Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II Launches “Reconnect on Campus” Week to Boost Michigan Reconnect Scholarship

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II has kick-started “Reconnect on Campus” week, an initiative aimed at highlighting the tuition-free Michigan Reconnect scholarship and fostering engagement at 27 community and tribal colleges across Michigan. 

Emphasizing the significance of higher education and skilled credentials, Lt. Governor Gilchrist stated, “Higher education and skilled credentials are the key to securing a better future for working families and ensuring the economic vibrancy of our state for decades to come.” 

To promote tuition-free opportunities, the participating colleges will host a series of events throughout the week. This concerted effort, organized by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and supported by various educational organizations, business leaders, and former and current Reconnectors, aims to connect working-age adults with the necessary resources to successfully embark on their community college journey.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov/reconnect.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

City of Port Huron Commences Water Main Replacement Project on Russell Court

The City of Port Huron has initiated a significant infrastructure upgrade with the replacement of the water main on Russell Court, spanning from 10th Avenue to Stone Street. 

The project encompasses the installation of a new water main, partial replacement of the aggregate roadway, concrete pavement, and the enhancement of ADA ramps, drive approaches, as well as curb and gutter. The project is funded through the City of Port Huron’s utility fund.

To facilitate the construction activities, temporary road closures will be implemented. 10th Avenue in the vicinity of the project area and Stone Street will be closed for specific periods. Motorists are advised to follow the posted detour signs to navigate around the work zone. 

Russell Court will remain closed to through traffic throughout the duration of the project. Completion of the entire undertaking is expected by August 25th.

For more information, contact the Department of Public Works at: (810) 984-9730.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Register For The Amateur Sand Sculpting And Cornhole Contest At Blue Water SandFest

The Blue Water SandFest is coming to town again, and you are encouraged to register for the Amateur Sand Sculpting Contest and Cornhole Tournament taking place Saturday, August 5th, at the Fort Gratiot Light Station County Park.  

Children, teens and adults are welcome to try their hand at creating a unique sand sculpture. Awards will be given to first, second and third place. Registration is $10 per person for the sand sculpting contest, with the registration deadline being July 31st for both events.

The Cornhole Tournament also takes place Saturday, August 5th. Teams with participants ages 18 and up are invited to enter the contest. Registration is $50 per team. Tournament play is bracket with a two-game elimination. Check-in begins at 12:30 PM, with games starting promptly at 1:00 PM. The tournament is limited to 32 teams, so register today!

For more information, visit: bluewatersandfest.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Discover a Breathtaking View at Port Sanilac Lighthouse Tower

The Port Sanilac Lighthouse Tower, with its awe-inspiring view, is a must-see. Visitors can climb the tower for a magical 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. On Fridays from noon to 4pm, visitors can catch a guided tour of the Lighthouse, hosted by the Sanilac County Historical Society volunteers.

For a mere $5 admission fee, adults can experience this historic site and create memories that will last a lifetime. Admission is free for children under the age of 12, but they must be accompanied by an adult and at least 36” in height. No reservations or tickets are needed.

Closed-toe shoes are required for the tour to ensure the safety of all visitors. Lighthouse tours are available until September 1st, so check them out today!

For more information, visit: sanilaccountymuseum.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Registration Opens for Michigan State University Extension’s Conservation Stewards Program in St. Clair County

Michigan State University Extension’s Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) in St. Clair County is now accepting registrations. 

This 10-week program, in partnership with the St. Clair County Parks and Recreation Commission and other organizations, offers participants the opportunity to learn about local conservation heritage, Michigan’s natural communities, and engage in community science projects.

The CSP is a hybrid program that combines virtual self-paced lessons with in-person evening sessions held on Wednesdays from September 13th to November 15th. Two Saturday field trips within St. Clair County will also be organized on September 23rd and October 7th. Participants will complete applied capstone projects related to restoring and conserving Michigan’s ecosystems under the guidance of a local mentor.

Registration closes on August 30th, or when the class is full. Partial scholarship opportunities are available. 

For more information, visit: canr.msu.edu/csp.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell