FDA Links ‘On the Go’ Ice Cream Cups To Widespread Listeria Outbreak

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified a concerning connection between “On the Go” ice cream cups and a widespread outbreak of foodborne illnesses. 

Real Kosher Ice Cream, a Brooklyn-based company, is at the center of the controversy as their products have been confirmed to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacterium. The FDA’s investigation revealed that this strain of Listeria matches those found in samples from two patients, one in New York and another in Pennsylvania, who fell seriously ill and required hospitalization.

Prompted by this alarming discovery, Real Kosher Ice Cream initiated a recall of specific ice cream products after evidence linked them to the sick individuals. The impacted ice cream was distributed across numerous states including Michigan, raising concerns about the extent of the outbreak’s reach.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Community Mental Health Expands Services With Talkspace

Seeking to address the mental health needs of Port Huron residents, Talkspace, a leading online therapy platform, is introducing an exclusive opportunity.

A free three-month trial of Talkspace’s services is now available for City of Port Huron residents ages 14 and up, providing easy access to professional therapy from the comfort of their homes.

With a focus on their unwavering commitment to supporting individuals dealing with serious mental illness, emotional disturbances, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and co-occurring disorders, Talkspace connects users with licensed therapists through secure messaging and live video sessions. The initiative underscores the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and making therapy more accessible.

St. Clair County Community Mental Health reiterates its commitment: Your Mental Health Matters.

Limited spots are available for this offer. Interested individuals can secure their free three-month trial by visiting: scccmh.org/talkspace. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Anonymous Donor Sponsors Vibrant Mural For 7th Street Bridge Tunnel, Call For Artists Now Open

In a community-driven initiative, an anonymous benefactor has pledged support for a captivating mural to adorn the tunnel beneath the 7th Street Bridge in Port Huron. Artists and visionaries are invited to submit their proposals, with a submission deadline of August 31st.

The selected design should creatively utilize all available surfaces, including walls, ceiling, and even the floor. While avoiding common motifs like lighthouses and sailboats, artists are encouraged to embrace uplifting and family-friendly themes. A budget of approximately $4000 is allocated for this project, so keep your ideas feasible.

Artists can seize this unique opportunity to collaborate, if preferred, and benefit from the tunnel’s sheltered workspace, guarding against both rain and sun. 

For proposal submissions, send a mock-up and proposed budget to: jody@ravencafeph.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Unemployment Agency Offers Online Guidance For First-Time Jobless Benefit Applicants

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) is introducing a new initiative to support workers applying for jobless benefits for the first time. 

Trained UIA instructors will now offer online coaching sessions to guide users through the necessary steps to qualify for payments. Available on Tuesdays through Fridays, these sessions offer participants ample time for questions and clarification.

The voluntary web-based orientations complement the UIA’s recently launched Claimant Roadmap, an intuitive, user-centric tool that simplifies the process of applying for and understanding benefits. While participating in the orientation is not mandatory for benefit eligibility, it provides valuable insights and eases the application process.

Julia Dale, UIA Director, emphasized the agency’s commitment to modernization and user-friendly processes, aiming to alleviate stress for benefit claimants. The coaching sessions are scheduled as follows:

  • Tuesdays: 9-11 a.m.
  • Wednesdays: 3-5 p.m.
  • Thursdays: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Fridays: 1-3 p.m.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

CaribeFest Sarnia: Dive Into Caribbean Culture

Experience the rhythm of the Caribbean at CaribeFest Sarnia on Friday, September 15th, from 1:30 to 8:004 p.m. This expo-style extravaganza promises an immersive cultural journey that celebrates the heart and soul of the Caribbean.

With an array of enticing offerings, attendees can indulge in delectable Caribbean cuisine, peruse through artisanal creations, and groove to the beats of vibrant dance and music performances. The event will be hosted at Lambton College’s Cestar Group Athletics & Fitness Complex, at 1457 London Road, Sarnia. 

Embrace the lively atmosphere and participate in hands-on activities that delve into the rich culture and history of the Caribbean. Be captivated by mesmerizing performances from Carnival Spice, Latin Fire Dance Company, In Da House Drumming, Merengue dancers Jonathan and Pierina, and the rhythm-packed Joyful Noise Drummers. Don’t miss out on this free event! 

For more information, visit: rayjon.org/caribefest.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation Surpasses $1 Million Milestone In Endowment Growth

In a remarkable display of philanthropy, the Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation (EMCF) has achieved a milestone in the world of legacy giving. From its modest beginnings in 2012 with a mere $100,000, the EMCF fund has grown over $1,153,185 over the past decade, marking a phenomenal growth of over 1,000%.

The EMCF’s eight nonprofit beneficiaries have thrived through effective management, establishing vital operational, reserve, and endowment funds that ensure both immediate needs and long-term sustainability. The collaboration of these nonprofits into a single foundation stands as an exceptional feat, reflecting the power of partnerships within the nonprofit realm.

Beyond financial support, the EMCF extends its impact through educational workshops, project partnerships, and grants. John Romine, EMCF Board Chairman, emphasizes the growth and community impact of the endowment, underscoring the shared dedication of nonprofits and donors to a brighter future.

Presently, the EMCF supports a range of vital nonprofit organizations, each contributing to the enrichment of Eastern Michigan:

  • A Beautiful Me, Inc.
  • Bridge Builders Counseling & Mentoring
  • New Life Christian Academy
  • Operation Transformation
  • SONS
  • Spero Pregnancy Center
  • Wonderful News Radio – 90.7 Hope FM / Thrive Radio
  • Youth for Christ East Michigan

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell