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Local News

Port Huron Rotary Club Launches 2024 With Generosity, Grants, And A New Focus

The Port Huron Rotary Club embarked on the new year with purpose, unveiling a revised grantmaking strategy during a meeting led by President Emily Vinckier-Pierce. The club’s service and foundation committees sanctioned two $2,500 grants for the Port Huron Old Newsboys and Blue Water Area Rescue Mission. The Rotary Foundation will now prioritize basic needs support alongside continued funding for youth programs.

While the first grants have been allocated, additional funds remain available for local organizations. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply through the Grant Application.

The Rotary Foundation sustains its annual grant program through its endowment fund and the upcoming Three Grand Slam fundraising event on February 2nd. Attendees not only contribute to the local community but also stand a chance to win $3,000 at this year’s event.

For more information, visit: phrotary.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Celebration Commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) invites you to step into the heart of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy during a condensed two-hour community celebration. A captivating evening awaits, featuring an array of inspirational elements.

Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring beats of music, a compelling dance performance, and the screening of “I AM MLK Jr.,” a poignant documentary delving into Dr. King’s 12-year battle for social justice.

Engage in a rapid-fire panel discussion, witness the expressive piece “Harmony for Justice,” and be captivated by a mesmerizing dance performance. The evening concludes with a powerful closing address, gratitude-filled remarks, and a call to action to actively participate in local social justice initiatives.

Mark your calendars for this unforgettable celebration of unity and empowerment on Monday, January 15th, at SC4’s Fine Arts Theater beginning at 6 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Chilly Fest Returns To Downtown Port Huron For Winter Extravaganza

Get ready for some wintertime fun as Chilly Fest makes its triumphant return on Feb. 2nd & 3rd, transforming Downtown Port Huron into the coolest neighborhood in town! 

This winter wonderland features a spectacular lineup of outdoor activities, including ice sculptures, a s’more station, carriage rides, and an epic chili competition. Don’t miss the chance to participate in bed races, an outdoor cornhole tournament, and witness Downtown Restaurants battle it out in the chili cook-off. 

Chilly Fest 2024 is proudly sponsored by SEMCO Energy, US Farathane, Advia Credit Union, and more, with heartfelt thanks to community partners making it all possible.

If you’re interested in ordering an ice sculpture, signing up for bed races, or checking out the full schedule of events, visit www.chillyfest.org. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Access To Adolescent Addiction Treatment In the U.S.: Limited Beds, High Costs, and Stark Disparities

A recent study, backed by the National Institutes of Health, reveals alarming challenges in accessing residential addiction treatment for U.S. adolescents. 

Researchers found that merely 54% of facilities had immediate bed availability, and those on a waitlist faced an average 28-day delay. The daily treatment cost averaged $878, with 48% demanding upfront payments. A month-long stay soared over $26,000 on average. 

In 2022, 2.2 million adolescents grappled with substance use disorders, 265,000 with opioid use disorders. Shockingly, only 57% of facilities accepted Medicaid, with a stark contrast between for-profits (20%) and nonprofits (80%). In 23 states, no adolescent centers accepting Medicaid were identified. Strikingly, 57% of Medicaid-accepting facilities reported waitlists, emphasizing the urgent need for reform in adolescent addiction treatment accessibility.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

WGRT’s 29th Annual Wedding Showcase Promises Prizes Galore And A Fun-Filled Atmosphere For Engaged Couples

Join us this Sunday, January 14th, from 12 to 3 p.m., as WGRT presents the 29th Annual Wedding Showcase. Hosted at the elegant Alexander’s Premier Banquet Facility and Catering located at 1200 Gratiot Boulevard, Marysville, this in-person event guarantees an unforgettable experience for engaged couples planning their dream weddings.

Adding to the excitement, attendees stand a chance to win fabulous prizes, including two $50 gift cards to The Closet by a Beautiful Me, along with a $300 gift certificate from St. Clair Travel. For keeping your home tidy, and your family happy in the kitchen, you can also win home appliances like the Oreck Compact Vacuum, GE Food Processor, GE Emulsion Blender, and Frigidaire Countertop Ice Maker. 

Tickets can be purchased online at WGRT.com, or at the door for just $5 each.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell