business news

Study Reveals Startling Discovery: Paper Straws Contain “Forever Chemicals”

A recent study has unearthed a shocking revelation about seemingly eco-friendly paper straws: they contain Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” In a study conducted by University of Florida Graduate Research Assistant, Alina Timshina and her team in 2021, the research scrutinized straws sourced from the USA, revealing a presence of PFAS in both paper and plant-based varieties.

PFAS, prized for their water and grease-repelling capabilities, are renowned for their durability, persisting in the environment for millennia. The omnipresence of these chemicals, found from the Arctic to the Amazon, underscores their pervasive impact. Moreover, PFAS migrate from packaging into consumables, infiltrating human bodies and posing severe health risks, including liver and kidney ailments, high blood pressure, and diminished immune response.

With the environmental ramifications and health hazards associated with PFAS exposure coming to light, urgent measures are imperative to mitigate their widespread presence and safeguard public health and ecosystems alike.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Badges & Bras 2024: A Night Of Fun And Fundraising For Breast Cancer Awareness

Prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter and purpose as Taking a Shot at Breast Cancer hosts their 4th Annual Badges & Bras event on Thursday, March 14th, at Alexander’s Premier Banquet Facility & Catering located at 1200 Gratiot Blvd, Marysville.

Starting at 6:00 p.m., guests will enjoy a lively cocktail hour, building connections among like-minded individuals while indulging in delicious appetizers and beverages. The highlight of the night will feature a showcase of creatively decorated bras modeled by extraordinary first responders from across the county.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to support breast cancer awareness and connect with inspiring women from diverse backgrounds for a worthy cause.  The Decorated Bra Deadline is February 29th. Contact Emily Goudy at: egoudy@takingashot.org to contribute your masterpiece!

(Attendees must be 18 years of age or older.)

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Owners Set Sail: Change Of Command Aboard Port Huron’s Huron Lady II

After 13 remarkable years, Jenny Ciolek passes the baton of the Huron Lady II, Port Huron’s beloved summer attraction, to Captain Walker Yacht Services. Dustin and Kristy Walker, the new owners, are eager to embark on this maritime journey, promising innovative changes while preserving the vessel’s storied heritage.

Since its inception in 1995 by Capt. John and Camille Rigney, the Huron Lady II has been a staple of Blue Water area tourism. Jenny Ciolek’s stewardship since 2011 has furthered its legacy. Amidst the transition, Jenny remains involved in the business.

The Huron Lady II sets sail for public sightseeing tours on May 25th, offering an enchanting experience for visitors docked in front of Bootleggers Axe Co & Wings Etc. Restaurant. Tickets for the 2024 season are available on their website: huronlady.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan’s Ongoing Battle With Youth Homelessness

As Michigan emerges from the pandemic, a stark reality persists: housing instability plagues many children and youth. 

In the 2021-22 school year, Michigan’s public schools identified 28,724 students experiencing homelessness, nearly 3,800 of whom were unaccompanied youth, based on a report from Ending Homelessness in Michigan. Homeless youths needs extends beyond education; these youth face heightened health risks. They’re five times more likely to attempt suicide, four times more likely to misuse prescription pain medicine, and three times more likely to face sexual coercion. Shockingly, they’re 11 times more likely to experience pregnancy. 

Despite greater health needs, only 37.2% of homeless youth received medical attention compared to 75.7% of housed peers. Addressing this crisis demands statewide policy alignment, innovation, and local outreach to protect vulnerable youth, especially those marginalized due to disability, LGBTQ+ identity, or race.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Secretary Of State Jocelyn Benson Among 6,500 Michigan Voters Casting Ballots On First Day Of Early Voting

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, along with more than 6,500 voters statewide, participated in the Presidential Primary by casting ballots on the inaugural day of in-person early voting. 

Benson expressed pride in the turnout, emphasizing the historic significance of Michigan’s first day of early voting. This marks the commencement of nine consecutive days of early voting until Sunday, February 25th. 

Benson personally voted at the Northwest Activities Center in Detroit, engaging with City of Detroit Clerk Janice Winfrey, election personnel, and fellow voters. Michigan’s implementation of in-person early voting, mandated by Proposal 2’s passage in 2022, positions it as the 22nd state to offer this electoral option, underscoring the state’s commitment to voter accessibility and engagement. 

For more information on early voting, visit: michigan.gov/earlyvoting.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Multiple Options Available For Michiganders To Cast Ballots In Upcoming Presidential Primary

As Michigan gears up for the upcoming presidential primary on Tuesday, February 27th, residents are reminded of the various methods available for casting their votes. 

Since 2018, Michiganders have had the option to vote absentee without providing a reason, streamlining the voting process for registered voters. To request an absentee ballot, individuals can utilize the state’s online absentee voter request form up until 5 p.m. the Friday preceding the election. Forms for absentee ballot requests are accessible online in multiple languages and formats, including English, Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, Spanish, and large print. 

Alternatively, voters can contact their local city or township clerk to request a mailed application. It’s crucial to note that the primary is closed, necessitating voters to choose between Democratic or Republican ballots, whether voting in person or absentee.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell