OC’s First Neuro-Inclusive Neighborhood Breaks Ground

OC’s First Neuro-Inclusive Neighborhood Breaks Ground

by | Sep 25, 2024 | Regional News

Oakland County’s First Neuro-Inclusive Neighborhood Breaks Ground

Post Date:09/24/2024 3:21 PM

  • Walton Oaks will feature 11 ranch homes with three reserved and customized for adults with developmental disabilities.
  • The project is a public and private collaboration involving the Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund (HTF), Three Oaks Communities, Rochester Housing Solutions, First State Bank, and private equity partners.
  • Walton Oaks is the second neuro-inclusive neighborhood in Michigan.

Rochester Hills, Mich. – Oakland County, Rochester Housing Solutions and Three Oaks Communities are collaborating to build the county’s first neuro-inclusive neighborhood, Walton Oaks in Rochester Hills. This community is the second in Michigan featuring homes for sale to the public and homebuyers with developmental disabilities.

“Walton Oaks is a groundbreaking project that embodies the spirit of inclusion and community that we strive for in Oakland County,” Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said during a news conference about Walton Oaks today. “By creating spaces where people of all abilities can live together, we are building more than homes — we are fostering opportunities for independence, belonging and growth.”

Oakland County Commissioner Brendan Johnson, who represents a portion of Rochester Hills, agrees.

“Walton Oaks is a prime example of how we can innovate housing to create more inclusive communities in Oakland County, and I am proud to pioneer this right here in Rochester Hills,” Johnson said. “This project shows the power of collaboration in ensuring individuals of all abilities can live independently and thrive alongside their neighbors.”

Three Oaks Communities and Rochester Housing Solutions will provide homebuyers of all abilities customizable homes within a welcoming community that promotes home ownership, supported independent living and proximity to friends, family, employment and local resources for residents with special needs.

“This development is magic for me and Carly,” said Oakland Township resident Maureen Guy, whose 36-year-old daughter Carly will be among the first residents of Walton Oaks. “She will be living her dream with friends and activities galore and a home of her own. It’s an amazing, wonderful thing.”

Walton Oaks, located off Walton Boulevard across the street from Oakland University, will feature 11 ranch homes on one-third acre lots with a private road. Three of the homes have been reserved and customized for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with input from their families.

The project has both public and private support from the Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund (HTF), First State Bank, and private equity partners. The HTF has invested $500,000 into the project.

“The Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund is honored to support Walton Oaks, a development that truly reflects the values of equity and inclusion,” said Oakland County Neighborhood & Housing Development Officer Khadija Walker-Fobbs. “This partnership not only creates innovative housing solutions for individuals with developmental disabilities but also sets a precedent for how communities can be designed to meet the diverse needs of all residents.”

Rochester Housing Solutions (RHS), a nonprofit founded in 2020 by several dozen local families, spearheaded the initiative to create a neuro-inclusive neighborhood in the Rochester Hills area. These families sought safe, sustainable and permanent housing for their adult children with disabilities. RHS partnered with Three Oaks Communities, which is known for its innovative approach and success in building Michigan’s first neuro-inclusive residential development in Saline.

“Walton Oaks represents the culmination of years of dedication by families and advocates who believe in creating inclusive communities,” said David Mingle, chair of Rochester Housing Solutions. “This neighborhood is more than just housing – it’s about providing a place where adults with developmental disabilities can truly thrive, living alongside their neighbors in a supportive, integrated environment.”

Each unique neighborhood will address the needs of the individuals with developmental disabilities who live there, with input from those individuals and their families. Walton Oaks will include three homes for people with disabilities, each with multiple bedroom suites. All suites designated for adults with disabilities have been reserved at this location.

“Walton Oaks is a testament to what can be achieved when we design with inclusion at the forefront,” said Bill Godfrey, co-founder of Three Oaks Communities. “Our goal is to provide homes that meet the unique needs of residents with developmental disabilities while fostering a sense of community for everyone.”

This collaboration on building neuro-inclusive neighborhoods will continue with Auburn Oaks on Auburn Road near Crooks Road in Rochester Hills. This neighborhood will include a combination of townhomes, condominiums, and single-family homes, with up to 24 units designated for adults with disabilities. A groundbreaking is anticipated in the spring of 2025. The HTF has also invested $1.5 million into the Auburn Oaks development.

“It’s hard for me to even put into words what this means for us. Not just because of this project, but because once people see this and find out what it’s like and that it’s possible,” Maureen Guy said. “And they’re going to be really good neighbors. They are just going to lift the whole neighborhood.”

About Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund 
The Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund (HTF) supports the development and preservation of affordable, attainable, workforce, and mixed-income housing throughout Oakland County by leveraging HTF funds with the financial resources of the private sector and other governmental funding sources. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners allocated $18 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and a $2 million annual appropriation of general funds. The HTF is governed by a seven-member board populated with representatives that have relevant residential development, funding and/or oversight experience. HTF funds are allocated through an application process that prioritizes developments that meet the specific goals and needs of the county and its community partners.

About Three Oaks Communities
Based in Plymouth, Mich., Three Oaks Communities (“Three Oaks”) is the first private developer in the United States to build neuro-inclusive neighborhoods that include homes for sale to neurotypical homebuyers as well as adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (“I/DD”) and their families.  Three Oaks’ unique development concept also includes caregiving and support services that are organized by the families of our I/DD homebuyers. Its concept is also aligned with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service guidance for home and community-based housing and services, promoting greater independence, autonomy, choice, privacy, dignity, respect, and community integration for all its I/DD homebuyers. The principals of Three Oaks are William J. Godfrey, John E. Zdanowski, and Bruce A. Michael.

About Rochester Housing Solutions 
Rochester Housing Solutions (RHS) is a nonprofit founded in 2020 to create long-term, inclusive housing options for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Originating from a group of families in the Rochester Hills area, RHS formed to address the need for homeownership opportunities for their adult children. RHS began collaborating with Three Oaks Communities several years ago to develop plans for two neuro-inclusive neighborhoods in Rochester Hills. Three Oaks Communities was one of the pioneers in the development of neighborhoods for people with and without intellectual disabilities. Since its inception, RHS has grown steadily, with 39 families now actively involved and strong demand for its housing. Walton Oaks, located near Oakland University, will feature three fully reserved homes for adults with IDD, while Auburn Oaks offers a mix of condos for both IDD and neurotypical residents. These unique neighborhoods foster diversity, independence, and community, offering both purchase and rental options for families and individuals who value a supportive and integrated lifestyle.

Funding to Fix Local Roads in 28 Villages and Small Cities

Funding to Fix Local Roads in 28 Villages and Small Cities

by | Sep 25, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 25, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Announces Funding to Fix Local Roads in 28 Villages and Small Cities Across the State

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced 28 villages and cities across the state with populations less than 10,000 will receive road funding grants totaling $5.1 million.

 

“These grants will help 28 communities across Michigan fix their local roads faster to save drivers time and money,” said Governor Whitmer. “Since I took office, Michigan has fixed 23,000 lane miles of road and 1,600 bridges while supporting over 89,000 jobs, and today’s funding will build on that total. Let’s keep fixing the damn roads so people can go to work, drop their kids off at school, and run errands without blowing a tire or cracking an axle. Let’s keep fixing our roads to lower costs for drivers on repairs, save them valuable time, and improve their quality of life.”

 

Established by the state Legislature in 2018, the Community Service Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) Category B program is administered by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and serves as a stop-gap program to help fund road projects in small communities. Successful projects were selected, in part, because they are paired with planned infrastructure work, coordinated with other road agencies, focused on extending the useful life of the road and had limited funding sources.

 

“I applaud MDOT’s work to improve our infrastructure around the state by partnering with and investing directly into our communities,” said state Senator Erika Geiss (D-Taylor). “As we continue to work to make all of our communities vibrant places to live, work and grow, this state funding helps the City of Ecorse stretch their dollars while improving our local roads.”

 

“It’s often difficult for smaller communities to compete for resources alongside our larger cities. I’m grateful that the Community Service Infrastructure Fund exists to help fill this gap,” said state Senator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing). “Thanks to this program and MDOT, residents in and around the Village of Lennon can expect a smoother, safer drive as they navigate Lennon Road.”

 

“Maintaining great communities means maintaining our infrastructure, and we know that’s a costly task for our municipalities,” said state Senator Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak).  “Through our partnership with the state and MDOT, and as a testament to the stellar coordination on projects from local leadership, we’re able to help bring one more infrastructure project closer to completion for Huntington Woods residents.”

 

“With Michigan’s often severe weather, our roads can almost always use extra attention. The $250,000 in funding is welcomed news,” said state Representative Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph). “The investment will allow Saugatuck to make necessary repairs to ensure safer commutes for our neighbors who take Maple Street every day to work, school or wherever else they may need to go. I’m thrilled to see this investment being made in our community, as it will undoubtedly go a long way in keeping our drivers and pedestrians safer on the roads.”

 

“The additional $250,000 in road repair funding will improve the lives of many Huntington Woods residents,” said state Representative Natalie Price (D-Berkley). “Investing in roads ensures safer communities, reduces wear and tear on our vehicles and enhances the safety of both drivers and pedestrians. I’m proud to have worked alongside my colleagues in the Legislature to secure this funding, and I will continue to advocate for more resources for our communities.”

 

 “The $250,000 investment in Ecorse will be a boon for the city. It will provide for much needed repairs to a number of our neighborhood streets, allowing for people to travel more safely and securely within our community,” said state Representative Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park). “In the long run, this grant will help drivers in our communities save time and money by ensuring that our roads are safe for use while not damaging drivers’ vehicles

 

Grant awards range from $54,000 to $250,000 for road resurfacing, culvert replacement, pavement crack sealing and other preservative measures.

 

CSIF Category B grants for 2025

 

County

Applicant

Project/Route

Grant      Amount

Allegan

Martin

Templeton Street, University Street, Edwards Street, Chalmers Street and Lee Street

 $

250,000

Allegan

Saugatuck

Maple Street

 $         250,000

Arenac

Twining

Dewey Street, Sampson Street, Smalley Street, Schley Street and Gridley Street

 $           65,550

Benzie

Benzonia

Walker Street

 $         181,050

Berrien

Berrien Springs

Mechanic Street

 $         192,500

Cheboygan

Cheboygan

Garfield Avenue

 $         250,000

Gogebic

Bessemer

Cinnabar Street

 $           64,979

Grand Traverse

Kingsley

Kingsley Road/S. Brownson Avenue

 $           84,100

Hillsdale

Montgomery

Weaver Road, Hayward Street, Hakes Street, Michigan Street and Park Place

 $         143,878

Houghton

South Range

Whealkate Drive

 $         116,000

Huron

Harbor Beach

Bartlett Street, Trescott Street, Schock Road, Garden Street and Resort Road

 $         230,000

Iron

Crystal Falls

Erie Street, Floodstrand Road, Fairbanks Drive, Water Street, Wisconsin Avenue, Seventh Street, Runkle Lake Road, S. Sixth Street, N. Sixth Street and Rock Crusher Road

 $         250,000

Lapeer

Columbiaville

Fifth Street and LeValley Road

 $         130,965

Lenawee

Morenci

N. Summit Street, Sims Highway and Page Street

 $         240,503

Macomb

Richmond

Oak Street and Priestap Street

 $         250,000

Menominee

Menominee

Various streets citywide

 $         240,000

Montcalm

Stanton

E. Bellevue Street

 $           91,964

Oakland

Oxford

Moyers Street

 $         229,887

Oakland

Huntington Woods

Newport Boulevard

 $         250,000

Ogemaw

Prescott

Harrison Road, Sage Lake Road, Washington Street and Greenwood Road

 $         250,000

Osceola

Evart

West Third Street and Lauman Road

 $           90,000

Ottawa

Hudsonville

Corporate Grove Drive and Corporate Exchange Drive

 $         209,000

Saginaw

Oakley

Woodward Street

 $         227,612

Sanilac

Brown City

Buby Street

 $           54,000

Sanilac

Croswell

Croswell Road and Seltzer Road

 $         250,000

Shiawassee

Lennon

Lennon Road

 $         103,750

Tuscola

Kingston

Washington Street and Noble Street

 $         211,200

Wayne

Ecorse

Florence Street, Charlotte Street and Cherrygrove Street

 $         250,000

 

Enacted in 1987 and reauthorized in 1993, the Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF) helps finance highway, road and street projects that are critical to the movement of people and products, and for getting workers to their jobs, materials to growers and manufacturers, and finished goods to consumers. TEDF “Category B,” or the “Community Service Infrastructure Fund,” grants are allocated for road improvements in cities and villages with a population of 10,000 or fewer.

 
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 10, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the State Teacher Tenure Commission, Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology, Michigan Board of Athletic Trainers, Michigan Board of Real Estate Appraisers, Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons, Michigan Board of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, State Building Authority Board of Directors, Michigan Gaming Control Board, Michigan Citizen-Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council, and Unemployment Insurance Appeals Commission.

 

Today’s appointees represent Michigan’s young professionals, communities of color, seniors, and more. The appointees announced this week build on Governor Whitmer’s work to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Sixty percent of appointees are women or people of color, and the Whitmer cabinet is the most diverse in Michigan history.

 

State Teacher Tenure Commission

Kevin Polston, of Grand Haven, has served as superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools since 2021. His previous superintendent experience included four years at Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming.  Prior to becoming a superintendent, he served as a teacher, coach, principal, and curriculum leader at Grand Haven Area Public Schools for 15 years. Polston had previously been appointed to the Return to School Advisory Council and the Student Recovery Advisory Council. Polston holds a Bachelor of Arts in education from Michigan State University, a master’s in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University, and he is currently a doctoral candidate studying educational leadership at Central Michigan University. Kevin Polston is appointed to represent a superintendent of schools for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring August 31, 2028. Polston succeeds Andrea Tuttle, who has resigned.

 

The State Teacher Tenure Commission acts as a board of review for all cases appealed from the decision of a controlling board involving decisions on teacher tenure matters. Cases are first handled by an internal MDE body and may be appealed to the State Teacher Tenure Commission.

 

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

 

Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology

Ahlam Issa, of Ann Arbor, is the founder and owner of Issa Speech Therapy. She earned her Bachelor of Science and master’s in communication sciences and disorders from Eastern Michigan University. Issa has also earned a license as a Speech-Language Pathologist and a certificate from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Ahlam Issa is appointed to represent speech language pathologists for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027. Ahlam Issa succeeds Michael Dunn whose term has expired.

 

The Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of speech pathologists in this state. The Public Health Code defines the practice of speech-language pathology as the application of principles, methods, and procedures related to the development of disorders of human communication. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

 

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

 

Michigan Board of Athletic Trainers 

Darryl Conway, of Dundee, is the senior associate athletic director and chief health and welfare officer for the University of Michigan. He holds a Master of Arts in Physical Education from Adelphi University. Conway is reappointed to represent athletic trainers for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring June 30, 2028.

 

The Michigan Board of Athletic Trainers works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of approximately 1,028 athletic trainers. The practice of athletic training, as defined in the Public Health Code, means the treatment of an individual for risk management and injury prevention, the clinical evaluation and assessment of an individual for an injury or illness, the immediate care and treatment of an individual for an injury or illness, and the rehabilitation and reconditioning of an individual’s injury or illness.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Board of Real Estate Appraisers 

Dr. Jumana Judeh, of Livonia, is the president of Judeh & Associates. She earned her Bachelor of Science in management from Purdue University and her master’s in industrial relations and a doctorate in sustainable urban redevelopment from Wayne State University. Dr. Judeh also holds a certificate as a certified general appraiser. Dr. Jumana Judeh is reappointed to represent certified real estate appraisers for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring June 30, 2028.

 

The Michigan Board of Real Estate Appraisers works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of approximately 6,011 limited real estate appraisers, state licensed appraisers, certified general appraisers, and certified residential appraisers.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons 

Aaron Fox, of Grand Ledge, is the Broker and Owner of Century 21 Affiliated in Lansing. He has previously worked as a broker and owner of Century 21 Looking Glass. Aaron holds both a real estate principal associate broker license and a real estate non-principal associate broker license. Aaron has received a State Certified Fair Housing Instructor Certification from Michigan Realtors, and a New Agent and Broker Eligibility from Holloway’s Real Estate Institue. Aaron Fox is appointed to represent real estate brokers and salespersons for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring June 30, 2028. Fox succeeds Natalie Rowe, whose term has expired.

 

Maggie LaHaie, of Cheboygan, is the owner of Legend Bookkeeping. LaHaie earned an Associate of Arts from Grand Rapids Community College. She also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in economics and international business from Grand Valley State University and a Bachelor of Science in international economics from the Krakow University of Economics. Mrs. LaHaie is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring June 30, 2028.

 

The Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons oversees the practice of real estate salespersons, associate real estate brokers, real estate brokers, and branch offices.

 

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

 

Michigan Board of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery

Andrea Ciaravino, of Bloomfield Hills, is a physician’s assistant and specializes in podiatric medicine, sports medicine, and orthopedics. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Detroit Mercy. She currently works in the Henry Ford Health System. Ciaravino is reappointed to represent physicians’ assistants for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring June 30, 2027.

 

The Michigan Board of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery was formed to license and regulate the practice of podiatric medicine and surgery, which is defined in the Public Health Code as the evaluation, diagnosis, management, and prevention of conditions of the lower extremities, including local manifestations of systemic disease in the human foot and ankle, by attending to and advising patients and through the use of devices, diagnostic tests, drugs and biologicals, surgical procedures, or other means.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

State Building Authority Board of Directors

Michael Barnwell, of Ira, is the president of the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights. Barnwell trained at the Millwright Institute of Technology in Warren and is a journeyman millwright and 30-year member of the MRCC. He currently serves as co-chair of the Michigan State Building Authority Board of Directors. Michael Barnwell is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring August 21, 2028.

 

The State Building Authority was created to acquire, construct, furnish, equip, and renovate buildings and equipment for the use of the state, including public universities and community colleges. The Authority is authorized to issue and sell bonds and notes for acquisition and construction of facilities and state equipment.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Gaming Control Board

Mark Evenson, of South Lyon, is the chief financial officer at Diversified Members Credit Union. Evenson received a bachelor’s degree in management from Eastern Michigan University, and a master’s degree in corporate finance from Walsh College. He previously served on the board of directors of the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and as vice chair of the board of the Novi Educational Foundation. Mark Evenson is appointed to represent Republicans for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026. He succeeds Robert Anthony, who has resigned.

 

The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the state of Michigan. The Board provides Detroit commercial casinos gaming operations licensing and regulation, licenses and regulates online gaming and sports betting operators, platform providers and suppliers, regulates pari-mutuel horse racing and casino-style charitable gaming, and audits tribal gaming compact agreement compliance.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Citizen-Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council

Cody Dorland, of Clare, is an emergency services technician with Dow Chemical, a lieutenant at the Coleman Community Fire Department, and the Midland County Fire Training Coordinator. Dorland holds an Emergency Management certificate from the Michigan State Police, a Fire Inspector I certification from the Michigan Bureau of Fire Services and holds numerous other certificates in emergency management. Cody Dorland is appointed to represent individuals with technical expertise related to emergency response for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026. He succeeds Aimee Barajas, who has resigned.

 

The MCCERCC assists in developing, maintaining, implementing and supporting and promoting emergency response principles, strategies, and practices within governmental agencies and private sector organizations in Michigan.

 

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

 

Unemployment Insurance Appeals Commission 

William Runco, of Dearborn, has been serving on the Unemployment Insurance Appeals Commission since 2019. Previously, he served as 19th District Court Chief Judge and a Michigan State Representative for the 31st District. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Michigan. William Runco is reappointed to serve on the Unemployment Insurance Appeals Commission as an attorney licensed to practice in Michigan courts for five years or more for a term commencing September 10, 2024, and expiring July 31, 2028.

 

The Unemployment Insurance Appeals Commission serves Michigan’s employees, employers, and insurers by addressing and impartially resolving appeals of decisions and orders involving workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance benefits. The Commission created in Executive Order No. 2019-13 has full authority to handle, process, and decide appeals filed under Michigan Employment Security Act Section 33(2).

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Patriot Day

Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Patriot Day

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Regional News

Office of the Governor (no photo)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

September 10, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Patriot Day

 

LANSING, Mich. –  Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags across the state to be lowered to half-staff on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 to honor and remember the heroes who lost their lives and those who sacrificed their lives for others, including first responders who showed bravery in responding to the attacks and aiding the victims.

 

“On Patriot Day, we remember those we lost in the terrorist attacks on 9/11, honor those who serve, and recommit ourselves to standing up for our values,” said Governor Whitmer. “I encourage all Michiganders to come together in a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. local time and participate in local community service or charitable giving. This day reminds us to cherish the fundamental, American values we all love—freedom and opportunity—and offers us an opportunity to build a brighter future where we stand together.”

 

“On Patriot Day, we come together as Michiganders to honor and remember the first responders, service members, and everyday Americans who stepped up for their fellow citizens on 9/11,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “They cared for the wounded, ran towards danger, and in many cases made the ultimate sacrifice. Today, let us take time to reflect on their courage and commitment and rededicate ourselves to honoring their memory.”

 

The State of Michigan remembers and honors the heroes who lost their lives and those who sacrificed their lives for others by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

 

To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.

 

Flags should be returned to full staff on September 12, 2024.

 
World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day

by | Sep 10, 2024 | Regional News

Image
Hi there,

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day and September is National Suicide Prevention Month, so I wanted to share a reminder to check in on your friends, family, and neighbors.

It’s important that we all take steps to make sure our loved ones are doing OK, especially if they are a member of a high-risk group like veterans who bravely served our country.

And if you’re struggling or know someone who is, you can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, 24/7 support.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides a variety of helpful resources and programs, which you can learn more about here.

– Rep. Elissa Slotkin
Voter Preregistration Week, mock election resources for schools

Voter Preregistration Week, mock election resources for schools

by | Sep 9, 2024 | Regional News

Secretary Benson banner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 9, 2024Contact: Cheri Hardmon

[email protected]

 

Secretary Benson celebrates Michigan’s first-ever Voter Preregistration Week, launching an online portal with mock election resources for schools

Comprehensive digital toolkit now available to promote voting knowledge, civic engagement in K-12 education

DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich. – Today at Crestwood High School in Dearborn Heights, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced the launch of a new online mock elections portal, a resource for K-12 schools, educators, and youth organizations to encourage civic engagement by hosting their own mock elections for students. The announcement marks the start of Michigan Voter Preregistration Week, which was designated as Sept. 8-14 this year by an official proclamation by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

 

“As we kick off the state’s first-ever Voter Preregistration week, my message to young people is that Michigan needs your voice, your engagement, and your participation in our democratic process,” said Secretary Benson. “If you’re 16 or 17, get preregistered to vote and if you’re 18 or older, make sure you’re registered. Even if you’re not old enough to cast a ballot yet, understanding the system and the power of one vote is important. Our new online mock election resource will help students across the state get valuable knowledge and experience with voting, so they are well-prepared to be informed, active, and engaged citizens in the future.”

 

“Voting is one of the most important rights and responsibilities in a democracy,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. “We appreciate working with Secretary Benson and the Secretary of State team to educate high school students about how they can participate in the democratic process. It’s an important real-life lesson.”

 

“Even if we are not old enough to vote, we can still be a part of the electoral process,” said Crestwood senior and National Honor Society president Hala Komaiha, who spoke at today’s press conference. “For those of us who are 18 years old, registering to vote and participating in every election is crucial. And for 16- and 17-year-olds, preregistering now prepares you for the future. The decisions that shape our everyday lives are being made constantly and voting is one of the most powerful ways we can influence those decisions. By staying informed and getting involved early, we contribute to a more engaged and represented society. This is especially true for young people. Our voices matter. We bring fresh perspectives that drive change on issues directly affecting our future. By getting registered and educated about elections, we empower ourselves and ensure our generation has a say in shaping the direction of our communities and country.”

 

“Our democracy depends on our youngest citizens developing informed and healthy civic identities,” said Ellen Zwarensteyn, executive director of the Michigan Center for Civic Education (MCCE). “Educators need tools and professional learning to equip students with the knowledge and opportunities to practice democratic skills. In addition to the new Department of State mock elections resource, MCCE’s MiVoice MiVote Toolkit provides educators and students the materials and opportunities to realize PA 258 and advance more dynamic voting and elections education. MCCE celebrates the Michigan Department of State for acknowledging the importance that schools and educators play in developing opportunities for a lifetime of civic education and engagement.”

 

Throughout 2024, Secretary Benson has been hosting mock elections at various Michigan schools to promote democracy and engage students in the elections process. With the mock elections portal, schools will now have all the tools they need to host a mock election and help students get familiar with voting and election procedures.

 

During a mock election, students are selected as a secretary of state, election clerk, poll workers, and election observers – with each of the roles explained to them and then demonstrated. Students decide on a topic for the election, nominate candidates, and then vote. Students will learn about the process of counting the ballots in Michigan and eventually announce a “winner” to the group. The full toolkit can be viewed online at Michigan.gov/MockElections.

 

The launch is in coordination with the start of Voter Preregistration Week, which highlights the opportunity for youth, between the ages of 16 and 17.5, to legally preregister to vote. Legislation passed and signed into law in 2023 allows 16 and 17-year-olds to preregister to vote if they are a Michigan resident, a U.S. citizen, and not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison. Once preregistered, Michigan teens will be automatically registered to vote when they turn 18.

 

Under the new law, 16 and 17-year-olds who obtain a driver’s license or state ID at a Secretary of State office will be automatically preregistered to vote unless they opt out. Young people who preregister can vote by absentee ballot or in person at an early voting site as long as they will be 18 on or before Election Day. Learn more about preregistration online.

 

All Michigan citizens can register to vote, update their registration online, or learn about the safe and secure ways to cast a ballot in the upcoming November presidential election by visiting  Michigan.gov/Vote.

 

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Mock Election Portal LaunchSecretary Benson spoke at Crestwood High School in Dearborn Heights to launch the mock election portal, a tool to encourage civic engagement in education.

 

Mock Election Portal LaunchStudents at Crestwood High School participated in the mock election with Secretary Benson.

 

Mock Election Portal LaunchDuring a mock election, students decide on a topic for the election, nominate candidates, and then vote.

 

Mock Election Portal LaunchCrestwood senior and National Honor Society president Hala Komaiha spoke at the press conference announcing the mock election portal. From L: Crestwood High School teacher Lina Abbas; Secretary Benson; Dr. Youssef Mosallam, Crestwood School District superintendent, Roni Abdulhadi, Crestwood High School principal.

 

Mock Election Portal LaunchThe Michigan Department of State launched the mock election portal to encourage civic engagement and teach students about the state’s safe and secure election process.