Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of July.
Good morning, Flint.
Fenton Township is seeking volunteers for a U.S. 23 median cleanup and asks residents to submit their available dates via an online survey, by calling 810-629-1537, or at the township office (12060 Mantawauka Drive).
The finalized schedule will provide details on meeting location and safety.
Genesee County's Bark Bus offers dogs new adventures from their homes via trips to play yards and hiking trails.
Owner (Autumn Hanson) launched the service after a hospice career and now helps dogs build confidence with regular outings.
Students in the LatinX summer stem program are building go karts with help from U of M Flint engineering students and UAW Local 598 to race on Lewis Street in Flint on July 31 — featuring pit stop, braking, and acceleration competitions.
Genesee County is set to intervene in the planned Otisville Solar Project on over 2,000 acres in Thetford and Forest townships when the Board meets next week — this move lets officials submit evidence and challenge the developer's 125-MW plan while accepting $50k to hire legal counsel.
On Wednesday, the City of Flint Office of Public Health and Genesee Health System hosted a suicide prevention workshop for faith leaders at a local church, equipping them with tools to support mental health — the program helps identify those struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.
The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan cancelled mobile food distributions on Thursday due to poor air quality, affecting sites across Genesee County including Flint + nearby areas.
Recipients are advised to check for updates on when distributions may be rescheduled.
As wildfire smoke thickens mid-Michigan, HVAC technician Alex Grider of Davison Home Services says homeowners should check their air filters (MERV ratings) to improve indoor air quality.
He advises that using higher-rated filters can better capture tiny particulates as more people stay indoors.
Medical experts warn that Canadian wildfire smoke is reducing air quality to hazardous levels and urge Flint residents to stay indoors or wear masks if going outside (they advise checking the Air Quality Index).
Outdoor sports groups are adding medical support to safeguard participants.
Investigators have linked Taylor Farms' shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell restaurants — a potential source of a cyclosporiasis outbreak that sickened 4,312 people with over 100 hospitalizations in Michigan.
MDHHS urges anyone with gastrointestinal symptoms to seek medical help and follow safe food practices.
2026 Really Cool Comic Con
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Dort Financial Center — Cost info not provided — Explore a world of comics, cosplay, and creativity at this exciting convention.
Local Fest IV
4-10 p.m. — Flint Local 432 — Free entry — Celebrate the creativity of local musicians, artists, and innovators in Flint.
Micro Wrestling Event
7-9 p.m. — Tenacity Brewing — Tickets include service fees — Enjoy a night of high-flying entertainment featuring micro-wrestling stars.
Day Out With Thomas: Lets Rock, Lets Roll Tour
9 AM – 5 PM — Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad — All Ages Welcome — Experience a fun-filled day with Thomas & Friends in a rocking railroad adventure.
Blackberry Smoke 25th Anniversary Tour
7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Machine Shop Concert Lounge — Must be 18 to attend — Celebrate 25 years of Blackberry Smoke with a night of southern rock vibes.
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