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Public Health Emergency Order In Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic Procedures for Business/Entities Remaining Open Under Executive Order
The Washtenaw County Local Health Officer issues this Order pursuant to the Michigan Public Health Code, MCL 333.2453 as it has been determined that it is necessary to protect the public health from further spread of COVID-19 within Washtenaw County. As evidence for the need for these measures, the State of Michigan is under a “shelter in place” order as of March 24, 2020. As part of that order, certain businesses and entities may remain open because they provide essential services to sustaining or
Effective March 27, MDOT will not accept cash transactions for eastbound Blue Water Bridge customers
March 26, 2020 -- In accordance with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services' recommendations designed to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will not be accepting cash payment for any vehicles conducting essential travel via the eastbound Blue Water Bridge (BWB) to Canada. All commercial traffic will need to pay by prepaid commuter account cards or debit/credit forms of payment. MDOT encourages
Saint Joseph Mercy Health System to accept donated supplies for COVID-19 Support
CANTON, Mich. (March 24, 2020) – Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, which includes member hospitals St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor, St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, St. Joseph Mercy Livingston, and St. Mary Mercy Livonia, announced plans to accept much-needed hospital supplies from area businesses and the community to support St. Joe’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The following unused and unopened items are being accepted:PAPRsRegularmasksN95masksFace shieldsGownsHotglue
First Choice Coffee Services is Available for Your Coffee, Water and Paper Needs
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is the first and what seems like the only thing on our minds today. First Choice is here to ensure you that we’re still functioning in full capacity, while taking every measure possible to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our clients and employees. The First Choice website is being updated as new information is provided. To view the most up to date protective measures in place, click the link below: (www.firstchoiceservices.com) Understanding that a large portion of our clients
Software Product Development in a Time of Pandemic
The full economic impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic has yet to be determined. But even as I write (March 16, 2020) it’s become very clear it will be significant. How will the pandemic affect software product development? Since that’s what we do, it’s something I’ve given a lot of thought to. What advice should we give to our clients? How might we help them as trusted partners?Digital is Different Software products, and digital products more generally, are very different from physical products.
Washtenaw County Health Department Reports 7 Additional COVID-19 Cases
YPSILANTI, Mich., March 19, 2020 – Washtenaw County Health Department is reporting seven additional presumptive positive cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as of March 19, 2020 at 10:00 am. The total case count is now 14, doubling our previous total. There is evidence of community spread locally. Five of the new cases had no known contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19 or recent travel. The other two cases had recent history of domestic travel. All cases are in adults. Washtenaw County
Governor Whitmer announces SBA loans now available for small businesses impacted by COVID-19
LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced today the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved her request for a statewide Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration, opening the opportunity to small businesses to access low-interest loans from the SBA. “This designation unlocks critical financial resources for small businesses across the state impacted by the tough, but necessary steps we have taken to mitigate the spread of coronavirus here in Michigan,” Whitmer said.
Old National temporarily shifting delivery method to banking by appointment only & drive-thru in response to COVID-19
Starting Friday, March 20, ONB will see clients in its banking centers by appointment onlyDrive-thru banking will remain open and hours will not change This allows ONB team members to clean and disinfect surfaces after each appointmentAppointments during the first hour of each day will be reserved for clients 60 or older, or those deemed high-riskEvansville, Ind. (March 19, 2020) – Starting Friday, March 20, Old National will shift to appointment-only banking at all branch locations. This will enable
TheRide Announces Free Fares, Transit Center Closures in Response to COVID-19 Outbreak
ANN ARBOR, MI – With the serious situation regarding the spreading of Coronavirus (COVID-19), The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) has announced free fares on all fixed-routes and demand response services, transit center closures and reduced schedules effective immediately. “The health and safety of our riders and employees is one of our highest values. It is important that we take these crucial steps immediately to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” Matt Carpenter, TheRide
Governor Whitmer Working to Deliver Solutions for Small Business Impacted by COVID-19
Requests Statewide SBA Disaster Declaration to Unlock Access to Emergency Loans for Michigan BusinessesLANSING, Mich. – Following through on her commitment to find solutions to support small businesses across Michigan impacted by COVID-19, Governor Gretchen Whitmer today formally requested the U.S. Small Business Administration to issue an Economic Injury Disaster declaration for the state.“I understand that small businesses across our state are facing unprecedented challenges in the wake of the COVID-19
WASHTENAW COUNTY DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY TO ADDRESS COMMUNITY IMPACT OF COVID-19
ANN ARBOR, MI – Jason Morgan, Chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners declared a state-of-emergency in the county today, an act that allows him to shift resources quickly to assist residents, businesses and communities affected by the novel coronavirus. Washtenaw County Health Department remains the designated source for information on the COVID-19 situation locally. As new information becomes available, you can find it at www.washtenaw.org/covid19. “For the health and safety of all
State Provides Guidance to Employers Contemplating Potential Layoffs
LANSING, MICH. The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity today provided guidance to Michigan employers on how to avoid potential layoffs related to COVID-19. “We know that many families and businesses are and will experience economic pain as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said LEO Director Jeff Donofrio. “Through Governor Whitmer’s executive action and existing state programs, there are resources for employers affected by COVID-19. We are also strongly urging job providers facing work shortages
Puffer Reds welcomes new designer brand as it celebrates 40 years in business
Ypsilanti, MI (March 16, 2020) -- As part of a year long celebration of their 40th anniversary, community members, media, and local influencers are encouraged to check out the Puffer Reds website for an online event that will replace an instore event at Puffer Reds on Michigan Ave in Ypsilanti MI. Puffer Reds is an iconic footwear and streetwear retailer. The store has been a trusted source for the latest and greatest streetwear and music for the past 40 years. The family-owned business brings the
COVID-19 & Downtown Ann Arbor
During this tough time, it is important to support our downtown community businesses and their employees as best we can. The Main Street Area Association has put together webpages to offer some ideas on how to do so. Please share thisweblink (we will be updating every day) which includes:Restaurants that offer curbside pick-upRetailers offering shop on-line, to do some holiday or birthday shopping now! Fun Downtown things to do during this timePublic support from our businessesResources for employees and
Larcom City Hall to Close to the Public 5 p.m. Friday, March 13–Sunday, April 5
March 13, 2020 - The Washtenaw County Health Department has reported Washtenaw County's first two presumptive positive cases of COVID-19. As a result, and to continue efforts to slow the spread of the virus, the City of Ann Arbor will close Larcom City Hall to the public effective 5 p.m. Friday, March 13, through Sunday, April 5. These measures will not impact critical services such as drinking water, waste water, police, fire and emergency operations. “At this time, our top priority is slowing the
DTE Suspends Shutoffs / Extends Senior Program in Response to COVID-19
DETROIT, March 14, 2020 -- DTE Energy’s number one priority is the health and safety of our employees and customers. We make every effort, every day, to ensure we deliver energy to our more than 3 million customers. We have well established processes that provide financial assistance to hundreds of thousands of customers who, at times, need help to ensure their energy delivery is uninterrupted. In the face of this global coronavirus pandemic, we are on high alert to help those customers whose lives are
All Non-Essential Washtenaw County Operations Closed Through April 5, 2020
Ann Arbor, MI – Washtenaw County Administrator Gregory Dill announced today that all non-essential county operations will be closed through April 5, 2020 – The county is planning to open all departments for business as usual on Monday, April 6, 2020. “In order to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus, we’ve made the determination to close all non-essential county operations and ask all non-essential staff to stay home,’ said Administrator Dill, ‘this was not an easy decision, we are the safety net in
Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Order Temporarily Closing Bars, Theaters, Casinos, and Other Public Spaces; Limiting Restaurants to Delivery and Carry-Out Orders
LANSING, Mich. -- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-9, which temporarily closes theaters, bars, and casinos, and limits restaurants to carry-out and delivery orders. Under Executive Order 2020-9, effective Monday, March 16 at 3:00pm, the following places of public accommodation will be closed; restaurants, cafes, coffee houses, bars, taverns, brewpubs, distilleries, clubs, movie theaters, indoor and outdoor performance venues, gymnasiums, fitness centers, recreation centers,
COMCAST ANNOUNCES COMPREHENSIVE COVID-19 RESPONSE TO HELP KEEP AMERICANS CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET
Company Opens Xfinity WiFi Network Nationally for Free, Offers Unlimited Data for Free, Confirms Its Commitment to Connecting Low-Income Families PHILADELPHIA – March 13, 2020 – On the heels of offering new, low-income Internet Essentials customers two months of free internet and raising the speed of that program’s service to 25/3 Mbps, Comcast today announced additional steps to help ensure people stay connected to the internet as more schools suspend classes and companies encourage employees to work
St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor unveils The Saint John’s Bible, invites community to view handwritten and illuminated scripture
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (March 11, 2020) – St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor is opening its doors to community groups and individuals for a rare opportunity to view The Saint John’s Bible, the first completely handwritten and illuminated Bible since the invention of the printing press more than 500 years ago. The Bible was unveiled today during a noon prayer service held for staff inside the Main Lobby of the hospital. “The St. John’s Bible was created to raise peoples’ spirits and reconnect them with their faith
SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan
Beware of Phishing Emails Claiming to Have Updates or Remedy Information About the Coronavirus
Current events are worrisome enough without having to be on the lookout for cybercriminals (and just plain bad actors) taking advantage of concerns over the spread of COVID-19. Yet, we must continue to be vigilant. Hackers have always been quick to respond to tragic events and crises fueled by fear. When massive fires, tornadoes, earthquakes, or tsunamis occur and care agencies reach out via social media to solicit charitable donations, the hacker community is also there with their look-alike phishing
Rotary Club Campaign to Fight Summer Hunger Is Underway
Ann Arbor, MI (March 5, 2020)—The Rotary Clubs of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti are once again partnering with Food Gatherers—Washtenaw County’s food bank and food rescue program—to fight summer food insecurity. The Rotary Fights Summer Hunger Fund and Food Drive, which starts March 9 and ends March 20, involves more than 80 local businesses and organizations that are collecting funds and nonperishable food items from community members. The Club’s goal is to collect enough funds and food to provide 90,000 meals
Smoothie King Launches New Metabolism Boost Smoothies Just in Time for Summer Wellness Prep
Brighton, MI (March 9, 2020) – Summer is so close we can almost taste it! To prep for the warmer weather and festivities it brings, Smoothie King launched Metabolism Boost smoothies – designed to boost metabolism and help control appetite. To celebrate the newest menu addition and kick off summer prep, guests can “float” into Smoothie King on March 10 for a free 20 oz. Metabolism Boost smoothie when they bring in a pool float*. Metabolism Boost smoothies are made with clean ingredients and come in two
New Campground Options Available at MIS in 2020
BROOKLYN, Mich. (March 5, 2020) — Michigan International Speedway is adding two new campgrounds in 2020 to enhance the guest experience. The prime locations of the new campgrounds will allow guests convenient access to the fan plaza and grandstands at NASCAR’s Most Entertaining Track. The High Banks Campground includes: New 30 amp electric service and nonelectric 35’ x 45’ campsites allowing for tents, pop-up campers, RVs and motor coaches. The High Banks Camping Package that includes a campsite, two
Michigan Radio Named Public Radio Station of the Year
ANN ARBOR, Mich.— The Michigan Association of Broadcasters has recognized Michigan Radio as Public Radio Station of the Year for the fifth consecutive year. The recognition was announced Wednesday evening at the MAB’s annual Broadcast Excellence Awards held in Lansing. In addition to being named Station of the Year, Michigan Radio also received twelve “Best in Category” awards as well as threeMerit awards in recognition of the station’s hard news and feature reporting and news specials/public affairs
St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Saddle-Up Soirée to raise funds to elevate care in Livingston County
HOWELL, Mich. (March. 2, 2020) – On Saturday, April 18, more than 400 business leaders and community members will gather at Crystal Gardens Banquet Center in Howell for the 35th annual St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Soirée. Proceeds from the event, a western-inspired theme, Saddle-Up Soirée, will elevate care in Livingston County by supporting the ongoing Transformation project at St. Joe's Livingston and St. Joseph Mercy Brighton health center. "Each year we come together with local leaders to raise funds
The Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber voices its support for adding LGBTQ protections to Michigan civil rights law
LANSING, MI – The Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti (A2Y) Regional Chamber’s Board of Directors has formally endorsed the Fair and Equal Michigan campaign to add protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to the state Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights ACT. “Protecting everyone against discrimination is key to attracting and keeping some of the most talented people in the world. The Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and all of Washtenaw County benefit from the remarkable people who work and create jobs here, and we
