State Rep. Jaime Greene Warns Of Soaring Electricity Bills As DTE Energy Gets Nod For $368 Million Rate Hike

In response to the Michigan Public Service Commission’s approval of DTE Energy’s $368 million rate increase, State Rep. Jaime Greene, R-Richmond, issued a stark warning on Friday.

She criticized the move as a precursor to a more significant crisis, alleging that utility companies are exploiting the shift to green energy, leaving consumers to bear the brunt. According to Greene, the rate hike is tied to the closure of reliable natural gas and coal-fired power plants in favor of less dependable green energy initiatives. 

She blames Lansing Democrats for lifting rate hike caps, ensuring utility profits at the expense of Michigan families facing tighter budgets. DTE claims the increase aligns with existing clean energy goals, but Greene insists that new mandates banning natural gas plants will escalate costs for residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Veteran Homes’ “Make a Veteran Smile Campaign” Invites Heartfelt Messages To Spread Holiday Joy

Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) launches the ‘Make a Veteran Smile Campaign,’ urging Michiganders to brighten the holiday season for veteran members through heartfelt letters, banners, or food tray liners adorned with personal messages. 

Tiffany Carr, MVH Community Engagement Coordinator, emphasizes the significance of community support, stating, “Sending a letter to our members is another way the community can share appreciation and support for veterans around the holidays.” 

To participate, contributors should follow helpful guidelines such as, ensuring personal notes enclosed with their card, large writing, and dark ink. Addressed letters can be hand-delivered or sent to MVH locations in Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, or Marquette. 

For more information, contact Ryan Engle at: engler3@michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Parks Enhance Green Spaces With DTE Energy Foundation Tree Planting Grant

St. Clair County Parks is set to transform local landscapes with a generous tree planting grant from the DTE Energy Foundation. The grant aims to enrich the quality of life and diversity of trees in local communities, fostering a greener, more vibrant environment. 

To mark this green initiative, a public ceremony and tree planting demonstration are scheduled for Friday, December 8th, at 10:00 a.m. in Columbus County Park. The event, located at 1670 Bauman Rd. Columbus, MI invites the community to the park lodge. 

Following the ceremony, attendees can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies by the fire pit. Volunteers, with no prior experience or tools required, are encouraged to join the tree planting efforts throughout the day. 

For more information, contact: Kirsten Lyons at klyons@stclaircounty.org or (810) 989-6317.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Cawood Auto And The Athletic Factory Join Forces For ‘Share Joy Christmas Toy Drive’

In the spirit of giving, Cawood Auto and The Athletic Factory have teamed up for the Share Joy Christmas Toy Drive, welcoming donations of new and gently used toys. 

The drop-off location at Cawood Auto, located at 2516 Pine Grove Avenue, Port Huron, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. The deadline for donations is December 15th.

All contributed toys will be distributed locally, ensuring that the joy of the holiday season reaches families in need. This heartwarming initiative is sponsored by Cawood Auto, and The Athletic Factory, uniting the community to make this holiday season brighter for children in the Blue Water Area.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell