As Tax Season Approaches Michiganders Should Beware Of Cyber Crime

In today’s day and age almost everyone owns or uses a computer or other digital means of communication. If you’re one of these individuals it’s important that you use some sort of security software program to protect your information and your assets.

One of the recent forms of cyber attack comes in the form of ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a suggested amount of money is paid. Ransomware is usually targeted towards individuals, but businesses are noticing increased attacks as well. 

Ransomware can be extremely harmful, as some cyber attacks will threaten to expose personal information such as photos and videos. There have even been reports of ransomware attacks leading to individuals taking their own lives.  

So, as tax season approaches be aware of cyber scams such as phishing, malware, and ransomware. Cyber criminals will pose as people or institutions you trust, so use caution.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Delivers 2023 State Of The State Address

On Wednesday, January 25th, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her fifth State of the State Address. It was held in the Michigan House of Representatives in front of a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate.

The address was broadcast live with Whitmer discussing her plans to tackle the challenges currently faced by Michiganders. 

One of the issues addressed was the cost of living in Michigan. We have all noticed the rise in cost of everyday items, and have been affected by it to some degree. Gov. Whitmer says, “I am excited to announce “Lowering MI Costs, ” a plan offering immediate relief. 

The three steps include rolling back retirement tax, expanding the Working Families Tax Credit, and third, Pre-K for All, which would save families an average of $10,000 per year and ensure that every four year old gets a great start.

For a full video of the 2023 State of the State Address, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Closings – Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

St. Clair County:

Algonac Community Schools
Blue Water Choices
Blue Water Christian Academy
Capac Community Schools
Cardinal Mooney Catholic High
Community Enterprises of St. Clair County OPEN, NO BUSSES
Creative Employment Anchorville
East China School District
East Shore Leadership Academy
Holy Cross Catholic High
Immaculate Conception Elementary – Ira
Landmark Academy
Life Skills Bright Futures
Life Skills Opportunities
Memphis Community Schools
New Life Christian Academy
Port Huron Area Schools
St. Clair TEC
St. Edward on the Lake
St. Mary/McCormick Academy
Woodland Developmental Center
Yale Community Schools

Sanilac County:
Brown City Schools
Carsonville-Port Sanilac Schools
CrosLex Schools
Deckerville Schools
Marlette Schools
Peck Community Schools
Sandusky Schools
Sanilac Career Center
Sanilac Special Ed

$238M Grant Program To Provide Underserved Areas With Hi-Speed Internet

In today’s day and age it’s almost impossible to accomplish certain tasks without internet access. From filling out applications and children using it for classroom assignments to performing work in a particular field, hi-speed internet is a much needed tool.

The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI) has now opened the application window for the Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) grant program, which will provide $238 million in federal funding to support the deployment of high-speed internet to unserved areas in Michigan. 

Those eligible include internet service providers, individuals licensed under the MI Telecommunications Act, franchise holders under the Uniform Video Services Local Franchise Act or any entity currently providing broadband service. 

Eric Frederick, Michigan’s chief connectivity officer says, “MIHI has developed detailed educational materials to give potential ROBIN applicants the guidance and tools they need to make informed decisions.”

The deadline for applications is Tuesday, March 14th at 4 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Marine City Students Provide Duck Home For Blue Water Hospice

As part of a service project for their school at Cardinal Mooney High School in Marine City, students CJ Miller and Brendan Carnaghi decided they would reach out to a local organization to lend a hand. 

The two students decided to reach out to the Blue Water Hospice Home and ask if there was anything they could do to help out. 

“Knowing the Hospice Home fills such a great need, we reached out to determine if there was something we could do for them. It had been mentioned that a shelter was needed for some domesticated ducks that had found their way to the pond at the Hospice Home. We were glad to be given the opportunity to build one,” says Miller.

The two students then began to design the structure, plan the build process, and gather materials before setting out to complete the project which took an estimated 60 man-hours. 

Feel free to drive by and view their thoughtful handiwork at the Blue Water Hospice Home located at 2795 Edison Blvd, Marysville. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell