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Local News

Port Huron Schools Unveils “Launch Into Kindergarten” Theme For Annual Kindergarten Round-Up

Port Huron Schools are preparing for their much-anticipated annual Kindergarten Round-Up with this year’s theme being “Launch Into Kindergarten.” 

Parents are encouraged to RSVP through their child’s home school or the district administration building to ensure a personalized “goodie bag” for their little ones. The bags include student t-shirts, book giveaways, and a parent packet outlining what to expect.  Alongside these treats, many locations will provide attending students with their first-ever bus ride experience. 

Digital enrollment is available now on the PHASD website under Enrollment. Children turning five on or before September 1st, are eligible. Parents should bring the child’s original birth certificate, two proofs of residency, and vaccination records to complete enrollment.

For more information, visit: phasd.us.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Survey Shows Local Media Commands Higher Public Trust Than National Outlets, Despite Decline In Numbers

A recent survey conducted by PRFire.com unveils a nuanced perspective on media trust, highlighting the enduring credibility of local news outlets in contrast to their national counterparts. With 3,000 participants, the survey indicates a substantial 60% of respondents express confidence in local media, surpassing the 47% trust level for national outlets. 

Despite a concerning decline in local news outlets nationwide, this revelation underscores the pivotal role played by local journalism in informing communities.

However, the trust in local media is not uniform across the United States. While an impressive 83% of Delaware residents trust their local media, this figure drops to 50% in states like Tennessee, Oregon, and Idaho, revealing regional disparities. Notably, in Michigan, local publications enjoy high regard, with 71% of respondents affirming their trustworthiness, positioning them among the most trusted media outlets in the country.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Urges Michiganders To Claim Working Families Tax Credit For Maximum Refunds

Governor Gretchen Whitmer is urging eligible Michiganders to claim both the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), also known as the Working Families Tax Credit, as they file their 2023 individual income tax returns. 

By doing so, taxpayers may reduce their federal and state taxes, potentially pay no tax, or even secure a tax refund. Last year, Governor Whitmer signed legislation that quintupled Michigan’s state match of the federal EITC, leading to an average refund increase of over $600.

“The Working Families Tax Credit delivers an average combined refund of $3,150 to 700,000 Michigan families,” Governor Whitmer emphasized. “This credit directly benefits half the kids in Michigan, providing extra financial support for families to cover essential expenses. I encourage every eligible Michigander to take advantage of the credit when filing this year.”

For more information, visit: irs.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Department Of Treasury Holds Millions In Unclaimed Assets, Search To Reclaim Yours

The Michigan Department of Treasury has revealed a treasure trove of millions of dollars in unclaimed assets, comprising dormant bank accounts, forgotten uncashed checks, valuables left in safe deposit boxes, and neglected stock certificates. 

These assets were deemed abandoned and unclaimed by the institutions initially entrusted with them, prompting their transfer to the state, as mandated by law. The Michigan Department of Treasury now stands as the custodian of these overlooked riches, committed to reuniting them with their rightful owners or heirs upon rightful claims. A simple query could unlock a windfall for those with forgotten treasures awaiting recovery. 

Individuals are encouraged to search their name, a maiden name, or the name of a business or nonprofit. There is never a charge to search for and claim property.

To find out if you have unclaimed property, visit: unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Origin Of Groundhog Day And Its Significance To The Onset Of Spring

Today America celebrates its quirky tradition which falls on February 2nd each year, Groundhog Day. While not a federal holiday, the nation turns its attention to Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where the renowned groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, will make his annual prediction. 

Festivities commence at 3 a.m., offering free entry for spectators, with the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club hosting talent shows, banquets, and performances surrounding the much-awaited announcement. 

Groundhog Day, rooted in the Christian holiday Candlemas, aligns with the midway point between winter solstice and spring equinox. The age-old tradition, dating back to February 2nd, 1887, continues to captivate Americans as they eagerly await Phil’s weather forecast – six more weeks of winter or the promise of an early spring.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Beginnings Theatre Takes Center Stage With ‘I Remember When’ A Stirring Tribute To Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

In a captivating showcase of historical significance, New Beginnings Theatre is set to present “I Remember When” on Tuesday, February 20th, at 6:00 PM in the St. Clair County Community College Fine Arts Building located at 323 Erie Street, Port Huron. 

This moving stage play unfolds a series of riveting vignettes delving into factual and impactful occurrences from history. The dramatized scenes aim to extract and portray pivotal moments that reshaped the narrative for African Americans, creating a paradigm shift in the nation. 

The performance promises to elicit a profound emotional response, echoing the sounds of hope and victory, as it pays homage to the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Attendees can anticipate reliving history through a lens that combines passion, emotion, and celebration.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell