by orionontv | Jun 29, 2023 | Regional News
Gov. Whitmer Announces 115 New Jobs with High-Tech Semiconductor Materials Supplier Mersen USA in Bay City, Greenville
Michigan wins expansions over competing site in Tennessee, underscores state’s leadership position in semiconductor supply chain, advanced auto manufacturing and future mobility
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced that global advanced materials manufacturer Mersen USA is expanding in Bay City and Greenville with support from the Michigan Strategic Fund. The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $81.2 million and create 115 jobs in semiconductor and silicon chip materials manufacturing.
“Mersen USA is driving $81 million of investment and creating 115 good jobs in Bay City and Greenville, underscoring our leadership in advanced manufacturing and future mobility and builds on our economic momentum,” said Governor Whitmer. “Michigan was chosen for these expansions over Tennessee because of our talented workforce and strength in the future of mobility and the semiconductor supply chain. Let’s keep competing to win projects that bring home good-paying, high-skill jobs that will support our people and invest in the places we call home. Together, we can continue to send a clear message that everyone is welcome to make it in Michigan.”
“The decision by Mersen USA to expand in Michigan underscores our state’s leadership in advanced manufacturing as well as the strength of our business climate and talented workforce, and keeps Michigan at the forefront of the critical semiconductor industry,” said MEDC Sr. Vice President of Regional Prosperity Matt McCauley. “This project is a win for Bay City, Greenville and for the entire state. We are grateful to Governor Whitmer, legislators from both parties, and local officials for their continued support for our programs that help make announcements like today’s possible. We appreciate the efforts of our local partners in supporting these investments and will continue working to win projects, invest in places and support our people as we encourage businesses of all sizes to make it in Michigan.”
Mersen USA GS Corp. is a subsidiary of Le Carbone Lorraine, a France-based global leader in electrical specialties and advanced materials for high-tech industries. Mersen’s Michigan locations are in Bay City and Greenville, where the company employs a total of 304 team members. Mersen’s Greenville facility specializes in the machining of graphite and rigid carbon insulation.
The company has seen dramatic growth and increasing demand for its graphite products that are used to manufacture silicon chips and semiconductors, given the rapidly expanding electrification and technology involved in electric vehicles. Due to this growth, Mersen is increasing its production capacity and product offerings. The company plans to expand at its Bay City facility by acquiring more than five acres of land and constructing four new buildings that will house new manufacturing space. In addition, four buildings at this location will be rehabilitated and expanded and will include the addition of a technical center. The Greenville location will be adding space to its main production facility, and both locations will invest in new machinery and equipment.
The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $81.2 million and create 115 jobs, supported by a $1 million Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The company chose Michigan for the project over a competing site in Tennessee because of the quality of the materials currently being manufactured at its existing Michigan facilities.
“Mersen USA has been operating in Michigan for 30+ years,” said Mersen Bay City General Manager Brian Blakely. “We are excited to bring a major investment to Michigan that will expand our capacity and capabilities while adding numerous jobs in the state. This investment is the cornerstone of our desire to expand in Michigan and the Midwest region.”
“It’s a great thing to see companies bet big on our workers, our community, and our industries,” said state Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City). “Mersen’s substantial investment in their Bay City location means good-paying jobs for folks who live in our region now and is really promising for future opportunities here aligned with advanced manufacturing.”
The project aligns with the state’s work to position itself as the global leader in the future of mobility and vehicle electrification and the semiconductor supply chain, and will further solidify the company’s presence and future investment in the state. The project is also expected to be a catalyst for the semiconductor industry’s continued growth in the state, building on existing assets and companies such as KLA, Hemlock Semiconductor, Calumet Electronics, SK Siltron and more.
Both the cities of Bay City and Greenville anticipate supporting the project through the approval of a property tax abatement. For information on careers with Mersen, visit https://www.graphite-eng.com/opportunities.
Local voices in support of the Mersen expansion
“Mersen USA is an industry leader who could have chosen to invest anywhere in the world but chose Bay City, Michigan, cementing their legacy of manufacturing here,” said Bay Future Inc. President and CEO Trevor Keyes. “This expansion demonstrates not only their leadership and explosive growth in the global market but also their commitment to Bay City, as one of the community’s top employers, and the State of Michigan. This monumental expansion project will create generational impact, providing good paying jobs for not only the current, but also future workforce. Based on the historical growth of the business locally and existing industry opportunities, we believe Mersen USA will prosper in their expanded Bay City location.”
“We are grateful that Mersen USA calls Bay City home and we look forward to their expanded presence here,” said City Manager of Bay City Dana Muscott. “The growth of Mersen in our community benefits not only our local economy, but provides opportunities for our community members, positively impacting their quality of life. Our city staff has been working in collaboration with the team at Bay Future, Inc. to make this project a reality and we are appreciative of the efforts of all involved.
“The Montcalm Economic Alliance and The Right Place are grateful to have worked with Mersen USA and the City of Greenville to continue expanding Mersen’s footprint in West Michigan,” said Montcalm Economic Alliance Executive Director Jakob Bigard. “This investment shows that the strength of industry has only grown in Greenville and Montcalm County in recent years and is poised to continue doing so.”
“The city of Greenville wholeheartedly supports the announcement from Mersen USA to invest $10 million in their Greenville facility and create an additional 45 jobs,” said Greenville City Manager George Bosanic. “This is just another great example of how Mersen continues to be a successful and valuable partner in our community!”
Michigan’s growing semiconductor leadership and momentum continues
The announcement by Mersen to increase its semiconductor material production in Michigan is the latest example of the semiconductor industry’s continued growth in the state. The news builds on the May announcement of a new public-private partnership with semiconductor company KLA, Belgium-based technology innovation hub imec, the University of Michigan, Washtenaw Community College and General Motors that will establish a global semiconductor center of excellence in Michigan.
The Semiconductor Talent and Automotive Research (STAR) initiative will focus on developing the talent base and infrastructure necessary to accelerate advanced semiconductor applications for electrification and autonomous mobility and move the automotive industry forward. The plan establishes a center of excellence in Michigan to formalize support for the development of the semiconductor industry workforce as well as the advancement of autonomous automotive solutions and electric vehicle research.
In March, California-based indie Semiconductor announced that it is investing $12.5 million and creating up to 180 high-wage jobs in Auburn Hills, where it plans to expand its office to include a best-in-class semiconductor design and testing facility. Michigan’s demonstrated leadership in advanced manufacturing within the semiconductor field is also evident in companies such as Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation, the largest producer of polysilicon in the U.S. Hemlock was chosen as the site of Governor Whitmer’s CHIPS Act executive directive signing thanks to its key role in Michigan’s growing semiconductor industry.
In September 2022, Hemlock announced plans to invest $375 million and create 170 jobs at its facilities in Thomas Township, further ensuring Hemlock’s long-term commitment to continue to produce the essential polysilicon for the semiconductor and solar industries in Michigan.
In an effort to make Michigan a top state for semiconductor talent solutions and growth, Gov. Whitmer and MEDC in late 2022 launched the new Semiconductor Talent Action Team. The Talent Action Team will work across the public sector, industry partners, and training institutions to identify a clear set of semiconductor-specific curricula and R&D investments, placing Michigan in a strong position to attract long-term, sustainable investments from semiconductor companies around the world.
With a rich history in manufacturing and innovation, Michigan is poised to be a guiding hand as the world’s needs for semiconductor technology continue to evolve in the 21st century. As the global epicenter of the automotive industry and home to one-fifth of U.S. auto production, Michigan is equipped to support the increasing global demand for semiconductor technology.
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by orionontv | Jun 29, 2023 | Transportation
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gov. Whitmer Announces Orange Barrels Will Be Moved to Ease Fourth of July Holiday Weekend Travel
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that starting Friday afternoon, construction will be paused on nearly 60 percent of road and bridge projects statewide to ease traffic delays for holiday travelers. AAA Michigan estimates more than 1.7 million Michigan residents are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, a new record.
“Fourth of July weekend is a time to come together with family and friends to enjoy the splendor of Pure Michigan and celebrate our independence,” said Governor Whitmer. “To ensure Michiganders can get to their destinations safely and on time, we’re moving construction barrels and lifting traffic restrictions. As you hit the road, remember to not text and drive and keep your eyes on the road—our new hands-free driving laws goes into effect on Friday. Next, Wednesday, the hardworking men and women who build our infrastructure will be back in action fixing the damn roads and bridges. Since I took office, we have invested 70% more in our roads than the previous administration to fix nearly 20,000 lane miles of road and 1,400 bridges, supporting over 118,000 jobs. I’m proud of what we have accomplished, and I hope you all have a safe holiday weekend. ”
Beginning at 3:00PM on Friday, June 30, and continuing until 6:00AM on Wednesday, July 5, drivers will see open roads on 99 out of 175 projects statewide. While motorists will see suspended operations in most MDOT work zones for the weekend, drivers are advised that equipment and certain traffic configurations may remain in place, like temporary shifts or shoulder closures.
By the end of this construction season, the Whitmer administration will have fixed nearly 20,000 lane miles of road and 1,400 bridges, supporting more than 89,000 jobs without raising taxes by a dime. These and future repairs are made possible by the Rebuilding Michigan plan, a five-year, $3.5 billion investment in our highways and bridges, and the bipartisan Building Michigan Together Plan, the largest one-time investment in Michigan’s infrastructure in state history. These investments are in addition to investments made by the Biden Administration for infrastructure improvements through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which helped repair and rebuild roads and bridges throughout Michigan. These strategic investments in Michigan’s infrastructure ensure that future Michiganders will have safer roads and bridges to run errands, travel, and strengthen the economy.
“Summer traffic means a lot more folks on the road, especially during Fourth of July weekend,” said State Transportation Director Brad Wieferich. “Drivers are certainly aware of all the road and bridge work happening across the state, including those projects made possible thanks to Governor Whitmer’s Rebuilding Michigan program. We ask all drivers to continue to drive safely through work zones and follow all posted signs for their safety, their family’s safety, and for road workers’ safety. Slow down, stay alert and avoid distractions in all work zones. Work zone safety is truly a team effort. Everyone deserves to make it home each and every night.”
MDOT oversees I, M, and US routes and is responsible for nearly 10,000 miles of state highways, which carry more than 50 percent of all traffic and approximately 70 percent of commercial traffic in Michigan.
Detailed information on work zones that will remain active or have lane restrictions during Independence Day weekend can be found here. If necessary, detour routes will be posted at the project location. All closures are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on MDOT projects, go to the Mi Drive website at www.Michigan.gov/Drive.
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by orionontv | Jun 29, 2023 | ChatGPT
Your Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist: Things to Do Before You Take a Trip
Author: ChatGPT
Introduction:
Planning a trip, especially when driving to your destination, requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Along with the usual travel considerations, you need to account for additional aspects specific to road trips. To help you stay organized and prepared, this article presents an extended pre-travel checklist that covers everything you need to do before you take a trip, including driving. Whether you’re heading to popular summer destinations in Michigan like Traverse City, Mackinac Island, or the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan, this checklist will ensure that your road trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
- Research your destination:
Begin by researching your destination thoroughly, including the route you’ll be driving. Familiarize yourself with any road conditions, tolls, and potential construction or detours along the way. Additionally, research popular attractions, outdoor activities, and local events in destinations such as Traverse City, Mackinac Island, and the stunning beaches along Lake Michigan.
- Check your vehicle:
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the road. Schedule a maintenance check-up or perform one yourself if you’re knowledgeable about car maintenance. Check the tires, brakes, fluid levels, lights, and wipers. Carry a spare tire, jack, and necessary tools for any emergencies.
- Plan your driving itinerary:
Create a detailed driving itinerary that includes your travel dates, planned rest stops, and estimated driving hours per day. Take into account your comfort, fuel stops, and any must-see attractions or detours along the way. Plan for breaks every few hours to stretch your legs and prevent fatigue.
- Pack an emergency roadside kit:
Prepare an emergency roadside kit that includes items such as jumper cables, a tire repair kit, a flashlight, a reflective warning triangle, basic tools, extra fluids, and a first aid kit. Familiarize yourself with how to use these tools and keep them easily accessible in your vehicle.
- Check your driving documents:
Ensure your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents are up to date and easily accessible. If you’re traveling to a different country, research and obtain the necessary international driving permits and insurance coverage.
- Map out fuel and food stops:
Identify gas stations along your route to plan your refueling stops strategically. Consider using mobile apps or websites that provide real-time fuel prices and locations. Additionally, research restaurants or local food options along the way, or pack your own snacks and drinks for the journey.
- Familiarize yourself with traffic regulations:
Research the traffic laws and regulations of the areas you’ll be driving through, especially if you’re crossing borders. Be aware of speed limits, seat belt laws, cell phone usage restrictions, and any other specific rules applicable to the regions you’ll be traveling in.
- Prepare entertainment and navigation tools:
Load up your mobile device or GPS with maps, navigation apps, and any desired audio entertainment for the trip. Familiarize yourself with the features and ensure that you have a reliable charging cable or car charger.
- Secure your home and arrange for parking:
Take necessary steps to secure your home before leaving. Lock all doors and windows, set timers for lights, and ask a neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property. If you’re leaving your car at home, arrange for secure parking or notify your neighbors to keep an eye on it.
- Share your driving plans:
Inform trusted family or friends about your driving plans, including your route and estimated arrival times. Regularly check in with them during your trip to provide updates on your progress and ensure your safety.
With this extended pre-travel checklist, including driving preparations, you can embark on your road trip confidently
by orionontv | Jun 29, 2023 | Regional News
For immediate release: June 29, 2023
Media contacts: Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724 or Chelsea Lewis-Parisio, 517-331-1151
MDARD Reminds Michiganders to Help Keep Animals Safe While Celebrating Independence Day
Following a few easy tips can help ensure animals are protected throughout any celebration
LANSING, MI— The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding Michiganders to keep their animals safe during the upcoming July 4th holiday. Beyond the summer heat, fireworks, festivities, and other types of loud noises can make animals scared and anxious – so, it is essential to take extra precautions during the holiday celebrations to keep them safe.
“When celebrating Independence Day, we need to be mindful of the health and safety of our animals,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland. “First, it is important to consider the summer heat. Keeping animals cool and hydrated is vital to their overall health. Also, animals are often sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and strong smells, so keeping a close eye on them, ensuring they have up-to-date ID tags or registered microchips with current contact information, and taking extra steps to keep them calm is essential.”
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), more animals go missing around July 4th than any other time of the year. Fireworks can cause animals to become frightened and run away, making the days following Independence Day some of the busiest at local animal shelters.
“The 4th of July is a great time to celebrate and have fun, but it is important to remember your animals,” said Officer Juan DeLaTorre, President of the Michigan Association of Animal Control Officers. “Unfortunately, after the 4th of July weekend every year, we have several reports of missing animals, mostly dogs and cats. Always make sure animals are secure when there are fireworks. Also, don’t forget to have water and shelter for animals that are outside for a long period of time, and monitor them to make sure they are not becoming overwhelmed by all the activity as they could react and bite.”
Following these simple tips can help your animals stay safe and comfortable:
- Make sure animals have access to unlimited cool clean, fresh water and a place to cool down (shade, fans, cooling mats, etc.).
- Ensure animals have ID tags or registered microchips with your current contact information.
- Know your animal’s limits—how an animal tolerates stress and heat differ.
- Keep pets indoors when people are likely to set off fireworks.
- Open doors to the outside carefully, so an animal does not escape.
- If an animal ever does escape or you find an animal without an owner, please contact local animal control or law enforcement.
- Provide a separate space away from the noise to reduce stress – turning on a radio or TV may help to drown out loud noises.
- Consider offering a special pet-friendly treat or new toy to help distract them from fireworks.
- If dogs are taken outside, make sure they are kept on a leash, even if they are in a fenced area, as they could run due to an unexpected noise.
- Keep horses and other livestock safely fenced in or in their barns.
- Never set off fireworks near animals.
- Check in on animals periodically, especially when sounds are the loudest, to see how they are doing.
- Before letting animals back outside, check your yard, pasture, etc. for firework debris.
For more advice on how to keep your animals cool, calm, and safe this holiday, please contact your veterinarian. |
by orionontv | Jun 29, 2023 | Regional News
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 29, 2023 |
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AG Nessel Alerts Residents about a New Debt Collection Scam
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LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is alerting Michigan residents about fraudulent letters directed to workers and businesses. The letters attempt to collect an outstanding debt and are part of a scam that fraudulently identify the sender as the State of Michigan. While the sender uses the “State of Michigan” throughout the letter, the scammer may be seeking to unlawfully collect a debt that is owed to the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) or the Michigan Department of Treasury, which functions as the state’s debt collection agency.
In the scam, residents or employers are informed of an overdue state debt that requires immediate payment through a toll-free number to resolve the outstanding balance. The recipients are threatened with seizure of their bank accounts, wages, business assets, cars, real estate, refunds, and cash if past due debts are not paid. The letters use personal information that can be gleaned from internet records to make their sources sound legitimate and make the threats more likely to result in payment.
But these letters are not from the State of Michigan, the UIA, or the Michigan Department of Treasury. Workers and businesses should note that any letters from the Department of Treasury will be printed on Treasury Department letterhead and will also provide options for paying the debt, as well as outline taxpayer rights. Letters from the UIA will contain information about how to protest and appeal payment determinations. Letters from Treasury or the UIA will always include the names of departmental leadership at the top.
The purpose of the letter is not just to fraudulently secure payments, but information provided to the sender could also be used to commit identity theft.
“Posing as our state agencies to scare businesses and workers into paying entities that they don’t owe is just another way bad actors have devised to steal from Michigan residents,” Nessel said. “I encourage anyone who believes they have been scammed to contact the consumer protection team in my office. We are committed to holding accountable those who use dishonesty and coercion to scam Michigan residents out of their hard-earned dollars.”
If you have a consumer complaint or believe you’ve been the victim of a scam, please file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
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