by orionontv | Nov 25, 2025 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Saturday November 22nd at 3:30 PM
The State Semifinals did not go as well for the OAA in the Divisions One and Two State Semifinals. Here are the recaps.
Detroit Cass Tech 48, ADAMS 22: The Highlanders needed to play clean and turnover free football but they were not able too against Detroit Cass Tech at Troy Athens in all three phases of the game. Adams started with the football but fumbled at the Detroit Cass Tech 43 yard line but the Highlanders defense stopped the Technicians on fourth down. The Highlanders offense had a three and out and a bad punt has the ball at the Adams 16 yard line which ended up being a 11 yard touchdown run by sophomore running back Julian Taylor and a 7-0 lead for Detroit Cass Tech. The Highlanders answered after getting a 39 yard pass play then quarterback Ryland Watters found wide receiver Matt Toepneer on a fourth and goal on a 11 yard touchdown pass and added a two point conversion with Watters and Toepneer for a 8-7 Adams lead. Detroit Cass Tech responded on a Corey Sadler kickoff return and then Taylor added his second touchdown from 18 yards out giving the Technicians a 14-8 lead. Adams has had chances but they turned the ball over on downs giving Detroit Cass Tech another opportunity which they converted as quarterback Donald Tabron hit Sadler from 26 yards out extending the Technicians lead to 21-8 heading into the half. Adams recovered an onside kick to start the second half but the Detroit Cass Tech defense forced the Highlanders to turn the ball over on downs. Taylor added his third rushing touchdown from 13 yards out and a 28-8 Detroit Cass Tech lead. The Highlanders answered as Watters ran for a nine yard touchdown plus a two point conversion making it 28-15 Detroit Cass Tech. Adams recovered a fumble and had another chance to get the score closer but Sadler got an interception sealing the Highlanders fate which led to Taylor’s fourth score of the game from 11 yards out and a 35-15 Detroit Cass Tech lead. The Technicians added another touchdown to go up 42-15 but the Highlanders went with the Watters to Toepneer combination from 67 yards out to make it 42-22 Detroit Cass Tech. Taylor would add his fifth touchdown from 32 yards to make it 48-22 Detroit Cass Tech. The Highlanders finished the season at 10-3. They lose a lot of proven talent that made two Division One State Semifinal appearances including Watters. Adams will be back that is for sure.
Dexter 41, GROVES 6: The Dreadnoughts quarterback receiver duo was at it on Saturday afternoon at Ypsilanti Lincoln against a really good Falcons defense. Dexter starting the scoring as quarterback Cooper Arendt found wide receiver Cole Novara for a 26 yard touchdown and a 7-0 Dexter lead. Groves went three and out and then the Dreadnoughts went to the ground as running back Brady Arbaugh ran a 10 yard rushing touchdown for a 14-0 lead for Dexter. The Falcons answered as quarterback LaVelle Shannon found running back Carter Hladki off the play action pass from 54 yards out but missed the two point conversion for a 14-6 Dreadnoughts lead. Arbaugh added his second touchdown of the first quarter from three yards out making the score 21-6 Dexter. Arendt found Novara again for his 50th touchdown pass of the season, a 48 yard passing touchdown and a 27-6 Dexter lead. The duo added another score which was Novara’s 27th receiving touchdowns from 31 yards out and a 34-6 Dreadnoughts lead heading to the half. Both touchdown State records from Arendt and Novara were broken in this game. They added a fourth conversion from 30 yards out making it 41-6 Dexter forcing a running clock. The Dreadnoughts shut down Jeremiah Whitley and the Falcons. Groves dreams of going to Ford Field will have to wait another season as the Falcons finished with a 9-4 season.The Falcons have Whitley coming back and they were pretty young this season. Dexter heads to Ford Field for the first time in school history to play Orchard Lake St. Marys.
I’ll have my thoughts on both games on the podcast.
by orionontv | Nov 25, 2025 | Agriculture
| For immediate release: November 25, 2025
Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel, 517-290-1734
MDARD Encourages Owners to Help Keep Pets Safe this Thanksgiving
Enjoy the delights of the holiday without causing discomfort and stress for pets
LANSING, Mich.—As Michiganders put the final touches on their holiday menus and travel plans, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding owners of some of the best ways to keep their pets healthy and safe this Thanksgiving.
“Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with food, family and loved ones—including our pets. When we consider their needs as we plan our festivities, we can minimize their discomfort or stress,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “From keeping them away from fatty foods to ensuring they have up-to-date identification, there are many precautions owners can take to keep their animals safe this Thanksgiving.”
Keep pets safe this holiday by following these six easy tips:
- Good Eats: Avoid feeding pets certain holiday foods
Unfortunately, pets cannot enjoy all of the same foods and treats we do. Fatty foods (like turkey/turkey skin, meat fat and gravy) can cause pancreatitis—even when consumed in small amounts. Chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions and xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in many candies and gum) can be poisonous to pets. Bones can cause injury and illness as well. However, foods like cheese and some unseasoned vegetables like green beans, pumpkin and sweet potatoes can be given in limited amounts as special treats.
- Stash the Trash: Keep pets away from the garbage can
Discarded bones, strings, bags and other food-related packaging can be problematic if pets try to eat them. Once disposed of, make sure these items are kept away from pets in tightly secured trash bags placed in trashcans kept behind a closed door, in the garage or outside.
- Avoid Temptations: Keep decorations out of reach
Centerpieces, candles and lights not only make for a beautiful display but also catch the eye of our pets. If consumed, these items could cause intestinal blockages or other injuries. Be sure these items are out of their reach, along with potpourris and some festive flowers/plants.
- Search No More: Make sure pets have proper identification
With all the activity both in and out of the kitchen, it can be easy for pets to sneak out and get lost. Make sure pets have identification tags and/or microchips that are up to date with current contact information to better ensure they are returned home.
- Destress and Decompress: Have a quiet space for your pets
The new people, large crowds and lively activities can be loud and overly stimulating for pets. Pets could also become overwhelmed if guests bring over their pets to visit as well. It is important to have a quiet space set aside for your pet to be alone. Also, have the room stocked with your pet’s food, water, litter pan, etc. in case they would like to maintain their distance for an extended period of time.
- Cleared for Take-off: Ensure your pets are fit for travel
If you will be travelling with your pets this holiday season, talk with your veterinarian to determine what steps, documents or preventative care might be needed to ensure your pet is ready to go! Destination states, countries, commercial carriers and even lodging facilities can all have different requirements for your pets to accompany you. More resources can be found on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Pet Travel website or on MDARD’s animal movement website.
Following these tips can help keep your animals safe and healthy through the holiday. If there are any concerns about your animals’ health either now or throughout the year, please contact your veterinarian. |
by orionontv | Nov 25, 2025 | Health and Wellness
|
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 25, 2025
CONTACT: Laina Stebbins, 517-241-2112, StebbinsL@michigan.gov
Nominations sought for Hometown Health Hero awards
Deadline for nominations is Friday, Dec. 19
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Public Health Week Partnership, a collaboration of 13 organizations working to increase the visibility of significant accomplishments in public health, is seeking nominations of individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to preserve and improve their community’s health for its annual Hometown Health Hero awards.
Hometown Health Hero awards are presented every spring as part of Michigan Public Health Week. Award recipients will be honored at a reception Wednesday, March 18 in Lansing.
Michigan Public Health Week is observed as part of National Public Health Week to recognize public health contributions and to highlight issues that are important to improving the nation’s health. Each year, the American Public Health Association develops a campaign to educate the public, policymakers and health care providers about issues related to that year’s theme.
“As we look toward a healthier future for every Michigan resident, it’s important that we recognize the individuals and organizations leading the way,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “The 2026 Hometown Health Hero Awards honor those addressing critical public health issues and creating safer, stronger communities.”
The online nomination form is available at Michigan.gov/MPHW and must be submitted no later than Friday, Dec. 19.
The following organizations make up the Michigan Public Health Week Partnership: Central Michigan University Public Health Programs, Eastern Michigan University Master of Public Health Education, Grand Valley State University Master of Public Health Program, Michigan Association of Counties, Michigan Association for Local Public Health, Michigan Association of Medical Examiners, Michigan Health & Hospital Association, Michigan Public Health Association, Michigan Public Health Institute, Michigan State University Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Wayne State University College of Human Medicine Family Medicine program and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
For questions, please email Jim Koval at KovalJ@michigan.gov.
|
by orionontv | Nov 24, 2025 | Regional News
|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 24, 2025
Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167
Michiganders Encouraged to Find
Lost or Unclaimed Property This Week
LANSING, Mich. – Michiganders have a long-standing rivalry with our Buckeye neighbor to the south, especially during football season. This week, you too can channel your competitive Wolverine spirit and be part of Michigan’s blitz for the win.
Michigan Unclaimed Property is challenging the Ohio Division of Unclaimed Funds to see which state’s residents can find and claim the most forgotten funds. Special focus is on the University of Michigan vs. the Ohio State University game on November 29, which will spotlight the sparring states’ “Find Forgotten Funds-Football Edition” competition.
“This is a fun and spirited way to celebrate Michigan’s rivalry with ‘that state to the south’—and remind everyone who’s really on top,” said Terry Stanton, manager of Michigan Unclaimed Property. “The clock may run out on the game November 29, but there’s no time limit on claiming what’s yours. Unclaimed property is always available to its rightful owner.”
All Michigan residents are encouraged to visit Michigan.gov/UnclaimedProperty from now until November 30 to scoop up forgotten cash or property.
Michigan Unclaimed Property is looking for a repeat performance of their 2023 Michigan-Ohio Challenge victory.
At the midway point of the Challenge, Ohio holds a slim lead, so we need all of Michigan to get out there and search. Let’s win where it counts!
Michigan has returned more than $675 million to rightful owners or their heirs over the last five years, and a quick online search could reunite you, your friends and your family members with a potential windfall, including long-lost:
- Checking and savings accounts
- Certificates of Deposit (CD)
- Over payments
- Uncashed Checks (payroll, refunds, money orders, cashier checks, insurance benefits, etc.)
- Dividends Stocks and bonds
- Contents of a safe deposit box
As part of the home team, we want to award Michiganders the MVP (Most Valuable Property), but even more – we want our state to win the Find Forgotten Funds-Football Edition challenge. Rush to Michigan.gov/UnclaimedProperty and let’s win where it counts.
|
by orionontv | Nov 24, 2025 | Regional News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 24, 2025
Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167
Delta Township grandmother’s MET gifting tradition shows how small contributions, and this year’s bonus offer, can grow into a college future
LANSING — Black Friday and Cyber Monday holiday shoppers looking for meaningful gifts will find more than discounts at the Michigan Education Trust (MET) with seasonal bonuses added to a present that never goes out of style — prepaid college tuition.
For a limited time, MET is offering a special holiday bonus to encourage families to open or contribute to a prepaid tuition account, making this season the perfect time of year to give the gift of a college education.
With MET’s minimum contribution recently lowered to just $25, families can start a child’s college savings journey for less than many holiday stocking stuffers, while getting extra value in return with seasonal bonuses.
“Black Friday and Cyber Monday are all about finding value,” said Diane Brewer, executive director of MET. “There’s simply no better long-term value than helping a child pay for college. MET gives families a way to start small and build a meaningful foundation for the future.”
For Sue Stock, a mom and grandmother from Delta Township, that small start more than 35 years ago turned into a family tradition and a life-changing investment.
Stock first purchased MET accounts for her sons, Jon and Chris, in 1988 after reading about the then-new program in the Lansing State Journal. Her mother encouraged her to open an account for each boy and Sue quickly embraced the idea. Soon, she began asking her parents, relatives and close friends to contribute to the boys’ MET accounts instead of traditional gifts for holidays and birthdays.
“MET became our version of holiday giving,” Stock said. “The boys didn’t need more toys. I wanted to give them something that would matter long after the wrapping paper was gone.”
Those early gifts paid off.
Chris used every dollar of his MET savings to earn his degree from Michigan State University, graduating in 2003. Free from significant student debt, he landed a job with NASA before moving into the supply chain marketing field.
“He got a degree with little or no debt,” Stock said. “That is truly a gift that keeps on giving.”
Jon’s path took another turn. He earned an accounting degree at Lansing Community College, where his tuition was covered because Sue was working at LCC at the time. Since Jon didn’t need to use his MET benefits, the account remained intact and is now helping fund the MET account of Jon’s daughter, Sue’s granddaughter.
“That’s the beauty of MET,” Stock said. “Even when life takes a different direction, nothing is lost. It still becomes part of the future.”
MET is putting a bow on it this holiday season to encourage families to follow Stock’s lead. With just a $25 minimum to open an account and digital gifting tools that allow grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends to contribute directly, MET offers a way to replace short-lived presents with something that grows in value over time.
MET makes holiday gifting easy
- Start an account for just $25.
- Online gifting portal for fast contributions from anywhere.
- Prepaid tuition that locks in today’s rates.
- Flexible use for Michigan public universities, community colleges and even private or out-of-state schools.
- A gift that lasts a lifetime, not a single season.
Families can learn more or open a MET online.
From Nov. 29-Dec. 2, families who start or grow their college savings with MET prepaid tuition contract can receive a $50 Black Friday Bonus when they contribute at least $250.
And as an added bonus during the season of giving, the offer applies to both newly opened MET contracts and qualifying contributions made to existing MET contracts, making it an easy way for parents, grandparents and loved ones to turn a holiday gift into long-term opportunity. New purchasers must enter the coupon code BLKFRI25 at checkout to qualify. All contributions must be made in a single transaction through MET’s online payment system.
The bonus is limited to one $50 award per beneficiary. Funds will be deposited into qualifying MET contracts within eight to 10 weeks following verification.
Complete details and full eligibility requirements are available on MET’s website.
About MET
MET is Michigan’s Section 529 prepaid tuition program, allowing parents, grandparents and others to purchase undergraduate tuition credits at today’s rates. MET is administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury.
