https://whmi.com WHMI 93.5 FM Radio Station for Livingston County Michigan with News, Traffic, and Weather Service for Howell and Brighton en-us Mon, 08 Jun 2026 12:27:11 EDT Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.com A third inmate in less than a month has died at the Women's Huron Valley Correctional Facility in Washtenaw County, according to the Michigan Department of Corrections. Ashley Hoath, 36, died Saturday morning at Trinity Health Hospital several hours after being transferred out of the prison's medical unit, MDOC spokesperson Jenni Riehle told The Detroit News. A corrections officer noticed Hoath was not feeling well early Saturday morning and took her to the medical unit and she was later taken to the hospital, Riehle said. She was responsive when she was taken to the hospital, Riehle said. Several hours later, Hoath died. Her death was unexpected and is under investigation. Hoath was serving a 25 to 40 year sentence for second degree murder, according to MDOC. She pleaded guilty in 2017 and was sentenced in January 2018. Hoath is the prison's third death in less than a month, a trend that has had 30 lawmakers, including Brighton Twp State Rep. Ann Bollin, calling for MDOC Director Heidi Washington's resignation. Khaira Howard, 28, died May 14 in a medical observation cell at Women's Huron Valley Correctional Facility. Rebecca Fackler, 57, another prisoner, died May 17. Both reportedly died after they were denied medical care, said two attorneys handling civil cases for loved ones of the two women. Investigations into the two earlier deaths are ongoing, according to MDOC. Autopsies will be conducted by an independent medical examiner, Riehle said. https://whmi.com/news/article/mdoc-third-hvcf-inmate-dies-in-less-than-one-month https://whmi.com/news/article/mdoc-third-hvcf-inmate-dies-in-less-than-one-month https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/cbc76bb85f8ab674a58a0329435c7bc2/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/mdoc-third-hvcf-inmate-dies-in-less-than-one-month Mon, 08 Jun 2026 12:27:11 EDT Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.com Livingston County is hosting a "massive, one-time 250th Celebration of American Independence," on July 4th, at the Howell Freshman High School Campus. According to a release, the "spectacular, county-wide fireworks and laser light display is a family-friendly event that will feature music, build lasting memories, and be entirely free to attend. Because this celebration is run by volunteers and funded solely by donations, Livingston County is seeking community sponsors to help fund the display, as well as partners who can share this exciting event on their social media, marketing, and community platforms. How you can partner: • Become a Sponsor: Several sponsorship tiers with excellent visibility benefits for your organization. The county will accept cash, checks, Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal made out to "Celebration of American Independence." • Share the Event: Help spread the word by sharing event details on digital platforms and social media channels. Pictured is the official sponsorship form, which outlines the promotional benefits your business will receive in return for your generosity. The deadline to sponsor the event is by June 30, to ensure logos will be added to banners for the event. https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-county-to-host-250th-celebration-of-american-independence https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-county-to-host-250th-celebration-of-american-independence https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/9c0c932bcf21690b44366a5d77c1807d/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-county-to-host-250th-celebration-of-american-independence Mon, 08 Jun 2026 06:09:02 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com The Livingston Golden Hearts Rotaract Club has officially launched in Livingston County. Sponsored by the Livingston Sunrise Rotary Club, the new community service organization is dedicated to empowering and uplifting adults with disabilities and welcomes all individuals ages 18 and older. Founding President Angeline LeVasseur said “We invite all community members who have a heart for service and a desire to make a difference to join us”. The club will offer members meaningful opportunities to serve others while building connection, leadership, and community involvement. Some highlights include: -Service opportunities that make a positive difference in the community -A sense of belonging and connection -Leadership development through one-to-one mentoring -Collaboration with other service clubs in Southeast Michigan and around the world The 33-year-old LeVasseur is the oldest of nine children and resides in the Pinckney area. She was born with Spina bifida - a condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don't form properly or close completely. Being in a wheelchair certainly has never slowed her down. LeVasseur brings a competitive yet warm spirit – saying she was raised to be as independent as possible. LeVasseur brings an extensive sports background and has competed in various adaptive sports, but swimming was always her forte. She’s broken various records over the years and graduated from Pinckney Community High School in 2011. While in high school in 2010, LeVasseur took home a bronze medal in the 400-freestyle event on her first day at the junior-level Paralympics World Abilitysport Games, formerly known as the IWAS World Games. It’s a premier international multi-sport event for athletes with physical disabilities. LeVasseur told WHMI when she has struggled, that’s also when she’s learned the most so the mentorship piece and the leadership skills are very much at the top of her list, as well as service as the clubs are all about giving back to the community. She said “it’s just a wonderful thing to be a part of…I love breaking the stereotypes of disability and what it means to live with a disability and helping others realize their full potential”. Those interested in learning more or joining the new club can contact LeVasseur at alevasse9314@gmail.com. https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-golden-hearts-levasseur-sunrise-rotary https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-golden-hearts-levasseur-sunrise-rotary https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/867cd02a9e6db70d9340be21d0144522/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-golden-hearts-levasseur-sunrise-rotary Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:35:24 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com Update: Due to inclement weather, the paving schedule will move to Wednesday and Thursday. Original: Paving operations start today in Fenton Township. The Genesee County Road Commission will be paving Wiggins Road between North Long Lake Road and Thompson Road. Work runs Monday through Wednesday, with the road closed daily to thru-traffic between 6:30am and 4pm. Motorists are advised to seek an alternate route. The Road Commission advises that emergency vehicles and buses will be able to pass through the work zone. https://whmi.com/news/article/wiggins-paving-fenton https://whmi.com/news/article/wiggins-paving-fenton https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/e61577770b6562c695d24cc7b6957853/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/wiggins-paving-fenton Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:34:09 EDT Associated Press / news@whmi.com On the kind of warm, bright afternoon that Michigan boaters wait all year for, Malik Amine and his brother readied their family’s pontoon boat for the summer. The cover was off and Portage Lake sparkled in the sun. But before the brothers could leave a narrow wooden dock, they had a decision to make: how much gasoline to put in the pontoon’s 52-gallon engine. Recreational boaters, like motorists, are feeling a pinch from the Iran war. U.S. gas prices have come down in recent weeks, but a gallon of regular gas still cost an average of 34% more Friday than it did a year earlier, according to motor club AAA. The price of diesel fuel, which is also used by some boaters, is up 53% from last year. Ethanol-free gas, which many boaters, classic car owners and lawn mower users prefer, is anywhere from 20 cents to $1 per gallon more than regular fuel, according to the National Association of Convenience Stores, which also represents fuel retailers. One gas station near Portage Lake, which is 60 miles west of Detroit, is selling ethanol-free fuel for $7 per gallon. Amine said he didn't plan to fill the boat's tank ahead of Memorial Day weekend. “The cost is going to be a lot more than it was last year,” Amine said. “I think it’s probably a little bit smarter to do what you need and fill it as much as you need, because who knows when this conflict’s going to end." The National Marine Manufacturers Association estimates that 100 million Americans go boating each year, contributing to an industry worth $230 billion annually. The trade group, which represents companies that make boats, marine engines, boating equipment and accessories, said its conversations with boaters indicate that most still plan to head out on the water this year, but in some cases, gas prices are curtailing their plans. “There were a number of people within that who said, ‘I am going to have to change my behavior’,” said Ellen Bradley, the association’s chief brand officer. “I may not go as far. I may not as fast. I may spend more time anchored and swimming. I may spend more time at the dock.” Neil and Kathleen Donohoe sold their home in Colorado and now live aboard a 50-foot, diesel-powered boat dubbed the Granuaile, which is the Gaelic name of Grace O'Malley, a 16th century sea captain known as Ireland's pirate queen. They’ve spent the last seven years cruising up and down the East Coast and to the Bahamas. Maintenance on the boat – not fuel – is typically their greatest expense, Neil Donohoe said. But lately, the cost to fill up the boat — which can hold 1,500 gallons — is eye-popping. They talk to other boaters and use various marine apps to find the cheapest gas. “It’s not driving us not to cruise, but it’s making a difference,” he said. This summer, the couple plan to stick around the Chesapeake Bay area instead of heading further north. They’ve already been to Maine and to Canada, they reasoned, and they don't feel the urge to go again while gas prices are so high. “It seems a little gross to spend that kind of money when so many people are struggling,” Kathleen Donohoe said. Gas prices are also impacting boating-related businesses. The Seattle Sailing Club, which offers lessons, chartered cruises and rentals, said its fuel bill has gone up 10.7% since the beginning of the war. Lindsey Brown, the club's office manager, said its fleet of 30 boats usually rely on wind power, but they all have gas or diesel backup engines. In April, the marina where the boats are docked charged $6.50 per gallon for diesel, she said. By late May, that had risen to $7.99 per gallon. “We are just heading into our busy season, so we may see a more dramatic effect on our business if the price of fuel doesn’t change or continues to increase,” Brown said. Brown, who lives on a sailboat at the marina, said the service she uses to pump out wastewater just added a fuel surcharge to her bill. It's also the busy season for Melissa Kunnert, who owns NautiMi On the River, an ice cream and gift shop near Portage Lake. She rents out a tiki-themed pontoon boat for parties and hosts three-hour evening cruises for $50 a person starting after Memorial Day. Kunnert decided not to raise her prices this summer even though it costs more to fill up the pontoon. She wonders if the higher gas prices affecting all forms of travel might benefit her business by keeping more potential customers closer to home. “I’m interested to see if we’ll have the same amount as previous years (or) if we will have more because people don’t want to use their gas, they want ours," Kunnert said. In Traverse City, Michigan, a few hours north of Portage Lake, Robert Hinds decided to add a $50 fuel surcharge to the fishing trips he offers as the owner and operator of Central Coast Angling. He tows his 22-foot boat from port to port on Lake Michigan depending on where the fishing is best, so he has to fill up his truck in addition to his boat. Hinds said he's had multiple cancellations as customers do their own math on gas prices. One regular customer from Nebraska didn't make the trip this spring. “It’s really tough. People do want to get out and I still believe people will,” he said. “But everybody comes from different walks of life.” Hinds recently ruled out his own fishing trip to Wisconsin after figuring out it would cost him $400 in diesel fuel for the truck that tows his boat. “I can just stay home and fish here,” he said. https://whmi.com/news/article/fuel-prices-shaping-summer-plans-as-boaters-hit-the-water https://whmi.com/news/article/fuel-prices-shaping-summer-plans-as-boaters-hit-the-water https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/7df5c31894986738a70fa1f9a7dd08c9/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/fuel-prices-shaping-summer-plans-as-boaters-hit-the-water Mon, 08 Jun 2026 02:30:47 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com Another lengthy roundabout project to put on the radar at a busy intersection – this time in Lodi and Scio Townships. On Monday, June 15th, the Washtenaw County Road Commission will close the intersection of Scio Church Road and Zeeb Road to construct a roundabout. The roads will be closed to all thru traffic in that area, with a detour in place. The Road Commission regularly monitors intersections across the county to identify opportunities for safety upgrades and congestion relief. The Scio Church and Zeeb Road intersection was said to be selected as a high-priority location due to significant traffic delays during peak hours and a history of angle crashes. The work is expected to be completed in late August. All dates are tentative and subject to change due to weather conditions. A link to the project page and more information is provided. Photos: WCRC, Google Street View. https://whmi.com/news/article/scio-church-zeeb-roundabout-project-june https://whmi.com/news/article/scio-church-zeeb-roundabout-project-june https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/cc7cc08dd31cb66f9e66e0b9b0b444fe/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/scio-church-zeeb-roundabout-project-june Sat, 06 Jun 2026 04:35:58 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week is underway and kicked off Saturday. Michigan features more than 3,200 miles of coastline along four of the five Great Lakes, 36,000 miles of rivers and streams, and enough groundwater to fill Lake Huron over again. The Great Lakes hold more than 21% of the world’s fresh surface water, and more than 40 million people in the U.S. and Canada rely on the Great Lakes for their drinking water. A release states “In Michigan, we are embraced by the Great Lakes, supported by vast groundwater reserves, protected by wetlands, and always within a few miles of a flowing stream or inland lake. When we protect these freshwater resources, we ensure they will continue to sustain our lives and livelihoods as Michiganders”. In other words – “Protecting the Great Lakes Sustains Us”. That’s the theme of this year’s Michigan Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week from Saturday, June 6th through Sunday, June 14th. The annual dedication by Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and partners will focus on resources and activities to foster community connections and improve stewardship through the impacts of individual and group actions, strengthening the water-focused blue economy, and furthering lakes-based education. EGLE’s Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) partners with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) to sponsor GLFWW, which Governor Gretchen Whitmer also recognized with a proclamation. The week encompasses Michigan’s spring Free Fishing weekend, June 13-14, when the DNR waives the need for a fishing license, off-road vehicle license, trail permit, and Recreation Passport for admission to Michigan state parks and boating access sites. All fishing regulations still apply. EGLE Director Phil Roos said “Michigan’s past and present are deeply connected to our Great Lakes and freshwater resources. By learning about and taking care of these waters, we can ensure they will sustain us and future Michiganders for generations to come.” DNR Director Scott Bowen “Our state has been blessed with an abundance of water resources, from the Great Lakes inland seas and thousands of miles of creeks and streams to our incredible array of groundwater assets, inland lakes, ponds and wetlands. Protecting, conserving and celebrating water resources are logical extensions of our shared appreciation for these outstanding natural features.” People of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can interact with Michigan waters through boating, fishing, swimming, paddling, hiking, or simply enjoying a Great Lakes sunset or sunrise from a park bench. Likewise, people from all walks of life can awaken a passion for learning about state waters that can lead to rewarding careers or fulfilling engagement with water-related research, recreation, infrastructure, technology, protection, and more. Various resources and activities to engage during the week and beyond can be found in the provided link. https://whmi.com/news/article/great-lakes-fresh-water-week-2026 https://whmi.com/news/article/great-lakes-fresh-water-week-2026 https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/f8ec06755042e086cb7605d87cc391cf/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/great-lakes-fresh-water-week-2026 Sat, 06 Jun 2026 04:34:31 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com A week-long freeway lane closure this coming week in Genesee County. MDOT will be closing one lane of southbound I-75 from US-23 to Court Street starting Monday. That lane closure will remain in effect through Friday, June 12th. The far-left lane will be closed, along with the left shoulder. Traffic will be maintained with additional intermittent single- and double-lane closures as well as ramp closures as needed as work progresses throughout the project limits. Detours will be posted as necessary. It’s part of a $6.9 (m) million investment to resurface more than 4 miles of I-75 in each direction between US-23 and Court Street in Genesee County. Work will include hot-mix asphalt, cold milling and resurfacing, shoulder corrugations, and pavement markings. The overall project end date is this September. https://whmi.com/news/article/southbound-i-75-us-23-court-street-genesee-lane-closure https://whmi.com/news/article/southbound-i-75-us-23-court-street-genesee-lane-closure https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/3bd183c2f38b49aaf599e2c298a8b46b/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/southbound-i-75-us-23-court-street-genesee-lane-closure Sat, 06 Jun 2026 04:32:40 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com Nightly closures on US-23 in Washtenaw County next week. US-23 will be closed nightly at Plymouth Road from 10pm to until 5am for sign installation. Those closures will be in effect next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. MDOT advises that traffic will be detoured via the exit/entrance ramps at Plymouth Road. https://whmi.com/news/article/us-23-plymouth-road-closure-sign-installation https://whmi.com/news/article/us-23-plymouth-road-closure-sign-installation https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/3552df8778f50c8c90c7fe7468ac0b0d/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/us-23-plymouth-road-closure-sign-installation Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:47:43 EDT Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.com Kensington Metropark is gearing up to host a couple of major disc golf events later this summer, and will introduce the sport with a free family-friendly outing Sunday, June 7. Disc Golf Discovery Day will allow kids 18 and under to learn the basics of disc golf from professionals Lindsay Maas and Chandler Fry. There's also a Closest to the Pin Challenge, Farthest Throw Competition, free Kona Ice tickets and free commemorative mini disc. "It's very casual. Disc gold is usually played in public parks. It's free. You get a couple discs, come out for 90 minutes. It's a lot shorter than ball golf. The event Sunday is for families to come have their kid learn about disc golf from some great teachers, and see if they get the bug," said Nate Heinold of the Professional Disc Golf Association. Disc Gold Discovery Day runs from 1 pm to 3 pm Sunday at Kensington's Martindale Beach. Kensington will host by the 44th annual Discraft Great Lakes Open August 7-9, and also the PDGA's World Championships August 26-30. "We've been partners with the PDGA for a long time and have a number of different disc golf courses throughout the Metropark system. For this course, (World Championships) is the largest event we will have ever hosted at Kensington," said Jim O'Brien, District Park Superintendent. "We're accustomed to host the Great Lakes Open on an annual basis and some amateur tournaments, but the World Championship is quite an endeavor." Upwards of 20,000 spectators and players from around the world are expected to stay, eat, sleep and play in the Kensington area during the World Championships. Heinold says the tournament is expected to generate millions in economic impact to the local community. More information on Sunday's Disc Golf Discovery Day and upcoming tournaments is linked below. Photo courtesy of Kensington Metropork https://whmi.com/news/article/disc-golf-discovery-day-at-kensington-metropark-sunday-june-7 https://whmi.com/news/article/disc-golf-discovery-day-at-kensington-metropark-sunday-june-7 https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/0d0b4db59944fa48c72455fc19504330/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/disc-golf-discovery-day-at-kensington-metropark-sunday-june-7 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:37:43 EDT Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.com Kite flyers from around the world are converging on Lyon Township for this weekend’s 17th annual International Kite Festival. Individuals and teams will show off their skills, often synchronized to music. “We get several kite flyers from all over. We have some of the big teams coming out again this year. Wind Jammers is going to be back this year. There’s also going to be some large inflatable kites that will fly out here too. That takes special skill within itself just to fly these giant kites out here, and they’re just beautiful,” said Michael Sperling with the Lyon Events Organization. There’s plenty of kids stuff to do to, such as live entertainment, exotic animals and of course, decorating and flying your own kite. “We’ll have multiple kites that kids can decorate. My kids have been decorating them for years. They actually have them plastered on their walls in their bedroom. It’s just really cool to see all the kids out there with kites up in the air,” said Sperling. “Food trucks. Multiple vendors. We’re going to have a dog act out this year. The Kilted Magician. Leslie Science and Nature Center will be out putting stuff on display. We have a local artist coming to perform a couple times on Saturday. Lots of family-friendly entertainment." Lyon Township's Kite festival costs $5 per car to park at James Atchison Memorial Park off Grand River Avenue, from 10 am to 6 pm Saturday, and 11 am to 3 pm Sunday. https://whmi.com/news/article/lyon-twp-17th-international-kite-festival-this-weekend https://whmi.com/news/article/lyon-twp-17th-international-kite-festival-this-weekend https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/ea73793d4b267ddf6d809fa47765a7f4/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/lyon-twp-17th-international-kite-festival-this-weekend Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:40:40 EDT By Matthew Hutchison / WHMI News Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and Michigan congressional candidate Bridget Brink says her breast cancer diagnosis shaped her health care platform — including support for a public option, expanded cancer screening access and a federal ban on pharmaceutical advertising on television. On prescription drug costs, Brink said pharmaceutical companies have been allowed to extend monopolies through patents for too long and said she would support a federal ban on pharmaceutical advertising on television. “I don’t like those ads on TV,” said the Democrat from Lansing who is seeking the party’s nomination to challenge Republican Congressman Tom Barrett. “I don’t want them to be advertised to by pharmaceutical companies, and I think it’s a mistake. That money is being spent basically for marketing.” Brink – who made the comments during a wide-ranging interview on WHMI’s “Meet the People” program – said doctors should recommend medications based on medical need, not advertising, adding that Congress should look at lowering the cost of widely used drugs and devices, including insulin and EpiPens. “I have a kid who has asthma, and I can tell you, as a parent it would drive me crazy how much money I had to spend on EpiPens,” Brink said. Brink, who was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer last summer, says her own health journey has shaped how she thinks about health care access, medical debt, prescription drug costs and insurance coverage as she campaigns for Congress in Michigan’s 7th District. “It was a complete shock,” said Brink of her diagnosis. “I had spent a lifetime in mostly foreign war zones and had a class one medical clearance, which means you have to have a very high standard of health … so it was a surprise.” Brink, who had surgery in the fall and is now cancer free, said the cost of that surgery was $100,000, even before follow-up care and other expenses. “In my case, luckily it was covered,” Brink said. “But it made me realize that anybody at any time can face this for themselves or a family member, where you end up with a life-threatening illness or some other disaster, which results in this incredibly high medical bill that you may or may not be able to pay.” She added: “It can bankrupt you, and I can tell you that it brought it home to me in such a personal way.” The subject of spiraling health care costs comes up regularly, Brink says, as she campaigns across the district. “It’s not just the fact that there’s fear that you could face a catastrophe and not be able to pay for it,” she said. “There’s medical debt that people have because of other issues that they may have, but there’s also a complete frustration with insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies.” Brink said Barrett and other Republicans should have extended Affordable Care Act subsidies enacted during COVID and criticized the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). “That (bill) is going to mean 25,000 people don’t have coverage,” Brink said. “That means that rural hospitals, which also depend on Medicaid, and to support these folks are not able to survive. The repercussions of this is that health care is going to cost more for everybody.” Brink said she would support extending Affordable Care Act credits, reversing Medicaid cuts, expanding Medicaid and creating a public option. “I would support a public option, an affordable public option, so people who may fall between the cracks have an affordable option on the table that they can buy for health care,” Brink said. She also said insurance companies should not be able to override doctors when care is medically necessary. “It should be if your doctor says you need something, the insurance company should be obliged to provide for that and support that,” Brink said. On Social Security and Medicare, Brink said lawmakers need to act before the programs face a funding crisis. “We absolutely need to make changes, because by 2032 if not earlier, there is going to be a crisis where Social Security and Medicare won’t be able to pay full benefits,” Brink said. Brink said one fix would be lifting the cap on Social Security taxes. “There’s, I think, one relatively easy fix, and that is to lift the cap on Social Security taxes, so that instead of being capped at, I think, $177,000 a year, you just lift that cap,” Brink said. “I think, as I understand, that would largely solve the problem for being able to fully fund Social Security and Medicare.” Beyond health care, Brink said her campaign is also focused on lowering costs and defending democracy. “I hear people, they want someone who’s going to stand up to Trump,” Brink said. “What I bring to this race that no other candidate does is someone who has a proven record of standing up to Trump and doing what’s right.” Asked about cost of living, Brink said Congress should stop what she called “reckless tariffs,” particularly tariffs affecting trade with Canada, and use federal dollars to support Michigan manufacturing. On data centers, Brink said local communities should have the final say over whether projects are built in their communities and should receive full information about potential impacts. “Local communities have the right to know what’s being put in their own backyards, and they have the right to have full information and full transparency, and I would say anything that would come in needs to mitigate environmental impacts and negative impacts,” Brink said, adding that data center developers should be required to avoid shifting costs to ratepayers, explain environmental effects and work with local officials. Brink also said she supports federal disclosure rules for AI-generated campaign ads and broader guardrails around artificial intelligence. “The future is coming,” Brink said. “That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t find ways where we can put guardrails around it to enable us to use it in a way that’s positive, but we should do that in an active way.” Brink also raised concerns about PFAS contamination in Michigan, saying the issue worries her as a cancer survivor. “I know that there are PFAS concentrations all over our district, including in our most populated areas,” Brink said. “We need to address these things in a way that supports an economy that’s going to thrive now, but also understands we’ve got to find ways that we also protect the environment and that we bring in technology in a smart way.” Brink is seeking the Democratic nomination to challenge Barrett in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, one of the most competitive House districts in the country. The district includes all of Ingham, Livingston, Clinton and Shiawassee counties, most of Eaton County and parts of Oakland and Genesee counties. The full interview with Ambassador Brink airs at 6 a.m. Sunday morning on WHMI and is available on demand at the link below. https://whmi.com/news/article/brink-calls-for-federal-ban-on-pharmaceutical-tv-ads-discusses-other-issues-in-her-campaign-for-mi-7 https://whmi.com/news/article/brink-calls-for-federal-ban-on-pharmaceutical-tv-ads-discusses-other-issues-in-her-campaign-for-mi-7 https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/73bd5a8388a29f01d72450d16419c27c/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/brink-calls-for-federal-ban-on-pharmaceutical-tv-ads-discusses-other-issues-in-her-campaign-for-mi-7 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:46:09 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com The owner of a martial arts studio in Hamburg Township is facing criminal charges for alleged sexual contact with a teen. Court records show 30-year-old Zachary Kaufman was arraigned on three felony counts of 2nd degree criminal sexual conduct - relationship. A $500,000 cash/surety bond was set. WDIV Detroit first reported this story. It quoted Livingston County Prosecutor Carolyn Henry as saying “This defendant went through a period of grooming this minor victim, purchasing expensive gifts, taking the victim on trips”. Kaufman was said to have denied the allegations. Kaufman owns Way of Life Martial Arts studio. WDIV reports he was also a former part-time aide at Light of the World Academy in Pinckney, and is currently barred from that property. Police Chief Richard Duffany said the victim came forward with one of his parents to the police station, and all of the alleged incidents occurred at a private residence. A probable cause conference is set June 16th before Judge Daniel Bain in 53rd District Court. https://whmi.com/news/article/hamburg-zachary-kaufman-martial-arts-csc-teen https://whmi.com/news/article/hamburg-zachary-kaufman-martial-arts-csc-teen https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/46a6763ae0d477311b5f04f69664f057/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/hamburg-zachary-kaufman-martial-arts-csc-teen Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:35:25 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com The Livingston Land Conservancy is celebrating 25 years of land protection in Livingston County. The private non-profit protects natural areas and farmland in the county and will hold its 2026 Annual Meeting at 6:30pm next Tuesday, June 9th inside the Brighton District Library. Along with updates on current projects, the Conservancy invites the public to join them in celebrating 25 years of local land protection. The Conservancy currently protects over 765 acres (with almost 250 more in process) of land in Livingston County in the form of owned nature preserves and conservation easements on privately owned land (including farms) - "helping to preserve the rural character and natural heritage of the area at a time when development pressures are a major issue with the public and local governments". Some of the lands protected by the conservancy have public trails, including the Charles & Albert Parker Families Nature Preserve (located behind the Brighton District Library), the Kellogg Family Nature Preserve in Oceola Township and the Red Cedar Run Nature Preserve in Conway Township. The meeting will feature several business topics, including installation of new board members, a review of current projects, and a state-of-the-organization report from LLC President Sara Thomas. As a founding member in 2001, Thomas will also look back on the history of the LLC’s work, while paying tribute to the many benefactors, board members, and volunteers that have made the organization successful. The Conservancy is an all-volunteer organization and is funded entirely through memberships, donations, and grants - with no governmental financial support. Thomas told WHMI they’re really proud of the work they’ve been able to do in Livingston County, successfully, with an all-volunteer group – noting their work is very important on a whole array of levels. She said their work is only getting more important as they see land being converted to other uses – “were losing wildlife habitat and all the other ecological services that we really need as humans, so I think the job has just gotten that much more important frankly”. For the meeting, Thomas said they’ll take a look at where they started and how far they’ve come but also recognize everyone who has helped make it possible. Thomas said “obviously this doesn’t happen in a vacuum and it takes a lot of people over many years doing this kind of work, and we want to recognize and celebrate that”. Members of the public, former board members, and past and current donors and volunteers are invited to the meeting to help celebrate the LLC’s work. Weather cooperating and time permititng, a guided hike will take place after the meeting through the Charles and Albert Parker Families Nature Preserve. For more information, call 810-229-3290 or email livingstonlandconservancy@gmail.com. An RSVP is appreciated for planning purposes. Photo: Birding Trail at the Red Cedar Run Nature Preserve in Fowlerville. https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-land-conservancy-25-years-annual-meeting https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-land-conservancy-25-years-annual-meeting https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/c8a9b64ef664109a4e4463b18bfb745f/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/livingston-land-conservancy-25-years-annual-meeting Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:34:06 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com This summer, the Brighton District Library is inviting the community “Unearth a Story” for its Summer Reading Challenge. The Library is hosting a variety of programs and interactive activities this Sunday, June 7th through August 8. The Summer Reading Challenge will kick off with Summerfest this Sunday from 1 to 3pm in Millie’s Garden at the Brighton District Library. Attendees can enjoy entertainer Crazy Craig, the Jumpin’ Allstars Jump Rope Team, Chamberlin Petting Zoo, free ice cream, and giant bubble making. Drop by the Inspo-lab to complete a fun craft, and stop at the Friends table near the Norma Gray Gallery for a bookmark and to say “Hi!”. Finally, register for the Library’s “Unearth a Story Summer Reading Challenge” and pick up a summer reading log. Community members can also register for the all-ages ‘Unearth a Story’ Summer Reading Challenge. Read, write book reviews, and complete activities to earn badges that turn into entries for weekly and grand prize drawings. Sign up by downloading the Beanstack app, or by visiting the bottom provided link. Those who have registered for previous challenges can log into their account and choose this summer’s challenge. Visit the top link for more information. A flyer and release are attached. https://whmi.com/news/article/brighton-library-summerfest-reading-challenge-2026 https://whmi.com/news/article/brighton-library-summerfest-reading-challenge-2026 https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/52591087a99142e0204103fc756feaf0/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/brighton-library-summerfest-reading-challenge-2026 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:32:47 EDT Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2026 Chamber of the Year award. It’s presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives or ACCE. The association is based in Alexandria, Virginia with over 1,600 Chambers of Commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members - representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry. The award, sponsored by GrowthZone, is the most prestigious and competitive award in the chamber industry - recognizing excellence in operations, member service and community leadership. Those honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have demonstrated organizational strength and impacted key community priorities, such as education, transportation, economic prosperity and quality of life. ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly said “Being named a Chamber of the Year finalist is a powerful reflection of leadership, innovation and measurable impact. We congratulate these outstanding chambers on this well-deserved recognition. They are not only serving their members, they are shaping stronger economies, building more resilient communities and setting a high standard for the chamber profession.” Chamber of the Year winners will be announced on Tuesday, July 21st during the Awards Show at ACCE’s Annual Convention in New Orleans. Howell Chamber President Janelle Smith said "Being named a finalist for ACCE's Chamber of the Year Award is an incredible honor and a reflection of the strength, innovation, and collaboration that define our business community. This recognition belongs not only to our Chamber team, but to our members, investors, volunteers, partners, and community leaders who continually step forward to build a stronger Livingston County”. Smith added “Over the past several years, we have challenged ourselves to think beyond traditional chamber work. We have built pathways for entrepreneurs, developed workforce solutions, driven economic development, and positioned the Chamber as a true catalyst for community impact. To be recognized among the nation's leading chambers affirms that when a community comes together around a shared vision, extraordinary things are possible. We are proud to represent Livingston County on a national stage and grateful for everyone who has played a role in this achievement." Chambers of Commerce interested in competing for the award must first qualify by participating in a vigorous multi-stage process. Organizations entering the Chamber of the Year competition must meet minimum thresholds in at least three of five key performance areas in ACCE’s Annual Chamber Operations Survey, including net revenue and assets, membership account retention and membership dollar retention. Qualifying chambers enter the competition with a written application addressing all aspects of organizational operation and programmatic work. Applications are scored by peer chamber executives to determine finalists. The finalists then move on to an interview before a panel of experienced chamber professionals. To ensure the fairest competition, applicants are grouped into four budget categories. A strong conflict of interest policy signed by all volunteer judges, is said to ensure a competitive and fair playing field for all applicants. https://whmi.com/news/article/howell-chamber-of-commerce-year-finalist-2026-acce https://whmi.com/news/article/howell-chamber-of-commerce-year-finalist-2026-acce https://whmi.com/dbphotos/displaywidth/e15c349de8ae632594443abbcd4704e6/600/a.jpg https://whmi.com/news/article/howell-chamber-of-commerce-year-finalist-2026-acce Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:21:20 EDT