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Democracy rolls on: Election/voter deadlines today/tomorrow for May 5 election

Posted by on 2:01 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News, News Briefs | Comments Off on Democracy rolls on: Election/voter deadlines today/tomorrow for May 5 election

Democracy rolls on:  Election/voter deadlines today/tomorrow for May 5 election

As the nation, state, county and city attempt to cope with the Covid-19 crisis, the League of Women Voters/Flint Area reminds voters that an election approaches May 5 and that some aspects of that election have been altered by the crisis. Details below, provided by the LWV, with some light editing by EVM: The deadline to REGISTER online or by mail to be able to vote in the May 5 election cycle, is TODAY, Monday, April 20. Applicants MUST have a valid MI driver’s license or state ID to register online. In person voter registrations may...

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Flint eying significance of AG actions, “bombshell” VICE story as water crisis repercussions bubble up again

Posted by on 3:20 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint eying significance of AG actions, “bombshell” VICE story as water crisis repercussions bubble up again

Flint eying significance of AG actions, “bombshell” VICE story as water crisis repercussions bubble up again

By Jan Worth-Nelson As the coronavirus pandemic occupies and overwhelms much of the public’s attention in Flint, another controversy — still painful and unresolved in many ways,  affecting almost every aspect of Flint life — appears about to create news again on top of everything else in Vehicle City. The sixth anniversary of what is considered to be the date that began the Flint water crisis – April 25, 2014, when a switch flipped by then-mayor Dayne Walling put the city on Flint River water – is arriving this week. As that date...

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Get ready: Court Street construction beginning Wednesday, April 22; trees will be saved

Posted by on 2:16 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Get ready: Court Street construction beginning Wednesday, April 22; trees will be saved

Get ready: Court Street construction beginning Wednesday, April 22;  trees will be saved

By Jan Worth-Nelson What the project engineer is calling “full reconstruction” of Court Street from Dort Highway to Crapo Street in Flint is scheduled to begin Wednesday, April 22.  Work on the estimated $7 million project is expected to last through August, and will entail adjustments for motorists on one of the city’s busiest east-west routes. Workers will be installing an updated water main and resurfacing Court Street.  Eventually sidewalks, most curbs and gutter pans will be replaced as well.  The culvert bridge at...

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Michigan families to receive additional food benefits in pandemic EBT program

Posted by on 8:53 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Michigan families to receive additional food benefits in pandemic EBT program

Michigan families to receive additional food benefits in pandemic EBT program

Emergency food assistance for Michigan families with children age 5 to 18 is on its way through a federal program adding benefits in response to the coronavirus crisis. The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer Program (P-EBT) will provide $193.80 per eligible student for March and April and $182.40 for May and June in additional “Bridge Card” funds for an estimated 895,000 students statewide. According to a press release announcing the program, eligibility for the emergency food assistance  includes families currently receiving...

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Flint Schools Supt. Derrick Lopez suspended, Anita Steward named interim

Posted by on 12:10 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint Schools Supt. Derrick Lopez suspended, Anita Steward named interim

Flint Schools Supt. Derrick Lopez suspended, Anita Steward named interim

By Harold C. Ford At a special meeting of the Flint Board of Education on April 15, Derrick Lopez, Flint’s superintendent for the past 20 months since his appointment in Aug. 2018, was suspended with pay “pending investigation.”  Notably, Lopez had been absent from the last two meetings of the board. Assistant Superintendent Anita Steward was named interim superintendent “effective immediately.” “I am very thankful, humbled, and honored to be able to start in this capacity,” said Steward in a statement to the board, “though it is under very...

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Covid-19 testing begins in Flint at Atwood Stadium parking lot, 50 appointments scheduled

Posted by on 5:02 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Covid-19 testing begins in Flint at Atwood Stadium parking lot, 50 appointments scheduled

By Tom Travis About a dozen medical professionals and two hospital administration staff were on hand at Atwood Stadium’s parking lot today for Flint’s first drive through Covid-19 testing.  Though 50 people had made a required appointment, there were no lines in the early hours, with about three or four cars coming through. Appointments are necessary to enter the testing area. Each test takes between 5 to 10 minutes to complete. Editor’s note:  EVM staff writer Jerry Bradshaw was one of those tested today.  His account is...

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First person account: What to know about Covid-19 drive-through testing

Posted by on 3:09 PM in Analysis, Local News | Comments Off on First person account: What to know about Covid-19 drive-through testing

First person account:  What to know about Covid-19 drive-through testing

By Jerry Bradshaw Ed. Note:  EVM Staff Writer Jerry Bradshaw was tested today, the first day of coronavirus testing by Hurley Medical Center at Atwood Stadium, and volunteered to offer this account of his experience. EVM assistant editor Tom Travis also went to the first day of testing — as a reporter, not as a patient— his related story about the process is posted here.  When calling the Covid-19 hotline ( 810-262-3685) you will be greeted by an automated message guiding you through a variety of options – none of them for scheduling an...

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“Grab and Go” meals for Flint Community Schools students continue at 12 sites

Posted by on 2:52 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on “Grab and Go” meals for Flint Community Schools students continue at 12 sites

“Grab and Go” meals for Flint Community Schools students continue at 12 sites

By Tom Travis At what is normally a busy place with children and teachers on this day Durant-Tuuri- Mott (DTM) Elementary  School sits empty. But the lunch room was busy with workers in masks and gloves filling bags with supplies for parents to pick up. Some of the food items they loaded into the bags were apple sauce cups, pop tarts, pre-packaged peanut butter and celery containers, and carrot sticks. A line of about 10 cars sat in the side parking lot at DTM on University Avenue  waiting for workers to bring out bags of food. Some of those...

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Phone appointments required for Covid-19 testing; drive-through process begins Wednesday

Posted by on 1:26 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Phone appointments required for Covid-19 testing; drive-through process begins Wednesday

Phone appointments required for Covid-19 testing; drive-through process begins Wednesday

Anyone wishing to get tested for Covid-19 must have an appointment for the drive-through process beginning Wednesday at Atwood Stadium, according to an announcement from the City of Flint. Patients must call ahead for an appointment by calling the newly established hotline, 810-262-3685.  The hotline opened at noon today, Tuesday April 14. Hurley Medical Center will begin conducting the drive-through testing.  In addition to having an appointment, patients must meet state testing criteria. According to the announcement from the city, Hurley...

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Mott Foundation grants $200K to Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for coronavirus needs

Posted by on 12:21 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News, News Briefs | Comments Off on Mott Foundation grants $200K to Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for coronavirus needs

Mott Foundation grants $200K to Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for coronavirus needs

An emergency grant that will provide approximately 1.2 million meals to those in need in Flint and Genesee County because of the coronavirus crisis  has been approved by the C.S. Mott Foundation. The Foundation has granted $200,000 to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. The press release announcing the grant noted that since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, “the Food Bank has experienced rapidly growing need for emergency food resources for children, seniors and families in the greater Flint area.” According to information...

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Covid-19 grief and support group Zoom meetings for Flint residents begin April 16

Posted by on 11:49 AM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News, News Briefs | Comments Off on Covid-19 grief and support group Zoom meetings for Flint residents begin April 16

Covid-19 grief and support group Zoom meetings for Flint residents begin April 16

A Covid-19 grief and support group is being launched on Zoom at 11:30 a.m.Thursday, April 16.  It is sponsored by the Flint Women’s Study Community Action Network, a resource group originated through Michigan State University’s Division of Public Health in the College of Human Medicine. The group will convene remotely on Zoom each Thursday through May 28.  Supportive discussions for those impacted by the coronavirus crisis will be led by psychologists and local pastors, according to information released by the network. Anyone...

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Covid-19 mobile testing to begin Wednesday, April 15 in Atwood Stadium Parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Posted by on 3:31 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Covid-19 mobile testing to begin Wednesday, April 15 in Atwood Stadium Parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

By Tom Travis Mobile coronavirus testing will begin in Flint on Wednesday, April 15 from 10 a. m. to 2 p.m.  in the Atwood Stadium parking lot, Mayor Sheldon Neeley and State Representative Cynthia Neeley announced in a video press conference today. About 250 to 500 tests, free of charge, will be given daily, only to residents who are exhibiting symptoms of the coronavirus or those employed in front line, public contact jobs such as grocery store clerks and fast food employees, they said. The entrance to the Atwood Stadium parking area is one...

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Flint City Council to meet electronically Monday; FPD collective bargaining, pot ordinance on agenda

Posted by on 2:33 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Flint City Council to meet electronically Monday; FPD collective bargaining, pot ordinance on agenda

Flint City Council to meet electronically Monday;  FPD collective bargaining, pot ordinance on agenda

By Tom Travis The Flint City Council will hold its second electronic council meeting since the coronavirus pandemic began at 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 13. The public may participate by viewing it on YouTube on the SpectacleTV account. In an emailed press release issued Thursday, Deputy City Clerk/City Council Secretary, Davina Donahue stated in part that the meeting is a Flint City Council electronic public meeting in light of COVID-19 concerns., and noting City Hall is still closed to the public. FPD collective bargaining, pot ordinance, root...

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Flint schools food distribution moves to two days/week, 12 sites

Posted by on 6:11 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint schools food distribution moves to two days/week, 12 sites

Flint schools food distribution moves to two days/week, 12 sites

To limit physical exposure between staff and residents because of the coronavirus,  the days of food distribution for Flint Community Schools students have been reduced from five days a week to two days a week, according to Anita Stewart, FCS assistant superintendent, in a virtual town hall sponsored by the City of Flint today. Starting April 13, distribution will be available 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursdays only at the 12 sites as listed on the flyer below.   Tuesday distribution will provide enough meals for Tuesday, Wednesday and...

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GCCARD adds Covid-19 food distribution precautionary measures; deliveries continue

Posted by on 1:35 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on GCCARD adds Covid-19 food distribution precautionary measures; deliveries continue

GCCARD adds Covid-19 food distribution precautionary measures; deliveries continue

By Madeleine Graham The Genesee County Community Action Resource Department (GCCARD) temporarily closed Monday through Wednesday last week for sterilization due to a possible Covid-19 exposure, but beginning today —Thursday, April 9 — some instituted changes will allow operations to continue, according to Matthew Purcell, GCCARD executive director. GCCARD manages a large food distribution network, with 20 to 25 drivers delivering 3,000 meals to 1,100 seniors per day.  “It is a large-scale operation that operates Monday through Friday...

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With buses shut down, coordinated effort gets food to Linden Lane residents

Posted by on 5:34 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on With buses shut down, coordinated effort gets food to Linden Lane residents

With buses shut down, coordinated effort gets food to Linden Lane residents

By Madeleine Graham In one example of how the community is responding to the coronavirus crisis, and with bus routes suspended until May 4, a coordinated effort came together this week to distribute food free of charge to residents at Linden Lane Apartments in Flint Township. Darryl Douglas, resident services facilitator at Linden Lane, said several groups collaborated in the effort, including the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, Forgotten Man Ministries of Grand Rapids, the Mass Transportation Authority (MTA), the Genesee  County...

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Flint Farmers’ Market launches online ordering, curbside pickup; building closed through April 30

Posted by on 1:07 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint Farmers’ Market launches online ordering, curbside pickup; building closed through April 30

Flint Farmers’ Market launches online ordering, curbside pickup; building closed through April 30

A new system in response to the coronavirus crisis launches Thursday April 9 at the Flint Farmers’ Market, which has closed its building through April 30. Online ordering has been set up at www.ffmtogo.square.site, and beginning Thursday customers can pick their orders for curbside pickup between 1 and 5 p.m.  The schedule, originally set up for three days/week, has been reduced to two as follows: ORDER SUNDAYS – PICK UP THURSDAYS 1-5 p.m. ORDER WEDNESDAYS – PICK UP SATURDAYS 1-5 p.m. “Shoppers are also welcome to...

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Water payment assistance offered by new City of Flint program

Posted by on 3:10 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News, News Briefs | Comments Off on Water payment assistance offered by new City of Flint program

Water payment assistance offered by new City of Flint program

A fund to help residents pay their water bills has been approved by Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley and the Flint City Council. According to a press release issued today, the City has “reprogrammed” $74,000 from the Community Development Block Grant to fund the effort. Moderate to low-income residents are eligible for the Water Payment Assistance Fund, including residents now relaying on unemployment because of the coronavirus. Residents are eligible for a credit of up to $75 on their City of Flint water bill, and can reapply for up to...

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Coronavirus masks flying from Mukkamala family’s home “maker space”

Posted by on 4:10 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Coronavirus masks flying from Mukkamala family’s home “maker space”

Coronavirus masks flying from Mukkamala family’s home “maker space”

  By Jan Worth-Nelson From his own dining room table and living room, local physician and downtown community advocate  Dr. Bobby Mukkamala and his family are cranking out dozens of desperately needed surgical masks. Mukkamala and his son Nikhil,  an engineering student home on “coronavirus leave” from the University of Michigan, have produced about 200 masks so far on a set of 3D printers in their rapidly-crafted home “maker space.” It takes about three hours and costs less than a dollar to make each mask, which...

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Flint yoga students move “sun salutes” to Zoom, connecting for “namaste” in the face of plague

Posted by on 2:29 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Flint yoga students move “sun salutes” to Zoom, connecting for “namaste” in the face of plague

Flint yoga students move “sun salutes” to Zoom, connecting for “namaste” in the face of plague

By Jan Worth-Nelson In 38 different rooms and almost as many laptops, yoga students Friday morning rolled out mats, stretched their arms up high, took deep breaths and bent and balanced and anchored themselves into triangle poses simultaneously as directed by their teacher, Katrina Smeets. While the technology has required a bit of fine-tuning, class members who could see each other in a row of “tiles” across the top of the screen, smiled and for the most part are managing a three-time per week session–and say they want to...

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Education Beat: Flint school district serving 8,000 meals/day, adds sites, adapting to remote learning

Posted by on 12:08 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Education Beat: Flint school district serving 8,000 meals/day, adds sites, adapting to remote learning

Education Beat: Flint school district serving 8,000 meals/day, adds sites, adapting to remote learning

by Harold C. Ford “We do not know what’s going to happen after April 16.  The flattening of this (coronavirus) curve is not supposed to happen until the week of April 23.  We are going to be in uncharted territory.  I don’t believe we’re going to be back in school this year.” Derrick Lopez, superintendent, Flint Community Schools, March 25, 2020 Derrick Lopez, Flint Community Schools’ (FCS) superintendent, proved prophetic when he predicted at a “Zoom” remote board meeting March 25 that Michigan’s students would not “be back in...

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Education Beat: Gov. Whitmer suspends face-to-face learning at K-12 schools for rest of year

Posted by on 11:00 AM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Education Beat: Gov. Whitmer suspends face-to-face learning at K-12 schools for rest of year

Education Beat: Gov. Whitmer suspends face-to-face learning at K-12 schools for rest of year

By Harold C. Ford “Well we got no choice/All the girls and boys/School’s out with fever” …lyrics from School’s Out, Alice Cooper Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Thursday signed an executive order which will close all K-12 school buildings for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year “unless restrictions are lifted.” Highlights of Executive Order 2020-35 include the following: The Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators and the Michigan Council of Charter School Authorizers will develop a “template application” by April 3rd for...

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City of Flint water pipeline replacement work suspended because of coronavirus

Posted by on 4:04 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on City of Flint water pipeline replacement work suspended because of coronavirus

City of Flint water pipeline replacement work suspended because of coronavirus

The following announcement was Thursday received from the City of Flint: “The City of Flint filed notice today that it has temporarily suspended work on the service line replacement program to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. “Because work crews go door-to-door, work in close proximity to each other, and must have face-to-face contact with residents, the project creates an ideal environment for the spread of coronavirus. “Delaying work is necessary because residents may be — and should be — reluctant to let anyone in...

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MTA city bus routes suspended; Ride to Wellness suspension extended after more drivers test positive

Posted by on 3:19 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on MTA city bus routes suspended; Ride to Wellness suspension extended after more drivers test positive

MTA city bus routes suspended;  Ride to Wellness suspension extended after more drivers test positive

by Madeleine Graham City fixed-route bus service in Flint has been suspended as of today, April 2, extending to May 4, according to Ed Benning, CEO of the Mass Transportation Authority (MTA). In addition, in light of recent developments with two more drivers testing positive for COVID-19, suspension of Ride to Wellness service in Flint has been extended to May 4,  Benning said. The only MTA service remaining is Your Ride, which frequently services kidney dialysis patients or others with disabilities. The initial driver to test positive...

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Flint residents join in “Light Up The Night” support for medical professionals

Posted by on 1:24 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint residents join in “Light Up The Night” support for medical professionals

Flint residents join in “Light Up The Night” support for medical professionals

By Tom Travis A Westside Flint neighborhood joined in a national observance Thursday night to show support for medical professionals fighting the coronavirus. As virus fears mount and the grim statistics grow exponentially, America seems to be gearing up for a month likely to bring sickness and death across the globe like no other time in our modern memories. Yet communities throughout the country took time to show love and support to medical professionals.  That movement of gratitude reached into Flint, too, where Glendale Hills residents...

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Rerouting of storm sewer at Buick City paused due to COVID-19 restrictions

Posted by on 11:51 AM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News, News Briefs | Comments Off on Rerouting of storm sewer at Buick City paused due to COVID-19 restrictions

Rerouting of storm sewer at Buick City paused due to COVID-19 restrictions

The following announcement was received today from RACER Trust, manager of the former Buick City property in Flint. More information is available at https://www.racertrust.org/buickcity18 “April 1, 2020 — Work to replace and reroute over 3,600 feet of underground storm sewer lines through RACER Trust’s Buick City property in Flint has been paused indefinitely in response to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order to cease nonessential business. Storm sewers remain operational at full capacity. “The work, which began the first week of...

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East Village Magazine – April 2020

Posted by on 8:47 PM in Features | Comments Off on East Village Magazine – April 2020

East Village Magazine – April 2020

The latest issue of the East Village Magazine is available for download here: EVM_04_20:

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This Month in the Village: April Features

Posted by on 8:43 PM in Local News, Special Events, Village Life | Comments Off on This Month in the Village: April Features

You may download This Month in the Village here: EVM_04_20_calendar

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Mayor Neeley announces 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.curfew for City of Flint starting Thursday, April 2

Posted by on 7:06 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Mayor Neeley announces 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.curfew for City of Flint starting Thursday, April 2

Mayor Neeley announces  9 p.m. to 6 a.m.curfew for City of Flint starting Thursday, April 2

By Jan Worth-Nelson Editor’s Note:  THE CURFEW STARTS THURSDAY NIGHT.  Sorry for our earlier statement that it was Tuesday. Stating there are groups of people in Flint not taking the coronavirus crisis seriously enough, Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley Wednesday evening announced at citywide curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting Thursday, April 2. Violating the curfew, set for the next 30 days,  is a misdemeanor punishable by 90 days in jail and up to a $500 fine. Neeley said he did not envision the city’s law enforcement teams spending...

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Commentary: Politics in the time of coronavirus–so many questions arise

Posted by on 1:53 PM in Analysis, Commentary, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Commentary: Politics in the time of coronavirus–so many questions arise

By Paul Rozycki Just a few weeks ago, it seemed like the most important things on the horizon were the 2020 campaign, the Flint City Council, Eric Mays, Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders, and Donald Trump. The national campaigns were heating up, impeachment was a hot topic, and Democrats were in the process of choosing from among nearly two dozen candidates, as they bounced from one primary or caucus to the next. The economy was doing well, the stock market was at record levels, and Donald Trump appeared to be a formidable opponent for any Democrat....

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Genesee Health Plan reaches out to county residents needing health care coverage

Posted by on 3:00 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Genesee Health Plan reaches out to county residents needing health care coverage

Genesee Health Plan reaches out to county residents needing health care coverage

In a press release issued today, officials at the Genesee Health Plan emphasized that though their offices are closed in line with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” coronavirus order, services to help residents with health care coverage continue by phone. “Genesee Health Plan’s priority is to make sure people get the health coverage they need and have access to essential services,” said GHP President and CEO Jim Milanowski. “Now more than ever, GHP’s health care enrollment services are needed to help those in...

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Murals, millage and more: an interview with Flint Public Art Project’s Joe Schipani

Posted by on 7:13 PM in Analysis, Local News | Comments Off on Murals, millage and more: an interview with Flint Public Art Project’s Joe Schipani

Murals, millage and more:  an interview with Flint Public Art Project’s Joe Schipani

Editor’s Note:  The following interview occurred before the coronavirus closures, so some of its details have been altered by circumstance. In fact, Totem Books, where the interview took place, is now closed because of the virus.  However, Schipani’s commitment to the mural projects in Flint continue, and are sure to be picked up as soon as possible.  By Jeffery L Carey Jr. Last year, due to tireless efforts by Flint’s Public Art Project Executive Director Joe Schipani, 104 new murals transformed the visual landscape of Flint....

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Neeley says of the pandemic, “this is real, this is serious, people are dying” in a Monday afternoon video press conference

Posted by on 3:14 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Neeley says of the pandemic, “this is real, this is serious, people are dying” in a Monday afternoon video press conference

Neeley says of the pandemic, “this is real, this is serious, people are dying” in a Monday afternoon video press conference

By Tom Travis  “This is real, this is serious, people are dying.” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said in an afternoon video conference press conference Monday. Neeley began by paying homage to his colleague in the Michigan State Legislature, Isaac Robinson, age 44, who died Sunday in Detroit from complications to the coronavirus. Robinson represented the 4th District in the Michigan State Legislature. Robinson’s mother, Rose Mary Robinson, previously served in that position from 2013-2018. Neeley then thanked the Nestle Company...

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“We are in a new normal,” City Health Advisor Lawrence Reynolds asserts

Posted by on 2:07 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on “We are in a new normal,” City Health Advisor Lawrence Reynolds asserts

By Tom Travis “We are in a new normal,” the City of Flint’s newly-appointed Health Advisor to the Mayor, Dr. Lawrence Reynolds, asserted in a wide-ranging phone interview Sunday. As numbers on the coronavirus pandemic skyrocket, both nationally and in the state and Genesee County,  “All the assumptions under which we operated in the past should be tested, questioned or thrown out the window and reconstructed,” he said. As of Sunday night, March 29, the state reported 5,486 cases and 132 deaths;  in Genesee...

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National Guard coming to Flint Monday for coronavirus/ Food Bank assistance

Posted by on 9:23 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on National Guard coming to Flint Monday for coronavirus/ Food Bank assistance

National Guard coming to Flint Monday for coronavirus/ Food Bank assistance

Approximately 10 members of the Michigan National Guard are expected to arrive  in Flint Monday to assist with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan as the community responds to the coronavirus crisis, Mayor Sheldon Neeley’s office announced Sunday. The crew will help distribute food and other “critical resources” to the community and help sustain the workload for agencies serving those in need. “The National Guard service members are filling an important role in helping to ensure there are enough personnel on hand to...

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Village Life: one day of coronavirus means milk and bread, MiracleGro, Jesus and a cello

Posted by on 6:48 PM in Analysis, Column, Coronavirus, Features, Village Life | Comments Off on Village Life: one day of coronavirus means milk and bread, MiracleGro, Jesus and a cello

Village Life:  one day of coronavirus means milk and bread, MiracleGro, Jesus and a cello

By Jan Worth-Nelson Not surprisingly these days, I’d had a restless night’s sleep.  Sometime in the darkest time before dawn, my mind started obsessing on two things:  bread and milk. Bread and milk, bread and milk.  We have to get some bread and milk, my mind said, badgering me repeatedly, an urgency just shy of panicked.  We can’t run out of bread and milk. I’ve got a really great comforter my niece sent us last year — a faux fur blanket so soft it is almost as good as a chip of Xanax for soothing away my fears. I pulled it up around...

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MTA’s Benning offers updates on COVID-19 driver situation, route suspensions

Posted by on 5:37 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on MTA’s Benning offers updates on COVID-19 driver situation, route suspensions

MTA’s Benning offers updates on COVID-19 driver situation, route suspensions

by Madeleine Graham “When we learned the Ride to Wellness driver tested positive on Wednesday, March 25, we suspended operations Thursday, March 26,” Ed Benning, CEO of the  Mass Transportaion Authority (MTA) stated in an update issued Friday on a COVID-19 “presumptive positive”  driver situation first reported here. Two additional drivers  are awaiting results of the COVID-19 test, and as of 4 p.m. Friday, March 27 there still were no results, so thus far it remains unclear if they are positive, Benning stated.  ...

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Coronavirus throws wrench in Flint Public Library works–but Director Schwartz “still positive”

Posted by on 12:47 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Coronavirus throws wrench in Flint Public Library works–but Director Schwartz “still positive”

Coronavirus throws wrench in Flint Public Library works–but Director Schwartz “still positive”

Added today, March 27:  the Flint District Library Board April 2020 meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 2 has been cancelled, due to the Gov. Whitmer’s “sheltering in place” executive coronavirus order. Just as the Flint Public Library (FPL)  had launched its much-heralded series of moves and beginnings of its $27.6 million upgrade, the coronavirus hit, meaning that the scheduled already planned temporary closures are being adjusted and construction work is delayed. Here is FPL Director Kay Schwartz’s letter, sent to...

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Small business relief assistance available from MDEC; deadline to apply Sunday night

Posted by on 11:53 AM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Small business relief assistance available from MDEC; deadline to apply Sunday night

Small business relief assistance available from MDEC;  deadline to apply Sunday night

As part of the coronavirus federal response, the  Michigan Small Business Relief program  has opened up to provide immediate grant support for businesses hardest hit by COVID-19 and is seeking applications, which are due Sunday night. The program has $10 million in grants and $10 million in loans statewide to work with, according to the MDEC website.  The informational link at the State of Michigan is here. Local applications are being channeled through the Flint and Genesee Chamber of Commerce.  Applicants do not have to be members of the...

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Ride to Wellness suspends operations after driver tests positive for COVID-19

Posted by on 8:42 AM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Ride to Wellness suspends operations after driver tests positive for COVID-19

Ride to Wellness suspends operations after driver tests positive for COVID-19

By Madeleine Graham Ride to Wellness in Flint is suspending operations immediately for two weeks, due to a driver testing positive for COVID-19, the coronavirus, according to Ed Benning, CEO of the Mass Transportation Authority (MTA).  Ride to Wellness is part of the MTA’s suite of services. Benning said two additional employees are awaiting results for COVID-19, and were displaying symptoms as of March 27, according to Benning. The male employee who originally tested positive has been off work since Thursday, March 19. MTA officials...

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Supt. Derrick Lopez on Flint’s resilience, coming together for students: “Coronavirus must not fracture who we are”

Posted by on 11:14 AM in Analysis, Commentary, Coronavirus, Essays, Local News | Comments Off on Supt. Derrick Lopez on Flint’s resilience, coming together for students: “Coronavirus must not fracture who we are”

Supt. Derrick Lopez on Flint’s resilience, coming together for students:   “Coronavirus must not fracture who we are”

Commentary By Dr. Derrick Jones Lopez Superintendent, Flint Community Schools The Flint community has a long and storied history of coming together to support one another. This commitment to assisting neighbors and friends has been critical throughout the water crisis, and we must continue to demonstrate unwavering support as we face a challenge that is impacting our community, our state and our nation. The closure of our schools and other services to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) must not fracture who we are and what we...

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Residential trash collection continuing as scheduled, Republic confirms

Posted by on 12:01 PM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Local News | Comments Off on Residential trash collection continuing as scheduled, Republic confirms

Residential trash collection continuing as scheduled, Republic confirms

The following statement came from the City of Flint this morning: Residential trash collection is continuing as scheduled in the City of Flint. Republic Services is asking only that you properly bag your trash. Their full statement is included below:

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Flint City Council, after a “social distance” livestream, will not meet again until May 10

Posted by on 11:40 AM in Analysis, Coronavirus, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint City Council, after a “social distance” livestream, will not meet again until May 10

Flint City Council, after a “social distance” livestream, will not meet again until May 10

By Tom Travis The City Council voted unanimously Monday night to not meet again until the regularly scheduled city council meeting on May 10. All committee meetings and council meetings are cancelled until then. If there is an urgent need to meet, the council agreed to have an electronic meeting. With Governor Whitmer’s “stay in place” executive order less than 24 hours old, the city council met in Council Chambers. The electronic meeting was allowed by Governor Whitmer to allow municipalities to meet if necessary. Governor...

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Text of Gov. Whitmer’s coronavirus order: stay home

Posted by on 1:04 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Text of Gov. Whitmer’s coronavirus order: stay home

Text of Gov. Whitmer’s coronavirus order:  stay home

Here is the full text of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order issued today that takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday. EXECUTIVE ORDER   NO. 2020-21   TEMPORARY REQUIREMENT TO SUSPEND ACTIVITIES THAT ARE NOT NECESSARY TO SUSTAIN OR PROTECT LIFE   THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) IS A RESPIRATORY DISEASE THAT CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS ILLNESS OR DEATH. IT IS CAUSED BY A NEW STRAIN OF CORONAVIRUS NOT PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED IN HUMANS AND EASILY SPREAD FROM PERSON TO PERSON. OLDER ADULTS AND THOSE WITH CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS...

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Mott Foundation allocates $500K to coronavirus “urgent relief fund”

Posted by on 11:43 AM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Mott Foundation allocates $500K to coronavirus “urgent relief fund”

Mott Foundation allocates $500K to coronavirus “urgent relief fund”

By Jan Worth-Nelson A $500,000 grant to a fund rapidly developed to address local coronavirus-related needs was announced Monday morning by C.S. Mott Foundation CEO and president Ridgway White. The Greater Flint Urgent Relief Fund has been established through the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and the United Way of Genesee County.  Other partners in the coalition in the fund’s launch and development include the City of Flint, the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce, the Hagerman Foundation, the Ruth Mott Foundation. The aim...

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Flint Mayor Neeley implores city residents to keep “sheltering in place” as county cases grow to 14

Posted by on 5:00 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Flint Mayor Neeley implores city residents to keep “sheltering in place” as county cases grow to 14

A Sunday afternoon advisory from Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley exhorts Flint residents to adhere to “self-imposed shelter in place guidelines” for themselves and their families. Neeley’s recommendation comes in light of news that there are now 14 cases of COVID-19 in Genesee County, 8 deaths in Michigan, and 1,036 cases statewide, a steep increase over Saturday, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Here is the text of the statement released today: “To protect your own health and the health...

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MTA Flint announces coronavirus fare waiver, “social distance” loading changes

Posted by on 3:03 PM in Analysis, Local News, News Briefs | Comments Off on MTA Flint announces coronavirus fare waiver, “social distance” loading changes

MTA Flint  announces coronavirus fare waiver, “social distance” loading changes

By Madeleine Graham Fares for fixed bus routes and transfers on MTA Flint are being waived because of the coronavirus situation until April 6, according to CEO Ed Benning.  The use of transfers has been eliminated until further notice. Benning said MTA drivers for all forms of transportation–fixed city routes, Your Ride and Ride to Wellness–have been provided with masks, gloves and hand sanitizers.  He said it is not mandated and not all drivers have elected to use the medical supplies, but the vast majority are wearing the...

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Coronavirus has arrived in Genesee County: four cases confirmed by health department today

Posted by on 4:04 PM in Analysis, Features, Local News | Comments Off on Coronavirus has arrived in Genesee County: four cases confirmed by health department today

Coronavirus has arrived in Genesee County:  four cases confirmed by health department today

By Jan Worth-Nelson Four cases of the coronavirus COVID-19 have been confirmed in Genesee County as of Friday morning, with the numbers expected to increase quickly as more testing becomes available, Genesee County Health Director John McKellar announced in a press conference at the county administration building. The four, with no known connections to each other based on what he called “an early and ongoing investigation,”  were identified as: a female, 35 a female, 15 a female, 22 a male, 54 What the four had in common, McKellar...

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Mayor Neeley, “Dr. Bobby” offer coronavirus updates, reminders, symptom summary in podcast response from city

Posted by on 1:33 PM in Analysis, Local News | Comments Off on Mayor Neeley, “Dr. Bobby” offer coronavirus updates, reminders, symptom summary in podcast response from city

By Tom Travis and Jan Worth-Nelson In a Facebook live chat from City Hall this morning, Mayor Neeley and Dr.Bobby Mukkamala presented updates and reminders about how to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Sitting a safe distance apart with a deaf interpreter in the background, the two reviewed  chief symptoms of the disease and seemed to be informed in live time that there now are four cases of coronavirus in Genesee County confirmed by the Genesee County Health Department. Mukkamala, an otolaryngologist and active community leader known simply...

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Genesee County Health Department confirms: no case of COVID-19 in county, rumors false

Posted by on 5:14 PM in Analysis, Local News | Comments Off on Genesee County Health Department confirms: no case of COVID-19 in county, rumors false

Genesee County Health Department confirms: no case of COVID-19 in county,  rumors false

Please note:  THIS INFORMATION IS NO LONGER ACCURATE–As of March 20, four cases have been confirmed.  See Friday’s story here. By Tom Travis and Jan Worth-Nelson After a wild day of rumors and intense media scrutiny, as of late Thursday afternoon, the Genesee County Health Department (GCHD) confirmed no cases of the coronavirus have yet been documented in the county. A person who answered the phone for Gary Johnson, GCHD medical director, took EVM’s contact information for updated contact but said the department could not...

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