New Century Art Gallery Awarded $25,000 In Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program
Main Street America and American Express revealed the recipients of the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program on Wednesday, November 1st, with New Century Art Gallery in Marine City emerging as one of the winners.
The $25,000 grant aims to bolster small businesses, and Jeanne Burris Johnson, expressing gratitude, outlined plans to expand classes, community programs, and collaborations in the St. Clair County area.
Twenty-five small business owners nationwide, including New Century Art Gallery, were awarded these grants, totaling $625,000. With this announcement, the program’s contributions in 2023 reach over $2.3 million, supporting 680 small businesses.
Launched in 2021 to aid post-pandemic recovery, the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program exemplifies American Express’ commitment to empowering independent business owners through various initiatives, including the Coalition to Back Black Businesses and Backing Historic Small Restaurants.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Michigan Department Of Health And Human Services Expands Vehicle Purchase Assistance Program To $4000
In a bid to enhance accessibility for residents in need, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has raised the ceiling for its Direct Supportive Services (DSS) for Vehicle Purchase Assistance to $4,000.
The updated criteria outline the eligibility requirements for individuals seeking financial aid for a vehicle, emphasizing the importance of prior approval from MDHHS, limited to one vehicle purchase per lifetime. Applicants must be recipients of specific MDHHS benefits, possess a valid Michigan driver’s license, and demonstrate the necessity for private transportation due to a lack of reliable public options.
This expansion aims to empower individuals to secure reliable transportation, particularly those engaged in employment or self-employment, reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering self-sufficiency among its residents.
For more information, contact your local DHS specialist.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Genomic Studies On European Ancestry Questioned: NHGRI Researchers Reveal Flaws In Previous Findings
In a groundbreaking revelation, researchers from the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) have challenged the accuracy of previous genomic studies on individuals with European ancestry.
The study, published in Nature Communications, highlights the oversight of treating Europeans as a genetically homogenous group in large-scale studies. By acknowledging mixed genetic lineages, known as admixture, the NHGRI team discovered that inferred connections between a genomic variant influencing lactose digestion and traits like height and cholesterol levels may be invalid.
Lead author Daniel Shriner, Ph.D., emphasizes the need to reevaluate prior genome-wide association studies, urging researchers to account for admixture in their analyses. The findings underscore the intricate genetic diversity within European populations, prompting a more nuanced approach to deciphering the links between genomic variants and traits.
For more information, visit: genome.gov.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Community Unites To Grant Terminally Ill Child One Last Christmas Wish
The Tires and Treads Community Project is rallying local support to fulfill the heartfelt Christmas wish of Leo, a terminally ill 8-year-old boy. Leo’s mother, with the hope of giving her son one more Christmas, is seeking assistance from kind-hearted individuals willing to provide gifts for Leo and his three siblings, aged 15, 3, and 2.
The project organizer, Fran Morris, is urging the community to come together and help make this Christmas celebration a reality for Leo and his family. Gifts can be donated in person by contacting the organizer for pickup, or they can be sent via Amazon to the Tires and Treads Community Project at 7114 Imlay City Rd. Clyde, MI 48049.
As the community unites to bring joy to Leo and his family during a challenging time, the spirit of giving shines brightly, showing the power of compassion and support.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
Meijer Honors Veterans With Special Discount On Veterans Day
On Veterans Day, Meijer is extending its appreciation to military Veterans and their families by offering a special 10 percent discount on in-store purchases. The promotion is available on Saturday, November 11th, at all Meijer locations across the Midwest.
Meijer, a company committed to supporting its communities, takes pride in being a Veteran-friendly employer. In recognition of the sacrifices made by Veterans and their families to ensure the safety and freedom of our great nation, Meijer wishes to give back.
To benefit from this discount, Veterans and their family members need only inform the cashier at the time of checkout, and no coupon is required. Some exclusions may apply, but Meijer hopes that this gesture of appreciation will convey their gratitude for the dedication and service of our military members and their families.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell