Choze Powell

More Than Just A Fall Flavor: The Health Benefit Of Pumpkins

Beyond being Halloween decorations and Thanksgiving pie fillings, pumpkins are hailed for their numerous health benefits. They are packed with antioxidants, low in calories, nutrient-dense, and an excellent source of fiber. 

Pumpkins’ vibrant orange hue signifies their richness in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Additionally, they are a treasure trove of vitamins C, E, and B6, along with essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, thiamin, folate, niacin, iron, and riboflavin.

Recent studies reveal that pumpkins play a role in cancer prevention. Lycopene and carotenoids found in pumpkins have demonstrated protective effects against prostate cancer. 

Incorporating pumpkins, along with other foods like tomatoes, spinach, watermelon, and citrus fruits, may contribute to a lower prostate cancer risk, making these autumn favorites more appealing for health-conscious individuals.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Applauds UAW Agreements With Big Three

Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her support and enthusiasm as the United Auto Workers (UAW) reached tentative agreements with major automakers. These agreements, including Stellantis, General Motors (GM), and Ford, signal a significant win for Michigan’s world-class autoworkers.

Gov. Whitmer emphasized the positive impact of these deals, stating, “This agreement will raise wages for workers and shore up the company’s footprint in Michigan.” She also underscored the importance of building on the state’s legacy of auto manufacturing leadership.

These agreements, she believes, will not only benefit Michigan’s workforce but also serve as a blueprint for revitalizing manufacturing and bringing jobs back to the state.

Whitmer concluded, “Michigan is home to phenomenal companies powered by the best autoworkers in the world. Let’s keep it that way.”

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel Issues Warning About Smartphone Voice Search Scams

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging residents to be cautious when using smartphone voice search and virtual assistant apps to find and dial phone numbers. The Better Business Bureau has recently issued a warning about the rising threat of scams targeting smartphone users who rely on voice-activated technology for convenience.

Scammers are exploiting this reliance by creating fake customer service numbers that appear at the top of search results when using voice search. Unsuspecting users may end up paying fees for services they never intended to purchase or have their personal information stolen.

The Better Business Bureau advises users to verify support phone numbers through official business channels, watch out for phony ads, go directly to the company’s website for support, and use credit cards for payments to facilitate dispute resolution.

If you fall victim to a smartphone voice search scam, the Better Business Bureau offers a platform for filing complaints.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Haunted Attractions: Fort Gratiot Lighthouse Is Said To Offer Up Real Life Paranormal Activity

Steeped in history and mystery, the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, has intrigued paranormal enthusiasts with its eerie phenomena. Constructed in 1829, the lighthouse has become a hotspot for those seeking the supernatural.

There have been reports of unexplained drops in temperature and flashlights flickering on and off without human intervention. A recent investigation was conducted at the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse by Detroit Rock City Paranormal on October 22nd, with the hopes of finding out if the stories about the paranormal activity are true. 

To satisfy your own curiosity and experience the paranormal for yourself, Port Huron Museums offers guided tours of the historic site. 

For more information on the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse tours, visit: phmuseum.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Community Service Commission Offers Grants For MLK Day Volunteer Projects

The Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) is extending a helping hand to local communities across the state in honor of MLK Day. The MCSC has announced a grant program to support volunteer projects addressing various community needs geared towards honoring the legacy of the late Dr. Martin Luther King. 

Grants ranging from $100 to $1,000 will be awarded to projects aimed at engaging thousands of Michigan volunteers. The MCSC firmly believes that volunteer involvement is essential for building and strengthening thriving communities.

Complete grant applications should be submitted by December 13th, and projects are scheduled to take place between January 5th and January 22nd, 2024. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For more information and to apply, visit: 2024 MLK National Day of Service Grant Application Survey.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Executive Director Michael Hensley To Lead Blue Water Area Convention

The Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is excited to announce the appointment of Michael Hensley as its new Executive Director. Hensley, a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, is set to take the reins from Marci Fogal, who is retiring in mid-2024 after 25 years of dedicated service.

With extensive experience gained during his tenure as the Director of Tourism Marketing at the Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB since 2017, Hensley brings a fresh perspective to Michigan’s Thumbcoast tourism landscape. Raised in Warren, Michigan, and with fond memories of summers spent along the Thumbcoast, Hensley is eager to contribute to the area’s ongoing growth and development.

The Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau serves as the official destination marketing organization for Michigan’s Thumbcoast, dedicated to promoting the region as a premier travel destination and contributing to its economic prosperity.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell