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Local News

Governor Whitmer

Governor Gretchen Whitmer To Present Vision For Michigan’s Future In Sixth State Of The State Address

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is set to deliver her sixth State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 24, at 7:00 PM. The address will take place in the Michigan House Chambers, featuring a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate. The event will be broadcast live statewide, allowing citizens to tune in and hear the Governor’s vision for the future.

In anticipation of the address, Governor Whitmer stated, “Michigan’s story can be seen in our people’s stories. After one of the most successful years in our state’s history, I look forward to sharing my vision for how we continue getting things done so everyone can build a brighter future in Michigan.”

Citizens can watch the State of the State Address on local TV channels, through social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, or online at michigan.gov/StateOfTheState.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Patti Manley Elected Board Chair At Community Foundation Of St. Clair County

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has announced the election of Patti Manley as its new Board Chair, effective January 1st. Manley takes over for Hale Walker, who completed a two-year term as the Foundation’s Chair. 

As the Foundation enters its 80th year, Manley expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I could not be more pleased to have the honor of chairing the board of trustees.” The Community Foundation, the largest and oldest in Michigan’s Thumb Region, boasts over 200 volunteers and assets exceeding $100 million, including 300 endowments, the Blue Water River Walk, Knowlton Museum, and downtown Port Huron offices. 

Patti Manley, a Port Huron native, brings 42 years of experience with McBride-Manley & Co. to her new role–she joined the Foundation’s board in 2016, and has served on its Finance Committee as well as its main Grants Committee.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Patrick & James Announces Closure Amid Economic Downturn, Offers Final Week Blowout Sale

Amid the economic challenges faced by retail brick-and-mortar stores, Patrick & James, a cherished establishment located at 225 Huron Ave, in downtown Port Huron, is set to close its doors permanently. 

Owners Brian and Charitie revealed that the store’s final week, from January 8th – January 14th, will feature a store-wide 50% off sale. Customers are urged to redeem all gift cards by January 14th, and all sales during this period will be final.

In a heartfelt message, the owners expressed gratitude, saying, “Thank you to all of our customers for their support and friendship these past 5 years! We look forward to seeing you one last time before we close our doors.” 

Patrick & James plans to redirect their efforts towards a new direction as they bid farewell to the Port Huron community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Birchwood Mall Unveils Exciting Additions: A Haven For Creativity And Bonding

Birchwood Mall is set to become a hub for creativity and family bonding with the introduction of two unique stores. 

“A Little Hobby Ceramic Studio” and “The Process” are the latest additions, offering immersive experiences for both children and adults.

“A Little Hobby Ceramic Studio” combines a ceramics studio with a gift shop, providing a space where families can engage in creative activities and craft personalized keepsakes. Meanwhile, “The Process” promises a hands-on art and science experience, redefining learning through unique and interactive methods.

Birchwood Mall aims to foster a dynamic environment where families can learn and enhance their creativity together. These new stores contribute to the mall’s commitment to providing a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

For more information, visit their Facebook page at: Birchwood Mall.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Kia Introduces Robust Anti-Theft Measures And Settlement In Consumer Class Action Litigation

In a proactive move to safeguard Kia vehicle owners, the company has implemented comprehensive anti-theft support actions. Kia is offering a free, advanced security software upgrade aimed at preventing unauthorized ignition system operations on locked vehicles nationwide. 

For vehicles ineligible for the software upgrade, Kia has developed an ignition cylinder protector to fortify the key cylinder sleeve assembly, adding an extra layer of theft deterrence. Additionally, impacted owners and lessees will receive free steering wheel locks, distributed directly to consumers and through collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.

Furthermore, a recent announcement on May 18th, 2023, revealed that Kia has reached a settlement in a consumer class action litigation related to vehicle thefts. Once approved by the court, affected consumers (certain Class Members) will be entitled to receive payments and other benefits, marking a significant resolution in the ongoing matter.

For more information, visit: kiasupport.kiausa.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

CDC’s Wastewater Surveillance Reveals Alarming Spike In COVID-19 Activity Across the U.S., Midwest Hit Hardest

The CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS) is sounding the alarm as it reports a significant surge in COVID-19 activity nationwide. 

According to the latest data updated on December 28th, the wastewater viral activity level for COVID-19 is currently categorized as “very high” across the United States. Disturbingly, the Midwest emerges as the region with the most pronounced wastewater viral activity, indicating a potential hotspot for the virus.

The NWSS provides a crucial public health infrastructure, enabling local agencies to monitor infectious diseases through wastewater. This real-time data empowers health officials to identify outbreak trends early, target preventive measures effectively, and gain additional insights into disease spread.

For more details and information about your region’s data, visit: cdc.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell