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NOVEMBER 29, 2023 candgnews.com

Oakland County papers

Oakland University and other Michigan colleges have felt the enrollment effects of the pandemic.

The artists featured in “Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit.” Photo by Sarah Blanchette

File photo provided by OU

Cranbrook presents ‘Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit’ BY MARY GENSON

mgenson@candgnews.com

BLOOMFIELD HILLS/ BIRMINGHAM — Until March 3, Cranbrook Art Museum will be showcasing art from the local community of artists through the exhibition “Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit.” All work in this exhibition is realism created by artists who have worked in Detroit over the last decade. All pieces are paintings and drawings that demonstrate Black culture and life through each artist’s lived experiences. “I really want people to see the incredible skill and ingenuity that is coming from the Detroit art scene,” Cranbrook Art Museum Chief Curator Laura Mott said. This is a multigenerational show where roughly three generations are represented, including some younger artists for whom this is their first museum show.

Some of the artists are familiar with the Cranbrook Art Museum and have been featured in their collections before, and some are past or current members of the Cranbrook community. Artist Joshua Rainer attended Cranbrook Schools in the ninth and tenth grade. Since his high school years, this is the first time his work has been shown at Cranbrook as an adult. Rainer learned to oil paint in 2012 at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center and now teaches at the art center. At the time, he had recently transferred out of Cranbrook to a Detroit charter school, and he received a scholarship to attend classes at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. “That was my first introduction to oil painting, and the versatility and just openness and freeness that the medium allowed was just something very liberating and brandSee EXHIBITION on page 6A

ENROLLMENT DOWN IN MICHIGAN, TUITION GOING UP BY KATHRYN PENTIUK AND MARK VEST kpentiuk@candgnews.com, mvest@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — It’s no secret that college enrollment rates have declined since the COVID-19 pandemic. But while enrollment has been down, costs have been up, and local universities and community colleges have reported tuition increases. Oakland Community College has five campuses, which are located in Southfield, Royal Oak, Auburn Hills, Waterford and Farmington Hills. OCC Chancellor Peter Provenzano said there are currently about 21,900 students enrolled for the year, compared to approximately 24,400 five years ago. “Tuition costs have increased about 13% over the last five years, and then enrollment has decreased by about 10% over the last five years,” Provenzano said. Provenzano shared how OCC approaches tuition costs. “What we believe in is steady increases,” he said. See COLLEGE on page 11A

C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

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Have strategies if you want to avoid conflict, anxiety during the holidays BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — The turkey is fresh out of the oven, the mashed potatoes are ready and the Christmas tree lights are twinkling. It’s time to eat, but tension is also on the menu. That’s because, in many cases, the conversation around the dinner table has turned into a political debate, with family members in opposite camps. When someone shares an opinion on the current state of the country, it turns into a heated argument. The hearts are racing, the fists are clenched and the voices become louder. It’s like Archie Bunker and Michael Stivic in the 1970s sitcom “All in the Family.” But this isn’t a comedy show, and holiday conflict with family is something that could arise. One offhand remark could set off another guest. Add alcohol into the mix, and tempers flare. Some people thrive on debating hot topics — religion, politics, sports, the COVID-19 pandemic — while others want to hide inside their Christmas stockings and wait for the holiday hostility to end. If you want to avoid tension during the holidays, there are some strategies you can try, said Carrie Krawiec, a licensed marriage counselor and family therapist from the Birmingham Maple Clinic.

“There are people who are conflict prone and some who are conflict avoidance,” Krawiec said. “You can only control your behavior.” One way to cut down on the disharmony is to ask your guests to wait until after dinner to hold a heated discussion or tell them politely not to debate around the children present. Going into the garage to continue a tense conversation is another option. Also, think about

the way your comments might come across to others, and remember that people have their own beliefs, values and opinions that might not align with yours. During holiday visits, there are different family roles, too, that play into the dynamics of the get-together. “There’s the class clown, the people pleaser, the See CONFLICT on page 8A

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3A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Former president of the Madison District Public Schools Board sentenced to prison

The Rouge River runs along a path in Booth Park. The city of Birmingham is currently investigating the pollution found in the river.

ALBERT MORRISON CONVICTED ON PUBLIC CORRUPTION CHARGES BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

The Friends of the Rouge, volunteers discover discharge in Booth Park BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com

BIRMINGHAM — While conducting routine testing on the Rouge River to monitor benthic macroinvertebrates, the Friends of the Rouge and volunteers found a white liquid being discharged into the river from a pipe Oct. 19 in Booth Park. After investigating and finding a sewage smell, the Friends of the Rouge reported it to the Oakland County Water Resources Commission. The commission did a followup test and confirmed E. coli in the water, which was then reported to the city of Birmingham, because they do their own operations and maintenance. “This is an ongoing investigation,” Birmingham’s Assistant Director of Engineering Cory Borton said in an email. “This appears to be an illicit connection from a building within the City to a City owned storm sewer. The City is investigating the source of the discharge. This may include inspecting upstream sewer manholes, televising the sewer runs, and possibly dye testing potential sources.” See ROUGE on page 15A

The Friends of the Rouge discovered pollution at the Rouge River in Booth Park during routine testing. Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

MADISON HEIGHTS — A former president of the Madison District Public Schools Board of Education will serve prison time for tax evasion and a years-long bribery scheme. Albert Morrison, 62, was sentenced Nov. 9 by U.S. District Judge Laurie Michelson. He will serve 45 months in prison, beginning in late January, followed by two years of supervised release. Morrison was also ordered to pay $118,200 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Morrison pleaded guilty April 25 to receiving bribe money and tax evasion. He served as president of the Madison District Public Schools Board of Education from 2012 through 2018. Investigators say Morrison’s co-conspirator and long-time friend, John David, 65, paid him more than $560,000 in bribe money, cutting checks through David’s company, Emergency Restoration, which Morrison cashed through his own company, Comfort Consulting. In exchange, Morrison awarded Emergency Restoration more than $3.1 million in maintenance and construction work at school properties without the board’s knowledge or approval. David pleaded guilty to the scheme April 13 and was sentenced Aug. 14 to two years in prison, beginning later this year. David was also ordered to pay $30,000 in restitution. In total, investigators uncovered $561,667 in payments from David to Morrison, from 2014 to 2018. Neither David nor Morrison disclosed the payments to state auditors. Morrison also kept the payments secret from the IRS, failing to report them as income during those five years. Morrison also did not file a federal income tax return in any of those years except 2014, investigators said. In this way, he avoided paying roughly $118,200 in taxes.

‘Who steals from kids?’

Rhonda Brazile, with the Federal Community Defender office, represented Morrison. She said that “some” See MORRISON on page 13A

C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

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METRO DETROIT — It’s no secret that the public is hurting more than before when they head to the grocery store. However, food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens are reporting that this is affecting vulnerable members of the community even more. Brother Rob Roemer, the director of the Capuchin Services Center in Detroit, said there has been a drastic increase in those asking for help. “We are definitely seeing an increase. We’ve seen a lot of new faces in addition to the general increase of people,” said Roemer. “We were seeing about 100 people per day; now we’re seeing about 150 at our service center, which is our food and clothing pantry.” “We are absolutely seeing an uptick,” added Brother Gary Wegner, the executive director of the Capuchin Soup Kitchen. “In October 2023, at the two kitchens, we served 19,861 meals. That’s up 14% from July and a 48% increase since January. The grocery prices are killing people.” CARES of Farmington Hills serves those in need in Farmington Hills, Farmington, Livonia, Redford Township, Southfield, Northville, Novi and West Bloomfield. They, too, are seeing an increase in need. “At CARES, we are seeing an average of five to eight families each day, Tuesday through Thursdays. These are new families who are registering for food. This is on top of more than 650 households a month we are serving,” explained intake volunteer Nancy Prieskorn. “The need and growth is exponential. These are often people who have never had to reach out for help before and people who haven’t had to use us for several years. We are seeing all kinds of desperate situations.”

C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

BIG, BRIGHT LIGHT SHOW KICKS OFF TO HELP BRIGHTEN THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Shoppers stroll along Main Street in downtown Rochester during a previous Lagniappe event, admiring the kickoff of the Big, Bright Light Show. Photo provided by the Rochester DDA

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

t isn’t the holidays until Main Street in Rochester shines with a light display that puts Clark Griswold’s house from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” to shame. This year, downtown Rochester was slated to officially transform into a glimmering spectacle when the Big, Bright Light Show switch was flipped Monday, Nov. 20, during the 50th annual Lagniappe event. At 6 p.m. on East Fourth Street, the Big, Bright Light Show program was slated to begin with help from Rochester Mayor Stuart Bikson, Channel 7 and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The 18th annual Big, Bright Light Show will be set aglow with 15 colors of LED lights. The lights are a huge attraction, according to Kristi Trevarrow, the executive director of the Rochester Downtown Development Authority. “Especially coming into our 18th year of Big, Bright, it’s less of an event and more of a tradition. It’s always part of the holiday conversation: ‘When are we going to see the lights?’” Trevarrow said. “Everybody always wants to come see the lights because your holidays wouldn’t be complete without that trip, and we appreciate that people have made us a part of their holidays. That is amazing to us. We have always said we are in the memorymaking business, and I think that the Big, Bright Light Show is at the pinnacle of that.” The Big, Bright Light Show, the largest event hosted by downtown Rochester, will continue to run 5 p.m.-midnight through Jan. 21. “The lights are a great excuse to come out with your family, grab a hot cocoa, do a little holiday shopping, and just get your Christmas spirit on,” said Trevarrow. For more information, call (248) 656-0060 or visit www.DowntownRochesterMI.com.

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Joshua Rainer’s piece in “Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit,” titled “Blessed Quietness (Nannie).”

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new to me,” Rainer said. In 2021, Rainer received second place in the Michigan Fine Arts Competition, hosted by the BBAC. Rainier has two pieces featured in “Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit.” His piece “Blessed Quietness (Nannie)” is oil on canvas. This is a portrait of Rainer’s maternal grandmother. He said it was special to him to be able to paint a loved one and to honor his grandmother. His grandmother was able to see the painting for the first time at the opening of the exhibition. The other piece of Rainer’s in the exhibition is titled “Archenemy No. 2,” charcoal on paper. “The piece is essentially about recognizing one’s own power and agency over one’s own life,” Rainer said. Rainer thanked Cranbrook and the

curators of the exhibition for the opportunity. He said it was an exciting experience to know everyone in the exhibition personally as colleagues, friends and mentors. “I think it’s really exciting to highlight Detroit artists,” Mott said. “Something unique to where we live is this kind of incredible skill and high concept that’s coming from those artists, so I want everyone to learn more about the city where they live.” Mott and internationally acclaimed artist Mario Moore co-curated “Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit.” Artists in the exhibition include Christopher Batten, Taurus Burns, Cydney Camp, Ijania Cortez, Cailyn Dawson, Bakpak Durden, Conrad Egyir, Jonathan Harris, Sydney G. James, Gregory Johnson, Richard Lewis, Hubert Massey, Mario Moore, Sabrina Nelson, Patrick Quarm, Joshua Rainer, Jamea Richmond-Edwards, Senghor Reid, Rashaun Rucker and Tylonn J. Sawyer. Admission is free on Thursdays, and it is open until 8 p.m.

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Comic Con gives fans invaluable celebrity encounters Mark Martell, of Farmington, cosplays as a Viking Predator during the 2023 fall Motor City Comic Con on Sunday, Nov. 12. Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

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BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com

NOVI — Thousands of people, from all over the country, converged at the Suburban Collection Showplace for a chance to meet their celebrity heroes at the Motor City Comic Con’s fall show. The show offered people the chance to meet celebrities who are part of pop culture and purchase autographs, photographs and selfies for a fee of anywhere from $40 to as much as $250 depending on the celebrity. Missy Merchant made the journey to Novi from Petoskey, as Motor City Comic Con is the largest show in the area and offered her a chance to meet up with friends, show off cool cosplay and get the opportunity to meet and interact with Harvey Guillen and Doug Jones. She said it is worth the expense to meet the celebrities, as it offers her evidence of the interaction, which she proudly displays at her home and work. She said her entire living room is decorated with autograph memorabilia “When I look at (celebrity autographs and pictures) it kind of takes me back to the fun of the moment of being with that celebrity or sharing those moments together. So, it’s a nice visual reminder to

que up those memories,” Merchant said. “For me it’s definitely worth it.” Merchant works as a counselor to those afflicted by addiction and other mental health issues. She said the autographs and memorabilia she has displayed at her office also act as a form of icebreaker and help ease tension with her clients. “It makes it so they feel more homey and not like they’re in, like, a doctor’s office,” she said. Merchant said that she feels the time she got with the celebrities she met at MC3 is “pretty adequate” for the amount of money she spends to have time with them. According to Merchant, Guillen and Jones both strive to make sure their fans leave feeling good about the experience. She said that at the May show, Jason Isaacs took approximately five to 10 minutes per fan to make sure they had a “quality” interaction. She said there are usually at least one to two celebrities she wants to see at each show. “All of the (celebrities) I have met here have (taken time with fans),” Merchant said. “There have been some at other conventions that have been a lot more standoffish, where it is a lot harder to justify (paying to meet them).” Some attendees, such as Jedidiah Mann, of WarSee COMIC CON on page 14A

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Conflict from page 2A

black sheep and the know-it-all,” Krawiec said. “They invoke different reactions for different reasons.” Bringing up the past can be a pleasant experience for some, but it also can bring up bad memories. “Memories and traditions may be different,” said Krawiec. “One family member might remember something fondly, and others not so much. That could cause us to question ourselves.” However, conflict is not always “a bad thing,” Krawiec said. It can sometimes make the conversation more interesting or get people to look at situations in a different way. “Sometimes I like to hear people’s thoughts,” she said. “It can be very invigorating.” But if the atmosphere gets too heated, take a few minutes for yourself, Krawiec suggested, such as a visit to the bathroom, moving into another room or taking a walk around the block “to let the moment pass.” Deep breathing can also calm a person’s nerves. If you feel like you might need to leave

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altogether, should tension arise, figure out a code word ahead of time with family. Say the code word to your spouse and children in an unassuming way so they know it’s time to leave. There are also individuals who feel social anxiety when invited to parties. Krawiec said that “it’s very common” to feel anxious when going to someone’s house where you don’t know anyone. One suggestion is to try to meet someone who will be at the gathering beforehand. Or plan on just staying for a while and not all night if you feel uncomfortable. “You can stay if it’s pleasant enough,” Krawiec said. “It’s an opportunity for you to get out if you’re alone for the holidays. Someone cared about you enough to include you.” Pontus Leander, associate professor of social psychology and director of Center for Peace and Conflict Studies at Wayne State University, said that while “it’s not always possible,” the party host can provide a gentle reminder of the norms and expectations. “They can do it in a light and fun way,” Leander said. “You don’t want people to feel controlled. If the host is not able to set norms and expectations, recognize your own boundaries and limits. Just because someone

already knows what everyone is doing. It’s not how it was 20 or 30 years ago when we used to see each other once a year,” he said. “People say harmful things online and you see them at the holidays. They feel this is their chance to push back.” If you find yourself getting worked up, take a 10-second break. “Your mind and body will coordinate and be OK again,” Leander said. Leander suggested writing down ideas of what to talk about when visiting with family and friends. “Make a list of what would be nice to know about them and what people are excited about. That will let them speak,” Leander said. “They’ll find the conversation more meaningful. It does take effort from everyone. If a conflict occurs, ask a new question.”

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says something does not mean we need to react. Don’t take the bait. You can only control your responses. Sometimes silence is the right response.” Other guests not involved in a tense conversation also could take on the role of peacemaker. “Bystanders have the power to disrupt the flow of the conversation,” Leander said. “If you see it getting uncomfortable, ask, ‘Can you guys talk after dinner or at another time?’ This signals to them this is not the time or place. Other people might be relieved as well.” Leander pointed out that holiday gettogethers are different now because people can keep in touch all year via social media. “We are living in a very modern communication environment. People have a way of interacting all year round. Everyone

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

The Dre Project Brings Light into the Community BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com

BIRMINGHAM — Following an intense time of grieving, Birmingham resident Jennifer Jackson started The Dre Project in memory of her sister, Andrea Kristin Jackson, who passed away in 2013. Andrea went by “Dre,” which inspired the name of the project her sister started. Jackson describes her sister as a “light warrior” who was always looking for ways to help people. The Dre Project was created in her honor and continues to share light and positivity throughout the community in need. Faith has played a major role in the founding of The Dre Project. Jackson grew up Catholic, but when she lost her sister, she said she lost her faith as well. “I was in a really really dark place when I lost my sister, and I went into that dark place for five years,” Jackson said. However, after several years, she found herself coming out of this darkness once she began involving herself with a local church. Jackson got in the rhythm of helping people in her church and community, leading her to collaborate with a caterer who provided her with meals to bring to grieving families. Officially incorporated Jan. 4, 2021, The Dre Project soon began providing meals to homeless families, in addition to grieving families. At this time, they were providing families with two meals a week for up to three months at a time. It got to the point where they were delivering 220 meals a week. Naturally, the rapid growth caused burnout, leading The Dre Project to pivot. They decided to connect with Humble Design Detroit, a Pontiac-based nonprofit that takes donations of gently used household items and furniture to fully furnish homes for clients transitioning out of homelessness. The Dre Project decided to work alongside Humble Design Detroit to provide a stocked pantry and a home-cooked meal to clients. “It was a need that was not being filled because a lot of times our clients didn’t have any food in the cupboard,” Operations Manager Leslie Johns said. “Not only did they not have any furnishings, but they had very little as far as food.” Humble Design Detroit does not have the ability to accept food donations, so

ABOVE: Jennifer Jackson created the Dre Project in memory of her sister, Andrea Kristin Jackson. LEFT: The Dre Project works alongside Humble Design Detroit to provide resources for families in the community who request help. Anyone can request The DrProject’s services by visiting their website. Photos provided by Jennifer Jackson

See DRE PROJECT on page 15A

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H LIDAY CALENDAR

To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.

10A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

NOV. 30

Holiday Magic Marketplace: More than 60 crafters and vendors, free cookies and hot cocoa, live entertainment and food trucks, 4-9 p.m., also tree-lighting and Santa visits at 6:30 p.m., Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, more on Facebook

Avon Road in Rochester Hills, rochesteru.edu/rutheatre-music

DEC. 7

DEC. 1

Tree-lighting: Also appearances by Santa, Barbie and Spider-Man, s’mores station, hayrides, doughnuts and more, 6 p.m., plus singalong at 7 p.m., Roseville City Hall, 29777 Gratiot Ave., (586) 445-5440

DEC. 1-2

Christmas workshop: Make-and-take crafts, cotton candy and popcorn, book set raffles, live Elves on the Shelf photos, magic tricks and more, 4-8 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., (586) 445-5407

Tree-lighting: Also Santa visit and local high school choirs and drumline, 6:30 p.m., Veterans Plaza in front of Troy City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, facebook.com/TroyMI Kris Kringle Market: 4-10 p.m. Dec. 1 and noon-10 p.m. Dec. 2, West Fourth Street between Main Street and Walnut Boulevard in Rochester, www.downtown rochestermi.com

DEC. 2

A Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills.org/musprograms Holly Days and Light Up the Grand Parade: Activities and market from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., parade from 5:306:30 p.m., downtown Farmington, tree-lighting at 6:30 p.m. at Governor Warner Mansion, 33805 Grand River Ave., see full schedule at gfachamber.com Craft and vendor show: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Hazel Park High School, 23400 Hughes Ave., facebook.com/ CityofHP

DEC. 2-3

‘The Nutcracker’: Performance by Eisenhower Dance Detroit Youth Ensemble, 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 2 and 2 p.m. Dec. 3 (Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party at 4 p.m. Dec. 2 and 12:30 p.m. Dec. 3), Seligman Performing Arts Center at Detroit Country Day School, 22305 W. 13 Mile Road in Beverly Hills, eisenhowerdance.org/ nutcracker Cocoa & Crafts with Santa: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60. W. Wattles Road, registration required, troyhistoricvillage.org

DEC. 3

Rochester Area Hometown Christmas Parade: Featuring more than 100 entries marching along 1.5-mile route, 2 p.m., rrc-mi.com/christmas-parade

DEC. 5

DEC. 8-10

Holiday Novi Pet Expo: Cats and dogs welcome, 2-8 p.m. Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 10, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., novipetexpo.com

DEC. 9

Lunch with Santa: 12:30 p.m., Hazel Park Recreation Department, 620 W. Woodward Heights Blvd., RSVP to (248) 547-5535

‘A Nice Family Christmas’: 8 p.m. Dec. 1-2, 8-9 and 14-16, and 2 p.m. Dec. 3 and 10, Farmington Players Barn, 32332 W. 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills, farmingtonplayers.orgills, farmingtonplayers.org

Soulful Santa Celebration: Photos with Black Santa, holiday shopping, storytelling, photo booth, face painting, performance by Impulse Dance Academy and more, noon-5 p.m., Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, tickets at bit.ly/SoulfulSanta23

ONGOING

‘A Christmas Story: The Musical’: Performed by Ridgedale Players, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Dec. 8-17, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, ridgedaleplayers.com ‘Miracle on 34th Street’: Presented by Avon Players, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Dec 1-3 and 8-9, plus 3 p.m. Dec. 2 and 9, 1185 Washington Road in Rochester, avonplayers.org ‘A Christmas Carol’: Select dates until Dec. 24, Meadow Brook Theatre on campus of Oakland University, 378 Meadow Brook Road in Rochester, mbtheatre.com Wild Lights: Featuring millions of LED lights and about 500 sculptures, select nights until Jan. 7, Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, wildlights.detroitzoo.org

Tree-lighting: Also Santa visit, petting zoo, ice carving demonstrations, crafts, cookies and hot cocoa, and performances by Southfield A&T High School Marching Band and University High Dance Team, 6-8 p.m., Southfield Municipal Campus, 26000 Evergreen Road, (248) 796-4620

Holidays at Meadow Brook: Holiday Walk select dates until Dec. 23, Winter Wonder Lights select dates until Dec. 30, Starlight Stroll Dec. 6, Holiday Tea select Tuesdays and Thursdays, Santa visits select Saturdays, and more, Meadow Brook Hall, 350 Estate Drive in Rochester, meadowbrookhall.org/holidays

DEC. 6-7

Big, Bright Light Show: See downtown Rochester buildings illuminated, 5 p.m.-midnight until Jan. 21, downtownrochestermi.com

‘RU Ready for Christmas?’: Presented by Rochester University Theatre & Music, 7:30-8:30 p.m., 800 W.

Photo by Paul Manoian Photography

‘Jingle Babs’: 8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays and 3 p.m. Sundays Dec. 1-18, Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQIA+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, theringwald.com Santa House: Free visits with Kris Kringle and horsedrawn carriage rides, select times and dates until Dec. 24, Shain Park in Birmingham, RSVP at allinbirmingham.com Visit Santa and reindeer: Select dates until just before Christmas, Festival Park and Fountain Park in The Village of Rochester Hills, 104 N. Adams Road, thevorh.com/events Holiday House Tour & All Aboard! Model Railroad Exhibit: Noon-3 p.m. Dec. 2, 9-10, 16-17, 23 and 27-30, Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills.org/mus programs Holiday shop: Handmade gifts from more than 200 juried artists, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-4 p.m. Sundays Nov. 30-Dec. 20, also Shop and Champagne preview party 6:30-9 p.m. Nov. 29, Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 S. Cranbrook in Birmingham, BBArtCenter.org

Photo provided by the Community House

DEC. 9

Storytime with Santa: Also homemade cookies, hot cocoa and craft station, 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., The Community House, 380 S. Bates St., Suite 232, in Birmingham, communityhouse. com

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

College

Enrollment has dropped at Oakland Community College and other colleges since the pandemic.

from page 1A

“Oftentimes what you’ll see is, an institution will, they may not raise their tuition, or they’ll raise it 7%, 10%. We really believe in just small increases to kinda keep up with inflation. Right now, we’re not even keeping up with inflation, but we look at the longterm, so 2.5%, 3%, 4% increases per year allows us to keep up with inflation, but also allows us to keep the costs down for students.” Provenzano said that OCC tries to keep its tuition costs as low as the college possibly can. Aside from estimating what the college’s revenue is going to be, Provenzano provided details about other factors that go into making decisions about tuition fees. “Our three primary revenues are property taxes, state revenue, as well as tuition,” he said. “And then we try to estimate what we think enrollment might be. We marry that up with our projected costs for the year. … And then we determine what our tuition rate needs to be. We also take a look at our peers — what their tuition rates are.” From Provenzano’s perspective, when it comes to educational institutions in Michigan, OCC offers a solid bargain for students. “We are the largest transfer institution in the state of Michigan, and many students take advantage of our low cost and small class sizes,” he said. “They choose OCC and then transfer to the university of their choice, and they save a ton of money. … It brings the total cost of education way down.” Brian Bierley, the director of media relations for Oakland University in Rochester, stated that he “would agree that the pandemic has negatively impacted enrollment for the past few years at almost every col-

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

lege and university and there has also been a decrease in the overall number of Michigan high school students graduating each year. So, we are working to rebuild enrollment to pre-pandemic levels and working to increase the number of current students who stay in school and complete their studies.” OU’s enrollment peaked in 2015 at 16,793 and has gradually declined to 12,719 in 2023, representing a 24% drop in overall enrollment. However, this fall shows promise as freshmen enrollment is the highest since fall 2019. In June, the Board of Trustees of OU approved a tuition increase for incoming freshmen. The full-time resident undergraduate tuition for the academic year 2023-24 is $15,225, an increase of $21.75 per credit hour. The 2023-24 budget includes a 4.5% tuition increase, the Michigan Legislature’s recommended tuition restraint. Additionally, the 2023-24 university housing budget included no increase in room and board rates. The housing budget also consists of a $500 reduction in cost for standard residence double occupancy rooms, a 4.6% reduction in cost, available to both incoming and re-

turning students in OU’s residence halls. OU offers scholarships and grants to help cover some or all of students’ tuition, with 75% of students receiving some form of financial aid, thus reducing OU’s full-time resident undergraduate students’ average net tuition cost by an estimated one-third. For Lawrence Technological University, a private institution in Southfield, the outcome has been the opposite, with an increase in enrollment, according to Lisa Kujawa, the vice president for enrollment management. Kujawa explained that, since the pandemic started, LTU has increased its class of students enrolled as their “first time in any college” for the fall semester from a class of 350 to a class of 489. “Our goal is always to bring in 500 first-time students, and we are getting very close,” Kujawa said. “We have grown our dual enrollment or early middle college from 300 in one semester to 600. This fall semester, we will reach over 1,200, and that is a direct result of students in high school wanting to find ways to lessen their debt.” She added that LTU’s full-time (30 credit hours per year) tuition and fees, on

average, are $41,000 for a commuter student and $52,000 for a residential student per year. LTU gives $28 million annually in scholarships and grants, both merit and need-based. She explained that this funding is not covered by federal or state money each year. Kujawa shared a heartwarming story of a student who was maxed out on his student loans, with only seven classes left to complete before graduation. She shared that, after evaluating his options, it was decided that he would finish his last seven classes without paying LTU because “it’s the right thing to do,” Kujawa said. “The Lawrence brothers, in their founding documents, said, ‘Every student deserves an education, and finances should never get in the way.’ Ninety years later, we stand by that notion, and we will always work with our students.” This fall, undergraduate enrollment grew for the first time since the pandemic’s start, with a 2.1% increase nationally. Community college enrollment is also rising nationally, with a 4.4% increase this fall. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer highlighted the Michigan Achievement Scholarship program for 2023 high school grads, which awards up to $2,000 for career training programs per year for up to two years, $2,750 for community college for three years, $4,000 for up to five years of private college or university, and $5,500 for up to five years for a Michigan public university or a baccalaureate degree program at a Michigan community college. The Michigan Achievement Scholarship and the Michigan Reconnect program aim to get Michigan to meet the “Sixty by 30” goal, in which 60% of Michiganders will have a skill certificate or college degree by 2030.

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

12A

Food from page 4A

Debra Cole manages the food pantry for the Rochester Area Neighborhood House. She said that their numbers are up and have been increasing since the COVID-19 lockdown ended. “We are very much seeing an increase in requests for aid,” said Cole. “We are probably seeing an increase of 15 to 20 more families per month over last year. After things opened up after COVID, we started seeing more people. The government also lessened the amount they were getting through SNAP. The amount was brought back down to pre-COVID levels, and a lot of people weren’t ready for that.” Prieskorn said part of this stems from support many were receiving during COVID-19 no longer being available. “I think people are finding that food prices are rising and that government help is decreasing. I think it’s a combination of those two things,” she said. “The food prices are probably an aftermath of COVID and the disruption it caused in society. We’re all trying to find a new equilibrium and, in my opinion, people aren’t finding a balance of

how to divert resources to where it’s needed.” The increase of food prices, largely caused by inflation in the United States economy, is credited as the primary cause of these difficulties by many trying to help. “I think a big part of the increase is inflation,” said Roemer. “The price of food is quite high. When I first came here in 2021, during COVID, people were receiving stimulus checks, and now those resources are gone.” Cole said that difficulties in getting a well-paying job also are certainly a factor. “A lot of families who were doing all right are now recertifying themselves with us to get food once again,” she said. “People are saying they are having a hard time getting a job. Some people aren’t used to getting a job after COVID or they have family members moving in or kids moving back in because they can’t find a job.” This means that the increase in service requests at most of these organizations is not coming from those living on the streets but those who are failing to make ends meet. “At one of our kitchens, we get more homeless people, so the economy doesn’t always directly affect them, since they are often outside the mainstream economy,” said Wegner. “However, at the other, we serve

more of the working poor, single mothers and families, and they are trying to find ways to stretch their dollar.” “We’re seeing young people. We’re seeing senior citizens. We’re seeing homeless people or people living out of their cars,” added Prieskorn. “It’s anything and everyone. People are in need.” Not having to spend income on food can be immensely helpful, since it means that money can be redirected to expenses where no help is available. “We try to have people come and get groceries from us so they have money for other things,” said Cole. “If they can get two weeks of groceries, they can use that money for electric bills or gas bills and so forth. We also have a Clothes Closet, where they can get free clothing. Freeing up that money for other expenses can do a lot.” Organizations across metro Detroit are asking for continued or increased support from those who can afford to give. “There are a number of organizations like CARES to contribute to,” said Prieskorn. “Everyone is asking for money, food and volunteers. We also need to talk to our legislators and encourage them to dedicate more money to help those in need of food assistance.”

Some organizations are starting new initiatives to try to help more people than before as well. “We also have worked this past year with the Felician Sisters and their new Deo Gratias Ministry at Six Mile Road and Kelly Road,” said Wegner. “They offer to-go meals three days a week.” “There’s lots of resources out there. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Check at local clubs or churches or other organizations for resources like food pantries or clothes closets,” added Roemer. “Those who wish to help can donate nonperishable food and clothing. We accept everything and give everything away; we don’t sell anything for a profit. A lot of organizations are out there just like that. Hygiene items are often also something groups are in desperate need for.” Prieskorn said the need is dire and that many organizations, including CARES, are being stretched very thin. “It’s very frustrating. People are calling various agencies and looking for help,” she said. “Everyone is maxed out in their resources. People need to have perseverance. It’s hard to do if you are worrying about feeding a child or finding a place to stay that night.”

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Morrison from page 3A

of the alleged bribe money was for “legitimate referrals.” However, she conceded they were unable to produce any invoices or other evidence to support this claim. The judge overruled the defense’s objection. A $12,000 difference in the amount would have qualified Morrison for a lighter sentencing guideline. Prosecutors described a lavish lifestyle that he funded at the taxpayers’ expense, including trips to Florida, a boat slip, a new Chevy Camaro and Dodge Ram, restaurants and shopping sprees. Morrison also used the bribe money to fund other personal expenses such as rent, gas and groceries. Prosecutors said that by giving work to his friend in exchange for kickbacks, Morrison shortchanged the district and its students. The judge allowed remarks by Mark Kimble, a current trustee of the board who also served during Morrison’s tenure, and who was the only trustee to question Morrison. “I would like to start out by saying, ‘Who steals from kids?’ The defendant did,” Kimble said to the court. “The fact he was an elected official with a fiduciary responsibility bears a heavy burden. … What (Morrison) did is unforgivable.” The judge noted that the advisory range in Morrison’s case was 108 to 120 months in prison. However, she said the sentencing should be “sufficient but not more than necessary.” To that end, she would consider other factors, such as the defendant’s health and how he will fare in prison.

The health question

One concern was Morrison’s eyesight. He said he is legally blind in his right eye, and that he suffers from other conditions that cause him difficulty walking without assistance.

The prosecutors challenged Morrison’s claim by playing four video surveillance clips recorded by undercover FBI agents. The clips show Morrison at a football game in early October, where he appeared to walk comfortably up and down bleachers in the rain. He also commented on the game. Later in the video, he could be seen standing outside his car in the parking lot, changing out of his rain poncho. Brazile countered that the clips don’t show how “winded” Morrison was at the top of the stairs, or that he was asking the person next to him where players were on the field since he couldn’t see. Morrison reportedly attended the game to watch his grandson play. Another clip showed a school board meeting in July 2017 where Kimble asked Morrison if he was benefiting financially from his ties to Emergency Restoration. Morrison denied any kickbacks from David. Under Morrison’s leadership, the board stopped recording public meetings after Morrison was confronted by Kimble. At one point, Morrison took the stand to speak on his own behalf. “I have thought, over and over, about what I would like to say. Not to beat a dead horse, but I can’t write them down, since I can’t see them,” Morrison told the judge. “I am horribly apologetic for what I did. I’m ashamed. I stand before my family and everyone here to apologize. I’m embarrassed — I have no excuse. I allowed my life to spiral out of control. “It’s not any excuse, but I had lost my brother, and a friend to suicide. And I just went wild,” Morrison said. “What I can say is I listened to Mr. Kimble’s statement, and that hit hard to hear him say I stole from children. I volunteered. … I clothed people, I put a roof over their heads. I’ve spent my life living for other people, because it’s what makes me happy. The smiles on the children’s faces is what makes my life worthwhile. “I’m embarrassed, and it’s hard for me,” he said. “I’m a man of faith, so I pray that I can redeem myself for what I’ve done. I’m

embarrassed. I’m ashamed.”

Reaching a verdict

Michelson said “it’s a hard case” for everyone involved. “Mr. Morrison, for a substantial time … it did not seem like this conduct made your life difficult,” the judge told the defendant. “You used your influence to steer Mr. David without following the proper rules and regulations. You both profited well. You used it for your enjoyment, and you did not pay taxes on it. … The main thing that changed is that you got caught. “I do want to be respectful of your health,” she continued. “This is difficult, but it should be and it needs to be. … You were a district official. This was the influence Mr. David paid for, and he paid for a lot of it. What I said to Mr. David is just as applicable here: You did not make a mistake — you knew what you were doing. … For many years, you showed disrespect for the law. It’s conduct that must be punished and absolutely deterred.” She then softened her tone. She said Morrison is “nonviolent” and unlikely to repeat his crime. “I don’t only consider the worst thing you’ve done in your life,” Michelson said. “You have accepted responsibility, and your family and friends tell me you’re very remorseful.” She then announced the sentence: 45 months on each count, to be served concurrently, followed by two years of supervised release, and $118,200 in restitution, due immediately. She also said she would recommend Morrison for a federal medical center, given his health concerns.

The long road to justice

The case was brought forward by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the FBI’s Michigan Division, the IRS’s Criminal Investigation Division and the Department of Education Office of Inspector

General. Sentencing was originally set for August, but was delayed twice in September and again in October. In February 2018, the Madison-Park News first investigated allegations by Kimble. At the time, he was concerned about the 2016 sale of the land once occupied by Monroe Elementary, at Dallas and Barrett avenues in Madison Heights. By the start of 2018, the construction of more than 30 new homes was imminent, distressing neighbors who enjoyed the peace and quiet of a park. The school board, under Morrison’s leadership, sold more than 3.5 acres there for $60,000 to Emergency Restoration. As a point of comparison, in 2009, the city paid $121,000 for just 1 acre, using federal grant money through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The sale was also completed without a competitive bid, and without Morrison disclosing his friendship with David. Morrison only disclosed that relationship months after the sale was completed. During the November 2018 election, Morrison decided not to run for reelection. Kimble was elected the new president, and the new board majority immediately severed all business ties with Emergency Restoration. Shortly before the election in November 2018, the state released a report validating most of Kimble’s claims. The report also noted that all vendors in the district were operating without contracts, and that not a single purchase order had been used by the district or its contractors, which is required by the board’s bylaws. At that time, however, the state stopped short of saying a “questionable relationship” between David and Morrison benefitted either man. After the sentencing Nov. 9, Kimble said he’s disappointed that the judge did not include restitution to the district. “Apparently, crime does pay,” Kimble said. “Morrison took so much from this district, and the district got nothing back. It’s a huge disappointment.”

0090-2233

C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

14A

Comic Con

Comic Con attendees look at figurines that Game Night Arcade, from Florida, has available for purchase at the convention on Nov. 12.

from page 7A

ren, and his friend, Keven Schuster, of Roseville, said that the cost of the celebrity interactions deterred them from the opportunity to meet a celebrity. “They do tend to be more on the expensive side if you do get autographs, so that’s why I didn’t,” said Mann. Some families, such as the Boughton family, of Livonia, deliberated on what would be the best value for their money. They said that they were fans of Billy Dee Williams, who played Lando Calrissian in the “Star Wars” universe, but the cost of an autograph and photo was too pricey. Therefore, they said they were leaning toward just getting the professional photo with Williams, as the whole family could get in one photo and share the expense. Christian Boughton explained that most of the celebrities allow up to four people in a photo. “It’s expensive — especially for individuals; like, his is like $250 for an autograph,” Christian Boughton said. “So we’re wondering if we want to spend the money on that or go buy some of this mom and pop stuff.” “It’s just being able to say that I did it,” Christian Boughton said of his reason to buy

Photo By Patricia O’Blenes

the celebrity encounters. Christian Boughton said the high cost to meet the celebrities is understandable, because they are high-profile names. “The first time I came here they had William Shatner. His prices were very expensive, but for him to be incentivised to come here, they kind of let him charge what he charges,” Christian Boughton said. “This is how they make their money,” added Jennifer Boughton. “Just like anything, if we decide that it’s too much to get an autograph, then we just won’t get the autograph. We’re fine with that because we already got the photograph,”

said Christian Boughton. “I think it just comes down to, ‘What does it mean to you?’ I don’t really have any attachment to Billy Dee, but for me, going and getting that autograph from Matthew Lillard, who I grew up watching him as Shaggy in the live action (‘Scooby-Doo’) series, so I’ve been a fan of his for years, so that meant a lot more to me than the hundred bucks I spent. For my dad, $250 for this photo (with Williams) — well worth it.” Jennifer Irwin, of Wilmington, Delaware, said that the experiences of meeting her celebrity heroes at conventions across the country, such as MC3, are well worth it

to her. Irwin said that her joy in meeting celebrities has also given her the opportunity to meet some good friends from various other states. She met up with her friend Janel Gatten, of Morganfield, Kentucky, at the Motor City Comic Con, whom she met through a convention Facebook group. “For us, it’s a friendship thing too, because, obviously, we live far apart,” Irwin said. “It’s, like, really common for attendees of cons to make friends with other congoers,” Gatten said. “For me, it’s the whole experience. I mean, I wouldn’t go for just an autograph or just a photograph.” Irwin said that she will only travel to attend a convention if there is somebody that she wants to meet there. She said she will not go just for the atmosphere, or to see the people in cosplay, or for the artists. “I only go if there is an actor that I want to meet,” Irwin said. She said that her husband paid around $1,000 to give her the “Outlander” experience package at another convention for her birthday, and it was really worth it to her, but that is the most she said she would pay to meet a celebrity. She said it included a threeday admission, an autograph and photo with Sam Heughan and two other cast members, See COMIC CON on page 15A

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15A

C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Dre Project from page 9A

this filled a gap in their services. “One of the most important things we do is set a dining room table, and now with The Dre Project, they have something to fill the dishes with,” Johns said. The Dre Project is now delivering to 40 families per month. Jackson said they deliver 36 bulk-sized essential dry goods and a home-cooked meal to each family. “We are cut from the same cloth,” Johns said. “We are all trying to do our part to fill the needs that are out there.” Humble Design Detroit relies heavily on donations and volunteers. To learn more, visit humbledesign.org. In addition to working with Humble Design Detroit, The Dre Project also works alongside The New Day Foundation, the Blood Cancer Foundation of Michigan and the Community Housing Network. Jackson said she has had the opportunity to partner with several local organizations through The Dre Project. For instance, Therapeutic Rehab of Michigan sends its patients to Jackson once a week to help with

Rouge from page 3A

Borton said the city has narrowed down the general area where the discharge is coming from, but they cannot determine an exact source until further investigations are conducted. “It’s not super common but these things happen,” Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash said. Borton said that like all watersheds, the Rouge River watershed has illicit connections and discharges discovered every year. However, all southeast Michigan communities are required to monitor the watershed for illicit connections and discharges. This is part of their Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit with the state of Michigan.

Comic Con from page 14A

and two panels. Irwin explained that because she has watched “Outlander” so many times, it was well worth it to meet some of the cast. “To me, yes. It was absolutely worth it. Meeting him was like a dream come true,” Irwin said. “Just interacting with someone who

stocking, inventory and graphic design. “I’ve just been blessed, because it’s like everybody is coming out of the woodwork,” Jackson said. “So many people keep coming to me to help, it’s just incredible.” Jackson said they will deliver to anyone who comes to their website and requests help; however, they will only deliver one time. They are not an ongoing solution, like a food pantry. She said they are currently looking for sponsorships with local businesses. “When somebody comes to my website, the only information I ask for them is their name, their address and their phone number, and we’re going to deliver to them,” Jackson said. “We’re not going to ask any more questions. So, the only way for us to continually do that for everybody is to stay private fundraising-based. We’re doing that through donations, and now we’re looking at creating sponsorships with local businesses.” The Dre Project is also always open to anyone who wants to help volunteer. They are willing to work with volunteers to create a schedule that works for them. They also accept donations on their website. More information about The Dre Project can be found at thedreproject.org.

“We’re always looking to make sure our systems are not being contaminated by sewage. It is one of the things we do for our permits,” Nash said. Borton said that residents do not have to take extra precautions during this time. “No additional precautions are necessary other than precautions that residents would normally take when entering a water body,” Borton said via email. The Friends’ website explains how to spot pollution and illegal discharges, and instructs people to call the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Pollution Emergency Alerting System at (800) 292-4706 if such an incident is suspected. The Friends declined to comment further on the Birmingham incident. More information on the Friends of the Rouge can be found online at therouge. org. helped to bring that show to life, I was over the moon and I’ll probably never meet him again. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Irwin said she has never been disappointed after she met any of her heroes from the acting world, but she admitted that she has been disappointed after meeting some musicians she admired. “It’s something that you would otherwise likely never experience,” Gatten said.

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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • NOVEMBER 29, 2023

16A

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