Breaking: University of Michigan Offers Counseling For Those Hurt By Rittenhouse Verdict

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At westmipolitics@gmail.com)

The University of Michigan Medical School actually sent out an email offering COUNSELING for those triggered by the Kyle Rittenhouse verdict!

The email, obtained by West Michigan Politics, was sent Monday morning, and apparently received by all employees in the University of Michigan health system, including their famous med school, as well as hospital.

U of M is hosting a Zoom meeting Tuesday at noon so those hurt by the verdict can discuss the issue.

No word on whether or not U of M will offer counseling after Ohio State comes to town Saturday...

Here's the email in full:

From: MM-EmployeeMessage <mm-employeemessage@med.umich.edu> 

Sent: Monday, November 22, 2021 8:01 AM

To: REDACTED

Subject: A message from Michigan Medicine Leaders: Rittenhouse verdict

Michigan Medicine Community,

Many of you may have learned of the recent verdict released last Friday, acquittal of all charges, in the Kyle Rittenhouse homicide trial. Although we know there is a diversity of thought within our community, many are finding it hard to process and understand the verdict that Rittenhouse received.  

As we have witnessed past outcomes in gun violence cases in our court systems across the nation, judicial outcomes in violent crimes have been inconsistent. Some may question whether or not the jury would have reached a different outcome if the defendant had been a person of color. 

As a community, we understand that grace, opportunity for rehabilitation, and leniency are needed in our criminal justice system but there is no role for inconsistency or outcomes that differ based on racial or ethnic bias.

 

The Ahmaud Arbery trial is proceeding with questionable gestures by the defense and this too may increase frustration, anxiety, and trauma in our community. We know that these feelings can make it difficult to move forward as students, staff, and faculty, while navigating our complex world.

Michigan Medicine leadership, through our Anti-Racism Oversight Committee (AROC), has unequivocally recognized racism as a public health crisis. We stand together against bias and inequali​​ty. It is our collective responsibility as an organization to improve our climate as long as inequities and discrimination exist.

The Office for Health Equity & Inclusion, in partnership with AROC, will be hosting a Community Conversation on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at noon to provide support and a venue for further dialogue. 

Anyone who would like to participate is welcome and encouraged to join the conversation. Zoom link: 

https://umich.zoom.us/j/99354111881?pwd=Yjg1TFQ3aEtncElzYWQxeTluU2xSZz09

Other resources that can provide additional or more personal support include:

Michigan Medicine Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience

Michigan Medicine Wellness Office

University of Michigan Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Office

Michigan Medicine Office for Health Equity & Inclusion

We stand united for a climate of greater equity, respect and inclusion for everyone in our communities.

Sincerely,

Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D.

Dean, University of Michigan Medical School

Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs

CEO, Michigan Medicine

 

David C. Miller, MD, MPH

President, U-M Health

Co-chair, AROC

 

Steve Vinson

Program Manager, UMMG Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Co-chair, AROC

 

David J. Brown, MD

Associate Vice President and Associate Dean, Health Equity and Inclusion

Professor, Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

Kristen Howard, Esq.

Senior Director, Office for Health Equity and Inclusion

____________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

Breaking: State Rep. Steve Marino Removed From Committees After Relationship With State Rep. Mari Manoogian

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com)

West Michigan Politics has learned that State Rep. Steve Marino has been removed from all of his Committee assignments for sending texts to his ex-girlfriend, State Rep. Mari Manoogian.

It's not clear at this time what those texts said, and if they were in any way inappropriate. 

Marino is a Republican from Macomb in his 3rd term, Manoogian is a Democrat from Oakland County in her 2nd term.

"Rep. Marino is no longer the chair of the Commerce Committee and no longer serves on the Local Government committee. Rep. Pauline Wendzel has been appointed to serve as the committee chair," said Gideon D'Assandro, Wentworth's spokesman, in a statement Wednesday morning.

One source described the texts as "threatening," but who the hell knows what that really means. 

Was leadership just trying to sweep something under the rug, placate Manoogian, and scapegoat Marino? It's certainly possible. Senator Lucido was removed from Committees last year by Majority Leader Shirkey over phony sexual harassment charges simply to appease leftists. Something seems fishy about this situation, also...

The decision from Speaker Jason Wentworth to replace Marino with State Rep. Pauline Wendzel is raising eyebrows across Lansing.

Wendzel is known to be EXTREMELY close with married State Representative Greg Vanwoerkom. 

The two are known as "VanWendzel" throughout some circles at the Capitol as rumors of a relationship have swirled for years.

Wendzel, left, Vanwoerkom, right

A text exchange obtained by WMP involves Manoogian, State Senator Erika Geiss, and others.

"in case you were all wondering, I can read what you're saying about me," she said.

Manoogian then leaves the conversation:

Stay tuned...

____________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

Breaking: Spring Lake Township Employees Ordered To Vaccinate Or Be Fired

 

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com)

The Spring Lake Township Board is telling all employees they must get vaccinated, or they will be fired.

The announcement came earlier this week at their Monday meeting when they passed a resolution that was not on the agenda.

The resolution requires COVID vaccines for all Township employees. 

The 1st shot must be administered by the end of August, and the 2nd shot by the end of September. 

Those not vaccinated will be fired. 

Spring Lake Township will also require their employees wear masks in Township buildings, even buildings shared  by other municipalities who do not require masks. 

This was not an agenda item, there was no public review or input, no medical experts were questioned, and the board stated that the Township Manager has the power to decide.

Stay tuned...

______________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

Breaking: Garrett Soldano Arrested For Drunk Driving, Court Records Reveal

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At:

WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com)

Gubernatorial candidate Garrett Soldano was arrested for drunk driving and refusing a breathalyzer test in Kalamazoo Township, court records obtained by West Michigan Politics reveal.

The incident, which occurred in 2009, when Soldano was 31, is not a campaign ending issue for him, though it definitely needs to be addressed and disposed of QUICKLY. 

This certainly isn't something we would want Whitmer to bring up out of left field in October 2022...

Soldano, who recently announced he will be boycotting the Michigan Republican Party  weekend on Mackinac Island next month, ended up taking a plea deal for a reduced charge in May of 2009, with Judge Richard Santoni presiding.

West Michigan Politics has submitted a Freedom Of Information Act request with the Kalamazoo Township Police Department to obtain copies of the police report corresponding with Soldano's arrest, and will be published after receiving.

People make mistakes, everyone does, I certainly have.

However, part of life is being willing to discuss those mistakes, ESPECIALLY when you're running for public office, even MORE so when you're running for Governor of the State of Michigan, the most powerful office in the state.

How Soldano addresses the drunk driving arrest, and some other issues that have popped up, will be immensely telling. 

Can Garrett hang with the big boys and take a couple punches like a man? Or will he duck, dodge, run, and hide? 

His ability to take the punches that come with a Gubernatorial campaign will determine whether or not he is a serious, first-tier candidate who can go the full 12 rounds with Gretchen Whitmer.

Soldano, a Chiropractor, faces off against former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, real estate agent Ryan Kelley, radio host Tudor Dixon, Pastor Ralph Rebant, businessman Austin Chenge, and Bob Scott in the Republican Gubernatorial primary.

______________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

Breaking: Kevin Rinke Repeatedly Sexually And Racially Tormented Multiple Employees, Stunning Court Settlements Reveal

 

KEVIN RINKE

By Brandon Hall

(Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.Com)

Shocking court records obtained by West Michigan Politics show prominent Metro Detroit car dealer Kevin Rinke repeatedly subjected employees to racial attacks and sexual harassment.

Rinke, who is considering running for Governor, settled the sexual harassment suit for $15,000, and settled the racial attack suit out of court, Macomb County Circuit Court files reveal.

***Warning: Content Below May Not Be Suitable For All Audiences***

In Blakes V. Rinke, serious allegations are made.

In one instance, Rinke tells the victim, "Hey, where did you steal that car?"

"I don't steal," he responds.

"You mean you aren't like the rest of the n!gger$," Rinke says.

Rinke then removed the victim's hat.

"Please don't bother with my hat," he says.

Rinke refused, continuing to touch the victim.

In another instance, in front of multiple employees, Rinke said, "have you heard the rumors about the n!gger$? You mean to tell me you haven't heard about the size of their c*cks?" 

In another instance, Rinke told the victim, "go ahead Mickie, show her your 14 inch c*ck, all you n!gger$ have one!"

In another incident, in front of multiple employees, Rinke said "you can get one of your n!gge® buddies and John and I can play 2 on 2 and we can beat any of your n!gge® friends!" 

The parties stipulated a settlement, usually indicating an out of court agreement.

(CLICK HERE FOR THE Documents)

In another problematic suit, 3 employees sued. 

Of the parties, the pertinent case, Monica Kidder V. Kevin Rinke, includes instances of sexual harassment and creepy comments from Rinke. 

In one instance, Rinke instituted a policy ordering her to say good night to him before leaving shifts, and if she didn't, he would call her at home to say good night. 

Another time, he called an employee a "f*cking c*nt" and said that "women shouldn't be allowed to work in public, they're ignorant and stupid." 

He also said when staff members had newborn boys that they were "well hung."

He said one of his favorite expressions is "I won't cum in your mouth."

After the plaintiff got divorced, Rinke called and wanted to know which "young stud" she was with. 

In another call, he asked if she was naked, and if her boyfriend was going down on her. 

At work in front of multiple employees, Rinke asked if the plaintiff had a matching bra and panties on. 

Rinke and Kidder settled for $15,000, records show.

(CLICK HERE FOR THE  Records)

Rinke, rumored to be willing to spend $10 million to buy the nomination, would face a crowded Republican Gubernatorial field.

 Candidates currently include former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, Chiropractor Garrett Soldano, real estate agent Ryan Kelley, radio host Tudor Dixon, as well as Ralph Rebant, and Bob Scott.

____________________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

>>>Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com

Developing: Former State Representative Doug Geiss Busted Breaking Into House, Caught Sniffing Underwear Of Teen Girl On Trail Cam

 

By Brandon Hall

(Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.Com)

A whistle blower has revealed to West Michigan Politics that former State Representative Doug Geiss was caught breaking into a house, and then sniffing the underwear of the family's teen daughter.

The residents installed a trail cam after they repeatedly noticed items in their house appeared to have been slightly moved after returning from weekend trips.

The home, located in the Taylor area, is a rental property Geiss owns. He was not scheduled to visit, he had no reason to enter the home, and he did not notify the family he had been inside.

Geiss is currently running for City Council in Taylor.

His wife is State Senator Erika Geiss, a prominent supporter of Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

West Michigan Politics is withholding other details at this time in order to protect the identity of the teen victim.

_______________________________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

>>>Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com
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Breaking: Laura Cox Secretly Appointed Anti-Trump Attorney To Be Lead Lawyer For MIGOP

Dennis Flessland

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com)

Michigan Republican Party Chair Laura Cox secretly appointed Anti-Trump attorney Dennis Flessland to be the lead lawyer for the state party, WMP learned Friday.

Cox appointed Flessland around 3 weeks ago to replace Stu Sandler, who left the role of General Counsel to take a position in Washington DC with Senate Republicans.

Flessland has publicly supported efforts to purge President Trump from the party, as well as starting a new party free of Trump supporters.

Flessland also says that the GOP can't be both the party of Lincoln, and the party of Trump...

This guy was the best she could do?

________________________________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

>>>Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com
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Making Stalin Proud: Cox Will Count The Votes At MIGOP Convention!

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com)

Wow!

Apparently, Laura Cox will run the MIGOP Zoom convention on Saturday instead of handing it off to a separate Convention Chair, despite being a candidate herself!

Normally at state convention, we always elect a Convention Chair, someone who is not a candidate in a race to be decided by the delegates that day...

This practice is common at the District level, and that too should stop in the future...

She will be able to mute anyone she doesn't want to hear from, and she can pretty much stop the vote counting whenever she pleases!

“I consider it completely unimportant who in the party will vote, or how; but what is extraordinarily important is this — who will count the votes, and how.”

-Joseph Stalin

________________________________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

>>>Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com
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MIGOP Convention DRAMA: Cox Drops 11th Hour Bombshell On Weiser After Two Year Coverup

 

By Brandon Hall

(Email Him At WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com)

In a bombshell email to Republican activists across the state Thursday morning, Michigan Republican Party Chair Laura Cox re-entered the race for MIGOP Chair just 2 days before the convention, concurrently alleging that former Michigan Republican Party Chairman Ron Weiser paid Stan Grot $200,000 of party money to drop out of the race for Secretary of State in 2018.

Weiser and his Co-Chair, Meshawn Maddock, were expected to take office after this weekend without any opposition before the blockbuster announcement from Cox.

Grot, the Chair of the 10th District, and the elected Shelby Township Clerk, says Cox is desperate, questioning why she named him MIGOP Budget Committee Chairman.

"I am proud of my work turning Macomb County red and making it one of the most Republican areas in the country," Grot said in a statement Thursday. "I find it highly ironic that Laura Cox put me in charge of the party finances and appointed me Chairman of the Republican Party Budget Committee if she truly thought I shouldn't have been hired. Laura Cox is desperate to hold on to her job and full of sour grapes. Shame on her."

The email from Cox ignited a firestorm with precinct delegates and leaders across the Michigan Republican Party, the media, and political observers throughout the state.

Cox claims she will resign as Chair if she wins so that State Committee could choose a replacement in April. Cox said she has known about the issue with Weiser and Grot for two years, but is only coming forward now, two days before the election.

She says she didn't come forward during the last two years because of Weiser's health problems, and other issues.

Weiser addressed the controversy in a statement defending his actions:

"During my time as party chair, we were successful in turning the Upper Peninsula permanently red and, with Stan Grot’s help, we organized record turnout in Macomb County. As a result, Northern Michigan and Macomb are now the strongest Republican areas in the state. I proudly declined a chairman salary, which allowed the party to hire regional organizers, and we will grow that program to increase our numbers in other regions of the state in 2022.

Laura Cox’s baseless allegations are a desperate attempt to smear my name, based on a longstanding political grudge, and her inability to hold onto the job of party chair that she could not keep on her own merits. The contract in question was drafted by counsel, and I relied on that counsel. What's more, Laura's false allegations have been reviewed by former Chief Justice Robert P. Young Jr. of the Michigan Supreme Court, who has also consulted with other legal experts, and they all agree there have been no violations.

Laura has known about these issues for the past two years and, had there been any violation, which there wasn't, she would have compounded the problem and she would have been liable. Furthermore, Laura appointed Grot as chair of the budget committee, putting him in charge of the party's finances, undermining her entire assertion.

I'm disappointed by Laura's shameful attempt to destroy our party with unfounded and reckless conspiracy theories so that she can get back in the chair's race and save her paycheck. We must focus on our party and our future. As such, I have started putting together a staff and a plan to win in 2022."

Cox now claims to be a self righteous fighter for truth and transparency, yet still refuses to answer why she and Arlan Meekhof helped launder $10 million of taxpayer money to former MIGOP Chair Bobby Schostak when she was the Appropriations Chair in the Michigan House in 2018.

This bizarre stunt Laura Cox cooked up is just like the desperate girlfriend who claims she's pregnant when she's about to be dumped.

Delegates deserve real answers on this issue, not a cynical, 11th hour circus so Laura can save her job.

>>>Read The 14 Page Internal Report Cox Has Hidden From Delegates HERE

________________________________________________________

Brandon Hall is a lifelong political nerd from Grand Haven, and is the Managing Editor of West Michigan Politics.

>>>Email him at WestMIPolitics@Gmail.com
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