St. Clair County

Michigan Freeways Boost Surveillance With License Plate Readers, Sharing Data With Law Enforcement Agencies

Michigan freeways are now equipped with automated license plate readers (ALPRs) as several law enforcement agencies in the state have adopted or are considering implementing this technology. 

ALPRs scan license plates and cross-reference them with key databases, enabling the identification of associated records. 

The Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) file, which integrates data from the LEIN and National Crime Information Center (NCIC), is now accessible to all authorized LEIN user agencies. 

The license plate readers will help authorities in cases involving stolen vehicles, stolen license plates, wanted persons, missing persons, gang affiliations, suspected terrorists, supervised releases, national sex offenders, and immigration violators. 

With these advancements, Michigan law enforcement aims to enhance public safety and improve their investigative capabilities.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

City of Port Huron Commences Water Main Replacement Project on Russell Court

The City of Port Huron has initiated a significant infrastructure upgrade with the replacement of the water main on Russell Court, spanning from 10th Avenue to Stone Street. 

The project encompasses the installation of a new water main, partial replacement of the aggregate roadway, concrete pavement, and the enhancement of ADA ramps, drive approaches, as well as curb and gutter. The project is funded through the City of Port Huron’s utility fund.

To facilitate the construction activities, temporary road closures will be implemented. 10th Avenue in the vicinity of the project area and Stone Street will be closed for specific periods. Motorists are advised to follow the posted detour signs to navigate around the work zone. 

Russell Court will remain closed to through traffic throughout the duration of the project. Completion of the entire undertaking is expected by August 25th.

For more information, contact the Department of Public Works at: (810) 984-9730.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Register For The Amateur Sand Sculpting And Cornhole Contest At Blue Water SandFest

The Blue Water SandFest is coming to town again, and you are encouraged to register for the Amateur Sand Sculpting Contest and Cornhole Tournament taking place Saturday, August 5th, at the Fort Gratiot Light Station County Park.  

Children, teens and adults are welcome to try their hand at creating a unique sand sculpture. Awards will be given to first, second and third place. Registration is $10 per person for the sand sculpting contest, with the registration deadline being July 31st for both events.

The Cornhole Tournament also takes place Saturday, August 5th. Teams with participants ages 18 and up are invited to enter the contest. Registration is $50 per team. Tournament play is bracket with a two-game elimination. Check-in begins at 12:30 PM, with games starting promptly at 1:00 PM. The tournament is limited to 32 teams, so register today!

For more information, visit: bluewatersandfest.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Registration Opens for Michigan State University Extension’s Conservation Stewards Program in St. Clair County

Michigan State University Extension’s Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) in St. Clair County is now accepting registrations. 

This 10-week program, in partnership with the St. Clair County Parks and Recreation Commission and other organizations, offers participants the opportunity to learn about local conservation heritage, Michigan’s natural communities, and engage in community science projects.

The CSP is a hybrid program that combines virtual self-paced lessons with in-person evening sessions held on Wednesdays from September 13th to November 15th. Two Saturday field trips within St. Clair County will also be organized on September 23rd and October 7th. Participants will complete applied capstone projects related to restoring and conserving Michigan’s ecosystems under the guidance of a local mentor.

Registration closes on August 30th, or when the class is full. Partial scholarship opportunities are available. 

For more information, visit: canr.msu.edu/csp.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Marwood Nursing & Rehab Hosts 15th Annual Men & Women Who Cook Fundraising Event

Get ready for a delightful experience as Marwood Nursing & Rehab presents its 15th annual Men & Women Who Cook fundraising event on Wednesday, August 16th. This year’s theme is “Gourmet Breakfast for Dinner,” promising a unique culinary adventure that guests won’t want to miss.

The event will feature a variety of mouthwatering dishes prepared by talented chefs from your favorite local organizations and businesses including Josh Chapman, Lisa Beedon, Scott Shigley, and many more. In addition to the culinary delights, attendees can also enjoy a silent auction, an Electric Bike raffle, and music provided by Ultimate Sounds DJs.

The primary goal of this year’s fundraiser is to raise $50,000 to purchase a second transit passenger van for resident appointments. Tickets for the event are $75 per person.

For more information, visit: mclaren.org/marwoodevent. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Juneteenth Declared State Holiday In Michigan As Governor Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Legislation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by state Senator Sylvia Santana and state Representative Helena Scott, designating June 19th as Juneteenth, a state holiday in Michigan. 

Juneteenth is an occasion to recognize and celebrate Black history and culture, as well as commemorate the end of slavery in America, highlighting the fundamental values of freedom, liberty, and equality that are cherished by all.

Governor Whitmer expressed the significance of Juneteenth, stating that it is a time for celebration and reflection while also urging the community to take action. Throughout her tenure, Governor Whitmer has been focused on fostering equity and equal opportunity for all Michiganders. The state has made investments in communities across regions, worked to close racial gaps in healthcare and education, and banned race-based discrimination against natural hair.

Moving forward, June 19th will forever be recognized as Juneteenth in Michigan. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell