Choze Powell

Chronic Mouth Breathing Poses Serious Health Risks, Experts Warn

Chronic mouth breathing can significantly harm the respiratory system and overall health, according to the National Library of Medicine’s website. 

Inhaling through the mouth introduces unfiltered, poorly humidified air, adversely affecting lung function. Nighttime mouth breathing is linked to increased snoring and sleep apnea. Over time, habitual mouth breathing can alter facial bone structure, leading to a narrow face, higher upper palate, bad breath, and dental issues such as malocclusion (upper and lower teeth don’t align when your mouth is closed) and crooked teeth. This condition also impacts facial muscles, causing speech problems and damage to the soft tissues in the airways. 

Observational studies indicate over half of school-aged children are chronic mouth-breathers, with 25% developing sleep-disordered breathing by age six. Experts emphasize the importance of nasal breathing to avoid these health complications.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Longtime Kimball’s Employee and Local Legend, Passes Away

Vern “June Bug” Norton, a beloved employee at Kimball Appliance and longtime friend of 102.3 FM WGRT, passed away on Saturday, May 25th. 

Starting his journey at Kimball’s in 1952 at the tender age of 13, June Bug quickly became known for his dedication and hard work. Despite his youth, he earned a special permit to drive a delivery truck, impressing local authorities with his skill.

Norton worked his way up from driving for Harvey Kimball to becoming a foreman at Midwest Foundry, and finally, back to his true passion, appliances, where he dedicated 67 years of his career. June Bug also was owner of local businesses “Junior’s Fire Wood” and World of C.B. He cherished classic cars, and proudly served in the U.S. National Guard for six years and the U.S. Army for two years. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Darlene, and his son Andy.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Michigan Attorney General Joins Coalition To Defend Pregnant Workers’ Rights

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has united with a coalition of 23 attorneys general to uphold a rule issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforcing the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) of 2022. 

Scheduled to take effect on June 18th, the PWFA mandates employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant and postpartum employees. The EEOC rule broadens these accommodations to encompass conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth, including termination decisions. Nessel and the coalition oppose a lawsuit aiming to halt the rule’s implementation, arguing for the protection of pregnant workers’ rights. 

The PWFA, enacted in 2022, fills previous gaps in safeguarding pregnant and postpartum workers, especially benefiting low-income and minority workers. The EEOC’s proposed rule emphasizes comprehensive support for women’s health in the workplace.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Excitement Builds For 2024 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix Presented By Lear

The Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear returns to the streets of Downtown Detroit from May 31st to June 2nd. The event features the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix with NTT INDYCAR SERIES cars, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship races, and INDY NXT by Firestone. 

On Saturday June 1st Cadillac Square will host a free EDM concert featuring JVNA at 6:15 pm and ILLENIUM at 8:00 pm. Motown legend Smokey Robinson will serve as Grand Marshal on Sunday, June 2nd. 

The race, which began in 1982 as a Formula One event, takes place on a 1.7-mile, nine-turn track. Fans can anticipate a weekend of high-speed action and entertainment, making it a must-see event for motorsport enthusiasts.

For more information, visit: detroitgp.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Stay Safe: Water Safety Tips For Children This Summer

As summer approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize water safety for children. Drowning remains the leading cause of injury-related death among children aged 1 to 4 and the third leading cause for those under 19. Infants under a year old face higher risks at home, particularly in bathtubs or buckets. 

Follow these top tips to ensure a safe water environment:

  • Supervise children around water attentively, without distractions.
  • Immediately empty and store containers and pools away from children’s reach.
  • Keep toilet lids and bathroom doors closed when not in use.
  • Install at least a four-foot-tall fence around home pools with self-closing gates.
  • Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills to respond effectively in emergencies.

By implementing these precautions, families can enjoy a fun and safe summer by the water.

Source: safekids.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

VNA & Blue Water Hospice Earns Prestigious CHAP Accreditation

Community Health Accreditation Partner, Inc. (CHAP) has awarded VNA & Blue Water Hospice with CHAP Accreditation under the Private Duty, Home Health Care, and Hospice Services Standards of Excellence. This accolade signifies that VNA & Blue Water Hospice meets the industry’s highest nationally recognized standards, focusing on quality care, structure, and long-term viability.

Jessica Whitley, RN, BSN, VP of Clinical Operations & COO, stated, “By achieving CHAP Accreditation, we have shown our commitment to excellence.” The rigorous CHAP evaluation underscores the dedication of VNA & Blue Water Hospice staff in providing top-tier care to the Blue Water Area, covering St. Clair, Sanilac, Lapeer, and Macomb counties.

CHAP, an independent, not-for-profit accrediting body, has been setting standards for community-based health care since 1965. CHAP ensures agencies meet Medicare Conditions of Participation and CMS Quality Standards. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell