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Local News

Scholarship Funds Available From The Community Foundation Of St. Clair County

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has announced that there are still a limited number of scholarship funds available for the upcoming 2023/24 academic year. The Foundation encourages interested applicants to apply for the scholarships as soon as possible, as available funds will vary throughout the year.

The scholarship selection process will take place several times a year, with the Summer Selection Deadline set for July 31st, and the Fall Selection Deadline for September 30th. There are a variety of scholarships available, including the Alexander & Celestine Lamere Fund, the Blue Water Shipmaster’s Fund, and the Douglas & Elda Webb Scholarship.

Applicants must meet certain criteria, including a minimum GPA, residency, and attendance at specific schools. The first round of scholarship review will occur in the summer, with a second round held in the fall if funds remain. 

For more information, contact Heather Hayek at (810) 984-4761 or email: heather@stclairfoundation.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Mental Health Resources Available Through MDHHS

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The initiative has been observed nationally since 1949 and aims to promote mental health education and support to increase individual well-being and decrease the stigma often associated with seeking help for mental illness.

MDHHS has invested in initiatives that support mental health and well-being by expanding access and eligibility to programs that provide care. 

The department has developed a new Bureau of Children’s Coordinated Health Policy and Supports, which has issued $6 million in grants for community mental health service programs to explore innovative ways to support children and families in crisis. Additionally, the bureau is overseeing efforts to improve behavioral health supports for youth and families with involvement in the child welfare system.

MDHHS has implemented three statewide lines, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Michigan Peer Warmline, and Frontline Strong Together Crisis Line. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Supporting The YMCA Helps Support Our Children

The YMCA is making a difference in the Blue Water Area by offering programs that aim to create a better future for children and teenagers. 

The Y’s programs promote positive behaviors and values, support child development, and encourage children to explore their talents and interests. Their licensed child care and early learning programs prioritize early brain development and provide a safe and healthy environment for children to learn foundational skills, develop trusting relationships, and build self-reliance through values like caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

The Y also offers opportunities for children to stay active and develop healthy habits through swim, sports, and play programs that promote good sportsmanship and teamwork, building the whole child from the inside out.

In addition to these programs, the Y provides a range of camp options that allow children to discover new talents, explore nature, gain independence, and create lasting friendships. 

If you would like to support the many programs the Blue Water Area YMCA offers, visit: bluewaterareaymca.com.

Michigan $10,000 Down Payment Assistance Program Expanded

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has announced an expansion of its MI 10K DPA program to help low and middle-income homebuyers purchase homes. The program, which provides down payment assistance to eligible homebuyers, was previously offered exclusively to 236 zip codes, but will now be available statewide.

Housing affordability is a major issue in Michigan, with 48% of renters and 18% of homeowners paying more than 30% of their income on housing. By expanding the MI 10K DPA program, the MSHDA hopes to make homeownership more accessible for Michigan residents.

To qualify for the MI 10K DPA program, borrowers must complete a Homebuyer Education class and have no more than $20,000 in liquid cash assets. Restrictions and income limits also apply. Reservations made prior to the expansion for the $7,500 DPA program will remain in effect. 

For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/homeownership.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Get Ready For Art On The River

Citizens for a Vibrant Community is hosting the annual Art on the River festival in Port Huron, Friday, June 9th – 11th. The three-day event will feature a variety of local artists, crafters, and musicians on the shores of the St. Clair River at Merchant Street and Kiefer Park.

The family-friendly festival offers attendees the opportunity to participate in hands-on art workshops, listen to live music, and enjoy a variety of food options. The event’s schedule includes art and craft displays, as well as beverage tents throughout the weekend.

The hours for the event are:

  • Friday- 3pm – 9pm
  • Saturday- 10am – 11pm
  • Sunday- 10am – 4pm  

Art on the River is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the artistic talents of the local community and the beauty of the St. Clair River while spending time with family and friends.

For more information, visit: artontheriverph.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sports Cars, Hot Rods, And More At Upcoming Mainstreet Memories Car Show

The Mainstreet Memories Car Show is back on Saturday, July 29th, from 10am – 4pm at the Acheson Ventures Waterfront Property in Downtown Port Huron. 

If you own a pre-48 hot rod, street rod, pro street, pro touring or rat rod, you are welcome to participate in the show. The registration process is straightforward, and all years, makes, and models of vehicles are welcomed. The deadline for registration is July 3rd.

The entry fee for the event is $15 for pre-registration before the July 3rd deadline, and $20 for day-of-show registration. Pre-registered entries will receive premium goody bags. 

Music will be provided by Scott Kool, along with door prizes, and a 50/50 raffle. There will also be local restaurants, food trucks, a pancake breakfast, a corn roast, hospitality tent, and a farmers’ market. All donations from the event will support the Council on Aging, Inc. Parking will open at 7 am. 

For more information, visit: mainstreetmemoriesph.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell