environment

Operation Safe Neighborhoods Seizes 675 Illegal Guns In Michigan Crackdown

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II announced that 675 illegal guns have been removed from Michigan streets as part of Operation Safe Neighborhoods, a statewide initiative aimed at reducing gun violence. Since the operation’s launch, law enforcement officials have conducted 6,424 check-ins with felony offenders, leading to the seizure of illegal firearms, drugs, and ammunition.

Lt. Governor Gilchrist emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “Operation Safe Neighborhoods is keeping Michiganders safe by getting 675 illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals before they can hurt or kill anyone.” The program targets high-risk individuals with prior weapons-related offenses, reinforcing Governor Whitmer’s broader efforts to enhance public safety across the state. 

Since taking office, Whitmer has invested over $1.5 billion in public safety, including significant funding for law enforcement and violence prevention initiatives.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Friends Of The St. Clair River Urge Float Down Participants To Keep Waterways Clean

As thousands prepare for the annual Float Down on Sunday, Aug. 18, at Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron, Friends of the St. Clair River is urging participants and spectators to keep the river clean. 

Their “A Clean River is a Fun River” campaign highlights the importance of preserving the St. Clair River’s pristine waters, which are vital for drinking water and fish habitats. The group asks floaters and onlookers to responsibly dispose of trash and recyclables, reducing the litter and plastic waste that can accumulate from the event. 

Executive Director Sheri Faust emphasized the river’s significance, stating, “The St. Clair River is a vital resource for 60,000 people. We all have a responsibility to protect and celebrate this precious resource.”

For more information about the campaign, email: info@scriver.org.

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

 

BWROC’s Strides For Recovery 5K Run/Walk To Promote Health, Fitness, And Community Spirit

BWROC is excited to host the Strides for Recovery 5K Run/Walk on Sept. 14, 2024 at Pine Grove Park in Port Huron, in celebration of National Recovery Day. 

This community-focused event offers a scenic course along the beautiful St. Clair River and is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels, from competitive runners to those who prefer a leisurely jog or walk.

The event kicks off at 4:30 p.m., with a registration fee of $15. After the race, participants can enjoy a post-race celebration featuring music, food, and family-friendly activities. All participants will receive commemorative swag, making this a memorable event for everyone involved.

For more details, visit: bwroc.org or call 810-689-4858 for further information. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MDHHS Provides $118 Million In Food Benefits To Michigan Students Through Summer EBT Program

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is distributing over $118 million in food benefits to 983,531 students through the new Michigan Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program. 

Each eligible child will receive $120 to help families afford groceries during the summer months when school is out. MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel emphasized the program’s importance in ensuring that children have access to healthy food.

The Summer EBT program, developed by Congress, builds on similar initiatives from the pandemic to address food insecurity. Benefits will be loaded onto EBT cards, with existing Bridge cardholders receiving a one-time payment. Those without a card will be sent one by mail. This program, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Education, aims to reach students across the state, easing financial burdens for families during the summer.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Over One Million Michigan Voters Cast Ballots Before Primary Election Day

With today being the day for polls to open for Michigan’s Primary Election, more than one million voters have already cast their ballots. 

According to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, over 73,500 voters participated in early in-person voting, while more than 970,000 have submitted absentee ballots. This marks the first election year with a constitutionally mandated nine-day early voting period, a provision introduced by Proposal 2, passed in 2022.

Benson praised the high level of voter engagement and the efforts of Michigan’s clerks and poll workers in ensuring a smooth and secure voting process. For those who have yet to vote, polling places will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on today’s Election Day. Voters can still register and vote today as well at their local clerk’s office.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell