environment

2025 Earth Fair

By blending together demonstrations, workshops, exhibits, artisans, and activities, Earth Fair focuses on raising the level and capacity of environmental stewards to the thousands of visitors who take part in Michigan’s largest Earth Day event. We are passionate about creating an environment at Earth Fair that’s fun for everyone; visitors of all ages learn how their actions impact our local environment and the significant role we play in the health of our economy and ecosystem. We’re inspiring and challenging citizens to find alternatives to energy, transportation, food, living and gardening so a better earth can be created because, as we all know, our environment is a direct reflection on how we live.

Single Parents Face Job Interview Challenges Due To Rigid Scheduling

A recent survey by Careerminds reveals the struggles single parents face in the job market, particularly when it comes to interview scheduling. Of 3,000 single parents surveyed, 48% in Michigan have had to decline job interviews because companies wouldn’t offer flexible times, compared to a 44% national average.

Childcare was identified as the main obstacle, with 68% citing it as the reason for missed opportunities. Tech, healthcare, and education industries are leading efforts to accommodate single parents with flexible work arrangements. Virtual interviews, flexible scheduling, and on-site childcare were noted as potential solutions, with 40% of respondents highlighting scheduling flexibility as a top need.

Many single parents also face the added pressure of whether to disclose their parental status during the hiring process.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Kicks Off Major Improvement Projects Affecting Access

Starting today, Sept. 3, Port Huron will begin two key improvement projects. The upper parking deck at the City Municipal Offices Center (MOC) is closed, including the payment drive-thru, with parking available on Merchant Street and south of the MOC. An overnight drop box has also been relocated to the south lot.

Additionally, 7th Street from Water Street to Wall Street will be closed for repaving, curb and sidewalk ramp upgrades, and lawn restoration. Detours will be in place. Both projects are expected to be completed by mid-November. 

For inquiries, residents are encouraged to contact the Department of Public Works at porthuron.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Preparedness Month: A Call For Nationwide Disaster Readiness

September is National Preparedness Month. Launched in 2004 by FEMA, National Preparedness Month (NPM) is an annual effort to educate and encourage Americans to be ready for emergencies. 

Managed by FEMA’s Ready Campaign, in collaboration with the Ad Council, NPM focuses on empowering individuals to take action and be prepared for all types of disasters, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.

Throughout September, the National Weather Service and other agencies highlight the importance of being informed, creating family emergency plans, building disaster supply kits, and getting involved in community preparedness. Step-by-step guidance helps people learn their risks, establish shelter and evacuation routes, and ensure essential supplies are ready. The month culminates in National Preparedness Day on Sept. 30, a day dedicated to taking action. With these proactive measures, communities across the country can save lives and reduce disaster impacts.

Source: National Weather Service

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Lifts Lane Restrictions On Labor Day Weekend To Ease Travel

This Labor Day weekend, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will temporarily remove lane restrictions on 60% of road and bridge projects statewide. Beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, 96 of 161 ongoing projects will have restrictions lifted to reduce traffic delays for holiday travelers.

“Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to enjoy the last of our Pure Michigan summer,” said Whitmer. “We’re pulling back construction barrels to ensure safe and smooth travel, but rest assured, we’ll be back to fixing the roads come Tuesday.”

Drivers are reminded of the Mackinac Bridge closure on Labor Day morning for the Annual Bridge Walk, and to drive safely through any remaining work zones.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Eastern Michigan Small Business Hub Unveils 2024 Small Business Grant Program

The Eastern Michigan Small Business Hub has launched its 2024 Small Business Grant Program, aimed at fostering growth for small businesses in the region. 

The program will provide grants of up to $20,000 to businesses across six Michigan counties, with a total fund of $213,158 available. Most awards will fall between $5,000 and $10,000, with grants distributed competitively based on the highest scoring applications in each county.

To be eligible, businesses or their owners must be located in Shiawassee, Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, Sanilac, or St. Clair counties. Grant funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including equipment purchases, consulting services, and employee certification fees. 

The application window closes on Sept. 24, 2024, giving businesses just under a month to submit their proposals.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell