The Science Behind The Beautiful Colors Of Fall

Have you ever wondered why the leaves change color in fall? Well, the breathtaking colors of autumn leaves are tied to weather conditions preceding and during the chlorophyll decline, scientists reveal. 

Key influencers are temperature and moisture. Optimal conditions for vibrant displays involve a sequence of warm, sunny days followed by cool, crisp, non-freezing nights. This combination encourages sugar production in leaves, with cool nights preventing their outward movement. 

The results are brilliant pigments, painting leaves in reds, purples, and crimson hues. Carotenoids, always present, contribute to consistent yellow and gold tones. Soil moisture, a variable like weather, also plays a crucial role. 

A warm, wet spring, favorable summer, and sunny fall days with cool nights promise the most dazzling autumn colors, making each fall season a unique spectacle shaped by the unpredictable dance of nature.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Old Newsboys Hosts “Bowl 4 Kids” Fundraiser

Port Huron Old Newsboys is thrilled to announce the upcoming “Bowl 4 Kids” event on Saturday, November 4th, at Port Huron Lanes located at 1718 Hancock Street, Port Huron. From 1 – 5 p.m., participants can enjoy two games of bowling with shoe rental included, all for just $20 per ticket.

This charitable event aims to raise funds for a noble cause, with every $60 contributing to a child’s clothing essentials. The organization encourages community members to join in the fun and support local kids in need. 

The Old Newsboys organization has been raising money to buy boots, socks and underwear for St. Clair County children in need at Christmas time for over 100 years.

To secure a spot at the event and make a difference, tickets can be purchased by contacting Mary Meadows at (810) 367-7655.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Fort Gratiot Residents Rally Against Industrial Solar Farms, Fear Property Value Plunge

The proposal for 800 acres of industrial solar development faces mounting opposition. Fort Gratiot residents are up in arms over plans to construct industrial solar farms on agricultural land and near residential homes, expressing concerns that the projects will significantly diminish local property values. 

Critics argue that insufficient notice was given to affected residents, limiting their ability to voice concerns. A call for a Public Hearing, permitted under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, has been made by those living within 300 feet of the proposed sites, emphasizing the importance of community awareness. 

The Fort Gratiot Charter Township Planning Commission has scheduled a crucial meeting on Tuesday, October 10th, at 7:00 p.m. in the Gardendale Meeting Room at the Municipal Center, 3720 Keewahdin Rd. 

Residents are urging their neighbors to attend the meeting or offer guidance in this critical juncture for Fort Gratiot.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Economic Boost For St. Clair County As RAP 2.0 Grants Propel Key Development Projects

In a significant win for St. Clair County, the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) secures RAP 2.0 grants, marking a pivotal moment for local development. 

Along with the EDA, Governor Whitmer also revealed additional funding for St. Clair County, with $500,000 being allocated to the SONS Outreach project in Port Huron for transforming the former Harrison School into a community center and $400,000 for Algonac to renovate a community swimming pool. 

SONS Outreach was recently awarded $300,000 last year via federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to purchase the new home of the organization at the former Harrison School.

This initiative contributes to the broader RAP 2.0 program, awarding funds to 44 projects across Michigan, with three significant ventures enhancing growth in St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SOS Marysville Food Pantry Faces Funding Crisis, Launches “Together We Can Fight Hunger” Campaign

Since its inception in 2010, the SOS Marysville Food Pantry has been a lifeline for the community, providing essential food support with dignity and confidentiality. However, the pantry faces a critical funding shortfall this year, as crucial grants haven’t materialized. 

Undeterred, the pantry is launching the “Together We Can Fight Hunger” campaign to raise awareness and funds to sustain their mission.

The campaign’s centerpiece is a dinner event, “Awareness of Hunger in Our Communities,” scheduled for Thursday, November 2nd, at Alexander’s Banquet Hall in Marysville, beginning at 5 p.m. Attendees will learn about the pantry’s various programs, including the Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway, Community Christmas Dinner, and the senior program Golden Hearts.

For more information on how you can make a difference, visit: sosmarysville.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell