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

Local News

SCCHD Seeking New Medical Director

St. Clair County Health Department Medical Director Dr. Najibah Rehman, has stepped down from her position leaving the Department to find a replacement. Dr. Rehman joined the department in 2022, filling the part-time physician role created by county commissioners for the chief public health job.

A six-month written notice is required to terminate the three-year employment agreement for this at-will position, but an official from a neighboring community has reportedly been filling in since Rehman’s resignation. The reason behind her departure has not been publicly disclosed.

The job listing for medical director has been posted since Rehman’s reported resignation on April 28, with applications closing on May 29. The position requires a master’s in public health in addition to a medical degree and falls under the supervision of Liz King, the public health officer, the health advisory board, and the county board in accordance with state law.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Hunter Hospitality House Launches 2023 Endowment Fund Awareness Raffle

Hunter Hospitality House has kicked off the 2023 Hunter Hospitality House Endowment Fund Awareness Raffle to support their mission of providing free lodging and amenities to individuals requiring medical lodging. 

A portion of the proceeds from the raffle will be directed to the Hunter Hospitality House Endowment Fund, which is managed by the Community Foundation of St. Clair County. The fund aims to accumulate resources that will sustain the organization for future generations.

Raffle tickets are priced at $100 each, with a maximum of 300 tickets available. 

Sales end when tickets are sold out, or on August 30th. The drawing for the raffle prizes will take place on August 31st, at 5 p.m. at the Hunter Hospitality Family House.

Exciting prizes from Lawrence Jewelers, Greg & Kate May and Alpine Cycles, JC Poured Walls, and DoubleTree by Hilton include a diamond ring, an E-Bike, a drone with built-in camera, and a hotel stay with a view of the water, respectively.

For more information, visit: hunterhospitalityhouse.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Gov. Whitmer Signs Legislation Lowering Costs of College Tuition for Military Spouses and Children

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation that broadens the eligibility criteria for the Michigan National Guard state tuition assistance program, allowing spouses and dependents to benefit. The expansion of the program aims to enhance recruitment efforts, promote retention, and improve the overall quality of life for Guard members and their families. The expansion increases the funding cap from $10 million to $15 million.

The bipartisan bill signed by Governor Whitmer will significantly reduce the cost of higher education for spouses and children of Michigan National Guard members. The move demonstrates the state’s commitment to supporting service members and their families, who make selfless sacrifices to protect citizens and uphold fundamental values and freedoms.

House Bill 4199 opens doors to financial assistance for spouses and dependents of National Guard members attending public or private colleges, universities, vocational schools, technical schools, or trade schools in Michigan.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

FDA Approves Use Of Gene Edited Pigs For Food Source

Sausages made from gene-edited pigs have paved the way for a potential shift in the human food chain. A team of researchers at Washington State University cooked up sausages from five 2-year-old genetically edited pigs as part of a successful test case. 

Professor Jon Oatley, from the college’s School of Molecular Biosciences, led the study and obtained FDA food-use authorization for the pigs, demonstrating the safety of consuming food derived from animals edited using CRISPR technology.

The researchers aim to enhance desirable traits for improved food production and meat quality, addressing the global challenge of feeding a growing population. Although research on other livestock species, including cattle, goats, and sheep, is also ongoing, progress has been faster with pigs due to their shorter generation interval and larger litters.

While the FDA authorization currently applies only to Oatley’s research, the team plans to pursue food-use authorization for other species in the future. The breakthrough holds significant implications for protein sources, particularly in developing nations.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Blue Water Area YMCA And McMorran Plaza Team Up For Health And Fitness

Fitness enthusiasts in Port Huron can now enjoy free exercise programs this summer at McMorran Plaza, thanks to a partnership between the City of Port Huron and the YMCA of the Blue Water Area. The initiative aims to promote health and wellness within the community.

Residents can choose from a variety of exercise programs instructed by the knowledgeable staff of the YMCA. Whether it’s cardio, strength training, or yoga, participants can browse or register for their preferred program which will commence on June 1st.

A YMCA membership is not required to participate in these free programs. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals from all backgrounds can take advantage of the opportunity to improve their fitness levels.

Being a nonprofit organization, the Blue Water Area YMCA and their Open Arms Campaign rely on the members of the community to help sponsor these programs for all to enjoy. If you would like to donate or support the YMCA, visit: bluewaterymca.com. 

Photo: Sheila Potrykus-Volker

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

PHASD Announces Summer Food Service Program

In an effort to ensure food security for children and disabled individuals, the Port Huron Area School District has announced the availability of free meals. This program is open to children aged 18 and under, as well as persons up to the age of 26 who are enrolled in a recognized educational program for the mentally or physically disabled.

The meals, which will be provided without any form of discrimination, will be available regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability. 

To find the locations, dates, and times of the meal service in the Port Huron area, residents are encouraged to visit the district’s Facebook page. The page will provide a comprehensive list of all the locations where free meals can be obtained.

This initiative aims to alleviate hunger and support vulnerable individuals within the community, ensuring that no child or disabled student goes without a nutritious meal.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell