event

Breakthrough Arrest Made In 40-Year-Old Cold Case Murder Of St. Clair County Woman

In a significant development, authorities announced Monday morning that an arrest has been made in the decades-old cold case homicide of 21-year-old Karen Umphrey in St. Clair County. 

Douglas Laming, 70, from Fort Gratiot Township, is currently in custody taken by St. Clair County Sheriff’s detectives. Umphrey’s life was tragically cut short in 1980, when her body was discovered in the State Game Area in Beards Hills.

Collaborating with the Michigan State Police and forensic genetic genealogy experts at Othram, investigators unearthed crucial information previously deemed unattainable. Detective work spanning four decades included interviews with individuals connected to both victim and suspect. Laming now faces charges of felony murder, he awaits a court appearance for a probable cause conference on December 26th at the St. Clair County Detention and Intervention Center.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Catapult Student Tech Pitch Competition Calls On Region 6 Eastern Michigan Students To Innovate And Win Big

Aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts in Eastern Michigan’s Region 6 are invited to showcase their creativity in the Catapult Student Tech Pitch Competition. 

Organized by The Underground and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the event encourages university and college students to present STEM-based solutions to real-world challenges using science, technology, engineering, math, or AI. 

The competition, accepting pitch applications from December 18th, to January 10th, 2024, offers a total prize pool of $12,000. With live rounds in Flint and Port Huron, the initiative aims to foster a new wave of technology-based businesses, providing a platform for students to transform innovative ideas into tangible solutions. 

Eligible participants can learn more and apply at: startunderground.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sanilac County Museum’s Victorian Christmas Extravaganza Concludes With Festive Farewell

As the New Year approaches, the Sanilac County Museum invites the community for a final celebration of the season with the enchanting Victorian Christmas Decorations at the Loop-Harrison Mansion. 

The culmination of the month-long display, crafted by over 30 dedicated volunteers, showcases beautiful trimmings on four distinct Christmas trees and festive decor throughout. Admission is just $5 per person, with children 12 and under entering for free, providing a delightful way to bid farewell to the holiday season.

Additionally, the Christmas Lighted Trail continues every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., illuminating the historic village and nature trail. While admission is free, donations are appreciated and can be made at designated tubes near the mansion and Forestville Church. Also, don’t miss “Santa’s Workshop” at the General Store, contributing to the festive spirit in the community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Schools Launches Aggressive Anti-Vaping Campaign In Collaboration With St. Clair County Health Department

In a proactive move to address the rising concerns of vaping among students, Port Huron Schools has joined forces with the St. Clair County Health Department for an intensive anti-vaping campaign. 

On December 6th, high school students witnessed a live presentation by Daniel Ament, a Grosse Pointe resident and the first person to undergo a double lung transplant attributed to vaping-related damage. Ament, once a state-recognized student athlete, shared his harrowing experience to raise awareness. 

The Health Department will extend its outreach to middle and high school students, delivering vital information on vaping dangers. The campaign will also engage parents through the Superintendent’s weekly e-newsletter, reaching 10,000 subscribers and linked to the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce’s weekly e-newsletter. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Developmental Housing Holds Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser

On January 11th, 2024, at 7 p.m., the Detroit Red Wings will play a crucial game against the Edmonton Oilers at the Little Caesars Arena for a special fundraiser. The event aims to raise funds for Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc. 

Tickets are for Section 101, and are priced at $130, plus transaction fees. Purchasers will not only witness an exciting game but will also receive a complimentary t-shirt to wear at the event. The first 56 ticket buyers stand a chance to ride on the exclusive party bus, while the first 150 will receive a swag bag. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Blue Water Developmental Housing, supporting employee education and emergency funds. 

Fun Fact: Port Huron native, Jack Campbell, plays the goalie position for the Oilers.

For more information, contact: Ashley Lueth at lueth@bwdh.org or (810) 388-1200.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Veteran Homes’ “Make a Veteran Smile Campaign” Invites Heartfelt Messages To Spread Holiday Joy

Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) launches the ‘Make a Veteran Smile Campaign,’ urging Michiganders to brighten the holiday season for veteran members through heartfelt letters, banners, or food tray liners adorned with personal messages. 

Tiffany Carr, MVH Community Engagement Coordinator, emphasizes the significance of community support, stating, “Sending a letter to our members is another way the community can share appreciation and support for veterans around the holidays.” 

To participate, contributors should follow helpful guidelines such as, ensuring personal notes enclosed with their card, large writing, and dark ink. Addressed letters can be hand-delivered or sent to MVH locations in Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, or Marquette. 

For more information, contact Ryan Engle at: engler3@michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell