Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Announces $13 Million For Affordable Housing Projects Across Michigan

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, in collaboration with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), has unveiled a substantial boost to affordable housing initiatives. 

Over $13 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) have been designated to propel the development or rejuvenation of 500 prospective homes across ten affordable housing projects, spanning from Marquette to Detroit. The cumulative investment is over $173 million and is projected to yield over 30 permanent job opportunities alongside more than 800 temporary positions.

Governor Whitmer underscored the pivotal role of accessible housing in Michigan’s comprehensive strategy to enhance communities and foster economic growth. By embracing this multi-faceted approach, the state aims to meet its ambitious objective of constructing or revamping 75,000 housing units within a five-year timeframe. 

This latest funding cycle will facilitate the establishment or preservation of 543 rental units, bolstering Michigan’s commitment to a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Boat Show And MI New Favorite Snack Competition Set To Entertain Blue Water Area

Prepare for a weekend of boats and delectable treats as the Port Huron Boat the Blue Antique & Classic Boat Show unfolds on September 8th and 9th. Hosted at the James C. Acheson/River Street Marina, the event promises a display of exquisite boats against the picturesque backdrop of downtown Port Huron.

Visitors can explore an array of boats on display while enjoying the beer tent, music from The Cabana Boys, food, and other activities, such as free boat rides, and more. 

The MI New Favorite Snack Competition, will also unfold on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the McMorran Place Plaza. With over 20 snack vendors from Michigan offering free samples and pre-packaged delights for purchase, attendees are in for a taste bud treat. 

Entry is $10 per person, and advance tickets/wristbands can be purchased through the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce website.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Education Trust Encourages Parents To Secure Future College Tuition At Today’s Prices

As back-to-school fever sweeps the nation, the Michigan Education Trust (MET) urges parents to think ahead and invest in their children’s higher education. MET allows families to lock in tomorrow’s college tuition at today’s rates, shielding them from future spikes in costs. 

MET’s Executive Director, Diane Brewer, emphasizes the significance of long-term planning, suggesting parents shift their focus from immediate school supplies to the enduring value of education.

Since its inception in 1988, MET has assisted numerous families in preparing for educational expenses. MET empowers families to combat mounting student debt by providing a head start in alleviating the financial burden associated with higher education.

With a Pay-As-You-Go plan, once the plan is opened, contributions can be as low as $25. MET’s tax advantages sweeten the deal, as distributions for qualified expenses remain untaxed, while Michigan residents can claim state tax deductions on contributions. 

For more information, visit: michigan.gov/setwithmet.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Marysville Hot Wheels Weekend Is Revving Up For A Good Time

The eagerly anticipated Marysville Hot Wheels Weekend is gearing up to roll into town August 25th and 26th, courtesy of the Marysville Business Council.

With an impressive 4000 attendees visiting throughout the course of the event, it promises an experience that’s not to be missed.

This event isn’t just a run-of-the-mill car show; it’s a thrilling homage to the American Car Culture. Attendees can expect a variety of classic and modern cars, complemented by the electric vibes of live rockabilly and surf music performed by national talents.

The excitement doesn’t stop there, a drive-in movie and a Pin-Up girl contest will add a dash of retro flair. The Marysville Hot Wheels Weekend is set to ignite engines and bring a dynamic celebration to all car aficionados and culture enthusiasts.

For more information, visit: marysvillehotwheelsweekend.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MDHHS Updates 2023 Eat Safe Fish Guides: Ensuring Healthy Choices For Michigan Fish Consumers

In a bid to promote healthy eating choices and protect public well-being, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has unveiled its updated Eat Safe Fish Guides for 2023. 

The recommendations are grounded in analysis of chemical levels present in the edible portions of fish, primarily the filets. Leveraging data from the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories, these guidelines facilitate informed decisions about long-term fish consumption.

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS Chief Medical Executive, emphasized the significance of fish consumption for health, adding, “Eat Safe Fish Guides help individuals choose the fish that are best for them and their families.”

The guides address global concerns regarding chemicals in fish, notably mercury and PCBs. Additionally, substances like perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and per, and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have spurred guidelines specific to certain Michigan water bodies, ensuring consumer safety.

For an in-depth look at what areas are affected, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Urges Municipalities To Join Walgreens Opioids Settlement, Offering $338 Million In Aid

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is rallying eligible municipalities to opt into the Walgreens National Opioids Settlement, a move that could channel a substantial $338 million into the state over an 18-year period. The call to action comes ahead of the participation cutoff on Wednesday, September 6th.

Under this groundbreaking settlement, local governments have the chance to receive direct payments, providing vital resources for combating the devastating Opioid crisis. The agreement stems from a $338 million settlement between Attorney General Nessel and Walgreens, reached in June, addressing the pharmacy giant’s alleged role in Michigan’s Opioid epidemic.

Speaking on the initiative, Nessel emphasized, “This settlement puts Opioid remediation dollars directly into affected communities all across Michigan to combat the devastating Opioid epidemic, but only if the local governments sign-on to participate.”

For more information, visit: nationalopiodsettlement.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell