local news

2023 International Silver Stick Tournament Is Coming To Town

Do you enjoy hockey and supporting the children in our community? If yes, then you need to check out one of the biggest sporting events coming to the Blue Water Area.

The 2023 International Silver Stick Tournament features children of all ages, from across the country, as well as Canada competing for their region. The tournament begins Thursday, January 5th, and will continue each weekend until Sunday, January 29th. 

The International Silver Stick Tournament consists of numerous AA and below “regional” tournaments held in the US and Canada. Teams will then advance to represent their region at the International Finals. The AAA teams involved in the tournament participate in Port Huron, Sarnia, or Whitby and are invite only. 

This year’s local games will be held at the Mcmorran Place Sports & Entertainment Center as well as Glacier Pointe Ice Complex. There is no admission fee to watch, so support our community and come check out the 2023 International Silver Sticks Tournament.

2023 International Silver Stick Schedule: silverstick.org

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

28th Annual WGRT Bridal Show Returns For 2023

If you or someone you know is planning a wedding this year, then you don’t want to miss “St. Clair County’s most elegant bridal show.” 

On Sunday, January 15th, from 12PM – 3PM, WGRT will be hosting the 28th Annual WGRT Bridal Show in partnership with Alexander’s Banquet Facility. For nearly three decades WGRT has brought people together that plan to get married, with businesses that provide wedding services of all sorts. 

A few of the businesses in attendance for the bridal show include: Amour Bridal, Twinspiration Boutique, and Majestic Heart Carriage Rides. St. Clair Travel will also be in attendance giving away a gift certificate for a Delta Vacation Honeymoon Romance Package, valued at $500. Tickets for the event are $5. 

For more information and tickets visit: WGRT.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron 2023 Chilly Fest Returns

Welcome to the new year. The City of Port Huron is looking to bring some excitement for the whole family with the return of Chilly Fest 2023.

Chilly Fest is an outdoor event filled with cool activities and entertainment held in downtown Port Huron. The event will feature a s’mores station, horse and carriage rides, cornhole tournament, and much more. 

It wouldn’t be the Chilly Fest without mention of the Chili Crawl Competition. Participating local downtown businesses will have samples of their chili available, with you being the judge on who has the best chili in the area. 

Chilly Fest 2023 begins Friday, January 27th and ends Saturday, January 28th. For a full list of scheduled events and activities, visit: chillyfest.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Women Have A Point, Why You Should Close The Toilet Seat

How many times have men and women debated back and forth about putting the toilet seat down after use? It’s an age old debate that may never be settled, but the women may have a valid point.

After using the bathroom, most of the population has a tendency to leave the toilet seat open. Studies show that it could be doing you more harm that you may realize. 

Every flush creates a phenomenon known as “toilet plume,” microscopic particles which become airborne when flushing. These microscopic particles may contain harmful bacteria or viruses that can make us sick. Particles can travel up to 15 feet away, landing on any surfaces you have in your bathroom, including your toothbrush. These microscopic droplets can remain on surfaces for an hour or more.  

To reduce the spread of illness or other infectious disease, be sure to close the toilet lid and then flush. Also, make sure you practice proper hand washing before exiting the restroom, and use a cleaner that removes limescale from inside of your bowl. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Free Rides Offered To New Years Eve Partygoers

The Blue Water Area Transit (BWAT) and Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center (BWROC) will both be offering residents a free ride service beginning on New Year’s Eve for those who are interested. The Blue Water Area Transit will be offering free rides beginning at 6PM until 11PM for their regular bus service. 

There will also be five “Safe Ride” vehicles available Saturday, December 31st, from 6PM until Sunday, January 1st at 2AM. Individuals should make sure to schedule their rides as early as possible to avoid delays as phone lines will be shut off at 1:30AM on New Years Day. 

Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center will also be providing residents with free rides within a five mile radius of downtown Port Huron beginning Saturday, December 31st, at 11PM until 2AM. Calls are not accepted after 2AM, so it’s best to schedule in advance to avoid delays. To schedule or reserve your free ride, call (888) 68-BWROC.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

“Clean Slate Laws” Makes Better Future For Those With Prior Convictions

We’ve all heard the saying, “New year new me,” and with the recent legislation in Michigan, some of those with prior criminal convictions will have the opportunity to a new shot at life.

As of April 2023, there will be an automatic system in place that will expunge certain convictions without having to fill out an application. Many who have been convicted of old crimes have served their time and turned over a new leaf, but those past convictions often come back to haunt them when applying for jobs, renting a home, or other aspects of life that can greatly affect quality of life. 

Up to two felony convictions can be expunged after 10 years of the person’s sentencing or release from custody. Up to four misdemeanors will automatically be expunged after 7 years.

For more information and details on what specific convictions are covered, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell