Thursday, June 30, 2022

County Board Yet To Name New Health Department Director

Longtime Director Diane McCormick is retiring and the Board of Commissioners continues to debate whether to promote internally or launch a costly search.

Nighttime Closures Scheduled On US-23

Starting Tuesday night after the holiday weekend, there will be ongoing nightly closures on southbound US-23 from Spencer Road up to M-59 through late July or early August.

MDOT Moves Orange Barrels To Ease Holiday Weekend Travel

Beginning at 3pm Friday and continuing until 6am Tuesday, 100 out of 162 projects statewide will have lane restrictions removed.

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Fenton Fire Damages Four Downtown Buildings

A Tuesday afternoon blaze caused heavy damage to four downtown Fenton buildings, two of which will have to be rebuilt.

Hacker Road Project Starts Tuesday, July 5th

A pavement rehabilitation project is scheduled to begin Tuesday on Hacker Road from Clark Lake Road to Golf Club Road.

Public Comment Sought On Genoa Township 2022 Master Plan

The plan is said to preserve existing open space and is the culmination of a lot of hard work by the Planning Commission and staff.

Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Gerald Knight Named Grand Marshal For Howell Melonfest Parade

The Knight family is one of Howell’s original melon farmers. Gerald’s father, Stanley Knight, began growing the melons on his farm in the 1920’s.

Dexter Man Charged With Indecent Exposure

Police say 37-year-old Isaiah Matthew Hopkins could also be linked to other cases of indecent exposure and home invasion.

Argentine Road Closed In Oceola Township

Argentine Road at M-59 is being reconstructed and work got underway Monday.

New Speed Radar Signs To Be Installed In City Of Howell

With a continuing uptick in complaints regarding speeding vehicles, staff budgeted to purchase two additional sets of radar speed signs in the current fiscal year.

LESA To Bring Student Leadership Program To Local Schools

The Livingston Educational Service Agency (LESA) has committed nearly $100,000 to bring Reaching Higher 4 Youth to local schools.

Monday, June 27, 2022

Torch 180 Hosts Special Apprenticeship Signing Ceremony

Three students in the Torch 180's culinary training program - Blake Clay, Shaun Gillespie, and Vikram Durci - are now officially enrolled in a unique apprenticeship program to become professional cooks.

Road Work Today In Fenton & Argentine Townships

Work is scheduled on Silver Lake Road, Hogan Road and Duffield Road.

Race Car Owned by John Conely Wins Award at Ford House

A race car with a storied history owned by Brighton entrepreneur John Conely has won a prestigious award at a recent event held at Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores.

Saturday, June 25, 2022

Livingston County Health Department Director Retiring

The Board of Commissioners recently discussed the process to appoint a replacement - with a lengthy discussion centered on whether to promote internally or perform an outside search.

Center Road Work In Tyrone Township Starts Monday

Work will be taking place all next week on Center Road from Linden Road to Old US-23. Delays should be expected as two-way traffic will be maintained via flag control.

Tour De Livingston Balloonfest Kick Off Ride Returns Sunday

The series begin with a Kickoff-Ride this Sunday in conjunction with the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest morning launch.

Friday, June 24, 2022

U.S. Supreme Court Overturns Roe v. Wade

The decision by the court’s conservative majority overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling and is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states.

Michigan Challenge Balloonfest Floats Into Howell

The Michigan Challenge Balloonfest features hot-air balloons, entertainment, fireworks, a carnival, food vendors, and various family activities, attractions and entertainment.

Earth Work Progressing On Roundabout Project

The Washtenaw County Road Commission reports that good progress is being made at the intersection of Pontiac Trail and North Territorial Road.

Local Lawmaker's Bills To Improve Elections Headed To Senate

State Rep. Ann Bollin sponsored the legislation, which she says helps local communities struggling to find suitable locations to conduct elections and establish training programs for those interested in serving as poll challengers.

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Northfield Equestrian Center Opposed to Gun Range Plans

An equestrian center owner in Northfield Township is opposing plans to open a gun range near his property.

Stepped Up Patrols During Speed Enforcement Campaign

Livingston County motorists and others across the state are being urged to slow down as part of the ongoing “Great Lakes High Stakes” speed enforcement campaign.

Cleary University Scholarship Fundraiser Nets Record $175,000

This year’s winner of the cup was James “Buddha” Edwards. The former Detroit Piston “Bad Boy” paired with Detroit BBQ Company and won the sellout crowd over with a “Battle of Burnt Ends”.

Brighton Optimist Club Presents Check To Bountiful Harvest

This week, the Brighton Optimist Club and Eternity Brewing Company presented checks to Bountiful Harvest totaling $654 from a June 14th euchre benefit.

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Devastating Blaze Damages Hotel & Buildings In Downtown Holly

Crews worked through the night to extinguish the blaze and remained on scene putting out hot spots. Officials were also conducting walk-throughs today to assess the damage.

Time Running Short to Collect Recall Signatures v. Conely & Trombley

Time is running short for a group collecting petition signatures in an effort to unseat Brighton Board of Education members Bill Trombley and John Conely.

State House Passes Poll Challenger Training Legislation

HB 6124 is sponsored by Republican State Representative Ann Bollin of Brighton Township, where she served as a clerk for 16 years before being elected to the state House.

Seminar Educates Community On Elder Abuse Awareness

In honor of Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, Livingston County Catholic Charities and the Elder Justice Coalition hosted “The Many Faces of Elder Abuse” seminar.

Community Foundation Hosting Virtual Office Hours

The Community Foundation for Livingston County is hosting two virtual events to provide an informal but informative forum for those interested in learning more about grant funding opportunities.

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

Crews Battle Massive Blaze At Historic Holly Hotel

The fire started in an area referred to as Battle Alley, where the hotel and various shops are located.

New Partnership Allows For Increased Police Presence In Schools

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office is entering into an agreement with Howell Public Schools; along with Genoa, Howell, Oceola and Marion Townships for dedicated services.

Brighton School Board Passes Record $99.6 Million Budget

The Brighton Area Schools Board of Education has approved a "projected" 2022-23 district budget of just under $100 million.

City Of Brighton Releases Water Quality Report

The City says water quality standards complied with all federal and state standards and requirements for the 2021 calendar year.

Northfield Township Residents Sought To Serve On Boards

The end of terms is nearing for some members on various boards and residents are being encouraged to get involved and apply.

Textbook Scholarships Awarded To Local Students

This year, nine scholarships were awarded to three students each from Brighton, Hartland and Howell High Schools.

Monday, June 20, 2022

Livingston County Adopts "Election Integrity" Resolution

The Board of Commissioners recently adopted a resolution “optimizing election integrity” related to the acceptance of un-regulated, private monies for funding elections.

Volunteers Still Sought For Michigan Challenge Balloonfest

Organizers say it's a fun weekend and an experience volunteers cherish for a lifetime.

Inflation Taking Bite Out Of New Infrastructure Projects

The prices for some infrastructure materials have risen even faster than general consumer prices.

Intersection To Close As Part Of E. Huron Street Project In Milford

The Village advises that the intersection of Huron Street and River Drive is getting rebuilt and the first closure is scheduled to start today.

Saturday, June 18, 2022

Lt. Governor Tours I-96 Rebuilding Michigan Project

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II toured the I-96 Flex Route project and provided an update on other ongoing infrastructure construction projects.

Manor Steps Down From Howell Mayor Pro-Tem Position

Steve Manor told Council he appreciated having the opportunity to serve in the role but felt the need to step back as he is in a declining state of health.

Friday, June 17, 2022

M-59 Ramps To Northbound US-23 To Close Friday Night

The Michigan Department of Transportation is closing the M-59 ramps to northbound US-23 for rebuilding tonight.

Westbound I-96 Reduced To One Lane Saturday

Some pretty big delays can be expected on portions of I-96 this Saturday as part of MDOT’s Flex Route project.

MDARD Showcases Consumer Protection Efforts At Gas Stations

The state says inspectors continue to protect motorists and their wallets at gas stations across Michigan.

VINA Golf Classic Returns With Big Prizes

The Ultimate Putt Contest and Hole-In-One Contest will feature prizes that include a trip for two to the 2023 Masters Tournament and a trip for two to the 2023 U.S. Open.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

"Justice For Pearl" Sought After Fatal Dog Attack

Since Leticia Spagnulolo's dog Pearl was attacked and later died, she says people have been coming out of the woodwork to share their experiences about the same aggressive dog.

Tour De Livingston Kick Off Ride Returns

The Kickoff-Ride is on Sunday, June 26th during the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest morning launch. It's a free event with no pre-registration required.

City Of Howell Launches Master Plan Community Survey

The City is currently preparing an updated Master Plan - a document that acts as a road map to guide Howell as it moves into the future.

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Road Commission: "Closed Means Closed"

The Pontiac Trail and North Territorial Road intersection is closed to all thru-traffic but officials say they’ve already seen a lot of work zone intrusions within the first 24 hours.

Board Authorizes Independent Investigation Of Genoa Clerk

The board approved hiring an independent third-party to investigate different issues regarding Clerk Polly Skolarus and to prepare a report and recommendation.

LESA Students Build Sustainable Community Garden

In addition to what they learned while planning and planting the garden and continuing its upkeep, students in the W-A-Y+ Program also gain volunteer experience.

Wednesday Marks Ozone Action Day

This marks the 29th year of SEMCOG’s voluntary program that helps keep Southeast Michigan's air clean.

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Increasing Speeding Problems In City Of Howell

Residents continue to voice concerns about speeding and staff will be working to address problems with a multi-tier approach - including stepped up enforcement efforts.

Construction Starts Wednesday On Latson Road

Major delays are expected as two-way traffic will be maintained through flag control.

Volunteers Sought For Michigan Challenge Balloonfest

Volunteers are being sought for Balloonfest next Friday, Saturday and Sunday; as well as the Balloons & Brews Fantasy of Lights fundraiser next Saturday.

SELCRA Launches Master Plan Survey

Community members are being encouraged to take a short online survey to help guide the future of parks and recreation in the Southeastern Livingston County Area.

Monday, June 13, 2022

Missing Putnam Township Man Located Safe

The Livingston County Sheriff's Office reports that Mark Lapinsky, who suffers from dementia, was found safe and sound at a residence in Commerce Township on Sunday.

Pontiac Trail/North Territorial Roundabout Construction Starts Today

The intersection of Pontiac Trail and North Territorial Road in Salem Township is expected to be closed for approximately 15 weeks.

Livingston Sunrise Rotary To Dedicate "Peace Pole" At LESA

The peace pole is being dedicated in honor of Livingston Sunrise Rotary member and current Rotary 6380 District Governor, Brenda K. “WooWoo” Tipton, for her outstanding service to Rotary and the community.

Free Veteran's Experts Panel Event Tuesday

The Veteran’s Experts Panel starts at 11am Tuesday at the John E. Labelle Public Safety Complex at 1911 Tooley Road in Howell.

Saturday, June 11, 2022

Another Closure On Crooked Lake Road Starts Monday

Crooked Lake Road will be completely closed between Springhill Drive and Lakewood Shores Drive.

Stockbridge Man Seriously Injured In Head-On Crash

Police say a 28-year-old Stockbridge man traveling westbound on Catholic Church Road was he was struck head-on by a pickup truck driven by a 31-year-old Stockbridge man, who was attempting to turn north onto Murray Road.

Exciting Upgrades At Brighton MJR Theatre

New VIP seating should be installed by late summer while state-of-the-art laser movie projectors are coming this fall.

Free Fishing, Off-Roading & State Park Entry This Weekend

The MDNR encourages everyone to take advantage of the "Three Free" weekend when residents and out-of-state visitors can grab a fishing rod, ride the off-road trails and visit state parks and boating access sites, all free of charge.

Friday, June 10, 2022

Blake to Operate Erwin Orchards, Homes Approved

Area landmark Erwin Orchards will be around in the future, but with a new name, as part of a development with residential and agricultural aspects.

Inaugural Women Veterans Conference This Weekend

About 150 women military veterans from across Michigan will gather for the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency’s inaugural Women Veterans Conference, with a theme centered on advocacy.

Fowlerville Family Fair Receives State Grant Funding

The Fowlerville Family Fair was awarded $71,829 for horse barn improvements through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Old Floor Tiles With Asbestos Removed From Rec Center

While removing some old carpet to be replaced, a contractor discovered old asbestos floor tiles.

Local Seminar To Honor World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Livingston County Catholic Charities and the Elder Justice Coalition will host “The Many Faces of Elder Abuse Seminar” in honor of Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Wednesday, June 15th.

Thursday, June 9, 2022

Barker Road Resurfacing Project Starts Monday

The project limits stretch from roughly just west of Whitmore Lake Elementary School, all the way east to Jennings Road.

Van Gifted To Family Of Local Boy With Spinal Muscular Atrophy

The non-profit Lori’s Voice gave away a brand-new, wheelchair-accessible van to the family of Jace Vincent, a 5-year-old from Brighton with Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

Torch & Torch 180 To Host “Finally Home Grand Opening”

The community is invited to come and celebrate the big grand opening this Saturday - two years and two months later than originally planned due to COVID.

Wednesday, June 8, 2022

Ribbon Cutting Held For Oxford Recovery Autism Center Expansion

The 35,000-square-foot, $12 (m) million expansion doubles the center’s size to accommodate its growing autism program. It includes therapy rooms, employee spaces and the innovative “Village of ORC.”

Brighton Council OKs Swinginfusion After Two-Year Hiatus

Swinginfusion, a weekly dance event in downtown Brighton and other locales in Michigan that was cancelled by COVID, is back at The AMP in Brighton.

Bill To Require High School Course Credit In Personal Finance

State Representative Ann Bollin said personal finance education is essential for Michigan children.

Therapy Dogs Coming To Pinckney Community Schools

Fundraising was initiated in December 2021 and in less than six months, the district says generous community members donated over $20,000 to secure three dogs.

Free Veteran's Experts Panel Event Next Tuesday

A panel of veteran experts will discuss a variety of topics including disability compensation, pension with aid & attendance, VA home loans and & COE, as well as funeral benefits that include national cemetery and burial benefits.

Howell Graduate Wins Scholarship

Nicholas Hagen was awarded the President's Scholarship.

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

Shooting Threat At Fowlerville High School

Police say a student admitted to hacking into another student's Snapchat account and posting the threat.

Plans Denied Again For Retreat Center At Former Camp Chaldean

The proposed project at the Our Lady of the Fields camp, formerly known as Camp Chaldean, was denied by the Genoa Township Board Monday night.

Brighton Holds Talks with Two City Employee Unions

The contract of one city of Brighton union expires this month, while talks are ongoing with another union over a wage reopener clause.

Severe Weather Network Wraps Up 6th Winter Shelter Season

A total of 1,227 nights of emergency shelter were provided to 57 adults ranging in age from 18 to 72.

Howell Recreation Launches Community Survey

The survey was created to reach members of the Howell area to grow an understanding of what the community would like to see.

Record Catfish Caught In Michigan

Lloyd Tanner landed a 53.35 pound flat-head catfish from the St. Joe River in Berrien County.

Monday, June 6, 2022

Pilot Safe After Emergency Landing in Middle of US-23

The pilot of a single-engine plane escaped injury Saturday when he was forced to make an emergency landing in the US-23 median south of Brighton.

Superintendent: Future "Very Bright" For Brighton Area Schools

Superintendent Matt Outlaw said this school year was one for the history books for sure and COVID posed challenges but they really hit their stride and have had an incredible end of the year.

Portion Of North Territorial Road To Close Wednesday

North Territorial Road will be closed between Webster Church Road and Whitmore Lake Road to replace numerous crossroad culverts and repair sections of pavement.

Moses Wins Boy Scouts Distinguished Citizen Award

Livingston County businessman George Moses was recently honored for his many contributions over the years to the Boy Scouts and the community.

New App For Convenient Bottle Returns

A new app will pick up returnable bottles and cans curbside.

June Is Amnesty Month At Brighton District Library

Officials say the Library’s amnesty period, which lasts for the month of June, is as much an attempt to regain lost patrons as lost books.

Brighton Summer Youth Camp to Resume This Year

The Brighton Summer Youth Camp, after taking a 2-year break due to COVID, is back this year.

Saturday, June 4, 2022

More Orange Barrels To Greet Motorists

The Livingston County Road Commission issued advisories for high-impact projects in four different townships.

Construction On Hay Creek Pedestrian Bridge Complete

Grant funding through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation made the project possible, as well as township contributions.

Block Party To ENDALZ In Downtown Howell Sunday

A big block party and kick-off to the 2022 Livingston County Walk to End Alzheimer's will take place on the lawn of the historic courthouse and amphitheater.

Registration Deadline Nearing For United Way's Day Of Caring

The registration deadline for both volunteers and work sites is Tuesday, June 21st.

Friday, June 3, 2022

Fatal Dog Mauling In Fowlerville

An aggressive dog was euthanized after mauling a small dog on Saturday, which died from serious injuries sustained in the attack.

Portion Of US-23 To Close In Livingston County

MDOT advises that it will be closing northbound US-23 from I-96 to M-59 nightly from 9pm to 6am through late June for rebuilding.

Church To Host Symbolic Mortgage Burning Ceremony

Fenton’s First Presbyterian Church was able to pay off its mortgage and the community is invited to attend a symbolic ceremony Sunday from 11:30am to 1pm.

CFLC Hosting Two Virtual Office Hour Events

The Community Foundation for Livingston County will host two virtual events to allow organizations, non-profits and government agencies to get questions answered about grant opportunities.

Thursday, June 2, 2022

Brighton Police Obtain Video Footage of Attempted ATM Theft

Brighton Police have obtained video footage of an attempted bank ATM theft Monday that left part of the city without power.

Fenton Superintendent To Step Down

Adam Hartley has accepted a position with Lansing Area Schools.

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Safety At Forefront After Drowning At Kensington Metropark

A 6-year-old drowned in Kent Lake on Memorial Day.

Indy Cars Return To Detroit This Weekend

Organizers say they’re putting the final touches on the Raceway at Belle Isle and the track will be ready for world-class racing on Friday.

Westbound I-96 Down to Two Lanes

A new traffic shift is in effect as part of I-96 Flex Route project.

Hill Road Lane Closure To Remain In Place After Bridge Hit

MDOT's statewide bridge crew completed emergency repairs on the Hill Road overpass spanning northbound US-23, following damage sustained in a bridge hit.

“Oceans of Possibilities” Kicks Off Sumer Reading Fun At BDL

This year’s water-themed challenge is “Oceans of Possibilities,” which runs June 12th through August 6th.