AG warns of Potential Price Gouging Tied to Detroit Auto Show
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Talking Michigan Transportation – Jan. 15, 2026
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Showcasing the DNR: Conservation Officer Cadet Academy
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Showcasing the DNR
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| The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to Michigan.gov/DNR. |
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources hosted its first Conservation Officer Cadet Academy, a free career exploration opportunity, July 6-11 at the DNR’s Ralph A. MacMullan Center in Roscommon.
Recruits check in at the CO Training Academy on Sunday and stay through Thursday or Friday. The first portion of the academy takes place in Lansing at the Michigan State Police Training Academy facility, then moves to the RAM Center for advanced natural resource training.
Hands-on lessons included fish and waterfowl identification, trapping enforcement, off-road vehicle and marine training, search and rescue, first aid, big and small game enforcement, big game necropsies and introduction to survival tactics.
After all, this is also an opportunity for staff with the DNR Law Enforcement Division to evaluate individuals who will likely be future applicants.
MDARD: Applications for Regenerative Agriculture Grant
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| For immediate release: January 15, 2026
Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel, 517-290-1734
MDARD Now Accepting Applications for New Regenerative Agriculture GrantApplications due February 27, 2026 at 5 p.m. |
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Lansing, Mich. –The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is now accepting applications for its new Regenerative Farmer Network Grant, which will support farmers in implementing practices that improve soil health, protect water quality and promote the long-term sustainability and profitability of Michigan agriculture. “At a time when uncertain market access, rising production costs and low commodity prices are creating dire farm profitability levels, it’s imperative that growers have tools to keep their operations afloat,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Regenerative agriculture can provide scalable and sustainable solutions to help farms become more resilient, productive and profitable in the face of these challenges. These new grants will support peer-to-peer information exchange and support the implementation of regenerative practices to achieve healthier soils and improved bottom lines.” MDARD’s Regenerative Agriculture Program is one of the first in the nation to be embedded within a state agriculture agency. The department’s Regenerative Farmer Network Grants offer awards of up to $50,000 for the creation of farmer-led networks committed to:
Prospective applicants must complete the grant application available on MDARD’s website and email it to MDARD-RFNG@michigan.gov by 5 p.m. ET on Friday, February 27, 2026. MDARD invites prospective applicants to participate in an informational webinar on Wednesday, February 4 at 3 p.m. ET. All applications for Regenerative Farmer Network Grants will be subject to a competitive process with review by an evaluation committee. MDARD will prioritize grant proposals that focus on the pillars of regenerative agriculture, which include:
The Regenerative Farmer Network Grants complement a range of other actions MDARD is taking to promote the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices throughout Michigan. Since its establishment in 2024, MDARD’s innovative Regenerative Agriculture Program has:
Regenerative agriculture is an active approach to land management that promotes long-term farm sustainability and food security by minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing plant diversity and integrating livestock into farming operations to improve nutrient cycling and profitability. Regenerative practices can complement or improve conventional agriculture systems, helping farms become more resilient, productive and profitable over the long term. Last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a $700 million investment in regenerative agriculture – demonstrating the widespread, bipartisan support for science-driven practices that directly correlate with farmer success. Additional details about the Regenerative Farmer Network Grant application, funding priorities and eligibility criteria are available on MDARD’s grant web page. For more information about efforts to promote sustainable farming, visit MDARD’s regenerative agriculture web page. |
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 15, 2026 Contact: press@michigan.gov
Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Natural Resources Commission; Michigan Civil Rights Commission; Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention (Children Trust Michigan) Board of Directors; Michigan Board of Licensed Midwifery; Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery; Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors; State of Michigan Retirement Board; Michigan Indigent Defense Commission; State Historic Preservation Review Board; Statewide Independent Living Council; School Safety and Mental Health Commission; Michigan Trails Advisory Council; Utility Consumer Participation Board; Michigan Bean Commission; Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan; Farm Produce Insurance Authority; Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee; Black Leadership Advisory Council; Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs; Child Lead Exposure Elimination Commissio
Natural Resources Commission Mark Eyster, of Williamston, is an attorney and retired administrative law judge for the State of Michigan. Eyster also served as an Ingham county commissioner for two terms. Eyster holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan School of Law. Eyster is an avid hunter, fisher, and outdoorsman. Mark Eyster is appointed as a Democrat for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Eyster succeeds David Anthony, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) has exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game and sportfish and is authorized to designate game species and authorize the establishment of the first open season for animals through the issuance of orders.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Civil Rights Commission Skot Welch, of Kentwood, is the founder and president of Global Bridgebuilders, a firm dedicated to global workforce consulting and innovation through inclusion. Welch serves on the boards of Legacy Trust, the Grand Rapids Economic Club, the New Community Transformation Fund, and African Investment Holdings, and is the current board chair for Mosaic Film Experience and the Greater Michigan Chapter of the National Black MBA Association. Welch holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and broadcasting from Albion College and a Master of Management from Aquinas College. Skot Welch is appointed as an Independent for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Welch succeeds David Worthams, whose term has expired.
Luke Londo, of Hazel Park, is a member of the Hazel Park City Council. Londo was first appointed to the office in 2021 and subsequently elected to four-year terms in 2021 and 2025. Londo is also a freelance communications professional and serves as secretary of the Affirmations Community Center Board of Directors. Londo holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from Northern Michigan University. Luke Londo is reappointed as an Independent for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.
The Michigan Civil Rights Commission was created by the Michigan Constitution of 1963 to safeguard constitutional and legal guarantees against discrimination. The Commission is charged with investigating alleged discrimination against any person on the basis of that person’s inclusion in a protected class.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention (Children Trust Michigan) Board of Directors Randy Richardville, of Monroe, is the president of RJames, LLC and the former Majority Leader of the Michigan State Senate. Richardville holds a Bachelor of Arts in economics and management from Albion College, a Master of Management from Aquinas College, and a Master of Religious Education from Rochester University. Richardville is also a doctoral candidate at Western Theological Seminary. Randy Richardville i
Mark McDaniel, of East Lansing, is the chief executive officer of Cinnaire. McDaniel holds a Bachelor of Science in urban planning from Michigan State University. Mark McDaniel is appointed as a member representing the business community for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 19, 2028. McDaniel succeeds Jill Hoffman, whose term has expired.
Michael Keller Zehnder, of Frankenmuth, is the president of the Bavarian Inn Lodge. Zehnder holds a Bachelor of Science in commercial recreation and tourism from Michigan State University. Michael Keller Zehnder is appointed to represent the business community for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 19, 2028. Zehnder succeeds Amy Loepp, whose term has expired.
Reverend Cindy Rudolph, of Bloomfield Hills, is senior pastor at Oak Grove AME Church in Detroit. Rudolph holds Bachelor of Arts in communications from Rutgers University and a Master of Divinity from Drew University. Rev. Cindy Rudolph is appointed to represent the religious community for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 19, 2028. Rev. Rudolph succeeds Rev. Dr. Steve Bland, whose term has expired.
The Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board, also known as Children Trust Michigan, was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1982 and serves as a voice for Michigan’s children and families and promotes their health, safety, and welfare by funding effective local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Licensed Midwifery Emily Sloan, of Grand Rapids, is a midwife at West Michigan Midwifery. Sloan holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Davenport University. Emily Sloan is appointed as a midwife for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Sloan succeeds Patrice Bobier, whose term has expired.
Dr. Mahesh Shrestha, of Kalamazoo, is an assistant professor in the department of pediatric and adolescent medicine at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine and a board-certified
The Michigan Board of Licensed Midwifery is housed within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. The Board works with the Department to establish and implement the licensure program for the practice of midwifery in the state.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery Delores Mitchell, of Lansing, is retired and most recently worked as telemarketer at the Labor Law Poster Service. Mitchell holds a diploma in fashion design and interior design from the Institute of Merchandising and Design. Delores Mitchell is reappointed as a member of the public for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.
Ben Rimes, of St. Joseph, is the technology director at Coloma Community Schools. Rimes holds a Bachelor of Science in education from Western Michigan University and a Master of Science in education and technology from the University of Michigan-Flint. Ben Rimes is reappointed as a member of the public for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Jeffrey Rosenbaum, of West Bloomfield, is the medical director for Centene Corporation and a clinical assistant professor at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Rosenbaum holds a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry from the University of Western Ontario, a Master of Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan, and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Jeffrey Rosenbaum is reappointed as an osteopathic physician for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.
The Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery regulates the practice of osteopathic medicine and surgery in the State of Michigan; provided for the examination, licensing and registration of osteopathic physicians and surgeons; and provided for the discipline of offenders against the Act. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare. This responsibility is implemented by the Board by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of health practitioners and verifying continuing medical education during licensure. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors Marlin Williams, of Detroit, is the chief executive officer of Intentional Technology and the founder of Sisters Code. Williams was previously chief operating officer of BUILD Institute, global chief diversity officer at StockX, and an assistant vice president for economic development at TechTown. Williams holds a Bachelor of Arts in public relations from Wayne State University and a Master of Arts in liberal arts studies from the University of Detroit Mercy. Marlin Williams is reappointed as a person with knowledge, skill, and experience in the academic, business, or financial field for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Robert Bowman, of Harbor Springs, is a former treasurer of the State of Michigan, was the chief financial officer and president of ITT Corporation and was chief executive officer of Major League Baseball Advance Media. Bowman holds a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Harvard College and a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Bowman has served on the Michigan Education Trust (MET) since 2003 and played a foundational role in its formation. Robert Bowman is reappointed as the president and chief executive officer of MET and as a person with knowledge, skill, and experience in the academic, business, or financial fields for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
The Michigan Education Trust (MET) is a qualified tuition program which provides tax exemption for the trust and tax exemption of earnings for contract participants who use MET funds to pay for qualified higher education expenses. The MET Board of Directors are responsible for policy development, investment initiatives, program development and implementation. The MET Board of Directors also serve as an advisory board for the Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP).
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State of Michigan Retirement Board Hon. Leo Bowman, of Bloomfield Hills, is a retired judge, having served the 6th Circuit Court of Oakland County for fourteen years. Bowman holds a bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit School of Law. Hon. Leo Bowman is reappointed as a member or retirant of the Judges Retirement System for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.
The State of Michigan Retirement Board was created by Executive Order No. 2015-13, and consolidated the State Employees’ Retirement System Board, the Judges’ Retirement System Board, and the Military Retirement Provisions. Housed in the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, in the Office of Retirement Services, the Retirement Board provides oversight of the three systems that service nearly 88,000 active and retired employees.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Coriann McMillen, of Southfield, is an associate attorney at Nyman Turkish PC and is a member of the Wolverine Bar Association. McMillen was previously a staff attorney at the Neighborhood Defender Service. McMillen holds a Bachelor of Science in sociology and criminal justice from Central Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Coriann McMillen is appointed to represent members nominated by state bar associations those whose primary mission or purpose is to advocate for minority interests for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring April 1, 2028. McMillen succeeds Kimberly Buddin, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission was created as a result of efforts to improve legal representation for indigent criminal defendants. The Commission develops and oversees the implementation, enforcement, and modification of minimum standards, rules, and procedures to ensure that indigent criminal defense services providing effective assistance of counsel are delivered to all indigent adults in this state consistent with the safeguards of the United States Constitution, the State Constitution of 1963, and with the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Act.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State Historic Preservation Review Board Lakota Hobia, of Portage, is the tribal historic preservation officer for the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of the Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake Tribe) and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Hobia holds a Master of Arts in cultural studies from the University of Texas and a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology and ethnicity and race studies from Columbia University. Lakota Hobia is
Sharon Ferraro, of Kalamazoo, most recently served as the historic preservation coordinator for the city of Kalamazoo and as an adjunct instructor of history at Western Michigan University. Ferraro holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and Master of Science in preservation planning from Eastern Michigan University. Sharon Ferraro is reappointed as a member meeting the Secretary’s historic preservation qualifications standards for architectural history for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.
The Michigan State Historic Preservation Review Board reviews and approves each national register nomination prior to submission to the Keeper of the National Register, has appellate jurisdiction under the Local Historic Districts Act, as amended, and provides general advice, guidance and professional recommendations to the State Historic Preservation Office on matters related to historic preservation.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Statewide Independent Living Council Janice Lampman, of Midland, is the owner of Community Drive. Lampman holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and business from Saginaw Valley State University. Janice Lampman is reappointed as an individual with a disability for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Erica Coulston, of Bloomfield Hills, is president and co-owner of Walk the Line to SCI Recovery. Coulston holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and economics from Western Michigan University. Erica Coulston is reappointed as an individual with a disability for a term commencing January 15, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Crystal Dowding, of Marshall, is a rehabilitation consultant at Michigan Rehabilitation Services. Dowding holds a Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work from Western Michigan University, an American Sign Language studies certificate from Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and a community partner work incen
The Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council is charged with developing the state plan as provided in Section 704(a)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 USC 796c(a)(2). The Council may work with centers for independent living to coordinate services with public and private entities to improve services provided to individuals with disabilities and conduct resource development activities to support the Council and the provision of independent living services by centers for independent living.
These appointments are not subject to advice and consent of the Senate. |