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

Marwood Nursing & Rehab Hosts 15th Annual Men & Women Who Cook Fundraising Event

Get ready for a delightful experience as Marwood Nursing & Rehab presents its 15th annual Men & Women Who Cook fundraising event on Wednesday, August 16th. This year’s theme is “Gourmet Breakfast for Dinner,” promising a unique culinary adventure that guests won’t want to miss.

The event will feature a variety of mouthwatering dishes prepared by talented chefs from your favorite local organizations and businesses including Josh Chapman, Lisa Beedon, Scott Shigley, and many more. In addition to the culinary delights, attendees can also enjoy a silent auction, an Electric Bike raffle, and music provided by Ultimate Sounds DJs.

The primary goal of this year’s fundraiser is to raise $50,000 to purchase a second transit passenger van for resident appointments. Tickets for the event are $75 per person.

For more information, visit: mclaren.org/marwoodevent. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Gretchen Whitmer Establishes MiLEAP: Michigan’s Path to Lifelong Education and Advancement

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed an executive order creating a new department called the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, or MiLEAP.

This department’s primary objective is to improve educational outcomes for individuals from preschool through postsecondary education, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to “make it in Michigan.”

MiLEAP will achieve this goal by establishing clear metrics, fostering collaboration with leaders from various sectors at the local, regional, and state levels, and developing a shared action plan. The department will work closely with the Michigan Department of Education and the State Board of Education, complementing their long-term planning efforts.

MiLEAP aims to provide pathways to tuition-free higher education and forge strong partnerships between the education system and employers to facilitate good-paying, high-skill, and in-demand job opportunities.

MiLEAP will also collaborate with the Growing Michigan Together Council, focusing on strengthening preschool to postsecondary learning while simultaneously growing the state’s economy and population. 

For more information about MiLEAP, click here. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Juneteenth Declared State Holiday In Michigan As Governor Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Legislation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by state Senator Sylvia Santana and state Representative Helena Scott, designating June 19th as Juneteenth, a state holiday in Michigan. 

Juneteenth is an occasion to recognize and celebrate Black history and culture, as well as commemorate the end of slavery in America, highlighting the fundamental values of freedom, liberty, and equality that are cherished by all.

Governor Whitmer expressed the significance of Juneteenth, stating that it is a time for celebration and reflection while also urging the community to take action. Throughout her tenure, Governor Whitmer has been focused on fostering equity and equal opportunity for all Michiganders. The state has made investments in communities across regions, worked to close racial gaps in healthcare and education, and banned race-based discrimination against natural hair.

Moving forward, June 19th will forever be recognized as Juneteenth in Michigan. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sperry’s Moviehouse Port Huron’s Second Floor Getting a PLAYful Makeover

Exciting news for adults looking for a place to hang out to enjoy some gaming and adult beverages. 

Sperry’s Moviehouse, located at 301 Huron Ave, is undergoing a makeover! The second floor of the theater is getting an adult-focused glow-up with a new installation of more than 10 Hollywood-themed pinball machines, pool tables, and a virtual jukebox. Not only that, but the bar is reopening too, with a new menu in the works. 

The updated installation will open sometime after Thursday, July 13th, so be sure to check in with Sperry’s Moviehouse for updates, and mark your calendars. In the meantime, you can still enjoy the theater’s movies on the big screen and hit up the arcade on the lower level. Head down to Sperry’s Moviehouse in Port Huron for a new exciting atmosphere to get your game on.

For more information, visit: sperrysmoviehouse.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell