News and events of Michigan’s Upper Thumb that are worth knowing in the region.
Here are some of the top stories.
The University of Michigan has received a $3.6 million NIH grant to study post-surgery pain relief in opioid-dependent patients. Led by Mark Bicket, the five-year initiative aims to develop guidelines that reduce opioid misuse while managing pain effectively. The research addresses challenges faced by the 2.5 million Americans with opioid use disorder.
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Jason Ross, 50, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the 2021 murder of his girlfriend, Kathleen Hales, 47, in Sterling Heights. He was found guilty after a 10-day trial, having brutally attacked her with a hammer and stabbing her. Prosecutors highlighted the case’s significance in addressing domestic violence.
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Michigan lawmakers are considering legislation to implement mobile panic alert systems in schools to enhance security amid rising student safety concerns. State Sen. Michael Webber’s proposal includes mandatory adoption by the 2025-2026 school year and allocates $6.7 million for initial funding. The initiative reflects a national trend towards improving school emergency responses.
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Michigan lawmakers are advancing legislation to enhance consumer protections against data breaches and price gouging during emergencies. Proposed bills would require timely reporting of data breaches and define price gouging, enabling legal actions against violators. Attorney General Dana Nessel supports these reforms to address rising cyberattacks and protect vulnerable consumers.
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Michigan’s Northern Michigan Passenger Rail project is advancing with federal support, particularly a 2022 RAISE grant. This initiative aims to connect Southeast and Northwestern Michigan through a 240-mile rail corridor, enhancing transportation equity, boosting economic development, and facilitating access to Amtrak’s network, all while supporting sustainable infrastructure and clean mobility.
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The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) celebrates the first year of Plan First!, offering free family planning
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The Library of Michigan’s new exhibit “The Searching Eye: Images of Mid-Century Detroit” features rare black-and-white photographs by Norman Zadoorian, showcasing Detroit from the 1940s to 1960s. The collection illustrates the city’s industrial history and personal narratives, enhanced by essays from Zadoorian’s son, Michael, creating a deep emotional connection to Detroit’s past.
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The UAW is intensifying its conflict with Stellantis due to unmet U.S. investment commitments, highlighted by a 97% strike authorization vote from Denver workers. Stellantis’ $1.1 billion in stock buybacks, instead of fulfilling a $19 billion investment pledge, has enraged workers, prompting widespread support for potential strikes across UAW locals.
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Michigan State University has achieved a historic enrollment record of 52,089 students for the 2024-25 academic year, reflecting its appeal as a top education choice. The diverse student body includes 10,978 new undergraduates and 27.8% students of color. MSU’s initiatives aim to enhance accessibility and opportunities in higher education.
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Felony charges have been filed against four residents and three clerks in St. Clair Shores for allegedly participating in a double voting scheme during the August 2024 Primary Election. The charges include double voting and falsifying election records. Investigations revealed election workers were instructed to override voting systems, compromising election integrity.
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