Funding for Lowering Energy Costs for Michiganders

Funding for Lowering Energy Costs for Michiganders

by | Sep 6, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES 

September 5, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Applauds Biden-Harris Announcement Delivering Funding for Lowering Energy Costs for Michiganders, Supporting Efforts to Restart Palisades

Wolverine Power Cooperative Announced as Winner of Inflation Reduction Act Investment

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s U.S. Department of Agriculture’s announcement of a grant to Wolverine Power Cooperative (Wolverine). The grant made available through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), will reduce the cost of clean and reliable wholesale electricity generated by the Palisades Nuclear Plant, supporting more than 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms across Michigan.

 

“The Biden-Harris administration’s investment in Wolverine Power Cooperative and their ongoing commitment to reopen the Palisades Nuclear Plant will drive down energy costs, help us make more clean, reliable energy right here in Michigan, and set us up to compete and win transformational economic development projects in the future,” said Governor Whitmer. “Because of our effective collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Holtec, and Wolverine, this project has the potential to pass these savings and provide clean, reliable electricity for more than 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms in rural communities across the state. This is another critical step in our collaboration with the administration to restart the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant, protecting 600 union jobs and supporting 1,100 more in the community. We are showing the world that Michigan will continue to lead the future of clean energy. Let’s keep getting it done.”

 

In May, the State of Michigan wrote Secretary Vilsack of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support the grant application of Wolverine under the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service. The New ERA program helps rural Americans transition to clean, affordable, and reliable energy and in doing so, reduces air and water pollution, improves health outcomes, and lowers energy costs for people in rural communities. The program is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act and represents the largest investment in rural electrification since President Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act into law in 1936.

 

Wolverine is a Michigan-based generation and transmission cooperative that provides wholesale electricity to its member distribution cooperatives and serves retail customers throughout predominantly rural and agricultural portions of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.

 

Today’s announcement is another step in the state’s collaborative efforts to restoring the generation of electricity at Palisades Nuclear Plant, protecting more than 600 good-paying local jobs, shoring up Michigan’s energy needs, and supporting the goals of MI Healthy Climate Plan, the state’s climate action roadmap. The New ERA grant will drive economic growth and provide rural Michiganders and businesses with reliable, affordable, and carbon-free electricity for decades to come.

 

Saving Palisades

Palisades is a nuclear plant in Southwest Michigan that employed 600 workers making an average of $117,845 while the plant was in operation, supported over 1,100 local jobs, generated $363 million in regional economic development every year, and produced more than 800 megawatts of reliable, clean power—enough to power 800,000 homes. The Palisades plant was shut down on May 20, 2022. The plant was sold to Holtec in June 2022.

 

In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy announced a decision to issue a conditional commitment for an up to $1.52 billion loan to restart the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Governor and the Michigan legislature also secured $300 million to support critical reopening activities including infrastructure upgrades, fuel purchases, workforce development, and more.

 

Biden-Harris Administration’s Clean Energy Investments in Michigan

President Biden’s IRA made the single largest investment in climate and clean energy in American history. Nearly two years after passage, the IRA has already led to 62 new clean energy projects in Michigan ranging from solar and electric vehicles to hydrogen and battery storage, the most across any state in the nation. These projects have spurred more than $26 billion in investment, creating or moving forward more than 21,000 jobs.

 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, is helping Michigan fix the damn roads, bridges, pipes, internet, and so much more. The BIL’s clean energy investments are modernizing our power grid, investing in energy efficiency improvements, and helping deploy more clean energy—including nuclear energy.

 

Michigan’s Clean Energy Leadership

In November 2023, the Governor signed historic clean energy laws, making Michigan a national leader in the fight against climate change. The bills will lower household utility costs, create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and protect Michigan’s precious air, water, and public health.

 

Michigan leads the Midwest in the number of clean energy workers, with nearly 124,000 clean energy workers. The 2023 Clean Jobs America Report stated that clean energy businesses in Michigan added more than 5,400 workers in 2022, growing almost twice the rate of the overall economy.

Man Sentenced to 5-20 Years for Mass Cyber mPerks Theft

Man Sentenced to 5-20 Years for Mass Cyber mPerks Theft

by | Sep 6, 2024 | Regional News

Nessel Email Header
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 6, 2024

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Grand Haven Man Sentenced to 5-20 Years for Mass mPerks Cyber Theft

LANSING – Yesterday, Nicholas Mui, 22, of Grand Haven, was sentenced to 5-20 years’ incarceration for the systemic theft and sale of account access information tied to mPerks accounts, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Mui, who pled guilty to one count of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise in July, also forfeited his computer tower and approximately $611,000 in frozen cryptocurrency and cash.

mPerks is the loyalty and rewards incentive program offered by the Meijer grocery chain wherein customers accrue store-credit points into their individual accounts by making purchases at the grocer. The points accrued can be used as cash-value towards purchases. Customers establish their own individual accounts to participate in the loyalty program and these are maintained by Meijer.

Meijer customers and mPerks account holders had their mPerks accounts compromised, with login credentials sold online, and their accrued purchase points stolen and used fraudulently. Mui obtained login credentials from a separate data breach, cross referenced those credentials for access success with the mPerks infrastructure, and then sold those login credentials on the internet for the wrongful use of buyers. The purchasers of the login credentials then used the points balance to fund their own purchases from Meijer, with incidents documented for both online and in-store purchases.

Meijer was alerted to these thefts by consumer complaints to the company in April and May of 2023. The customers complained of vanishing points on their accounts, prompting Meijer to contact the Fraud Investigation Section of the Michigan State Police. A joint investigation commenced, comprised of Meijer corporate investigators, the Michigan State Police Fraud Investigation Section, and the FORCE Team. Mui was arrested and arraigned in January following the investigation.

“The tireless efforts of the FORCE team, Michigan State Police, and Meijer have not only secured a significant sentence and restitution but may have also prevented further harm to businesses and consumers across our state,” Nessel said. “My FORCE Team remains dedicated to working with retail partners to hold accountable those who commit organized retail crimes and creating an overall safer shopping experience.”

Meijer has reinstated the full previous balance of accrued points to affected customers suffering verified thefts, at a corporate loss currently calculated to exceed $1,000,000.

The FORCE Team and the Organized Retail Crime Unit were established in January 2023 by the Attorney General to target criminal organizations that steal products from retailers to repackage and sell for a profit. Two assistant attorneys general serve the FORCE Team full-time, working with special agents within the Department of Attorney General and Michigan State Police detectives to investigate and prosecute these crimes. The unit also partners with the FBI’s Detroit Fraud and Financial Crimes Task Force and the Postal Inspection Service. This is a first-in-the-nation unit, unique in the 50 states as being the first such unit with embedded, dedicated staff from the Department of Attorney General.

The FORCE Team is dedicated to working collaboratively with retailers and local law enforcement agencies to combat organized retail crime. FORCE is an acronym that stands for Focused Organized Retail Crime Enforcement. Recent corporate partners on investigations have included Sam’s Club/Walmart, Meijer, Target, Home Depot, TJ Maxx, Rite-Aid, Lululemon, Ulta Beauty, Amazon, and Lowe’s.

Local law enforcement agencies or retailers with evidence of organized retail fraud are encouraged to email the FORCE Team.
September as National College Savings Month

September as National College Savings Month

by | Sep 4, 2024 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 4, 2024

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Michigan Education Trust celebrates September as National College Savings Month

Enrolling in MET this month presents best back-to-school deal around with new enrollment incentives, expanded benefits

LANSING — As National College Savings Month returns this September, and with a proclamation from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declaring Michigan College Savings Month, the Michigan Education Trust (MET) is amplifying its efforts encouraging families to plan for their children’s future education.

New for 2024, the prepaid tuition program administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury is offering fresh incentives, including the 2024 College Savings Month Bonus, making saving for college more accessible than ever. Purchasers who open new Pay-As-You-Go contracts for qualified beneficiaries by Sept. 30, 2024, will receive a $100 College Savings Month Bonus.*

The bonus represents MET’s ongoing work to reduce financial barriers to postsecondary education.  Families are encouraged to visit here and use the coupon code CSM24 to take advantage of this offer and to waive the $25 online enrollment fee.

“This initiative is part of our unwavering commitment to breaking down the financial barriers that too often stand as obstacles for families in achieving their educational goals,” said Diane Brewer, executive director of MET. “We want to make sure that more students can begin and complete their education without the overwhelming burden of student debt.”

Highlighting the value of early college savings, MET is looking back to early investors like Karen and David Janer-Hanson of South Lyon, who were “MET originals” and are now calling their MET investment the best financial decision they ever made.

They recently reflected on how MET has paid off for their family.

Back in 1988, as young professionals with a daughter and limited funds, they knew they had to prioritize their child’s future. The newly introduced MET program allowed them to purchase future college credits at 1988 prices, and they knew they couldn’t miss out.

“It was the smartest financial move we’ve ever made,” said Karen, a former school counselor.

Thanks to MET, their daughter, Cara, graduated from Michigan Technological University with an environmental engineering degree. Now, she works as an environmental engineer for the Grand Valley Metro Council in Kent County. Their son, Philip, also benefited from MET, earning a political science degree from James Madison College at Michigan State University.

Brewer highlighted the enduring impact of MET.

“Like the Janer-Hansons, every Michigan family should have the opportunity to secure their child’s future,” she said. “We’re enhancing our offerings this year to ensure more students can achieve their dreams without the shadow of student debt.”

Since its inception in 1988 as the nation’s first 529 prepaid education savings plan, MET has been a cornerstone for Michigan families. With rising concerns about student debt, MET’s role has never been more crucial in providing a pathway to a debt-free future.

The benefits of a MET plan extend beyond savings, with contributions being tax-deductible for Michigan residents and distributions for qualified education expenses being tax-free. Additionally, MET offers the flexibility of year-round contributions, making it easy for anyone — parents, grandparents, friends and even community organizations — to invest in a child’s future.

Brewer also emphasized MET’s ongoing efforts to educate families about the advantages of MET through a series of webinars scheduled throughout the year. These sessions cover various topics, including the features and benefits of MET contracts and the broader tax advantages of 529 plans.

“This College Savings Month, we want to remind everyone that MET is more than a savings plan — it’s a pledge to the future success of our children,” Brewer noted. “MET is better equipped than ever to help Michigan students reach their goals.”

For more information about MET, visit SetWithMET.com.

*View eligibility requirements for the College Savings Month bonus.
2024 ‘I Voted’ sticker design contest winners

2024 ‘I Voted’ sticker design contest winners

by | Sep 4, 2024 | Regional News

Secretary Benson banner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2024

Contact: Cheri Hardmon

[email protected]

 

Secretary Benson announces 2024 ‘I Voted’ sticker design contest winners

Winning designs will be available for clerks to give to voters participating in the November election

LANSING, Mich. – Today, the Michigan Department of State proudly announced the winners of the state’s first-ever “I Voted” sticker design contest. The nine winning designs will be available for clerks to order and give out to voters this fall as the state’s official 2024 Presidential Election stickers.

 

“Congratulations to our winners in the state’s first ‘I Voted’ sticker design contest,” Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said. “I was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and creativity from the people of our great state. Now, let’s use the same energy in casting a vote this November. I encourage every eligible voter to make a plan now to have your voice heard – vote with an absentee ballot, at an early voting site, or on Election Day – and feel proud to wear a sticker designed by a fellow Michigander.”

 

“On behalf of the Collegiate Student Advisory Taskforce, I would like to congratulate the finalists and express our gratitude to all the talented artists who submitted stickers for the competition. We appreciate every submission and hope that the chosen stickers will bring a sense of fun and joy to the people of Michigan as they cast their ballots in November!” said Zena Aljilehawi, chair of the 2024 Collegiate Student Advisory Task Force, whose members came up with the idea to host the sticker contest.

 

After the sticker design contest was launched by Secretary Benson in May, more than 480 designs were submitted and over 57,700 public votes were cast for the winners. Three winning designs were selected from each separate category: elementary/middle school (grades K-8), high school (grades 9-12), and general entry (open to Michigan residents of all ages).

 

Michigan Collegiate Student Advisory Task Force members narrowed the submissions down to 25 semifinalists from each entry category before the contest opened up for a public vote.

 

The following contestants created the winning designs:

 

Elementary / Middle School 

 

  1. Jane Hynous of Grosse Pointe, student at Brownell Middle School
  2. Gabby Warner of Rockford
  3. Katelyn Stouffer-Hopkins of Lansing

 

High School 

 

  1. Olivia Smiertka of Holly, student at Holly High School
  2. Michelle Lekhtman of West Bloomfield, student at West Bloomfield High School
  3. Andrew Brasher of Saint Louis, student at Alma High School

 

General 

 

  1. Kelsey Winiarski of Livonia
  2. Breanna Tanner of Grand Rapids
  3. Madelyn VerVaecke of Livonia

 

For more information about voting and elections in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Vote.

 

# # #

Elementary / Middle School

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Jane Hynous of Grosse Pointe, a student at Brownell Middle School.

 

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Gabby Warner of Rockford.

 

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Katelyn Stouffer-Hopkins of Lansing.

 

High School

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Olivia Smiertka of Holly, a student at Holly High School. 

 

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Michelle Lekhtman of West Bloomfield, a student at West Bloomfield High School.

 

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Andrew Brasher of Saint Louis, a student at Alma High School. 

 

General

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Kelsey Winiarski of Livonia.

 

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Breanna Tanner of Grand Rapids.

 

I Voted Sticker Design WinnersCreated by Madelyn VerVaecke of Livonia.
2024 Mackinac Bridge Walk just days away

2024 Mackinac Bridge Walk just days away

by | Aug 30, 2024 | Regional News

MBA header June 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 30, 2024

 

 MEDIA CONTACT
James Lake
906-250-0993
[email protected]

2024 Mackinac Bridge Walk just days away

Fast facts:

  • The Mackinac Bridge will again be closed to public traffic during the 2024 walk, from 6:30 a.m. to noon on Labor Day, Sept. 2.
  • For the safety and convenience of participants who start from the St. Ignace side, the walk will begin from Bridge View Park on the west side of I-75 rather than at the MBA administration building.
  • Because walkers can start from either end of the bridge when they arrive, there will be no buses transporting participants across the bridge. Participants must plan accordingly to ensure they end their walk on the same side of the bridge as their transportation.

ST. IGNACE, Mich. – The 2024 Mackinac Bridge Walk on Labor Day, Sept. 2, is just days away, and final preparations are under way.

 

“Whether you plan to cross the Mackinac Bridge in your car or RV, or you plan to join in the Annual Bridge Walk, we want to make sure you have the information you need for a safe and enjoyable Labor Day holiday,” said Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) Bridge Director Kim Nowack.

 

The bridge will again be closed to public traffic during the 2024 walk, from 6:30 a.m. to noon on Labor Day, Sept. 2, based on recommendations from the Michigan State Police and U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Emergency vehicles will still be permitted to cross the bridge but no public vehicles will be allowed until the walk concludes and participants are off the bridge.

 

“If you’re traveling in the Straits area Monday, we urge you to make your plans around this scheduled closure,” Nowack said. “Traffic backups are frustrating for everyone, so we ask that you either cross the bridge prior to 6:30 a.m. or time your trip to arrive at the bridge after noon.”

 

The 2024 Annual Bridge Walk will start from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, which eliminates the need for busing and offers additional options for participants. For the safety and convenience of participants who start from the St. Ignace side, the walk will begin from Bridge View Park on the west side of I-75 rather than at the MBA administration building.

 

As most participants who start in St. Ignace already park at Bridge View Park, starting the walk from that side reduces the number of people crossing the interstate before the event begins. Participants who park on the east side of I-75 will now be guided across the road before and after walking the bridge.

 

A video, posted on the MBA website at www.MackinacBridge.org/Walk, explains the bridge walk schedule and the choices people will have whether they start from the north or south ends of the bridge. Most participants have said they are comfortable with the new arrangements and enjoy the variety of options for participation.

 

Walkers essentially have three main options, outlined in the video:

 

  • Starting from either end of the bridge and walking toward the center, turning around at the midpoint and returning to the city they started from, where their transportation is located. The turnaround points will move toward the ends of the bridge beginning at 10 a.m., but walkers can walk at least a portion of the bridge if they start by 11:30 a.m. Walkers must be on the side of the bridge they wish to return to before 10 a.m.

 

  • Walking the entire length of the bridge starting from either end. Those who choose this option must reach the midpoint before 10 a.m. or they will be turned back. Anyone who walks the entire bridge must arrange their own transportation back to the side they started from once the bridge reopens to public traffic at noon.

 

  • Crossing the bridge, starting from either end, and then turning around and walking back to the side they started from. In this option, walkers will need to cross the midpoint on their return trip by 10 a.m. or they will be turned back and need to find their own transportation back across the bridge after it reopens at noon.

 

Since walkers can start from either end of the bridge when they arrive, and due to the fact that there will be no buses available for transportation, participants must plan accordingly to ensure they end their walk on the same side of the bridge as their personal transportation. The MBA does not provide any shuttle service after the walk and cannot guarantee outside shuttle services will be offered.

 

People who are interested in receiving text messages about bridge closures, including closure information for the Annual Bridge Walk, can sign up for Mackinac County 911’s RAVE Alert System updates. There is no cost to receive these updates, aside from any texting fees from the participant’s mobile coverage plan. To opt into this text alert system, text “MacBridge” to 67283.

 

The Annual Bridge Walk has been held every year since 1958, with the exception of 2020 when the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2024 walk will be the 66th event. Between 20,000 and 35,000 people have participated in recent years; 35,000 participated in the 2023 event.
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

by | Aug 30, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 29, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs, Michigan Workforce Development Board, Michigan Board of Respiratory Care, Advisory Board for the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center for Homeland Security, Michigan Indigent Defense Commission, Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, Oakland University Board of Trustees, and MEDC Executive Committee.

 

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’s history.

 

Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs

Saif Alsenad, of Dearborn Heights, is the Wayne County Director of Government and Public Affairs. He previously worked as the Wayne County Community Relations Manager for SMART. Alsenad received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Madonna University. Saif Alsenad is appointed for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 19, 2025. Alsenad succeeds Dave Abdallah, who has resigned.

 

Karim Kadouh, of Dearborn Heights, is an undergraduate student at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business and the vice president of marketing at JJ’s Custard Company. He previously served as an intern at the Executive Office of the President, FEMA Youth Representative for Region V, and Executive Program Director for Books for a Benefit. Karim Kadouh is appointed for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 19, 2025. He succeeds Amal Berry, who has resigned.

 

Petra Alsoofy, of Melvindale, is the senior outreach and partnership manager at the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding. Alsoofy previously served as an educator at the Arab American National Museum. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science with a focus on history and middle eastern studies from Grand Valley State University. Petra Alsoofy is appointed for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 19, 2027. Alsoofy succeeds Wafa Haddad, who has resigned.

 

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.

 

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

 

Michigan Workforce Development Board

Steve Claywell, of Battle Creek, is the president of the Michigan Building Trades Council. He has previously been a business manger and financial secretary at IBEW Local 445, an electrical apprentice at R&B Electric, and served as an electrician’s mate in the US Navy. Steve Claywell is reappointed to represent workforce and general labor in Michigan for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2028.

 

Russ Kavalhuna, of Dearborn, is the President at Henry Ford College. He previously served as the executive director of flight operations at the Western Michigan University College of Aviation, was an assistant federal prosecutor for the U.S. Department of Justice, an adjunct professor of law at Cooley Law School, a senior lawyer at the Michigan Supreme Court, and a commercial airline captain at US Airways Express. He earned a Juris Doctor at Cooley Law School and a Bachelor of Science in aviation science at Western Michigan University. Russ Kavalhuna is reappointed to represent a president of a community college district for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2028.

 

Michael Smith, of Negaunee, is the executive director of the Upper Peninsula Construction Council. He previously served as the AFL-CIO Community Services Liaison for the United Way of Monroe and Lenawee Counties. He holds an associate degree in social services from Monroe County Community College. Michael Smith is reappointed to represent workforce and general labor in Michigan for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2028.

 

Bilal Hammoud, of Dearborn Heights, is the executive director of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce and CEO of Tejara, an incubator and accelerator for first- and second-generation immigrant entrepreneurs. Prior to this, he was the public engagement director at the Michigan Department of State, project manager for the City of Cheboygan, and Chair of Michigan’s Language Access Task Force. Hammoud holds a Bachelor of Science in public health and a Bachelor of Science in neuropsychology from Wayne State University, as well as a master’s in public administration. He also holds a certificate in Political Leadership from Michigan State University and certificates in Strategy Execution and Leadership Management from Harvard Business School. Hammoud currently serves on multiple boards including the Wayne State University Alumni Board; the United Humanitarian Foundation; Don’t Be Shai; the Islamic House of Wisdom; APIA Vote MI; and the Dearborn Heights Libraries Board. He also acts as the advisor for the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Model United Nations Club. Bilal Hammoud is appointed to represent businesses August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2025. Hammoud succeeds Matt Wesaw, who has resigned.

 

Diana Allard, of Davison, is the career and technical education director for the Genesee Intermediate School District. She is a board member of the MiSTEM Instructional Leadership Committee, Michigan Association of Career and Technical Education, and Career Education Planning District Council. She holds a Bachelor of Science in open systems technology from Baker College and a Master of Education from Ferris State University. Diana Allard is appointed to represent a director of a Michigan high school career and technical education program for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2028. Allard succeeds Jennifer Geno, whose term has expired.

 

James Holton, of Holly, serves as assistant director of the health and safety department for the International Union UAW. Holton has a labor studies certificate from Wayne State University, holds several OSHA certifications from Eastern Michigan University, and is a licensed journeyman electrician for the State of Michigan. James Holton is appointed to represent workforce and general labor in Michigan for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2027. Holton succeeds Leigh Kegerreis, whose term has expired.

 

Representative David Martin, of Davison, was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2020. He was Genesee County Commissioner and former mayor pro tem for the city of Davison. Martin served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, retiring as the weather operations manager at the U.S. Army Aviation Center in Fort Rucker, Alabama. After working a private investigator for a several years, Martin worked as the security leader for the Volkswagen North American Headquarters in Auburn Hills. Martin holds an associate degree from Keiser University. Representative David Martin is appointed to represent the nominee of the House Minority Leader for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring January 1, 2025. Representative Martin succeeds then-Representative Sarah Anthony, whose term has expired.

 

Lisa Ludwinski, of Detroit, is the owner of Sister Pie, a bakery in Detroit that she started in 2012. Notably, she was a pastry cook at Pinwheel Bakery and was head baker at Momofuku Milk Bar. Ludwinski holds a Bachelor of Arts in theater arts from Kalamazoo College. She was a Crain’s Detroit 40 under 40 award winner in 2019 and was a James Beard Award finalist for “Outstanding Baker” in 2019 and 2020, among other awards. Lisa Ludwinski is appointed to represent female-owned business enterprises for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring May 29, 2027. Ludwinski succeeds Cindy Pasky, who has resigned.

 

The Michigan Workforce Development Board is responsible for the development and continuous improvement of the workforce development system in Michigan. The Board will act as an advisory body and will assist the Governor with the development, implementation, and modification of Michigan’s four-year state plan pursuant to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and advance the Governor’s 60 by 30 goal of helping 60% of our workforce achieve a post-secondary degree or certification by 2030.

 

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

 

Michigan Board of Respiratory Care

Ali Abazeed, of Dearborn, is the founding director of public health at the Dearborn Department of Public Health. Abazeed is a three-time graduate of the University of Michigan, earning a Master of Public Health, Master of Public Policy, and Bachelor of Science. Ali Abazeed is appointed to represent medical directors for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027. Abazeed succeeds Michael Dunn, whose term has expired.

 

The Michigan Board of Respiratory Care oversees the licensure requirements and standards for respiratory therapists. The Board has a duty to promote and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare. The Board implements this responsibility by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of health practitioners and by taking disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

 

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

 

Advisory Board for the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center for Homeland Security

Chief Scott Malace, of Midland, has been the police Chief of Saginaw Township since 2022 and has been with the department for over 30 years. Prior to this, he served in the United States Army in both active duty and reserve roles. Chief Malace holds an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Delta College and a Bachelor of Science Degree in criminal justice from Ferris State University. Chief Scott Malace is appointed to represent local police departments in this state for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 11, 2028. This seat was previously vacant.

 

Richard Fenton retired as the Executive Commander of the Wayne County Sheriff Department in May 2000 after more than twenty-seven years of service, which included directing law enforcement operations for the Sheriff Department. In June 2000, Fenton joined the staff of Ilitch Holdings as the Senior Director for Corporate Security, Safety, and Investigations and was promoted to Vice President of Corporate Security in 2005 and achieved the title of Chief Security Officer in 2018. He holds a Bachelor of Science in police administration from Wayne State University, and a master’s degree in counseling from Eastern Michigan university. Fenton is reappointed to represent residents of the state for a term commencing August 29, 2024 and expiring April 11, 2028.

 

The Advisory Board for the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center for Homeland Security collects, evaluates, collates, and analyzes information and intelligence and then, as appropriate, disseminates this information and intelligence to the proper public safety agencies so that any threat of terrorism or criminal activity will be successfully identified and addressed.

 

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

 

Michigan Indigent Defense Commission

Loren Khogali, of Plymouth, is the executive director of ACLU Michigan. She started her legal career as a Law Clerk to the Justices of the Superior Court of Massachusetts. She then joined Detroit’s Federal Public Defender Office, advocating on behalf of people charged with federal crimes and unable to afford an attorney at the trial in the appellate and post-conviction stages. During her 13 years at the Federal Defender Office, she participated in the development and leadership teams for the court’s re-entry and alternative-to-prison programs. She received her Bachelor of Science in psychology and Bachelor of Arts in French from Western Michigan University and her Juris Doctor from Northeastern University School of Law. Loren Khogali is appointed to represent individuals nominated by Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 1, 2028. Khogali succeeds William Swor, whose term has expired.

 

Michael Carter, of Southfield, is the Chief Defender and Executive Director of the Federal Community Defender Office of the Eastern District of Michigan (FCDO). Michael has practiced indigent criminal defense for over fifteen years. He serves on several boards including the ACLU of Michigan and Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan, and also serves on the faculty of the National Criminal Defense College. He received his Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan and his Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School. Michael E. Carter is appointed to represent individuals nominated by Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 1, 2028. Carter succeeds John Shea, whose term has expired.

 

Glenn Simmington, of Flint, is an owner and attorney at the Law Office of Glenn M. Simmington, PLLC. He has previously been an associate attorney with Cline, Cline & Griffin, P.C. He has earned his Juris Doctorate Degree from Wayne State University and Bachelor of Art in political science from University of Michigan-Flint. Glenn Simmington is appointed to represent individuals nominated by Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring April 1, 2028. Simmington succeeds Joshua Blanchard, whose term has expired.

 

The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission was created as a result of efforts to improve legal representation for indigent criminal defendants. The Commission develops and oversees the implementation, enforcement, and modification of minimum standards, rules, and procedures to ensure that indigent criminal defense services providing effective assistance of counsel are delivered to all indigent adults in this state consistent with the safeguards of the United States Constitution, the State Constitution of 1963, and with the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Act.

 

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

 

Gun Violence Prevention Task Force

Dr. April Zeoli, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, is an associate professor at the University of Michigan and was previously a professor at Michigan State University. Dr. Zeoli earned a Bachelor of Arts in women’s studies from the University of Michigan, a Master of Public Health in health policy from the University of Michigan School of Public Health, and a doctorate in health policy from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Dr. Zeoli is appointed to represent an individual associated with a research institution that studies gun violence on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Marianne Huff, of Holland, is the President and CEO of Mental Health Association in Michigan. Huff has previously been the Executive Director of the Allegan County Community Mental Health Services and is a licensed social worker. Huff received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Michigan-Dearborn and a master’s in social work from Eastern Michigan University. Huff is appointed to represent individual with experience doing clinical work specializing in suicide prevention on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Dr. Daveda Colbert, of Farmington Hills, Michigan, is the superintendent of Wayne RESA. Colbert earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Southern University at New Orleans, a Master of Arts in business education from Wayne State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership from Oakland University. Dr. Colbert is also a certified educational specialist. Dr. Colbert is appointed to represent local school administrators on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Alia Harvey-Quinn, of Detroit, is the founder and Executive Director of FORCE Detroit. Harvey-Quinn received a Bachelor of Arts in English from Marygrove College. Alia Harvey-Quinn is appointed to represent an individual associated with an organization that provides community-level conflict mediation or violence intervention services on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Danielle Hagaman-Clark, of Brighton, is the Criminal Bureau Chief at the Department of Attorney General. Previously, Hagaman-Clark served as an assistant attorney general of Michigan and director of the Violence Against Women Program in the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan. Hagaman-Clark earned a Doctor of Law from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Hagaman-Clark is a practicing member of the Michigan State Bar. Hagaman-Clark is appointed to represent individuals with experience working with survivors of domestic violence and abuse on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Shawn Borowicz, of Saint Ignace, is a member of the Sault tribe of Chippewa Indians Board of directors. Borowicz is licensed to practice as a Paramedic and Firefighter. Shawn Borowicz is appointed to represent an individual with experience working within a tribal government on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Moses Bingham, of Flint, is currently the director of strategic initiatives at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. He has previously been the senior program director at the YMCA of Greater Flint and the associate administrator at Mott Community College. Bingham holds an Associate of Arts in general studies from Mott Community College and a Bachelor of Science in strategic leadership from Rochester University. Moses Bingham is appointed to represent on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Michael McKissic, of Lansing, is the owner and project manager of McKissic Construction. McKissic earned a certificate in building trade from Lansing Community College. McKissic is appointed to represent individuals with experience working with a community or faith-based organization on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Kym Worthy, of Detroit, is the Wayne County prosecutor at the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Worthy earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and economics from the University of Michigan, and a Doctor of Law from the University of Notre Dame School of Law. Worthy is appointed to represent prosecutors on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force for a term commencing August 29, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor, no later than August 29, 2028.

 

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the Chief Medical Executive for the State of Michigan, will serve as an ex officio member and Chair of the Task Force. Dr. Bagdasarian is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases and is a Fellow of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American College of Physicians. Dr. Bagdasarian completed medical school at Wayne State University; an internal medicine residency and infectious diseases fellowship at the University of Michigan; and she received a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health. She serves as adjunct faculty at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health. Dr. Bagdasarian also Chairs the Opioid Task Force, Public Health Advisory Council, and Childhood Lead Elimination Commission for the State of Michigan.