port huron

be-YOU-tiful Workshop Series Empowers 5th-Grade Girls In Port Huron

A Beautiful Me is hosting a special four-part be-YOU-tiful Workshop Series at their Training and Empowerment Suite in Port Huron. 

Designed for 5th-grade girls, the workshop runs on August 20, 21, 27, and 28 from 2:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This transformative program aims to boost self-esteem and leadership skills through engaging activities, conflict resolution strategies, and meaningful discussions.

Located at 310 Huron Ave., the workshop provides a safe space for young girls to explore their unique strengths, navigate emotions, and build positive relationships. With limited seating available, parents are encouraged to register their daughters soon. A Beautiful Me also welcomes donations to sponsor future workshop tickets, making this empowering experience accessible to all. Secure your spot today to support your daughter’s journey to self-confidence and resilience.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Ferndale’s Live Crispy Won Last Year’s MI Snack Competition, Now Eyeing Bigger Markets

Ferndale-based entrepreneur Dave Shammas, owner of Live Crispy, won the grand prize at the second annual MI Snack Competition in Port Huron, taking home $30,000. Despite not placing in the previous year, Shammas’ all-natural dehydrated fruit snack won both the Mindful Munchies category and the overall competition, earning him $15,000 for each win.

The 2023 MI Snack Competition attracted over 50 snack makers statewide, with more than $50,000 in prizes awarded. In addition to the cash prize, Shammas secured a distribution deal with All Star Services, a break room services company.

Shammas, who launched Live Crispy in 2020, has since expanded his product’s reach, including a listing on Amazon. As he gears up for larger markets like Target, he’s also being courted by the TV show Shark Tank. The 2024 competition is set for Sept. 14, with entries due by August 12.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

BWROC’s Strides For Recovery 5K Run/Walk To Promote Health, Fitness, And Community Spirit

BWROC is excited to host the Strides for Recovery 5K Run/Walk on Sept. 14, 2024 at Pine Grove Park in Port Huron, in celebration of National Recovery Day. 

This community-focused event offers a scenic course along the beautiful St. Clair River and is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels, from competitive runners to those who prefer a leisurely jog or walk.

The event kicks off at 4:30 p.m., with a registration fee of $15. After the race, participants can enjoy a post-race celebration featuring music, food, and family-friendly activities. All participants will receive commemorative swag, making this a memorable event for everyone involved.

For more details, visit: bwroc.org or call 810-689-4858 for further information. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Over One Million Michigan Voters Cast Ballots Before Primary Election Day

With today being the day for polls to open for Michigan’s Primary Election, more than one million voters have already cast their ballots. 

According to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, over 73,500 voters participated in early in-person voting, while more than 970,000 have submitted absentee ballots. This marks the first election year with a constitutionally mandated nine-day early voting period, a provision introduced by Proposal 2, passed in 2022.

Benson praised the high level of voter engagement and the efforts of Michigan’s clerks and poll workers in ensuring a smooth and secure voting process. For those who have yet to vote, polling places will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on today’s Election Day. Voters can still register and vote today as well at their local clerk’s office.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Food Service Industry Saying Goodbye To Tipping System

In response to a Michigan Supreme Court ruling that raises the minimum wage and phases out the tip credit for service workers, state Rep. Greg Alexander is calling on the Legislature to act quickly to mitigate potential economic fallout. 

The court’s decision, which will take effect on February 21st, 2025, could lead to widespread layoffs, reduced hours, and higher prices, particularly in the restaurant industry.

Alexander highlighted the urgency of finding a balanced solution that protects both workers and small businesses. He pointed to a recent survey showing that 82% of Michigan restaurant servers prefer to keep the tipping system, and 79% fear losing their jobs if the tip credit is eliminated. Additionally, two-thirds of restaurant operators indicated they might lay off employees, and nearly all would raise prices, with some facing the possibility of closing their doors permanently.

Reporting For WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Supreme Court Reinstates 2018 Wage And Sick Leave Laws, Dramatically Affecting Employers And Workers

In a groundbreaking decision the Michigan Supreme Court has nullified the Legislature’s “Adopt-and-Amend” approach, reinstating the 2018 citizens’ initiative for paid sick leave and minimum wage reforms. 

Beginning February 21st, 2025, Michigan employers must adhere to the Earned Sick Time Act, which grants one hour of paid medical leave for every 30 hours worked, for up to a total of 72 hours annually. This comprehensive paid sick leave policy will apply to all employees, including part-time and seasonal workers.

Additionally, Michigan’s minimum wage will rise to $10 per hour, with annual adjustments based on the state treasurer’s inflation rate. 

The Wage Act will see gradual increases in the minimum wage over the coming years, with adjustments scheduled for February 2026, 2027, 2028, and beyond, ultimately eliminating the tip credit by February 2029.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell