George James

Move Over For Emergency Vehicles

This week is National Traffic Incident Response Awareness Week. The observation is meant to bring attention to the hazards faced by those working unplanned incidents, like traffic accidents, on Michigan roads.

Emergency Responders are still being struck and killed at alarming rates, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation. This year’s theme for the yearly observance is “Slow Down. Move Over. Be Safe.” Those actions can save lives.

MDOT encourages motorists to make sure their vehicle is in good working condition, and pack a roadside emergency kit for their vehicles. Kits should include batteries, a flashlight, a phone charger, water and non-perishable food, blankets, a first aid kit, and jumper cables.

The Move Over Law requires drivers to slow down at least 10 miles per hour under the speed limit for any kind of stationary emergency vehicles with flashing lights, including roadside tow trucks and courtesy vehicles operated by MDOT, garbage trucks, and road maintenance and utility service vehicles with amber lights.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

McLaren Festival of Trees to Raise Funds for Lung Cancer Treatment Equipment

Port Huron, MI — McLaren Port Huron Foundation is planning to purchase an endobronchial ultrasound bronchoscopy (EBUS) machine with the proceeds from this year’s Festival of Trees. The medical equipment will allow for early detection and treatment of lung cancer. The new technology gives hope to those afflicted with the disease, as it can improve survival rates.

For thirty-one years, the Festival of Trees has traditionally been a highly social event, but this year’s version will employ creative measures that respect social distancing guidelines. Trees will still be decorated and the magic of the holiday season will still be present.

This year, McLaren Port Huron Hospital’s South Tower Lobby will be transformed into a winter wonderland with decorated window displays. The community can drive by or walk around outside to enjoy the display.

General donations, as well as sponsorships, are being asked for to fund the purchase of the new lung cancer treatment equipment. The holiday display will be up from Thanksgiving to the New Year. Donation information: www.mclaren.org

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Stronger Together Support Groups Launched by Families Against Narcotics

Port Huron, MI — The Blue Water Chapter of Families Against Narcotics (FAN) has launched Stronger Together Family and Friends Support Groups. The Chapter reminds the community that while there is a viral pandemic, there is also an opioid epidemic in the area.

Addiction is considered a “family disease” because it affects the entire family and friend network of a person suffering from Substance Abuse Disorder.

Charlene Burgett, president of FAN’s Blue Water chapter said “If your loved one is battling addiction, they may be leading a destructive life. But that doesn’t mean that YOUR life has to be destroyed, too. We’re hoping to bring some calm and relief to the lives of those who need it, and teach them that self-care is not being selfish.”

The support group is meeting on the first and third Monday of each month at 7:00 pm. at the Restored Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints church, located at 1404 Garfield Street, Port Huron. The group will be utilizing a unique 12-step “Family Recovery Plan” that can help individuals and families move from a life of despair to a life of hope and purpose, according to FAN.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

McMorran Arena Opens for Hockey with Precautions

Port Huron, MI — It’s been a long time since the puck has dropped on the McMorran ice, but things are starting to move closer to normal at McMorran Place Sports and Entertainment Center in Downtown Port Huron. The ice arena has reopened to high school hockey teams and the Port Huron Prowlers could be taking to the ice this season.

The ice arena has new lights, new seats, and fresh ice; it just needs some players and fans to feel like the old days before the pandemic.

There are extensive precautions being taken to keep athletes and staff healthy. Entry procedures have been carefully constructed and include entry through the North entrance of the arena only. Players will need to scan a QR code which will link them to a COVID-19 screening questionnaire. Temperatures will be taken and only those who pass the health check can enter the building.

Only players and coaches are allowed in the locker room. Kids aged ten and under can have an adult accompany them. Masks and social distancing are expected, all in an effort to keep the arena open and give the area’s youth hockey players and the professional team a chance at a real competitive season.

More information can be found at http://bit.ly/entryprocedures.

Reporting for WGRT- Jennie McClelland

PJ Wallbank Springs

P.J. Wallbank Springs Named to Inc. 5000

Port Huron’s P.J. Wallbank Springs, Inc. has been named an “Inc. 5000” company for the third time. The list recognizes the fastest-growing private companies. A virtual gala was held in late October honoring the companies on the prestigious list.

P.J. Wallbank Springs, Inc. President Chris Wallbank said, “We are honored to have made the Inc. 5000 list as one of the 5,000 fastest growing organizations in the United States for the 3rd year in a row!  Accomplishing this achievement for three consecutive years would have been impossible without the determination and commitment from our employees. Our employees are what truly sets us apart from other companies and they are what makes achievements like this possible.”

The Port Huron company manufactures spring packs, which are a vital component of automatic transmissions. They export around half of their products and hold the competitive edge with their proprietary manufacturing equipment.

Mr. Wallbank added that he is always looking to hire great people. More information can be found at www.pjws.com/careers.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Local Theatres Offer “Live” Shows Online

Both the Lexington Village Theatre and Enter Stage Right at the Citadel Theatre are offering innovative ways to experience “live” shows while maintaining social distance.

Emmy-award winning actor, director, and singer/songwriter Jeff Daniels will be giving a virtual performance on November 22 at 7:00 p.m, presented by the Lexington Village Theatre. The concert will feature original songs, personal stories, and a question and answer period after the show. Tickets are $15 for the 90-minute show.

Enter Stage Right is planning one of their classic “Will on the Water” Shakespearean productions. They will be presenting The Tragedie of King Lear on Sunday, November 8th, at 3:00 p.m. While viewing is free through the company’s Youtube channel, donations are encouraged.

In a short video narrated by Jeff Daniels, which can be found on the homepage of EnterStageRight.org, Daniels says, “When this intermission ends, our curtains will rise again.” In the meantime, there are creative ways to enjoy “live” theater at home.

Details for viewing both shows:

https://www.crowdcast.io/e/jeffdanielslexvillagenov22/register 

http://www.enterstageright.org/king-lear.html 

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland