marysville

Local Siblings Set To Make Waves At Prestigious Pickleball Tournament

Two siblings from the local area are poised to make a splash in the world of Pickleball as they gear up to compete in the esteemed U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. 

Mike Chargot and Cathy Martinek, a former WGRT employee who retired in 2020, have been selected to showcase their skills at the renowned tournament taking place in Naples, Florida on April 20th. 

Held at the East Naples Community Park, this event boasts the largest Pickleball facility globally and will see over 3,000 players from across the globe vie for victory. Chargot and Martinek are excited to represent their community and are determined to give their all as they aim for the coveted “gold medal” in this prestigious competition.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Of Hopes Bowling Fundraiser Set To Strike Out Mental Health Stigma

Port of Hopes is gearing up for an evening of strikes and spares, all in the name of smashing the stigma surrounding mental illness. 

Sponsored by Sullivan Construction of St. Clair County LLC, the fundraiser will take place at Port Huron Lanes, located at 1718 Hancock St., on Saturday, May 4th. Doors open at 6 p.m. with bowling starting at 7 p.m. Admission is a $20 donation per person in advance, $25 at the door, which includes two games and shoes. 

Attendees can also participate in a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. All proceeds will directly support Port of Hopes’ initiatives, including constructing a pavilion and providing a stigma-free environment for outdoor activities. 

For inquiries, contact Ruth Thick at (810) 982-3560 or email: ruththick.projectstay17@yahoo.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Autism Awareness Month Sheds Light On Autism And Asperger’s Syndrome

April marks National Autism Awareness Month, efforts are underway worldwide to spotlight Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Asperger’s syndrome, raising understanding and support for those affected. 

With approximately one in 270 individuals globally diagnosed with ASD, the need for awareness and acceptance is paramount. ASD encompasses a range of developmental challenges, impacting social interaction, communication, and behavior across diverse backgrounds. While the month celebrates the unique stories and resilience of individuals with autism, it also underscores the importance of ongoing research and support for improved treatments and therapies. 

Initiatives such as hosting awareness events, attending supportive gatherings, and advocating on social media are ways to contribute to fostering inclusion and reducing stigma surrounding autism. By uniting efforts, communities strive to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Huron Academic Endeavors To Host Homeschool Resource Fair In St. Clair County

Huron Academic Endeavors (HAE) is set to host a groundbreaking event tailored for the local homeschooling community in St. Clair County. On Friday, April 26th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the Harrison Center Gymnasium will transform into a hub of educational resources and support networks. 

The Homeschool Resource Fair, organized by HAE, promises to unite over 20 vendors showcasing diverse offerings, including local homeschool groups, co-ops, family support services, social activities, athletics, and more. Understanding the distinctive needs of rural homeschooling families, HAE aims to provide inspiration, fun, and invaluable information. 

Notably, the fair is open to the public and admission is free. Attendees can also indulge in delectable treats from food trucks onsite. RSVPs are encouraged but not mandatory. 

Additionally, interested vendors can still secure slots by contacting HAE President, Kelly Oldford, for participation details. 

For further information, visit: huroncooperative.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

April 23rd Deadline Looms For Michigan Candidates Eyeing Primary Ballot In 2024 Elections

As Michigan gears up for the 2024 elections, the April 23rd filing deadline marks a crucial date for candidates vying for various positions. To secure a spot on the August 6th primary ballot, candidates must submit their filing paperwork by 4pm. 

This deadline applies to a range of offices including Court of Appeals, Circuit Court, District Court, and District Probate Court. Additionally, partisan candidates for state House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, and U.S. Senate must also adhere to this deadline. Notably, candidates for probate judge, certain U.S. House of Representatives, and some House candidates are required to file with their county clerk, as opposed to the Bureau of Elections. 

To facilitate the process, the Bureau of Elections recommends candidates set up appointments through the Michigan Secretary of State online appointment system.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Calls For Federal Relief Expansion Amid Warmest Winter On Record

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has intensified efforts to secure federal assistance for businesses impacted by the unusually warm winter, sending a compelling letter to congressional leaders, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Despite previously secured aid for drought-affected areas, numerous counties in Michigan, notably in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, remain ineligible under current federal guidelines.

In response to this urgent need, the SBA has approved a declaration extension for Houghton County, marking a significant milestone in relief efforts. However, recognizing the widespread ramifications, Governor Whitmer advocates for broader regulatory or legislative solutions to address the impacts of the warm winter comprehensively.

Furthermore, the SBA’s extension of application deadlines in select counties offers affected businesses vital extra time to quantify losses and seek necessary federal support. 

Governor Whitmer’s proactive stance underscores a commitment to aiding Michigan’s economic resilience amidst climatic challenges.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell