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Local News

Blue Pumpkins Illuminate Awareness And Inclusivity During Halloween Celebrations

You may see children carrying blue buckets instead of the traditional orange this Halloween, and here’s why. Blue pumpkins are gaining symbolic importance in communities nationwide, serving as beacons for understanding and inclusivity during Halloween. While not tied to a specific campaign or nonprofit goal, families are using blue pumpkins to signify that a child in their care is on the autism spectrum. 

Although origins of the practice vary, it aims to mitigate challenges during trick-or-treating for nonverbal children with autism. Some families prefer blue pumpkin displays over personal indicators, sparking conversations about sensory considerations. 

However, it’s acknowledged that opinions vary, with some feeling blue pumpkins might create barriers. Ultimately, the choice to use blue pumpkins remains a personal one, fostering awareness and understanding in diverse Halloween celebrations.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County’s Economic Development Alliance Secures $3.2M For Innovative Business Center

The Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of St. Clair County celebrates a significant boost with a $3.2 million windfall from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) RAP 2.0 grant program. 

In a statewide initiative, nearly $100 million is being allocated for projects, focusing on vacant property development, rehabilitation of blighted buildings, and the creation of place-based public spaces.

They are set to transform a 1.7-acre parcel acquired from Acheson Ventures into a cutting-edge, three-story incubator and business hub. With funding from various sources, including the Federal EDA, James C. Acheson Trust, and MEDC CDBG Grant, the center will house EDA staff, offer office spaces for local entrepreneurs, and provide essential training and conference facilities for St. Clair County companies. Total funding for this transformative project amounts to $8,320,721.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Camp Cavell Hosts Exciting Fundraising Dinner October 22nd

Camp Cavell invites the community to an exciting fundraising dinner on October 22nd from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at 3335 Lakeshore Road. 

The event promises an evening filled with fun, delicious German inspired food, and an engaging auction. Attendees have a chance to win big with the 50/50 raffle. Tickets for the event are $25, offering an affordable way to support the camp’s initiatives.

Attendees can also secure FREE tickets by sponsoring the event. The money from this fundraiser will be used to: 

  • Start an endowment fund to secure land contract and ensure the future of Camp Cavell.
  • Provide camper scholarships for low-income families who cannot afford the full cost of camp.
  • Fix historical buildings that need urgent repairs and upgrades.

For more information, visit: campcavell.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Expands Michigan Reconnect, Allowing Young Adults Ages 21-24 to Access Tuition-Free Community College

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently launched “Opening Week,” an initiative to extend Michigan Reconnect, a tuition-free community college scholarship program. The expansion now includes adults aged 21 to 24, previously limited to those 25 and older. 

Governor Whitmer stated, “By lowering the age for Michigan Reconnect, we’re opening doors of opportunity for up to 350,000 more Michiganders to earn a tuition-free associates degree or skills certificate.” 

This move aligns with the state’s Sixty by 30 goal, aiming for 60% of adults to attain postsecondary education or training by 2030.

Established in February 2021, Michigan Reconnect has garnered significant success, resulting in increased funding, including $70 million for the latest expansion. Over 132,000 Michiganders have applied since its inception less than three years ago.

Applications can be found at: michigan.gov/reconnect.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Creative County Grant Program Opens Applications For 2024, Offering $75k To Boost Arts, Culture, And Heritage Across Lambton County

The Creative County Grant Program, born from the County of Lambton Cultural Plan in 2013, is set to empower local arts, culture, and heritage initiatives. With a focus on fostering uniqueness and innovation. 

In the 2024 intake, the Creative County Committee has allocated $75,000 for projects in specific quadrants: Central Lambton, South Lambton, North Lambton, and Sarnia, with each quadrant eligible for up to $10,000.

The remaining $35,000 is reserved for projects that exhibit cultural benefits across all areas of Lambton County. The initiative aims to enrich the county’s identity, strengthen the creative community, and elevate the quality of life for all residents. 

Applications are open now until 4 p.m. on November 14th.

For more information, visit: lambtononline.ca.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sen. Ruth Johnson Proposes Prescription Importation System To Alleviate Medication Costs In Michigan

Senator Ruth Johnson has reintroduced crucial legislation aimed at establishing a prescription importation system in Michigan, offering significant savings on doctor-prescribed medications. 

Concerned about the financial strain on Michigan families due to skyrocketing prescription costs, Johnson emphasized the stark price difference between medications in the U.S. and Canada, with some drugs being up to 537% cheaper across the border. 

Senate Bill 563 proposes a Canadian drug importation program, requiring collaboration with the federal government to ensure safety measures. The move follows the lead of eight states that have already enacted similar laws, with six awaiting FDA approval. 

Johnson’s initiative seeks to provide relief to Michigan consumers struggling to afford essential medications, fostering accessibility and affordability.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell