Send new stories and press releases to JP at news@wgrt.com.

Local News

Summer Concert Series At The Plaza At McMorran Promises Fun-filled Evenings

The Plaza at McMorran is inviting music enthusiasts to kick off their 2024 Summer Concert Series with a bang! Offering live music, a splash pad, Casey’s on the Plaza bar, and delicious bites from the What The Fry food truck, attendees are guaranteed a fantastic time.

Guests can RSVP for a chance to win tickets to an upcoming theater show on the McMorran Place website, with the “BUY TICKETS” button serving as the RSVP option, and there’s no cost involved. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the performances.

The Los Gringos will take the stage on Friday, May 31st, from 7-10pm, followed by The Rhoedes on Saturday, June 1st, also from 7-10pm. Casey’s on the Plaza bar will be open from 6-10pm, ensuring refreshments are on hand for all.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Proclaims May As Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially declared May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in Michigan, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry and invaluable contributions of these communities. Emphasizing Michigan’s status as a beacon of opportunity, Governor Whitmer expressed appreciation for the state’s diverse populace.

Senator Stephanie Chang emphasized the importance of recognizing and honoring the challenges and achievements of AAPI individuals, citing legislative efforts to promote inclusivity and address key issues.

With AAPI Heritage Month commemorating significant historical milestones, including the immigration of the first Japanese individuals to the U.S. and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, the proclamation aims to celebrate the vibrant heritage and enduring legacy of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Michigan and beyond.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel Raises Awareness On Human Trafficking Signs And Resources

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is amplifying efforts to combat human trafficking by highlighting the signs of exploitation and available resources for both victims and community members. 

Nessel emphasized the pervasive nature of human trafficking, which ensnares individuals into labor, sex work, and domestic servitude through coercion and violence.

Human trafficking manifests in various forms, including forced labor and sexual exploitation, with victims often unaware of their predicament or how to seek assistance. Signs of trafficking, such as physical abuse, lack of control over personal documents, and fearfulness, may go unnoticed. 

Nessel urged vigilance, emphasizing the role of community members in recognizing and reporting suspicious activities to authorities, potentially saving lives. Awareness and action, she stressed, are critical in combating this heinous crime plaguing Michigan and the nation.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Par Pharmaceutical Recalls Blood Pressure Medication Over Silicone Particulate Concerns

Par Pharmaceutical, Inc. (Par) has initiated a voluntary recall of one lot of Treprostinil Injection 20mg/20mL (1mg/mL) due to potential silicone particulate contamination. 

The recall, aimed at the consumer level, comes as a precautionary measure against possible adverse effects. Injecting products with particulate matter may cause local irritation or swelling and, if particles enter the bloodstream, they can lead to serious complications such as stroke or organ damage. 

Although Par has not received any reports of adverse events linked to the affected lot (Lot 57014) thus far, the company is urging wholesale accounts and hospitals to cease use and distribution immediately. Par is coordinating the return of all inventory through Inmar, Inc., and advises those who have further distributed the recalled product to notify relevant accounts promptly.

For more details and information, visit: fda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Cargill Meat Solutions Recalls Over 16,000 Pounds Of Raw Ground Beef For E. coli Contamination

Cargill Meat Solutions is recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products over concerns of potential E. coli contamination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). 

The affected items, produced on April 26-27, were flagged by the establishment after discovering that previously segregated product had been mistakenly incorporated into the ground beef production.

While there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions linked to the consumption of these products, individuals are advised to contact a healthcare provider if concerned about illness. E. coli can lead to severe symptoms such as dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

FSIS urges consumers to check their refrigerators or freezers for the recalled products and advises against consumption. Items should be disposed of or returned to the place of purchase.

For more information, visit: fsis.usda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Campaign For Disability Employment Highlights Workplace Mental Health Support For Mental Health Awareness Month

As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, this month-long observance aims to destigmatize mental illness and celebrate recovery. The Campaign for Disability Employment (CDE) amplifies the significance of mental wellness in the workplace with its informative PSA, “Mental Health at Work: What Can I Do?.” 

The PSA showcases diverse perspectives, including a CEO, manager, co-worker, and individual with a mental health condition, illustrating strategies to foster workplace wellbeing. From fostering inclusivity to offering and seeking assistance, their insights underscore the collective benefit of supportive work environments.

The CDE’s online toolkit complements the PSA, providing a wealth of resources for individuals and organizations alike to champion mental health in the workplace. 

For those willing to promote a culture of support, visit: whatcanyoudocampaign.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell