Ruth Bailey
Ruth grew up in the Cheboygan area, spending much of her time at Duncan Bay, in Mackinaw City, or on the Island. She attended Ferris State University, earning her first associate degree at Bay de Noc Community College and her second at SC4. Ruth has held several positions of employment, from substitute teaching to administrative medical, but she loves most her work at GBS Media Productions/Blue Water Healthy Living. She is a mother to two boys. One, a U.S. Navy and commercial pilot; the other, a Human Factors Scientist. Ruth’s favorite pastimes are biking Michigan, snapping scenic photos, and walking sandy beaches at sunset.
Tina Beauvais
Tina Beauvais is from Akron, Michigan, where she lives with her husband Andrew of over 20 years, and her teenage daughter and son. Tina is an entrepreneur, who started the company EmBraced In Comfort in 2009 to help her children, who both have Scoliosis. The company, which is now based in Fairgrove, Michigan, has grown and now serves customers all over the world. Tina, who has a degree in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan, has a passion for lean, domestic manufacturing, as well as for helping people navigate their journey through Scoliosis with her blog, Scoliosis Family Adventures. Tina also loves to speak, write, participate in community theater (as both an actor and a director), and spend time making music. She is highly active in her church and community.
Karrie Beck
Karrie Beck lives in Port Huron with her husband and teenage son. She earned her Master’s Degree from Central Michigan University and went to work as an educator for Port Huron Schools in 2002. She enjoyed a teaching journey which included assignments in grades K-8 as well as her time spent as an adjunct instructor for St. Clair County Community College. Blessed is how she refers to the opportunity to work for GBS Media as an administrator for their online magazine, Blue Water Healthy Living. Organizing volunteer writers allows her the opportunity to meet the many inspiring people who positively impact the local area she loves.
Andrew Beeler
Andrew Beeler is a lifelong resident of Port Huron, Michigan where he was raised and attended local Catholic schools. During his youth, Andrew was a member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council for Congresswoman Candice Miller (MI-10) where he, alongside other youth members of the community, collaborated with Miller’s office on legislation affecting America’s youth. Additionally, Andrew was an active member of his local parish where he led youth ministry programs weekly. After graduating from Cardinal Mooney Catholic in 2010, Andrew accepted an appointment to the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. While at the Academy, Andrew was a member of the Offshore Sailing Team of which he was the Captain his senior year. He was selected for numerous leadership positions including Battalion Commander during which he led 600 Midshipmen in military training and professional development. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and received his Naval commission as an Ensign in May of 2014. He reported to USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG 62) in San Diego, California. While onboard, his command served as the American response to the International Tribunal’s ruling on Chinese territorial claims in the South China Sea. For his service aboard, Andrew was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal. In early 2017 he reported to USS DECATUR (DDG 73) in San Diego, California. While onboard Andrew led a division of 20 Sailors and Officers in the maintenance and operation of the Aegis weapon system. During his service onboard DECATUR, Andrew completed a deployment to the South China Sea and the Middle Eastern theaters. During his service, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Leadership Award for his leadership and mentorship of his peers and Junior Officers. In May of 2019, Andrew left active duty service and entered the Naval reserves. Andrew returned home to Port Huron and, upon learning that his home State Representative would not seek reelection, decided to run for the State House to continue the wave of young, conservative Republicans reinvigorating the party and their policy priorities. Andrew is running as a small government conservative and a staunch pro-life, pro-Second Amendment candidate. His policy priorities are the unyielding defense of Constitutional rights, rebuilding the state’s education system and supporting the growth of business throughout Michigan.
Mary Bisciaio
Mary Bisciaio has lived her entire life in Michigan. She’s obsessed with the beauty of our state and spends a lot of time by the water. She’s a graduate of Marygrove College in Detroit and attended Saginaw Valley College for her post-graduate work. She enjoyed teaching middle school and high school for 27 years in East Detroit. After she retired, she started a new career. With more time to read, she got hooked on romance novels and began writing her own. She currently has nine novels in both e-book and print on Amazon and continues to find inspiration in her travels and in her imagination. She lives with her husband of forty-five years, raised two great sons that have given her two great daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren.
Joe Bixler
Joe Bixler presently serves as an Extension Educator in the Greening Michigan Institute on the Government/Public Policy work team and the Community Food Systems work team. Previously has served as a District Coordinator for Michigan State University Extension from 2010-2017; served as a County Extension Director in Shiawassee County from 2006-2010 providing community and economic development program expertise. Served as the Deputy County Administrator for St. Clair County, responsible for the coordination and supervision of all internal service functions and facilitated numerous corporate initiatives and external projects on behalf of the Board of Commissioners and the County, Administrator/Controller. Served as the County Director for the Michigan State University Extension in St. Clair County from 1999-2001 focusing on programs in community development and State/Local Government education. Previous to the director’s role with MSUE, served as the 4-H/Youth Educator from 1996-1999. Graduated from Oakland University with a B.S. degree in Human Resource Development and Psychology and received his Masters of Science in General Administration from Central Michigan University.
Jim Bloch
Jim Bloch is an award-winning freelance writer based in St. Clair, Michigan. He writes about the environment, local politics, art, music, history and culture. Contact him at bloch.jim@gmail.com.
Blue Water Area Humane Society
The Blue Water Area Humane Society is dedicated to fostering a commitment to companion animals. We are determined to reduce euthanasia as a means of animal population control.
Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center (BWROC)
Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center (BWROC) Providing a safe, non-judgemental environment for the health and well-being of the community by empowering the individual. Our goals are to enhance the quantity and quality of support available to people seeking and experiencing long-term recovery from addiction and to bring together a place and a group of people to support and nourish a healthy robust community by empowering and engaging the recovering person.
Mike Bradley
Mayor Mike Bradley, a South Australian native, has served as a Member of Parliament for Sarnia Lambton (1980-1985). He was first elected to Sarnia Council in November 1985 and elected Mayor in 1988. He was the youngest Mayor in Sarnia’s history. On January 1st, 1991, he became the first Mayor of amalgamate the City of Sarnia-Clearwater and the first Mayor of Sarnia to serve on Lambton County Council in over seven decades. In October 2014, Mayor Bradley was re-elected for a 9th term with 70% of the vote.
Mayor Bradley, a writer for Sarnia Lambton This Week, shares his thoughts on politics, life, and the like in a series on Blue Water Healthy Living, entitled: Snippets from Sarnia. Often humorous and straight-forward, his accounts on life, in general, are both witty and fun-hearted.
Marion Pratt Brennan
Marian Brennan Pratt held the position of Church Secretary at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in the Village of Emmett, Michigan for 24 years. She has four grown children: Barbara, Suzanne, Bernie and Steve, seven grandchildren: Daniel, Kaitlynn, Emily, Ashley, Taylor, Brennan and Benjamin, one great-grandchild: Paislee and another on-the-way. While a member of the community, she joined the ladies of the parish in a Book Club, was a member of Daughters of Isabella #452 and a past member of the Village Council. Marian lives in Port Huron now and has always been interested in Journalism which led to her joining the staff of St. Stephen’s High School newspaper, the Stephecho. She has written several articles for the Emmett News and has had a book published, entitled “Emmett Township”, part of the Images of America series by Arcadia Publishing which plays a large part in the preservation of local heritage.
Kathleen Britton
Kathleen grew up in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and joined the Navy after graduating from High School. Upon leaving the Navy, she worked for a NASA Tracking Station in Guam during the time of the Apollo-Soyuz missions. She pursued her education after leaving the Navy while working for Government Contractors in Maryland, Virginia, Florida, and England. Kathleen has been married to Joseph Britton for 32 years. “We met in Florida, married in Virginia, have a house in Maine, and returned to Joe’s home in Michigan a few years ago. “Kathleen plays the cello and enjoys knitting, cooking, and helping others.
Frank S. Bublitz
Frank S. Bublitz adopted Port Huron as his hometown in 1986. Frank’s career includes mental health peer specialist, volunteer recruiting for the Red Cross of Southeastern Michigan, and performing at The Snug and Riverbank Theater for a number of years. In 1988 Frank endured a “psychotic break” due to untreated major depression and major episodes of sleep apnea. He has turned these obstacles into stepping stones to create an innovative business model he calls “Wellness Arts” Consulting. He does this as Frank’s Acting, Improv, Inspiration, and Music (FAIIM) in Port Huron.
Frank has developed an education program that uses his artistic training, experience, and teaching skills to help people who have mental and intellectual disabilities. Northwestern University has also licensed its medical improv program Serious Play to him for use in Michigan. Frank also provides a form of Theatrical Improvisation which is tailored to the performance and the mental health needs of people who act, teach, or work with the public. While not with his wife Carol, their children, and grandchildren, you will find Frank glued to the television when the Green Bay Packers take the field.
Patrick Buchanan
Pat Buchanan has been a senior adviser to three presidents, twice a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination and the presidential nominee of the Reform Party in 2000. From 1966 through 1974, Buchanan was a confidant and assistant to Richard Nixon. From 1985 to 1987, he was the White House Director of Communications for Ronald Reagan. In 1992, Buchanan challenged George H. W. Bush for the Republican nomination and almost upset the president in the New Hampshire primary. In 1996, he won New Hampshire and finished second to Sen. Robert Dole with 3 million Republican votes. Buchanan was born in Washington, D.C., educated at Catholic and Jesuit schools, and received his master’s degree in journalism from Columbia in 1962. At 23, he became the youngest editorial writer on a major newspaper in America, The St. Louis Globe-Democrat. In 1966, Buchanan became the first full-time staff member in the legendary comeback of Richard Nixon. He traveled with the future president in the campaigns of 1966 and 1968, and served as special assistant to the president from his first day in office through the final days of Watergate. On leaving the White House, Buchanan became a columnist and founding father of three of the most enduring talk shows in TV history: “The McLaughlin Group,” CNN’s “Capital Gang” and “Crossfire.” In 2002, he joined MSNBC where he remained for ten years. In his White House years, Buchanan wrote foreign policy speeches and attended four summits, including Nixon’s opening to China in 1972 and Reagan’s Geneva and Reykjavik summits with Mikhail Gorbachev in 1985 and 1986. Buchanan has written 12 books, including seven New York Times best-sellers: “A Republic Not an Empire,” “Death of the West,” “Where the Right Went Wrong,” “State of Emergency: The Third World Invasion and Conquest of America,” “Day of Reckoning,” “Churchill, Hitler and The Unnecessary War,” and “Suicide of a Superpower,” as well as a Washington Post 1988 best-seller about growing up in the nation’s capital, “Right From the Beginning.” He is married to the former Shelley Ann Scarney, a member of the White House staff from 1969 to 1975.
Martha Burich
Martha Burich is a life coach and behavior change expert.
The socially awkward, lonely kid of a social butterfly mother and extremely popular siblings, she is proud to have overcome her social anxiety and feelings of inadequacy to earn a PhD (ABD-all but dissertation) and become a college professor.
Through her show Healthy Moments at bluewaterhealthyliving.com and through speaking, blogging and writing, she helps people break the habits, thoughts and addictions that are keeping them from the health, wealth, relationships and happiness they dream of.
Madison Cates
Madison Cates is a freelance content writer and educator. She enjoys traveling, playing music and singing, especially when she gets to do it with her husband. When she’s not spending her time writing blogs, you can find her playing marco polo at the pool with her boys
Mona Charen
Mona Charen is a syndicated columnist and political analyst living in the Washington, D.C., area. She received her undergraduate degree at Barnard College, Columbia University, with honors. Ms. Charen also holds a degree in law from George Washington University. Ms. Charen began her career at National Review magazine, where she served as editorial assistant. On her first tax return at the age of 22, Ms. Charen listed her occupation as “pundit,” explaining later, “You have to think big.” In 1984, Ms. Charen joined the White House staff, serving first as Nancy Reagan’s speechwriter and later as associate director of the Office of Public Liaison. In the latter post, she lectured widely on the administration’s Central America policy. Later in her White House career, she worked in the Public Affairs office, helping to craft the president’s communications strategy. In 1986, Ms. Charen left the White House to join the presidential campaign of then-Congressman Jack Kemp as a speechwriter. Ms. Charen launched her syndicated column in 1987, and it has become one of the most widely read columns in the industry. It is featured in more than 150 newspapers and websites. She spent six years as a regular commentator on CNN’s “Capital Gang” and “Capital Gang Sunday,” and has served as a judge of the Pulitzer Prizes. She has served as a fellow at the Hudson Institute and the Jewish Policy Center and is the author of two bestsellers: “Useful Idiots: How Liberals Got it Wrong in the Cold War and Still Blame America First” (2003); and “Do-Gooders: How Liberals Harm Those They Claim to Help — and the Rest of Us” (2005). In 2010, she received the Eric Breindel Award for Excellence in Opinion Journalism. Ms. Charen is a frequent guest on television and radio public affairs programs and is married with three sons.
Laurie Charron
Laurie Charron is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts with a minor in Business. She was born and raised in Port Huron and still resides here with her husband Jim who is the Branch Manager and Director of Investments with Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. They have two children, Ryan (wife Mindy) who resides in Port Huron and is a financial advisor with Oppenheimer and Christie (husband Mike) who resides in Grosse Pointe Woods and works as an attorney for Ruggirello, Velardo, Novara, VerBeek, Burke and Reizen, P.C. in Mt. Clemens. She and Jim are blessed with two young granddaughters, Natalie and Isabella. To read Laurie’s full biography article click here.
Barb Chase, EA
Barb Chase has been preparing taxes in Saint Clair for over 33 years. She has her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from California State University, Stanislaus and has been an Enrolled Agent since 1994 which gives her the authority to represent clients before the Internal Revenue Service and Tax Court. Keeping up with the changing tax laws and how they apply to individual clients and businesses is her priority along with helping others navigate any tax-related issues they may have, including estates, trusts, corporations, LLCs and partnerships.
Paul Churchill
Paul Churchill is a veteran of four years in the U.S. Navy as Hospital Corpsman (medic). He served from December of 1964 until December of 1968 departing April 1, 1966, for Vietnam for a 13-month tour with the 3rd Marine Division. He is a member of the V.F.W., the Marine Corps League and the 3rd Marine Division Association but states that his greatest satisfaction comes from his faith in the Lord and his church family. He currently lives in the Port Huron Area with his wife, Peggy. Married for over 50 years, Paul says they’ve gotten a pretty good start.
Santa Claus
Santa Claus lives in the North Pole with Mrs. Claus. When he isn’t out delivering presents to good little boys and girls, he can be found working in his toy workshop, taking care of his reindeer, or sneaking some of Mrs. Claus’s famous Christmas cookies. He enjoys spreading cheer year-round to people of all ages. Santa is the spirit of Christmas. He stands for Love, Joy, and Peace.
Need to get in touch with Santa? Contact Santa’s Agent Rodger Catt at N8SVR1@Gmail.com to see how Santa can help make your Christmas even merrier!
Adriana Cohen
Adriana Cohen is a syndicated columnist, a national TV commentator and radio talk show host. As a former Boston Herald columnist, Adriana has written hundreds of columns on diverse topics of interest, and her articles were often the front-page splash and picked up by major media. Adriana has appeared on cable news and broadcast TV shows hundreds of times, covering politics, current events, breaking news, terrorism, foreign policy, business, women’s issues, the environment and other topics of interest. Adriana is often quoted by major media, and TV outlets build segments off her columns and invite her on-air to discuss. Adriana has covered the midterm elections; presidential primaries; the 2016 and 2020 elections; gubernatorial, Senate and mayoral races; the Trump and Biden administrations; and other current events impacting our world. In addition to writing and TV commentary, Adriana hosted “The Adriana Cohen Show” on Boston Herald Radio, which attracted top guests across industries. Adriana has interviewed former President Donald Trump, presidential candidates, major politicians, the head of the CIA, U.S. ambassadors, professional and Olympic athletes, CEOs, MIT scientists and countless leaders across industries. She’s also interviewed award-winning musicians, philanthropists, celebrities, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelists, bestselling authors, national TV hosts and many other influencers shaping our world. In February 2017, the White House invited Adriana to join the daily press briefing, and in 2019, she was invited to the Oval Office to meet Trump. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Adriana has spoken at Harvard University, sat on leadership panels and mentored Harvard undergraduate women in business among others seeking career guidance. Adriana has appeared on the Fox News Channel, Fox Business, MSNBC, CNN, CBC, BBC, NPR, “The Sean Hannity Show,” Sky News, NESN, The Blaze, Newsmax TV, Sirius XM, NECN, WCVB-TV, One America News Network (OANN), NRA News, WGBH and many other TV and radio outlets. Prior to joining the Boston Herald, Adriana was a lead GOP political analyst for CBS Radio, covering the 2012 presidential and vice presidential debates and election night and appearing for the “Talk the Vote” series. She also covered the U.S. Senate special election in Massachusetts, the New York City mayoral and comptroller political races, and many other diverse topics of interest on-air. A lifelong volunteer and philanthropist, Adriana supports a gamut of worthy charities nationwide. She lives with her family in Massachusetts. To learn more, please visit http://adrianacohen.com
Mary V. Colie
Mary is a resident of Huron Township, Michigan. She is retired from teaching. Well, sort of. Over the course of the decades Mary has taught elementary school, high school, pre-school, college, and adult continuing education. The subject areas vary from French, to tai chi, to writing, to preparation for ACT exams. When the opportunity presents itself, she still enjoys teaching any and all of the above. Mary shares life with her husband, Matthew, who will celebrate with her their 50th wedding anniversary in July 2022. Both love live music and were involved in the founding of the East River Folk Society, which presented monthly informal folk and traditional concerts in Grosse Ile and Wyandotte for about 30 years. Both also are sailors and have fond memories of fair winds and gentle waves on Lake Erie.
Marcia Conard
Marcia Conard is a life-long resident of the Blue Water Area. Marcia has an Associate of Science Degree from St. Clair County Community College. Marcia was licensed by the Federal Government as a Customhouse Broker and worked in Management and as a Director for over 30 years in the Customs Brokerage business. Marcia has two grown sons also living and raising families in the Blue Water Area. Marcia joined the Grant Smith Insurance team in May 2017.
Pat Conard
Pat Conard has lived in Port Huron, MI all his life. He attended Northwestern College in Lima, OH to study auto mechanics. Pat is married to Casie and has two pre-school children, a son, Dalton, and daughter, Devyn. He enjoys family time, the Detroit Tigers, the Detroit Red Wings, and classic cars!
Mike Connell
Mike Connell is a native of West Virginia and has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from West Virginia University. He worked for 46 years at newspapers in West Virginia, Florida, Georgia, and Michigan. He joined the Times Herald in Port Huron in 1988 and held a variety of positions, including eight years as executive editor, before retiring from full-time work in 2008 and as a columnist in 2015.
James Cornwall
Rachel Cruze
As a #1 New York Times best-selling author, host of The Rachel Cruze Show, and The Rachel Cruze Show podcast, Rachel Cruze helps people learn the proper ways to handle money and stay out of debt. She’s authored three best-selling books, including Love Your Life, Not Theirs and Smart Money Smart Kids, which she co-wrote with her father, Dave Ramsey. You can follow Cruze on Twitter and Instagram at @RachelCruze and online at rachelcruze.com, youtube.com/rachelcruze or facebook.com/rachelramseycruze.
Jackie Gingrich Cushman
Known for her ability to synthesize major news events and ordinary life happenings into a unique perspective that rings with authenticity, Jackie Gingrich Cushman connects with her readers’ hearts and minds. Audiences of community leaders, educators, entrepreneurs and executives are captured by her fresh ideas, friendly style and quick wit. Having campaigned twice and lost before her father, Newt Gingrich, won a congressional race, Cushman understands and can convey the importance of dreaming big and working hard through failure. As founder of the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation, which tests innovative learning programs to help struggling students learn they can learn, she knows the importance of learning every day. By helping lead Genesis: A New Life, a homeless shelter for newborn babies and their families, in a $5 million capital campaign, she has learned the value of giving to others. Cushman is passionate about improving the world her two children will inherit and endeavors to inspire others to learn, love and live their lives successfully. As a nationally syndicated columnist for Creators Syndicate, Jackie writes with her heart and mind. Noted by The Washington Times for her “considerable talent” in writing, Jackie’s outlook and opinions are highly entertaining, inspirational and thought-provoking. Jackie’s book 5 Principles for a Successful Life: From Our Family to Yours (Crown Forum) was co-authored with her father. Their book focuses on the principles that Jackie follows in her daily life: Dream Big, Work Hard, Learn Every Day, Enjoy Life and Be True to Yourself. In March 2010, Jackie was nominated for a Georgia Writer’s Association (GWA) Georgia Author of the Year Award. Her upcoming book, The Essential American: 25 Documents and Speeches that Every American Should Read (Regnery), is to be released in November 2010. Jackie’s work has been cited on the Today show and in New York Magazine, USA Today, and The Washington Times. She has appeared on ABC’s Good Morning America CNN’s Campbell Brown, The 700 Club, Fox News Channel’s Fox and Friends, The O’Reilly Factor, The Sean Hannity Show, The Strategy Room, On the Record With Greta van Susteren, Geraldo at Large, The Huckabee Show and Squeeze Play on Canada’s Business News Network. Cushman’s nonprofit activities included serving on The Georgia Advisory Council for the Trust for Public Land. She currently serves on the Advisory board of Genesis: A New Life. She is founder and chairman of the board of the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation. Cushman also works with American Solutions PAC, a company dedicated to issues in American politics. Jackie lives in Atlanta with her husband, Jimmy Cushman Jr., and their children. Jackie graduated cum laude from Presbyterian College in Clinton, S.C. She received her MBA from Georgia State University in Atlanta and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Bob J. Daniels
Bob Daniels is an instructor pilot working overseas teaching new military pilots how to fly the F-15C in the Boeing linked visual simulator system. He hopes to retire to Port Huron by the end of 2020 having grown up in Port Huron where he was a lead trumpet for the Big Red Marching Machine during their trip to the Munich Olympics in 1972. Bob graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.A. in Government & Politics while he was working at the National Security Agency as a Czech linguist for the U.S. Air Force before he was selected for pilot training. He’s traveled to 25 countries and 5 continents and flown over much of the U.S. has lived and flown in Alaska for 6 years. During that time, he’s interacted with countless foreigners and experienced a variety of social extremes, from Denmark to Saudi Arabia. Bob’s greatest writing interests are those subjects which everyone says you shouldn’t talk about in polite society . . . religion (spirituality) and politics (government). As a USAF fighter pilot, Bob’s greatest asset was thinking outside the box. As a writer, Bob lives OUTSIDE that same box.
Kerry Darden
Kerry Darden relocated to the Blue Water Area 22 years ago. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Michigan State University. She works in administration and marketing for Online-Access, a Port Huron-based company providing online marketing services to contractors across the U.S. and Canada. Kerry has been involved with local politics since 2008 and serves as a precinct delegate for the Republican Party. She has a passion for research, education, and her country, faith, and family.
Bob Davis
From the best of Bob Davis: I was born and raised in Port Huron and as far back as I can remember I have had a love of the local history. I believe this was because of my father. He collected postcards of Port Huron that date back to the 1800s. I enjoyed looking at is collection as a boy that included the different eras of postcards. Leather, Linen and Photo Chrome postcards, most of which you will see in these videos. My father was always willing to share his collection with the public that included the museum as well as many other venues.
When my father died I inherited his collection as well as his love of sharing with the public. My dad would be amazed to know that his collection has been seen by thousands due to the technology of social media. In 2012 I bought a Sony video program to share our family videos and thought it would be cool (do they still use that word?) to do a video of the history of Port Huron’s four corners which is at Huron Ave and Grand River and post it on the Facebook Port Huron History sites ( I now have my own Port Huron History Facebook site at https://www.facebook.com/PortHuronHistory/ ) I never intended to make more than this one video but it was so well received I decided to make two and then three and now am working on number 149. The videos are done geographically going North as far as Fort Gratiot, East as far as the river, South as far as South Park and West as far as Port Huron Twp.
The videos are titled “Port Huron Past and Present” because I thought it was important to know where all these historical photos were taken and what is there today. Since I retired to Indiana in 2003 to be close to my children and grandchildren and now great-grandchildren, I use Google Street maps to show this comparison.
Everyone at one time or another has had a fantasy of traveling back in time, to recall the time when they were a child or what the city was like for their parents growing up, or even their grandparents. These videos are that time machine.
Bradlee Dean
Bradlee Dean has spoken at thousands of events across the nation including Tea Parties, Churches, Festivals, Universities, and over 350 Public High Schools in 24 states! Bradlee Dean is a nationally syndicated radio show host of Sons of Liberty Radio and a weekly columnist for Western Journalism, and 35+ other media outlets. Dean is also founder and CEO of The Sons of Liberty, a non-profit organization that specializes in reaching Americans with the principles of morality, true freedom, and personal responsibility.
He has been featured on national media outlets such as FOX News, The Blaze, The New York Times, MSNBC, The Weekly Standard, and many other media outlets standing for conservative Christian values found in the Constitution.
Bradlee has been endorsed by Michael Reagan, Bryan Fischer (American Family Association), Michael Peroutka (Institute on the Constitution), Larry Pratt (Gun Owners of America), Matt Barber (Liberty Counsel), Rusty Humphries, Alveda King and more.
Delisa Deavenport, MBA, CPC
Coach Delisa Deavenport is the founder of Healthy Evolutions, LLC, a coaching company that focuses on learning quieting techniques to find your direction, purpose, and joy. Coach Delisa shares her message to “Find Your Direction in Your Quiet” and authored a book by the same title, published in March 2019. She describes her life with an undiagnosed anxiety disorder and how she finally learned to manage her anxiety, quit drinking and find joy and purpose. She is currently writing a book titled “One Man’s Courage, One Mother’s Strength”, the story of fighting for her son’s survival from the brink of death from alcohol abuse, significant brain damage, serious liver damage, severe malnutrition, and dehydration. Her determination, guidance, and support resulted in a remarkable recovery over the last two years. Her son became a United States postal worker in January 2020; something doctors never thought would happen. Before devoting her life’s work to coaching and public speaking, Delisa worked in the nonprofit finance world after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Walsh College and her MBA in Leadership from Argosy University. She is an active member of Toastmasters, a certified speaker and Legacy instructor from the Ziglar Corporation, a certified coach from the Professional Coach Academy and her proudest accomplishment – “granny’ to a precious little boy named DJ. She will obtain her Distinguished Toastmaster award on June 30th and is currently working on her Speaker Accreditation.
Nancy Deising
Nancy Deising has been a public servant for county and state governments for over 24 years. She received her bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University in Health Education and is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®). She currently works for the County of St. Clair as a Health Educator for St. Clair County Health Department.
David Dell
David Dell has been a lifelong resident of Port Huron and Fort Gratiot and graduated from Port Huron High School. His passion for photography began in 6th grade while working on the Washington Junior High yearbook. He shot many rolls of film during his time with the Big Red Marching Machine, and followed that with 3 semester stint as the Chief Photographer and Photo Editor of the Erie Square Gazette at St. Clair County Community College as well as working in a custom photo print house and under the tutelage of Ralph Polovich at the Times Herald. David’s degree in Mass Communications was put on hold when he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He held qualifications in two specialties; Still Photographer and Graphic Artist for just shy of eight years in California, Oklahoma, Washington State, Alaska, before returning to Port Huron. His business Delta Imaging Photography specializes in Technical, Commercial and Event photography, although he also dabbles in portraiture. David’s background in photojournalism has earned him positions covering Port Huron Northern Marching Band and Football Team for Michigan High School Athletic Association, the North American Hockey League Port Huron Fighting Falcons, the Federal Hockey League Port Huron Prowlers, the American Hockey League Rockford Ice Hogs and the Federal Hockey League Commissioner’s Cup championship series. Some of David’s work can be found here www.DeltaImaging.zenfolio.com. And at Instagram: delta.imaging.photography. His technical work has covered proprietary intellectual property that can’t be shared.
Don DeMara
For 43 years Don DeMara worked in the retailing sector with two different large corporations; Kmart Corporation for 35 years, starting as an hourly associate while at the same time completing his associate degree at Delta College. He then entered the Kmart store management program. Over the next 35 years, he transitioned up through the management structure, finally attaining the store manager role. During that time he ran several stores, each store being both higher in sales volume and profit. Last 8 years, he was selected to move to Kmart’s International Headquarters in Troy Michigan, working in the sales department. He followed this up by joining the Lowe’s Home Improvement team for 8 years, after a short time in training he became the store manager running the Detroit Metro store for 7 years.
Tom Dennis
Tom Dennis is a resident of Fort Gratiot where he and Laurie Melms Dennis, his wife of 47 years, tend to their bird and butterfly-friendly gardens. He is a speaker and free-lance writer, passionate birder, advanced master gardener, creation scientist, and naturalist, with degrees from Michigan State University in Zoology and Biology. Tom is an active member of Blue Water Audubon Society, Master Gardeners of St. Clair County, Port Huron Civic Theater, Ross Bible Church, Tapestry Garden Club, Blueways of St. Clair, and is a steward of the Blue Water Riverwalk with Friends of the St. Clair River.
Stacy DeShon is a dedicated Attorney who focuses on Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Estate Administration, and Probate. She will be there to help make the best legal, and business decisions for your family. She is also there to guide and help your family when you are no longer able.
After graduating from Marysville High School, she moved to New York City and attended New York Institute of Technology where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in Sociology, Psychology, and Communications. After graduating, she moved back to Michigan and she took time to start a family. Shortly after her third child was born, Stacy decided it was time to reach for her dream and go to law school. At Western Michigan Thomas M. Cooley Law School, Stacy found her stride and exceeded. She was the President of the Sports and Entertainment Law Society, a teaching assistant for Research and Writing, was awarded an academic scholarship, the Certificate of Merit in Maritime Law, and participated in an Estate Planning clinic where her passion for helping families plan for their future was cultivated. Although Stacy had a background in family law and had been working at a prestigious family law firm in Oakland County, she felt she could help more people by turning her focus on Elder Law and Estate Planning. She graduated Cum Laude and did all this while working a full-time job and raising her family.
Stacy is passionate about spending time with her 3 kids and her coaching position for the Marysville Middle School Cheerleaders. Stacy is very involved in the local community as a 4H leader and a member of the 4-H Leaders Council. She is a member of the St. Clair County 4H, Port Huron Civic Theater, Women’s Life, AAUW, the American Rabbit Breeders Association, the Oakland County Bar Association, the Michigan Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. She is also an advocate for Michigan for Vaccine Choice, and for Urban Farming.
Kelly DiNardo
Kelly DiNardo is a life-long resident of St. Clair County. She grew up in Richmond and graduated from St. Clair High School. Kelly is a Registered Nurse at McLaren Port Huron working in Community Outreach and Education. She has an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from St. Clair County Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from American Sentinel University. Kelly lives in St. Clair with her husband Curtis and their three children.
Larry Elder
A “firebrand libertarian” according to Daily Variety, best-selling author, radio and TV talk show host, Larry Elder has a take-no-prisoners style, using such old-fashioned things as evidence and logic. Larry shines the bright light of reasoned analysis on many of the myths and hypocrisies apparent in our system of government, our society, and the media itself. He slays dragons and topples sacred cows using facts, common sense and a ready wit. Larry hosted, for 15 years, the longest-running afternoon drive-time radio show in Los Angeles, beginning in March 1994. “The Larry Elder Show,” a top-rated daily program from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on KABC 790, became a nationally syndicated daily talk show for ABC Radio Networks on Aug. 12, 2002. Now Larry is seeking airwave dominance over the morning hours, broadcasting from KABC from 9 a.m. until noon. Known to his listeners as the “Sage From South Central,” Larry sizzles on the airwaves with his thoughtful insight on the day’s most provocative issues, to the delight, consternation and entertainment of his listeners. In his best-selling book “The 10 Things You Can’t Say in America,” Larry skewers the crippling myths that dominate the public agenda. Larry punctures all pretension, trashes accepted “wisdom” and puts everyone on notice that the status quo must be shaken up. In his second book, “Showdown: Confronting Bias, Lies and the Special Interests That Divide America,” Larry again takes on the Nanny State, “victicrats” and the politically correct. His latest book, “What’s Race Got to Do with It? Why it’s Time to Stop the Stupidest Argument in America,” is being praised as an important, groundbreaking must-read for the future of race relations in America. Elder also writes a nationally syndicated newspaper column, distributed through Creators Syndicate. Larry was also host of the television shows “Moral Court” and “The Larry Elder Show.” Larry created, directed and produced his first film, “Michael & Me,” a documentary that examines the use of guns in America.
Derek Elles
Derek grew up in an Italian-Mexican, Catholic family, attended Catholic school, and served as an altar boy in church regularly. As a Junior in High School, he felt the need to leave the church and found himself searching for religious truth. He was first saved while on patrol onboard a submarine in the U.S. Navy during a nuclear war scenario. Not completely understanding what it meant, and not having anyone to guide him, he found himself exposed to many religions and began to research several of them and even attended some of their churches.
Eventually, he attended a Bible study where he started learning more about Christ to the point where he would spend hours at the library doing research. Religion was still a pretty rocky road for him for several years falling in and out of the Catholic church many times and continuing to read books on world religion.
He began attending different non-denominational Christian Churches and was exposed to various types of worship, preaching, healings, speak in tongues which he was taught after being told it is required to be Christian. With all the confusion brought on by these experiences, he felt it just wasn’t right and again stopped going to church and returned to reading various versions of the Bible and researching world religions.
Later in life, and after a divorce, his daughter invited him to go on a short-term mission trip to Guatemala where he felt led by the Lord to give up the life he had and dedicate himself to serving Him by becoming a missionary. He kept in touch with Mimi, the team guide in Guatemala, and got married about 6 months later, moved to Guatemala, and began a new life as a missionary serving the Lord.
Derek has been a full-time missionary living and serving in Guatemala since June 2014. He felt led by the Lord to start Straight Path Ministries prior to moving to Guatemala which he and his wife Mimi have operated since. He has been writing Christian related material for Straight Path Ministries and is now sharing his writings here at Blue Water Healthy Living.
Derek encourages discussion and can be reached at derek@straightpathministries.org
Elizabeth Ely
Health journalist Elizabeth (Beth) Ely is a fourth-generation native who returned to Port Huron from New York City to spark discussion about health alternatives in her own hometown. Having earned a master’s degree in journalism from New York University and worked as a financial editor on Wall Street, she has made a name for herself internationally via the Internet as a journalist and Podcaster, most notably as co-host of the groundbreaking “How Positive Are You” Podcast. Her new show, “Health Revolution Radio,” will make use of her 25 years of research and continue her Podcasting tradition of presenting news-you-can-use on AIDS, cancer, and vaccines as well as general health, from a Web site offering expanded resources. Closer to home, she is working with local natural health practitioners and educators to form a professional support and community outreach group in the Blue Water area, the Blue Water Holistic Health Network. Welcome home, Beth!
Reverend Joseph M. Esper
REVEREND JOSEPH M. ESPER is a priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit and pastor of Immaculate Conception parish in Anchorville, Michigan. He received his Master of Divinity degree from St. John’s Provincial Seminary in Plymouth, Michigan. Through the years, Father Joe has lectured at Marian conferences, appeared on EWTN, spoken on Catholic radio, and written more than a dozen articles for This Rock, The Priest, Homiletic and Pastoral Review, and other publications. He is also the author of numerous books, including Saintly Solutions, More Saintly Solutions, After the Darkness, Lessons from the Lives of the Saints, and Why Is God Punishing Me? In addition to Amazon, many of his most recent books are available through Queenship Publishing.
Colleen Everitt
Colleen Everitt relocated to Port Huron from Minneapolis, MN in 2018 and loves living in the beautiful Blue Water area. She has extensive experience directing theatrical productions and producing events. She has numerous acting credits in live theater shows, commercials, industrial films, television and radio. She comes to GBS Media excited to lend her creative talents to producing high quality commercials, industrial films, and online programming. Whether it is commercials, social media, corporate or training videos, or events, give Colleen Everitt a call for fresh, innovative and creative ideas that will take your project or business advertising campaign over the top.
Erin Fanning
Charlyn Fargo
Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian and holds a master’s degree in nutrition. She grew up on a central Illinois farm and covers agriculture for the State Journal-Register in Springfield. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Illinois as well as a degree in food and a master’s in nutrition from Eastern Illinois University, all of which provides her with the knowledge she shares in her weekly column, “Nutrition News .” While growing up, she spent her summers showing Shorthorn cattle. She has a daughter, Katie.
Brian Frey
Brian Frey is a licensed Realtor at Keller Williams Platinum and a local Real Estate investor. He is a member of Eastern Thumb Association Realtors, Blue Water Chamber, Young Professionals, Port Huron Area Landlord Association, and Blue Water Start-Ups. He and his wife Katie Kuhn enjoy the Blue Water lifestyle that Port Huron has to offer. Brian Frey REALTOR Keller Williams Platinum 3750 Pine Grove, Fort Gratiot 48059 Cell: 810-662-1888 BrianFrey@KW.com
Christina Gallina-Flood
Christina Gallina-Flood is a powerful speaker and ministry leader, but it was Christina’s own painful and personal journey from sexual abuse that brought her to this place. With life in crisis, she began a relentless search for truth and healing. As Christina began to experience true freedom from the pain of the past, she was filled with a desire to help others do the same, and God began to bring hurting souls to her in earnest. Her journey of healing and helping has spanned more than twenty years as she has worked with pastors, churches, and community outreach to bring the message of deliverance to others. Through mentoring, inner healing prayer, and leading support groups such as Celebrate Recovery and now her own S.H.O.U.T support group, Christina has witnessed amazing results for those seeking healing. She loves people unconditionally and cares deeply for their needs.
As a speaker, counselor and executive director of Healing Hearts Home, the Lord uses Christina to bring hope, help, and healing to others. Christina studies under esteemed mentors and doctors to gain wisdom in the field of mental health and has obtained an Associate Degree in Pastoral Christian Counseling; she is dedicated to the goal of attaining her Doctorate. Christina’s energy and enthusiasm are both contagious and inspiring as she continues to share her life stories and how the Lord has set her free from the addictions, hurts, and wounds left by sexual abuse and trauma.
Jim Gilbert
Jim Gilbert has been employed since 2014 with The Grant Smith Insurance Agency in Port Huron, Michigan. Jim is an avid motorcycle rider and is a 30-year veteran of the motorcycle industry. He has been a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Ridercoach for 10 years.
Marisa Glied
Marisa Glied: My name is Marisa, phonetically that’s Marie-sa and I am the writer of TheRefashStash. I started TheRefashStash in 2015 when I seriously got into sewing as a hobby. You could say I have been refashioning before I even knew what refashioning was! I started by paining my own custom t-shirts, taking in clothes and then making my own prom dress! TheRefashStash is also a contributor on the community refashion blog: Refashion Co-Op. Check out Refashion Co-Op for exclusive RefashStash posts as well as many other inspiring posts by fellow refashioners!
Jeff Goins
From the desk of Jeff Goins: I am the best-selling author of five books, including the national bestsellers The Art of Work and Real Artists Don’t Starve. Each week, I send out a free newsletter with my best tips on writing, publishing, and helping your creative work succeed.
Janae Elizabeth Green
Janae Green is a born and raised resident of Port Huron, Michigan. She is a fiance and a working mother as a hairstylist at Chix-N-Clippers. She is incredibly passionate about Personal Development & Spiritual Growth. She is currently on the Keto diet and studying life strategies while growing stronger in her faith. Her goal is to reach out and connect with others to take this journey called life together while hopefully adding some hope and value to the lives of others.
Dr. John Grenfell III
I am the proud father of Kathleen, Laura, and John, and “Papa” to Rylee and Reese. I currently serve as pastor at the First United Methodist Church in St. Clair, and have served United Methodist churches since 1987, when I started a church in Grand Marais, MI. Two weeks prior to my father passing away in 2017, I promised to make my way back to this area in order to be here for my mother. I told my bishop that I would be happy to stay in the saddle if he had a church for me to serve, and in 2018 he appointed me to the St. Clair church.
Dennis Grimski
Dennis Grimski is a 40+ year resident of the Blue Water area. He is a retired Executive Officer for two regional healthcare organizations and was the CEO for his own successful Management Consulting firm. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and History from Western Michigan University; a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from WMU; and a Specialist Degree in Psychology/Behavior Modification from U of M. Dennis is a Christ-follower, husband, father, grandfather, and loves golf, board games, and discussing politics and religion. He is a leader in Bible Study Fellowship (BSF); disciples several men; and has been an Elder, children’s bible teacher, Sunday school teacher, Life Group leader, and Men’s ministry leader in his church.
Vic Gronek
Vic Gronek has been a resident of St Clair County nearly all his life. He joined the team in late October 2016 as a part-time administrative assistant. Vic was then asked to become a permanent part-time member of the team after open enrollment ended, in early December. Vic spent four years in the US Navy serving on two different ships, the USS San Diego AFS-6 and the USS Amphion AR-13, in addition to spending fourteen months on shore duty in Albany, Georgia. After he was discharged, he returned to American Tape where he worked prior to enlisting. He retired from Intertape Polymer Group (The old American Tape) in Marysville after 45 years in 2011, where he worked a multitude of positions. Vic’s attention to detail has made him an important member of the team. He currently resides in Ruby, Mich with his wife Carol and has a son and daughter who are both married and living in the area.
Lauren Hager
Lauren Hager, a long-time special education teacher for the Port Huron Area School District, has served his community in a variety of ways.
He was elected to three terms on the Port Huron City Council in the 1990s. He represented much of St. Clair County in the Michigan House of Representatives from 1999 to 2004. While a state representative, he chaired the Family and Children Service Committee where he was considered a passionate and forceful advocate for abused and neglected children.
Hager is a proud graduate of Michigan State University where he earned his B.A. and M.A. degrees. Lauren and his wife, Carol have two children and four grandchildren.
John Hale
John Hale is a sophomore studying political science at the University of Notre Dame. A proud Michigander, he enjoys writing from a Catholic perspective.
Ron Haller
Ron Haller, a former automotive engineer, left that field in 1978 and entered the financial services industry with Connecticut Mutual (now Mass Mutual). His training prepared him both as an agent and supervisor specializing in advanced planning strategies for both individuals and business owners. Not happy in the corporate world, he founded the Haller Financial Group in 1984 in order to offer his clients a much broader array of financial services and products.
Ron is married to Marla who helps him manage the business, and they have three very successful daughters—two in Michigan and one in Seattle. He also has a large extended family in Port Huron, Sandusky, and Marine City. Besides running the firm, he enjoys photography, boating, and travel.
Josh Hammer
Josh Hammer is opinion editor of Newsweek, a research fellow with the Edmund Burke Foundation, counsel and policy advisor for the Internet Accountability Project, a syndicated columnist through Creators and a contributing editor for Anchoring Truths. A frequent pundit and essayist on political, legal and cultural issues, Josh is a constitutional attorney by training. He hosts “The Josh Hammer Show,” a Newsweek podcast, and co-hosts the Edmund Burke Foundation’s “NatCon Squad” podcast.
An outspoken conservative, Josh opines on conservative intellectual trends, contemporary domestic and foreign policy debates, constitutional and legal issues, and the intersection of law, politics and culture. He has been published by many leading outlets, including the Los Angeles Times, the New York Post, the New York Sun, the Daily Mail, Newsweek, RealClearPolitics, National Affairs, American Affairs, The New Criterion, The National Interest, National Review, City Journal, First Things, Public Discourse, Law & Liberty, Tablet Magazine, Compact Magazine, Deseret Magazine, The Spectator World, The American Spectator, The American Conservative, The European Conservative, The Federalist, The American Mind, American Greatness, American Compass, Chronicles Magazine, Anchoring Truths, Newsmax, Townhall, The Epoch Times, The Daily Signal, The Daily Wire, The Daily Caller, The Western Journal, CNSNews, Fortune, Fox Business, The Boston Herald, Pairagraph, The Jerusalem Post, The Times of Israel, The Forward, Jewish Telegraphic Agency and the Jewish Journal. He has had formal legal scholarship published by the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy and the University of St. Thomas Law Journal.
Josh is a college campus speaker through Intercollegiate Studies Institute and Young America’s Foundation, as well as a law school campus speaker through the Federalist Society. Prior to Newsweek and The Daily Wire, where he was an editor, Josh worked at a large law firm and clerked for a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Josh has also served as a John Marshall Fellow with the Claremont Institute and a Fellow with the James Wilson Institute.
Josh graduated from Duke University, where he majored in economics, and from the University of Chicago Law School. He lives in Florida, but remains an active member of the State Bar of Texas.
Barbara K. Hanneke
Barb Hanneke has been the Director of Harbor Impact Ministries since its inception in 2010. She is on the Board of Directors of the Department of Health and Human Services; she leads the community service portion of the Operation Transformation Food Task Force; she is on the Emergency Food and Shelter Program committee; she is a church organist and choir director, and is a member of other community organizations. From the east coast, Ohio, and finally Michigan, Barb taught first grade, elementary school music, and was trained as a paralegal before beginning the most meaningful project of her life.
Robert Harrell
Rob Harrell is originally from the Detroit area, and he has been living in the Blue Water area for over 20 years. He has served as a pastor in Michigan, Connecticut, and Virginia, and currently leads a home church, Oakwood Fellowship in Port Huron. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in Psychology, from Wayne State University in Detroit, and a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He is a resident of Fort Gratiot and enjoys golf, reading, travel. Oakwood Fellowship meets at 10:30 am on Sunday mornings. For more information contact Robert at (810) 385-6877.
Lisa Hartman
Lisa Hartman has been a nurse in the Blue Water Area for over 23 years – Her career started at Port Huron Hospital – working on the 5th floor in Med-Surg and Oncology followed by Hospice case-management. She started in nursing management in 2008 in skilled nursing facilities and in Hospice. She currently is the Branch Director of Grace Hospice in Marysville. The Grace Hospice Team is like no other – their care, compassion, and dedication to our patients amazes her every day, and she is so proud and blessed to work with each of them every day. On a personal note, she has 2 daughters, Katie and Kristen and keeps busy with their sporting events including softball, basketball, and attending Equestrian meets with their horse “Ivy.”
Holly Heinemann
Holly Heinemann teaches writing, grammar, and literature to 8th-12th graders at New Life Christian Academy. She lives in Burtchville where she loves spending time at the beach with her husband and son.
Helen Hermes
Helen Hermes is retired from a career involving mostly in data processing. She started in data entry and advanced to data entry supervisor and then into computer operations, programming, system analyst and middle management. She owned her own data services company that provided service to Ford Motor Company, Blue Cross, Chrysler, ASI, School Districts and many other businesses. After five and a half years, Helen sold to her partner. She and her husband moved to the Rose City, MI area to farm. After ten years of commuting back and forth to Detroit, a final move back to Farmington Hills was made. During her life, Helen attended various college classes that included computer programming, business law, English composition, accounting, and other courses. She taught enrichment classes at Kirkland Community College, tutored reading classes in Port Huron for six years, was chairperson of the St Clair County Master Gardener’s Club for four years, was head trustee at Immanuel Lutheran Church for eight years, Chairperson of the Women’s Group at Holy Redeemer Church for four years, past secretary, vice chair, and chair of other various committees for the St Clair County GOP (member since 2008). Helen is now serving as the St. Clair County Republican Party Chairperson. Helen and her husband, Jack have lived in Clyde Township for over thirty years where they build their home. While living in Clyde they have traveled in every state of the United States. After visiting all the states, they journeyed to other countries in Europe, Eastern Europe (before EU), China, Thailand, Mexico, Columbia, Panama Canal, and others.
Shane Hernandez
State Representative Shane Hernandez grew up in Croswell and now lives in Port Huron with his wife Renee and two children, Kelsey and Kara. Hernandez credits his family upbringing for his conservative principles. His father, Salvador Hernandez Jr., worked his way up from general laborer to boiler operator at the Croswell pickle factory. Hernandez witnessed firsthand that hard work and determination can lead to success. Rep. Hernandez can be reached at (517) 373-0835, or for more information, you can follow him on Facebook here.
Chris Hogan
Chris Hogan is a two-time #1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of The Chris Hogan Show. For more than a decade, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, equipping and challenging people to take control of their money and reach their financial goals. His second book, Everyday Millionaires: How Ordinary People Built Extraordinary Wealth—And How You Can, Too, released in January 2019. You can follow Chris Hogan on Twitter and Instagram at @ChrisHogan360 and online at chrishogan360.com or facebook.com/chrishogan360.
Bill Hossler
Bill Hossler’s ministry career began with a new church plant north of Dayton, OH on Cow Path Rd. Following that ministry, Bill and his wife Margaret moved to Port Huron where they pastored the Colonial Woods Missionary Church for nearly 25 years. After leaving the Colonial Woods Church Bill was a District Superintendent in OH for 3 years and in 2001 was elected as President of the Missionary Church denomination where he served for 12 years. Dr. Hossler & Margaret currently are pastoring the Evergreen Missionary Church just east of Grand Rapids.
During his career, Dr. Hossler has traveled to over 60 countries, authored four books and was instrumental in starting the Colonial Woods Christian Counseling Center, a weekly television program, and a daily inspirational radio program. The “Today’s Key to Confident Living” English radio program is heard on approximately 100 stations throughout the USA and the former Spanish version “Clave a la Felicidad was heard on nearly 250 stations in Latin and South America. Bill is also a member of the Board of Directors of Bethel College in Mishawaka, IN.
Dr. Hossler’s latest book Divine GPS: Finding God’s will in times of transition is a small book designed to help people discover God’s future direction for finding a mate, deciding on a career, what to do after a job loss, death of a spouse, etc. It helps people feel comfortable in knowing they are where God wants them to be. Margaret’s book Spenser Rose Is Born: God knew me from the beginning and Dr. Hossler’s books are all available online at amazon.com or by calling 1-888-333-KEYS.
Bill and Margaret live in Lowell, MI and have four grown children.
Aaron Hulett
Aaron Hulett has been a lifelong resident of the greater Port Huron area. He is married to Michelle Hulett, has 3 adult children & a stepdaughter still at home. He stays very busy working in several capacities. He is a loan officer at Mi Mutual Mortgage. He also is the founder of a company called ArcorFit, they specialize in helping promote physical & spiritual fitness. Aaron is very active in his church & community. He & his wife Michelle jokingly refer to their house as the Hulett Zoo, that’s because they have 3 dogs & 2 cats!! In his spare time, he loves anything outdoors and especially mountain bike racing!
Imprimis, Hillsdale College
Imprimis is the free monthly speech digest of Hillsdale College and is dedicated to educating citizens and promoting civil and religious liberty by covering cultural, economic, political, and educational issues. The content of Imprimis is drawn from speeches delivered at Hillsdale College events. First published in 1972, Imprimis is one of the most widely circulated opinion publications in the nation with over 3.9 million subscribers
Intellectual Takeout
Launched in 2009, Intellectual Takeout is a web and social media network that serves as a popular refuge for rational discourse. Covering a variety of topics from metaphysics to lifestyle, culture, and politics, Intellectual Takeout exists to challenge the intellectual and secular orthodoxies of our times. Intellectual Takeout is a project of The Charlemagne Institute, an educational nonprofit devoted to laying the intellectual groundwork for a great awakening.
Dominic Jakubowski
Dominic Jakubowski attends Kettering University and is currently perusing dual bachelor’s degrees in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. He attended Cardinal Mooney High School in Marine City and graduated with honors in 2018. Through Kettering’s cooperative education program, Dominic has obtained a position at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles as a Supplier Operations Engineer and works there on a rotational basis for six months of the year. For his entire life, Dominic has resided in Clay Township. From a young age, he knew that his passion was history, politics, and service for the country. He participated in scouting and obtained his Eagle Scout award at the age of 15. He has spent countless hours volunteering for political campaigns and has worked with youth leaders across the state to kick start youth involvement in the Republican Party. He is the current Chairman of the Kettering College Republicans, which he established during his first term on campus. Dominic desires to continue to be involved and hopes to one day become a leader in his community.
F. Forbes Johnson
F. Forbes Johnson has been a Blue Water Area supporter for as long as he can remember. “I have have seen the good times, bad times and great times and have been lucky enough to have been part of a good many of them. I performed around the world, around the states, and around Port Huron. The blue in the water is in my blood and always will be. From Port Huron High School to Saint Clair County Community College, Central Michigan University to Michigan State. From speaking to singing to masters of ceremony to teaching to singing on hit albums, dancing with Marcel Marceau and National Touring Companies; THIS will always be home. I have been blessed to meet the finest people on earth, work with them, learn from them and find a good percentage of them in this area. To my fellow teachers, former students, performers, and many friends (who just happen to be the best ever) I am the most blessed man in this world. These are the people who have made me who I am. If I can impart any of whatever I have to one person, I will have been a success. Question me, talk to me, write to me and I guarantee an honest answer. It’s not easy but anything can be done with faith, hope and the will to do your very best in life. Anything is possible.”
Keith Maximilian Kaniut
Born in Detroit, Michigan, the oldest of six children, grew up in Royal Oak & Beverly Hills, and graduated with an aerospace engineering degree from the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He became a Naval Aviator and his military career included tours flying the carrier-based A-7E Corsair II, the T-2 Buckeye, TA-4 Skyhawk and the F/A-18E.
When a heart attack cut his military career short at 14 years, he brought his wife and three sons back to Michigan in 1994 and worked for 22 years doing engineering in the auto industry before retiring. He is also a grateful heart transplant recipient since August 2018 and remains married to Mary Ellen, his love of 37 years. One son is a District Sales Manager for GM and the other two currently serve in the Air Force. His writing includes short stories from his Navy flying days and a series about Animal Control Officers that spoofs the Dragnet TV show from the 60’s.
Tim Keller
Tim Keller has lived in the Blue Water Area since 1983. After completing his Bachelors Degree in American History and obtaining his Secondary Teaching Certification at Calvin College, he returned to teach high school Social Studies classes in Port Huron Schools’ alternative and adult education programs for over 20+ years. During that time he completed his Master’s Degree in Social Studies Education through Nova Southeastern University’s distance learning program. Tim has a passion for teaching and learning about American history and government. That passion has led him to take on a leadership role as chairman of Blue Water Tea Party organizing events and speakers in the local area since 2009. He and his wife, Lisa, have three boys and attend Lakeport Wesleyan Church.
Lisa Kenny
Lisa Kenny is a Marketing Specialist at Sanilac Broadcasting and owner of On Target Marketing in Sandusky, Michigan. A lifetime Sanilac County resident, she is passionate about helping small business succeed so future generations can enjoy the benefits of a small town, rural living. She grew up working in her family’s clothing stores in Croswell, Sandusky, and Bad Axe and started her first business at age 15 to pay her way through business school at Northwood Institute. Lisa is President of Woman’s Life Chapter 867 of Sanilac County and loves raising awareness and funds for worthy causes in the area like the Sanilac County Humane Society. She is happily married to Scott and they reside just outside Sandusky with their pack of rescue dogs, cats, and a bunny.
Barry Kentner
Barry Kentner was born in Toronto, Ontario in 1935 and schooled to Grade 10, but continued educational pursuits until age 65 when he graduated from Open Word Bible College. He started working for Spitzer and Mills advertising in 1952, then moved to the Broadcast arena where for 62 years he was News Director and Talk Show Host at several Canadian Radio Stations. He was one of 5 consultants who managed to lobby for Christian Radio in Canada, and in the last five years before retirement, he was News Director of Canadian Altar.Net News, a network of 25 Christian Radio Stations across Canada from Charlottetown PEI to Campbell River BC.
Barry is a semi-retired pastor living in Dresden, Ontario.
Kathleen Knowles
Kathleen Knowles is a life-long resident of Port Huron and a 1973 graduate of Port Huron High School. After attending St. Clair County Community College, she has worked for credit unions all of her life as well as a professional dog show handler, known for handling Pekingese. Kathleen has been writing fiction for years as a hobby, having posted many stories online.
Kathleen wrote a series of articles for Blue Water Healthy Living on the Port Huron Big Red Marching Machine. To view the articles, click here. As a reporter and contributor, Kathleen is shedding light on the many great people and businesses which make up the Greater Blue Water Area.
Patrick Knowles II
Patrick Knowles II is a life long resident of Port Huron. Born an only child, he was educated in the Port Huron Area Schools. After attending Western Michigan University, Patrick returned home. He is passionate about conservative beliefs and is a strict constitutionalist. Patrick writes political opinion as a guest writer for Blue Water Healthy Living.
Mary Kuffa
Mary Kuffa was born and raised in St. Clair where she now raises her wonderful son. She attended college St. Clair County Community College in 2004 and played on SC4 Skipper’s softball team while she earned her Associates Degree in Marketing. She then transferred over to Oakland University and obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Integrative Studies with a minor in Communications in 2009. For the last 12 years, she has worked for a local Farm Bureau Insurance agent in her community and has obtained her insurance license in both Property & Casualty and Life & Health. In her free time she enjoys spending as much time as possible with her son, camping, Disney World vacations, crafting, event planning, cooking, and spending time with her parents, siblings and 7 nieces and nephews who all live in St. Clair as well.
Mitch Kuffa
Mitchell J. Kuffa Jr. has been in the construction industry since 1967. In that time, he was worked as a construction superintendent, general superintendent, and construction manager for several large developers in the state of Michigan. He has been a licensed Michigan residential builder since 1977, was an incorporated general contractor for 11 years and has built and/or run the construction of approx. 3,500 residential houses, apartments, commercial structures and/or light industrial buildings. In 1981 he started the first private home inspection agency in Michigan and to date has personally performed approx. 20,000 inspections for a fee. Since 1981, Mr. Kuffa inspects properties and acts as a construction consultant for the Michigan Department of Mental Health (group homes), UAW Legal Services, numerous lenders, several non-profit organizations and for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Mr. Kuffa is a federal housing fee inspector and FHA 203K mortgage loan consultant, works with several attorneys’s as an “expert witness”, has been appointed by the Michigan circuit court system to act as a Receiver in several cases concerning construction litigation and previously taught a series of construction classes (for misc. school districts, community colleges. Michigan state housing authority, etc.).
Katie Kuhn
Katie Kuhn is an acupuncturist and owner of Huron Point Acupuncture in Port Huron, Michigan. She is board certified (NCCAOM) in Oriental Medicine and has Masters Degrees’ from New York Chiropractic College. She is a member of the Blue Water Chamber, the Young Professionals and the Michigan Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (MAAOM). She enjoys swimming, paddle boarding, and spending time with her husband Brian (Frey) and son Brody.
Michelle Kuschel
As a lifetime resident of Saint Clair County, Michelle Kuschel has been the proud owner of a local State Farm Insurance Agency for over 10 years. It has been her privilege to serve such amazing customers and their families; Michelle and her team look forward to many more years of dedicated service to the community.
State Farm is committed to helping local members of our community achieve their financial and insurance goals. Not only does State Farm offer Auto, Home, and Life protection. We also offer a robust platform that can assist our local business owners with their commercial insurance, home buyers with their mortgage financing, as well as vehicle owners with their new and existing car loan. Michelle and her team are dedicated to not only educating their clients but also finding innovative and personalized solutions to fit their customer’s everyday needs.
Outside of the office, Michelle feels blessed to enjoy time with her husband, Steve, as well as two amazing children. Some of her additional interests include golfing, baking, home décor, and gardening.
Michelle and her team of dedicated professionals look forward to connecting with you!
Victoria Lafean
Victoria Lafean has been writing since the age of seven. She previously focused on journalism in college, serving as editor in chief of the Erie Square Gazette and receiving a degree in Journalism. After starting a writer’s workshop at the Newton Falls Library in Ohio, and creating a monthly newsletter for The Pines at Brookhouse Assisted Living, Lafean shifted her focus to becoming a well-established author. Wicker Hill is her first novel and O.C.D One Cool Dude is her first children’s book. Both are available through Amazon and Createspace.
Lafean currently resides in Fort Irwin, California. Lafean’s husband Evan is currently serving as a soldier in the U.S Army. Her hometown is Port Huron, Michigan. Both Evan and Victoria hope to return after Evan completes his military service.
Jessica Laffrey
Jessica Laffrey’s reading is her passion and she shares her love for creating on her own personal blog page, magickalbookshelf.wordpress.com. As young as she can remember, reading, writing, and creating were her life. Not surprising that at present she can be found working as a Page at our local library system shelving hundreds if not thousands of books a week. Jessica attended Baker College and earned her Associate’s Degree in Applied Science (Animation) and is currently studying graphic design at St. Clair County Community College. Her blogs, which began in 2018 and include book reviews, especially non-published books direct from authors, the library and Netgalley, helped launch her popularity on Instagram. Visit her blog and leave her a comment today.
Annie Lane
Annie Lane grew up in California and headed east to graduate with honors from New York University, where she majored in English literature and specialized in psychology. She earned her Juris Doctor from New York Law School.Since July 2016, Annie has offered common-sense solutions to everyday problems in her column, “Dear Annie.” Her advice is unusually perceptive. She is firm, funny and sympathetic, echoing the style of her biggest inspiration, Ann Landers.Annie lives outside Manhattan with her husband, two kids and two dogs. When not writing, she devotes her time to play dates and Play-Doh.
Sharyl Lasky
Sharyl Lasky was born in the Port Huron-Marysville area and has lived there her entire life. She graduated from Port Huron High School and Port Huron Junior College. Working in a family owned business for 27 years she gained experience in accounting and sales. She has attended Colonial Woods Missionary Church since 1988. She is currently involved in the choir, a quilting group, plus a home Bible study. At one time she was, for many years, on the Women’s Ministry committee. She is blessed to be a mom to two sons and Mema to three grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
David Limbaugh
David Limbaugh is a lawyer, a nationally syndicated columnist, a conservative political commentator and the author of eight New York Times best-sellers: “The True Jesus,” “The Emmaus Code,” “Jesus on Trial,” “The Great Destroyer,” “Crimes Against Liberty,” “Bankrupt,” “Persecution” and “Absolute Power.” As an expert in law and politics, Limbaugh has appeared on hundreds of national and local television and radio shows, including Fox News Channel’s “Hannity,” “Fox & Friends” and “Your World with Neil Cavuto,” CNN’s “Crossfire” and “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer,” CNBC’s “The Kudlow Report” and CBN’s “NewsWatch,” as well as “The Sean Hannity Show,” “The Mark Levin Show,” “The Laura Ingraham Show,” “The Mike Gallagher Show,” “The Michael Medved Show,” “The Dennis Miller Show” and “The Dennis Prager Show.” Limbaugh has been practicing law for almost 40 years and currently specializes in entertainment and contract law. He graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri and received his law degree from the University of Missouri School of Law. He was a member of the Missouri Law Review and also served in the National Guard. The brother of radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh, David Limbaugh lives in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, with his wife and children.
Patrick J. Loftus
Patrick J. Loftus, a native from Mount Clemens and a 1976 graduate of L‘Anse Creuse High School, has lived in Port Huron since his marriage to Nancy in 1988. He graduated from Western Michigan University and earned his teaching certification in 1984 in German and History. His profession took him to Carlyle, Illinois and East Detroit. Besides instruction, he coached soccer, tennis, Quiz Bowl, German Quiz Bowl, and Debate. Patrick had an enthusiastic German Club and took students to Germany in 1985, one of five trips he made mostly to German-speaking lands. Mr. Loftus closely follows state and national politics. In his spare time, he follows and watches sports. He follows FC Köln and enjoys traveling. Patrick places international exchange students at CETUSA (non-profit) in St. Clair, Macomb, Sanilac and Lapeer Counties as a Local Coordinator.
Tanya Lunney
CLICK Tanja Lunney’s PHOTO to see all her articles.
Tanja Lunney, is the founder of Let Love Be My Motive and Let Love Be My Motive Studio where her focus is to create in partnership with God. Her passion is to help others grow in the relationship with God and walk out a life that leaves behind a sweet aroma of love. Although home will always be the Blue Water Area, she currently creates in her home in Central Louisiana. If you have any questions or want to learn more you can contact her at letlovebemymotive@gmail.com
John Lusk
After attending my own community college by driving to University of Michigan-Flint and then transferring to Eastern Michigan University for a bachelor’s degree in English, I was hired at a national experimental school in Kendallville, Indiana: East Noble High School. A rural farming community, the better students had strong families at home; these students often got up at dawn or earlier to take care of farm chores before taking the bus to school. From there, I taught at a private boys’ preparatory school, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, back in Michigan. Many of the same issues that helped or plagued the students at East Noble were found in this bucolic setting by Orchard Lake, where often the wealth of the parent made no difference in the character of the young men. Spurred to finish a master’s degree in English, after a year I returned to EMU.There I taught sections of freshman composition while finishing a master’s degree. I also taught for Ypsilanti Adult Education, working as a tutor. After completing the master’s degree in English Language and Literature with a concentration in composition, I had two pathways open to me. One was a job offer from Bloomfield Public schools to teach English; the other was an offer to be a program writer at CBS/FOX Video, writing management training materials for instructional videos. Choosing the path that allowed me to use my writing, I worked at CBS/FOX for a year until laid off due to a corporate takeover attempt of CBS. At that time, my wonderful mentor at EMU, Prof. Frank Ross, wrote me and mentioned community colleges as a good fit. Thirty-six years later, and now retired, I find that Frank was – as always – absolutely right. Now, the next stage is to give back to the public from the experiences, lessons and education that provided me and my family – spouse Julie; and sons, Sam, and Scott – a wonderful life in Port Huron. I know what is essential in education. The point of contact in a classroom between a teacher and student is the rock that drops in the pond. No question the ripples from that experience move out and touch the important support staff, our ever-efficient secretaries, as well as the IT staff, the advisors, counselors, financial aid staff and so many others, but we need to remember – and many Americans have found this out – that the point of contact between student and teacher is the most important experience in education and in the student’s collegiate success. Anything that hinders that experience, that proves to be an obstacle, that runs contrary to the art and science of those teaching moments, needs to be removed from the equation. Conversely, anything that enhances or supports that teaching needs to be part of the educational process, be it the best in classroom technologies, the best that can be afforded in benefits and salaries, or the best verbal and material support for teachers that an administration can provide. Being honored with three teaching awards during my time at St. Clair, I know what works for students in the classroom. I will do all I can to help other teachers follow their lights and best practices to help students in their learning journeys.
Ken Maxwell
Ken Maxwell is a graduate of Michigan Technological University with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. He has enjoyed living in the Blue Water area his entire life, growing up in Clyde township and currently living in Croswell. Ken is married to Robbin Maxwell and is blessed with two amazing daughters. Formerly the founder and owner of Swell Software, Inc., he now works as Director of Engineering for Express Logic, a San Diego, CA-based software engineering firm.
With over 23 years’ experience in software development, Ken has been published several times in technical journals and software engineering whitepapers. This is his first foray into community discussion forums and his hope is to contribute in a positive way.
Daniel McCarthy
Daniel McCarthy is a vice president at the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and the editor-in-chief of its magazine Modern Age: A Conservative Review. He is also a regular contributor to The Spectator’s World edition.
He has a long association with The American Conservative, the magazine co-founded by Pat Buchanan in 2002. Daniel was its editor from 2010 to 2016 and is its editor-at-large today.
His writing has appeared in an array of publications, including The New York Times, USA Today, The National Interest, First Things, The Claremont Review of Books, Chronicles, Reason, The Daily Telegraph and The New York Post.
He has been a guest on PBS NewsHour, NPR, the BBC, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, CNN International and other radio and television networks worldwide.
A recognized expert on conservative thought, Daniel has contributed to the volumes Who Rules? Sovereignty, Nationalism and the Fate of Freedom in the 21st Century (Encounter) and The Dilemmas of American Conservatism (University Press of Kentucky). He also wrote the preface to the 2022 edition of Willmoore Kendall’s seminal work The Conservative Affirmation (Regnery).
He has been a visiting fellow of the Center for the Study of Statesmanship at the Catholic University of America, a Lincoln Fellow at the Claremont Institute, and a Graduate Fellow at the Ludwig von Mises Institute.
Daniel served as the director of the Robert Novak Journalism Fellowship Program at the Fund for American Studies from 2017-2021. Outside of journalism, he has worked as a senior editor in the publishing industry and was the internet communications coordinator and campaign blogger for the 2008 Ron Paul Presidential Campaign Committee.
He is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis and lives in northern Virginia. Follow him on twitter @ToryAnarchist.
Julie McCoy
Julie McCoy is the mother of an adult son with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Now retired, she has worked in many different fields and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a minor in Human Resource Administration through Concordia University. She also worked as a substitute teacher, requesting Special Education classes. She is involved at the state level in an Advisory Implementation Group comprising 50 other individuals from within the state working on a mandate from the federal government called Home and Community Based Service Waiver or HCBS waiver. This waiver comprises of moving persons on Medicaid and are I/DD from specific segregated facilities to the greater community. Julie’s the origial owner and founder of Soaring Dreams LLC.
Theresa McGregor
A Flint Michigan native who has lived in Canada, Michigan, Florida, and Texas, Theresa McGregor has had two careers, one as a Programmer/Analyst in the Michigan Court System and the other as a Mathematics Instructor in two-year colleges. Her hobbies include travel, reading, family history, and baking bread. She has a relatively large collection of family memorabilia including diaries, photo albums and family histories dating from the 1860s to the present.
Jennifer MacDonald, BS, LAS
Jennifer MacDonald has 20 years of management and leadership experience including a past position at the Delta & Menominee County Health Department, and the administrator of 2 assisted living facilities including the Harrington Inn. She earned her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Management and Human Resources at the University of Wisconsin.
Jennifer trusted Jesus Christ as her Savior in 2002 and as a member of the Wesleyan Church since 2003, Jen served in the teen ministry for 5 years. She volunteers with the Blue Water Area Humane Society. She enjoys gardening, boating, reading, and rollerblading with her husband Keith, and their dogs.
Jennifer started out as a volunteer for Blue Water Pregnancy Care Center in 2004 and in May 2005 Jennifer became the Executive Director. Immersing herself into pregnancy care ministry, she earned her LAS, Life-Affirming Specialist certification. She has personally counseled over 300+ clients.
She serves on the boards of the Pregnancy Centers of Southeast Michigan, Marriage and Family Builders of St. Clair County, and the National Association of Career Women.
Michelle Malkin
Michelle Malkin is a conservative blogger, syndicated columnist, author and Fox News Channel contributor.She started her journalism career at the Los Angeles Daily News in 1992 and moved to the Seattle Times in 1996. Her popular newspaper column has been syndicated nationally by Creators Syndicate since 1999.Malkin publishes her widely read conservative blog — michellemalkin.com (her personal site) — and founded hotair.com, a leading news and opinion group blog on the right.She has worked as a Fox News Channel contributor since 2001, where she appears frequently on “The Sean Hannity Show,” “Fox & Friends” and other programs.She has written four best-selling books: “Invasion: How America Still Welcomes Terrorists, Criminals, and other Foreign Menaces to Our Shares (Regnery 2002), “In Defense of Internment: The Case for ‘Racial Profiling’ in World War II and the War on Terror” (Regnery 2004), “Unhinged: Exposing Liberals Gone Wild” (Regnery 2005), “Culture of Corruption” (Regnery 2009).She is a Philly-born, New Jersey-raised alumna of Holy Spirit High School and Oberlin College. Malkin lives in Colorado Springs with her husband and two children.
Betsy McCaughey
Betsy McCaughey, Ph.D., is a well-known political commentator, constitutional expert, and regular guest on Fox News, CNBC and many national radio programs, including Dennis Miller, Sean Hannity and Lars Larson.
In 1993, she read the 1,362-page Clinton health bill, warned the nation what it said and made history. That stunning achievement catapulted her into office as lieutenant governor of New York and made her the go-to person on health legislation. Fifteen years later, she read all 2,572 pages of the Obama health law and is still the most recognized authority on what the law says.
McCaughey’s columns and magazine articles have won national recognition, including the prestigious National Magazine Award and the H.L. Mencken Award.
McCaughey’s name is a household word for those following national politics. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Vassar College and a Ph.D. at Columbia University, and she has taught at both institutions and written two books on the history of the U.S. Constitution. She is also the author of “The Obama Health Law: What It Says and How to Overturn” and a new e-book, “Decoding the Obama Health Law: What You Need to Know.”
McCaughey is also a patient advocate, leading a national campaign to stop hospital infections. As lieutenant governor, she drafted legislation to prohibit drive-thru mastectomies and 24-hour limits on hospital time, and to guarantee patients an appeal when their insurance company turns them down. Her legislation became a model for other states.
Patty McMurray
For over 12 years, Patty McMurray has owned and operated the 100 Percent Fed Up Facebook page with 1.6 million followers and the conservative news website 100PercentFedUp.com. Censorship by Big Tech has put a significant dent in traffic on Facebook, and she’s been removed from YouTube and LinkedIn. Undeterred, over the past 2 years, she’s been focused on building accounts on alternate, free-speech social media sites like Truth, Twitter, GETTR, Gab, MeWe, Telegraph, and Rumble. She’s also a frequent contributor to the Gateway Pundit, where her articles reach millions every day.
Katie Mehlberg
Katie Mehlberg is a young writer looking to make a difference in the world she is writing in.
Annette Mercatante MD, MPH
Dr. Annette Mercatante grew up on the east side of Detroit and learned at an early age what poverty and community can mean for health. After high school she received a BS degree in Medical Technology from Michigan State University, her MD from Wayne State School of Medicine/Detroit, and completed a Family Medicine Residency from St John Hospital/Detroit. She has remained Board Certified in Family Practice and has spent over 20 years in primary care in St Clair County. She received her Masters of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Massachusetts/Amherst in 2011. First as Medical Director, and now as the Medical Health Officer for the St Clair County Health Department, she sees Local Public Health as a critical component of healthcare reform and improving population health.
Larry Miller
Larry Miller was born and raised in Port Huron. Author of two novels loosely set in Port Huron: “When Life Was Good, Sometimes,” and “Haunted Youth.” Larry and wife Carol have three children, seven grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. Larry is a graduate of Central Michigan University. He taught English and American Literature at Port Huron Northern High School.
Joel Mitchell
Joel Mitchell is the senior pastor at Griswold Street Baptist Church in Port Huron. His childhood and teenage years were spent bouncing between Caro, Michigan and Taguatinga Sul in Brazil’s Federal District. After eight years of pastoral ministry in Northeast Pennsylvania and Southern Indiana, he is happy to be back in Michigan. His wife, Karen, who grew up in the Pacific Northwest is glad to be living near water again, and his three children already love the beach life.
Pastor Joel’s desire is to lead Griswold Street Baptist to share the love of God with our community…not just in words, but “in deed and in truth.” In his spare time, he is an avid reader, reading and reviewing over 100 books per year.
Stephen Moore
Stephen Moore is an economics journalist, author, and columnist who served as the senior economics writer for the Wall Street Journal editorial page and as member of the Journal’s editorial board. He continues to be a regular contributor at The Wall Street Journal and other outlets, such as Fox News, CNN and CNBC, and writes a nationally syndicated political column . Currently, Moore is the chief economist for the Institute for Economic Freedom and Opportunity, recently released “An Inquiry Into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of States,” which explains why eliminating or lowering tax burdens at the state level leads to economic growth and wealth creation. This is the latest of many books he has co-authored. In his earlier career he Moore was founder and president of the Club for Growth, a 25,000-member organization dedicated to helping elect free market, tax-cutting candidates to Congress and served as the Grover M. Hermann Fellow in Budgetary Affairs at The Heritage Foundation.
Cheryl L. Morgan
“This book came about after a visit to the library where I could not find local Indian History. I grew up in the St. Clair and Black River area of Michigan, fishing on all the area waters with my father and brothers. I loved books, libraries, horses, and puzzles; I was not a tech person. I love to cook, garden, travel, and camp. I was determined to find and share the truth. This has been a difficult journey in every way. I give you, the reader, the truth and blessings I also reaped.” Cheryl Morgan
Cheryl Morgan lives near Port Huron, Michigan with her husband Tom and dog Fred.
Crystal Mosher
Crystal Mosher was raised on a beef farm in the thumb of Michigan. Port Huron has been her home for 27 years. She has been married to her high school sweetheart (Marvelous Marv) for over 39 years. She has 1 daughter and 3 grandchildren. Currently, she is gainfully entertained by Woman’s Life Insurance Society. She has a deep affection for raccoons, roller skates and rocking chairs. She believes the best self-help book ever was written was “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. She enjoys drinking her morning coffee until it is no longer morning. Crystal has long been deeply moved by the power of words and is an active member of Toastmasters International. Writing for Blue Water Healthy Living is her first attempt at writing things that other people may read. (If you don’t count her personal diary that her brother stole when she was in junior high.) Now you know all of the important things there are to know about Crystal Mosher.
Paul Murray
Paul Murray is a lifelong resident of Port Huron, Michigan born to well-known parents named, “Roy & Dorothy Murray”. Paul has had a varied career before retiring. Paul has had various business and elected government positions. An avid commercial drone pilot, Paul has become a popular contributor to Blue Water Healthy Living.
Judge Andrew P. Napolitano
A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Notre Dame Law School, Judge Andrew P. Napolitano is the youngest life-tenured Superior Court judge in the history of the State of New Jersey. He sat on the bench from 1987 to 1995, during which time he presided over 150 jury trials and thousands of motions, sentencings and hearings. He taught constitutional law at Seton Hall Law School for 11 years, and he returned to private practice in 1995. Judge Napolitano began television work in the same year. As Fox News’ Senior Judicial Analyst, Judge Napolitano broadcasts nationwide on the Fox News Channel and the Fox Business Network throughout the day, Monday through Friday. He hosts “FreedomWatch” on Fox Business Network seven days a week. Judge Napolitano also lectures nationally on the U.S. Constitution, the rule of law, civil liberties in wartime, and human freedom. He has been published in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, and numerous other publications. The Judge is the author of five books on the U.S. Constitution, including his most recent bestseller, “Lies the Government Told You: Myth, Power, and Deception In American History.”
Calli Newberry
Calli Newberry is our go-to sportswriter at Blue Water Healthy Living. She covers all of our local athletes as they compete in the Blue Water Area and beyond. As a Blue Water native, Calli graduated from Croswell-Lexington High School in 2017. She then went on to study and run track at Hillsdale College, from where she graduated in 2021 with a degree in sport management and journalism.
When she’s not covering sports or other local news, Calli writes on her own blog, Lessons Along the Journey where she posts encouraging perspectives from her daily life to help others along their own journeys. She’s also written a 16-week devotional for teen girls titled, Semester Together. You can follow Calli on her website www.LessonsAlongTheJourney.com or on Instagram @townsend.calli
Pat North
Pat North, a native of Port Huron, graduated from Port Huron High School and is a proud alumna of the 1972 Big Reds Marching Machine Germany band. She holds a Bachelor’s of Music in Flute Performance from the College-Conservatory of Music, Univ. of Cincinnati, with graduate studies at the Univ. of Illinois where she also received her Pilot’s license. Pat was apprenticed to professional flute builder, Jack Moore, and later started her own company, Cincinnati Fluteworks, in 1980, specializing in the technical and acoustical aspects of the construction of the flute as well as branding. She authors a quarterly technical and promotional newsletter for the company. In addition to her passion for the flute, she hosted and produced community radio and TV programs, focused on civil rights and justice issues. Her other passion is for Standard Schnauzers. Pat produced and was co-editor of The Standard Schnauzer Club of America’s Source Book 4, as well as several other educational interactive and print publications for them. She lives in Cincinnati with her very own home bred Standards, but once a Michigander, always a Michigander.
Pat wrote a series of articles for Blue Water Health Living on the Port Huron Big Red Marching Machine. To view the articles, click here.
Old Paths Journal – Allen Domelle
Pastor Allen Domelle was raised in a preacher’s home. At a young 5 years of age, he was saved. Later, at the age of 13, he surrendered his life to full-time Christian service. By the time he was 15 years of age, a position opened up in his church that allowed him to start preaching every week. After graduating from high school, he went to Hyles-Anderson College where he graduated. He later received an honorary doctorate from the Bethel Baptist College in Jacksonville, Arkansas.
Bro. Domelle started traveling as a full-time evangelist in 1990. Throughout the years of being an evangelist, God allowed him to preach in 49 of the 50 states and several foreign countries, see thousands of people saved, and thousands of decisions made by believers in those meetings.
On April 15, 2018, Bro. Domelle took the pastorate at Maranatha Baptist Church in Bethany, Oklahoma. He continues to travel and hold meetings while pastoring a growing church. Bro. Domelle also co-founded the Old Paths Conference which is a Baptist conference that strongly promotes the old-time ways. He has authored several books and is the founder and editor of the Old Paths Journal.
Bro. Domelle believes that it is everyone’s responsibility to win people to Christ. He personally wins many people to Christ each year. He has also seen several men saved under his ministry who have been called to preach and are now pastoring here in the States or serving as missionaries on foreign fields.
Bro. Domelle and his wife, Sandy, have been happily married since 1994. They have one daughter, Caitlyn.
Anthony ONeal
Since 2003, Anthony ONeal has helped hundreds of thousands of students make smart decisions with their money, relationships, and education. He’s the national best-selling author of Debt-Free Degree and travels the country spreading his encouraging message to help teens and young adults start their lives off right. You can follow Anthony on YouTube and Instagram @AnthonyONeal and online at anthonyoneal.com or facebook.com/aoneal.
Shelly M. Papinaw, PhD.
Shelly Papinaw has a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and works at BWC in Fort Gratiot as a professional outpatient mental health counselor. She also does work as an adjunct online professor for Madonna University, supervises limited license counselors working toward full licensure, and is an independent consultant for the natural and organic spa line, Lemongrass Spa.
She is also the author of the following books: “The Misadventures of Maggie and Lou: My Boston Terrier Bandits”, “Tales of a Dreamer”, “Selling Your Soul to the Dissertation Process” under the name Pandora H. Dellinger, and the children’s book, “A Baby Brother for Maggie and Lou.”
She resides in the City of Port Huron with her husband, two young sons, and two Boston Terriers. Her passions include reading, writing, running, yoga, and completion of various bucket list challenges.
Timothy Parker
Tim Parker pursues being a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ on many fronts. He did jail ministry under Tom Seppo of Operation Transformation. He helps Arnie Koontz at Blue Water Area Rescue Mission. A priority is the universal and local church of Christ. He worked 37 years for Chrysler, finishing an apprenticeship and attending Henry Ford Community College. His bachelor degree is from Spring Arbor University; he attended Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville for an MDIV, pastored Smiths Creek Bible Church, and received a Doctorate in Theology from Global School of Theology. With deep appreciation for Christ’s Grace that manifests in New Birth and subsequent holiness, his 3-in-1 book – Finding God’s Will in the Redeemed View of Life: Toward a reformed definition of Grace is a more-complete bio than one finds here. This is Tim’s ninth year as a substitute teacher in St. Clair and Macomb County. As a precinct delegate in Columbus Township, he keeps his pulse on political issues toward the protection and advancement of our Constitutional Republic within a healthy Christian Worldview. As a disciple who loves God’s Revealed, Written, and Canonized Word toward Christ-reflection, he loves to write, teach, and preach. Tim and his wife, Elizabeth, have a blended family: Tim has four children, Liz has three, and they have one son together. Eight, two daughters with six sons, makes a full quiver, from age 44 to 16, with 9 grandchildren. My hope is that BWHL articles will encourage learning and ongoing discussion.
Star Parker
Star Parker is one of the names on the short list of national black conservative leaders. She is the founder and president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education
(CURE), a Washington D.C.-based public policy institute that promotes market-based solutions to fight poverty. Star consulted on federal Welfare Reform in the mid-90s and then founded CURE to bring new ideas to policy discussions on how to transition America’s poor from government dependency. In 1996, she was a featured speaker at the 1996 Republican National Convention.
Before involvement in social activism, she had seven years of first-hand experience in the grip of welfare dependency. After a Christian conversion, she changed her life. Now, Star regularly consults with both federal and state legislators on market-based strategies to fight poverty.
In 2017, Star joined the White House Opportunity Initiative task force to share ideas on how to best fix our nation’s most distressed zip codes. In 2018, she was appointed to the U.S. Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Commission.
Star has a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and International Business from Woodbury University and has received numerous awards and commendations for her work on public policy issues. In 2016, CPAC honored her with the “Ronald Reagan Foot Soldier of the Year.” In 2017, Star was the recipient of the Groundswell Impact award, and in 2018, Bott Radio Network presented Star with its annual Queen Esther award.
To date, Star Parker has spoken on more than 225 college campuses, including Harvard,
Berkeley, Emory, Liberty, Franciscan, UCLA and UVA. She has authored several books; is a regular commentator on national television and radio networks including the BBC, EWTN, and FOX News; and Star is a nationally syndicated columnist with Creators, reaching 7 million readers weekly.
Kathryn Passeretti
Kathryn Passeretti earned her Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University. She came to the Blue Water area from the Chicagoland area nearly two decades ago and loves it here! Kathryn works with children throughout the Port Huron school district as a substitute teacher and enjoys volunteer work. She values the people here- of all ages, who continue to touch her life. And prizes the lakes and rivers available to all of us at our fingertips.
Mark Pearson
Mark E. Pearson was born and raised in Kansas City, Mo. In 1970 he moved to Michigan where he met and married the girl of his dreams, Mary Lou Davis, together they have two sons. He attended Briercrest Bible Institute in Saskatchewan, Canada, and later received his associate’s degree in business from St. Clair Community College. He was a bookkeeper and worked in retail sales for over 30 years and has spent the last eighteen years as a Jeweler at Coughlin’s Jewelers in St Clair, MI. He is a voracious reader of history and as a result of being an avid reader, he began to write short stories and articles for editorial columns and magazines on current events and comparing and relating past events to current happenings.
Eric Peters
Eric Peters has been writing a column about cars since the ‘90s — and working on them since he was a kid. He’s the author of “Automotive Atrocities: The Cars We Love to Hate” and “Road Hogs.” He has written for the Chicago Tribune, The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Times, Investor’s Business Daily, Celebrated Living and the American Airlines in-flight magazine, as well as online platforms. He is a regular guest on various radio programs around the country. In addition to test-driving the latest cars, Eric writes about classic cars and motorcycles. He owns a bright-orange ’76 Pontiac Trans Am that has outlasted his marriage, and a number of weird old bikes, including a ’75 Kawasaki S1 250, the smallest three-cylinder two-stroke motorcycle ever mass-produced, which he restored himself. He’s a member of the International Motor Press Association and the Washington Automotive Press Association. He graduated from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, and currently lives in the woods of rural southwestern Virginia, not far from Roanoke.
Terry Pettee
Terry Pettee is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University where his undergraduate study prepared him for a career in secondary education. Prior to attending EMU, he was Editor-In-Chief of the Erie Square Gazette while a student at the St. Clair County Community College. Between his community college and university years, he was Marysville Editor of the St. Clair County Independent Press where he was a newspaper reporter and columnist. After a brief teaching stint, his life’s journey led him into human resource and industrial relations management; a career spanning four decades. Now retired, Terry writes both Christian values based fiction and non-fiction for his own amusement, which is babble-speak for saying he has only a single published book to his credit.
as a center for research in folk arts, archaeology, and Great Lakes marine lore.
Stan Popovich
Stan Popovich is the author of the popular managing fear book, “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear”. For more information about Stan’s book and to get some more free mental health advice, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com
Port Huron Museum
The Port Huron Museum of Arts and History was founded in 1967, and through a community-wide volunteer effort, opened its doors in 1968. Housed in a historic Carnegie Library (built in 1904), the Museum provides exhibitions and programs relating to local history, fine arts (with an emphasis on regional art), decorative arts, natural history, and Great Lakes marine lore. The Museum is the only year-round, multi-disciplinary cultural institution in Michigan’s Thumb Region (a five-county area). The Museum began as a completely volunteer-operated organization, and now employs a staff of seven full-time, three part-time, and seasonal part-time staff during the summer months. In addition to serving our own community, the Museum is recognized throughout the state of Michigan and nationally as a center for research in folk arts, archaeology, and Great Lakes marine lore.
Dennis Prager
Dennis Prager is one of America’s most respected radio talk show hosts. He has been broadcasting on radio in Los Angeles since 1982. His popular show became nationally syndicated in 1999 and airs live, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to noon (Pacific Time). In 1994-95, he also had his own daily national television show, and he is often seen on such television shows as Larry King Live, Politically Incorrect, The Late Late Show on CBS, Rivera Live, The Early Show on CBS, Fox Family Network, The O’Reilly Factor and Hannity & Colmes. Mr. Prager has been the main subject on CSPAN several times over the past years. His most recent book, “Happiness Is A Serious Problem,” was published in February 1998 by HarperCollins. This long-awaited book, about which Mr. Prager has lectured worldwide for 10 years, appeared on the Los Angeles Times bestseller list the week of publication and appeared 15 consecutive weeks, rising to No. 1. His 1996 book, “Think A Second Time,” 44 essays on 44 subjects (HarperCollins), was described by Bill Bennett as “one of those rare books that can change an intelligent mind.” USA Today columnist and professor of law Susan Estrich called it “Brilliant, a tour de force.” He has also coauthored two major works about Judaism: “The Nine Questions People Ask About Judaism,” now in six languages, and “Why The Jews? The Reason For Antisemitism,” regarded by many as the most persuasive explanation of anti-Semitism written. Mr. Prager has engaged in interfaith dialogue with Catholics at the Vatican, Muslims in the Persian Gulf, Hindus in India, and Protestants at Christian seminaries throughout America. For 10 years, he conducted a weekly interfaith dialogue on radio, with representatives of virtually every religion in the world. New York’s Jewish Week described Dennis Prager as “one of the three most interesting minds in American Jewish Life.” Since 1992, he has been teaching the Bible verse-by-verse at the University of Judaism. All the lectures are available on audio and video tape. From 1985 to 1995, Dennis Prager wrote and published the quarterly journal Ultimate Issue. From 1995 to 2000, he wrote The Prager Perspective. Harold Kushner, author of “When Bad Things Happen to Good People,” said, “It is the only journal I read cover to cover the moment it arrives.” His writings have also appeared in major national and international publications including, Commentary, The Weekly Standard, The Wall Street Journal and the Los Angeles Times. His newsletter essay on homosexuality and civilization was awarded the $10,000 Amy Foundation First Prize. Mr. Prager was a Fellow at Columbia University’s School of International Affairs, where he did graduate work at the Middle East and Russian Institutes. He has taught Russian and Jewish history at Brooklyn College, and was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to the U.S. Delegation to the Vienna Review Conference on the Helsinki Accords. He holds an honorary doctorate of laws from Pepperdine University and has lectured on seven continents, in 45 U.S. states and in nine of Canada’s 10 provinces. He has lectured in Russian in Russia, and in Hebrew in Israel. He has made and starred in “For Goodness Sake,” a video directed by David Zucker (“Naked Gun”), shown on Public Television and purchased by hundreds of major companies. His two latest films are on character and race. Mr. Prager periodically conducts orchestras, and has introduced hundreds of thousands of people to classical music.
Vicki Priest
Vicki Priest is founder and president of the Port Huron Area History & Preservation Association, a newer nonprofit dedicated to researching and sharing the regional history of Port Huron, Port Huron Township, Fort Gratiot Township, and Marysville, and assisting with the preservation of properties and neighborhoods for the good of all area residents. She holds the degrees of Master of History and Bachelor of Anthropology and worked in the related fields of archaeological and historical resources management while in California. She also found gratification working as a Victim Specialist, assisting persons who suffered domestic violence, for some years. Having a son, she became acquainted with video games and plays certain story- and action-driven franchises when she wants to forget about daily concerns; Vicki is known to fall into giggle fits, or wield a crossbow or gauss rifle equally deftly, in the immersive stories. She has published poetry and pieces on history, Christianity, and video games.
Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey is CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven best-selling books, including The Total Money Makeover. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 16 million listeners each week on 600 radio stations and multiple digital platforms. Follow Dave on the web at daveramsey.com and on Twitter at @DaveRamsey.
Ken Reeves
Ken Reeves is a lifelong resident of the Blue Water area. Ken is a retired Journeyman Millwright from DTE Energy. He and his wife have two sons who serve the City of Marysville as a Firefighter/Paramedic and Police Officer. He and his wife Louanne, both grew up in Port Huron and have lived in Marysville for over 30 years. They have 5 grandchildren.
Sharon L. Remington
My name is Sharon Remington. I graduated with the Charter Class of Sterling Heights School In 1973. College courses include psychology, interior design, and computers. After working A variety of jobs, I then went on to graduate from the Fashion School of Beauty. I became a licensed Nail technician and worked in Shelby Township. In 2002 I had an opportunity to move to the Blue Water area and have been loving it ever since! One of my passions is volunteer work. Currently, I am an Ambassador for an area senior independent living.
The setting is a community of residents all living under one roof. I call it a mini-resort. The people come from all walks of life are friendly and a pleasure to be around.
Some of my interest include water, gardening, crafts, poetry, animals and long walks. I also collect nautical articles from different places I visit. I look forward to being a part of Blue Water Healthy Living Magazine. My goal is to bring the material that is appealing to its reader’s.
Michael Ritchie
Dr. Michael Ritchie grew up in Harrison Township, MI. He is married to Laurie Allan Ritchie and they live in Higgins Lake, MI, where they have practiced Chiropractic for 37 years. They have 2 grown children, Sarah, and Jacob (Kaleigh) and are grandparents to Lucas. Michael was introduced to hunting at a young age by his father, Paul Ritchie. He has hunted all over North America with bow and gun. He now is on a mission to mentor young people by teaching archery, hunter safety, and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. Dr. Ritchie was recently awarded the Kirk A. Lee DC “Community Champion Award” from The Michigan Association of Chiropractors for beginning “The Lions Den”, which is a faith-based drug and alcohol rehab center in Roscommon, Michigan.
Riverbank Theatre
The Riverbank Theatre is located in the historic Marine Savings Bank building in downtown Marine City. With its bank vaults and early 1900’s architecture still intact, theatre-goers will feel as though they are stepping back in time. Riverbank accommodates 180 patrons with tiered and box seating and features state-of-the-art lighting and sound technology. The intimate Snug Stage, just a few blocks down the street, hosts our smaller plays and musicals, youth classes, as well as special events.
Christopher Robbins
CLICK Christopher Robbins’s PHOTO to see all his articles.
Christopher J Robbins was born in 1968, the last of eleven children of Paul and Jean Robbins of Saint Clair Michigan. He grew up on Belle River Road…. affectionately referred to as Dog Patch (Courtesy of Uncle Joe McKay RIP). He was raised by Jean E. Robbins and Paul L. Robbins and 10 older siblings. Baptized, 1st Communion, 1st Confession, and Confirmation at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church. Graduated St. Clair High School in 1986. Played football (OG and LB) for Benny where we had < 5 pass plays in O; Quiz Bowl Team, National Honor Society, School Play (Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, Mr. Harrington). Attended Eastern Michigan University 1986-1988. Transferred to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in Fall of 1988 to pursue Chemical Engineering degree. Graduated UM in May 1991 B.S. Chemical Engineering. Received job offers from General Electric, NCR, Chevron (El Segundo California); Chevron, Richmond, CA. Exxon Chemical: Linden, NJ. Dow Chemical, Freeport TX. Exxon Company USA, Baton Rouge, LA, Exxon Chemical, Baton Rouge, LA. Accepted offer from Exxon Company USA, Baton Rouge, LA. Worked for Exxon Company USA, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 1991-1993. Unit Engineer in Wax and Lube Refinery Unit. Survivor of multiple Mardi Gras’. Many Scuba Excursions: Florida Panhandle. Lots of Crawfish Boils. Acquired 1979 Porsche 911 Carrera, Copper Brown Metallic, Cork Leather Interior. Drove it coast-to-coast. Worked for Elf Atochem North America in Philadelphia, PA 1993-1996 as Technical Service Applications Engineer. Specialized in organic chemicals…specifically nitrogen-based Amine chemistry. Supplied technical assistance to customers and sales forces throughout the world. Boiler Water Corrosion Control, Runaway Polymerization Reaction Control etc. Brew Master: Quay Street Brewing Company, Port Huron, MI. 1996-1998. Developed recipes for several beers including Robbins Red Ale, Port Huron-Style Kolsch and Pilsner, Ginger Beer and many others. Substitute Teacher in East China School District: 1998-1999. Surveyor and Civil Engineer (Emphasis on Construction Engineering) with Spalding DeDecker Associates,
Rochester Hills, MI: 1999-2014 Self-Taught Civil Engineer. Became a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Michigan, 2003. Met my Australian wife, Maria, at a family wedding on Maui in May 2009. Married Maria in August 2010 at friend’s house on the St. Clair River in East China Twp. (Best Decision I’ve ever made). Judge Cynthia Platzer officiated. Witnesses: Bill and Cris Nesbitt, Gerry & Patti Mason. Ringbearer: John Deaver-Chang Mason. Worked for Fleis & Vandenbrink, Engineering Company. Karegnondi Water Pipe Line. 2014-2015. Moved to Oz in October 2015. John Louis Robbins was born at Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney: Nov 2015. Stay at Home Dad in Oz: Nov 2015 to Present. Writer for Blue Water Healthy Living: Beginning July 4, 2018. Ending: TBD. Christian, Husband, Father, Engineer, Thinker. Lover of Life. Faith. Family. Friends. American Football.
Mark Romanack
Mark Romanack aka the “Outdoors Guy” is a lifelong resident of Michigan. One of Michigan’s most celebrated outdoorsmen and outdoor communicators, Mark is a graduate of Northern Michigan University and holds a BS degree in Conservation/Ecology. Mark’s outdoor writing career got started as a part-time job back in 1985. It wasn’t long before Mark was writing full time for a host of outdoor periodicals. To date Mark has authored over 3,000 full length magazine features, 11 different hard copy books on fishing and three fishing e-books for Kindle. Mark also pens a popular and free weekly fishing blog published at the www.fishing411.net web page and also on Facebook. In 2007 Mark took the plunge into the outdoor television industry hosting and producing Fishing 411 TV that broadcasts nationally on the World Fishing Network. Fishing 411 is also available on-demand at CarbonTV.com. To date Mark has hosted and produced over 140 national television episodes focusing on a host of freshwater fishing adventures. Mark lives in Northern Michigan with his wife Mari and hunting dogs Drake & Stormy. Mark can be reached via e-mail at Mark@Fishing411.net
Wayne Allyn Root
Wayne Allyn Root (aka WAR) is a high-energy, passionate, outspoken, unapologetic conservative media star. He has been branded him a “conservative warrior” and “capitalist evangelist.” Root is a former presidential candidate and the 2008 Libertarian vice presidential nominee. He is a now a national TV and radio host and a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist. Root’s national TV show, “The Wayne Allyn Root Show,” airs nightly on Newsmax TV at 8 p.m. ET, or 5 p.m. PT. Bill O’Reilly, America’s “King of Cable TV News,” is a guest three times per week. Root hosts the nationally syndicated “WAR Now: The Wayne Allyn Root Show” on USA Radio Network daily from 6 to 9 p.m. ET, or 3 to 6 p.m. PT. Root was opening speaker at many Trump presidential campaign events, including Trump’s rally at the Las Vegas Convention in September 2018. Root appears regularly in the national media, including on Fox News. He has defended Trump on television in over 30 countries across the globe — including Israel. Root presented the Tea Party’s national TV response to President Barack Obama’s 2016 State of the Union; Root is the only person ever chosen for the task who was not a U.S. senator, congressperson or former presidential candidate. And Root is the author of 11 books, including national best-sellers “The Ultimate Obama Survival Guide,” “Millionaire Republican,” “The Conscience of a Libertarian,” “The Murder of the Middle Class” and the No. 1 business best-seller “The Power of RELENTLESS,” endorsed by President Donald Trump. Wayne Allyn Root resides in the suburbs of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Josh Sabo
Josh Sabo is a…
Founder. Husband. Dad. A true visionary whose sole purpose is to help others reach their greatest potential. Josh has an entrepreneurial spirit and has started and sold businesses in retail, food services, real estate, and others. Josh has a healthy obsession for his family. Tiffany, his wife, is an entrepreneur and mom to Scarlette and Amelia. Tiffany is an excellent human being.
Josh’s family loves the Port Huron area and is so excited to be a part of a growing community and wants to help enhance the Blue Water area with The INDUSTRY.
Sanilac Broadcasting Company
The goal of Sanilac Broadcasting has always been to provide listeners with up to the minute information and local content. We consistently set higher standards to provide you with local radio that is informative and entertaining. We hope you enjoy our stations and we appreciate your comments.
Christine Sass
Christine Ryan Sass is a life long Blue Water area resident. She resides in Marysville with her husband, Douglas. They have a daughter and a son. Christine’s work has been published in magazines and periodicals.
Carol Seaver
Carol Seaver graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts and Wayne State University with a master’s degree– both in elementary education– with an emphasis on birth to eight years. She is a wife, mom, grandmother, and retired teacher. She has lived in St.Clair County for decades but hails from Portage where she left part of her heart. As a Christian, she works for God and country, trying to educate the uninformed and set the captives free. She has a keen eye for what ails the culture and, when she realized the downward spiral we were on, was called to fight for her country in 2009, using political activism from a Christian worldview. She is grateful for this platform from which to speak.
Tom Seaver
Tom Seaver, a retired high school mathematics teacher, also coached cross-country and track & field in the West Michigan city of Greenville. From the time he was just a boy, music has played a prominent role in his life, and he presently enjoys singing in the church choir and arranging songs for his gospel quartet, the Woodsmen. A lifetime fitness nut, Tom, along with wife Carol, still works out on the treadmill and weight machines three times a week. Two little-known facts about Tom: he was the Michigan AAU decathlon champion in 1965 and he authored a book—And One to Grow On–about his mother’s childhood years (she was one of 17 siblings).
Edward Senyk
Edward Senyk is a long-time resident of Port Huron. He was bitten by the film bug at a very young age and decided to turn his passion into his career. Edward graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts from Central Michigan University. He now has over 35 years in award-winning video production experience. Edward is the Director of Video Production at GBS Media.
Sophia Senyk
Sophia Senyk has been a resident of Port Huron for her entire life. She had recently graduated from Port Huron High School and plans to continue her education at Saint Clair Community college. Although Sophia is newer she already feels welcomed to the GBS Media team, Sophia says she “loves the staff and their welcoming energy” and she “can’t wait to see all the opportunities given at this workplace.” Sophia loves to pass her time by going on walks volunteering for events and hanging out with friends.
Ben Shapiro
Ben Shapiro was born in 1984. He entered the University of California Los Angeles at the age of 16 and graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa in June 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. He graduated Harvard Law School cum laude in June 2007.Shapiro was hired by Creators Syndicate at age 17 to become the youngest nationally syndicated columnist in the United States. His columns are printed in major newspapers and websites including The Riverside Press-Enterprise and the Conservative Chronicle, Townhall.com, ABCNews.com, WorldNetDaily.com, Human Events, FrontPageMag.com, FamilySecurityMatters.com. His columns have appeared in The Christian Science Monitor,Chicago Sun-Times, Orlando Sentinel, The Honolulu Advertiser,The Arizona Republic, Claremont Review of Books and RealClearPolitics.com. He has been the subject of articles by The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Associated Press, and The Christian Science Monitor; he has been quoted on “The Rush Limbaugh Show,” “The Dr. Laura Show,” at CBSNews.com, in the New York Press, The Washington Times, and The American Conservative.The author of the national best-sellers, “Brainwashed: How Universities Indoctrinate America’s Youth,” “Porn Generation: How Social Liberalism Is Corrupting Our Future,” and “Project President: Bad Hair and Botox on the Road to the White House.” Shapiro has appeared on hundreds of television and radio shows around the nation, including “The O’Reilly Factor,” “Fox and Friends,” “In the Money,” “DaySide with Linda Vester,” “Scarborough Country,” “The Dennis Miller Show,” “Fox News Live,” “Glenn Beck Show,” “Your World with Neil Cavuto,” “700 Club,” “The Laura Ingraham Show,” “The Michael Medved Show,” “The G. Gordon Liddy Show,” “The Rusty Humphries Show,” “The Lars Larson Show,” “The Larry Elder Show,” The Hugh Hewitt Show” and “The Dennis Prager Show.”Shapiro is married and runs Benjamin Shapiro Legal Consulting in Los Angeles.
Mark Shields
Pundit Mark Shields has been on the political playing field since Robert F. Kennedy ran for president in 1968. After years of managing campaigns from the courthouse to the White House, he is now one of the most widely recognized commentators in the United States. Shields is best known for his work on CNN’s “Capital Gang,” where he debates policy issues with syndicated columnists Robert Novak, The Wall Street Journal’s Al Hunt, and Time magazine’s White House correspondent Margaret Carlson, and for his weekly appearances on the award-winning “NewsHour With Jim Lehrer,” where, since 1987, he has teamed up with conservatives such as David Gergen, Paul Gigot and David Brooks to provide the program’s principal political analysis. Shields grew up in Weymouth, Mass., and graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1959 with a major in philosophy and a minor in history. In 1964, after serving in the Marines in Florida, Shields moved to Washington, D.C., to indulge his love of American government. His first political assignment was as a legislative assistant to former Sen. William Proxmire (D-Wis.). From there, he launched into a career on the campaign trail. Shields’ first major campaign experience was during Robert F. Kennedy’s bid for the presidency, for which Shields helped organize the California primary. He then went on to work for Sen. Edmund Muskie’s presidential campaign in 1972, R. Sargent Shriver’s bid for the vice presidency and Rep. Morris Udall’s campaign for the Democratic nomination in 1976. In 1979, Shields joined the editorial staff of The Washington Post and a year later started writing his column, which is now syndicated weekly by Creators Syndicate. In addition to written commentary, Shields began regular appearances on television and radio in the early 1980s, including a nightly piece on ABC Radio’s “Look at Today.” Shields’ book, “On the Campaign Trail,” about the 1984 presidential campaign, has been praised as “funny,” “irreverent” and “insightful” and for bringing that race “to magnificent light.” As one reviewer put it, Shields “is the wittiest political analyst around, and he is frequently the most trenchant, fair-minded and thoughtful.” Now enjoying life as a full-time political pundit, Shields appears regularly on CNN, on public television and on radio. He speaks to audiences often, sharing his firsthand accounts and impressions of the major political events of the past few decades. He has also taught courses on American politics and the press at Harvard University and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Shields lives near Washington, D.C., with his wife, Anne, chief of staff at the Interior Department.
Sarah Sinda
Sarah Sinda grew up in the Port Huron area, graduated from Port Huron High School and loves the Blue Water Area. She has been married to her husband, Michael, for over 20 years and together they have four boys. She has worked with students 18 and under for the past 24 years and loves to be an encouraging voice in their lives. During those years she has also found her love of building and leading volunteer teams. She enjoys learning, applying and teaching leadership principles and believes that everyone is called to lead someone. She is passionate about helping people move past obstacles and reach their full potential. She believes that authenticity and vulnerability are launching pads for personal growth and important building blocks in healthy relationships. Michael and Sarah built Legacy Youth Center so they can continue successfully reaching students through camps and other events. Sarah desires to invest everything she has into living her bravest life each day and invites you to do the same.
Arthur Smith
Arthur C. Smith, 79 of Port Huron, is a 3rd generation funeral director at Smith Family Funeral Home. He graduated from Port Huron High School in 1958, Albion College in 1962, and played varsity tennis at both schools. In 1964 he received his Mortuary Science license. In the early 1980s, he became a Little Caesars Pizza franchisee and was involved with stores in South Texas, Northwest Ohio, and Oakland County, MI. His community service over the years has included March of Dimes, Boy Scouts, Salvation Army, Grace Episcopal Church, Port Huron Hospital, Blue Water Hospice, and Kiwanis. In 1972 he was named Jaycees Young Man of the Year. He has played in all 62 Robinson Tennis Tournaments and is an avid runner having completed 18 marathons including 5 Boston Marathons. Because of his Scottish lineage Art has been instrumental in organizing the local Burns Supper held each January. He and his wife, Sue, have been married over 56 years and have three children and 6 grandchildren.
Derek Smith
Derek Smith was born in Sarnia, Ontario, a proud Canadian and now a proud citizen of the United States; having moved to Port Huron in 1987, he was granted his naturalization papers in July 2010. He grew up in Brights Grove, Ontario, which lies 10 miles east of Port Huron on the shores of Lake Huron, that beautiful body of water so many of us enjoy right here in the “Maritime Capital of the Great Lakes.” He graduated from Lambton College in 1971 with a three-year associate’s degree in liberal arts. Following that, Derek continued his education at the University of Waterloo, graduating in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry with a minor in biology. In 1976 he was employed at Dow Chemical as a process operator making ethylene and other hydrocarbon by-products. Derek joined Tricil Corporation in Watford, Ontario, in 1977 as a technical specialist and was responsible for coordinating the safe and permanent disposal of toxic waste from the “chemical valley” in Sarnia, Ontario, and from other parts of Southern Ontario. Having seen a need for the recycling of plastic scrap, Derek left Tricil and in 1978 and founded Entropex Corporation, one of Canada’s first plastic recycling operations. He and three other partners sold the Sarnia operation in 1983. Derek stayed on as president of that company until 1993. Today Entropex employs 100 people and is owned by the same corporate group that controls Emterra, Port Huron’s current waste management company. Derek incorporated Paradigm Polymers Inc. in 1996 and has been president of that company for the last 24 years. Paradigm is involved in the procurement and sale of scrap and off-spec thermo polymers in Canada and the United States. His hobbies include photography, film production, cooking, golf, history, genealogy, and website management. He holds a private pilot license but is not active in aviation at this time. He comes from a long line of historians as his Dad and Grandfather were both writers and publishers of several books and periodicals dealing with the history of Lambton County in S W. Ontario. Derek has been married to his wonderful wife, Kathy, for the past 24 years. They love spending time together in their home here in Port Huron. They have a blended family of four amazing children, and they thoroughly enjoy their seven loving grandchildren and their Goldendoodle Scout.
Michael Dennis Smith
Michael Dennis Smith is a husband, a father of four wonderful children, and the grandfather of 12 high-energy grandchildren. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ferris State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Technical Education and a Diploma of Christian Ministry from Vision International College. Mike was a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division and during his training was awarded the “Leader Trainee of the Cycle” along with the “Top Physical Fitness Award.” He was also awarded the “Carnegie Medal of Heroism” for saving the life of Candice Marks by rescuing her from her burning home at which time Karen (Mike’s wife) resuscitated the child. Michael Dennis Smith is the founder of We The County, the original county-by-county grassroots movement in Michigan that brings together Small Businesses, Patriots and Churches to expose the Deep State and stand up for our Constitutional Rights.
Mike and Karen owned and operated two restaurants, one in Keego Harbor MI and one in Sandusky MI. He worked as a teacher at the Sanilac Career Center for 15 years before becoming a full-time pastor at Life Song Church in Snover Michigan. Smith is the author of the book “The Final Battle: America is Divided and the End-of-Age Final Battle has Begun.” Mike enjoys working around his house with his wife Karen, fishing and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. You can contact Mike at msmith@wethecounty.org
Vicki Smith
From the desk of Vicki Smith: I have been the manager of Knowlton’s Ice Museum for over five years. I have lived in Port Huron all of my life and grew up with the Knowlton family. I have two adult children and two grandchildren. I belong to an antique tractor club in Croswell, MI where I’ve shown my 1949 8n Ford tractor in local parades. I love visiting the St. Clair River with my little dog and a good book for the afternoon. Quilting is a passion when I have the time. I truly enjoy sharing the ice harvesting history in our area; it brings back memories for so many people.
Ronald Steward
CLICK Ron Steward’s PHOTO to see all his articles.
Ron Steward is the President of Mainstreet Memories Car Show, Inc. His background in car shows includes Lead for the Port Huron High School Car Show (1999-2001), Lead Judge for the Keith Peterson Memorial Car Show (2007-2014) and helping to judge or providing support at other shows throughout the years. With a Business Degree from SC4, he is employed by Eissman Automotive LLC as Maintenance Manager. Married for thirty-eight years to his wife Donna, they have two children and one grandchild. They own two collector cars, a 1968 Chevelle SS 396, and a 2013 Camaro RS/SS. Growing up during the muscle car era, he got interested in cars at a young age. His uncle Bill was a true car guy with a collection of cars. The one that struck him the most was a beautiful Blue 1938 5-window Chevy Coupe. After this, he was bitten by the bug and his interest grew. In 1999, he began helping Port Huron High School out with their show and quickly became the Head of the Committee. It grew over the next couple of years. He left after the 2001 show. Helping to judge at various local shows throughout the next few years, in 2006 he was asked by Jim Vaness to help judge the Fort Gratiot Car Show. After a couple of years, he became the Lead Judge and worked diligently to help market and grow the show until 2014. In early 2015, Kristi Hazard from Mainstreet Port Huron began a discussion on reviving the downtown Port Huron car show. Kristi recruited local car enthusiasts to come on board and Ron was one of six people brought together. In 2017, it was decided to formally incorporate the group into Mainstreet Memories Car Show, Inc. and he was elected President. In 2018, the Board obtained a 501(c)3 non-profit tax status.
He is a supporter of the Downtown area and wants to see it revive and flourish once again. He believes it’s currently on the right track and with everyone’s support, it will grow!
John Stossel
Award-winning news correspondent John Stossel is currently with Fox Business Network and Fox News. Before making the change to Fox News, Stossel was the co-anchor of ABC News’s “20/20.” Eight to 10 million people watched his program weekly. Often, he ended “20/20” with a TV column called “Give Me a Break,” which challenged conventional wisdom.Stossel’s prime-time specials on myths, parenting issues, sex and trends in pop culture rate among the top news programs and have earned him uncommon praise: “The most consistently thought-provoking TV reporter of our time,” said The Dallas Morning News. The Orlando Sentinel said he “has the gift for entertaining while saying something profound.Stossel takes this reporting expertise and applies it to his weekly newspaper column for Creators Syndicate. Ready to cover topics newspaper readers care about, Stossel pokes fun at the ridiculous and lauds the excellent.Newspaper editors may wonder whether Stossel’s incredible TV ratings will translate from TV to print. The answer to that question is a resounding yes: A few years ago, HarperCollins published Stossel’s book Give Me a Break, and readers (the same ones who read newspapers) made it a New York Times best seller for 11 weeks. His second book, from Hyperion, Myths, Lies and Downright Stupidity, made the list for 13 weeks.Stossel’s most recent special, Stupid in America, questioned why, despite the failures of socialism, America has a government-monopoly-run K-12 education.Stossel’s first special, Are We Scaring Ourselves to Death? examined exaggerated fears of things like chemicals and crime. It was followed by The Blame Game, which looked at Americans’s tendency to blame their misfortunes on others. In You Can’t Say That! he looked at the battle between free speech and censorship. He focused on bogus lawsuits in The Trouble With Lawyers and bogus scientific claims in Junk Science: What You Know That May Not Be So.Stossel has received 19 Emmy Awards and has been honored five times for excellence in consumer reporting by the National Press Club. Among his other awards are the George Polk Award for Outstanding Local Reporting and the George Foster Peabody Award.He is a graduate of Princeton University, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology.Read more from Stossel at http://stossel.blogs.foxbusiness.com/
Jeff Stout
Jeff Stout is a graduate of St. Clair County Community College and Sienna Heights University with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science – Public Safety Studies. Originally from Arizona, he made his way to Michigan through the United States Air Force and has been a Bluewater area resident since 1974. Jeff is married to Catherine Stout, a retired PHASD teacher and resides in Clyde Township. They have two adult daughters and two grandsons who attend Port Huron Schools at FGMS and PHN. He is a retired Port Huron Fire Department Asst. Chief with 27 years of service and has been doing contract inspection work for the Port Huron Housing Commission under the HUD Section 8 program for the last 13 years. First elected to the Port Huron Area School District Board of Education in 2000.
Dan Strobbe
From Dan Strobbe: I was pretty much raised in the Port Huron area since 1961. I started my music adventure longer than I can even remember according to Mom. It started with playing piano at a neighbors house before 1961. From there, it went to learning the guitar by ear. Bass guitar became next on the list. Once in school, I played trumpet, baritone, French horn, and sousaphone. I played what my instructors needed. I continued playing trumpet a few years after graduation from college. My major began as music but then switched to medicine. The reason, I didn’t want to starve. I went into nursing and spent 20 years in critical care. During that time, I cut way back on playing but started learning the art of recording music. I got certified and managed a recording studio in Detroit. During that time, I had the great privilege of working side by side with Mr. Bob Bateman (coauthor if PLEASE MR POSTMAN). I also did a session with Martha Reeve’s when she re-recorded HEAT WAVE. George Clinton, King of Funk would come in and offer us suggestions, support, and encouragement. Also during that time, I recorded various local bands in Port Huron, mainly DOUBLE PLAY.
At this point in my life, I wish to record more and to revitalize the music scene that once blessed our community.
Michele Stroh
Michele Stroh and Terry Stroh, live in Pt. Huron. Michele moved here when they married in 1996 (Terry‘s a lifelong resident). Michele enjoys meeting new people and acquainting them with our beautiful Blue Water area.
The Stroh’s share a passion for music. Terry Stroh has been a musician with the band “Double Play” for 30 years, and has extensive experience playing locally, opening and playing with many top-level musicians and bands, as well as Headlining their own concerts! Terry Stroh is also a songwriter and producer, in his own right, and will share stories of how his original tunes were inspired and came to be played on the radio and online. Watch and listen for stories about their time spent with Charlie Daniels, Loretta Lynn, The Four Tops, Bobby Bare, Tommy James, The Marvelettes, Gin Blossoms, Gary Lewis & The Playboys and so many more!
Michele and her husband, Terry Stroh write and host the show, Blue Water Beats on Blue Water Healthy Living.
Terry Stroh
Lifetime Blue Water Area resident, Terry Stroh, has been a vibrant part of our Blue Water Community. A Port Huron Big Red, Class of 1970 Graduate, was an avid sportsman. Baseball, Football, Hockey… The baseball would later incorporate itself into the name of one of Terry’s most famous bands, “Double Play”.
As school finished up, Terry and buds formed and played in a few bands, some of which were “Nosmo King”, “Sequel”, “Southern Comfort“, “Double Play”, “Border Town”.
Terry Stroh (Guitar, Lead Vocal, Keyboard) and Denny Dwyer (Bass and Vocals) formed “Double Play” band, as both had been scouted for Professional Baseball, the name fit, and they hit the ground running with their new band about 34 years ago. Dennis Hanselman joined the group two years later and the band is still a favorite addition to our events and attractions. “Double Play” is the Blue Water Area’s longest running band with the original members still playing together!
Terry Stroh with “Double Play” and “Border Town”, have either headlined, opened for, and/or played along with many Top-charted Bands and Musicians, such as, Charlie Daniels, Loretta Lynn, The Four Tops, The Marvelettes, Tommy James, Gary Lewis & The Playboys, Danny & The Juniors, England Dan Seals, William Lee Golden (Oak Ridge Boys), Eddie Raven, Connie Smith, Bobby Bare, The Gatlin Bros., The Tokens, Bobby Randall (Sawyer Brown), Gin Blossoms, Sweet, Everclear, Smash Mouth, The Reflections, Johnny Paycheck, Tonic, and many more! They have performed the National Anthem at MIS Speedway for the Marlboro 500 Fan Fair, and also were the performers for Roger Penske’s private party there! “Double Play” sang National Anthems at Detroit Tiger Games, Hockey Games, Alumni Games… You name it! They’ve opened shows for Bob Newhart and for Williams & Ree! “Double Play” has performed more State Fairs & Festivals than can be recalled! The guys have been on National TV multiple times and have become star celebrities for charitable causes.
For over 25 years, Terry has also focused on songwriting, recording, and producing music of his own, and with musical colleagues. He has also mentored, recorded, and produced other artists and bands at his “TMS Studio”. You’ll probably remember a few of his recordings getting lots of radio airplay – “No One Else”, “Seasons of Love”, “I know”, “Can’t Wait” and “Our Small Border Town”. Terry Stroh’s latest hit — “Flats & Sharps” is becoming a fan favorite across several genres! Call in your request for it at your favorite radio station.
Terry Stroh retired from the Blue Water Bridges. He worked for both the Federal Govt. with Immigration and the State of MI as Bridge Safety Supervisor.
He now finds lots more time for musical passions. Terry Stroh, together with his wife, Michele, write and host the show, Blue Water Beats on Blue Water Healthy Living.
Barb Pert Templeton
Barb Pert Templeton is a seasoned journalist based in Macomb Township, Michigan. She enjoys writing about local happenings, interesting residents, non-profits, schools and history. Her first book, “Historic Tales of Macomb County” was published in November 2020. Contact Barb at barbperttempleton@gmail.com.
Eileen Tesch
Eileen has worn many hats throughout her life: Wife, Attorney, Entrepreneur, Wellness Coach, Business Trainer, Politician, Mayor, Motivational Speaker, Board Member for a number of non-profit organizations, Pro-life Advocate and Counselor to name a few.
Michael Thomas
Michael Thomas is the newest member of the Blue Water Healthy Living family with his show: “Are You Ready.” A native of Kimball, Michigan, Michael graduated from Port Huron High School in 1996, and later graduated from St. Clair County Community College in 1999. He transferred to Lake Superior State University where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 1999, majoring in law enforcement and minoring in Fire Science.
Michael has primarily worked for non-profit organizations. For 7 years, he was a district executive and director with metro Detroit area and north central Ohio Boy Scout councils He led volunteer committees, coordinated youth activities & trainings, and supported fundraising campaigns for his service areas. Throughout his time as a scout, volunteer and professional with Scouting BSA, he developed a passion for outdoor living and helping others learn bushcraft skills and leadership development. He was also a Senior Sales Associate with Family Christian Stores until they closed. Currently, Michael has settled into his role as Certified Prevention Specialist with I.M.P.A.C.T where he provides contracted educational services at the St. Clair County Intervention Center and Huron House, as well as at his home office, for men and women sentenced to substance use and domestic violence prevention courses through the St. Clair County Court System. He is on the leadership committee for St. Clair County S.P.E.A.K. youth coalition and is co-host of their weekly series: Parent’s Perspective with Mike and Amy.
Michael has been married for 18 years to wife, Elisa and has a son and two daughters in the Port Huron Area School District. The family is currently in the process of purchasing their first home in Port Huron. Michael is a member of the newly formed Berean Truth Network, a home based church program out of Fair Haven where he attends weekly studies on Thursdays. Long term, Michael plans to finish his career in prevention work and work towards chaplaincy certification. His favorite pastimes are hiking, camping, hunting, fishing and spending time with friends and family.
Laura Tucker-DeVries
From the desk of Laura Tucker-DeVries: I have always loved food. Luckily for me, I have been able to turn this love of food into a career of food and nutrition, and have spent the last 30+ years sharing this passion with clients, friends, co-workers, and now online visitors! As a child, I watched my mom and Aunt run a very successful restaurant inside of a building in downtown Detroit which fed the folks that worked there. I was intrigued from the start, watching them prepare grill items, fabulous soups, and daily “blue plate” specials. I have tons of experience in the food industry—starting with working as a salad girt position in high school, a waitress in college, and later food sales for over 20 years. I serviced many of the top Italian eateries in the tri-county area surrounding Detroit and learned a LOT about preparing delicious food. This was much more than a culinary encounter—it was a passion awakened. It was then I consulted on food trends and helped clients create exciting new menu items—so exciting! Additionally, through the years I have worked in various upscale restaurants in both the front and back of the house operations. I have put together cookbooks for volunteer organizations to raise funds for their causes to benefit the community and those less fortunate.
I am currently a part of the team in the Food and Nutrition Department at Ascension River District Hospital. I very much enjoy the work there, feeding patients and creating meal offerings in the cafeteria most evenings. This past summer, I did a food segment on CTV at Niemann’s Market in St. Clair, where I prepared an avocado shrimp salsa, which was widely received and gobbled down pretty quickly after the show! Please visit and join my Facebook food page, Tucker Inn & Friends Tasty Treats! We want to see your fabulous creations and don’t forget the photos!
Also, I have been a Realtor in this area since 1989, I am a part of the Frank Real Estate team in Marine City—so I could help with that, too! I am excited about contributing to the Blue Water Healthy Living website—watch for my articles which may involve recipes, restaurant reviews, real estate tips/trends, or anything else that is on my mind at the time! Looking forward to reaching out to all of you. Thank you, in advance, for reading my articles. To reach Laura, contact her at tuckerinn24@comcast.net.
http://watchctv.org/2019/08/at-the-market-ascension-river-district-hospital-2/
David Vandenbossche
David Vandenbossche is a lifetime resident from Port Huron, Michigan where he lives with his wife, Laurie who is recently retired from Port Huron Area School District and two sons Cameron, a junior at Michigan State University and Evan, a senior at Port Huron Northern High School. David earned his Masters’ Degree from Central Michigan University and is currently employed with the Davis-Vandenbossche Insurance Agency. The agency places Property & Casualty insurance policies such as home, auto, and business insurance polices.
David enjoys boating, golfing, and traveling with family and friends and watching his youngest son play lacrosse for the Port Huron combined high school team, Port Huron United.
Gary Varvel
Gary Varvel’s work is nationally syndicated through Creators Syndicate. His cartoons have appeared on CNN, FOX News and in Newsweek, Time, The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, Washington Times, National Review, World magazine and Sports Illustrated.
Kasaundra M. Watta
Kasaundra M Watta of Port Sanilac has lived near the water her entire life. She graduated from Croswell-Lexington High School is 2014 and received her Associates Degree in General Education from Saint Clair County Community College in 2015. Even after moving to Mount Pleasant in 2015 to attend Central Michigan University, her heart remained near the lake. She returned in December with her Bachelor’s Degree and is now the Port Sanilac Marina’s Content and Marketing Manager. She has become involved in anything that has to do with the water: learning about boats and kayaks because of her everlasting love of the lake. She now gets to watch the waves roll in from her desk.
Janice Wagner
Janice Wagner moved to Port Huron, Michigan in 1968 at the age of nine. She graduated from Port Huron Northern High School in 1977. After living for two years in Ann Arbor, Michigan, she returned to Port Huron and married the love of her life, David Wagner. Janice was a stay-at-home mom to two children, and then later to two grandchildren. She is very happy to have been given the opportunity to work for the Grant Smith Insurance Agency, where a temporary, part-time job for Open Enrollment turned into a full-time job.
“The Big D” Derek Wark
Derek Wark (The Big D) was born in Sarnia, he currently resides in Petrolia, ON and has always had a passion for sports announcing as his 24 years of volunteer play-by-play broadcasting of Varsity sports (as of 2020) for Port Huron Schools TV certainly indicates. Although he’s known mostly as a football announcer, Derek has broadcasted and covered all sports at the Varsity level for PH Schools during the 24 year tenure and has always dreamed of announcing at the highest levels. Derek is a graduate of both Lambton College in Sarnia for both Millwrighting and Media Fundamentals and also at SC4 in Port Huron (Associate Degree in Media Communications). Derek is always very proud to not only broadcast games, but also to write articles about every single game he has ever announced on a professional sports blog at bigdsports.info and is happy to volunteer his time to GBS Media for both sports writing and announcing. As Derek so claims during broadcasts – “Being BIG is a state of mind!”
Dave Warner
Dave Warner, a native of Washington, D.C., has been a writer and communications professional for almost 40 years, working for several public-policy organizations, including the National Rifle Association, and serving in the U.S. Department of Agriculture during the Trump administration.
He currently resides in Marine City, Mich., where he is president of Warner Public Affairs, providing editorial support and strategic communications counsel for several clients. He has had more than 100 opinion pieces published in dozens of media outlets, including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Charlotte Observer, Cleveland Plain Dealer, Des Moines Register, Indianapolis Star, New York Times, Roll Call, Wall Street Journal and USA Today. A pro-life Christian and staunch conservative, Warner received his bachelor’s degree in mass communications, with a minor in history, from Towson University. After graduating, he covered local Maryland sports for the Montgomery Sentinel and later reported on the Washington area’s professional and collegiate sports teams for the Associated Press and The Sports Network.
Judge Michael Warren
Judge Michael Warren has served on the Oakland County Circuit Court since 2002, co-founded Patriot Week (www.PatriotWeek.org) with his then 10-year-old daughter Leah, authored America’s Survival Guide (www.AmericasSurvivalGuide.com), teaches Constitutional Law at Western Michigan Cooley Law School, and is the originator of several legal reforms. He a former member of the State Board of Education. He produces the podcast Patriot Lessons: American History & Civics (available on Apple and other platforms) and the Patriot Lessons TV show (available at www.PatriotWeek.org). He was honored in 2019 as the Judge of the Decade by the International Association of Top Professionals.
Jon Watt
Coach4LIFE is about Leading (first yourself then others) about being Intentional (Your daily habits will determine your success) Faith based, If you fail to go within, you will go without and Equipping (I have a plethora of tools available for both businesses and individuals.
My entire career has been involved in speaking, training and coaching. My professional career began with teaching sales and marketing at the high school level. From teaching I got involved in the pharmaceutical industry where my students changed from 15-18 year old’s to doctors, pharmacists and nursing staff. During my 20+ years in the pharmaceutical industry I was involved in sales, marketing, sales training and sales management.
For the past 6 years I have been working with business owners and C Level management to help them improve their communication skills and assist in growing and developing their businesses. By increasing their awareness and uncovering blind spots within an organization it allows them to move from where they are to a place they would like to be.
Coaching is not about telling people what to do or even how to think. Coaching is about bringing the subconscious to the conscious level. I truly believe that until you make the unconscious conscious, it will control your life and you will call it fate.
Marion Webber
Marion Webber, former owner, and operator of Haskill’s Greenhouses began the family-owned business in 1986 in St. Clair, MI. Along with the retail site, she worked very closely with the community, supplying plants for fundraisers, churches, hospitals, and schools. Bus tours were common in the spring, with hands-on learning for children, garden clubs and seniors alike. Community service was the goal of Haskill’s. As the children went off on their own, the business was sold in 2006.
Tracy Willard
Tracy Willard is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Hunter Hospitality House (HHH), a 501c3 nonprofit organization she and her husband started in 2011 in memory of their late son, Hunter Eldon Willard. The mission of HHH is to provide a welcoming, relaxing home away from home, steps away from the hospital, for those in need of restoration while their loved ones are patients, or for individuals currently receiving out-patient treatment who are in need of local lodging. You can contact HHH at 810-824-3679, check out their website at hunterhospitalityhouse.com, or follow them on Facebook.
WomenHeart
About WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease
WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease is the nation’s only patient-centered organization serving the nearly 48 million American women living with or at risk for heart disease—the leading cause of death in women. Visit us online at womenheart.org.
Christy Wright
Christy Wright is the #1 national best-selling author of Business Boutique, host of the Business Boutique Podcast, a Certified Business Coach and a Ramsey Personality with a passion for equipping women with the knowledge and steps they need to successfully run and grow a business. Since joining Ramsey Solutions in 2009, she has spoken to thousands across the country at women’s conferences, national business conferences, Fortune 500 companies and her own sold-out live events. You can follow Wright on Twitter and Instagram @ChristyBWright and online at christywright.com or facebook.com/OfficialChristyWright.
Melissa Wrubel
Melissa M. Wrubel is a life-long resident of the Blue Water Area. Melissa has a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Michigan and a Master’s Degree from Saginaw Valley State University. Her father is local, long-time realtor Thomas L. Coleman, and mother is retired PHASD teacher Marsha V. Coleman. Melissa is a former elementary and middle school educator and administrator. She is happy to live with her family locally in the Blue Water Area and wants to do as much as she can to support the people in our community.
Malinda Lieske
Malinda Lieske lives in Fort Gratiot. She saw an ad about a band needing new members, it said if you have ever played an instrument or wanted to learn and you were 55 years old or older, call The Blue Water New Horizons Band. So she did. She learned so much and realized you don’t forget what you had learned before. She thought about how amazing it was, that it all comes right back to you. The band was very kind and patient. She played the french horn in high school, now in her 60s. She decided to try it again. She played the french horn in the band for a few years, then switched to the tuba. Now she has dabbled with the clarinet and saxophone but decided reed instruments are not for her. She loved being in the band but recently had to leave due to eye problems. She still keeps in touch with the band. She tries to promote them every chance she gets. The conductor Wesley Kunst says, “You will always be part of The Blue Water New Horizons Band.” She believes this for all past, present, and future members.
John Yurgens
John Yurgens has a unique, and interesting story that cannot be condensed into such a small space. To read his full biography article about his family, his unfortunate stroke and how he found comfort and therapy in writing. To read John’s full bio click here
Salena Zito
Salena Zito joined the Washington Examiner in 2016 as a Western Pennsylvania-based columnist and reporter covering national politics and culture. She is also a weekly columnist at the New York Post, contributes to The Wall Street Journal and co-authored “The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics” with Brad Todd. In 2018, she won first place for her columns in the Associated Press for her coverage of American politics, and she also won the Barbara Olson award for excellence and independence in journalism. She has taught journalism at the Harvard Institute of Politics, Washington and Lee University, and Hillsdale College. She has interviewed every president, vice president and candidate who sought their party’s nomination on both sides of the aisle in the 21st century.