Podcasts about michigan department

In today's news: The United Way of Southwest Michigan is making some adjustments to its funding cycle so it can better serve non-profits in the face of changing circumstances. The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Luncheon on June 5, and there will be a special guest in attendance. Niles Chamber Director Ryan Boeskool tells us Governor Gretchen Whitmer will be the keynote speaker. This is just a reminder that the Michigan Department of Transportation will hold an open house on the downtown St. Joseph Main Street reconstruction project Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The United Way of Southwest Michigan is making some adjustments to its funding cycle so it can better serve non-profits in the face of changing circumstances. The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Luncheon on June 5, and there will be a special guest in attendance. Niles Chamber Director Ryan Boeskool tells us Governor Gretchen Whitmer will be the keynote speaker. This is just a reminder that the Michigan Department of Transportation will hold an open house on the downtown St. Joseph Main Street reconstruction project Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The United Way of Southwest Michigan is making some adjustments to its funding cycle so it can better serve non-profits in the face of changing circumstances. The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Luncheon on June 5, and there will be a special guest in attendance. Niles Chamber Director Ryan Boeskool tells us Governor Gretchen Whitmer will be the keynote speaker. This is just a reminder that the Michigan Department of Transportation will hold an open house on the downtown St. Joseph Main Street reconstruction project Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: There's good news for kids who want to use the new playground at Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph. Berrien County Parks Director Jill Adams told us Friday afternoon after about two years of work, they're about to open the attraction. Berrien County will have a little more in its coffers this year than previously expected thanks to an error discovered by Equalization Director Warren Parrish. The Michigan Department of Transportation is suspending work and lifting traffic restrictions wherever possible this holiday weekend to ease congestion and increase safety out on the roads. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: There's good news for kids who want to use the new playground at Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph. Berrien County Parks Director Jill Adams told us Friday afternoon after about two years of work, they're about to open the attraction. Berrien County will have a little more in its coffers this year than previously expected thanks to an error discovered by Equalization Director Warren Parrish. The Michigan Department of Transportation is suspending work and lifting traffic restrictions wherever possible this holiday weekend to ease congestion and increase safety out on the roads. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: There's good news for kids who want to use the new playground at Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph. Berrien County Parks Director Jill Adams told us Friday afternoon after about two years of work, they're about to open the attraction. Berrien County will have a little more in its coffers this year than previously expected thanks to an error discovered by Equalization Director Warren Parrish. The Michigan Department of Transportation is suspending work and lifting traffic restrictions wherever possible this holiday weekend to ease congestion and increase safety out on the roads. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 reflects the anticipated time in years that a pavement section can continue to provide acceptable levels of service, considering factors such as distress, structural integrity, ride quality, and functionality. 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. 

Dr. Mike Chaddock and Dr. Jeff Dizik serve with Julie on the board of trustees for Michigan Veterinary Medical Association's Michigan Animal Health Foundation.   Dr. Mike Chaddock received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Michigan State University and an Executive Master's Degree in Leadership from Georgetown University. After private practice ownership, he worked for industry, was the State Veterinarian and Director of the Animal Industry Division for the Michigan Department of Agriculture, and was a Fellow in the American Association for the Advancement of Science serving in US Senator Mary Landrieu's office.  Dr. Jeff Dizik received his degree in Veterinary Medicine from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1975.  He became the owner of Lincoln Park Veterinary Hospital in 1984 after working with Dr. E.R Zingester for a few years. He also owns Affiliated Veterinary Emergency Service - an exclusively emergency and critical care center in the Detroit area.   The MVMA's Michigan Animal Health Foundation was founded in 1969 and was created to allow those who love animals an opportunity to donate to assist in improving animal health and well-being through tax-exempt contributions.  MAHF provides grants to those working on research and educational projects that help animals to have longer, better and healthier lives and advance the practice of medicine.  To Learn more about the foundation and to donate go to michigananimalhealthfoundation.org Contact Julie at theveterinarylifecoach.com 

Originally uploaded July 30th, reloaded May 14th. Chris Holman welcomes Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director for LEO - Labor & Economic Opportunity - Michigan, East Lansing. There were several things Chris wanted to find out from Jonathan in this conversation: Can you provide an overview of the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office and the primary goals of the office? How are state and West Michigan leaders collaborating to create a strategy for Michiganders and businesses to benefit from clean energy jobs? How will this new office contribute to Michigan's economy and the creation of good paying, middle-class jobs? What are some of the biggest challenges and opportunities in this transition to clean energy? How is the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office engaging with local communities and stakeholders to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed? What role will educational, and training programs play in preparing Michigan's workforce for the demands of clean energy and high-tech EV manufacturing? What future initiatives or programs can we expect from the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office as Michigan continues its transition to a clean energy economy? Additionally LEO shared information with this release LEO Hosts Roundtable with Kalamazoo Leaders to Discuss Opportunities to Support Clean Energy Transitions, FY25Budget Investments Stakeholders Gather to Highlight how Community & Worker Economic Transition Office Budget Investments will Support Efforts to EnsureMichiganders Benefit from Clean Energy Transitions KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Following the passage of a historic budget agreement that provides funding for the newly created Community & Worker Economic Transition Office,the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) convened a roundtable in Kalamazoo today to discuss how the new office will help Michiganders benefit from transitions in the auto and energy sectors. Today's event highlighted investments included in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Fiscal Year 2025 budget that bolster the office's efforts that help companies and individuals take full advantage of the good-paying, middle-class jobs coming to Michigan. These investments include $2.5 million to support staff and operations for the historic new office, which is one of the first of its kind in the country, and $8.6 million for a Community & Worker Economic Transition Pilot Fund that will be used to develop critical resources to help impacted communities and workers prepare for economic transitions in the years ahead, and pilot innovative programs in future years to fill gaps in services available to communities, workers and businesses navigating clean energy transitions. “We're thankful for the leadership of the governor and state legislature in providing funding for the Economic Transition Office and for their commitment to ensuring an equitable and just clean energy transition for Michiganders across the state,” said Jonathan Smith, senior chief deputy director of LEO. “Our continued collaboration with partners and stakeholders will remain critical as we work to best leverage these investments and make certain that resources are utilized to adequately address the needs of those impacted by the economic shifts happening in Michigan.” The roundtable is the 10th in a series of community events held by the Economic Transition Office this year and echoed summaries included in the recently published Community & Worker Economic Transition Office Roundtable Summary Report, which documents key insights, feedback and suggestions gathered during eight previous roundtables held in other regions across the state. For more information on LEO's initiatives and the Michigan Community & Worker Economic Transition Office, visit Michigan.gov/EconomicTransition. ### » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/

In today's news: Lincoln Township Trustee Marc Florian is feeling optimistic something can be done to help reduce flooding in the area of North Grand Mere Lake following a meeting with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and state Representative Joey Andrews. St. Joseph City Commissioners have again balked at approving a policy that would grant city employees paid parental leave when they have a baby or adopt a child. Students at Van Buren Tech in Lawrence now have experience responding to a high-pressure emergency situation following Tuesday's mock disaster drill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lincoln Township Trustee Marc Florian is feeling optimistic something can be done to help reduce flooding in the area of North Grand Mere Lake following a meeting with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and state Representative Joey Andrews. St. Joseph City Commissioners have again balked at approving a policy that would grant city employees paid parental leave when they have a baby or adopt a child. Students at Van Buren Tech in Lawrence now have experience responding to a high-pressure emergency situation following Tuesday's mock disaster drill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lincoln Township Trustee Marc Florian is feeling optimistic something can be done to help reduce flooding in the area of North Grand Mere Lake following a meeting with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and state Representative Joey Andrews. St. Joseph City Commissioners have again balked at approving a policy that would grant city employees paid parental leave when they have a baby or adopt a child. Students at Van Buren Tech in Lawrence now have experience responding to a high-pressure emergency situation following Tuesday's mock disaster drill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lincoln Township Trustee Marc Florian is feeling optimistic something can be done to help reduce flooding in the area of North Grand Mere Lake following a meeting with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and state Representative Joey Andrews. St. Joseph City Commissioners have again balked at approving a policy that would grant city employees paid parental leave when they have a baby or adopt a child. Students at Van Buren Tech in Lawrence now have experience responding to a high-pressure emergency situation following Tuesday's mock disaster drill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Rural Health Today. Over the next few months we'll be publishing a series of episodes about maternal care in rural health. Whether you're a rural mom, a healthcare worker, or attentive to what goes on in rural healthcare, this is the series for you. Our special guest of the show is Dawn Shanafelt, Director, Maternal & Infant Health Division at Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Follow Hillsdale Hospital on social media! https://www.facebook.com/hillsdalehospital/ https://www.twitter.com/hillsdalehosp/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/hillsdale-community-health-center/ https://www.instagram.com/hillsdalehospital/ 

Earth Week 2025 came with a positive development for the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) on efforts to implement a pilot program for analyzing wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs) and learn ways to design safer crossings.Amanda Novak, a resource specialist in MDOT's Bay Region, returns to the podcast to talk about a recently awarded $476,000 federal grant and how it will be put toward the pilot program. She previously spoke about the grant on the podcast in September 2024.While we think of white-tailed deer most commonly when it comes to WVCs, other species to be considered include elk, moose, black bear, wild turkey, pine marten, eastern massasauga rattlesnake and Blanding's turtle. As laid out in the project abstract for the grant, the number of WVCs in Michigan continues to increase annually, worsening risks and costs to drivers. For example, white-tailed deer alone account for more than 55,000 WVCs and cost motorists an average of $130 million per year in Michigan. Additionally, WVCs are a major threat to many wildlife populations in the state, including documented impacts on several threatened and endangered species. Projected increases in tourism, housing development and climate change effects are likely to exacerbate WVC effects on motorists and wildlife in Michigan.

April 23, 2025 ~ Diane Cross, Spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Transportation prepares us for a full closure of 696 and work zone awareness week.

April 22, 2025 ~ Despite the growing demand for childcare services, a new report shows the industry is facing significant barriers that threaten its sustainability and by extension, Michigan's future workforce. Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, talks with Lloyd, Jamie, and former congressman Dave Trott about what is contributing to difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified childcare workers.

[RE-UPLOAD FROM JUNE 16, 2021]Dr. Jean Tsao (Twitter: @JTsao1) from MSU's Department of Fisheries and Wildlife talks about everybody's "favorite" ticks! We also chatted about how she became an expert in this group of arthropods and she shared this list of resources with us: Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) page on  tick-borne diseasesCurrent MDHHS Lyme disease risk map (to which Jean's lab has contributed much of the tick data)MDHHS document that summarizes the tick and disease risk trends over the last 5 yearsMDHHS's webpage for ordering tick warning signs, tick ID cards, and tick collection/submission kits for tick ID [only].  You can also submit photos of ticks instead of the ticks themselves and probably get a faster turnaround time on the ID.Here is the link to The Tick App, a mobile health app Jean and colleagues developed to improve tick prevention - both through outreach/education about ticks and tick prevention, but also through community science regarding both improving tick prevention practices as well as monitoring for invasive ticks. Here's a recent write-up about the app from MSU Today. Watch this episode on YouTube here!You can follow Bug Talk on Instagram and Twitter @bugtalkpodcast, and YouTube @bugtalk6645

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed a measles outbreak in Montcalm County -- northeast of Grand Rapids. Montcalm County has confirmed three cases in total at this time. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

Originally uploaded March 28th, re-edited April 16th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomed back LEO Director Susan Corbin with Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Recently , The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) joined local business and community leaders in Lansing to discuss how Gov. Whitmer's proposed FY26 budget will strengthen job training. Can you speak to expand apprenticeships and removed barriers to employment? Can you share more about the roundtable's highlights? [the direct impact these investments will have on Michigan workers and employers—including $19 million for Registered Apprenticeships, $40.4 million to support students with disabilities and $7.5 million to help workers overcome employment barriers.] Please share about Michigan's first-ever Statewide Workforce Plan? [ a strategy to fuel economic growth and create more opportunities for job seekers across the state.] If there's any more, discuss how these workforce initiatives align with the state's broader strategy to building a stronger middle class and help businesses grow? What would the real impact of these programs in action be? State officials and Lansing area leaders discuss how Gov. Whitmer's proposed FY26 budget will strengthen job training, apprenticeship programs and employment services. LANSING, Mich.— The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) joined local community members, business leaders and stakeholders to discuss Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's FY26 budget recommendations. The roundtable event, which was held Thursday at Capital Area Michigan Works!, focused on Registered Apprenticeships, Pre-Employment Transition Services and Barrier Removal and Employment Success – all programs aligned with the goals of Michigan's first-ever Statewide Workforce Plan to expand career opportunities, strengthen Michigan's workforce, and support employers. “Successful businesses and good-paying jobs strengthen our families and local communities,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “Governor Whitmer and LEO are investing in employment and training to equip workers with in-demand skills and businesses with the talent they need to thrive, creating more opportunities for Michiganders and a stronger economy.” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently released her seventh executive budget recommendation that will lower costs, power economic development, and build a brighter future to ensure any person or business can “Make It” in Michigan. The proposed budget includes $19 million to expand access to Registered Apprenticeships, $40.4 million (including a $8.4 million general fund investment to secure $32 million in matching federal funds) for Pre-Employment Transition Support and other vocational rehabilitation services for students with disabilities, and $7.5 million to remove barriers to work. "The stories shared by our local partners and employers highlight the real impact of these investments," said Stephanie Beckhorn, Director of LEO's Office of Employment and Training. "Governor Whitmer's budget recommendations will strengthen workforce development efforts across the state, expanding access to training, Registered Apprenticeships and employment services that empower Michiganders to secure good-paying jobs and build successful careers." Michigan provides employment services to more participants than any other state in the Midwest, is ranked #3 in the nation for helping adults get employed and is #4 in the nation for the number of active Registered Apprentices. LEO's Employment and Training programs are building a stronger Michigan by connecting job seekers to careers and helping businesses grow with the skilled talent they need. Through innovative programs, partnerships and targeted support services, LEO empowers individuals to gain in-demand skills while breaking down barriers to employment. These efforts fuel economic opportunity, ensuring Michigan's workforce is ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

April 11, 2025 ~ April is Career Exploration and Awareness Month and LEO is highlighting free resources that helps students, job seekers, and career changers in demand occupations and create personalized roadmaps. Susan Corbon, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, talks with Lloyd and Jamie about the state's efforts to support individuals in the job market.

On this week's Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with Brian Travis, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) project manager overseeing the rebuilding of the central segment of I-696.  The work, which began in March and will continue through most of 2027, involves closing the eastbound lanes of I-696 from M-10 and Lahser Road east to I-75.  Travis explains that this is the last of three phases of the "Restore the Reuther" project, a $275 million rebuilding of the freeway. In 2019, the state completed work along the easternmost portion, along with the western end in 2023 and 2024. The conversation also includes an update on MDOT's second flex route, this one on I-96 in Oakland County. The project is nearing completion as crews prepare for the use of ramp metering to regulate the flow of traffic to the freeway. A video explains the benefits of the flex route and ramp metering.

A few days after a massive ice storm rocked northern lower Michigan, many thousands remain without power while crews from power companies, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and other state and local agencies continue the cleanup and rebuilding process.Bill Wahl, MDOT North Region associate engineer for operations, who is coordinating department efforts, joins the podcast to provide an update on the recovery.Also joining is James Lake, MDOT North Region media relations specialist, who assists the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) with communications. He talks about why falling ice necessitated closing the bridge three times in three days, including a record 30-hour period.Wahl and Lake grew up in the region and neither has seen anything like this ice storm and the resulting destruction. Wahl recounts utility workers who had been on power-restoration projects following hurricanes in the Southeast saying the scenes are as bad or worse as anything they've seen.Wahl says crews from several counties to the south, including Kent, Ottawa, Mason, Missaukee, Muskegon, Roscommon, Iosco and Wexford, were helping to clear roads.While the Mackinac Bridge re-opened Thursday morning, April 3, after a 30-hour closure, officials will continue to closely monitor conditions for falling ice. The MBA posted a video message on X from Bridge Director Kim Nowack about the falling ice, along with some photos from the bridge. More videos of falling ice that prompted the current closure were also posted on X. The bridge has closed roughly 30 times in the past 30 years, and the average closure duration is several hours. More frequently asked questions about falling ice and other topics are available on the MBA website. 

April 3, 2025 ~ The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) website indicates that it will cut about $394 million in health grants to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, but offers no description of those grants or specific reasons for their cancellation. Bridge Michigan reporter Kelly House talks to Guy Gordon, Lloyd Jackson, and Jamie Edmonds about how this could impact state disease surveillance, substance use treatment, and mental health care.

April 1, 2025 ~ Celena Mills, director of the Michigan Department of Education Office of Career and Technical Education, joins Kevin to educate us on Career and Technical Education programs at Michigan high schools.

In today's news: Indiana Michigan Power is doing what it can to restore electric service to the thousands of customers who lost it during Sunday's storms. Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad is hoping something can be done to bring back at least a portion of a $20 million federal grant awarded to the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission for a variety of projects in the city after the Trump administration canceled it. The Michigan Department of Transportation is planning an open house for next week to tell everyone about the latest plans for the reconstruction of Main Street in downtown St. Joseph. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Indiana Michigan Power is doing what it can to restore electric service to the thousands of customers who lost it during Sunday's storms. Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad is hoping something can be done to bring back at least a portion of a $20 million federal grant awarded to the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission for a variety of projects in the city after the Trump administration canceled it. The Michigan Department of Transportation is planning an open house for next week to tell everyone about the latest plans for the reconstruction of Main Street in downtown St. Joseph. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Indiana Michigan Power is doing what it can to restore electric service to the thousands of customers who lost it during Sunday's storms. Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad is hoping something can be done to bring back at least a portion of a $20 million federal grant awarded to the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission for a variety of projects in the city after the Trump administration canceled it. The Michigan Department of Transportation is planning an open house for next week to tell everyone about the latest plans for the reconstruction of Main Street in downtown St. Joseph. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of South Haven is working with the Van Buren-Cass District Health Department and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to determine what's caused a large bird kill-off in the past week. Township leaders from around southern Berrien County are heaping praise on the Berrien County Road Department for the ongoing Red Arrow Highway work. Berrien County has received bids for some work near Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph to help alleviate traffic congestion this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of South Haven is working with the Van Buren-Cass District Health Department and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to determine what's caused a large bird kill-off in the past week. Township leaders from around southern Berrien County are heaping praise on the Berrien County Road Department for the ongoing Red Arrow Highway work. Berrien County has received bids for some work near Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph to help alleviate traffic congestion this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of South Haven is working with the Van Buren-Cass District Health Department and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to determine what's caused a large bird kill-off in the past week. Township leaders from around southern Berrien County are heaping praise on the Berrien County Road Department for the ongoing Red Arrow Highway work. Berrien County has received bids for some work near Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph to help alleviate traffic congestion this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Shibani Putatunda, Economic Specialist, with the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics, within DTMB - the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget for the State of MI What is going on in Michigan's labor market this month? How did Michigan's labor market compare with the U.S. workforce in February? What industries saw the greatest change in number of jobs in February? What would you say is the key takeaway for Michigan's labor market during February? Where can we find more information on Michigan's labor market? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

This episode of The Collective US podcast, produced by Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA) [DONATE], highlights two essential but often overlooked community support programs: the Laundry Project and the Diaper Distribution Grant.Awareness: Tied to National Laundry Day (April 15), the project emphasizes laundry as a basic human need essential for dignity, confidence, school performance, and job readiness.Details:Impact: Over 3,000 people served in 2024, helping reduce stigma and build relationships in a welcoming environment.Anecdotes: Stories were shared of families with broken washers, flood damage, or large households needing support. The laundry project becomes a place for connection—“like going to the well” in older times.NMCAA distributes free diapers to qualifying families through a grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.Eligibility: Based on income or receipt of assistance programs like SNAP, TANF, etc. No documentation is required—self-declaration only.Access: Diapers are available at pantries and partner locations across NMCAA's 10-county service area.Reach: In 2023, the program distributed over 9,000 sleeves of diapers to 1,756 households.Future Goals: Expansion to include adult incontinence products, and more rural outreach (interest noted in Charlevoix, Kalkaska, Emmet counties).NMCAA's programs (like Head Start, tax prep, housing assistance, etc.) provide tangible economic benefits—e.g., $6.8 million returned to the local economy via free tax prep alone.Basic needs programs enable families to stay employed, kids to stay in school, and reduce financial stress.Stories drive change—real people, real experiences build trust and reduce stigma.NMCAA's mission is rooted in community, dignity, and access.“See you next Thursday”—a catchy musical outro reaffirms NMCAA's consistent presence and support for the community.Key Highlights:Laundry ProjectDiaper GrantOverall Economic ImpactFinal Takeaways:

In today's news: In a sign the new Trump administration is committed to the project, U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Monday announced the release of the second loan disbursement to Holtec International for the Palisades Nuclear Plant restart. Heading into a new construction season, drivers are being reminded there will be big work taking place along Red Arrow Highway in multiple places around Berrien County. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says this is the time of year when we may see a lot of dead fish in lakes around the state. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: In a sign the new Trump administration is committed to the project, U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Monday announced the release of the second loan disbursement to Holtec International for the Palisades Nuclear Plant restart. Heading into a new construction season, drivers are being reminded there will be big work taking place along Red Arrow Highway in multiple places around Berrien County. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says this is the time of year when we may see a lot of dead fish in lakes around the state. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: There's yet more work coming to I-94 in Berrien County. Michigan Department of Transportation spokesperson Nick Schirripa tells us MDOT is going to repave the highway between Coloma and Watervliet starting Monday. An engineer with the Van Buren County Road Commission has won a statewide award for a project done last year. With the weather warming up around Southwest Michigan, golf courses are starting to see their phones ringing again.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March 11, 2025 ~ This Women's History Month, Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, is shining a light on the crucial role women play in the workforce and how Michigan can better support their success in the workplace. Corbin joins Guy, Lloyd, and Jamie to discuss the state's push to remove these barriers in the workforce.

In today's news: There's yet more work coming to I-94 in Berrien County. Michigan Department of Transportation spokesperson Nick Schirripa tells us MDOT is going to repave the highway between Coloma and Watervliet starting Monday. An engineer with the Van Buren County Road Commission has won a statewide award for a project done last year. With the weather warming up around Southwest Michigan, golf courses are starting to see their phones ringing again.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Luckovich — Atlanta Journal-Constitution Donald Trump's embarrassing DOGE assault on every corner of government continues to misfire. The strategy: set a target for cuts in each agency, immediately fire workers with no consideration of their contribution to making government work, backtrack when those cuts blow up. In the words of Elon Musk, "we'll make mistakes will act quick to correct." But the reality is that “all the king's horses, all the king's men, can't put complex programs back together again.” And that means chaos for all Americans and around the world literally tens-of-thousands, many of them children, dying. Anybody want to buy the Department of Justice HQ? FBI HQ? Invent a bird flu vaccine? Put out forest fires In Michigan, we have two national figures looming high in the headlines. Elissa Slotkin has vaulted onto the national stage with a spot-on response to Trump's 99 minutes of self congratulations and grievances. Pete Buttigieg tells Stephen Colbert that he's definitely looking at running for U.S. Senate, possibly setting up an All-Star Democratic primary.   With the beginning of Trump's North American trade war the state's shoppers face ever-higher prices for groceries, the state's farmers brace for massive export reductions, and everything imported, and the auto manufacturers get a 30-day reprieve as they deal with the uncertainty over tariffs. Also on our radar: Dana Nessel launches a podcast with Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes Trump retreats from tariffs, delaying disaster for domestic auto production by 30 days Misdirection: DOGE is a cover for cutting $4.5-trillion in taxes Presidents Musk and Trump are setting the stage to destroy Social Security Great news for the Fact-Checker industry: the lies continue to fly from DJT's mouth, including claims about transgender mice, Gaza condoms, financial support for Ukraine and money for Tracey Abrams Joining the conversation is longtime Lansing insider Jeff Padden, the founder of the non-partisan Lansing think tank Public Policy Associates. Jeff has more than 35 years of experience in the public policy arena, including 10 years as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives, where he chaired the House Corrections Committee.  In addition, he served as deputy director of the Michigan Department of Commerce and director of the Governor's Human Investment Project. He was first elected to the Michigan House after an upset primary victory over the then-chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Since founding PPA in 1991, Padden has led multiyear, multisite evaluations for clients such as the U.S. Department of Labor, the Ford Foundation, and the James Irvine Foundation.  Jeff has designed and led technical assistance and training programs for public agencies and nonprofits.  At the state and national levels, he has guided clients in the development of new strategies, policies, and initiatives. This episode is sponsored in part by =========================== EPIC ▪ MRA, a full service survey research firm with expertise in • Public Opinion Surveys • Market Research Studies • Live Telephone Surveys • On-Line and Automated Surveys • Focus Group Research • Bond Proposals - Millage Campaigns • Political Campaigns & Consulting • Ballot Proposals - Issue Advocacy Research • Community - Media Relations • Issue - Image Management • Database Development & List Management =========================== Rob Rogers — Tinyview.com

Dr. Sarah Lyon-Callo, Senior Deputy Director for Public Health Administration and the State Epidemiologist for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, tells us how the unique ability to use PHIG across sectors helps break down silos. PHIG Partners Web Page PHIG Newsletter  

In today's news: The Michigan Department of Treasury is issuing the latest round of marijuana tax revenue to communities throughout the state that allow such businesses, and those dollars really add up. Money is tight for the city of Benton Harbor. A healthcare clinic in Cassopolis is now being served by a drug dispensing robot. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since the 1940's, Lake Trout have been extinct in all of the Great Lakes except Lake Superior. Pressure from commercial fishing as well as the invasion of sea lamprey devastated this native species, and the population in Lake Superior also suffered. For three generations an international team of scientists has been working to restore healthy Lake Trout populations in all the Great Lakes. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Shawn Sitar, Fisheries Research Biologist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to update the status of Lake Trout in Lake Superior.Key Takeaways:Shawn Sitar explains his deep connection to Lake Superior, describing it as his hometown and emphasizing its pristine, natural state.He outlines how Lake Superior stands out among the Great Lakes - not only as the largest by surface area but also as the deepest - making it a unique ecosystem.The episode details the historical collapse of lake trout populations due to overfishing and invasive species, and highlights the international recovery efforts led by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission.Shawn discusses the three-prong approach to lake trout recovery: suppression of sea lampreys, controlled fishing, and hatchery stocking.He also addresses the challenges posed by climate change and evolving research techniques, emphasizing the need for long-term monitoring and adaptive management.Notable Quotes:"I realized I look at Lake Superior as my hometown. I love that.""It is the largest lake on the earth in terms of surface area. So that's the statistics there. Lake Superior is also the deepest among the Great Lakes.""In fact, lake trout were extinct in all the Great Lakes except Lake Superior."“By the 1960s, if we look at Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario, the absence of lake trout, the top boss in the system, created a lot of havoc. And during that time period in the late 50s and 60s and 70s, there was another invasive called the alewife, which is a small oily fish from the Atlantic Ocean that came up. And it just basically boomed in the Great Lakes.""During my career working on Lake Superior and the Great Lakes, I've already seen surface temperatures increase from when I started till now. There's a lot of variation around it. And I think there's already research ongoing to assess the impact."Resources:Michigan Department of Natural Resources Website: https://www.michigan.gov/dnrGreat Lakes Fishery Commission Website: http://www.glfc.orgNational Parks of Lake Superior Foundation Website: https://nplsf.orgDocumentary “Fish Thief”: https://www.thefishthief.com/ Connect With Us:Website: https://nplsf.org/podcastFacebook: https://facebook.com/NPLSFSponsors:Cafe Imports: Supporting environmental sustainability in coffee-growing regions since 1993. Learn more: https://cafeimports.com/National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation: Support vital projects by donating at https://nplsf.orgBe sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Shawn Sitar's in-depth insights on the lake trout recovery efforts, the unique characteristics of Lake Superior, and the ongoing challenges and innovations in Great Lakes fisheries research.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed the first two influenza associated pediatric deaths in Michigan for the 2024-25 flu season. That's our top story as WWJ's Tracey McCaskill recaps the local news headlines for your Friday midday in Metro Detroit. (Photo: Getty Images)

On this week's edition of the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with Zach Rable, a federal policy specialist at the Michigan Department of Transportation, who talks about priorities for funding as a new Congress convenes.The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will expire in September 2026, and members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee are in early discussions about the next reauthorization and what it should include. Three members of the committee are from Michigan: Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, and Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Bay City.Some key points from an American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) analysis of the IIJA:The IIJA reauthorizes surface transportation programs, with 34 percent more funding than the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act provided.The IIJA provided close to $500 billion for road and bridge programs in communities across America.The act included 21 new DOT grant programs that will make targeted investments to repair bridges, improve the resiliency of our surface transportation system, and more.These funds go a long way to address the $1.2 trillion, 10-year surface transportation funding gap that ASCE identified in the 2021 Report Card.

On this week's Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with Brian Travis, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) project manager overseeing the rebuilding of the central segment of I-696.The work will begin in March and continue through most of 2027, and involves closing the eastbound lanes of I-696 from M-10 and Lahser Road east to I-75.Travis explains that this is the last of three phases of the "Restore the Reuther" project, a $275 million rebuilding of the freeway. In 2019, the state completed work along the easternmost portion, along with the western end in 2023 and 2024.A complete closure makes sense, Travis says, for the safety of drivers and the construction contractor's employees. Travis also talks about the history of the freeway, which was originally conceived as I-98 in the earliest discussion of the Interstate system. The center segment was completed years later than the eastern and western portions because of various obstacles, including a lack of agreement among community leaders on the corridor about the exact route. Progress came about only after then-Michigan Gov. George Romney forced the various leaders to gather in a room and come to an agreement.

  On this episode we discuss the tragic disappearance and murder of 20-year-old Dawn Magyar in January 1973. The episode explores her abduction, the investigation, and the eventual conviction of her killer nearly 28 years later.   Looking for ad-free, early release episodes? Find that and tons more bonus content at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast.  Thank you to this week's sponsors!   Ready to hit the slopes?  Go to Shipskis.com and use the code MOMS to get 20% off your first shipment and save yourself the hassle this ski season!  Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/MOMS20 .  Now's your chance to change the way you sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off, plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at BollandBranch.com/moms. Exclusions apply. See site for details. Start your hair growth journey with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and use promo code MOMS. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to RocketMoney.com/MOMS today.     Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!   Make sure you subscribe and rate our show to help others find us!   Sources: Hornus, Tony, Is Dawn Magyar's Alleged Murderer Jerald…, Argus-Press, 2001 Hornus, Tony, Dawn Magyar Murder Suspect Was Arrested…, Argus-Press, 2001 Accused Assaulter Demands Hearing, Is Free On Bond, The Ann Arbor News, 1961 Dawn Lee Swan Magyar (1952-1973) - Find a Grave Memorial Peacock, Joe, Police search for Chesaning Woman, Argus-Press, 1973 Peacock, Joe, Gunshot Wound in Head Killed Dawn Magyar, Argus-Press, 1973 Hornus, Tony, State police detective reports positive movement…, Argus-Press, 1999 With DNA evidence, ‘the magic bullet of criminal investigation', Argus-Press, 1995 Hornus, Tony, Magyar murder case goes to the jury, Argus-Press, 2001 Howell, Wingeart found guilty, Argus-Press, 2001 Hornus, Tony, Magyar voices relief that his wife's murderer convicted, Argus-Press, 2001 Hornus, Tony, "Michigan Supreme Court Denies Wingeart's Leave to Appeal Conviction: Magyar Killer Likely to be Charged in 1979 Slaying of Iona…, Argus-Press, 2004  Cold Case Files: S2 E13: Vintage Murder/ Trouble in Paradise, A&E, 2007 Was Chesaning Mom abducted?, The Flint Journal, 1973 Helicopter joins hunt for woman, The Flint Journal, 1973 Deputies uncertain about search, The Saginaw News, 1973 Goal: Find Mrs. Magyar, The Saginaw News, 1973 Garrett, Fred E., 4,500 Searchers Fail To Find Mrs. Magyar, The Saginaw News, 1973 Garrett, Fred E., Missing Girl: No More Searches…, The Saginaw News, 1973 Garrett, Fred E., Police still without clues on missing mother, The Saginaw News, 1973 Nothing New On Chesaning's Missing Woman, The Saginaw News, 1973 Magyar Family Offers Reward Of $10,000, The Saginaw News, 1973 Body Found, Believed To Be Dawn Magyars, The Flint Journal, 1973 Dawn Magyar Found Dead, The Saginaw News, 1973 Jerald Leroy Wingeart (1941-2022) - Find a Grave Memorial Wingeart v. Warren, No. 2:2005cv74144 - Document 66 (E.D. Mich. 2013) :: Justia PEOPLE OF MI V JERALD LEROY WINGEART :: 2003 :: Michigan Court of Appeals - Unpublished Opinions Decisions 1 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN SOUTHERN DIVISION JERALD LEROY WINGEART, Petitioner, Case No. 05-741 Michigan Department of Corrections Offender Profile Hornus, Tony, Dawn Magyar murder suspect was arrested by…Argus-Press, 2001 Laura Mae McVeigh (1963-1979) - Find a Grave Memorial Supreme Court of The United States Docket Search Was Chesaning Mom Abducted?, The Flint Journal, 1973 Helicopter joins hunt for woman, The Flint Journal, 1973 Aerial Photos Taken In Search for Woman, The Flint Journal, 1973 Ziegler, Gerald A, Wright, Gerald E., Huge Search Fails to Find.., The Flint Journal, 1973 Magyar Family Offers Reward Of $10,000, The Saginaw News, 1973 Ernst, Jerry, Dog's DNA used in murder investigation, The Saginaw News, 2002  Ernst, Jerry, Victim's family feels relief after…, The Saginaw News, 2002