News & Notes - 6/7/23 St. Clair Shores Sentinel

St. Clair Shores Library adding Sensory Storytime program
The St. Clair Shores Public Library is adding a new program, Sensory Storytime, to their summer schedule.

This program is for children ages 3-5 who have been diagnosed with special needs or sensory challenges, according to a press release.

“We will be reading stories, singing, dancing and participating in some engaging sensory activities,” the press release said.

Sensory Storytime will be held June 28, July 12, July 26, Aug. 9 and Aug. 23. All sessions will be held at 6:30 p.m. and will run for 25 minutes, the release said. Registration is required and begins on Monday, June 12. It can be done in person, by phone at (586) 771-9020 or by email to SCSYouth@libcoop.net.

Space is limited and adults must stay with their children during the sessions.

‘A Unicorn Named Sparkle’ author to visit library
Amy Young, the author of “A Unicorn Named Sparkle,” will be visiting the St. Clair Shores Library, according to a press release.

Children of all ages are welcome to come hear Young read one of her books, draw some art and get their questions answered on Tuesday, June 20, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

“After the presentation, children can make their very own unicorn horn craft,” the press release said.

No registration is required and adults must stay with the children.

Court now offering online resolution for some traffic cases
The 40th District now offers a new way to help people resolve civil infraction traffic cases more quickly and efficiently online, a press release said.

Individuals can now access the court using a smartphone, computer or a tablet.

Chief Judge Joseph Craigen Oster said in the press release they are excited to bring this new way to resolve traffic cases to the 40th District Court.

“Increasing access to justice through technology is one of our most important concerns, and implementing this program shows the value we place on user-friendly customer service,” Oster said in the press release.

People will receive email and text messages that update them on the status of their case. It is free of charge and convenient for people who cannot come to court for any reason, the release said.

“The system helps the courts serve the public quickly and efficiently,” the press release said. “It provides a way for people to resolve some civil infraction traffic court cases ahead of a hearing, potentially easing the court’s busy schedule and helping people avoid waiting for a hearing.”

MSGCU awards 19 scholarships to local students
The Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union awarded 19 of its 29 scholarships to local students. The students were selected from 345 applicants and will each receive $2,500 for their educations. Recipients were selected for their academic excellence, community service and commitment to pursuing higher education.

“As an organization founded by teachers, we believe education is the foundation for success and provides individuals with the tools they need to reach career goals,” Steve Brewer, MSGCU president and CEO, said in a press release. “Completing a college degree, obtaining skilled trades certification, or graduating as a first responder requires a great deal of ambition, as well as a significant financial investment. We aim to reduce the monetary burden on students through our scholarship program.”

The Rudolph Heino High School Scholarship recognizes high school seniors committed to inspiring others through service and leadership and upholding the credit union philosophy of “people helping people,” according to an MSGCU press release. It is given to five students annually; among this year’s winners are Grace Stenger, of Marian High School; Jovana Peroska, of Dakota High School; and Stella Drozdowicz, of Bishop Foley High School.

Mackenzie Koehn, of Dakota High School, is among the four recipients of the Larry Swantek Educational Studies Scholarship for students pursuing a career in education.

Fifteen of the 18 recipients of the Educational Solutions Scholarship, which helps offset costs for high school students planning to attend a college or university, are from local high schools. They include:

• Nina Freeman, Berkley High School.

• Jacob Dokho, International Academy.

• Om Joshi, International Academy.

• Gjonpjer Kola, Chippewa Valley High School.

• Ava Carr, Grosse Pointe South High School.

• Ian Gudenau, University Liggett High School.

• Mackenzie Bennetts, Mercy High School.

• Nathan Rakolta, North Farmington High School.

• Lindsay Royston, Novi High School.

• Eva Schienke, Lakeview High School.

• Hayden Perron, South Lake High School.

• Saadia Haque, Troy Athens High School.