business news

The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Mental Health Repercussions On Society Are Still Lingering

As the world grapples with the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, a concerning trend emerges: a surge in mental health challenges across various demographics. 

According to kff.org, symptoms of anxiety and depression have soared, particularly among those facing household job loss, young adults, and women. Adolescent females, in particular, report heightened feelings of hopelessness and sadness compared to their male peers.

Furthermore, drug overdose deaths have sharply risen, more than doubling among adolescents, with disproportionately high rates among American Indian, Alaska Native, and Black communities. Alcohol-induced deaths also surged, notably impacting people of color and rural residents.

Despite efforts such as expanded telehealth and crisis hotlines, suicide rates, and self-harm instances are climbing again, especially among adolescent females. As the pandemic’s toll persists, the future of mental health services remains uncertain, with potential interruptions looming as emergency declarations end.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Port Huron Native Teams Up With Lifetime For New Original Films Celebrating African American Women

Acclaimed author Terry McMillan, a Port Huron native, has a new partnership venture with Lifetime. The collaboration aims to bring forth a series of new, original films focusing on the intricate love stories and lives of African American women, coinciding with Lifetime’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Born in Port Huron, Michigan, McMillan’s prolific literary career has also inspired hit films like “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” and “Waiting to Exhale.”

She highlighted the importance of authenticity in storytelling, praising Lifetime for providing a platform to share women’s narratives genuinely.

This isn’t the first time McMillan and Lifetime have joined forces; their previous collaboration in 2014 resulted in the film “A Day Late and a Dollar Short.” Now, under the banner of “Terry McMillan Presents,” upcoming movies will continue this tradition, with announcements regarding titles and casting expected later this year. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority Established For Community-Led Revitalization

A significant step towards revitalizing the Southside neighborhood of Port Huron has been taken with the establishment of the Port Huron Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority (NIA). Led by the City and supported by the Southside Initiative, the NIA comprises residents and community members dedicated to fostering engagement and driving redevelopment efforts.

At their inaugural meeting, board members collaborated with Double Haul Solutions to appoint officers, establish by-laws, and develop engagement strategies. Their primary goal is to facilitate active participation from residents, business owners, and stakeholders in shaping the neighborhood’s future. 

Co-Chairs Joe Bixler and Mary Williams underscored the importance of community involvement in creating a comprehensive development and tax increment financing plan. This plan will address housing, infrastructure, and strategic planning, guiding short-, mid-, and long-term reinvestment goals. The NIA invites all Southside residents to contribute to the neighborhood’s transformation.

For more information, visit: porthuron.org/government/boards___commissions/southside.php.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Gaming Pioneer And “Father Of Modern Gaming,” Jerry Lawson, Revolutionized Video Game Industry

Gerald “Jerry” Lawson, a groundbreaking Black engineer in Silicon Valley, reshaped the gaming landscape with his ingenious work at Fairchild Camera and Instrument in the 1970s. 

As Director of Engineering and Marketing, Lawson spearheaded the development of the Fairchild Channel F system, the first home video game console featuring interchangeable game cartridges and an eight-way digital joystick. Often hailed as the “father of modern gaming,” Lawson’s innovation laid the groundwork for iconic consoles like Atari and SNES.

In 1980, Lawson founded VideoSoft, a pioneering Black-owned video game development company. Lawson continued to contribute to the gaming industry until his passing on April 9th, 2011, leaving an enduring mark on the evolution of video games.

Recognized for his groundbreaking work on the video game cartridge, the University of Southern California established the Gerald A. Lawson Fund, dedicated to supporting underrepresented students pursuing degrees in game design and computer science.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Second Annual STEM Fest Promises A Day Of Exploration At SC4

On Saturday, March 9th, St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is set to host the second annual STEM Fest, a dynamic showcase of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) wonders. 

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the SC4 Fieldhouse, Clara E. Mackenzie Building, and Fine Arts Theatre will come alive with over 100 interactive exhibits and activities. Thanks to generous donations and grants, the event is free to the public. Created by SC4 staff, Michigan Technological University’s Mind Trekkers, Cranbrook Institute of Science, and The Reptarium, these exhibits promise to captivate learners of all ages. 

The newly introduced SC4 Planetarium Experience adds a celestial touch, offering insights into astronomy and constellations. SC4 President Kirk Kramer reflects on last year’s success, expressing anticipation for another impactful event inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

To register, visit: sc4.edu.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Showdown At Chilly Fest 2024: Winners Crowned In Epic Chili Cook-Off Battle

In a spicy showdown at Chilly Fest 2024, in Downtown Port Huron, local businesses clashed at the Chili Cook-Off this weekend, leaving taste buds tingling and attendees craving more. 

The coveted People’s Choice award went to Smoke On The Water BBQ & Catering, winning the hearts (and palates) of festival-goers. Meanwhile, the Judges’ Choice honor was claimed by What The Fry, impressing judges by scoring high in aroma, color, consistency, taste, and aftertaste.

Special recognition goes to all who entered to turn up the heat by supplying the event with their delicious dishes. Schwem’s Rubber Stamp & Trophy crafted unique trophies, ensuring the winners’ legacy is engraved year after year. A big congratulations to all contestants, making Chilly Fest 2024 a big success.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell