event

MiABLE Celebrates First National ABLE Savings Day With $100 Match Offer

In celebration of the inaugural national ABLE Savings Day on Aug. 14, MiABLE is offering a $100 match to those who open eligible disability savings accounts during August. MiABLE, part of Michigan’s disability savings program, empowers individuals with disabilities to save for the future without jeopardizing government assistance.

“We are proud to have been among the earliest states to establish access to ABLE accounts as life-changing financial empowerment tools,” said R. Scott de Varona, MiABLE program director.

The national ABLE Savings Day encourages people to share their experiences and highlights the importance of these accounts. Despite 500,000 eligible individuals in Michigan, only about 1% have enrolled. To learn more, three national webinars are being offered this month to educate the public about ABLE accounts.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blake’s Annual Sunflower Festival: A Blooming Celebration With 200+ Artisans, DIY Workshops, And U-Pick Sunflowers

Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill’s Annual Sunflower Festival returns this August, offering a vibrant experience for visitors of all ages. 

On Aug. 16-18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the festival invites guests to explore over 200 artisans showcasing handcrafted products and more. Attendees can enjoy free classes on topics such as natural wellness, aromatherapy, and the benefits of local honey. For hands-on fun, DIY workshops allow participants to create with real sunflowers (additional charge). 

The festival also offers U-pick sunflowers, wildflowers, fruits, and vegetables, along with endless photo opportunities in the scenic sunflower fields. Admission includes access to Barnyard Funland and free parking. Children aged 2 and under enter free, making this a perfect outing for families. 

For more information, visit: blakefarms.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Association Of St. Clair County Gears Up For 5K Run & Walk

The Dementia & Alzheimer’s Association of St. Clair County is set to host its annual 5K Run & Walk on Sept. 21, at Kiefer Park in Port Huron. 

This event, a staple in the community’s efforts to raise awareness and funds, kicks off with registration at 8 a.m. The run begins at 9 a.m., followed by the walk at 9:15 a.m. Registration fees range from $20 to $35, with special rates available for children and early registrants. Participants can choose to forgo a t-shirt for a reduced fee. 

The funds raised will provide crucial support to local caregivers through the Dementia & Alzheimer’s Association (DAA) Respite Grant and Educational Speaker Series. Additionally, a portion will help fund ongoing research at the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center. 

For more information and to register, visit: DAASCC.org or call (810) 990-9558.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron To Hold 9/11 Service Of Remembrance For Fallen Heroes

As the anniversary of the tragic events at the World Trade Center and Pentagon approaches, the city of Port Huron is preparing to honor the courageous individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001. Among those remembered will be the 343 firefighters, 72 police officers, and numerous EMTs who selflessly ran into danger while others fled.

The community is invited to attend a solemn Service of Remembrance on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 9 a.m. at the International Flag Plaza, located on Thomas Edison Parkway, just north of the Blue Water Bridges. 

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the Public Meeting Room of the Municipal Office Center at 100 McMorran Blvd. 

For more information, contact Port Huron Police Assistant Chief Brian Kerrigan at: (810) 984-9710.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Begins Holland Avenue Improvement Project

On Monday, Aug. 12, the City of Port Huron began significant improvements on Holland Avenue, stretching from Pine Grove Avenue to Gratiot Avenue. 

The project includes repaving the asphalt, upgrading select curb and gutter areas, installing ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps, and lawn restoration.

Due to the construction, Holland Avenue will be closed to thru traffic until the end of August. The project is funded by the voter-approved street millage and Federal Surface Transportation Program Funding. The city appreciates the community’s patience as these essential upgrades are completed to enhance the safety and accessibility of the roadway.

For questions about the construction you may contact the Department of Public Works at: (810) 984-9730. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan AG Dana Nessel Warns Residents To Protect Personal Data After McLaren Health Care Cyberattack

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging residents to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information following a cyberattack on McLaren Health Care. 

The breach, reported on Aug. 6, has disrupted the healthcare provider’s IT systems, raising concerns about the exposure of sensitive data. While McLaren assures the public that its facilities remain “largely operational,” Nessel warns that cybercriminals may have accessed private information.

Nessel highlights the importance of monitoring for signs of identity theft, such as unexpected medical bills, errors in insurance statements, and unrecognized debt collections. She emphasized the lack of Michigan state laws requiring notification of significant data breaches, leaving many consumers vulnerable. 

Nessel advises residents to consult her office’s consumer alert at Data Breaches: What to Do Next for guidance on responding to data breaches and protecting personal information.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell