Business

ST.LOUIS (June 23, 2015) – In the Jackson area, Northwest Community Schools have been announced as a finalist in this year’s America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education program, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund. Northwest Community Schools are among the top districts in Michigan in the running for grants of $10,000 and $25,000. Earlier this year, farmers nominated their local public school districts to apply for Grow Rural Education grants. Once nominated, school districts were eligible to complete applications requesting funding for a specific math or science project that will enhance curriculum in their district. This year’s applications were again very competitive. A panel of math and science educators evaluated all of the applications and selected the strongest submissions as finalists. “Making it to this stage of the process is a great accomplishment that requires a lot time and effort,” said Michelle Insco, Monsanto Fund program officer. “There is still more to do before we announce our winning school districts, but this year’s finalists submitted impressive applications. The Monsanto Fund is grateful for their focus on improving math and science opportunities for their students.” Next, finalist applications will be reviewed by the Grow Rural Education Farmer Advisory Council. The Advisory Council, made…

June 22, 2015– Hiring a contractor is never easy.  And it’s even more nerve-wracking when you’re trying to clean up after a storm.  Whether you are cleaning up from high winds, downed trees or even a tornado, you need to take certain precautions when it comes to hiring a contractor.   When you find yourself in need of an improvement or repair, Better Business Bureau (BBB) Serving Detroit and Eastern Michigan recommends these tips you should consider before hiring a contractor or signing any contracts: • Stay calm. Although you may be anxious, especially after a storm, don’t be pressured into making an immediate decision. • Contact your insurance company first.  By contacting your insurance company first, you are able to determine what the insurance company will cover, who they recommend to do the repairs and what they need from you and/or your contractor to pay the claim.  Without that knowledge in hand, you may end up paying for the entire repair.   • Shop around. Get at least 3 estimates based on the same specifications and materials. • Verify credentials and reputation. Verify that any contractor you are considering is licensed, insured and, if required in your area, that they are registered to do the…

Jackson, MI – On May 26, 2015 Jackson BPW installed a new slate of officers for the 2015 Fiscal Year, starting June 1, 2015. The officers are: Angela Machnik, Secretary; Jodi Snyder, Treasurer; Marie Bonkowski, Vice President; and returning for her second year of a 2-year term is President Dana Ashlock. Monica Moser, CEO of the Jackson Community Foundation was the guest speaker, and Carolyn Gilg, BPW State Vice-President and Albion member, performed the installation. President Ashlock presented a theme for the year of “Vision & Vitality,” symbolized by the ginkgo leaf representing hope, resilience and longevity, and the peregrine falcon representing higher vision and knowledge. 2015 BPW Officer Affiliations President: Dana Ashlock, Program Director, Jackson Community Foundation Vice President: Marie Bonkowski, Dean of Health Sciences, Baker College of Jackson Secretary: Angela Machnik, Events Director at the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce Treasurer: Jodi Snyder, Owner of Acro Legal The Jackson BPW meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of every month at the Cascades Manor House at 12noon. A business meeting on the second Tuesday provides an overview of the workings of our organization.  Program meetings on the fourth Tuesday feature speakers on topics of interest to our members. www.JacksonBPW.org…

Jackson, Mich.— Jackson Area Career Center counselor Paula Freehling has been named Counselor of the Year by the Jackson Counseling Association (JCA). The award was selected through a voting process open to all members of the JCA, which includes 32 members representing each of the county’s 13 public high schools along with several other colleges and agencies. "This is great recognition for Paula and all her efforts to support students at the Career Center,” said Mark Pogliano, Career Center principal. “We are very fortunate to have Paula and the other counselors who understand the importance of career training, academic support, and postsecondary options for each of our students." Freehling started with the JCISD in 2001 as a Career Prep Coordinator before coming on as a counselor at the Career Center in 2003. “It was an honor to be recognized by my peers for this award,” said Freehling. “I truly enjoy having the chance to make a difference in students’ lives and help prepare them for success after the Career Center.” Nominations for the award are made by fellow counselors, and are based upon the recognition of qualities that include the counselor’s effectiveness, dedication to the position, and the level of…