Choze Powell

Today Is World Diabetes Day, Spread Awareness And Get Tested

Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting millions worldwide. World Diabetes Day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Foundation and the World Health Organization, this day aims to raise awareness and educate communities about the disease that impacts lives by hindering insulin production.

With roots dating back to the successful extraction and injection of insulin in 1922, the understanding of diabetes remains relatively recent despite its historical presence. The differentiation between type one and type two emerged in the mid-19th century. Today, type II diabetes accounts for a staggering 90% of those affected, numbering approximately 425 million individuals globally.

World Diabetes Day not only raises awareness about this pervasive disease, but also commemorates the pivotal contribution of the individual who revolutionized diabetes treatment through the discovery of insulin. 

Disgustingly Fun Fact: Diabetes was diagnosed by tasting the urine of people suspected to have it. If urine tasted sweet, diabetes was diagnosed.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Proposes Free Lifetime State Park Access For Veterans In Honor Of Their Service

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II unveiled an initiative celebrating Veterans Day by proposing free lifetime access to Michigan state parks for the state’s 530,000 veterans. In a heartfelt statement, Gilchrist expressed the deep gratitude for the sacrifices made by the veterans and highlighted the plan’s aim to honor their service. 

The proposal, integrated into the upcoming budget, marks Michigan as the third state in the nation to grant this privilege, following in the footsteps of Oklahoma and Maine.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Department of Natural Resources. Notably, it extends the benefit to active-duty service members, underscoring the state’s commitment to supporting those who have served or are currently serving. 

The initiative will be a part of the upcoming budget recommendation, solidifying the state’s dedication to making Michigan a veteran-friendly haven.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County’s EDA Secures $2.5M For Regional Small Business Boost

The Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of St. Clair County celebrates its $2.5 million grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Support Hubs program (SBSH). The awarded funds are earmarked to enhance the Small Business Development Center’s services in Region 6, fostering growth in the Port Huron SmartZone Hub and the affiliated Underground Incubator for tech and non-tech startups.

This initiative extends its reach to Shiawassee, Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, and Sanilac Counties, establishing counseling and training hubs. Co-working spaces in St. Clair’s Village of Capac and Huron’s Bad Axe will emerge through local community foundations.

The EDA plans to expand its Emerge Fund across Region 6, seeding it with grant funds of around $426,000 for eligible small businesses over three years. Collaboration with service providers aims to provide essential support in legal, accounting, marketing, and other vital areas, fostering entrepreneurial success and regional economic growth.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund Reaches Application Limit, Deadline Imminent

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has declared an imminent closure for applications through the Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund (MIHAF) program due to an overwhelming surge in submissions. The MIHAF online portal is set to halt new applications on Friday, December 8th, at midnight.

Prompted by homeowner-related delinquencies resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, Michiganders are urged to swiftly apply for potential aid. Applications submitted before the deadline will be processed until funds are exhausted, with updates available through the application portal.

Launched in February 2022, the MIHAF program has been a pivotal support system, disbursing over $200 million statewide, benefiting more than 26,000 households with an average of $7,600 per recipient. 

For more information, call MIHAF customer service at: 1(844) 756-4423 or by emailing MSHDA-HO-HAF-Program@michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Black Leadership Advisory Council Champion Legislation To Cap Payday Loan Interest Rates

Members of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) have put their support behind Michigan State Sen. Sarah Anthony and State Rep. Abraham Aiyash for their proposal of Senate Bill 632. The bill aims to cap the interest rate on payday loans at a maximum of 36 percent annual percentage rate (APR), in alignment with BLAC’s 2022 policy report to Governor Whitmer.

BLAC’s recommendation highlights the disproportionate targeting of Black communities by payday lenders, where loans can amass interest rates exceeding 300% APR. The lack of a cooling-off period between loans in Michigan prompts consumers to frequently renew loans, as per data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

The advocacy emphasizes the prevalence of payday lending operations in communities of color, with areas with significant African American populations hosting more payday lenders per capita. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Century Art Gallery Awarded $25,000 In Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program

Main Street America and American Express revealed the recipients of the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program on Wednesday, November 1st, with New Century Art Gallery in Marine City emerging as one of the winners. 

The $25,000 grant aims to bolster small businesses, and Jeanne Burris Johnson, expressing gratitude, outlined plans to expand classes, community programs, and collaborations in the St. Clair County area.

Twenty-five small business owners nationwide, including New Century Art Gallery, were awarded these grants, totaling $625,000. With this announcement, the program’s contributions in 2023 reach over $2.3 million, supporting 680 small businesses. 

Launched in 2021 to aid post-pandemic recovery, the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program exemplifies American Express’ commitment to empowering independent business owners through various initiatives, including the Coalition to Back Black Businesses and Backing Historic Small Restaurants.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell