Choze Powell

Economic Boost For St. Clair County As RAP 2.0 Grants Propel Key Development Projects

In a significant win for St. Clair County, the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) secures RAP 2.0 grants, marking a pivotal moment for local development. 

Along with the EDA, Governor Whitmer also revealed additional funding for St. Clair County, with $500,000 being allocated to the SONS Outreach project in Port Huron for transforming the former Harrison School into a community center and $400,000 for Algonac to renovate a community swimming pool. 

SONS Outreach was recently awarded $300,000 last year via federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to purchase the new home of the organization at the former Harrison School.

This initiative contributes to the broader RAP 2.0 program, awarding funds to 44 projects across Michigan, with three significant ventures enhancing growth in St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SOS Marysville Food Pantry Faces Funding Crisis, Launches “Together We Can Fight Hunger” Campaign

Since its inception in 2010, the SOS Marysville Food Pantry has been a lifeline for the community, providing essential food support with dignity and confidentiality. However, the pantry faces a critical funding shortfall this year, as crucial grants haven’t materialized. 

Undeterred, the pantry is launching the “Together We Can Fight Hunger” campaign to raise awareness and funds to sustain their mission.

The campaign’s centerpiece is a dinner event, “Awareness of Hunger in Our Communities,” scheduled for Thursday, November 2nd, at Alexander’s Banquet Hall in Marysville, beginning at 5 p.m. Attendees will learn about the pantry’s various programs, including the Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway, Community Christmas Dinner, and the senior program Golden Hearts.

For more information on how you can make a difference, visit: sosmarysville.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Pumpkins Illuminate Awareness And Inclusivity During Halloween Celebrations

You may see children carrying blue buckets instead of the traditional orange this Halloween, and here’s why. Blue pumpkins are gaining symbolic importance in communities nationwide, serving as beacons for understanding and inclusivity during Halloween. While not tied to a specific campaign or nonprofit goal, families are using blue pumpkins to signify that a child in their care is on the autism spectrum. 

Although origins of the practice vary, it aims to mitigate challenges during trick-or-treating for nonverbal children with autism. Some families prefer blue pumpkin displays over personal indicators, sparking conversations about sensory considerations. 

However, it’s acknowledged that opinions vary, with some feeling blue pumpkins might create barriers. Ultimately, the choice to use blue pumpkins remains a personal one, fostering awareness and understanding in diverse Halloween celebrations.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County’s Economic Development Alliance Secures $3.2M For Innovative Business Center

The Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of St. Clair County celebrates a significant boost with a $3.2 million windfall from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) RAP 2.0 grant program. 

In a statewide initiative, nearly $100 million is being allocated for projects, focusing on vacant property development, rehabilitation of blighted buildings, and the creation of place-based public spaces.

They are set to transform a 1.7-acre parcel acquired from Acheson Ventures into a cutting-edge, three-story incubator and business hub. With funding from various sources, including the Federal EDA, James C. Acheson Trust, and MEDC CDBG Grant, the center will house EDA staff, offer office spaces for local entrepreneurs, and provide essential training and conference facilities for St. Clair County companies. Total funding for this transformative project amounts to $8,320,721.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Expands Michigan Reconnect, Allowing Young Adults Ages 21-24 to Access Tuition-Free Community College

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently launched “Opening Week,” an initiative to extend Michigan Reconnect, a tuition-free community college scholarship program. The expansion now includes adults aged 21 to 24, previously limited to those 25 and older. 

Governor Whitmer stated, “By lowering the age for Michigan Reconnect, we’re opening doors of opportunity for up to 350,000 more Michiganders to earn a tuition-free associates degree or skills certificate.” 

This move aligns with the state’s Sixty by 30 goal, aiming for 60% of adults to attain postsecondary education or training by 2030.

Established in February 2021, Michigan Reconnect has garnered significant success, resulting in increased funding, including $70 million for the latest expansion. Over 132,000 Michiganders have applied since its inception less than three years ago.

Applications can be found at: michigan.gov/reconnect.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Camp Cavell Hosts Exciting Fundraising Dinner October 22nd

Camp Cavell invites the community to an exciting fundraising dinner on October 22nd from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at 3335 Lakeshore Road. 

The event promises an evening filled with fun, delicious German inspired food, and an engaging auction. Attendees have a chance to win big with the 50/50 raffle. Tickets for the event are $25, offering an affordable way to support the camp’s initiatives.

Attendees can also secure FREE tickets by sponsoring the event. The money from this fundraiser will be used to: 

  • Start an endowment fund to secure land contract and ensure the future of Camp Cavell.
  • Provide camper scholarships for low-income families who cannot afford the full cost of camp.
  • Fix historical buildings that need urgent repairs and upgrades.

For more information, visit: campcavell.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell