business news

U.S. House Advances Legislation Targeting Chinese-Made DJI Drones Over National Security Concerns

The U.S. House of Representatives has taken a significant step toward banning drones manufactured by China’s DJI, pushing the legislation closer to becoming law. This move is part of the Countering CCP Drones Act, which was incorporated into the broader National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), according to michiganfarmnews.com. 

The act requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to investigate Chinese drone companies for possible inclusion on the Chinese Military Company list and places DJI on the FCC’s “Covered List,” which restricts the marketing, sale, or operation of newly designated equipment within the United States.

Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who sponsored the bill, stressed the importance of limiting China’s influence in the U.S. drone market and telecommunications infrastructure. Although the ban would not apply to DJI drones purchased before the regulations are enacted, it follows growing concerns over potential security risks posed by Chinese-manufactured drones. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Health Department Highlights New WIC Guidelines For 2024, Urges Families To Reapply

The St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD) is reminding residents about updated guidelines for the Women, Infants & Children (WIC) program, which took effect on Jun. 1, 2024. 

Under the new federal rules, families can earn slightly more and still qualify for assistance through this vital nutrition program. WIC, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides benefits via the Michigan WIC EBT card, enabling participants to purchase essential foods like milk, eggs, fresh produce, and infant formula.

Public Health Nursing Supervisor Becki Hartman encourages those who were previously ineligible to reapply, as they may now qualify under the revised criteria. In addition to food assistance, the SCCHD’s WIC program offers nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthcare referrals, and immunizations. 

For more information, residents can call: (810) 987-8222.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Marysville Hot Wheels Weekend To Ignite Car Enthusiasts With Classic Cars, Live Music, And Celebrity Entertainment

The 2024 Marysville Hot Wheels Weekend is gearing up to be a must-attend event for car enthusiasts on August, 23-24 at Marysville Park, located at 801 Huron Ave. 

Presented by the Marysville Business Council, this year’s show will celebrate American car culture with a stellar lineup of activities, including live music, special entertainers, and the eagerly anticipated Miss Marysville Hot Wheels Pin Up Contest that will be offering cash prizes for the top three winners.

Musical guests like George Bedard and the Kingpins, and The Delta Bombers will keep the energy high. Special entertainment features appearances by Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox from the iconic 1980s T.V. show “Chips,” attendees can also enjoy a variety of food vendors, and a classic Drive-In movie experience.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Step Back in Time at the Michigan Renaissance Festival Starting August 17

Experience the magic of the 16th Century at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, kicking off on August 17 and running through September 29. Held on weekends, with special dates on Labor Day and Friday, September 27, this immersive festival transports visitors to a European village filled with excitement.

With 17 stages of live entertainment, including musicians, magicians, jugglers, and full-contact armored jousting, there’s something for everyone. Over 100 artisans will showcase their handcrafted goods in the bustling marketplace, offering endless shopping opportunities. Visitors can also savor a variety of food fit for royalty while interacting with memorable characters.

The festival, located at 12600 Dixie Hwy., Holly, MI, operates from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on event days. 

For more information, visit: michrenfest.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

be-YOU-tiful Workshop Series Empowers 5th-Grade Girls In Port Huron

A Beautiful Me is hosting a special four-part be-YOU-tiful Workshop Series at their Training and Empowerment Suite in Port Huron. 

Designed for 5th-grade girls, the workshop runs on August 20, 21, 27, and 28 from 2:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This transformative program aims to boost self-esteem and leadership skills through engaging activities, conflict resolution strategies, and meaningful discussions.

Located at 310 Huron Ave., the workshop provides a safe space for young girls to explore their unique strengths, navigate emotions, and build positive relationships. With limited seating available, parents are encouraged to register their daughters soon. A Beautiful Me also welcomes donations to sponsor future workshop tickets, making this empowering experience accessible to all. Secure your spot today to support your daughter’s journey to self-confidence and resilience.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Ferndale’s Live Crispy Won Last Year’s MI Snack Competition, Now Eyeing Bigger Markets

Ferndale-based entrepreneur Dave Shammas, owner of Live Crispy, won the grand prize at the second annual MI Snack Competition in Port Huron, taking home $30,000. Despite not placing in the previous year, Shammas’ all-natural dehydrated fruit snack won both the Mindful Munchies category and the overall competition, earning him $15,000 for each win.

The 2023 MI Snack Competition attracted over 50 snack makers statewide, with more than $50,000 in prizes awarded. In addition to the cash prize, Shammas secured a distribution deal with All Star Services, a break room services company.

Shammas, who launched Live Crispy in 2020, has since expanded his product’s reach, including a listing on Amazon. As he gears up for larger markets like Target, he’s also being courted by the TV show Shark Tank. The 2024 competition is set for Sept. 14, with entries due by August 12.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell