Send new stories and press releases to JP at news@wgrt.com.

Local News

Nominations Open For Outstanding Business Achievement Awards

The Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce and Libro Credit Union are excited to announce that nominations for the Outstanding Business Achievement Awards are now open until June 23rd at midnight. 

Chamber members along with the general public can nominate exceptional businesses and individuals across twelve categories, including Business of the Year (Large, Medium, Small), Young Professional, Innovation, Agri-Business, and more.

Don’t miss the opportunity to recognize your favorites! Mark your calendar for the Gala Celebration on October 18th, where the winners will be revealed. Last year’s event was a spectacular sell-out, and this year promises to be equally impressive. Celebrate local success and achievements by participating in this prestigious event!

For ticket information, visit: sarnia-chamber.webflow.io.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Staying Safe In Extreme Heat: Tips For Michigan Residents

Next week, NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has forecasted a slight risk of excessive heat for the southern two-thirds of Lower Michigan. Indiana and Ohio face a more certain risk. Extreme heat poses significant health risks, particularly for older adults, children, and those with health issues.

To stay safe, follow these tips:

  • Stay Cool: Use air conditioning or visit a cooling center. Take cool showers or baths.
  • Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
  • Limit Outdoor Activity: Avoid strenuous activities during midday heat; if outside, seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Check on Others: Ensure family, older adults, and neighbors are safe.
  • Pet Safety: Provide pets with water and shade, and avoid hot pavement.

Stay informed and take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Source: ready.gov

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Celebrating Dads: The Origins Of Father’s Day In The U.S.

With Father’s Day around the corner lets discover it’s origins and why we celebrate dads across the nation.

On July 5th, 1908, a West Virginia church held the nation’s first event in honor of fathers. This Sunday sermon was a heartfelt tribute to the 362 men who had tragically died in the Fairmont Coal Company mine explosions the previous December. 

The following year, Sonora Smart Dodd, a woman from Spokane, Washington, sought to create an official day to honor fathers. She campaigned tirelessly, reaching out to local churches, the YMCA, shopkeepers, and government officials to gather support for her idea. Her efforts paid off, and on June 19th, 1910, Washington State celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson marked the occasion by using telegraph signals to unfurl a flag in Spokane when he pressed a button in Washington, D.C., demonstrating national recognition of the holiday. 

Source: history.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

NAMI Blue Water Area To Host Open House Event

NAMI Blue Water Area, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is thrilled to announce an Open House on Tuesday, June 25th, at 5:30 p.m. at St. Clair County Community Mental Health’s Summit Board Room, located at 3111 Electric Avenue, Port Huron. 

This event is a unique opportunity for the community to explore the essential programs, services, and training offered by NAMI Blue Water Area.

Attendees will meet the board and volunteers, who will discuss NAMI’s mission and the comprehensive support available to individuals and families in St. Clair County. Highlights include a guest speaker sharing their personal mental illness journey, emphasizing the impact of local NAMI chapters. Light refreshments will also be served. All community members are welcome.

For more information, contact BlueWaterNAMI@gmail.com or follow NAMI Blue Water Area on Facebook.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Summer Family Film Series Kicks Off At Sperry’s Moviehouse

Megan Simmons, State Farm Agent, is delighted to announce the Summer Family Film Series at Sperry’s Moviehouse, providing a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy movies together throughout the summer. Beginning June 19th to August 22nd, the series features free bi-weekly showings every Wednesday and Thursday at 11:00 AM.

Located at 301 Huron Ave, Sperry’s Moviehouse promises a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for moviegoers of all ages. In addition to the free showings, families can indulge in a $6.00 pop and popcorn combo, complete with free refills, ensuring an enjoyable and affordable outing for everyone.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to enjoy great films and delicious snacks in the heart of Port Huron. Mark your calendars and prepare for a memorable movie experience all summer long.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Workers Can Join Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Over Pandemic Unemployment Repayments

Michigan workers who believe they were wrongly asked to repay pandemic-era unemployment benefits to the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) can now seek information and file claims online regarding a class action lawsuit settlement. 

The settlement in Saunders v. Unemployment Ins. Agency et al. allows workers to be reimbursed for money repaid before protests and appeals were resolved, or to opt out of the settlement.

“This resolution benefits claimants and ensures they receive the money they deserve,” said UIA Director Julia Dale. The UIA aims to address issues from the public health crisis and transform into a model for fast, fair, and fraud-free service.

For more details and to file claims, workers can visit the Claimant Homepage at Michigan.gov/UIA.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell