Michigan AG Warns Residents Of New Social Security Impersonation Scam

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is cautioning residents to remain vigilant following a warning from the Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) about a new impersonation scam. Criminals are posing as SSA OIG agents, demanding in-person meetings to collect cash, a practice that authentic agents never engage in.

Nessel emphasized the importance of staying informed and reporting any suspicious activity to protect against these harmful scams. Victims of this crime are urged to file complaints with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center and report the scam to Consumer Protection or SSA OIG.

Nessel’s office also provided guidelines for protecting against such scams, including blocking, not clicking links, reporting as spam, and deleting suspicious communications. Additionally, consumers were reminded that government agencies do not solicit payments through certain methods outlined in the Attorney General’s alert.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Local Siblings Set To Make Waves At Prestigious Pickleball Tournament

Two siblings from the local area are poised to make a splash in the world of Pickleball as they gear up to compete in the esteemed U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. 

Mike Chargot and Cathy Martinek, a former WGRT employee who retired in 2020, have been selected to showcase their skills at the renowned tournament taking place in Naples, Florida on April 20th. 

Held at the East Naples Community Park, this event boasts the largest Pickleball facility globally and will see over 3,000 players from across the globe vie for victory. Chargot and Martinek are excited to represent their community and are determined to give their all as they aim for the coveted “gold medal” in this prestigious competition.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Of Hopes Bowling Fundraiser Set To Strike Out Mental Health Stigma

Port of Hopes is gearing up for an evening of strikes and spares, all in the name of smashing the stigma surrounding mental illness. 

Sponsored by Sullivan Construction of St. Clair County LLC, the fundraiser will take place at Port Huron Lanes, located at 1718 Hancock St., on Saturday, May 4th. Doors open at 6 p.m. with bowling starting at 7 p.m. Admission is a $20 donation per person in advance, $25 at the door, which includes two games and shoes. 

Attendees can also participate in a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. All proceeds will directly support Port of Hopes’ initiatives, including constructing a pavilion and providing a stigma-free environment for outdoor activities. 

For inquiries, contact Ruth Thick at (810) 982-3560 or email: ruththick.projectstay17@yahoo.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

First Parents Convicted In U.S. School Shooting Sentenced To Minimum 10 Years

Jennifer and James Crumbley, the first parents convicted in a U.S. mass school shooting, were sentenced to a minimum of 10 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter by Oakland County Judge Cheryl Matthews. The ruling came amidst regrets over missed opportunities that could have prevented their teenage son, Ethan Crumbley, from carrying out the tragic shooting that claimed four lives in 2021.

Judge Matthews emphasized that the convictions were not about poor parenting but rather about the repeated failures to intervene in the face of clear warning signs. Despite not knowing about the handgun Ethan carried to Oxford High School, the couple was held responsible for their negligence in securing the firearm and ignoring their son’s deteriorating mental health.

The sentencing marked a pivotal moment in holding individuals beyond the perpetrator accountable for school shootings.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Autism Awareness Month Sheds Light On Autism And Asperger’s Syndrome

April marks National Autism Awareness Month, efforts are underway worldwide to spotlight Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Asperger’s syndrome, raising understanding and support for those affected. 

With approximately one in 270 individuals globally diagnosed with ASD, the need for awareness and acceptance is paramount. ASD encompasses a range of developmental challenges, impacting social interaction, communication, and behavior across diverse backgrounds. While the month celebrates the unique stories and resilience of individuals with autism, it also underscores the importance of ongoing research and support for improved treatments and therapies. 

Initiatives such as hosting awareness events, attending supportive gatherings, and advocating on social media are ways to contribute to fostering inclusion and reducing stigma surrounding autism. By uniting efforts, communities strive to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

7th Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project Set To Commence In Port Huron

Beginning Wednesday, April 10th, the 7th Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project is slated to begin, impacting traffic flow in the City of Port Huron. 

Situated between Grand River Avenue and Water Street, the bridge will undergo essential repairs, including deck restoration and epoxy overlay, necessitating a closure to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. However, marine passage will remain unaffected during this period. 

To mitigate disruptions, a designated detour route will be marked to guide motorists around the construction zone. Anticipated to reopen on Sunday, May 26th, the project is funded by the City of Port Huron’s Major Street Fund. 

Officials apologize for any inconvenience caused and encourage inquiries to the Department of Public Works at (810) 984-9730 for further clarification.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell