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National Be An Angel Day Promotes Acts Of Kindness On August 22

On Aug. 22, National Be an Angel Day encourages people to perform good deeds and spread kindness to others. This day is dedicated to supporting those in need and recognizing the “angels” in our lives who have offered comfort or assistance during difficult times.

Whether it’s a kind word, a hug, or simply listening, small gestures can make a big impact. On this day, be someone’s angel by offering patience, understanding, and compassion. Recognize the struggles beneath the surface, and offer a hand to those who need it.

Founded in 1993 by Jayne Howard Feldman, the day inspires acts of generosity and gratitude. Use #BeAnAngelDay on social media to share your stories and thank those who have been angels to you.

Source: nationaldaycalendar.com

Reporting to WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair Kennel Club Invites Community To Annual Dog Show At Goodells Park

The St. Clair Kennel Club is excited to invite dog enthusiasts and the community to its annual dog shows, set to take place on Sept. 13, 14, and 15, at Goodells Park. 

This highly anticipated event will feature approximately 700 dogs, each accompanied by their handlers and exhibitors, drawing participants from across St. Clair County, neighboring regions, other states, and even Canada.

Throughout the weekend, spectators can enjoy a variety of competitions, including judging based on the structure and movement of the dogs, with special awards for owner-handled entries. The event also offers obedience and rally trials, FETCH trials on Friday, and a Junior Showmanship competition for youth aged 9-18. A special activity is planned for children aged 5-9 on Sunday, making the event fun for the entire family.

For further information, contact: Club Secretary Barb Hahn at (586) 306-1027.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Announces Launch Of PitchMI, $100K Mobility Innovation Competition

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially opened applications for PitchMI, a statewide pitch competition offering $100,000 for an innovative solution to transform Michigan’s transportation. 

Aimed at enhancing safety, affordability, and efficiency in mobility, PitchMI is part of the Whitmer administration’s broader efforts to spur innovation, support entrepreneurs, and build a more prosperous future for the state.

PitchMI aligns with Michigan’s historic investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and innovation, reinforcing the state’s status as a hub for advanced manufacturing and research. The competition is open to Michigan-based companies with ready-to-demonstrate solutions and will take place on October 24 at the MI Future Mobility Conference in Detroit.

“PitchMI will unleash Michigan’s innovative spirit,” said Whitmer. “I look forward to seeing the creative ideas that emerge.”

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Nonprofit And Volunteer Fair Set To Take Place At Birchwood Mall

Community members are invited to the annual Nonprofit and Volunteer Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Birchwood Mall, Fort Gratiot Township. 

Hosted by the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Birchwood Mall, the event aims to connect local nonprofits with eager volunteers. Nonprofits from St. Clair County are encouraged to register online at BlueWaterChamber.com. 

Free and open to the public, the fair is ideal for students, professionals, and retirees looking to contribute their time and skills. Ally Birkett of A Beautiful Me, Inc. highlights the fair’s role in strengthening community bonds. The fair will be located near the movie theater and Kay’s Jewelers. Don’t miss the chance to make a difference. 

For more information, contact the Blue Water Chamber at (810) 985-7101.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan’s STEAM Ahead Program Breaks Records, Doubling Internship Participation

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) rebranded “STEAM Ahead” program is setting new records, funding over 570 summer internships in the first half of 2024 alone. This achievement more than doubles the program’s previous best semester in 2022, when 272 internships were funded. 

Originally launched as the STEM Forward initiative in 2021, the program was rebranded earlier this year to better incorporate roles that blend arts with science, technology, engineering, and math, such as front-end web development and industrial design. The revamped program offers increased financial incentives and a streamlined employer-reimbursement structure, attracting a growing number of participants. 

MEDC’s STEAM Ahead initiative is part of a broader effort to support Michigan’s priority industries, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing, ensuring a robust talent pipeline for the state’s future. Companies interested in participating can submit funding requests for fall 2024 internships beginning Aug. 12.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MiABLE Celebrates First National ABLE Savings Day With $100 Match Offer

In celebration of the inaugural national ABLE Savings Day on Aug. 14, MiABLE is offering a $100 match to those who open eligible disability savings accounts during August. MiABLE, part of Michigan’s disability savings program, empowers individuals with disabilities to save for the future without jeopardizing government assistance.

“We are proud to have been among the earliest states to establish access to ABLE accounts as life-changing financial empowerment tools,” said R. Scott de Varona, MiABLE program director.

The national ABLE Savings Day encourages people to share their experiences and highlights the importance of these accounts. Despite 500,000 eligible individuals in Michigan, only about 1% have enrolled. To learn more, three national webinars are being offered this month to educate the public about ABLE accounts.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell