environment

Eastbound Blue Water Bridge Closed For Critical Maintenance Until Mid-October

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has closed the eastbound span of the Blue Water Bridge (BWB) for essential maintenance, set to conclude by mid-October. 

During this period, both directions of traffic will use the westbound span. To reduce congestion and enhance safety, the Pine Grove Avenue ramp to the toll plaza will be closed every Thursday from 9 a.m. until Saturday at 9 a.m. for the duration of the project. Detours will guide traffic via Pine Grove Avenue, Hancock Street, and I-94. Dedicated toll lanes for EDGE pass holders will remain available. 

MDOT and the Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL) are coordinating to minimize disruption while maintaining this critical economic link between the U.S. and Canada.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Snapchill LLC Recalls Canned Coffee Nationwide Due To Botulism Risk

Snapchill LLC, based in Green Bay, WI, is voluntarily recalling all canned coffee products within expiration date due to a processing issue that may cause botulinum toxin production. This toxin, found in low acid canned foods, can lead to botulism—a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. 

Symptoms of botulism include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and difficulty in speaking or swallowing. More severe symptoms are difficulty breathing and abdominal issues. 

Affected products were distributed nationwide through various roasters, retail locations, and direct online purchases. The affected products may appear under a variety of roasters and brand names and consumers should check for “Produced and distributed by Snapchill LLC” on the label. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

You can find a list of products to avoid by visiting: fda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

You Won’t Believe What This Everyday Household Product Was Once Used For

In the early 1900s, Lysol was marketed directly to housewives as a feminine hygiene product, rather than the household cleaner we know today. 

Advertisements promoted Lysol as a douche to ensure “feminine daintiness” and maintain “married happiness.” With contraceptives illegal under the Comstock Act, many women used Lysol as an ineffective birth control method, resulting in high pregnancy rates. Respected doctors, including Joseph De Lee, endorsed Lysol for reducing infections during childbirth, despite its toxic ingredients causing burns and inflammation. 

By 1911, there were 193 poisonings and five deaths linked to Lysol douching. It wasn’t until the 1960s, with safer birth control options available, that Lysol transitioned to the household cleaner known today.

Source: allthatsinteresting.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Reconnect Program Expands Eligibility To Ages 21 And Older

The State of Michigan has updated the guidelines for the Michigan Reconnect program, broadening eligibility to residents aged 21 and older. Previously, the program was available only to those 24 and older. 

The Michigan Reconnect program is a last-dollar scholarship initiative that covers tuition for in-district residents at local community colleges, such as SC4, and offers reduced rates for out-of-district students. The scholarship is applicable to both associate degrees and certificate programs. “Extending the age range to 21 and older provides the opportunity for more members of our community to pursue an education,” said Sarah Rutallie, chief of staff at SC4. 

For more information, visit:  sc4.edu/reconnect.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Discover Surprising Uses For Dryer Sheets Beyond The Laundry Room

Dryer sheets have a variety of uses outside of just softening laundry. Here are just a few of their uses to tidy up your home and perform in ways you may have never thought of.

In the bathroom, use moistened dryer sheets to make chrome fixtures shine and clean soap scum from shower doors. In the kitchen, you can deodorize trash cans by placing a sheet at the bottom.

In the living room, dryer sheets pick up dust and pet hair, keep electronics dust-free, and even remove crayon from walls. In the closet, they eliminate deodorant smudges from clothing with a few wipes, wipe away static cling, and keep clothes smelling fresh. Also, combat shoe odors by placing a sheet in each shoe overnight.

Dryer sheets are versatile and handy for every room of your home!

Source: southernliving.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Hippy Dippy Creamery Opens Second Location In Fort Gratiot

Beat the heat this summer and get ready to scream for ice cream! Hippy Dippy Creamery is thrilled to announce the grand opening of their second location at 3900 Pine Grove Ave, Fort Gratiot, which took place on June 21st.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., this ice cream paradise offers 48 flavors of super premium ice cream along with a colorful and unique atmosphere. After everyone has had their fill of ice cream, you can enjoy a family game of foosball on their eight-person foosball table. Don’t miss their unique take “Taco Tuesday” with their freshly-made warm bubble waffle tacos, and explore their Mocktinis or Bridgerton secret menu.

Their Marysville location still welcomes visitors daily as well from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Indulge in a delicious summer treat at Hippy Dippy Creamery!

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell