Black business owners own 3.5 million businesses nationwide and employ more than 1.2 million people in the U.S.

While it seems increasingly unlikely the U.S. economy is headed for recession, small businesses still face headwinds like higher costs and difficulty retaining qualified workers.

Main Street Area Association has launched a new campaign to help support businesses during construction.

A fire caused a one-story building to collapse in downtown Ann Arbor on Friday morning.

BuyDetroit is a one-of-a-kind marketplace only for businesses in Detroit to connect those small businesses to national companies.

On Friday at 10 a.m., Michigan-based Lume Cannabis Co. will open the doors to its Ann Arbor location at 2247 W. Liberty Street.

Share your feedback on how to improve the city during three public meetings with Ann Arbor's top official.

For 49 years, Our Town America has been connecting new movers with local businesses. This year a Metro Detroit woman won $3,000 from the organization and plans to give the cash back to those in need.

More than 20 Ann Arbor area eateries sold food from booths lining the streets against the backdrop of Main Street.

FULL LIST OF WINNERS BELOW.

Vote for your favorite pet businesses around town starting this Thursday May 26, at noon through June 5, 2022 at 11 p.m.

Celebrate summer in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor.

City Council approved the expansion of the Main Street Ann Arbor Social District earlier this week.

The new dispensary will host its grand opening from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Profits from Tree Town Cannabis’ newest confectionary will go to the Great Lakes Expungement Network (GLEN).

The parking lot at Oakland Mall may never be as full as it once was, but the mall’s new owner said he has plans to improve.

A popular medical and day spa in Farmington Hills closed without warning -- leaving some people out a lot of money.

Former clients of a popular medical and day spa in Farmington Hills reached out to Help Me Hank to investigate after the business closed without warning -- leaving some out a lot of money.

The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest for entrepreneurs is back with $100,000 available through a donation from Comerica Bank.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough on Detroit businesses, as many people stay home and shop online. But the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is determined to get people out of their houses and into shops.

Leaders of multiple Chamber of Commerce groups in Michigan came together to discuss President Joe Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate for businesses. They argued that the mandate, along with the current worker shortage, puts business owners in a difficult situation.

Jenn Cornell Queen (D-Ward 5) has announced her run for Ann Arbor City Council.

The City of Ann Arbor is holding a public discussion about creating a new, publicly-owned energy utility.

Since Local 4 Defenders reported on the issue last week, the area behind businesses near the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Beresford Street has been more clean.

Vinessa Palermo is only 21 years old, but she’s about to take the helm of a $70 million business.

Vinessa Palermo is only 21 years old, but she’s about to take the helm of a $70 million business.

A Michigan entrepreneur decided to pivot her business when the COVID pandemic triggered a shut down of the avenue for her to sell her goods.

Small businesses are struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, facing days or weeks without power and Internet, storm damage and difficulty communicating with clients or customers.

Archer Corporate Services in Belleville were already a supplier to General Motors, but early in the pandemic, the automaker called up and requested their help in manufacturing ventilators. They cleared out their lobby and went to work seven-days-a-week.

Detroit Black Restaurant Week kicks off Friday and runs through Aug. 29.

The coronavirus pandemic forced many people to take a different look at how they live their lives and how they work.

Sajo’s of Clinton in Clinton Township is closing its doors for a month due to an employee shortage, according to the owner.

Local businesses have been waiting to flip their signs back to “Open.” But now that they can, there is a big problem. They can’t find the workers.

Everything you need to know about the 2021 Ann Arbor Art Fair.

The couple who owns and runs Sweet Mitten Dreams said the idea for the business came to them during the COVID pandemic.

You have probably seen the signs all over Metro Detroit. More and more businesses are struggling to find workers.

Todd Williams opened a business during the COVID pandemic.

With COVID-19 restrictions expiring Tuesday in Michigan, businesses are feeling the crunch to hire more workers.

The Juneteenth celebration kicks off with a stroll in Detroit along the Avenue of Fashion on Livernois, taking you through 46 Black-owned businesses offering discounts.

There’s a new bakery open for business in Detroit’s North Rosedale Park neighborhood.

Just before the COVID pandemic started there had already been plans in place for a Metro Detroit family-building group to move forward with several bit new ventures.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed a $300 weekly back-to-work bonus as an incentive to get eligible workers back into the workforce.

As of 7:45 a.m. on Saturday, June 5 crews were still working on putting out a fire in Downtown Lapeer.

The coronavirus pandemic has been hard on restaurants, many of which have had to battle just to stay in business.

Michigan businesses have been grappling with the latest COVID rules and guidelines since they began Monday.

Asian-owned small businesses will be given an opportunity to gain free access to resources to boost their success.

The directors of the three fairs that comprise Ann Arbor Art Fair announced the event is on for July.

The Ann Arbor State Street Art Fair is back on the calendar for 2021.

Watch out for closures just blocks from each other in the downtown area.

During a Monday briefing, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer talked about the outrage stemming from a photo of her at a restaurant, the new return-to-work rules and Michigan’s overall standing in terms of COVID-19 and unemployment.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer spoke Monday about the steps and rules residents will have to follow as they return to in-person work across the state.

The mask mandate in Michigan is now lifted, which those who are fully vaccinated don’t have to wear a mask outside or inside.

Michigan will be following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance and lift the mask mandate for those who are fully vaccinated starting Saturday, May 15.

The foreclosure ban in Wayne County has been extended.

Businesses across Michigan are struggling to find employees.

The owner of a Detroit business is adapting to the pandemic thanks to a grant from Comcast.

It’s been a rough 12 months for Lauren Palecki as she worked to get her small business off the ground.

Michigan has extended its workplace emergency rules that require remote working when possible and enforce other COVID-19 safety measures at businesses.

DETROIT – Black-owned businesses often face unique challenges getting off the ground. “We’re here to change the game for Black entrepreneurs,” President and CEO of Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance Charity Dean said. It’s a partnership between a group of Black business owners and the Detroit NAACP. Dean said because of that money they can provide programming and support services for Black businesses around Metro Detroit. But above all, we will do everything in our power to ensure that Black businesses thrive,” Dean said.

DETROIT – The founder of a Detroit company has come up with a simple and affordable way to bring more attention to businesses that are run by women. People pay $35 for a book with coupons for more than 35 Detroit small businesses that are all owned by women. She came up with the idea to sell the coupon books to support these businesses. READ: Detroit company Rebel Nell working to empower women through jewelry“What it is is making so many people aware of the amount of talented, incredible women-owned businesses here in Detroit and how can we support and uplift them,” she said. She and so many other female-owned businesses in Detroit had to prove they’re as tough as the city they work in.

DETROIT – Nemo’s Bar has been a staple in Detroit’s Corktown since the 60s. The bar and grill is struggling to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. Osman is grilling up burgers himself on a small grill behind the bar, which is working for now because of the low capacity. Whitmer said about that possibility“No one’s making any dough. You know, it’s no one’s making any money.

DETROIT – Comcast has created a program aimed specifically at minority-owned small businesses. READ: More business coverageStarting a small business as a Black woman is an uphill battle, according to studies done by CNBC and American Express. Comcast said it saw the disparities in funding and last fall created the RISE Investment Grant program. The program is specifically for Black, indigenous and people of color who own businesses in Detroit, Highland Park or Hamtramck. “Small businesses that are in need.”The first round of funding was offered last fall.

ANN ARBOR – The city will be closing both directions of South Main Street between East William Street and Packard Street on Thursday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to facilitate crane work. The city has posted this detour map so drivers are aware of what to expect. The closure will only affect a one-block stretch of road, but with Main Street being a major thoroughfare, the detours may slightly slow your commute. Access will be maintained for local businesses at all times during the construction work while pedestrians will also be detoured along the same route as vehicles. Emergency vehicles are also advised to take the posted detour below:

The new year is usually when new customers come to gyms to keep their New Year’s resolutions. Local 4′s Kim DeGiulio has been tracking the challenges gym owners face and has an update on the new year. Fitness and nutrition expert Jody Trierweiler had a few tips for what to keep in mind when bringing a mask to the gym. Her number one tip is to avoid masks that draw in moisture, since moisture breeds bacteria. Instead, Trierweiler says to find masks that are breathable, lightweight, and that are made using moisture wicking fabrics.

DETROIT – There could be some good news on the horizon in terms of reopening schools and getting back to normal. During a Harvard webinar, Dr. Anthony Fauci told a group that transmission in schools is lower than originally thought. Read: Michigan high schools allowed to reopen today as part of revised COVID order“When you look at it, the number of children getting it is less than you would have expected, which is good news for keeping the children in school,” Fauci said. “If it spreads in the school, the kids brings it home, parent brings it to work and spreads it there,” Sims said. “We have teachers who are ill, teachers quarantined from home and there’s a substitute shortage,” Roberts said.

As the vaccine rollout continues, many people are excited that 2020 is finally in the past. While that doesn’t mean coronavirus disappeared at midnight, experts are weighing in when it’s realistic to expect things to get back to normal. He said mask wearing, social distancing and other precautions will stay in place until at least 70% of the population is vaccinated. Those things will affect how long it takes to reach broad public immunity.”The same thoughts are held on a national level too. Dr. Anthony Fauci said masks, social distancing and other precautions will have to stay in place until the majority of people are vaccinated.

DETROIT – On Tuesday, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission suspended the liquor licenses and permits of five additional businesses. The state agency noted that the action was taken against the businesses for breaking the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services extended COVID restrictions. Businesses that violated the MDHHS order include Brooklyn’s in Wyandotte, Powell’s Pub in Ypsilanti, Mike’s Sports Page in Charlotte, Plymouth ROC Restaurant and Sahara Restaurant in Sterling Heights. “Licensees are strictly prohibited from allowing indoor gatherings, as defined by the MDHHS Gatherings and Face Mask Order, on their licensed premises. Allowing this activity to continue could create additional outbreaks of COVID-19,” said the State of Michigan in a news release.

Local 4 wants to help you shop and support local businesses when they need it most! Not only can you support favorite local businesses, you can get your fill of comfort food carryout for these cold, snowy months at home. Backed up by the support of local voters in Vote 4 the Best, here’s where to get that warm, comforting bowl you crave during winter:Winners in ‘Chili’ categoryIf you’re looking for soup, our 2019 voters said that Polish Village Cafe and Apple Annie’s both serve a mean bowl! Our Sponsor -- We’d like to thank Wallside Windows for their longtime sponsorship of Vote 4 the Best and their support of southeast Michigan’s local businesses. Wallside is a Taylor, MI-based family business that manufactures and installs custom replacement windows, now in their third generation.

Local 4 wants to help you shop and support local businesses when they need it most! A cold winter’s day calls for warm food, lots of blankets, and a movie night in with family. Plus, when you don’t want to bundle up and brave those freezing winds, there’s nothing better than a pizza delivery. Pizza chain winners:Independent pizza places:Find more delicious food options in our other Vote 4 The Best stories. Our Sponsor -- We’d like to thank Wallside Windows for their longtime sponsorship of Vote 4 the Best and their support of southeast Michigan’s local businesses.

(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)Five Michigan businesses have been fined for violating COVID-19 safety rules and putting workers at risk, state officials said. Here are the five businesses, including how much they were fined and what the violations entailed. Not developing and enforcing policies and procedures for employees to report when they are sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID19. Reason for inspection: Employee complaintClick here to view the full citation document. Not posting signs at the store entranceReason for inspection: Employee complaintClick here to view the full citation document.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced that her administration is taking action to support Michigan families, restaurants and small businesses among the COVID-19 pandemic. The Whitmer Administration plans to implement another liquor buyback program for restaurants and bars and partner with Michigan restaurants to allow SNAP benefits for prepared meals. It also announced another $2 million for the Eviction Diversion Program. Whitmer hints at possibility of resuming indoor dining at Michigan restaurantsAs we head into another Michigan winter, I’ll continue to do everything I can to support our families and small businesses.

DETROIT – On Monday, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission suspended the liquor licenses and permits of five more businesses. The state agency noted that the action was taken against the businesses for breaking the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services extended COVID restrictions. Businesses that violated the MDHHS order include Oak Café in Wyandotte, Tenacity Brewing in Flint, J. Knapps in Richmond, Limelight Pizza Kitchen Grill and Bar in Warren and Fast Eddie’s Bar and Grill in Mount Clemens. “Licensees are strictly prohibited from allowing indoor gatherings, as defined by the MDHHS Gatherings and Face Mask Order, on their licensed premises. Allowing this activity to continue could create additional outbreaks of COVID-19,” said the State of Michigan in a news release.

ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – In midst of Michigan’s current COVID-19 restrictions, many Metro Detroit businesses are utilizing outdoor dining this holiday season. While there is a Christmas atmosphere at the Village of Rochester Hills, things are different such as visiting Santa Claus by appointment at a 6-foot distance. Meanwhile, outdoor dining popped up this week at many of the restaurants at the Village. “We’ve got all of the Christmas lights up. While it may be a different feel, people are still excited that it’s the holidays,” said Zach Carlson with Kruse & Muer.

DETROIT – The effects of the coronavirus pandemic are being felt everywhere -- especially in the creative industries and live theater. A lot of people were affected when the lights went out on live theater. For nine months, theaters have been dark, seats have been empty and they have no concrete day to return. Detroit Public Theater got creative a few months back. It produced two shows with a NY Public Theater and broadcast them on public TV.

Nine Michigan businesses have been fined for violating COVID-19 safety rules and putting workers at risk, state officials said. “The employer was also cited for an other-than-serious record keeping violation.”Reason for inspection: Employee complaintClick here to view the full citation document. Not training employees on the steps the employees must take to notify the business or operation of any symptoms of COVID-19 or a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 employees on COVID-19. Reason for inspection: COVID-19 Retail State Emphasis ProgramClick here to view the full citation document. River City Reproductions and GraphicsLocation: KentwoodFine amount: $2,100Violations:Lack of a COVID-19 preparedness and response plan.

READ: Michigan doctors urge restaurants to keep customers safe from COVID-19 by avoiding rush to reopenJoe Vicari’s restaurant group has 22 restaurants. With the possibility of another “pause” on the way from Lansing, the Michigan restaurant association predicts that 4,000 will close and 250,000 people will be out of work. Lawyers told restaurants if they open on Dec. 8 they should expect a state liquor agent. Sources told Local 4 that Detroit’s hot new food scene is predicted to close and not reopen. Gretchen Whitmer is hoping for another federal stimulus and a $100 million state stimulus.

Gretchen Whitmer responded Tuesday to restaurant owners who are considering defying state COVID-19 regulations and reopening for indoor dining if the order is extended beyond three weeks. We are stronger if we stand together and use our strength of fight back.”“She decided to close restaurants, again. Here’s what she said in response to the question:“You know, let me just say this: I understand the frustration. “And yet, we know that this virus has taken the lives of over 9,000 people in Michigan. So many of us know someone who’s died or is struggling with COVID-19 or struggling with COVID-19 months after they’ve had it.

Gretchen Whitmer said indoor dining at restaurants has “all the different ingredients” for increased COVID-19 risk. During the governor’s COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday, Local 4′s Mara MacDonald asked what it would take for restaurants to be allowed to reopen for indoor dining. Right now, Michigan is in the middle of a three-week “pause” that, among other restrictions, limits restaurants to delivery, take-out and outdoor dining. But Whitmer stood by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, arguing restaurants have the potential to contribute to the spread of COVID-19. “That’s just, unfortunately, all the different ingredients for a higher risk situation.”Whitmer said that’s why the MDHHS order targeted places that involve people from different households being inside together.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan officials have implemented stricter COVID-19 regulations for three weeks, but will the order be extended beyond that timeframe? MORE: Here are 14 changes in effect under Michigan’s new COVID-19 restrictionsOn Tuesday, during her COVID-19 briefing, Whitmer was asked whether there’s been any talk of extending the pause. “At this point in time, it’s really too early to say precisely where we will be in a few days, much less next week,” Whitmer said. The top priority is to make sure the health system and medical employees are able to keep up with the number of COVID-19 cases, Whitmer said. “That will inform any decision going forward.”Michigan coronavirus data: Tracking case count, cases by county, deaths, cases by age, tests

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official provided a rough timeline of when she hopes a COVID-19 vaccine could be available to the state’s general public. MORE: Here are 14 changes in effect under Michigan’s new COVID-19 restrictions“We are still working hard on planning for when a coronavirus vaccine becomes available,” Khaldun said. “We are actively working on plans for distribution when these vaccines become available,” Khaldun said. Hopeful vaccine distribution timelineWhen Michigan first receives the vaccine, it will be in very limited quantities, she said. “We hope to be able to have vaccine available to the general public by late spring,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Two of the most common measures of COVID-19 spread in Michigan are showing the state is slowly starting to move in the right direction again, according to Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. She said both the case rate and test positivity rate are slightly improving. “Overall, our case rate is now at 608 cases per million people, and has been declining for the past week,” Khaldun said. Khaldun said case rates are above 500 cases per million people in every Michigan region, except for the Traverse City Region. “We will continue to watch these trends, as we have throughout the pandemic, and case rates and test positivity,” she said.

Gretchen Whitmer is urging residents to support local businesses during the holiday season as many of them struggle to survive due to COVID-19 shutdowns. READ: Here are 14 changes in effect under Michigan’s new COVID-19 restrictionsAs the holiday shopping season rolls around, Whitmer urged Michiganders to keep those businesses in mind. “As we head into the holiday season, I want to remind all Michiganders: If you are shopping for loved ones or friends or neighbors, strongly consider supporting businesses in your community,” Whitmer said. On Black Friday, Metro Detroiters stressed to Local 4 how critical the holiday season will be for their businesses to survive. “There are a number of ways that we can support local businesses this season and stay safe,” Whitmer said.

ANN ARBOR – On Friday evening, two resolutions to dissolve the Downtown Development Authority were added to Monday’s city council meeting agenda. “If you don’t have a resolution on the agenda, it’s very hard to have a discussion at council,” said Griswold. We’re in the midst of a pandemic and downtown businesses are on their knees and DDA is working hard to find strategies. Pollay said that during the winter months, downtown businesses will face their toughest test yet. “The DDA is the only City entity that has offered and provided support through this pandemic.”Monday’s city council meeting will take place virtually at 7 p.m.

ANN ARBOR – With the COVID-19 pandemic putting unprecedented strain on businesses in the retail and service industries, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed Saturday “Downtown Day.”The proclamation was a request by the Michigan Downtown Association to help support struggling downtowns across the state. Community members are encouraged to head to their respective downtowns on Saturday to shop, dine, participate in activities or volunteer. “Main Street Ann Arbor (MSAA) is very excited about the Governor declaring Sept. 26 as Downtown Day,” Sandra Andrade, executive director of Ann Arbor’s Main Street Area Association told A4 via email. We all love Ann Arbor and we need to work together to keep downtown thriving by shopping, dining, and ordering carry-out from it’s businesses.

FERNDALE, Mich. – The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic doesn’t seem like the right time to launch a new business. Some might argue that’s not a compelling enough reason to try to start a business. Friends and family members counseled them on what a terrible idea it was to think about starting a small business during the shutdown. They got involved with a craft beer hub in Ferndale called The Ferndale Project, where they bake. One thing they all agreed on: It takes a village, even to sell bagels.

Several local businesses among 19 cited by Michigan for serious COVID-19 violationsIf you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.

DETROIT – Since the coronavirus (COVID-19) hit, there have been more than a few Metro Detroit restaurants that have had to shut down permanently. The Detroit Pepper Company on Detroit’s east side is thriving and celebrating its 1 year anniversary. READ: More Uniquely Detroit reportsWatch the video above for the full report

Gretchen Whitmer closed gyms statewide, many Metro Detroit gyms reopened Wednesday, but not every gym is the same in how it handles protocol. We know if you’re breathing heavily and we’re in enclosed places.”READ: Michigan gyms set to reopen Wednesday -- How to stay safe while working outMost gyms are following the mandate, like Lifetime Fitness. Larson said he’s not going to require members to wear a mask, despite the Governor’s order. Either way it’s going to be unlike any work out gym members have ever done before. It’s too early to know if there are going to be any consequences for the gyms that want to operate their own way.

Gretchen Whitmer closed gyms statewide, and Wednesday is the big day for gyms in Metro Detroit as they are reopening with major precautions. Since March, gyms across Metro Detroit closed its doors after Whitmer ordered them to do so because of the coronavirus (COVID 19) pandemic. But gyms will be back open with some stipulations, like wearing masks the entire workout. Keyon Clinton with 1% Better Nation started outdoor boot camps this summer since many couldn’t workout inside. Gyms will also not be operating in its full capacity.

DETROIT – Detroit Dough, a Black-owned business, is continuing to grow and give back to the community despite the challenges presented by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Inspired by a New York-based edible cookie dough company, Detroit Dough came to the city when owner Autumn Kyles decided Detroit needed something similar. She opened the edible cookie dough company, which serves five different flavors without the eggs and raw flour, making it safe to eat. “We have five flavors -- chocolate chip, brownie, sugar, peanut butter and no chip, which is chocolate chip without the chocolate chips,” Kyles said. “It’s one of my favorites.”Through Detroit Dough, Kyle has been able to fulfill her dream of giving back.

He started selling frames from his apartment in 1994 before opening up shop 20 years ago on Livernois Avenue, near the Lodge. “I love to see the expressions on their face when they see their piece framed,” Vaughn said. The name of his shop -- Eric’s I’ve Been Framed -- came to him while pursuing a career he wasn’t excited about. “He came back in about two weeks with business cards and said, ‘You’re in business!’” Vaughn said. He has advice for the next generation of Black business owners trying to turn their dreams into a reality.

U.S. businesses sharply reduced hiring last month suggesting that the resurgent viral outbreak this summer slowed the economic recovery as many states closed parts of their economies again and consumers remained cautious about spending. U.S. firms added just 167,000 jobs in July, payroll processor ADP said Wednesday, far below June's gain of 4.3 million and May's increase of 3.3 million. July's limited hiring means the economy still has 13 million fewer jobs than it did in February, according to ADP, before the viral outbreak intensified. Hiring collapsed among companies of all sizes and in nearly all industries. A category that mostly includes restaurants, bars and hotels added just 38,000 jobs last month, after gaining more than 3 million in May and June.

WAYNE COUNTY, Mich. – The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has especially hit small businesses hard. Now, local businesses have access to $50 million to help with offsetting COVID-19 related costs under a new program by Wayne County. But Assistant County Executive and Economic Development Executive Director Khalil Rahal, with Wayne County said there’s financial help for small businesses. It’s called the Wayne County Back to Work Small Business Readiness Grant. “So the Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, he puts out a $50 Million dollar grant program.

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)NEW YORK Small businesses can still get help from the governments coronavirus relief plan after Congress extended the Paycheck Protection Program until Aug. 8. The program that was set to expire Tuesday still has nearly $132 billion left after giving out more than 4.8 million loans since it began April 3. On Monday, the Small Business Administration, which oversees the program, disclosed the names of companies that received loans of more than $150,000. The program aims to motivate small businesses to retain their employees or, if they have laid them off, get them back to work. The SBA approved more than 4.8 million loans in less than three months, far more than the 58,000 it approved in 2019.

Give your favorite local businesses recognition by nominating them in our Vote 4 The Best Celebration Edition BELOW! Nominations are open from June 1 to June 14 at 11 p.m. To learn more about whats new this year, click HERE. Dont forget to check out the contest rules.

Published: May 29, 2020, 9:49 am Updated: May 29, 2020, 10:29 amLANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s government has launched a new site to help reopening businesses keep employees and customers safe and prevent further spreading the coronavirus (COVID-19). The site was developed by the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Click here to visit the new COVID-19 Workplace Safety site. The site includes MIOSHA guidelines, posters for employees and customers, factsheets, educational videos and a reopening checklist. Anyone with questions about workplace safety and health can call MIOSHA’s new hotline at 855-723-3219.

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan government has released a 10-item checklist that instructs businesses how they can reopen safely and prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). RELATED: 8 steps Michigan barber shops, salons, spas say they can take to safely reopenWorkers have to continue fighting against the spread of the virus as sectors of Michigan’s economy begin to reopen, officials said. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Healthy Administration has launched a new site that includes a reopening checklist for businesses, designed to help them create a safe environment as the economy reopens. Anyone with questions about workplace safety and health can call MIOSHA’s new hotline at 855-723-3219. Click here to report health and safety concerns in the workplace.

At Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi, the opening is a work-in-progress. When you come to the mall, they require shoppers to require a mask and there are signs all over demanding social distancing. Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor, Great Lakes Crossing Outlet in Auburn Hills and Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi reopened May 28, 2020. Twelve Oaks Mall’s reopening is a slow roll out with many of the aisle stores -- and even the anchor stores -- remain closed. I would go all the time.”Twelve Oaks Mall general manager Dan Jones said the mall is looking at ways to prevent crowds.

A few Metro Detroit malls opened Thursday and foot traffic was steady. If you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.