More photos from the Museum sculpture unveiling
CAASA supports one of their own
The Clinton Area Ambulance Service Authority had the pleasure of supporting one of their own recently.
October is breast cancer awareness month. Two of their team members, Jeff and Renae are supporting their mother, Terri, in her fight against breast cancer. CAASA didn’t want them to do that alone, so they joined forces as a team to support their family.
One evening they surprised them with their fundraising proceeds in honor of the challenges they are facing and breast cancer awareness month.
In support of Terri and her family they are wearing CAASA breast cancer awareness shirts for the month of October. Their personnel graciously donated to the fund to support the fundraising efforts.All proceeds were donated in support to the family.
St. Johns businesses support SafeCenter
Brandi and Hannah want to give a shout out to some of the women-owned businesses in downtown St. Johns who are champions of SafeCenter and those they serve. They weren’t able to visit everyone, but here’s who they did see:
– Chris Roberts and Corrine Trimbach – Mint Door Boutique
– Diane Gibbs – Pierson 319, An Event Center
– Sara Beauchamp-Hicks – Whimsical Party Gallery
– Brandy Martinez – Studio Glazed
– Nicole Devereaux – Nicole’s Salon & Day Spa
– Rebekah Whitaker – Hot Prints Inc.
– Mariah Leiby – The Salon 989
– Dana Swanson – Swany’s
Thank you to Dave Hunt, Sr. of Big Boy in St. Johns for the very generous $500 donation to SafeCenter. Dave and his family are so supportive of SafeCenter and the local community.
Remember When – Wilson Auditorium project moving forward in 2009
With the floor repaired, painting half completed, and 212 seats currently being refurbished, the Wilson Center Auditorium is beginning to breathe new life as each day brings it closer to becoming the “star” that the committee had envisioned for our mid-Michigan community. Phase One of the renovation project is well underway.
“People in our community will not believe their eyes when they step into this gem of a theatre” says Tom Webb, co-chair of the project. “They will absolutely be amazed – the colors are vibrant and work so well together – we can’t wait to start reinstalling the seats before Thanksgiving.”
The main floor of the auditorium will eventually have 376 refurbished seats reinstalled with the committee looking to have sponsors for each of those seats.
“Right now, we have sponsors for 55 seats, a little over ¼ of the 212 seats we are working on at this time,” says Bill Tennant, committee member. “The seat sponsorships will be ongoing until we have our 376 sponsors, but we are in need of immediate sponsors to quickly meet our financial obligation for this first phase of the project.”
Donations are coming in from as far away as San Diego with many of them coming from former Rodney B. Wilson students who sat in the auditorium for many concerts and programs during their school days in the building. Classes from the 1950’s lead the way in former student support.
“It’s really neat to read the notes that accompany the checks as the former students reflect on their school days at RBW,” continues Tennant. “The auditorium was an important school and community facility over the many years and meant a lot to those students and others – they all are very appreciative that this project is taking place.”
The auditorium will be ready and open to the public for three events that will happen in December. There will be a community Christmas Concert the evening of the 5th, the second annual Messiah Sing on the afternoon of the 6th, along with a wonderful community Holiday Show the following weekend on the 11th and 12th. More information will be forthcoming on each of those events.
Letters – Readers offer election advice
On the November 8, 2022 General Election Ballot is a Local Proposal for Renewing the City of St. Johns Streets and Sidewalks Millage of up to 3.0 Mills for 6 more years. I support this as a YES vote will continue the major progress that’s been made the past 9 years in fixing St. Johns poor streets.
To date 23 miles of the 45 miles of the City’s local streets have been improved. We need to continue this good work and not drop the ball. I’m pleased to state that for the past 9 years, the City of St. Johns showed that “Promises Made in Fixing Our Streets”, that they “Kept those Promises!”
Note that M-21 and US-127 BR are not local streets; rather they are State Highways and are maintained under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Transportation. Please contact our State Legislators and MDOT on these two state highways going through our town to get them soon fixed with state and federal tax dollars.
Please visit Website at: www.cityofstjohnsmi.com for a map and schedule of the streets that are planned to be improved over the next six years (2023 to 2028).
In addition, City officials plan to have more focus on sidewalk improvements than in the past. I expect the City will work with adjacent property owners in respect to their sidewalk repairs and replacements. They may well create a process for incentivizing property owners through a sidewalk match program. Plus, everyone needs to work on more sidewalks in or near School Zones, where gaps exist and some students must walk in the streets instead of on safe sidewalks to get to/from School.
I encourage residents and businesses to please vote YES on November 8, 2022 General Election Ballot for Renewing Streets and Sidewalks Millage of 3 mills for 6 years for a better City of St. Johns.
Sincerely,
Bob Craig
812 W. Park Street
St. Johns, MI 48879
******
On November 8 voters in the St. Johns Public Schools District will be asked to renew the non-homestead operating millage. This millage does not apply to homes used as a principal residence or to qualified agricultural property. The millage applies to industrial, commercial, and rental property within the district.
In order to receive the full amount of state funding to operate our schools, the state requires each district to levy 18 mills on commercial, industrial, and rental property. If the district fails to levy the full 18 mills, funding for our schools is reduced dollar for dollar.
If the 18 mills are not renewed, the district would stand to lose approximately $3 million in funding that pays for teachers, reading and math coaches, and our support staff.
Now is an important time to re-double our efforts to ensure our children have the support necessary to thrive in academics, music, art, and the extra-curricular activities that make St. Johns Public Schools such a vital part of our community. Please show your support of our children on November 8th and vote Yes on the millage renewal.
Scott Darragh, Trustee
Board of Education
St. Johns Public Schools
******
November 8, 2022 is Election Day in Michigan. Your vote will have a huge impact that will alter our future because you will be voting to change the Michigan Constitution. There are three ballot proposals you will be voting on. Vote ‘No’ On All Three.
Proposal #1: Voters For Transparency and Term Limits. (What’s the Real Legislative Intent?)
This proposed Constitutional Amendment is an initiated law passed in both chambers of the Michigan Legislature by a 2/3 majority. I find it very hard to believe that this was done with altruistic intent to make the process more transparent and have greater accountability. This is the fox guarding the hen house. This constitutional amendment would reduce the maximum length a lawmaker can serve from 14 years-to-12 years, but it would allow them to serve 12-years in a single chamber, essentially allowing them to serve longer terms than they normally could. Currently most term limited House members leave after 6-years and choose to not run for the Senate. Most Senate members leave after 8 years.
Vote ‘No’ On Proposal #1
Proposal #2: Promote the Vote. (Legalize Election Fraud!)
This voter initiative petition would open a greater possibility for fraud than we currently experience. Permitting “Early in-person voting” nine days in advance of the traditional day would allow less oversight of the defined structured process allowing for a greater chance of fraud. It will allow for no reason absentee ballots, unsupervised ballot drop boxes, no state ID required to vote, it would allow for private groups and charities to fund elections (Zuckerbucks/Facebook!), it limits outside election audits of elections, and denies citizens access to election records.
Vote ‘No’ On Proposal #2
Proposal #3: Reproductive Freedom For All. (Legalize Abortion up to Birth, Suspend Parental Rights)
This proposal would make Michigan the most pro-abortion state in the country. It would allow for abortions up to the day of birth, partial-birth abortions, and termination of babies that survive abortions. It would allow minor children to obtain abortions, sterilization, puberty blockers, and sex change surgeries Without Parental Consent. It would eliminate screenings of women coerced into getting abortions, and remove health and safety requirements of abortion facilities. It would also allow anyone considered to be a “health care professional” to authorize the approval of an abortion for either mental or health reasons. The ballot proposal has no definition of the terms that are used in the proposal.
Vote ‘No’ On Proposal #3
Gail Wadell
Elsie, MI
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – Is Marijuana Bad for Cats?
With the increased accessibility of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes, the Pet Poison Helpline reports a 448% increase in cases involving dogs and cats ingesting marijuana or marijuana products.
Even though some studies have shown that marijuana can aid humans with certain health conditions, it is not safe for cats to ingest it in any form or to inhale secondhand marijuana smoke.
To better understand marijuana products and concerns in cats, it helps to understand the terminology:
Marijuana: Marijuana is a drug that’s composed of the leaves and flowers of plants in the genus Cannabis. While marijuana contains both THC and CBD, it has a higher concentration of THC.
Cannabis: While sometimes used interchangeably with the term marijuana, cannabis refers to the plant genus. There are three species of plants within the cannabis genus. Ranked in order of THC content, they are C. indica, C. sativa, and C. ruderalis.
THC: THC is the abbreviation and commonly used term for tetrahydrocannabinol. It is the main psychoactive compound of cannabis and one of over 100 compounds called cannabinoids that are found in the plant. THC is responsible for the “high” feeling associated with marijuana.
CBD: CBD is the abbreviation and commonly used term for cannabidiol. It is a popular herbal drug widely promoted for claims of various therapeutic benefits, but it does not have the same “high” feeling or addictive properties as THC. It is another one of the cannabinoids found in cannabis plants.
Hemp: Hemp is derived from varieties of C. sativa that contain lower concentrations of THC and higher concentrations of CBD.
Do Cats Have Cannabinoid Receptors?
Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis plants. The most notable and intoxicating cannabinoid is THC. Cannabinoid receptors respond to certain cannabinoids to certain degrees. Cats have cannabinoid receptors just like humans. In fact, there are two cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) found in all mammals (humans, cats, dogs), birds, reptiles, and fish.
CB1 receptors are known to be psychoactive (affecting the mind and neurologic processes) and can be found in the brain, fat, liver, and muscles. Dogs and cats have been shown to have a higher number of the CB1 receptors in the brain compared to humans. CB1 receptors are responsible for affecting the mind, alerting the mood, and the overall “high” feeling of marijuana. THC has a higher affinity for CB1 receptors, so marijuana often affects dogs and cats more than humans.
CB2 receptors play a strong role in immune function, and anti-inflammatory functions are mostly located in immune cells. CBD has a higher affinity for CB2 receptors, which is why humans and pets do not experience the same toxic effects with CBD as with THC.
How Does Marijuana Affect Cats?
Marijuana acts on the cannabinoid receptors (mainly CB1) to alter the brain’s chemistry to typically stimulate the pleasure zones, giving a “chill” or happy feeling, in people; however, in cats this can be a terrifying experience full of fear and paranoia.
THC is very lipid (fat) soluble, meaning it is stored in the body’s fatty tissues and can be slowly released into the bloodstream. THC is metabolized mostly by the liver and excreted in feces and urine. However, due to lipid solubility, it can take up to 5 days after exposure for 80-90% of the marijuana to be eliminated.
It is important to note that catnip and marijuana are not similar in the way they work on cats. While cats under the influence of catnip can experience similar euphoric feelings denoted to humans when they consume marijuana, these two substances are not the same, and do not work the same in the cat’s body or brain. Catnip is considered more of a pheromone, and cats cannot overdose from catnip. Marijuana is very different and can be dangerous due to THC toxicity.
Is Marijuana Toxic to Cats?
Yes, marijuana is toxic to cats. However, the exact toxic dose is unknown. While the ASPCA reports marijuana toxicity is more common in dogs, cats make up about 3% of the marijuana toxicity cases. But this just means there is more information regarding marijuana toxicity in dogs, and much less research and data regarding cats. However, we do know that marijuana, particularly from the effects of THC, is toxic (but rarely lethal) to cats.
The good news is that in most situations, cats can fully recover from marijuana toxicity with no long-term effects. But not all people and pets will experience the same level of toxicity. Differences in ages, health status, and body size, as well as complications such as aspiration pneumonia, seizures, or existing heart problems, can affect an individual’s toxicity and ability to recover. Therefore, have your cat examined immediately by a veterinarian if you think they have ingested marijuana.
Cats typically have a more discerning palate than dogs, and they can become intoxicated by marijuana by ingesting cannabis or any other THC-containing product. Cats can also be exposed to secondhand smoke when they are in the same room as humans who are smoking marijuana. Even small amounts of THC-containing products can cause clinical signs and toxicity in cats, as they are smaller and have more CB1 receptors compared to humans.
Signs of Marijuana Toxicity in Cats
Clinical signs of marijuana toxicity are primarily neurological. They can start in as little as half an hour and last for several hours or even days. The possible clinical signs in cats include:
– Loss of coordination
– Dilated pupils
– Depression/lethargy
– Slow heart rate
– Low body temperature (which can become dangerously low)
– Vocalization or agitation
– Excessive drooling/vomiting/diarrhea
– Dribbling urine or loss of control of urination
– Seizures
– Coma
If you notice any of these signs or believe your pet may have gotten into marijuana or a marijuana product, take them immediately to your local veterinarian or veterinary emergency hospital. Give your vet a specific description of the method of exposure (such as ingestion or aerosol), specific product (such as dried plant or edible), and any previous medical issues (such as heart disease or pancreatitis) for your cat.
Marijuana Products That Are Toxic to Cats
Some examples of marijuana products on the market that can be toxic to cats include:
– Edibles: Edibles are food items containing marijuana. These can often be more toxic, as they tend to contain a higher level of THC than the plant itself and can pose a higher risk for poisoning pets. Another consideration when cats ingest edibles is to treat for any secondary toxicities. For example, if a cat eats chocolate pot brownies, they will also need treatment for chocolate toxicity.
– Plant: THC is found in the leaves and flowering parts of the marijuana plants. A cat can become intoxicated from ingesting live plants, dried weed products, or marijuana cigarettes.
– Cannabutter: Cannabutter is butter that has been infused with cannabis and may be used in homemade edibles. This form of marijuana toxicity poses an added risk of pancreatitis due to the high fat content of butter.
– THC Vape Oil: THC vape oil is a type of cannabis extract made into a liquid for use in a vape, or electronic cigarette. Like edibles, vape oils tend to contain a higher concentration of THC and therefore can pose a higher risk to pets. Additionally, while unlikely, if the cat ingests the cartridge, there is a risk for foreign body obstruction.
– Concentrates: Cannabis concentrate is a broad category referring to all products that have been extracted from the plant and are often used interchangeably with extracts. Concentrates may refer to products produced with commercial equipment or prepared in a home setting through dry processing, dry ice processing, water-based processing, combining heat and pressure, and using flammable and nonflammable solutes. Again, as the name implies, concentrates will likely be a concentrated form of THC and therefore increase its toxicity potential.
– Tinctures: Tinctures of cannabis are most often an alcoholic cannabis concentrate. With these products, in addition to the concerns of concentrated THC, cats could also experience side effects from alcohol ingestion.
What to Do If Your Cat Is Exposed to Marijuana
Even if you don’t think your pet had access to marijuana or marijuana products, it should be on the list of possible causes if your cat shows the clinical signs and these products are in the household.
There is no need to feel nervous or embarrassed. Your vet is simply trying to gather information to help your pet. Diagnosis of marijuana exposure is typically through a combination of history and clinical signs. Since human drug tests for marijuana do not work well on dogs, and there is no data regarding their efficacy in cats, your vet is relying on you and your information to help make a diagnosis for your pet.
Treatment for Marijuana Toxicity in Cats
The veterinarian may induce vomiting if your cat ingested marijuana very recently and they are not yet showing any signs. They may also give the cat activated charcoal to bind any additional toxin.
There is no antidote for marijuana ingestion, so treatment is largely supportive care until the effects of the drug wear off. This may involve IV fluids to keep your cat hydrated, as well as anti-nausea medication, temperature support, and confinement to a quiet, comfortable place. A newer treatment called intralipid therapy may be recommended to help pull the THC out of the fatty tissues faster and shorten the clinical signs.
Most cats recover from marijuana exposure and do not have any long-term complications. However, do not forget to consider any secondary toxicities such as alcohol or chocolate ingestion.
Prevention is key, so never allow your cat to eat or inhale marijuana or marijuana-containing products. Store cannabis products with THC safely out of reach and do not expose your cat to any secondhand marijuana smoke.