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State to focus this month on enforcing Hands-Free Law

If you haven’t done it already, time to put down the phone when getting behind the wheel — law enforcement will be watching. With a rise in the use of handheld devices by drivers on Michigan roadways and in support of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, police agencies throughout the state are teaming up with the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning for a high-visibility enforcement effort in April, according to a news release. A recent observational study from Michigan State University found mobile device use by drivers increased from 5.2% in 2024 to 5.7% in 2025. ...

Animals are not good Easter presents

We don’t want to rain on anyone’s Easter parade, but if you’re thinking it might be cute to get the kids some chicks, ducklings or even a bunny for their Easter basket, we’d ask that you think again. Animal experts warn that very much like puppies and kittens at Christmas time, chicks, ducklings and bunnies are not good Easter basket stuffers. They grow quickly and the owners are typically unprepared to care for them properly. Local animal shelters are often where these unwanted critters end up, putting additional stress on resources of that sort that are already ...

Residents encouraged to join organ donor registry

Have you considered becoming an organ donor? It’s admittedly not the most pleasant topic, since it means contemplating what happens after dying. But it’s an important one to address. Making that decision now potentially keeps your family from facing those questions later, under what likely would be traumatic circumstances. And it can make a life-altering — sometimes life-saving — difference for a host of people now on waiting lists. During Donate Life Month, the Michigan Department of State is encouraging residents to join the millions already on the Michigan Organ Donor ...

Emphasizing safe and responsible alcohol use

For Alcohol Awareness Month in April, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is promoting moderation and making responsible choices and informed decisions when it comes to alcohol consumption. “While drinking alcohol is a part of many of our celebrations and times of relaxation, drinking responsibly is crucial for the safety of everyone,” MLCC Chair Kristin Beltzer said in a news release. “During Alcohol Awareness Month, we join with our partners in the alcoholic beverage industry and public health community to highlight the importance of safe and responsible alcohol ...

DNR: With young wildlife it’s best to keep your distance

While snow may remain on the ground in the region — though fading fast — spring is taking hold. It’s the time of year that brings a host of young wild animals into the world — some, such as red fox and raccoons, may already have litters hidden away. Same with black bears, which give birth while hibernating; a recent video an Upper Peninsula resident posted on Facebook showed a sow with four cubs trailing behind her. So the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding the public early in the season that wild animals and their young will be on the move in the coming ...

Be safe when gathering for traditional holiday meals

With this week leading up to Easter Sunday for Christians plus having the Jewish holiday of Passover starting Wednesday through April 9, many families will gather for traditional meals. Mother’s Day, too, is just around the corner.  With that in mind, the the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or USDA, has offered some advice for marking the holidays safely. “Spring holidays are about cherished traditions–sharing Easter ham, Passover brisket, or a Mother’s Day brunch with those you love,” Dr. Mindy Brashears, undersecretary for Food Safety at the USDA, said in a news ...