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

Local News

Environmental Cleanup Funding To Support New Housing Space In Grand Rapids

The City of Grand Rapids has been approved to receive funding that will cover the cost of environmental cleanup for the redevelopment of a contaminated site.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) provided $20.7 million in brownfield funding in 2022 which has been used to fund 67 projects statewide. 

Brownfields are vacant or abandoned properties with known or suspected contamination. When these sites are cleaned and developed, it increases property values at the site, as well as those of other nearby properties. “The Lofts on Grove” project is expected to generate $24.3 million in investment.

The project will see new apartments and commercial space in the city. When finished, the Lofts on Grove will be a four-story building with 110 apartments and more than 3,200 feet of commercial space. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Marysville Cheer Team Claim Third Consecutive League Title

The Marysville Vikings competitive cheer team is performing extremely well this season. The Vikings are currently ranked in the top ten in the state in Division 2.

This week the team entered the final MAC meet tied for first place with Chippewa Valley. The competition was held at Grosse Pointe North where the Vikings walked away with the first place victory with a final score of 757.32. Second and third place went to Lamphere with a score of 751.8 and Chippewa Valley with a score of 740.06. 

The competition saw Marysville set school records for Round 1, Round 3, and total scores. 

If you would like to check out the Marysville Vikings competitive cheer team in person, their next competition will be Monday, February 13th starting at 6 p.m. at Richmond for their last regular season meet. Districts begin February 18th in Fenton.

More details on Vikings 1st place victory at: thesportsreportmi.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Two Michigan Locations To Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, and many are making plans to celebrate with their significant other. Check out these two locations in Michigan that may suit your tastes. 

 The Whitney

The Whitney, located at 4421 Woodward Ave. in Detroit, is world famous for upscale dining. They have a Valentine’s Day event that takes place this weekend beginning Friday, February 10, 11, 12, and 14th. They are offering a four-course dinner menu complete with a strolling violinist and souvenir red rose for each couple. Tickets are $99 per person with prepaid reservation. 

Huron House

If you’re interested in a bed and breakfast romantic getaway, check out Huron House, located at 3124 North US-23, Oscoda. Huron House is a luxurious lakefront destination that features king beds, fireplaces, private hot tubs, jetted tubs, and lake views. Breakfast is delivered directly to you, so that you can relax and enjoy your meal from the comfort of your luxury room.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

3rd Annual Winter Wonderland Festival Fire, Ice & Spice Coming To Marine City

If you’re looking for some outdoor winter fun, you have to check out the 3rd Annual Winter Wonderland Festival Fire, Ice & Spice event in Marine City!

Fire, Ice & Spice will take place at 300 Broadway St. It begins Saturday, February 11th from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Admission is free to the public.  

The event will feature ice skating and fire performances, a chili cookoff between local restaurants and organizations, music, raffle basket, and more! Guests can keep warm at one of the fire pits or with a warm beverage. It’s $8 for a taste test wristband that allows you to sample all entries and vote for your favorite chili. 

The event is sponsored by the Marine City Area Chamber of Commerce. Restaurants and organizations who would like to join the chili cookoff can find more information by emailing chamber@visitmarinecity.com or by calling (810) 765-4501.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Arc Of St. Clair County 1st Annual Dinner Dance

Are you looking for an exciting Valentine’s Day event to attend for a good cause? If the answer is yes, then The Arc of St. Clair County has something for you. 

On Thursday, February 9th, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. The Arc of St. Clair County will be hosting its 1st Annual “Show The Love Dinner/Dance & Virtual Auction.” The event will be held at Alexander’s Banquet Center located at 1200 Gratiot Blvd., Marysville.  

The dinner/dance will feature a DJ, photo booth, virtual auction, 50/50 raffle, booze pull, dash for cash, and more! 

The event is part of an effort to raise $20,000 for The Arc of St. Clair County. Their mission is to support and protect the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and advocating for their full inclusion and participation in the community.

Tickets are $40 per person, if you would like more information or would just like to make a donation, you can visit: thearcscc.org 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Offers Temporary Warming Center For The Homeless

It may not be of much concern for those of us who own a home or have a place to sleep while enjoying the comfort of shelter during these winter months. What about those who are less fortunate? What happens when the homeless have nowhere to go to keep warm? 

Despite what many may think or feel. The homeless in our city deserve to be sheltered and protected from the elements as well. 

All Nations Church located at 2030 Church Street, Port Huron is offering a temporary warming shelter for the homeless. No pre-registration is required. Individuals may show up at the church by entering the “Red Door” at the back of the building.

The shelter will be open until April 30th. Hours of operation are 6 p.m. – 7 a.m. seven days a week. 

For more information, call: (810) 434-7481 or email: safehavenwarmingcenter@gmail.com 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell