local news

Port Huron Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority Established For Community-Led Revitalization

A significant step towards revitalizing the Southside neighborhood of Port Huron has been taken with the establishment of the Port Huron Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority (NIA). Led by the City and supported by the Southside Initiative, the NIA comprises residents and community members dedicated to fostering engagement and driving redevelopment efforts.

At their inaugural meeting, board members collaborated with Double Haul Solutions to appoint officers, establish by-laws, and develop engagement strategies. Their primary goal is to facilitate active participation from residents, business owners, and stakeholders in shaping the neighborhood’s future. 

Co-Chairs Joe Bixler and Mary Williams underscored the importance of community involvement in creating a comprehensive development and tax increment financing plan. This plan will address housing, infrastructure, and strategic planning, guiding short-, mid-, and long-term reinvestment goals. The NIA invites all Southside residents to contribute to the neighborhood’s transformation.

For more information, visit: porthuron.org/government/boards___commissions/southside.php.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Temporary Spikes In Hydrogen Sulfide Levels Near Landfill Prompt Community Health Response

Reports of intermittent increases in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) levels near a landfill have prompted action from local authorities. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) recently shared findings indicating brief elevations in H2S levels, attributed to calm, foggy weather conditions. 

While these levels remain below regulatory thresholds, residents may experience symptoms such as headaches, and nose, throat, and eye irritation. Dr. Remington Nevin, Medical Director at the Health Department, emphasized the importance of seeking medical advice for concerned individuals. 

The County has initiated continuous air monitoring through Tetra Tech, expanding capabilities for comprehensive assessment. Results will be made available online, alongside ongoing collaboration with EGLE to develop mitigation strategies. Community health remains a priority as officials work towards addressing resident concerns and ensuring environmental safety.

Results of this information will be available via link at: stclaircounty.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Second Annual STEM Fest Promises A Day Of Exploration At SC4

On Saturday, March 9th, St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is set to host the second annual STEM Fest, a dynamic showcase of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) wonders. 

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the SC4 Fieldhouse, Clara E. Mackenzie Building, and Fine Arts Theatre will come alive with over 100 interactive exhibits and activities. Thanks to generous donations and grants, the event is free to the public. Created by SC4 staff, Michigan Technological University’s Mind Trekkers, Cranbrook Institute of Science, and The Reptarium, these exhibits promise to captivate learners of all ages. 

The newly introduced SC4 Planetarium Experience adds a celestial touch, offering insights into astronomy and constellations. SC4 President Kirk Kramer reflects on last year’s success, expressing anticipation for another impactful event inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

To register, visit: sc4.edu.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Showdown At Chilly Fest 2024: Winners Crowned In Epic Chili Cook-Off Battle

In a spicy showdown at Chilly Fest 2024, in Downtown Port Huron, local businesses clashed at the Chili Cook-Off this weekend, leaving taste buds tingling and attendees craving more. 

The coveted People’s Choice award went to Smoke On The Water BBQ & Catering, winning the hearts (and palates) of festival-goers. Meanwhile, the Judges’ Choice honor was claimed by What The Fry, impressing judges by scoring high in aroma, color, consistency, taste, and aftertaste.

Special recognition goes to all who entered to turn up the heat by supplying the event with their delicious dishes. Schwem’s Rubber Stamp & Trophy crafted unique trophies, ensuring the winners’ legacy is engraved year after year. A big congratulations to all contestants, making Chilly Fest 2024 a big success.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Schools Unveils “Launch Into Kindergarten” Theme For Annual Kindergarten Round-Up

Port Huron Schools are preparing for their much-anticipated annual Kindergarten Round-Up with this year’s theme being “Launch Into Kindergarten.” 

Parents are encouraged to RSVP through their child’s home school or the district administration building to ensure a personalized “goodie bag” for their little ones. The bags include student t-shirts, book giveaways, and a parent packet outlining what to expect.  Alongside these treats, many locations will provide attending students with their first-ever bus ride experience. 

Digital enrollment is available now on the PHASD website under Enrollment. Children turning five on or before September 1st, are eligible. Parents should bring the child’s original birth certificate, two proofs of residency, and vaccination records to complete enrollment.

For more information, visit: phasd.us.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Survey Shows Local Media Commands Higher Public Trust Than National Outlets, Despite Decline In Numbers

A recent survey conducted by PRFire.com unveils a nuanced perspective on media trust, highlighting the enduring credibility of local news outlets in contrast to their national counterparts. With 3,000 participants, the survey indicates a substantial 60% of respondents express confidence in local media, surpassing the 47% trust level for national outlets. 

Despite a concerning decline in local news outlets nationwide, this revelation underscores the pivotal role played by local journalism in informing communities.

However, the trust in local media is not uniform across the United States. While an impressive 83% of Delaware residents trust their local media, this figure drops to 50% in states like Tennessee, Oregon, and Idaho, revealing regional disparities. Notably, in Michigan, local publications enjoy high regard, with 71% of respondents affirming their trustworthiness, positioning them among the most trusted media outlets in the country.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell