marysville

Second Annual STEM Fest Promises A Day Of Exploration At SC4

On Saturday, March 9th, St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is set to host the second annual STEM Fest, a dynamic showcase of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) wonders. 

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the SC4 Fieldhouse, Clara E. Mackenzie Building, and Fine Arts Theatre will come alive with over 100 interactive exhibits and activities. Thanks to generous donations and grants, the event is free to the public. Created by SC4 staff, Michigan Technological University’s Mind Trekkers, Cranbrook Institute of Science, and The Reptarium, these exhibits promise to captivate learners of all ages. 

The newly introduced SC4 Planetarium Experience adds a celestial touch, offering insights into astronomy and constellations. SC4 President Kirk Kramer reflects on last year’s success, expressing anticipation for another impactful event inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

To register, visit: sc4.edu.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

NIH Study Reveals Promising Neural Changes In Unmedicated Children With Anxiety Disorders Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), particularly the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), have made groundbreaking discoveries regarding the neural intricacies of anxiety disorders in children. 

The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, uncovered overactivation in various brain regions, including the frontal and parietal lobes, along with the amygdala, among unmedicated children with anxiety disorders. Remarkably, the research demonstrated that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) not only alleviated clinical symptoms but also induced positive changes in brain functioning.

This discovery suggests that the brain changes induced by CBT could serve as reliable neural markers for anxiety treatment, shedding light on the acute effects of this widely used therapeutic approach.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Survey Shows Local Media Commands Higher Public Trust Than National Outlets, Despite Decline In Numbers

A recent survey conducted by PRFire.com unveils a nuanced perspective on media trust, highlighting the enduring credibility of local news outlets in contrast to their national counterparts. With 3,000 participants, the survey indicates a substantial 60% of respondents express confidence in local media, surpassing the 47% trust level for national outlets. 

Despite a concerning decline in local news outlets nationwide, this revelation underscores the pivotal role played by local journalism in informing communities.

However, the trust in local media is not uniform across the United States. While an impressive 83% of Delaware residents trust their local media, this figure drops to 50% in states like Tennessee, Oregon, and Idaho, revealing regional disparities. Notably, in Michigan, local publications enjoy high regard, with 71% of respondents affirming their trustworthiness, positioning them among the most trusted media outlets in the country.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Urges Michiganders To Claim Working Families Tax Credit For Maximum Refunds

Governor Gretchen Whitmer is urging eligible Michiganders to claim both the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), also known as the Working Families Tax Credit, as they file their 2023 individual income tax returns. 

By doing so, taxpayers may reduce their federal and state taxes, potentially pay no tax, or even secure a tax refund. Last year, Governor Whitmer signed legislation that quintupled Michigan’s state match of the federal EITC, leading to an average refund increase of over $600.

“The Working Families Tax Credit delivers an average combined refund of $3,150 to 700,000 Michigan families,” Governor Whitmer emphasized. “This credit directly benefits half the kids in Michigan, providing extra financial support for families to cover essential expenses. I encourage every eligible Michigander to take advantage of the credit when filing this year.”

For more information, visit: irs.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Department Of Treasury Holds Millions In Unclaimed Assets, Search To Reclaim Yours

The Michigan Department of Treasury has revealed a treasure trove of millions of dollars in unclaimed assets, comprising dormant bank accounts, forgotten uncashed checks, valuables left in safe deposit boxes, and neglected stock certificates. 

These assets were deemed abandoned and unclaimed by the institutions initially entrusted with them, prompting their transfer to the state, as mandated by law. The Michigan Department of Treasury now stands as the custodian of these overlooked riches, committed to reuniting them with their rightful owners or heirs upon rightful claims. A simple query could unlock a windfall for those with forgotten treasures awaiting recovery. 

Individuals are encouraged to search their name, a maiden name, or the name of a business or nonprofit. There is never a charge to search for and claim property.

To find out if you have unclaimed property, visit: unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Gears Up For 22nd Annual Earth Fair: Call For Exhibitors, Scholarships, And Green Guardians

As the 22nd Earth Fair approaches, St. Clair County invites exhibitors, educators, and eco-enthusiasts to join the celebration of Earth Day at Goodells County Park on April 26th (9a.m.-4p.m.) and April 27th (10a.m.-4p.m.). Earth Day emphasizes a focus on environmental causes, products, or services that educate and inspire guests to become a better steward of the planet. 

Online applications for exhibitors are available at EarthDayFair.com, the Earth Fair committee encourages early registration, with applications due by March 15th. On April 26th, the fair will host  students, teachers, and parents, fostering environmental education through hands-on activities.

Exciting additions this year include the Emerging Environmentalist Scholarship, offering $1000 awards to graduating seniors pursuing environmental careers. Additionally, the Green Guardian awards recognize individuals, businesses, groups, and schools making significant environmental contributions, with cash prizes ranging from $250 to $1000.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell