The Blue Water Area YMCA And McMorran Plaza Team Up For Health And Fitness

Fitness enthusiasts in Port Huron can now enjoy free exercise programs this summer at McMorran Plaza, thanks to a partnership between the City of Port Huron and the YMCA of the Blue Water Area. The initiative aims to promote health and wellness within the community.

Residents can choose from a variety of exercise programs instructed by the knowledgeable staff of the YMCA. Whether it’s cardio, strength training, or yoga, participants can browse or register for their preferred program which will commence on June 1st.

A YMCA membership is not required to participate in these free programs. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals from all backgrounds can take advantage of the opportunity to improve their fitness levels.

Being a nonprofit organization, the Blue Water Area YMCA and their Open Arms Campaign rely on the members of the community to help sponsor these programs for all to enjoy. If you would like to donate or support the YMCA, visit: bluewaterymca.com. 

Photo: Sheila Potrykus-Volker

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

PHASD Announces Summer Food Service Program

In an effort to ensure food security for children and disabled individuals, the Port Huron Area School District has announced the availability of free meals. This program is open to children aged 18 and under, as well as persons up to the age of 26 who are enrolled in a recognized educational program for the mentally or physically disabled.

The meals, which will be provided without any form of discrimination, will be available regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability. 

To find the locations, dates, and times of the meal service in the Port Huron area, residents are encouraged to visit the district’s Facebook page. The page will provide a comprehensive list of all the locations where free meals can be obtained.

This initiative aims to alleviate hunger and support vulnerable individuals within the community, ensuring that no child or disabled student goes without a nutritious meal.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Grant Funding Available To Help Remove Barriers To Employment For At-Risk Michiganders

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) is calling on organizations to apply for the Barrier Removal and Employment Success grant program, which aims to assist Michiganders in overcoming obstacles to employment. The $14.6 million program will begin accepting applications starting Monday, May 22nd.

LEO Director Susan Corbin emphasized the significance of the investment, stating, 

“The $14.6 million Barrier Removal and Employment Success investment provides critical resources to partner organizations across the state who are joining us to close equity gaps and ensure all Michiganders have a path to economic prosperity.” 

By eliminating employment barriers, the program aims to create more opportunities for individuals to secure well-paying careers while addressing talent shortages faced by employers statewide.

Eligible applicants for funding include community-based organizations, educational institutions, Michigan Works! agencies, private for-profit and nonprofit agencies, as well as experienced providers of supportive services. The application deadline is Monday, July 24th.  

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

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Join Friends Of The St. Clair River For the 2023 Sturgeon Fest

On Saturday, June 3rd, Friends of the St. Clair River welcomes you to the highly anticipated 10th annual Sturgeon Festival will captivate visitors with an up-close encounter with Michigan’s majestic lake sturgeon, the gentle giant of the Great Lakes. This event serves as a vital platform to raise awareness and promote the restoration efforts surrounding this threatened species.

Take a ride aboard the Huron Lady Sturgeon Cruise, offering a unique opportunity to witness biologists in action as they catch, tag, measure, and release these magnificent creatures. The cruise will take you beneath the iconic Blue Water Bridges, providing an unforgettable experience.

Tickets are $35 and available for two time slots: 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Don’t miss this rare chance to connect with these remarkable fish and the dedicated biologists working tirelessly for their conservation.

For more information, visit: huronlady.com/cruises.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell