Thursday, Sep. 11, 2025: 5 things you need to know

SAGINAW, Mich. (WNEM) - Good morning, mid-Michigan. Today, we pause to remember the lives lost 24 years ago during the September 11th terrorist attacks. If you’re up with us right now, check out these five stories we’re following to start your day.

1. The nurses strike against Henry Ford Health is now going on day 11, after failing to come to an agreement on Wednesday. Union members began picketing outside Henry Ford Genesys in Grand Blanc Township on Labor Day. Teamsters Local 332 members said a key sticking point for a new contract is nurse-to-patient ratios. However, the hospital system argued a clause making nurses eligible for premium pay, based on the number of patients they care for each day, could incentivize more call-offs. Henry Ford Health adds a federal mediator has been brought in to assist with ongoing negotiations.

2. Superintendents across the state are calling on lawmakers to pass an education budget. In Shiawassee County, they signed a letter calling the budget a “critical issue” and said if lawmakers don’t pass one soon, they’ll struggle to pay their teachers, maintain bus operations and continue programs like athletics and arts. Perry Schools Superintendent Dr. Lori Haven said she has already been forced to eliminate two staff positions. She also said her district is preparing to take out loans to keep the lights on.

3. A new bipartisan bill aims at requiring Michigan schools to teach students about sextortion. It would build on a relatively new law that establishes criminal penalties for those convicted of the crime. The law was passed after the suicide of a Marquette teen who became caught up in a sextortion scheme with two men posing as teen girls online. The bill has been referred to the committee on government operations.

4. The city of Flint will host its final press conference in the Small Business Grant Program today. The event will highlight the remaining local businesses selected to receive $20,000 grants each. The grants were made possible by ARPA funds approved by the city council. The press conference begins at 2 p.m. at On the Bricks Food & Spirit, located downtown.

5. Today is Frankenmuth’s final Funtown Chowdown of the summer. From 2-9 p.m., you can find food trucks, games and live entertainment. You’re also encouraged to wear red, white, or blue in honor of our first responders. Activities include the “Firefighter Frenzy Race” and the “Stars and Stripes Scavenger Hunt.” Admission and parking are free.