Celebrate The Fourth Of July And The Origins Of America’s Holiday

The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, can be traced back to its roots in the 18th century and the American Revolutionary War which granted independence and the birth of the United States that we know today. 

On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted for independence from Great Britain, and on July 4th, delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson. Initially commemorated with patriotic celebrations, such as bonfires and the firing of cannons and muskets, the holiday gained further significance post-War of 1812. 

In 1870, Congress declared it a federal holiday, and in 1941, it became a paid holiday for federal employees. Today, the Fourth of July is celebrated with fireworks, parades, concerts, and family gatherings, symbolizing American freedom and patriotism. 

Source: history.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Leaders Celebrate Passage Of Historic Bipartisan FY25 Budget

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, Speaker of the House Joe Tate, and other legislative leaders celebrated the passage of a balanced and bipartisan budget for fiscal year 2025. The $82.5 billion budget supports students, boosts public safety, builds affordable housing, and aims to help anyone “make it” in Michigan.

“We are making record investments that will benefit everyone across the state without raising taxes by a penny,” said Governor Whitmer. The budget includes a $15 billion general fund, $19 billion school aid, and $75 million for a new revenue-sharing trust fund supporting local services. 

It prioritizes education, public safety, infrastructure, and affordability, aiming to improve lives and ensure a thriving future for Michigan residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Algonac Lions Club Hosts 86th Annual Pickerel Tournament Festival

The Algonac Lions Club is excited to host its 86th Annual Pickerel Tournament Festival from Wednesday, July 3rd to Sunday, July 7th in Downtown Algonac. 

The festival kicks off with the fishing tournament registration at 8 a.m. on July 3rd, alongside the Midway opening from 5 to 11 p.m. The event will feature a variety of attractions including a beer tent, parade, hotdog and doughnut eating contests, celebrity dunk tank, family fun day with free pizza and clowns, car show, and much more! Also, be sure to catch the amazing fireworks display on Friday, July 5th. Join the community for a fun-filled 4th of July celebration! 

For more details, visit algonaclionsclub.org or follow the Algonac Lions Club on Facebook.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell