local news

Old Newsboys Raising Funds to Keep Kids Warm

No one likes cold feet in the winter. Thanks to the Port Huron Old Newsboys, St. Clair County kids should be able to have toasty warm feet all winter long.

The local charitable organization has been providing access to warm socks, underwear, and boots to kids in need for over nine decades. Families who sign up for help from the Old Newsboys get a voucher to Meijer where they can purchase brand new socks, underwear, and boots of their liking to get them through the cold winter and beyond.

To pay for these necessities for around 1000 children, the Old Newsboys are trying to raise $70,000. Almost all of the money raised goes to the children. The organization is run by volunteers and there is no paid staff.

The Old Newsboys organization partners with MDHHS to verify eligibility for families that request assistance. Michelle Brown, a volunteer, said that the application period is closed because the target goal of 1000 children has been met. If donations pick up, they will be able to help more children.

To donate to the Old Newsboys, look for donation canisters in local restaurants, donate online, or mail a check.

https://www.facebook.com/PortHuronOldNewsboys/

Old Newsboys

PO Box 100

Marysville, MI 48040

Old Newsboys Fund at Community Foundation of St. Clair County

https://www.stclairfoundation.org/fund/old-newsboys-association-of-port-huron-fund/ 

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

SC4’s “We Are Still Here” to Tell Story of Native History

Most students of American history know that in 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue, but do they know anything about indigenous culture or pre-colonial North America? The St. Clair County Community College Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be offering a chance to get a history lesson from a different perspective with the “We are Still Here” presentation for Native American History month.

The presentation will be on November 5th from 10:00-11:30 a.m. in the SC4 Fine Arts Theater on the Port Huron campus.

“We are Still Here” is being facilitated by Banashee (Joe) Cadreau and Giddigongookskwe (Jade) Green. The pair will be discussing indigenous culture in Michigan as well as in the entire United States and Canada. Michigan is the home of the “three fires” people: the Ojibwa, Odawa, and Potawatami.

Both presenters, who are members of native tribes, will tell their stories of dealing with accepting their cultures and their adolescent struggles. To reserve a seat for this free community event, email dei@sc4.edu.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Port Huron to Participate in Historic Opioid Settlement

Eleven people overdosed on drugs in the City of Port Huron this September alone. One of those overdoses was fatal. Nine of those overdoses were known to be from the use of heroin.

Port Huron could soon be getting help from the historic settlement between states’ Attorneys General and the makers and promoters of highly addictive opioid pain relievers that can lead to heroin use and substance abuse disorders.

The settlement is the result of years of negotiation and the clock is ticking to ensure participation and guarantee payout. Michigan’s Office of Attorney General acknowledges that the money won’t immediately end the opioid epidemic, but it will help local governments to “commence with meaningful change” to curb addiction, overdose, and death.

The City of Port Huron is taking the necessary steps to participate in the settlement process, according to a memo from City Manager James Freed.

The multi-billion dollar payouts will be spread out over up to 18 years and priority is given to the states which have been the most affected by opioid abuse.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Mark S. White Named 2020 Michigan Professional Emergency Manager of the Year

Mark S. White has been named the 2020 Michigan Professional Emergency Manager of the Year by the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division.

White is the Deputy Director for St. Clair County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. White drafted the emergency management framework in the midst of the pandemic, which allowed for all county agencies to coordinate their efforts.

White is also credited with spearheading the Local Emergency Planning Committee in St. Clair County. The Committee brings together the resources of both public and private entities to expand resources and expertise in emergencies.

Captain Kevin Sweeney, Commander of the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, said, “Mr. White’s dedication to emergency management over the last three decades has helped his community prepare for and respond to disasters, ensuring their health and safety. His continued efforts to educate others and improve emergency response statewide are more than deserving of this award.”

Mark S. White started his career in public service 35 years ago as a firefighter with the Port Huron Fire Department.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Michigan Part of Push to Preserve Local Journalism

Local journalism could be fading fast, with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) used in writing and the competition for advertising dollars that support local media. The Local Journalism Sustainability Act of 2021, if passed, will incentivize preserving local journalism.

Attorneys General nationwide, including Michigan’s, are asking Congress to pass legislation that can help sustain local media outlets. The proposed legislation would give tax credits to those who subscribe to locally produced news and those who advertise with local media. They also propose a payroll credit for media outlets that hire local journalists.

It is difficult to get regional and relevant news for a lot of markets. The letter to Congress says, “Local news is essential to the health of our states, communities, and our democracy. Local news organizations across the country have been struggling for many years because of significantly reduced revenue and the transition to online news. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges.”

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Calendar for Sale to Benefit Art on the River

The Citizens for a Vibrant Community group has released the 2022 Blue Water Area Calendar. Proceeds from sales of the calendar go toward the Art on the River event, which is a free art and music festival held during the second weekend of June each year, in Downtown Port Huron.

This year’s calendar features scenes from the Blue Water Area. Twenty-five photographers submitted photos and thirteen were chosen for the calendar.

Citizens for a Vibrant Community President Trina Avedisian said that the calendar is sold all over the country and Canada and is considered a collector’s item by some.

This is the 7th year in which the calendar has been offered.

The calendars can be purchased at Wolverine Market Port Huron and Marysville, Uniquely Me Boutique, Border Keep Games, and Thumb Coast CBD. There is also a link at CVCPH.org for purchasing the calendar. The cost is a $6 donation.

Art on the River features local artists, crafters, and bands. The family-friendly event also has workshops, food, and a variety of entertainment.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland