port huron

Michigan Residents Advised to Take Precautions Against Virus Transferred Via Mosquito Bites

Michiganders are urged to prioritize protective measures against mosquito bites after recent collections of mosquitos in Saginaw County tested positive for the Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories (MDHHS BOL). These are the first infected mosquitos identified for any virus in 2023.

“It takes just one bite from an infected mosquito to cause severe illness,” cautioned Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions, including using EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, avoiding mosquito-prone areas if possible, and wearing protective clothing to minimize bites.”

JCV is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitos, predominantly occurring from late spring to mid-fall. Symptoms may manifest within days to two weeks post-bite and commonly include fever, headache, and fatigue. While most individuals remain asymptomatic, severe cases can result in encephalitis and meningitis affecting the brain and/or spinal cord.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

June 15th Is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is an annual initiative that began June 15, 2006, initiated by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization.

The primary objective of WEAAD is to enhance understanding of the abuse suffered by older people by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic factors impacting them. Sadly, elder abuse is one of the least investigated forms of violence and is often overlooked in national action plans concerning crucial social issues.

Research indicates that 4 to 6 percent of the elderly experience some form of abuse, a majority of which remains unreported. WEAAD serves as a reminder to prioritize the well-being and dignity of our elders, ensuring they can lead lives of exceptional quality.

Report those individuals who may be suspected of elder abuse to local authorities, and be sure to take care of our elderly population. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Downtown Port Huron Commercial Properties Will No Longer Receive Waste Collection Services After July 1st

Starting July 1st, commercial properties in downtown Port Huron will no longer receive waste collection services from the City. 

As a result, tenants will need to establish a new form of waste collection by July 1st. If you are a landlord or business owner, it is crucial to communicate with your tenants regarding your decision on trash collection.

There are two waste collection options to consider, one is Emterra that would allow them to continue servicing downtown businesses and lofts for a fee. The other option is to use the city’s Dumpster Share Program that contains various rates for services.

 

City’s Dumpster Share Program

  • $15.00 per month per Residential Unit
  • $25.00 per month for Commercial – Office & Retail
  • $125.00 per month for Commercial – Food & Beverage

The decision to eliminate the 3-mil annual tax that funded the City of Port Huron Trash Collection for commercial properties was approved by the Council. The previous model was deemed unsustainable and unfair, as only a few properties received service while everyone paid the tax. Additionally, the tax often exceeded the actual cost of service.

To assess the impact on your yearly taxes, contact the City of Port Huron Assessing Office at (810) 984-9742. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Protect Yourself And Stay Safe From Poor Air Quality Due To Smoke And Fires

Smoke and fires raging across the United States and parts of Canada have led to high levels of particulate matter (PM) in the air, resulting in an elevated Air Quality Index (AQI) in many regions of Michigan and the eastern US. The AQI, which measures the concentration of pollutants such as ground-level ozone and particulates, serves as a vital tool in assessing air quality and protecting public health.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has advised individuals to take precautions during these smoke events, especially those with chronic diseases, including asthma, other lung conditions, or cardiovascular problems. Additionally, children, pregnant individuals, and those over 65 are considered more vulnerable to the health effects of smoke exposure.

To protect yourself, the US EPA recommends limiting outdoor exercise when the air is smoky and opting for lower-intensity activities to minimize smoke exposure. When indoors, it is advised to maintain clean and cool indoor air. 

For more information, visit: epa.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Celebrates Its 100th Birthday This Year

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is celebrating its 100th anniversary throughout 2023, with the official day being June 11th. 

Established as Port Huron Junior College on June 11, 1923, SC4 stands as Michigan’s second oldest community college, playing a significant role in the academic, economic, and social progress of southeast Michigan over the past century.

SC4 boasts an extensive curriculum, providing around 350 courses to approximately 4,000 students annually. Its accomplished alumni have excelled in various domains such as health care, education, engineering, manufacturing, hospitality, government, public safety, and design, making significant contributions to their communities and beyond.

Dr. Deborah A. Snyder, President of SC4, highlighted the college’s close bond with the community and its unwavering dedication to student growth and success. Throughout its rich history, SC4 has been fortunate to receive steadfast support and commitment from the community it serves.

Happy Birthday SC4!

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Beat High Gas Prices With Advia Credit Union’s Gas Card Giveaway

Tired of skyrocketing gas prices? Advia Credit Union has your back this summer with an incredible gas card giveaway! 

Advia Credit Union and WGRT 102.3 FM, are offering you a chance to win a $50 gas card to help you save at the pump!  

For a chance to win a $50 Speedy Q Markets gas card, head over to WGRT 102.3 FM on Facebook and WGRT 102.3 FM on Instagram, be sure to like and follow both pages for your chance to win! We’ll be picking lucky winners every Monday, starting June 12th through August 4th!

With 61 years of serving and giving back to our community, Advia Credit Union understands the importance of supporting its members. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to fuel your summer adventures.

Visit them online at Adviacu.org or visit one of their convenient branches in Port Huron, Fort Gratiot, Marysville, New Baltimore, or St. Clair for all your banking needs.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell