More than 140 metro Detroit high school seniors got a jump start on their college futures at a special event where they could apply and even be accepted into universities on the spot.

The event at Oakland University took the stress out of the college application process for many students. Instead of waiting weeks or months for acceptance letters, students received assistance filling out applications and, in some cases, found out immediately whether they were accepted.

Watch Meghan Daniels' video report below: Metro Detroit seniors get on-the-spot college acceptances at special recruitment event

"This really is about fit and that they can learn more about the college selection process, be able to talk to us individually about the things we have to offer them, and then use that information to kind of make a more informed decision," Shane Lewis said.

Lewis is the director of admissions at Oakland University.

More than 50 colleges and universities participated in the event, including Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, Kalamazoo College and Kettering University.

Alyssa Dondineau from Berkley High School found the immediate feedback particularly valuable.

"I think it's really cool how they just look at your transcript and they decide right then and there instead of having the stress and the anxiety trying to figure out am I gonna get in, am I not," Dondineau said.

She applied to Ferris State University, Saginaw Valley State University and the University of Michigan-Flint campus.

For many students, including first-generation college students like Autumn House, the day marked a significant milestone. House is a senior at Madison High School.

"They're really proud of me to see that I'm the first in my family to be kind of going to college and being committed to it," House said.

House emphasized that her journey has been about preparation and persistence.

"I've reached out to like admissions officers from different colleges who have helped me and I've asked them questions about their campus, questions about applying, things that I should say," House said.

Her advice for other students is clear.

"Start as early as possible and do not procrastinate, even though it seems like there's as much time in the world," House said.

Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars organized the event. According to the organization, it's about more than just acceptance; it's about building confidence and connections.

"Education is for absolutely everyone, but that looks different for everyone. And so you need to really be aware of what are you into, what are your natural gifts, talents and inclinations, because there's work connected to who you are as a person," Tiffany D. Haddon said.

Haddon is the success program manager for Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars.

She emphasized the importance of students considering their whole selves when choosing a college.

"Your whole self is going to college, not just your grades or your academic self your health, your physical self, your mental self, your emotional self. So make sure that when you're thinking and looking at different colleges and universities that they address you as a whole person," Haddon said.

Research shows that finding the right fit is crucial for student success.

"Find a sense of belonging. What the research tells us is that students who find a sense of belonging in their first year of school are 70% more likely to graduate. It's not money, it's not grades, it's that I belong here," Haddon said.

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Westland is moving Fire Station 4 to a new location east of the train tracks to cut down emergency response times, and city officials say the project won't cost taxpayers anything extra.

Watch Meghan Daniels' video report: Westland relocates Fire Station 4 to improve emergency response times

After decades of service, Westland's Fire Station 4 is preparing for relocation to better serve the community. The new station will be located on Cherry Hill Road just west of Newburgh Road, strategically positioned east of the train tracks that have long delayed emergency crews.

"It served the community well, but it's outgrown both in run volume and in space," Fire Chief Darrell Stamper said.

Mayor Kevin Coleman explained the strategic advantage of the new location.

"It'll still be in the south end of the city, but it'll be east of the train tracks. You can hear the train right now. So the train kind of slows down our EMS and fire runs," Coleman said.

The train has been a longtime obstacle for emergency responders, often causing significant delays. City leaders say this relocation will solve that problem without adding financial burden to residents.

"No millage, no tax increase. It's going to be great for our residents," Coleman said.

The city of Westland secured $11 million in state funding to update fire facilities, including construction of the new Station 4. This funding eliminates the need for additional local taxes or fees.

"The train impedes our response times quite a bit. So moving outside of this location but still providing the same service to the community around this area, I think, is of the utmost importance," Stamper said.

Local residents support the move, particularly given the improved safety benefits and lack of additional costs.

"If it's not going to cost any taxpayer money and if it's going to improve response times and I'm sure that they've looked into... studied all of this type of stuff it certainly wouldn't be a bad idea," resident John Frawley said.

Fellow resident Marlon Mainer agreed with the decision.

"You know, if it benefits the community, I think it's no problem for it," Mainer said.

The city expects to begin construction on the new fire station at the beginning of 2026.

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Lights, music and magic are coming to life in the woods of Commerce Township at Glenlore Trails, where the forest has been transformed into an immersive, after-dark experience perfect for Halloween.

See the full story in the video below

Glenlore Trails brings magical after-dark forest experience to Commerce Township

From glowing pathways to interactive displays, Glenlore Trails is giving metro Detroiters a new way to see nature after dark. The attraction features a mile-long trail that winds through light, sound and story, changing themes each season.

For families like the Hohls, a night at Glenlore Trails in Commerce Township is becoming a family tradition.

"I have friends that have come here for the Halloween trails, and they said that it was so fun and it was so interactive, and the kids were, of course, excited to wear their costumes," a member of the Hohl family said.

"I was told I got to dress up as Mr. Incredible, so I didn't not take up that opportunity," they added.

For little visitors like Marnie Michalak, the magic feels real. When asked about a witch character on the trail, the young visitor described her as "a big witch" and "a good witch."

"Can I go do it now?" Marnie asked eagerly.

Co-founder Chanel Schoeneberger says what started as a pandemic project has grown into a multi-holiday experience drawing thousands of visitors.

"What keeps the spark alive here is that so many people tell us, like, hey, this is our family tradition now, or this is our most favorite date night," Schoeneberger said.

The experience doesn't end with Halloween. Schoeneberger explained that they offer seasonal attractions throughout the year.

"We've got Halloween right now and then Christmas as well, so we do a one-mile trail walk here also for Christmas and that opens on Nov. 21, so it doesn't end here," Schoeneberger said.

For Aimee Michalak, Marnie's mom, Glenlore Trails offers something different from traditional Halloween attractions.

"I think Halloween historically, at least growing up for me in the metro Detroit area, it's always been about the haunted houses and all the spooky stuff, and you know I think having something that's a little more family friendly and for the younger kids who are really getting into the holiday spirit is really cool," Michalak said.

For families like the Michalaks, it's not just about the lights it's about making memories that shine a little brighter each year.

"I need to go now, mama," Marnie said, eager to continue the magical experience.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Libraries in metro Detroit aren't just about books anymore. The shelves are stocked with everything from board games to power tools and crochet kits. It's part of a growing 'Library of Things' movement, giving people access to items they may only need once, without the cost.

Watch Meghan's report in the video player below 'It has just continued to grow': Library of Things in Livonia has more than just books

"We started with just a few small tools and a calculator, and it has just continued to grow since then," said Paige Plant.

At the Livonia Public Library, it started small. Now, Paige Plant, Head of Adult Services, said the Library of Things is filled with items you'd never expect to borrow.

"Everybody knows that the library is a place to borrow books, right? But there are many other things that are that we can easily organize and make available in the library that you might just want to check out for a day or two that you don't want to buy," Paige said.

Livonia's library is packed full of puzzles, cooking tools and recreational items, all available with the swipe of a library card.

"We buy the things from different sources, package them together, and you check them out as a single item," Paige said.

In Redford Township, a library item even helped solve a big personal loss.

"I think one of my favorite stories is we had an individual that lost their wedding ring," Garrett said. "(They) came to the library, checked out the metal detector, found their wedding ring."

Garrett Hungerford, Library Director for Redford Township, said their seed library has yielded some delicious results over the years.

"We've had individuals who have used the seeds to make something and then brought us a jar of salsa afterwards. So it's been fun to see stuff outside of books and movies, and music at the library," Garrett said. "We don't expect you to bring back the seeds, but, you know, certainly salsa doesn't hurt."

And in Westland, Head of Adult Services for the Public Library, Katelin Smith, said crafting items and the telescope are hot commodities.

"Top thing that is popular is our cricket machine. People love arts and crafts here," Katelin said. "If you want to buy something a little bit more expensive, but you're not sure if you're going to like it, you can 'try it before you buy it' kind of deal."

And for regular users like Zehraa, the items make everyday life a little brighter.

"The most common thing now actually would be the seeds because I just started gardening this year," Zehraa said. "The projector we use a lot during the Halloween time, so we watch a lot of spooky movies and I use it in the basement or upstairs in the living room."

If there's something you've been wanting to try, give your local library a call. They might have it in their Library of Things.

Where Your Voice Matters

Detroit Public Schools Community District unveiled an 11,000-square-foot career technical education annex at Southeastern High School, designed to provide students with hands-on experience in trades and advanced manufacturing.

Watch Meghan Daniels' video report: DPSCD unveils 11,000-square-foot career technical education annex

The new facility features a welding lab, computer numerical control lab, and collaborative learning areas aimed at giving students real-world opportunities beyond traditional classroom learning.

"In the end, we're not going to rebuild the city if we're not rebuilding neighborhoods, and you can't rebuild neighborhoods if you're not rebuilding schools," said Dr. Nikolai Vitti, superintendent of Detroit Public Schools Community District.

Maurice El-Amin, principal at Southeastern High School, said the annex provides students with different career options after graduation.

"It just gives them a different option upon completion of high school, what they might want to go into," El-Amin said.

The program offers students exposure to various career paths before they make decisions about college, careers, or entrepreneurship as seniors.

"It will give them a leg up with exposure so they have a better idea of what they want to do once they become seniors and start making those decisions, whether it's college or career or entrepreneurship," El-Amin said.

For senior A'niyah Ellis, the program represents easier access to career exploration.

"I feel like it's easier access," Ellis said.

Ellis expressed interest in pursuing trade work and plans to attend a two-year community college to explore her options.

"I do want to do tradeI just find it fascinating, and I want to do it for me," Ellis said. "A 2-year community college because I'm not really sure if I want to go to college yet, so that's just to test it out and see what I want to do in life."

Ellis noted that many of her classmates wish the program had been available earlier in their high school careers.

"The 12th graders already wish they had this chance," Ellis said.

District leaders believe the annex will benefit both students and the broader Detroit community by preparing graduates for the workforce and encouraging local economic growth.

"This is a great example of investing in our youth, in our neighborhoods, in our community," Vitti said. "Long term, we're going to see students more prepared for college, the world of work in particular. We're going to see Southeastern's enrollment continue to grow."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Churches across Michigan are ramping up security measures as leaders work to protect their congregations while maintaining their welcoming atmosphere, according to local security experts and law enforcement officials.

Mike Harvill, president of the Security Leaders Coalition and member of a local church security team, said the need for enhanced safety protocols is growing throughout the state.

Watch Meghan Daniels' video report below: Michigan churches enhance security while maintaining welcoming atmosphere

"I think it's ramping up. We're seeing more here in Michigan," Harvill said.

Security experts report that more than 75% of deadly force incidents at faith-based organizations begin in parking lots, making exterior surveillance a critical component of church safety plans.

"If there's a mobile patrol out in the parking lot and they're seen, that tells people that there is security here and it might deter them," Harvill said.

Harvill trains churches on how to balance safety with hospitality, suggesting subtle security measures that don't compromise the welcoming nature of worship spaces.

"If you lock the door and then post somebody at that door, somebody comes walking up, the person just opens the door those people walking up never had a clue that door was locked. But if somebody walks up that you have a concern with, you don't open the door and you can talk to them through the door," Harvill said.

Related video: Several injured in Grand Blanc attack, including a child 8 injured in Grand Blanc Township attack, including a child

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard emphasized that churches must prepare for various threat scenarios including vehicle-based attacks.

"The only way you're going to stop a vehicle from getting into a building is have vehicular barriers, as you see around government buildings," Bouchard said.

Harvill noted that security barriers can be implemented aesthetically.

"There's really nice ways of doing it. You can get big concrete planters and have flowers in them that looks nice," Harvill said.

Related video: Grand Blanc businesses unite to support church community after deadly attack Grand Blanc businesses unite to support church community after deadly attack

Bouchard stressed the importance of comprehensive security planning.

"They have to have protocols in place What does that breach on those doors do to your security plan? How do you react to it?" Bouchard said.

These security concerns led to the formation of the Security Leaders Coalition, a network of more than 95 churches across Michigan that shares information and training resources to enhance safety measures.

Harvill said many congregants actually prefer knowing security measures are in place rather than being deterred by them.

"They think a security team is going to scare them off when it's quite the contrary. People nowadays want to know that there's a security team," Harvill said. "Our church just this morning got a phone call from a lady that said that she was going to be coming back to church and wanted to know if we had a security team," Harvill said.

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SAY Detroit Family Health Clinic cut the ribbon on a larger, upgraded facility designed to serve more patients with expanded services at no cost.

Watch Meghan Daniels' video report: SAY Detroit opens expanded health clinic to serve more vulnerable patients at no cost

The new clinic off Oakman Boulevard will enhance access to pediatrics, primary care, OB/GYN, dermatology, dentistry and health coaching for Detroit's most vulnerable populations.

"People who didn't have insurance really didn't have options, and we were the first clinic in the country to accept homeless children, no questions asked," said Mitch Albom, founder of SAY Detroit.

Founded nearly two decades ago, the clinic has been a lifeline for Detroit's most vulnerable residents. The expansion furthers that mission by meeting the health needs of each person regardless of their circumstances.

"We were the first clinic in the country to accept homeless children, no questions asked, no insurance. We still maintain that policy here today," Albom said.

The award-winning journalist says the new building represents more than just physical space.

"Everybody should have a right to medical care, and this will be a home for people certainly like that," Albom said.

For patients like Charlie Muhammad, that promise has already made a difference.

"I was living in a residency for homeless veterans, and underneath that place was a clinic and it was a safe clinic," Muhammad said.

Muhammad says the experience has been transformative.

"It was a good feeling to take on a greater personal responsibility and be able to contribute and to share, share the good news," Muhammad said. "The care is great. It's super. It really is super all year," Muhammad said.

Clinic leaders say access to care isn't just about individual health; it's about strengthening entire neighborhoods.

"If you aren't healthy and adequate mentally, physically to actually thrive in your community, it'll reflect," said Tawana Nettles-Robinson, executive director of Trinity Health Detroit.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.