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Local News

Michigan State Police Warn Parents About Online Safety As School Year Begins

As the new school year approaches, and parents begin to flood their social media pages with their children’s back to school information, the Michigan State Police (MSP) issued a warning urging parents to protect their children’s privacy when sharing back-to-school photos online.

“Before you hit post, remember to protect your child’s privacy,” MSP shared on social media platform X. They advised against including personal details such as names, school names or locations, grade levels, ages, and teachers’ names in photos.

The warning highlights the risks of sharing identifying information that could lead unwanted individuals to the school. The timely reminder aims to help families keep their children safe as they head back to school.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Jaime Greene Introduces Bill To Protect Jobs Of Michigan’s Part-Time Emergency Responders

State Rep. Jaime Greene (R-Richmond) has introduced the Emergency Responders Employment Protection Act to safeguard the jobs of Michigan’s part-time and volunteer emergency responders. House Bill 5905 aims to prevent employers from disciplining or terminating employees who are absent from work due to responding to emergencies.

“No one should have to choose between saving lives and keeping their job,” Greene stated, emphasizing the need to support those who serve the community. The bill would protect responders if an emergency occurs before their shift starts or during their shift within 15 miles of their workplace.

With recruitment and retention at critically low levels, the legislation seeks to ensure that emergency responders can fulfill their duties without fear of job loss. House Bill 5905 has been referred to the House Labor Committee for further consideration.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MSUFCU Launches Financial Literacy Program To Empower Communities

MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) has unveiled “The Culture of Finances,” an ambitious program designed to enhance financial literacy and empowerment within the communities it serves. Led by MSUFCU’s team of financial educators, the program offers comprehensive instruction on critical topics such as budgeting, understanding credit, managing debt, fraud prevention, and setting effective financial goals.

The fall 2024 cohort is set to begin on Tuesday, Sept. 3, with registration open until Friday, Aug. 23. Open to all community members, the program provides flexible learning options, available both in person and online.

The adult course spans 12 weeks with five mandatory sessions, while the youth course lasts eight weeks with four mandatory sessions. Upon completion, participants are eligible to enter a drawing for a $500 prize.

For more information, visit: msufcu.org/thecultureoffinances.

Reporting for WGRT – 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