environment

New Deer Hunting Regulations For Michigan 2023-2025 Seasons

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the approval of a three-year duration for deer hunting regulations. These regulations, which will be in effect for the 2023, 2024, and 2025 hunting seasons, include several updates designed to enhance deer hunting opportunities while addressing challenges facing Michigan’s hunter base.

The approved regulations feature changes like reinstating the four-point antler point restriction on the restricted tag of the deer combo license in 19 Lower Peninsula counties and allowing multiple antlerless deer harvests during the Liberty Hunt. 

Additionally, the Upper Peninsula Chronic Wasting Disease Surveillance Zone has been removed, while proposals to allow crossbows in the late archery season and reinstate antlerless harvest opportunities in certain northern deer management units were rejected.

For more information on these regulations, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Tyson Foods Recalls Approximately 30,000 Pounds Of Chicken Patties Due T Metal Contamination

In a recent announcement, Tyson Foods, is voluntarily recalling approximately 29,819 pounds of fully cooked, breaded, shaped chicken patty products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) made this announcement after concerns of potential contamination with extraneous materials, specifically metal pieces.

The frozen chicken patties in question were produced on September 5th, 2023, and the specific product being recalled is the 29-oz. plastic bag packages labeled as “Tyson FULLY COOKED FUN NUGGETS BREADED SHAPED CHICKEN PATTIES.” 

These products were distributed to several states, including Michigan.

One minor oral injury has been reported so far, consumers are advised not to consume the affected products and to either dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase. If any health concerns arise, individuals should contact a healthcare provider. 

For more information, visit: fsis.usda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Minimum Wage Set To Increase On January 1st, 2024

Michigan is set to see an increase in its minimum wage rate from $10.10 to $10.33 per hour effective January 1, 2024, in accordance with the Michigan’s Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act of 2018.

Starting on the first day of the new year, several changes will come into effect:

  • The minimum hourly wage will see an increase to $10.33 per hour.
  • The 85% rate for minors aged 16 and 17 will rise to $8.78 per hour.
  • Tipped employees will experience an increase in their hourly pay rate to $3.93 per hour.

There is pending litigation that could impact this minimum wage increase. For further information on the ongoing legal proceedings and potential adjustments to the minimum wage rates, as well as access to the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act and related resources, visit Michigan.gov/WageHour.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Bridge Builders Counseling & Mentoring To Close After 27 Years Of Serving Single Parents

In a heartfelt decision, the Bridge Builder Board of Directors announced that Bridge Builders Counseling & Mentoring (BBC&M) will cease operations on December 31st.

For over 27 years, BBC&M has been a beacon of hope for single parents navigating the challenges of raising their children alone. The organization provided counseling and mentoring services to several hundred single parents in the community. This closure marks the end of an era in which countless individuals found support, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

The Board of Directors expressed their deep gratitude to the many loyal supporters who generously donated their time and finances to ensure the success of BBC&M. They emphasized the immense impact the organization has had on the lives of single parents and their children throughout the years.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Aldi Grocery Store Celebrates Grand Opening In Kimball Township

Aldi, the renowned grocery store chain, celebrated its grand opening on November 2nd, at its new location at 4570 Gratiot Road, Kimball Township.

Aldi is set to transform the shopping experience for residents, offering a wide array of fresh produce, delivered daily to ensure the highest quality. The store will also stock everyday essentials to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

This expansion represents a significant milestone for the community, providing access to affordable, high-quality products. If you’re a fan or loyal customer of the grocery chain, it’s a welcomed addition to the neighborhood. If you’ve never shopped with Aldi, now is the perfect time to check it out and have the Aldi experience.

The store’s operating hours will be Monday to Sunday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Don’t Forget To Set Your Clocks Back As Daylight Saving Time Ends This Weekend

This weekend, on Sunday, November 5th, at midnight, it’s time to fall back as daylight saving time comes to a close. That means an extra hour of sleep and brighter mornings with sunrise and sunset times adjusting an hour earlier.

The next time change is set for March 10th, 2024, when we’ll “spring forward” by setting our clocks an hour ahead at 2 a.m. This change will lead to an hour less sleep but longer daylight in the evenings as sunset times shift later.

Daylight saving time in the United States follows federal law, starting on the second Sunday in March and ending on the first Sunday in November.

The tradition of daylight saving time dates back to 1918 during World War I, aimed at conserving fuel resources by reallocating electricity for military purposes.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell