local news

Port Huron Area Schools Celebrate National Reading Month With Guest Readers And Fun Activities

In honor of National Reading Month, the Port Huron Area School District (PHASD) is stepping up its efforts to promote literacy among young students. Throughout March, teachers and community members are visiting local elementary schools to read aloud and engage children in exciting activities that foster a love for reading.

Indian Woods Elementary recently welcomed Port Huron residents Harold “Choze” Powell and Heather Fagan as guest readers. Both took time from their schedules to inspire students and emphasize the importance of reading.

Despite some finding reading tedious, the benefits are undeniable, including mental fortitude, enhanced comprehension, and imaginative growth. PHASD’s initiative aims to instill these values early on.

As the month draws to a close, families are encouraged to continue celebrating the joys of reading at home, understanding that the benefits extend far beyond March.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Gov. Whitmer Unveils Michigan Statewide Workforce Plan To Boost Opportunities And Skills For Michiganders

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled the Michigan Statewide Workforce Plan, a comprehensive blueprint aimed at addressing key challenges and bolstering opportunities for all Michiganders. The plan, approved by the Michigan Workforce Development Board, outlines ambitious strategies to equip individuals with the skills needed for the evolving job market.

Comprising three core pillars, the plan emphasizes increasing skill certification and degree attainment, enhancing access to middle-class opportunities, and fostering business growth through talent solutions. By 2030, the goal is to elevate the percentage of working-age adults with skill certificates or college degrees to 60%.

Developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, including labor, business, and community leaders, the plan marks a concerted effort to propel Michigan’s workforce into the top echelons nationally. 

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Woodland Developmental Center Seeks Local Student Volunteers for Summer LINK Program

St. Clair County RESA’s Woodland Developmental Center is calling upon local students to participate in its annual Summer LINK Program, offering a unique opportunity for grades 8 through 12 to engage with students with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Led by School Social Worker Chelsey Hull, the program aims to foster empathy and community connections while providing valuable support to students. 

Emphasizing personal and professional growth, the program offers hands-on experience in special education practices and communication skills development. Participants will assist educators, guiding students through skill-building activities and social engagements.

Applications for the Summer LINK Program are now open until May 10th, available at Woodland’s Main Office or through contact with Chelsey Hull at (810) 455-4366 or email: hull.chelsey@sccresa.org. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 To Host Annual Job Fair, Connecting The Community With Employment Opportunities

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is gearing up to host its annual Job Fair, set to take place on Thursday, April 4th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the SC4 Fieldhouse. The event, which has been a tradition for over 30 years, is free and open to all SC4 students and community members in search of employment opportunities.

With a diverse array of industries represented including manufacturing, sales, medical, and criminal justice, the Job Fair offers a chance for attendees to engage directly with potential employers. The event, held in collaboration with various community organizations, aims to foster connections and facilitate recruitment.

Companies interested in participating can register online for $175, which includes a table and chairs for up to two representatives. 

For more information, visit sc4.edu/jobfair.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Backs Michigan Family Protection Act, Advocating For Surrogacy Rights And Equal Treatment For Families

Governor Gretchen Whitmer stresses the importance of the Michigan Family Protection Act, endorsing a suite of legislation aimed at simplifying family planning processes and ensuring equitable treatment under the law. Addressing Michigan’s unique status as the sole state criminalizing surrogacy contracts, the package seeks to repeal this prohibition while enhancing protections for surrogates, parents, and children. 

In a landscape where reproductive rights face mounting challenges nationwide, Michigan stands out in supporting individuals’ choices regarding family-building. Comprising nine bills, the Act advocates for the legalization and regulation of surrogacy, fair compensation and legal representation for surrogates, and equal treatment for children born through assisted reproductive technology. 

Additionally, it strives to eliminate hurdles faced by LGBTQ+ families, streamlining the process of obtaining parental recognition. The Act underscores Michigan’s commitment to fostering inclusive, supportive environments for all families across the state.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Lakeside Cemetery Plot Cleanup Deadline March 31st

As the end of March approaches, residents with loved ones resting at Lakeside Cemetery in Port Huron are reminded to remove all winter decorations and non-conforming items from grave sites by March 31st. 

The goal of the clean-up is to keep the cemetery from becoming an eyesore due to old decorations and tributes left by family members and friends. Failure to comply will result in removal and disposal by cemetery personnel starting April 1st, without further notice. Only patriotic flags and flowers are permitted on cemetery plots, with all other items strictly prohibited. 

The City of Port Huron has urged visitors to familiarize themselves with Lakeside Cemetery rules available on the city’s website. Families are encouraged to honor the guidelines to maintain the cemetery’s tranquility and dignity for all visitors and residents alike.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell