Two St. Clair County Technical Education Center students, Chelsea Montroy and Nolynn Allen, recently competed at the HOSA State Leadership Conference in Traverse City. They showcased their project on the role of a Labor and Delivery Nurse in the Health Careers Display event. Although they didn’t secure top spots, the experience helped them build leadership, communication, and presentation skills. Advisors Kami Peters and Stacey Barth praised the event for offering valuable growth opportunities for students pursuing healthcare careers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Caro man was convicted of murder in the death of his one-year-old son. Brian Elswick, 28, was found guilty on April 23rd of open murder, child abuse, and lying to police. The child was rushed to a hospital after being found unresponsive at their home in February of ’24. Authorities noted signs of abuse, and the child was later airlifted but died on from a traumatic brain injury. Elswick faces life in prison without parole when sentenced on May 22nd.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Vinculum Care, LLC, a local provider of home help services, has been awarded a $211,000 grant from the IMPART Alliance, selected from a competitive pool of over 900 small business applicants. The funding will support the company’s mission to expand and improve services for seniors and individuals in need of care across St. Clair County. Key initiatives include growing its home help offerings, enhancing caregiver training programs, investing in innovative technologies such as virtual reality, and creating new job opportunities for direct care workers. “We focus on providing excellent care, and that’s only possible with well-trained direct care workers,” said Elia Hussain, CEO of Vinculum Care, LLC. “This grant allows us to continue investing in our team and the tools they need to provide compassionate, high-quality support.” The award highlights Vinculum Care’s leadership and commitment to improving long-term care services in the region.

The United Way of St. Clair County wrapped up its ’24 fundraising campaign at a special event marking its 100th anniversary. Campaign Chair Deb Johnson announced they raised $870,000, just shy of their $900,000 goal. Johnson, also the Executive Director of St. Clair County Community Mental Health, praised the community’s efforts despite economic challenges. The funds will support local initiatives like emergency housing, food assistance, and child abuse prevention.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet