environment

Port Huron Police Enforce Winter Parking Ordinance To Facilitate Snow Removal

As winter descends upon us, the Port Huron Police Department issues a reminder to local residents: the City’s snow ordinance takes effect on Friday, December 1st. Parking on paved city streets is prohibited from 2:30 a.m. – 6:00 a.m. until March 31st, 2024, facilitating efficient snow removal.

During the initial 5 days, warning notices will serve as reminders. Subsequently, violators risk a $23.00 citation. The enforcement aims to ensure smooth snow-clearing operations and maintain safety on the city streets. Residents are urged to comply with the ordinance to avoid penalties and support the city’s efforts in keeping the streets clear during the winter season.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Canine Parvovirus Cases Surge, St. Clair County Animal Control Urges Vaccination Vigilance

St. Clair County Animal Control (SCCAC) has reported a concerning spike in Canine Parvovirus cases over the past two weeks, with 11 incidents identified in the City of Port Huron, Port Huron Township, and the City of St. Clair.

Director Melissa Miller emphasizes the critical need for dog owners to ensure their pets, especially puppies, are vaccinated against the highly contagious and potentially deadly virus. Parvovirus, which causes severe gastrointestinal illness, poses a significant threat to unvaccinated dogs. 

SCCAC recommends immediate veterinary attention for dogs exhibiting symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, and lethargy. Miller advises dog owners to avoid high-risk environments if their pets are not up-to-date on vaccinations, emphasizing preventive measures to curb the virus’s spread.

For more information, contact: Melissa Miller at (810) 984-3155.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Canadian Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Mexican Cantaloupe Raises Concern

A salmonella outbreak originating from Mexican cantaloupes has rapidly escalated in Canada, paralleling the U.S. outbreak in patient count and fatalities. Two deaths have been reported in the United States, with one fatality in Canada.

Imported cantaloupes are identified as the common source of contamination. Canada’s confirmed cases have surged to 63 as of November 24th, a stark increase from the 26 reported on November 22nd. Seventeen patients required hospitalization. Affected individuals span from less than 1 to 100 years old, with cases reported in six provinces. 

Health officials anticipate more identifications as test results are relayed to federal authorities, a process taking four weeks or more. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has expanded recall warnings to include Rudy brand cantaloupes, triggering secondary recalls for related product

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

City Of Port Huron Forestry Division Giving Away Free Wood And Mulch

In the spirit of community service, the City of Port Huron Forestry Division is hosting a second free wood and mulch distribution day on Saturday, December 2nd, following the success of their mid-October event. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., residents are invited to the Forestry warehouse at 3663 10th Ave., Port Huron, near Lakeside Cemetery.

This one-day event operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Those with trailers can obtain wood, while individuals with trailers or pickup trucks can access free mulch. Participants are limited to one load each, emphasizing fairness in distribution.

The initiative extends beyond city limits, welcoming residents from surrounding areas, with the exception of commercial entities and contractors. The Forestry Division aims to contribute to community well-being, promoting sustainability through this reduction event.

 For more information, contact the Forestry Division at (810) 984-9709.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Physicians Praise Legislative Health Care Achievements, Set Sights On Prescription Drug Affordability Board In 2024

As the Michigan Legislature readies for adjournment, the Committee to Protect Health Care, representing physicians statewide, expresses gratitude for the 2023 health care achievements. 

Notable successes include safeguarding patient access through the Reproductive Health Act and fortifying Affordable Care Act protections. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks prioritized a Prescription Drug Affordability Board, and physicians eagerly anticipate resuming efforts in 2024. 

Dr. Rob Davidson, Executive Director of the Committee, commends Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and legislators for prioritizing quality, affordable health care. He states, “We are ready to continue the work to put the health, safety, and wellbeing of patients ahead of drug industry profits.” 

The Prescription Drug Affordability Board remains a key focus as Michigan physicians strive to enhance healthcare accessibility.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

HMC Farms Issues Voluntary Recall of Peaches, Plums, And Nectarines Over Listeria Concerns

HMC Group Marketing, Inc., operating as HMC Farms, has initiated a voluntary recall of peaches, plums, and nectarines sold nationwide in retail stores between May 1st, and November 15th, 2022, and between May 1st and November 15th, 2023. 

The recall is due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, posing severe health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. While healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms, Listeria can lead to serious infections and even fatalities, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. 

The recall, prompted by an outbreak of Listeriosis with eleven reported illnesses, includes fruit sold individually or in consumer packaging. Consumers are advised to check their freezers for the recalled fruit, refrain from consumption, and dispose of it immediately.

For more information, visit: fda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell