by orionontv | Feb 20, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday February 11th at 10:25 AM
Updated Sunday February 18th at 8:28 AM
Here’s how the teams would be placed by using the MHSAA formula. Also included district numbers where the teams are at in the districts based on their assignments.
North Farmington (24): The Raiders have not been themselves despite being locked as the top seed in their district. North Farmington has been up and down which un Coach Todd Negoshian like. Negoshian will get either Livonia Stevenson or Southfield Arts and Tech in the district semifinals which is very favorable. North Farmington is in a good spot to have a deep postseason run despite their recent struggles.
Ferndale (59): The Eagles have been up and down this season. They are locked as the two seed in the district behind Warren Lincoln. They would see either Detroit Osborn or Ferndale University in the district semifinals. Coach Juan Rickman knew before the season started was that they would have to go through the Abes if they wanted to defend the Division Two State crown. Rickman will have his hands full in this district.
West Bloomfield (25): This will not be an easy postseason for Coach Arnette Jordan and company. The Lakers are the two seed behind Orchard Lake St. Marys. West Bloomfield could see Walled Lake Central in the district semifinals pending if they don’t get upset by Walled Lake Western in the first round. It has been a really good season for Jordan and West Bloomfield. If the Lakers get by the Vikings which that would be most likely then they would see Orchard Lake St. Marys in the district finals. It’s going to be a tough ask for Jordan and company but they know they have to get by their neighbors to the north at some point during the season.
Adams (30): The Highlanders host the district but they are locked into the two seed in the district which is okay however there is an outside shot that they could get the top seed but it’s not likely at this point. They would play Romeo or Rochester on Wednesday in the district semifinals and then possibly Utica, Stoney Creek, or Utica Eisenhower in the district finals. I like where Coach Isiah Novak’s team is at in the district considering they host the district and have a very manageable path in the postseason.
Clarkston (28): The Wolves have been very inconsistent but have played a very tough schedule for Coach Tim Waslik. They are the A team in the district which means they would have to play Pontiac on Monday in the first round which is unheard of for Clarkston standards. It’s an interesting spot for the Wolves but it’s manageable considering the schedule they have played all season long.
Oak Park (23): The Knights have had an injury riddled season for Coach Durrand Sheppard but they could make up for it come in the postseason. They have an outside shot of being seeded but they are likely the A team in the district which means they would see Royal Oak in the first round and if they get by the Ravens they would have to play Groves in the district semifinals but there is an outside chance they could get the two seed pending what happens to Berkley which would be huge for Sheppard if they got the two seed. Oak Park hasn’t been healthy all season, we know what Sheppard’s team is capable of being when healthy. The Knights have a shot to win this district.
Groves (23): The Falcons host and are locked as the top seed in their district. Groves has survived the gauntlet in the Red under Coach Marc West along with a ton of injuries to their star players as well. The Falcons would see either Oak Park or Royal Oak in the district semifinals. If the Knights get healthy then that district semifinal game could be a doozy. Groves has a shot to do some great things and win the district crown but if they get a healthy Oak Park then that would be very interesting to see.
Troy (29): The Colts are locked into the two seed in their district which means they would play Troy Athens in the district semifinals. It’s always interesting to see a team play each other three times in the district which is the likely case between the Colts and the Red Hawks with the winner likely playing Birmingham Brother Rice in the district finals. Either way you’re playing Wednesday and that’s the bottom line. If they want to host the regional again you have to get past Birmingham Brother Rice, that’s the bottom line.
Harper Woods (58): The Pioneers are in a very interesting spot. If they keep winning, they would have the top seed along with hosting the district. If they are the second seed that’s all right as well. Coach TaJuan Porter’s team wouldn’t be playing until Wednesday in a district that doesn’t look that strong. Harper Woods has the two seed right now which means they wouldn’t have to play Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinal.They would see either Detroit Denby Tech or Eastpointe in the district semifinals instead. It’s a great spot for Porter and company.
Troy Athens (29): The Red Hawks are the C team in the postseason which means they would get Troy on Wednesday in the district semifinals on their home floor. If they get by the Colts then they would see Birmingham Brother Rice likely in the district finals. It’s a tough path but a great opportunity for Coach Dave Scott to go against your arch rival in the district semifinals.
Seaholm (29): The Maples are locked in as the A team which means they would play Bloomfield Hills on Monday in the first round. It would be the third time in three weeks these two teams have played each other. If they beat the Blackhawks they would see Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. It will be a tough chore for interim coach Will Broner especially with everything that is affecting the Seaholm Boys Basketball program right now.
Lake Orion (28): The Dragons are locked in as the B team in the district which means they will play the hosts Waterford Kettering in the first round. If they get by the Captains then they would play Waterford Mott in the district semifinals which would be a very interesting matchup considering how tough the White has been this season. It’s a tough but a great opportunity for Coach Jose Andrades and Lake Orion to make some noise with a very young team who have been up and down this season.
Farmington (24): The Falcons took a huge hit with the loss to Warren Michigan Collegiate. The loss dropped Farmington out of the second seed to becoming the A team in the district. It also means that Coach Bryan Johnson’s team will play Redford Thurston in the first round on Monday. If they win that matchup then it sets up a game with Livonia Stevenson, the team that past Farmington in the district semifinals. The path just got a bit tougher now for Farmington.
Bloomfield Hills (29): The Blackhawks are locked as the B team in their district which means they would play Seaholm on Monday with the winner getting Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. It would be the third time in three weeks these two teams have played each other. It has been a rough year for Coach Brian Canfield and Bloomfield Hills but they have shown a ton of improvement. It should be very interesting if they do get the Warriors but they have the Maples first.
Southfield Arts and Tech (24): It has been a very tough season for Coach Terrance Porter and the Warriors. They are locked as the D team in the postseason which means they will play Livonia Franklin in the first round. If they win that game then they would see North Farmington in the district semifinals. It will be a very tough ask for Porter and Southfield Arts and Tech in the postseason.
Stoney Creek (30): It has been a very tough year for Coach Jeff Olind and the Cougars. The formula gave the Cougars no favors. They are the B team in the district which means they would play a very good Utica Eisenhower program in the first round. If they manage to win that game they would play Utica in the district semifinals. Whoever plays Utica, I like their chances considering the Chieftains haven’t really played the schedule that both Stoney Creek and Utica Eisenhower have despite Utica having a win over Utica Eisenhower during the season. If the Cougars can win over the Eagles and Chieftains which they are more than capable of doing then it’s anyone’s ball game in the district finals. Getting to the district finals would be a huge accomplishment for Stoney Creek.
Avondale (28): The Yellow Jackets are in a very interesting spot. Avondale will be the two seed in the district which means they won’t have to play until the district semifinals on Wednesday against Clarkston or Pontiac. The Yellow Jackets have been rolling under Coach Jaret Thomas but seeing Clarkston or Pontiac who has a win over Avondale this season is a real possibility. It’s a tough spot for Thomas knowing the likelihood of having to see the Wolves or the Phoenix in the postseason.
Oxford (27): The Wildcats are in a very tough spot. They are locked as the C team which means they will play Grand Blanc on Wednesday in the district semifinals in their building. The Bobcats have really improved and have played a really tough schedule. It has been a really good year for Coach Joe Fedorichik in his first year with Oxford. They have a shot if they play very well, it’s a tough chore and if they manage to upset the Bobcats then they would play either Davison or Holly in the district finals. It’s a tough ask for Fedorichik and the Wildcats in the postseason.
Rochester (30): The Falcons have a somewhat manageable first round matchup as the A team in the district. They would play Romeo which sets up a very interesting guard matchup between Max Mohl and Aiden Tague. Whoever wins gets Adams in the district semifinals. It will be very interesting to see how this goes but it’s a great first round but a tough district semifinal matchup for Coach Nick Evola and company.
Berkley (23): The Bears are locked into the two seed in their district which means they will see Warren Mott in the district semifinals. Berkley has had a strong year under Coach Joe Sermo but have had some road blocks along the way. The Bears have a much easier path to the district finals but it will be against either Oak Park and Groves in the district finals. It will be a tough district final but Sermo feels they this team has the chance to do it.
Pontiac (28): The Phoenix are going to have a really tough road in the postseason. They are the C team in the district which means they will see Clarkston in the first round. Coach Andrew Myers has done an outstanding job with the Phoenix in his first season. It’s going to be very tough for the Phoenix and especially for Myers having to face his former school in the first round of the postseason.
Royal Oak (23): The Ravens are locked as the B team in their district which means they would play Oak Park in the first round. Royal Oak has been up and down under Coach Aaron Smith. They are more than capable of playing spoiler to anyone who plays them. It will be a tall task for the Ravens in the postseason that is for sure.
Ferndale University (59): The Eagles have really struggled this season. They are locked in as the C team and would play Detroit Osborn in the first round. If they get by the Knights on Monday then a clash with Ferndale is very possible in the district semifinals. It will be very tough for Coach Josh Nicks and Ferndale University in the postseason.
Here is the MPR formula
https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/MPR/2023-24/2023-24%20FINAL%20BBB.pdf
by orionontv | Feb 20, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Boys Basketball Districts Are Out 2024.
Written Tuesday June 20th at 9:15 AM
Updated Sunday February 18th at 9:12 AM
This article will be updated very often. Coaches including those are not in the OAA, if you want your thoughts on your district for the blog, please DM me on Twitter or email me.
Here is the districts.
District 23 @ Groves
OAK PARK vs ROYAL OAK
OAK PARK/ROYAL OAK vs GROVES
Warren Mott vs BERKLEY
FAVORITE: Groves
NEXT: Berkley
DARKHORSE: Oak Park
PLAYER ON SPOT: Josh Gibson-Groves
THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Beverly Hills. Berkley has been up and down as of late but have the second seed and a much easier matchup with Warren Mott in the district semifinals. Groves has home court and the top seed but they could see a healthy Oak Park squad in the district semifinals pending if they get by Royal Oak who has been very inconsistent as of late. Groves is the favorite for now but a dangerous path to the district finals they have.
District 24 @ Livonia Stevenson
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs Livonia Franklin
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH/Livonia Franklin vs NORTH FARMINGTON
FARMINGTON vs Redford Thurston
FARMINGTON/Redford Thurston vs Livonia Stevenson
FAVORITE: North Farmington
NEXT: Livonia Stevenson
DARKHORSE: Farmington
PLAYER ON SPOT: Dylan Smith-North Farmington
THOUGHTS: This should be a very interesting district in Livonia. Farmington got hit big time with the loss to Warren Michigan Collegiate on Saturday which cost them a chance at the second seed. They could still see Livonia Stevenson, the team that past them in the districts in the district semifinals pending if they get by Redford Thurston. North Farmington has an interesting road especially if they have to see Livonia Franklin in the district semifinals but at the end of the day, I don’t really see anyone touching the Raiders in this district.
District 25 @ Lakeland
Walled Lake Northern vs Lakeland
Walled Lake Northern/Lakeland vs Orchard Lake St. Marys
Walled Lake Central vs Walled Lake Western
Walled Lake Central/Walled Lake Western vs WEST BLOOMFIELD
FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys
NEXT: West Bloomfield
DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Central
PLAYER ON SPOT: Donnie Watts-West Bloomfield
THOUGHTS: This district looks like it’s setting up to be a West Bloomfield/Orchard Lake St. Marys district final but the Lakers have to go through Walled Lake Central in the district semifinals. The Vikings have a shot to win the Lakes Valley Crown. The Eaglets have the easiest path to the district finals. How fitting we could see the Co-Red Champ, Lakes Valley Champ, and the Catholic League Champ all in the same district, it seems very likely at the moment.
District 27 @ Grand Blanc
Holly vs Lapeer
Holly/Lapeer vs Davison
OXFORD vs Grand Blanc
FAVORITE: Davison
NEXT: Grand Blanc
DARKHORSE: Holly
PLAYER ON SPOT: Ka’Vion Smith-Holly
THOUGHTS: There are four proven teams in this very tough district in Genesee County. Grand Blanc and Oxford is a very interesting matchup especially where the Bobcats started but have really improved since. The Wildcats have been playing really good basketball. Holly is fully healthy and will have an interesting first round matchup with Lapeer. The Lightning shocked the Bronchos earlier in the season but Holly is a much different team now. The winner will see Davison in a very tough matchup in the district semifinals. Four teams have a shot to win this district with the Cardinals as the early favorite.
District 28 @ Waterford Kettering
LAKE ORION vs Waterford Kettering
LAKE ORION/Waterford Kettering vs Waterford Mott
CLARKSTON vs PONTIAC
CLARKSTON/PONTIAC vs AVONDALE
FAVORITE: Waterford Mott
NEXT: Clarkston
DARKHORSE: Lake Orion
PLAYER ON SPOT: Jacoby Manyweathers-Waterford Mott
THOUGHTS: This is going to be a very tough and interesting district in Waterford. Waterford Mott is the early favorite in the district but they could see Lake Orion which is a tricky matchup in the district semifinals. The Dragons have played a very tough schedule in the White this season and has a very young team as does the Corsairs. Lake Orion will have to get by Waterford Kettering in the first round before they think of playing the Corsairs. On the other side, it feels odd that Clarkston has to play on Monday and Coach Andrew Myers has to go against his former school. Whoever wins sees Avondale in the district semifinals. There are a ton of storylines in this very competitive district in Waterford.
District 29 @ Troy Athens
SEAHOLM vs BLOOMFIELD HILLS
SEAHOLM/BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs Birmingham Brother Rice
TROY vs TROY ATHENS
FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice
NEXT: Troy
DARKHORSE: Troy Athens
PLAYER ON SPOT: Warren Marshall-Birmingham Brother Rice
THOUGHTS: This district is shaping up to be a Birmingham Brother Rice/Troy district final which seems likely at the moment. Troy and Troy Athens along with Seaholm and Bloomfield Hills would have faced each other three times at this point. The Maples are going through a lot right now. The Blackhawks have been improving each game. The Red Hawks are coming off a tough loss to Troy. The Colts are rolling. Out of these teams that has a shot at beating the Warriors, the Colts have the best chance to do that.
District 30 @ Adams
STONEY CREEK vs Utica Eisenhower
STONEY CREEK/Utica Eisenhower vs Utica
ROCHESTER vs Romeo
ROCHESTER/Romeo vs ADAMS
FAVORITE: Adams
NEXT: Utica
DARKHORSE: Utica Eisenhower
PLAYER ON SPOT: Peter Karadasis-Adams
THOUGHTS: This should be a very interesting district at Rochester. Adams is the favorite despite the two seed because of the schedule (Adams plays in the Red.) Utica is unbeaten but hasn’t really seen the OAA this season despite wins over Romeo and Utica Eisenhower. Stoney Creek has been up and down. Rochester has been playing really good basketball. Romeo has been inconsistent as has Utica Eisenhower. The guard matchup between Aiden Tague and Max Mohl is very interesting in the first round game between the Bulldogs and the Falcons. The Cougars and Eagles could also be very interesting as well. The two seeded teams might have things tough in the district semifinals. It’s anyone’s district for now.
District 58 @ Harper Woods Chandler Park
Detroit East English Village Prep vs St. Clair Shores South Lake
Detroit East English Village Prep/St. Clair Shores South Lake vs HARPER WOODS
Detroit Denby Tech vs Eastpointe
Detroit Denby Tech/Eastpointe vs Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy
FAVORITE: Harper Woods
NEXT: Harper Woods Chandler Park
DARKHORSE: Detroit East English Village Prep
PLAYER ON SPOT: Julian Young-Harper Woods
THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Harper Woods has the top seed which could be the worst case for the Pioneers because that means they would see Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinals pending if they get past St. Clair Shores South Lake in the first round. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy got the best part of the draw which means their path to the district finals should be easier. The Pioneers are the favorites for now but the path is much tougher going forward.
District 59 @ Detroit Pershing
Detroit Pershing vs Hazel Park
Detroit Pershing/Hazel Park vs Warren Lincoln
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY vs Detroit Osborn
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY/Detroit Osborn vs FERNDALE
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Warren Lincoln
DARKHORSE: Detroit Pershing
PLAYER ON SPOT: Trenton Ruth-Ferndale
THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district. Talking to Ferndale Coach Juan Rickman during media day, he is not a big fan of this district being held at Detroit Pershing. The Eagles are the second seed which is the better seed not having to see Detroit Pershing in the district semifinals but they could see Detroit Osborn in the district semifinals. Warren Lincoln has the top seed but they have to see the Doughboys in the district semifinals is very interesting. This is setting up to be a Ferndale/Warren Lincoln district final with the winner possibly heading to the Breslin Center.
Here are the Districts
https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Boys-Basketball/2024-Districts
by orionontv | Feb 15, 2024 | Regional News
Gov. Whitmer Announces Funding to Provide Life-changing Career Pathways Through Registered Apprenticeships
Organizations will assist English language learners and individuals without a high school diploma or equivalency
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) awarded more than $1 million in competitive grants to organizations that will provide underrepresented individuals with access to life-changing career pathways through Registered Apprenticeships.
The Michigan Statewide Targeted Apprenticeship Inclusion and Readiness System (MiSTAIRS) provided the funding with the goal of significantly expanding Registered Apprenticeship opportunities for English language learners and individuals without a high school diploma or its equivalency.
“By increasing access to education and training opportunities that lead to high-skill, high-wage careers, the Michigan Statewide Targeted Apprenticeship Inclusion & Readiness System supports my vision to improve the quality of life of all Michiganders,” said Governor Whitmer. “The recipients of these grants will grow Registered Apprenticeship through the lens of equity and inclusion, reflecting our commitment to ensuring everyone has an opportunity to ‘make it’ in Michigan.”
MiSTAIRS leverages ongoing efforts in the Michigan Adult Education system, providing underrepresented populations with access to a life-changing career pathway by ensuring readiness for enrollment and completion in a Registered Apprenticeship Program. In 2022, more than 30,000 learners enrolled in an adult education program in Michigan.
“The Michigan Statewide Targeted Apprenticeship Inclusion and Readiness System is a transformative initiative that provides an onramp to career opportunities for Michiganders who are frequently left behind,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “MiSTAIRS helps us close equity gaps and remove barriers to employment by providing opportunities for adult learners to gain workforce skills and earn an industry-recognized credential while completing their high school diploma or equivalency.”
The following organizations have been awarded competitive grants to significantly expand Registered Apprenticeship Program opportunities to 200 Michigan English language learners and individuals without a high school diploma or its recognized equivalency.
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Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren
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Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph and Van Buren Counties
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Southwest Economic Solutions
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Genesee, Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac, Shiawassee and Tuscola Counties
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Iosco Regional Educational Service Agency Adult Education
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Arenac, Clare, Gladwin, Iosco, Ogemaw and Roscommon Counties
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“As one of the State Senators representing the City of Detroit, I am thrilled for my community with the announcement of the $300,000 award for Southwest Economic Solutions in Senate District 1,” said state Senator Erika Geiss (D-Taylor). “The goals of MiSTAIRS align with my values of promoting equity and justice and removing barriers for marginalized communities. I look forward to the positive impacts this grant will have on our community.”
“I extend my gratitude to Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) for their invaluable support in granting Mott Community College $300,000 to enhance Registered Apprenticeship opportunities,” said state Senator John Cherry (D-Flint). “This investment will create equal pathways to success for everyone, boosting economic mobility and equity in our community. I’m proud that my colleagues and I prioritized this funding, making it possible for us to make a real difference in people’s lives.”
“I am thrilled to hear that Mott Community College is receiving this sizable grant — this means the college can grow and improve more apprenticeship programs for Flint community members, including English language learners and folks who don’t have a high school diploma,” said state Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint). “These kinds of programs help open the doors of opportunity for individuals who often have doors shut on them. Funding equity-minded apprenticeship programs illustrates that in Michigan, marginalized and underrepresented residents will not get left behind. All Michiganders deserve a real chance to flourish.”
“As the grandson of a UAW member and the son of a union carpenter — neither of whom had college degrees — I know first-hand the transformative power that an apprenticeship has,” said state Rep. Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph), who represents portions of Allegan, Berrien and Van Buren counties. “Learning a profitable trade while attaining a diploma or GED will put more people in line for jobs with family-sustaining wages and liveable benefits.”
“This grant award will help find people who would otherwise fall through the cracks and set them up for a lifetime of success,” said state Rep. Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit). “I’m proud of the work this administration is doing to help folks who need just a hand up to get themselves on the path to self-sustainability.”
“We are making sure we have systems in place to support those least often included in the benefits from Registered Apprenticeship, including women, people of color and individuals with disabilities,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, Director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. “These grant recipients will expand existing and develop new programs, and better prepare job seekers through Registered Apprenticeship programs.”
Registered Apprenticeships are an industry-driven, high-quality training model employers use to develop and prepare Michigan’s future workforce. Apprentices gain paid work experience, related classroom instruction and a national industry-recognized credential upon program completion.
Boosting awareness and use of Registered Apprenticeships supports LEO’s efforts to educate Michiganders and grow the middle class by removing barriers to employment. It also closes equity gaps, expanding the talent pool and matching employers with qualified employees to grow and sustain a vibrant economy.
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by orionontv | Feb 14, 2024 | Regional News
| Hi there,
You may have seen U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra was in our district last week discussing important prescription drug provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act. Before that press conference, though, we had a few meetings I want to tell you about.
I invited Secretary Becerra to our 7th Congressional District because of your calls, emails and letters surrounding high prescription prices, drug shortages and maternal health disparities. It’s important for federal officials to see firsthand the issues that affect Michiganders in their daily lives.
First, we met with local hospital leaders, so Secretary Becerra could hear directly from them about the issues they’re facing. Our first priority was the ongoing shortage of lifesaving cancer drugs that has forced our hospitals in Michigan to ration care. This crisis has shown once again that maintaining a sufficient supply of pharmaceuticals is critical for not just patients, but for our national security. This issue of supply-chains for critical items has become a bit of an obsession of mine since shortages upended our economy during the pandemic. It’s why I co-founded the bipartisan Domestic Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Caucus and have introduced legislation, like the Ensuring Access to Lifesaving Drugs Act, to keep vital medicines on pharmacy shelves.
In our second meeting with Secretary Becerra, we met with advocates and talked about the issue of black maternal health. Today, Black & Native American women are three to four times more likely to die from complications surrounding pregnancy & childbirth than white women. Our meeting allowed Secretary Becerra to learn about the systemic & financial challenges faced by those who’ve been in the trenches on this issue. Thank you to the doctors, midwives, doulas, & public health & nonprofit leaders who provided ways to address this issue at the federal level.
Finally, we held a press conference on the Inflation Reduction Act. This bill sends a really clear signal to the rest of the prescription drug world that the day where you can just charge whatever you want — where there’s no transparency on the price of medication — is an era that’s coming to an end.
I am thankful to all those who helped us have a productive day discussing federal solutions that would help Michiganders.
Rep. Slotkin
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| Dear Constituent,
As you may have heard, President Biden recently approved Michigan’s request for a disaster declaration following the storms that rolled through our state last year from August 24-26.
As a result, if you live in or own a business in one of the affected communities and you sustained damage from the tornadoes, severe storms, and flooding, you can now apply for disaster assistance funds from FEMA or low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration. Below are details on how to make those requests.
The affected counties in the 7th District are Eaton, Ingham, Livingston, and Oakland. And if you have family or friends in Wayne, Ionia, Kent, Macomb, or Monroe counties who were affected by those storms, this information applies to them as well.
To start the application process, you can either log on to FEMA’s website, download the FEMA app, or call the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362.
You will need to have the following information ready:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and your current address.
- Your Social Security Number.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit for any federal relief money you receive.
- Your insurance policy number (if you have one) or your agent and/or the company name.
Even if you’ve already made repairs to your property, you should still apply – just be prepared to show repair receipts, photos and any other disaster-related documentation. FEMA will soon have recovery teams on the ground in affected neighborhoods, and they’ll also be setting up centers to provide in-person help. You can stay on top of that effort HERE.
Business owners and non-profits who suffered damages may be eligible for low-interest disaster loans from the Small Business Association. Under the terms, organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
You can find out more about applying by visiting the SBA website, by calling the Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or by emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For in-person assistance, the SBA has set up a Business Recovery Center at the Ellis Library Center at 3700 S. Custer Road in Monroe, MI.
As we work to recover from last summer’s storms, these federal resources will help ensure that we rebuild stronger and we hope you can take advantage of them.
– Office of Rep. Elissa Slotkin
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by orionontv | Feb 12, 2024 | Regional News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gov. Whitmer: Working Families Tax Credit Checks Being Mailed This Week
An average $550 will be mailed to 700,000 Michigan households, with these larger refunds continuing in the years ahead
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that eligible Michigan families will begin receiving Working Families Tax Credit supplemental checks this week as a part of $1 billion in tax cuts. The checks will put an average of $550 into Michiganders’ pockets in more than 700,000 Michigan households.
“Last year, the majority in the Michigan Legislature and I quintupled the Working Families Tax Credit, which will put hundreds more dollars back in the pockets of 700,000 working families,” said Governor Whitmer. “These checks that are starting to be mailed out this week will lift tens of thousands of people out of working poverty and directly benefit half the children in Michigan by helping their moms and dads pay the bills, put food on the table, and buy school supplies. We got your back in Michigan as you work hard and support your family. Together, let’s build a brighter future and a stronger economy.”
Michigan’s Working Families Tax Credit is based on the federal Earned Income Tax Credit.
To qualify, individuals must meet certain requirements and file a federal income tax return, even if no tax is owed or there is no requirement to file a return. If a federal credit is granted, the state of Michigan will provide an additional 30% credit when the taxpayer files their state income tax return.
For the 2022 tax year, eligible taxpayers were provided a 6% Michigan Working Families Tax Credit when they filed their state individual income tax returns. A state law that becomes effective February 13 means those taxpayers will receive a supplemental check for the remaining 24% portion of their 2022 tax year Working Families Tax Credit.
On Tuesday, February 13, the Michigan Department of Treasury will begin issuing these checks to eligible taxpayers through the U.S. Postal Service. The checks will be sent over a 5-to-6-week period.
The supplemental checks will be issued to the most recent address on file with Treasury. Treasury routinely updates taxpayer address records based on current tax filings.
The Michigan Working Families Tax Credit for the 2023 tax year will be applied at the full 30% rate when taxpayers file their state tax returns this tax season.
“Michigan’s Working Families Tax Credit at the 30% rate applies to the 2022 tax year and beyond,” said State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “I encourage those who are eligible for this tax credit to explore filing electronically or connecting with a reputable tax preparer when filing a return this year. Thousands of dollars could be left on the table if these credits are not claimed.”
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by orionontv | Feb 12, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday February 11th at 10:25 AM
Here’s how the teams would be placed by using the MHSAA formula. Also included district numbers where the teams are at in the districts based on their assingments.
North Farmington (24): The Raiders have not been themselves despite being locked as the top seed in their district. North Farmington has been up and down which un Coach Todd Negoshian like. Negoshian will get either Livonia Stevenson or Southfield Arts and Tech in the district semifinals which is very favorable. Livonia Franklin could also be in play if Farmington were to drop from the second seed. North Farmington is in a good spot to have a deep postseason run despite their recent struggles.
Ferndale (59): The Eagles have been up and down this season. They are locked as the two seed in the district behind Warren Lincoln. They would see Detroit Pershing in the district semifinals pending a monster upset from Ferndale University. Coach Juan Rickman knew before the season started was that they would have to go through the Abes if they wanted to defend the Division Two State crown. Rickman will have his hands full in this district with the likelihood of playing Detroit Pershing in the semifinals and Warren Lincoln for the district crown.
West Bloomfield (25): This will not be an easy postseason for Coach Arnette Jordan and company. The Lakers are the two seed behind Orchard Lake St. Marys. West Bloomfield could see Walled Lake Central in the district semifinals pending if they don’t get upset by Walled Lake Western in the first round. It has been a really good season for Jordan and West Bloomfield. If the Lakers get by the Vikings which that would be most likely then they would see Orchard Lake St. Marys in the district finals. It’s going to be a tough ask for Jordan and company but they know they have to get by their neighbors to the north at some point during the season.
Adams (30): The Highlanders host the district but they are locked into the two seed in the district which is okay. They would play Romeo or Rochester on Wednesday in the district semifinals and then possibly Utica, Stoney Creek, or Utica Eisenhower in the district finals. I like where Coach Isiah Novak’s team is at in the district considering they host the district and have a very manageable path in the postseason.
Clarkston (28): The Wolves have been very inconsistent but have played a very tough schedule for Coach Tim Waslik. They have two scenarios at the moment. They are the A team in the district for now but they can get to the two seed if Avondale loses one game this week. If Clarkston gets the two seed then they won’t be playing until Wednesday in the district semifinals against Avondale or Pontiac but if they remain the A team then they would have to play Pontiac on Monday in the first round. It’s an interesting spot for the Wolves but it’s manageable considering the schedule they have played all season long.
Oak Park (23): The Knights have had an injury riddled season for Coach Durrand Sheppard but they could make up for it come in the postseason. They have an outside shot of being seeded but they are likely the A team in the district which means they would see Royal Oak in the first round and if they get by the Ravens they would have to play Groves in the district semifinals but there is an outside chance they could get the two seed pending what happens to Berkley which would be huge for Sheppard if they got the two seed. Oak Park hasn’t been healthy all season, we know what Sheppard’s team is capable of being when healthy. The Knights have a shot to win this district.
Groves (23): The Falcons host and are locked as the top seed in their district. Groves has survived the gauntlet in the Red under Coach Marc West along with a ton of injuries to their star players as well. The Falcons would see either Oak Park or Royal Oak in the district semifinals. If the Knights get healthy then that district semifinal game could be a doozy. Groves has a shot to do some great things and win the district crown but if they get a healthy Oak Park then that would be very interesting to see.
Troy (29): The Colts are locked into the two seed in their district which means they would play Troy Athens in the district semifinals. It’s always interesting to see a team play each other three times in the district which is the likely case between the Colts and the Red Hawks with the winner likely playing Birmingham Brother Rice in the district finals. Either way you’re playing Wednesday and that’s the bottom line. If they want to host the regional again you have to get past Birmingham Brother Rice, that’s the bottom line.
Harper Woods (58): The Pioneers are in a very interesting spot. If they keep winning, they would have the top seed along with hosting the district. If they are the second seed that’s all right as well. Coach TaJuan Porter’s team wouldn’t be playing until Wednesday in a district that doesn’t look that strong. Harper Woods has the two seed right now which means they wouldn’t have to play Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinals but if they get the top seed then they would see Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinals. It’s a great spot but it would be an easier road if they avoided Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinals.
Troy Athens (29): The Red Hawks are the C team in the postseason which means they would get Troy on Wednesday in the district semifinals on their home floor. If they get by the Colts then they would see Birmingham Brother Rice likely in the district finals. It’s a tough path but a great opportunity for Coach Dave Scott to go against your arch rival in the district semifinals.
Seaholm (29): The Maples are locked in as the A team which means they would play Bloomfield Hills on Monday in the first round. If they beat the Blackhawks they would see Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. It will be a tough chore for Coach Mike DeGeeter to play that Princeton offense but it works well with Seaholm.
Lake Orion (28): The Dragons are locked in as the B team in the district which means they will play the hosts Waterford Kettering in the first round. If they get by the Captains then they would play Waterford Mott in the district semifinals which would be a very interesting matchup considering how tough the White has been this season. It’s a tough but a great opportunity for Coach Jose Andrades and Lake Orion to make some noise with a very young team who have been up and down this season.
Farmington (24): The Falcons are in a very unique spot in the postseason. Coach Bryan Jordan has done a very good job in his first year at Farmington. The Falcons are the second seed which means they wouldn’t play until Wednesday in the district semifinals however there is a chance they could play in the first round which means they would play Redford Thurston since they are the C team. If they can make it to the district finals they would likely play arch rival North Farmington which will be a daunting task. It will be very interesting to see what happens but having the second seed would be a huge advantage if Johnson’s team can keep it.
Bloomfield Hills (29): The Blackhawks are locked as the B team in their district which means they would play Seaholm on Monday with the winner getting Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. It has been a rough year for Coach Brian Canfield and Bloomfield Hills but they have shown a ton of improvement as of late. It should be very interesting if they do get the Warriors but they have the Maples first.
Southfield Arts and Tech (24): It has been a very tough season for Coach Terrance Porter and the Warriors. They are locked as the D team in the postseason which means they will play Livonia Stevenson as of right now. Things could change in the next week or so especially with how tight the battle for the second seed is in the district with Farmington, Livonia Stevenson, and Livonia Franklin. It will be a very tough ask for Porter and Southfield Arts and Tech in the postseason.
Stoney Creek (30): It has been a very tough year for Coach Jeff Olind and the Cougars. The formula gave the Cougars no favors. They are the B team in the district which means they would play a very good Utica Eisenhower program in the first round. If they manage to win that game they would play Utica in the district semifinals. Whoever plays Utica, I like their chances considering the Chieftains haven’t really played the schedule that both Stoney Creek and Utica Eisenhower have despite Utica having a win over Utica Eisenhower during the season. If the Cougars can win over the Eagles and Chieftains which they are more than capable of doing then it’s anyone’s ball game in the district finals. Getting to the district finals would be a huge accomplishment for Stoney Creek.
Avondale (28): The Yellow Jackets are in a very interesting spot. Avondale has the two seed for now in the district which means they won’t have to play until the district semifinals against Clarkston or Pontiac but if Clarkston passes them then they would have to play Pontiac on Monday. The Yellow Jackets have been rolling under Coach Jaret Thomas but seeing Clarkston or Pontiac who has a win over Avondale this season is a real possibility. It’s a tough spot for Thomas knowing the likelihood of having to see the Wolves or the Phoenix in the postseason.
Oxford (27): The Wildcats are in a very tough spot. They are locked as the C team which means they will play Grand Blanc on Wednesday in the district semifinals in their building. The Bobcats have really improved and have played a really tough schedule. It has been a really good year for Coach Joe Fedorichik in his first year with Oxford. They have a shot if they play very well, it’s a tough chore and if they manage to upset the Bobcats then they would play either Davison or Holly in the district finals. It’s a tough ask for Fedorichik and the Wildcats in the postseason.
Rochester (30): The Falcons have a somewhat manageable first round matchup as the A team in the district. They would play Romeo which sets up a very interesting guard matchup between Max Mohl and Aiden Tague. Whoever wins gets Adams in the district semifinals. It will be very interesting to see how this goes but it’s a great first round but a tough district semifinal matchup for Coach Nick Evola and company.
Berkley (23): The Bears look like they are going to the two seed in their district which means they will see Warren Mott in the district semifinals but that is not certain. Berkley has had a strong year under Coach Joe Sermo but have had some road blocks along the way. The Bears need to keep winning just to keep the second seed or Oak Park could sneak up on them which if that were the case they would be playing Royal Oak on that Monday in the first round and Oak Park would play on Wednesday. Sermo knows how important getting the two seed is for his team, if they win out this week they would get the two seed, if not then next Sunday will be very important.
Pontiac (28): The Phoenix are going to have a really tough road in the postseason. They are the C team in the district which means they could see Clarkston or Avondale in the first round. Coach Andrew Myers has done an outstanding job with the Phoenix in his first season. Pontiac did beat Avondale in the regular season which helps but seeing Clarkston will be a tall order whether it’s in the first round or the district semifinals. It’s going to be very tough for the Phoenix in the postseason.
Royal Oak (23): The Ravens are locked as the B team in their district which means they would play Oak Park in the first round. There is an outside chance they could play Berkley pending on what happens with the Bears if they struggle this week in the first round which would be more manageable for them than having the play the Knights. Royal Oak has been up and down under Coach Aaron Smith. They are more than capable of playing spoiler to anyone who plays them. It will be a tall task for the Ravens in the postseason that is for sure.
Ferndale University (59): The Eagles have really struggled this season. They are locked in as the C team and would play the hosts Detroit Pershing in the first round. If they get by the Doughboys on Monday then a clash with Ferndale is very possible in the district semifinals. It will be very tough for Coach Josh Nicks and Ferndale University in the postseason.
Here is the MPR formula
https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/MPR/2023-24/2023-24%20FINAL%20BBB.pdf
