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.
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
Boys Lacrosse Regional Preview.
Written Thursday May 13th at 10:05 AM
Here are is my insight and picks for the regionals for boys lacrosse.
Region 4 @ Lakeland
- Northville vs. 8. WEST BLOOMFIELD
- White Lake vs. 5. Livonia Stevenson
- Walled Lake vs. 7. FARMINGTON
- South Lyon vs. 6. Novi
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is shaping up to be a very interesting regional at Lakeland. White Lake could clash with Northville in the regional semifinals pending if they get by Livonia Stevenson. Walled Lake will not have an easy time with Farmington while South Lyon and Novi will be an interesting matchup as well. I think the Mustangs look vulnerable but they should find a way to move on. PICK: NORTHVILLE.
Region 5 @ Troy Athens
- LAKE ORION vs. 8. Waterford
- TROY ATHENS vs. 5. STONEY CREEK
- ADAMS vs. 7. TROY
- BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs. 6. ROCHESTER
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is shaping up to be an interesting regional at Troy Athens. Imagine the host school taking on Lake Orion on their home field in the regional semifinals, which could happen. Adams has been rolling as well. I’m seeing this being a Dragons vs Highlanders regional final with Lake Orion moving on. PICK: LAKE ORION.
Region 6 @ Seaholm
- Birmingham Brother Rice vs. 8. Sterling Heights Stevenson
- Detroit Cass Tech vs. 5. Chippewa Valley
- BIRMINGHAM vs. 7. Warren United
- Detroit University of Detroit-Jesuit vs. 6. Utica Ford II
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is shaping up to be a very interesting regional final should both teams get there at Seaholm. Birmingham United and Birmingham Brother Rice are on a collision course. The Warriors have a great path to the regional finals. The Bulldogs have to beware of Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit in the regional semifinals. I think this will be a Birmingham Brother Rice/Birmingham United regional final but it will be the Warriors that moves on. PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE.
Region 8 @ Oxford
- Holly/Brandon vs. 9. Lapeer
- Holly/Brandon/9. Lapeer vs. 1. CLARKSTON
- OXFORD vs. 5. Saginaw Heritage
- Midland vs. 7. Davison
- Grand Blanc vs. 6. Linden
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This is shaping up to be an interesting regional at Oxford. Clarkston has a nice path to the district finals while Midland and Grand Blanc should be very interesting. I think the Bobcats will pull off the shocker over Midland and meet the Wolves in the regional final. End of the day though too much Clarkston. PICK: CLARKSTON.
Region 14 @ North Farmington
- NORTH FARMINGTON vs. 5. Walled Lake Western
- Pontiac Notre Dame Prep vs. 6. ROYAL OAK
- NORTH FARMINGTON/5. Walled Lake Western vs. 1. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood
- Pontiac Notre Dame Prep/6. ROYAL OAK vs. 2. Royal Oak Shrine
INSIGHT/PROJECTION: This looks to be a very interesting regional at North Farmington with the three top seeds in this regional was ranked at some time during the season. The favorite should be Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood. The Cranes have had a good season but they should expect a challenge from Royal Oak Shrine in the regional final pending if they can get by Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. At the end of the day I think Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood will be too much. PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS CRANBROOK-KINGSWOOD.
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 Tennis Regional Projections.
Written Thursday May 13th at 10:10 AM
Here is my projections of the girls tennis regionals.
Top Four Teams Go To States, Bold: Projected Team Regional Champions.
Region 4 @ Livonia Churchill
FARMINGTON
SEAHOLM
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Dearborn
Dearborn Edsel Ford
Farmington Hills Mercy
Wayne Memorial
Livonia Churchill
Livonia Stevenson
TEAMS I SEE ADVANCING TO THE FINALS: SEAHOLM, Dearborn, Farmington Hills Mercy, and Livonia Churchill.
Region 5 @ Grosse Pointe South
TROY
TROY ATHENS
ROYAL OAK
Dearborn Fordson
Detroit Cass Tech
Fraser
Grosse Pointe South
Warren Mott
Sterling Heights
Sterling Heights Stevenson
TEAMS I SEE ADVANCING TO THE FINALS: TROY, Grosse Pointe South, TROY ATHENS, and Dearborn Fordson.
Region 6 @ Utica Eisenhower
STONEY CREEK
Chippewa Valley
Macomb Dakota
Macomb L’Anse Creuse North
Anchor Bay
Port Huron Northern
Romeo
Utica
Utica Eisenhower
Utica Ford II
TEAMS I SEE ADVANCING TO THE FINALS: Utica Eisenhower, Port Huron Northern, STONEY CREEK, Anchor Bay.
Region 7 @ Clarkston
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
CLARKSTON
LAKE ORION
OXFORD
ROCHESTER
ADAMS
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Lakeland
Walled Lake Central
Walled Lake Northern
TEAMS I SEE ADVANCING TO THE FINALS: BLOOMFIELD HILLS, ROCHESTER, ADAMS, CLARKSTON.
Region 12 @ North Farmington
AVONDALE
BERKLEY
GROVES
NORTH FARMINGTON
Detroit Renaissance
Dearborn Heights Crestwood
Redford Thurston
Livonia Franklin
Birmingham Marian
TEAMS I SEE ADVANCING TO THE FINALS: GROVES, BERKLEY, Birmingham Marian, NORTH FARMINGTON.
Region 13 @ Grosse Pointe North
FERNDALE
Detroit Mumford
Grosse Pointe North
Hamtramck
Macomb L’Anse Creuse
Port Huron
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
Warren Woods Tower
Warren Cousino
TEAMS I SEE ADVANCING TO THE FINALS: Grosse Pointe North, St. Clair Shores Lakeview, Warren Woods Tower, Macomb L’Anse Creuse.
by Becky Andrus | May 12, 2021 | Uncategorized
LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun provided an update on vaccine rollout and the MI Vacc to Normal Challenge. They were joined by Dr. Srikar Reddy, President-Elect of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians, and John Walsh, President and CEO of the Michigan Manufacturers Association.
The Governor praised Michigan’s progress on vaccinations. Michigan has reached the first milestone of the ‘MI Vacc to Normal’ plan, and the Governor anticipates that MIOSHA will take action allowing offices to allow in-person work on May 24. COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have also decreased since mid-April. She encourages Michiganders who have not gotten vaccinated yet to get their shots as soon as possible.
To view the PowerPoint presentation that the governor used during today’s press conference, click the link below:
See below for photos from today’s press conference:
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