Combatting the opioid crisis in Michigan

by orionontv | Mar 25, 2024 | Regional News

Friend ––

The opioid crisis has devastated communities across Michigan – and young people have been hit as hard as anyone. Over 100,000 teenagers in our state have experienced a substance use disorder.

These are kids who should be going to school, spending time with their friends, and looking forward to their futures. Instead, they’re losing their adolescence to addiction.

I recently heard about this firsthand when I joined a roundtable at the Greater Flint Health Coalition, where I spoke with health care providers on the front lines of this crisis about the scope of this problem and the resources they need to address it. I know how essential it is that we continue to support their work.

Click HERE to watch more.

That starts with reauthorizing the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative – a program I helped establish in 2018 that has provided critical support to young people who are struggling with addiction.

This is just the first step. I’ll continue doing whatever I can to keep up the fight against the opioid crisis and help our communities heal.

Thanks for reading,

Gary Peters
United States Senator for Michigan

DNR News Digest – Week of March 25, 2024

by orionontv | Mar 25, 2024 | Recreation

News Digest – Week of March 25, 2024

An aerial view of a forest, a trail peeking through an opening in the arbor.

ORV season, Happy Little Trees and more reasons to explore your local trails!

Here are just a few of this week’s stories from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources:

See other news releases, Showcasing the DNR stories, photos and other resources at Michigan.gov/DNRPressRoom.

PHOTO FOLDER: Larger, higher-res versions of the images used below, and others, are available in this folder.

Eclipse chasing in Michigan state parks, game areas

A total solar eclipse - the shadow of the moon blocks the surface of the sun, flares of light emanating from behind.

A rare solar eclipse is set to pass over North America in just a few weeks, and people everywhere are making plans to experience this astronomical phenomenon. Whether you want to shadow-hunt in Michigan state parks, state game areas or other outdoor sites, put safety first and pack your ISO-certified eclipse glasses or solar viewers.

A total solar eclipse – when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, completely covering the surface of the sun – will cast a moon shadow across the United States, Canada and Mexico the afternoon of Monday, April 8. As the earth, sun and moon continue to orbit, the shadow will travel in a line across the continent from southwest to northeast. The total solar eclipse is viewable only from within the centerline – called the path of totality – and is estimated to last 3.5 to 4 minutes.

While the path of totality is predicted to touch only the southeastern-most corner of the state (particularly Monroe County), most state parks and state game/wildlife areas – more prone to open skies and minimal light pollution – offer ideal settings for even a partial eclipse.

According to NASA’s Eclipse Explorer, an interactive map that helps predict coverage, Erie State Game Area in Erie is expecting a “deep partial” eclipse at 99.98% totality, Sterling State Park in Monroe is estimated to experience 99.8% totality, and Lake Hudson Recreation Area in Clayton an estimated 99.3%. Other areas of the state are estimated at varying amounts.

“Sterling State Park is positioned as a prime viewing location for a near-total eclipse,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “While the path of totality won’t reach everyone, state parks can provide ideal outdoor opportunities to share, even partially, in this celestial event.”

Olson also said that coverage predictions in other parks vary depending on where you will be in the state and, understandably, lessen as you move farther away from the path of totality. Your chances on Belle Isle (Detroit) are closer to 99.4%; Sleepy Hollow State Park (Laingsburg), 96%; Mitchell State Park (Cadillac), 89.6%; Tahquamenon Falls State Park (Paradise), 82.1%; and Fort Wilkins Historic State Park (Copper Harbor).

No matter where you are when the eclipse occurs, remember to never look directly at the sun with your naked eye, even during a partial eclipse; always use certified eye protection. For more details and safety tips, check out NASA’s eclipse safety page.

A towering tree stands still as the stars track across the sky in a long-exposure shot.

Sterling State Park

The nearly complete solar eclipse (99.8%) is estimated at 3:13 p.m. in Sterling State Park. Mark the moment with a viewing party in the beach parking lot from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Beginning at 1:30 p.m., solar eclipse glasses (while supplies last) will be handed out compliments of the Monroe County Convention & Tourism Bureau, Monroe County Museum and the DNR. Food trailers, interpretive programs and a touch-the-truck display will also be part of the fun.

For more information, contact park manager Jason Morgan at 734-777-6396.

Lake Hudson Recreation Area

Lake Hudson Recreation Area, near the Ohio border, is hosting a viewing party for a spectacular near-total solar eclipse (99.3 %) at approximately 3:12 p.m. Visit Lenawee will provide free solar eclipse glasses (while supplied last) to all visitors in the beach parking lot.

This park is a stargazing destination as one of six designated dark sky preserves in Michigan state parks. Dark sky preserves are locations specially designated by the Michigan Legislature and are open 24 hours a day.

For more information, contact park supervisor Shane Morse at 517-467-7401.

Erie State Game Area

Estimated to be among Michigan’s best eclipse-viewing locations, Erie State Game Area (with 99.98% coverage) will partner with the Monroe County Convention and Tourism Bureau to host a viewing event from 2 to 4 p.m. on the Dusseau Tract at the corner of Dean and Bay Creek roads. Parking is available in a few small parking areas and along the grass shoulder of Bay Creek Road. MCCTB staff will have a limited amount of eclipse viewing glasses available.

For more information, contact Adam Shook at [email protected].

Ready to ride? Buy your ORV license and trail permit today

April 1 marks the start of the 2024-25 off-road vehicle season in Michigan, and now is a great time to purchase your license and trail permit. Access thousands of miles of state-designated ORV trails and scramble areas, eligible county/national forest roads, state forest roads open to ORV use and more.

ORV licenses and trail permits are valid for one year, from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. Your dollars make a major impact: Fees generated through ORV licenses and trail permits are reinvested into the ORV system, benefiting trail expansion, grant funding for annual trail grooming, infrastructure improvements and more uses.

The state’s ORV community also plays a critical role in ensuring the maintenance and longevity of state-designated motorized trails, said Ron Yesney, Upper Peninsula trails coordinator for the DNR.

“We’re thankful for the many ORV clubs all across Michigan who maintain 4,000 miles of state-designated ORV trails,” Yesney said. “These volunteers keep our trails signed and maintained, and without them we couldn’t provide the high-quality trails system that we do.”

As you plan your spring and summer riding excursions, a few friendly reminders to keep in mind:

All operators under age 16 must have an ORV safety certificate to ride on public land – including trails.
Plan ahead! Know which trails you want to explore and whether you are allowed to be there by viewing the DNR’s interactive ORV trail and route maps. Also check your vehicle width and trail signage before proceeding on a trail – trails and restricted areas may be closed for your safety. Aside from being unsafe, trespassing on closed trails and roads can result in fines and future trail closures.
Always Ride Right so you return safely to family and friends. This means riding at a safe speed, riding sober, riding on the right side of the trail (trails have two-way traffic) and wearing a helmet.

If you cross paths with trail volunteers, tell them you appreciate their efforts! Great trails don’t just happen – volunteers’ hard work and dedication help keep your favorite outdoor recreational activities safe and enjoyable.

Learn more about ORV riding in Michigan at Michigan.gov/ORVInfo. For more information, contact Ron Yesney at 906-228-6561.

ICYMI: E-bikes may soon be allowed on state park trails

Two people cycle down a paved trail in summer.

Electric bicycles may be allowed to operate on state park-managed nonmotorized trails currently open to bicycles, under a proposed DNR land use change that could go into effect as early as this spring.

Under current Michigan law, only Class 1 e-bikes – e-bikes that are pedal-assisted and can go up to 20 miles per hour – are allowed on improved surface trails, which are trails that are paved or consist of gravel or asphalt. Current law also allows for local entities to expand or further regulate e-bike usage in their respective communities.

A public survey about the proposed land use change is open through March 31, and results will be shared during the April 11 Michigan Natural Resources Commission meeting. The proposed policy change will go before DNR Director Scott Bowen for action at the commission’s May meeting, with any approved change going into effect immediately thereafter.

The proposed DNR land use change – explained in more detail in this recent DNR news release – would expand allowable e-bike use to include Class 1 e-bikes on natural surface, nonmotorized trails on state park-managed land open to bicycles.

Learn more about what qualifies as an e-bike in Michigan, the current e-bike policy on state-managed park land and survey details at Michigan.gov/DNR/Ebikes. Directly access the e-bike survey at research.net/r/DNR-E-BIKE.

Questions? Contact Nicole Hunt at 517-282-9970.

Run, walk or roll this Bob Ross-inspired race

Spring has sprung! Now is the time to sign up for the next Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K. Run, walk or roll your race to support tree planting and forest protection efforts in state parks. This Bob Ross-inspired program, now in its fifth year, continues to expand, with participation from Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Washington and Wisconsin.

“We are excited to witness the evolution of this partnership with Bob Ross Inc.,” said Michelle O’Kelly, who oversees fund and resource development for the DNRd Parks and Recreation Division. “Over the past five years, we have enjoyed celebrating ‘the joy of painting’ with a love of trees and being active all at the same time. It has been exciting to see the program offerings – to include the new happy little sticker – and our reach grow to 10 states,” she said. “We look forward to seeing how the program continues to grow in the future.”

Registration is open through Monday, April 1, at midnight. Race details:

Registration is $36 and includes a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, Happy Little Trees sticker (new this year!), finisher’s medal, commemorative bib number and shipping.
Complete your 5K – that’s 3.1 miles – between April 22 (Earth Day) and April 26 (Arbor Day).
You pick the pace and the place, anywhere outdoors.
For group discounts (10 or more registrants), contact race director Michelle O’Kelly.
Race packets are starting to ship! Don’t miss out – sign up today at RunSignUp.com/HappyLittleTrees to receive your goodies in time for your run.

Questions? Contact Michelle O’Kelly at 517-899-5211.

Photo ambassador snapshot: Starlight over swaying blades

Tufts of dunegrass sway beneath a sea of stars. See more pictures by Michigan state parks photo ambassadors at Instagram.com/MiStateParks. For more on the program, call Stephanie Yancer at 989-274-6182. (This photo is by Jessica Sancrant, for the Michigan DNR, at Port Crescent State Park in Huron County).

THINGS TO DO

True spring is right around the corner and so is tree planting season! Find planting resources, guides and articles on how to attract beneficial species to your yard on the Mi Trees page.

MDHHS launches application tracker

by orionontv | Mar 25, 2024 | Health and Wellness

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 25, 2024

CONTACT: Chelsea Wuth, 517-241-2112, [email protected]

MDHHS launches application tracker to allow Michiganders to easily monitor benefits status in MI Bridges

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is announcing the release of a new function to the MI Bridges website where Michiganders apply for benefits like Medicaid, food assistance and more. The new application tracker will allow residents to follow the progress of their benefits application online rather than waiting for a determination letter or having to call into a local office.

Similar to popular trackers used on restaurants and retail websites, residents will be able to log in through their phone or other device to see when their application is received, if an appointment has been scheduled, if additional documents are required and if a decision has been made. At each step, applicants will have quick links available to view more information on what is required for the application to move forward.

“This innovative tool will allow residents to know the exact status of their benefits application 24/7 and help them prepare for any next steps,” said Elizabeth Hertel, director. “In addition to helping Michiganders feel more involved and empowered in their application process, we are hopeful it will also result in lower call volumes to local offices and employee success.”

When an applicant logs into their MI Bridges account, the application tracker will be easily viewed on their client dashboard. For privacy and security, application and benefits information are only shown to residents who are identity-proofed and listed as head of household on the account.

The new benefit tracker will be available on MI Bridges starting today. There will be information prompts available to provide residents with more information about the tracking options available to them. Applicants can also receive assistance through the MI Bridges virtual assistant chat or by calling the MI Bridges help desk at 844-799-9876.

Girls Basketball Shortcomings 2024

by orionontv | Mar 25, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Girls Basketball Shortcomings 2024.

Written Saturday March 23rd at 8:40 PM

This column will be updated periodically with the recent updates around Girls Basketball.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers have had an incredible four years winning their second State crown in three years and making it to the Breslin Center three straight years. West Bloomfield won 26 games this season. They lose Taylor Graves, Destiny Washington, Summer Davis, Indya Davis, and Kendell Hendrix to graduation. West Bloomfield has Ava Lord, Sheridan Beal, Breanna Gamble-Jones, Breasia Gamble-Jones, Jordyn Ratliff, Jaylee Head, and London Hall coming back for Coach Darin McAllister. Program strength is very concerning for McAllister. The Lakers should be in the mix next season but the offseason without Washington and the Davis sisters will be very interesting to watch.

Rochester: The Falcons had a very interesting season which saw a ton of ups and downs. They played a Division Three final four team in Rochester Lutheran Northwest. Rochester won nine games this season but did make the district finals for a fifth straight year where they fell 37-32 to Stoney Creek. They lose five seniors in Yasmine Larkins, Natasha Forbes, Kaitlyn Guolla, Makenna Torri, and Ava Kucera to graduation. Rochester has Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Lucy Cook, Angela Cichowski, Taylor Parsons, and Erica Procter coming back for a new coach after Coach Bill Thurston was let go. Program strength is very good with a 20 win year in junior varsity. The Falcons will be a team to watch this offseason, they should be in the mix next season.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars had a strong postseason which resulted in winning 20 games. They fell 49-27 to Grand Blanc in the Division One State Quarterfinals. Stoney Creek loses Sarah LaPrarie who had 1,000 career points along with Faith Conliff to graduation. They have Merrick Schlawbach, Izzy Ivezaj, Calista Ivezaj, Abigail Ivezaj, Mikayla Gendich, Addy Allen, Samantha Fulkerson, Taylor Fulkerson, Sophie Budzick, and Jenna Cook coming back for Coach Columbus Williams. Program strength is very troubling for Stoney Creek. The postseason run could convince more kids to come out and play. The Cougars should be very good again next season but program strength is their biggest concern this offseason.

Lake Orion: The Dragons played a tough schedule which featured a team that was in the Division Four State title game (Kingston) and a Division Three Final Four team (Rochester Lutheran Northwest.) They suffered a heartbreaking 41-40 loss to Clarkston in the district finals where they led most of the game but the Wolves made one final play in that game. Lake Orion won 15 games with a very young team after losing nine seniors from last season’s team that went to the regional finals. They lose Lexi Stroschein, Ellie Britt, Xana Cuesta, Ally Jones, and Ryann Pawlacyzk to graduation. The Dragons have Izzy Wotlinski, Charlotte Peplowski, Neveah Wood, Grace Hoensheid, Riley House, Lauren LaForge, and Dani Heck coming back for Coach Bob Brydges. The summer will be the key for Lake Orion especially when it comes to building depth. Program strength is solid for Brydges. They will be back.

Clarkston: The Wolves had a very strong year winning 19 games while playing a very tough schedule this season. Clarkston fell in a heartbreaker 44-42 to Grand Blanc in the regional finals. They lose Claire Walker, Emily Valencia, and Kate Thomas to graduation. The Wolves have Brooklyn Covert, Elliana Robak, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Ellery Hernandez, Kayla Butki, Lauren Fishtaller, Keira Zorski, Lexi Fry, and Jenna Thomas coming back for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Program strength will be something to watch this offseason, Clarkston will be back with a ton of proven experience next season.

Oxford: The Wildcats was up and down winning 11 games this season. Oxford fell 60-38 to Grand Blanc in the district finals. It’s the fourth time they lost to Grand Blanc in the postseason. They lose Braydee Elling, Peyton Richter, Abigail Snable, and Lexie Yankee to graduation. The Wildcats have Allison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Emma Beggs, Mia Champagne, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Jaylen Jacobsen, Katelyn Brockway, and Claire Bruski coming back for Coach Rachel Bryer. Program strength looks solid for Bryer next season. It will be a very interesting summer for Oxford this offseason.

Royal Oak: The Ravens had a season of firsts despite not winning the White this season. They won 19 games which included their first district title after going on the road and beating Warren Cousino 43-41 on an Emmy Walden layup. Royal Oak shocked Grosse Pointe North 53-48 behind 24 points from Lucy Freytag in the regional semifinals. They were no match for West Bloomfield falling 58-25 in the regional finals. They lose seven seniors in Cecilia Irwin, Walden, Emilie Austin, Megan Haun, Riley Danaher, Katrina Malinich, and Anna Waterstreet to graduation. The Ravens have Freytag, Lydia Dickens, Hannah Saunders, Jordan Hills, Vivian Lawrence, and Maddie Lawrence coming back for Coach Brian Sopota. Program strength looks to be solid for Royal Oak. A ton of firsts for a program that seems to be on the rise.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks had a ton of success winning 32 games in the last two years including 14 games this season. They won their first league crown (Blue) last season, along with sharing the White (Seaholm,) and winning their first district crown (Seaholm 49-46 in overtime) this season. They fell to Stoney Creek 47-40 in the regional semifinals. Bloomfield Hills loses Ashley Forner, Michelle Barnett, Allie Tepper, ArTeina Hicks, and Ruby Smith to graduation. They have Brianna Young, Brianna Brooks, and Giselle Haddad coming back for a new coach after Coach Kristen Massey stepped down. Program strength looks to be solid for the Blackhawks. They will be back next season.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers had an up and down year winning 10 games this season. They had no issues with their district over Eastpointe and Harper Woods Chandler Park. The Pioneers had a really tough loss to Warren Fitzgerald 52-51 in the regional semifinals. Harper Woods loses a ton of proven experience including Kendall Kelsey to graduation. They have Amari Hutchinson and Laniyah West coming back for Coach LaTonya Tate. Program strength is a big concern for the Pioneers heading into next season. There are a ton of questions this offseason for Harper Woods.

Seaholm: The Maples won 15 games this season but had a very painful overtime loss falling 49-46 to Bloomfield Hills in the district finals. They lose three seniors in Mary Wiltgen, Caroline Newitt, and Clara Guffey to graduation. Seaholm has Addy Flynn, Mary Gumbus, Taylor Hartwig, Emma Weber, Sophie Sullivan, Ella Koosis, Addy Kitzman, Jada Josifovski, and Elia Gifford coming back for Coach Chris Manchester. Program strength looks to be solid for Manchester. The Maples have a ton of proven experience coming back next season. They will be back.

Groves: The Falcons were up and down winning eight games this season. Groves had some big wins and some tough losses along the way. The Falcons fell 47-35 to Royal Oak in the district semifinals. Groves loses Cira Racco, Talese Alexander, Cameron Little, Taryn Brown, and Neveah Cockran-McCay to graduation. They have Harlem Simpson, Jacey Roy, Aniyah White, Rose Strada, Sophie Schwanik, and Micah Smith coming back for Coach Alison Hidey. Program strength will be very interesting to watch. The Falcons will be a team to watch this offseason.

North Farmington: The Raiders had a very interesting season which had a 7-0 start but went 5-12 down the stretch winning 12 games. North Farmington fell 66-7 to West Bloomfield in the district semifinals. They lose nine seniors including Hannah Hart, Asiyah Jihad, Addison Armstrong, Madison Clark, and Anaiyah Billups to graduation. The Raiders have Jade Spears, Quyaamah Jihad, Shylah Tarin, and Shalaya Rogers coming back for Coach Michael Allin. Program strength is a huge concern for North Farmington. They will be a team to watch this offseason.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors won 13 games this season. They have some questions on the defensive side of the basketball. Southfield Arts and Tech had a really rough night on both sides of the floor getting blown out by Detroit Renaissance 91-30 in the district semifinals. The Warriors lose two seniors including Jamyra Fritz to graduation. Southfield Arts and Tech has Christian Banks and Jordyn Ushery coming back for Coach Shaquita Coltrane. Program strength is a big concern for the Warriors going forward. Southfield Arts and Tech will be a very interesting team to watch this offseason.

Troy: The Colts had a bounce back year after having it rough in the Red. They won 14 games and the Blue along with earning the top seed in their district but the postseason woes continued as they 64-46 to Bloomfield Hills in the district semifinals. Troy loses two seniors in Justine Perakis and Teodora Blad to graduation. They have a very young team with Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, Carly Higginbottom, Olivia Sprangler, Sophia Kaltsounis, Kelsey Block, Aly Matuza, Savannah Oddy, Victoria Siegan, Shavani Angadi, Brianna Bert, and Lizzie Dobbs coming back for Coach Laura Guzman and that’s not mentioning Macey Zeiter who is coming into the program next season. Program strength looks solid especially with Zeiter coming in. The Colts could be a force to watch next season.

Berkley: The Bears had a great season which featured a ton of monster wins along with postseason wins over Redford Thurston (42-9) and Detroit Mumford (44-36.) Berkley knew they would have a very tall order against Detroit Renaissance in the district finals in which they fell 60-29 to a very good Phoenix team. It was a resurgence year for the Bears which featured a very odd Twitter feed but that’s beside the point. Berkley won 19 games this season. They lose four seniors in Kate McAllister, Addison Hambright, Chloe Harmon, and Maeve Nolan to graduation. Berkley has Avery Wintergarden, Maddie Boswall, Katelyn Sills, Nadia Watt, Hailey Kirkwood, Blessing Nweke, Caleigh Tracy, Olivia Church, and Z Diop coming back for Coach Clay Shaver. Program strength looks very strong for Shaver. The Bears will be back in the mix next season.

Adams: The Highlanders had a really interesting year which they won seven games including a 53-50 first round win over Utica Eisenhower. Adams battled to the very end falling 48-39 to Stoney Creek in the district semifinals. The Highlanders lose four seniors including Samantha Blaine, Bella Gutherie, and Olivia Marcial to graduation. They have Faith Zoldus, Neveah Williams, and Lily Tomahauk coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. Program strength looks very solid. Adams will be back next season.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks had an up and down year which they won nine games this season. Troy Athens hosted their district and had a very tough 59-46 loss to Bloomfield Hills on their home floor in the first round. They lose four seniors in Ava Lauder, Abby Malone, Kellyn Witherspoon, and Katy Keller to graduation. The Red Hawks have Yasmeen Dabbish, Alex Link, and Faraida Youseff coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Program strength looks solid for Klumpp especially their freshmen class. Troy Athens should be a program to watch this offseason.

Farmington: The Falcons had a really challenging year. They were blown out by North Farmington 72-29 in the first round this season. Coach Natalie Nowak’s team lost their top player Jayla Silver to a torn ACL she suffered a few weeks ago. They also lose Tiara McCoy, Arianna Wilson, Farynn Ellington, and Linda O’marialiske to graduation. The Falcons have Edimari King, Alexis Gebs, Emma Mohr, Anna Toranchuk, Grace Lamott, Gaia Demeester, Mya Jones, Sydney Nogas, and Kate Martin coming back for Nowak. Program strength will be very interesting to see. Farmington will be a very interesting team to watch next season.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets had an injury riddled season which they won eight games. They fell 59-34 to Seaholm in the district semifinals. Avondale had a very young team which the future looks very bright and could be in line for a bounce back season. They lose Trinitee Carroll to graduation. The Yellow Jackets have Madison Manyweathers, Morgan McPherson, Amaria Daniel, Khaila Bradley, Giavanni Hollie-Jackson, Sasha McClellan, and Janaye Richardson coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Program strength is a big concern for Christmon despite all the proven experience coming back on the varsity. Avondale will be very interesting to watch next season.

Ferndale: The Eagles had a very good season where they won 16 games and made the district finals. Ferndale fell 69-43 to a really good Birmingham Detroit Country Day program. They lose Isabella Mendoza and Jayla Pouncy to graduation. The Eagles have Aaliyah Frost, Inaya Davis, Demi Bolton, Janiya Larry, Masiah Clark, Kathleen DeVillena, and Keyanna McGarrell coming back for Coach Keith Paris. Ferndale also has a strong eighth grade class coming in next season but program strength is a question mark. Paris wants his program to make the next step but program strength especially program building (building a JV and freshman team) is a concern this offseason.

Ferndale University: It was a really rough year for the Eagles and Coach Brianna Rowe. They went through a lot of growing pains. Ferndale University fell 59-14 to Detroit Lincoln King Academy in the first round. The Eagles were very young and inexperienced. They will have their entire team led by LeAnna Spencer, Gabrielle Thompson, Kayla Sanders, Taniyah Crawford, Tamary Powell, Kendall Spencer, and Jayda Wilson coming back. Ferndale University will be much better heading into next season with a ton of proven experience coming back.

Oak Park: The Knights really struggled scoring which is one of the reasons they won five games this season. Oak Park fell 78-31 to Southfield Arts and Tech in the first round. They lose six seniors including Temilola Waterton, Tania Livingston, Taylor Adamson, Sydney Brown and Jade Brown to graduation. The Knights have Mackenzie Blake, Madison Johnson-Williams, Sienna Walker, and Gabrielle Lee coming back for Coach Tyler Washington. Program strength is a big concern for Oak Park Washington needs to address scoring if the Knights want to take the next step next season.

Pontiac: The Phoenix dropped out of the postseason despite winning five games this season which was a huge improvement from two years ago where they didn’t win a game. Pontiac should be much improved next season for Coach Christopher Wright and the Phoenix. It was surprising that they didn’t have enough players to make the postseason. Program strength has been a major concern and it will be next season. Pontiac has several proven players coming back and will look to make some noise next season.

Rochester will have a different coach this winter

by orionontv | Mar 25, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Rochester will have a different coach this winter.

Written Saturday March 23rd at 8:35 PM

There will be a new coach at Rochester next winter.

Coach Bill Thurston is out at Rochester after five years coaching the program.

Thurston confirmed via text that he was out at Rochester. The MHSAA website confirmed the not assigned tag on the head coaching job at Rochester.

Thurston was the junior varsity coach under Coach Jeff Haney and then they switched roles. He went 63-43 in his five years with a White crown in 2022, a district crown in 2023, and has made the district finals in all five years he has coached.

The Falcons will have Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Lucy Cook, Angela Cichowski, Taylor Parsons, and Erica Procter coming back. Program strength should be solid for whoever the new coach will be next season.

This will be a very interesting offseason for Rochester to watch.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Here is the MHSAA website confirming it.

https://www.mhsaa.com/schools/rochester/girls/varsity/basketball/2024

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