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Currently County Commisioner for District 5, Jeff graduated from St. Clair High School in 1986. He went on to Central Michigan University and graduated in 1991 with a degree in Physical Education and Health. When Jeff returned home, he started Viking Fitness Centers, of which he currently has three locations. He is married (Carrie) and has two daughters, Jessica, 16, and Christina, 13. They reside in East China.

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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.

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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.

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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. As a reporter and contributor, Kathleen is shedding light on the many great people and businesses which make up the Greater Blue Water Area.

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Becky Bianchi has been a registered nurse for over thirty-two years, and she is a certified health coach.
During her experience as a nurse and doing some personal research on food and nutrition, she saw a need for more nutritious ingredients in our foods with less refined sugar, fat, and chemicals. Every bite of food we take either feeds disease or fights it.
Coming from a family of bakers and good cooks, she likes delicious food. So she has compiled some of her favorite recipes and, with a few change of ingredients, made them healthier!

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Pastor Tim Anderson is the Pastor at Westminster Church, located at 2501 Stone St. in Port Huron, Michigan. Visit their website at https://westminsterchurchph.com/

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Rhodes Short was a stand-up comic/improv actor for over 30 years in Los Angelos, California. Before moving back to his hometown of Mount Clemens, Michigan. He then acquired a master’s in chaplaincy and a bachelor’s in ministry. In 2015 Rhodes founded Sharky Street Ministries and produced his first faith-based film, “Who Will Move The Stone”. Rhodes uses the media of video to preach and teach the gospel.

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Scott Beedon has been licensed in the real estate industry for almost 30 years. Scott earned his designation as an Economic Development Finance Professional from the highly esteemed National Development Council out of New York. Scott recently entered into the lending industry as he purchased a Motto Mortgage franchise named Motto Mortgage Forefront and purchased a commercial lending affiliate named Forefront Business Lending, LLC. Scott is passionate about making a difference in our great community and providing opportunities to make the dream of homeownership a reality, and he enjoys tackling redevelopment projects/opportunities in our downtowns.

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Pastor Dennis Holland is the Pastor of First Baptist Church of Port Huron. The Church is located at 1814 Sanborn St. in Port Huron, Michigan. For more information on the church, you can give them a call at (810) 985-6861, or visit their website www.phfirstbaptist.com.

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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, speaking 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.

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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.

“Blue Water Healthy Living Sports” … with Jason Berndt

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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.

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Ron Toles works as a President at PORT HURON SPORTS HALL OF FAME, which is a Hospitality company with an estimated 7 employees; and founded in 1977. They are part of the Executive team within the C-Suite Department and their management level is C-Level. Ron is currently based in Port Huron, United States.

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Thelma joined the Blue Water Area Chamber is 2014. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan and received a J.D. from the Detroit College of Law and became a license attorney in 1988. In 2004, she earned the designation of Certified Chamber Executive (CCE), from the American Commerce Chamber Executives, a national organization. She is also a graduate of the Center for Creative Leadership, Institute for Organizational Management and Leadership Detroit XII.
She was previously employed by the Detroit Regional Chamber, one of the largest chambers in the country. She brings over 18 years of chamber experience. Her areas of expertise included Workforce Initiatives, Talent Initiatives, Leadership Initiatives, Advocacy, Human Resources and Operations. Through her leadership in Human Resources the chamber was recognized by several organizations for its human resources practices and won several awards as one of the best places to work, for its diversity efforts, for its workplace flexibility and as one of the cool places to work. Over the years, she has been able to secure over 15 million dollars in grant funds to fund a number of chamber programs. One of those programs was “Intern in Michigan”, a statewide website program that focuses on keeping talent in the region by retaining its talent via internships. She also has experience working with chambers at the local, state and national levels, economic development organizations, educational institutions, workforce boards, civic organizations, political organizations, law enforcement agencies and community organizations.

Thelma has also been involved in the political arena and was a member of several boards; Institute of Organizational Management for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Red Cross Southeastern Michigan, Legal Aid and Defender Association, Alliance for safer, greater Detroit, SER Metro Detroit, Hispanic Business Alliance, Workforce Innovations in Economic Development (WIRED) and Intern in Michigan.

Outside of work, Thelma is a big sports fan, enjoys bowling and being with family and friends.
She is married to Len Frisch, a Detroit Fireman, has one son JJ Dominguez, who resides in Croswell, MI. Thelma and Len currently reside in Croswell.

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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.

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Heather manages outreach, compliance, and advocacy within the Thumb Region of Michigan addressing food insecurity. Her specialties are: Nonprofit Administration, Management and Leadership, Community Outreach, Advocacy, Fundraising, and Compliance.

She is currently serving as the Regional Outreach Manager for the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan; a volunteer at Hunter Hospitality House (Social Services); President of Women’s Live Chapter 810; and a volunteer at A Beautiful, Me, Inc; Vice President of High Noon Toastmaster Club #1021.

Heather graduated from Central Michigan University with a Master of Science degree (M.S.) in Administration. She also has a Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A.) in Human Service from Baker College which she graduated with honors (Magna Cum Laude). Also from Baker College, she earned an Associate degree in Applied Science (Human Service), which she graduated with honors (Magna Cum Laude).

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As an Executive Director of The John Maxwell Team, Jon is certified to facilitate, speak, train and coach individuals and groups in the areas of leadership development, professional skills and personal growth. Trained and mentored by John Maxwell and mentors of his world-class faculty, Jon is equipped with the tools, resources and experience to help you and your team improve your productivity, performance and profitability. Whether you are looking for a facilitator for group workshops, corporate training in leadership, speaking, sales, or coaching skills for your leaders, or a speaker for your next event, he has access to exclusive content that is only available through a certified Executive Director of the John Maxwell Team to help you reach your goals and objectives.
Jon also offers speaking and leadership workshops to students at all educational levels, from middle school to colleges and universies, utilizing our NEW YouthMax Plus program. This program is designed to spread the word about anti-bullying, building a positive self-image while building the individuals positive self-esteem.

“Grant Smith and Company” … with Grant Smith

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Thomas Watson grew up in Marine City and has resided in St. Clair for the past 41 years. I am married to Vicki and have two grown married children – Thomas II and his wife Meghan; and Ashley and her husband Anthony Fiscelli. I am a proud grandparent to Bo and Rory Watson; along with Reese and Brooke Fiscelli. I can’t forget my precious dog Abigail – who is a Morkie that I named after First Lady Abigail Adams. I recently retired from Cargill Salt in St. Clair after 34 years of service; which now gives me more time to do the things I love – such as fantasy sports, photography, writing, traveling, classic rock music, and living life – and not necessarily in that order. I am a cardcarrying member of the KISS Army and have a deep interest and passion for the 1959 Winter Dance Party Tour. Since I can remember, I have had an interest in U.S. history. In my youth, my interest centered on learning about the Presidents from the milk bottle caps that I had collected. In 8th grade at Marine City Junior High, my interest grew more as my teacher, Mr. Bill Ameel, brought history to life for me. But once I had graduated in 1974 and could travel on my own, there was no stopping me. My first major trip was a visit to Washington D.C. to see the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1976 – Bicentennial Day. I stood in line for nearly six hours to see that historic document on its 200th birthday. From that point on, I would visit historical sites whenever on vacation. On July 4, 1986, I visited NYC and saw the Statue of Liberty celebration that marked her 100th birthday. Then in 1991, I embarked on a 17-day, 5,000 mile trip with my good friend Bob Moldenhauer where we visited the homes and graves of all 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Our goal was to photograph our authentic-sized copies of the Declaration of Independence, which came from Independence Hall, at the graves of all 56 Signers. Not only did we accomplish that goal, but we met many great people along the way and saw some amazing sights as well – including a visit to the top of the Twin Towers. Today, I have a new passion – a quest that began as an idea to bring Presidential history to life for school kids. In 2013, I acquired a Thomas Jefferson bobblehead from Royal Bobbles in Alpharetta, Georgia with the intent to photograph Jefferson at every Presidential site that I could find around the country. The initial idea was for me to put together a slide show that featured Jefferson at each Presidential site and I would conduct a presentation for 4th and 5th grade students around Presidents Day. But a few years and thousands of photos later, the slide show grew to over eight hours long – which was nearly eight hours longer than most kid’s attention span for history lasts. To date, the bobblehead has traveled more than 48,000 miles; has visited all 39 Presidential gravesites; all of the Presidential Libraries; most of their birthplaces and homes; and has met Jimmy Carter. And two years ago, Jefferson was in the Oval Office of the White House – albeit just inside the doorway. During those 48,000 miles, Jefferson has also suffered many injuries – including a broken neck, fractured shins, broken knees and thighs, and a severed right arm. Today, that bobblehead could be a spokesman for Gorilla Glue! After the persistent suggestions of my friend Rick Bieth to start a blog as a way to share my Presidential stories with the world, my Through the Eyes of Jefferson blog has taken off since October 2019. The concept was simple – the bobblehead tells the stories from his viewpoint of what it was like to stand in the footsteps of the Presidents. There are hundreds of photos, humorous stories, and some interesting facts about each Commander-in-Chief. Jefferson also talks about his visits to other historical sites, movie film locations, and anything else that we find interesting during our travels; but it is roughly 85% Presidential. The blog can be found on the web at eyesofjefferson.com and please feel free to leave a comment. My latest and greatest venture is about to unfold here at GBS Media. After meeting Grant Smith about my insurance needs, I discovered that we had a mutual love for Presidential history. Today, we are planning to bring my photos and stories to life in a video series called “Hail to the Chief”. In that series, we will feature every President from George Washington to Joe Biden and the audience will hear the stories about what it was like to visit the Presidential site and what it took to get the bobblehead there. I will do my best to bring each President to life without using many dates or boring trivial facts – my goal is to talk about the sites and the Presidents in a fun and humorous way.

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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.).

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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.

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Sheriff King began his career with the Sheriff’s Office in 1998, working his way up to the rank of Captain prior to his election as Sheriff.

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Kathryn Dietlin lives in Fort Gratiot with her children, aka her sous-chefs, Landon and Avery. Kathryn is currently a full time teacher for Port Huron Schools. In a couple of years, Kathryn will be pursuing her second career choice involving cooking and baking. Kathryn is blessed to be given the opportunity to share her cooking and baking skills on Kathryn’s Kitchen and hopes to inspire others to cook and bake too.

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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.
But the one most important to her is being a Warrior for Jesus Christ. She is on a mission from God to bring hope to others.
She currently lives in Algonac, Michigan, with her husband, Jim, a retired veterinarian. Together, they have a home-based business for a research and manufacturing company that feeds over 30,000 children a day!
If you would like to contact her, please email her at tesch.reliv@gmail.com or her cell 248-808-3192.

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Experienced Campaign Director with a demonstrated history of working in the philanthropy industry. Skilled in Grassroots Organizing, Coalitions, Community Organizing, Training, and Public Speaking. Strong information technology professional with a Certificate focused in Public Speaking, FMLA Laws & ADA Laws from Muskegon Community College.

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Welcome to Modern Medicine with Dr. Blake Pearson. This exciting new show will pull back the curtain on the field of western medicine and explore the scientific and real-world evidence for emerging treatments related to some of the most common–and complex–health conditions affecting people today.

Each week, Dr. Pearson will discuss a different medical condition, lay out the pros and cons of traditional treatment options, and discuss the emerging evidence for new treatments, including cannabinoid therapy, psychedelic-assisted therapies, functional medicine and more.

Viewers can expect Dr. Pearson to dive into a range of chronic pain conditions, like fibromyalgia, arthritis, back, neck and knee pain, neuropathic pain, post surgery / post stroke pain & recovery, and cancer-related pain & nausea. We’ll also talk about sleep disorders, mental health, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, dementia & Alzheimer’s disease, and more.

Blake Pearson MD is the founder & medical director at Pearson Health and an internationally recognized leader in the field of cannabinoid & functional medicine. He is board certified to practice in both the USA & Canada and is also a passionate educator, having trained over 1000 fellow medical practitioners around the world. In addition to primary care, Dr. Pearson has extensive experience in long-term care, specifically helping to manage responsive behaviors associated with dementia & using cannabinoids to reduce polypharmacy. Dr Pearson was previously the Primary Care Lead for the Erie St. Clair (Ontario) region’s Mental Health, Addictions and Opioid Reduction Strategy and is a principal investigator on several current research projects.

Dr. Pearson is also very active on social media, helping to educate patients and practitioners alike, in short social bursts. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and all other socials by searching for @drblakepearson.

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Andrew loves history since there is always more of it to learn about and we get to stand on the shoulders of everyone who has come before. That’s a pretty cool opportunity, if you study history. One of his favorite artifacts in the collection is the Phillip Sheridan saddle and the Iron Lung. When he isn’t running the Museum’s facebook pages, he is usually working on his 1958 Packard or at the shooting range with one of his antique firearms.

“Music Entertainment” … with Ian Smith

Upon retirement in 2016, he was asked to assist the City of Port Huron in the booking, MCing (Master of Ceremonies) and running of entertainment at McMorran Theatre and now assisting with Casey’s on The Plaza entertainment, and “Rockin’ The Rivers bands with Kati Gardner.

Ian, is still playing shows around St. Clair County and resides in Burtchville , Mi.

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St. Christopher’s Father James Arwady:  A little over 10 years ago, after coming home from work God asked him if this (work) was really what he wanted for his life.  He replied no, which started the thought process as to what he really wanted and his path to the priesthood.  On his way to work he kept praying that God would show him where He wanted him to be.  He was then laid off from his job and for three months God let him think about the church.  He asked God on a Wednesday to confirm what he wanted him to do by providing him a solid job offer to start on the following Monday.  Similar to Gideon in Judges 6:39, God provided not one but two offers as proof and Fr. James joined the church.

St. Christopher Catholic Church is located at 1000 Michigan Avenue, Marsyville, Michigan 48040. Their website is stchrismi.org

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Dr. Rev. Tom Seppo has been the Executive Director for Operation Transformation since January of 2002. (He was a full-time, ordained minister for 20 years preceding that at a church in Port Huron.) Tom meets regularly with church and community leaders to find ways to collaborate on specific projects, and be the “light and salt” that Jesus spoke of. His goal is to see cooperation (versus separation) of church and state. He has also served as the Chaplain for the St. Clair County Sheriff Department since April of 2002. He oversees all Spiritual Life programming at the Intervention Center.

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Tom has been married to his wife Brenda since 1979 and they have 3 married children – Rebecca (Aaron), Andrea (Joshua) and Andrew (Caitlyn), and 4 grandchildren. Rev. Dr. Seppo and wife reside in Lakeport, Michigan.

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​My early background includes a conservative rural upbringing and a university education in Indiana. To be more specific I graduated from Indiana University in 1977 in Bloomington, Indiana which means that I enjoyed the best years of watching basketball ever (Bobby Knight). Telecommunications was my love but I also picked up a major in Political Science.  My career began in Defiance, Ohio and then I moved to Port Huron, Michigan in 1979.  I have lived and worked in this county (both city and townships) since 1979. My experience includes: Radio broadcasting at most of the local commercial stations including WSAQ, WPHM, WHLS, and WBTI. I was a Port Huron City Council member, and held leadership and volunteer roles with the county-wide Comprehensive Community Health Models of Michigan (CCHMs) initiative, Girl Scouts, Downtown Port Huron, Mainstreet, St. Clair County Office of Homeland Security/Emergency Management, Blue Water Festival, United Way of St. Clair County, and the Zoning Board of Appeals of Wales Township. Family includes a pair of beautiful children from my first marriage who are adults now and two grandchildren (I’m a grandfather already?) whom I love dearly. I also have a stepdaughter in Canada.  I lived in Strathroy, Ontario for over ten years while I continued to work in Port Huron. These days “the love of my life” Dr. Annette Mercatante and I share our life at a small but beautiful farm in Wales Township.  Here is hoping that you enjoy my “Out In The Country” program especially since for the past nearly ten years I truly am indeed out in the country.

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John Highstreet has lived in Algonac most of his life and attended the Algonac Church of Christ since he was a kid.

A graduate of Algonac High School and a three sport athlete, he attended Michigan Christian College on a basketball scholarship, where he earned an A.A. degree and was part of the Bible program. John graduate from Lubbock Christian College and received his B.S.E. degree and his Masters from Saginaw Valley. John taught school and coached basketball for 16 years in Florida and the last 22 years in Algonac. In 2017 he accepted the job as Senior Minister at the Algonac Church of Christ

John and his wife, Brenda, have three grown children (Jake, Jacquelyn (Daryn), and Heidi) and one grandson (Noah).

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We are an open admission, fuill service Humane Society funded by donations only. We receive no county, state or federal government monies nor any monies from any other humane society. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

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Mike Bodeis lived in Port Huron Area for his whole life. He graduated from Port Huron Central High School. Mike started as a landlord at age 18 learning the trade from Ted Rutkowski all while doing contract construction jobs where he earned his builders license. Mike has owned over 100 rentals and has overseen his progress. He was a charter member of the PHALA which had a goal of 100 members, but now has over 450 members in just 13 years, and is still growing.

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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.

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Joseph A. Platzer is the Chief of Police with the Port Huron Police Department. Chief Platzer has been a law enforcement officer for over twenty nine years and is a lifelong resident of Port Huron.
Chief Platzer started his career in 1988 as a Police Cadet and then rose through the ranks as Police Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, Road Lieutenant, Detective Lieutenant, Administrative Lieutenant, Captain, and then Chief.
Some of the other assignments that Chief Platzer has held are: Special Response Team Member/Supervisor, Field Training Officer/Supervisor, Special Crimes Unit Member, Drug Task Force Officer, Major Crimes Unit Supervisor, Subject Control-Range Officer/Supervisor, Evidence Technician, Explorer Advisor, and was a part of
the POAM Executive Board.
Chief Platzer is an adjunct facility instructor at the St. Clair County Community College where he teaching criminal justices classes and instructs on Officer Involved Shootings through The Rossow Group.
Chief Platzer is a high school graduate of Port Huron High School and has earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from St. Clair County Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from Eastern Michigan University and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration/Criminal Justice from the University of Michigan – Flint.
Chief Platzer is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Class #268, FBI Michigan Police Executive Development Seminar, Michigan State University Staff and Command, Macomb County Community College Center for Police Management and Leadership Studies, and Macnlow’s Police Supervision.
Chief Platzer’s biggest career accomplishment is being able to lead the best police department in the State of Michigan and being allowed to proudly serve alongside the greatest 57 sworn and 20 non-sworn members that make up the Port Huron Police Department.

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Bonnie DiNardo is the Executive Director of Community and Public Relations at St Clair County Community College (SC4). She was awarded “Woman of the Year” by The National Association of Career Women. Bonnie went to Marysville High School, studied at Central Michigan University and Ferris State University. She is also a Governance Committee officer of the Blue Water Chamber Board of Directors.

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Rhodes Short was a stand-up comic/improv actor for over 30 years in Los Angelos, California. Before moving back to his hometown of Mount Clemens, Michigan. He then acquired a master’s in chaplaincy and a bachelor’s in ministry. In 2015 Rhodes founded Sharky Street Ministries and produced his first faith-based film, “Who Will Move The Stone”. Rhodes uses the media of video to preach and teach the gospel.

“Sophia Senyk’s Semiprofessional Show”

“Talk Is Cheap” – Podcast … with Jason Berndt

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Toastmasters International is a US-headquartered nonprofit educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of promoting communication, public speaking and leadership.

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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 on line at amazon.com or by calling 1-888-333-KEYS. Bill and Margaret live in Lowell, MI and have four grown children.

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Business owner of Golf Country a local small business in the Kimball Township area that was built upon a strong family foundation. We started our business with a small driving range out near the Marysville Golf Course and progressed into a full on Pro Shop and Driving Range. Our Pro Shop is Huge – containing two levels of golf equipment, apparel, shoes and golfing supplies. You’ll be amazed at all we have in stock and we offer special orders on certain items! Everything in the line of Golf!! Complete Pro Shop & Training Complex. Full Repair Service & Custom Clubs!

“We The County” … with Paul Urben

Paul was born and raised in Madison Heights and moved to Marysville in 1999.  He attended college at Central Michigan University, as well as St. Clair County Community College (SC4).  He also graduated with top honors from Macomb Community College, as Valedictorian of his class. Paul earned an Associate of Science degree from SC4 in 2006 and an Associates of Applied Science degree in Climate Control Technology from Macomb Community College in 2007. Paul and his wife Jennifer have two children, Ariel and Phoenix.  With Jennifer’s support, Paul developed his own business in 2009 – FAI Refrigeration.  In 2016, he and his family made their way back from Livonia to Marysville where they currently reside. Paul is also the Regional Director for an organization called We the County (WTC) overseeing St Clair, Macomb and Oakland counties.  WTC’s mission is to promote the locality of change within the state’s 83 counties.  As an educator, Paul enjoys teaching members of We The County the history of our country, including that of our founding fathers.  Biblical principles are included in his teachings.  It is his goal to equip members with the resources they need, that they may learn and apply what has been taught them and become more actively involved at a local level. Paul believes the only way for local change to take place is to create solutions that drive results and to be open to unity.

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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