Choze Powell

United Way Of St. Clair County Announces Their 1st Annual Road Rally

The United Way of St. Clair County is organizing its First Annual Road Rally. This event will take place on Saturday, June 24th, from 4pm – 6pm. The Road Rally, which functions as a scavenger hunt, will provide clues to complete various tasks along the way.

Each team must consist of four participants, with a registration fee of $120 per team. However, with a maximum of 20 teams, early sign-ups are encouraged.

Participants are encouraged to wear fun costumes during the rally, adding a lively and festive element to the event. Following the Road Rally, an after-party will be hosted by War Water Brewery.

Awards will be presented to the top three finishers of the rally, as well as for the best and most creative costume. This exciting event promises to be a thrilling adventure for a worthy cause, supporting the United Way’s efforts in St. Clair County.

For more information or to register, visit: uwstclair.org/roadrally.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation Fund Reaches $1 Million Milestone

The Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation Fund (EMCF) has achieved a significant milestone by growing its endowment fund to $1 million. 

Over the past eleven years, eight local faith-based nonprofits, in collaboration with hundreds of donors, have successfully built a sustainable source of support for their organizations. The endowment is managed by the Community Foundation of St. Clair County.

“The Community Foundation is the kind of partner every nonprofit dreams about,” says Founder and Executive Director of the EMCF Marty Doorn. “We would not be nearly as successful without them. Their staff provides a level of expertise that is unmatched. The Foundation has been and continues to provide incredible support as we have built the EMCF fund from zero to over one million dollars,” he added.

The EMCF Fund aims to support specific Christian-based organizations in St. Clair County, as well as various programs, projects, and organizations within the local Christian community. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Governor Proclaims June as Youth Employment Month, Encouraging Skill Development and Safety

An estimated 235,000 Michigan youth, aged 16 to 19, are anticipated to participate in the state’s labor market this summer. To raise awareness about the significance of our youth acquiring valuable skills and training, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared June 2023 as Youth Employment Month in Michigan.

“As we continue to grow our economy, it is crucial that we collaborate to support and expand our workforce,” stated Governor Whitmer. “We encourage Michigan employers to provide meaningful, safe, and beneficial work and volunteer opportunities to our youth, including those with disabilities. By equipping young Michiganders with the necessary education, training, skills, and experience for long-term economic success, we will fulfill our commitment to helping more people ‘make it in Michigan’ and building a brighter future for our state.”

To assist businesses, schools, and parents in legally and safely employing minors under the age of 18, including those with disabilities, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) offers resources and guidance. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Increases Income Guidelines for WIC, Allowing More Families to Qualify

Effective June 1, Michigan has raised its income guidelines for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), opening the doors for additional families to qualify for assistance. 

A family of four can now qualify for WIC with an annual income of up to $55,500, representing an 8.1% increase from last year’s threshold. WIC is accessible to participants with incomes up to 185% of the federal poverty level. Families who receive Medicaid, SNAP benefits or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families already meet the income qualifications for WIC.

This expansion in eligibility is welcome news for Michiganders, as the program offers vital nutritional education and access to healthy foods. Pregnant individuals, new parents, and guardians of children up to age five are encouraged to reach out to their local county health department or WIC agency to apply.

For detailed income guidelines for various family sizes, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Detroit’s Unemployment Rate Hits a 33-Year Low, Shows Steady Improvement

Detroit’s monthly unemployment rate has reached its lowest point in 33 years, as the city continues to experience a downward trend in joblessness. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the city’s April unemployment rate stood at 4.2%, marking the third consecutive decrease this year.

Mayor Mike Duggan’s office celebrated the milestone on Wednesday, highlighting the significant progress made in reducing unemployment. The April figure is a significant improvement from the 5.8% recorded in March. Notably, the previous record low unemployment rate for the city was 5.4% in April 2000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In comparison, the unemployment Rate in St. Clair County was 3.3% in March of 2023, according to the United States Federal Reserve.

The declining unemployment rate in Detroit signifies increased job opportunities and economic growth, reflecting the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Offers Free Fishing, ORV, and Snowmobiling Weekends for Residents and Visitors

Michigan residents and out-of-state visitors can look forward to “free” weekends for fishing, off-road vehicle (ORV) riding, and snowmobiling each year, providing exciting opportunities to explore the state’s natural wonders and recreational activities.

The upcoming Free Fishing Weekends are scheduled for June 10th -11th, 2023, and February 2024. During these weekends, all fishing licenses will be waived, allowing individuals to enjoy the bountiful fishing opportunities in inland lakes and the five Great Lakes. 

Additionally, free ORV weekends are scheduled for June 10th-11th, 2023, and August 19th-20th. Participants can ride on designated Department of Natural Resources (DNR) routes and trails without the need for an ORV license or trail permit. 

A free snowmobiling weekend is set for February 2024. Snowmobilers can hit the trails without a snowmobile registration or trail permit, allowing for a hassle-free snowmobiling adventure. It is essential to note that all participants must still adhere to Michigan’s rules and regulations governing fishing, ORV riding, and snowmobiling.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell