Clean Energy and Environmental Justice Groups Critique DTE Energy’s Integrated Resource Plan
A coalition of clean energy and environmental justice organizations have released a report card highlighting areas for improvement in DTE Energy’s 20-year Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The IRP, filed with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) in November 2022, outlines DTE’s proposed strategy for providing electricity to its 2.3 million customers over the next two decades.
The report card criticizes DTE’s failure to ensure affordable energy bills for ratepayers and equitable access to clean energy. They have been accused of undervaluing customer-owned solar and energy efficiency, which can alleviate energy burdens and expedite the transition away from polluting fossil fuels.
DTE received a B- for its plans to retire coal plants, including the closure of two units of the Monroe coal-fired power plant by 2028, the report card highlights the utility’s continued investments in fossil gas. Such investments pose risks to public health and customers’ financial well-being, resulting in an F grade for DTE’s avoidance of additional fracked gas infrastructure.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Experts Stress Motorcycle Safety as Summer Riding Season Begins
With the arrival of summer, motorcycle enthusiasts are gearing up for long rides and thrilling adventures on the open road. However, safety experts are urging riders to prioritize safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.
Summer months typically see an increase in motorcycle fatalities. To promote safe riding, experts recommend wearing Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmets, protective clothing, and completing safety courses.
Regular motorcycle maintenance, including checking tires, brakes, and lights, is crucial to prevent mechanical failures. Additionally, riders should make themselves visible to other motorists by wearing brightly colored clothing and using reflective materials.
Obeying traffic laws, being mindful of weather conditions, and sharing the road responsibly are also essential for a safe riding experience.
Drivers of cars and trucks should always be mindful of motorcycle riders and give them proper space when following behind, and to respect the rules of the road to prevent unnecessary accidents.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Rep. Greg Alexander Taking A Stand Against The Sexual Transitioning Of Children
State Rep. Greg Alexander, of Carsonville, is taking a stand to protect the welfare of children and families throughout Michigan by opposing proposed regulations that he considers burdensome.
House Bills 4616-17 and Senate Bills 348-49 aim to impose stricter rules on mental health professionals who provide clinical support beyond affirming an individual’s desired sexual orientation or gender identity, or simply endorsing social or medical transitions.
Alexander argues that these bills could lead to minors making life-altering decisions that will impact them long-term. He believes that parents, in conjunction with qualified professionals who work with families, are better equipped to make crucial decisions regarding a child’s development and future, as opposed to legislators in Lansing who may be influenced by radical political agendas.
The proposed legislation would encompass various mental health professionals, including physicians, psychologists, registered professional nurses, licensed social workers or counselors, and marriage or family therapists.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Beat High Gas Prices With Advia Credit Union’s Gas Card Giveaway
Tired of skyrocketing gas prices? Advia Credit Union has your back this summer with an incredible gas card giveaway!
Advia Credit Union and WGRT 102.3 FM, are offering you a chance to win a $50 gas card to help you save at the pump!
For a chance to win a $50 Speedy Q Markets gas card, head over to WGRT 102.3 FM on Facebook and WGRT 102.3 FM on Instagram, be sure to like and follow both pages for your chance to win! We’ll be picking lucky winners every Monday, starting June 12th through August 4th!
With 61 years of serving and giving back to our community, Advia Credit Union understands the importance of supporting its members. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to fuel your summer adventures.
Visit them online at Adviacu.org or visit one of their convenient branches in Port Huron, Fort Gratiot, Marysville, New Baltimore, or St. Clair for all your banking needs.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Blue Water Area YMCA’s Camp Wanacombak Offers Fun-Filled Summer Experience for Kids
The Blue Water Area YMCA is offering its Camp Wanacombak to children seeking an exciting summer vacation experience.
The summer program includes exciting field trips, age-appropriate group activities, STEAM engagement, learning loss prevention activities, special events, and swimming at the YMCA. The camp ensures a perfect balance of indoor and outdoor experiences, keeping young minds active and engaged.
The 2023 session of Camp Wanacombak will run from June 19th to September 1st, Monday through Friday, with camp hours from 7 am – 6 pm. The program is open to children who have completed kindergarten up to those who have completed 6th grade.
Camp Wanacombak is made possible through the donations of community members and residents from the Blue Water Area.
If you would like to help support this program and the many others offered by the Blue Water Area YMCA, feel free to volunteer or donate to the Open Arms Campaign by visiting bluewaterymca.org/open-arms.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell