Learn A New Skill As Michigan Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week

In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, Michigan takes pride in its status as a leader in Registered Apprenticeship programs. These programs provide participants with paid work experience, relevant classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized credential from the United States Department of Labor (USDOL). 

Michigan, ranking among the nation’s top states for such initiatives, is committed to broadening access to Registered Apprenticeships, particularly for underrepresented populations, including individuals with disabilities.Registered Apprentices not only earn a paycheck from day one but also benefit from hands-on training in high-wage, high-skill career pathways under the guidance of experienced mentors. 

The state encourages all interested individuals to explore the opportunities and resources available, emphasizing inclusivity in apprenticeship programs. Learn more about Registered Apprenticeships and how to kickstart your journey at Michigan.gov/Apprenticeship.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Study Shows Lack Of Sleep May Lead To Women Developing Diabetes

As World Diabetes Month unfolds, a new study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reveals that chronic insufficient sleep can heighten insulin resistance, especially in postmenopausal women. 

Published in Diabetes Care, the research emphasizes the critical role of adequate sleep in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance, a key factor in diabetes development, hampers the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar effectively.

Marishka Brown, Ph.D., Director of the National Center on Sleep Disorder Research at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, underscores the importance of understanding sleep’s impact on women’s health, particularly postmenopausal women. The NIH-funded study sheds light on the long-term consequences of sleep disturbances, linking them to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and insulin resistance leading to type 2 diabetes.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blood Drive At Lake Huron Medical Center Encourages Community Participation In Life-Saving Donations

Lake Huron Medical Center is set to host a blood drive in their auditorium on Thursday, November 16th, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event aims to bolster blood donations, emphasizing the ease and significance of this simple act.

With the event coordinated in partnership with the Red Cross, individuals can schedule appointments through RedCrossBlood.org using the sponsor code: LAKEHURONMEDICALCENTER or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Moreover, attendees can streamline their donation process by utilizing RapidPass® to complete pre-donation reading and health history online before their appointment.

The drive seeks to encourage community members to participate, highlighting the life-saving impact of blood donations. The organizers hope to garner lots of support from the public, emphasizing the ease and vital importance of donating blood to save lives within the community and beyond.

Reporting for WGRT – 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