Downtown Port Huron

Port Huron Named 2023 Tree City USA For Commitment To Urban Forest Management

The Arbor Day Foundation has recently bestowed an esteemed honor upon the city of Port Huron by naming it a 2023 Tree City USA. This recognition highlights Port Huron’s dedication to effective urban forest management. 

The city achieved this prestigious status by meeting the stringent requirements of the Tree City USA program, including maintaining a tree board or department, implementing a tree care ordinance, allocating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Tree City USA program, sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, underscores the importance of urban forestry. 

Dan Lambe, Chief Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, emphasized the positive impact of Port Huron’s efforts, noting that they ensure a better quality of life for future generations and foster a sense of civic pride within the community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

St. Clair County Community College Offers On-Campus Housing For 2024-25 Academic Year

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is once again opening its doors to on-campus living for the upcoming academic year, making it the sole community college in Southeast Michigan to offer such accommodations. 

With a focus on providing a comprehensive college experience at an affordable cost, SC4 presents students with a choice between two vibrant downtown Port Huron residence halls on Bard Street and Huron Avenue. Housing options range from studios to two-bedroom units, empowering students to tailor their living arrangements to their preferences. 

SC4 College Housing Manager, Wesley Whetstone, emphasized the immersive nature of student housing, highlighting its benefits for those eager to engage fully in the SC4 community. Additionally, residents can enjoy access to local amenities and entertainment, along with discounted tuition rates and a range of complimentary services.

For more details, visit: sc4.edu/housing.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Root Juicery Sprouts Up In Downtown Port Huron, Offering Healthy Grab & Go Options

Downtown Port Huron welcomed a refreshing addition to the scene as the Root Juicery opened its doors on March 27th. Located at 206 Huron Ave., the new establishment offers a variety of healthy options catering to health-conscious patrons. 

From 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., customers can indulge in cold pressed juices, including 100% celery or carrot juice blends, alongside alkaline water and iced/cold coffee. For those seeking an immune system boost, the juicery also serves a variety of herbal and vitamin shots. If juice isn’t your thing they also offer a variety of wraps and other food items.

The menu boasts a range of prices between $3.50 and $9.00, making it affordable for various budgets. Whether craving a nutritious beverage or on-the-go food item, Root Juicery promises a flavorful experience for all.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Closet By A Beautiful Me Celebrates 5th Anniversary With $5 Dress Sale

In celebration of its 5th Anniversary Year, The Closet by A Beautiful Me is offering a remarkable inventory reduction sale on Friday, April 5th from 12 – 8 p.m., slashing prices on select trendy dresses to just $5.00 each. The nonprofit organization aims to build girls’ confidence through original programs, with every dress purchase supporting their mission.

Executive Director Karen Palka emphasizes the diverse collection available, catering to women of all sizes and styles. The one-day sale boasts over 90% savings, making it an irresistible opportunity for shoppers. Palka attributes the sale to a strategic decision to reduce inventory while commemorating the organization’s milestone. 

Since its inception in January 2019, The Closet has not only offered affordable fashion but also provided free business certification training for teen girls, aligning with its mission to empower and uplift young women.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Court Rules City Manager’s Facebook Page Not Subject To First Amendment

In a landmark decision involving Port Huron City Manager James Freed and Port Huron resident Kevin Lindke, the Supreme Court has established a standard for determining the applicability of the First Amendment to government officials’ social media accounts. 

The ruling, issued on Friday, clarified that speech by government officials can only be subject to First Amendment scrutiny if the individual possesses authority to speak on behalf of the state and exercises that authority on the platform in question. This standard, applicable to all government officials, provides clarity on the boundaries of free speech in the digital age. 

The ruling reinforces the Sixth US Court of Appeals’ decision to support James Freed, emphasizing that his social media activity did not align with his official duties as city manager of Port Huron. 

The case will be remanded back to the Sixth Circuit Court for future review. “I am very pleased with the outcome the justices came to. The court rejected the plaintiff’s appearance test and further refined a test for review by the 6th circuit. We are extremely confident we will prevail there once more,” says Freed.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

WGRT Radio’s Vickie Lemonis Named Alignable’s 2024 Business Person Of The Year For The Second Year In A Row

In a remarkable feat, Vickie Lemonis, account executive behind WGRT Radio, secures the prestigious title of Alignable’s 2024 Business Person Of The Year for Port Huron, marking her second consecutive win. 

Alignable is a business oriented platform where business owners build trusted relationships through business networking and networking events. Their highly anticipated contest, boasting record-breaking participation levels, witnessed Lemonis’s exceptional leadership and dedication shine through. 

Since joining WGRT in 2020, Lemonis has exemplified a steadfast commitment to community service and business growth, earning her widespread acclaim. Her warm personality, tireless work ethic, and unwavering dedication to her clients have set her apart in Port Huron’s bustling business landscape. 

Lemonis’s remarkable achievement not only underscores her individual excellence, but also highlights the invaluable impact of local business leaders in fostering prosperity and resilience within their communities. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell