Ground Beef Sold At Walmart Is Recalled
Over 16-thousand pounds of ground beef from Walmart is being recalled due to possible E. coli contamination. Yesterday, the USDA announced the recalled beef was shipped to Walmart stores nationwide. The affected beef is from the company Cargill Meat Solutions, and the specific recalled products can be found here.
New Guidance Recommends Women Getting Mammograms Beginning At 40
Experts are now recommending women between the ages 40 to 74 to get a mammogram every other year. Previous guidelines said bi-ennial mammograms should start by age 50 and the decision for women to screen in their 40s was at their discretion. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the U.S behind skin cancer.
The Benefits Of Hiking
What’s better than being in sunshine and getting exercise in one shot? Here are the benefits of hiking:
IRS Says The Number Of Audits Is About To Surge
The IRS says it’s about to ramp up the number of audits it performs to crack down on tax cheats and pull more revenue into the federal government. We may still be in the clear; the agency said it won’t boost enforcement for people who earn less than $400,000 annually.
STUDY: THE AGE WHEN YOU ACTUALLY BECOME OLD
When exactly do we become ‘old’? Gen Z, those under 27, consider late 50s as old. They view retirement as primarily lounging around. Conversely, baby boomers feel 60 is the new 40 and are notably active, spending more time outdoors, exercising, and traveling. Many boomers report feeling younger than their actual age and appreciate their bodies more as they age. Overall, the study highlights diverse perspectives on aging, with a significant portion feeling younger than their years suggest.
NEW TIKTOK TREND HAS MOMS CONFESSING WHY THEY’RE READY TO “BURN IT ALL DOWN”
Moms are finding solace in Taylor Swift's song "But Daddy I Love Him," using it as an anthem to express their frustrations. They're taking to TikTok to share videos of themselves singing along while captions detail their parenting grievances. From unsolicited advice to judgmental attitudes, moms are venting about various challenges they face, finding camaraderie in Swift's lyrics.
AMERICANS GROCERY SHOPPING HABITS REVEALED
Nationwide it looks like we visit two different supermarkets each week for our grocery needs. More than half shop at mainstream grocery chains or supercenters like Walmart or Target, while a significant portion also frequent club stores and discount stores. People shop at multiple stores to find a variety of products and to take advantage of different promotions and discounts. Price and location are the primary factors influencing where people choose to shop, followed by product quality, store cleanliness, and customer service. On average, Americans spend $174 per grocery trip in 2024, with spending varying based on household size. The most commonly purchased items include dairy products, fresh produce, and snacks.
*LIST* THE MOST POPULAR STREAMING SERVICES
Which streaming service do you watch the most? We all have our favorites, and most of us subscribe to more than one, even if we don’t watch them all. The latest ranking:
The Debate About Who Gets Celebrated On Mother’s Day Heats Up Online
There’s a Mother’s Day war raging on social media. Younger moms are saying that grandmothers shouldn’t be honored on the holiday because they aren’t active moms. The grandmas beg to differ, throwing out that motherhood is for life. Young moms want to be able to do something different than their everyday stuff and older mothers want to be recognized for their hard work. As the debate continues, some families are finding a happy medium by having a multigenerational celebration. Luckily, every family is different so they all get to decide how to handle the holiday.
Ideas To Help Plan Your Mother’s Day Celebration
Federal Reserve Keeps Interest Rates At Current Level
The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged again this month. The current rate, between 5.25 and 5.5-percent, is the highest level in over a decade, Economists say they expect rates to stay high, possibly until after the November general election.
Ford Recalls Almost 243,000 Maverick Pickup Trucks Over Taillight Issue
Ford is recalling almost 243,000 Maverick pickup trucks because the tail lights might not light up when a computer falsely detects too much current on one or both of the lights. The recall covers some Mavericks from the 2022 through 2024 model years.
Instagram And Twitch Roll Out New TikTok-Like Features
Well that didn’t take long. With TikTok’s ban looming Instagram announced that a tweak to its algorithm would amplify small creators. Livestream platform Twitch has also announced the launch of its Discovery Feed to let viewers scroll through livestreams and clips, or short-form video content captured from streams. They’re not alone; LinkedIn is jumping on the bandwagon, saying they’re beta testing a scrollable short-form video feed.
HOW MUCH AMERICANS THINK THEIR TIME IS WORTH
How much is your time worth? Look like the average nation wide is about $240 per hour. And since we put such a high value on our time it’s no surprise that a significant portion of Americans are willing to sacrifice pay for more free time. Overall, saving time is prioritized over saving money for a considerable portion of Americans.
DOORDASH IS GIVING ONE MOM FREE BABYSITTING FOR A YEAR
As Mother’s Day approaches DoorDash is giving moms a chance to win a year of free babysitting. To enter, just order flowers on DoorDash during Mother’s Day weekend using the promo code “GIFTOFTIME”. Additionally, DoorDash is granting a day off to one mother in every state, with entries accepted via email until May 12th.
STUDY: HOW LONG WE SHOULD SIT, SLEEP, STAND & EXERCISE EVERY DAY
How long should we sit, sleep, stand, and exercise each day? The experts dug in and broke it down over a 24 hour period: six hours of sitting, five hours and 10 minutes of standing, eight hours and 20 minutes of sleep, two hours and 10 minutes of light physical activity, and another two hours and 10 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Dr.’s emphasizes the importance of reducing sitting time and increasing movement for improved heart health.
Walmart launches private-label food brand to appeal to younger shoppers
Walmart is launching a new store-brand called Bettergoods. Most items will be priced below $5, with some as low as $2. The brand targets young adults seeking affordable, chef-inspired foods amid inflation. Bettergoods offers three categories: plant-based options, dietary lifestyles, and restrictions, and "culinary experiences." It differs from Walmart's other store labels like Great Value and Equate by focusing on unique products rather than imitations of national brands.
Cedar Point’s record-breaking Top Thrill 2™ roller coaster opens Saturday
Cedar Point is set to unveil Top Thrill 2, the world's tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster, on Saturday. This coaster, builds upon Cedar Point's legacy in thrill rides, boasting two 420-foot-tall track towers. Riders will experience an immersive journey as part of the CP Racing Team, you board a sleek high-performance racing vehicles with open-air seating. Then a linear synchronous motor launch system propels you to speeds of 74 mph initially and later reaching 101 mph in reverse. Riders then ascend a 90-degree angle backward climb on a new 420-foot-tall tower before a final launch at 120 mph.
Spring Date Ideas That Get You Outdoors
It’s time to soak in the spring weather and what better way than heading outdoors with your SO for a date? The CFX Morning Research Team did some digging and put together a list of perfect outdoor date ideas to spark your creativity:
Home Depot Skeletons Sold Out But More Are Coming
If you are big into Halloween but missed Home Depot’s Halfway To Halloween sale on the 25th, don’t worry. The 12 foot Skelly, 7 foot Skelly’s Dog, and the three pack of five foot skeletons sold out, but they will be back. It only took hours for the skeletons and a seven foot Frankenstein’s monster to sell out, but Home Depot now says more of them will be rolled out through the summer. Just keep a close watch so you don’t miss it!
iPhone Alarm Problems Have Users Oversleeping
If your iPhone alarm isn’t waking you up in the morning, you aren’t alone. The clock app’s feature just isn’t working. Apple has heard hundreds of complaints in social media videos and discovered there is an issue. They say “the expected sound” for some users is not working and a fix is on the way. But, iPhone users are pointing to the Attention Aware Features setting and shutting it off. That seems to help. If you can’t figure it out… buy an old school alarm, which will go off unless there’s a power outage.
Americans Over 60 Lost $3.4-Billion To Scams In 2023
The FBI released their “Elder Fraud Report” yesterday and it says that people older than 60 lost over $3.4-billion to scammers last year, an 11-percent increase over 2022. The average dollar loss was $33,915, and almost 6,000 people lost over $100,000 to things like romance scams, investment scams, and the most commonly-reported variety of fraud…tech support scams, where the scammer convinces the victims that their bank accounts have been compromised and get them to either move their money to an account controlled by the scammer, or has the victim withdraw their money and give it to a special courier for “safekeeping.”
McDonald's First-Quarter Sales Fall Below Expectations
Yesterday McDonald’s said that customers are eating out less often, and that’s impacting their sales. McDonald did say that same-store sales rose 1.9-percent worldwide in the first quarter but that was mostly due to price hikes. The chain announced that it plans to step up deals and value messaging in an attempt to turn things around.
STUDY: TAKING THE STAIRS COULD HELP YOU LIVE LONGER
There’s a new study that says climbing stairs regularly can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and increase longevity. The research found that those who frequently climbed stairs had a 39% lower risk of dying from heart disease. Additionally, stair climbing lowered the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes. The study suggests incorporating stair climbing into daily routines for optimal health benefits.
A THIRD OF AMERICANS HAVE SECRETLY WORKED REMOTELY ON VACATION
The numbers don’t lie, nearly a third of us say we have worked remotely during vacations without informing their employers. Why…?
This year we’re prioritize travel a bit more, with the average person planning 11 trips in 2024, including vacations, work trips, family trips, and "bleisure" trips combining business and leisure.
86% of Great Lakes litter is plastic, a 20-year study shows. And the plastic is ‘just getting smaller and smaller.’
A new report shows that 86% of litter entering the Great Lakes each year is mostly plastic. Large plastic items such as single-use bags, straws, and wrappers eventually degrade into microplastics, posing threats to human health and wildlife. Despite efforts by volunteers and organizations, plastic pollution levels have remained consistently high. Globally, negotiations are underway to develop a treaty addressing plastic pollution.
Beal City educator is finalist in ‘America’s Favorite Teacher’ contest
Amanda Schmidt, a kindergarten teacher from Beal City Elementary School, is competing for the title of "America’s Favorite Teacher" in a Reader’s Digest contest. She's among five finalists vying for a $25,000 prize, a trip to Hawaii, Voting for the finalists ends soon. To vote for her, visit https://americasfavteacher.org/2024/amanda-schmidt.
Ideas To Give Your Child A Boost Of Happiness
How do you keep the little ones happy? The CFX Morning Research Team found a list to help make a happy day for kiddos and it starts with making sure they wake up to sunlight.
Fertility Rates In The U.S. Are Dropping
Fertility rates in the U.S. are at a record low and the number of births is at the lowest in decades. Just under three-point-six million babies were born here last year, a two percent decline. The birth rate was at around one-point-six births per one-thousand women, lower than the two-point-one percent needed to sustain a population. It's the lowest number of births since 1979 and the lowest fertility rate ever recorded.
How To Wake Up Positive And Happy
How you wake up sets the tone for your day, and who doesn’t want a happy one? Tweaking your nighttime routine is the key.
Ending the day on a positive note will help you wake up appreciative of the day ahead!
How To Get Through Allergy Season
‘Tis the season for sneezing and itchy eyes. How do we get through it? The CFX Morning Research Team talked with allergy experts and here’s what they recommend:
US To Require Automatic Emergency Braking On New Vehicles In Five Years
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed a new regulation yesterday that will require automatic emergency braking to come standard on all new passenger vehicles in the US starting in just over five years. Around 90-percent of new vehicles already have the feature under a voluntary agreement, but officials are touting the regulation as a way to cut down on traffic accidents.
USDA To Start Testing Ground Beef From States With Bird Flu In Dairy Cows
The USDA says they’re now going to test ground beef in states where there have been outbreaks of bird flu in dairy cows. Last week, the agency said it had found bird flu in a lung tissue sample from a dairy cow that was sent to slaughter.
SURVEY: WHAT MOMS REALLY WANT FOR MOTHER’S DAY
Research shows that most moms prioritize family time on Mother’s day, however, a significant portion, especially millennials, also value some alone time or a break from mom duties. Dining out, especially for brunch, is a top choice for many, while others prefer an escape like a short trip or outdoor activities. A clean house ranks high on the wish list, with some desiring a chore-free day. Pampering options like spa days are also popular, alongside traditional gifts like flowers.
A QUARTER OF AMERICANS ARE AFRAID OF LOSING THEIR JOBS
Right now about a quarter of American’s are concerned about losing their jobs within the next year. The main worries stem from the state of the job market and instability within their industries. The majority express interest in upskilling opportunities provided by their employers, indicating a strong desire to enhance job security and career prospects.
Mid Michigan College launches ‘College NOW!’ program
Mid Michigan College is introducing "College NOW," a grant-funded initiative aimed at supporting first-time college students. The program offers students a chance to attend a college readiness session, receive individualized support, and complete one math or English course for free. College NOW! is free and doesn't require a completed FAFSA, but assistance is available for those needing help with it. While open to all first-time college students, space is limited, and interested individuals should attend informational sessions and apply promptly.
Mt. Pleasant to replace bag/tag trash pickup service
Mt. Pleasant city commissioners are considering a new trash pickup provider, potentially ending the "bag/tag" system. Granger Waste Services, offering the lowest bid for trash and recycling collection, Their proposed rates vary based on bin size and pickup frequency, with Granger offering competitive prices and lower annual increases compared to other bidders. Switching to Granger would streamline services, reduce staff time, and offer more convenience for residents.
Daily Showers Aren’t Necessary For Everyone
Someone decided to restart the shower debate. One dermatologist says daily showers are not needed. She says daily showers can strip away the “skin’s microbiome,” which plays a role in protecting the skin and is “also extremely important in overall health of the body.” It turns out that we shower daily due to societal perception. So how often should you shower? Experts say shower based on what your body and hair tells you.
HOW AMERICANS REALLY FEEL ABOUT THE TIKTOK BAN
ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, says no, they’re not exploring selling, even after President Biden recently signed a bill into law requiring ByteDance to divest the app or face a ban in the U.S. ByteDance previously resisted selling TikTok when former President Trump attempted to ban it in 2020. As it sits, only 17% of TikTok users are based in the U.S.
Science Leans Toward The Full Moon Affecting People’s Behavior
It’s a pretty common thought that emergency rooms get crazy during a full moon. Now data is seemingly backing that up. 40-percent of health workers believe the moon’s phases have an impact on human behavior. And a new study showed that hospital workers use their panic buttons 9-percent more on nights of a full moon. A 2023 study could not disprove that so many trained medical workers believe the full moon affects people from observation. May 23rd is the next full moon.
-I-RIDE:
In celebration of our 50th anniversary, and in appreciation of our riders, I-Ride is rolling back cash fares to 1974 for the month of May!
Be sure to call 24 hours in advance for the best service.
“Quiet Life Travel" Is The Hottest Vacation Trend
Walking away from the grid is a hot new travel trend. “Quiet Life Travel” is an escape from digital life, As the hustle and bustle of daily life takes its toll, travelers seek digital detox and solace in serene landscapes and rejuvenating experiences,”. So say goodbye to crowded cities and hello to off-the-beaten-path destinations that promise tranquility and self-discovery.”
STEPS TO TAKE AT NIGHT TO BE HAPPIER IN THE MORNING
Most of us do things in the morning to help set us up for a good day, but it’s not just the a.m. routine that makes a difference. It turns out, some small tweaks to your nighttime habits can make a big difference in your happiness the next day.
STUDY: PARENTS ARE LONELY AND BURNED OUT FROM PARENTING RESPONSIBILITIES
The CFX Morning Research Team crunched the numbers and it looks like Two-thirds of parents feel isolated and lonely due to the demands of parenthood. A significant amount feel they lack support and an overwhelming majority want to connect with other parents beyond work and home. Those feelings of loneliness can lead to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and weakened immune function,
Latest Winners - 05/02/24
Susan Nickell - Midland
Won this week's CLICK TO WIN contest, a $50 Gift Card from Cops & Doughnuts, Central Precinct, Mt Pleasant
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