by Becky Andrus | Aug 20, 2021 | Uncategorized
PAINT CREEK TRAIL HOSTS 14TH ANNUAL LABOR DAY BRIDGE WALK & RUN
Family-Friendly Event to be Held Monday, September 6, 2021
Rochester, Michigan: Looking for a fun local event on Labor Day this year? The Paint Creek Trailways Commission is offering all community members a chance to participate in a Labor Day Walk and Run right in their own backyard.
The Paint Creek Trailways Commission is organizing the 14th Annual Paint Creek Trail Labor Day Virtual Bridge Walk and Run on Monday, September 6th, 2021, at the Rochester Municipal Park Kiwanis Pavilion. This event is part of the Labor Day Community Walks that are held throughout the state in conjunction with the Mackinac Bridge Labor Day Walk.
Two options are being offered to participants – a 1 mile family-friendly walk or a 5k roundtrip walk or run on the Paint Creek Trail. Onsite registration begins at 8:00am, and the event starts at 9:00am. It is a free community event, with a suggested donation of $5.00 to support the maintenance of the Moutrie Pollinator Garden on the trail. For more information, including online registration, visit http://paintcreektrail.org/wordpress/events/labor-day-bridge-walk/.
“Each year, the Trailways Commission hosts this annual event to encourage the community to enjoy some physical activity on the trail during Labor Day weekend. If you’re unable to travel up north to participate in the annual Mackinac Bridge Labor Day Walk, this is a great way to take part in our state’s Labor Day walking tradition much closer to home,” said Trail Manager Melissa Ford. “We are especially excited to hold this year’s event after hosting a virtual event last year due to COVID and cancelling 2019’s walk and run due to construction projects on the trail,” continued Ford. “We look forward to again seeing the many community members who have made this event an annual tradition for their families.”
The event is free and open to all ages and abilities. This year’s walk and run will have a special focus on pollinators in honor of the new pollinator garden on the trail. The Rochester Pollinators will be on hand to share information on the important role that pollinators play in our ecosystem and the Trailways Commission will be giving away native seed packets so that participants can plant their own pollinator garden at home. A butterfly craft will also be available for children to create and take home. Donuts, coffee, water, and other snacks will be provided and the Friends of the Paint Creek Trail will have trail merchandise for sale. A drawing for the chance to win several different gift cards is also planned.
“We found our trail users have been happy and grateful to participate and reunite with friends and the community this summer, especially when the activity is outdoors,” said Donni Steele, Chairperson of the Paint Creek Trailways Commission. “We are thankful to be able to offer this event again this year – we hope you can join us!”
Approximately 350 participants are expected to attend this year’s event. Supporting sponsors include Back to the Beach Runners, Friends of the Paint Creek Trail, Spalding DeDecker, and Trent Creative. Contributing sponsors for the event include Emily and Sarah Blust, Eva and Louis Carrio, Cookies & Cream (Sprout Bake), David Walker for City Council, Friends of Donni Steele, KLM Bikes, Theresa Mungioli, Oat Soda, Premier Pet Supply in Rochester Hills, Tim Horton’s on Rochester Road, and Trader Joe’s. Many thanks to our sponsors whose generous support allows the Trailways Commission to host the Labor Day Bridge Walk and Run as a free event for the community!
About the Paint Creek Trail: The Paint Creek Trail was the first non-motorized rail-to-trail in the State of Michigan, and traverses through the communities of Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, Orion Township, and the Village of Lake Orion. The Trail annually serves approximately 100,000 pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, anglers, nature enthusiasts, and users of all ages and abilities. For more information about the Paint Creek Trail, visit www.paintcreektrail.org, or call (248) 651-9260.
by Becky Andrus | Jul 1, 2021 | Uncategorized
Oakland County Offers COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Until County Reaches 70 Percent Vaccine Coverage Goal
Pontiac, Michigan – Oakland County Health Division, with the support of the Board of Commissioners, will extend its COVID-19 vaccine incentive for Oakland County residents launched last week past the 4th of July. Oakland County residents who receive their first dose between June 24 and the day the county reaches 70 percent vaccine coverage for residents 16 years and older are eligible for a $50 gift card*.
Oakland County residents may visit any Health Division vaccine clinic or enrolled COVID-19 vaccine provider in Michigan to qualify for the incentive while supplies last. The Health Division is holding daily vaccine clinics from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at both its North Oakland Health Center in Pontiac and South Oakland Health Center in Southfield. Click on OaklandCountyVaccine.com to locate the nearest Health Division vaccine clinic. Those who do not have access to the Internet may call the Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. for more information
Persons under 18 are eligible to receive a vaccine and a gift card with the consent of their parent or legal guardian.
The Health Division also urges those who have not yet received their COVID-19 vaccine to get their first dose because data show those who are not vaccinated are more susceptible to the virus. About 69 percent of the 254 confirmed and probable cases in Oakland County from June 9 – 22 were below the age of 50. Only 58.4 percent of county residents 12-49 years old have received at least their first dose while almost 78% of residents 50 and older have initiated vaccination. Also, those who are not yet vaccinated are at higher risk of becoming infected with the Delta variant of COVID-19 virus which is associated with a higher risk of hospitalization.
Oakland County residents who receive their first dose at a provider other than Oakland County Health Division may claim the incentive by:
- Visiting OaklandCountyVaccine.com to complete a survey. The gift card will be mailed after the Health Division has verified vaccination status.
- Individuals who do not have access to the Internet, may call the Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 to claim their gift card.
Use the State of Michigan’s COVID-19 vaccine finder to locate a convenient provider.
The following is an update on progress vaccinating Oakland County residents, according to the State of Michigan COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard as of June 29, 2021:
Total eligible residents 16 and older: 1,029,737
- Number of residents 16 and older who have received first dose: 706,658
- Number of residents 16 and older who have completed vaccination: 654,782
- Vaccine coverage for residents 16 and older: 68.6%
Total eligible residents 12 and older: 1,091,389
- Number of residents 12 and older who have received first dose: 731,759
- Number of residents 12 years and older who have completed vaccination: 675,225
- Vaccine coverage for residents 12 and older: 67.0%
Total eligible senior residents 65 and older: 217,676
- Number of senior residents who have received first dose: 182,599
- Number of senior residents who have completed vaccination: 174,411
- Vaccine coverage for senior residents: 83.8%
Total doses distributed within Oakland County: 1,328,085
- Total doses administered within Oakland County: 1,362,405
- Percentage of doses administered within Oakland County: N/A
*Legal notice: This incentive will be offered until Oakland County reaches 70% vaccination rate or until all gift cards have been distributed, whichever comes first. Persons under 18 are eligible to receive a vaccine and a gift card with the consent of their parent or legal guardian. This is not a lottery, and the COVID-19 vaccine is provided free of charge. No person will be asked to pay any money in exchange for the COVID-19 vaccine or the $50 gift card. There is no element of chance involved in this incentive.
by Becky Andrus | Jun 17, 2021 | Uncategorized
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| June 17, 2021
Contact: Paul Rogers (Lower Peninsula), 616-260-8406 or John Pepin (Upper Peninsula), 906-250-7260
Hot, dry weather pushes fire danger into ‘extreme’ territory for parts of Michigan
 Michigan’s warm, dry, weather has created a lot of beautiful days for outdoor activity – and a steeply increased risk of fire. That means taking extra care when camping, burning, or using equipment outdoors.
“Although there have been scattered rains, rainfall is below normal and it’s dry out there,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “People cause the vast majority of wildfires, so it’s critical to use common sense and be careful.”
Fire danger is elevated from the southwest corner of the state into the Upper Peninsula. The National Weather Service is issuing red flag warnings for spots around the state where very warm temperatures, low humidity and stronger winds are expected, including the northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula.
Burn permits for yard debris will not be issued in many areas through the weekend; check Michigan.gov/BurnPermit in northern Michigan or contact local municipal or fire authorities in the southern Lower Peninsula. |
Be careful working, playing outside
Remember to take precautions with these activities:
- Do not throw cigarettes or matches out the window of a moving vehicle. They can ignite grass on the side of the road.
- Watch for dragging chains if you are pulling a trailer; they can create sparks.
- Always make sure your campfire is out before you leave the area. Drown it with water, stir it and carefully feel to make sure it is no longer emitting heat. Always keep a water source and a shovel nearby whenever the fire is burning. Keep campfires within a ring 3 feet or less in diameter.
- Do not shoot fireworks into the woods or into dry grass or shrubs. Spray the entire area where you are using fireworks with water before using them and again when you are done. Put used sparklers into a bucket of water, as wires can stay hot.
- When using ORVs or outdoor equipment, keep hot equipment away from dry grass or brush. Ride ORVs only on trails to avoid starting a grass fire.
DNR firefighters have responded so far this fire season to more than 227 fires blackening more than 2,200 acres. Find fire prevention tips, a map of fire danger, and a link to check for burn permits at Michigan.gov/FireManagement. |
| DNR COVID-19 RESPONSE: For details on affected DNR facilities and services, visit this webpage. Follow state actions and guidelines at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus. |
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| The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to Michigan.gov/DNR. |
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by Becky Andrus | Jun 14, 2021 | Uncategorized
Governor Whitmer Announces Award Recognizing Michigan as Top State for New Manufacturing Jobs and Investment
Michigan receives 2021 Manufacturing Gold Shovel Award on strength of 2,619 new jobs and $441.8 million in private investment
LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced Michigan has been awarded an Area Development 2021 Manufacturing Gold Shovel award, affirming the momentum and strength of job creation around new and expanded manufacturing facilities in the state.
“As we put Michigan back to work, this Manufacturing Golden Shovel Award is a recognition of our ongoing efforts to make generational investments in Michigan’s manufacturing might as part of our state’s economic jumpstart,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “As we emerge from the pandemic together, we will stay laser-focused on creating good-paying, high-skill jobs here in Michigan and investing in working families and small businesses.”
Area Development’s Annual Gold & Silver Shovel Awards recognize state economic development agencies that drive significant job creation through innovative policies, infrastructure improvements, processes, and promotions that attract new employers and investments in new and expanded facilities. The awards are presented annually to states that have achieved significant success in terms of job creation and economic impact.
In announcing the award, Area Development noted, “another Manufacturing Gold Shovel winner was Michigan, with a host of headlines related to its automotive sector, including opportunities linked to the growth of interest in electric vehicles.”
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation submitted the top-10 job creation and investment projects initiated in 2020 for consideration in the 8-12 million population category – including Bridgewater Interiors (Detroit/Delta Township), Dakota Integrated Systems and Detroit Manufacturing Systems (Detroit), Magna International (Highland Park) and The Paslin Company (Warren). Combined, the 10 projects accounted for 2,619 new good paying jobs for Michiganders and $441.8 million in private investment, further cementing the state as a national leader in manufacturing and automotive R&D. The list also includes two major headquarter announcements– Perrigo Co. (Grand Rapids) and Wacker Chemical Corp. (Pittsfield Charter Township) – highlighting the state’s growing opportunities in professional and corporate services.
The strength of these projects earned Michigan the 2021 Manufacturing Golden Shovel in its category.
“In a year marked by disruption and uncertainty – with small business relief a top priority – we continued to stay focused on job creation and economic growth as well and we are proud these efforts have been recognized with Area Development’s Manufacturing Golden Shovel Award,” said Josh Hundt, Chief Business Development Officer and Executive Vice President at the MEDC. “Michigan has positioned itself to be the state where manufacturing and technology converge and where businesses can find the skilled workforce that will ensure we can not only compete, but win, in today’s global economy.”
Read more about Michigan’s Manufacturing Golden Shovel Award here.
Earlier this week, Governor Whitmer attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for XL Fleet’s new Fleet Electrification Technology Center in Wixom, which will create nearly 50 jobs and further fuel the state’s leadership in mobility and electrification solutions. Combined with today’s Golden Shovel announcement centered largely around automotive manufacturing projects Michigan’s economic recovery is well underway.
As part of the state’s efforts to continue to attract and grow new businesses investment in the state, Governor Whitmer, the MEDC and the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification also participated this week in a number of virtual events for the 8th annual SelectUSA Investment Summit. The summit is the highest profile event promoting foreign direct investment (FDI) in the United States and this year welcomed 3,000 participants, including business investors from more than 60 markets.
Governor Whitmer was joined by Steve Milam, North America Corporate Senior Director of DENSO International America, Inc., for a fireside chat to discuss the competitive advantages Michigan offers global businesses. She also participated in a governor’s roundtable moderated by U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo focused on FDI and identifying specific actions the Department of Commerce and the Biden Administration can take to support efforts of economic development organizations around the country to bring more foreign investment to states like Michigan.
Michigan is ranked 6th in the nation for total jobs created by foreign direct investment and was ranked the top state for FDI job growth by over the past five years by Global Business Alliance. Detroit was also ranked the no. 1 metropolitan area for FDI projects by Site Selection Magazine this year.
About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
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by Becky Andrus | May 17, 2021 | Uncategorized
PHOTOS: Lt. Governor Gilchrist Tours Beaumont Vaccination Clinic
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist traveled to the Beaumont Health vaccination site in Southfield to observe the health system’s ongoing efficient and equitable COVID-19 vaccination efforts. He was joined by Beaumont Health Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Carolyn Wilson.
“Our administration has been working around the clock to expand our vaccine program in an efficient and equitable manner so that every Michigander has access to safe and effective vaccines,” said Lt. Governor Gilchrist. “Vaccination efforts like the ones at Beaumont Health are crucial to beating COVID-19, and clinics across the state are making it easier to get a vaccine by offering walk-in hours, call-in lines and same-day appointments. The best thing all of us can do to protect ourselves, our families, and neighbors is to get vaccinated, so we can grow the economy, create jobs, and do the things we love together.”
To date, 55.7% of Michiganders 16 or older have received an initial dose, moving the state closer to its goal of equitably vaccinating at least 70% of Michiganders ages 16 and older as soon as possible. As part of these efforts, Michigan is partnering with organizations like Beaumont Health to create more opportunities for Michigan residents to receive a vaccine.
“We enjoyed hosting Lt. Governor Gilchrist at our vaccine clinic today. We are so proud we have administered more than 345,000 doses of the vaccine and we are eager to do even more. Getting as many people vaccinated as possible is the key to ending this pandemic,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Wilson.
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by Becky Andrus | May 17, 2021 | Uncategorized
Covering all 23 OAA teams with insight and thoughts on each school from Northern Oakland County, Southern Oakland County, and one from Wayne County.
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Girls Lacrosse Regional Preview.
Written Thursday May 13th at 10:00 AM
Here are my previews and insight for the regionals for Girls Lacrosse.
Region 3 @ Troy
Grosse Pointe South vs. BIRMINGHAM
BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs. Grosse Pointe North
Detroit Cass Tech vs. WEST BLOOMFIELD
Utica Eisenhower vs. ROCHESTER
Grosse Pointe South/BIRMINGHAM vs. Chippewa Valley
BLOOMFIELD HILLS/Grosse Pointe North vs. TROY ATHENS
Detroit Cass Tech/WEST BLOOMFIELD vs. Utica Ford
Utica Eisenhower/ROCHESTER vs. Troy
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is a very interesting regional. There are two state powers really stand out in Birmingham United and Bloomfield Hills. There really isn’t any true darkhorses. I expect that these two teams will meet again in the regional finals. The Bulldogs have done very well against the Blackhawks so I really don’t see anything different right now. PICK: BIRMINGHAM.
Region 4 @ Fenton
Waterford vs. Walled Lake
OXFORD vs. LAKE ORION
Davison vs. Grand Blanc
Midland vs. Hartland
Waterford/Walled Lake vs. Huron Valley
OXFORD/LAKE ORION vs. Holly/Brandon
Davison/Grand Blanc vs. Fenton
Midland/Hartland vs. CLARKSTON
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is shaping up to be an interesting regional final pending if both teams get there between Lake Orion and Hartland. The Dragons have had a very good season winning the White and went up to eighth in the State. The Eagles have been very consistent all season long. It would be interesting as mentioned if both teams get there but too much experience with Hartland so have to go with the Eagles moving on. PICK: HARTLAND.
Region 6 @ Ann Arbor Skyline
Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard vs. Temperance Bedford
Lake Fenton vs. Ann Arbor Skyline
FARMINGTON vs. Tecumseh
Walled Lake Northern vs. Farmington Hills Mercy
Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard/Temperance Bedford vs. Dearborn Divine Child
Lake Fenton/Ann Arbor Skyline vs. Wixom St. Catherine Siena
FARMINGTON/Tecumseh vs. NORTH FARMINGTON
Walled Lake Northern/Farmington Hills Mercy vs. Dexter
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is shaping up to be an interesting regional over in Ann Arbor. There are two teams that really stand out in Dearborn Divine Child and Farmington. Both teams have had very good seasons and are currently ranked in the State. I think Dearborn Divine Child has a slight edge but the Falcons are right there. I don’t like to pick the favorite all the time so here is my first upset pick give me Farmington. PICK: FARMINGTON.
Region 7 @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Warren Regina vs. Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Bloomfield Hills Academy of Sacred Heart vs. ADAMS
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood vs. AVONDALE
Warren Regina/Birmingham Detroit Country Day vs. Birmingham Marian
STONEY CREEK vs. ROYAL OAK
Bloomfield Hills Academy of Sacred Heart/ADAMS vs. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood/AVONDALE vs. Grosse Pointe University Liggett
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: There are some pretty good teams in this regional. You have three proven teams in Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Grosse Pointe University Liggett, and Birmingham Marian. The Yellow Jackets and Mustangs could meet in the quarterfinals which would be very interesting. I think Grosse Pointe University Liggett will move on to the next round. PICK: GROSSE POINTE UNIVERSITY LIGGETT.
