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Local News

April 2023 Proclaimed As Arab American Heritage And Chaldean-American Month

The month of April is quite busy, with it being the month of Easter and Autism Awareness Month. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has also recently proclaimed it to be Arab-American Heritage and Chaldean-American Month.

Gov. Whitmer feels that it is important to highlight and celebrate the culture, heritage, and contributions that Arab and Chaldean-Americans have made to the state of Michigan. 

Gov. Whitmer says, “Both communities have made immeasurable contributions to Michigan’s culture and economy, moving our state forward. I encourage all Michiganders this month to learn more about our extraordinary Arab and Chaldean-American communities.” 

Michigan is home to one of the largest Arab-American communities in the U.S. as well as the largest concentration of Chaldean Assyrian Syriacs in the country.  

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Country Style Marketplace Fort Gratiot Store Closure Soon

Fort Gratiot’s Country Style Marketplace has recently announced that they will be closing their store and moving to their new Downtown Port Huron location.

Country Style Marketplace has provided the Ft. Gratiot community exceptional service for the past four and a half years. The owners, Steve Fernandez and Michelle Jones have cited the reason for the relocation being due to the dramatic increase in costs of everyday goods and services due to inflation. 

Fernandez says, “After much deliberation and consideration of options, consolidation of these stores is imperative if we are to remain a viable business in this environment.” 

The store will be closing its Fort Gratiot doors April 16th, you can continue to shop with them at their new downtown Port Huron location, at 310 Huron Ave.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Spero Pregnancy Center “Change For Life” Baby Bottle Drive

Spero Pregnancy Center provides practical, emotional, and spiritual support to those facing unplanned pregnancy and sexual decisions, post abortion trauma, and unexpected parenting obligations. 

They are a non-profit medical organization staffed mostly by volunteers that depends upon donations for financial support. 

The fundraiser will supply you with various sizes of baby bottles from small to large, for people to fill with cash, coins, or checks. The bottles will be returned to Spero at a predetermined date and used to provide continued services.  

For more details and information on how to register, visit: bluewaterbabies.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Groovz Night In Sarnia Offers Adult Dance Lessons

Have you ever wanted to get out on the dancefloor at your local club or event, but you just don’t feel confident, or you have two left feet? Groovz Night offers residents dancing lessons from an experienced dance instructor.

On Friday, April 28th, Dance Instructor, Michelle Mitchell will be teaching ballroom/Latin as well as general dancing at the Dante Club located at 1330 London Rd., Sarnia. Ballroom/Latin lessons take place from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. and general dancing lessons take place from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Lessons will take place once per month which includes a variety of music, cash bar, and snacks. Tickets are $25/couple or $12.50/Single for members, and $30/Couple or $15/Single for non-members.

For tickets and more information, call Victoria at: (519) 542-9311.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Remembers Local Philanthropist James C. Acheson

If you live in the City of Port Huron or have ever visited, then you have most definitely experienced something in the community that wouldn’t exist if it were not for James C. Acheson.

Acheson was a well-known philanthropist and member of the Port Huron community who contributed to many of the projects and landmarks that we have come to enjoy and know so well. He passed away on April 2nd leaving behind his legacy and impact for years to come. 

Acheson served as a trustee of the Community Foundation of St. Clair County for almost two decades. He was awarded the Russell Mawby Award as well as the Distinguished Service Award, both are meant to honor exceptional lifetime achievements in philanthropy. 

Responsible for sites in Port Huron such as Desmond’s Landing and the Blue Water River Walk, Acheson also donated to numerous charities and organizations such as Sons Outreach, Mid-City Nutrition, Port Huron Museums, and more. 

The City of Port Huron has lost a true treasure indeed, and will most definitely miss Mr. James C. Acheson.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Photo: Courtesy of the Community Foundation of St. Clair County

Is April Autism Acceptance Or Autism Awareness Month

The month of April is designated as Autism Awareness Month. The symbols associated with this month are the puzzle piece, the awareness ribbon, and the colors red, blue, and yellow. 

Symptoms of Autism vary from person to person, and is classified under Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The word spectrum is used due to the unique challenges and abilities that affect each person differently. 

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the way an individual processes information such as language and social interactions. Some individuals can speak and communicate effectively, while others may be non-verbal, or suffer other challenges.

According to autismspeaks.org, Autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children, and although there is no cure, there are methods and treatments that allow many to live self-sufficient lives if caught and diagnosed early enough.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell