Choze Powell

Huron Academic Endeavors To Host Homeschool Resource Fair In St. Clair County

Huron Academic Endeavors (HAE) is set to host a groundbreaking event tailored for the local homeschooling community in St. Clair County. On Friday, April 26th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the Harrison Center Gymnasium will transform into a hub of educational resources and support networks. 

The Homeschool Resource Fair, organized by HAE, promises to unite over 20 vendors showcasing diverse offerings, including local homeschool groups, co-ops, family support services, social activities, athletics, and more. Understanding the distinctive needs of rural homeschooling families, HAE aims to provide inspiration, fun, and invaluable information. 

Notably, the fair is open to the public and admission is free. Attendees can also indulge in delectable treats from food trucks onsite. RSVPs are encouraged but not mandatory. 

Additionally, interested vendors can still secure slots by contacting HAE President, Kelly Oldford, for participation details. 

For further information, visit: huroncooperative.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Named 2023 Tree City USA For Commitment To Urban Forest Management

The Arbor Day Foundation has recently bestowed an esteemed honor upon the city of Port Huron by naming it a 2023 Tree City USA. This recognition highlights Port Huron’s dedication to effective urban forest management. 

The city achieved this prestigious status by meeting the stringent requirements of the Tree City USA program, including maintaining a tree board or department, implementing a tree care ordinance, allocating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Tree City USA program, sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, underscores the importance of urban forestry. 

Dan Lambe, Chief Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, emphasized the positive impact of Port Huron’s efforts, noting that they ensure a better quality of life for future generations and foster a sense of civic pride within the community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

April 23rd Deadline Looms For Michigan Candidates Eyeing Primary Ballot In 2024 Elections

As Michigan gears up for the 2024 elections, the April 23rd filing deadline marks a crucial date for candidates vying for various positions. To secure a spot on the August 6th primary ballot, candidates must submit their filing paperwork by 4pm. 

This deadline applies to a range of offices including Court of Appeals, Circuit Court, District Court, and District Probate Court. Additionally, partisan candidates for state House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, and U.S. Senate must also adhere to this deadline. Notably, candidates for probate judge, certain U.S. House of Representatives, and some House candidates are required to file with their county clerk, as opposed to the Bureau of Elections. 

To facilitate the process, the Bureau of Elections recommends candidates set up appointments through the Michigan Secretary of State online appointment system.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Introduces No-Cost High-Quality Preschool For 2024-2025 Academic Year

St. Clair County is pioneering accessible early education with its 2024-2025 offerings through the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), Strong Beginnings (SB), and Tuition Preschool Application. 

This initiative provides a golden opportunity for children aged 0-5 to access high-quality preschool education at no cost.

Parents seeking enrollment must ensure their child meets specific age criteria. Children aged 3 or 4 are eligible for tuition programs, or they must be turning 3-year-old by September 1st, to enroll in the Strong Beginnings Program at Memphis or Port Huron. Additionally, those who will be turning 4-year-old by the same date, qualify for the Great Start Readiness Program.

The initiative underscores St. Clair County’s commitment to early childhood development, aiming to provide a strong educational foundation for its youngest residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Calls For Federal Relief Expansion Amid Warmest Winter On Record

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has intensified efforts to secure federal assistance for businesses impacted by the unusually warm winter, sending a compelling letter to congressional leaders, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Despite previously secured aid for drought-affected areas, numerous counties in Michigan, notably in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, remain ineligible under current federal guidelines.

In response to this urgent need, the SBA has approved a declaration extension for Houghton County, marking a significant milestone in relief efforts. However, recognizing the widespread ramifications, Governor Whitmer advocates for broader regulatory or legislative solutions to address the impacts of the warm winter comprehensively.

Furthermore, the SBA’s extension of application deadlines in select counties offers affected businesses vital extra time to quantify losses and seek necessary federal support. 

Governor Whitmer’s proactive stance underscores a commitment to aiding Michigan’s economic resilience amidst climatic challenges.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County RESA Ensures Education Rights For Homeless Families

St. Clair County RESA is stepping up efforts to support families experiencing homelessness or housing instability, ensuring their children’s right to education is upheld. According to federal law, families in such situations have the right to enroll their children in school immediately, regardless of documentation or housing status.

The RESA’s Homeless Student Coordinator, Laura McDowell, stands ready to assist families with enrollment procedures, even if they lack necessary documents. Whether families are doubled up with relatives, residing in temporary accommodations like shelters or motels, or even without a fixed residence, their children are entitled to a free and appropriate education.

McDowell can be contacted at (810) 364-8990 for further information and assistance, ensuring that no child is left behind due to housing instability.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell