Latest news with #Michiganders
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Michigan offers several license plate choices. Many drivers keep things basic
Michigan has added new license plate styles in recent years, bringing back throwback plates from the 1960s — and letting Michiganders celebrate their favorite colleges. Despite the variety of options, the most popular license plate among Michiganders remains the "Pure Michigan plate," with 794,971 plates issued in 2024, according to the Secretary of State's office — outselling the other three state-themed options combined. The plate, originally introduced in 2013, is Michigan's standard license plate. Specialty plates typically cost more to place on a vehicle. There are about 8.6 million vehicles registered in Michigan, the Department of Transportation said. Here's a breakdown of each license plate in Michigan and their costs: The Mackinac Bridge plate showcases one of Michigan's most recognized landmarks. The bridge is featured in the center of the plate, with a yellow sunset creating a silhouette. Drivers requested 200,996 Mackinac bridge plates in 2024. The Water-Winter Wonderland plate allows Michigan drivers to celebrate the state's seasons. Drivers requested 348,964 plates in 2024. First issued in 1965, and re-issued at the beginning of 2021, it has a maize-and-blue design, similar to University of Michigan's colors. The Water Wonderland plate, originally issued in 1954, celebrates Michigan's rich heritage of tourism, lakes and waterways. The plate with the green-and white-design draws comparisons to Michigan State University's colors. Drivers requested 149,511 of these plates in 2024. The specialty plates cost an additional $5. The new throwback plates already had brought in more than $6 million in additional revenue for the state by mid-2024. In addition to the fee for a new plate, and the additional fee for one of the specialty plates, there is a $30 fee to request a new personalized plate, or a $15 fee to renew a personalized plate. The state offers options for special-cause plates. They cost $35 each, plus other fees, with $25 going to the organization. There are 15 different university plates available, 30 military or veterans plates and six for special organizations. Jalen Williams is a trending reporter at the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at jawilliams1@ Lansing State Journal reporter Matt Mencarini contributed reporting. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 'Pure Michigan' is state's most popular license plate, officials say
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Most of Michigan faces extreme heat watch; life-threatening currents expected in Lake Michigan
After a slew of thunderstorms earlier this week, Michiganders can expect hot weather and life threatening waters this weekend, June 21-22, according to National Weather Service (NWS) offices across the state. A heat wave is expected to hit southeast Michigan this weekend and early next week, according to the NWS Detroit office, with some areas reaching 90 degrees. "Warm muggy nights with lows only in the 70s will not provide much relief from the heat," a post from the NWS office in Detroit said. An extreme heat watch is in effect from Saturday morning through Tuesday evening, presenting hazardous conditions for those engaged in outdoor activity, the weather service said. Additionally, scattered thunderstorms are possible Friday and early Saturday morning with wind gusts up to 50 mph with heavy rain, according to a post on X. Here's what else the National Weather Service is saying about this weekend's forecast in Michigan: Planning to head to the U.P. to escape warm temps? You may not be successful, as a hot and humid weekend is expected in areas near Marquette, the NWS office in Marquette said. "We've a hot and humid weekend coming. Daytime temperatures in the 80s and 90s are expected Saturday through Monday while temperatures only cooling into the 60s and 70s each night," the local NWS office said in a statement. "Those sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling and/or hydration, may be impacted." More: Heading to the UP? What to expect at Mackinac Bridge: traffic cams, weather, construction Additionally, strong to severe storms are expected Friday night in the U.P. from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m., with damaging winds and large hail, a report shows. "A high swim risk is in place for many Lake Michigan beaches on Saturday as waves of 3-6 feet and life-threatening rip currents are expected at times through Saturday afternoon," the NWS office in Gaylord said in a report. Lake Huron also faces moderate risk Saturday and Sunday. Like most of the state, very hot humid weather is expected Sunday through Monday, with temperatures climbing into the 90s and low 100s during the afternoon. Storms tracking west to east may also potentially bring severe weather to the area early Saturday morning and early Saturday afternoon, with damaging winds, large hail and frequent lightning. Temperatures are expected to reach the 90s over the weekend and remain high through the first half of next week, a post from the NWS office in Grand Rapids said, while overnight lows may remain in the 70s. Tweets by NWSGrandRapids "Unfortunately, the warm and humid beach weather this weekend will clash with dangerous swimming conditions due to large waves and strong currents. Stay cool, but stay out of Lake Michigan both Saturday and Sunday," the local weather service said in a statement. Additionally, storms from northern Michigan early Saturday morning could extend south and affect central lower Michigan, bringing strong wind gusts and large hail to a few spots, according to the NWS. Per the American Red Cross and the World Health Organization. Here are some tips to keep in mind: Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive amounts of sugary drinks, caffeine or alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration. Dress cool: Wear loose-fitting and light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can also provide additional protection from the sun. Sweet dreams: Sleep with light, loose-fitting bed linens. Avoid rays: Limit your exposure to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) to reduce your risk of sunburn and overheating. Lather up: Apply sunscreen before heading out. Catch a breeze: Turn on fans or air conditioning to cool down indoor spaces. Rinse off: Refresh yourself with cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Use a damp cloth, spray bottle or wet clothes to wet your skin. Take a break: Avoid strenuous activities to minimize physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. Stay alert: Pay attention to weather forecasts and heat advisories. Be aware of any heat warnings in your area and take necessary precautions. Look out for others: If possible, check on elderly neighbors, young children and people with health conditions who may be more susceptible to heat-related issues. Jalen Williams is a trending reporter at the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at jawilliams1@ This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: How hot will it be in Michigan this weekend?
The Hill
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Hill
Sanders backs progressive challenger to Thanedar
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has declared his support for a progressive primary challenger to Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), his first primary endorsement against an incumbent for the upcoming cycle. Sanders announced his support for Michigan state Rep. Donavan McKinney (D) on Tuesday, giving him his second congressional endorsement after Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) endorsed him last month. Sanders said in a statement that McKinney understands the struggles that working class communities are facing in Detroit and across the country because he's experienced them himself. 'A former union leader, he has dedicated his life to standing with working people, and is ready to lead the struggle against Donald Trump, the oligarchy, and the corporate interests who prioritize profits over people,' Sanders said. 'I'm urging all Michiganders to join me in supporting Donavan's campaign.' Progressives are targeting Thanedar after he fended off a primary challenge last year despite facing heightened scrutiny from the left. But they're hoping to be successful this time in Michigan's 13th Congressional District. McKinney has gone after Thanedar over his significant wealth and is seeking to depict him as an out-of-touch millionaire. He compared the two-term congressman to President Trump and Elon Musk in his campaign launch video and slammed the large amounts of money he lent himself during his last campaign. 'Senator Sanders has long been a progressive champion for working class Americans, and I am honored to receive his endorsement,' McKinney said in a statement. 'His political courage and his commitment to doing the right thing — even when it's unpopular, even when it's hard, even if he's alone — are a true inspiration to me, as is his commitment to fighting for a more just, more equal America.' Thanedar initially ran as a progressive for his House seat in 2022 but has faced attacks from the left over his self-funding and other issues. He's maintained that he hasn't changed politically and remains popular in his district. McKinney has also received support from the progressive group Justice Democrats.
Axios
5 days ago
- Business
- Axios
Michigan diners tip more than average
Michiganders tip a little more than average, new data shows. Why it matters: Tipping is an essential aspect of American commerce that has developed its own culture around personal habits and opinions. Many restaurant workers rely on tips to make ends meet. By the numbers: Michigan diners leave 20% on average, more than the national average of 18.8%, per Toast's latest restaurant trends report. Zoom out: Delaware, West Virginia and New Hampshire are home to America's best tippers, with diners leaving nearly 21% or better on average. At the other end are California and Washington state, where average tips run under 18%. The intrigue: At full-service restaurants, average nationwide tips rose from 19.3% in Q4 2024 to 19.4% in Q1 2025.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Michiganders are returning fewer bottles and cans. Why?
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The value of a dime doesn't stretch as far as it did in 1976 when the state's bottle deposit law was initiated, but for many Michiganders, returning beverage containers to get their 10 cents back sure adds up. 'I don't want to throw my pennies and dimes away,' Grand Rapids resident Mildred Griffin said. 'The cost of living is so high right now. You would be a fool to throw away 10 cents.' For Griffin, returning bottles and cans is a way of life. She said it's like getting paid to recycle. She was surprised to learn that fewer people are turning in their bottles to get that dime back. Statewide return rates have fallen to their lowest point. In 2024, just over 70% of bottles and cans were returned. Workers at a number of local markets told News 8 they have seen fewer returns in recent years. At Kingma's Market in Grand Rapids, owner Alan Hartline said the redemption process adds complications to store owners. He said the process, from collecting to sorting, is in serious need of an update. 'It really taxes the supply chain and adds a lot of cost to it for businesses,' he said, 'I think there can be a better way to facilitate it. It should be earth friendly, but perhaps to do it without the cost and as many hoops as the current process today.' Sen. Sean McCann, D-Kalamazoo, also believes there's a need for change, including an expansion. 'Even though we've come off our highs, habits have changed, there's a real ability to still improve our system and make it get better,' he said. McCann reintroduced a bill to modify the bottle return law to include other containers, primarily plastic water bottles. 'I think it's terrible that we have over 2 billion plastic water bottles that don't necessarily get recycled and often get landfilled and are not eligible for the deposit,' he said. He's also pushing for bottles and cans to be returnable anywhere — not just at chains that carry the brands being returned. He said that is part of the reason the rates are dropping. 'Part of the bugaboo is a universal redemption,' he said. 'You buy something at one store (but) you can't take it back to the other store.' For McCann, the goal is to get the issue on the ballot and let the citizens decide. 'This is not something worth giving up on for me,' he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
