Aspire Rural Health System Foundation expressed gratitude to Thumb Cellular and the Sanilac County 4-H Horse Open Show Group for their donations supporting the Covenant Cancer Center at Aspire Marlette in Michigan’s Thumb. Thumb Cellular’s “Go Pink This October” campaign, featuring games, prizes, food trucks, and pink hair extensions, raised $4,034. The 4-H Horse Open Show Group added $826.52. Together, these contributions will fund a blanket warmer, ensuring infusion patients at the newly renovated center receive cozy, heated blankets during treatment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office welcomes four new deputies: Joshua Orzel and Robert Arnold, graduates from the Wayne County Police Academy, and Chase Vogras and Lauren Powers from Delta College. Sheriff Paul Rich praised their commitment to public service. Additionally, Sergeant Ronald Edington was promoted to Lieutenant, now overseeing the Uniform Services Division. Edington, with the department since 2010, will lead the team following Lt. Micheal Moore’s transfer to the Drug Task Force.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Tree of Shining Love ceremony at Aspire Marlette Regional Hospital wrapped up the holiday season of giving with a heartfelt event on December 8th. The ceremony honored 176 individuals and recognized Sue Cook and the volunteers of the Caring Hearts Health Clinic for their 14 years of service to those in need. Nearly $20,000 was raised for the Hyperbaric Chamber Project, helping to bring vital healthcare services to the Thumb region. The names of those honored have been shared on the hospital’s social media page, alongside a video of the ceremony.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new University of Michigan survey shows that teen marijuana use is at its lowest point in 30 years, with usage dropping by as much as 43% over the past decade. This decline spans 8th to 12th graders, despite 24 states legalizing adult marijuana use. The findings match previous reports from the CDC and National Drug Use surveys, debunking claims that legal cannabis access increases teen use. NORML’s Paul Armentano emphasized that these results prove that regulating marijuana for adults doesn’t impact younger users, offering reassurance to lawmakers about the safety of legalization.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Marysville, the St. Clair County Technical Education Center (TEC) has received a valuable boost for its automotive programs, thanks to LaFontaine Ford St. Clair. The dealership donated a ’23 Ford Transit Cargo Van, along with repair parts, marking its second vehicle contribution this year. The van, which was damaged before the donation, provides students with a chance to work on a larger vehicle, enhancing their hands-on experience. This will help TEC students gain practical skills to prepare them for careers in the growing automotive industry.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

ITC Michigan is spreading holiday cheer across the Lower Peninsula by decorating its nearly 150-foot-tall transmission towers with dazzling LED displays. Featuring up to 250 feet of lights, a 1,600-LED star, and a “Happy Holidays” sign made of 13,000 LEDs, the festive decorations are lighting up communities like Marysville and St. Clair every evening through January 5th. Designed by Michigan Graphics and Signs and installed by Utility Lines Construction Services, the displays have become a cherished holiday tradition, uniting neighborhoods.

Reporting from WGRT – JP bZet