grant will directly fund construction along the Dragon Trail in Newaygo and Mecosta Counties. This will allow greater access for trail visitors while protecting the sensitive watershed area around Hardy Pond, which was formed by the Hardy Dam, the largest earthen dam in the United States east of the Mississippi River. The pond is surrounded by 50 miles of shoreline and 4,000 surface acres of water. The pond is also part of the Muskegon River, which boasts abundant wildlife, including otters, waterfowl, deer, eagles, and numerous species of fish. When complete, Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam—the Dragon Trail—will be approximately 47 miles in length, forming a loop around the Hardy Pond Reservoir. "The Dragon is drawing more people to our area faster than expected, and the Trail is only about 50% complete,” said Nick Smith, Parks and Recreation Director for the County of Newaygo. “In addition to the positive tourism and economic impact, we are introducing many new people to the beauty and importance of the Muskegon River Watershed and Hardy Pond. Aside from the important economic impact, this project is connecting people to nature, and we hope it may give them a deeper appreciation of our natural environment that they can take home with them." The unique trail will include six trailheads, 13 designated trail overlooks and parking at existing recreation sites. The trail will have a natural surface and will be two feet wide when completed. The 2021 IMESF grant recipients’ projects also include: Big Rapids Public Schools Project Name: Bridge Repair for Environmental Studies and Physical Fitness Project Mecosta Conservation District Project Name: 2021 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Muskegon River Watershed Assembly Project Name: Maple River-Restoring Community Resiliency, Natural Resources and Public Safety Funds provided through the IMESF support projects located anywhere along the 2,700-square-mile watershed stretching across 12 counties beginning near Houghton Lake and ending in the City of Muskegon, where the river flows into Lake Michigan. Projects funded by IMESF grants over the past 19 years have included erosion control, rain gardens, restoration to creeks, dams and nature areas, site clean-ups and improvements, among many others. In 2019, an additional $2 million commitment was made to the IMESF to support conservation projects for the next 20+ years.
Schools across the state closed Thursday and Friday ‘out of an abundance of caution’ after receiving threats of violence. Newaygo County Prosecutor Ellsworth Stay issued the following statement on Friday: "Local law enforcement takes all threats, including threats to commit harm at schools, seriously. These threats are and will continue to be investigated fully by law enforcement. The threat of terrorism, such as bombing a school or committing a school shooting, is a felony offense. A false report of the same is also punishable as a felony. It does not matter whether these threats are made verbally or in writing, including threats made on social media such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or any messaging application. "Several instances of threats made against schools have been investigated in Newaygo County against juvenile and adult offenders in the recent past. All such threats are investigated to determine credibility. Every threat – even false reports or what a person might call a “joke” – will continue to be fully investigated and evaluated for criminal charges. "In light of the recent tragedy at Oxford High School, and the alarming increase in threats that Michigan schools have received in its wake, we remind the community that these crimes are never tolerated in Newaygo County. We urge parents, caregivers, friends, and all community-members to remain vigilant in recognizing warning signs and seeking help when it is needed." -Ellsworth Stay, Newaygo County Prosecutor  Consumers Energy to Conduct Siren Tests Near Rogers, Hardy and Croton Dams December 8
Consumers Energy announced the emergency public warning siren systems near its Rogers, Hardy and Croton hydroelectric generating plants on the Muskegon River will be tested on Wednesday, Dec. 8, at about 9:30 a.m.
Consumers Energy reminds those who visit dams in the winter that ice on a reservoir near a hydroelectric facility is not reliable and should be avoided by snowmobilers, anglers and others. Also, ice-covered water down river from a hydroelectric facility should never be considered a safe place to walk. |
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