Choze Powell

State Rep. Beeler Challenges Attorney General’s “Baseless” Tax Cut Opinion In Lawsuit

State Representative Andrew Beeler, R-Port Huron, has taken a stand against what he calls a “baseless opinion” by the attorney general regarding the expiration of a new income tax cut in Michigan. 

In response to a lawsuit challenging this opinion, Beeler stated that the attorney general’s move to suggest that the tax cut will expire after 2023 is a manipulation of the law. He asserted that Michigan courts should intervene to uphold the permanent nature of the tax cut.

Despite opposition from Democrats, Beeler and fellow legislative Republicans successfully implemented the income tax cut earlier this year, benefiting Michiganders and small businesses. However, Attorney General Dana Nessel’s interpretation in March, which contradicted the legislative intent, history, and language of the law, indicated that the tax cut would only remain in effect for a single year, potentially raising the income tax rate in January.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Crime Surge Prompts Joint Effort By Law Enforcement To Combat Vehicle Thefts In Blue Water Area

The Blue Water Area has been grappling with a surge in thefts from vehicles as well as stolen vehicles, prompting a united response from local law enforcement agencies. 

Over the past two weeks, the Port Huron Police Department Road Patrol, Detective Bureau, Port Huron Major Crimes Unit, and the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department have collaborated to make multiple arrests linked to this disturbing trend.

To thwart these incidents, officials advise adopting preventive measures:

  • Lock It Up: Even brief absences require locking vehicles, as leaving them unlocked has been a key factor in recent crimes.
  • Hide Valuables: Keep valuables out of sight to discourage thieves enticed by easy targets.
  • Park Smart: Opt for well-lit areas near surveillance or homes for added deterrence.
  • Install Security Measures: Motion-sensor lights and alarms bolster security.
  • Report Suspicious Activity: Notify authorities of unusual behavior immediately.
  • Community Watch: Strengthening community ties enhances collective vigilance.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Federal Lawsuit Challenges Michigan’s Drone Statute’s Impact On Game Recovery

A federal lawsuit has been initiated to challenge a Michigan statute that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has interpreted as a prohibition on using drones for locating downed game. The law, commonly referred to as the “Drone Statute,” was enacted in 2015 to ban drone-assisted “hunting.” The DNR’s interpretation includes the use of drones to locate already downed game, even after the hunter has stored their weapons.

Mike Yoder, the founder of Drone Deer Recovery Media, Inc., which assists hunters in locating downed game through drone technology, is at the center of the legal battle. The lawsuit argues that this use of drones is environmentally less intrusive and more humane compared to alternatives like tracking dogs or trail cameras.

The case, titled Yoder and DDR Media, Inc. v Lott, has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

BWROC Spurs Community Action Against Addiction With Telethon Initiative

As the world prepares for International Overdose Awareness Day, the persistence of addiction and drug overdose issues within our community looms large. The Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center (BWROC) has been combating this crisis, and fostering recovery for half a decade.

In a bid to expand their impact, BWROC announces an ambitious initiative: an all-day telethon on August 31st. The event aims to secure 100 “Partners in Recovery” by September’s close, coinciding with National Recovery Month. A rallying cry is extended to citizens, urging contributions of $25 or more per month to sustain and amplify BWROC’s life-saving efforts.

A special incentive awaits: each new monthly “Partner in Recovery” registered in August qualifies for a chance to win a Dinner for Two at Texas Roadhouse. The excitement culminates in a live drawing on BWROC’s Facebook page at 7:45pm on August 31st. 

For more information, visit: bwroc.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

U.S. Supreme Court To Weigh Constitutionality Of Government Officials Blocking Critics On Social Media

A Michigan case poised for consideration by the U.S. Supreme Court delves into the constitutional boundaries of government officials’ actions on personal social media accounts. The pivotal question revolves around whether it violates the First Amendment for an official to delete comments or block critics on such platforms.

Parties involved in the case, along with interested groups, have submitted briefs to the U.S. Supreme Court, urging the establishment of a clear standard for public officials’ social media use. The heart of the matter is determining whether such actions qualify as “state action.” 

The dispute originated during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when Port Huron resident Kevin Lindke criticized City Manager James Freed’s handling of the crisis on Freed’s Facebook page. Freed’s subsequent deletion of comments and blockage prompted Lindke to sue, alleging a violation of his First Amendment rights.

For case details, visit: supremecourt.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Special Olympics Parent Meeting In St. Clair County To Unveil Exciting Opportunities For Athletes

An informative Special Olympics parent meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27th, at 6:30 p.m. in Grieg Park, located at 795 N Carney Dr, St. Clair. The event, hosted by Blue Water Connection, aims to introduce remarkable athletic prospects for individuals aged 8 and up in St. Clair County.

Aspiring athletes, parents, and guardians are encouraged to attend and discover the diverse range of Special Olympics activities available. With an emphasis on fostering inclusivity and sportsmanship, this meeting will explore the countless benefits that participation in Special Olympics can bring such as building a stronger community and empowering individuals through athletics.

To secure a spot, participants are requested to register in advance. 

You can register by sending an email to: bluewaterconnectionsomi@gmail.org, or by texting (810) 434-0257. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell