Should Boys Soccer Go Four Divisions???

Should Boys Soccer Go Four Divisions???

by | Sep 16, 2025 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Should Boys Soccer Go Four Divisions???

Written Tuesday September 16th at 8:10 AM

By Anthony Taormina

Every year, we see a clear disparity especially among the teams in the lower divisions. Even next year when both Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott come into the OAA. It is clear that both are them are established and will field teams. One of the questions that surround certain schools is whether they will field teams or not. The lowest division, the Blue has four teams you are pretty certain will field a team but there are three teams you never know.

So, here’s the question, should Boys Soccer follow the same route as Girls Soccer.

Go Four divisions.

Give teams particularly those three teams a chance to field teams and compete with each other. The teams I talk about are Southfield Arts and Tech, Oak Park, and Harper Woods. I am concerned with the participation numbers of those three schools. I wonder what is the issue there. Lack of commitment towards Boys Soccer. A bigger commitment to other programs like football (which all three teams field great numbers in.)

The Boys Coaches simply will not go four divisions. There is a lot of pride in being in the Red, it is one of the premiere divisions in the state of Michigan. Multiple State Champions have come out of being from the Red division but something has to be done to help the smaller schools, especially the three that struggle to field competitive programs.

The Girls Coaches get it right. To help teams who struggle, they set up a Gold divisions with four teams, Pontiac, Southfield Arts and Tech, Harper Woods, and Oak Park. For the last two years, it has been successful with teams having competitive games with the other and could argue, it has benefited participation numbers with those programs. While at the same time, you have a stacked Red and a stacked White division year in and out.

It would mean reducing the Blue division but it may be worth it.

It is clear that there are teams who stand out.

The league has tried to help the three boys teams in the past by placing Pontiac and Ferndale with them but how fair is that to both those teams? Yeah they get wins but they are not seen as strong wins.

You can still have a stacked Red division and a stacked White division but something has to be done in regards to the three teams who struggle to field programs. Follow the Girls model, set a separate Gold division, and have them play home and home with each other, its six games (out of eighteen you can play). It makes a lot of sense. It encourages those kids on struggling programs to hopefully come out and play. Putting them in a three division stacked Blue is not going to help anyone, it will discourage participation at those three schools, we may be seeing it. It’s something Boys Soccer Coaches might not see when it comes to their Realignment meetings. I know they like three divisions but in regards to those three schools, something has to change.

Fostering Futures Scholarship dinner unites partners

Fostering Futures Scholarship dinner unites partners

by | Sep 16, 2025 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 16, 2025

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Fostering Futures Scholarship

Panelist member Pura Strong and State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks converse during a panel discussion at the Fostering Futures Scholarship benefit dinner in Detroit on Sept. 12, 2025.

Fostering Futures Scholarship dinner unites partners to expand college opportunities for foster youth,
including landmark $50,000 donation

The Sootchy Charitable Foundation gift is the biggest ever
for Detroit foster youth to open college savings accounts

DETROIT – Collaboration and generosity were on full display at the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund benefit dinner Friday where community partners and donors rallied to support foster youth pursuing college.

The event at Detroit’s Roostertail featured a historic $50,000 gift from the Sootchy Charitable Foundation and Yoba Development, as well as a $25,529 donation from the Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP), alongside other contributions and special recognitions underscoring a shared commitment to help foster youth build brighter futures through higher education.

“For over a decade, the Michigan Department of Treasury, Michigan Education Trust and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services have worked together to bring hope and opportunity to Michigan’s foster youth,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “This evening is about recognizing the barriers and demonstrating how compassion and support can be the difference between a dream and reality. We believe deeply in the potential of our foster youth.”

A partnership between the Michigan Education Trust (MET) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) makes Fostering Futures Scholarships possible.

“Every young person deserves the support and resources they need to pursue their educational and career dreams,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “MDHHS is proud to be part of Fostering Futures, which assists students who have experienced foster care with tuition and fees, books and supplies, and room and board for students at a vocation school, apprenticeship or college. For foster youth, financial support isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. By investing in their education, we’re not only helping them open doors, we’re affirming their worth and potential. ”

The fundraiser featured actor and youth advocate Dr. Malik Yoba, founder and CEO of Yoba Development and David Adefeso of the Sootchy Charitable Foundation, who announced a joint $50,000 donation to MET. The gift will establish MET education savings accounts — $1,000 each — for students at the House of Providence and for youth in the afterschool program at We Care Family Care.

More than 300 guests raised $111,000 for scholarships through MET, the Michigan Department of Treasury’s 529 prepaid tuition savings program.

In addition, MESP marked its 25th anniversary with a special gift: a $25,529 donation presented by Jennifer Burke and Chris McLeod of TIAA, Tuition Financing Inc. The donation, part of a yearlong campaign to match individual contributions to the scholarship, was in recognition of MESP’s milestone year, further expanding opportunities for Michigan foster youth. MESP is Michigan’s direct-sold investment 529 plan and partner in supporting foster youth.

Close to 10,000 youth are in the Michigan foster care system administered by MDHHS. Nationally, it is estimated that between 69% and 85% of students who have experienced foster care complete high school by their mid-20s, and just 8% to 11% go on to earn a postsecondary degree (associate or higher) — five times lower than the national average.

“The Fostering Futures Scholarship program ensures that young people who have experienced foster care are not left behind when it comes to accessing higher education,” said Robin Lott, executive director of  Treasury’s Office of Postsecondary Financial Planning. “We are grateful to every donor and partner who helps provide these students with the tools and resources they need to succeed — including the very special, ongoing support of Albert and Mitsie Scaglione and the Park West Foundation. In addition to their support for Fostering Futures Scholarship, they are helping hundreds of Detroit youth through various programs, which is dedicated to helping youth thrive as they transition from the foster care system.”

This academic year alone, 441 students at 60 different Michigan colleges and universities are benefiting from the scholarship. Since 2012, Fostering Futures events have raised more than $1.4 million, with all funds raised awarded as scholarships within the same year.

Couldn’t attend and want to make a difference?

Donate online, or mail your donation with the completed Fostering Futures Scholarship Contribution Form and a check made payable to the “State of Michigan — Fostering Futures Scholarship.”

Contributions made by Dec. 31 are eligible for federal and state income tax deductions for that year. MET’s Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is an IRC Section 170(c) organization, making all donations tax deductible.

To learn more about the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund or to donate, go to www.michigan.gov/fosteringfutures.

Sponsors of the Detroit event were the MESP, Park West Foundation, Michigan Student Financial Aid Association, Michigan Association of State Universities, Ferris State University, Güd Marketing, Lake Trust Credit Union, former Michigan Supreme Court Justice Maura Corrigan, iHeartMedia, Metro Parent, Michigan College Access Network, Orchards Children’s Services, Western Michigan University Seita Scholars Program, the New Foster Care, Michigan Association of Broadcasters and WXYZ-TV 7 in Detroit.
Be Alert for Text Message Phishing Scam Making the Rounds

Be Alert for Text Message Phishing Scam Making the Rounds

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 15, 2025

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Treasury: Be Alert for Text Message Phishing Scam Making the Rounds

Treasury Never Sends Unsolicited Text Messages Requesting Sensitive Banking Data

LANSING, Mich. – Cybercriminals are up to new tricks with a new nationwide text message scam now circulating in Michigan that requests taxpayers’ personal banking information, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

In this latest scheme, scammers send urgent, unsolicited messages that appear to come from the Michigan Department of Treasury. The message falsely claims that a refund has been processed and that accurate payment information must be submitted by the taxpayer—or the refund will be forfeited.

The Michigan Department of Treasury never sends unsolicited text messages asking for personal data like banking information. Taxpayers who receive such messages should not reply or click on any links.

“This scam is just another trick in the cybercriminal playbook,” said Katina Litterini, who oversees Treasury’s Tax Administration Services Bureau. “Taxpayers who receive this bogus text message should immediately delete it. If you have questions about an outstanding refund, taxes owed or another state tax issue, please contact us so we can log the scam and discuss your options.”

The Michigan Department of Treasury corresponds with taxpayers through official letters sent through the U.S. Postal Service.

Taxpayers who receive this unsolicited text message or have questions about their state individual income taxes should call Treasury’s Individual Income Tax Information Line at 517-636-4486. A customer service representative can log the scam and verify outstanding refunds, if available.

To learn more about Michigan’s taxes, go to www.michigan.gov/taxes

Text Message Scam

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Hispanic Heritage Month, Honors Contributions of Hispanic Communities

Hispanic Heritage Month, Honors Contributions of Hispanic Communities

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

September 15, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Gov. Whitmer Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, Honors Contributions of Hispanic Communities

 

LANSING, Mich. —  Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer is recognizing September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Michigan, celebrating the rich history, culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans in shaping Michigan’s diverse communities.

 

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich history, vibrant culture, and bright future of our Hispanic community,” said Governor Whitmer. “Hispanic Michiganders contribute so much to the fabric of our state. From entrepreneurs and doctors to artists and journalists, Hispanic Michiganders make Michigan a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I’ll keep fighting to make sure everyone can make it in Michigan, regardless of who they are or where they come from.”

 

This month, we come together to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of Hispanic communities to Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “From art and music to culture and cuisine, Hispanic Michiganders have grown our economy and pushed our state forward in every conceivable way. I hope every Michigander takes time to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and reflect on the rich traditions, resilience, and achievements of our Hispanic community. I’ll keep working hard to make Michigan a beacon of opportunity where everyone can stay and succeed.”

 

“As the first Afro-Latina elected as a Kalamazoo County Commissioner and vice-chair, I am proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month—a time to honor the richness and diversity of Hispanic culture and traditions,” said Commissioner Monteze O. Morales, D3, Kalamazoo County Commission. “As a Puerto Rican, I cherish the traditions passed down from my ancestors, including the Taino, who remind us of the deep roots that connect us to our land. Our culture and contributions, along with other Hispanic communities, with its vibrant music, captivating art, and delicious cuisine, have significantly shaped Michigan’s landscape. From pioneering leaders in politics, innovators in business, or advocates in social justice, our collective history is woven into the fabric of this great state, enriching it with our diverse perspectives and experiences. As we celebrate this month, let us recognize the importance of representation and the power of our voices. Together, we can ensure that the contributions of Hispanic communities are acknowledged and celebrated, not just during Hispanic Heritage Month, but throughout the year. WEPA🇵🇷”

 

“National Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity for Americans, and, specifically, Michiganders, to recognize and honor the achievements and contributions Hispanics/Latinos have made to the great state of Michigan.” said Lorenzo Lopez, Latino/LGBTQ Change Maker. “Hispanics/Latinos have been in Michigan for over one hundred years and have made significant contributions to the agriculture and manufacturing sectors of our state. Hispanic Heritage Month gives us the opportunity to honor Hispanics/Latinos for their outstanding achievements. From educators, politicians, and doctors to factory workers, chefs, and biologists, Hispanics/Latinos have made Michigan a better place to live. During the month of Hispanic Heritage Month, we give a special tribute to all Hispanics/Latinos for their incredible contributions to our state.”

 

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the amazing contributions that the Hispanic community continues to make in this country,” said Guillermo Cisneros, President of West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “An economic report released by California Lutheran University and UCLA Health, shows that the GDP of Latinos in the United States in 2022 was $3.7 trillion. If Latinos living in the United States were an independent country, the U.S. Latino GDP would be the fifth largest GDP in the world. As Hispanics are the fastest growing population in the state of Michigan, we need to make sure we continue to invest and elevate the tireless work and contributions from this community to the overall economy not just in the state but in the United States.”

 

“The Michigan we all know, and love is not the same without the contributions of Latinos,” said Poppy Sias-Hernandez, Director of the Office of Global Michigan. “As we celebrate this month, we remain focused on ensuring every Michigander has a path to opportunity.”

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate how Latinos are a vital and important part of the United States,” said Isabel Montemayor-Vazquez, PhD, Executive Director of the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan. “From starting the National Farm Worker’s Association (Dolores Huerta) to serving on the Supreme Court (Justice Sonia Sotomayor), members of the Latino community contribute greatly to the U.S. economy, culture, government, and workforce. In Michigan.”

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse contributions of Hispanics to the rich tapestry of U.S. culture and economy,” said Florensio Hernandez, Chair of the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan. “As one of the largest agricultural states, Michigan understands the profound impact and significance of farm workers in our economy. Every year, we come together to pay homage and celebrate the history, traditions, contributions, and diverse aspects of Hispanic/Latino culture in the U.S., including food, music, dancing, art, and more.”

 

Governor Whitmer has worked to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Since taking office, she has appointed 18 Hispanic and Latino judges, raising the total number of Hispanic and Latino individuals Governor Whitmer has appointed to various boards and commissions to 80. Governor Whitmer is committed to ensuring that the representation of the Hispanic community continues to be reflected across boards and commissions, as the Hispanic community is integral to the fabric of the State of Michigan.

 

Michigan is also home to a thriving and vibrant Hispanic/Latino culture through food, art, and music. Recently, local officials announced plans to nominate parts of Detroit’s West Vernor Highway and Bagley Street to the National Register of Historic Places as the strip hosts multiple Hispanic/Latino businesses that have operated for decades. This designation would earmark the area for preservation and financial incentives. Parts of southwest Detroit are already featured on the national historic list, but the new district would recognize the deep Hispanic/Latino history of the two commercial corridors.

 

Michigan joins the nation in commemorating the enduring influence of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Americans have provided Michigan and the United States with unique social and cultural influences, fundamentally enriching the extraordinary character of our state and nation. The state appreciates the countless achievements of Hispanic Americans and continues our efforts to ensure that Michigan is a welcoming and inclusive place that provides just and equal opportunities for all.

 

Governor Whitmer’s Historic Wins for the Hispanic Community Across Michigan:

  • Secured $10 million in ongoing funding for the racial disparities task force, working to create stronger communities by expanding access to healthcare, economic opportunities, and more.
  • Secured the funding for a $2.6 million capacity building grant for the Latinx Technology & Community Center in Flint.
  • Invested $5 million to support capital improvements for the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber.
  • Quintupled working families tax credit, giving over 700,000 Michigan families an average tax refund of $3,150. This is extra cash for groceries, gas, school supplies, and more.
  • Hispanic Latino Commission outlined a strategic plan to grow investments in education, workforce and economic development, health, housing, community investment, and public safety.
  • Increased funding for English language learners in schools.
  • Put tens of thousands of Michiganders on a tuition-free path to higher education through Michigan Reconnect and lowered the cost of college by thousands for 7/10 graduating seniors with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship.
Oxford Report Will Strengthen County’s Response to Emergencies

Oxford Report Will Strengthen County’s Response to Emergencies

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Regional News

Coulter: Oxford Report Will Strengthen County’s Response to Emergencies, Provide Answers to Families and Community

Post Date:09/15/2025 1:33 PM

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter issued the following statement about the Oxford High School shooting after action report, which Guidepost Solutions released today:

“Oakland County is committed to taking an open and honest look at how we respond to emergency events, including active assailant incidents like the Oxford High School shooting. The county has held a robust schedule of training for our thousands of first responders during the last 15 years, but we know that there are always lessons to be learned and ways to strengthen our response to prevent and address these tragedies. We saw on that day how our first responders reacted with dedication and courage in the face of horrifying violence, and this report reinforces their immense bravery. It also includes important insights that will help us build on the comprehensive strategies we already have in place, and we hope it will provide some long-awaited answers for the families and community.”

AG Reissues Consumer Alert on Government Imposter Scams

AG Reissues Consumer Alert on Government Imposter Scams

by | Sep 10, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 10, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Attorney General Nessel Reissues Consumer Alert on Government Imposter Scams

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her consumer alert on government imposter scams, warning consumers to remain vigilant against fraudulent emails, calls, or texts from scammers posing as government officials. Fraudsters use these messages to trick consumers into believing they are being contacted by a legitimate government agency or law enforcement office. The communications may offer special medication rates, requests for updated personal information, or demand money.

These fraudulent messages often contain links or attachments. Attorney General Nessel urges consumers to not click these links or download attachments, as they may contain viruses that infect devices and allow scammers to access sensitive information.

“When you receive these messages, silence is always the best policy,” Nessel said. “If someone contacts you claiming to be from the government, protect yourself by reaching out to the agency directly through its official contact information.”

Attorney General Nessel is advising consumers who have received communications from imposters to protect themselves from these scams by:

  • Blocking the text, email, or call;
  • Not clicking links or opening attachments;
  • Reporting the spam; and
  • Deleting the text or email from their device.

Attorney General Nessel is also reminding consumers that government agencies:

  • Will not request personal information through email, over the phone, or text;
  • Will never demand money through email, over the phone, or text. They will mail residents a notice and offer payment options; and
  • Do not ask for or take payment by prepaid gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a pay app.

To report a scam, file a complaint, or get additional information, please contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form