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Gov Gretchen Whitmer

Michigan Launches $60 Million Grant Program to Enhance Community Services Statewide

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has unveiled a substantial $60 million Community Center Grant program to enable municipalities and organizations in Michigan to expand services and undertake capital projects. 

This initiative aims to foster thriving communities by providing Michiganders with enhanced access to gathering spaces, resources, learning opportunities, and connections.

Governor Whitmer expressed the significance of community centers, highlighting their role in driving economic development and creating attractive living, working, and investment destinations across the state. 

The grant program offers two types of grants: program grants and capital project grants. Organizations have the option to apply for both, with a maximum funding request limit of $2.5 million per entity. 

Interested applicants have until August 31st, to submit their proposals, marking a valuable opportunity to strengthen community services and foster a brighter future for all regions of Michigan.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Experience Unforgettable Celebrations At The Blue Water YMCA

Looking for the perfect venue to make your special occasion memorable? Look no further than the Blue Water Area YMCA! Whether it’s a birthday party, baby shower, family gathering, or even a business meeting, the Y offers an exciting and unique setting for all kinds of events.

You can schedule a 2 or 3-hour celebration which includes access to the party room, the Recreation pool, and the gym. Their dedicated Y Party Coordinator will be there to assist you every step of the way.

The 2-hour party rental starts at $160 for members and $210 for non-members. For extended celebrations, the 3-hour party rental is available at $235 for members and $290 for non-members.

Programs like this and others are made possible by the generosity of the community through monetary donations and volunteer services. Donate to the Blue Water Area YMCA Open Arms Campaign to help them continue providing these services to the community.

For more information, visit: bluewaterymca.com/open-arms. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4’s New Theater Summer Camp Opening For Young Thespians

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is introducing a new theater summer camp for students in grades 1-9. The camp will take place from July 17th – 21st, at SC4’s Fine Arts Theatre. 

Participants in grades 1-3 will attend from 9 am – 12 pm, while those in grades 4-9 will join from 1 pm to 3:30 pm.

The primary goal of the camp is to foster self-assurance on stage, encourage creativity, and provide a fun and stress-free acting experience. This theater camp is an excellent addition to SC4’s lineup of athletic and STEM-based summer camps.

Throughout the week, camp participants will collaborate on various short scenes, culminating in performances on July 21st. 

To register for the camp, interested individuals can visit sc4.edu/camps. The registration fee is $125 per student. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Eat Fresh By Supporting Local Farmers Markets

Blue Water Area residents have a vibrant and fresh option for sourcing locally grown produce and other locally grown products from various farmers markets in the area. 

These markets offer a wide range of products, from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade baked goods and handcrafted items. With several locations available, residents can conveniently access these markets during their select business hours. 

Places such as the Vantage Point Farmers Market in Port Huron or SummerThyme Market in Kimball are just a couple places for you to visit, with each venue providing a unique shopping experience. Farmers markets not only promote healthy eating but also support local farmers and artisans, boosting the local economy. 

Whether you’re seeking farm-to-table ingredients or looking for one-of-a-kind handmade crafts, the farmers markets of St. Clair County are the perfect destination to connect with the community and enjoy the abundance of locally sourced goodness. 

Check your local area for details on a farmers market near you!

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Enhance Your Children’s Summer Vacation With SONS Outreach Dream Camp

SONS Outreach is gearing up to provide an exciting and enriching summer experience for elementary-age children with their Dream Camp program. 

Lasting four to five weeks, this day camp offers a wide range of activities that promise to captivate young minds. From serving breakfast and lunch to engaging in arts and crafts, field trips, story time, recreation, STEM activities, and devotion time, Dream Camp aims to create a well-rounded experience for participants. 

The cost for each student to join this adventure is $25. The program boasts a team of adult staff members, accompanied by high school student mentors and senior citizen volunteers from the St. Clair County Council on Aging. 

Camp start and orientation begin July 5th and 6th from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

For more information visit: sonsoutreach.org/events.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Area YMCA Offers Programs For Seniors Dealing With Arthritis

Calling all seniors! If you’re looking for a low-stress workout that can help ease arthritis symptoms, look no further than the Arthritis Aquatics program at the Blue Water Area YMCA. 

Immerse yourself in the soothing properties of water as you enjoy gentle movements that engage every joint and muscle group. The aquatic environment provides natural support, making it an ideal low-impact workout while still providing the benefits of aerobic exercise. This is especially beneficial for individuals who need to prioritize joint health.

YMCA members can participate for free, while non-members can join for a program fee of $26. To register, visit the YMCA in person or complete the online registration before August 11th.

These programs are made possible by donations and support from community members like you, so please volunteer your time, or donate to the YMCA’s Open Arms Campaign to help continue these programs and more. 

For more information, visit bluewaterymca.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell