Downtown Port Huron

YMCA Of The Blue Water Area Launches Open Arms Annual Campaign To Support Vital Community Programs

The YMCA of the Blue Water Area embarks on its Open Arms Annual Campaign, aiming to raise $200,000 to bolster essential community initiatives. 

Scheduled to kick off on May 1st, and continuing through the end of June, the campaign seeks to ensure access to vital programs promoting healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. 

Funds raised will provide financial aid, enabling families in need to enroll their children in camps and youth programs. Moreover, the campaign will support initiatives such as the CATCH program, combating childhood obesity, and offering free and low-cost water safety and swim programs to all children. 

Additionally, resources will be allocated to programs like Enhance Fitness and LIVESTRONG, emphasizing healthy lifestyles and prevention. The YMCA’s campaign exemplifies its commitment to fostering a healthier, more inclusive community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Art On The River 2024 Unveils Stellar Band Lineup For Its 13th Anniversary Celebration

Citizens for a Vibrant Community has set the stage for an unforgettable experience as they reveal the lineup for Art on the River 2024, marking its 13th year as the region’s premier art and music festival. 

Scheduled for June 7th, 8th, and 9th at Kiefer Park in Port Huron, this year’s free event promises an electrifying display of local talent. A few of the stellar acts that will be in attendance are Barbara Payton and the Instigators, Brotha Earth, and the Bobby Murray Band, representing the vibrant music scene of Port Huron and Detroit. 

Renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, Art on the River welcomes everyone with free concerts and a celebration of creativity. 

For further details, visit: artontheriverph.com/celebration-of-music.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Farmers Market Unveils New Location And Policies For 2024 Season

Port Huron residents and visitors will soon have a fresh destination to explore as the Port Huron Farmers Market announces its return with an exciting change. 

Running from May 11th to October 26th, the market will open its gates every Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm at its new location on the corner of Quay St. and Merchant St.

In a bid to enhance accessibility, the market proudly declares its acceptance of SNAP benefits, Double Up Food Bucks programs, and Senior Project Fresh coupons. However, with the move to a new city market, organizers clarify that they will not be able to honor Vantage Point Farmers Market $2 and $1 wooden tokens. Instead, the City of Port Huron introduces its own wooden tokens this year, ensuring seamless transactions for shoppers. While the market will not accept old tokens, the silver DUFB token remains valid, extending its utility across statewide markets.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Summer Programs Registration Opens May 2nd For Residents, May 3rd For Nonresidents

Starting Thursday, May 2nd at 8 a.m., residents of Port Huron can sign up for the city’s summer programs through the Port Huron Recreation Department. Nonresidents will have their registration window open at 8 a.m. on Friday, May 3rd. Thanks to a collaborative effort with neighboring townships like Fort Gratiot and Burtchville, residents from these areas can access Port Huron’s programs at the resident rate.

This summer, the Recreation Department is introducing 11 new programs catering to both adults and children. From adventurous paint sessions to water safety weeks and even SCUBA diving discoveries, the lineup promises a diverse and engaging experience. 

Alongside these new additions, beloved favorites like Rockin’ The Rivers and Summer Movie Nights are making a return, ensuring a fun-filled season for all participants. 

To register online, visit: porthuronrec.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Unveils Michigan’s Office Of Defense And Aerospace Innovation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, alongside the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), has announced the establishment of the Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation (ODAI) in Michigan. This strategic move aims to bolster the state’s defense and aerospace sectors, leveraging the expertise and resources of the Michigan Defense Center. ODAI’s objectives include amplifying awareness of Michigan’s capabilities, attracting and nurturing businesses engaged in Department of Defense-related activities, and fostering growth in commercial and defense-related aerospace ventures.

Leading this initiative is Col. John Gutierrez, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret), appointed as ODAI’s executive director. With over three decades of experience in acquisition and operational roles, Col. Gutierrez brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Governor Whitmer expressed confidence in Michigan’s trajectory, emphasizing the state’s commitment to strengthening its defense and aerospace economy while honoring its legacy of industry leadership.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Art Hop Returns Downtown For Spring 2024

Art enthusiasts, families, and community members are invited to join the annual spring edition of Port Huron Art Hop on Friday, May 10th, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Downtown Port Huron. 

Organized by Downtown Port Huron, Art Hop promises a vibrant evening filled with art, music, food, and fun. There will be pottery, paintings, jewelry, photography, and macrame, along with other forms of creative media. 

This mini-sidewalk festival celebrates local arts and the historic charm of Downtown Port Huron, bringing together residents and visitors alike. The event is free to attend, offering an opportunity for everyone to enjoy and support the arts while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere of the city’s cultural hub.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell