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Local News

United Way Of Sarnia-Lambton Welcomes New Board Members And Announces Leadership Changes

The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton convened its Annual General Meeting, marking a pivotal moment as it welcomed two new volunteer Board Members and announced significant leadership transitions. 

Mike Edgar, Manager at Pembina Pipeline Corporation, assumes the role of 2024 Campaign Chair, succeeding Vicky Ducharme, who remains on the Board. Melanie Tiggelaar, Co-owner of The Bagel Factory, joins the Board, replacing John Girard in accordance with term limits. Notably, Executive Director Dave Brown will transition to part-time hours, paving the way for Pamela Bodkin to assume the role on July 2, 2024. 

With anticipation building for the annual Donut Day fundraiser and Charity Takeover event, United Way President Jason Killingsworth hinted at forthcoming staffing updates, underscoring the organization’s commitment to community engagement and support.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Intervenes As DTE Electric Seeks Another Massive Rate Hike

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has taken a stand against DTE Electric’s latest rate hike proposal, filing notice of intervention with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). 

DTE’s application aims for an annual increase exceeding $450 million, following a recent $368 million rate hike approved merely four months prior. Attorney General Nessel, known for scrutinizing utility rate cases, highlights the potential burden on consumers, with DTE seeking over $800 million in increased rates within 13 months. Expressing concern over the lack of accountability and tangible benefits for customers, Nessel condemns the pattern of exorbitant rate requests without clear justification. 

As the investigation unfolds, Nessel vows to ensure customers aren’t subjected to undue financial strain, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in utility pricing.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Community College Offers On-Campus Housing For 2024-25 Academic Year

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is once again opening its doors to on-campus living for the upcoming academic year, making it the sole community college in Southeast Michigan to offer such accommodations. 

With a focus on providing a comprehensive college experience at an affordable cost, SC4 presents students with a choice between two vibrant downtown Port Huron residence halls on Bard Street and Huron Avenue. Housing options range from studios to two-bedroom units, empowering students to tailor their living arrangements to their preferences. 

SC4 College Housing Manager, Wesley Whetstone, emphasized the immersive nature of student housing, highlighting its benefits for those eager to engage fully in the SC4 community. Additionally, residents can enjoy access to local amenities and entertainment, along with discounted tuition rates and a range of complimentary services.

For more details, visit: sc4.edu/housing.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Police Host Special Needs And Autism Acceptance Day 2024

The Port Huron Police Department (PHPD) invites the community to join them for Special Needs and Autism Acceptance Day 2024 at Pine Grove Park on Saturday, April 20th, from 11 a.m. to 1 pm. 

The event offers an opportunity to meet first responders, explore police, fire, and EMS vehicles, and receive valuable safety information. Attendees can register for PHPD’s Occupant Alert Program along with engaging in games and activities. 

Representatives from community partners like Michigan Alliance for Families, ENNIS, St. Clair County RESA, The Arc of St. Clair County, and the YMCA will be present to discuss resources and services as well. 

For inquiries, and more information, contact Officer Sam Baker at (810) 984-9715 or bakers@porthuron.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

U.S. Education Battles Persistent Student Absenteeism Post-Pandemic

A troubling trend has established itself within U.S. education as chronic absenteeism continues to plague schools, despite efforts to regain normalcy post-pandemic, according to an article by The New York Times. 

Initial hopes for a swift return to regular attendance following the disruptions of 2020 were slammed as absentee rates stubbornly persisted. Research reveals a nationwide surge, with absenteeism soaring from 15% pre-pandemic to 26% in the 2021-22 school year. Shockingly, this trend has transcended socio-economic boundaries, impacting districts rich and poor alike. 

The duration of pandemic-induced closures proved to be an unreliable predictor, with districts experiencing varied absenteeism rates irrespective of closure length. Educators express concern as the issue persists into the current academic year, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to re-engage students and restore attendance norms.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer+ Program Offering $10,000 Down Payment Assistance For Homebuyers

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer+ program, geared towards low-to-moderate-income, first-time homebuyers within the city limits is offering up to $10,000 in down payment assistance. 

Applicants can utilize the funds towards down payments, closing costs, and/or pre-paid items. The program defines “first-time homebuyer” as someone who hasn’t owned real estate in the past three years. Applicants are required to invest a minimum of 3% of the home’s purchase price into the mortgage transaction and attend a homebuyer education class through Blue Water Community Action Agency. 

The assistance, forgivable after five years, comes with residency requirements and property standards. Properties purchased via Land Contract financing are ineligible, and the HUD-set maximum purchase price stands at $218,000. 

For more details, contact the Community Development Office at: (810) 984-9736.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell