Top Five Games: By Sammy Taormina

Top Five Games: By Sammy Taormina

Top Five Games: By Sammy Taormina

Royal Oak at Berkley: I remember chatting with Berkley coach Sean Shields about how his team gears up to play Royal Oak. They did not play each other in the regular season due to COVID but they will get that chance to play each other. The Bears have had a great season but two straight losses to close out the season hurts. The Ravens have struggled but they played better against Fraser last week. Royal Oak has won the last two meetings over Berkley by a combined 54-7. This is shaping up to be a very interesting game. I wonder if “The Curb” is on the line in this game???

 

Adams at Rochester: The Falcons have had a great season, first league title and undefeated season since 1993. Rochester will have a chance to snap another painful streak when they host Adams. The Falcons haven’t beaten the Highlanders since 1996. Adams has had a tough season but they are still Adams. The Highlanders have played a much tougher schedule than Rochester. I wonder how Falcons alumni’s Dan Strickradt and Keith Dunlap are feeling right now seeing what is happening with Rochester. This is shaping up to be a very good game, could this be history in the making???

 

Groves at Avondale: The Yellow Jackets sent a huge statement by blowing out Bloomfield Hills 37-9 on Friday night. Avondale earned themselves a home game with Groves on Friday night at Dick Bye Field. The Falcons were blown out 40-14 by Stoney Creek last week sending them to 3-3. Groves has played a much tougher schedule but the Yellow Jackets have been red hot in the last three weeks. There should be plenty of athleticism on display in Auburn Hills.

 

Waterford Kettering at North Farmington: This is a very interesting matchup between the Raiders and Captains. Both coaches know each other real well from their college days in Ken Schmidt and Jon Herstein. Waterford Kettering is a resilient group which included a comeback over arch rival Waterford Mott beating them for the second straight season 34-26. North Farmington forfeited their game with Seaholm last week because of a power outage. The Captains and the Raiders were supposed to play in week one but due to COVID that did not happen. North Farmington won 35-30 at home over Waterford Kettering last season but the Captains almost came back and won that game. Waterford Kettering has something to prove. This is a very dangerous game for the Raiders.

 

Lake Orion at Grand Blanc: The Bobcats have been rolling in the Saginaw Valley and they picked up a huge win over Saline 14-13 last week. Grand Blanc has had a history of collapsing in the playoffs typically against OAA schools or Davison or Lapeer. The Bobcats have a very good quarterback in Ty Brotebeck and a very good running back in Elijah Jackson-Anderson. The defense has had a great year as well. Grand Blanc wants to prove to everyone that they belong which is their chip. The Dragons have played tougher competition than Grand Blanc. They have struggled offensively this season against very good teams but the defense is stout. Lake Orion has lost to two top ten state ranked teams in Clarkston and West Bloomfield. They remind me a lot of Utica Eisenhower, no offense but a stout defense. This game should be a low scoring defensive game. The coaching matchup is very interesting between Coach Clint Alexander and John Blackstock. This is shaping up to be an interesting game as mentioned.

At Home Flu Shots For Older Adults

At Home Flu Shots For Older Adults

Oakland County Launches At Home Flu Shots For Older Adults

Pontiac, Michigan – Oakland County Health Division is launching a new program to vaccinate homebound residents 65 years and older for influenza in their homes beginning Tuesday, October 27. Appointments are required. The Health Division’s Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 will start accepting appointments on October 22.

“This important service will help remove barriers for our most at-risk residents to receive a flu shot this season,” Oakland County Executive David Coulter said. “Getting a flu shot is more important than ever this year since both flu viruses and COVID-19 will be present in our community.”

Flu and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Getting a flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19, however the flu vaccination has many other benefits:

  • Helps prevent flu illness
  • Reduces risk of flu-associated hospitalizations
  • Has been shown to reduce severity of illness if you do get the flu
  • Protects you and the people around you including those more vulnerable to the disease

Public Health Nurses will visit residents’ home during a designated appointment time. Nurses can provide individuals 65 years and older a senior higher dose or regular flu shot.

“Flu vaccination is very important this year to help reduce respiratory illnesses and avoid overwhelming the healthcare system. Research is suggesting that the risk of death may double in those 60 years and older if they are infected with both flu and COVID-19,” said Dr. Russell Faust, Oakland County Medical Director. “Wear a mask, wash your hands, and practice physical distancing not only to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but also flu.”

Payment options include Medicare, Medicaid, most Blue Cross Blue Shield plans and Blue Care Network, and additional insurances. No one will be denied access to services due to lack of insurance; there is a discounted/sliding fee schedule available.

For up-to-date information, visit www.oakgov.com/health, follow the Health Division on Facebook and Twitter @publichealthOC, or call the Health Division’s Flu Shot Hotline at 800-434-3358. Nurse on Call is also available to answer questions at 800-848-5533, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

For MEDIA INQUIRIES ONLY: Contact Bill Mullan, Oakland County media and communications officer, at 248-858-1048.

Home Flu Shot Program.pdf

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Michigan Council on Future Mobility

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Michigan Council on Future Mobility

Governor Gretchen Whitmer Banner - headshot with bridge graphic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

October 22, 2020

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification

Council to advise on policies to support economic growth, job creation within mobility ecosystem

 

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced the following appointments to the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification which will work to ensure Michigan continues to be the world leader in future mobility, including autonomous and connected vehicle technology, electric powertrain technology and charging infrastructure, and shared and transit mobility option.

 

“Today’s announcement builds on progress we’ve made this year to cement our status as a hub for innovation and opportunity in the mobility sector, including the launch of the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification and our efforts to build the road of the future between Detroit and Ann Arbor,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “In Michigan, where the health of our workers and our economy are directly tied to the health of our auto industry, we will continue engaging in forward-looking policies to remain on the cutting edge of mobility and electrification growth in the state. Since I was sworn in as governor, we have brought in historic investments to our auto plants, creating more than 12,000 Michigan jobs. I will continue working closely with everyone who wants to grow our workforce and economy. ”

 

On February 25, 2020, Governor Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-2 creating the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification, housed within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, to replace the Council on Future Mobility, which was abolished under the order. The Council will serve in an advisory capacity to LEO and the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, the governor, and the legislature, providing annual recommendations on changes in state policy. In doing so, the council will work to ensure Michigan continues to be an epicenter of future transportation solutions around mobility and electrification.

 

“The strength of Michigan’s mobility ecosystem is the collaboration that you find happening all across the state, as technology continues to evolve and transportation options grow,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “We work together to solve real problems for our residents, our businesses and our communities and to advance our state’s technology and the automotive landscape in a way that also has the potential to improve the quality of life for countless individuals in Michigan.”

 

“Michigan needs to continue leading with innovation and technology. Establishing the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification is a key player. Governor Whitmer’s leadership and these strong appointments will go a long way towards ensuring Michigan remains the global center of the auto and mobility industry.  I look forward to working with the Governor and the Council on this critical mission,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.

 

“Michigan is well positioned to become a leader in electric vehicles, and to leverage that leadership to build the infrastructure needed to power them,” said Senator Mallory McMorrow.  “I’m excited to continue to collaborate with industry leaders, researchers, environmental groups, and other public officials to create a coordinated plan and take advantage of this opportunity.”

 

The Governor has designated the Director of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to serve as chairperson of the council. This role is currently being held by Acting Director Susan Corbin who will serve as chairperson at the pleasure of the Governor.

 

“The efforts of this Council will be critical to executing a statewide strategy for mobility and electrification,” Susan Corbin said. “Putting forward the best policies to ensure economic growth, charting new paths for talent and taking a forward-looking approach to infrastructure reinforce Michigan’s culture of innovation and the competitiveness of our automotive core.”

 

The Council will consist of the Directors from the Departments of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Transportation, Insurance and Financial Services, State Police, Treasury, Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, and the chairman of the Michigan Public Service Commission. Additionally, the Governor is appointing the following ten members to the council:

 

Robert F. Babik, of Ann Arbor, is the executive director of global regulatory affairs and sustainability for General Motors. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Youngstown State University. Mr. Babik is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2024.

 

Stephen J. Bartoli, of Birmingham, is the vice president of global greenhouse gas compliance for the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Group (FCA). He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame and a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University. Mr. Bartoli is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2024.

 

Patrick Cadariu, of Detroit, is the head of vehicle and trucking supply chain operations for Waymo. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Central Michigan University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago. Mr. Cadariu is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2023.

 

Derek S. Caveney, Ph.D., of Plymouth, is an executive engineer for Toyota’s North American operations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Applied Mathematics from Queen’s University and a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California at Berkley. Dr. Caveney is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2023.

 

Cory Connolly, of Detroit, is the vice president of policy at the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Michigan State University. Mr. Connolly is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2022.

 

Jeffrey A. Dokho, of Huntington Woods, is the research director for the United Auto Workers American Labor Union. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Michigan State University. Mr. Dokho is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2022.

 

Emily Frascaroli, of Grosse Ile, is managing counsel of the Product Litigation Group at Ford Motor Company, including the product litigation, asbestos, and discovery teams, and a lecturer at the University of Michigan Law School. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Southern California, Master of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan, and a Juris Doctor degree from Wayne State University. Ms. Frascaroli is appointed to represent insurance interests for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2024.

 

Chris Nevers, of Dundee, is the director of environmental engineering and policy at Rivian Automotive. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toledo and a Master of Engineering in Automotive Engineering from the University of Michigan. Mr. Nevers is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2023.

 

Huei Peng, Ph.D., of Ann Arbor, is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan and the associate director of MCity. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the National Taiwan University, Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Berkley. Dr. Peng is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2021.

 

Satish S. Udpa, Ph.D., of Okemos, is a distinguished professor at Michigan State University and a fellow and editor for the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Post Grad Diploma in Electrical Engineering from J.N.T. University in Hyderabad, India, and a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Colorado State University. Dr. Udpa is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2020 and expiring October 22, 2021.

 

The following members of the Legislature will serve as non-voting ex officio members of the Council: Senator Ken Horn designated by the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Mallory McMorrow designated by the Senate Minority Leader, Representative Jim Lilly designated by the Speaker of the House, and Representative Abdullah Hammoud designated by the House Minority Leader.

 

“Today’s announcement on the Council of Future Mobility and Electrification serves to further solidify the state’s progressive mobility initiatives,” said Trevor Pawl, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer and head of the state’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification. The Office coordinates the state’s mobility strategy across governmental entities and industry partners, and will coordinate mobility and electrification policy recommendations from the Council. “Our office is ready and eager to work alongside these exceptional council members to develop and implement meaningful mobility policy for the state of Michigan that will impact generations of Michiganders to come – with safer, cleaner, and equitable mobility solutions.”

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

COVID-19 recommendations for Halloween

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2020
Contact: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112

To help ensure the only thing scary about Halloween is the costumes, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has issued guidance on how to safely celebrate the holiday during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The way we celebrate Halloween in Michigan will be different this year due to COVID-19,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “However, there are still many ways to celebrate safely. The guidance MDHHS issued today provides tips for trick-or-treaters and their parents along with homeowners who wish to hand out treats.”

Tips for all groups include staying home if you are sick; maintaining social distancing of at least six feet; wearing a cloth mask that covers both the mouth and nose; and washing hands often or frequently using hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol.

In addition to the MDHHS guidance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also issued recommendations this week. CDC considers trick-or-treating a high-risk activity and offers alternative activities to consider as well as safety tips if parents and children choose to trick-or-treat.

Tips for trick-or-treaters and parents:

  • Share with your children that this year may be different than last but let them know some of the new ways you plan to celebrate and still have lots of fun.
  • Talk with children about safety and social distancing guidelines and expectations. Keep a six-foot distance from others not in your group.
  • Participate in one-way trick-or-treating and guide children to stay to the right to ensure social distancing.
  • Trick or treat with people you live with.
  • Avoid congregating in groups around houses.
  • Wear a face mask covering both mouth and nose.
    • A costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask.
    • Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask if wearing both causes difficulty breathing. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.
  • Only go to houses with safety measures in place.
  • Check out halloween2020.org to find exciting activities and ways to celebrate Halloween this year based on levels of COVID risks in your area.

Tips for homeowners:

  • Use duct tape to mark six-foot lines in front of home and leading to driveway/front door.
  • Position a distribution table between yourself and trick-or-treaters.
  • Distribute candy on a disinfected table to eliminate direct contact.
  • Consider handing out candy in an open space where distancing is possible, rather than from the front door.
  • Consider a neighborhood costume parade; it is an easy way to keep safe space between children.

The guidance also urges Michiganders to consider hosting virtual parties instead of in-person Halloween gatherings. If a gathering is hosted, it should be limited to 10 people or less per Executive Order 2020-176, social distancing should be maintained, cloth masks should be worn and food and party favors should be set out individually to prevent cross contamination.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

MDHHS announces $50,000 grant

MDHHS announces $50,000 grant

MDHHS banner with logo no names

Press Release


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct 22, 2020

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

MDHHS announces $50,000 grant for direct
care worker infection control training

­­­­­LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) today announced a partnership with IMPART Alliance at Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine to develop infection control training for direct care workers. MDHHS has provided IMPART Alliance $50,000 in COVID Relief Funding to develop the training and make it widely available for direct care workers (DCW) providing home and community-based services.

IMPART Alliance will develop a comprehensive Infection Control curriculum for training all direct care workers and family caregivers. MDHHS, IMPART Alliance and others will widely distribute the training to increase access and skills for the caregivers. The training will be free of charge and available in December 2020.

“While certified nursing assistant courses are required for direct care workers who work in nursing facilities, similar training is not universally required for home and community-based services programs,” said Kate Massey, senior deputy director of MDHHS’ Medical Services Administration. “Without proper training on infection control, direct care workers could unknowingly transfer COVID-19 or other infectious diseases from client to client, and put themselves, their families and the greater community at risk.”

IMPART Alliance is a coalition of researchers, direct care workers, providers, clients, advocates and agencies. The organization works to develop a competent home care workforce and improve the lives of direct care workers and the clients they serve. IMPART Alliance strives to address multiple components of workforce development including building on the evidence-based training program Building Training…Building QualityTM, establishing a DCW professional association and founding a highly diverse statewide coalition charged with determining feasible win-win strategies for ensuring a high-quality DCW workforce.

For more information on IMPART Alliance, visit at Impartalliance.org.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.