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POSTED 8/25/08 Granholm Says Michigan Positioned to Become Advanced Battery Capital of the World LANSING - At the world's most significant annual gathering of automotive industry leaders, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today said that Michigan is positioned to become the advanced battery capital of the world. "Advanced battery development and production is critical for the U.S., and our intention is that Michigan be the leader in meeting this need," Granholm said. "By leveraging our state's abundant talent in automotive research and development and manufacturing and by working the most aggressive economic plan of any state in the country, we will be the state that transforms the way we fuel our cars and power our homes." Granholm made her remarks at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminar in Traverse City where top officials from global automakers and suppliers are meeting this week. Granholm underscored Michigan's unique position to be the state that ends the nation's dependence on foreign oil through innovations like advanced battery technologies. Granholm said her administration is working hard to make Michigan the epicenter for that transformation. She outlined recently created incentives and programs to support the growth of cutting-edge Michigan companies developing advanced battery technology, including the 21st Century Jobs Fund, alternative energy and high-tech tax credits, Anchor Zone incentives, and Centers of Energy Excellence. For example, high-tech MEGA tax credits are helping companies like Ricardo Engineering that is expanding its Van Buren Township research and development (R&D) center to establish a battery systems development center, and Sakti3 that is commercializing a manufacturing process for the development of high-power batteries that will withstand the rigors of automotive use. The governor also pointed to several unique public/private partnerships helping to accelerate advanced battery R&D and production in Michigan. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation partnered with General Motors (GM) in its recent successful award of $10 million from the Department of Energy to develop a production-intent plug-in hybrid vehicle (PIHV) using advanced lithium-ion battery packs. The Michigan Public Service Commission, through its plug-in hybrid pilot proposal, recently awarded over $5 million to DTE Energy, GM, and the University of Michigan to assess the environmental impacts of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and to understand how the widespread adoption of PHEVs will impact Michigan's electric grid. |
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POSTED 8/25/08 Granholm Signs Budget Increasing Funding for Schools; Targets Dropout Rate, Early Childhood Education Budgets for multiple departments including local police and fire also signed LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today signed legislation to provide funding for Michigan's K-12 schools. The fiscal year 2009 appropriations bill continues Granholm's commitment to invest in our public schools, expand access to early childhood education, and target the state's dropout problem by investing in smaller, more relevant high schools. Granholm also signed the fiscal year 2009 general government budget to provide funding for the Departments of Attorney General, Secretary of State, Civil Rights, Information Technology, Management and Budget, and Treasury as well as the Executive Office and Legislature. "Michigan's economic future is dependent on our ability to provide every child with a quality education, and this budget helps move us toward that goal," said Granholm. "By investing in early childhood education and high schools that use strong relationships and real-world rigor to help kids succeed, we are investing in Michigan's future." Highlights of the fiscal year 2009 school aid budget include: - $13.4 billion, including $11.8 billion in state funding, for more than 800 districts and public school academies; - an increase of $56 to $112 per pupil based on the equity formula created in the current-year budget to continue closing the funding gap between poorer and wealthier school districts; - $15 million for the 21st Century Schools Fund to help Michigan school districts replace large, impersonal high schools that have low academic achievement and high dropout rates, with small high schools that use relationships, discipline, and relevance to help at-risk kids achieve; - an additional $10 million in funding for the state's Great Start Readiness programs that provide more than 30,000 Michigan children with access to quality pre-school; - funding for after-school and summer math programs to help middle school students prepare for the new high school curriculum. Granholm called the investment in the 21st Century Schools Fund "the next critical step" for public education in Michigan. Previously, the governor secured funding for six early college high schools which focus on preparing students for jobs in the health care industry. The schools are created through a partnership between school districts, higher education institutions, and major health care providers. These early college high schools prepare students for jobs in high-growth areas of our economy. The governor's education agenda also has included giving every child access to a $4,000 Michigan Promise scholarship to use toward a college degree or technical certification, a new rigorous high school curriculum, and college admissions tests for every high school student. "As the 21st century economy changes, our education system must change with it," said Granholm. "Innovations like early college high schools and small high schools can help students succeed by keeping them engaged in learning." The fiscal year 2009 general government budget provides $3.2 billion of which $668.2 million is general fund. A large percentage of the general government budget is dedicated to preserving public safety, including $1.1 billion for revenue sharing for local governments. The budget includes a 2 percent increase in statutory revenue sharing payments. |
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POSTED 8/8/08 Keeping Michigan “blue” in 2008 Make no mistake about it: Keeping Michigan “blue” in 2008 will be a battle. And that’s not because the Bush years have been kind to Michigan—far from it. No state understands the need for change more than Michigan because no state has suffered more from the disastrous policies of the Bush Administration: · Hundreds of thousands of jobs lost as trade agreements go unenforced. · Unscrupulous lenders allowed to turn the American Dream into a nightmare for millions of families. · Big Oil’s exorbitant profits that produce unprecedented pain at the pump and more wrenching cutbacks in our auto industry. To keep Michigan blue this year we are going to have to be ready for everything the Republicans will throw at us and more. That’s why John Cherry and I are doing all we can to make sure Michigan’s ready for action. And thanks to the Granholm Leadership Fund, we have the resources it takes to organize a campaign that will reach into every community, taking no voter for granted. Training sessions sponsored by the Granholm Leadership Fund are giving women and men who care deeply about our state and our nation’s future the tools they need to organize and win at the grass-roots level across Michigan. A participant in the session we recently held in Traverse City said it best: “With this training under our belts, our team is ready to win.” Your support for the Granholm Leadership Fund will allow us to put together the strongest campaign we’ve ever seen in this state—one that can produce change from the State House to the White House. We are going to give our all because we have a world to win. We have the opportunity to make an exceptional man our next president— · A president who will be the friend and partner Michigan needs in the White House · A president who can restore our nation’s economic strength and our respect in the world. · A president who believes in the unique and powerful promise that is America. Our challenge is to seize this critical moment of opportunity for our state and our nation. I believe in my heart it is a challenge we must meet, and one we will meet. Please make a contribution today, to help us keep Michigan "blue" in 2008. Thank you for all you have done and for all you will do to make this our moment.
Sincerely,
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POSTED 7/24/08 MOVED 8/6/08
"Select Michigan - it's good for you, our growers, and our state's economy" Granholm Visits Capitol Farmers' Market Underscores Benefits of Supporting Local Economy Encourages citizens to visit SaveMoney Web site for money-saving tips LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today visited the "Buy Fresh, Buy Local - Select Michigan" farmers' market on the State Capitol lawn to underscore the benefits of purchasing local agricultural products. Granholm said supporting local farmers' markets is a great way to ensure that money stays in Michigan and, in some cases, can be a money-saver for the consumer since local products aren't being shipped long distances, which can increase fuel costs that are passed along to shoppers. "Buying locally means consumers receive fresher, high-quality foods, and these local purchases support local farmers, agri-businesses, rural communities, and Michigan's economy," Granholm said. "In fact, if every Michigan household spent just $10 per week on Michigan-produced food, it would generate nearly $40 million each and every week in economic activity."
In her efforts to help citizens save money in the face of a tight economy, Granholm encouraged citizens to visit the SaveMoney feature on the state Web site, which offers an easy way to find a u-pick or farmers' market location based on product, county, or region. Earlier this month, Granholm unveiled the new feature that combines information from throughout state government into one, easy-to-find location at www.michigan.gov/savemoneyto help Michigan citizens save money. Michigan grows more than 200 agricultural commodities, making it the second-most diverse state in the nation and generating $63.7 billion for the state. Michigan has more than 160 community farmers' markets statewide, with more starting every season as the demand for local products grows. "Farmers' markets are an excellent way to experience the freshness, variety, and value of products grown and produced in our state," said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) director. "So, make sure to visit your local farmers' market to purchase more tasty Michigan products." More than 50 Michigan farmers and specialty food and agriculture producers displayed and sold their wares at the market. Patrons were able to purchase a wide variety of products from fresh Michigan fruits and vegetables to jams, honey, maple syrup, lamb, fresh baked goods, wool products, Lake Superior whitefish, and more. Farmers also sold a wide variety of cut flowers, annuals, perennials, and herbs. This event is the first of three special farmers' markets planned this year to promote the benefits of local foods. Special markets will also be held August 22 at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and on "Select Michigan Day" at the State Capitol in Lansing on September 18. This is the fourth year a Michigan farmers' market has been held at the Capitol. It was sponsored by MDA's Select Michigan Program and the Michigan Food & Farming Systems with funding from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, and additional support from the Michigan Farmers Market Association and the Food Bank Council of Michigan. For more information regarding the Michigan Farmers' Market Association, visit www.farmersmarkets.msu.edu. Information about the Select Michigan Program can be found at www.selectmichigan.org. Jeanne Lipe, MDA development specialist, at 517-373-9790 can answer questions concerning the upcoming special farmers' markets in Detroit and Lansing. |
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POSTED 7/19/08Granholm takes a ride on the busMichigan governor enjoys her morning trip to work.
THERE'S MORE -- GO TO THE SBT STORY POSTED 7/19/08 |
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POSTED 7/24/08 MOVED 8/6/08 Granholm: Dow Chemical and P.I.C. of Kuwait to Locate Joint Venture Headquarters in Michigan $11 billion joint venture to employ hundreds of workers
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, in a press conference with representatives of The Dow Chemical Company, today announced that The Dow Chemical Company of Midland and Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC) of Kuwait will locate the headquarters of their proposed joint venture, K-Dow Petrochemicals, in Michigan, pending final approval of state and local incentives. "For decades, Dow Chemical Company has been an important part of Michigan's economy by creating jobs and investing in our communities," said Granholm. "K-Dow, which will bring hundreds of jobs to our state, would rank in the top half of the Fortune 500 if it was publicly traded, and the fact that it will be headquartered here is good news for Michigan." The Dow Chemical Company is one of Michigan's leading corporations as well as being a world leader in the chemical industry with annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide. Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait is part of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and is part of the country of Kuwait's strategy to leverage its petroleum industry. The joint venture will manufacture and market polyethylene, ethyleneamines, ethanolamines, polypropylene, polycarbonate, and related technologies. "Like Governor Granholm, we are pleased that the headquarters of K-Dow Petrochemicals will be located in the great state of Michigan - home to The Dow Chemical Company for more than 110 years," said Dow Chairman and CEO Andrew N. Liveris. "This affirms that the state of Michigan is willing to work hard to attract new investment and jobs to our state." Michigan competed with Louisiana and Texas for this project. The proposed joint venture will be an $11 billion company, employing 800 people in Michigan over the coming years. "We are thrilled that Dow and PIC have chosen us as the headquarters site for their exciting new venture," Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO James C. Epolito said. "Michigan and Dow have enjoyed an outstanding working relationship for over a century, and we look forward to supporting job-creating projects like this that will diversify and grow Michigan's economy." The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life. For more information on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's initiatives and programs, visit the Web site at www.TheMEDC.org. |
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POSTED 7/19/08
This year, our country has an opportunity to close the door on the failed economic policies of the Bush administration by sending proven leaders like Mark Schauer to Congress to help turn our economy around. During his time in the State Senate, I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Mark on numerous projects that have helped put our workers and businesses on a level playing field to compete for 21st Century jobs. His bipartisan work with former Rep. Joe Schwarz in 2005 helped save the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base from Secretary Rumsfeld's base closure list, and just recently, I signed legislation that Mark shepherded through the Legislature to help retain and create hundreds of jobs in south central Michigan. Please join me in supporting Mark Schauer's campaign for change by clicking here and making a contribution of $50, $150, $250 or whatever you can afford. Mark's campaign has been targeted as one of the top challenger races in the country this year, and was placed in the highly competitive 'tossup' category this spring by Cook Political Report and Roll Call, two Washington news services. He has outraised Tim Walberg for three consecutive quarters, and with a critical filing deadline approaching tomorrow July 16th at midnight, we can help make it four in a row.. Please click here now to donate, and help me send a proven leader to Washington this year. Thanks for your support.
Governor Jennifer Granholm Paid for By Mark Schauer for Congress |
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POSTED 7/13/08 MOVED 7/24/08
Governor Granholm Highlights Energy Savings in State Facilities Across Michigan
July 10, 2008 SAGINAW - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that the state of Michigan achieved an 18 percent reduction in energy use at state facilities throughout Michigan during the last fiscal year compared to FY 2002. If this reduction had not been achieved, the state would have paid an additional $21 million in annual utility costs. Joining the governor for the announcement at the Jerome T. Hart state office building in Saginaw was Department of Management and Budget (DMB) Director Lisa Webb Sharpe who will receive an award this weekend in Philadelphia for Distinguished Service to State Government. The award will be presented by Governor Granholm on behalf of the National Governors Association. "Since 2003, we have implemented a number of efficiencies to reduce energy use in state government-owned facilities," Granholm said. "At a time when energy costs are going up, our costs have gone down because of some common sense practices coupled with new products and technology. Many of the cost-saving steps we have taken in our state facilities citizens can take at home." Granholm used the Hart state office building as a backdrop to highlight many of the steps the state has taken such as installing motion detectors and retrofitting light fixtures and reducing power to buildings at nights and on weekends. The Hart office building will soon feature a pilot thermal storage project that will freeze and store water at night to use in cooling the building during the day. Other DMB projects that have cut energy usage include: - installation of software that integrates building heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, lighting control, elevator monitoring, and energy management into one system that can be monitored and managed using a Web page. - a pilot program that replaced fluorescent tube lighting with LED lamps in the Escanaba state office building. The new lamps will reduce energy use by 10,000 kilowatt-hours per year and cut costs $1,000 annually. Each lamp provides the equivalent of 25 years of lighting. - installation of daylight harvesting ballasts in several state buildings. These fixtures control lights near windows. On sunny days, the lamps emit less light than on cloudy days. Lighting levels are consistent and unnoticed by occupants. Since 2003, Granholm has issued a series of executive directives aimed at cutting energy use in state-owned and state-managed facilities. The Department of Management and Budget instituted energy audits in all its buildings, installed energy-saving technology, and implemented conservation methods to achieve the savings. In an effort to help citizens save money, the governor last month announced a new feature on the state website designed to provide consumers with money-saving tips. The feature - www.michigan.gov/savemoney- combines information from throughout state government into one easy-to-find location and is part of the governor's continued efforts to help protect consumers' pocketbooks. |
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POSTED 6/29/08 MOVED 7/19/08
Governor Granholm Says Water Package Marks Defining Moment in Michigan History
"This is a defining moment in Michigan history," Granholm said. "We must do our part to ensure that our Great Lakes are protected and preserved for generations to come - this legislation fulfills that promise." Michigan will be the first state in the country to manage both surface water and groundwater as one interconnected system under the compact. The bipartisan package ratifies the Great Lakes Compact agreement that creates historic protections for the Great Lakes by banning diversions outside the Great Lakes basin with strictly regulated, limited exceptions. The compact ensures that in those limited circumstances where a diversion proposal can be brought forward for regional review, each Great Lakes governor has veto power based on criteria outlined in the compact. "I applaud Senator Patricia Birkholz and Representative Rebekah Warren for their excellent leadership on this issue," Granholm said. "The Great Lakes literally define Michigan, and this package that passed today represents the best of Michigan's spirit." The compact also requires each state to develop a comprehensive framework for managing the water resources in a sustainable way within their borders. The legislation passed today:
The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact, proposed under the Great Lakes Charter Annex Implementing Agreement, was signed in December 2005 by the governors and premiers of the eight states and two provinces that border the Great Lakes. Following the initial agreement signed in 2005, each state agreed to seek ratification through the legislative process. Congress must ultimately give its consent for the agreement to take effect. Governor Granholm has urged Michigan's congressional delegation to work with their colleagues from the region to ensure the compact is quickly ratified once final action is taken by all the Great Lakes states. |
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POSTED 7/4/08 MOVED 7/19/08 Granholm Bikes it to Work, Security in Tow
Governor outlines ways to save money. (From the South Bend Tribune) LANSING -- Gov. Jennifer Granholm is riding her bike to work a couple of times a week, an example of a way she says Michigan consumers can save money. The 49-year-old governor lives just southwest of the city center, about three miles from her office near the state Capitol. She rode her bike to work Wednesday, accompanied by her security detail. Granholm told reporters during a media round-table that the state has created a "Save Money" Web site to help Michigan residents find ways to share rides, find the cheapest gasoline and use alternative transportation. Granholm said the governor's residence already has energy-saving devices, but she plans to look for ways to generate electricity at the residence and to cut energy use even more. She noted that drivers can save money by driving slower and said lowering the speed limit "is something we should consider." She didn't say what the new lower limit should be. The current limit is 70 mph on most portions of Michigan's interstate highways. State Rep. Aldo Vagnozzi said Wednesday in a statement that he has introduced a resolution urging Congress to reduce the national speed limit to 55 miles per hour. The lower limit would save Americans money by reducing gasoline usage while saving lives and lessening U.S. dependence on foreign oil, the Farmington Hills Democrat said. THERE'S MORE -- GO TO THE SBT STORY POSTED 7/4/08 |
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POSTED 6/29/08 MOVED 7/13/08
Governor Granholm continues to work tirelessly to diversify Michigan's economy. One of the most promising areas the Governor has identified that holds the promise of thousands of new Michigan jobs is alternative energy. In her State of the State Address the Governor called for and has now signed into law, new tax credits for "anchor companies," which are the first of their kind in the nation. Under this program certain alternative energy companies can be designated as "anchor companies," making them eligible for additional incentives if they partner with the state to bring that company's suppliers or customers to Michigan. It's a win-win. A company like Hemlock Semiconductor, which is the world's leading producer of a key component of solar panels, could bring hundreds of new jobs from other solar companies and create a new Silicon Valley in the Saginaw Valley. The Governor is also working to capitalize on Michigan's incredible expertise in our world-class research universities by creating "Centers of Energy Excellence." These centers will bring university researchers on-site to a growing alternative energy company. The state's first Center of Energy Excellence will be centered around Mascoma -- a company that Governor Granholm today announced is going to build the country's first commercial cellulosic ethanol plant in Chippewa County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The Mascoma plant will be one of the first of its kind in the nation and is just the latest alternative energy investment that stands to put Michigan at the forefront of renewable, next-generation fuels. Long before the current run-up in gas prices, the Governor declared Michigan's intention to lead the nation in alternative energy production. That's why this week's announcement by the Massachusetts-based Mascoma Corporation was greeted with such excitement. You've probably heard the rush to produce billions of gallons of ethanol from corn has been pushing up the price of food, something no one wants. But Mascoma will produce ethanol that can power a vehicle from wood chips and other non-food related materials. This clean energy technology is critical to producing ethanol more quickly, efficiently and economically. And it's cleaner burning. Not only will this project bring as much as a quarter billion dollars in investment to the U.P.'s Chippewa County, it will create hundreds of jobs in logging and transportation as well as the construction jobs needed to make the plant a reality. Mascoma is just the latest alternative energy investment that stands to put Michigan at the forefront of renewable, next-generation fuels. During her recent investment mission to Sweden, the Governor announced that the Swedish-based Chemrec and the Ohio-based NewPage Corporation will partner in Escanaba to explore using waste from the region's paper industry to create clean, consumer-friendly fuel. That project is now underway. And in Flint, Swedish Biogas is working with Kettering University to take waste from the waste-water treatment process to create biogas that could be used to fuel our vehicles, too. All three projects are working to transform resources that are abundant in Michigan into alternative fuels. Michigan's economic strategy is to establish and advance high-tech industries that will accelerate sustainable alternative energy production and pave the way for new jobs for Michigan workers. Make sure to forward this exciting news on to your friends, and visit http://www.jennifergranholm.com/ for the latest on how Governor Granholm is moving Michigan forward! Thanks, Granholm Leadership Fund |
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POSTED 6/29/08
Granholm Says Mascoma Agreement Puts Michigan at Forefront of Next Generation Fuels Historic investment set for production facility in U.P.'s Chippewa County
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Mascoma Corporation CEO Bruce A. Jamerson today announced that the Massachusetts-based company has entered into a series of key strategic relationships to further Mascoma's efforts to build its first commercial-scale cellulosic ethanol plant in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Agreements with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), JM Longyear, and alliances formed with Michigan State University (MSU) and Michigan Technological University (MTU) will help bring the plant to Chippewa County, south of Sault Ste. Marie, where clean-burning, fuel-grade ethanol will be produced from wood fiber. The agreements build on Mascoma's decision announced last July to locate in Michigan. "Long before the current run-up in petroleum prices, we declared Michigan's
intention to lead the nation in
Mascoma's single-step cellulose-to-ethanol method, called consolidated bioprocessing, or CBP, uses advanced technologies to make ethanol from non-food based renewable sources such as wood chips and other biomass. The clean-energy technology is critical to producing ethanol more quickly, efficiently and economically. Mascoma chose Michigan for its first commercial-scale facility based on the vast sustainable forests and agricultural materials available and the expertise provided by JM Longyear. In addition, Mascoma will collaborate with MSU and MTU to develop and hone scientific processes that utilize Michigan feedstocks for cellulosic ethanol production. "Working with the state of Michigan, two of its leading universities, and JM Longyear on this significant project brings us closer to commercial scale production of biofuels that can promote energy independence, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulate regional economic development," Jamerson said. Since becoming governor, Granholm has been an advocate of growing an alternative energy and alternative fuel industry in Michigan. Under her leadership, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), led by President and CEO James C. Epolito, has worked with Mascoma to secure one of two locations in Chippewa County. Engineering work is underway to finalize the site that will be secured through a land swap under negotiation with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Yesterday, the Center of Energy Excellence (COEE) legislation was passed through the Michigan Legislature and with the governor's signature, Mascoma will be eligible for a $15 million grant to become Michigan's first Center of Energy Excellence. "There are great synergies in Michigan for Mascoma, not only in the ready supply of wood fiber across northern Michigan, but also great research institutions with a long-time focus on this science and our 21st Century Jobs Fund that is tuned to bringing job-creating alternative energy ventures to Michigan," Epolito said. "This new facility will mean more jobs in our agriculture, timber, and manufacturing industries while benefiting our environment and energy security as a nation," he said. Mascoma and Marquette-based JM Longyear, a leading natural resource company, entered into a strategic relationship to combine Mascoma's technology with JM Longyear's significant project development experience, including its recent $1.6 billion Minnesota Steel project and its deep natural resource experience. "Mascoma's revolutionary technology combined with site integration and innovative supply chain strategies position Michigan to lead the nation in the advancement of new, clean energy production and job creation," said JM Longyear CEO Stephen Hicks. Mascoma is collaborating with research partners globally to identify and patent additional biomass-to-ethanol technologies. MSU will provide expertise in areas primarily relating to pretreatment technology for cellulosic ethanol production and assistance with renewable energy crops that can be utilized by the biorefinery. MTU will contribute its knowledge of sustainable forestry management practices and access to its automotive engineering laboratories for analysis of the biofuels produced at the project site - part of its "wood to wheels" initiative. Prior to the announcement of its first commercial-scale production facility in northern Michigan, Mascoma announced a pilot project in Rome, New York, which is now under construction and will be completed by the end of the year, and a 2MMGY pre-commercial scale facility to be run on switchgrass in Tennessee. Last month, Mascoma announced equity investments by General Motors and Marathon Oil Corporation (NYSE: MRO) as part of a $61 million third round of funding. "Sustainable transportation fuels will be part of the infrastructure much sooner than most people expect," said Beth Lowery, GM vice president of environment, energy and safety policy. "It is exciting to see these latest moves by Mascoma to make next-generation biofuels a reality." "Collaborative, private-public partnerships such as this initiative on the part of the state of Michigan and Mascoma are integral to our ability to bring next-generation, environmentally friendly renewable fuels derived from non-food feedstocks out of the laboratory and into full-scale commercial production," said Cliff C. Cook, Marathon Petroleum Company senior vice president, supply, distribution and planning. About Mascoma Mascoma Corporation is a leader in advanced, low-carbon biofuels technology based in Boston, Massachusetts. Using proprietary microorganisms and enzymes developed at the company's laboratories in Lebanon, New Hampshire, Mascoma is collaborating with research partners globally to identify, patent and deploy a new generation of microbes and low-cost processes for producing advanced cellulosic ethanol technologies across a range of non-food feedstocks. Mascoma is developing demonstration and commercial scale production facilities in locations across the United States. For more information, visit www.mascoma.com. About the 21st Century Jobs Fund The 21st Century Jobs Fund is a $2 billion initiative conceived by Governor Granholm, approved by the Michigan Legislature, and administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to accelerate the diversification of Michigan's economy. For more information, see the MEDC Web site at www.michigan.org.
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POSTED 6/29/08 Governor Granholm Says Water Package Marks Defining Moment in Michigan History LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today applauded passage of legislation that will provide the Great Lakes with historic new protections and make Michigan a world leader in the scientific management of water. The legislation sets standards for sustainable water use within the state borders and marks Michigan's passage of the Great Lakes Compact, a multi-state agreement to protect Great Lakes waters from large scale withdrawals and diversions outside our region. "This is a defining moment in Michigan history," Granholm said. "We must do our part to ensure that our Great Lakes are protected and preserved for generations to come - this legislation fulfills that promise." Michigan will be the first state in the country to manage both surface water and groundwater as one interconnected system under the compact. The bipartisan package ratifies the Great Lakes Compact agreement that creates historic protections for the Great Lakes by banning diversions outside the Great Lakes basin with strictly regulated, limited exceptions. The compact ensures that in those limited circumstances where a diversion proposal can be brought forward for regional review, each Great Lakes governor has veto power based on criteria outlined in the compact. "I applaud Senator Patricia Birkholz and Representative Rebekah Warren for their excellent leadership on this issue," Granholm said. "The Great Lakes literally define Michigan, and this package that passed today represents the best of Michigan's spirit." The compact also requires each state to develop a comprehensive framework for managing the water resources in a sustainable way within their borders. The legislation passed today:
The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact, proposed under the Great Lakes Charter Annex Implementing Agreement, was signed in December 2005 by the governors and premiers of the eight states and two provinces that border the Great Lakes. Following the initial agreement signed in 2005, each state agreed to seek ratification through the legislative process. Congress must ultimately give its consent for the agreement to take effect. Governor Granholm has urged Michigan's congressional delegation to work with their colleagues from the region to ensure the compact is quickly ratified once final action is taken by all the Great Lakes states.
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POSTED 6/2/08 Granholm Encourages Business Leaders to Focus on Diversification, Education to Move Michigan Forward
LANSING -
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today called on business leaders attending the
Detroit
"I encourage leaders to be actively involved in three of the most critical issues we face in state government today," Granholm said. "Diversifying our economy and creating jobs, educating and training our students and workers, and lowering the cost of government in Michigan."
Granholm urged leaders to tune out those who try to cause divisions and instead focus on common sense solutions that all can agree on.
Granholm said that every child in Michigan needs to get a quality education. At a time when our kids need all the education they can get to get good jobs, there are tens of thousands of young people who never even earn a high school diploma.
To address this problem, the governor has asked the legislature to create a 21st Century Schools Fund that will replace large, impersonal high schools with small high schools that make sure students are prepared for success in college and the workplace.
Granholm stressed that Michigan continues to create jobs by diversifying the economy. The governor said that we need to make sure that Michigan becomes the center of the alternative energy industry developing in our country. With both concerns about global warming and rising gas prices this industry is going to grow in leaps and bounds. Granholm wants that growth and the tens of thousands of jobs it will produce to be in Michigan.
The governor said that by setting a Renewable Portfolio Standard for the use of alternative energy sources, Michigan can attract businesses that are creating these revolutionary new technologies. Twenty six states have a mandatory RPS and are attracting new jobs with it and so should Michigan.
Granholm also said that the cost of Michigan's Corrections system needs to be brought down. When sensible corrections reforms are enacted in Michigan, the savings can be used to support more police and fire officers in our communities. It's a much better way to keep our families safe.
"These three issues have two things in common," Granholm said. "They each address a critical problem we face in Michigan today and they each build on important achievements we have made over the last three years." The governor recognized that there is clearly more that needs to be done, but in order to get it done it will take unity to move Michigan forward.
The governor's weekly radio address is released each Friday morning and may be heard on broadcast stations across the state. The address is available on the governor's Web site at(www.michigan.gov/gov) for download, together with a clip of the quote above. The radio address is also available as a podcast on the Web site, as well as on iTunes and via RSS feed for general distribution to personal MP3 players and home computers. Links to the audio files and text of today's address follow.
GOVERNOR
JENNIFER M. GRANHOLM Full:
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/gov/Gov147_Full_236294_7.mp3
In my remarks, I encouraged these leaders to be actively involved in three of the most critical issues we face in state government today---Diversifying our economy and creating jobs, educating and training our students and workers and lowering the cost of government in Michigan.
I also urged my audience to tune out those who, for their own reasons, try to divide us.
Instead we need to focus on common sense solutions that we all agree on.
First, we need to ensure that every child in Michigan is getting a quality education. At a time when we know our kids need all the education they can get to get good jobs, we have tens of thousands of young people who never even earn a high school diploma.
To address this problem, I have asked the legislature to create a 21st Century Schools Fund that will replace large, impersonal high schools that fail, with small high schools that make sure our students are prepared for success in college and the workplace.
Second, we need to make sure that Michigan becomes the center of the alternative energy industry developing in our country. With both concerns about global warming and gas prices rising we know this industry is going to grow in leaps and bounds. I want that growth and the tens of thousands of jobs it will produce to be in Michigan.
By setting what's called a Renewable Portfolio Standard for the use of alternative energy sources, we can attract the businesses creating these revolutionary new technologies to Michigan. Twenty six states have a mandatory RPS and are attracting new jobs with it- so should Michigan.
Third, we need to bring down the cost of our Corrections system.
When we enact sensible corrections reforms in Michigan, we will be able to use the savings to support more police and fire officers in our communities. It's a much better way to keep our families safe.
These three issues have two things in common. They each address a critical problem we face in Michigan today and they each build on important achievements we have made over the last three years. In education, we are helping all our students prepare for success by setting high standards in our schools. We're helping them pay the costs of college with the $4,000 Michigan Promise Scholarship. In diversifying our economy, we've created the $2 billion 21st Century Jobs fund to bring technology and research based jobs to Michigan.
And when it comes to lowering the cost of government, we've enacted a host of reform measures that are bringing down the cost of public employee benefits.
There's clearly more we need to do, and to get it done, we need unity to move Michigan forward. Thank you for listening. |
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POSTED 6/2/08 Governor Granholm Signs Bill Protecting Military Service Members from Mortgage Foreclosure
LANSING -
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today signed a bill that protects military service
members from
"Military service members are protecting our families every day, the least we can do is protect their dream of homeownership," Granholm said. "When military service members return to their families and their communities here in Michigan, the last thing they should have to worry about is losing their home," Granholm said.
Public Act 138 amends the Revised Judicature Act by allowing a court to issue a stay on mortgage foreclosure proceedings for six months after the end of the individual's military service. Under the new law, mortgage servicers who attempt to sell or foreclose real estate that has received a stay from the court could be subject to a $2,000 civil fine.
"The men and women in the armed forces have enough to worry about during their time overseas," said Senator Dennis Olshove (D-Warren). "This will give veterans a fair chance to deal with their housing challenges and keep their homes after fulfilling their service commitments. These citizens answered the call of duty, and now we're answering their call for help."
This new law is just the latest action in the Granholm administration's efforts to help protect military members when they return home to Michigan from service. Last month, the Governor signed a bill that guarantees citizens who serve on active duty in the armed forces or National Guard the opportunity to get their jobs back upon their return from duty. The legislation allows qualified military personnel to file civil actions against employers if they are denied reemployment.
Senate Bill 749 (PA 138) was sponsored by Senator Dennis Olshove (D-Warren). The bill was given immediate effect. |
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POSTED 5/22/08 moved 6/2/08
Dear South County Dems, Thanks to
Governor Granholm’s tireless work to bring jobs to Michigan and diversify our
economy, five companies “Companies are choosing to invest in Michigan because of our competitive business climate, outstanding workforce, and our unmatched quality of life,” the Governor said about the announcement. The five companies expanding in Michigan chose our state over competing offers from states like California, Tennessee, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Indiana, proving that the Governor’s plan to diversify Michigan’s economy and create jobs is paying off. Since January 2005, the MEDC and the Governor have created or retained over 237,000 jobs as a result of targeted MEDC assistance. Here are some of the highlights of the announcement:
Stay tuned as Governor Granholm continues to go anywhere and do anything to create and retain Michigan jobs and diversify our economy! For the latest updates, visit http://www.jennifergranholm.com/, or follow govgranholm on Twitter. Thanks, Granholm Leadership Fund POSTED 5/22/08 |
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POSTED 4/28/08 Governor Visits Harvest Wind Farm
Harvest Wind Farm is a perfect example of how wind energy not only decreases our need to buy power from other sources, but how it can provide jobs in manufacturing and maintenance as well. Michigan is uniquely qualified in both the abundance of wind, and the capacity for manufacturing turbines. Michigan is the 14th-windiest state in the country. It also has a manufacturing base with more than 2,000 companies capable of making parts for wind turbines and other renewable-energy components. Michigan ranks second overall in combined wind generation and manufacturing potential, Granholm said. It can cost $300,000 to transport a wind turbine, one reason she wants to require that 10 percent of Michigan’s electricity come from wind and other renewable sources by the end of 2015. “They want to sell where they manufacture,” Granholm said of wind-component companies. The 53-megawatt, $90 million wind farm has 32 turbines shipped from Denmark that stand 240 feet tall, with three blades that are each 130 feet long. Eight full-time employees work at the farm. We have talked before about companies like Dowding Industries who have recently expanded to manufacture the components of wind turbines, installing them brings many benefits to the local community as well. Harvest Wind Farm’s 32 wind turbines near this small Thumb town have proven popular so far, adding $22 million in taxable value to Oliver Township’s tax base and bringing thousands of dollars in annual lease payments and royalties to family farms. Locals hope the wind farm, which could power a community of 14,000 homes, might become a tourist attraction.
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POSTED 4/13/08 Jobs Fund Competition to Diversify Michigan's Economy, Create Jobs
"The 21st Century Jobs Fund is the cornerstone of the most comprehensive and aggressive strategy in the nation to diversify our economy and grow high-tech companies," Granholm said. "Michigan has a gold mine of resources in technology and talent, and we are working to turn that innovation into good-paying jobs for our citizens."
The 21st Century Jobs Fund is a $2 billion, ten-year initiative proposed by Governor Granholm, approved by the Michigan Legislature, and administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to accelerate the diversification of Michigan's economy. The first round of funding resulted in the Strategic Economic Investment and Commercialization (SEIC) board awarding $126.3 million to 78 organizations. Those organizations, in turn, are doing high-tech research, commercializing new products, and creating new jobs.
Proposals in
this round focus on companies in the later stages of development that are ready
to create
"Michigan is undergoing an exciting high-tech transformation, and we are determined to keep the momentum going," Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO James C. Epolito said. "Focusing our resources on sustainable technology businesses poised to create new, high-tech jobs will have an immediate impact on our economy."
Funding will be based on a competitive, independent peer review process. Proposals will be scored and ranked based on commercialization merit, scientific and technical merit, management team strengths, and the ability to leverage additional funding. The peer review service provider, to be announced in May, will manage applications, assign reviewers to specific proposals, score proposals through the MEDC's electronic award management system, and make recommendations to the SEIC board for funding decisions. Awards, which will be in the form of loans or convertible loans at the discretion of the SEIC board, will be announced in early September.
"We look forward to building on the success of the initial 21st Century Jobs Fund competition and funding the most promising commercialization opportunities to help grow Michigan's high-tech economy," said Michael J. Jandernoa, chairman of the SEIC board and principal of Bridge Street Partners LLC in Grand Rapids.
The Request for Proposal (RFP) is available online at www.TheMEDC.org/21CBizPlan along with specifics on the application process. An application fee of $500 is required for each proposal and is due at the time of submission. Proposals must be submitted electronically and are due no later than 5:00 p.m. EST on June 4, 2008.
Questions regarding the RFP may be submitted to 21stCenturyJobs@michigan.org. Questions must be received by email no later than 2:00 p.m. EST on May 28, 2008. The SEIC board is responsible for administering grants and loans to support competitive-edge technology investments under the 21st Century Jobs Fund. The fund invests in competitive-edge technologies in the targeted sectors of life sciences, alternative energy, advanced automotive materials and manufacturing, and homeland security and defense. For more information on the 21st Century Jobs Fund and the MEDC, visit www.TheMEDC.org.
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POSTED 4/4/08 Save the Dream Bills
Signed
This is one tool that we are so happy to have the state help provide,” Granholm told 24 Hour News 8. “We’d like to see more action at the federal level to help us out in this.” … to be followed by a planned stop in Jackson, and later on in Detroit. The Save the Dream legislation will provide new refinancing options to people facing foreclosure. The bills signed today create two new refinancing options to protect home ownership – an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) refinancing option that will help citizens get into fixed-rate mortgages and a “rescue” program that helps those who have been behind in their payments in the past, but are current now. The new tools are part of the “Save the Dream” initiative that makes housing counselors available to homeowners and raises awareness about avoiding foreclosure. The Save the Dream products and programs are operated and funded entirely by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). MSHDA requirements will still need to be met to participate
in this program. Both initiatives are targeted at existing homeowners. To qualify for one of the new loan programs, homeowners must meet the same income and sales price limits that other MSHDA loan products require. Household income must be under $108,000, and the purchase price of the home cannot exceed $224,500. The initiatives will be funded by taxable bonds, and homeowners will be responsible for the full value of their refinanced mortgages. The original mortgage does not have to be a MSHDA loan; however, the homeowner must meet MSHDA requirements for the refinance product. This qualifying information is available from approved lenders and directly from MSHDA. For more details on the Save the Dream refinance programs and other services, a visit to www.michigan.gov/mshda will take seekers to MSHDA’s home page and the Save the Dream icon where up-to-date information about the loans, services, and MSHDA-approved lenders and certified counselors is available. There is also a consumer hotline that helps callers find a counselor locally. That toll-free number is 1-866-946-7432. Click on the icon below to go directly to the MSHDA “Save the Dream” web page, or call the number above for assistance.
You can read more about “Save the Dream” and other measures to help with mortgage foreclosure in our previous posts here, here, and here. |
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POSTED 3/20/08 Granholm Town Hall Meeting Video
I believe that this is the first time they have televised a show like this across the entire state. They did a good job down at WOOD, and I hope to see more in the future. GO TO VIDEO OF TOWN HALL MEETING THERE'S MORE - GO TO BLOGGING FOR MICHIGAN POSTED 3/20/08
POSTED 3/23/08
(From the South Bend Tribune and the AP) GRAND RAPIDS -- Michigan's winds, wood-product waste and shuttered factories could be used to create renewable and alternative energy sources as well as thousands of new jobs, Gov. Jennifer Granholm said this week. The state is "uniquely positioned" to take the lead in the development of renewable power and alternative fuels for transportation, she said during a town hall meeting that focused on energy and the economy. "This state's economy is the most challenged in the nation," Granholm said during the event, which was televised on all six of Michigan's NBC affiliates. "We have the highest unemployment rate in the nation and we've lost 400,000 manufacturing jobs since the year 2000. "This state, more than any other state, needs to focus on the basics: diversifying our economy to provide a job for every worker, educating our citizens from young to old, making sure that we have safe places to live and work for all of us, and health care for every citizen." She wants the Legislature to require that more of Michigan's electricity come from wind, solar and other renewable sources. Her proposed renewable portfolio standard would require that 10 percent of the state's power come from renewable energy by the end of 2015. Granholm, a Democrat, has said this would give businesses the certainty they need before building wind farms in Michigan and attracting thousands of jobs. Her administration also argues that in the long run, renewable energy is cheaper than energy generated by coal-fired plants because of the rising cost of coal and potential carbon dioxide restrictions in the future. There are 28 states with renewable portfolio standards, policies that require electricity providers to obtain a minimum percentage of their power from renewable energy resources by a certain date. "Michigan is so unique with its geography and history with the auto industry that we could leap ahead of those other states in creating jobs," she said. "We could replace those lost manufacturing jobs if we are focused, if our Legislature passes this bill." Some lawmakers oppose mandates and would instead prefer to create incentives for more green energy to be used. It is unclear whether a final deal can be reached soon because the issue is tied to controversial efforts to rewrite the law opening up monopoly utilities to competition in 2000. Legislators "are working together in a bipartisan kind of way to say, 'Is a renewable portfolio standard the way to go?'æ" said state Sen. Randy Richardville, R-Monroe, who was in the studio audience. "There's also several other alternative and renewable energy-type programs that we're looking at, and industries. I agree with the governor -- wind is one of them. But we've got others, all the way from algae and others that you would think were pretty far out there." When Ron Pavlichek, a tool-and-die worker from Mancelona, asked Granholm what could be done to retain manufacturing jobs in Michigan, the governor again steered the discussion to renewable and alternative energy. "If you look at this movement in the nation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they are looking for people who know how to manufacture wind turbines, people who know how to manufacture the components, who know how to do the machining," she said. "They're looking for available factory space because these wind turbines are so huge. "Michigan is so uniquely positioned to lead the nation in creating jobs in renewable and alternative energy. This could be a huge opportunity for us." THERE'S MORE -- GO TO THE SBT STORY POSTED 3/23/08 |
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POSTED 3/31/08
Radio
Address highlights programs that will help at-risk homeowners
- an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) assist program that will help qualifying homeowners who have an adjustable rate mortgage convert their mortgage to a 30-year, fixed-rate, conventional loan; and,
- the Rescue Refinance program that will help at-risk homeowners who have missed one or more payments by giving them the opportunity to get into a more affordable 30-year, fixed-rate, conventional loan.
"We've also
put into place a unique program dedicated to providing information on helping
families "save the dream," Granholm added. "Helping Michigan families in danger
of losing their homes is not only our priority, it is our duty."
GOVERNOR
JENNIFER M. GRANHOLM
Full:
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/gov/Gov138_Full_229558_7.mp3
That's why last fall, I proposed the Save the Dream legislation to help preserve home ownership for thousands of Michigan families threatened by foreclosure, and I'm pleased to report that thanks to bipartisan support in the Legislature, those bills have been sent to my desk, and I'll sign them into law next week.
These new laws will give existing homeowners new refinancing options through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.
First, we'll be able to offer an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) Assist program for qualifying homeowners who've got an adjustable rate mortgage. Homeowners will be able to convert their mortgage to a 30-year, fixed-rate, conventional loan.
A second program - the Rescue Refinance program - will help at-risk homeowners who've missed one or more payments by giving them the opportunity to get into a more affordable 30-year, fixed-rate, conventional loan. Both of these programs are targeted at existing homeowners who may be facing foreclosure.
Signing this legislation into law is just the latest in our effort to help Save the Dream of homeownership. In January, I met with representatives of the nation's leading mortgage servicers who, at our request, are taking steps to protect homeowners who are facing possible foreclosure.
They've agreed to hold down interest rates for many homeowners with adjustable rate mortgages who are making their payments on time and, in some cases, freezing the loan rate for up to five years; and they've agreed to offer advance notice to homeowners with sub-prime mortgages before their rates are scheduled to increase, so they can help homeowners avoid foreclosure.
These mortgage servicers are also committed to working with us to identify methods to help control neighborhood blight, which results from so many of these foreclosures.
We've put into place a unique program dedicated to providing information on helping families save the dream. If you or someone you know is facing the possibility of home foreclosure, you can access more information by calling toll-free: 1-866-946-7432; again, that's 866-946-7432, or by visiting: www.michigan.gov/savethedream.
Helping Michigan families in danger of losing their homes is not only our priority, it is our duty…
Thank you for listening. |
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POSTED 3/23/08 Granholm: No Worker Left Behind Initiative Critical
important victory in Lansing for Michigan
workers. A key subcommittee in the House of Representatives voted last week for
a $40 million appropriation to expand the governor's No Worker Left Behind
initiative, and the House passed the bill last night.
The governor's weekly radio address is released each Friday morning and may be heard on broadcast stations across the state. The address is available on the governor's Web site at ( www.michigan.gov/gov ) for download, together with a clip of the quote above. The radio address is also available as a podcast on the Web site, as well as on iTunes and via RSS feed for general distribution to personal MP3 |
LANSING
- Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today applauded passage of legislation that will
provide the Great Lakes with historic new protections and make Michigan a world
leader in the scientific management of water. The legislation sets standards for
sustainable water use within the state borders and marks Michigan's passage of
the Great Lakes Compact, a multi-state agreement to protect Great Lakes waters
from large scale withdrawals and diversions outside our region. 
Regional Chamber of Commerce's annual policy conference on Mackinac Island to
join with her in working on issues that are critical in moving Michigan
forward. The governor's weekly radio address highlights the Governor's remarks
that call for common sense solutions to some of the key issues facing state
government. 
This
week I had a chance to speak to business and civic leaders from southeast
Michigan who gather each year at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce's
annual policy conference on Mackinac Island.
the threat of mortgage foreclosure. The bill prevents foreclosure on future
home purchases for six months after the end of an owner's military service.
announced that they would be expanding and creating jobs in our state. In
addition, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Michigan State
Housing Development Authority will assist five redevelopment projects in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Troy, creating even more jobs and helping to
revitalize Michigan’s urban areas. Added together, 2,051 new jobs and $417
million in new investment will be coming to Michigan as a result of the
announcement. 
Harvest
Wind Farm is the state’s first commercial-scale wind project, operating 32
windmills in Huron County near Elkton in the Thumb area. The project was first
announced back in June of last year, and by January of this year the turbines
were up and running, selling power to Cadillac-based Wolverine Power
Cooperative. 
LANSING -
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced a second competition for 21st
Century Jobs Fund awards designed to diversify Michigan's economy and create
jobs. Applicants will be competing for up to $30 million to grow businesses in
the areas of alternative energy, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and
homeland security and defense. 
jobs. Proposals will be accepted only from for-profit companies that
demonstrate a viable and sustainable business opportunity in the
competitive-edge sectors of life sciences, alternative energy, advanced
automotive materials and manufacturing, and homeland security and defense.
Governor
Granholm is traveling the state today (4/2/08) to attend ceremonial signings of
the “Save the Dream” legislation recently passed by the Legislature. Grand
Rapids was the first stop, with various local legislators in attendance…
(From
