Harbor's John Sellek, "The party suffers from “an overflowing basket of candidates who could be the (Dem AG) nominee.” The question is if Karen McDONALD can show her two opponents are minor-level candidates or if this is going to be a 2/3-way battle..."

Hundreds of people filled the stands at Grand Blanc High School Tuesday evening for what organizers called a night of reflection — honoring the 12 victims killed and injured in last month’s deadly attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Community members, first responders and local leaders came together to grieve, honor and begin healing.

“At 10:25 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28, evil came to our community,” said Grand Blanc Community Schools Superintendent Trevor Alward. “But tonight, we take back Grand Blanc by renouncing this act and celebrating our resilience.”

"The presentation Monday at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation in Grand Rapids was heartening to watch ... For those of us who love this state, the people who launched this Ford presidential foundation initiative spoke to us of what we once were — and can be again." 

The Festival Foundation has announced its Board of Directors for 2025-2026, including past National Cherry Queen Kelli Mengebier, now serving as president!

Harbor's John Sellek joined Gongwer News Service Michigan's and WDET 101.9FM's MichMash to discuss the state budget fight and recent developments in the 2026 race for governor. 

"This election cycle is going to be the formal kickoff to a gigantic AI explosion of creative video... Some of it's going to be funny. It's going to be poignant. It's going to be to tell a story in a different way than we've seen with real actors. And some of it is going to be questionable," said John Sellek, a Republican consultant with the firm Harbor Strategic. 

John Sellek of Harbor Strategic says parties are trying to spin the status of the economy to their advantage. That’s why Vice President JD Vance was in Howell last week pitching the positive impact of Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill on working families, and why Democrats are whipping up hysteria about the budget cuts.

"God has been good to America, especially during difficult times. At the time of the Civil War, he gave us Abraham Lincoln. And at the time of Watergate, he gave us Gerald Ford. The right man at the right time who was able to put our nation back together again,"

"At the Ford Museum here, we're trying to teach young people. We have programs to teach young people about principled leadership, character and integrity, civil discourse, and how to engage civically."

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In celebration of the 50th anniversary of President Gerald R. Ford's 1974 inauguration, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation launched a $12 million "FORD50" campaign to advance civic education locally, statewide and nationally, according to foundation officials.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of President Gerald R. Ford's 1974 inauguration, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation launched a $12 million "FORD50" campaign to advance civic education locally, statewide and nationally, according to foundation officials.

Leaders from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation unveiled a multi-million dollar investment on Monday. It's called the Ford50 campaign, in honor of the 50th anniversary of President Ford’s inauguration in 1974.

“This was Dad’s style of public service, was to meet in the middle and find some compromises; to listen; to have that principled leadership, that character, that integrity,” Ford’s son, Steve Ford, said. “This is just a continuation of the good work Dad started years, decades ago with this museum and foundation and to help educate young people on how to be a public servant.”

"In a time of deep national division, the legacy of President and Mrs. Ford offers a much-needed example of character-driven leadership," said Gleaves Whitney, executive director of the Ford Presidential Foundation. "With the support of the FORD50 Campaign, we can bring their ideals to new generations and build a future rooted in civic responsibility and mutual respect."

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation on Monday, Aug. 25, launched the Ford50 Campaign, a $12 million fundraising initiative to expand its civic education program during a time of intense political strife.

“In a period of national divisiveness, now is the time to teach more people the qualities of character that President and Mrs. Ford exhibited — cooperation, bipartisanship, civil discourse, patriotism, decency, and integrity," the foundation shared on its website.

Lucy Ann Lance is joined by Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Ford Presidential Foundation - The Gerald R. Ford Foundation has launched the $12 million Ford50 campaign for civic education, honoring 50 Years of President Ford’s legacy championing integrity and public service.

"First, he was the Terminator, then the Governator. Now Arnold is the statesman. It's quite the progression.",

Ron Brenke, Executive Director of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan, spoke with Michael Patrick Shiels about the ACEC’s new effort to tackle the road funding crisis. 

“Right now, only the most immediate, urgent crises are getting attention,” said political strategist John Sellek of Harbor Strategic Affairs in Lansing. 

“The sad thing about so many environmental issues is that they’re more like slow-moving disasters…but that doesn’t mean it’s not a disaster.”

Steve is joined by Ron Brenke, Executive Director of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan, to discuss a new grassroots effort connecting Michigan motorists directly with state senators to address the state’s crumbling roads. This initiative aims to tackle the road funding crisis head-on, bringing the people most affected into the conversation.

ACEC/Michigan will connect thousands of Michigan residents with their legislators through its new "Engineering Solutions for Michigan's Road Funding Crisis" project

“As both an expert in the field of aggregate mining and a leader in the fight for public policies that allow us to serve the needs of Michigan’s economy, Dan was a natural choice for this award," said MAA Executive Director Doug Needham. “Dan’s contributions and efforts have been vital to the growth of our industry."

"For people with an average risk for colorectal cancer, there are new non-invasive options, such as the Shield blood test, which was recently approved by the FDA. It can be completed at any healthcare provider visit and is covered by Medicare and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Community Care Network."

“We always want to be working toward finding solutions that give workers of all kinds an opportunity to succeed,” said Gov. Wes Moore. “Maryland looks forward to seeing the results of this innovative pilot program."

Strategy-wise, many third-party groups are jumping in early to define or defend in swing seats, said John Sellek, a Republican consultant with the firm Harbor Strategic in Lansing.  "McDonald Rivet's seat is trending away from Democrats, but she was a very strong candidate in 2024," Sellek said.

“After she uses the international credentials of being an ambassador, she’s gotta turn and start talking about the stuff that people are really worried about,” Sellek said.

"Mid-Michigan NOW's Mike Woolfolk spoke with Kat Paye, the Executive Director of the National Cherry Festival and Tessa Nico, the 2025 Cherry Queen about the upcoming event."

Executive director Kat Paye and Cherry Queen Tessa Nico talk with Good Morning Mid-Michigan about the upcoming National Cherry festival.

“More than 75 million tons of carbon dioxide are emitted annually in Michigan for more than 200 facilities. And the state has capacity to import even more than that. So, you know, this is a big deal and it's our responsibility to get it right.”

"And the more that we can keep our heavy industry and keep our heavy industry competitive on an international and a domestic scale, the more jobs we can keep in Michigan and the more folks in my union and other unions like mine that can continue to be employed."
 

"The best way to celebrate is by helping the working poor. We're providing a whole month of food, courtesy of DoorDash." 

"When it comes to tart cherries, Michigan is in a league of its own, growing some 75% of the tart cherries nationwide. This cash crop is the main attraction." 

“Our goal is to keep the charm while maintaining vibrancy and resilience,” said Brenda McClellan, vice president of investor engagement at Traverse Connect.

"It's clear to see how much effort the kids put into participating in this, so it's a lot of fun to watch," said Avid Regalbuto, National Cherry Festival ambassador.

Grant emphasized the resilience of the cherry community, stating, "There's a lot of things that still go right in this industry. We still put cherries in the tank. We still grow fruit in this beautiful place."

Traverse City Tourism CEO Trevor Tkach said he noticed an increase in visitors from the festival's opening day on June 28th through the July 4th weekend. "We saw a significant bump starting Wednesday, growth on Thursday, and then the Fourth of July fell on Friday," highlighted Tkach.

“Few would take this effort seriously if it were anyone else but he has disrupted several industries and he is the richest dude on the planet,” Sellek said.

"Three of those who were injured during a shooting on Michigan State University's campus have reached a financial settlement with the East Lansing school, their respective lawyers announced."

"Three victims of the Michigan State University campus shooting have reached settlements with the school totaling nearly $30 million, according to their attorneys."

"A $14.25 million settlement was reached for Nathan Statly, and Troy Forbush received $2.5 million, attorneys Mick Grewal and Scott Weidenfeller of Grewal Law said in a statement."

"More than two years after a shooting at Michigan State University, attorneys for three survivors have announced a $29.75 million settlement with the school."

"Three shooting victims have reached multi-million-dollar settlements with Michigan State University. This is in relation to the February 2023 shooting on the school’s campus. Officials announced that they reached $29.75 million in settlements on behalf of three survivors."

"Tuesday morning, Grewal Law and Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman Attorneys announced a settlement of $29.75 million was reached on behalf of three survivors of the mass shooting on Michigan State University’s campus in 2023."

"Settlements have been reached between Michigan State University and three survivors of the 2023 mass shooting on Michigan State’s campus. Attorneys for Nathan Statly, Troy Forbush, and Yukai “John” Hao said the settlements total $29.75 million."

"Attorneys Mick Grewal and Scott Weidenfeller, of Okemos-based Grewal Law, and William Azkoul, of Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman law firm in Grand Rapids, announced the settlements June 10 for three of the five people wounded in the shooting."

Attorney Mick Grewal discusses today's announcement of a settlement between MSU & three victims.

"Three students injured in the 2023 mass shooting on Michigan State University’s campus will receive $29.75 million from the school as part of a settlement, attorneys representing the students announced Tuesday, June 10."

"Michigan State agreed to a $14.2 million settlement with Nathan Statly; $13 million with Yukai “John” Hao; and $2.5 million with Troy Forbush, according to lawyers at Grewal Law and Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman."

"Three people were killed and five others were wounded when a 43-year-old gunman opened fire in two campus buildings on Feb. 13, 2023, Campus Safety previously reported. Killed in the shooting were students Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser, and Alexandria Verner. Injured in the shooting were students Guadalupe Huapilla-Perez, Hanyang Tao, Yukai “John” Hao, Nate Statly, and Troy Forbush."

WWJ's Charlie Langton breaks down the near $30M settlement with students who were injured in the 2023 MSU mass shooting.

"The law firms representing the three survivors announced they had reached a multi-million dollar settlement agreement with MSU on Tuesday, June 10. The three students each sustained life-altering gunshot wounds in the Feb. 13 shooting and their settlements totaled $29.75 million."

"More than two years after the mass shooting that left three students dead and five critically injured at Michigan State University, three survivors have reached a nearly $30 million settlement with the university."

"Michigan State agreed to a $14.2 million settlement with Nathan Statly; $13 million with Yukai “John” Hao; and $2.5 million with Troy Forbush, according to lawyers at Grewal Law and Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman."

"Michigan State University has reached settlements worth about $30 million with three students who survived a mass shooting in 2023, attorneys said Tuesday."

"Strategy-wise, many third-party groups are jumping in early to define or defend in swing seats, said John Sellek, a Republican consultant with the firm Harbor Strategic in Lansing."

"By all accounts, voting on May 6 was secure and safe, with Michiganians making their voices heard in support or opposition to funding for local schools, public safety, parks and more."

"There’s been “rhetoric and attempts around ‘tax the rich’ or graduated income tax in the past and if it was popular, we would already have one,” said Sellek, who worked on Republican Bill Schuette’s 2018 campaign for governor."

A new FDA-approved blood test, the Shield test, is available for colon cancer.

"After traveling across Lake Michigan on the SS Badger, Nico and her traveling party headed to Door County to see where 95 percent of all tart cherries grown in Wisconsin are produced."

NCF Queen Tessa Nico visited Green Bay, Wisconsin and Door County's Soren’s Valhalla Orchards cherry farm in advance of the 99th National Cherry Festival this July!

"In Michigan, Medicaid is a lifeline, covering 23 percent of the population and three in eight working-age adults with disabilities across the state."

The stakes are high in Michigan, where 2.6 million people receive some form of assistance through Medicaid, a costly safety-net program that provides billions of dollars in crucial funding to hospitals, clinics, mental health providers and nursing homes, among others.

Harbor's John Sellek joined Jamie, Lloyd, and Chris on WJR Radio to discuss Rep. Joe Tate's entrance into the Democrat MISEN primary and what it means for that race.

Skilled trades leaders are actively working to create more opportunities in trades and engineering for Detroit’s youth.

The Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan provided hands-on experience to students at this year’s Detroit Construction Science Expo.

"Nearly half of all children in Michigan are covered by Medicaid, and in 2024, 45% of all babies born here relied on the program. In many rural counties, Medicaid covers the majority of births, making it crucial for keeping birthing services open in those communities."

"Alpena Power says it has already incurred about $2.5 million in costs in its response to the late-March ice storm "

"Before he had even yet announced, James got support from 46% of respondents in a January survey of likely GOP voters from Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, outpacing other GOP candidates by at least 40-percentage points."

"Speaking with Capitol reporter Tim Skubick, Harbor's John Sellek said that "John James is a star in the Republican party and starts off with a big advantage in the GOP primary."

Democrats ran in 2022 on cutting spending and taxes but now are opposing DOGE. It's whiplash for voters who want to see Washington right-sized. 

"United Way of Marquette County has partnered with DoorDash to deliver food from local pantries to residents in need. The free delivery system derives from the Project DASH Initiative."

"Bishop co-launched the Democracy Defense Project with former Michigan Lt. Gov. John Cherry Jr., a Democrat, and other leaders. They say respect and tolerance need to come to the forefront when it comes to the election process so that public perception changes."

John Sellek joined Glenn Stevens of the Detroit Chamber preview Gov. Whitmer's State of the State live from Acuitas in Lansing.

John Sellek, who worked for two attorneys general, discusses the confirmation of the new FBI director with Kevin Dietz on WJR: "The resume has plenty to qualify him by DC standards. And all Trump picks are loyal. On partisanship, look no further than MI's attorney general nomination system & the open partisanship of folks like AG Nessel. Agree or disagree with the politics, but it's already baked in."

“There’s one thing about Muskegon: they’re proud of their history, and that is across the board no matter what community you live in and, across the board, they want to see their history preserved.”

"Voters in Muskegon County will decide on a millage in May that would expand the Muskegon Museum of History and Science."

Muskegon voters to decide on millage that would improve Muskegon's Museum of History and Science.

"Brinks had, 'acknowledged the overwhelming voices of tipped workers wanting an adjustment to the law and took their message to heart,' said John Sellek, spokesman for Save MI Tips. 'All laws need amendments from time to time and that's what good legislators do — listen and adjust. We are very thankful for her willingness to listen and lead on this issue.'

Governor Gretchen Whitmer is calling to delay the tipped wage and sick time law until July, citing concerns from both wait staff and small business owners ahead of its scheduled February 21 implementation. “This would create more space for the House and Senate to continue negotiations while we work on the budget,” Whitmer said in a statement.

"Sellek, spokesman for Save MI Tips, said Whitmer: ‘can be effective for tipped workers from any location but we definitely need her leadership in this process. We are counting on her.’”

"John Sellek said a U.S. senator has probably the best job in U.S. politics. Unlike a governor, who is limited to two 4-year terms, senators can serve unlimited 6-year terms. Sellek explained, 'you can be on all the Sunday shows you want. You're living your best life, really.'"

John Sellek joined Michigan's Big Show to discuss Sen. Peters' decision not to seek a third term: "The only times people younger than Peters involuntarily left either had a health condition or were committed to prison. It doesn't happen & that should be eye-opening for a lot of reasons."

"'What the Democrats are now going to have to try to do is separate out all those good candidates and see if they can get them to avoid challenging each other in a primary,' said John Sellek of Harbor Strategic."

Harbor CEO John Sellek joined WJR Radio to discuss the legislative focus on the tip credit and the Senate's upcoming negotiations. "Both the Senate and the House put the tip credit at the top of their lists, so we are optimistic this will get done," said Sellek.

By announcing $1 million in fundraising so soon after announcing his candidacy, Nesbitt is demonstrating that he's a serious candidate, said John Sellek, chief strategist at Harbor Strategic. "To flip the switch on to get this million in the door is impressive," Sellek said.

Rep. John Roth testified on behalf of HB 4001, which preserves the tipped minimum wage. Roth said it was critical to find a way to make tipped wages work for employees. "Changes mandated by the Supreme Court decision will have a catastrophic impact on many small businesses, particularly restaurants, which operate at razor thin profit margins. This would be a real detriment if this is not fixed," Roth said. "We need to be looking out for them."

“It doesn’t matter if you’re in Monroe or Marquette, Detroit or rural Michigan, it impacts everybody, it hits everybody hard, which is why it’s important that we fix it," said Representative Bill G. Schuette (R-Midland).

"Tipped workers have been speaking up about the changes since they were announced last July. With the beginning of the new legislature, lawmakers are pushing hard to pass a new law to set different rates before the changes kick in. At the bill’s committee hearing, 50 testimony cards were submitted, but only three against the legislation were heard."

"We're here today because there is a looming cliff our state is racing toward. And on February 21, our restaurant workers our family owned small businesses and the future of literally thousands of jobs in our state will pay the price if our legislature does not act," said committee chair Rep. Bill G. Schuette.

Several restaurant workers and owners asked lawmakers to keep the current tipped wage system in place during a special committee hearing in Lansing on Tuesday morning.

Restaurant owner Marianne Hayoz testified in support of the bill, telling lawmakers the only way she could afford to comply with the coming changes is to raise her cafe’s prices and add service fees.” “This is something that I don't want to do, but unfortunately, there's no other option,” she said.

"Several restaurant workers testified that the law, which is set to replace the lower tipped wage with a minimum wage, would be detrimental to their take home pay. 'Good hard working people will lose their jobs,' said Marianne 'Lu' Hayoz, a restaurant worker from Walker in suburban Grand Rapids. 'Doors will close. All for something we never asked for.'"

Tammy Upchurch, a server in Midland, expressed concern over losing tips that significantly supplement her income. “This would destroy anybody making 30, 40, or 50 dollars an hour sometimes,” Upchurch said. “The wage we’re paid is overly compensated by the tips we earn. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.”

John Sellek is the spokesperson for the sexual assault survivors group: Justice for Survivors. "Because so far in their view the law protects the abuser and keeps the survivor from being able to access the courts, to access justice, to come forward," Sellek said.

Grand Blanc Township will not be defined by this horrific act of violence, but by how we come together. We will be defined by our compassion, unity and how we care for every person who has been touched by this tragedy.

“Our diverse community has suffered an unthinkable tragedy. Yet since September 28, we’ve also seen the strength of our community as we come together,” Bennett said. “The Grand Blanc Better Together Community Reflection will help unite our community in the spirit of support, healing, and care.”

Big win for Michigan! In a rare display of bipartisanship, lawmakers advanced carbon capture legislation that puts our state in the driver’s seat for regulating & permitting projects. This paves the way for cleaner industries, stronger communities, and a more sustainable future.

Of Michigan voters surveyed, nearly 76% said they believe the November 2024 election was conducted fairly and accurately. Even more striking, trust in local elections has surged to 88%, up from 78% before the November election, according to poll results. 

"Michigan lawmakers just took a major step toward building cleaner energy infrastructure — and they did it with support from both sides of the aisle... If the House passes the bills and the governor signs them, Michigan will join other states already using carbon storage to cut pollution and improve air quality."

WDIV’s Dr. Frank McGeorge tests the new FDA-approved SHIELD blood test for colon cancer and speaks with Guardant Health’s Dr. Sam Asgarian about its benefits and the future of colon cancer screening.

The Insider report's "Tweet of the Week," recognizing a social media post that was worthy of attention or, possibly, just a laugh, from the previous week goes to John Sellek, Republican political consultant and CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs.

"While MISEN Elissa Slotkin says Democrats must "go nuclear" in the redistricting wars, MIGOV Gretchen Whitmer takes a pass on following Gavin Newsome's plan. Harbor's John Sellek talked to Paul W. Smith on WJR."

Mike Ford, President of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and Son of President Gerald Ford and Betty Ford, joins Kevin after community leaders unveiled a multi-million dollar investment to help shape the future of public discourse.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of President Gerald R. Ford's 1974 inauguration, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation launched a $12 million "FORD50" campaign to advance civic education locally, statewide and nationally, according to foundation officials.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation on Monday, Aug. 25, launched the Ford50 Campaign, a $12 million fundraising initiative to expand its civic education program during a time of intense political strife.

“In a time of deep national division, the legacy of President and Mrs. Ford offers a much-needed example of character-driven leadership,” said Whitney. “With the support of the FORD50 Campaign, we can bring their ideals to new generations and build a future rooted in civic responsibility and mutual respect.”

“Americans are hungry for civility, a return to decency and respect. They know there are going to be sharp partisan differences. That’s the rough-and-tumble of democracy, that’s American politics. If you go back to 1776, go to the founding of our country, there were people who hated each other, but they were able to work together,” Whitney said.

Education programs at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum are going to be available nationwide over the next five years. Community leaders announced the expansion Monday.

"We seek to have a transformational impact on our national conversations, generationally, demographically, geographically, and culturally. We dare to dream big. We dare to dream bold," said Ford Presidential Foundation Executive Director Gleaves Whitney.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation has launched a 12$ million FORD50 campaign for Civic Education. We talk to Director Gleaves Whitney about this honoring of the 50th anniversary of Ford's time in the Oval Office.

Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, discusses how President Ford’s legacy of civility and bipartisanship in the 1970s offers lessons for today. As America faces deep divides, the Foundation is working to improve civility in our political landscape through education and experience, carrying forward Ford’s mission to help heal the nation in the 2020s.

Spotlight on the News will focus on history, civic education, principles, and courage. Our guests will include Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.

Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford Foundation, with details on the national initiative honoring the 50th Anniversary of the Ford Presidency.

"Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan continues to turn heads in his bid for governor. John Sellek of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs had a smart take this week."

ACEC/Michigan Executive Director Ron Brenke joined All Talk with Kevin Dietz to discuss the new Engineering Solutions to the Road Funding Crisis project, which connects motorists directly with their state senators to share how Michigan’s road crisis impacts them. 

Ron Brenke talks a new effort to tackle the road funding crisis.

A group of Michigan engineering companies is launching a "direct citizen contact" effort, pushing Michiganders into calling on Senate Democrats to put forward a road funding proposal. They hope phone calls will lead to lawmakers staying at the bargaining until a 2025 road funding deal is complete

Sellek tied Hall's approach back to his path to the state House. "He is not somebody who very carefully ran for school board and then ran for city council and then ran for House. He actually moved and challenged a sitting representative and beat him," Sellek said. "And he carries that same swagger and fearlessness into what he's doing now."

“Township officials made clear that ongoing operations are in compliance and that we continue working together to resolve this situation in a positive way for everyone involved,” said Sellek, MMM spokesperson.

“How could it be that $20 million of taxpayer money could be potentially completely lost, some of it’s already gone, and no one’s responsible? That’s hard to believe,” said John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs. “And this is where an attorney general comes into play, because it’s their job, ultimately, to be Michigan’s top cop.”

“Both parties will spend the rest of the year unpacking what's in the One Big Beautiful Bill. Democrats have the lead on messaging at the moment ― in part because the GOP had to focus on passing the complicated package, said Sellek.

However, the decision to delay implementation of the cuts to Medicaid, the health care program for low-income residents, and SNAP until after the midterms could make it difficult for Democrats to keep up the level of "angst" with the election more than a year away, said Sellek of the firm Harbor Strategic.”

"Sellek, a former press secretary to two AGs, said that a "no comment" approach was inevitable once Nessel raided the MEDC.

"I have one word to explain this," he said. "Lawyers."

Dixon and Kellogg's out of Michigan's future?

John Sellek and Michael Patrick talked about the impact of Tudor Dixon not running in 2026 and the sale of Kellogg. Time for a comforting, if carb-laden, bowl of Rice Krispies!
 

"The National Cherry Festival in Traverse City kicks off on June 28th and runs through July 5th. For details and more visit, cherryfestival.org."

"Business, labor and other interests are mobilizing in support of pending legislation designed to spur a nascent industry in Michigan — one to capture, store and utilize planet-warming carbon dioxide."

"And the more that we can keep our heavy industry and keep our heavy industry competitive on an international and a domestic scale, the more jobs we can keep in Michigan and the more folks in my union and other unions like mine that can continue to be employed."
 

"We're grateful to DoorDash, we will distribute over 7,000 pounds of food to over 500 families," 

“It has been an honor to serve the residents of East Lansing on council and as mayor,” Brookover said. “Hopefully those elected in the future will strive to bring our diverse community together rather than seek division. I sincerely thank East Lansing residents for the opportunity to serve and lead.”

"Traverse City’s signature festival is here at last, and there’s a lot that goes into this annual celebration before, during and after the big week itself. Northern Express checked in with the folks at the National Cherry Festival to provide a glimpse at the festival by the numbers."

"And really what we're demonstrating is not just the capability of this jet, but again the demonstration, we're demonstrating the capability of all of the maintainers that we bring with and the team to be able to generate the sortie that we're going to for you all."

"Executive director Kat Paye gives us an update on all the festivities and more information on the two upcoming National Cherry Festival parades."

Now known as the “cherry capital of the world”, Traverse City’s National Cherry Festival draws 500,000 visitors over eight days to this picturesque Lake Michigan beach town.

"What is virtually guaranteed is that Democrats are already seeking out and recording people who will lose Medicaid coverage for social media and paid advertising in swing seats," Sellek said.

"In a significant legal development, Michigan State University (MSU) has reached a settlement totaling $29.75 million with three students who survived the mass shooting on its campus on February 13, 2023."

"Three people who were injured during a February 2023 shooting on the Michigan State University campus have reached a financial settlement with the university."

"Three survivors of the Michigan State University shooting have reached settlements totaling $29.75 million, according to Grewal Law and Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman."

"Multiple news outlets are reporting three students injured in the 2023 mass shooting on Michigan State University’s campus have reached settlements with the school. News 8 sister station WLNS-TV says the three students will receive a combined total of $29.75 million."

"Three victims of the on-campus mass shooting at Michigan State in 2023 have reached settlements with the university totaling nearly $30 million."

"Three students who survived being shot in the 2023 Michigan State University shooting reached nearly $30 million in settlements with the school, the law firms representing them announced Tuesday."

Three victims of the on-campus mass shooting at Michigan State in 2023 have reached settlements with the university totaling nearly $30 million.

"Three of the five injured, Nathan Statly, Troy Forbush, and Yukai “John” Hao, reached settlements with the university totaling $29.75 million."

"Attorneys Mick Grewal and Scott Weidenfeller of Grewal Law and William Azkoul of Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman announced today that they have reached settlements totaling $29.75 million on behalf of three survivors of the on-campus shooting that took place at Michigan State University in 2023."

"Three students injured in the 2023 mass shooting on Michigan State University’s campus will receive $29.75 million from the school as part of a settlement, attorneys representing the students announced Tuesday, June 10."

"Michigan State University will pay nearly $30 million in total to three people critically injured during the February 2023 campus shooting. Lawyers for Nathan Statly, Troy Forbush, and Yukai “John” Hao announced Tuesday they had reached settlements with the university."

"Three students injured in the 2023 mass shooting on Michigan State University’s campus will receive $29.75 million from the school as part of a settlement, attorneys representing the students announced Tuesday, June 10."

Mick Grewal, founder of Grewal Law, talks about the settlement from the 2023 MSU shooting.

"Michigan State agreed to a $14.2 million settlement with Nathan Statly; $13 million with Yukai “John” Hao; and $2.5 million with Troy Forbush, according to lawyers at Grewal Law and Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman."

"Attorneys for three of the students wounded during the 2023 shooting at Michigan State University announced Tuesday a several million dollar settlement for their injuries, pain and suffering."

"Michigan State University has reached a settlement with survivors of the Feb. 13, 2023 campus shooting, two years after legal action was taken against the university, lawyers representing them announced Tuesday morning."

Three students who survived being shot in the 2023 Michigan State University shooting reached nearly $30 million in settlements with the school, the law firms representing them announced Tuesday.

"Michigan State University has agreed to pay a total of nearly $30 million to three students who survived a shooting on campus in 2023 in which three other students were killed, lawyers announced on Tuesday."

John Sellek joined WJR's Stephen Henderson and Nolan Finley to discuss their new book and the Baldly Bipartisan project 

"The person who insiders viewed as the most effective public relations consulting professional was Harbor Strategic’s founder, John Sellek, who earned 20% of the vote."

National Cherry Queen Tessa Nico and festival leader Kat Paye took the NCF tour to Minneapolis, Minnesota this week! 

MIRS sits down with Destiny Wilkins, head of the Jackson County Medical Care Facility. She talks about how long-term care and nursing home facilities feel about the U.S. House GOP’s proposed Medicaid changes.

"Everyone talks about making college more affordable—and that matters. But the truth is, affordability alone won’t help Michigan lead in innovation if students don’t make it to graduation."

"Republican donors and business leaders sense an opportunity to recover policy momentum that's been lost on education and economic development issues, said Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic."

"That’s what’s possible when students get the support they need. Graduates don’t just earn degrees; they also gain the tools, relationships and resilience to build meaningful lives and careers. Too many Michiganians never get that chance though."

"More than 66% of Michigan nursing facility residents are Medicaid beneficiaries. And nearly 1 in 5 assisted living residents rely on a program that provides Medicaid funding for individuals who receive services in their home or an assisted living community."

Harbor's John Sellek teamed up with Michael Patrick Shiels to talk about the Democratic US Senate primary and the latest on Shri Thanedar.

"So if getting a college degree is still the recommended path to success, why aren’t men doing it? While college enrollment among men has declined in recent years, targeted programs and outreach efforts have emerged to reverse that trend."

John Sellek joined WJR to discuss President Trump's first 100 days 

“Trace Adkins delivers a performance that’s rich with soul and packed with country spirit,” said Kat Paye, Executive Director of the National Cherry Festival. “We’re excited to welcome him to Traverse City as we celebrate 99 years of cherries, community, and country music.”

"The job of governor — the top political position in the state — is a valued one with some candidates plotting for years to pursue it, said John Sellek, a longtime Republican political adviser and CEO of the firm Harbor Strategic Public Affairs."

"Democrats are attacking John James' electoral journey but leave out that Benson lost statewide and ran 3 more times. Garlin Gilchrist was picked as LG after losing a city clerk race. Turns out politics is hard."

"When a gov has the best approval ratings running a Pure MI social persona, people aren't looking for a ton of results. The storm was the first test showing she is still gov in tough times but it felt sluggish"

Live from Doyle's Pub, Harbor's John Sellek said that the race for governor in Michigan is now officially a two-year campaign.  

This week: Harbor Strategic's John Sellek gives his assessment on Governor Whitmer's State of the State address and how his Save MI Tips group succeeded

"FOX 17 Spoke with CEO of Harbor Strategic, John Sellek Thursday morning, who highlighted where Whitmer seemed to have a hit and where she may have missed."

John Sellek joined West Michigan's Fox17 to breakdown Gov. Whitmer's State of the State address.

Community leaders, educators and parents today launched the Preserving Muskegon’s History campaign to educate county residents about the exciting impacts of a proposed construction millage for the Lakeshore Museum Center’s Muskegon Museum of History & Science.

"Voters in Muskegon County will decide in May whether to approve a millage to expand and upgrade the Muskegon Museum of History and Science."

"Others praised the compromise, including John Sellek, a spokesperson for a group called Save MI Tips that fought to preserve the tipped credit: ‘Tonight, Michigan servers and bartenders can sleep a little easier knowing a bipartisan legislative solution to the impending tip credit crisis is a big step closer to reality.’”

“‘Listening to the people who do the job and saving their income and jobs is not a partisan issue. It’s an economic issue,’ said John Sellek from Save MI Tips after the legislative victory.”

Harbor's John Sellek appeared in the National Journal talking about the dynamics of back-to-back senate races in the Michigan Senate.

Michigan policymakers are running up against a quickly approaching deadline for sick time and tipped wage changes. “No solution, no compromise over the next nine days is not an acceptable outcome for an industry, and we’ll all be feeling the negative outcome,” said Justin Winslow, CEO of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association.

"Trump's team clearly prepared for a blitz that fills every moment with activity. That’s left the Democrats on their heels," said John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic, a PR firm in Lansing. "Trump spooked Democrats so badly they don’t know how to attack him."

Harbor CEO John Sellek joined WJR Radio with Guy, Lloyd & Jamie. "It says something that a generally well-regarded, hard working public official is willing to walk away from such a coveted position," said Sellek.

"Peters walking away has, 'caused a complete roiling of everything, the whole Dem. side, both the gov.'s & senate race,' said John Sellek, a PR executive in Lansing, Mich., who used to work in republican politics. 'It's opened the door to possibly affecting the gov. race instantly.'"

John Sellek, spokesperson for Save MI Tips, said, "One Fair Wage is only making threats of a referendum because the votes were far more bipartisan than they claimed. They know better than anyone that they just got demolished on the ballot in blue state Massachusetts with the exact same proposal. That's the last thing they want to do."

"I think winning an ice trophy that you can barely hold above your head is amazing," said two-time elite women's Iceman winner Deanna Mayles, the November point-to-point mountain bike race she has called: "The best day of the year".

"It’s going to leave families homeless. It’s going to leave kids living in vans. This is not something that the restaurant and the people employed by it are going to survive,” said Amy Covert. Covert was among a number of servers, restaurant owners and business group representatives who spoke Tuesday, Jan. 14, in support of legislation from House Republicans that would preserve the current tipped wage system.

“I had one business owner say to me they have never seen policies so devastating to business,” says State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (R-46). “These bills have to pass and we have to help our servers continue to get their tips and we need to help our restaurants and small businesses from closing.”

"Rep. Fairbairn says if the tipped worker wage is increased, it could mean higher costs for businesses and ultimately consumers. 'We’ve seen it happen in these different cities,' Fairbairn said. 'In Chicago and Washington, D.C., they’re both backpedaling now after they removed the tip credit. We’ve seen it fail in these other locations and we’re trying to stop that from happening.'"

"Many fear if the law goes into effect as it is expected to in February, they will have to raise menu prices, and potentially close their doors. '$15 an hour is a joke and it's a slap in the face,' Amy Covert, a server from Jackson, Mich., said. 'We can't support our families on that.'"

Amy Covert, a single mother of four who lives in Jackson, said she has worked in the restaurant industry for 20 years. “I can support my four kids on this job,” she said. “My average is more than half of what they want to pay us at $15 an hour."

The newly formed Michigan House Select Committee on Protecting Michigan Employees and Small Businesses was filled with workers from across the state who offered their support to bills to undo a mandate to phase out the tipped wage credit and set requirements for paid sick leave that are set to take effect Feb. 21.

"The panel took testimony from several restaurant servers, business owners and business groups that advocated for the legislation during a nearly three-hour hearing that drew so much interest that people watched from two overflow rooms."

John Sellek, a spokesman with Save MI Tips, says that after months without traction, this week has been a breath of fresh air. "We feel like we broke a logjam, we've got a long way to go and almost no time on our hands. But finally, there's movement both in the House and the Senate. That's exciting," said Sellek. "Now we just need to make sure everything gets wrapped up before mid-February."