environment

State Rep. Jaime Greene Introduces Bill To Protect Jobs Of Michigan’s Part-Time Emergency Responders

State Rep. Jaime Greene (R-Richmond) has introduced the Emergency Responders Employment Protection Act to safeguard the jobs of Michigan’s part-time and volunteer emergency responders. House Bill 5905 aims to prevent employers from disciplining or terminating employees who are absent from work due to responding to emergencies.

“No one should have to choose between saving lives and keeping their job,” Greene stated, emphasizing the need to support those who serve the community. The bill would protect responders if an emergency occurs before their shift starts or during their shift within 15 miles of their workplace.

With recruitment and retention at critically low levels, the legislation seeks to ensure that emergency responders can fulfill their duties without fear of job loss. House Bill 5905 has been referred to the House Labor Committee for further consideration.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Wins $750,000 To Boost Clean Energy Workforce Development

The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) Community & Worker Economic Transition Office has secured $750,000 from the Families & Workers Fund as a winner of the Powering Climate and Infrastructure Careers Challenge. 

This funding will strengthen Michigan’s workforce to support over $10 billion in federal clean energy and infrastructure investments, creating quality jobs for residents impacted by economic shifts. Jonathan Smith, LEO’s Senior Chief Deputy Director, emphasized the significance of the award in positioning Michigan as a national leader in clean energy and workforce development. 

The funds will be used to enhance job quality standards and ensure workers have access to good-paying, high-skill jobs in emerging sectors. This award highlights Michigan’s ongoing success in leveraging federal funding for climate and energy initiatives.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blake’s Annual Sunflower Festival: A Blooming Celebration With 200+ Artisans, DIY Workshops, And U-Pick Sunflowers

Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill’s Annual Sunflower Festival returns this August, offering a vibrant experience for visitors of all ages. 

On Aug. 16-18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the festival invites guests to explore over 200 artisans showcasing handcrafted products and more. Attendees can enjoy free classes on topics such as natural wellness, aromatherapy, and the benefits of local honey. For hands-on fun, DIY workshops allow participants to create with real sunflowers (additional charge). 

The festival also offers U-pick sunflowers, wildflowers, fruits, and vegetables, along with endless photo opportunities in the scenic sunflower fields. Admission includes access to Barnyard Funland and free parking. Children aged 2 and under enter free, making this a perfect outing for families. 

For more information, visit: blakefarms.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Deadline Approaches For Michiganders Wrongly Accused Of Receiving Unemployment Benefits

Time is running out for Michiganders to qualify for a class action lawsuit against the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). The Bauserman v. UIA lawsuit contends that the UIA wrongly accused some claimants of fraudulently receiving unemployment benefits between 2013 and 2015.

Monday, Aug. 19, is the final day for potential members to submit a signed release to Analytics Consulting, the independent Claims Administrator. Failure to return the release may result in losing the right to a payment from the $20 million settlement, approved by the Michigan Court of Claims in January 2023. The lawsuit addresses wrongful collections, wage garnishments, and tax intercepts resulting from errors by the UIA’s Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) system. 

For more information, visit https: bwclassactions.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Association Of St. Clair County Gears Up For 5K Run & Walk

The Dementia & Alzheimer’s Association of St. Clair County is set to host its annual 5K Run & Walk on Sept. 21, at Kiefer Park in Port Huron. 

This event, a staple in the community’s efforts to raise awareness and funds, kicks off with registration at 8 a.m. The run begins at 9 a.m., followed by the walk at 9:15 a.m. Registration fees range from $20 to $35, with special rates available for children and early registrants. Participants can choose to forgo a t-shirt for a reduced fee. 

The funds raised will provide crucial support to local caregivers through the Dementia & Alzheimer’s Association (DAA) Respite Grant and Educational Speaker Series. Additionally, a portion will help fund ongoing research at the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center. 

For more information and to register, visit: DAASCC.org or call (810) 990-9558.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

FedDev Ontario Opens Second Intake For Tourism Growth Program In Southern Ontario

In Nov. 2023, the Honourable Minister Filomena Tassi, responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, launched the first intake of the Tourism Growth Program, offering funding to businesses and organizations to enhance tourism attractions in the region. Building on this initiative, FedDev Ontario has now opened the second intake, with applications being accepted until Sept. 17, 2024.

Priority may be given to small- and medium-sized enterprises, and stakeholders are encouraged to promote the program within their communities. Businesses interested in applying can visit the FedDev Ontario website for detailed eligibility criteria.

To assist potential applicants, FedDev Ontario will host an informational session on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 10-11 a.m. via MSTeams. 

For further information, contact FedDev Ontario at: info@feddevontario.gc.ca or 1-866-593-5505.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell