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Local News

Infrastructure Improvements Make Downtown Detroit Safer, More Accessible

New pedestrian infrastructure upgrades are planned to make downtown Detroit safer and more accessible for residents and visitors.

The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) was awarded a $2 million MSF performance-based grant that will improve areas such as, fence posts to cordon specific areas, safety barricades that will protect pedestrians from traffic and events, as well as five pedestrian bridges over high traffic streets.

Eric B. Larson, DDP’s CEO says, “This is an opportunity to improve existing infrastructure and test new interventions as we improve access, connectivity and mobility that can be leveraged for a variety of events including the Detroit Grand Prix’s move Downtown.”  

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Safety Tips For Deep Frying Turkey This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is approaching, and with it comes the delicious dinners that many of us look forward to. Fresh baked rolls, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and of course turkey.

While many will go the traditional route in preparing their turkey this year by putting it in the oven, others may be thinking of trying something new, such as frying their turkey. Before you get the oil fired up and ready, make sure you follow these safety tips to keep you and your family safe.

  • Don’t fry indoors or near any objects that may catch fire, do not fry your turkey on a wooden porch or deck.
  • Always fry on a flat surface to avoid tipping.
  • Only fry your turkey after it has been thawed and dried. Never fry a stuffed turkey.
  • Be sure to monitor the temperature consistently. 
  • Make sure you have the proper tools to move your turkey, safety goggles and a fire extinguisher should be nearby as well.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Food Safety Tips For The Holidays

With Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner, families will be gathering to celebrate. Food is a big part of the holiday festivities, so to make sure everyone has an enjoyable time without any foodborne illnesses, here are a few tips to keep your family meals safe.

  • Make sure that all food and utensils are properly cleaned and sanitized
  • Be sure to keep foods and utensils separate from each other if they have been exposed to raw meats or blood.
  • Cook and heat food to the proper temperatures to kill any bacteria that may be lurking.
  • After food is prepared, be sure to cover and refrigerate foods quickly.

Symptoms of foodborne illness include vomiting, diarrhea, and flu-like symptoms. If you or your family show signs of any of these symptoms after or during dinner, be sure to contact your local physician or medical facility. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Rep. Beeler Elected Assistant Republican Leader

State Rep. Andrew Beeler of Port Huron, will be the assistant Republican leader in the Michigan House of Representatives during the 2023-2024 term which begins in January. 

Duties that Beeler will be required to undertake include developing core policy initiatives of the caucus as well as opposing harmful proposals pushed by Gov. Whitmer and the House Democrats. On Tuesday, Beeler was elected to his second term in the House, where he will represent the new 64th District, which includes parts of St. Clair and Sanilac counties. 

Upon receiving the news, Beeler had this to say, “I’m grateful to my colleagues for entrusting me to help lead our caucus as we stand up for the people of Michigan and fight the governor’s extreme agenda in the years ahead.”  

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Schools Receive Robotics Funding

The opportunity for our children to learn new and cutting edge technology is critical in today’s day and age. Port Huron Schools are now able to continue their robotics program with the help of grants received from the Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund (PHSEF) and the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). 

The PHS Endowment Fund granted $6,898 for the enhancement of the robotics programs at the elementary and middle school levels. The MDE grant was contingent on matching funds, which were met, enabling additional elementary and middle school robotics programs as well as updating current programs. 

Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Catherine Woolman says, “Every student has access to robotics programming this year, which allows students at all levels to further pursue their interest in this field.” 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The City of Flint Looks To Redevelop Former Buick City Site

The Buick City site was the former home of Buick Motor Company up until 2010, and has since sat vacant. There are currently plans in place to turn it into an in-demand, move-in ready facility. As one of the most blighted and contaminated industrial sites in the state, redevelopment has now become a top priority for the state of Michigan and the city of Flint. 

The Flint Commerce Center, an entity of Ashley Capital, plans to turn the facility into a 275,000-square-foot industrial building that, when fully developed, will represent one of the largest investments for the north side of Flint in decades. The facility is expected to generate up to $300 million and create between 2,000-3,000 new jobs. 

In addition to getting rid of the blight and contamination, the facility will also address the shortage of industrial space as well as offering opportunities to attract new business to the state.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell