MHSAA Making Some Changes

MHSAA Making Some Changes

by | Mar 29, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

MHSAA Making Some Changes.

Written Tuesday March 29th at 1:00 PM
Written by Sammy Taomina

The MHSAA Representative Council made some huge moves on Tuesday morning.

The League approved several new measures last week at their winter meetings. Some of which are huge changes.

The League approved a basketball resolution going from 20 games to 22 basketball games and cut down on preseason practice time from 21 days to 14 days.

“Thank you to the MHSAA Representative Council on approving 22 games for next season. The BCAM (Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan) leadership has made it a top priority for many years. Today is a great day for the coaches and players in the State of Michigan.” said BCAM Executive Director Dan Young on Twitter.

Other proposals that were approved included postseason divisions that are more reflective of the number of schools that actively sponsor teams for that season.

In football, teams can opted up a division after the spring release of the annual classifications. It will be a two year thing and require the Executive Committee’s approval. The school would then need to show proof why they want to move up a division.

In hockey, there will be a 2,000 student increase in Co-Op programs which will allow 5,500 students for hockey only.

In track and field, those that are in a wheelchair can compete in the 100, 200, 400, and shot put for the tournament season.

In swimming, there will be a 100 yard freestyle race that will be added to the state finals for Paralympic athletes.

In baseball and softball, the districts will be allowed to start the week before Memorial Day.

Thoughts

I like the basketball move from 20 to 22 games. It’s a long time coming in my opinion. It gives more teams the chance to play more games before the postseason.

I also like the wheelchair events for track and field student-athletes. It gives them a chance to compete and showcase their talents. It brings inclusion to the fold.

In Football, moving up a division is going to be very interesting to watch and see. I’ll be curious to see which teams want to move up.

I think that will help. In all it makes sense and the Representative Council did the right thing heading into this spring and next season.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Here is the article from the MHSAA.

https://secondhalf.mhsaa.com/topics/mhsaa-news/rep-council-approves-expanded-basketball-schedules-classification-changes-winter

More fruits and vegetables remain for WIC families

More fruits and vegetables remain for WIC families

by | Mar 29, 2022 | Health and Wellness

MDHHS banner with logo no names

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 29, 2022

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, [email protected]

More fruits and vegetables remain available for WIC families

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Women, Infants and Children (WIC) clients are being reminded about additional Cash Value Benefits (CVB) they are receiving to purchase fruits and vegetables at the grocery store through September 30.

On March 15, President Joe Biden signed the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2022 into law, authorizing state WIC agencies to extend the increase of the program’s vegetable and fruit benefit through the end of September.

Brian Dittmeier, senior director of Public Policy at the National WIC Association, issued the following statement in response:

“The WIC benefit bump is one of the most effective investments to build nutrition security for low-income families…and has resulted in more than triple the amount of fruit and vegetable purchases, a greater variety of produce redeemed by WIC families, and increased fruit and vegetable consumption for young children.  As WIC’s individualized nutrition counseling reinforces this benefit bump, WIC families are positioned to make healthier choices that will resonate with the next generation.”

“Michigan is excited to offer this great increase in benefits to the women, infants and children that we serve,” said Christina Herring-Johnson, Michigan WIC director.  “This increase in fresh fruits and vegetables will continue to promote and support healthier eating patterns and overall great nutrition.”

The monthly cash value benefit for fruits and vegetables will remain at the following increased amounts through September 2022:

  • $24 for children.
  • $43 for pregnant and postpartum people.
  • $47 for breastfeeding people.

WIC’s CVB vegetable and fruit benefit was first introduced in 2007 and is credited with improving the dietary quality of WIC participants’ nutrition and reducing the prevalence of childhood obesity among WIC toddlers.

Michigan residents can learn more about what the Michigan WIC program has to offer by visiting Michigan.gov/WIC. To apply for WIC, visit Michigan.gov/MIBridges.

Upgrading Ukraine; Punishing Putin

Upgrading Ukraine; Punishing Putin

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

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Hi there,

We have all been watching what has been happening in Ukraine over these past couple weeks – a ruthless Russian invasion and an incredible display of courage and resilience by the Ukrainian people.

Michiganders, especially those in the Ukrainian-American community, have been standing up to show their support.

And whether it’s calling into my office or speaking with me on the ground, folks from across the 8th District have been making it clear they want Congress to act. With that in mind, I want to lay out the four pieces of concrete legislation I have introduced to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom. I have also linked to the actual text of the bills, so you can review them yourself.

The Ukraine Lend-Lease Act

The Ukrainian people have no shortage of courage and bravery, but they do need Stinger missiles and Javelin anti-tank systems. To provide Ukraine with the might of American firepower, the bipartisan Ukraine Lend-Lease Act:

  • Authorizes the President to lend or lease military equipment to Ukraine to bolster their defensive capabilities
  • Streamlines the process of providing defense equipment support to Ukraine
  • Requires the administration develop procedures to expedite the delivery of equipment to Ukraine

You can view the full text of the bill here.

The American Energy for Europe Act

Because of Europe’s dependence on Russian energy, they have been restrained in their ability to respond to Putin’s aggression. To help wean them off Russian oil and gas, while also supporting American manufacturing, the bipartisan American Energy for Europe Act:

  • Creates a Department of Energy program to reduce the reliance of European countries on Russian energy
  • Provides supplies and equipment to European allies
  • Requires that the Secretary of Energy only approve projects that promote U.S. manufacturing

You can view the full text of the bill here.

The DICTATOR Act:

While the world focuses on Ukraine, I haven’t taken my eye off China and their relationship with Russia. Introduced with my colleague Rep. Young Kim (R-CA), the DICTATOR Act:

  • Requires the State Department to conduct an investigation to determine whether China has helped Russia evade sanctions
  • Directs the State Department to develop a strategy to block efforts by China to help Russia evade sanctions.

You can view the full text of the bill here.

Stop Russian Gold Act:

The Russians are feeling the heat of U.S. sanctions, and we must slam shut every door they could use to evade them. Introduced by equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats, the Stop Russian GOLD Act:

  • Closes a loophole to prevent Russia from using its gold reserves to evade sanctions
  • Directs the U.S. Treasury Department to develop guidelines for American citizens to ensure they do not unwillingly invest in Russian gold
    Is co-sponsored by equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats

You can view the full text of the bill here.

 

How do you think Congress should address this crisis? And how do you feel about the work I have done so far? I am always looking for input from folks back home, so please submit your thoughts below. 

  

 

*By responding to this survey you are signing up for my newsletter

In addition to these bills, I have been urging the Biden administration to take deliberate steps to ramp-up our support for the Ukrainian armed forces, impose more devastating sanctions, and work with international partners to alleviate the compounding humanitarian and refugee crises.

Sending weapons such as Javelin missiles and Switchback drones, levying additional sanctions like cutting more banks off from SWIFT and seizing the assets of Russian oligarchs, and finally taking steps to support civilians while they evacuate through humanitarian corridors and after they cross the border, will inflict serious damage on the Putin regime and bolster the Ukrainian people.

I have been struck by the unity and resolve with which America has confronted this crisis. In Washington, and across the country, we are united in our commitment to freedom over tyranny. 

– Rep. Elissa Slotkin

 
Whitmer to Sign Building Michigan Together Plan

Whitmer to Sign Building Michigan Together Plan

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

Gov. Whitmer Press Release Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 28, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

                Lauren Leeds, [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer to Sign Building Michigan Together Plan to Protect Water, Fix Roads, Expand Internet, Improve Parks, Build Housing

 Bipartisan infrastructure supplemental makes historic investments, supports tens of thousands of jobs

 

ST. CLAIR SHORES, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer celebrated the Building Michigan Together Plan, a bipartisan plan to invest nearly $5 billion in Michigan’s infrastructure, grow the economy, create jobs, and benefit families in every region of the state.

 

“The Building Michigan Together Plan makes bold, bipartisan investments in the kitchen-table issues that matter most to Michigan families, including clean water, smooth roads, fast internet, and beautiful parks,” said Governor Whitmer. “I am so proud that the Michigan Legislature and I were able to come together to get this done. This bill will make a real difference in our communities, support tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and set up Michigan’s economy for decades of success. It is a testament to what is possible when we put Michiganders first.”

 

“This supplemental uses one-time resources to make long-term strategic investments in the state’s infrastructure to improve the lives of Michiganders today and well into the future,” said State Budget Director Christopher Harkins. “I look forward to continuing to build on this success and working with our legislative partners to enact a budget that will benefit all residents of our great state.”

 

Water

The Building Michigan Together Plan includes nearly $2 billion to address critical water infrastructure needs.

  • More than $1 billion for drinking water improvements, including:
  • At least $325 million to replace lead service lines, including 100% of lead service lines in Benton Harbor.
  • $55 million to help communities tackle toxic contaminants like PFAS.
  • $43 million in assistance for small and disadvantaged communities.
  • $712 million for clean water initiatives to address storm and wastewater including:
  • $$669 million for clean water infrastructure.
  • $35 million for loans to help repair failing septic systems.
  • $20 million for public health risk reduction.
  • $8 million to address emerging contaminants.
  • $210 million to repair dams in Midland and Gladwin counties and another $40 million to address the repair, renovation, or elimination of dams statewide.

 

 

Transportation

The Building Michigan Together Plan calls for critical investments of $645 million in Michigan’s infrastructure, including:

  • $317 million for road and bridge programs, benefitting both state and local projects.
  • $66 million to make state transportation infrastructure more resilient to future flooding events by adding reliable generator backup power to all 164 state-owned pumping stations.
  • $98 million for airport infrastructure improvement grants.
  • $66 million to improve public transportation.
  • $25 million investment in the statewide Mobility Futures Initiative to position Michigan to lead the nation in mobility innovation.

 

 

Parks

The Building Michigan Together Plan invests $450 million in Michigan’s state parks to improve state and local parks and trails to enhance tourism and boost the outdoor recreation industry.

  • $250 million for state parks, including the creation of a new state park in the city of Flint.
  • $200 million for local park systems, including transformative greenway projects in Detroit and Grand Rapids.

 

 

High-Speed Internet

The Building Michigan Together Plan will connect more households and small businesses to fast, reliable high-speed internet through:

  • $250 million in funding to improve access and adoption of broadband – helping ensure all Michigan residents and businesses can compete in a 21st century economy.

 

 

Housing

The Building Michigan Together Plan provides funding centered on housing in underserved rural and urban areas, including:

  • $150 million for housing and home improvements, such as:
  • $50 million investment in the Housing and Community Development Fund to meet the housing needs of low-income households throughout the state.
  • $50 million to create a missing middle housing gap fund.
  • $50 million for residential home improvements including grants to incentivize energy efficiency and provide energy assistance.
  • $383 million for COVID Emergency Rental Assistance to help tenants facing pandemic-related hardships avoid eviction while also ensuring landlords can recoup owed rent.
  • $121 million to help Michigan homeowners avoid the personal devastation of foreclosure.

 

Additionally, the Building Michigan Together Plan includes:

  • $133 million to strengthen Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance System and tackle fraud.
  • $46 million to protect funding for public safety and first responders in cities, villages and townships with population losses in the 2020 Census.

Gov Whitmer speaking at podium at Building Michigan Together event

Gov. Whitmer with a small group of people at the Building Michigan Together Event

Detroit Wins Bid to Host 2024 NFL Draft  

Detroit Wins Bid to Host 2024 NFL Draft  

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

Gov. and Lt. Gov. general message banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 28, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer & Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Announce Detroit Wins Bid to Host 2024 National Football League Draft

 

LANSING, Mich.— Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist issued the following statements after the National Football League (NFL) selected Detroit to host the 2024 NFL Draft.

 

“Bringing the 2024 NFL draft to Detroit is a huge win for Detroiters and football fans across the state of Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “It will inject energy into our economy, benefitting countless small businesses and working families in Southeast Michigan. The NFL’s selection is a testament to the Motor City’s hustle and spirit, and I’m so proud that yet another major company has decided to make a historic investment in Michigan since Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist and I took office. I am grateful to all the local leaders, community organizations, and business owners who continue to get things done in Detroit. Together, we will continue landing marquee projects and events as we stay focused on growing our economy to help every working family, small business, and community thrive.”

 

“This announcement is a win for Detroit and for Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Governor Whitmer and I have worked hard to build a Detroit with opportunity and prosperity for everyone, and we are excited that the NFL has recognized Detroit’s strength as a center for tourism, culture, innovation, and athletics. We look forward to hosting the 2024 NFL draft and we will continue standing tall alongside Detroiters.”

 

Governor Whitmer wrote to the NFL in March 2021, supporting Detroit’s bid to be the home of the 2024 NFL Draft. A year later, thanks to the hard work and advocacy of so many Michiganders, Detroit landed the bid. To view the full letter, click the link below:

 

 

Detroit

Detroit is on the move. Over the last couple of years, the city has attracted jobs and investment from around the world, continued building and repairing its infrastructure, and advanced its reputation as a hub of arts, culture, and athletics.

 

Since Governor Whitmer took office, the State of Michigan has made bold, bipartisan investments in Southeast Michigan’s economic growth, housing, and infrastructure.

 

Economic Investments in Detroit

Since 2019, over 20,000 auto jobs have been created in Michigan, including the opening of a Stellantis auto plant, the first auto manufacturing plant in Detroit in nearly 30 years. The $1.6 billion Mack Avenue assembly plant created nearly 5,000 good-paying auto jobs for Michiganders in SE Michigan.

 

Another project in Detroit includes the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood, where Google and Ford are incubating entrepreneurs and local businesses building the future of mobility and electrification. The Michigan Central Innovation District will help Detroit attract and retain highly skilled talent and high-growth companies while supporting the development of neighboring neighborhoods.

 

On top of these two bold investments, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has invested over $610 million to support over 130 business development projects in SE Michigan and $330 million in over 120 community development projects. Combined, these investments have leveraged over $16 billion in private investment and reactivated over 3 million square feet of public space.

 

Workforce Development in Detroit

Governor Whitmer established two game-changing workforce development programs—Michigan Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners—that have put tens of thousands of Michiganders on a tuition-free path to good-paying, high-skill jobs.

 

There are 53,742 Michigan Reconnect applicants and 44,586 Futures for Frontliners in SE Michigan on tuition-free paths to higher education or skills training. Additionally, there have been 8,390 new registered apprenticeships created in SE Michigan since 2019, with a focus on supporting opportunities for underrepresented populations: veterans, women, people of color, those with disabilities, and young Michiganders.

 

Infrastructure in Detroit

Since Governor Whitmer took office, Michigan has fixed 2,172 lane miles of road and 320 bridges in SE Michigan, supporting 23,440 jobs. The state has invested $460 million into water infrastructure in the region to upgrade sewer systems, replace lead pipes, and protect safe drinking water for families, and $14.8 million to improve SE Michigan’s state and local parks. And when it comes to housing, Michigan has constructed 4,770 affordable, attainable housing units, helped 7,004 families with mortgages and down payments, and kept 49,766 families in their homes with rental and utility assistance in Southeast Michigan.