St. Clair County

Blue Water Developmental Housing Holds Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser

On January 11th, 2024, at 7 p.m., the Detroit Red Wings will play a crucial game against the Edmonton Oilers at the Little Caesars Arena for a special fundraiser. The event aims to raise funds for Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc. 

Tickets are for Section 101, and are priced at $130, plus transaction fees. Purchasers will not only witness an exciting game but will also receive a complimentary t-shirt to wear at the event. The first 56 ticket buyers stand a chance to ride on the exclusive party bus, while the first 150 will receive a swag bag. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Blue Water Developmental Housing, supporting employee education and emergency funds. 

Fun Fact: Port Huron native, Jack Campbell, plays the goalie position for the Oilers.

For more information, contact: Ashley Lueth at lueth@bwdh.org or (810) 388-1200.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Public Service Commission Grants Enbridge Controversial Permit For Line 5 Pipeline Replacement Amid Climate Concerns

In a contentious decision, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) has issued a permit to Canadian oil giant Enbridge, allowing the replacement of the existing Line 5 dual oil pipelines in the Straits of Mackinac with an untested underground pipeline tunnel. 

The MPSC’s approval has sparked criticism from environmental groups, including the Michigan Climate Action Network (MiCAN), represented by the Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC). Dr. Denise Keele, Executive Director of MiCAN, expressed disappointment, emphasizing the unnecessary and dangerous investment in new fossil fuel infrastructure. 

Experts argue that the tunnel’s construction will worsen the climate crisis, emitting an estimated 27 million metric tons of CO2 annually. Despite the MPSC’s decision, ELPC Managing Attorney Scott Strand notes potential hurdles, citing necessary permits from federal agencies and ongoing legal challenges that could impact the project’s future.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Jaime Greene Warns Of Soaring Electricity Bills As DTE Energy Gets Nod For $368 Million Rate Hike

In response to the Michigan Public Service Commission’s approval of DTE Energy’s $368 million rate increase, State Rep. Jaime Greene, R-Richmond, issued a stark warning on Friday.

She criticized the move as a precursor to a more significant crisis, alleging that utility companies are exploiting the shift to green energy, leaving consumers to bear the brunt. According to Greene, the rate hike is tied to the closure of reliable natural gas and coal-fired power plants in favor of less dependable green energy initiatives. 

She blames Lansing Democrats for lifting rate hike caps, ensuring utility profits at the expense of Michigan families facing tighter budgets. DTE claims the increase aligns with existing clean energy goals, but Greene insists that new mandates banning natural gas plants will escalate costs for residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Parks Enhance Green Spaces With DTE Energy Foundation Tree Planting Grant

St. Clair County Parks is set to transform local landscapes with a generous tree planting grant from the DTE Energy Foundation. The grant aims to enrich the quality of life and diversity of trees in local communities, fostering a greener, more vibrant environment. 

To mark this green initiative, a public ceremony and tree planting demonstration are scheduled for Friday, December 8th, at 10:00 a.m. in Columbus County Park. The event, located at 1670 Bauman Rd. Columbus, MI invites the community to the park lodge. 

Following the ceremony, attendees can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies by the fire pit. Volunteers, with no prior experience or tools required, are encouraged to join the tree planting efforts throughout the day. 

For more information, contact: Kirsten Lyons at klyons@stclaircounty.org or (810) 989-6317.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Cawood Auto And The Athletic Factory Join Forces For ‘Share Joy Christmas Toy Drive’

In the spirit of giving, Cawood Auto and The Athletic Factory have teamed up for the Share Joy Christmas Toy Drive, welcoming donations of new and gently used toys. 

The drop-off location at Cawood Auto, located at 2516 Pine Grove Avenue, Port Huron, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. The deadline for donations is December 15th.

All contributed toys will be distributed locally, ensuring that the joy of the holiday season reaches families in need. This heartwarming initiative is sponsored by Cawood Auto, and The Athletic Factory, uniting the community to make this holiday season brighter for children in the Blue Water Area.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Launches $4,000 Scholarship To Boost Skilled Workforce: Michigan Achievement Skills Scholarship Opens Doors To In-Demand Careers

In response to the escalating demand for skilled professionals, Michigan introduces the Michigan Achievement Skills Scholarship, which is a game-changer for aspiring students. 

With industries like healthcare, IT, manufacturing, construction, and automotive requiring increasingly specialized talents, the scholarship aims to bridge the skills gap. Graduating high school students in Michigan can now access up to $4,000 over two years to enroll in eligible career training programs. 

To qualify, applicants must be Michigan residents, high school graduates or equivalency achievers in 2023 or later, and without a prior associate or bachelor’s degree. This initiative not only propels students into rewarding careers but also bolsters Michigan’s position in the competitive landscape of skilled labor. 

For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/Achievement.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell