port huron

Understanding The Surge In Holiday Drinking And Embracing Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

Julia Chester, a professor and associate head of Purdue University’s Department of Psychological Sciences, sheds light on the spike in holiday drinking and offers insights into healthier alternatives. 

Celebrations, grief, and stress contribute to increased alcohol consumption during the festive season, leading to potential interpersonal and health issues. Chester advises moderation, recommending no more than one alcoholic drink per hour with water intervals to aid metabolism. 

Notably, a rising trend towards nonalcoholic beverages emerges, driven by a recognition among younger individuals that alcohol may not be a healthy choice. Chester encourages incorporating non alcoholic (NA) drinks into social events, suggesting a shift to NA beverages after one alcoholic drink to address habit-driven needs and promote safer drinking practices.

Source: Julia Chester, Purdue University

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Unveils Comprehensive Legislation: Dental Health Assessments For Michigan Kids And Protection For Seniors

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has taken a multifaceted approach to public health and safety, signing legislation that establishes a dental oral assessment program for Michigan’s youngest residents. Senate Bill 280, sponsored by state Senator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing), mandates dental checkups for children entering kindergarten or first grade, impacting 112,000 young students. 

This initiative, part of Governor Whitmer’s commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare, aims to address the often-overlooked aspect of dental health in children.

The governor also signed bills to combat financial abuse against seniors, enhance the state’s response to the opioid epidemic, and protect animals used in testing facilities. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, Governor Whitmer stated, “Let’s keep working together to make sure every child is safe, healthy, and can build a bright future in Michigan.” 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Adolescent Drug Use Remains Steady, But Risks Surge With Illicit Fentanyl

The latest results from the Monitoring the Future survey, conducted by the University of Michigan and funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, reveal that the percentage of adolescents using illicit substances in 2023 remains consistent with pre-pandemic levels reported in 2020. 

Notably, 10.9% of eighth graders, 19.8% of 10th graders, and 31.2% of 12th graders reported any illicit drug use in the past year. While reported substance use remained stable, a concerning rise in overdose deaths among teens from 2010 to 2021, attributed to illicit fentanyl, highlights the increasing dangers associated with drug use among young people. 

The findings emphasize the importance of addressing not only the prevalence but also the escalating risks associated with adolescent drug use.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Library System Unveils Comics Plus – A Digital Haven for Comic Enthusiasts

Exciting news for bookworms and comic book lovers: The St. Clair County Library System (SCCLS) introduces Comics Plus, a cutting-edge digital platform providing access to thousands of comics, graphic novels, and manga. 

Library patrons, armed with their SCCLS library cards, can dive into a diverse world of titles on smartphones, tablets, or web browsers. The best part about the new service is the ease of access to all of your favorite titles, which all offer unlimited simultaneous access. 

From kids to teens and adults, there’s something for every comic lover. To be part of this literary adventure, you’ll need to head online, select the age-appropriate category, input your library card number and PIN, and let the reading commence! 

For additional information, visit: stclaircountylibrary.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Experience Holiday Trolley Tour And Tower Climb At Fort Gratiot Light Station

Dive into the festive spirit with a unique holiday program on December 16th and 22nd at the historic Fort Gratiot Light Station located at 2802 Omar St, Port Huron.

The event, beginning at 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., combines a captivating tour of beautifully lit neighborhoods with a candlelit tower climb offering a dazzling view of the Blue Water Area. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies await at the Museum Store.

Tickets, including a tour of the lighthouse, are priced at $40 for General Admission and $30 for Museum Members. With two tours each night, lasting about an hour, the enchanting experience begins and concludes at the Lighthouse. Secure your spot for a festive adventure under the twinkling lights.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

U.S. Postal Service Announces Price Adjustments For 2024 Mailing Services

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has submitted a notice to the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) detailing proposed changes in mailing services prices, set to be effective from January 21st, 2024. 

Among the adjustments, the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp is set to rise by 2 cents, from 66 cents to 68 cents.

If approved by the commission, the overall increase for mailing services products will be approximately 2 percent. The adjustments, greenlit by the USPS governors, encompass various categories, including letters, domestic and international postcards, and international letters. Notably, there will be no modification to the additional-ounce price, remaining at 24 cents.

The USPS cites ongoing inflationary pressures on operating expenses and the need for revenue to achieve financial stability as the driving force behind these adjustments, aligning with the Delivering for America 10-year plan. 

Reporting for WGRT – Harold Powell