St. Clair County

McLaren Port Huron Recognized by U.S. News. & World Report

McLaren Port Huron Hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a High Performing Hospital for 2021-22. U.S. News generates hospital rankings by evaluating data on nearly 5,000 hospitals each year.

McLaren Port Huron earned High Performing ratings for its care and treatment of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Heart Attack, Heart Failure, and Kidney Failure.

Eric Cecava, President and CEO of McLaren Port Huron, said, “Every day, we’re fortunate to have a team of physicians, nurses and health care professionals who commit themselves to providing the highest quality care for our community.”

This year’s survey evaluated 4,750 medical centers in the U.S. on patient experience, relative survival within 30 days of hospitalization, quality of nursing, and the number of patients served.  Less than 1/3 of all hospitals surveyed received a high-performing rating for treating specific conditions.

To view the complete report for McLaren Port Huron Hospital visit their survey results <HERE>.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

Become a Conservation Steward

Michigan State University Extension is offering a Conservation Stewards training program for individuals interested in learning more about Michigan’s ecosystem and how to help it thrive.

The Michigan Conservation Stewards program runs virtually from September 8th – November 10th, and it features both classroom instruction from experts via Zoom and self-led field experiences in local natural areas.

The program will teach a variety of topics pertaining to Michigan’s natural resources along with the history of conservation and how conservationists manage invasive species and collect data. St. Clair County participants will be able to join a cohort of other students in the area to enrich their learning experience.

Registration for the class is $75 through August 18th and $95 from August 19th – September 1st. Scholarships are available based on demonstrated financial need.

More information is available at Michigan State University’s website <HERE>.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

Rockin’ the Rivers Returns in August

The popular Rockin’ the Rivers concert series returns to Keifer Park in August with free live music, food trucks, family-friendly games, and a beverage tent.

Rockin’ the Rivers is every Thursday at Keifer Park overlooking the St. Clair River. Concerts start at 6 PM with an opening act, and the headliners hit the stage at 7 PM. Spectators can bring their own chair or blankets to view the concerts.

Scheduled bands are:

  • August 5th: RockStar, The International ‘80s Rock Sensation
  • August 12th: Captured Detroit, Journey tribute 
  • August 19th: Matt Stell
  • August 26th: Your Generation in Concert

This year, there will be a special Friday performance by Jerrod Niemann on August 20th.

For more information, visit Port Huron Rec’s website <HERE>  or follow the Port Huron Parks & Rec Department on Facebook <HERE>.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

 

Climb the Lighthouse During the Full Moon

The Friends of the St. Clair River are offering an opportunity to view August’s full moon from the top of the Ft. Gratiot Light House.  The inaugural Sturgeon Full Moon Lighthouse Climb is scheduled for Sunday, August 22nd from 6 – 10 PM.

The August full moon is referred to as the Sturgeon moon because Indigenous communities knew how plentiful the sturgeon were during its arrival.

The Sturgeon Full Moon Lighthouse Climb includes the lighthouse climb, food vendors, music, special performances, and fireside chats with stargazing and storytelling.

Tickets are $20 for those 12 years old and up and kids ages 4 – 12 are $10. Children 3 and under are free.

The Yak-Abouts kayak group is planning a full moon paddle from Lighthouse Beach and participants are welcome to join them.

To learn more about this event visit www.SturgeonFestival.com

Industry 4.0 Initiative Underway for Area Manufacturers

The St. Clair County Economic Development Alliance has announced the launch of the I-69 Thumb Region’s Industry 4.0 Initiative.

The Initiative exists to drive Industry 4.0 readiness in small and mid-sized manufacturers. At least half of Michigan manufacturers are expected to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies by 2025. The technologies include automation and advancements that prepare Michigan industry for the future.

Dan Casey, CEO of the Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County said, “There are several key benefits for our region’s manufacturers to implement Industry 4.0 small changes to their business systems and processes. Smart factory changes can reduce material waste, help to solve labor shortages, create efficiencies and increase production. Most importantly, by becoming an early adopter of I4.0, a manufacturer is creating a competitive advantage for their business.”

Assessments are underway to gauge the level of readiness in the region. The I-69 Thumb Region covers Genesee, Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac, Shiawasee, St. Clair, and Tuscola counties.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

St. Clair County Businesses Recognized by Governor

Last week, Governor Whitmer sent letters of gratitude to more than 200 small businesses that excelled during the pandemic, and several St. Clair County companies were among them.

The businesses stood out for the way they adapted their services, provided essential items like personal protective equipment, or supported frontline workers or those in need.

Harsens Island Distillery, Polka Dot Pandas, Quality Computer Solutions, and Thumb Coast CBD were the St. Clair County companies recognized by the Governor. Thumb Coast CBD was recognized for making and donating hand sanitizer to those working on the frontlines, and Polka Dot Pandas donated over 13,000 masks to local medical workers in the beginning of the pandemic when masks were’t readily available.

Tricia Comtois, owner of Polka Dot Pandas, said it was all made possible by help from the community. People donated supplies and helped sew, cut, and distribute the masks. “There were many hands that helped us with the process!” said Comtois.

In a press release, Governor Whitmer said, “I am completely in awe of the resilience and determination of Michigan’s small businesses to stand strong and push forward during such unprecedented time. Small businesses are crucial to the success of our economy, and we are more than ready to get back on track and uplift our local entrepreneurs to continue to make this state a great place to work and live.”

A new website had been launched as a portal for small businesses to find grant programs and funding opportunities available through the State of Michigan. The website is www.michigan.gov/smallbusiness

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand