DBusiness Daily Update: Ford Fireworks Set to Dazzle Detroit Skyline June 26, and More

Our roundup of the latest news from metro Detroit and Michigan businesses as well as announcements from government agencies. To share a business or nonprofit story, please send us a message.

Ford Fireworks Set to Dazzle Detroit Skyline June 26

The Ford Fireworks is gearing up to dazzle the Detroit skyline June 26 with its traditional fireworks show over the Detroit River and broadcast live on WDIV-Local 4.

Celebrating its 65th year, this event is recognized as one of the country's largest and most magnificent pyrotechnic displays, enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of spectators each year.

"The Ford Fireworks is truly one of the most beautiful shows in the country and we are so honored to work with the amazing team at Ford Motor Co. to bring the show to Detroit for its 65th year," says Tony Michaels, president and CEO of The Parade Co., which produces the show.

"Being a good neighbor and building community here in our hometown has always been a top priority for Ford," says Mary Culler, president of the Ford Motor Co. Fund. "Ford is proud to be a longtime partner of The Parade Company and we are looking forward to bringing everyone together again for the 2023 Ford Fireworks where we will celebrate and honor America, our great city, and the people and communities that make Detroit so special."

The Parade Co. selects the musical arrangement and works with Zambelli Fireworks to stage more than 10,000 pyrotechnic effects visible for miles along the Detroit River. This year's show is themed "Splash into Summer."

Limited tables are still available for the Ford Fireworks Rooftop Party presented by Ford Motor Co., offering the best seats in the city to view the fireworks. Guests will enjoy live music with Your Generation in Concert, catering by Andiamo, games, giveaways, and more. To learn more, visit theparade.org or call 313-923-7400. All proceeds benefit the Michigan Thanksgiving Parade Foundation.

UWM Reports Loss in First Quarter 2023

UWM Holdings Corp. in Pontiac reported a first-quarter 2023 net loss of $138.6 million, inclusive of a $337 million decline in fair value of MSRs, and diluted loss per share of $0.13.

The company also reported total loan origination volume for the first quarter was $22.3 billion, of which $19.2 billion was purchase volume.

"The results of the first quarter again demonstrate that UWM will do what we say we are going to do," says Mat Ishbia, chairman and CEO of UWMC. "We are on track with our plan and extremely well-positioned to take advantage of the next upcycle. Production volume was at the high end of our expectations, setting us up for a better 2023 than originally anticipated."

The company reported loan originations of $22.3 billion in 1Q23, compared to $25.1 billion in the fourth quarter of last year and $38.8 billion in the first quarter of 2022. It also reported purchase originations of $19.2 billion in 1Q23, compared to $21.7 billion in 4Q22 and $19.1 billion in 1Q22. Notably, that is the highest first quarter purchase volume in UWM history.

"We had another dominant purchase quarter," Ishbia says. "We continued to arm brokers with great new product launches, positioning them to win in any market environment, and bolstering channel growth. While we can't control interest rates or the effect of those fluctuations on our MSR portfolio, we can control our operational profitability and have demonstrated that our business model performs despite the natural cyclicality that occurs in the mortgage industry. I am excited for what UWM has in store for the rest of 2023 and beyond."

UWM ended 1Q23 with approximately $2.9 billion of available liquidity, including $1 billion of cash and self-warehouse, and $1.9 billion of available borrowing capacity, which includes $1.4 billion under lines of credit secured by agency and Ginnie Mae MSRs, and $500 million under an unsecured line of credit

"UWM is firing on all cylinders right now," Ishbia says. "Our product portfolio is very strong; we are currently hiring in large numbers, and margins are healthy."

PureForge Opens Troy Facility with New Brake Technology

PureForge brakes has relocated from Poway, Calif. to Troy bringing with it technology that reduces wear, extends rotor life, and substantially reduces brake dust. Dust reduction results in cleaner wheels and a reduction in particulate matter that potentially impacts human health.

PureForge has innovated an Atomic-Forged technology process that it says addresses many of the standard automotive industry issues related to current brake systems including high maintenance costs and other advantages associated with routine brake wear and environmental concerns.

The company says its technology has five main advantages over standard wear braking systems: longevity, brake dust reduction, rust resistance, light-weighting, and branding.

Four Michigan Startups in High-tech Mobility Industry Get State Grants

Four companies will receive $520,000 in total funding through the Michigan Mobility Funding Platform (MMFP) for the real-world testing and deployment of mobility projects across the state.

With these grants, Michigan will enable new mobility solutions that will help to upgrade existing infrastructure and capabilities to accommodate a new era of mobility and electrification, including battery-electric freight railcars, solar lighting for the enhanced safety of pathways, sensors to detect driver and passenger health emergencies, and modular, flexible electric vehicle (EV) charging platforms.

The four companies are:

Intramotev, Cedarville ($200,000), which will conduct the first real-world operational deployment of battery-electric freight railcars capable of operating without a locomotive for short-haul freight moves, helping to foster a cleaner, less congested and safer freight ecosystem.

APT Solar Solutions, Ann Arbor ($120,000), which will improve the reliability of solar lighting by integrating 3-D solar lighting\fixtures into existing transportation and urban infrastructures for enhanced mobility safety, sustainability, and equity.

Meili Technologies, Detroit ($50,000), which will conduct a pilot with deep learning software that uses in-cabin sensors to detect driver and passenger health emergencies based on body poses, facial expressions and vital signs, helping to enable mobility for those who are susceptible to medical emergencies while driving.

PlugZen, Detroit ($150,000), which will install modular, flexible EV charging platforms and adapt them for more convenient environments such as multi-family housing units, offices and workspaces, and directly to fleet operations providers.

Launched by the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the MMFP focuses on catalyzing and scaling mobility solutions that improve environmental sustainability by encouraging EV adoption and charging infrastructure buildout, increasing access to affordable and reliable transportation options, and modernizing existing transportation systems.

"We are pleased to support this latest round of grant recipients because they will play key roles in Michigan's comprehensive approach to mobility solutions development beyond the individual automobile," says Kathryn Snorrason, interim chief mobility officer for the state of Michigan. "MMFP recipients continue to play a key role in deploying the next generation of safe, efficient and sustainable mobility technologies that address the unique needs of Michigan's diverse populations."

Gardner White Honoring 20% off Bed, Bath & Beyond Coupons Through June 30

Gardner White in Warren says its stores are honoring and accepting Bed, Bath & Beyond "20% off a single item" coupons through June 30. Bed, Bath & Beyond recently announced that it has filed for bankruptcy and will be closing its stores. Gardner White also will pay the sales tax on qualifying purchases.

"Gardner White is delighted to extend this special invitation to families who can utilize their Bed Bath & Beyond discount coupons toward beautifying their homes in a big way," says Rachel Stewart, president of Gardner White. "These coupons are iconic, and now shoppers can use them for household items like sheets and pillows made with incredible performance fabrics from manufacturers like BedGear, as well as sofas and mattresses instead of saucepans and mugs."

Some exclusions apply and some offers cannot be combined. Complete details are available at Gardner White stores. For more information, visit gardner-white.com.

Registration Open for the Annual Small Business Workshop May 24

The LEE Group (TLG) will be conducting its Ninth Annual Small Business Workshop — themed "Navigating a Business during an Uncertain Economy" — from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. May 24 online.

It is being presented by Fifth Third Bank and focus on business recoverability and sustainability. The event is free for all registered attendees.

Attendees will hear from business experts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who will discuss practical solutions needed as businesses continue to navigate economic uncertainties.

The event will explore issues confronting Detroit's small business community as they continue to navigate the ongoing challenges potentially impacting sustainability and growth. It will be a solutions-based event featuring speakers, panelists, workshop leaders, and a "Fireside Chat."

The purpose of the workshop is to focus on re-establishing a strong foundation and strengthening the small business core with an eye on for the future. The objective is to identify practical solutions needed as businesses prepare economic cycles and potentially, an economy in flux.

"With COVID-19 mostly in the rear-view mirror businesses must continue to look to the future," says Mark S. Lee, president and CEO of The LEE Group. "As business owners look ahead, it's important to understand there are potential economic challenges on the horizon. This year's event will focus on providing attendees with practical solutions."

To register, visit here.

Weather Channel and Carhartt Announce Apparel Partnership

The Atlanta-based Weather Channel has announced a new partnership with Carhartt in Dearborn, making the global premium workwear brand the all-weather outfitter for the network's on-air meteorologists for in-field weather reporting.

Beginning this spring, The Weather Channel meteorologists will be decked out in Carhartt apparel with the brand prominently featured during live weather reporting. Viewers will notice meteorologists sporting a variety of Carhartt apparel, suited to handle every weather condition — rain, snow, sleet, and high temperatures — including Carhartt insulated jackets and vests for brutal winter temperatures, and the brand's Rain Defender pants for hurricane season.

"Meteorologists in the field experience some of the most extreme weather conditions imaginable, and we know that many people rely on meteorologists to inform them about the gear they wear while working outside," says Susan Hennike, chief brand officer at Carhartt. "Partnering with The Weather Channel is a natural fit to not only keep meteorologists protected from the elements, but to showcase hardworking gear performance in its most natural element: outside and in the field."

Comcast RISE Program Expands to Washtenaw County

Comcast has announced the expansion of its Comcast RISE program to Washtenaw County.

Comcast RISE, which stands for Representation, Investment, Strength, and Empowerment, is a multi-year, multi-faceted initiative. Comcast RISE is committed to supporting the growth of all small businesses, while advancing the objectives of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as community investment. The program was created to help businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth.

"We are thrilled to bring the Comcast RISE program to Washtenaw County," says Pam Dover, senior director of marketing and business development at Comcast. "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they have been hit especially hard by the pandemic. Comcast is committed to supporting the communities we serve, and the Comcast RISE program is just one way we are working to make a difference."

Comcast has partnered with Ann Arbor SPARK, a nonprofit economic development organization serving Washtenaw County, to help market the program to the local community.

"We are honored to be selected as Comcast's partner in bringing the Comcast RISE program to our community," says Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor Spark. "At Ann Arbor SPARK, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse ecosystem of entrepreneurs and businesses. The Comcast RISE program aligns perfectly with our DEI efforts, and we look forward to working together to support small businesses and drive economic growth in Washtenaw County."

The program will evolve from helping businesses survive the pandemic, to helping businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth. Grant packages will include: consultation, education resources, a monetary grant of $5,000, creative production and media, and a technology makeover.

More information on eligibility requirements and how to apply for the grant program is available at ComcastRISE.com.

Corewell Health in Southeast Michigan Announces Nursing Excellence Award Winners

Corewell Health in southeast Michigan celebrated the profound impact nursing teams and support staff have on patients, families, and communities with its fourth annual Nursing Excellence Awards.

Following a blind review of the nominations by nursing team members from other sites and a regional committee, finalists from each site were selected for the 14 award categories. From these site finalists, 13 individuals and one team were chosen as the overall award winners.

"Our award winners were nominated for having made a difference for their patients, families and colleagues, as well as for making a significant contribution to the nursing profession," says Kelli Sadler, chief nursing officer atCorewell Health in southeast Michigan. "We received more than 600 nominations this year, which demonstrates the skill, compassion, and collaboration of our exemplary team. Congratulations to all."

Award winners are:

Easterseals MORC Receives New Funding from CareSource to Support Future Expansion

Easterseals MORC in Auburn Hills announced that it will receive a $45,000 grant to support the nonprofit with future integrated behavioral health services and autism spectrum disorder therapies.

The grant is part of a national $2.55 million donation from CareSource, a nationally recognized leader in managed care, made to the Easterseals national office in late 2022.

"We are honored to be among the Easterseals affiliates benefiting from CareSource's support," says Brent Wirth, president and CEO of Easterseals MORC. "This gift will allow us to further develop integrated behavioral health and autism therapy services as an integral part of our planned Autism Comprehensive Care Center to better support the individuals on the autism spectrum and their families that we serve."

WCC to Show New MI FAME Work and Learn Program to High School Students

Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor highlighted its new Michigan Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) work and learn program Wednesday when it hosted students from SME PRIME schools throughout southeast Michigan.

Tony Davis, national director of FAME USA, addressed about 30 juniors and seniors from SME PRIME schools whose graduates overwhelmingly plan to pursue manufacturing or engineering careers.

WCC is FAME's only higher education institution in the state of Michigan's Mitten chapter. The program offers apprenticeships and educational pathways to an associate degree from WCC and on-the-job training and mentoring through industry partners: Toyota Motor North America, Orbitform, Lomar Machine & Tool Co., Caster Concepts, and Novi Precision.

Students visited the college's Robotics and PLC (Programmable Controllers) Lab as well as the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Lab.

A panel discussion focused on job opportunities that await FAME participants and other benefits of the program. Rob Luce, vice president of the SME Education Foundation, also spoke, along with Kyrsten Rue, WCC's manager of experiential learning and employer relations. Melissa Sheldon, director of research for Ann Arbor SPARK, moderated the discussion.

FAME pairs a student with a sponsoring company to complete a two-year work-and-learn program, equipping students with the skills required for the rapidly evolving manufacturing industry and offers a debt-free path to an associate degree in under two years.

Juniors and seniors from Airport High School, William D. Ford Career and Technical Center, and East Jackson Secondary School, all of which have SME PRIME programs, participated in the program.

Michigan Works! Southeast and the Workforce Intelligence Network for Southeast Michigan (WIN) also are supporting the FAME initiative in the Mitten chapter.

Final hiring decisions are being made for the first cohort of students who are expected to start in Fall 2023. Applications to join the Fall 2024 cohort can be submitted on the MI FAME Mitten Chapter website.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore Waterford Celebrates 18,000 sq. ft. Expansion with Grand Opening of the ReStore Waterford Expansion

ReStore Waterford to Unveils Expansion of Existing Retail Location June 9

ReStore Waterford, a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, will unveil its expanded retail location at 3653 Highland Road at 11 a.m. on June 9.

By adding 18,000-square-feet to the existing 10,000-square-foot location, ReStore Waterford offers an increase in variety and amount of inventory for shoppers to choose from, the ability to accept more donations from area businesses and/or residents and the opportunity to engage more volunteer groups and individuals.

ReStores are a great work environment and are always looking to hire. New items available for purchase will include roll carpeting, lumber, and a larger selection of doors and windows.

Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept donations and sell a constantly changing inventory of diverse, high-quality merchandise to the public at a fraction of the retail price, while diverting reusable household items and building materials from area landfills. Sales of donated items help Habitat for Humanity partner with local families to build, rehabilitate, and repair safe and affordable homes in Oakland County.

Northville's Tipping Point Theatre to Stage World Premiere of ‘Game. Set. Match!’

Tipping Point Theatre (TPT) in Northville concludes its 15th season with the world premiere of "Game. Set. Match!" by local playwright Tracy L. Spada, with performances beginning on June 15, and running weekly through July 9.

When invited to her ex-girlfriend's wedding, Abby makes the decision to go…but not without a date; thus begins her journey into the world of online dating. Hoping for the best, she experiences a myriad of interesting, exciting, and ultimately disappointing situations. And just when the search for something casual seems impossible, it's possible that she may just have found something significant.

"’Game. Set. Match!’ Is a labor of love and is born out of my extensive online dating escapades," says Spada. "It is fast-paced and just about the length of a two-set Serena Williams tennis match when she was at the top of her game. It is a play that sheds light on the complex elements between the mental strategy of tennis, and the games that people play both on and off the court."

TPT will host an opening night pre-glow reception at 5 p.m. on June 17 in the lobby preceding the 6 p.m. performance. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine will be served to all patrons with tickets to the June 17 performance.