Choze Powell

Governor Gretchen Whitmer Calls On Michiganders To Participate In Turkey Naming Contest

UPDATE: Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the winner of the turkey pardon naming contest. This week, a turkey named Dolly Pardon will be pardoned before Thanksgiving. The winning name, submitted by Jay Kozlowski of West Bloomfield, was selected from more than 3,900 entries in the statewide contest announced last week. This is the second turkey pardoned since the governor took office.  In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has invited citizens to participate in a special turkey naming contest. This marks her second turkey pardon since taking office, and she’s seeking the help of Michiganders to christen the lucky bird.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Governor Whitmer encouraged people of all ages to submit creative name suggestions for the soon-to-be-pardoned turkey. The contest is open to all, and there’s no limit to the number of name ideas one can propose.

“My fellow Michiganders, Thanksgiving is a time for family and gratitude,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m thankful for all of you and look forward to seeing your creative suggestions.”

Submissions for the turkey’s name can be made until Friday, November 17th, at noon. The winning name will be announced on Monday, November 20th. 

For more information, visit: forms.leo.state.mi.us/govoffice/turkey-naming/.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

A Look At Michigan’s Legislative Changes In 2023, Touching On Workers’ Rights, Gun Control, Clean Energy, And Tax Reforms

Michigan witnessed significant legislative shifts in 2023, with ten notable laws reshaping the state’s landscape. 

Democrats took the lead in dismantling the ‘right-to-work’ law, allowing unions more power, while gun control measures were implemented in response to recent mass shootings. Clean energy mandates were introduced, aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2040. Abortion-related laws were revised, including the repeal of a 1931 abortion ban and the elimination of restrictive regulations on abortion providers. 

In addition, civil rights expanded to protect LGBTQ individuals under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. Financial transparency increased with officials required to disclose personal finances. Voting rights were enhanced, providing more options for Michigan voters. Additionally, tax reforms included pension income exemptions and an increased Earned Income Tax Credit match for families, reflecting a comprehensive year of legislative change.

For detailed information, visit: legislature.mi.gov

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Pine Grove Park Gears Up For Dazzling Winter Celebration

Pine Grove Park is poised to become a radiant winter wonderland, as over 30 local businesses and organizations join forces to illuminate the park with life-size outdoor holiday displays. From November 22nd to January 2nd, visitors can stroll or drive through the park between 5 -10 p.m. to marvel at the enchanting exhibits.

The Winter Celebration, an annual tradition, owes its brilliance to dedicated volunteers who return each year to contribute unique displays. This year, a 40-foot lighted tree, generously gifted by the Port Huron Downtown Development Authority, will tower over the festive scene.

Exciting additions include a one-night opportunity for children to meet Santa Claus and Pixie Glitter Flake on December 16th, along with Liquid Gold offering concessions on select days, featuring hot cider, hot chocolate, and donuts. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Kimball’s Brand Source Transforms Black Friday Into Giving Weekend, Supporting Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center

Kimball Appliance, located at 945 Lapeer Avenue, Port Huron is turning the hustle of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday into a weekend of generosity. This year, the event is dedicated to the Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center (BWROC), a vital support for those on the path to recovery from addiction. 

Kimball Appliance will be featuring store-wide discounts on appliances, mattresses, furniture, and more all at the lowest prices of the year. Importantly, 10% of the proceeds will be directed towards BWROC. 

Shoppers are encouraged to join the cause on November 24th or 25th, backing the local connection to recovery. Kimball Appliance also welcomes donations to further support the initiative.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

International Fraud Awareness Week Prompts Vigilance Against Scams, Unveils Protective Measures

As International Fraud Awareness Week unfolds from November 12th – 18th, global attention turns to combating prevalent scams with practical safeguards. To shield against financial scams, experts advocate critical steps for consumers. 

Caution reigns supreme—think twice before clicking any link or downloading attachments, especially in emails or on websites, even from familiar sources. Public Wi-Fi users are urged to exercise extra caution. Slow down to thwart scammers who exploit panic; breathe before responding to threatening calls demanding immediate payments.

Seek opinions from trusted contacts on suspicious transactions or emails. Research proves paramount; a quick online check can unveil a company’s reputation. Enlist in the National Do Not Call Registry to fend off telemarketers, and safeguard personal information zealously. 

International Fraud Awareness Week inspires global resilience against evolving scams, reinforcing the public’s armor against fraudsters.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Faces Surge In Deer-Involved Crashes

Michigan has witnessed a concerning rise in deer-related accidents, reaching the highest count in a decade, with 58,984 incidents reported in 2022—a 13% increase from the previous year. 

As firearm deer season kicks off, there is a call for heightened driver awareness, particularly during dawn and dusk when deer activity peaks. November, 2022 has been cited as the worst month with 10,923 crashes. Kent County leads the list with 2,250 reported incidents. 

Safety tips to avoid deer-related accidents include watching for deer, especially at dawn and dusk, when they are most active. If you see one deer, approach cautiously, as there may be more out of sight. Slow down when traveling through deer-populated areas, and always wear your seat belt. If a crash with a deer is unavoidable, brake firmly, hold onto the steering wheel with both hands, come to a controlled stop and then proceed to steer your vehicle off the roadway.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell