Influenza cases are rising in Michigan, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Insights into this year’s flu season are among five key stories to start your Wednesday, January 7. Michigan has reached a “very high” status for flu-like illness activity as of the week ending December 27, with 18 states, including Michigan, reporting similar high levels.
In a separate event, Jessica Plichta, a 22-year-old protester, was arrested on January 3 during a demonstration in downtown Grand Rapids against U.S. actions in Venezuela. Notably, her arrest occurred while she was being interviewed by WZZM, leading to quite a spectacle as police approached her on camera. She was later taken to Kent County Jail but has since been released.
Meanwhile, former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running for governor as an independent candidate, having left the Democratic Party. His campaign focuses on reaching out to voters outside Detroit, particularly those in rural areas who feel overlooked. Duggan intends to address their concerns, much like he did when he was mayor.
Also of note, a lawsuit challenging Michigan’s recently enacted 24% wholesale marijuana tax is moving forward. This tax, effective January 1, has been criticized by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association and other businesses, who argue that it contradicts the intent of the 2018 Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act. Initially designed to raise $420 million for road projects under Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the tax received bipartisan support.
In sports, the Detroit Lions concluded their season with a 19-16 victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 18. Head Coach Dan Campbell expressed heartfelt gratitude for his team’s strong performance, highlighting their resilience even without playoff hopes.
