Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Celebrates Michigan’s Second Highest Graduation Rate

Following the announcement of Michigan’s near-record graduation rate, Governor Gretchen Whitmer reiterated her commitment to advancing education in the state. 

With the Center for Educational Performance and Information reporting the second highest graduation rate ever, Governor Whitmer highlighted the state’s progress in her tenure. In her 2024 State of the State Address, she emphasized expanding pre-K for all and advocating for tuition-free community college for high school graduates through the proposed “Michigan Guarantee.” This initiative aims to ensure every Michigander has access to quality education from pre-K through community college, setting them up for future success. 

Governor Whitmer expressed determination to build on existing momentum, citing measures like enhanced mental health services and expanded tutoring programs, emphasizing the importance of educational investment for Michigan’s future prosperity.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Enacts Law Mandating Dental Screenings For Kindergarten Entry

Michigan has taken a proactive step towards improving school readiness and promoting oral health awareness by passing Public Act 316 in 2023. 

Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, children entering kindergarten will be required to undergo a dental screening or oral health assessment, similar to vision and hearing screenings. To meet this requirement, parents or guardians are advised to follow a simple process. Firstly, they should download the necessary form from the provided link. Secondly, the child’s dentist should complete the form following the screening. Finally, the completed form must be returned to the child’s school before the commencement of classes or no later than October 31st. 

This initiative aims to ensure that children start their educational journey with optimal oral health, contributing to their overall well-being and academic success.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Residents Eligible For Disaster Unemployment Assistance Following 2023 Severe Storms

Michigan residents impacted by the devastating severe storms that ravaged parts of the state in August of 2023 now have the opportunity to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). 

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has declared that those whose employment or self-employment was disrupted due to the disaster can file for jobless benefits until March 27th. The Presidential Disaster Declaration FEMA-# 4757 DR encompasses workers in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne counties. 

DUA covers individuals affected by tornadoes, severe storms, and flooding between August 24th, 2023, and August 26th, 2023. Eligible applicants may receive up to 50 weeks of benefits, contingent upon the direct impact of the weather on their unemployment status, with eligibility determined weekly.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Proposes Budget Boost To Enhance Michiganders’ Access To Critical Services

Governor Gretchen Whitmer unveiled her executive budget proposal, spotlighting key allocations aimed at bolstering Michigan’s state services. Emphasizing the need for responsive governance, Whitmer earmarked $9.2 million to enhance accessibility to mental health crisis hotlines and vital government aid. 

The funding aims to streamline assistance for Michiganders, particularly those facing economic hardships. Additionally, the proposal includes increased resources for the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) to address discrimination and uphold citizens’ rights more effectively. 

By investing in programs like Michigan Crisis and Access Line (MiCAL) and Michigan 2-1-1, the state aims to fortify its support infrastructure, ensuring no one is left behind. Whitmer’s budget underscores her commitment to a more inclusive and efficient state apparatus, prioritizing essential services for all residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Emerge Fund/Entrepreneurial Grant Program Launched For St. Clair County Businesses

Applications are now open for the Emerge Fund/Entrepreneurial Grant, offering financial support to budding entrepreneurs and small businesses in St. Clair County. 

The grant targets startups and existing ventures with less than two years since incorporation, ten or fewer employees, and revenue under $1 million. With a maximum request of $5,000 per applicant, funds can be utilized for diverse purposes including market feasibility studies, website development, patent filings, marketing, equipment purchase, and legal or CPA services. However, salary or income expenses are excluded. 

Funding, facilitated by the City of Port Huron, is available exclusively to recipients within the city limits, while grants for St. Clair County applicants are made possible through donations from Huntington National Bank and Fifth Third Bank, aimed at nurturing the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Apply before March 22nd, for a chance to accelerate your business growth.

For more information, visit: edascc.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Daniel Hale Williams: Founder Of America’s First Black-Owned Hospital And Pioneer Of Heart Surgery

Born in 1858 in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, Daniel Hale Williams carved an enduring mark in medical history as an African American. Williams’s journey from shoemaker to surgeon exemplifies resilience and determination.

Following his pursuit of education, Williams apprenticed under a former surgeon general, paving his path to medical studies at Chicago Medical College. His career flourished in Chicago, where he established himself as a prominent surgeon and educator, advocating for racial integration in healthcare.

In 1891, Williams realized his vision by founding Provident Hospital and Training School for Nurses, the nation’s first interracial medical institution. This groundbreaking endeavor provided a platform for both black and white medical professionals, cementing Williams’s legacy as a pioneer in medicine and champion of equality in healthcare. He was also the first person to perform a successful open heart surgery in 1893.

Dr. Williams died in 1931. The Daniel Hale Williams Medical Reading Club in Washington, D.C., commemorates his achievements.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell