Michigan Small Business Restart Grant Helps Over 11,300 Small Businesses

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced $69 million in grant awards to small businesses last week. The Michigan Small Business Restart Grant Program provided grants of up to $20,000 to more than 11,300 small businesses and nonprofits.

The grants will provide relief for small businesses that have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Whitmer said this grant program put federal funding to work for small businesses and will “create a strong foundation for Michigan’s long-term economic recovery.”

The program allocated $100 million of federal CARES Act funding to provide support to Michigan’s small businesses and nonprofits that have experienced a loss of income as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The funding was distributed across 15 local or nonprofit economic development organizations (EDOs) covering all 83 Michigan counties.

Locally, funds were granted through the Flint & Genesee Chamber EDO, and awards ranged from $5,000 – $20,000. At least 72,950 jobs have been retained for Michigan workers through these initial grant awards.

 

 

Gov Gretchen Whitmer

Michigan Supreme Court Rules Whitmer’s Use of Emergency Powers Unconstitutional

The Michigan Supreme Court ruled that Governor Whitmer’s use of emergency powers without the approval of the state legislature is unconstitutional.

In a press release from the Governor’s office, Whitmer said, “Today’s Supreme Court ruling, handed down by a narrow majority of Republican justices, is deeply disappointing, and I vehemently disagree with the court’s interpretation of the Michigan Constitution. Right now, every state and the federal government have some form of declared emergency. With this decision, Michigan will become the sole outlier at a time when the Upper Peninsula is experiencing rates of COVID infection not seen in our state since April.”

She also noted in the press release that because the ruling doesn’t take effect for at least 21 days, the current emergency declarations in place are still relevant and “retain the force of law”.  Like many of the orders put in place by the Governor, there is disagreement about exactly how this ruling will be enforced. It does seem clear, however, that the Governor is now encouraged, if not required, to work with the legislature on any future emergency orders related to COVID-19.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

McLaren Port Huron August Employee of the Month

Port Huron, MI – Kurt Brinker has been named the Employee of the Month for August. Brinker has worked at McLaren Port Huron for 15 years, and is the physical therapist lead for inpatient care.

Brinker was nominated by his peers because he exemplifies the hospital values and always does what’s best for patients and coworkers. Brinker cares about his patients. You can always find him with a patient laughing, encouraging them and reassuring them they are safe and doing great. When a patient has a need, Brinker is proactive and personally talks with Care Management staff so patients have what they need to be safe when they are discharged.

He is always positive and freindly. You can count on him to get any job done in a timely manner. He is an excellent employee, and even better person who deserves this recognition.

This employee recognition is given to individuals who consistently live the values, mission and performance standards of McLaren Port Huron. Honorees are nominated by a co-worker, physician, volunteer, and/or customer.

To learn more about McLaren Port Huron, visit www.mclaren.org/porthuron.

CDC Grant to Address Suicide Crisis in Adult Men

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has received a grant to address suicide in adult men in the state. There is a public health crisis going on, with more than 6,700 men losing their lives to suicide in Michigan between 2014 and 2018. The COVID-19 fallout has amplified the tragedy. 

Currently, two-thirds of suicides are adult men. The $4.35 million grant from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention will fund the Preventing Suicide in Michigan Men program. The program is targeted at helping men over 25 with prevention efforts within communities and healthcare. 

Dr. Deb Houry, director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, said, “Suicide is caused by multiple factors and prevention must go beyond individual behavior change. Support and coordination are needed from every sector of society that can directly promote resilience and reduce risk factors such as isolation, stress, substance use, and relationship, financial and job issues.”

Emotional-support services are available at Michigan.gov/StayWell or by calling 888-535-6136 and pressing “8” to talk to a counselor 24/7.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Thumb Land Conservancy to Name and Dedicate Nature Preserves

The Thumb Land Conservancy is naming and dedicating an exciting new addition to outdoor recreation in the Blue Water Area. A stretch of natural areas from Burtchville to Marysville will be officially brought into the portfolio this weekend. The land is part of a major investment from multiple community donors to allow nature enthusiasts to experience a lakeshore coastal forest.

A public naming ceremony is being held in partnership with the Blue Water Indigenous Alliance. Names for each of the preserves, using languages that are native to First Nations people will be implemented.

The naming ceremony is at 1:00 on Saturday, October 3rd at 8759 Lakeshore Road, a ½ mile north of Jeddo Road. The area is called Ode Zibi. After the naming ceremony, the Bidwell Sanctuary will be dedicated. It is located at 3540 Metcalf Road. The group will then head to Dead End Woods Sanctuary in Fort Gratiot, located on Wilson Drive. The final leg of the dedication journey will be at Loznak Sanctuary in Marysville located on Wills Street, about 1/3 mile north of Busha Highway.

The public is invited and asked to RSVP. More information is at thumbland.org.

Reporting for WGRT -Jennie McClelland

COVID Cases in Sarnia Traced to Commercial Ship

Sarnia, Ontario — Lambton Public Health is investigating verified COVID-19 cases the originated from a commercial ship docked in Sarnia Harbor. The members of the ship’s crew have been transported to a hotel in Point Edward while the situation is handled by public health experts.

If the public has questions or concerns, they can contact Lambton Public Health directly at their main phone number Monday through Sunday from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, or visit their website <HERE>.

The last update from Lambton Public Heath on September 30th, showed only two active cases of COVID-19 in the county, and cases have been stable in the county since August.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand