Latest Clinton County Covid stats
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued an Emergency Order under the Public Health Code to update COVID safety requirements for Michiganders. As expected, many parts of earlier emergency orders are continued. The complete order can be found here: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/coronavirus/MDHHS_epidemic_order_-_Gatherings_masks_bars_sports_-_FINAL_704287_7.pdf.
You might feel healthy, but the reality is this: about 40% of people who have COVID-19 may be asymptomatic. That means almost one out of every two people could be infected. They might not know it until it’s too late. We can only contain the virus and keep Michigan open if everyone stays careful and masks up when they leave home, whether they feel sick or not. Face coverings can reduce the chance of spreading COVID-19 by about 70%. So Mask Up Michigan!
1253 cases and 16 deaths, Probable Cases: 159 [as of November 4]
For the latest updates visit https://www.mmdhd.org/novel-coronavirus/
Do you have COVID-19 questions? If you have questions regarding COVID-19, call the MDHHS hotline at 1-888-535-6136, Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Habitat seeks volunteers
Clinton-Gratiot Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers to continue the work on a home being built at 401 Barber Street in Ithaca.
Habitat for Humanity would especially like to hear from experienced carpentry, drywall and painting professionals who would be willing to give of their time. No experience? Willing to learn? Your help is needed as well.
More handy with a spatula than a hammer? Consider giving of your time to donate treats, whether by yourself or as part of a group. Preparing a lunch during the build would also be a welcome gift.
Prayers for good weather, safety and good health for those who are taking part are always appreciated, as are donations as building costs continue to rise.
To volunteer, to donate or to learn more, call (989) 227-1771, option 4 or 989-277-7443.
Fowler Holiday Craft Bazaar is November 28
Join the Fowler Village Market on “Small Business Saturday” to support local artisans while doing some holiday shopping. This is an indoor event; details of virtual options to be announced.
Vendor Spaces are now all filled.
Assistance with Medicare Open Enrollment available
From October 15th to December 7th each year, you can make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug coverage for the following year. This can be a confusing process with all of the mailings and ads on television prodding beneficiaries to change to one plan or another. Choosing the wrong plan can be a costly mistake, so what can be done?
The Michigan Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program has certified counselors available to assist beneficiaries with unbiased information on the plans available. The counselors are available in every county in Michigan. These services are free to those on Medicare and is paid for with grants from the Center for Medicare Services.
In Clinton County, Capital Area Community Services provides this service, with funding from the Tri-County Office on Aging. To reach a counselor call 800 803-7174 or call 989 224-6702.
Relay for Life to hold silent auction
The 2020 Silent Auction in support of Relay for Life will be online November 18 – 30. Having it in the fall will allow them to take advantage of the holiday shopping season. You can’t get more #ShopSmall than Relay For Life!
To make this a success organizers need your help securing items. There is not a minimum value required, but they do recommend bundling smaller items together to create “baskets.”
As with the on-site auction, whatever amount your donated item(s) go for will be applied toward your team/personal fundraiser.
Please reach out to Nikki or Marlene with questions and to submit items. For more information visit the website.
Girl Scouts is not cancelled
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan (GSHOM) is pleased to announce Girl Scouts is not cancelled.
GSHOM is here and ready to support girls through the best girl-led leadership program. With many extracurricular activities on pause, Girl Scouting remains the safest option for girls to build courage, confidence, and character, while building lifelong friendships – even from home.
Troops are finding creative ways to use technology to stay connected, help their communities, and achieve their goals. With added safety precautions and modifications, girls are also participating in traditional Girl Scout activities, including in-person socially distanced meetings, earning badges and participating in Treats & Reads – nuts, candies, and magazines – the fall product program.
Girl Scouts can renew their membership or girls can join as a new member now at gshom.org.
GSHOM council staff are leading online meetings for new Girl Scouts, so girls can get started on their Girl Scout experience right away before joining a classic troop. Girls will be introduced to the Girl Scout Promise and Law, participate in fun enriching activities, and meet new friends.
GSHOM is also offering free family fun events and virtual programming videos on gshom.org.
Several adult volunteer positions, including Troop Leaders, are available. GSHOM provides online trainings and meetings to fully support volunteers every step of the way.
Girl Scouts is more than just an after-school activity. It is a research-backed and time-tested program that encourages girls to discover, connect, and take action. Girl Scouts are more likely to develop a strong sense of self, display positive values, seek challenges, form healthy relationships, and become community problem solvers. In today’s uncertain times, girls need Girls Scouts now more than ever.
To renew a membership or register as a new Girl Scout or volunteer, visit gshom.org.
Churches plan video of local veterans
The Lowe and Maple Rapids United Methodist Churches want to show their appreciation to our Veterans this fall.
Many of you have participated in the past by attending their Annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner. This year, due to the corona virus, they will be unable to serve you dinner or honor you in person at the Lowe Church. They sincerely regret this and do not want Veterans Day to pass without showing appreciation to each of you.
This year they are offering to record you on video. You would be asked just a few questions, such as: where you served our country; the number of years you served; and any experience you wish to share. Everyone who has served in any branch of the military is most welcome and encouraged to be a part of this video.
Artis White will be doing the taping and will create a video of all the veterans to be displayed on Veterans Day, November 11th. If you are a participant, you will receive your own personal copy on DVD.
If you are willing to participate, please call the church office [989] 224-4460 and leave a message, or contact Artis White directly at [517] 749-8351 to schedule an appointment.
If you are unable to travel but would like to participate, they will accommodate you in whatever ways are helpful. Please know that they are so very grateful for the service you have given to our country.