Local News

United Way of St. Clair County, as board chairperson for the Federal Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), has received notification of the release of $82,214 by the federal government to provide grants for eligible agencies for St. Clair County.  These funds are to be used to provide for homeless shelters, soup kitchens, food pantries and organizations helping individuals with emergency utility and mortgage assistance.

This category of funding (EFSP) is provided annually through a provision in the federal budget, which is targeted to address the needs of families impacted by unemployment and emergency medical events.  The funds are determined for each County through a formula based on the number of funds allocated by congress and the rate of unemployment within that particular County.

Agencies previously receiving funding through EFSP dollars are: Blue Water Safe Horizons, The Harbor, Salvation Army, Downriver Helping Hands, Downriver Bread of Life Nutrition Center, Blue Water Community Food Depot (Port Huron), Harbor Impact Ministries, Trinity United Methodist Food Pantry (Algonac), SOS Marysville Food Pantry, Blue Water Area Rescue Mission, Detroit Rescue Mission, Mid City Nutrition Program, and the C3 Connection.  All organizations are required to apply using the application process available online, uwstclair.org/EFSP; instructions are provided.  All applications must be submitted to United Way of St. Clair County by 4:30 p.m. on June 25, 2019 for consideration

Literacy and Beyond’s’ 2GEN Learning Center in Port Huron celebrated twelve GED graduates Thursday night. The program prepares women for the GED test by offering one-on-one tutoring and small group classes along with support programs like individual counseling services, free lunch, and incentives for good attendance. Women with preschool-aged children also receive free childcare and a class for moms and kids together.

This year’s graduates shared many heartfelt thanks to the staff at Literacy and Beyond for their constant encouragement and support as they worked toward their educational goals. The students were also awarded scholarships totaling over $4,000 from St. Clair County Community College, The Community Foundation of St. Clair County, and the Nancy L. Hinkley Memorial Scholarship Fund. The program is funded by generous donors and grants from local community foundations.

A new representative has been chosen for the St. Clair County Board of Commissioners. Jorja Baldwin, Ft. Gratiot Township Supervisor, will fill the seat vacated by Karl Tomion. When Tomion resigned last month, three finalists were in the running for his position in the county’s second commission district. That district encompasses Burtchville, Ft. Gratiot, and the northern part of Port Huron. Reports say Baldwin was elected at the meeting Thursday night by a 4-1 vote over the other two finalists, Kenneth Cummings and Robert Mosurak. She will fulfill Tomion’s original term which lasts until the end of 2020. In light of the appointment to the board, Baldwin will be leaving her position as Ft. Gratiot Township Supervisor.

Studio 1219 in downtown Port Huron is abuzz with excitement as they have received regional recognition through a nomination in WDIV Local 4’s “Vote 4 the Best” contest in the arts and entertainment category. Studio 1219 is a 501 (C) (3) Non-Profit art gallery and educational facility that seeks to promote the emerging and mid-career artists of Michigan while also providing a well-rounded art atmosphere for all ages and economic backgrounds, through art experiences and programs. Gina Panoff, Executive Director of Studio 1219 said by people voting,“ it will spread the word about the very important arts and culture facility right in Port Huron. Panoff said that, “if the studio won, this would help spread the word about the arts culture, not only in Michigan but also in Port Huron.” The studio has over 150 different artists currently displayed and offers a variety of resources to the community. You can vote once per hour, per category until July 14 by visiting www.studio1219.com and clicking on the “Vote 4 the Best” link.

Looking for a fun event this weekend?  You can savor a taste of summer at the St. Clair Beer and Wine Fest.  The event takes place on Saturday, June 22 from 4:30-11 p.m. at the Riverview Plaza Courtyard.  Presented by the St. Clair Chamber of Commerce, this event offers over 100 local beer and wine vendors such as Roak Brewing Co., Griffin Claw, Great Lakes Brewing Co., Atwater, and many more. Attendees will enjoy live entertainment from Rockstar and The Dave Hamilton Band, along with games like cornhole and giant Jenga, as they sample food from vendors including War Water Brewery, Drifters, Pizza Hut and Black & Bleu BBQ.  Tickets for the St. Clair Beer & Wine Fest are $45 and include 10 drink tickets for 5 oz. samples, a keepsake glass, and access to all activities. Tickets can be purchased online. This event is for those age 21 and over. For more information, visit stclairbeerandwine.com

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County recently approved nearly $250,000 in traditional scholarships for the upcoming 2019/2020 school year. Of the 76 individual recipients, 32 percent are returning college students. Board Chair for the Community Foundation Mike Cansfield said the Foundation has “moved well beyond one-time scholarships for graduating seniors.” Their “focus on student success through the Complete Your Degree program, attracting talent through the Come Home Award and supporting those individuals pursuing skilled trades or other certification programs.” The Foundation reached out to 152 recipients who graduated high school between 2013 and 2015. Of the 65 who responded, 92 percent have graduated with at least an associate degree with most earning a bachelor’s within four years.