County Urges Early Sign-Up

Families in St. Clair County are being urged to sign up early as enrollment opens for the state’s expanding PreK for All program. Officials report record participation, offering free preschool to any child turning four by December first, regardless of income. The program can save families about fourteen thousand dollars a year in child care. Classes are led by licensed teachers, with options like full-day schedules, transportation in some areas, and before-and after-school care. Leaders say early enrollment is key as spots fill quickly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Former Grace Baptist Church Property Sold to Private Investment Group

The Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation has successfully completed the sale of the former Grace Baptist Church property located at 7040 Imlay City Road in Clyde, Michigan. The property was acquired by a group of private investors who plan to repurpose the facility into a sports related community complex. This marks the second significant property gift and liquidation effort completed by EMCF, demonstrating the Foundation’s growing ability to receive, manage, and steward donated real estate and other non cash assets for charitable and ministry purposes throughout Eastern Michigan. The church property had previously been donated to EMCF, allowing the Foundation to oversee the transition of the asset and ultimately convert it into financial resources that can now be directed toward ministry initiatives, charitable outreach, and Christian community impact throughout the region.

EMCF also expressed appreciation to Jeff Hedberg of Real Estate Masters, who managed the real estate transaction and assisted in guiding the property through the sales process. Foundation representatives noted that this transaction serves as another example of how existing assets can be transformed into new opportunities for ministry. Leaders emphasized that many churches, families, business owners, and nonprofit organizations possess real estate or other assets that may no longer fit their long term needs, and EMCF exists to help responsibly receive, manage, and ultimately convert those gifts into lasting Kingdom impact.

Foundation leaders further noted that donated properties can provide meaningful tax advantages for donors while also creating long term funding opportunities for Christian ministry and charitable work. EMCF hopes this successful transaction will encourage individuals, churches, ministries, and organizations to consider creative charitable giving strategies involving real estate, land, buildings, estates, business interests, and other appreciated assets. The Foundation serves as a local resource for charitable gift planning and ministry focused stewardship, with proceeds from donated assets helping support Christian initiatives and community outreach efforts throughout Eastern Michigan.

For more information about the Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation or to discuss charitable giving opportunities involving property or non cash assets, visit  Alastinggift.org.

County’s First Salmonella Case

St. Clair County health officials have confirmed the area’s first salmonella case tied to a multistate outbreak linked to backyard poultry like chicks and ducklings. Even healthy-looking birds can spread the germs through droppings, feathers, and coops. Officials urge residents to keep children under five away from poultry. Wash hands thoroughly with soap after handling birds or cleaning their areas. Clean equipment outdoors, and never keep live birds inside homes. Those with the runs, fever, or stomach cramps should contact a doctor promptly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Rocks Thrown At Cars

A late-night drive turned frightening for a Clay Township family traveling through nearby Ira Township. Around 10:30 Sunday night, Tom Agbay and his children were on Palms Road when something slammed through their open window, striking his son, who initially feared he had been shot. They believes teenagers were throwing rocks or concrete at passing cars. Another driver nearby reported similar damage. Clay Township police say they are investigating, warning incidents like this have turned deadly in the past.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blessing of the Boats

Port Huron’s third annual Blessing of the Boats returns this Saturday after a weather delay. The free event runs from 10 to 11 a.m. near the Huron Lady II dock on the Black River and is open to everyone. Participating boats will stay in the river while their names are announced. They’ll then head east, where holy water will be sprinkled on each vessel. Locals without boats can watch the fleet sail past from the Black River Walk. It’s a great chance for the community to enjoy the boats and celebrate the start of the season together.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet