by orionontv | Nov 18, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Thursday November 14th at 11:45 PM
Ferndale University has a new girls basketball coach.
The Eagles named Bennie Szczepkowski their new head coach taking over for Coach Brianna Rowe who stepped down recently.
Szczepkowski took the Ferndale University job two weeks before the season started which he confirmed on Media Day at Groves.
Szczepkowski has a hard task ahead of him in turning around a program that went 0-18 last season. He will have a ton of proven experience coming back in LeAnna Spencer, Gabrielle Thompson, Kayla Sanders, Taniyah Crawford, Tamary Powell, Kendall Spencer, and Jayda Wilson.
Ferndale University will need a strong start to build confidence this season. It won’t be an easy transition and it has to happen during the season. It will be very interesting to see what happens.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
by orionontv | Nov 18, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Friday November 15th at 10:10 PM
This will be updated.
HARPER WOODS 48, Macomb Lutheran North 3: The Pioneers were the dominant team on Friday night in Harper Woods shutting down a very solid Crusaders team and running back Vincent Campisi was held in check by a really strong Pioneers defense. The offense was really good for Harper Woods in this game. The Pioneers will move on to have a rematch with Goodrich in the Division Four State Semifinals.
GROVES 21, Warren De LaSalle 19. Ryan Counts was the story on Friday night in Beverly Hills. Counts had two passing touchdowns (one was a very controversial touchdown) and a running score while the Falcons defensive line was the story in a 21-19 win over Warren De LaSalle. The touchdown in question was on a fourth and 16 there was a battle between Chris Little and the Warren De LaSalle player pushed Little out of bounds but Little came back in and caught the ball in bounds. It was originally called incomplete which would have been called illegal touching but the officials reversed it and called it a touchdown infuriating the Pilots. According to the replay it looked like Little was pushed out of bounds which if he’s pushed out of bounds by the defender then he can return to play without being penalized but if he went out on his own and came back on his own then it’s illegal touching which the replay showed Little was pushed out of bounds. The Counts to Little connection has been really good all season for Groves. The Falcons proved they can win against proven Catholic League powers and they will need to do it again when they play Orchard Lake St. Marys and former Stoney Creek Coach Nick Merlo (Merlo is the offensive coordinator for the Eaglets) in the Division Two State Semifinals.
ADAMS 21, Grand Blanc 14. The Highlanders overcame a ton of mistakes and a strong air raid attack from the Bobcats on Friday night. Adams got a key catch from backup quarterback Nolan Farris to Cameron Darwood which set up an eight yard touchdown from Matteo Humbert and the Highlanders defense held off Grand Blanc in a 21-14 win on Friday night. Humbert was really good all night for Adams. The Highlanders defense was really good all night shutting down a really good Bobcats offense despite allowing some yardage in the air. Adams will likely head west to play Hudsonville next week in the Division One State Semifinals.
by orionontv | Nov 18, 2024 | Regional News
8,000 Students and Educators to Explore In-Demand Careers at MiCareerQuest Southeast
Post Date:11/18/2024 3:29 PM
- By the numbers: 8,000 students from 114 schools across six counties exploring 210 high-demand careers.
- Students will explore careers in advanced manufacturing, construction, health sciences and technology.
- For more information, including a full list of exhibitors, visit OakGov.com/MiCareerQuestSE.
Pontiac, Mich. – MiCareerQuest Southeast, the region’s largest and most interactive career exploration event for high school students, returns for its fourth year on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.
More than 8,000 students and educators from 114 schools across six Michigan counties are expected to attend this day-long event, featuring hands-on exhibits and insights into 210 high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing, construction, health sciences, and technology.
Since its inception in 2018, MiCareerQuest Southeast has provided more than 20,000 students with an opportunity to engage directly with working professionals, explore various fields and gain practical insights into the skills needed for rewarding careers in southeast Michigan. It has become a signature experience for high school students and is highly regarded by educators and employers alike.
“MiCareerQuest Southeast is widely recognized as one of the most unique, interactive and educational field trips available to students each fall,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “Our goal is to spark students’ curiosity about the diverse career opportunities in our region, opening doors to fields they may not have considered.”
According to recent data from the College Board, 80 percent of students nationwide seek more career exploration opportunities in high school, and 92 percent want careers aligned with their passions. MiCareerQuest Southeast aims to meet this need, helping students envision future pathways and equipping them with practical knowledge for the workforce.
“MiCareerQuest Southeast is an investment in the future of our students and our community,” said Oakland Schools Superintendent Kenneth Gutman. “It’s an invaluable experience that connects young people with real-world career opportunities, and we’re grateful to the educators, businesses, and industry partners who make it possible.”
At MiCareerQuest Southeast, students will rotate through four distinct career quadrants – advanced manufacturing, construction, health sciences and technology. Each quadrant showcases 25-30 occupations that are projected to see strong demand in the coming years across southeast Michigan.
Highlights of this year’s interactive exhibits include:
- Advanced Manufacturing: Electric vehicle design, augmented reality welding, robot programming, CNC machining, and 3D additive manufacturing.
- Construction: Hands-on demonstrations in masonry, carpentry, plumbing, and heavy machine operation simulators.
- Health Sciences: Mock surgeries with life-like mannequins, physical therapy exercises, nutritionist presentations, and prosthetic design.
- Technology: Computer software programming, augmented reality applications, and cybersecurity exercises.
“We’re excited to sponsor MiCareerQuest Southeast again this year,” said Tom Laco, lead technical recruiter at Mobis North America. “As a global leader in the automotive sector, Mobis is committed to supporting the development of future talent, particularly in emerging fields like autonomous driving, electrification, and software engineering.”
MiCareerQuest Southeast is exclusively open to pre-registered schools, with each group assigned a two-hour session based on their proximity to the venue. Sessions begin at 8:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., with students spending 30 minutes in each career quadrant.
Schools from across southeast Michigan, including Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Monroe, Washtenaw and Livingston counties, will participate. Larger groups of students are expected from schools like Romeo High School (450 students), Oxford High School (425 students) and Fraser High School (400 students).
The event is organized by Oakland County Michigan Works! in collaboration with Michigan Works! agencies across southeast Michigan, the Oakland County Department of Economic Development, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, local education and economic development partners, and a number of labor organizations.
Key sponsors include presenting sponsors Oakland County Michigan Works!, Michigan Works! Macomb/St. Clair, Michigan Works! Southeast, SEMCA Michigan Works!, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, Magna and Mobis North America. Additional support comes from gold sponsors such as Oakland Community College, Macomb Community College and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, as well as several silver sponsors including Barton Malow, Trinity Health and Genisys Credit Union.
For more information, including a full list of exhibitors, visit OakGov.com/MiCareerQuestSE.
by orionontv | Nov 15, 2024 | Regional News
Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Michigan Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee, Early Childhood Investment Corporation, Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System Board, Michigan State Housing Development Authority Board, Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission, State Teacher Tenure Commission, Michigan Board of Behavior Analysts, and the MSU-CIBER Advisory Board.
Today’s appointees represent Michigan’s young professionals, communities of color, seniors, and more. The appointees announced this week build on Governor Whitmer’s work to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Sixty percent of appointees are women or people of color, and the Whitmer cabinet is the most diverse in Michigan history.
Michigan Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee
Kaitlin Liroff, of Birmingham, is an infectious disease physician at Hurley Medical Center and assistant professor of clinical medicine at Michigan State College of Human Medicine. She holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from the University of Michigan and a Doctor of Medicine from Oakland University’s William Beaumont School of Medicine. Kaitlin Liroff is appointed as a physician whose practice includes patients who are eligible for Medicaid for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring October 1, 2026. She succeeds Prakash Sanghvi, who has resigned.
Katie Axford, of Rockford, is a licensed pharmacist and professor at Ferris State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Hope College, a Master of Public Health from Ferris State University, and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Ferris State University. Katie Axford is reappointed as a pharmacist whose business includes prescriptions from individuals who are eligible for Medicaid for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring October 1, 2026.
Nora Orow, of Sterling Heights, is a clinical pharmacist at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. She holds a Doctor of Pharmacy from Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy. Nora Orow is reappointed as a pharmacist whose business includes prescriptions from individuals who are eligible for Medicaid for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring October 1, 2026.
The Michigan Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee advises the Department of Health and Human Services on issues affecting prescription drug coverage for its various health care programs. The Committee shall recommend to the Department guidelines for prescription drugs covered in its various health care programs.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Early Childhood Investment Corporation
Jana Dean, of East Lansing, is the chief financial officer of the Michigan Public Health Institute. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in accounting and Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University. She has served on the Early Childhood Investment Corporation Executive Committee since 2020. Jana Dean is reappointed to the Early Childhood Investment Corporation for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring July 22, 2028.
Ja’Nel Jamerson, of Ann Arbor, is the president of the Flint Center for Educational Excellence and director of the Ruth Mott Foundation. Previously, he was vice president of policy and P-20 partnerships for the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, Master of Arts in secondary urban education, and Doctor of Education in education leadership from the University of Michigan-Flint. Ja’Nel Jamerson is reappointed to the Early Childhood Investment Corporation for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring July 22, 2028.
Kevin Stotts, of Ada, is the president of Talent First, formerly known as Talent 2025. He serves on the boards of Children’s Leadership Council of Michigan, the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance Advisory Council, the St. Stephen Church Board and school board, and the West Michigan Prosperity Alliance. He holds an Associate of Arts from Northwestern Michigan College and a Bachelor of Arts in international relations from Michigan State University. Kevin Stotts is reappointed to the Early Childhood Investment Corporation for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring July 22, 2028.
Dr. Steve Tunnicliff, of Flushing, is the superintendent of Genesee Intermediate School District. Dr. Tunnicliff obtained a Bachelor of Science in secondary education from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, a Master of Arts in educational leadership from Central Michigan University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership and education specialist-educational leadership from Oakland University. He is also the president-elect of the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators and serves on the Autism Council. Dr. Steve Tunnicliff is appointed to the Early Childhood Investment Corporation for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring July 22, 2025. Dr. Tunnicliff succeeds John Severson, who has resigned.
The Early Childhood Investment Corporation was created to be the state’s focal point for information and investment in early childhood education in Michigan so that children can arrive at the kindergarten door safe, healthy, and eager for learning and life. The Investment Corporation was founded in 2005 and charged with implementing a Great Start system for Michigan both at the state and community level.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System Board
Michelle Dollis-Brady, of Van Buren Township, is the senior director of health and welfare strategy at Corewell Health. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in business administration and marketing at Louisiana State University. Michelle Dollis-Brady is appointed as a member of the general public with experience in actuarial science or health insurance for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring March 30, 2026. Dollis-Brady succeeds Alan Sonnanstine, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Public School Employees’ Retirement System Board is responsible for general oversight of retirement, survivor, and disability benefits to employees in public school districts, intermediate school districts, community colleges, and certain universities.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the senate.
Michigan State Housing Development Authority Board
Evangelina Hernandez, of Lansing, was recently a health and wellness specialist and a human resources retirement specialist for the City of Lansing. She also was the secretary for the Michigan American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Senior Community Service Employment Program. Evangelina Hernandez is appointed as a resident member for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring March 10, 2026. Hernandez succeeds Tyrone Hamilton, who has resigned.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority, established in 1966, was created to provide financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State Teacher Tenure Commission
Terae King, Jr., of Flint, is a field operations consultant with McDonald’s Corporation. He is also a trustee on the Flint Community Schools Board of Education, a role he has held since 2022. King earned a Bachelor of Science in political science and government from the University of Michigan-Flint. Terae King, Jr. is appointed to the State Teacher Tenure Commission for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring August 31, 2029. King succeeds Nicole McKinney, whose term has expired.
The State Teacher Tenure Commission acts as a board of review for all cases appealed from the decision of a controlling board.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission
Wolfgang Mueller, of Northville, is a boxing manager and third-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do and the owner of Mueller Law Firm. Mueller holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University, a Master of Science in mechanical engineering from University of Michigan – Dearborn, and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University – Detroit College of Law. Wolfgang Mueller is reappointed to represent mixed martial artists for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring June 5, 2028.
Sharon Kelly-Person, of Southfield, is the career development facilitators coordinator and Department of Health and Human Services coordinator for Educational Data Systems, Inc. (EDSI). She holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Siena Heights University. Kelly-Person is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring June 4, 2028.
Anne Morrell, of Rochester Hills, is a real estate agent for Signature Sotheby’s International Realty. She also serves as a licensed Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) professional judge. Morrell holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in operations management from the University of Michigan. Morrell is reappointed to represent mixed martial arts, for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring June 4, 2028.
Josh Bocks, of Macomb, is the planning director of Macomb Township. He is also an assistant wrestling coach at Livonia Stevenson High School and a former MMA fighter, trainer, and judge. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Kaplan University. Josh Bocks is reappointed to represent mixed martial arts for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring June 5, 2028.
Tarick Salmaci, of Dearborn, is the owner of the Tarick Salmaci Group at ARG Real Estate as well as a former professional boxer and North American Boxing Organization Middleweight Champion. Across his boxing career, Tarick won six state championships, four Midwest championships, three U.S. national championships, and was an Olympic trials finalist. Michael Tarick Salmaci is appointed to represent boxing for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring June 5, 2028. He succeeds Donald Weatherspoon, whose term has expired.
Tammy Timlin, of Dewitt, is co-owner and president of the Mid-Michigan Academy of Martial Arts. She is a ninth-degree black belt in AACS and a martial arts instructor. Tammy Timlin is reappointed to represent mixed martial arts for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring June 5, 2028.
The Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission is the successor to the Michigan Boxing Commission and is responsible for the regulation of professional boxing and mixed martial arts. The Commission and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs are vested with management, control, and jurisdiction over all professional boxing, professional or amateur mixed martial arts, or unarmed combat contests or events conducted in this state.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Behavior Analysts
Margaret Moore, of Ada, is the executive director of Hope Network Centers for Autism and the president of the Board of Directors of the Michigan Behavior Analyst Providers Association. She also holds an active Behavior Analyst license. Moore earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Western Michigan University and a Master of Science in applied behavior analysis from Northeastern University. Margaret Moore is appointed as a behavior analyst engaged in providing clinical services for a term commencing January 1, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028. Margaret Moore succeeds Samantha Hancock, whose term will have expired.
Dr. Jeana Koerber, of Mattawan, is the executive director of Autism Services at the Great Lakes Center (GLC) for Autism Treatment and Research and the treasurer of the Michigan Behavior Analysis Provider Association (MiBAP). She is a board-certified behavior analyst. Dr. Koerber earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology, a Master of Arts in industrial organizational behavior management, and a Doctorate in behavior analysis from Western Michigan University. Dr. Jeana Koerber is appointed as a behavior analyst engaged in providing behavior analysis services to the Medicaid population in addition to providing clinical services for a term commencing January 1, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028. Dr. Jeana Koerber succeeds Conny Raaymakers, whose term will have expired.
The Michigan Board of Behavior Analysts was created to assist the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs with the regulating and licensing of behavior analysts who utilize applied behavior analysis interventions that are based on scientific research and the direct observation and measurement of behavior and the environment.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Alyssa Tracey, of Royal Oak, is the director of international trade at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. She received her Bachelor of Arts in international relations from Michigan State University and her Master of Arts in modern Middle Eastern studies from the University of Michigan. Alyssa Tracey is appointed for a term commencing November 14, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. Tracey succeeds Natalie Chmiko.
In order for MSU to be eligible for a Centers for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) grant through the U.S. Department of Education, MSU shall establish a center advisory council which will conduct extensive planning prior to the establishment of a center concerning the scope of the center’s activities and the design of its programs and advise the center on activities going forward. One member of the Board is appointed by the Governor.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
