Every first responder knows that life can change in an instant.

Warren police officer Nick Kott was off duty, hunting with his dad on their property in Gladwin on the afternoon of Nov. 16 when he slipped and fell out of a tree blind. When he did not return to his cabin at the expected time, his father walked to the area his son said he would be and found him conscious and motionless on the ground where he had been for more than an hour.

He was rushed to Midland Hospital, then airlifted to University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor where he is currently in critical condition in Neuro-ICU.

According to his wife, Holli, who spoke to the media during a press conference Thursday, Kott suffered a serious neck injury and is on a ventilator and has no feeling from his neck down. The doctors have told her it is too early to determine if he will regain movement of his limbs.

“He was able to mouth some words to me today which is the first time we’ve been able to communicate,” Holli said. “I’m asking for prayers and I’m asking specifically for prayers for Nick to regain use of his hands and arms so he can play with his son who is his best friend.

“I know this is going to be a very, very, very long road.”

Holli said she and her husband met when they were neighbors and their dogs took a liking to each other and liked to play together. They still live in that same Waterford Township neighborhood in a two-story house Holli said will need major renovations in order for her husband to be able to come home.

“My number one thing I want Nick to be able to do,” Holli said through tears, “is to tuck his best friend in at night and we have a two-story house.

“If we could just get Jack up the stairs to tuck in his baby boy, our 7-year-old son Jack, I need your help and support to do that.”

Holli praised the Gladwin firefighters and police who transported her husband to Midland Hospital, doctors and nurses at both Midland and University of Michigan hospitals, and Warren police for their help during this time of crisis.

“This has been an absolute nightmare that I can’t wake up out of,” said Holli. “I’m only getting through this because of the love and support from the Warren Police Department and the surrounding police departments.”

Holli said one police officer came and fixed a broken backyard swing for Jack while others are coming to clean gutters and do the fall cleanup tasks that Nick usually handles.

Kott joined the Warren Police Department in 2011.

“This department has been his life; they are his brothers and his sisters and they have proved that this week,” Holli said.

Kott’s family will need help paying for medical bills and making home renovations to accommodate Nick when he gets home. A GoFundMe has raised $29,585 toward a $40,000 goal. Donations can be made at gofund.me/6fa96708.

“As police officers, we are good at responding to other people’s emergencies, but it’s a gut check when it is one of your own,” said Warren Lt. John Gajewski.

Officials confirmed no one was killed in an explosion at a condominium complex Tuesday night in Lake Orion, and the two people injured remain hospitalized but their conditions were improving as of late Wednesday afternoon.

“It’s an absolute miracle, an absolute miracle — if you’ve seen this scene — (that) currently we’re talking about no fatalities,” Orion Township Supervisor Chris Barnett said during a news conference Wednesday afternoon from Orion Township Hall.

Fire Chief Ryan Allen said an investigation continues into the cause and origin of the explosion at the Keatington New Town Association and is expected to take “a little over a week.” The explosion destroyed 18 units, displacing multiple residents, and caused damage to about a dozen more, Allen said.

First responders were dispatched to the two-story building on Pine Ridge Court between Joslyn and Baldwin roads after the explosion occurred around 6:30 p.m., officials said.

Little information has been released yet on the two people injured, but Allen said one was in non-critical, stable condition and the other in guarded condition which “is between serious and stable condition.”

According to Consumers Energy Vice President Christopher Fultz, crews found no abnormalities in the system from the gas main to the meter which is the extent of the utility company’s responsibility. Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard said a resident reported she had detected the smell of gas just before the explosion and is part of the investigation.

Allen reminds residents that if they ever have concerns about a possible gas leak to exit the home and contact the fire department by calling either the emergency or non-emergency number.

Barnett noted that there’s been “an incredible show of support” from the community in response to what he described as “a horrific incident.” And it’s what can be expected, he said.

“I’d put our community against any community when it comes to things like this. We step up,” he said. “It’s horrible what happened, but if ever (something like this) happens, you’re lucky if it happens in Orion Township.”

Victims in need of immediate support are encouraged to call the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or Orion Township offices at 248-391-0304 ext. 2009.

Those interested in helping can provide monetary donations through Love INC of Northern Oakland County by calling 248-693-4357 or online at https://loveincofnoc.org/.

Clothing and food donations can be dropped off at Woodside Bible Church, located in Canterbury Village, 2500 Joslyn Road. Those in need of food can visit Woodside’s Village Food Pantry, also located in Canterbury Village, at 2325 Joslyn Court. Reach the pantry by calling 248–391-1900.

Bouchard cautions residents that it’s likely there will be scammers attempting to profit through false charities, so only donate to organizations listed above and any others listed on social media pages for Orion Township or the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.

Tribune News Service contributed to this report.

Over the next few days, Waterford Township officials will consider two options for the community’s waste-hauling service.

On Wednesday, Supervisor Gary Wall and his successor, Anthony Bartolotta, met with the current contractor, Priority Waste, to discuss a one-year contract extension. But township trustees will also consider drafting a request for a new waste hauler contract.

Priority’s Waterford contract expires in March. To consider other companies the township must publish a request for proposals, allow time to evaluate bids, make a selection and sign a new contract before the end of February.

Waterford is weighing the options after Priority bought out 72 Green for Life (GFL) municipal waste-hauling contracts and equipment in May. The issue may be discussed at the trustees’ next study session, at 4:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, in the conference room 3-2 at the township hall at 5200 Civic Center Drive.The regular meeting starts at 6 p.m. in the auditorium. Meeting agendas are online at https://www.waterfordmi.gov/AgendaCenter

The transition started on July 1 and led to significant criticism by residents in Waterford and many of the 71 other communities.

Priority Waste finalizes GFL purchase and takes over some Oakland County routes

Months of long-delayed pickups of trash, yard waste and recycling led to emergency meetings between municipalities and company officials.

Priority blamed many of the problems on shoddy trucks bought from GFL, the inability to rapidly expand the fleet, hire and train adequate drivers to properly service existing and new customers.

Waterford is not the only community evaluating other waste pickup options.

Rochester Hills sets deadlines for Priority corrections

In October, Orion Township officials announced Priority would be dropped on Dec. 31. The township signed a contract with Waste Management for service starting on Jan. 1. Priority and Standard Waste Services also bid for the contract.

Township residents will pay $62.23 per quarter for a single-family household, a $1.15-per-month increase over current rates. Waste Management agreed to honor existing discounts. The township will release more details this month.

In October, Priority secured a 5-year contract with Rochester. It’s the only renewal the company has among the former GFL communities. Pontiac signed a 10-year agreement on June 28.

Waterford Township to host town hall on Priority Waste service

On Thursday, Keego Harbor’s city council will consider extending its contract with Priority. In March, the city’s GFL contract had been extended through 2027, but a new company means a new agreement is needed. Priority officials promised to honor GFL’s 2025 terms with rates set for $20.36 each for weekly pick-up for household waste, recycling and yard waste. Payments would increase to $21.06 in 2026 and $21.99 in 2027.

Keego Harbor’s council meeting is at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at city hall, 2025 Beechmont St. in Keego Harbor and will be livestreamed on the city’s website: https://civiccentertv.com/watch-live. The agenda and complete meeting packet are online at https://www.keegoharbor.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif3301/f/pages/november_21_2024_city_council_meeting_packet.pdf.

Central Michigan University head football coach Jim McElwain is retiring from coaching according to numerous media reports reported on Wednesday afternoon.

He will retire at seasons end.

McElwain led the Chippewas to a 16-14 win over rival Western Michigan University at home on Tuesday night, snapping a five-game losing streak.

The Chippewas have struggled in recent seasons as they are 4-7 this season after going 5-7 in 2023 and 4-8 in 2022.

Moreover, McElwain is currently under investigation by the NCAA pertaining to Connor Stalions’ alleged attendance on the CMU sideline in its 2023 season-opener at Michigan State University.

McElwain and Stalions worked together while assistant coaches at the University of Michigan in 2018.

A story that was published by footballscoop.com writer Zach Barnett reported, ‘McElwain will move into a special assistant to the AD role within the CMU athletics department.”

The story quoted McElwain as saying, “”My wife Karen and I have cherished every moment of our football journey. We want to express our deepest gratitude to the all the players who have welcomed us into their lives, and the incredible coaches and support staff at every stop along the way—it has been a true privilege to work alongside all of them. The lifelong friendships that were created mean the world to us.

“We are especially thankful for our time at Central Michigan. Mount Pleasant and the CMU community hold a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to continuing to be a part of this program and this great community. Thank you for the unwavering support and the unforgettable memories.”

McElwain said his reasoning behind his abrupt retirement were his own according to numerous reports.

CMU Athletic Director Amy Folan was quoted by footballscoop.com and stated, “Coach McElwain and his wife Karen have meant so much to the Central Michigan community,” AD Amy Folan said. “He has brought pride and excitement to Mount Pleasant and our football program and we look forward to his contributions to the department in other ways in the years ahead. We are grateful for his service and mentorship to our student-athletes. We wish both Jim and Karen the very best in their well-deserved retirement from coaching and we are glad that they will continue to help us.”

CMU closes the 2024 regular season at Northern Illinois on Nov. 30.

The 62-year old McElwain spent 40 years coaching in the college ranks and closes his career with a career record of 77-63 as head coach at CMU, Florida and Colorado State. He signed a five-year contact with CMU in 2022.

CMU’s Jim McElwain under investigation by NCAA

CMU football snaps 5-game losing streak, tops rival WMU 16-14

A Florida man pleaded guilty Tuesday to federal charges for threatening an American Muslim organization in Michigan last year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan announced.

Michael Shapiro, 72, faced one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce after calling six times and leaving three threatening voicemails to the Council on American-Islamic Relations Michigan.

The West Palm Beach resident also admitted to intentionally targeting CAIR-MI with threats because of the actual and perceived religion and national origin of people who work at or are assisted by the organization, officials said in a press release.

Shapiro could serve up to five years’ incarceration for his guilty plea or pay a fine of up to $250,000, according to a plea agreement filed with the court on Tuesday.

He also faces up to three years of supervised release.

“No one should be able to threaten violence and instill fear on an entire community,” U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison said in a statement. “Today’s conviction should send a strong message that those who do so will be investigated, identified, and aggressively prosecuted.”

His attorney, Elizabeth Young, was not immediately available to respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

Shapiro first called CAIR-MI’s Canton Township office on Dec. 8 at 6:43 p.m. and left a voicemail laughing maniacally and twice saying “I’m going to kill you bastards,” according to the plea agreement.

He left another threatening voicemail six days later, investigators reported.

“I’m going to kill you mother f******g bastards,” Shapiro said in the 1:02 p.m. voicemail. “Muslims! I’m going to kill you mother f*****s. I’m going to kill you! I’m going to kill you! I’m going to kill you!”

He also called the next day, on Dec. 15 at 6:24 p.m.

“You’re a violent people,” Shapiro said. “Why do you come to America? Why do you come to Europe? Mother f******s. You’re violent. You’re killers. You’re rapists. I’m going to kill you mother f*****s!”

When prosecutors unsealed the grand jury indictment against Shapiro, CAIR-MI officials said the threat was among others as the war in Gaza escalated.

Shapiro’s case is the third time he has been charged in the last five years with federal crimes and has been accused of threatening U.S. Capitol Police officers, a member of Congress and their child, according to federal court records reviewed by The Detroit News.

Officials with CAIR-MI are pleased with the results of the case, Amy Doukoure, a staff attorney with the organization, told The News.

“What he’s doing is very serious,” Doukoure said. “We had to close our business for several days. He was calling every day — we didn’t know where he was, whether he was serious. It was a very scary and serious incident, and we’re happy that it’s over and he has pled guilty and will be sentenced to jail time.”

Discrimination complaints to CAIR-MI rose by over 340% in the three months after the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks compared to the three months leading up to it, officials said in a 2023 CAIR-MI Civil Rights Report.

Reports of anti-Muslim bias incidents, including hate crimes, education and employment discrimination, surged in 2023, according to the report. Officials attributed the increase in complaints to increased anti-Muslim sentiment following media coverage of Israel’s attacks in Gaza.

The past year brought a record number of hate crime complaints to CAIR-MI, paralleled only by reports in 2018, according to the report.

CAIR-MI officials also recently called on the University of Michigan to conduct an independent investigation into the school’s “pattern of disparate treatment” of UM Muslim and Arab students.

In other recently reported hate crime cases, a Michigan man was sentenced in June for defacing a Jewish synagogue with swastikas and white supremacist group images.

A Warren man was also charged in March for spray painting swastikas and other graffiti on a predominantly Black church and in a Warren park’s public bathroom.

For more than a decade, a stately old apartment building in Pontiac’s Indian Village neighborhood stood empty. Oakland County took possession of the historic Casa Del Rey about a decade ago as part of a tax foreclosure and later added it to the newly formed Oakland County Land Bank.

Since then, county officials have been looking for someone to save the property.

Gregory and Ronita Coleman decided to take on what is now a $15.5 million renovation and restoration project through their company, Coleman Allen. They’ll convert the existing 41 units into 50 apartments to be rented at market rate.

The Colemans plan to open the building to tenants in 2026. Rents will range from an anticipated $1,000 for one of the12 studios apartments; $1,250 for one of the 22 bedroom units and $1,500 for one of the 15 two-bedroom units. The building will have one three-bedroom unit that will rent for $2,000 a month. Tenants are expected to earn between $50,000 and $90,000 a year – a group sometimes referred to as the “missing middle” – people who earn a good living but cannot afford a mortgage.

Ronita Coleman said the project is only possible thanks to support from the city, county, state and several nonprofit organizations. On Friday, the Colemans joined a ceremonial groundbreaking for the property.

“We’re thrilled to see this finally become a reality,” she said, calling it a “vision, divinely ordered” and a testament to collaboration.

The state’s housing development authority provided tax increment financing for just over $4.3 million; a $3.5 million grant from MSHDA’s Missing Middle program, which used American Rescue Plan Act money to increase housing to support workforce development; a $3 million loan from the county’s housing trust fund, a $2.8 million Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax abatement and nearly $2.7 million loan from the MEDC’s community revitalization program.

Two nonprofits, Cinnaire, which makes capital investments in people and places to transform communities and IFF,  a community development financial institution formerly known as Illinois Facilities Fund are also supporting the project.

Ronita Coleman graduated from Cinnaire’s Women Empowered to Build program, which is dedicated to women-led real estate ventures.

The Colemans started working with Jill Robinson, deputy treasurer and executive director of the county’s land bank, in 2023 to formulate a plan.

Gregory Coleman said he was happy to be a second-generation business owner in Pontiac and wanted to honor the sacrifices and dreams of his father as well as pay those dreams forward for future generations.

Casa Del Rey has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1989. Realtor C.L. Groesbeck Jr. commissioned renowned architect Robert O’Derrick to design the building at 111 Oneida St. in Pontiac in 1928.

The four-and-a-half story Moorish-style building features yellow and orange brick as well as historic Pewabic tile inside and out. Pewabic tile is made in Detroit by the oldest continuously operating pottery in the U.S. The elliptical lobby features twin curved staircases, Corinthian columns and vaulted plaster ceilings. Some areas are decayed but others are relatively well preserved. Vandals have marked some of the walls with graffiti, but that might be the easiest problem to fix.

Beverley Lloyd, IFF’s eastern region managing director of lending, said she was impressed by the Colemans’ plan and knew they were committed to the renovation despite knowing they would find surprises and challenges along the way, which are expected when renovated older properties.

County Executive Dave Coulter said redeveloping Casa del Rey is exactly the kind of project meant to be supported by the county’s $20 million housing trust fund.

“This isn’t a nonprofit endeavor,” he said. “These folks want to make a buck – that’s the American dream. Pontiac is the county seat and needs investment and TLC but we are all-in on Pontiac.”

He credited MSHDA for promoting the county’s housing trust fund, but said it wouldn’t happen without the Colemans’ bravery and commitment to taking on the historic property’s renovation.

Former seven-term county commissioner Helaine Zack, a social worker, beamed and called the Colemans’ project “the best of the best.”

Zack serves on the county-run Oakland Together housing trust fund board and has been committed to Oakland County’s affordable housing issues for at least 10 years.

“You can’t do anything if you don’t know where you’re going to sleep at night,” she said. She made homelessness the focus of her work during a 2015 fellowship for executive excellence at Harvard University provided by SEMCOG and the Taubman Company.

Commissioner Angela Powell said Zack kept after county officials for years to support affordable housing efforts.

“I’m grateful I get to work on these things,” Zack said.

Gregory Coleman called Casa del Rey a “symbol of resilience and hope and growth in the city,” adding that their mission went beyond homes.

“We’re building communities,” he said. “Communities are living organisms … We are planting a seed of hope and progress.”

Mayor Tim Greimel said the project is another sign of the city’s resurgence. Other projects underway in Pontiac include:

•  Converting the former Pontiac State Bank building, 28 N. Saginaw St. into more than 100 apartments.

•  New construction of the Exchange Flats, loft apartments west of the former Oakland Press building.

•  Expanding senior housing at the Village of Oakland Woods.

•  The new five-story apartment building at Auburn and Francis being built by Lighthouse.

•  Converting the former Perdue School, 25 S. Sanford St., to senior apartments.

•  New housing on the former Wever School site by Community Housing Network at New York and Carlisle, near Walton and Telegraph.

•  At least a dozen single-family homes built in the Stonegate subdivision at Elizabeth Lake and Johnson and plans to build more homes in the Fairways subdivision near Walton and Giddings.

•  Converting a former department store, Neisner Brothers five-and-dime, at 46 N. Saginaw St. to 15 loft apartments.

When Pontiac’s city council meets Tuesday, a key agenda item will be how to replace the city’s finance director.

Dee Ann Irby was unanimously approved by the city council to take the job in August. Irby left her job as Troy’s controller in August and had 20 years of experience in her field.

Her salary was $153,000 a year and her start date was Sept. 9. But she withdrew from the position days before starting the job.

A few weeks later, she was persuaded to take the Pontiac position, but less than a month into the job, she tendered her resignation. Her last day is Friday. She could not be reached for comment.

Mayor Tim Greimel said he was disappointed in Irby’s decision, but not entirely surprised “given the hesitancy she expressed immediately following her confirmation by City Council and before beginning work at the city. Despite these concerns, she proceeded with the role and ultimately determined it wasn’t the right fit for her.”

He said the city continues recruiting for the role and will hire the  consulting firm Rehmann to manage the city’s accounting in the interim.

“Rehmann has worked with the city in the past, and we anticipate them starting work later this week,” he said.

The city has been unable to find a permanent replacement for Timothy Sadowski who left his job on Feb. 2 after 11 months on the job.

The finance director is responsible for the city’s fiscal health, managing audits and overseeing tax and utility bills, cash receipts, accounts payable and payroll.

The city’s grants and philanthropy manager, Alexandra Borngesser, left in February and was succeeded by Lisa Campbell in June. The department of public works director, Al Cooley Jr., left the city in October 2023. Cooley was succeeded by Mark Ragsdale in June.

Other items on Tuesday’s agenda include:

•  A presentation by consultants Ernst & Young about how the city’s $37.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act money is being managed. Under federal rules, all the money must have a designated purpose by Dec. 31, 2024, and be spent by Dec. 31, 2026, or it must be returned to the federal government.

•  The council will get an update on the youth recreation center. Earlier this month, the council approved a budget amendment to add $80,000 to the cost of demolishing the former McCarroll school, the pay for additional backfill dirt. The council originally approved a not-to-exceed $300,000 allocation for the city’s share of the demolition. The county land bank authority is paying $500,000 toward the work.

•  The council will consider a resolution to prohibit images or promotions of elected officials, or candidates for public office on city publications such as newsletters and mailers, starting in 2025.

The complete agenda is online at https://cms3.revize.com/revize/pontiacminew/councilagendapack-111924.pdf.

The council meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, at city hall in the council chambers, 47450 Woodward Ave. in Pontiac.

On Monday, another request for an investigation into the 2021 shooting at Oxford High School drew a response from the state attorney general.

Monday morning, parents and friends of the students killed and people injured almost three years ago during a shooting at Oxford High School held a press conference again calling for an independent civil investigation by the state.

“An investigation will reveal the truth to drive the change,” said Buck Myre, father of Tate Myre, one of the four students killed during the shooting.

In a separate press conference Monday afternoon, Attorney General Dana Nessel responded to their request saying her office is more than willing to move forward with an investigation.

“While my department has renewed the terms of what a proper investigation would require, we have never withdrawn that offer,” said Nessel.  “It was our hope that an additional review could provide many of the answers that the families are still seeking today.”

Nessel said offers to assist in the criminal investigation with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and Oakland County Prosecutors office have been turned down, as well as any outside investigations.

“We share in the families’ fatigue over the constant fingerpointing and scapegoating in these investigations and wish our offers to participate on any level had been accepted years ago,” said Nessel. “Any complete investigation by my office would require a number of things.”

In August, the Oxford school board passed a resolution asking for a state-funded review of how emergency responders and the district responded on the day of the shooting.

“The Oxford Board of Education calls upon the Michigan Legislature to mandate and fund a comprehensive, independent review of the emergency response to the November 30, 2021 tragedy, including but not limited to relevant events and agencies during before, during, and after the tragedy,” the resolution read in part.

Nessel said that several things would need to happen before an investigation can begin.

She said the prosecutors office would need to turn over all evidence, testimony, documents and transcripts involved with the prosecution of all members of the Crumbley family.

Ethan Crumbley, the shooter, was sentenced to life in prison without parole on four counts of first-degree murder and one count of terrorism causing death.

Jennifer and James Crumbley, his parents, were each sentenced to 10 to 15 years in prison after being convicted of manslaughter.

Nessel said the Oxford school board would have to waive attorney-client privilege and would need willing participation of witnesses, including those who did not participate in the Guidepost Solutions investigation.

The Guidepost report on their investigation was released in August 2023. The comprehensive report detailed the events leading up to the tragedy, areas where the district was deficient in their prevention of the shooting and recommendations for future security upgrades at the school, but dozens of staff and administrators refused to participate in the investigation.

She said she would also need access to members of law enforcement and the prosecutors office, as well as approval and appropriation of funds from the state legislature for the investigation.

“We would need the cooperation of the Oakland County Sheriff (Mike Bouchard) and the Oakland County Prosecutor (Karen McDonald), as well as local law enforcement and be able to interview all of their relevant staff in order to evaluate their response and their investigation and prosecution,” Nessel said.

McDonald’s office later responded to Nessel’s comments.

“We are not aware of any action needed by my office to activate the Attorney General’s authority, but we will do everything possible to enable such an investigation,” McDonald said in a statement. “And my office will fully cooperate with any such investigation.

She added, “There is so much we can learn, and we owe it to the students who were killed and those who were injured, their families, the Oxford community, and our children to do everything we can to prevent future shootings. An independent investigation remains a critical, missing piece in that process.”

Oxford students Tate Myre, Hana St. Juliana, Justin Shilling and Madisyn Baldwin were killed in the Nov. 30, 2021 shooting and seven others were wounded, including a teacher.

Trent Myre, brother of Tate Myre, again called on the state to open their own investigation.

“Our goal here today is not about blame or retribution, it is about change; change that comes from transparency and accountability,” he said. “The state must step up and do what it should have done three years ago.”

“To drive change properly we need to have data, not opinions,” said Steve St. Juliana, father of Hana St. Juliana, about the need for a full investigation. “The time for excuses has passed. We need our state leadership to take action to prevent more Michigan students from becoming victims to this epidemic.”

He added, “We should not have to be sitting up here repeatedly saying do a damn investigation.”

Nessel said that even if legislation is created and her office is allowed to conduct their own investigation, it is not guaranteed they will get the answers families are looking for.

“The authority of the Oakland County Prosecutors office and the authority of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department is exactly the same as our authority,” said Nessel. “So my question is, if those entities could not get these people to cooperate, how will we be able to do it?”

ROCHESTER HILLS — After several giveaways and failing to score for over two-and-a-half quarters, Rochester Adams could have been counted out of Friday night’s game against Grand Blanc.

After all, this is the team that was picked to finish last in the OAA Red. And that was before losing its starting quarterback to a season-ending injury midway through the year. It wouldn’t be the first time they’d be discounted.

The final seven-and-a-half minutes of the Highlanders’ 21-14 win over the Bobcats for a Division 1 regional championship served as the latest proof that they shouldn’t be underestimated.

“This is sweet,” Highlanders quarterback Nolan Farris said. “I always hoped that we’d get to this point,  but I could never see it in my mind. Now that it’s here, it’s amazing.”

With the game tied when Adams got the ball at its own 35-yard line and 7:27 left, Farris and running back Mateo Humbert each moved the chains to get the ball into enemy territory, but the Bobcats stuffed the run to put the Highlanders in a fourth-and-6 situation.

Running out of the slot left, Farris hit fellow junior Cameron Dawood as he was cutting inside for a crucial 16-yard gain and the conversion.

“We ran that play a lot in practice this week expecting a situation like this,” Farris said. “I saw the 1-on-1 coverage and I knew he’d come down with that ball. I had a lot of faith in him.”

When the Highlanders needed to convert again on third-and-4, Farris used his legs to get six yards and advance to the 8-yard line. From there, Humbert, a two-way star on the evening, drove through a gap for the go-ahead touchdown, his second score of the night, with 1:11 remaining.

Following the corresponding kickoff, Grand Blanc, impressive and efficient in the passing game for most of the night despite just two scores, got the ball into Adams’ territory on a catch by leading receiver Caseton Sendry with its back against the wall, but the Highlanders ended the game on a pair of big defensive plays. First, Matt Toeppner sacked Bobcats junior quarterback Jake Morrow, and Lachlan Tillotson sealed it with an interception downfield on the final play of the game.

It was a gritty ending after it appeared Adams (10-2) might gradually pull away judging by the first quarter or so of action.

The Highlanders were methodical on the opening drive and cashed in on Humbert’s first rushing TD from a yard out to take a 6-0 lead after the extra point was blocked with 5:25 left in the first quarter.

When the Highlanders got the ball again, they leaned on the running of Humbert and Dawood, then advanced the ball to the Bobcats’ 14-yard line after a defensive pass interference penalty on third-and-9. The following play, Toeppner veered toward the right sideline and used an extended dive to break the pylon for a 14-yard score, and Humbert’s successful run on the conversion put Adams up 14-0 with 10:15 to go in the half.

That’s when Morrow, who was a mix of elusive, unorthodox and crafty throughout the game, began to find his rhythm despite operating under frequent pressure. Grand Blanc mostly moved the ball through the air on its first scoring drive, finished off on a five-yard TD grab by Sendry with 5:42 to go in the half.

A fumble recovered by the Bobcats gave them a chance at tying the game prior to intermission, but it proved harmless when Adams’ pass defense held strong in a third-and-long situation, then a 40-yard field-goal attempt came just short, hitting the crossbar.

Humbert record his second sack of the night on fourth-and-1 to end the Bobcats’ opening drive of the second half, but the Highlanders didn’t fair much better with the ball, stopped short themselves by about a foot on fourth down. Grand Blanc was more dangerous when it got the ball back again, settling for modest gains through the air before Morrow gained eight yards on a keeper, then a handful more to stride into the end zone untouched, making tying the game with a little over two minutes remaining in the third.

“Their offensive line man, they were pretty good, not gonna lie,” Humbert said. “(Morrow) is pretty fast, he can honestly throw that thing.”

On the difficulty of stopping Grand Blanc’s QB, Adams head coach Tony Patritto added, “He’s made huge plays all season. He’s really good at extending plays and making throws late and he’s got really good receivers. We had to play really sound team defense to keep him contained. To hold them to 14 points is a testament to our defensive staff and our players.”

With the game deadlocked, both team’s defenses forced a punt each — Patritto credited Grand Blanc for bringing an additional defender into the box as the game went along, slowing his team’s offense — then the Bobcats (9-3) recovered their second fumble of the game for what seemed like a backbreaker of a turnover. However, that aforementioned defense, which also saw senior Liam Kania reach Morrow several times, held up on a fourth-and-4 that got the Highlanders the ball back to start their victory drive.

Photo gallery from Rochester Adams vs. Grand Blanc in D1 football regional championship action

After the game, Patritto talked about the way his team has been viewed on this march to the semifinals.

"We're one of the smallest schools in the division, picked last or second-to-last every year, that's just what it's been like," Patritto said. "We play such great teams. I kind of understand it. There's not a bunch of four, five-star kids here. These are all Adams kids from Rochester. So we're used to it and kind of use it as a badge of honor."

The Highlanders defeated Grand Blanc 40-20 in the semifinals three years ago. Now, they'll have a chance to reach the D1 title game again, and will go through either Hudsonville or Howell. Those teams play a regional final in Howell Saturday afternoon.

"When you're at this point in the season, the final eight, the final four, everybody's really, really good," Patritto said. It comes down to execution, health, playing well and preparing. I trust our stuff to get our kids ready to play next week."

The annual Veterans Day ceremony drew dozens who have served in armed services to Royal Oak’s Barbara A. Hallman Memorial Plaza at Centennial Commons Park in the downtown area Monday.

The event opened with a short musical interlude before remarks from city Mayor Michael Fournier, who was joined by Oakland County Executive David Coulter and Board of Commissioners Chairman Dave Woodward. Mike Sherman was emcee of the event, bringing up representatives from a number of local organizations including the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Erza Parker Chapter of the NSDAR and the Royal Oak police and fire departments presented flowers.

In a break from past Veterans Day gatherings, instead of a keynote speaker, veterans lined up near the dais and introduced themselves to the group assembled in front of them, offering what branch of the service they served in and in the case of those who were deployed what theater they operated in. The Royal Oak High School Wind Ensemble performed at the event.

The three main monuments at the memorial are filled with the names of those who died in WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Those who died in the U.S. Civil War and World War I are on bronze plaques. Two granite benches at the memorial will serve also to add new names from other conflicts including U.S. Marine Cpl. Nicholas Manoukian, whose name was added last year. He died in the line of duty while serving in combat operations in Iraq on Oct. 21, 2006.

A luncheon at the Royal Oak-Detroit Elks Lodge followed Monday’s ceremony.

— MediaNews Group staff

A brief, powerful storm damaged trees, downed wires and generated a tornado in Holly on Sunday night.

According to the National Weather Service, an EF-0 tornado packing 70 mph winds occurred at 6:56 p.m. and hit the Village of Holly.

“We had about 12 calls come in with trees in the roadways, wires down and various other damage around the area,” said Acting Fire Chief Jeremy Watson.

Watson said the Holly American Legion Hall Post #149 on Saginaw Street sustained the most serious damage.

“It possibly lifted the roof of the structure and set it back down with some extensive damage to the integrity of the south wall,” said Watson. “A structural engineer will be coming out to take a look at the building and assess the damage.”

“We are deeply grateful that no one was injured during this event,” the post wrote on their Facebook page. “However, due to the damage, all rentals and gatherings at our Post are suspended until further notice.”

Residential damage such as shingles being blown off of roofs, downed tree limbs and other damage was reported near Saginaw, Sherman, Maple and Washington streets.

“It was real quick, it was real sudden and then it was gone,” said Watson. “It jumped the downtown area, but there were no fatalities or injuries in conjunction with the event.”

Watson said he has not gotten a firm number of people without power in the area, but described the power outages as sporadic.

“We were busy until about 10 p.m. last night clearing roads and safeguarding the village and we do have some structures in the community that will need some attention moving forward,” said Watson.

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning at about 7 p.m. Sunday until 8 p.m. predicting hail and winds up to 60 mph. The warnings extended from northern Oakland County to the Thumb.

A popular Rochester Hills park has a new attraction: a pedestrian suspension bridge across the Clinton River.

The bridge, at Innovation Hills, is more than a fun stroll with a great view. The 112-foot span provides access to 48 acres of green space and a half-mile unpaved walking path at the 110-acre park. It’s the only pedestrian suspension bridge in Metro Detroit.

The bridge towers are 20 feet tall and reached by about two dozen steps and the deck, made of steel cables, rope and wood, slopes gently over the river between the towers. Visitors will find it near the Turtle Trail, about a half-mile walk from the park entrance.

People walking across the bridge will be able to see brown trout in the Clinton River and Class 3 rapids.

Mayor Bryan K. Barnett called the new bridge a “thrilling addition to Michigan’s premier park.”

Innovation Hills features a 3-acre nature-themed playground and seasonal modern restrooms, solar lighting and a glowing walkway. It’s a popular geocaching destination.

The park is at 2800 W. Hamlin Road in Rochester Hills, open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free admission. Learn more: rochesterhills.org/parks.

Waterford Township voters narrowly approved a 21-year bond proposal to create a community center using part of Oakland Community College’s former Highland campus.

The proposal narrowly passed Tuesday by just over 575 votes: 19,230 yes to 18,651 no, a margin of just under 0.54%.

The $36.4 million bond will be used to purchase 51 acres of land on OCC’s Highland campus and renovate an existing building to create a multigenerational community center. Supervisor Gary Wall said the plan will help modernize and consolidate Waterford’s currently scattered resources.

Anthony Bartolotta, a 14-year township trustee who will take office as township supervisor on Nov. 20, said he stayed up until 4:30 a.m. Wednesday to watch vote tallies.

The community center bond proposal “was a nailbiter,” he said, adding that he expects the township will take possession of the property next week.

It will be 18 months to two years before the property will be open to the public, he said, because of the significant renovations needed.

Waterford Township elects a new supervisor for the first time in 12 years

Four out of five incumbent candidates looking to hold onto their seats on the Rochester Community Schools board did just that on Tuesday.

Incumbents Barb Anness, the board’s vice president; Michelle Bueltel, president; Julie Alspach, treasurer, and Jayson Blake, trustee, were joined by newcomer Shelly Lauzon.

Alspach, Blake and Lauzon were the top three vote-getters in a field of six candidates for the full six-year term.

Anness and Bueltel were the top two finishers in a field of four candidates for the two-year term..

Anness and Bueltel beat Andrew Weather, the only incumbent who did not receive enough votes to stay on the board. Anness received 21,873 votes and Bueltel received 21,626 votes. Weaver finished third for the term ending Dec. 31, 2026 with 20,618 votes. Only the top two candidates earned seats on the board..

“I am truly honored and grateful for the trust our community has placed in me,” said Bueltel,  “I look forward to continuing to serve and work collaboratively with our community, staff, and families to support an inclusive and thriving educational environment. I am confident that together, we will continue making a positive impact for all students in our district.”

Alspach, who was appointed to the board in May 2023, led all 10 candidates with 22,187 votes to earn her first full term on the board.

“I am grateful and humbled by the level of community support I received, both in votes and encouragement throughout the campaign,” she said. “This election reaffirms our community’s belief in the excellence of our schools and our commitment to making them even better. Rochester is my hometown, where I was raised and where my children were raised. I am honored to be chosen to continue serving it.”

Anness was grateful to earn a second term on the board.

“We have so much to be proud of here in the Rochester community school district, and the clear message that retaining four incumbents sends speaks volumes: we will not be swayed by half-truths or the negative narratives pushed by some to undermine our public school district,” Anness said. “The road ahead is bright, and I am inspired by the opportunity to continue serving this incredible community.”

She also welcomed the newest board member.

“I also welcome Shelley Louzan as the newest member of our board,” Anness said. “We look forward to working together with her, embracing a spirit of collaboration, respect, and mutual trust—values that are essential to creating a board that truly works in the best interests of all the students we serve.”

With 113,139 votes cast in the race for the full six-year term, Blake earned the last of four board seats beating Richard Kaczanowski by just 49 votes – 19,996 to 19,947.

“I’m very pleased at the results of this election,” said Blake. “The campaign got a little rough near the end, but I look forward to putting that behind and working to serve every student in RCS over the next six years.”

Even though Donley received 12,622 votes, the fewest of any candidates running for the six-year or two-year terms, she intends to continue to contribute her time to the schools.

“I feel honored that almost 13,000 community members voted for me on election day. I wish the outcome was different, but I’m still proud that I ran a truly grassroots, independent campaign on a frugal budget without PAC funds,” said Donley.  ‘I’m looking forward to continuing my advocacy in our community and wish all school board members the best of luck as they lead RCS into the future.”

Rochester school board candidates make their case at forum

Rochester school board election could reshape the district

Rochester school board approves new three-year contract with teachers union

A woman in her 70s was killed in a fire at a condominium complex on Monday, which also left three other residents and a firefighter injured, officials said.

Residents of 16 of the complex’s 17 units were left homeless due to the fire that happened in the 25000 block of Southfield Road, according to the Southfield Fire Department.

The residents hurt in the fire suffered injuries not believed to be life-threatening, and the firefighter sustained a minor injury while battling the blaze, according to the fire department.

“Our hearts hurt for our neighbors,” Fire Chief Johnny Menifee stated in a news release. “A family lost a loved one, and many of our friends and neighbors have lost their homes and possessions. We feel for them and grieve with them.”

The apartment complex was gutted, the news release states.

The fire department reports that an emergency call came in at 2:13 p.m., and firefighters were on scene in four minutes.

“Upon arrival, fire crews encountered smoke and flames that had already self-vented from the rear of the building,” the news release states. Mutual aid was provided by Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Farmington Hills, Ferndale, Madison Heights and Royal Oak fire departments.

Menifee expressed appreciation for assistance from the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Southfield Emergency Management, Southfield Department of Public Works, Southfield Building Department, DTE, Consumers Energy, and Southfield and Lathrup Village police departments.

“We are also grateful to our mutual aid partners for their expertise and collaboration, which were crucial in bringing this tragic incident under control,” he stated. “We commend the dedication and bravery of all Southfield firefighters and paramedics who responded.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Menifee urges all residents to make sure they have working smoke detectors in their homes and businesses, and consider installing sprinkler systems to reduce fire risks.

According to the news release, as of Nov. 1 in Michigan, 78 people have lost their lives in 75 fires this year — a 17% decrease from fire-related deaths in 2017 through 2023. Of the victims, 63% were male and 37% female. The vast majority — 73% — were between the ages of 40 and 79.

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Police seek 2 women who allegedly stole $3K in perfume 

A four-legged assistant charged with providing companionship and mental health support has joined the Troy Fire Department.

The Golden Retriever comes to Troy through a nonprofit called Thin Line Service Dogs, dedicated to providing service animals to first responders and veterans at no cost.

The dog assists firefighters with mental health needs and will also be used to comfort victims at house fires, car crashes and other calls. He will also go to city events to interact with the community, said Lt. Keith Young.

As his training progresses, other duties could be added,  Young said.

“There are roughly 60-80 commands he could do,” he said.

Except for a few management-level personnel, volunteer firefighters serve the Troy Fire Department.

The nonprofit names its service animals after a fallen first responder or veteran, and is finalizing a name for the dog assigned to Troy.

“This collaboration underscores Troy Fire Department’s commitment to the complete well-being of its personnel and other community heroes,” the department said in a release.

“Together with TLSD, the department hopes to make a meaningful impact, ensuring that first responders and the community have access to the resources they need to thrive.”

The dog lives with Young and goes to work with him Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. He is available outside of those hours to respond to incidents in the city, Young said.

It’s important to vote on Election Day and just so there’s no transportation barriers Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) will offer free transit service to all riders headed to the polls throughout Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.

“Voting is a fundamental right, and transportation should never stand in the way of someone making their voice heard,” said Dwight Ferrell, SMART general manager in a news release. “This is the second time we’ve provided free rides on Election Day, and it reflects our continued commitment to being a pillar in the community.”

The free SMART bus rides will be available Nov. 5 from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

The Election Day initiative will include the following services:

Fixed Route buses

Buses pick up and drop off at designated bus stops and times. SMART offers different types of service including, major corridor routes, crosstown routes, limited stop routes and express routes.

Connector Services

An advance reservation, curb-to-curb, service operated by SMART.

ADA Paratransit

An advanced reservation, curb-to-curb service that is provided for people who are unable to use SMART’s Fixed Route bus service because of a disability.

SMART Flex

An easy way to get around in Dearborn, Troy/Clawson, Auburn Hills/Pontiac, Hall Road, and Farmington/Farmington Hills areas.

This initiative is part of SMART’s ongoing commitment to serving the community.

“By removing transportation barriers, we’re helping to ensure that everyone can participate in the democratic process. At SMART, we pride ourselves on being more than a transit provider,” Ferrell said. “We’re here to serve and uplift the communities that rely on us every day.”

For more information, visit smartmovesus.org.

TROY – At last, Rochester Adams put a ball in the back of the net that Saline couldn’t answer.

The Highlanders, who led three times at Troy Athens Wednesday evening between the 100 minutes of regulation and overtime, finally dispatched the feisty Hornets in a shootout, 5-4, to reach Saturday’s D1 state final.

After Alex Rosin, Logan Lilla, Jameson Smith and Anthony Page had all made theirs, senior Salvatore Dinoto stepped up and converted the fifth kick to send the Highlanders in celebration from their own bench across the field and into a sea of fans awaiting on the opposite sideline.

“It was a battle,” Adams head coach Josh Hickey said. “I’m really impressed by them, to be honest. We didn’t know a whole lot about Saline over there, but they’re really good, man. They deserved to be there just as much as just, we just got fortunate at the end there with those penalties.”

On a night when the players between the sticks stayed busy, Adams senior Reid Dennis came up clutch on Saline’s third penalty, diving to his right to palm away the only shot stopped in the shootout.

“It’s all instincts,” Dennis said. “It’s also part luck, too. There was a little bit (of a tell), but sometimes you’ve just got to go (and react).”

On his goalkeeper, Hickey added, “This year, we were just confident if we had to go to penalties. We were ready for it because we’ve got Reid back there, but also because we’ve got some guys that can finish those.”

Adams (17-2-4), who like Saline hadn’t been pressed into PKs this postseason, jumped ahead when Logan Lilla’s layoff near the edge of the box allowed an opportunity for Dinoto to drive in a shot from the left edge of the 18 just under nine minutes into the contest.

Between the trade of openers, Saline senior netminder Eric Friedholm had several key actions, including the denial of a Rosin goal after Adams’ star senior nicked the ball off a Hornets defender. That immediately led to a chance on the opposite end for Saline’s Jaedyn Sifuna, which pressed Dennis into action to snuff out the attack, and Dennis parried away another good chance with two minutes left in the half that led to a corner but nothing else for the Hornets.

Adams’ lead held for over an hour of play before the match traversed into classic territory.

Saline erased the lead when it earned a free kick that resulted in a series of deflections before junior forward Zach Heisler tied it up with 16:16 left in regulation.

On the Highlanders’ second goalscoring sequence, Rosin produced a pass that few others at the same level are capable of. The Notre Dame commit bent a ball across and behind the defense to Dinoto, whose shot reverberated off the right crossbar and back along the face of goal before Lilla pounced on the rebound with 11:09 left.

Just 25 seconds later, the Hornets drew a penalty through Sifuna, and Juan Martin Balda didn’t miss from the spot, making it 2-2.

About a minute later, Adams may have been lucky not to fall behind for the first time when Nadig Bryce’s shot ricocheted off the wrong side of a goal post, and both teams had A-grade chances to prevent extra time in the last 90 seconds of the second half, but couldn’t avert overtime.

In the first 10-minute period of overtime, Heisler and Adams junior Chase Blackmore both had efforts that would have been unsavable had they not blazed just wide of the mark.

With 1:41 left in that first OT, the Highlanders appeared to have their state final ticket punched when Rosin’s corner kick found Smith at the far post for a header in, making it 3-2.

While not as fast as the second leveler, the Hornets dissolved Adams’ lead for the final time when Heisler scored his second goal with a shot from the top of the box off the post to the right of Dennis and over the line 53 seconds into the second overtime period.

“Oh, (they were) daggers, man,” Hickey said. “When you go up a goal and they tie it in like 30 seconds or something … I’m proud. That’s the thing about my team, I’m proud of, they’re mentally tough. They didn’t let that phase them. We had to switch formations a bunch to counter that, and they went right into it. Everything I asked of them, they did.”

To reach the final, Adams beat a Saline team that hadn’t been defeated since Clarkston did so back on Aug. 24.

“I think we were confident, as well as resilient going into it, but yeah, it’s just one save that makes all the difference,” first-year Saline head coach Bartley Lydy said.

Rochester Adams vs. Saline D1 boys soccer semifinal photo gallery

The Highlanders, champions two seasons ago, now head to their fifth state final all-time for a chance at a third title banner.

Ranked fifth in the final D1 poll, the Highlanders, armed with a handful of D1 talents who had previously been plying their trade at the club level, will be favored Saturday in Grand Ledge against unranked Byron Center, who defeated Oxford Wednesday night, also in PKs.

"I'm just happy they get that stage," Hickey said. "Once you get to the game, it is what it is. You have to battle. Both teams are going to be ready to be there, just like they were this game, but to give them that stage that they earned, you know, that's what I'm proud of them for. They deserve it."

The Royal Oak City Commission voted unanimously on Monday, Oct. 28, to approve an employment contract with Joseph Gacioch to serve as the next city manager.

The commission chose Gacioch, currently serving as city manager in Ferndale, over one other candidate who was interviewed Oct. 12.

Gacioch will begin his new role as top administrator on Jan. 6. He will be responsible for managing Royal Oak’s day-to-day operations, implementing policies set by the commission, and collaborating with residents, businesses and stakeholders.

Gacioch holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in hospitality administration, according to a release from Royal Oak.

He has 20 years of experience in municipal management and will bring expertise in strategic planning, public finance, parking system administration, priority-based budgeting, employee engagement and crisis communications, the release said.

He is involved in several professional and civic organizations, including the Michigan Municipal Executives, where he serves on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Additionally, he is a credentialed manager under the International City/County Management Association.

“A longtime advocate for sustainability and community engagement, Gacioch led the development of Ferndale’s first climate action plan and has established himself as a skilled coach in employee engagement improvement,” the release said.

Two interim city managers have served the city since last December, when former City Manager Paul Brake resigned.

Two other Oakland County cities – Berkley and Troy –  have recently hired or are in the process of hiring new city managers.