Local News

Studio 1219 in downtown Port Huron is abuzz with excitement as they have received regional recognition through a nomination in WDIV Local 4’s “Vote 4 the Best” contest in the arts and entertainment category. Studio 1219 is a 501 (C) (3) Non-Profit art gallery and educational facility that seeks to promote the emerging and mid-career artists of Michigan while also providing a well-rounded art atmosphere for all ages and economic backgrounds, through art experiences and programs. Gina Panoff, Executive Director of Studio 1219 said by people voting,“ it will spread the word about the very important arts and culture facility right in Port Huron. Panoff said that, “if the studio won, this would help spread the word about the arts culture, not only in Michigan but also in Port Huron.” The studio has over 150 different artists currently displayed and offers a variety of resources to the community. You can vote once per hour, per category until July 14 by visiting www.studio1219.com and clicking on the “Vote 4 the Best” link.

Looking for a fun event this weekend?  You can savor a taste of summer at the St. Clair Beer and Wine Fest.  The event takes place on Saturday, June 22 from 4:30-11 p.m. at the Riverview Plaza Courtyard.  Presented by the St. Clair Chamber of Commerce, this event offers over 100 local beer and wine vendors such as Roak Brewing Co., Griffin Claw, Great Lakes Brewing Co., Atwater, and many more. Attendees will enjoy live entertainment from Rockstar and The Dave Hamilton Band, along with games like cornhole and giant Jenga, as they sample food from vendors including War Water Brewery, Drifters, Pizza Hut and Black & Bleu BBQ.  Tickets for the St. Clair Beer & Wine Fest are $45 and include 10 drink tickets for 5 oz. samples, a keepsake glass, and access to all activities. Tickets can be purchased online. This event is for those age 21 and over. For more information, visit stclairbeerandwine.com

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County recently approved nearly $250,000 in traditional scholarships for the upcoming 2019/2020 school year. Of the 76 individual recipients, 32 percent are returning college students. Board Chair for the Community Foundation Mike Cansfield said the Foundation has “moved well beyond one-time scholarships for graduating seniors.” Their “focus on student success through the Complete Your Degree program, attracting talent through the Come Home Award and supporting those individuals pursuing skilled trades or other certification programs.” The Foundation reached out to 152 recipients who graduated high school between 2013 and 2015. Of the 65 who responded, 92 percent have graduated with at least an associate degree with most earning a bachelor’s within four years.

Operation Transformation, along with main sponsors, Chemical Bank, Community First Health  Centers, Community Foundation of SCC, HAP, James C. Acheson Foundation, Kiwanis Club of Port Huron, Power 88.3/90.7 Hope FM, Rotary Club of Fort Gratiot, and Woman’s Life Chapters 800 808, are sponsoring FREE Family Activities on Thursday night of the Blue Water Fest. The event takes place during the Mackinac Sailboat Race Week. The date is July 18th from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Positive, family-friendly events will take place on the lawn just NorthEast of the 10th St. Bridge.  Fun activities include pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, Detroit Tigers’ PAWS, live music, face painting, hair braiding, carnival games, crafts, giveaways, and so much more! To get more information or volunteer to help, please call Renee Hernandez at Operation Transformation – 810-966-8660.

On June 5th in Lansing at the State Capital, 4 EMTs from Tri-Hospital EMS were honored by the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services Stars of Life Program.  The program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who go above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession. Those recognized from Tri-Hospital EMS include Amanda Steffy, Cody Kata, Gary Montgomery, and Elizabeth Manoyian. These unsung heroes were nominated by  EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by agency executives, are celebrated in a series of events in our state capital.  Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. Congratulations to our local heroes!

The St. Clair County Emergency Operation Center continues to be partially activated and local officials are monitoring the elevated water levels.  Levels continue to rise in southern portions of St. Clair County and are starting to impact roads and homes. The St. Clair County Road Commission has posted temporary road restrictions due to the water levels as it relates to roads in Clay Township and Harsens Island.  This is a dynamic situation that is dependent on rainfall amounts, changes in wind direction, and wave action. These variables, combined with higher than normal water levels can impact roadways, homes, and businesses. Residents needing sandbags can contact their local township or city office.  If your home is impacted by flood damage it is very important that you contact the Emergency Operation Center at 810-989-6392. To find out the latest information about water levels and emergency preparedness visit bereadystclaircounty.org or visit their Facebook page Be Ready St. Clair County.