education

Celebrate American History By Creating A Lasting Art Project PH Parks & Recreation

An American Flag Open-Ended Art program will take place on Wednesday, June 28th, from 6 pm – 7 pm at the Palmer Park pavilion located at 2829 Armour St. Port Huron.

The program, presented by the Port Huron Parks & Recreation Department, emphasizes the artistic process rather than a specific end result. Attendees will have the freedom to explore materials as they wish, without the pressure of predetermined outcomes. Led by resident artist Cindy Badley, participants will learn various techniques to express their unique artistic visions of the American flag.

The program has a resident fee of $15, while non-residents will be charged $30 to register. Interested individuals must register by Friday, June 23rd. All ages are welcome, however children aged 5 or younger must be accompanied by an adult.

This creative opportunity offers a chance for people of all ages to engage in expressive artistry while honoring the American flag.

For more information, visit: porthuronrec.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program Helps Promote Healthier Lifestyles

As a leading nonprofit dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, is aimed at empowering individuals to live life to its fullest and healthiest potential. 

The 12-month group-based program comprises 16 core sessions held weekly for 16 consecutive weeks, followed by an additional 9 sessions spread throughout the remaining months. Participants engage in discussions on topics including healthy eating, stress reduction, problem-solving, and more.

The program’s goals are to help you shed 7% of body weight and gradually increase physical activity to a minimum of 150 minutes per week. The aim is to empower individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes and prevent the onset of diabetes.

Programs like these are made possible by the support of the community through donations and volunteers. If you would like to help support the Blue Water Area YMCA and its Open Arms Campaign, visit: bluewaterymca.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Residents Advised to Take Precautions Against Virus Transferred Via Mosquito Bites

Michiganders are urged to prioritize protective measures against mosquito bites after recent collections of mosquitos in Saginaw County tested positive for the Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories (MDHHS BOL). These are the first infected mosquitos identified for any virus in 2023.

“It takes just one bite from an infected mosquito to cause severe illness,” cautioned Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions, including using EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, avoiding mosquito-prone areas if possible, and wearing protective clothing to minimize bites.”

JCV is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitos, predominantly occurring from late spring to mid-fall. Symptoms may manifest within days to two weeks post-bite and commonly include fever, headache, and fatigue. While most individuals remain asymptomatic, severe cases can result in encephalitis and meningitis affecting the brain and/or spinal cord.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

June 15th Is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is an annual initiative that began June 15, 2006, initiated by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization.

The primary objective of WEAAD is to enhance understanding of the abuse suffered by older people by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic factors impacting them. Sadly, elder abuse is one of the least investigated forms of violence and is often overlooked in national action plans concerning crucial social issues.

Research indicates that 4 to 6 percent of the elderly experience some form of abuse, a majority of which remains unreported. WEAAD serves as a reminder to prioritize the well-being and dignity of our elders, ensuring they can lead lives of exceptional quality.

Report those individuals who may be suspected of elder abuse to local authorities, and be sure to take care of our elderly population. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Protect Yourself And Stay Safe From Poor Air Quality Due To Smoke And Fires

Smoke and fires raging across the United States and parts of Canada have led to high levels of particulate matter (PM) in the air, resulting in an elevated Air Quality Index (AQI) in many regions of Michigan and the eastern US. The AQI, which measures the concentration of pollutants such as ground-level ozone and particulates, serves as a vital tool in assessing air quality and protecting public health.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has advised individuals to take precautions during these smoke events, especially those with chronic diseases, including asthma, other lung conditions, or cardiovascular problems. Additionally, children, pregnant individuals, and those over 65 are considered more vulnerable to the health effects of smoke exposure.

To protect yourself, the US EPA recommends limiting outdoor exercise when the air is smoky and opting for lower-intensity activities to minimize smoke exposure. When indoors, it is advised to maintain clean and cool indoor air. 

For more information, visit: epa.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Celebrates Its 100th Birthday This Year

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is celebrating its 100th anniversary throughout 2023, with the official day being June 11th. 

Established as Port Huron Junior College on June 11, 1923, SC4 stands as Michigan’s second oldest community college, playing a significant role in the academic, economic, and social progress of southeast Michigan over the past century.

SC4 boasts an extensive curriculum, providing around 350 courses to approximately 4,000 students annually. Its accomplished alumni have excelled in various domains such as health care, education, engineering, manufacturing, hospitality, government, public safety, and design, making significant contributions to their communities and beyond.

Dr. Deborah A. Snyder, President of SC4, highlighted the college’s close bond with the community and its unwavering dedication to student growth and success. Throughout its rich history, SC4 has been fortunate to receive steadfast support and commitment from the community it serves.

Happy Birthday SC4!

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell