PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Following Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s third State of the State address Wednesday night, the City of Portage issued a response to her remarks regarding Pfizer.
“During World War II, Michigan became the arsenal of democracy – building tanks and bombers to defend freedom and crush fascism,” Whitmer said during the address. “This year, we stepped up as the arsenal of health – manufacturing masks, ventilators, and PPE. And we were the epicenter of hope when the world watched the Pfizer vaccine roll out of Portage, Michigan.”
Portage City staff responded shortly after the speech concluded.
“We are so proud that Pfizer calls Portage home,” City Manager Joe La Margo said in a statement. “Portage and Kalamazoo County are a hub of innovation and creativity where ideas are hatched, and concepts are brought to life. The City of Portage commends Pfizer employees who have helped produce a safe and effective vaccine in record time – making history during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The City of Portage is home to Pfizer, one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, and its largest manufacturing site where the company is producing the COVID-19 vaccine.
Pfizer employs approximately 2,500 people from Portage and surrounding communities in high-demand jobs, according to the City.
In recent months, Portage residents and businesses have stepped up to show their support for Pfizer employees by providing free meals and supportive lawn signs.
Additionally, a local vendor helped the city paint a “Thank You, Pfizer!” mural on Portage Road in front of the Pfizer campus in Portage. More on that can be viewed here.
Comments