11/13/25 Troy Times

Troy voters decide council, bond issue

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — During the election Nov. 4, Troy City Council members Rebecca Chamberlain and David Hamilton were reelected, while Annalisa Bluhm won the third seat. Each available seat was for a four-year term. Meanwhile, a bond proposal by the city was rejected.

Of the 49,683 ballots cast, Chamberlain received support from 20.69% (10,277 votes) while Hamilton took 17.5% (8,697 votes) and Bluhm took 17.29% (8,588 votes).

Coming up short were Ed Ross at 13.71% (6,812 votes), followed by Sadek Rahman at 11.52% (5,725 votes), David Ross Kniffen at 9.56% (4,750 votes), and Ken Brodzinski at 9.5% (4,718 votes).

Unassigned write-ins accounted for 0.23% (116 votes). There were zero rejected write-ins.

As for the bond proposal, it was rejected by voters, with 55.17% voting no (11,019 votes) and 44.83% voting yes (8,953 votes). A total 19,972 votes weighed in on the matter.

If the bond had been approved, it would have levied an estimated average millage of 1.1329 mills each year for 20 years, raising $137 million for a new library building, road improvements, enhancements to parks and recreation facilities, and upgrades to city public safety services.

The city collects $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, multiplied by the millage rate. So, for a home with a taxable value of $100,000, the bond would have increased taxes by about $113 per year.

See

on page 25A

Troy officials remember Jeanne Stine

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — Officials past and present are paying respects to Jeanne Stine, an inspirational trailblazer in the city of Troy who died Oct. 28 at the age of 96.

Stine joined the Troy City Council in 1976, making history as the first woman to do so. She then made history again when after 16 years of council service, she was elected as the city’s first female mayor,

a role she served from 1992 to 2001. She was then reelected to council in 2003.

Stine was born in Detroit to William Lyle and Eleanor Laura Goodwin on June 18, 1929. She was the eldest of 11 children, with seven younger sisters and three younger brothers.

“And one of the things she always would tell me and everybody else (is that her mother) instilled in all of her children a love for reading and a love for books,

See STINE on page 19A

Hamilton

Bluhm

Chamberlain

VOTERS

Jeanne Stine, the first woman to serve on the Troy City Council and to serve as Troy’s mayor, is seen here with the current mayor, Ethan Baker. Stine died Oct. 28 at age 96.

Photo provided by Cindy Stewart

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Eagle Scout creates ‘flow trucks’ for Troy Fire Department

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — Lucas Rossi, a student at Troy High and scout with Crew 314/ Troop 1707, recently completed his Eagle Scout project — a set of miniature fire trucks that the Troy Fire Department can use at open houses and other events. Rossi originally joined Scouting America when he was in first grade. His project for the Troy Fire Department was the final step in him achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank.

For his project, he assembled 12 “flow trucks” that can be used for public

SUSPECT ARRESTED IN ARMED ROBBERY OF GAS STATION

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — Authorities have arrested a man they believe robbed a Troy gas station at gunpoint using a rifle. The incident occurred during the early morning hours Oct. 30.

Troy police officers were dispatched around 2:40

a.m. to the Shell gas station located at 6951 Rochester Road, on report of a robbery that had occurred about 10 minutes prior.

Upon arrival, officers spoke with the store clerk, who reported that a man had entered the business armed with a rifle. The suspect had allegedly pointed the weapon at the clerk and demanded money from the register. The clerk complied and handed over an

undisclosed amount of cash before the suspect fled the scene on foot.

Video surveillance from the business shows the suspect approaching from the south side of the building around 2:19 a.m., carrying what appeared to be an AK-47 rifle. The suspect entered the store, confronted the clerk and remained near the counter during the

Photos provided by Joseph Rossi

LEFT: Lucas Rossi and Troy Fire Chief Peter Hullinger survey the new “flow trucks” Rossi created as a part of his Eagle Scout project. ABOVE: Community residents enjoy spraying water with the miniature trucks during the Troy Fire Department’s Open House in October.

Carter

NEWS & NOTES

Drop-off sites opening soon for Operation Christmas Child

TROY — The Calvary Chapel of Oakland County in Troy is one of 5,000 drop-off locations across the country that will be open to collect shoebox gifts for Operation Christmas Child during National Collection Week Nov. 17-24.

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has been collecting and delivering gift-filled shoeboxes to children, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster.

Those interested in packing a box can find a step-by-step guide at samaritanspurse.org.

Participants can also donate $10 per shoebox gift online through “Follow Your Box,” and receive a tracking label to discover its destination.

“Samaritan’s Purse works around the world to help people in need, but it’s not about good works — it’s about the Gospel,” said Franklin Graham, the group’s president, in a statement. “Please prayerfully consider packing a shoebox this year with Operation Christmas Child. These simple gifts open the door for us to share the true meaning of Christmas.”

Participants can also find the nearest drop-off site and hours of operation at the webpage as they make plans to deliver their shoebox gifts. The online lookup tool is searchable by city or zip code. Signs at each location will provide further guidance.

For more information, visit www. samaritanspurse.org.

Compiled by Sarah Wright

STORYTELLING AND LITERACY INITIATIVE

TROY — This fall, Emagine Entertainment and Folktellers Studios will launch a new storytelling and literacy initiative that turns young readers into filmmakers.

The program invites students to dive into Josef Bastian’s award-winning seven-book series, “Excerpts from an Unknown Guidebook.” After reading the books, participants will create their own three-minute movie trailers inspired by the series’ characters, worlds and themes.

“We are so excited to launch this program with Emagine, as it represents the storytelling bridge between reading, literacy and entertainment,” Bastian said in a statement. “This will be an experience that brings the entire community together to celebrate the joy of reading and making movies.”

The program is open to elementary and middle schools across Michigan and culminates with a film contest where participants post their short films on the Folktellers for Literacy website. Entries are judged by celebrity panelists, and the community at large can vote for their favorites. The finalists will attend an exclusive red-carpet premiere at Emagine Theatres where their films will play on the big screen.

Program registration opened Nov. 3 at folktellersforliteracy.com. Kits arrive in February, and the contest runs through April, with the films premiering in June.

Each kit, with quantities for 30 participants, costs $500. There are also scholarship kits available for groups in need of financial assistance.

The Troy Community Foundation received a donation of $36,500 from Robertson

Homes at the Oct. 20 meeting of the Troy City Council. From left is David Robertson, Robertson Brothers’ vice president of human resources, recruiting and special Projects; Tim Loughrin, Robertson Brothers’ vice president of land acquisition; Karen Greenwood, the Troy Community Foundation’s board chair; Ethan Baker, the mayor of Troy; Olivia McLaughlin, the Troy Community Foundation’s executive director; and Dan Duggan, the Troy Community Foundation’s treasurer.

Troy Community Foundation gets large donation

TROY — The Troy Community Foundation recently received a donation check of $36,500 from Robertson Brothers Homes. The gift was made during the Oct. 20 Troy City Council meeting.

The Troy Community Foundation was formed in 2016 by a group of residents and business owners focused on supporting citizen-driven initiatives that promote the community and empower the residents of Troy.

“We are so grateful to receive such a generous donation from Robertson Brothers Homes,” said Karen Greenwood, the Troy Community Foundation board chair, in a statement. “Our board is excited to have the opportunity to think of ways in which we can reinvest these dollars back into the Troy community.”

Robertson recently built several home developments in Troy.

“It is important for us to make good on our pledge to invest in the communities where we do business. We believe that the best way to do that is to identify organizations already meeting the community investment needs in a given city, and we found that in the Troy Community Foundation,” said David Robertson, vice president of human resources, recruiting and special projects for Robertson Brothers Homes, in a statement.

The Troy Community Foundation will next host its “Reverse Charity Night” Thursday, Nov. 13 at Walsh College, 3838 Livernois Road in Troy. Each ticketed attendee will be able to choose from one of the available endowment funds and scholarships, and the Foundation will make a $50 donation on their behalf.

For more information, visit www.troycf.org.

Photo provided by the Troy Community Foundation

Brothers

Photo provided by Expand Marketing Group

The Folktellers for Literacy program by Emagine Entertainment and Folktellers Studios will provide kits for classes interested in the filmmaker process.

CALENDAR

NOV. 13

‘Night Lighting Magic’: Presented by Shelby Gardeners Club, hear from Sue Grubba of Creative Scapes about illuminating gardens and pathways, 1-2 p.m., Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, (586) 873-3782

NOV. 14

Shabbat Around America: First of four regional dinners, enjoy traditional American Thanksgiving dinner at 5:45 p.m. and themed dessert/oneg afer shabbat service at 7:15 p.m., Congregation Shir Tikvah, 3900 Northfield Parkway in Troy, future menus include Southern Shabbat, Tex Mex Shabbat and New England Shabbat, dates TBD, series hosted by CST Soup Troupe/Dinner Divas and Membership Committees and sponsored by Jewish Education For Family, register at (248) 649-4418 (ext. 1) or shirtikvah.org

NOV. 15

Local author fair: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., presented by Troy Public Library but hosted at Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, (248) 524-3538, troypl.org

Purse bingo: Win designer handbag in each of 10 rounds, also appetizers, pop and raffle, for ages 18 and older (cash bar for ages 21 and older), doors at 1 p.m. and games at 2 p.m., Clawson-Troy Elks Lodge, 2549 Elliott Ave. in Troy, proceeds support

Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance, (734) 800-6144, info@mioca.org, mioca.org/events-programs/events/ purse-bingo

NOV. 20

Early Thanksgiving dinner: Presented by Intercultural Association of Michigan, 6 p.m., Balkan American Community Center, 1451 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy, RSVP required, (586) 945-9944

NOV. 23

Thanksgiving celebration: “Grateful Together” program presented by Troy-area Interfaith Group, refreshments follow, wear casual attire, 7 p.m., Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 4230 Livernois Road in Troy, troy.interfaith@gmail.com, troyinterfaithgroup.org

NOV. 29

Elf Shelf Arts & Crafts Show: Presented by Troy Women’s Association, 200-plus booths expected, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Troy High School, 4777 Northfield Parkway, $3 donation at door helps local charities, (248) 988-0426, troywomensassociation.org

DEC. 2

Troy Women’s Association meeting: Nonprofit dedicated to supporting local causes and enhancing lives of others, 7 p.m., new location at Community of Christ - Troy Oaks, 3830 Crooks Road, continues every first Tuesday of month (except February) until June, (248) 988-0426, troywomensassociation.org

Arts, Beats and Eats raises record amount for charities

BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com

ROYAL OAK — Arts, Beats and Eats organizers announced on Oct. 14 that the festival generated a record $400,076.87 in contributions that will go toward local nonprofit organizations.

Since the festival began in 1998, it has raised more than $8.2 million in donations. Earnings from the 2025 season are the highest in the festival’s history, according to organizers who say the festival also brought in a record 345,000 attendees throughout the Labor Day weekend, marking a 15% increase from 2024.

“Today is a very positive and emotional day for me; we hit something that we have not hit before in our history,” event producer Jon Witz said during the Oct. 14 press conference.

Funds are generated through multiple sources, including gate admission fees, beverage proceeds, festival-sponsored community initiatives and more, according to a press release sent out by the festival organizers.

“This year’s Arts, Beats & Eats exceeded

See CHARITIES on page 20A

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Detroit Zoo Wild Lights begins this month

ROYAL OAK — The holidays are just around the corner. To celebrate the festive season, the Detroit Zoo will once again host its Wild Lights.

Wild Lights will have various dates across the next few months beginning on Nov. 22, 23, 28-30. In December, the dates are 5-7, 11-23 and 26-31. And in January, the lights will be available Jan. 2-4. On Fridays and Saturdays, the event will be open 5-10:30 p.m. All other days it will be open 5-9 p.m.

The Wild Lights include a nighttime stroll with more than 500 displays and millions of LED lights that guide attendees through a trail.

The event includes themed zones, more than 500 illuminated animal and naturethemed displays; pop-up performances and music; Santa photos available for purchase; a camouflage art exhibition; seasonal drinks, eats and sweet treats for purchase; 4D theater and glow with the show lanyard add-ons, and more.

Ticket prices may vary by date, time and demand between $17 and $27. All guests 2 and older are required to have a ticket.

Parking costs $8 per vehicle; zoo members park free. Members get 10% off Wild Lights general admission.

For more information visit detroitzoo.org.

— Taylor Christensen

File photo provided by the Detroit Zoo

TWO LOCAL WOMEN SHARE THEIR TRIUMPHS, TRIALS IN BUSINESS

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

worked at prior to starting her own business in 2015.

Colette Hughes of Warren and Jennifer Taylor Boykins of West Bloomfield credit being able to pivot as a key to their success. Hughes is the owner, broker and coach of Virtual Real Estate Services, a full-service real estate company in Warren with clients all over the world. She started in real estate in 1988 as an office administrator and quickly moved up the ranks to become a real estate agent, making herself valuable at the two real estate offices she

A year before starting her business, Hughes joined a Toastmasters International club in Warren and attributes this to contributing to her success.

Toastmasters is a nonprofit public speaking organization that trains speakers.

“I was the shyest person in Michigan,” Hughes said. “I was great working behind the scenes, but I couldn’t go up to people and talk to them.”

See BUSINESS on page 22A herself valuable at the two real estate offices she

TOP LEFT: Colette Hughes, center, owner and broker of Virtual Real Estate Services in Warren, makes her clients a top priority in servicing all real estate needs.

Photo provided by Colette Hughes

BOTTOM LEFT: Jennifer Taylor Boykins, center, and her team at Nothing But Education, Nicole McDowell, left, and Kaylee Jackson have implemented literacy programs in school districts throughout the country.

Photo provided by Jennifer Taylor Boykins

Council approves new catalog system at Troy Public Library

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — The Troy City Council has unanimously approved a three-year contract for updated catalog software and messaging services at the Troy Public Library.

During the Oct. 6 council meeting, members also waived a bidding process. The chosen contractor is Clarivate, based in Ann Arbor.

“So, it looks like a pretty good system,” noted Mark Gunn, the mayor pro tem. “I’m very much supportive of it.”

The library currently uses a system called Polaris, also provided by Clarivate, to manage the comings and goings of all library materials.

Specifically, the library utilizes the Power PAC catalog system — a Polaris product through Innovative Interfaces, Inc., which enables patrons to search items, manage their accounts and place holds, among other functions.

In 2022, Clarivate introduced a new catalog platform called Vega Discover.

“This catalog provides an enhanced pa-

tron experience with a simple and intuitive interface and its advanced search capabilities,” explained Emily Dumas, Troy’s library director.

Vega utilizes a roll-up records interface that eliminates the need to search through multiple records for physical books, audiobooks, e-books and other media.

“Vega also creates a personalized experience for patrons by offering suggested resources based on user interests, an account portal for managing linked accounts, patron bookshelves, program registration integration, and more,” read an Oct. 6 report to council.

The software is considered an upgrade to the current model.

“There are options to integrate other services into the Vega platform, such as the programming calendar and marketing platform, at a future time,” read the report. “There is also a Vega app available for future consideration that would allow for quick and easy access to the catalog and other features.”

In addition, the library utilizes a system that provides text message notifications

and alerts to patrons about their accounts. However, this system will no longer be available in 2026, so the library is also planning to subscribe to Polaris SMS as part of the upgrade.

For these upgrades, the three-year total cost is $136,503. Contract renewal has also been authorized on an ongoing basis as needed, so long as the renewal increase does not exceed 5%.

Open

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Thanksgiving

Eleven (11) indoor professional-grade pickleball courts await competitors of all ages drawn to the fastest-growing sport in America at Bloomfield Township’s ACE Pickleball Club.

Located on Franklin Road, north of Square Lake Road, the local franchise offers unlimited open play at a reasonable price. The professional grade courts are built to spec with seven different layers. The resulting surface of play is easier on the joints.

“It’s $119 a month, but there are no other charges,” said Adam Lutz, who owns the franchise with his partner, Matthew Sosin. “You don’t pay for court time, you don’t pay for glow ball, competitions, anything.”

While groups and regular teams are welcome, it is an open play concept with a constant rotation of players, the winners stay and face another group of competitors.

“We’ll have a few select times that you can rent a court, but the vast majority of the time it is open play.”

Lutz said. “Additionally, we have a mezzanine where you can arrange parties, corporate or charity events. However, the Ace Pickleball Club model is focused on providing an opportunity for individuals to play at any time of the day. There is no bar or restaurant.”

“You meet people at your skill level and often join a group chat to find out who’s going to be there when you want to play,” Lutz said. “There’s usually 20 players at any level that individuals can join games at a convenient time for them.”

ACE Pickleball Club opened its doors on Oct. 25 and welcomes players of all skill levels. A Starter Series runs just $59 for eight sessions and is perfect for players look-

Ace Pickleball Club Serves Up Fun Without The Fuss

ing to jumpstart their game.

“These lessons quickly get you up to speed so you feel comfortable joining and becoming a member here to play against other beginners,” Lutz said.

ACE Pickleball Club has franchises in 18 states and hosts national tournaments. Those who qualify at each location participate in a Championship Series held each year in Roswell, Georgia.

This is the second Ace Pic leball Club location. Adam and Matt opened their initial location in Grand Rapids.

The partners intend on opening additional Ace Pickleball Club’s in southeast Michigan.

ACE Pickleball Club is located at 2285 Franklin Road in Bloomfield Township. For more information, call (248) 800-6770, send email to bloomfieldtownshipmi@acepickleballclub.com or go to acepickleballclub.com.

Keep the darkness at bay during gloomy winter days

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — With fall’s arrival and winter’s approach, shorter days paired with colder weather can do a number on people’s mental health.

Seasonal affective disorder is a sub-type of depression that is influenced by seasonal patterns, typically occurring in relation to the winter months. While research surrounding SAD has not been able to find a definitive cause for why it occurs, it nevertheless has been found in “millions” of people, according to Oakland University psychologist David Schwartz.

“Most of the thinking in a lot of the research seems to point to that when the days get shorter and we have less sunlight, that those affect things like the hormones in our body, as well as neurotransmitters like serotonin (and) melatonin, and that can cause changes within the brain chemistry that can affect depression,” Schwartz said. “It often can affect people who are already prone to other types of depression as well or who have other stressors going on in their life, but sometimes it can happen completely independently of that too. The one silver lining with this type of depression is that it is highly predictable, so that gives us plenty of time to prepare and know it’s coming and do a number of things that can hopefully mitigate some of its effects so that it’s not as severe.”

The effects of seasonal affective disorder can be debilitating, and one also does not need to be clinically depressed to find oneself impacted negatively by the chang-

ing of the seasons. Luckily, there are ways that have been devised to mitigate these season-induced issues that do not require medical help — though those who believe they might have seasonal affective disorder are encouraged to meet with a psychologist.

One common way of countering the seasonal darkness is to undertake light box therapy, which involves spending a prolonged amount of time around a bright light.

“(Light boxes) are actually rather inexpensive now; you can find them in the $20-$40 range,” Schwartz said. “They usually recommend 20 minutes a day or more sitting in front of that light during the winters when we’re not getting as much sunlight. Of course, anything anyone can do to get themselves outside and exposed to real sunlight is going to be helpful for that too; when we have those rare days when the sun comes out in the winter, even if it’s cold, taking a five or 10-minute walk or sitting on your balcony or porch of your apartment can do wonders.”

Redesigning spaces to take on a summer theme or feel can be a way of getting the brain into the right mood. Schwartz has worked with students where corners of dorms have been turned into little slices of summer with inflatable palm trees, light boxes and even some sand. Putting up pictures of summer scenes to remind you that the winter will eventually end helps as well.

On furthering the redecorating aspects into full interior design overhauls, Steph Morris, of interior design

See WINTER on page 21A

Light box therapy is one method of addressing seasonal affective disorder at home. Shutterstock image

LEARN HISTORY TO A ‘T’ WITH EASTPOINTE’S ANTIQUE 1921 FIRE TRUCK

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

Anyone who visits the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum in Detroit will see an important piece of Eastpointe history.

Eastpointe’s first-ever fire truck is among the many antique vehicles on display. The 1921 Ford Model T was purchased a little more than 100 years ago when Eastpointe was known as Erin Township.

A group of business owners pooled their money to buy the chemical fire truck. They were concerned about fires as the township grew and felt the horse and wagon used in town to douse flames wasn’t enough. The proprietors wanted a truck to carry more water and also allow for the pumping of water.

For the next five years, the red 1921 model will remain at the museum for public viewing. At the Aug. 19 Eastpointe City Council meeting, the council voted 4-0 to approve the automobile loan agreement between Eastpointe and the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum for five years, beginning Aug. 1, 2025, and expiring Aug. 1, 2030. Council member Rob Baker was absent.

Eastpointe Fire Chief Jason Clark said there was no exchange

ABOVE: Samantha Wilkinson, Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum operations manager left; retired Eastpointe Fire Chief Danny Hagen, center; and Eastpointe Fire Chief Jason Clark discuss Eastpointe’s 1921 Model T chemical fire truck.

ABOVE: Eastpointe’s first-ever fire truck — a 1921 Model T — had 20 horsepower and weighed 1,439 pounds. LEFT: Kim Schmidt, left, holds a photo of her husband, Donald Schmidt, a retired Eastpointe Fire Department captain, as he drives the fire truck in a Memorial Day parade.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Flow trucks

from page 3A

outreach. According to Peter Hullinger, the fire chief of Troy, the department previously used simulated houses where children could practice using a fire hose to spray water.

“This year, Lucas approached our department with the idea of building small fire trucks powered by water hoses,” Hullinger said via email. “He provided two trucks for each station — one engine and one ladder truck — both designed with guides underneath to follow a hose laid out on the ground. Assisted by a firefighter, children could then ‘race’ the trucks by spraying water on the back to propel them forward.”

Rossi has always had connections to fire stations by way of family and friends. He found out through his dad that the department was interested in making the trucks.

“So, I spoke with a few lieutenants, they explained everything that needed to be completed, and I jumped at the chance,” Rossi said via email. “It felt like the perfect opportunity to complete my Eagle Scout project that will help the stations and the community.”

The project involved experimentation

and testing, extensive planning, lining up donors and getting the necessary approvals to complete.

“It took a lot of coordination of volunteers such as fellow scouts, adults and volunteers from the Troy Fire Department to make sure everything came together correctly,” Rossi said.

Several organizations and businesses like Peerless Steel, Home Depot, Lowe’s and the Troy Fire Department provided support through donations and other efforts.

The flow trucks were featured at this year’s Troy Fire Department Open House Oct. 5.

“The trucks were a tremendous success at the Open House. The kids loved them, and they were built so well that we plan to use them for future events,” Hullinger said. “We’re very grateful for Lucas’ creativity, dedication, and generosity in giving back to his community in such a meaningful way.”

Added Rossi: “Debuting the trucks was a phenomenal feeling — a mix of joy and relief — seeing how successful they were and how well they met the department’s needs. It was really rewarding to see everything come to life.”

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

CRIME WATCH

Items stolen from vehicle

TROY — A man from Three Oaks Boulevard told police that between 10 p.m. Oct. 23 and 9:50 a.m. Oct. 24, someone damaged his vehicle by breaking the front windshield and rear window and slashing both right-side tires. Two rings and $400 in cash were stolen from within.

Drunken driver strikes vehicles

TROY — Around 9:40 p.m. Oct. 22, officers were dispatched to the Golfview Drive area for a possible drunken driver, reported to be in a 2016 Jeep Patriot that struck multiple vehicles.

Upon arrival, officers located the vehicle and noted it had heavy crash damage from hitting a parked vehicle. Officers spoke with the driver, a 53-year-old Troy man, and noted he had slurred speech and that he reeked of alcohol.

The driver was asked to perform several sobriety tests, but he reportedly performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.162%. He was arrested.

Vehicle stolen from driveway

TROY — A man from Orchard Trail told police that sometime in the early hours Oct. 20, his 2023 Chevrolet Suburban was stolen from his driveway by unknown suspects. The vehicle was unlocked with the key fob in the vehicle at the time of the theft.

Catalytic converter stolen

TROY — Sometime between 8 a.m. and 7:20 p.m. Oct. 21, an unknown person stole the catalytic converter from a woman’s 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander while the vehicle was parked at PNC Bank at 755 W. Big Beaver Road.

Fraudulent tickets

TROY — A 40-year-old woman from Lyons Street told police that around 10 a.m. Oct. 25, she contacted someone on TikTok who said they were selling Detroit Lions tickets and agreed to purchase four tickets for $250 each, sending payment via Zelle, but she never received the tickets and was blocked by the seller.

FTC scam

TROY — Around 7:30 p.m. Oct. 27, an 85-year-old man from Walker Drive reported that he was contacted by phone by someone claiming to be from the Federal Trade Commission, informing him he was under investigation for money he owed. He was directed to go to his bank and withdraw funds. After doing this, the victim

was then told to put the money in a shoebox, and that someone would pick up the box from his house. That evening, a man came to the house to pick up the box.

The victim realized it was a scam when they continued to ask for more money.

Bank fraud

TROY — A woman from Otter Drive told police that at noon Oct. 17, she received a phone call that appeared to be from Bank of America, so she answered it. The man on the line claimed to work for Bank of America’s fraud department. While speaking with him, he was somehow able to gain access to her phone. The suspect then tried to open multiple accounts in her name and attempted three fraudulent charges on her credit card.

Vehicle crashes into building

TROY — Around 5:30 p.m. Oct. 27, officers were dispatched to the Woodside Trail area for a vehicle that crashed into a building. Upon arrival, they observed a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox crashed into the west side of the residence.

Officers spoke with the driver, a 45-year-old Troy woman, and noted she had glassy eyes, was unsteady on her feet and slurring her words. She also refused medical treatment on scene.

Officers spoke with witnesses and determined that the driver first hit a trailer while making a left turn, and her vehicle then rolled down the hill into the building.

The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which she did, but she performed poorly and refused to take a breath test. She was arrested.

Drunken driver crashes vehicle

TROY — Officers were dispatched to the area of Stephenson Highway and Sylvia Street for a car crash involving injuries around 10 p.m. Oct. 26.

Upon arrival, officers observed a 2021 Lexus that had driven the wrong way through a median crossing, striking the other vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle was transported to the hospital with injuries.

Officers spoke with the driver of the Lexus, a 50-year-old man from Shelby Township, and noted his speech was slurred and he was swaying while standing. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he did, but the officers noted he performed poorly.

He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.186%. He was arrested.

If you know more about these crimes or others, call Troy Police at (248) 524-3477.

— Sarah Wright

Troy High School the Saturday afer Tanksgiving, November 29th, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Te Show features 200 booths of handcrafed items. Troy High School is located at 4777 Northfeld Parkway, south of Long Lake between Crooks and Coolidge. A $3 donation benefts local charities. Te Troy Women’s Association is an all-volunteer, non-proft. Members raise money and support 30 diferent organizations in the community that beneft young and old. General membership meeting is held on the frst Tuesday of each month, at the Community of Christ Church, 3830 Crooks Road in Troy at 7:00PM. New members are always welcome. For more information, visit our website www.Troywomensassociation.org or call 248-988-0426

HOMES

TIME TO GET THE LAWN AND GARDEN READY FOR WINTER

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@gandcnews.com

Warm autumn days will soon be followed by winter’s frigid temperatures, frost on the plants and frozen ground. With this in mind, the owner of Red Chair Gardens and a consumer horticulture educator shared tips on preparing the garden for winter.

Each day, trees are dropping leaves that can be used to enrich the soil.

“We bag and throw away our leaves, and this is a great time to just mulch them into the grass, and it provides 25% of the fertilization your yard needs throughout the year, and it’s free,” said Louise Sloan, owner of Red Chair Gardens in Bloomfield Hills and a certified master gardener.

Sloan uses a push mower and slowly goes over the leaves multiple times until they are very fine and it forms a thin layer of mulch.

Studies have shown that in addition to fertilizing the lawn, this creates a mulch barrier in the spots in between the grass, preventing future weed germination, according to Sloan.

“After three years of using this technique, they saw a 100% reduction in dandelion production,” Sloan said. “It’s not going to get rid of all your dandelion seeds, but it will reduce it by a lot.”

Some gardeners cut back their ornamental grasses this time of year, while others leave them up throughout the winter and cut them back in late February or early March. It’s the gardeners’ choice, she said.

“I do that, so I can see something in the land-

scape,” Sloan said. “I found that it is really pretty when the snow falls on them.”

This is the time to plant spring bulbs.

“Daffodils are great because the deer don’t eat them. Hyacinths, also, deer tend to leave them alone and allium bulbs,” Sloan said. “Plant them now and come spring you’ll have some beautiful flowers to welcome you into the new year.”

The bulbs should be placed a couple of inches below the soil. They will not be damaged by the cold weather if they are planted correctly, according to David Lowenstein, consumer horticulture educator at Michigan State University Extension.

If there are old vegetables in the vegetable garden, Lowenstein suggests adding them to the compost bin or to get rid of them. This is to prevent spores from germinating and infecting the plants the next season.

“You don’t want to accidentally introduce any kind of fungus that might have been on the vegetables,” Lowenstein said.

Plants, shrubs and trees that are less than two or three years old should be watered regularly until the ground freezes.

According to Lowenstein, the current climate in southeastern Michigan is in a drought even though there have been a couple of days of rain.

“Just because we’ve had a frost already doesn’t mean you don’t need to water again,” Lowenstein said. “If the ground is not frozen and it has been dry, it’s a good idea to water those trees or plants in the garden that remain alive.”

According to Lowenstein, the lack of water is the

See GARDEN on page 26A

TOP: Oakleaf hydrangea thrive and exude their brilliant colors well into November.

ABOVE: Ornamental grasses can serve as cover crops adding nutrients to the soil. Young trees and shrubs need to be watered regularly until the ground freezes.

Photos provided by the Michigan State University Extension

TOP LEFT: Instead of throwing leaves away, make a mulch which adds nutrients to the soil.

BOTTOM LEFT: Winter pruning involves cutting back deciduous trees and shrubs during their dormant period. Shutterstock images

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas on the big screen

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Whether it’s a romantic comedy or a story that brings feelings of nostalgia, most people have a favorite holiday movie they watch every year that puts them in the Christmas spirit.

Several of those classics will jingle all the way to the big screen this Christmas season through the holiday edition of MJR’s repertory program, Big Screen Rewind.

MJR theaters across metro Detroit will show a number of holiday favorites until Christmas Day, Dec. 25. All movies are $5 a ticket per person, and several theaters will have different showings each day.

“There’s something truly special about seeing these holiday classics the way they were meant to be seen — on the big screen, surrounded by family and friends,” Director of Marketing for MJR Theatres Anthony Taylor said in a prepared statement. “Whether it’s your first time or your 50th, these films bring people together and create lasting memories.”

The first movie to kick off the Big Screen Rewind was the animated 2018 release of “The Grinch” from Nov. 1-6.

On Nov. 4, Breia Willis, of Harper Woods, brought her three children Wynter, 4, Jayla, 8, and Shakor, 6, to an afternoon viewing at the MJR theater in Sterling Heights. It was somewhat of a reward for Jayla and Shakor for receiving all A’s on their report cards.

“I found out there was a newer ‘Grinch’ movie,” Willis said. “It was pretty good. We liked it.”

Jayla said the MJR theater is her “favorite place,” and her favorite character in the film was Max the dog.

“I like dogs,” she said.

Stephanie Wright, of Sterling Heights, brought her grandson Troy McDonald, 9, to the same showing of “The Grinch.” It was the first time they saw the movie.

“It was fantastic. It was very heart-touching and showed the meaning of Christmas,” Wright said. “It’s not all about the gifts but about showing love to one another. I think everyone should see it.”

McDonald, who thought the movie was “good,” said the Grinch was his favorite part of the film.

“I liked it,” he said. “It’s about showing love.”

Christmas movie fans can curl up with some popcorn at their local MJR theater with the following movies:

• “The Holiday,” Nov. 7-13.

• “Elf,” Nov. 14-20.

• “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Nov. 21-25.

of MJR’s repertory program, Big Screen Rewind, is bringing a number of Christmas movies to the big screen this holiday season.

• “Planes, Trains & Automobiles,” Nov. 26 through Dec. 4.

• “The Polar Express,” Dec. 5-11.

• The 2000 release of “How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” Dec. 12-18.

• “White Christmas,” Dec. 19-25. Showtimes and tickets for MJR Big Screen Rewind’s holiday edition are available at mjrtheatres.com or the MJR App.

Other holiday movie happenings

Cambria Detroit Hotel’s Balla Ultra Lounge is also making spirits bright with the help of Fork n’ Film, a hospitality company that is bringing holiday favorites and chef-crafted menus together. Amid twinkling decorations inside the lounge, each meal is designed to offer food and drink items timed to match the emotion with the film’s most memorable moments on the big screen.

“How The Grinch Stole Christmas” is set for Dec. 6 and Dec. 13. Fans of “Elf” can check out the film Dec. 19-20, Dec. 27 and Jan. 2-3, 2026.

Reservations are required, and tickets can be purchased online at Detroit.ForknFilm.com. Seating is limited to 40 guests per night. Dates and times are subject to change as additional shows and dates may be added. The Cambria Hotel Detroit Downtown’s Balla Ultra Lounge is located at 600 W. Lafayette Blvd., in Detroit.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

Photo by Maria Allard

Get some popcorn ready. The holiday edition

Rocking around the Christmas tree at Twinkle Town

‘PARADE

OF TREES’ AGAIN DECKS THE HALLS

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

WARREN — Talk about a “Winter Wonderland.”

On Nov. 6, Gardner White hosted its fourth annual “Twinkle Town” at its flagship store in Warren to ring in the holiday season. Gardner White resembled the North Pole as families dashed through the store for the official lighting of the atrium Christmas tree, face painting, photo booths, cookies, cocoa and more. Also making spirits bright

The popular “Parade of Trees” returned to Twinkle Town to again deck the halls. The trees — decorated by local celebrities, businesses and influencers — are lined along Candy Cane Lane and designed to benefit a charity of the celebrity’s choice.

Photo by Erin Sanchez

and Jeanne loved to read,” said Cindy Stewart, Troy’s former communications director. “She didn’t even own a TV … or if she did have one, she never watched it.”

She began her career as a telephone operator at Michigan Bell before working in education. For 33 years, she worked as a teacher and school counselor with the Clawson Public Schools.

“(Stine) told me once that, I think a principal said to her, ‘Oh, that group of boys — they’re bad boys, you know? You can’t help them.’ And to Jeanne, no child was bad. They just needed, you know, an adult who listened to them,” Stewart said. “And it turned out that those boys would pass by her house on the way to school and carry her books to school.”

Stewart said Stine was equally thoughtful as a mayor and member of council.

“It’s funny — I ran into somebody in a yoga class, we were talking about how Jeanne passed away, and she said when they early on moved to Troy … they had an issue with traffic related to where their house was on a corner. They called and they were shocked when the mayor came to their house to listen to their concerns. (Stine) said, ‘I will do everything I can to help you.’ This woman

said they were just so in awe that the mayor would come out and listen to them,” Stewart said. “And that was Jeanne — anyone who called her, she would go out to their house, listen to what their problems were, and help find a way to solve their problems.”

Beyond her work as a city official, Stine was also involved with organizations such as the Troy Community Coalition, the Boys and Girls Club of Troy, the Troy Rotary Club, the Troy Historical Society, the Troy Firefighters Women’s Auxiliary, and the Clawson/Troy Elks.

According to her obituary at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, Stine was also a founding member of Troy Youth Services in the 1970s, providing support for young people before social workers and youth assistance programs existed in the schools.

“One of her proudest accomplishments was establishing a youth bureau within the Troy Police Department,” read the obituary.

Stine has been recognized for her work on countless occasions, with accolades such as Troy’s Distinguished Citizen in 1985, as well as receiving the Michigan Municipal League’s Meritorious Service Award, and an Outstanding Public Service Award from the Clawson-Troy Elks Lodge and the U.S. Marine Corps. In 2021, a park was named in her honor: Jeanne M. Stine Community Park, located at 241 Town Center Dr.

“Bethany and I are deeply saddened by Jeanne Stine’s passing this morning,” said the city’s current mayor, Ethan Baker, in an email. “Jeanne’s accomplishments as mayor of Troy and as a long-serving councilwoman are well known and felt throughout our city. Less known is the direct impact she has had on me throughout my 10 years in (Troy’s) government.

“Over the past several years, Jeanne has been extremely supportive of my family, my campaigns, and my service to this city — giving me a boost when needed, and always a listening ear and sharp perspective,” Baker said. “She loved Troy and stayed consistent in connecting with me and this community until the very end. And I truly loved her. We feel a huge loss today, personally in our home, and throughout our city. Please join me in praying for Jeanne’s family and for appreciating Jeanne for who she was.”

In her personal life, Stine enjoyed spending time with her family and her German Shepherds, traveling and relaxing at her cottage in Cheboygan.

“One of her most treasured traditions was participating in the annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk alongside her sisters, a celebration of both the beauty of Michigan and the unbreakable bonds of family,” read the obituary.

Stine is preceded in death by her husband Jack and her daughter Sheila. She is survived by numerous siblings, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral events were held Nov. 7-8. Instead of flowers, memorial tributes are encouraged to the Jeanne M. Stine Family Park Fund at troycf. org/donate/jeanne-m-stine-family-parks-fund. One can also plant a tree in her honor.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Charities

from page 6A

expectations on every level,” Witz said in the press release. “With increased attendance, record-setting contributions to local nonprofits and the Michigan Lottery joining as our new title sponsor, 2025 marked a standout chapter in the festival’s history. These results were made possible by the collective energy of our community, from the patrons who attended, to our partners, nonprofits, volunteers and guests who continue to make this event so impactful.”

Of the contributions made during this year’s festival, $150,004.58 will support Royal Oak based-charities, bringing total donations to the city of Royal Oak to more than $1.8 million since 2010.

A few Oakland County and Royal Oak leaders spoke during the press conference Oct. 14, including Michael Fournier, Royal Oak mayor; Dave Woodward, chairman of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners; and Dave Coulter, Oakland County executive.

“It’s a little hard for some of us that are older, who remember the very first one in downtown Pontiac, to believe it’s been that long,” Coulter said. “But it’s lasted that long because of the tremendous festival that it is, not only that it has great music, great art and great food, but it brings people together in a way that really no other event does.”

Some core charities that shared donations of $99,000 included Children’s Miracle Network, Children’s Center of Wayne County, Forgotten Harvest, Metro Detroit Youth Clubs, The Rainbow Connection and more.

Proceeds from the beverage sales of $172,702.87 went to 19 participating charitable community groups including Almost Home Animal Rescue, American Legion Post 253 Frank Wendland Post, Clawson Athletic Boosters and more.

A total of $11,560 was donated by the

festival to First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak, Royal Oak First United Methodist Church and St. Mary Catholic Church for parking lots.

More than two dozen charitable organizations and community groups also received contributions totaling $92,739. Some included American Cancer Society, Make A Wish, Judson Center, Royal Oak Historical Society and more.

“The Arts, Beats and Eats is an incredible four days on Labor Day weekend. Today, to me personally, I think is one of the most exciting days. We get recognition from so many nonprofits, all the hardworking people and volunteers at these nonprofits, and to see the community give back to the community is really inspiring,” Fournier said. “We’ve (Royal Oak) been host for 13 years now, and have been incredibly proud that over 345,000 people decided to make Royal Oak their temporary home for the festival during Labor Day weekend.”

For more information on Arts, Beats and Eats, visit artsbeatseats.com.

C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Suzanna Shkreli, commissioner of the Michigan Lottery, announces the amount of money raised.

Twinkle Town

from page 17A

was the Detroit Academy of Arts & Science Choir with a performance that included “Get Ready,” “Someday at Christmas” and “Christmastime is Here.”

Someone bringing smiles to the kids’ faces was Santa Claus, who made a special appearance. With a “ho, ho, ho,” there was time for him to visit with children, who shared their gift wish lists.

“Merry Christmas. I’m wishing you all a joyous holiday season this year,” he told the crowd. “Here at Gardner White, have a wonderful time. Make sure to be good because Santa is coming very soon.”

The popular “Parade of Trees” returned to Twinkle Town to again deck the halls. The trees — decorated by local celebrities, businesses and influencers — are lined along Candy Cane Lane and designed to benefit a charity of the celebrity’s choice.

The public can vote online at gardnerwhite.com through Dec. 7 for their favorite tree. Voting can also be done in the store by clicking on the QR code located by each tree with signs that highlight details about the local celebrity. The winning participant’s charity will receive a $10,000 donation, and all the charities will receive a donation from Gardner White for their cause.

“It’s so wonderful to have everyone here tonight

See TWINKLE TOWN on page 24A

Winter

firm North + Birch Interior Design, says using fabrics such as linens and building cozy spaces around windows can go a long way in making the winter months livable.

“We use a lot of linens in our designs,” Morris said. “A lot of our designs are pretty timeless and linen is a classic textile that’s stood the test of time. It’s good in any season; it’s really cool and crisp in the summer yet still very cozy in the winter, and it also has a great hand that gets softer over time. There’s a relaxed feel about it because we expect linen to wrinkle and show some movement in it, but also, it’s still very classic and tailored all at the same time.”

Another recommendation from Morris is to incorporate houseplants and use more earthy tones for furniture and other elements when possible. In order to get more light into a space, Morris says to work in more accent lighting and use warmer-colored bulbs around a residence.

“That soft, ambient lighting (from accent lights) is extra cozy in the winter, so we keep the ceiling lights on a dimmer and then we really warm up the space through wall sconces and table lamps,” Morris said. “We use a warmer wattage often referred to as a ‘daylight’ light, especially in the table lamps.”

When Schwartz is working with someone who is known to be affected by seasonal affective disorder, he works with them to set up a variety of little things to help them get into a summer mood despite the season. Developing and listening to a playlist of summer music can help put the mind in brighter, warmer times. Patients with seasonal affective disorder may also be asked to incorporate as many summer behaviors and activities as possible into their daily habits.

“Some (behaviors) obviously they can’t do during the winter … but there’s a lot of things we do during the summer that we probably don’t realize we stop doing during the winter,” Schwartz said. “If we keep those same routines, it helps us keep in that mindset of looking toward the summer (and) is also just a reminder that spring is coming. We know that there’s a time limit to this.”

It’s the fact that seasonal affective disorder has a sort-of time limit in the arrival of spring that, in Schwartz’s eyes, makes it easier to manage than other forms of depression. The end is always in sight and — with enough therapy, redecorating, habit rewiring and work with professionals — the light at the tunnel’s end will be as warm as it is bright.

Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.

Photo by Erin Sanchez

Santa Claus greeted eventgoers at Gardner White’s Twinkle Town holiday event on Nov. 6.

Hughes credits Toastmasters for helping her to find her voice.

She was inspired to start her own business when she and a broker where she worked attended a real estate event.

“When it was time for me to be introduced at the event, I was left out,” Hughes said. “I cannot be left out when I am doing all the work. So I started my own business and could no longer be a secret agent.”

She left that real estate office and has continued to prosper even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hughes is a proponent of the power and support of women’s groups in business.

She is currently on the board of directors of the National Entrepreneurs Association and was named one of Career Masters’ 2025 Women to Watch.

“It’s a new day when it comes to women in business,” Hughes said. “Women’s groups help to empower them.”

Hughes also believes in the art of pivoting.

The holiday months are slow for real estate housing sales. As a result, she started a real estate holdings company, where she holds real estate licenses for those agents not making money from real estate currently but want to hold onto their license.

She pays all the yearly fees they would incur and negotiates sales on their behalf, sharing a portion of the commission with them.

“When I saw the help was needed, I started the holdings company,” Hughes said.

In business, Hughes said, “Women have to yell louder, fight harder and stand taller.”

Nothing But Education in West Bloomfield was created to change the lives of children and inspire them by providing strategic thought, collaborative partnerships, industry best practices and resource sharing to school districts across the country and internationally in 2019.

Founder Jennifer Taylor Boykins is a former Detroit Public Schools teacher and vice president at Scholastic, the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, according to the company’s website, where she worked for more than 20 years.

Less than a year after launching her business, the pandemic hit.

When that happened, people weren’t talking as much and when they did it wasn’t an inperson meeting but by telephone. By the time she had the opportunity to use her marketing materials, they were out of date.

“From the early point of business, I learned you have to be able to pivot,” Taylor Boykins said. “What you think may be ideal in the marketplace, the marketplace can change…. Pivot is the name of the game when you are in business for yourself.”

That prompted Taylor Boykin and her team to develop materials that would promote continuous education while students were out of school during the pandemic or on summer vacation. It includes books, worksheets and journals.

The books are designed to engage the students. The worksheets are created to promote a deeper dive into the materials they read, and the journals prompt further reflection on what the student has read.

“Things to help them really think about what they are reading and why it is important,” Taylor Boykins said. “They received it (the materials) with open arms and joy.”

This program was first implemented in some of the Los Angeles area school districts four years ago and has been implemented every summer vacation since.

It was a huge, hard-fought project, and a major triumph for Nothing But Education. Being in contact with the students in their space “is the best part of the business,” she said. “The tales are always around the lives that you change, the lives that you touch.”

That led to her nonprofit, Bravehearts, which funds scholarships for high school seniors who are aging out of the foster care system. Students from school districts across the country have received scholarships. One student studied to be a graphic artist in Japan. Some go to college, attending top-tier schools, while others have gone to trade school, including the field of cosmetology.

To date, Bravehearts has funded around 40 scholarships.

Taylor Boykins says a lot is put on women in business.

“They keep piling it up, she said. But sometimes you have to say, ‘Yes, I can do that for you but not now.’”

Taylor Boykins is also on the West Bloomfield Planning Commission and sits on the West Bloomfield Library’s Board of Directors.

Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.

Arrest

from page 3A

brief interaction before fleeing south behind the building. No injuries were reported.

“During the robbery, he was wearing a black ski-style mask, black hoodie, black and gray gloves, blue sweatpants, black tennis shoes, and was armed with a black and gray AK-47 style rifle,” read a description by the Troy Police Department.

In a separate statement Nov. 10, the Troy Police Department announced that the suspect had been identified as Joseph Louis Carter, 38, and that he had been arrested without incident.

Carter was charged with armed robbery, felon in possession of firearm, and two counts of felony firearm, second offense. He was arraigned at 52-4 District Court Nov. 10 and denied bond.

At press time, no attorney was on record for Carter.

In a statement, the Troy Police Department thanked its patrol officers, detectives, evidence technicians, Special Investigations Unit and more for their work on the case, as well as the police departments in Detroit and Ann Arbor

who helped, and various federal agencies that contributed.

“We are also grateful to our community for their continued support, which ensures that we have the tools and resources necessary to do our job effectively,” the statement read.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

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Monthly rental available March 2026.

Photo provided by the Troy Police Department

Surveillance footage of the suspect in the Oct. 30 armed robbery at the Shell gas station, 6951 Rochester Road.

Twinkle Town

from page 21A

to celebrate our fourth Twinkle Town year. Thank you for joining us,” Gardner White CEO Rachel Stewart said. “These trees and influencers are the stars of the show.”

Stewart read the names of each participant and their chosen nonprofit organization.

“You kept coming back and back and back throughout the week to make your trees beautiful,” Stewart said. “Thank you all for the amazing efforts.”

Also getting everyone in a festive mood was Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, whose charity tree will benefit Macomb County Animal Control.

“Let’s hear it, Macomb County. Let’s hear it,” Hackel said. “Let’s thank Rachel Stewart and the Gardner White family for inviting us into their home to check out their displays, but also these beautiful trees that were decorated on behalf of charities in and around this store. Make sure you vote for a tree. We hope you all have a wonderful holiday season, a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

Olu Jabari, community outreach director for Warren Mayor Lori Stone’s office, also joined in on the festivities.

“On behalf of our Mayor Lori Stone and the entire Warren community, we want to say, ‘Happy Holidays,’” he said. “Look around. Lights, families, laughter, the music. This is what the holidays (are) all about. Bringing families back together. A heartfelt thank you to Gardner White and all your staff for making this momentous occasion beautiful. You turned this place into a wonderland, and we thank you so much.”

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

This year’s “Parade of Trees” local influencers and charity partners are:

• Broadway in Detroit — Detroit Goodfellows

• Jasmine Brown, president, ACS GenNow Network — American Cancer Society

• CBS Detroit’s Terrance Friday and Shaina Humphries — Alzheimer’s Association

• Clownie, The Parade Company — The Parade Company

• Melissa Coulier, co-founder, Live Well Lead Well — Gilda’s Club Detroit

• Detroit Grand Prix — Pope Francis Center

• Matt DoRight, @mattdoright — Neighborhood Service Organization - NSO Detroit

• Faro Imaging — Lighthouse

• FOX 2 Good Day Detroit — Gleaners Community Food Bank

• Britney Frederick, Britney & Co — Bottomless Toy Chest

• Mark Hackel, Macomb County executive — Macomb County Animal Control

• Shea Hicks-Whitfield, HGTV’s Bargain Block — Empowerment Plan

• Eric Larson, CEO, Detroit Downtown Partnership

— Detroit 300 Conservancy

• LittleGuide Detroit — Children’s Foundation

• Martin Manna, president, Chaldean American Chamber — Chaldean Community Foundation

• Stephanie Masko, Thestyled.home — The Rainbow Connection

• Haneen Matt, Haneen’s Haven — ChadTough Foundation

• Sarah Michals, host of “Water Your Garden” podcast — Detroit Dog Rescue

• Bob Riney, president and CEO, Henry Ford Health — Game on Cancer

• Anastasia St. John, @anastasiamariediaries — The Salvation Army Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center

• Isaac TeSlaa, wide receiver, Detroit Lions — Be Cafe

• Anthony Tomey, CEO, Born in Detroit — Jay’s Juniors

• WDIV’s Live in the D — Lace Up Detroit

• WXYZ Detroit — Forgotten Harvest

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Reflecting on the race

“Congratulations to my council colleagues (Chamberlain) and (Hamilton), who were reelected to serve four more years on our Troy City Council,” said Troy Mayor Ethan Baker, in an email following the election. “I have worked with them both for many years and am thankful for their commitment to our city and true care for Troy and its people.

“Additional congratulations to (Bluhm), who will join us on council as the body’s newest member. Annalisa worked very hard through this campaign, and it is clear she is also dedicated and committed to a strong, safe and stable Troy. I welcome you, Annalisa!” Baker continued.

“To the four candidates who fought hard campaigns, but didn’t get elected this time, I thank you for your passion and willingness to put yourself in the arena,” he said. “I know that each of you will continue to stay actively involved and are an equally important part of our city’s future.”

Chamberlain thanked the people of Troy for granting her a second term.

“This campaign was really about listening — listening to neighbors and residents who care deeply about our city, especially during uncertain times,” she said via email. “While Troy’s bond proposal didn’t pass, it sparked important conversations about our community’s priorities in an environment of economic uncertainty. I’m committed to keeping that dialogue going — to make sure every voice is heard as we iden-

tify new, creative ways to invest in the future Troy deserves.”

Bluhm expressed her excitement at being elected for the position.

“I think the results are a reflection of the passion and real care that I have for the community and putting my values in line with my campaign, but I think the real reward was really getting to meet with neighbors along the way to hear their stories and to see their passion for Troy, and trying my best to reflect that in my priorities as well,” Bluhm said.

“I also think it says a lot to have such an impressive community that can provide seven candidates for consideration, and that is a true reflection of just how special Troy is,” she said. “So, I’m honored to have the trust of the Troy community, but I also think the race itself was very rewarding and there were a number of really strong candidates, of which it was an honor to be alongside them.”

Rahman thanked his supporters.

“While we did not win this election, I am grateful for everyone who supported our campaign and believed in our vision for Troy,” Rahman said via email. “Congratulations to the winning candidates. I wish them the very best as they serve our community. I remain committed to continuing the work of building a strong and inclusive future for our city.”

Brodzinski said the campaign was a good learning experience.

“I learned a lot about the process of getting on the ballot, campaigning, canvassing voters, advertising, and soliciting endorsements,” Brodzinski said via email. “I drove around to parts of Troy I never knew existed and met many good people along the way. I attended council meetings, studied the issues before the city, and met with city staff. All

NEW STORE HOURS

the work that went into my candidacy has made me a more informed voter, and quite frankly, a better person.

“Thank you to all my supporters, to everyone who encouraged me along the way, and to the 4,718 voters that believed I could do the job,” he continued. “My slogan has been ‘I can’t WALK, but I can RUN for City Council.’ Now I can go back to just being a retired dad who likes to play pickleball.”

After the bond

Officials were also reflecting on the failure of the bond issue.

Emily Dumas, the library director, said discussions will focus on what to do next.

“City and library staff will be evaluating how to move forward in addressing our capital needs without the proposed bond funding,” Dumas said via email.

Baker said he appreciates the input of the voters.

“As mayor, it is extremely gratifying to know the voters of Troy have spoken and will have their voices heard,” said Baker. “We are listening at City Hall! Residents have given us great insight and have demonstrated democracy in action. I am truly thankful for the thousands of Troy citizens who voted on the bond proposal. We now have a wonderful opportunity to work with our residents for the betterment of Troy.

“The capital needs still need to be addressed,” he continued. “I am looking forward to continuing this conversation with our City Council, city staff, and our residents to find the best solution for the city we all love!”

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Garden

from page 15A

reason plants and trees don’t do well the next season.

For proper pruning, identify when the plants bloom and prune after that. Pruning is cutting off parts of the plant that are not growing in the right direction. It thins out the branches that are too rooted together. Although the plant will survive if pruned too early, the blooms will not be as plentiful, Lowenstein said.

“This is a great time of year to divide your plants that have outgrown their current locations,” Lowenstein said.

If the lawn has not been reseeded yet, wait until the spring.

“The seeds need about two-three weeks for the grass seed to germinate. The lawn has to be gently watered every day. If the lawn freezes in that two-three weeks, your lawn is

not going to set well,” Lowenstein said.

Other tips include:

• Clean up the garden by removing weeds, dead blooms, leaves and vegetables.

• Don’t cover roses with the white container coverings. It can present a hot/cold differential in the environment, which is not good for the flowers, according to Sloan.

• Think about what went well in your garden this year and what you would like to replicate. Conversely, think about what didn’t go well and determine how you will change it.

• Clean and oil tools to reduce rust. Make sure they receive proper maintenance for another season.

“Once the ground freezes and there is a good snow cover, there is not much else to do,” Lowenstein said.

For gardening questions, the Michigan State University Extension gardening hotline can be contacted Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at (888) 678-3464.

Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.

CITY OF TROY

THE 2025 BOARD OF REVIEW FOR THE CITY OF TROY WILL MEET AT CITY HALL ASSESSING DEPARTMENT 500 WEST BIG BEAVER ROAD ON:

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Be advised that the City of Troy, 2025 Board of Review will be in session on the above date and time at City Hall in the Assessing Department, 500 West Big Beaver – Troy, Michigan – (248) 524-3311. The purpose of this meeting is to review qualifed errors including clerical errors and mutual mistakes of fact for the 2025 City of Troy Assessment Roll. This notice is hereby posted as required by Section 4 of the Open Meetings Act (MCLA 15.261 et seq.).

Kelly Timm

City Assessor

NOTICE: Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in this meeting should contact the City Clerk at (248) 524-3316 or by email at clerk@troymi.gov at least two working days in advance of the meeting. An attempt will be made to make reasonable accommodations.

POSTED: November 13, 2025

PUBLISHED: November 13 & 25, 2025

Published: Troy Times 11/13/2025

CITY OF TROY

PUBLIC HEARING

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

RFP #2526-13 - BPMS BP#7C & AHS BP#4C Early Electrical Pkg.

The Board of Education of The Troy School District will receive sealed Bids on or before 2:00 p.m. on November 20th, 2025 for: Troy School District – BP#7C Boulan Park MS and BP#4C Athens HS Early Electrical Equipment Package. The BOE will not consider or accept a Bid received after the Due Date, the date, and time specifed for Bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud on November 20th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at 1140 Rankin St, Troy, Michigan 48083. The public bid opening may also be attended virtually by clicking on the following Microsoft Teams Live Event: https://tinyurl.com/4v85d5fe

Sealed bids must be submitted electronically through Building Connected at https://app.buildingconnected.com/projects/690b664d1f26f8dd029d65e6/bid-packages on or before the Due Date. Alternatively, sealed bids may be submitted to Carson, Robert of the School District, at 1140 Rankin St, Troy, MI 48083. Each bid must be accompanied by: 1) A 5% bid bond or certifed check; 2) A sworn and notarized criminal background affdavit; 3) A sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the bidder and any member of the BOE or the Superintendent of School District; and 4) A sworn and notarized Iran Disclosure Statement. The BOE will not accept a bid that does not include these sworn and notarized disclosure statements. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call (248) 953-5682 or email Adam Lewis at Adam.Lewis@bartonmalow.com

0409-2546

Published: Troy Times 11/13/2025

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT ADVERTISEMENT

The Board of Education of Troy School District will receive sealed Proposals for: RFP #2526-10 SITE IMPROVEMENTS - PAVING

Sealed proposals should be submitted through Buildingconnected.com with the following link: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5cc9d7f637c1a90018cb55dc. No physical bids will be accepted in person or via delivery service. Bids are to be submitted no later than 1:30 PM Local Time TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2025. The District will not consider or accept a bid received after the date and time specifed for bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids with the following virtual meeting link: meet.google.com/cti-kuvr-ege or phone number (419) 962-6039 PIN 262 704 174#. No oral, email, telephonic, or telegraphic proposals shall be considered. Each Proposal must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the contractor and any member of the Board of Education or the Superintendent of Troy School District. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized disclosure statement.

Each Proposal must also be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement certifying that the contractor is not an Iran Linked Business. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized statement.

Troy School District’s Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Proposals, either in whole or in part, to waive any informalities or irregularities therein, or to award the contract to other than the contractor(s) submitting the best fnancial Proposal (low bidder), in its sole and absolute discretion.

Additional bid information can be found at www.troy.k12.mi.us/departments/business-services/purchasingbids

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Published: Troy Times 11/13/2025

0438-2546

A Public Hearing will be held by and before the City Council of the City of Troy at City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver, Troy, Michigan, on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit, to consider a Conditional Rezoning Request to rezone the following described property from R-1B (One Family Residential) and NN (Neighborhood Node) Zoning District to RT (One-Family Attached) Zoning District:

The subject property is located on the East side of Livernois, North of Square Lake

The area proposed to be rezoned is approximately 6.313 acres in area. The subject property parcel numbers are 88-20-03-301-088, -023, -024, -025 and 88-20-03-351-004.

Comments can be expressed at the Public Hearing, or written comments can be directed to the attention of the Planning Department, City of Troy, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan 48084, or by e-mail to planning@troymi.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. one day prior to the date of the meeting. If you have questions you may contact the Planning Department by e-mail or by phone at (248) 524-3364.

The application on fle can be viewed by contacting the Planning Department at (248) 524-3364 or by emailing planning@troymi.gov and requesting a copy.

Notices and information for public hearings will also be posted on the City website Boards and Committees page at https://troymi.gov/

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC MiPMC 3 City Clerk

PUBLISHED: November 13, 2025

POSTED: November 14, 2025

NOTICE: Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in this meeting should contact the City Clerk by e-mail at clerk@troymi.gov or by calling (248) 524-3317 at least two working days in advance of the meeting. An attempt will be made to make reasonable accommodations.

Published: Troy Times 11/13/2025

0452-2546

NOTICE

Troy Police Unclaimed Auto Auction

The following vehicles have been deemed abandoned / unclaimed by their owners. They will be offered for sale at a Public Auction on December 5, 2025 at 10:00am. The auction will be held at A & M Towing located at 2075 Austin Dr, Troy MI. Owners may redeem their vehicles until 9:00am on the day of the auction by paying all charges against the vehicle at A & M Towing. All vehicles are sold “as is” and must be removed within 24 hours. Any questions should be directed to the Troy Police Department Impound Management Team at 248-524-3469.

Please note that we are unable to answer questions regarding the condition of specifc vehicles prior to the auction and we cannot respond to such inquiries.

YEAR MAKE MODEL COLOR VIN

2014HONDAODYSSEY GRY 5FNRL5H61EB106809

2007RAM 1500 SIL1D7HU18247J586067

2007CHEVROLETSUBURBANBLK1GNFK16337J359561

2009MAZDAMZ6 BLK1YVHP82B595M01694

2006HUMMERH3 BLK5GTDN136X68250728

2004TOYOTACAMRY RED4T1BE32K54U319415

2010NISSANMAXIMA BLU1N4AA5AP0AC832308

2006TOYOTAPRIUS SILJTDBK20U067076058

2010NISSANMAXIMA BLK1N4AA5AP7AC827381

2003 TOYOTAHIGHLANDERREDJTEHF21A430107640

POSTED: November 10, 2025

PUBLISHED: November 13, 2025

Published: Troy Times 11/13/2025

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk

0445-2546

0435-2546

Fire truck

of money involved in the loan agreement, just that the museum will house and maintain the fire truck for the next five years. This is the second five-year cycle for a loan agreement.

“It’s still looking good,” Clark said. “They seem like they’re doing a good job taking care of it.”

On the late morning of Oct. 31, Clark, retired Eastpointe Fire Chief Danny Hagen, retired Fire Capt. Don Schmidt and his wife, Kim; and retired firefighter Joe Radzwion III toured Piquette with museum operations manager Samantha Wilkinson. Eastpointe Mayor Pro Tem Cardi DeMonaco Jr. and Eastpointe City Council members Harvey Curley and Baker joined them.

Eastpointe’s first-ever fire truck was used by the city’s firefighters until 1942. Although the vehicle ceased fighting fires, it remained in the city — which for decades was called East Detroit — for parades and other events over the years.

One memorable moment for Hagen came in 1981 when he and his bride, Mary, cruised in the historic truck on their wedding day. They drove from St. Jude Catholic Church, on Seven Mile Road in Detroit, to the Eastpointe Fire Station on Nine Mile Road near Gratiot Avenue, where they switched vehicles for the reception. The newlyweds drew plenty of onlookers.

“We went down Kelly Road and it started to rain. My wife was the best sport in the world,” Hagen remembered.

“The people were going bonkers when they saw the truck.”

The museum provides informational signs for all the exhibited cars. According to the Eastpointe sign, the 1921 Model T chemical fire truck had 20 horsepower and weighed 1,439 pounds.

The truck was either assembled at the Ford Highland Park Plant or a branch of the plant. The gas-powered truck drove about 25 mph and came with a two-speed transmission. It was equipped with standard pneumatic non-skid tires, and hard rubber tires were optional. Hagen said there was a siren system in town to alert when there was a fire.

“There was one hose and they used axes to open the door and open the roof to let out smoke and gases,” Hagen said, adding that axes also were utilized “for quick entry” into the home or building. Firefighters did not have all the updated equipment and safety gear available now.

“There were no masks, no (compressed) air,” Hagen said. “It wasn’t in existence at the time.”

While on the tour, a group of local students crossed paths with the firefighters, who shared their experiences with the fire truck.

“Driving it is like driving a go-kart in the wind. It’s a big open vehicle,” Radzwion III said. “It was like an icon in every Memorial Day parade. It was awesome. You felt so proud.”

“I was one of the few that drove it,” Schmidt said of those fun city events through the decades. “It brings back so many memories.”

According to its history, the Eastpointe Fire Department and the East Detroit Historical Society together restored the truck and won awards at the 2008 Detroit Autorama. In

2009, the Michigan Historical Commission presented the Michigan Week Gov. John B. Swainson award to Hagen for his “outstanding contribution to the preservation of Michigan history.”

The Halfway Model T chemical fire truck contains a plaque dedicated to the founding members of the department in 1921: Fire Chief Lorenz Rein, and firefighters Cyril Derdaele, Ray Woodcock, Frank Schustler, August Zado, Fred Rader, Jess Hamner, WM Yuckey, Gottfried Eschmann and Richard Paetsch.

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum is a Michigan historic site. Piquette was the first factory Ford Motor Co. built, and where models B, C, F, K, N, R, S and T were manufactured. Visitors can view antique cars that are from private collections or that the museum has purchased, including a 1903 Ford Model A Tonneau, a 1911 Hupmobile model 20 C, and a 1916 Studebaker.

The museum also has a replica of Henry Ford’s office, including a safe used to hide blueprints so corporate spies would not find them and a telescope for bird-watching. Ford, however, didn’t spend much time in his office, as he preferred to be on the assembly floor.

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum is located at 461 Piquette Ave. in Detroit. Free parking is available in the paved courtyard lot next to the building, and in the gravel lot directly across from the museum on Piquette Avenue. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. It is closed on holidays. For more information, go to fordpiquetteplant.org.

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Training/Education

The JATC for the Pipefitters, Steamfitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Service Local Union #636 of the United Association will be accepting applications for our Construction Apprenticeship beginning December 1st, 2025, through December 20th, 2025 ONLINE ONLY! Please visit our website at https://www.pipefitters636tc.org

- Qualifications necessary for an applicant to be considered are:

1. Must be 18 years of age or older.

2. Complete the application on our website at https://www.pipefitters636tc.org

At which time you must: a. Provide a valid driver’s license. b. Provide a H.S diploma or high school equivalency (GED) certificate or transcripts. c. There is a $100.00 testing fee that will be collected when submitting your application online. You MUST schedule a test at this time for your application to be accepted. This is a drug free Program. An individual tentatively selected for entrance into the Program after testing and interview will be required to submit to a drug test, which will include testing for marijuana. The Pipefitting Industry Training Center is located at 636 Executive Drive in Troy, MI between John R. and Dequindre north of E. 14 mile Road. PH: 248-585-0636 No resumes please. For more information please contact our web site at: https://www.pipefitters636tc.org

Home Repairs

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Professional Services

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Car on fire at drive-through

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the Taco Bell at 2290 Crooks Road on a report of a vehicle fully engulfed by fire at 1 a.m. Oct. 12.

The caller stated that she was driving her 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer on Crooks Road when she noticed fire coming from under the glovebox and out the dashboard vents. The caller, 50, of Rochester Hills, said that when she noticed the flames inside the vehicle, she immediately drove to the Taco Bell restaurant and exited the vehicle. She left the vehicle in the drive-through lane and notified staff at Taco Bell. The fire from the vehicle damaged a sign above the drive-through lane. The Rochester Hills Fire Department arrived and extinguished the fire. The cause of the fire had not yet been determined and was under investigation.

Deck fire extinguished

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 1200 block of Potomac Drive on the report of a structure fire at 5:54 a.m. Oct. 11. A neighbor saw that the deck was on fire and was not sure if the residents were in the home. Deputies arrived and observed flames coming from the back of the home. Deputies were able to contact the homeowners, a 72-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman, and evacuated them from the residence. The male owner stated he had a fire pit on the back deck that he had used until around 11 p.m. the night before. He stated he did not put the lid back on it and embers were still burning. The Rochester Hills Fire Department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. The homeowners were not injured.

School threat reported

ROCHESTER HILLS — A school liaison deputy was informed of a possible school threat at 8:37 a.m. Oct. 15. The deputy was informed that on Oct. 15, school administrators were told that the day prior, one student, 14, of Rochester Hills, had whispered to another student that he wanted to shoot up the school. A home check was conducted at the suspect’s home, and it was determined there were no firearms readily available. The school liaison officer interviewed the witness, and an investigation was ongoing. The suspect was advised not to return to school pending the outcome of the investigation.

Online fraud

MADISON HEIGHTS — An 18-year-old Madison Heights resident told police that between Sept. 20 and Oct. 3, they were deceived by an unknown subject who posed as their boyfriend online, defrauding them out of more than $1,700.

Tech support scam

MADISON HEIGHTS — An 80-year-old Madison Heights resident told police that between Oct. 1 and Oct. 2, they received a call from a suspect claiming to be tech support with Apple who convinced them their account had been hacked. The resident was instructed to purchase more than $1,200 in gift cards to remedy the situation. The transaction was a scam.

Shoes stolen from car

MADISON HEIGHTS — Between 7:10 a.m. Sept. 28 and 4 a.m. Sept. 30, an unknown suspect broke out the rear passenger window of a 2021 Dodge Charger parked in the 31000 block of Concord Drive and stole shoes from inside the vehicle. The suspect also attempted to steal the vehicle. The victim is a 45-year-old Madison Heights resident.

Driving while intoxicated

FARMINGTON — Public safety officers made a traffic stop at around 5:15 a.m. Sept. 29 on Farmington Road near Eight Mile Road, pulling over a 31-year-old female driver. She was then arrested for driving while intoxicated. This is the woman’s third offense.

The suspect stayed in jail until sober and then was released pending charges, which were to be determined by the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.

Groceries stolen

ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 10:30 and 10:40 p.m. Oct. 9, an unknown person stole groceries from the complainant’s unlocked vehicle in the 3200 block of Greenfield Road, south of 13 Mile Road.

Vending machine broken into

ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 7 p.m. Oct. 18 and 7 a.m. Oct. 19, an unknown person stole cash and sodas from a vending machine at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, 3601 W. 13 Mile Road.

Medical equipment stolen

ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that at 4:44 p.m. Oct. 22, an unknown person stole various medical supplies from Binson’s Medical Equipment & Supplies at 30475 Woodward Ave.

Man punched during argument

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately noon on Oct. 18, officers were dispatched to a restaurant in the 33700 block of Woodward, where a 29-yearold Waterford man allegedly pushed and struck a

verbal argument, and then attempted to flee.

The suspect was arrested for assault and battery. Fraudulent call claims victim has multiple misdemeanor warrants

BIRMINGHAM — On Oct. 20 at approximately 6 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 700 block of Wallace Street to take a fraud report.

The victim, a 44-year-old female resident, told officers that a few hours earlier, she had received a call from an unknown suspect claiming to be from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect informed the woman that she had multiple misdemeanor warrants for her arrest and stated that her fine could be reduced if she made a payment over the phone.

The woman was skeptical, so the suspect transferred her to another unknown individual, who confirmed her address and convinced her to provide her debit card information. After the call, the woman became uncomfortable with the situation and contacted Birmingham police. The suspect used her card to make purchases totaling approximately $1,279. The investigation was ongoing.

Pry marks found at door of home

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 5 p.m. on Oct. 20, officers were dispatched to the 700 block of Pleasant Avenue for a breaking-and-entering report.

A 72-year-old woman and her husband reported that they had left their home around 1:30 p.m. Oct. 20 and returned at 3 p.m. During that time, they suspect someone attempted to break into their residence. Officers discovered pry marks near one of the doors. They don’t believe anything was stolen. The investigation was ongoing.

License plate stolen from vehicle

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 16, the Bloomfield Township Police Department took a report of a larceny from a vehicle in the 6700 block of Telegraph Road.

The victim reported that the license plate on his 2007 Chrysler Town & Country was stolen. It is believed that the plate was stolen between 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 15. This case was turned over to the Bloomfield Township Police Investigations Unit and was under investigation.

Fake bill used to buy beer

BERKLEY — Police received a report of a counterfeit bill being used at a local gas station.

According to the report, a man came into the Marathon gas station, located at 3427 W. 12 Mile

PACKARD PROVING GROUNDS HOSTS WEDDING GARAGE SALE NOV. 16

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site will host its next wedding garage sale from 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 16. The sale will give couples the opportunity to resell décor from their special day while offering shoppers the chance to find unique wedding items at a fraction of retail cost.

WILD LIGHTS BEGINS IN NOVEMBER

bill to buy a 12 pack of Modelo beer. Computer virus scam TROY — A 76-year-old resident of Park View Drive received an email Oct. 15 alleging there was a fraudulent charge on his credit card and his Microsoft account had been compromised. He was instructed to call a phone number provided in the email and spoke with a person claiming to be a customer support representative. He was then advised to download a program onto his computer that turned out to be a virus, locking his computer and prompting him to pay for a fix.

Drugs found during retail fraud arrest TROY — Officers were dispatched to the Kohl’s store at 500 John R Road for a retail fraud in progress around 2:45 p.m. Oct. 16. Upon arrival, officers found the suspect’s vehicle backed into a parking spot near the west doors.

Loss prevention officers with the store had been monitoring the suspect as she reportedly left trying to conceal

have a concealed pistol license. He has since been arrested and charged with carrying a concealed weapon and operating without a valid license.

Couples who were married at the Packard Proving Grounds may participate at no cost. All other couples will pay a $25 fee for a selling space. These are not traditional vendors, but couples reselling items from their own celebrations — everything from table décor and signage to large mirrors, arches and floral arrangements.

“This event gives our couples more than just a way to pass along their décor,” Packard Proving Grounds Executive Director Mary Anne Demo said in a press release. “It’s also an opportunity to connect with other Packard couples and share experiences — what worked well, which vendors they used, or advice they’d offer for planning a wedding at our site.”

The sale is open to the public, with $1 admission for shoppers. For more information, visit PackardProvingGrounds. org/NovemberWeddingGarageSale.

REPRESENTATIVE INTRODUCES

UTICA/SHELBY TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 22, state Rep. Ron Robinson, R-Utica, introduced a resolution in the Michigan House of Representatives to commemorate the Detroit Red Wings on their 100th season in the National Hockey League.

“For a century, the Detroit Red Wings have been a proud part of Michigan’s identity,” Robinson said in a press release. “Their legacy of hard work, determination, and perseverance reflects the values we hold, not just in Detroit, but across every corner of our state.”

The franchise was founded in 1926 and has evolved from the Detroit Cougars to the Red Wings. The resolution highlights Red Wings

milestones like the team’s 11 Stanley Cup championships as well as more than 3,000 total wins and more than 1,000 players who have worn the winged wheel. It also honors the team’s charitable contributions through the Detroit Red Wings Foundation, which has supported youth programs and community initiatives across Michigan.

“The Red Wings represent more than just championships,” Robinson said in a press release. “They represent community, tradition, and pride in where we come from. Generations of Michiganders have grown up watching this team and wearing that Winged Wheel with pride. Their story is part of our story.”

Photos by Erin Sanchez