local news

Jobs Court Plans to Fill Jobs with Low-Level Offenders

In today’s tight job market, employers are changing the way they look at employing those with a criminal record.  A Jobs Court has been proposed to keep those convicted of low-level nonviolent crimes employed. The initiative is part of the MI Safe Communities Plan.

The Jobs Court model is being promoted by both state government leaders, judges, and industry leaders like the United Auto Workers and others.

Tom Lutz, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights said, “The Michigan Jobs Court Pilot Program represents a tremendous opportunity to curb recidivism and help fill the gap in Michigan’s skilled-trades workforce. We know the transformative power of giving someone the skills and the opportunity to work for a better life, and we are proud to give this program our full support.” 

The Jobs Court is proposed to start out as a pilot program, with a $5.5 million price tag, in Wayne, Genesee, and Marquette counties.

Chief Justice Bridget M. McCormack endorsed the plan, saying, “This is not a free ride but a common sense approach that solves problems and strengthens communities.” 

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Chili and Coats Event Nov. 20 at Woodrow Wilson: Donations Welcome

Chili and coats. Both are ways to keep warm and both will be given away on November 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Woodrow Wilson Steam Academy Gymnasium on Chestnut Street in Port Huron.  

The outreach program is part of a collaboration of ministry, business partners, and the Community Foundation of St. Clair County, who are all working to connect with families in need in the mid-town Port Huron area.

Pastor Kim Brown of Zion Cathedral of Praise International Ministries said that this is the 8th year of the event and that up to 300 coats are given away each year. New and gently used coats are still needed, along with winter wear like boots, hats, and gloves. They can be brought to the school between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. on the day of the giveaway.

There will also be a food truck on site. Chili is being prepared by Blue Water Christian Church, and there are raffle baskets and prize drawings throughout the day.

The event is first-come, first-serve for receiving the coats. Volunteers are still needed and can show up at the event to get assigned a job.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Blue Water Conservation District Awarded MDARD Funding

The Blue Water Conservation District was a big winner in the $9.7 million allocation of grants for soil, water, and wildlife protection. The Blue Water Conservation District serves St. Clair, Sanilac, and Macomb counties.

Gary McDowell, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said, “This funding will help support and elevate our conversation district partners. These funds will allow districts to identify and prioritize the most pressing needs in their communities and ensure landowners have access to technical assistance for their farms.”

The Blue Water Conservation District received a $40,000 grant for basic operations, two $73,500 grants as part of the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program, and $77,000 from the Conservation Technical Assistance Initiative. They also received $78,500 from the Produce Safety Program.

The Blue Water Conservation District has the goal to “Assist the people of the Blue Water area in the wise use and management of their natural resources for a healthy environment and sustained economic growth.”

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Yale Passes Bond to Remodel Schools

Voters in the Yale Public Schools district approved a ballot proposal that allows the district to spend $15.8 million to remodel the existing buildings.

The bond measure passed with 788 yes votes to 614 no votes. The impact on taxes will not take place for a year. After that, those who pay property taxes in the Yale school district can expect the tax rate to be around 3.12 mills. The bond will be paid back in 12 years.

The district plans to replace all unit ventilators in their five buildings: the high school, junior high school, and the elementary schools located in Yale, Avoca, and Emmett.  The current HVAC system has lasted beyond its useful life and it’s time for modernization, according to the Bond Proposal webpage.

Efficiency, maintenance costs, and reliability are issues with the current mechanical systems in the district. Electrical systems will also get brought up to date throughout the district, with the public announcement, clock, and fire alarm systems getting addressed.

The Yale Junior High will get a lot of work, with a new roof, lighting, and classroom modernization.

Work is expected to begin next summer.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Kristi’s Kloset Consignment Shop Moves to Fort Gratiot

Fort Gratiot has gained a new business with the relocation of Kristi’s Kloset. The consignment shop had been located on Pine Grove Avenue in Port Huron for 14 and a half years, but now has a new storefront in Fort Gratiot in the plaza that is home to Buffalo Wild Wings, Munger Physical Therapy, and other businesses. It is in the former home of “Catherine’s” women’s wear.

Owner Julie Cook is thrilled about the new location. Cook raved about the five available dressing rooms, the high ceilings, and the ample parking.

Kristi’s Kloset no longer sells furniture, but they do offer a large selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories for Men and Women and children sized 5-18.

Cook said she never dreamed she would have such a great place for her store. She said the reception has been “awesome” and that she is looking forward to serving the community.

Dropping off items for consignment is by appointment only.  Kristi’s Kloset has over 4550 consignors.

Cook said she is planning on more days and longer hours open at the new location at 4355 24th Avenue in Fort Gratiot.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

CMH Players Bring “We’re All Connected” to Citadel

The CMH Players will be bringing live theater to audiences this month. The CMH Players are composed of individuals receiving mental health services from St. Clair County Community Mental Health as well as local community actors and SCCCMH staff.

This year’s show is called “We’re All Connected”. It will be performed at the Citadel Theatre in Downtown Port Huron at noon and 7 p.m. on Friday, November 5th, and 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 6th. The noon show on Friday, November 5th is free. The other shows cost $5 per ticket.

“We’re All Connected” is a series of skits that address the concept of stigma. The show teaches how our similarities are greater than our differences.

The CMH Players have put on over 22 plays since starting in 2005. Community sponsors make the CMH Players productions possible. Sponsorships from $50-$1000 are available.

For advance tickets, contact Bethany Murdick at 810-966-3706. Tickets will also be available at the door if seating permits.

For Sponsorship: Mark Hutchinson (810) 966-3386

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland