Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Supports Bad River Tribe’s Lawsuit Against Enbridge Over Line 5 Pipeline

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is once again stepping up to support the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians in their ongoing legal battle against Enbridge Energy Co. The Band’s lawsuit seeks the removal of Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline from its Reservation land, citing the looming threat of ecological disaster.

The federal court in Wisconsin ruled in favor of the Tribe, ordering Enbridge to shut down or reroute Line 5 within three years, pay over $5 million to the Band, and establish an erosion-triggered shutdown plan.

Both Enbridge and the Bad River Band have appealed the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit, with the Tribe arguing that more action is needed to protect against a potential oil spill. Nessel has now filed a brief in support of the Tribe’s appeal.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Suzanne’s Boutique Presents Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser For ThumbCoast Theaters

Prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of style and elegance as Suzanne’s Boutique hosts its highly-anticipated Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser. 

With the gracious support of esteemed vendors HERS Boutique, Tru Blue Boutique, and Blackbird Home Goods, this event promises a remarkable fusion of fashion and philanthropy.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 4th, at 11:30 am, at the exquisite St. Clair Golf Club on 1714 River Road. Guests will indulge in a visual feast of the latest fashion trends from Suzanne’s Boutique, all while enjoying a delicious luncheon.

Tickets are available for $45, with the funds raised going to benefit ThumbCoast Theaters. To secure your spot, call (586) 255-0498 or (810) 364-5422. Get ready to dazzle and make a difference in style.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Empowering Young Artists: Mentorship Program Offers A Path To Success

New Century Art Gallery is pleased to announce its 2023/24 Young Artist Mentorship Program, aimed at nurturing the talents of 8th to 12th grade students passionate about the world of art. The program offers a unique opportunity for budding artists to gain valuable insights and skills over an 8-month period.

Selected students will meet monthly to develop their own art exhibitions while delving into the intricacies of the art business. The program covers various aspects of the art world, including exhibition planning, pricing artwork, approaching galleries, self-promotion, and more.

The mentorship program not only equips young artists with essential skills but also provides each participant with a $100 stipend to support their art supplies. Interested students have until November 1st, to submit their applications.

If interested, email Jeanne Burris Johnson at: jeanne@newcenturyartgallery.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Rite Aid Files For Bankruptcy, Set To Close Hundreds Of Stores Amid Industry Challenges

In a significant development in the retail pharmacy sector, Rite Aid, the third-largest standalone pharmacy chain, filed for bankruptcy on Sunday, signaling the closure of approximately 400 to 500 of its 2,200 stores.

The $3.3 billion debt load and costly legal battles related to the opioid crisis further increased the company’s financial woes.

The pharmacy landscape is facing a broader crisis, with Walgreens pharmacists and technicians staging walkouts across the country, and CVS stores in Kansas City experiencing similar unrest due to low pay and understaffed stores.

Declining profits from prescription drug sales, driven by lower reimbursement rates, and pressure on front-end sales due to competition from Amazon, Walmart, and Dollar General, have made the industry a challenging space for established players like CVS, Walgreens, and now, Rite Aid.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Thumb Food Policy Council Welcomes Heather Bearden And Dena Ellis As New Board Members

The Thumb Food Policy Council has expanded its leadership team with the addition of two new members, Heather Bearden and Dena Ellis.

Heather Bearden, who currently serves as the Regional Outreach Manager at the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, brings a wealth of experience in food security and outreach. Her expertise will be invaluable in the council’s mission to address food insecurity in Thumb counties.

Dena Ellis, a Purchasing Representative at SEMCO Energy, joins the council with a strong background in procurement, contributing her skills to ensure the efficient distribution of resources to those in need.

The Thumb Food Policy Council, a collaborative effort encompassing Tuscola and Huron counties, is actively working to engage more voices from Thumb counties to combat food insecurity. The council’s efforts extend to residents of Huron, Tuscola, Sanilac, St. Clair, and Lapeer counties.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Salvation Army Opens 2023 Christmas Assistance Registration For Local Families

The Salvation Army is extending a helping hand to local families in need this holiday season with the commencement of their 2023 Christmas Assistance Registration. 

From October 16th to November 3rd, Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., at 2000 Court St, Port Huron, individuals and families can register to receive Christmas assistance.

During the registration process, applicants are required to provide vital information, including their name, address, phone number, birthdate, and the last four digits of their social security number. 

Additionally, email addresses should be shared, along with the names, and number of children in the household. Details about children in the household, including sizes and gift interests, are also necessary. Lastly, applicants must disclose their household’s income.

The Salvation Army’s Christmas Assistance Program aims to spread the joy of the holiday season by providing support to those facing financial challenges.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell