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Local News

FedDev Ontario Opens Second Intake For Tourism Growth Program In Southern Ontario

In Nov. 2023, the Honourable Minister Filomena Tassi, responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, launched the first intake of the Tourism Growth Program, offering funding to businesses and organizations to enhance tourism attractions in the region. Building on this initiative, FedDev Ontario has now opened the second intake, with applications being accepted until Sept. 17, 2024.

Priority may be given to small- and medium-sized enterprises, and stakeholders are encouraged to promote the program within their communities. Businesses interested in applying can visit the FedDev Ontario website for detailed eligibility criteria.

To assist potential applicants, FedDev Ontario will host an informational session on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 10-11 a.m. via MSTeams. 

For further information, contact FedDev Ontario at: info@feddevontario.gc.ca or 1-866-593-5505.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron To Hold 9/11 Service Of Remembrance For Fallen Heroes

As the anniversary of the tragic events at the World Trade Center and Pentagon approaches, the city of Port Huron is preparing to honor the courageous individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001. Among those remembered will be the 343 firefighters, 72 police officers, and numerous EMTs who selflessly ran into danger while others fled.

The community is invited to attend a solemn Service of Remembrance on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 9 a.m. at the International Flag Plaza, located on Thomas Edison Parkway, just north of the Blue Water Bridges. 

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the Public Meeting Room of the Municipal Office Center at 100 McMorran Blvd. 

For more information, contact Port Huron Police Assistant Chief Brian Kerrigan at: (810) 984-9710.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Begins Holland Avenue Improvement Project

On Monday, Aug. 12, the City of Port Huron began significant improvements on Holland Avenue, stretching from Pine Grove Avenue to Gratiot Avenue. 

The project includes repaving the asphalt, upgrading select curb and gutter areas, installing ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps, and lawn restoration.

Due to the construction, Holland Avenue will be closed to thru traffic until the end of August. The project is funded by the voter-approved street millage and Federal Surface Transportation Program Funding. The city appreciates the community’s patience as these essential upgrades are completed to enhance the safety and accessibility of the roadway.

For questions about the construction you may contact the Department of Public Works at: (810) 984-9730. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan AG Dana Nessel Warns Residents To Protect Personal Data After McLaren Health Care Cyberattack

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging residents to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information following a cyberattack on McLaren Health Care. 

The breach, reported on Aug. 6, has disrupted the healthcare provider’s IT systems, raising concerns about the exposure of sensitive data. While McLaren assures the public that its facilities remain “largely operational,” Nessel warns that cybercriminals may have accessed private information.

Nessel highlights the importance of monitoring for signs of identity theft, such as unexpected medical bills, errors in insurance statements, and unrecognized debt collections. She emphasized the lack of Michigan state laws requiring notification of significant data breaches, leaving many consumers vulnerable. 

Nessel advises residents to consult her office’s consumer alert at Data Breaches: What to Do Next for guidance on responding to data breaches and protecting personal information.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

U.S. House Advances Legislation Targeting Chinese-Made DJI Drones Over National Security Concerns

The U.S. House of Representatives has taken a significant step toward banning drones manufactured by China’s DJI, pushing the legislation closer to becoming law. This move is part of the Countering CCP Drones Act, which was incorporated into the broader National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), according to michiganfarmnews.com. 

The act requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to investigate Chinese drone companies for possible inclusion on the Chinese Military Company list and places DJI on the FCC’s “Covered List,” which restricts the marketing, sale, or operation of newly designated equipment within the United States.

Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who sponsored the bill, stressed the importance of limiting China’s influence in the U.S. drone market and telecommunications infrastructure. Although the ban would not apply to DJI drones purchased before the regulations are enacted, it follows growing concerns over potential security risks posed by Chinese-manufactured drones. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Health Department Highlights New WIC Guidelines For 2024, Urges Families To Reapply

The St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD) is reminding residents about updated guidelines for the Women, Infants & Children (WIC) program, which took effect on Jun. 1, 2024. 

Under the new federal rules, families can earn slightly more and still qualify for assistance through this vital nutrition program. WIC, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides benefits via the Michigan WIC EBT card, enabling participants to purchase essential foods like milk, eggs, fresh produce, and infant formula.

Public Health Nursing Supervisor Becki Hartman encourages those who were previously ineligible to reapply, as they may now qualify under the revised criteria. In addition to food assistance, the SCCHD’s WIC program offers nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthcare referrals, and immunizations. 

For more information, residents can call: (810) 987-8222.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell