FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 18, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Regional Transit Authority Board of Directors, Michigan State Housing Development Authority Board, Michigan School Safety Commission, Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs, Military Appeals Tribunal, Board of Law Examiners, Michigan Freedom Trail Commission, Michigan Board of Audiology, Michigan Apple Committee, and Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing.

Regional Transit Authority Board of Directors

David Massaron, of Detroit, is the senior vice president for finance and administration at Wayne State University. Previously, he served as the State Budget Director and held several roles within Detroit city government. He holds a Bachelor of Art in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from Michigan State University and received his Juris Doctorate from William and Mary School of Law. Mr. Massaron is appointed for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring March 31, 2025. He succeeds Paul Hillegonds whose term has expired.

Regional Transit Authority Board of Directors’ mission is to manage and secure transportation resources that enhance mobility options, improve quality of life for residents, and increase economic viability in the region.

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan State Housing Development Authority Board

Jennifer Grau, of Lansing, is the president of Grau Interpersonal Communications. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication from Oberlin College and a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication from Michigan State University. Ms. Grau is reappointed for a term commencing May 19, 2023, and expiring March 10, 2027.

Regina Bell, of Detroit, is the director of government relations and policy of the Council of Michigan Foundations. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Theory from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from Spring Arbor University. Ms. Bell is reappointed for a term commencing May 19, 2023, and expiring March 10, 2027.

Tyrone Hamilton, of Belleville, is a musician and owner of Hamilton Productions. He attended O.W. Holmes School in Detroit. Mr. Hamilton is reappointed as the resident member for a term commencing May 19, 2023, and expiring March 10, 2026.

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority, established in 1966, was created to provide financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan School Safety Commission

Kimberlee Bleicher is a School Psychologist in Holt Public Schools. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Central Michigan University, a Master of Arts in School Psychology from Central Michigan University, and a State of Michigan School Psychologist Certification. Mrs. Bleicher is appointed to represent health professionals for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 1, 2027. She succeeds Elizabeth Newell whose term has expired.

Larry Johnson is the Chief of Staff and Executive Director of Public Safety for Grand Rapids Public Schools. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Science in Police Administration from Ferris State University. Mr. Johnson is reappointed to represent school administrators for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 1, 2027.

The school safety commission was created following the abolishment of the School Safety Task Force by Executive Order No. 2018-5. Its goal is to review and make recommendations to the Office of School Safety, including model practices for determining school safety measures.

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs

Wafa Haddad, of Wyoming, is the Founder and CEO of Noor’s Heaven of West Michigan Services. She has worked to empower communities in West Michigan through developing life skills and by providing humanitarian, social, economic, and educational services. She holds an Associate of Art Degree from Grand Rapids Community College. Ms. Haddad is appointed for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 19th, 2027. She succeeds Fay Beydoun whose term has expired.

The Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs advises the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Governor on issues relating to the Arab and Chaldean communities in Michigan and promotes awareness of their culture and history. They also work to empower, promote, and advance the Middle Eastern American community in Michigan.

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Military Appeals Tribunal 

Deanne L. Bonner Simpson, of Green Oak Township, is the founding attorney of RCR Veterans Law, PLLC and a member of the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Englist from California State University – San Marcos and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Ms. Bonner is reappointed to represent an individual licensed to practice law in the state, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 16, 2027.

Terrence P. Bronson, of Monroe, is a retired U.S. Navy Captain, a faculty member at the Michigan Judicial Institute, and the founder and retired judge of the Monroe County Veteran’s Treatment Court. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley School of Law. Mr. Bronson is reappointed to represent an individual licensed to practice law in the state, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 16, 2027.

Mr. Floyd Brown, of Idlewild, is an attorney advisor at the Social Security Administration. He is also a US Air Force Veteran who served both domestically and abroad throughout his military career, including in locations such as Bosnia, Croatia, and Cuba. He holds a associate degree in Paralegal Studies and Liberal Arts from The Community College of the Air Force, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and a Juris Doctorate from the Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Mr. Brown is appointed to represent an individual licensed to practice law in this state, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 16, 2027. He succeeds Kyle Dufrane whose term has expired.

The Military Appeals Tribunal has appellate jurisdiction, upon petition of an accused, to hear and review the record in all decisions of a court-martial after the review provided in the Michigan code of military justice.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Board of Law Examiners

Hon. Brian Sullivan, of Grosse Pointe Farms, is a Judge on the Wayne County Circuit Court, first elected in 1998. He holds a Bachelor of Philosophy from Wayne State University, his Master of Arts in Philosophy from Holy Apostles College and Seminary, and his Juris Doctorate from the Detroit College of Law. Judge Sullivan is reappointed for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2028.

The Board of Law Examiners is responsible for investigating and examining all persons who initially apply for admission to the Michigan bar. The Board may adopt suitable regulations, subject to approval by the Supreme Court, concerning the performance of its functions and duties.

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan Freedom Trail Commission

Kimberly Holley is the first ever Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for the City of Battle Creek. Previously, she served as director of the Sojourner Truth Center for Liberation and Justice and co-coordinator of the Battle Creek Coalition for Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation. She is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. Ms. Holley is appointed to represent a local community in which the Underground Railroad had presence for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring February 1, 2024. She succeeds Vivian Ritter whose has passed away.

The Michigan Freedom Trail Commission preserves, protects, and promotes the rich legacy of the Underground Railroad and the antislavery movement in Michigan.

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan Board of Audiology 

Dr. Lauren Dadisho, of Commerce Township, is an audiologist for Henry Ford Health and a clinical external education coordinator at Wayne State University. She received her Bachelor of Arts in communication, sciences, and disorders and her Doctor of Audiology from Wayne State University. Dr. Dadisho is reappointed to represent audiologists, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2027.

Dr. Stylianos Dokianakis, of Saugatuck, is owner and practicing audiologist at Holland Doctors of Audiology. He received a Bachelor of Science in mechanical and biomedical engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, a Master of Science in communicative disorders from the University of Wisconsin, and a Doctor of Audiology from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences. Dr. Dokianakis is reappointed to represent audiologists, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2027.

The Michigan Board of Audiology was enacted as part of the Public Health Code to license audiologists who apply nonmedical and nonsurgical principles, methods, and procedures related to disorders of hearing. The Board promotes and protects the public’s health, safety, and welfare, and has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have harmed the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan Apple Committee

Michael Dietrich, of Conklin, is a fifth-generation farmer with 26 years of experience. He farms 450 acres, 420 for apples and the remainder for cherries. He is the Vice Chair of the Michigan Apple Committee and a board member of the US Apple Association. Mr. Dietrich is reappointed to represent district 2 growers for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 1, 2026.

Gregory Kugel, of Berrien Springs, owns and operates Kugel Farms. He is a graduate of Michigan State University. Last year he was named to the Moody on the Market 40 under 40 list and is recognized as a rising star in the industry. Mr. Kugel is appointed to represent district 1 growers for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 1, 2026. He succeeds Jeremy Shank whose term has expired.

Eric Roossink, of Fremont, is a farmer with over 20 years of experience growing apples and tree fruit, as well as managing fruit storage and shipping operations. He graduated from Grand Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Mr. Roossink is reappointed to represent district 3 growers for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring April 1, 2026.

The Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) is a quasi-governmental organization dedicated to improving the profitability of Michigan’s fresh and processed apple industries. MAC coordinates market development, educational activities and research that benefits the 1000 family apple growers in Michigan through improved profitability, ensuring the continued success of this sector of Michigan agriculture.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing

Ms. Liliana Ospina Herbstreith, of Howell, is the creator, editor, and video journalist for Latinos En Michigan TV, and founder of Hispanic Marketing Solutions, LLC. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Communication from La Sabana University. Ms. Herbstreith is reappointed to represent individuals knowledgeable in the field of deafness, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 18, 2026.

Ms. Ariel Pscheidl, of New Baltimore, is an Associate Optometrist at Sam’s Club. Pscheidl holds a Bachelor of Science from Central Michigan University and a Doctor of Optometry from Ferris State University. Ms. Pscheidl is appointed to represent individuals knowledgeable in the field of deafness, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 18, 2026. She succeeds Shayla Griffin whose term has expired.

Ms. Karlee Wascher, of Wyandotte, is a DeafBlind Employment Specialist at Hellen Keller National Center. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language, Hearing Sciences from Northern Michigan University and a Master of Arts in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy from Western Michigan University. Ms. Wascher is appointed to represent individuals knowledgeable in the field of deafness, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 18, 2026. She succeeds Kathleen Johnston-Calati whose term has expired.

Mrs. Theresa Miracle, of Swartz Creek, is Executive Director of Communication Access Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Madonna University, and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Gallaudet University. Mrs. Miracle is appointed to represent individuals knowledgeable in the field of deafness, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 18, 2026. She succeeds Jumana Salamey whose term has expired.

Mr. Theodore Dorsette, of Detroit, is an Outreach Specialist at the National Association of the Deaf. He holds a Bachelor of Art in Screen Arts and Cultures from the University of Michigan. Mr. Dorsette is appointed to represent deaf or hard of hearing persons, for a term commencing May 18, 2023, and expiring January 18, 2026. He succeeds Sarah Hein whose term has expired.

The Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing serves to advise the Department of Civil Rights on matters pertaining to deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing persons.

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 18, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Statement on Strong Monthly Jobs Report 

Unemployment rate drops to 3.8%, comparable to the lowest levels since the 1970s, labor force participation rate highest in ~3 years, labor force increases by 18,000, 61,000 jobs added YoY 

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement after the release of the latest economic numbers showing the unemployment rate fell to 3.8% in April, comparable to the lowest levels Michigan has seen only three times since the 1970s. The labor force participation rate increased to its highest level in nearly three years. The state’s labor force increased by 18,000, the economy added 61,000 jobs year over year, and the 12-month average Black unemployment rate in April is comparable to 20-year lows.

“Michigan’s economy is moving. We have a low unemployment rate of 3.8%, comparable to the lowest levels Michigan has seen only three times since the ‘70s. Our strong labor market means working people are finding good-paying jobs, companies are investing and expanding in Michigan, and families have more money to buy food, get gas, and save for their children’s futures.

“This year, with a productive majority in Lansing, we have brought thousands of good-paying American manufacturing jobs home, cut taxes by $1 billion for seniors and working families, and powered economic development in every region with business expansions, housing investments, and community revitalization projects.

“Let’s build on our growth in the months ahead to deliver another balanced budget that makes a real difference in people’s lives and lowers costs.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 15, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Joins Federal, State, and Local Officials for Groundbreaking on New $28 Million Facility at Selfridge

New hangar to create hundreds of jobs, build on year-long campaign to secure mission at Selfridge

HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined federal, state, and local leaders to break ground on a new 41,900 square foot facility that will transform two hangars into a new hangar equipped for fighter maintenance. The new facility will house maintenance on the main level and leadership/staff offices and classrooms on the second floor.

“This new hangar will create hundreds of good-paying jobs and shore up Selfridge’s military readiness,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “We have been working with bipartisan and private sector partners to make more investments in Selfridge by making critical infrastructure upgrades, and we will keep fighting to bring home a new fighter mission. Selfridge is an anchor of Macomb County and an economic driver for Michigan’s defense industry. Let’s keep working together for Selfridge.”

Selfridge is a Joint Military Community housing four thousand families from all branches. In 2021, Sen. Gary Peters secured $28 million for a new development at Selfridge that would equip Michigan with the tools to be the ideal location for the next future fighter mission.

“We are grateful to Gov. Whitmer, Senator Peters and our federal and state delegation for their leadership and for working with us to continue to invest in Selfridge Air National Guard Base (SANG),” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “This investment clearly demonstrates Michigan’s commitment to SANG, its support for developing future capabilities and advancing innovation and delivering on our mission to maintain our military readiness and support our national defense.”

“Today’s visit shows our delegation’s united, bipartisan support of – and staunch commitment to – the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base,” said U.S Sen. Gary Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. “It was exciting to participate in the groundbreaking for the new hangar and accompanying maintenance facilities, after securing $28 million in federal funding to make the upgrades possible. I’m proud knowing this investment will help advance Selfridge’s defense capabilities and capacity to host a new fighter jet mission.”

“Selfridge Air National Guard Base and the men and women who serve here play a vital role in keeping our state and our nation safe. Today’s groundbreaking is yet another example of our delegation’s continued strategy to position Selfridge into the future,” said U.S Sen. Debbie Stabenow. “We are fully committed to securing a new fighter mission at Selfridge.”

“Michigan’s state and federal leaders are united behind ensuring Selfridge’s mission ready status,” said U.S Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-3). “Our state is home to one of our nation’s most cutting-edge air national guard bases, and the hangar we broke ground on today will only cement that status. West Michigan supports the critical work of our service members and is committed to leading future fighter missions here at Selfridge.”

“Selfridge Air National Guard Base is critical to our national security because of its strategic location on our border, and it has broad bipartisan support across our Congressional delegation and at all levels of government,” said U.S Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-6). “We remain unified in our commitment to securing federal investments to support advanced generation fighter capability in Michigan. The groundbreaking today is another important step in our continued efforts to ensure the Air Force can benefit from all of Selfridge’s unique capabilities.”

“I’m proud of Michigan’s commitment to national defense and military, said U.S Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13). “The new fighter jet hangar at Selfridge Air National Guard Base is a testament to our unwavering support. As a member of the Michigan delegation, I’ll continue to secure critical military investments for our state and support our brave men and women in uniform.”

Selfridge Background

Selfridge, an ideal training space, provides access to the largest military airspace complex east of the Mississippi River, hosts units from every component of the U.S. military, is located on an international border, and is joint integrated with the National All-Domain Warfighting Center. Launched in Governor Whitmer’s first term, Selfridge’s Kelly Johnson Joint All-Domain Innovation Center leverages Michigan’s research universities, booming defense industry, and engineering, cyber, and technological expertise to provide a premier venue for collaboration in direct support of the National Defense Strategy.

Economically, Selfridge boasts an estimated $850 million in economic impact state-wide, affecting approximately 5,000 military and civilian support personnel. Selfridge is anchored with a strong and vibrant Base Community Council that strengthens the relationship between Southeast Michigan’s civilian and military communities.

Investing in Selfridge Infrastructure

Last year’s bipartisan, balanced budget that Governor Whitmer signed into law included a $6.1 million investment in the base to upgrade critical infrastructure. In her budget proposal this year, the Governor recommended an additional $11 million investment in Selfridge. The infrastructure investments into Selfridge secured and proposed by Governor Whitmer and bipartisan allies in the Michigan Legislature would reduce costs for the U.S. Air Force by $100 million.

Fighting for Selfridge Mission

Governor Whitmer and a bipartisan group of allies and private sector partners has spent more the last year making the case for additional U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) investments in Michigan. This includes replacing the current A-10 fighter mission at Selfridge.

The Governor has maintained close contact with Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall and his team and is working with Republicans and Democrats in the Michigan Congressional Delegation and Selfridge community on this important issue. Michigan hosted the Secretary during two separate visits last summer showcasing the state as a premier destination for Air Force and DoD investment. The Governor also met virtually and in person with U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks to continue advocating for a fighter jet replacement for Selfridge’s A-10s.

Michigan’s International Defense Impact

Earlier this month, Governor Whitmer visited Michigan service members stationed in Latvia. Michigan’s defense presence has an impact around the world and must be secure in state to support international missions.