Mid-Michigan News: Gaza Disarmament Plan, Measles Concerns, Moving Wall Returns & Bay County Road Work

Here’s a look at some of the top national and Mid-Michigan headlines.

Major Step Toward Gaza Disarmament

Hamas and other Palestinian factions have reportedly agreed to a document outlining a plan for disarmament in Gaza.

President Trump called the development a “monumental step” toward peace and security. According to media reports, Thursday’s agreement calls for a detailed roadmap for disarmament to be prepared within 14 days.

Israel has not yet commented on the reported agreement.

Michigan Families Urged to Check Vaccinations

With the United States experiencing its highest number of measles cases in 35 years, health officials are encouraging parents to make sure their children are up to date on immunizations before heading back to school.

Michigan health officials say vaccination rates in the state remain below the 95% level generally considered necessary to prevent sustained measles outbreaks.

Families are encouraged to review their children’s vaccination records as the new school year approaches.

Vietnam Moving Wall Returns to Genesee County

The Vietnam Moving Wall has returned to Bluebell Beach in Genesee County, giving Mid-Michigan residents an opportunity to honor those who served and those who lost their lives in the Vietnam War.

The traveling memorial is a half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The wall is scheduled to remain at Bluebell Beach through Sunday, August 2, with the local visit hosted by the Veterans Club.

M-15 Road Work Coming to Bay County

Drivers in Bay County should prepare for detours as crews begin resurfacing portions of M-15.

According to MDOT, M-15 traffic will be detoured from Columbus Avenue to M-25 through Thursday.

An additional closure is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday on M-15 between Columbus Avenue and Youngs Ditch Road.

Drivers traveling through the area should allow extra time and watch for construction crews.

 Loons Cruise to an 11-1 Win

The Great Lakes Loons had a huge night on the diamond, dominating the Fort Wayne TinCaps 11-1.

 Mid-Michigan Weather

Increasing clouds are expected today with a high near 90. Tonight turns cloudy with showers and thunderstorms likely and a low around 68.

Saturday will be cloudy with showers developing mainly after 2 p.m. and a high near 79. Sunday brings partly cloudy skies, a 30% chance of showers before 2 p.m., and a high around 77.

Tomorrow is the first day of August, which means the countdown to another school year is officially on.

For some families, though, the madness has already begun. Sports practices, band, camps, meetings and other activities can turn the family car into a second home before the first school bell even rings.

And a new survey shows just how much time parents spend playing chauffeur.

Nearly 40 Minutes a Day Behind the Wheel

A survey of Millennial parents found that driving kids to and from school activities takes an average of 38 minutes every day.

Over the course of a school year, that adds up to 6,858 minutes behind the wheel.

That's more than 114 hours, or roughly 14 eight-hour workdays, spent driving to practices, games, rehearsals and everything else on the family calendar.

That's a lot of time asking, "Did you remember your shoes?" five minutes after leaving the driveway.

Back-to-School Chaos Is Real

It's not just the driving. 77% of parents say the back-to-school season makes their lives feel more hectic.

There's shopping for supplies, figuring out schedules, packing lunches, getting everyone out the door and discovering at 7:42 a.m. that somebody needs a poster board for a project due today.

And once school activities kick into high gear, parents can find themselves going directly from work to school to practice to the drive-thru and finally home.

 Tomorrow Is Also Respect for Parents Day

The timing couldn't be better. August 1 is also Respect for Parents Day.

So kids, here's your reminder: When Mom or Dad drives you across town for practice, sits in the parking lot waiting for you, then turns around because you forgot something at home, maybe give them a little extra appreciation.

And parents, get that road-trip playlist ready.

There are plenty of reasons to love a state fair. The rides, carnival games, farm animals, live music and the glorious sight of someone trying to carry a stuffed bear roughly the size of a studio apartment.

But we all know the real reason we're there.

The food.

Fried food. Food on sticks. Fried food on sticks. Desserts that somehow involve three different kinds of sugar. And once you're inside the fairgrounds, apparently calories have to pay admission too.

Yelp analyzed reviewer data to determine the Top 10 State Fairs for Festival Foods, and the Midwest absolutely owns the top of the list.

 Top 10 State Fairs for Food

1. Minnesota State Fair | Saint Paul, Minnesota
2. Wisconsin State Fair | West Allis, Wisconsin
3. Iowa State Fair | Des Moines, Iowa
4. New York State Fair | Syracuse, New York
5. Indiana State Fair | Indianapolis, Indiana
6. State Fair of Texas | Dallas, Texas
7. The Big E | West Springfield, Massachusetts
8. Florida State Fair | Tampa, Florida
9. Alaska State Fair | Palmer, Alaska
10. North Carolina State Fair | Raleigh, North Carolina

The Midwest grabs four of the top five spots, with Minnesota taking the crown.

And if you've never heard of The Big E, it's essentially the Avengers of state fairs. All six New England states are represented, with individual buildings featuring foods and specialties from each state.

 But Where's Michigan?

That's the question!

Yelp only released the Top 10, so we don't know where Michigan landed or which state came in dead last.

Maybe that's for the best. Calling any state fair's food the "worst" feels a little harsh when somebody is willing to deep-fry a dessert, cover it in powdered sugar and hand it to you on a stick.

Besides, here in Michigan, we've got plenty of county fair food to tackle before worrying about the rankings.

U.S. Strikes Iran, Michigan Health Officials Track Outbreak, Saginaw Spirit Names New Head Coach

Here’s a look at some of the biggest national, Michigan and Mid-Michigan headlines making news today.

U.S. Launches New Strikes Against Iran

The U.S. military has launched strikes against Iranian targets following Tehran’s attack on American forces stationed in Jordan.

The latest military action came hours after President Donald Trump vowed the United States would respond strongly after Iran targeted a base in Jordan that hosts U.S. troops.

Todd Blanche Attorney General Nomination Put on Hold

Todd Blanche’s nomination to become Attorney General is currently on hold.

The Senate Judiciary Committee had been expected to vote on whether to advance Blanche’s nomination to the full Senate. However, two Republican senators on the committee are seeking additional assurances concerning the settlement of President Trump’s lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service.

Report Details Abuse Allegations Connected to Interlochen

A new report from a private law firm has uncovered allegations of decades of sexual misconduct and abuse involving nearly 50 adults connected to the Interlochen Center for the Arts in Grand Traverse County.

Among those named in the report is convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who attended the arts camp as a child and later became a donor.

Interlochen says none of the individuals identified in the report are currently employed by the school.

Michigan Cyclosporiasis Cases Continue to Climb

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says the number of confirmed cyclosporiasis cases has climbed to more than 10,000.

The supplied news update also reports that 160 people have been hospitalized.

State health officials say lettuce or salad greens may be a possible source of the outbreak.

Saginaw Spirit Names New Head Coach

The Saginaw Spirit have hired Brendan Taylor as the team’s newest head coach.

Taylor becomes the 11th head coach in franchise history.

Former Spirit head coach Chris Lazary recently departed Saginaw to become an associate head coach with the Michigan Wolverines.

Tigers and Loons Fall

The Baltimore Orioles edged the Detroit Tigers in a wild one, 10-9.

The Great Lakes Loons also came up short, falling to the Fort Wayne TinCaps 5-4.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Expect sunshine today with a high around 89 degrees.

Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low near 66.

Friday brings increasing clouds and another high around 89.

Saturday turns mostly cloudy with a 70% chance of showers and a cooler high near 80 degrees.

Technology has made life faster, easier and considerably less patient.

BuzzFeed recently asked older adults to name the everyday inconveniences from the past that would probably frustrate people today. The answers are a great reminder of just how much daily life has changed.

Imagine telling someone today that they can't Google it, text anyone or even leave the house because they're waiting for a phone call.

Welcome to the old days!

1. Waiting by the Phone 

Before cell phones, waiting for an important call meant actually waiting by the phone.

Expecting a call from a date? A friend? A potential employer?

You stayed home and hoped the phone rang.

And later, when dial-up internet arrived, someone getting online could tie up the phone line. Nothing tested a family relationship quite like, “GET OFF THE INTERNET! I'M EXPECTING A CALL!”

2. Writing Everything Down 

Need directions? Write them down.

Need a grocery list? Write it down.

Want Grandma's secret meatloaf recipe? Better grab a pen.

There were no smartphones waiting in your pocket to remember everything for you. Lose that little piece of paper and suddenly you're driving around looking for a gas station where somebody might know how to get to Uncle Bob's house.

3. Research Meant Going to the Library 

Today, you can ask a question and have an answer within seconds.

Back then, you might have needed an encyclopedia or a trip to the library.

And if your family's encyclopedia set was from 1974? Congratulations, Pluto is still a planet and your research ends somewhere around Gerald Ford.

4. Finding a Pay Phone 

You're away from home and need to call somebody?

First, find a pay phone.

Then make sure you have the right change.

Then hope the person you're calling is actually home to answer their phone.

Today we get irritated when a text takes four minutes to get a response.

5. Waiting to Hear About a Snow Day 

There were no school apps or instant text notifications.

When a snowstorm rolled into town, kids gathered around the TV or listened to the radio waiting for school closings.

You'd sit there watching or listening as every school in Michigan was announced except yours.

Then finally...

SAGINAW...

Everybody gets quiet.

Wrong district.

Keep waiting.

6. Sharing a Party Line

Long before everyone had their own smartphone, some households shared a telephone line with other homes.

If somebody else was using the line, you might have to wait.

And yes, people on the shared line could potentially pick up and listen to conversations.

Basically, it was social media without the screen.

7. Making a Mistake on a Typewriter

Before the backspace key could magically erase your mistakes, there was the manual typewriter.

One typo on an important school paper could mean correction fluid, correction tape or, in the worst case, typing the page all over again.

Imagine writing three pages, reaching the final paragraph and realizing you messed up.

Suddenly your typewriter is learning some new vocabulary.

Eggs are a breakfast superstar. They're packed with protein, easy to make and versatile enough to go from a quick weekday breakfast to a giant Sunday morning feast.

But if you're watching calories and fat, how you cook your eggs can make a noticeable difference.

Based on the nutrition figures provided, here’s how five popular egg preparations stack up, from lowest to highest in calories.

1. Poached Eggs

Coming in at the top of the list are poached eggs, with around 72 calories, 5 grams of fat and 6.5 grams of protein.

Since you don't need butter or oil to poach an egg, you're getting the egg without adding much extra.

2. Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled or soft-boiled, they're another simple choice at about 77 calories, 5.3 grams of fat and 6.3 grams of protein.

Plus, boiled eggs are portable. Just don't be the person peeling one in the office break room.

3. Eggs Fried in Butter

Now we're getting into the good stuff.

An egg fried in butter checks in at approximately 113 calories, 7.5 grams of fat and 7.5 grams of protein.

That's a jump from boiled or poached, but butter does have a persuasive closing argument: it tastes like butter.

4. Eggs Fried in Olive or Avocado Oil

Frying your egg in olive or avocado oil comes in at around 118 calories, 9.9 grams of fat and 7.5 grams of protein.

That's slightly more calories than the butter-fried version in these figures.

5. Scrambled Eggs With Milk and Butter

And the highest-calorie preparation on the list?

Scrambled eggs made with milk and butter, at around 128 calories, 13 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein.

They may finish last in this particular calorie ranking, but fluffy scrambled eggs aren't going to lose many fans over it.

U.S. Intercepts Iranian Missiles, Red Cross Declares Blood Crisis, Saginaw Road Work Continues

A period of relative calm in the Middle East has come to an end as the U.S. military says it successfully intercepted a barrage of missiles fired by Iran at American troops in Jordan.

The attack comes after a five-day pause in the war and coincides with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the White House.

Red Cross Declares National Blood Crisis

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis and is urgently asking people to donate.

The organization says it is facing a shortage of roughly 3,500 blood donations each week, a situation that is also affecting hospitals here in Mid-Michigan.

Those interested in donating can schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross.

Tittabawassee Road Repairs Move to Phase Two

Drivers in Saginaw County are seeing progress on repairs along Tittabawassee Road.

The first phase of work, stretching from Bay Road through Cardinal Square Boulevard, has been completed.

The second phase is expected to begin soon and is estimated to take approximately two weeks to finish.

Michigan State Police Hiring Event in Flint

The Michigan State Police will host a one-stop Employment Day hiring event Saturday at the Michigan School for the Deaf in Flint.

The event gives prospective applicants an opportunity to apply for upcoming trooper and motor carrier officer recruit schools.

Registration is limited to the first 100 attendees.

Tigers Make History in 14-0 Win

It was a HUGE night for the Detroit Tigers.

Detroit shut out the Baltimore Orioles 14-0 and became just the 22nd team in Major League Baseball history to score in every inning.

Meanwhile, the Great Lakes Loons fell to the Fort Wayne TinCaps, 5-2.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Expect sunshine and breezy conditions today with a high around 81.

Tonight will be clear with a low near 59.

Thursday brings more sunshine and a high around 85, followed by partly sunny skies Friday and a high near 88.

Summer in Mid-Michigan isn't complete until you've spent at least one evening walking around a county fair with something deep-fried in one hand while trying to figure out why you agreed to ride something called The Tornado with the kids.

The 2026 Tuscola County Fair is underway in Caro, running July 26 through August 1 at the Tuscola County Fair Association fairgrounds. The fair has been a Tuscola County tradition since 1881, with a strong focus on agriculture, 4-H, FFA and family activities.

And yes, the carnival arrives Tuesday. ????

 Bring on the Horsepower!

Tuesday, July 28 is made for anybody who believes the appropriate amount of horsepower is more.

The fair's tractor and pickup action includes V-8 Hot Rod Tractors, Diesel Pro Stock Tractors, Super Farm Tractors, modified tractors and several pickup classes. Expect smoke, noise, wheel speed and machinery that makes your riding mower look like it needs a motivational speech.

Then Thursday, July 30, the BIG toys come out.

The lineup shifts to farm tractors, Modified and Stock Semis, Pro Street Pickups and Hot Diesel Pickups. The fair describes Thursday as a night featuring the heavier machines, with the semi classes among the crowd favorites.

 It's Still a Good Old-Fashioned County Fair

Behind the midway lights and grandstand action is what the Tuscola County Fair has been about for generations: local kids, agriculture and community.

The fair gives area youth the chance to showcase their work in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, crafts and homemaking, with special emphasis on 4-H and FFA youth.

And if looking at cows makes you crave ice cream, somebody planned ahead.

The 4-H Dairy Diner offers daily specials and ice cream during the fair.

County fair calories don't count. We checked. With ourselves.

 Make a Day of It in Caro

With carnival rides, food vendors, animals, agricultural exhibits and grandstand action, there's plenty to turn a quick trip to Caro into an entire afternoon and evening at the fair.

The Tuscola County Fair runs through Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 188 Park Drive in Caro. The fair website notes that Sunday and Monday admission are free, while carnival operations begin Tuesday.

For the complete 2026 schedule, fair book and updated information, visit the Tuscola County Fair website.

So who's ready for some fair food, carnival rides and a night of Mid-Michigan summer fun?

Join 98 KCQ as we broadcast live from 4 to 6pm on Wednesday from the Fair! 

Imagine you're standing on a game show stage. The lights are flashing, the crowd is screaming, and the host gives you two choices.

Option A: Walk away right now with $50,000 cash.

Option B: Flip a coin. ????

Call it correctly and you win $1 MILLION. Call it wrong and you leave with absolutely nothing.

What are you doing?

Most Americans Are Taking the Money

According to a poll, 65% of Americans would grab the guaranteed $50,000 and head for the exit before anyone could change the rules.

But 25% would flip the coin, risking a guaranteed payday for a shot at becoming an instant millionaire.

Then there's the remaining 10% who aren't sure.

We're guessing they're still standing on stage staring at the coin.

The Midwest Says, “Just Give Me the Check”

Where you live apparently makes a difference.

People in the West were the most likely to gamble on the million-dollar coin flip, while Midwesterners were the most likely to take the guaranteed $50,000.

Maybe that's Midwest practicality: $50,000 buys a lot of groceries, pays off some bills and still leaves enough for a weekend Up North.

Men Are More Likely to Risk It

There was also a sizable difference between men and women.

About 32% of men said they'd take the million-dollar gamble, compared with just 18% of women.

Of course, the coin doesn't care. It's sitting there quietly preparing to either change your life or ruin your afternoon.

A McDonald’s worker is getting attention on TikTok after sharing a handful of restaurant “secrets” that could change the way you place your next order.

Some of these tricks have floated around the internet before, but a couple might be new to you. Here are four of the employee’s McDonald’s tips.

1. Want Fresh Fries? Order Them Without Salt

According to the worker, ordering fries with no salt usually means a fresh batch has to be made.

The downside is obvious: no salt.

You could ask for salt packets afterward, although that might earn you a puzzled look from the crew. And while you could simply ask for fresh fries, the employee claims that request can come across as a little annoying.

Choose your fry strategy wisely. 

2. Try the “Poor Man’s Big Mac”

Want some of that Big Mac flavor without paying Big Mac money?

The employee suggests ordering a McDouble with no ketchup or mustard, then adding Mac Sauce and shredded lettuce.

The result is essentially a smaller Big Mac-style burger that could cost considerably less, depending on the restaurant and customization charges.

It won't have the Big Mac's middle bun, but your wallet probably won't file a complaint.

3. The Multiple-Account App Trick

This one requires considerably more effort.

The worker claims some customers create multiple McDonald’s app accounts and switch between them to access multiple offers, potentially combining separate orders into one larger meal.

Keep in mind that promotions and eligibility rules can vary, and attempting to get around offer limits could violate the app’s terms. Check the deal conditions before turning lunch into an accounting project.

4. Folded Egg vs. Round Egg

Not all McDonald’s breakfast eggs are prepared the same way.

According to the worker, the folded egg used on some biscuit sandwiches and McGriddles comes prepared in a folded format, while the round egg found on the Egg McMuffin is made from a freshly cracked egg cooked in a round mold.

So if you're ordering breakfast and prefer a freshly cracked egg, the round egg is the one you're looking for.

Trump, Netanyahu Meet as Michigan Sees Presidential Visit, Gordie Howe Bridge Opening and ICE Protests

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is meeting with President Donald Trump today, marking their first meeting since the two leaders launched a joint war against Iran.

The meeting comes as both leaders face growing political pressure at home. Netanyahu is up for re-election, while Trump faces pressure to bring the war to an end amid concerns about its economic impact ahead of the midterm elections.

Trump Visits Michigan

During a visit to a General Motors facility in Milford, President Trump argued that his economic policies have helped revive the American auto industry and manufacturing.

The visit comes as some businesses continue to raise concerns about the impact of tariffs imposed on Canada and other U.S. trading partners. It marked Trump's third trip to Michigan during his second term.

Gordie Howe Bridge Opens

Trump's Michigan visit also coincides with ongoing tensions between his administration and Canada that have affected the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor.

After nearly 25 years of planning, the bridge opened to traffic Monday, marking a major milestone for one of the busiest trade corridors between the United States and Canada.

ICE Arrests Workers in Saginaw Township

In Saginaw Township Saturday, ICE agents took nine workers into custody while they were installing cable for high-speed internet.

An ICE spokesperson said the men will remain in custody pending removal proceedings.

On Monday, neighborhood residents gathered along the streets where the workers were taken into custody. Protesters said they were concerned about friends, co-workers and neighbors being detained and called for a different approach to immigration enforcement.

Sports

The Detroit Tigers fell to the Baltimore Orioles, 8-5.

The Great Lakes Loons return to Dow Diamond tonight to take on the Fort Wayne TinCaps. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Cloudy skies and a slight chance of showers are expected before noon, followed by gradually clearing skies and a high near 79.

Tonight will be clear with a low around 59.

Sunshine returns Wednesday and Thursday, with a high near 81 Wednesday and 84 Thursday.

Remember when going to bed meant climbing under the covers, turning off the lights, and sleeping?

For some people, bedtime now involves a partner, a kid, two dogs, a cat, and possibly something small and furry occupying the exact spot where your legs are supposed to go.

A poll of more than 7,500 U.S. adults asked people how many other humans and pets typically share their bed. And apparently, some bedrooms turn into a small community after dark.

 Half of Us Have the Bed to Ourselves

When asked how many additional people normally sleep in their bed, 51% said nobody.

That's the dream. Stretch out. Steal all the blankets from yourself. Sleep diagonally just because you CAN.

Another 42% share the bed with one other person, likely a partner or occasionally a child.

Then 4% said TWO other people typically sleep in their bed.

At that point, you're not sleeping. You're playing human Tetris.

 Then Come the Pets

The survey also asked about four-legged bedmates.

A solid 67% said they sleep with no pets, while 20% share their bed with one pet.

Another 7% sleep with two pets, 2% with three, and 1% said FOUR OR MORE pets regularly sleep in their bed.

Four pets?!

That's not a bedroom. That's an Airbnb for golden retrievers.

And anyone who sleeps with a dog knows how this works. You bought a king-size mattress, but somehow the dog weighing 38 pounds occupies approximately 94% of it.

The dog sleeps sideways across the middle while you cling to six inches of mattress like you're dangling from a cliff.

Cats are even better. They'll sleep peacefully on your chest until 3:17 a.m., when they suddenly remember they need to sprint through the house at highway speeds.

 So Who Gets the Best Sleep?

Some people can't imagine sleeping without their partner or pet nearby. Others hear "bed to yourself" and immediately start planning a vacation.

So here's the question:

What's your perfect sleeping arrangement?

 Bed completely to yourself?

 Partner beside you?

 Dog at your feet?

 Cat on your pillow?

Or is your bed so crowded every night that you're considering charging admission?

Remember when flirting required leaving the house, meeting another person, and somehow surviving the terrifying phrase, "So... what do you do for fun?"

Technology has streamlined the process.

A new survey finds 11% of Americans admit they've had a flirty or romantic conversation with an AI chatbot, such as ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini. And 12% say a chatbot conversation has actually turned them on.

Apparently, artificial intelligence isn't just answering questions anymore. It's answering the call of the heart. 

Gen Z Is Really Feeling the Connection

Not surprisingly, younger adults are much more likely to get personal with their digital assistants.

According to the survey, 27% of Gen Z say they've had naughty conversations with an AI chatbot. That drops to 16% of Millennials, 9% of Gen X, and just 2% of Boomers.

Boomers aren't flirting with AI. They're still trying to figure out why the printer says it's offline.

Men were also about twice as likely as women to admit having these conversations.

Imagine explaining this to your grandparents:

"Yeah, Grandpa, I'm seeing someone."

"Wonderful! Where did you meet?"

"The internet."

"Facebook?"

"No. Technically, they're software."

But Is It Cheating?

Here's where things get interesting.

The survey found 24% of Americans believe flirting with ChatGPT counts as cheating if you're already in a relationship.

And that's a fascinating argument.

There's no secret dinner. No mysterious phone number. No lipstick on the collar.

Just your significant other walking into the room at midnight and asking:

"WHO IS CLAUDE, AND WHY DID YOU TELL HIM HE UNDERSTANDS YOU BETTER THAN I DO?"

Suddenly deleting your browser history has an entirely different meaning.

The New Relationship Question

Forget asking whether someone wants kids or whose family gets Thanksgiving.

Dating in the AI era may require a whole new conversation:

"Are we exclusive... including robots?"

Because apparently the relationship competition of the future isn't the attractive coworker or the old high school flame.

It's an algorithm that's available 24/7, remembers the conversation, and never says, "I don't know, where do YOU want to eat?"

Swan Valley HS Alum and local business owner Molly McGrandy has won the team division of the Crossfit Games! Listen!

You might remember our first encounter with Molly McGrandy when she got to milk a cow!

U.S. Strikes Continue, Michigan Wildfire Losses Top $4 Billion, Cyclospora Investigation Expands

The conflict involving the United States and Iran continues to intensify as the U.S. military announced it has launched its 13th consecutive night of strikes against Iran. Military officials say the operations are focused on protecting commercial shipping routes as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.

Earlier this week, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi Arabian oil tankers in the Red Sea, raising concerns that the conflict could spread further throughout the region. The renewed instability has also pushed international oil prices above $100 per barrel, increasing concerns about potential impacts on fuel prices worldwide.

Michigan Wildfire Smoke Cost State Billions

Canadian wildfire smoke didn't just create hazy skies across Michigan this summer. It also took a major toll on the state's economy.

The Anderson Economic Group estimates the smoke caused more than $4 billion in economic losses across Michigan. The estimate includes reduced business activity, lost productivity, canceled events, healthcare costs, and other economic impacts. Researchers say the final financial impact could ultimately be even higher.

Cyclospora Investigation Continues

Federal health officials are continuing to investigate a new outbreak involving the parasite Cyclospora, which causes gastrointestinal illness.

The latest outbreak includes 72 confirmed cases, but the Food and Drug Administration has not yet identified the food product responsible. Meanwhile, 31 states have reported Cyclospora infections, although investigators have not confirmed whether those cases are connected to the current outbreak.

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Saginaw County

Residents impacted by the severe storms that struck Saginaw County in April can now receive assistance at a newly opened Disaster Recovery Center.

The center is operating at Saginaw Township Fire Station No. 3 on Center Road and will remain open daily through July 27, providing resources and recovery assistance for those affected by the storms.

Sports Roundup

The Detroit Tigers edged the Kansas City Royals 4-3, while the Great Lakes Loons defeated the Lansing Lugnuts 8-5.

At the 3M Open, Ben Coles sits atop the leaderboard after the opening round.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Expect sunny skies today with a high near 82 degrees before a mostly clear and comfortable night with a low around 58.

Saturday brings mostly sunny skies and warmer temperatures with a high near 86. Sunday looks even hotter, with highs approaching 90 degrees and just a slight chance of an afternoon shower or thunderstorm.

Every now and then, a product comes along that makes you stop and ask, "Who came up with this?"

Meet the latest internet sensation: Toilet Shoes.

A gut health company has gone viral after releasing what they're calling "S-word Shoes," a pair of oversized platform-style shoes designed for one purpose only... wearing them while you're sitting on the toilet.

Before you picture someone strolling through the grocery store in them, don't worry. These aren't meant to leave the bathroom.

The shoes are essentially two seven-inch-tall platforms with foot openings that elevate your legs into more of a squatting position while you're on the toilet. They even resemble a pair of flashy 1970s disco platform shoes, making the whole thing look as ridiculous as it sounds.

Believe it or not, there's actually some science behind the joke.

Health experts have long said that squatting places the body in a more natural position for bowel movements. That's why squat-style toilet stools have become popular over the past several years. These platform shoes are simply a more... fashionable version of the same idea.

Apparently, people couldn't resist.

The first production run sold out quickly, and the company is now taking preorders for the next batch. If you're interested, they'll set you back about $70.

News Headlines: Middle East Tensions Rise, Michigan Election Season Begins, and Local Sports Changes

International tensions continue to escalate after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militia attacked two Saudi Arabian oil tankers in the Red Sea. The strikes followed the Houthis' declaration of a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, a move that current and former U.S. officials warn could significantly broaden the conflict involving the United States and Iran while placing additional strain on the U.S. military.

Meanwhile, the United States carried out its 12th consecutive night of airstrikes against Iran. U.S. officials say the latest attacks targeted military sites believed to support Tehran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the region.

President Trump Scheduled to Visit Michigan

President Donald Trump is expected to visit Oakland County on Monday for a campaign rally. The White House has not yet released additional details about the event.

The visit comes as Michigan's election season ramps up. Early voting begins Saturday and continues through August 2, ahead of the state's primary election on Tuesday, August 4.

Michigan voters will select party nominees for governor and an open U.S. Senate seat, along with several other races on the ballot.

Cyclospora Cases Continue to Climb

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have now surpassed 7,000 statewide.

As of July 17, health officials report that 102 people have been hospitalized with symptoms related to the parasite. Officials continue urging residents to follow food safety recommendations as the investigation continues.

Saginaw Spirit Coach Heads to Michigan

After eight seasons behind the bench, Saginaw Spirit head coach Chris Lazary is leaving the organization.

Lazary has accepted a position as associate head coach with the University of Michigan Wolverines, bringing an end to a successful run with the Spirit.

Sports Roundup

The Detroit Tigers defeated the Chicago Cubs 5-1, while the Great Lakes Loons snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-2 victory over the Lansing Lugnuts.

Mid-Michigan Weather

Expect sunshine today with a high around 79 degrees. Tonight will be mostly clear with a low near 56.

Looking ahead, Friday will be sunny with a high around 82, and Saturday continues the beautiful stretch with sunshine and highs in the mid-80s.

The penny may be on its way out, but getting rid of it has turned out to be a lot more complicated than just emptying your change jar.

When the federal government stopped producing pennies because they cost more than one cent each to make, many people wondered why it hadn't happened years ago. The answer? Once the penny disappears, a whole bunch of other issues pop up.

Cash Payments Are Getting Tricky

Without a steady supply of pennies, some businesses have started rounding cash purchases to the nearest nickel when making change.

For example:

• $19.82 would round down to $19.80
• $19.83 would round up to $19.85

The problem is that not every state allows businesses to do that.

Some states have laws requiring exact change or preventing businesses from charging different customers slightly different amounts, even if it's only a couple of pennies. That has created legal headaches for retailers.

Enter the "Common Cents Act"

Congress is now considering legislation called the Common Cents Act, which would allow businesses across the country to legally round cash transactions to the nearest five cents.

It's important to note that this would only affect cash purchases. If you're paying with a debit card, credit card, or mobile payment, you'd still be charged the exact amount.

Canada adopted a similar system more than a decade ago after eliminating its penny, and the transition was largely smooth.

Now the Nickel Has a Problem

As strange as it sounds, the penny isn't the only coin costing taxpayers money.

Last year, it cost nearly 14 cents to produce each nickel... a coin that's only worth five cents.

Yes, you read that right.

Because of that, lawmakers are also looking at ways to make nickels less expensive to produce.

Why Not Just Make Them Cheaper?

It isn't as easy as switching materials.

Nickels have to work in vending machines, parking meters, laundromats, arcade games, and coin-counting machines. Changing the size, weight, or metal composition too much could mean replacing or reprogramming millions of machines across the country.

For now, the proposed legislation simply calls for testing lower-cost versions of the nickel rather than making immediate changes.

What's Next?

The Common Cents Act has already passed the House of Representatives but still needs Senate approval before becoming law.

So don't toss those pennies just yet.

They may soon become a little piece of American history... and your old coin jar might suddenly feel a bit more nostalgic than valuable.

Social media has officially moved on from six-pack abs and sports cars.

Last week, guys were busy listing the things women do that instantly make them more attractive. Naturally, the internet fired back with the reverse question:

"What's a guy flex that instantly makes him more attractive?"

The answers? Let's just say... nobody mentioned bench pressing 400 pounds or owning a lifted truck with 37-inch tires.

Here are some of the biggest green flags women couldn't stop talking about.

 He Brings You a Snack Without Being Asked

Apparently, nothing says "relationship material" like showing up with your favorite drink because he remembered you were thirsty.

Who knew grabbing an extra bag of chips was basically romance?

 Dogs Like Him... and He Likes Them Back

Women agreed that seeing a guy gently pet a dog, cuddle a cat, or be great with kids is an instant attraction boost.

If a Golden Retriever chooses you... congratulations. You're apparently husband material.

 "I Don't Know."

Confidence is attractive.

Pretending to know everything? Not so much.

Being able to admit you're wrong or don't have the answer scored major points.

 The Guy Who's Always Prepared

Need jumper cables?
Phone charger?
Band-Aid?
Extra napkins?

The guy who quietly has everything ready somehow becomes the superhero of the group.

Basically... Dad Mode unlocked.

 Being Nice to Random People

Holding the door.
Thanking the cashier.
Being polite to waitstaff.

Turns out people notice how you treat strangers almost as much as how you treat them.

 Just... Fix It

One of the most popular responses?

A guy who can simply figure things out.

No dramatic speeches.

No YouTube tutorial playing at full volume for three hours.

Just..."I got it."

 Make Plans... Then Actually Show Up

Apparently, reliability is hotter than mystery.

Who would've guessed?

 Build Something

Furniture.
A deck.
A shelf.
A fire pit.

If it stands upright when you're done, your attractiveness apparently goes up about 37%.

 Remember the Little Things

One woman said her boyfriend remembers things she doesn't even remember telling him.

Favorite candy.
Big meeting at work.
The name of her childhood dog.

That's Hall of Fame boyfriend behavior.

 Play Guitar

The guitar stereotype is still alive.

No one said you have to be a rock star.

Just don't immediately play "Wonderwall."

 Don't Be a Professional Complainer

Confidence isn't loud.

Neither is happiness.

Women said one of the biggest green flags is a guy who doesn't spend every conversation complaining about everything.

 Forklift Certified

This might be the internet's favorite answer.

No explanation.

No context.

Just...

Forklift certified.

Somehow, that became one of the hottest qualities on the entire list.

Warehouse workers everywhere are having the greatest week of their lives.

So What's the Secret?

The overwhelming theme wasn't muscles, money, or showing off.

It was being thoughtful, dependable, kind, capable, and making life a little easier for the people around you.

Although... being forklift certified apparently doesn't hurt either.