5 Tips To Help Your Child Transition Back To School

As students prepare to head back to school, many families face the challenge of adjusting to new routines and environments. This transition can be stressful, but there are ways to make it smoother for both parents and children.

Experts from the American Psychological Association suggest parents practice the first-day routine to ease morning stress, ensure their children get enough rest, and visit the school beforehand. Building connections with neighbors can also help children feel more comfortable. Open communication is key—talking to your child about their fears and offering empathy helps them feel supported. Finally, getting involved in the school community and seeking professional help if needed can further ease the transition. These steps ensure a positive start to the school year, building confidence and reducing anxiety.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Lifts Lane Restrictions On Labor Day Weekend To Ease Travel

This Labor Day weekend, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will temporarily remove lane restrictions on 60% of road and bridge projects statewide. Beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, 96 of 161 ongoing projects will have restrictions lifted to reduce traffic delays for holiday travelers.

“Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to enjoy the last of our Pure Michigan summer,” said Whitmer. “We’re pulling back construction barrels to ensure safe and smooth travel, but rest assured, we’ll be back to fixing the roads come Tuesday.”

Drivers are reminded of the Mackinac Bridge closure on Labor Day morning for the Annual Bridge Walk, and to drive safely through any remaining work zones.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Eastern Michigan Small Business Hub Unveils 2024 Small Business Grant Program

The Eastern Michigan Small Business Hub has launched its 2024 Small Business Grant Program, aimed at fostering growth for small businesses in the region. 

The program will provide grants of up to $20,000 to businesses across six Michigan counties, with a total fund of $213,158 available. Most awards will fall between $5,000 and $10,000, with grants distributed competitively based on the highest scoring applications in each county.

To be eligible, businesses or their owners must be located in Shiawassee, Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, Sanilac, or St. Clair counties. Grant funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including equipment purchases, consulting services, and employee certification fees. 

The application window closes on Sept. 24, 2024, giving businesses just under a month to submit their proposals.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

United Way Of St. Clair County Celebrates 100th Anniversary And Launches 2024 Campaign

The United Way of St. Clair County is marking its 100th anniversary with a special celebration and 2024 campaign kick-off. 

The event will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at Solitude Links Banquet Center located at 5810 Flinchbaugh Rd. Kimball, MI. Guests can enjoy a plated dinner, cash bar, and a historical exhibit showcasing the organization’s century of impact. The program will also feature the introduction of the 2024 Campaign Chair and plans for the upcoming fundraising efforts.

Cocktails begin at 5 p.m., with dinner and the program starting at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $35, and attendees are encouraged to wear casual to cocktail attire. Online registration is available at uwstclair.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Friends Of The St. Clair River Hosts Annual Native Plant And Rain Barrel Sale

Friends of the St. Clair River is hosting its annual Native Plant and Rain Barrel Sale Sunday, Sept. 8, noon – 3 p.m., offering an ideal opportunity to enhance your garden. 

Native plants, adapted to Michigan’s climate, are easy to maintain, resist pests, and provide vital food for wildlife. Available for purchase are wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and pre-assembled garden kits for butterflies, pollinators, and rain gardens.

The event also features 55-gallon rain barrels from Upcycle Products to help conserve water and reduce stormwater pollution. Rain barrels must be pre-ordered for pick-up on Sept. 8. Proceeds support pollinator-friendly gardens in the community.

Whether you’re planting a pollinator garden or starting with a rain barrel, this sale promotes sustainable gardening practices while benefiting local ecosystems.

For more information, visit: scriver.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Unilever Recalls Popsicle Jolly Rancher Frozen Confections Due To Undeclared Milk Allergen

Unilever U.S. is recalling 137,000 cases of Popsicle Jolly Rancher Frozen Confection Pops (single-serve) because they may contain milk, which is not listed on the label. This poses a serious risk for individuals with milk allergies or sensitivities.

The affected products were sold through ice cream trucks, concession stands, and grab-and-go freezers nationwide between Feb. 1 and Aug. 15, 2024. The recall does not impact the 18-count multi-pack sold in grocery stores.

There have been two reported allergic reactions. Consumers should not consume the recalled products, other Unilever or Popsicle products are not affected by this recall. 

For more information concerning details on the recall, visit: PopsicleRecall.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell