St. Clair County

Birchwood Mall Unveils Exciting Additions: A Haven For Creativity And Bonding

Birchwood Mall is set to become a hub for creativity and family bonding with the introduction of two unique stores. 

“A Little Hobby Ceramic Studio” and “The Process” are the latest additions, offering immersive experiences for both children and adults.

“A Little Hobby Ceramic Studio” combines a ceramics studio with a gift shop, providing a space where families can engage in creative activities and craft personalized keepsakes. Meanwhile, “The Process” promises a hands-on art and science experience, redefining learning through unique and interactive methods.

Birchwood Mall aims to foster a dynamic environment where families can learn and enhance their creativity together. These new stores contribute to the mall’s commitment to providing a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

For more information, visit their Facebook page at: Birchwood Mall.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Kia Introduces Robust Anti-Theft Measures And Settlement In Consumer Class Action Litigation

In a proactive move to safeguard Kia vehicle owners, the company has implemented comprehensive anti-theft support actions. Kia is offering a free, advanced security software upgrade aimed at preventing unauthorized ignition system operations on locked vehicles nationwide. 

For vehicles ineligible for the software upgrade, Kia has developed an ignition cylinder protector to fortify the key cylinder sleeve assembly, adding an extra layer of theft deterrence. Additionally, impacted owners and lessees will receive free steering wheel locks, distributed directly to consumers and through collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.

Furthermore, a recent announcement on May 18th, 2023, revealed that Kia has reached a settlement in a consumer class action litigation related to vehicle thefts. Once approved by the court, affected consumers (certain Class Members) will be entitled to receive payments and other benefits, marking a significant resolution in the ongoing matter.

For more information, visit: kiasupport.kiausa.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

CDC’s Wastewater Surveillance Reveals Alarming Spike In COVID-19 Activity Across the U.S., Midwest Hit Hardest

The CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS) is sounding the alarm as it reports a significant surge in COVID-19 activity nationwide. 

According to the latest data updated on December 28th, the wastewater viral activity level for COVID-19 is currently categorized as “very high” across the United States. Disturbingly, the Midwest emerges as the region with the most pronounced wastewater viral activity, indicating a potential hotspot for the virus.

The NWSS provides a crucial public health infrastructure, enabling local agencies to monitor infectious diseases through wastewater. This real-time data empowers health officials to identify outbreak trends early, target preventive measures effectively, and gain additional insights into disease spread.

For more details and information about your region’s data, visit: cdc.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Historic Rose Bowl Victory Propels Michigan Wolverines To First College Football Playoff National Championship

In a stunning 27-20 triumph at the 110th Rose Bowl over the University of Alabama, the University of Michigan Wolverines secured a historic spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship game for the first time in school history. 

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a proud parent of two U of M students, presented a heartfelt tribute to the team for their victory. The Wolverines are the only college program with 1,000 wins, and are set to face the University of Washington Huskies in Houston, Texas, on January 8th.

The Blue Water Area extends its best wishes to the Wolverines, and we here at WGRT would like to also acknowledge Port Huron native Braiden McGregor, who plays Defensive End for the Wolverines, on his notable contribution to the team’s success.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

WGRT Invites You To The 29th Annual Wedding Showcase For A Day Of Dream Wedding Inspiration

Save the date for WGRT’s 29th Annual Wedding Showcase on Sunday, January 14th, from 12 to 3 p.m. The event will take place at Alexander’s Premier Banquet Facility and Catering located at 1200 Gratiot Boulevard, Marysville. 

This in-person event promises to be the ultimate destination for engaged couples seeking inspiration for their dream wedding. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a variety of wedding essentials, from enchanting venues to expert vendors.

Discover the latest trends in wedding fashion, decorations, photography, and more, with a diverse array of exhibitors ready to assist in planning every aspect of the special day. 

Registered couples also stand a chance to win high-end door prizes including an Oreck Compact Vacuum, Frigidaire Ice Maker, $300 St. Clair Travel Certificate, and more, making this showcase an unmissable experience for all individuals with a wedding in their future. Tickets are available online, and at the door for $5, so secure your spot today!

For more information, visit: wgrt.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Braille Literacy Month, Showcasing Support For The Blind And Visually Impaired Community

Michigan joins the nation in celebrating National Braille Literacy Month throughout January, acknowledging the profound impact this tactile reading system has on individuals who are blind or visually impaired. 

Since its official adoption in 1824, Braille has empowered countless individuals to read using a system of six raised dots. The state of Michigan offers valuable services and resources to support the blind and visually impaired community in learning and enhancing their Braille skills.

Key resources include the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons’ Training Center, dedicated to skill development, and the Braille and Talking Book Library, facilitating access to literature. To explore these resources, visit Michigan.gov/BSBP for the Training Center and Michigan.gov/BTBL for the Braille and Talking Book Library.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell