Choze Powell

Michigan Explores Mileage-Based User Fees To Replace Fuel Tax

Michigan is considering implementing mileage-based user fees (MBUFs) to replace the traditional fuel tax, which has been the primary funding mechanism for state highways for over a century. Due to the rise in electric and hybrid vehicles and improved fuel efficiency, the fuel tax is no longer reliable, losing 50% of its purchasing power in the last 30 years.

MBUFs, also known as road usage charges, would apply to all vehicles, charging drivers between 2.0 to 2.5 cents per mile. Heavy-duty trucks would pay higher rates due to their greater impact on road wear. Alternatives like general funds, sales taxes, tire taxes, and tolling were also considered but found less viable. MBUF is seen as a promising long-term solution for sustainable highway funding.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Couple Discovers Prohibition-Era Bootleggers’ Tunnel Beneath Home

While Hayley and Trevor Gilmartin were renovating their Lake Huron home, they stumbled upon a 20-foot-deep bootleggers’ tunnel likely used for smuggling alcohol during Prohibition. The discovery came while removing an old jacuzzi, revealing an eerie, water-filled room connected to Lake Huron by a six-foot pipe.

The couple, undeterred by the “creepy” find, scuba-dived to locate the tunnel’s other end in the river. “It’s impossible to pump out the water,” said Hayley, noting the room’s continuous water influx due to its connection to Lake Huron.

Neighbors also reported similar tunnels, a testament to the area’s historic role in smuggling. The Gilmartins shared their adventure on TikTok, garnering millions of views. They plan to explore further and possibly transform the space into a unique game room or bowling alley if possible. 

Source: New York Post 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Service Dogs Reduce PTSD Symptoms In Military Members, Study Finds

A National Institutes of Health-funded study reveals that adding a service dog to the usual care for military members and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly reduces PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression. 

Conducted by Dr. Marguerite E. O’Haire of the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, the study is the largest of its kind, involving 156 participants recruited through K9s For Warriors.

After three months, the 81 participants with service dogs reported notably lower PTSD severity, anxiety, and depression, along with less social isolation and higher companionship than the 75 waitlisted participants. All participants maintained unrestricted access to their usual care.

The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, underscore the potential of service dogs to enhance the quality of life and psychosocial functioning for those struggling with PTSD.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell 

 

Enjoy Family Fun At This Year’s Marysville Summerfest

If you’re looking for family fun in the Blue Water Area, look no further than the Marysville Summerfest which kicks off at Marysville Park located at 801 E. Huron Blvd., from June 13th to 16th. 

Highlights include live concerts, a Carnival Midway, petting zoo, and a classic car show on June 16th from 12 – 4 p.m. A spectacular drone show will light up the sky on June 15th at 10pm, followed by fireworks on June 16th at 10 p.m. 

Festival hours are Thursday and Friday from 4:00 – 11:00 p.m., Saturday from 12:00 – 11:30 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 – 11:00 p.m. Visitors can enjoy free onsite parking at Marysville Municipal Park. No outside food, beverages, or pets allowed.

For more details, visit: summerfestinmarysville.com 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Cargill Meat Solutions Recalls 16,243 Pounds Of Ground Beef Contaminated With E. Coli

Cargill Meat Solutions is voluntarily recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products due to potential contamination with E. coli O157:H7. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued the recall notice. The affected products are marked with the USDA mark of inspection on the front of the label and have the establishment number “EST. 86P” on the back.

The raw ground beef products were distributed to Walmart retail locations nationwide. The establishment discovered the issue after realizing that previously separated products had been mistakenly used in the production of ground beef.

Consumers are urged not to consume the affected products. They should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

City Council Announces “Spirit of Port Huron” Community Service Awards Program

In 1986, the City Council of Port Huron established the “Spirit of Port Huron” awards program to honor exceptional citizens who have made significant contributions to the community. 

This year’s ceremony is scheduled for September 23rd, and will recognize individuals and organizations in eight categories including Brotherhood, Civic, Cultural, Economic Progress, Good Neighbor, Heroism, Life Achievement, and Youth Service.

The City Council is calling for nominations from Port Huron residents, local groups, service clubs, and churches. Nominations should include the nominee’s name, contact information, the category for which they are being nominated, and a description of their activities that support the nomination. All nominations must be submitted by July 11th to: 

Office of the Mayor

100 McMorran Boulevard

Port Huron, Michigan 48060

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell