by orionontv | Jun 13, 2023 | Local News
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF ORION
OFFICE OF THE SUPERVISOR
CHRIS BARNETT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Aaron Whatley
248-391-0304 ext. 3501
[email protected]
ORION TOWNSHIP UNVEILS EXPANSIVE BEACH AREA, ENHANCING
RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS
Orion Township, MI (June 9, 2023) Camp Agawam, an Orion Township Park, a beloved recreational haven for
residents of Orion Township is proud to announce the completion of its highly anticipated beach expansion
project. This transformative enhancement nearly doubles the beach area, providing an ideal destination for
relaxation, water activities, and creating cherished memories with family and friends.
The newly expanded beach area features a designated swim area, designed to provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for visitors of all ages. Beachgoers can take a refreshing dip in the clear water, create sandcastles,
or simply relax while savoring the panoramic views and picturesque surroundings.
While the beach expansion represents a significant milestone for the park, it is only one of the many amenities
that make this park a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors will find an extensive network of scenic trails
perfect for leisurely walks, a state-of-the-art disc golf course designed to challenge players of all skill levels, and
a vibrant playground featuring innovative play elements ensuring endless fun for all.
“Camp Agawam has always been a cherished gathering place for our community, and with the addition of the
expanded beach area, it is now an even more desirable destination for outdoor recreation,” stated Orion
Township Supervisor Chris Barnett. “This project is part of our long-term commitment to the community and
goal of providing exceptional recreational opportunities that promote an active and vibrant community for all.”
Camp Agawam is located at 1301 Clarkston Road, Lake Orion, MI 48362. For more information about Camp
Agawam, as well as other Township Parks, please visit www.orionparks.com
by orionontv | Jun 2, 2023 | Local News
General Motors Announces $100,000 in Grants to local Nonprofits
Lake Orion, MI – Today, General Motors Orion Assembly, Pontiac Pre-Production Operations and Pontiac Stamping announced charitable investments in the community surrounding its manufacturing facilities, providing grants to five nonprofit organizations totaling $100,000.
The grants were provided through GM’s Community Impact Grants program, which was created in 2010 to empower local GM leaders and employees to direct funding toward nonprofit organizations addressing local issues facing their communities.
“As part of our mission at GM, we recognize our company’s responsibility to make a positive social impact” said Jim Quick, Orion Assembly Executive Director. “We’re proud to support these non-profit organizations that strengthen the communities where we live and work.” Since 2019, GM has granted more than $13 million to nonprofits in its facility communities, and $460,000 to Lake Orion and Pontiac, through the Community Impact Grants program.
Funding was provided to local nonprofits including:
- The Baldwin Center’s After School program provides academic enrichment activities for youth grades k-12 in Pontiac at little or no charge to families. Jump Start engages youth grades k-5 in the excitement of STEM activities and how it relates to everyday activities. The Kidnetic program, for grades 6-12 utilizes a series of social and emotional development curriculums, which help youth in critical thinking and problem solving, as a foundation for success in STEM programs.
- Blessings in a Backpack Lake Orion feeds hungry Lake Orion schoolchildren every weekend during the entire school year, whose families qualify for the federal Free and Reduced-Price Meal program. Better test scores, improved reading skills, positive behavior, improved health, and increased attendance have all been attributed to the success of this program.
- International Technology Academy Initiatives Foundation program includes two (2) Young Engineers Clubs (Elem. & Secondary) and two (2) Gaming & Artificial Intelligence Club (Elem & Secondary). The YEC will enhance STEM classroom learning by designing and completing engineering projects in the areas of computer-aided design, 3D printing, and in areas such as electrification and rapid manufacturing. G&AI Club will provide secondary students a chance to design & execute to completion.
- Center for Success Network’s program provides structured, literacy focused out-of-school learning programs for elementary-aged students in Pontiac. A rigorous literacy support program is complemented by inspiring enrichment events and family support engagements. The center transports students to after-school program sites, provides them with nutritional meals during each session, and connects them with a responsive community of staff, mentors, and enrichment partners.
- Reroot Pontiac installed a 2-acre community garden using sustainable gardening methods. This year produce will be available for residents. The next steps for the project will be to develop a cultural garden community program.
These local donations are part of charitable investments in the communities surrounding GM’s U.S. manufacturing facilities, providing grants to 157 nonprofit organizations totaling $3 million this year. These grants align with the company’s overarching philanthropic priorities focused on STEM education, vehicle and road safety, and community development, as well as targeted investments that enhance the quality of life in facility communities around the world.
In 2022, GM provided $60 million to more than 400 nonprofits dedicated to helping create inclusive solutions to social issues around the world. GM employees strengthened the impact with 158,000 volunteer hours and more than $5 million in donations. Learn more at gm.com/commitments/communities.
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General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global company focused on advancing an all-electric future that is inclusive and accessible to all. At the heart of this strategy is the Ultium battery platform, which powers everything from mass-market to high-performance vehicles. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Baojun and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, can be found at https://www.gm.com.
by orionontv | Feb 23, 2023 | Local News, Nonprofit
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 13, 2023
Joyce Donaldson, IOM, President and CEO
Orion Area Chamber of Commerce
Phone: 248.693.6300 I Cell: 760.808.0823
Email: [email protected]
______________________________________________________________
Media Release
Orion Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Conference
in Celebration of International Women’s Day March 8th
The Orion Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the 4th Annual Women in
Business Conference in celebration of International Women’s Day March 8th. The luncheon will
take place at Paint Creek Country Club in Lake Orion from 11:30 AM – 2 PM.
The afternoon will feature three inspirational keynote speakers, a delicious lunch, networking,
and friendly camaraderie while celebrating International Women’s Day together. Featured
speakers include: Mary Kramer, Director, Detroit Homecoming and Founding Director, Crain
Currency, The Honorable Julie A. Nicholson, 52nd District Court Judge, and Marie Osborne,
Anchor-Reporter, WJR. International Women’s Day is powered by the collective efforts of all.
“The Orion Area Chamber is honored to take part in this worldwide effort to applaud the
women forging change and to increase the visibility of our local women leaders’ achievements.”
states Joyce Donaldson, President and CEO of the Orion Area Chamber of Commerce. “Since
the first global gathering in 1911, women have gathered to celebrate the social, economic,
cultural, and political achievements of women.”
Many thanks to our sponsors: Title Sponsor – Michigan United Credit Union. Partner Sponsors –
Genisys Credit Union, Heartfelt Impressions, Rainforest Cafe, Redwood Lake Orion, Steve
Wandrie Caliber Home Loans, and Zale Group. Champion Sponsors – Ascension Providence
Hospital Rochester, Counelis Agency-Farm Bureau Insurance, Haney Farm Bureau, and Sprout
Bake.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please contact Joyce Donaldson at
[email protected].
Registration is required. Purchase tickets at orionareachamber.com or call 248.693.6300. Space
is limited. Gentlemen are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Ticket Cost: Members $60 I Non-Members $75
Ticket cost includes a scrumptious lunch, door prizes, and SWAG Bag
Paint Creek Country Club is located at 2323 Stanton Road, Lake Orion, MI 48362
About the Orion Area Chamber of Commerce
The Orion Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to creating a healthy local economy and
building a strong environment for economic growth and stability. In ongoing efforts to achieve
this lofty goal, we represent business to government, coordinate educational forums, host
networking events, advocate for business-friendly legislation, and promote community.
The Chamber is a 501 (c) (6) non-profit organization, funded through chamber membership
investments, sponsors, and fundraisers. We are a passionate team of 11 volunteer Board of
Directors, 2 paid staffers, and 300+ enthusiastic members that generously share their time,
talents, and treasures. Together we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Orion
area and are proud to offer an energetic and sunny environment in which businesses can joyfully
flourish!
by orionontv | Jan 17, 2023 | Local News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 17, 2023
Joyce Donaldson, IOM, President and CEO
Orion Area Chamber of Commerce
1335 Joslyn Road, Lake Orion, MI 48360
Phone: 248.693.6300 I Cell: 760.808.0823
Email: [email protected]
______________________________________________________________
Media Release
Orion Area Chamber of Commerce Announces the 2023 Board of Directors
The Orion Area Chamber Leadership Team is dedicated to creating a healthy local economy and
building a strong environment for economic growth and sustainability.
In keeping with this vision, the Orion Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce New Board
Member Nicki North of Hershey Insurance. Nicki North joins newly elected officers: Chamber
Chairman of the Board, Wayne Haney of Haney Farm Bureau Insurance, Vice-Chairman Jimmy
Johnson of Graphic Takeover, Treasurer Steve Wandrie of Caliber Home Loans, Secretary Adrian
Schirr of Forum Health, Immediate Past Chair Garrett Hoffman of Your Food Dude, and Board
Members Angela DelPup of Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, Theresa Doan of Genisys
Credit Union, Bill Kokenos of Golling Buick GMC; Orion Area Parade Group, Aaron Whatley of Orion
Township Parks & Recreation, and Jennifer Whitteaker of DTE Energy.
“The Orion Area Chamber is very fortunate to have such dedicated volunteers who devote their
time, talent, and treasures to benefit of the Orion Area business community.” states Joyce
Donaldson, President and CEO of the Chamber. “We are a passionate team of 11 volunteer Board of
Directors, two paid staff, and nearly 300 enthusiastic members. Together, we are working rigorously
to enhance the quality of life in the Orion area and are proud to offer a growing and energetic
environment in which businesses can joyfully flourish”
The Orion Area Chamber will host their Annual Meeting and Membership Appreciation Breakfast on
Thursday, February 2 nd at the Orion Center. To register or for more information please contact Joyce
Donaldson at 248-693-6300 or visit orionareachamber.com.
###
About the Orion Area Chamber of Commerce
The Orion Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to creating a healthy local economy and building
a strong environment for economic growth and stability. In ongoing efforts to achieve this lofty goal,
we represent business to government, coordinate educational forums, host networking events,
advocate for business-friendly legislation, and promote community.
by orionontv | Dec 28, 2022 | Local News
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF ORION
OFFICE OF THE SUPERVISOR
CHRIS BARNETT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Chris Barnett
248-391-0304 ext. 1001
[email protected]
ORION TOWNSHIP AWARDED $7 MILLION IN COMMUNITY PROJECT
FUNDING FOR GIDDINGS/SILVERBELL/BROWN ROAD REHABILITATION
Orion Township, MI (December 28, 2022) – Orion Township has received $7 million in Fiscal Year
2023 U.S. House Appropriations Committee Community Project Funding to go towards the
Giddings/Silverbell/Brown Road rehabilitation project.
In April 2022, Orion Township submitted a $7 million funding request to Congresswoman Elissa
Slotkin’s Office as part of the FY 2023 Community Project Funding program. Of the over 90
applications submitted, the Giddings/Silverbell/Brown Road project was one of 15 selected by
Congresswoman Slotkin to be recommended to the House Appropriations Committee for final
funding consideration. The U.S. House Appropriations Committee funded the full $7 million
request in the Fiscal Year 2023 Federal budget.
“We have been partnering with the Road Commission and Auburn Hills for several years now
seeking the necessary funding to fix the roads along this significant corridor” said Supervisor
Chris Barnett. “With the $7 million awarded through the Community Project Funding program,
we now have over $12 million in funding dedicated for this project, which RCOC has slated for
construction in 2024.”
The Giddings/Siverlbell/Brown Road project is the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the 2.6
miles of the Giddings/Silverbell/Brown Road corridor surrounding the GM Orion Assembly Plant.
The roads along this corridor are well past their service life and will be completely removed
and replaced with pavement and sub-base, along with most drainage sewer structures (curb,
gutter, drains, catch basins). The five-lane road will be designed to withstand the weight of
3,000 commercial trucks and over 18,000 vehicles per day. In addition, signals and pedestrian
crosswalks will be updated and 18,275 feet of new safety path will be constructed.
In addition to the Orion Assembly Plant, this corridor supports other large employers in the
area, including FedEx, Eagle Valley Landfill, Gardner White Furniture, JR Automation (Esys),
Natrabis, Powers Distributing, Roush Industries, and Asea Brown Boveri Ltd (ABB). This project will
improve road surface conditions, re-establish connectivity, deliver reliability, and promote
regional economic growth.
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF ORION
OFFICE OF THE SUPERVISOR
CHRIS BARNETT
“Our office received over 90 applications for Community Project Funding, and it is a testament
to Supervisor Barnett and his team’s work that their project was selected.” Said
Congresswoman Slotkin. “The community and our District will directly benefit from thier efforts.”
“We truly appreciate Congresswoman Slotkin’s support for this project.” Said Supervisor
Barnett. “She has been a true champion for Orion Township as our Congressional
Representative in D.C., and I have valued our growing partnership over the past two years. I
look forward to seeing her continued success as the Representative for Michigan’s 8th district
and the communities she serves.”
About the Community Project Funding Program
To meet the urgent needs of communities across the United States, the House Appropriations
Committee invited Members of Congress to request funding for projects in their communities.
Members of Congress were invited to submit proposals for federal funding for 15 specific
projects in their congressional districts. The complete list of Congresswoman’s Slotkin’s
Community Project Funding proposals submitted to the Appropriations Committee for fiscal
year 2023 may be found on her official website.
by orionontv | Nov 7, 2022 | Local News
ONTV’S WILDWOOD FILM FESTIVAL A SUCCESS
Festival Raises Funds NOCC
Orion Neighborhood Television, Orion’s community access television station, would like to thank all of the participants who took part in the ninth annual Wildwood Film Festival held on Oct. 26.
Movie goers arrived at the Oxford 7 theater for the screening of eight short films produced by Lake Orion area filmmakers. Winners include: first place, “Overtime” produced by Calvin Green and Vincent Martocci, second place, “Curse of the Pizza Box” produced by Jamison Fanning and third place, “Sweet Nothings” produced by Emma Pichan and The People’s Choice Award went to “Purple Haze” produced by Casey Houlihan and Brandon Kathman.
Ian Locke, ONTV Executive Director stated, “This special event really showcases how many talented filmmakers we have in Lake Orion and the surrounding area. This year we had a lot of first-time film makers, and I have to say we were very impressed. The production quality keeps getting better and better every year. We’ve been doing the film festival for 9 years and we’re glad we can continue to provide this opportunity to the community while supporting various local charities.
ONTV would also like to thank its sponsors for adding to the success of this year’s festival: The Oxford Tap, Imaginos Workshop and Shining Taku. Filmmakers were given the challenge of producing a 10 minute film in five days. Each group was given a prop, location and a line of dialog which they had to use in their film. The producers worked in groups with production equipment supplied by Orion Neighborhood Television.
Orion Neighborhood Television is an award winning community access television station serving the Village of Lake Orion and Orion Township. ONTV is housed at the Orion Center at 1349 Joslyn Rd. ONTV can be seen on Comcast Cable and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Programs can also be seen on-demand at www.orionontv.org. Contact ONTV by phone: 248-393-1060, Email: [email protected].
