U.S. Department Of Energy Allocates $3.5 Billion For Power Grid Investment Nationwide; Over $122 Million Flowing Into Michigan

The U.S. Department of Energy has unveiled a significant investment of $3.5 billion in power grid enhancements nationwide, with Michigan set to benefit substantially. Michigan will receive more than $122 million, with Consumers Energy securing $100 million and DTE Energy set to receive nearly $23 million.

These federal funds are allocated under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aimed at bolstering the nation’s power infrastructure. Consumers Energy is planning to channel the resources into their reliability roadmap, involving the installation of additional poles, equipment, and advanced technology for quicker power outage detection in underserved communities.

DTE Energy will use the funds to build adaptive microgrids in Detroit and surrounding areas, to enhance grid flexibility and reliability. These microgrids will incorporate grid-sensing devices to improve the overall reliability of the power supply and reduce both the frequency and duration of power outages in the region.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Supports Bad River Tribe’s Lawsuit Against Enbridge Over Line 5 Pipeline

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is once again stepping up to support the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians in their ongoing legal battle against Enbridge Energy Co. The Band’s lawsuit seeks the removal of Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline from its Reservation land, citing the looming threat of ecological disaster.

The federal court in Wisconsin ruled in favor of the Tribe, ordering Enbridge to shut down or reroute Line 5 within three years, pay over $5 million to the Band, and establish an erosion-triggered shutdown plan.

Both Enbridge and the Bad River Band have appealed the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit, with the Tribe arguing that more action is needed to protect against a potential oil spill. Nessel has now filed a brief in support of the Tribe’s appeal.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Suzanne’s Boutique Presents Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser For ThumbCoast Theaters

Prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of style and elegance as Suzanne’s Boutique hosts its highly-anticipated Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser. 

With the gracious support of esteemed vendors HERS Boutique, Tru Blue Boutique, and Blackbird Home Goods, this event promises a remarkable fusion of fashion and philanthropy.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 4th, at 11:30 am, at the exquisite St. Clair Golf Club on 1714 River Road. Guests will indulge in a visual feast of the latest fashion trends from Suzanne’s Boutique, all while enjoying a delicious luncheon.

Tickets are available for $45, with the funds raised going to benefit ThumbCoast Theaters. To secure your spot, call (586) 255-0498 or (810) 364-5422. Get ready to dazzle and make a difference in style.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Empowering Young Artists: Mentorship Program Offers A Path To Success

New Century Art Gallery is pleased to announce its 2023/24 Young Artist Mentorship Program, aimed at nurturing the talents of 8th to 12th grade students passionate about the world of art. The program offers a unique opportunity for budding artists to gain valuable insights and skills over an 8-month period.

Selected students will meet monthly to develop their own art exhibitions while delving into the intricacies of the art business. The program covers various aspects of the art world, including exhibition planning, pricing artwork, approaching galleries, self-promotion, and more.

The mentorship program not only equips young artists with essential skills but also provides each participant with a $100 stipend to support their art supplies. Interested students have until November 1st, to submit their applications.

If interested, email Jeanne Burris Johnson at: jeanne@newcenturyartgallery.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Rite Aid Files For Bankruptcy, Set To Close Hundreds Of Stores Amid Industry Challenges

In a significant development in the retail pharmacy sector, Rite Aid, the third-largest standalone pharmacy chain, filed for bankruptcy on Sunday, signaling the closure of approximately 400 to 500 of its 2,200 stores.

The $3.3 billion debt load and costly legal battles related to the opioid crisis further increased the company’s financial woes.

The pharmacy landscape is facing a broader crisis, with Walgreens pharmacists and technicians staging walkouts across the country, and CVS stores in Kansas City experiencing similar unrest due to low pay and understaffed stores.

Declining profits from prescription drug sales, driven by lower reimbursement rates, and pressure on front-end sales due to competition from Amazon, Walmart, and Dollar General, have made the industry a challenging space for established players like CVS, Walgreens, and now, Rite Aid.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell