Detroit’s North American International Auto Show Returns To January Slot Amidst Industry Shifts

In a strategic pivot, Detroit’s renowned North American International Auto Show is set to return to its traditional January schedule for 2025 after a two-year experiment with a warmer September timeframe. 

The ill-fated move to September aimed at creating outdoor experiences and attracting more consumers proved challenging, with dwindling attendance and few new model debuts.

Auto companies globally are grappling with declining interest in traditional auto shows, with manufacturers opting for more cost-effective virtual events. The upcoming show, scheduled from January 10th to January 20th, 2025, aims to rekindle its past success. Previous January shows drew around 800,000 attendees, a stark contrast to the undisclosed figures from the September editions. 

Organizers believe that the shift back to January aligns with industry trends and presents a renewed opportunity to captivate audiences in the Motor City.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Safe Horizons Presents Annual LOL Comedy Club Event For A Night Of Laughter And Support

Mark your calendars for Friday, February 9th, as Blue Water Safe Horizons hosts its annual LOL Comedy Club Event at the City Flats Hotel Ballroom in Port Huron, MI. From 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., this laughter-filled evening promises an opportunity to eat, drink, and be merry with friends, co-workers, or a romantic partner.

Attendees can anticipate a side-splitting lineup featuring local community favorites alongside professional comedians, ensuring an unforgettable night of laughter. Raffles offering chances to win fantastic prizes will add an extra element of excitement to the event. 

With limited seats available, securing tickets early is advised at $85 each. The ticket includes a plated dinner, access to the main event, and a cash bar, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and support for a worthy cause.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

A Seat At The Table: Collaborative Exhibit Invites Local Artists To Share Perspectives Through Chair Art

In an effort to celebrate the diverse and remarkable contributions of people of color in St. Clair County, Port Huron Museums in collaboration with the Port Huron NAACP Youth Council, announce their  upcoming temporary exhibit, “A Seat At The Table,” which beckons local artists to creatively express their worldview through chair art. 

The exhibition, hosted at the Carnegie Museum at 1115 6th Street, Port Huron, invites participants to decorate a chair or seating element, transforming it into a tangible representation of their unique perspectives.

Eager artists anticipate the opportunity to contribute to this immersive celebration, displaying not only their work, but also a piece of their hearts. The exhibition is scheduled to run from February 9th to March 10th, offering a dynamic platform for minority local voices to be heard.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Jazmyn Thomas Appointed Deputy Director Of Planning And Community Development In Port Huron

The City of Port Huron proudly announces the appointment of Jazmyn Thomas as the new Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development. 

Ms. Thomas, already overseeing community development strategies and federal funding disbursements, will now extend her role to include economic development, inspection, and planning. 

Passionate about community involvement, she serves on various committees, including the Community Foundation’s Equity and Inclusion Committee, the Port Huron Police Department’s Community Resource Champions Committee, and the St. Clair County Diversity Initiative. 

Beyond her professional commitments, Jazmyn enjoys traveling. City Manager James Freed commended Ms. Thomas, stating, “Her knowledge of federal programs and sophistication are unmatched. We are tremendously lucky to have such talent within our ranks.”

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Department Of Treasury Sets January 29th As Official Start Date For 2024 Tax Season

The Michigan Department of Treasury declared that the 2024 tax season will kick off on Monday, January 29th. From that date onward, the agency will initiate the processing of individual income tax returns for the state. 

Taxpayers have the flexibility to file their state income tax returns through various channels, including online submissions, assistance from tax professionals, or the traditional method of mailing paper forms and documentation. 

It’s crucial for individuals to ensure that their state income tax returns and any owed taxes reach the department by April 15th, 2024—the deadline synchronized with the Internal Revenue Service. Failure to provide accurate documentation may result in delayed processing, prompting taxpayers to file amended returns later. Employers are reminded to dispatch W-2s and 1099s to employees by January 31st to facilitate a smooth tax filing process.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Entrepreneurs Invited To Join Small Business Cohort For Growth And Support In Eastern Michigan

Applications are now open for entrepreneurs in Shiawassee, Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, Sanilac, and St. Clair Counties to join the newly established Small Business Cohort. 

Supported by a $2.5 million grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) as part of the Small Business Support Hubs (SBSH) program, the Cohort aims to foster the growth of up to forty businesses in 2024. 

Participants will receive coaching, mentoring, and essential support services, including financial assistance of up to $7,000. The Region 6 Small Business Cohort, based at the Port Huron Smartzone and The Underground business incubator, is a part of The Eastern Michigan Small Business Network—a collaborative effort dedicated to accelerating the success of startup and small businesses in Michigan’s central eastern region. 

For more information, visit: edascc.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell