When the boss man announced my hiring at AnnArbor.com back in July, he noted “we’ll make sure he brings his weekly predictions column with him.”

So, I did.

I don’t remember that being part of our contract negotiations, but I guess it was assumed. Had it been discussed, I would have explained how seriously I took the predictions that ran weekly in The Ann Arbor News during high school football and basketball seasons … and the inordinate amount of overtime I claimed after hours upon hours of research. I’m hoping that was assumed, too.

So, I’m back and looking to improve on last year’s record of 139-39 (.780). This year, you can play along, too. To make things a little more interesting, every time the readers’ cumulative picks beat my own, I’ll donate $100 to Food Gatherers.

The polling stations are closed. Thanks to those who participated. Here are the final results:

Clinton at Manchester Rezler: Manchester Readers: Manchester (76%)

Ypsilanti at Milan Rezler: Milan Readers: Milan (61%)

Gabriel Richard at Flint Hamady Rezler: Gabriel Richard Readers: Gabriel Richard (88%)

Mason at Lincoln Rezler: Mason Readers: Mason (55%)

Garden City at Dexter Rezler: Dexter Readers: Dexter (55%)

Whitmore Lake at Perry Rezler: Whitmore Lake Readers: Whitmore Lake (82%)

Saline vs. Belleville Rezler: Saline Readers: Saline (80%)

Chelsea vs. Huron Rezler: Chelsea Readers: Chelsea (88%)

Inkster vs. Pioneer Rezler: Pioneer Readers: Inkster (61%)