Gary Austin
New Developments in G.M. Ignition Switch Case
As the investigation by General Motors into the ignition switch problem continues C.E.O. Mary Barra says two engineers have been put on paid leave. It has not been reported how they could have been linked to the defective part. No names have been released...
Terrible Winter Damages Michigan Fruit Trees and Crops
The Michigan Farm Bureau is out with a study and it shows cherry, blueberry and peach trees along with grape crops have been damaged by the severe winter weather. Some apple orchards look to be effected as well. The experts say we'll get a better idea just how severe that damage actually is in the weeks ahead...
New Survey is Out in Two Closely Watched Michigan Races
In this latest poll 825 Michigan voters were tallied by Public Policy Polling. The survey found in the race for Carl Levin's U.S. Senate seat, Democrat U.S. Representative Gary Peters is ahead of one time Republican Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land by five points, 41% to 36%...
Today G.M Details Plans to Expand Electric Vehicle Production
General Motors will spend nearly $450 million to add on to two facilities that build and provide important components for electric vehicles. About $385 million will be set aside for next generation plug in Hybrid Volt cars. These will be built at the Detroit Hamtramck Assembly Plant...
Bad Winter Appears to Take its Toll on Detroit Casino Revenue
Since the start of the year gambling revenues at Detroit's three casinos has dropped. According to the Gambling Control Board when all are averaged together in the first three months earnings are down 5.9%.
Analysts say there are a number of possible reasons...
Gas Prices Heading in the Wrong Direction Again
Gas stations are in the process of switching over to a more expensive summer blend and that's one reason why the cost of filling up has been increasing. The statewide average is now $3.61. Since late last month that's a jump of about 5 cents a gallon...
Today a Key Endorsement in Michigan Congressional Race
One time state lawmaker Mike Bishop wants the job Mike Rogers will soon be leaving. That's what Bishop told us not long after Rogers said he's departing Washington to pursue a career in syndicated talk radio.
Now Rogers has announced he'd like Bishop to succeed him...
General Motors Boosting Volt Production
General Motors says it needs more employees to build the plug in hybrid Chevy Volt. As a result it's being reported next week the automaker is ready to announce hundreds of jobs will be added at its Detroit Hamtramck Assembly Plant. This is the only G...
G.M. Could be Ordered to Tell Owners to Quit Driving Their Vehicles
A federal judge could decide soon if G.M. will be required to inform owners who have cars with bad ignition switches to stop driving them. The do not drive request would be in place until they are fixed. The judge hearing the case said more information is being reviewed...
A Call to Provide More Money for Great Lakes Programs
While lawmakers look ahead and review spending proposals in the next federal budget, Michigan U.S. Senator Carl Levin says the Great Lakes should be high on the priority list.
Already in place is the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Levin calls that an important effort that not only helps protect the Great Lakes but works to preserve them as well...