Choze Powell

Supporting The YMCA Helps Support Our Children

The YMCA is making a difference in the Blue Water Area by offering programs that aim to create a better future for children and teenagers. 

The Y’s programs promote positive behaviors and values, support child development, and encourage children to explore their talents and interests. Their licensed child care and early learning programs prioritize early brain development and provide a safe and healthy environment for children to learn foundational skills, develop trusting relationships, and build self-reliance through values like caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

The Y also offers opportunities for children to stay active and develop healthy habits through swim, sports, and play programs that promote good sportsmanship and teamwork, building the whole child from the inside out.

In addition to these programs, the Y provides a range of camp options that allow children to discover new talents, explore nature, gain independence, and create lasting friendships. 

If you would like to support the many programs the Blue Water Area YMCA offers, visit: bluewaterareaymca.com.

Michigan $10,000 Down Payment Assistance Program Expanded

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has announced an expansion of its MI 10K DPA program to help low and middle-income homebuyers purchase homes. The program, which provides down payment assistance to eligible homebuyers, was previously offered exclusively to 236 zip codes, but will now be available statewide.

Housing affordability is a major issue in Michigan, with 48% of renters and 18% of homeowners paying more than 30% of their income on housing. By expanding the MI 10K DPA program, the MSHDA hopes to make homeownership more accessible for Michigan residents.

To qualify for the MI 10K DPA program, borrowers must complete a Homebuyer Education class and have no more than $20,000 in liquid cash assets. Restrictions and income limits also apply. Reservations made prior to the expansion for the $7,500 DPA program will remain in effect. 

For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/homeownership.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Get Ready For Art On The River

Citizens for a Vibrant Community is hosting the annual Art on the River festival in Port Huron, Friday, June 9th – 11th. The three-day event will feature a variety of local artists, crafters, and musicians on the shores of the St. Clair River at Merchant Street and Kiefer Park.

The family-friendly festival offers attendees the opportunity to participate in hands-on art workshops, listen to live music, and enjoy a variety of food options. The event’s schedule includes art and craft displays, as well as beverage tents throughout the weekend.

The hours for the event are:

  • Friday- 3pm – 9pm
  • Saturday- 10am – 11pm
  • Sunday- 10am – 4pm  

Art on the River is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the artistic talents of the local community and the beauty of the St. Clair River while spending time with family and friends.

For more information, visit: artontheriverph.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sports Cars, Hot Rods, And More At Upcoming Mainstreet Memories Car Show

The Mainstreet Memories Car Show is back on Saturday, July 29th, from 10am – 4pm at the Acheson Ventures Waterfront Property in Downtown Port Huron. 

If you own a pre-48 hot rod, street rod, pro street, pro touring or rat rod, you are welcome to participate in the show. The registration process is straightforward, and all years, makes, and models of vehicles are welcomed. The deadline for registration is July 3rd.

The entry fee for the event is $15 for pre-registration before the July 3rd deadline, and $20 for day-of-show registration. Pre-registered entries will receive premium goody bags. 

Music will be provided by Scott Kool, along with door prizes, and a 50/50 raffle. There will also be local restaurants, food trucks, a pancake breakfast, a corn roast, hospitality tent, and a farmers’ market. All donations from the event will support the Council on Aging, Inc. Parking will open at 7 am. 

For more information, visit: mainstreetmemoriesph.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Recall On Chili Powder In Ontario Due To Bacillus Cereus Contamination

Sun Global Imports & Exports Corp. is recalling its “Red Chilli Powder, Extra Hot” product due to concerns over Bacillus cereus contamination. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced that the recalled product was sold in Ontario, Canada. The 25 kg product was received in a shipping container with the code TTLU7963457.

Bacillus cereus is a toxin-producing microorganism that can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe illness. Typical treatment includes vigorous rehydration, supportive care, and antibiotics.

The CFIA urges consumers who have purchased the recalled product to dispose of it immediately or return it to the store where it was purchased. The agency is currently conducting an investigation into the source of the contamination and will take necessary actions to protect public health.

For more details and information, visit: foodsafetynews.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Join The Fun At Celebrate Your Child Day

Families with young children are invited to a fun-filled day of activities at Pine River Nature Center on Saturday, June 3rd.

The free event, designed for children aged 0-5 and their families, will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. rain or shine. Attendees are advised to dress appropriately for the weather.

The event will include children’s games and activities, a hike to the tree house, storytelling at the tree house, and access to the Nature Center’s large exhibit room. Additionally, local agencies will be providing literature and information for parents.

The Pine River Nature Center is located at 2585 Castor Rd, Goodells next to Goodells County Park. 

For more information, contact the Pine River Nature Center at (810) 364-5477 or visit their website at: sccresa.org/programs/pine-river-nature-center.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell