Choze Powell

51st Annual Algonac Art Fair Set For Labor Day Weekend

The 51st Annual Algonac Art Fair returns to Algonac City Park this Labor Day weekend. The fair runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 3. 

The event features a variety of artists and crafters, including featured artist Joyce Cucchiara. Attendees can enjoy live music, with performances from bands like Fly By Night, Billy’s Band, and Malachi Crunch. Entertainment will also include Rosco the Clown and face painting by Brenda Roberts. The 9th Annual Rumble on the Riverfront Car Show takes place on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a free shuttle bus will run throughout the event. 

For more information, visit: algonacartfair.com or call Maxine at (810) 580-1874.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Wins $750,000 To Boost Clean Energy Workforce Development

The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) Community & Worker Economic Transition Office has secured $750,000 from the Families & Workers Fund as a winner of the Powering Climate and Infrastructure Careers Challenge. 

This funding will strengthen Michigan’s workforce to support over $10 billion in federal clean energy and infrastructure investments, creating quality jobs for residents impacted by economic shifts. Jonathan Smith, LEO’s Senior Chief Deputy Director, emphasized the significance of the award in positioning Michigan as a national leader in clean energy and workforce development. 

The funds will be used to enhance job quality standards and ensure workers have access to good-paying, high-skill jobs in emerging sectors. This award highlights Michigan’s ongoing success in leveraging federal funding for climate and energy initiatives.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Nonprofit And Volunteer Fair Set To Take Place At Birchwood Mall

Community members are invited to the annual Nonprofit and Volunteer Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Birchwood Mall, Fort Gratiot Township. 

Hosted by the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Birchwood Mall, the event aims to connect local nonprofits with eager volunteers. Nonprofits from St. Clair County are encouraged to register online at BlueWaterChamber.com. 

Free and open to the public, the fair is ideal for students, professionals, and retirees looking to contribute their time and skills. Ally Birkett of A Beautiful Me, Inc. highlights the fair’s role in strengthening community bonds. The fair will be located near the movie theater and Kay’s Jewelers. Don’t miss the chance to make a difference. 

For more information, contact the Blue Water Chamber at (810) 985-7101.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan’s STEAM Ahead Program Breaks Records, Doubling Internship Participation

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) rebranded “STEAM Ahead” program is setting new records, funding over 570 summer internships in the first half of 2024 alone. This achievement more than doubles the program’s previous best semester in 2022, when 272 internships were funded. 

Originally launched as the STEM Forward initiative in 2021, the program was rebranded earlier this year to better incorporate roles that blend arts with science, technology, engineering, and math, such as front-end web development and industrial design. The revamped program offers increased financial incentives and a streamlined employer-reimbursement structure, attracting a growing number of participants. 

MEDC’s STEAM Ahead initiative is part of a broader effort to support Michigan’s priority industries, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing, ensuring a robust talent pipeline for the state’s future. Companies interested in participating can submit funding requests for fall 2024 internships beginning Aug. 12.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MiABLE Celebrates First National ABLE Savings Day With $100 Match Offer

In celebration of the inaugural national ABLE Savings Day on Aug. 14, MiABLE is offering a $100 match to those who open eligible disability savings accounts during August. MiABLE, part of Michigan’s disability savings program, empowers individuals with disabilities to save for the future without jeopardizing government assistance.

“We are proud to have been among the earliest states to establish access to ABLE accounts as life-changing financial empowerment tools,” said R. Scott de Varona, MiABLE program director.

The national ABLE Savings Day encourages people to share their experiences and highlights the importance of these accounts. Despite 500,000 eligible individuals in Michigan, only about 1% have enrolled. To learn more, three national webinars are being offered this month to educate the public about ABLE accounts.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blake’s Annual Sunflower Festival: A Blooming Celebration With 200+ Artisans, DIY Workshops, And U-Pick Sunflowers

Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill’s Annual Sunflower Festival returns this August, offering a vibrant experience for visitors of all ages. 

On Aug. 16-18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the festival invites guests to explore over 200 artisans showcasing handcrafted products and more. Attendees can enjoy free classes on topics such as natural wellness, aromatherapy, and the benefits of local honey. For hands-on fun, DIY workshops allow participants to create with real sunflowers (additional charge). 

The festival also offers U-pick sunflowers, wildflowers, fruits, and vegetables, along with endless photo opportunities in the scenic sunflower fields. Admission includes access to Barnyard Funland and free parking. Children aged 2 and under enter free, making this a perfect outing for families. 

For more information, visit: blakefarms.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell