environment

Experts To Convene Workshop On Impact Of Technology On Child Development And Mental Health

On April 4th and 5th, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. respectively, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) will host a groundbreaking workshop.

The focus? The profound influence of technology and digital media on the development and mental well-being of children and adolescents.

The workshop aims to dissect both the positive and negative impacts of technology on young minds, featuring discussions led by experts in technology, child development, and mental health. Attendees will delve into the current state of research and chart future directions.

Sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health’s Division of Translational Research and NICHD, the event is open to both the scientific community and the public. While free, registration is required to participate.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Intervenes As DTE Electric Seeks Another Massive Rate Hike

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has taken a stand against DTE Electric’s latest rate hike proposal, filing notice of intervention with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). 

DTE’s application aims for an annual increase exceeding $450 million, following a recent $368 million rate hike approved merely four months prior. Attorney General Nessel, known for scrutinizing utility rate cases, highlights the potential burden on consumers, with DTE seeking over $800 million in increased rates within 13 months. Expressing concern over the lack of accountability and tangible benefits for customers, Nessel condemns the pattern of exorbitant rate requests without clear justification. 

As the investigation unfolds, Nessel vows to ensure customers aren’t subjected to undue financial strain, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in utility pricing.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

U.S. Education Battles Persistent Student Absenteeism Post-Pandemic

A troubling trend has established itself within U.S. education as chronic absenteeism continues to plague schools, despite efforts to regain normalcy post-pandemic, according to an article by The New York Times. 

Initial hopes for a swift return to regular attendance following the disruptions of 2020 were slammed as absentee rates stubbornly persisted. Research reveals a nationwide surge, with absenteeism soaring from 15% pre-pandemic to 26% in the 2021-22 school year. Shockingly, this trend has transcended socio-economic boundaries, impacting districts rich and poor alike. 

The duration of pandemic-induced closures proved to be an unreliable predictor, with districts experiencing varied absenteeism rates irrespective of closure length. Educators express concern as the issue persists into the current academic year, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to re-engage students and restore attendance norms.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer+ Program Offering $10,000 Down Payment Assistance For Homebuyers

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer+ program, geared towards low-to-moderate-income, first-time homebuyers within the city limits is offering up to $10,000 in down payment assistance. 

Applicants can utilize the funds towards down payments, closing costs, and/or pre-paid items. The program defines “first-time homebuyer” as someone who hasn’t owned real estate in the past three years. Applicants are required to invest a minimum of 3% of the home’s purchase price into the mortgage transaction and attend a homebuyer education class through Blue Water Community Action Agency. 

The assistance, forgivable after five years, comes with residency requirements and property standards. Properties purchased via Land Contract financing are ineligible, and the HUD-set maximum purchase price stands at $218,000. 

For more details, contact the Community Development Office at: (810) 984-9736.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Root Juicery Sprouts Up In Downtown Port Huron, Offering Healthy Grab & Go Options

Downtown Port Huron welcomed a refreshing addition to the scene as the Root Juicery opened its doors on March 27th. Located at 206 Huron Ave., the new establishment offers a variety of healthy options catering to health-conscious patrons. 

From 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., customers can indulge in cold pressed juices, including 100% celery or carrot juice blends, alongside alkaline water and iced/cold coffee. For those seeking an immune system boost, the juicery also serves a variety of herbal and vitamin shots. If juice isn’t your thing they also offer a variety of wraps and other food items.

The menu boasts a range of prices between $3.50 and $9.00, making it affordable for various budgets. Whether craving a nutritious beverage or on-the-go food item, Root Juicery promises a flavorful experience for all.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

FEMA Extends Deadline For Michigan Storm Victims To Apply For Federal Assistance

Residents across nine Michigan counties hit by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding in August 2023 now have more time to seek federal aid as FEMA extends the application deadline to May 8th. 

The affected counties include Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne. Homeowners and renters facing damages can apply for assistance through various channels, including online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via the FEMA mobile app, or by calling the FEMA helpline. 

The assistance covers a range of needs, such as rental assistance, personal property damage, lodging reimbursement, and basic home repairs. FEMA emphasizes that only one application per household is permitted, and it does not cover lost food expenses or duplicate insurance payments. Survivors are urged to take advantage of this extended deadline to access crucial support for recovery.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell