Michigan’s Unemployment Rate Reaches A 23-Year Low

Michigan’s unemployment rate plummeted to 3.6% in June, marking the lowest rate in 23 years. The state’s labor force participation rate showed a continued increase, with an additional 23,000 workers joining the workforce. Furthermore, the economy saw a remarkable surge, adding 76,000 jobs year over year.

Impressively, Michigan’s labor force expanded by a record-breaking 85,000 during the first half of 2023, the highest ever for the first six months of a year since the data series began in the 1970s.

This economic success is attributed to the strategic investments made in manufacturing projects, housing developments, community revitalization, and worker empowerment. The upcoming balanced, bipartisan budget is expected to further boost economic development, lower costs for Michiganders, and improve essential infrastructure. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Tri-Share Child Care: A Groundbreaking Program Revolutionizing Access To Quality Child Care In St. Clair County

Discover Tri-Share Child Care, the innovative program transforming the landscape of child care in St. Clair County. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance access to affordable and high-quality child care by cost-sharing among the employee, the employer, and the state of Michigan.

For employers in St. Clair County, participating in Tri-Share means offering a new employee benefit that covers 33.33% of child care costs for eligible employees with dependent children aged 0-12. This initiative helps attract and retain valuable employees, contributing to economic impact and growth in the region.

Eligibility is based on family size and household income, ensuring that employees with incomes between 200% and 325% of the Federal Poverty Level can benefit from this program throughout its duration. This program can help ease the burden of child care expenses for those who qualify.

For more information, call: Bruce Seymore at (810) 982-9511.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month Sheds Light On Unique Struggles Faced By Racial And Ethnic Communities

In observance of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month this July, let’s raise awareness about the distinctive challenges confronted by racial and ethnic minority communities concerning mental illness.

Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as our stress management, interpersonal relationships, and decision-making.

Unfortunately, racial and ethnic minorities frequently experience inferior mental health outcomes due to various factors, such as limited access to quality mental health care services, cultural stigma surrounding mental health, discrimination, and inadequate knowledge about mental health issues.

St. Clair County Community Mental Health is dedicated to helping all members of the community no matter their race, color, or creed. They are here to help our minority communities by providing culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health care services, information, and resources.

For more information on mental health services, visit: scccmh.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Bills Allowing Alcohol Sales At College Sporting Events And Making Liquor-To-Go Permanent

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed bipartisan legislation that marks a significant change for college sporting events in Michigan. 

The new law permits alcohol sales at these events, leveling the playing field and bringing Michigan State University and the University of Michigan in line with other Big Ten schools. The move aims to enhance fairness, safety, and revenue generation. 

Governor Whitmer highlighted the potential for reduced binge drinking, as attendees will no longer feel the need to excessively consume alcohol before games. Reports from universities that have already implemented similar policies indicate a decline in alcohol-related incidents.

The legislation, Senate Bill 247, enables the issuance of liquor licenses to sporting venues on public university premises, benefiting both fans and the student experience. Furthermore, Governor Whitmer also signed Senate Bill 141, making the liquor-to-go policy permanent to support small businesses while adhering to CDC guidelines.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Annual St. Clair County 4-H And Youth Fair Brings Something For Everyone

Get ready for the highly anticipated 2023 St. Clair County 4H and Youth Fair, set to take place from July 17 – July 22nd, at Goodells County Park in Goodells.

This exciting event promises a week full of fun-filled attractions and activities for all ages, making it a must-attend for the entire family.

The fairgrounds will feature a wide range of thrilling activities, including carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and delicious food vendors. Attendees can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere as they explore the various animal shows, participate in interactive exhibits, and cheer on the talented youth showcasing their skills in competitions.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support local talent, enjoy exciting entertainment, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Mark your calendars and be sure to check out the St. Clair County 4H and Youth Fair!

For more information, visit: stclaircounty4hfair.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Record Number of SC4 Athletes Earn NJCAA Academic Awards

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is celebrating a historic achievement as a record-breaking twenty-seven of their Skippers athletes have been named recipients of National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) academic awards for the 2022-23 year. 

This is the highest number of academic honorees the Skippers have seen since the early 2000s. To qualify, these student-athletes completed a minimum of 24 credits and maintained an impressive 3.60 GPA or higher.

SC4’s dedication to academic excellence extends to their teams as well. Eight Skippers teams secured NJCAA Academic Team status for the 2022-23 year, boasting a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above.

For the complete list of individual award recipients, visit NJCAA All-Academic Awards, and for team rankings, check out NJCAA Academic Teams of the Year.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell