local news

Christmas Gift Spending Hits Record Highs: Americans Set To Spend $937 Billion, Reflecting a Decades-Long Trend

The tradition of Christmas gift-giving in the United States has evolved into a multi-billion dollar phenomenon, with data over the past two decades revealing a nearly twofold increase in overall spending since 2003. 

Despite a dip during the 2008 financial crisis, the National Retail Federation (NRF) projects a 3 to 4 percent growth in 2023, forecasting total holiday spending to reach at least $937 billion. Contrastingly, back in 1950, holiday spending stood at $40.2 billion, adjusting for inflation and population growth. However, the shift towards year-round shopping and increased reliance on credit cards has transformed gift-giving into a perpetual pursuit, emphasizing materialism over meaningful connections. 

Advocates suggest reflecting on the simplicity and purposefulness of past generations’ gifts to rekindle the true spirit of the season.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron’s Sanborn Park Secures $500,000 Boost For Major Upgrades

In a significant development for Port Huron residents, the City proudly announces that Sanborn Park has been awarded a substantial $250,000 grant from the DNR Trust Fund. Coupled with a local match of $250,000, these funds are set to create major changes within the park. 

The allocated budget will be directed towards essential upgrades, including a new boiler at Sanborn Pool, extensive repairs to the parking lot for enhanced accessibility, the addition of new park amenities, and the continuation of trail expansion in Phase 3. 

This success follows a prior DNR grant used for replacing the playscape and expanding trails in Phase 2, illustrating the city’s adept use of park millage funds in conjunction with state resources for community improvement.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Unveils Revamped ‘Water Wonderland’ License Plate And Cutting-Edge IDs For 2024

In an announcement that combines a nod to history and a leap into modern security, the Michigan Department of State reveals the reintroduction of the iconic green and white “Water Wonderland” license plate that pays tribute to the civil rights advancements of 1963. 

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson expressed pride in the tribute to civil rights advancements, as well as excitement in the unveiling of a more secure design for Michigan driver’s licenses and state IDs in 2024. The commemorative license plate and enhanced ID’s, which are aimed at protecting residents from identity theft and fraud, will both debut by the end of January. 

This initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to progress and security, emphasizing equality and justice for all.

For more details, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sad News For Those Dreaming Of A White Christmas, Mild Holiday Temperatures May Prevent Michiganders From Seeing Snow

In a surprising turn of events, Michigan residents are in for an unusually warm Christmas this year, with no signs of the traditional white landscape. 

Bucking the trend of chilly winters, temperatures are expected to soar, deviating significantly from the norm. Typically, cities like Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Flint, and Detroit experience an average high of 34 degrees on Christmas Day, while Saginaw and Bay City hover around 33 degrees. 

However, this Christmas will defy expectations, as the temperature is predicted to rise by a staggering 20 degrees above the usual highs. The warmth extends beyond the holiday itself, as the days leading up to Christmas are also set to be milder than what we are used to here. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but we can always wish for a Christmas miracle.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sony Launches Pioneering Access Controller For PS5, Revolutionizing Gaming For Disabled Players

In a groundbreaking move, Sony has unveiled the Access Controller, a high-tech device tailored for disabled gamers, marking the first of its kind designed specifically for the PS5. 

Alvin Daniel, Senior Technical Program Manager at Sony Interactive Entertainment, highlighted the controller’s uniqueness, emphasizing its immediate usability without the need for additional accessories. 

Working in collaboration with accessibility experts AbleGamers, Sony focuses on customization, recognizing the diverse needs of disabled gamers. Addressing common issues such as thumbstick, button pressing, and controller grip, the Access Controller offers a versatile solution for a wide range of impairments. This innovation reflects a significant stride in making gaming more inclusive, underlining the industry’s commitment to mainstream accessibility for all.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Apple Races Against Time To Salvage $17 Billion Smartwatch Business Facing U.S. Ban

As a U.S. ban looms just days away, Apple Inc. is undertaking an urgent rescue mission for its $17 billion smartwatch business. The impending ban, slated to hit on Christmas, stems from a dispute with Masimo Corp. over alleged patent infringement related to the smartwatch’s blood oxygen level measurement feature according to Time.com. 

Apple engineers are intensively reworking algorithms to address the contested technology, modifying how it calculates oxygen saturation and presents data to users. This high-stakes engineering effort, unprecedented for Apple, could severely impact one of its major revenue streams domestically. 

Unless the White House intervenes before December 25th, an International Trade Commission ban will take effect. While settlement with Masimo is an option, Apple is presently focused on technological modifications and seeking regulatory approval.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell