Submit Your Photos For The 2025 Blue Water Area Calendar

Calling all photographers! The Blue Water Area Calendar is returning for 2025, and submissions are now open. 

Capture the beauty of the Blue Water Area, from Lexington to Algonac, and submit your best shots for a chance to be featured. Both amateur and professional photographers are welcome, with artistic shots encouraged.

Each photo should highlight recognizable landmarks, events, or people in the area (no kids or pets). Submit up to five clear, high-quality JPEGs without resizing.

Email your entries to artontheriverph@gmail.com by September 1st. Selected photos will be announced on September 19th. Proceeds from the calendar will support Art on the River, an annual art and music festival.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Arts in the Street: A Vibrant Celebration By Latin Fire Dance Company

The Latin Fire Dance Company invites you to join the inaugural Arts in the Street festival, transforming downtown Sarnia into a vibrant cultural celebration. Held on Lochiel St. between Christina St. and Front St., this family-friendly event will take place on July 19th, and August 2nd, 16th & 30th, from 6  to 9 p.m.

Attendees can immerse themselves in Latin culture and more, enjoying delicious food, live music, captivating dance performances, and art displays from local artists. The festival promises a lively atmosphere filled with family-friendly activities, promoting unity and community spirit.

Experience diverse cultures, connect with the community, and enjoy evenings of fun and festivity. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate unity in motion. Mark your calendars and bring your family and friends!

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Makes Strides In Tackling Housing Shortage

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced significant progress in addressing Michigan’s housing shortage. Thanks to state investments, federal resources, and robust private development, Michigan has built or rehabilitated 50,000 housing units, reducing the statewide shortage from 190,000 units to 141,000 units.

“Our record investments have provided tens of thousands more Michiganders with safe, affordable homes,” said Governor Whitmer. “With our partners, we are making historic investments to expand housing supply, reduce costs, and create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs.”

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has set a five-year housing goal, recently increased by 53%. CEO Amy Hovey highlighted the progress and emphasized the need for continued investment to meet growing demands.

Projections indicate Michigan will add 20,000 housing units annually through 2026, potentially increasing with sustained investment. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MI Snack Competition Extends Entry Deadline

The MI Snack Competition, a popular event in the snack food industry, has extended its deadline for entries to August 12th. This extension gives aspiring snack makers additional time to prepare for the competition scheduled for September 14th at McMorran Plaza in downtown Port Huron.

Formerly known as the MI New Favorite Snack competition, this event promises more than $50,000 in cash prizes. The top award recipient will also receive a distribution agreement with All Star Services, a local Break Room Services company.

The entry fee for the competition is $200 for companies located outside St. Clair County, while local snack makers pay a $100 fee. Those from St. Clair County can opt to compete statewide by paying an additional $100. 

For more information and to register, visit the MI Snack Competition page on the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce website at: BlueWaterChamber.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell