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Local News

St. Clair Rotary Club Celebrates A Century Of “Service Above Self” With Grand Centennial Gala

As the St. Clair Rotary Club prepares to mark its 100th anniversary on April 22nd, preparations are underway for a grand celebration. 

The club, renowned for its commitment to the motto “Service Above Self,” will host a spectacular 100th Birthday Celebration at the St. Clair Inn View Ballroom on Thursday, June 20th, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Tickets, priced at $75 per person, promise attendees an evening of elegance and entertainment. Highlights include a sit-down dinner, premium cash bar, and musical performances by the School for Strings and the Simone Vitale Band. The event will also feature tributes, a club history presentation, and keynote remarks from Rotary International Immediate Past President Jennifer Jones.

For more information, visit: stclairrotary.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Summer Programs Registration Opens May 2nd For Residents, May 3rd For Nonresidents

Starting Thursday, May 2nd at 8 a.m., residents of Port Huron can sign up for the city’s summer programs through the Port Huron Recreation Department. Nonresidents will have their registration window open at 8 a.m. on Friday, May 3rd. Thanks to a collaborative effort with neighboring townships like Fort Gratiot and Burtchville, residents from these areas can access Port Huron’s programs at the resident rate.

This summer, the Recreation Department is introducing 11 new programs catering to both adults and children. From adventurous paint sessions to water safety weeks and even SCUBA diving discoveries, the lineup promises a diverse and engaging experience. 

Alongside these new additions, beloved favorites like Rockin’ The Rivers and Summer Movie Nights are making a return, ensuring a fun-filled season for all participants. 

To register online, visit: porthuronrec.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SEMCO ENERGY Issues Warning About Scammers Impersonating Company For Bill Payments

SEMCO ENERGY Gas Company has alerted customers about a concerning trend where scammers are posing as SEMCO representatives online. The scammers post false information, including an incorrect 800 number, offering quick bill payment setups. This tactic has led some customers to unwittingly provide payment information, resulting in unauthorized deductions from their bank accounts.

To safeguard against these scams, SEMCO advises customers to only use approved payment methods listed on their official website. Additionally, customers should call SEMCO directly using the 800 number on their SEMCO bill or (810-624-2019) to verify any suspicious communications.

If targeted by a scam, customers are urged to contact SEMCO customer service and local law enforcement promptly. SEMCO emphasizes vigilance and caution in dealing with unexpected or suspicious requests related to bill payments or personal information.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Unveils Michigan’s Office Of Defense And Aerospace Innovation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, alongside the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), has announced the establishment of the Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation (ODAI) in Michigan. This strategic move aims to bolster the state’s defense and aerospace sectors, leveraging the expertise and resources of the Michigan Defense Center. ODAI’s objectives include amplifying awareness of Michigan’s capabilities, attracting and nurturing businesses engaged in Department of Defense-related activities, and fostering growth in commercial and defense-related aerospace ventures.

Leading this initiative is Col. John Gutierrez, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret), appointed as ODAI’s executive director. With over three decades of experience in acquisition and operational roles, Col. Gutierrez brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Governor Whitmer expressed confidence in Michigan’s trajectory, emphasizing the state’s commitment to strengthening its defense and aerospace economy while honoring its legacy of industry leadership.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

BWROC Achieves Prestigious CAPRSS Accreditation, Setting National Standard For Recovery Support

The Blue Water Recovery Outreach Center (BWROC) has garnered national recognition by achieving the Council on Accreditation of Peer Recovery Support Services (CAPRSS) Accreditation, a testament to its unwavering dedication to providing top-tier recovery support services. 

Following a rigorous two-year screening process and a comprehensive two-day onsite review in February, BWROC demonstrated exceptional compliance with CAPRSS performance standards.

Evaluated across multiple domains including peer support services, governance, finance, and organizational care, BWROC surpassed expectations, earning exemplary status from site reviewers. Developed by recovery experts and healthcare providers, CAPRSS standards ensure the effectiveness and quality of Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs) like BWROC.

Through 1-on-1 recovery coaching, transportation services, recovery events, and support groups, BWROC positively impacts hundreds weekly, fostering community engagement and enhancing individuals’ recovery journeys. This accreditation solidifies BWROC’s position as a leader in the recovery support landscape, setting a national benchmark for excellence.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Governor Proclaims April 25th As Honolulu Blue Day For NFL Draft Kickoff

In anticipation of the 2024 NFL Draft’s opening day in Detroit, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared April 25th as “Honolulu Blue Day” across Michigan. Encouraging all Michiganders to don the iconic colors of the Detroit Lions, Honolulu Blue and Silver, the proclamation aims to unite the state in celebration of its football legacy.

Governor Whitmer expressed pride in Michigan’s football achievements, citing the University of Michigan’s national championship and the Detroit Lions’ historic NFC Championship Game appearance. Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II also echoed his sentiments, highlighting the significance of the Draft in spotlighting Detroit’s culture, resilience, and economic growth.

As fans gear up to witness the Draft at iconic venues like Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza, the event promises to showcase Detroit’s rich heritage and the spirit of its hard working residents. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell