Whitmer Announces Caring for MI Future Plan

Whitmer Announces Caring for MI Future Plan

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 16, 2022

Contact: Press@michigan.gov

 

Governor Whitmer Announces Caring for MI Future Plan

The plan sets a bold goal to open 1,000 new child care programs by 2024 through $100 million investment to expand access to child care for working families and support child care providers

 

Battle Creek, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), and the Michigan Department of Education announced an ambitious goal to open 1,000 new child care programs by the end of 2024 and launched Caring for MI Future— a $100 million plan to get there.

 

“Nearly half of Michigan families live in a community without enough child care options to meet their needs. Lack of child care options means families are forced to leave the workforce, work fewer hours, or piece together child care options that don’t work very well for their family. That doesn’t work for kids, families, or employers,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “That’s why I’m proud to have worked across the aisle to secure a $100 million bipartisan investment to launch the Caring for MI Future plan, which will dramatically increase access to child care across our state. Opening and expanding child care programs will connect more kids with quality early learning and help more families return to work knowing their kids are safe.”

 

“We have incredible child care entrepreneurs across the state, and right now, they’re standing tall for kids on a shoestring budget. The Caring for MI Future plan responds to the most pressing needs facing child care entrepreneurs and strives to create a more sustainable child care market in Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “This plan helps entrepreneurs create high quality facilities, secure early capital, recruit talented staff, and connect with technical assistance before they’re licensed. Investing in entrepreneurs means more Michigan kids and families have access to top notch child care in their communities. That’s good news for Michigan.”

 

“Quality child care programs are the silent drivers of our economy.” said Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Director Orlene Hawks. “This investment will expand access to safe, quality, affordable child care across the state. LARA’s One-Stop Shop will help child care entrepreneurs find and create safe places to open their business, assist with start-up funding, connect them to child care education grants, and provide ongoing business supports to help them succeed.

 

“Caring for MI Future supports our expanding effort to do all we can to help our little ones get a great start and help their parents access quality child care,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice. “We have the resources and the opportunity in the state right now to make a significant difference for our children while helping drive an economy that can provide for children and families. This is a great bipartisan investment in Michigan’s future.”

 

“Bright Lights opened on February 1 of this year and the past three months are the culmination of a vision I’ve had for a while,” said Lindsey Potter, owner of Bright Lights Early Care. “I worked steadily for over a year on the licensing and business startup operations process and am excited to be a part of this announcement that will continue to support child care entrepreneurs like myself and the educators we employ.”

 

Caring for MI Future 

Caring for MI Future is a $100 million investment to help more Michigan families find quality, affordable child care in their community. Today, according to the Michigan League for Public Policy, nearly half of communities do not have enough child care options to meet demand.

 

To respond, the state is investing $100 million to dramatically increase access to child care across the state and open 1,000 new, or expanded, child care programs by the end of 2024. This strategy responds to the most pressing needs facing child care entrepreneurs and creates sustainable systems to support the current and next generation of child care business owners.

 

Through Caring for Mi Future, entrepreneurs will have access to:

 

  • Support identifying and renovating facilities: Child care businesses need access to affordable, licensable spaces to care for kids. There will be $51.1 million in grant funding available to renovate and upgrade facilities to meet licensing and quality standards. Grant applications will be available in late summer 2022. 
  • Startup funding: Cashflow is an ongoing challenge for child care businesses, especially new sites that must incur costs well before they have revenue. The state will award $23 million in grants for programs before they’re licensed and immediately after receiving their license.
  • Support to recruit staff: Entrepreneurs can’t open and expand their businesses if they can’t hire staff. The state will invest over $11.4 million to continue our statewide effort to recruit, train, and retain talented early educators that live and work in the communities they serve.  
  • Business development tools: Many new businesses benefit from support from the state and their community to assess market demands, identify space, comply with health and safety rules—including local zoning, and create a business plan. The state will invest $14.3 million to align these resources and make the startup and licensing process clearer and faster for providers.

 

For additional details on when specific grants will be available to entrepreneurs, visit Michigan.gov/childcare.

 

Delivering for Families

Caring for MI Future is part of a bipartisan $1.4 billion investment to expand access to quality, affordable child care and get Michigan families back to work. Child care is often the largest expense in a family’s budget and one in three Michigan families are now eligible for free or low-cost child care.

 

To qualify, families must:

  • Have a child under age 13
  • Need child care because they’re working or going to school
  • Have a qualifying income.
  • Your monthly income must be less than $2,686 for a family of 2, $3,386 for a family of 3, or $4,085 for a family of 4.
  • Visit Michigan.gov/childcare for a complete list of reasons families may qualify for low or no cost child care and qualifying income levels for larger families.

 

Families can apply for childcare support by visiting MiBridges.Michigan.gov.

 

Lt. Gov Gilchrist speaks at podium during Caring for MI Future event

 

LARA Director Orlene Hawks speaks at podium during the event.

 

Lt. Gov Gilchrist and Orlene Hawks sit at a table with young children at the event.

 

Girls Soccer District Preview By Sammy Taormina

Girls Soccer District Preview By Sammy Taormina

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Sunday, May 15, 2022

Girls Soccer District Preview.

Written Sunday May 15th at 11:20 AM

By Sammy Taormina

Here are the district matchups and insight for Girls Soccer.

District 5 at Lake Orion

CLARKSTON vs. OXFORD

Davison vs. 2. Grand Blanc

 

Flushing vs. Lapeer

Flushing/Lapeer vs. 1. LAKE ORION

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district at Lake Orion. I think five teams really stand out in Oxford, Lake Orion, Clarkston, Grand Blanc, and Davison. The Dragons won this district last season and have the talent to do it again despite their record. Oxford has had a stellar season thus far. Grand Blanc is Grand Blanc. Clarkston has done well this season. Davison has been playing well as of late. This should be a fun district to watch as mentioned.

 

District 6 at West Bloomfield

Walled Lake Central vs. Lakeland

Waterford Kettering vs. 2. Walled Lake Northern

 

Waterford Mott vs. WEST BLOOMFIELD

Waterford Mott/WEST BLOOMFIELD vs. 1. BLOOMFIELD HILLS

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district at West Bloomfield. I think there are three teams in Walled Lake Central, Walled Lake Northern, and Bloomfield Hills that really stands out. Waterford Mott is a possible darkhorse. I don’t think any other schools really stand out besides the three mentioned above but anything is possible.

 

District 7 at North Farmington

FARMINGTON vs. Walled Lake Western

NORTH FARMINGTON vs. 2. Farmington Hills Mercy

 

Novi vs. SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Novi/SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs. 1. Livonia Stevenson

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district shaping up at North Farmington. The early favorite is Livonia Stevenson. The Spartans have been solid but there are proven powers in Novi and Farmington Hills Mercy. North Farmington is a possible wildcard and could give the Marlins fits in the first round. I see a possible district final between Livonia Stevenson and Farmington Hills Mercy but things could change really quick.

 

District 13 at Troy

BERKLEY vs. Warren Mott

GROVES vs. 2. TROY

 

SEAHOLM vs. ROYAL OAK

SEAHOLM/ROYAL OAK vs. 1. TROY ATHENS

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district at Troy. The favorite has to be Troy Athens. The Red Hawks have had a strong season. There are some challengers to watch in Troy, Berkley, Seaholm, and Royal Oak. These four teams could give Troy Athens everything they can handle. Berkley and Groves are potential wildcards in this district. Warren Mott could struggle in this district but right now until anyone overcomes the Red Hawks this district is there’s to lose.

 

District 15 at Romeo

ADAMS vs. Utica Ford II

Romeo vs. 2. ROCHESTER

 

Utica vs. Utica Eisenhower

Utica/Utica Eisenhower vs. 1. STONEY CREEK

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: Dan Barnabo Field will host what likely would be considered “the Group of Death” in World Cup standards in the postseason. All seven of these teams are proven powers. Rochester, Stoney Creek, Adams, and Romeo are ranked in the State in Division One. It’s tough that only of these schools will move on. This is a fun district to watch in Girls Soccer with a lot of proven programs.

 

District 23 at Fenton

Fenton vs. Brandon

Fenton/Brandon vs. 1. Lake Fenton

 

AVONDALE vs. Holly

AVONDALE/Holly vs. 2. Linden

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This district should be very interesting. Fenton and Linden both stand out in this district but Avondale and Brandon are wildcards. Lake Fenton is the top seed but they have a really tough matchup in the district semifinals. I would give an early edge to the Tigers because of home field but the Eagles are right there with Fenton. Brandon has always been solid. Avondale is a wildcard as mentioned. All five teams have a great chance to win this district.

 

District 27 at Livonia Clarenceville

FERNDALE vs. Madison Heights Lamphere

FERNDALE/Madison Heights Lamphere vs. 1. Birmingham Marian

 

Detroit Renaissance vs. Livonia Clarenceville

Detroit Renaissance/Livonia Clarenceville vs. 2. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: When looking at this district on paper, there is one team that stands out and that’s Birmingham Marian. The Mustangs are a proven power in Division Two so it’s clear that they should be the favorite to win this district. I don’t really see anyone in this district that can give Birmingham Marian any issues but it would be shocking if someone did.

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Friday, May 13, 2022

 

Girls Tennis Regional Preview.

Written Friday May 13th at 6:15 PM

Here is my preview for Girls Tennis for the regional taking place this week.

Underlined: Projected Regional Champ.

 

Regional 4 at Livonia Churchill

 

FARMINGTON

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Livonia Churchill

Dearborn

Dearborn Fordson

Dearborn Edsel Ford

Detroit Cass Tech

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Stevenson

 

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Livonia Churchill, Farmington Hills Mercy, and Dearborn Edsel Ford.

 

Regional 5 at Troy

 

TROY

TROY ATHENS

ROYAL OAK

Fraser

St. Clair Shores Lakeview

Sterling Heights

Sterling Heights Stevenson

Utica Ford

Warren Mott

 

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Troy, Royal Oak, and Troy Athens.

 

Regional 6 at Utica Eisenhower

 

STONEY CREEK

Utica Eisenhower

Chippewa Valley

Macomb L’Anse Creuse

Macomb Dakota

Macomb L’Anse Creuse North

New Baltimore Anchor Bay

Port Huron Northern

Romeo

Utica

 

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Stoney Creek, Port Huron Northern, and Utica Eisenhower.

 

Regional 7 at Clarkston

 

CLARKSTON

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

LAKE ORION

OXFORD

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Walled Lake Northern

Waterford Kettering

White Lake Lakeland

 

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston, and Adams.

 

Regional 12 at North Farmington

 

NORTH FARMINGTON

AVONDALE

GROVES

SEAHOLM

Fenton

Flint Carman Ainsworth

Flint Kearsley

Holly

Swartz Creek

 

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Seaholm, Groves, and North Farmington.

 

Regional 13 at Grosse Pointe North

 

BERKLEY

FERNDALE

Detroit Renaissance

Grosse Pointe North

Grosse Pointe South

Hamtramck

Port Huron

Warren Cousino

Warren Woods Tower

 

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Grosse Pointe South, Grosse Pointe North, and Berkley.

 

Regional 20 at Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

 

HARPER WOODS

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Birmingham Marian

Dearborn Divine Child

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Detroit Mumford

Eastpointe

Garden City

Hazel Park

Madison Heights Lamphere

Warren Fitzgerald

PROJECTED THREE TEAMS: Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, Birmingham Marian, and Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

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Boys Lacrosse Regional Preview.

Written Friday May 13th at 3:10 PM

Here is my early regional thoughts for Boys Lacrosse.

Regional 4 at Seaholm (Birmingham)

  1. Livonia Stevenson vs. 5. FARMINGTON UNITED
  2. BIRMINGHAM UNITED vs. 7. Detroit Cass Tech
  3. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit vs. 6. ROYAL OAK
  4. Livonia Stevenson/5. FARMINGTON UNITED vs. 1. Birmingham Brother Rice

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: There were some changes to this regional. Royal Oak is in this regional after they were supposed to be in a different regional and division. The Ravens would have a tough matchup with Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit. Birmingham Brother Rice is the overwhelming favorite in this regional but Birmingham could give them a scare in the regional final but it won’t be enough. I see the Warriors moving on to the State quarterfinals with ease.

 

Regional 5 at Troy Athens

  1. CLARKSTON vs. 8. Utica Ford
  2. Macomb L’Anse Creuse North vs. 5. New Baltimore Anchor Bay
  3. Macomb Dakota vs. 7. Sterling Heights Stevenson
  4. TROY ATHENS vs. 6. Chippewa Valley

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: This is a very interesting regional but one team really stands out in Clarkston. The Wolves are state ranked and should cruse in this regional. Macomb Dakota could challenge but I don’t really see anyone beating the Wolves in this regional.

 

Regional 6 at Romeo

  1. LAKE ORION vs. 8. Utica Eisenhower/Utica
  2. Romeo vs. 5. ROCHESTER
  3. STONEY CREEK vs. 7. OXFORD
  4. ADAMS vs. 6. Port Huron United

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: This is looking to be a very competitive regional. Lake Orion is the favorite but this is not the same Dragons program as in the past when they were in the State semifinals in the last two years. Adams has been solid. They are a sleeper in this regional. Stoney Creek is the second seed but they haven’t played the schedule as what Lake Orion and Adams have done in the Red. I’m not sold on Port Huron despite getting the three seed. I see for now a Lake Orion/Adams regional final with the Dragons moving on.

 

Regional 7 at Hartland

  1. WEST BLOOMFIELD vs. 9. Waterford United
  2. WEST BLOOMFIELD/9. Waterford United vs. 1. Hartland
  3. Linden/Fenton vs. 5. Brandon/Holly
  4. Walled Lake United vs. 7. TROY
  5. Huron Valley vs. 6. BLOOMFIELD HILLS

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: This is a very interesting regional. Brandon/Holly enters this regional and could give Linden/Fenton some trouble in the first round. They need to be very careful of Bloomfield Hills, I think Bloomfield Hills could pose an upset against Huron Valley and give Walled Lake United all they can handle in the regional semifinals. Hartland has the top seed, state ranked, and home field. They should cruse into the State quarterfinals.

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Girls Soccer District Preview By Sammy Taormina

Track Regional Preview by Sammy Taormina

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Track Regional Preview.

Written Tuesday May 10th at 8:45 PM

By Sammy Taormina

Track regionals start next week. Here is the early regional preview and insight coming in. This column will change.

Regional 7 at Farmington

 

FARMINGTON

BERKLEY

GROVES

SEAHOLM

WEST BLOOMFIELD

NORTH FARMINGTON

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

OAK PARK

ROYAL OAK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Brother Rice

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

BOYS PREVIEW: This is a loaded regional with a lot of strong competition. Livonia Churchill is the early favorite with the distance and just enough field events to do very well. Farmington should be Livonia Churchill’s toughest challenger in the regional. The Falcons are coming off a win in the Blue/Gold league meet. Bloomfield Hills has the sprints to be in the conversation. Oak Park and West Bloomfield are wildcards. Royal Oak is another darkhorse as well. The Ravens could challenge Livonia Churchill in the distance. On paper right now Livonia Churchill looks like they are the team to beat but in a regional like this it’s anyone’s regional.

 

GIRLS PREVIEW: This regional looks to be very interesting. Could Oak Park be on upset alert??? The Knights have the hurdles, the sprints, and the distance to win this regional. Bloomfield Hills has a really good girls program and could be a player in this regional. Royal Oak is a darkhorse, they have the distance and they beat Oak Park in a dual meet earlier in the season. Seaholm is the wildcard with their distance. Farmington could also be a player especially taking the Knights to the max at the Blue/Gold meet. Oak Park is the favorite but watch for Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, Farmington, and Seaholm, they could give the Knights everything they can handle.

 

Regional 9 at Lapeer

 

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

OXFORD

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

AVONDALE

Lapeer

Fenton

Holly

Walled Lake Northern

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

White Lake Lakeland

Orchard Lake St. Mary’s

 

BOYS PREVIEW: This is a very interesting regional. The early favorite is Lake Orion whom is coming off a Red/White league title. The Dragons have a ton of balance in the sprints, relays, distance, and field events. Walled Lake Northern is a very dangerous team. The Knights have the balance especially in the distance. Adams is another scary team as well. The Highlanders are loaded in the hurdles and have just enough sprints, field events, and distance to go against the two other contenders. This regional looks to be a three team race between Lake Orion, Adams, and Walled Lake Northern. It should be very interesting to watch as mentioned.

 

GIRLS PREVIEW: This is a very interesting regional. The early favorite is Oxford and for good reason. The Wildcats have enough depth elsewhere but the throws are their strength and where they could have the biggest impact. Lake Orion is a sleeper to watch as is Adams and Walled Lake Northern. This regional could go any of four ways but Oxford is the favorite to win this regional.

 

Regional 10 at Macomb Dakota

 

TROY

TROY ATHENS

Chippewa Valley

Fraser

Macomb L’Anse Creuse

Macomb Dakota

Macomb L’Anse Creuse North

New Baltimore Anchor Bay

Port Huron

Port Huron Northern

Romeo

Sterling Heights

Sterling Heights Stevenson

Utica Eisenhower

Utica

Utica Ford II

 

BOYS PREVIEW: This could be a very interesting regional in Macomb County. There are three teams having very strong chances in Chippewa Valley, Troy, and New Baltimore Anchor Bay to win this regional. The Big Reds have the sprints and relays but the distance is the question mark surrounding Chippewa Valley. Speaking of the distance events, they could be very interesting between the Tars and the Colts. Macomb Dakota looks to be the wildcard. The Cougars have the top three throwers coming into this regional. Chippewa Valley looks to be the favorite on paper but don’t count out New Baltimore Anchor Bay or Troy. This could be a very tight regional.

 

GIRLS PREVIEW: When looking at this regional the favorite has to be Macomb Dakota for a ton of reasons. The Cougars have home field and has at competitor in the top five heading into the regional. They have balance everywhere in the lineup. New Baltimore Anchor Bay stands to be the Cougars toughest challenger in the regional. Romeo and Troy could be darkhorses to watch. Macomb Dakota stands to be the team to watch in the regional.

 

Regional 18 at Hazel Park

 

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

HARPER WOODS

Hazel Park

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Birmingham Marian

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Center Line

Detroit Denby

Detroit East English Prep

Harper Woods Chandler Park

Madison Heights Lamphere

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Warren Fitzgerald

Warren Regina

Warren Lincoln

 

BOYS PREVIEW: Is there anyone in this regional that can beat Birmingham Detroit Country Day??? The Yellow Jackets are favored in almost every event. Harper Woods stands to be the toughest challenger to Birmingham Detroit Country Day and even they don’t have the depth and balance to match up with the Yellow Jackets. This regional looks to be a Birmingham Detroit Country Day rout.

 

GIRLS PREVIEW: This is shaping up to be a very interesting regional. There are two teams in Birmingham Detroit Country Day and Warren Regina that have great shots to win this regional. The Yellow Jackets have the sprints while the Satellites are loaded in the distance. Madison Heights Lamphere is the wildcard. The Rams are a sleeper especially in the hurdles. This regional could come down to the field events where Ferndale could get some points in the throws. I would give a slight edge to the Yellow Jackets, just a little too much balance right now.

 

Regional 19 at Williamston

 

PONTIAC

Williamston

Corunna

Flint Powers

Flint

Fowlerville

Goodrich

Haslett

Lake Fenton

Lansing Eastern

Lansing Sexton

Linden

Brandon

Owosso

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

St. Johns

 

BOYS PREVIEW: This is shaping up to be a very interesting regional in Ingham County. This looks like it could be a two team regional. Linden is loaded in the distance. Corunna has a very strong sprinting, throwing, and hurdle core. Flint Powers is the wildcard and could spoil some things. The Cavaliers is the early favorite because of their sprinting, throwing and hurdle core. If they can get just enough distance to neutralize the Eagles then they should win this regional.

GIRLS PREVIEW: This is shaping up to be a very interesting three team regional. Linden has the sprints to do very well in this meet. Fowlerville has a very strong hurdle program and could make some noise. Goodrich is another program to watch with them loaded in the relays. If this comes down to the field events I would give an edge to the Martians to win this regional. Goodrich is the favorite to win this regional but Fowlerville and Linden are right there in the mix.

Statewide Response to Baby Formula Shortage

Statewide Response to Baby Formula Shortage

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
May 13, 2022
Contact: Press@Michigan.gov

 

Gov. Whitmer Coordinates Statewide Response to Baby Formula Shortage 

Various state departments and attorney general take steps to support parents and tackle shortage head-on as governor calls Abbott leadership to offer state resources to fix supply chain 

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced action that the State of Michigan is taking action to address the nationwide baby formula shortage. The governor brought together the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), including the Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC), and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to ensure parents who need formula get the resources and support they need to provide for their babies.

 

“Today I spoke with Abbott leadership and offered support to help get production back on track,” said Governor Whitmer. “I will do everything I can as governor to boost baby formula production, getting it from factories to store shelves and into people’s homes. I know how anxious parents must feel right now, and it’s crucial that they have confidence that a product is safe for their babies. I urge federal leaders to use every tool at their disposal to boost formula production. We’re tackling the shortage head-on in Michigan and working with our federal and private sector partners to fix supply logistics and ensure every baby has what they need.”

 

“Additionally at the state-level, I’ve taken action to lower costs and put money in people’s pockets. We’ve sent out $400 auto refund checks per vehicle to every Michigan driver and I proposed tripling the Earned Income Tax Credit in my budget to deliver a $3,000 tax refund for over 730,000 Michiganders, directly benefiting half the kids in Michigan,” Governor Whitmer added. “I will continue staying focused on lowering costs on essentials like formula, groceries, and gas for families by putting more money in their pockets and work with anyone to tackle supply chain challenges impacting Michiganders.”

 

DEPARTMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL

The Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team is committed to identifying and investigating any instances of price gouging related to the shortage.

 

“While we have not seen a significant influx of complaints thus far, my team will remain vigilant in ensuring this shortage isn’t compounded by illegal business practices that will only inflict additional harm on parents of infants right now,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. “If you suspect instances of price gouging, please report it to our office so we can take appropriate action.”

 

 

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

MDHHS released new guidance to help parents navigate the dos and don’ts as supply chains challenges and recalls resulted in limited supply around the country.

 

 Graphic showing formula shortages dos and don'ts.

 

DOS: The department recommends that families do consider trying another brand of formula as most regular baby formulas are enough alike that most healthy babies can switch without problems. It is important that babies be fed an appropriate substitute if their usual formula is not available. All standard infant formulas for healthy babies meet the same FDA high standards for quality and nutrition.

 

DON’TS: The department recommends that families don’t feed their babies homemade formula, or ‘water down’ formulas to stretch them out, as these are unsafe practices.

 

If you have concerns about infant formula, contact your health care provider or FDA at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332), or file a report online at MedWatch. Contact your child’s healthcare provider if you are unable to access the formula your child needs.

 

Learn more safety information on infant formula by clicking the following link:

 

WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN PROGRAM

In response to the Abbott recall, Michigan has temporarily expanded access to alternate formula options that qualify for WIC assistance, to ensure families can use their benefits on formulas readily available. Approximately 85% of formula-fed WIC participants are affected. The most up-to-date information on WIC’s response to the formula recall can be found at Michigan.gov/WIC.

 

Michigan notified clients with food packages that contain potentially recalled formulas and directed them to step-by-step instructions on what to do for benefits already redeemed, unredeemed benefits, and special formulas.

 

Michigan WIC staff are available to guide WIC clients to stores where a certain formula has been recently purchased.  Some families may need to consider a formula change to one that is available, and in these cases, it is recommended families talk to their health care provider or WIC clinic for the best options.

 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has set up a website to ensure Americans have accurate, up-to-date information about baby formula. Learn more about the federal response by clicking here: https://www.hhs.gov/formula/index.html

 

Baby Formula Manufacturer Hotlines

MyGerber Baby Expert: call 1-800-284-9488

Abbott’s Consumer Hotline: call 1-800-986-8540

Reckitt’s Customer Service line: call 1-800 BABY-123 (222-9123)

New Data Showing Record Small Business Growth

New Data Showing Record Small Business Growth

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 16, 2022

Contact: Press@michigan.gov

 

Gov. Whitmer Announces New Data Showing Record Small Business Growth  

Michigan had fastest small business job growth in 23 years, added 170,000 jobs in first three quarters

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted new data showing Michigan’s economic jumpstart continues as small businesses in the state are experiencing tremendous growth and expansion. In the first three quarters of 2021 alone, small businesses with fewer than 50 employees created almost 170,000 jobs, the fastest start to small business job growth in 23 years, according to the Michigan Bureau of Labor Market Information. The state also saw an explosion of entrepreneurs and business owners beginning new ventures in 2021, with 150,000 new small business applications filed to start businesses, which is 59% more than in 2019.

 

“Small businesses form the backbone of Michigan’s economy and are the anchors of communities across the state. Through tough times, they’ve shown grit and innovation to continue getting things done for their customers and employees,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Recent data shows that entrepreneurs are fired up, starting tens of thousands of businesses and creating nearly 170,000 jobs. While the numbers are encouraging, we must build on this momentum by making investments to retain and recruit more workers, expand operations, and attract additional investment. Together, let’s keep getting things done for Michigan’s booming small business community.”

 

 Graphic that says

 

Michigan is home to 902,000 small businesses, with 1.9 million small business employees, representing 48.3 % of Michigan workers. 99.6% of Michigan businesses are defined as small businesses with fewer than 500 employees.

 

“The entrepreneurial spirit is thriving in Michigan,” said J.D. Collins, CEO of Michigan Small Business Development Center, a statewide resource for small businesses. “Our consultants are experiencing a record number of start-up ventures and businesses in generational transition. We need the continued support of programs such as the MI New Economy Plan to ensure that Michigan is the best place to start and grow a business.”

 

Governor Whitmer remains committed to supporting small businesses as Michigan continues growing its economy. Recently, the governor laid out a $2.1 billion proposal to grow Michigan’s middle class, support small businesses and invest in communities. As Michigan’s economy grows, bolstered by a multi-billion-dollar surplus and increasing momentum, Governor Whitmer’s proposals will tackle underlying issues faced by small businesses and make bold investments needed to create economic prosperity for all.

 

  • Governor Whitmer laid out her MI New Economy, a $2.1 billion plan to grow Michigan’s middle class, support small businesses and invest in communities.
  • $500 million to build on the Michigan Mainstreet Initiative, which offers grants to restaurants, place-based businesses, and microenterprises with further dollars to attract more start-ups.
  • $200 million to create a more conducive business environment for high-tech, high-growth start-ups and create jobs of the future in Michigan.
  • Added 220,000 jobs in 2021, drove down unemployment and took Michigan from a projected $3 billion deficit to a $7 billion surplus.
  • Enacted a bipartisan tax cut for small businesses, enabling them to grow and create jobs.
  • Signed a Buy Michigan executive directive to increase state procurement and contracts with small and geographically disadvantaged businesses.
  • Signed the bipartisan Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) package, which supports business by fully funding a competitive economic development toolkit to help make Michigan a national leader in business attraction.
  • Launched over $400 million to support small businesses through Growing MI Business grants.
  • In partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the Governor implemented 23 economic relief programs for businesses, supporting more than 25,000 companies and retaining more than 200,000 jobs, and provided $100 million through the Small Business Restart Program to help restaurants and other place-based businesses cover costs by providing grants up to $20,000 for mortgage, rent, taxes, payroll and other operating expenses.

 

The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is focused on connecting talent to businesses and providing employers with worker resources. Initiatives include:

  • Tuition-Free Degrees and Certificates: Governor Whitmer launched a new, first in nation scholarship program that resulted in over 80,000 essential, frontline worker applicants on a tuition-free path. Whitmer also launched Michigan Reconnect so Michiganders 25 or older will have an opportunity to earn a tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate. To date, over 96,000 Michiganders have applied. Michigan.gov/Reconnect
  • Going PRO Talent Fund. Since the program’s 2014 launch, Going PRO Talent Fund has provided training for 150,000 Michigan workers at more than 3,200 small businesses. Due to the program’s popularity with employers, Governor Whitmer has shown strong support for the initiative by including robust funding for the program in her budget requests.
  • Apprenticeship Expansion: Creating benefits for employers and career seekers through on-the-job learning focused on new industry sectors and increasing the diversity of participants by recruiting groups historically underrepresented. Federal grants will help Michigan create more than 6,000 new apprentices over the next few years. Michigan.gov/Apprenticeship 
  • MI Tri-Share Child Care Program: This innovative public private partnership works to increase access to high-quality, affordable child care for working families while helping retain and attract talent. Tri-Share now covers 52 counties in Michigan plus the City of Detroit. Michigan.gov/Tri-Share

 

“While these numbers are indicative of a strong comeback, our work of supporting small businesses through talent programs, employer resources, and the governor’s MI New Economy plan continues to be critical to Michigan’s long-term economic success,” said Susan Corbin, Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

 

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) shares a commitment to supporting the success of the small businesses that make up the backbone of the state’s economy. Since October 2020, MEDC has assisted small businesses in all 83 counties with more than $73.7 million in funding, helping more than 560 new businesses start up and helping small businesses generate more than $4.3 billion in new revenue. This support builds on the 23 targeted response and relief programs launched during COVID to support 25,000 businesses across all 83 counties, helping to retain 200,000 jobs during the pandemic.

 

“No business is small to those who are putting it all on the line, and so we remain focused on creating pathways and opportunities for our entrepreneurs to realize their vision,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “The strength of our economy is directly tied to the success of our small businesses and through the MI New Economy plan we will continue our commitment to efforts to ensure these ventures can thrive here in Michigan.”

 

From access to capital and mentorship support to networking connections and international growth, MEDC proudly supports the growth and success of small businesses across all corners of the state with a new Small Business Services leadership position and team within the organization and with programs including:

  • Pure Michigan Business Connect. PMBC is a free service that brings small to medium-sized Michigan businesses together with local, national and global companies for supply chain sourcing opportunities.
  • International Trade Services. MEDC offers assistance to help small businesses start or expand export activities to help grow their business.
  • Access to Capital. These programs can help small business throughout Michigan receive loans from banks and lending institutions by working directly with lenders who in turn can provide transitional financing critical to helping small businesses receive the capital they need to grow.
  • Early Stage Funding. MEDC’s Entrepreneurial & Innovation initiative helps high-tech entrepreneurs find the early stage funding critical to the success of startup companies.
  • Micro Business Development Program. This incentive program is designed to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance to small businesses that create jobs and/or provide investment in the state.
  • Match on Main. A small business grant program for eligible businesses in Certified Redevelopment Ready or Michigan Main Street communities to provide up to $25,000 for interior and exterior renovations and working capital.

 

To learn more about these programs and small business resources visit: https://www.michiganbusiness.org/services/small-business/

 

Girls Soccer District Preview By Sammy Taormina

Boys Lacrosse Regional Preview By Sammy Taormina

Boys Lacrosse Regional Preview.

Written Friday May 13th at 3:10 PM

By Sammy Taormina

Here is my early regional thoughts for Boys Lacrosse.

Regional 4 at Seaholm (Birmingham)

  1. Livonia Stevenson vs. 5. FARMINGTON UNITED
  2. BIRMINGHAM UNITED vs. 7. Detroit Cass Tech
  3. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit vs. 6. ROYAL OAK
  4. Livonia Stevenson/5. FARMINGTON UNITED vs. 1. Birmingham Brother Rice

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: There were some changes to this regional. Royal Oak is in this regional after they were supposed to be in a different regional and division. The Ravens would have a tough matchup with Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit. Birmingham Brother Rice is the overwhelming favorite in this regional but Birmingham could give them a scare in the regional final but it won’t be enough. I see the Warriors moving on to the State quarterfinals with ease.

 

Regional 5 at Troy Athens

  1. CLARKSTON vs. 8. Utica Ford
  2. Macomb L’Anse Creuse North vs. 5. New Baltimore Anchor Bay
  3. Macomb Dakota vs. 7. Sterling Heights Stevenson
  4. TROY ATHENS vs. 6. Chippewa Valley

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: This is a very interesting regional but one team really stands out in Clarkston. The Wolves are state ranked and should cruse in this regional. Macomb Dakota could challenge but I don’t really see anyone beating the Wolves in this regional.

 

Regional 6 at Romeo

  1. LAKE ORION vs. 8. Utica Eisenhower/Utica
  2. Romeo vs. 5. ROCHESTER
  3. STONEY CREEK vs. 7. OXFORD
  4. ADAMS vs. 6. Port Huron United

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: This is looking to be a very competitive regional. Lake Orion is the favorite but this is not the same Dragons program as in the past when they were in the State semifinals in the last two years. Adams has been solid. They are a sleeper in this regional. Stoney Creek is the second seed but they haven’t played the schedule as what Lake Orion and Adams have done in the Red. I’m not sold on Port Huron despite getting the three seed. I see for now a Lake Orion/Adams regional final with the Dragons moving on.

 

Regional 7 at Hartland

  1. WEST BLOOMFIELD vs. 9. Waterford United
  2. WEST BLOOMFIELD/9. Waterford United vs. 1. Hartland
  3. Linden/Fenton vs. 5. Brandon/Holly
  4. Walled Lake United vs. 7. TROY
  5. Huron Valley vs. 6. BLOOMFIELD HILLS

REGIONAL OUTLOOK: This is a very interesting regional. Brandon/Holly enters this regional and could give Linden/Fenton some trouble in the first round. They need to be very careful of Bloomfield Hills, I think Bloomfield Hills could pose an upset against Huron Valley and give Walled Lake United all they can handle in the regional semifinals. Hartland has the top seed, state ranked, and home field. They should cruse into the State quarterfinals.

at May 13, 2022 No comments: 

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