Podcasts about michigan department

In the second installment of podcasts focusing on significant road and bridge project completions by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), conversations about a new roundabout on busy routes near Traverse City and a new bridge over I-96 in Walker.First, Jeff Shaw, supervisor of Elmwood Township in Leelanau County, talks about what the roundabout means for traffic flow in the area, safety benefits and the connections for pedestrians and cyclists.“Now we're able to take a look at the corridor and the improvements that have been made and know how much of a benefit this is going to be for the people that motor through here, that bike through here, that walk through here," said State Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich at a celebration event on Oct. 31.Former U.S. Department of Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg, a Traverse City resident, also attended the celebration.“I know folks grumble about roundabouts, but a well-placed roundabout can reduce injury crashes by 80 percent or more," Buttigieg said of the new M-72/M-22 intersection, a centerpiece of the project. "I want to commend MDOT, the contractors and, above all, the workers who, in partnership with this community, made sure this was a success."At another celebration in October, City of Walker officials joined MDOT engineers and lawmakers to celebrate completion of a $30 million Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I-96.The investment replaced the original bridge and interchange from 1961. Contractors widened the new bridge from two lanes to five and included non-motorized paths, linking heavily used trails on each side.Art Green, manager of MDOT's Grand Rapids Transportation Service Center (TSC), joined the podcast to talk about the long-time needs for the improved bridge and interchange, how the funding came about and improvements already showing up in traffic flow."Projects like this don't happen overnight," said City of Walker Mayor Gary Carey at the event. "They take vision, persistence, partnership, and a shared belief that our infrastructure is worth investing in."

On this week's Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, conversations about celebrations of major road and bridge projects completed by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) in communities across the state.This week, a focus on the expansion of the U.S. 131 interchange with the U.S. 131 Business Route that links the freeway with downtown Kalamazoo. Jill Bland, executive vice president at Southwest Michigan First, talks about her decades of advocacy for the project and what it will mean to businesses her organization supports, as well as commuters.Later, Trevor Block, manager of  MDOT's Transportation Service Center (TSC) in Davison, talks about a celebration of another phase of rebuilding a segment of the I-475 corridor in Flint. This phase rebuilt approximately three miles of I-475 from the Flint River to Carpenter Road as part of a $141 million investment.Next week, the focus on project completions with conversations about a new bridge carrying Fruit Ridge Avenue over I-96 west of Grand Rapids and a roundabout replacing the traditional intersection of M-72 and M-22 just outside Traverse City.

Summit Pointe, the Calhoun County Community Mental Health (CMH) organization which provides behavioral health care to some of the county's most vulnerable residents, is sounding an alarm over potential changes at the state level which could affect how it delivers care.Summit Pointe CEO Jeannie Goodrich joins Community Matters to discuss changes to how the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) organizes CMH sectors in the state, as well as the potential to privatize some functions of the CMH health care delivery process.Episode ResourcesFirst Step Psychiatric Urgent Care CenterSecond Wave Media: Community mental health advocates take stand against privatization planMichigan Advance: Court affirms legality of competitive bid restructure plan to Michigan's mental health systemABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERSFormer WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays, 8:00 AM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.Community Matters is sponsored by Lakeview Ford Lincoln and produced by Livemic Communications.

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Krista Johnson, Director for Workforce Development with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity with Christopher HooSang, Director of Human Resources DTE. LEO: What is Careers in Energy Week and why is it important for Michigan? LEO: What programs does LEO offer to help businesses upskill their workforce? LEO: Where can businesses and Michiganders go to learn more about career pathways, training opportunities and workforce programs? DTE: How does the Michigan Energy Workforce Development Consortium work with LEO and other partners to grow Michigan's energy workforce? DTE: What programs does DTE offer to help prepare Michiganders for energy careers? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Careers in Energy Week spotlights Michigan's efforts to meet growing industry demand With thousands of openings in skilled trades and STEM, state programs and partnerships are creating energy career pathways for students and workers LANSING, Mich. — During Careers in Energy Week, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) is highlighting programs and collaborations that introduce young people and adult learners to pathways in energy and related skilled trades. With nearly 518,300 energy-related jobs in Michigan and approximately 40,600 annual openings in professional trades projected by 2032, LEO is ensuring Michiganders have the skills and opportunities to thrive in these high-demand fields. “Careers in Energy Week gives us the opportunity to spotlight the programs and partnerships that are helping Michiganders gain the skills they need to succeed in our state's growing energy workforce,” said Krista Johnson, Director of LEO's Workforce Development division. “Our mission is clear: to connect people with high-demand, good-paying careers and to ensure employers have the workforce they need to grow. When workers and businesses succeed, our entire state moves forward.” STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – occupations are growing quickly, with more than 23,200 annual openings across fields like software development, mechanical engineering and industrial engineering and employment expected to increase 7.8% from 2025–2032. These careers are critical to Michigan's energy future and require a talent pipeline equipped with technical skills, problem-solving abilities and real-world job preparation. LEO's Office of Employment and Training supports Employer-Led Collaboratives that bring together businesses, educators and workforce partners to address talent needs and develop innovative solutions for Michigan's energy and skilled trades sectors. These collaboratives help align training with industry demand, ensuring a pipeline of qualified workers—and have directly contributed to the development of Registered Apprenticeship programs across the state. Additionally, the Going PRO Talent Fund helps employers train, develop and retain talent while providing Michiganders with clear pathways to high-wage careers. Registered Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn while learning, preparing participants for well-paying careers in energy and skilled trades. To view a full list of Careers in Energy Week events, visit CareersInEnergyMichigan.com. For more information on career pathways, training opportunities and workforce programs, visit the state's free career exploration tool, Pathfinder (Pathfinder.MiTalent.org), or search for open energy industry jobs on Pure Michigan Talent Connect (MiTalent.org). ###

What's keeping hunters from funding conservation — and why Michigan's future depends on fixing it. The Sportsmen's Voice Roundup this week dives into one of the most important (and overlooked) aspects of wildlife conservation: how we fund it. Bob Matthews joins the show to break down Michigan Senate Bills 276 and 277, a pair of measures aimed at securing long-term conservation funding through smarter hunting license and tag fee structures. Matthews explains how these bills would modernize the state's reimbursement framework, ensuring the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) can continue managing wildlife, habitats, and public lands effectively. From license reforms to senior discounts, the conversation pulls back the curtain on how small policy details can make or break conservation success. Then, Fred shifts the focus to the Southeast, where outdated Sunday hunting restrictions still keep thousands of outdoorsmen out of the woods and cost critical dollars for habitat work. Together, the team unpacks the tension between access, tradition, and modern conservation funding, challenging listeners to rethink who really pays to protect the outdoors we all enjoy. Whether you hunt, fish, or just care about wild places, this episode offers a candid look at the policies shaping our shared future outdoors.   Get the FREE Sportsmen's Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Follow The Sportsmen's Voice wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/1705085498  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Originally uploaded August 13th reloaded October 26th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Cory Connolly, Chief Climate Officer, EGLE ( Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy), Lansing, MI. About: $129 Million Federal Investment Accelerates Michigan's Clean Energy Initiatives What is the Renewable Ready Communities (RRC) Program and why should Michigan residents care about it? How will this investment by the EPA accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects in the state and how could it change the future of Michigan? Can you elaborate on the partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to ensure Michigan has the workforce to meet 2030 renewable energy goals? How will this support jobs? How will this investment help Michigan achieve the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan? What are other investments and projects EGLE is championing to support the roll out of clean energy? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ The EPA has awarded Michigan $129 million from the Inflation Reduction Act's Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program. This investment will accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects, helping Michigan achieve its climate goals while fostering economic growth and job creation. This funding will allow the state to launch Renewables Ready Communities (RRC), administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The RRC has five priority areas: Expanding the Renewables Ready Communities Award pilot, an initiative launched in 2024 with a one-time state investment of $30 million, that provides financial incentives, on top of tax revenue and community benefits, to local and tribal governments that approve and host utility-scale renewable energy and energy storage through local processes. Creating the Brownfield Renewable Energy Pilot program to provide grants for renewable energy projects on brownfields, incentivizing deployment on brownfields. Strengthening EGLE's Renewable Energy Academy to develop technical assistance for local and tribal governments to improve planning, siting, and permitting processes for renewable energy facilities and the new Brownfield Renewable Energy Pilot program. Supporting workforce development programs, in coordination with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, to ensure Michigan has the workforce needed to build enough renewable energy to meet the state's 2030 goals. Developing a Renewables Ready Communities Strategic Plan to ensure a comprehensive strategy for utility-scale and brownfield renewable energy projects to meet the state's 60% renewable energy by 2030 goals. Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded the State of Michigan $129.1 million from the Biden-Harris administration's Inflation Reduction Act's (IRA) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy like wind, solar, and storage. The investment will help Michigan meet its 60% renewable energy and 100% clean energy standards set under the recently enacted clean energy laws. Getting this done will create good-paying jobs, drive down energy costs, and protect the state's air, land, and water. “Michigan is committed to leading the future of clean energy so we can drive down utility costs for families, create good-paying jobs, and grow our advanced manufacturing economy,” said Governor Whitmer. “Thanks to our congressional delegation and the Biden-Harris administration's investment in Michigan, we are ready to launch the Renewables Ready Communities Program to meet our renewable energy and MI Healthy Climate Plan goals.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has proposed administrative rules to provide guidance on the use of properties it maintains throughout the state. The proposed rules would improve safety and maintenance, and apply to all of Michigan's 61 rest areas, 82 roadside parks, 267 carpool lots, 23 scenic turnouts and 14 Welcome Centers.Greg Losch, head engineer for MDOT's University Region, has coordinated the drafting of the rules in collaboration with other state agencies. He spoke on the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast about the rules' objectives, chiefly ensuring the safe operation of the facilities.Losch also explains how a long-term lack of adequate transportation funding has caused MDOT to not have the needed resources available that have helped in some other states.For more information, visit Michigan.gov/ROWRules.

In today's news: We're learning more about the human and sex trafficking bust made by the Berrien County Sheriff's Department on Wednesday. A settlement has been reached in a long running lawsuit between the office of the Berrien County Drain Commissioner and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is no longer considering a resolution asking the Michigan Department of Transportation to change its plan for the reconstruction of Main Street in St. Joseph in 2027. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: We're learning more about the human and sex trafficking bust made by the Berrien County Sheriff's Department on Wednesday. A settlement has been reached in a long running lawsuit between the office of the Berrien County Drain Commissioner and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is no longer considering a resolution asking the Michigan Department of Transportation to change its plan for the reconstruction of Main Street in St. Joseph in 2027. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: We're learning more about the human and sex trafficking bust made by the Berrien County Sheriff's Department on Wednesday. A settlement has been reached in a long running lawsuit between the office of the Berrien County Drain Commissioner and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is no longer considering a resolution asking the Michigan Department of Transportation to change its plan for the reconstruction of Main Street in St. Joseph in 2027. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally uploaded October 16th, reloaded October 21st. Jeffrey Mosher welcomed back Jay LaNew, Apprenticeship/Business Services Officer Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI but serving Ingham Eaton and Clinton Counties. In their conversation they covered: 1. What is Race to Talent, and why is CAMW! putting it on? 2. What are attendees going to see and learn? 3. Why should employers, especially those outside the construction and manufacturing sectors, consider Registered Apprenticeships? 4. Any final thoughts? Details about the event? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ CAMW! prepares to host apprenticeship event Employers will learn processes, benefits for multiple industries LANSING, Mich. — Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!), in partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and Lansing Community College, will host an event in the coming weeks showcasing the advantages of Registered Apprenticeships. The event, called Race to Talent, will take place from 9:30-11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at LCC's West Campus, located at 5708 Cornerstone Drive in Lansing. More than 50 employers have signed up to attend the event, which will feature presentations from employers and apprentices about their own successes, and a panel discussion about the process of establishing a Registered Apprenticeship and how it can benefit businesses, even those outside “traditional” apprenticeship fields. “With the federal government putting a greater emphasis on apprenticeships, and our own work in trying to bolster our local talent pipeline, now is the perfect time for employers to learn about the win-win of apprenticeships,” CAMW! CEO Carrie Rosingana said. WHAT: Race to Talent WHERE: LCC West Campus, Room M119-121 5708 Cornerstone Drive Lansing, MI 48917 WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 9:30-11 a.m. Employers who still want to register can do so at https://events.resultsathand.com/mwa/3499/registration/1527-Registration-Form. ### ABOUT CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works!, a proud partner of the American Job Center network, connects with businesses to develop recruiting and retention strategies, and strengthens the local workforce by enhancing education and career opportunities for job seekers. For more information, call (517) 492-5500 or go to www.camw.org.

In Michigan, the left turn isn’t always a left turn. At certain intersections, you find yourself doing something counterintuitive. You turn right first in order to turn left. That's the notorious Michigan Left, but why does it exist? GUESTS: Betty Nelson, 2025 School Bus Driver International Safety Competition Kirk Steudle, former head of the Michigan Department of Transportation Want to submit a question to On Hand? Do it here: Online Submission Form Call us: 734-764-7840 Email us: onhand@michiganpublic.org If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work: michiganpublic.org/podfundSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michigan Central, opened in Detroit in 1913 and designed by the same architects as New York's Grand Central Terminal, was a towering landmark and the tallest train station in the world at the time. It was a symbol of the city's industrial might and later, sadly, became a symbol of blight instead. Now, through the vision of Ford Motor Co. officials and others, it is a symbol again, this time of a great city's rebirth. This week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined others in announcing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Michigan Department of Transportation, the City of Detroit and Michigan Central to begin preliminary assessments for a new multimodal transportation hub located within the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District, on a parcel just southwest of the station.This week's podcast features two participants in the MOU announcement: Arun Rao, Amtrak senior director for network development in their Central Region, and Sam Krassenstein, chief of infrastructure for the City of Detroit.

In today's news: The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is considering a resolution making some requests of the Michigan Department of Transportation as it plans to rebuild Main Street in St. Joseph in 2027. A controlled deer hunt is being planned for Love Creek County Park in Berrien Center next month. Lincoln Township has received another positive audit report. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is considering a resolution making some requests of the Michigan Department of Transportation as it plans to rebuild Main Street in St. Joseph in 2027. A controlled deer hunt is being planned for Love Creek County Park in Berrien Center next month. Lincoln Township has received another positive audit report. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is considering a resolution making some requests of the Michigan Department of Transportation as it plans to rebuild Main Street in St. Joseph in 2027. A controlled deer hunt is being planned for Love Creek County Park in Berrien Center next month. Lincoln Township has received another positive audit report. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally uploaded September 26th, reloaded October 12th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Krista Johnson, Deputy Director for Workforce Development at Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) Michigan's reading scores are at an all-time low. Can you explain how adult education programs help improve literacy for both adults and their children? Why is it important for parents to gain literacy and other essential skills, and how does this benefit the entire family? With half a million Michiganders lacking a high school diploma, how do the state's adult education programs open doors to better jobs and economic stability? How can residents find and participate in the free or low-cost adult education programs available across Michigan? Michigan's reading scores are at an all-time low. Research shows children of adults with low literacy skills are 72% more likely to struggle with reading themselves. When parents can read, they pass those skills on to their kids, setting the entire family up for success. That's why Adult & Family Literacy Week (Sept. 14–20) is such a critical moment to highlight the role of adult education. Right now, half a million Michiganders lack a high school diploma, a barrier that prevents them from finding good-paying jobs and helping their children thrive academically. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity supports more than 110 free or low-cost adult education programs across the state, opening doors for adults to: Build essential reading and math skills Earn industry-recognized credentials Increase their lifetime earnings potential (Michiganders with a high school credential earn $7,600 more per year than those without) Break the cycle of intergenerational low literacy » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

In today's news: Berrien County's transit committee is set to meet later this month to discuss how a regional transportation system might be created after the Michigan Department of Transportation indicated it wants a replacement to be found for the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority, or TCATA. Berrien County may have found a buyer for a 36-acre property it owns in Three Oaks. A Niles man has been arrested and charged in connection with racially motivated graffiti found at a barbershop earlier this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Berrien County's transit committee is set to meet later this month to discuss how a regional transportation system might be created after the Michigan Department of Transportation indicated it wants a replacement to be found for the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority, or TCATA. Berrien County may have found a buyer for a 36-acre property it owns in Three Oaks. A Niles man has been arrested and charged in connection with racially motivated graffiti found at a barbershop earlier this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michigan State Senator Michael Webber (R-9th District) joins The Steve Gruber Show to break down the newly passed state budget, what he supports, what he doesn't, and where Michigan needs stronger fiscal responsibility. Webber also calls out the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, after a recent state audit exposed serious failures to protect psychiatric patient rights. He explains what the audit revealed, why accountability matters, and how Lansing must fix a system that's putting vulnerable patients at risk.

Here are 3 big things you need to know—   One — Secretary of State Marco Rubio says speed is of the essence for a deal to end the war in Gaza.  Appearing on ABC's "This Week", Rubio said this is not something that can continue to drag out.  His comments come as President Trump is sending special envoys to the Middle East to try to seal his hostage release deal.  Both Israel and Hamas have indicated support for the proposal, but with conditions that still need to be negotiated.    Two ---  A federal judge is stopping the Trump administration from sending members of the  National Guard to the streets of Portland, Oregon.  U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut granted the motion for a temporary restraining order filed by the state of California on Sunday night.  The motion stopped the deployment of up to 300 members of the California National Guard to Portland. No word on how that might affect plans to send the National Guard to Chicago. And number three ---   The new Michigan state budget cuts 18-hundred full-time jobs, but Governor Gretchen Whitmer says no layoffs will happen.  Most of the job cuts are from Michigan State Police, the Michigan Department of Corrections, and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The openings likely will come from attrition and eliminating current unfilled roles.

On this week's Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, news that a federal grant will allow for the study of wildlife crossings to protect motorists and animals alike.Amanda Novak, a resource specialist at the Michigan Department of Transportation who helped lead the effort to secure the grant, returns to explain the benefits.The grant award comes at a good time as State Farm released an annual report this week that shows Michigan ranked fourth among states for vehicle collisions with animals.As reported previously, these crashes pose tremendous risk and costs to drivers. For example, white-tailed deer alone account for more than 55,000 collisions and a $130 million cost to drivers per year.Novak talks about what she's learned from other government agencies, which have studied the problem and implemented mitigation efforts.A previous episode of the podcast featured a conversation with a connectivity specialist with the Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) Conservation Initiative about creative and successful solutions implemented on the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park.Podcast photo: An animal-crossing sign for tortoises. Photo by Carol M. Highsmith on Noun Project.

The Michigan Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers to be alert following a crash in Novi this morning that killed 2 people. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have the afternoon's top news stories.

Priscilla Lopez is a CLEAR leader for the Michigan Department of Corrections as well community development leader for Heights of Hope, a non-profit serving an underserved neighborhood in Holland, Michigan. Priscilla shares about challenges in her upbringing that led to significant brokenness and ultimately, prison time. Her story doesn't end there, though — Priscilla describes how a renewed faith in Jesus has led to restoration and hope in her life. Links & Episode Notes Priscilla Lopez Personal Mission Statement: To bring a hope that influences breakthroughs. Heights of Hope Enneagram Type 8: The Challenger Alpha CLEAR - Coalition of Leadership, Education, Advice, and Rehabilitation (Michigan Department of Corrections) Engedi Music Made to Advance is a production of Engedi Church and is hosted by Brian Aulick. Send us your feedback at mta@engedichurch.com.

In today's news: The Michigan Department of Transportation will hold an open house this month on its plans to reconstruct M-139 in Benton Harbor starting next year. Students at Lake Michigan College facing financial hardship and having difficulty purchasing books for classes have received a boost from the Berrien Community Foundation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has removed the swim buoys from most state parks around the Great Lakes for the season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Michigan Department of Transportation will hold an open house this month on its plans to reconstruct M-139 in Benton Harbor starting next year. Students at Lake Michigan College facing financial hardship and having difficulty purchasing books for classes have received a boost from the Berrien Community Foundation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has removed the swim buoys from most state parks around the Great Lakes for the season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guy speaks with Senior Research Director Craig Thiel about his recent issue brief looking at Michigan's efforts to improve early literacy among low-income students, with increased funding and accountability measures. Unfortunately, while the data is still relatively new, the state's efforts are not yielding hoped-for results. While Michigan student test scores in several other grades and subjects have shown important (albeit gradual) improvements since the COVID-19 pandemic, the reading proficiency rates for third- and fourth-grade students continue to decline. A recent reminder of this concerning trend was brought to light when the Michigan Department of Education released the Spring 2025 statewide assessment results, showing that fewer than four in ten third graders tested proficient in reading. The new analysis of third-grade reading results for at-risk students shows that fewer than half of all Michigan school districts have demonstrated improvement in “at-risk” student reading proficiency rates since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. These district-level improvements, however, varied based on a district's socioeconomic status. “We found that 50 percent of high-poverty districts saw improvement in third grade reading proficiency rates among “at-risk” students, compared to just 37 percent of low-poverty districts,” Thiel said.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Suzanne Baker from the Treehouse Family Resource Center and Deanne Lux from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services talk with host Todd VanDyke about the new Treehouse Referral System, and how it will help those who need assistance find it.Copper Country Today airs throughout Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula Sunday mornings at 7:00 on WOLV 97.7 FM, 8:00 on WCCY 99.3 FM and 1400 AM, 9:00 on WHKB 102.3 FM, and 10:00 on WHBS 96.3 FM. The program is sponsored by the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation. Copyright © 2025, ListenUpRadio, Houghton, MI.

As unscrupulous actors continue to impersonate government agencies and target unknowing people with texts about unpaid tolls, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel this week reissued a consumer alert.With that in mind, this week's edition of the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast is a reprise of a conversation in June with J. Michael Skiba, also known as “Dr. Fraud,” a national expert on scams, like those proliferating in Michigan and other states, where text messages tell people they have unpaid road tolls. Skiba is department chair at Colorado State University Global, where he oversees the Criminal Justice Department, including specializations in fraud, financial crime and cybercrime. He discusses the psychology that prompts so many victims of online fraud to engage with scammers on smishing attempts. If you've been targeted, the FCC offers many tips. In April, the Michigan Department of Transportation released a video of Director Bradley C. Wieferich urging people not to respond to the texts.

September 10, 2025 ~ John Bernia, Superintendent of Warren Consolidated Schools, joins Kevin after the Michigan Department of Education is proposing a overhaul of health and sex education standards. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

September 10, 2025 ~ Full Show: Kevin is joined by Meshawn Maddock after the judge tossed criminal charges against the 2020 false electors. John Bernia discusses the Michigan Department of Education is proposing a overhaul of the health and sex education standards. Dave Sowerby discusses the corrected job report numbers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's news: A series of meetings is being held over the next three months for community leaders throughout Berrien County to discuss a mass transit plan now that the Michigan Department of Transportation has made it clear it wants a replacement to be created for the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority. A Casey's General store is coming to Hartford. The Berrien County Parks Department is planning a Recycling Collection event for Saturday, September 13 at Silver Beach County Park.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: A series of meetings is being held over the next three months for community leaders throughout Berrien County to discuss a mass transit plan now that the Michigan Department of Transportation has made it clear it wants a replacement to be created for the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority. A Casey's General store is coming to Hartford. The Berrien County Parks Department is planning a Recycling Collection event for Saturday, September 13 at Silver Beach County Park.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lake Michigan College will hold an open forum next week as it prepares to search for a new president. The Michigan Department of Transportation is hoping to see the formation of a new transit authority to replace the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority within the next year or two. Present Pillars in Benton Harbor has announced the permanent closure of its headquarters on West Main Street.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Krista Johnson, Deputy Director for Workforce Development at Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). Let's start with the basics: what is adult education? Can you talk a little bit about the adult education programs the state offers and some of your community partners? What steps is LEO taking to ensure Michigan's education and training programs are aligned with the skills employers across the state are looking for?
 Can you share how the state's adult education programs are creating opportunities for Michiganders seeking rewarding jobs and for businesses seeking a strong pipeline of talent?
 How can Michigan residents get information about adult education resources and opportunities in their communities?

On this week's edition of the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with a trunkline pavement strategy specialist about how the work in his area helps inform investment decisions. Tim Lemon, who works in the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Bureau of Transportation Planning, talks about how pavement condition is measured and how the data is used.  He explains that remaining service life (RSL) is MDOT's primary pavement condition performance measure, which indicates the number of years before the pavement is anticipated to reach poor condition. It informs decisions about priorities and which roads and bridges to address.He also explains that while state trunklines (I, M and US routes) don't account for the majority of road miles in the state, they carry 53 percent of total traffic and more than 75 percent of commercial traffic in Michigan.   

Wednesday, July 30th MBN stepped outside it's studio at the Capital Region International Airport, and attended an encouraging event for Mid-Michigan's future. BETA Technologies, Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC_, and Capital Region International Airport (LAN) gathered with invitees to see the future of aviation in Michigan. Building on its leadership in transportation, Michigan made a landmark investment to support the development and deployment of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology and infrastructure. Vermont-based Aerospace company. BETA Technologies, a recipient of that funding, has come to Lansing, Michigan in order to showcase its electric aircraft and commission a charger — the first electric aviation charger to be installed in the state of Michigan. This features remarks from LAN, MDOT, MEDC, and BETA about this technology, and the many ways in which it will benefit local residents, businesses, and economies across the state. You'll also see the ribbon cutting, a flight by the electric aircraft and attendees checking out the plane. Wednesday, July 30 | 10:00 - 11:30 a.m., attendees were on hand at the Capital Region International Airport. Just west of the terminal building at Avflight Lansing | 3121 W Circle Dr, Lansing, MI 48906. Thank you to: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/the-anthem License code: BK8LRLDOSFJZTPKG » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

August 26, 2025 ~ Diane Cross, Spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Transportation discusses the dire need for road funding to fix Michigan bridges.

A silent danger lurks within the descending thoracic aorta. While most Type B aortic dissections are managed medically, up to half of these patients will either require life-saving surgery or die within just five years. So how do we separate those who will quietly recover from those on the edge of catastrophe? How do we protect the spinal cord, bowel, and limbs from the devastating consequences of malperfusion? Join the University of Michigan Department of Vascular Surgery as they tackle the high-stakes decisions behind managing this unpredictable disease—where timing is critical, interventions are evolving, and lives hang in the balance. Hosted by the University of Michigan Department of Vascular Surgery: ·       Robert Beaulieu, Program Director ·       Frank Davis, Assistant Professor of Surgery ·       Luciano Delbono, PGY-5 House Officer ·       Andrew Huang, PGY-4 House Officer ·       Carolyn Judge, PGY-2 House Officer Learning Objectives: 1.         Discuss general approach to diagnosis and management of TBAD. 2.         Identifying high-risk features in uncomplicated TBAD and understanding their role in determining the need for surgical management. 3.         Review endovascular techniques for managing malperfusion of the limbs, viscera, and spinal cord and discuss associated decision making. References:  Authors/Task Force Members, Czerny, M., Grabenwöger, M., Berger, T., Aboyans, V., Della Corte, A., Chen, E. P., Desai, N. D., Dumfarth, J., Elefteriades, J. A., Etz, C. D., Kim, K. M., Kreibich, M., Lescan, M., Di Marco, L., Martens, A., Mestres, C. A., Milojevic, M., Nienaber, C. A., … Hughes, G. C. (2024). EACTS/STS Guidelines for Diagnosing and Treating Acute and Chronic Syndromes of the Aortic Organ. The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 118(1), 5–115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.athoracsur.2024.01.021 de Kort, J. F., Hasami, N. A., Been, M., Grassi, V., Lomazzi, C., Heijmen, R. H., Hazenberg, C. E. V. B., van Herwaarden, J. A., & Trimarchi, S. (2025). Trends and Updates in the Management and Outcomes of Acute Uncomplicated Type B Aortic Dissection. Annals of Vascular Surgery, S0890-5096(25)00004-4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avsg.2024.12.060 Eidt, J. F., & Vasquez, J. (2023). Changing Management of Type B Aortic Dissections. Methodist DeBakey Cardiovascular Journal, 19(2), 59–69. https://doi.org/10.14797/mdcvj.1171 Lombardi, J. V., Hughes, G. C., Appoo, J. J., Bavaria, J. E., Beck, A. W., Cambria, R. P., Charlton-Ouw, K., Eslami, M. H., Kim, K. M., Leshnower, B. G., Maldonado, T., Reece, T. B., & Wang, G. J. (2020). Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) and Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) reporting standards for type B aortic dissections. Journal of Vascular Surgery, 71(3), 723–747. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvs.2019.11.013 MacGillivray, T. E., Gleason, T. G., Patel, H. J., Aldea, G. S., Bavaria, J. E., Beaver, T. M., Chen, E. P., Czerny, M., Estrera, A. L., Firestone, S., Fischbein, M. P., Hughes, G. C., Hui, D. S., Kissoon, K., Lawton, J. S., Pacini, D., Reece, T. B., Roselli, E. E., & Stulak, J. (2022). The Society of Thoracic Surgeons/American Association for Thoracic Surgery Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Type B Aortic Dissection. The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 113(4), 1073–1092. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.athoracsur.2021.11.002 Papatheodorou, N., Tsilimparis, N., Peterss, S., Khangholi, D., Konstantinou, N., Pichlmaier, M., & Stana, J. (2025). Pre-Emptive Endovascular Repair for Uncomplicated Type B Dissection—Is This an Option? Annals of Vascular Surgery, S0890-5096(25)00007-X. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avsg.2025.01.003 Trimarchi, S., Gleason, T. G., Brinster, D. R., Bismuth, J., Bossone, E., Sundt, T. M., Montgomery, D. G., Pai, C.-W., Bissacco, D., de Beaufort, H. W. L., Bavaria, J. E., Mussa, F., Bekeredjian, R., Schermerhorn, M., Pacini, D., Myrmel, T., Ouzounian, M., Korach, A., Chen, E. P., … Patel, H. J. (2023). Editor's Choice - Trends in Management and Outcomes of Type B Aortic Dissection: A Report From the International Registry of Aortic Dissection. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery: The Official Journal of the European Society for Vascular Surgery, 66(6), 775–782. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejvs.2023.05.015 Writing Committee Members, Isselbacher, E. M., Preventza, O., Hamilton Black Iii, J., Augoustides, J. G., Beck, A. W., Bolen, M. A., Braverman, A. C., Bray, B. E., Brown-Zimmerman, M. M., Chen, E. P., Collins, T. J., DeAnda, A., Fanola, C. L., Girardi, L. N., Hicks, C. W., Hui, D. S., Jones, W. S., Kalahasti, V., … Woo, Y. J. (2022). 2022 ACC/AHA Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Aortic Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 80(24), e223–e393. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2022.08.004 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Key James, Reproductive Health Unit Manager with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, shares her takeaways as a recent graduate of ASTHO's Developing Executive Leadership in Public Health program; Suleima Salgado, CEO of the Global Partnership for Telehealth and Principal Investigator for the Southeastern Telehealth Resource Center, discusses emerging trends in telehealth and its important role in expanding access to care; a new study published in the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice explores AI's potential in expediting the content analysis of public health documents to facilitate continuous program improvement; and Dr. John Langefeld, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, will provide a keynote at the 10th Annual Kentucky Rural Telehealth Summit on September 25th in Frankfort, Kentucky. ASTHO Web Page: Developing Executive Leaders in Public Health Global Partnership for TeleHealth Journal of Public Health Management & Practice: Content Analysis of Social Determinants of Health Accelerator Plans Using Artificial Intelligence: A Use Case for Public Health Practitioners University of Kentucky: Registration open for the 10th annual Kentucky Rural Telehealth Summit  

On this week's edition of the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a focus on jobs tied to road and bridge building.Gov. Whitmer sent a letter Aug. 7 to the directors of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), calling on them to compile and publicly release data on the impact of the state's road funding cliff and federal funding rollbacks and policies on Michigan's economy and employment. First, Heath Salisbury, financial secretary and training director for Operating Engineers 324, talks about what investments in infrastructure mean to people in the skilled trades and the thousands of jobs involved. Salisbury offers his perspective as a veteran of the industry, working in the trenches, then later in training workers and developing a work force capable of building in a modern environment where technology is evolving rapidly.Later, Karen Faussett, who manages MDOT's statewide and urban travel analysis section, talks about how her team tracks the economic benefits of investment in transportation infrastructure.

Chris Holman welcomes Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director for LEO, Michigan's Labor and Economic Opportunity Department. What is the Community Transition Playbook and why is it so important for Michigan right now? What does it mean for Michigan to be “in the driver's seat” of our economic transition, and how does this playbook help us get there? How does this effort tie into Michigan's clean energy and mobility transition? All of this falls under Michigan's Community & Worker Economic Transition Office. Can you tell us a little bit about the office and its mission? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ State of Michigan receives $1.5M grant from Ballmer Group to create Community Transition Playbook Playbook will equip local leaders, workers and businesses with the tools to thrive in Michigan's evolving economy Lansing, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity has received a $1.5 million grant from Ballmer Group to create the Community Transition Playbook. Spearheaded by the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office, the playbook will engage local stakeholders to create a comprehensive resource that empowers communities, workers and employers with the resources they need to proactively prepare for, benefit from and shape Michigan's future economy. “The Community Transition Playbook will put Michigan in the driver's seat as we prepare for the wave of new jobs and investments coming to our state,” said Community & Worker Economic Transition Office Director Jonathan Smith. “The generous support from Ballmer Group is a critical investment that helps move this important work forward and positions Michigan as a national leader in economic resilience and clean energy workforce development.” The playbook is part of a broader strategy that will support resilient communities and shared prosperity through economic transitions impacting the automobile and energy industries. The Ballmer grant is funding three phases of work to support this strategy: Phase 1: Conducting simulated exercises to document and understand the existing process that the state and local stakeholders use to respond to plant closures, then reviewing that process to look for improvements, enhancements or best practices. Phase 2: Creating a playbook that communities can use to prepare for economic transitions. This playbook would include resources that could be used for resiliency and diversification planning as well as a guide for how to navigate a specific plant closure or business failure. Phase 3: Identifying a cohort of cities/regions particularly exposed to economic transitions and providing technical assistance to help them deploy the playbook to develop a resiliency or growth plan for their communities. Input for the playbook is being gathered through a series of collaborative roundtable events held across the state, bringing together key stakeholders from diverse regions and sectors. These half-day sessions feature plant closure simulations, tabletop exercises and facilitated group discussions — all designed to identify the critical components needed to build a practical, action-oriented guide for real-world implementation. The Community & Worker Economic Transition Office was created as part of a historic package of clean energy and climate bills passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Whitmer in 2023. To learn more about LEO's Community & Worker Economic Transition Office, visitmichigan.gov/economic-transition. ###

Get to know the lunkers of the lake that also need free-flowing rivers...Lake Sturgeon! This episode takes Katrina and Guy to Michigan where they talk with guest Ed Baker from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Delve into the history of Lake Sturgeon in Michigan, learn what makes this fish so very cool, and explore what's being done to help them achieve the comeback they (and anglers) deserve.

In today's news: The Michigan Department of Transportation is calling attention to the need for more road funding as more than 100 bridges around the state near critical status, including one in Berrien County. Two Stevensville residents are facing charges as part of an eight-month investigation into a fatal drug overdose. The Van Buren Conservation District will be able to expand access to recycling services throughout Van Buren County with a new grant announced on Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2021, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources completed the removal of a derelict dam from The Dowagiac River, reconnecting the waterway for the first time in over 120 years. What happens when the status quo is thrown out the window and we're forced to confront change? This episode is about how the people, the water way, and the fish have adapted. Make sure to visit our website, drakemag.com to subscribe to the magazine as well as to see images of the dam removal process. Many thanks to this week's sponsors, Windstar Enterprises (windstarsolutions.com) and The Lodge at 58* North (thelodgeat58north.com).

On this week's edition of the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with the state's chief bridge engineer about the dire forecast for bridges without additional funding.Beckie Curtis, director of the Bureau of Bridges and Structures at the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), explains the stark reality.Bridges must maintain a minimum condition to keep the transportation system open.Bridges are expensive investments in the highway network.Bridges are long-lived assets, and many bridges on the trunkline system were built in a short window of time as part of the interstate and other freeway systems.Because of these factors, combined with historic underfunding, widespread bridge closures can be expected in the next 10-20 years unless funding is increased.

Kathy Jorgensen, member of the Board of Directors for the National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs, explains why it's essential to account for animals in all emergency planning; Jeffrey Ekoma, Senior Director of Government Affairs at ASTHO, discusses HHS nominations, recissions, and more news from Capitol Hill in this week's View From Washington D.C. report; a new ASTHO report assesses capacity gaps in the radiation readiness workforce; and Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, was a guest speaker this month for the Michigan State Medical Society, where she updated physician leaders on health priorities.   National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs ASTHO Report: Assessing Capacity Gaps in the Radiation Readiness Workforce MSMS and MDHHS Join Forces to Keep Physicians Informed: Natasha Bagdasarian, MD, on Key Health Priorities

On this week's edition of the Michigan Department of Transportation podcast, Scott Bowen, director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), addresses concerns about access to the beach for campers at the highly popular Traverse City State Park, which is divided by US-31.Bowen explains that the MDNR is investing in major improvements at the park, including changes that require removing the 60-year-old pedestrian bridge over US-31 (Munson Avenue). The bridge pre-dates laws that require accessibility for people with disabilities. The existing bridge is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. "This creates accessibility challenges, especially for pushing strollers, carrying coolers, etc.," the MDNR posted on Facebook. "Some campground patrons opt to drive between the campground and the day-use area, increasing traffic congestion and using limited beach parking."When the agreement was inked to build a pedestrian bridge over the highway in 1965, MDOT was the Michigan State Highway Commission and the MDNR was the Michigan State Department of Conservation. Photo credit: Traverse City State Park photo taken by Tyler Leipprandt and Michigan Sky Media LLC.

Approximately 40% of men older than 50 have urinary frequency or urgency that affects their quality of life. Author John T. Wei, MD, MS, of the University of Michigan Department of Urology and JAMA Deputy Editor Mary M. McDermott, MD, discuss diagnosis and management of these symptoms in older men. Related Content: Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Men