Downtown Port Huron

Embrace Winter Fun: McMorran Plaza Opens Ice Skating With Free Rentals

This weekend marks the exciting launch of ice skating at McMorran Plaza, bringing a frosty delight to Port Huron residents. 

Starting Friday, January 19th, and continuing as weather permits, the rink welcomes enthusiasts to bring their own skates (BYOSkates) or enjoy free rentals. The Pro Shop, conveniently located by the SC4 fieldhouse entrance (farthest west doors), will be open for rentals on Fridays from 6-9p.m., Saturdays from 12-9p.m., and Sundays from 12-6p.m. 

Gather your friends and family for a delightful experience in Downtown Port Huron at 701 McMorran Blvd. Don’t miss out on the winter magic, lace up and glide into the season’s festivities! With the weather predicted to be a chilly 20 degrees on Friday, make sure you bundle up and stay safe.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

JARS Cannabis Elevates Port Huron’s Cannabis Scene With Grand Opening Of Recreational Dispensary

In a groundbreaking move, JARS Cannabis, a prominent cannabis retailer, has unveiled Port Huron’s inaugural recreational cannabis dispensary at 404 Quay St. This momentous occasion marks JARS’ 19th retail location in Michigan and its 38th nationwide, solidifying its prowess in the state’s rapidly growing cannabis market. 

Conveniently situated in downtown Port Huron, the 3,500 sq. ft. dispensary operates seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering a diverse selection of over 100 brands across various categories. From flower to edibles, vapes, concentrates, and more, JARS ensures a seamless integration of cannabis into any lifestyle. 

Whether opting for in-store shopping, pre-order pickup, or delivery, JARS’ staff is dedicated to providing personalized and approachable experiences.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

A Beautiful Me Hosts Prom Fashion Show & Sale, Showcasing Affordable Dresses In Downtown Port Huron

Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 17th, as A Beautiful Me presents a spectacular “Prom Fashion Show & Sale” at Wrigley Hall in downtown Port Huron from 12 noon to 3 pm. 

As a nonprofit, A Beautiful Me recently received a heartwarming donation of 600 dresses from a closing Allen Park, Michigan store, fueling the mission to provide affordable, beautiful dresses. Founder Karen Palka emphasizes that every purchase supports confidence-building programs for girls in 3rd-12th grades.

The event includes a Fashion Show with 40 dresses modeled by local students and adults, followed by a chance to shop and try on dresses, aided by an alteration specialist. Guests, with purchase of a $10 ticket, also receive a $5 coupon towards a dress purchase at The Closet by A Beautiful Me. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Rotary Club Launches 2024 With Generosity, Grants, And A New Focus

The Port Huron Rotary Club embarked on the new year with purpose, unveiling a revised grantmaking strategy during a meeting led by President Emily Vinckier-Pierce. The club’s service and foundation committees sanctioned two $2,500 grants for the Port Huron Old Newsboys and Blue Water Area Rescue Mission. The Rotary Foundation will now prioritize basic needs support alongside continued funding for youth programs.

While the first grants have been allocated, additional funds remain available for local organizations. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply through the Grant Application.

The Rotary Foundation sustains its annual grant program through its endowment fund and the upcoming Three Grand Slam fundraising event on February 2nd. Attendees not only contribute to the local community but also stand a chance to win $3,000 at this year’s event.

For more information, visit: phrotary.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Patti Manley Elected Board Chair At Community Foundation Of St. Clair County

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has announced the election of Patti Manley as its new Board Chair, effective January 1st. Manley takes over for Hale Walker, who completed a two-year term as the Foundation’s Chair. 

As the Foundation enters its 80th year, Manley expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I could not be more pleased to have the honor of chairing the board of trustees.” The Community Foundation, the largest and oldest in Michigan’s Thumb Region, boasts over 200 volunteers and assets exceeding $100 million, including 300 endowments, the Blue Water River Walk, Knowlton Museum, and downtown Port Huron offices. 

Patti Manley, a Port Huron native, brings 42 years of experience with McBride-Manley & Co. to her new role–she joined the Foundation’s board in 2016, and has served on its Finance Committee as well as its main Grants Committee.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Patrick & James Announces Closure Amid Economic Downturn, Offers Final Week Blowout Sale

Amid the economic challenges faced by retail brick-and-mortar stores, Patrick & James, a cherished establishment located at 225 Huron Ave, in downtown Port Huron, is set to close its doors permanently. 

Owners Brian and Charitie revealed that the store’s final week, from January 8th – January 14th, will feature a store-wide 50% off sale. Customers are urged to redeem all gift cards by January 14th, and all sales during this period will be final.

In a heartfelt message, the owners expressed gratitude, saying, “Thank you to all of our customers for their support and friendship these past 5 years! We look forward to seeing you one last time before we close our doors.” 

Patrick & James plans to redirect their efforts towards a new direction as they bid farewell to the Port Huron community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell