Sophia Kalakailo

The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s office announced a new Economic Justice Unit that will focus on wage theft, employee misclassification, labor trafficking, and consumer scams and fraud.

The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation announced it will contribute nearly $60 million over 10 years creating an endowment to provide permanent operational fund streams for 11 arts and culture institutions. Annual grants will also be distributed over nine years ranging from $100,000 to $700,000.

The Great Lakes are unusually warm. The high temperatures are to bring lots of snow this winter. But the warming of the Great Lakes poses longer-term threats too.

Emergency medical services are facing staffing shortages statewide, exacerbated by the pandemic. There are an estimated one thousand open emergency medical technician and paramedic positions in the state.

Some advocacy groups said there’s been an uptick in suspensions and expulsions compared to 2019. They cite behavioral changes as a result of students readjusting to in-person learning.

The district reports that it ended its fiscal year with a positive balance in its operating fund, or “General Fund,” for the first time since 2007.

To receive funds, childcare providers must apply and report the number of full-time and part-time staff between now and December 8. Full-time staff are eligible to receive $1,000 while part-time staff can receive $500.

Frances Walter was hired as the interim director of the new unit in April. The resolution makes her position permanent.

The historically Black college, Lewis College of Business, plans to reopen in Detroit under a new name and mission.

Taylor School District has the largest school bond proposal in the state at $130 million. Two dozen other communities also have school bonds on the ballot including Dewitt, Coldwater, Battle Creek and nearby Marshall.