education

Catapult Student Tech Pitch Competition Calls On Region 6 Eastern Michigan Students To Innovate And Win Big

Aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts in Eastern Michigan’s Region 6 are invited to showcase their creativity in the Catapult Student Tech Pitch Competition. 

Organized by The Underground and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the event encourages university and college students to present STEM-based solutions to real-world challenges using science, technology, engineering, math, or AI. 

The competition, accepting pitch applications from December 18th, to January 10th, 2024, offers a total prize pool of $12,000. With live rounds in Flint and Port Huron, the initiative aims to foster a new wave of technology-based businesses, providing a platform for students to transform innovative ideas into tangible solutions. 

Eligible participants can learn more and apply at: startunderground.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Unveiling The Fast-Food Fallout: Expert Reveals Body Reactions Within The First Hour

As millions of Americans indulge in their daily fast-food fix, Dr. Julie Gatza from the Florida Wellness Institute sheds light on the immediate and often overlooked health consequences. In a breakdown of the first hour post-fast-food consumption, Dr. Gatza outlines a sequence of negative events.

Within 5 minutes, a sugar rush ensues, followed by dehydration at 15 minutes. Heartburn strikes at 20 minutes, leading to bloating by the 30-minute mark. A sugar drop occurs at 45 minutes, impacting mood negatively at 50 minutes and hampering concentration at 55 minutes. Finally, within 60 minutes, inflammation sets in.

Dr. Gatza also offers suggestions to mitigate these adverse effects, providing insights into fostering healthier fast-food habits.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Library System Unveils Comics Plus – A Digital Haven for Comic Enthusiasts

Exciting news for bookworms and comic book lovers: The St. Clair County Library System (SCCLS) introduces Comics Plus, a cutting-edge digital platform providing access to thousands of comics, graphic novels, and manga. 

Library patrons, armed with their SCCLS library cards, can dive into a diverse world of titles on smartphones, tablets, or web browsers. The best part about the new service is the ease of access to all of your favorite titles, which all offer unlimited simultaneous access. 

From kids to teens and adults, there’s something for every comic lover. To be part of this literary adventure, you’ll need to head online, select the age-appropriate category, input your library card number and PIN, and let the reading commence! 

For additional information, visit: stclaircountylibrary.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Homeschooled Children May Be Required To Register With The Government

State Representative Jaime Greene, R-Richmond, strongly opposed the recent proposal by the Democrat chair of the House Education Committee to implement new policies mandating the registration of homeschool students with the government. 

In her statement, Rep. Greene emphasized that such a requirement constitutes a severe violation of parental rights, an invasion of privacy, and an unjustifiable government overreach. Greene argued that parents should have the autonomy to choose the best educational path for their children without intrusive oversight. 

Instead of imposing additional administrative burdens on homeschool families, she urged efforts to enhance public education and child protective services. Greene criticized the proposed registration as a misguided focus on regulating a legitimate educational choice, diverting attention and resources from addressing systemic issues within government agencies.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Schools Launches Aggressive Anti-Vaping Campaign In Collaboration With St. Clair County Health Department

In a proactive move to address the rising concerns of vaping among students, Port Huron Schools has joined forces with the St. Clair County Health Department for an intensive anti-vaping campaign. 

On December 6th, high school students witnessed a live presentation by Daniel Ament, a Grosse Pointe resident and the first person to undergo a double lung transplant attributed to vaping-related damage. Ament, once a state-recognized student athlete, shared his harrowing experience to raise awareness. 

The Health Department will extend its outreach to middle and high school students, delivering vital information on vaping dangers. The campaign will also engage parents through the Superintendent’s weekly e-newsletter, reaching 10,000 subscribers and linked to the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce’s weekly e-newsletter. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Secretary Of State Jocelyn Benson Highlights Resources For Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

In observance of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week from December 4th – 8th, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is urging Michigan residents to explore resources provided by the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) for continuous education on safe driving at any age. 

Emphasizing the importance of road safety, Benson encourages older drivers and their families to visit Michigan.gov/AgingDriver for valuable resources. The Safe Drivers Smart Options website offers information to empower and guide older drivers, promoting safe transportation planning. 

According to May 2023 MDOS data, almost 25% of Michigan’s 7.34 million licensed drivers are aged 65 or older, with approximately 383,000 drivers aged 80 or above. The initiative aims to keep older drivers engaged in the community while prioritizing road safety.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell