6A: GOLD COIN GETS DROPPED IN RED KETTLE
Troy celebrates holidays with tree lighting
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
Troy community members kicked off the holidays with their annual Christmas Tree Lighting event, which took place on Dec. 6 at the south entrance of City Hall on 500 W. Big Beaver Road.
The Christmas Tree Lighting event has been a part of Troy for many decades, though it hasn’t always utilized a real tree for the event.
“Troy has been holding a Tree Lighting
Ceremony since I have been here (1998),” Troy Community Affairs Director Cindy Stewart said in an email.
“But the ‘tree’ was not a real tree — it was a pole with lights coming down from the top to make it look like the shape of a tree on the grassy area south of City Hall.”
In 2006, a 20-foot-tall Colorado spruce tree was donated by Scott Sexton from Tom’s Landscape, and this tree continues to grow on Troy City Hall’s premises.
“We’ve got this tree over here, our beauti-
ful tree that’s been here about almost 20 years and it’s definitely served its purpose,” Troy Mayor Ethan Baker said. “We’re so excited to have it continue to grow. The Colorado spruce donated years ago by Scott at Tom’s Landscape. ... I’m sure it will be absolutely beautiful.”
During the tree lighting ceremony, the Troy High Colts Drumline, the Athens High Concert and Treble Choirs, and Baker performed for the audience before the tree officially lit up.
Troy Historic Village celebrates season with events
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
Community members can enjoy historical holiday treats, crafts and entertainment at the Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, through the different events going on during the month of December.
Troy Historic Village features 11 different historic buildings that provide visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore Troy’s history during the 1800s. Visitors may enjoy a wide array of educational programs, lectures, events and activities.
During the holiday season, volunteers from the Troy Historical Society and Troy Garden Club have partnered to deck the halls
RIGHT: Community members view the Colorado spruce tree that has been decorated for Troy’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting event at City Hall.
ABOVE: Gianna DiPerna, 9, from Troy, meets Santa.
Photos by Donna Dalziel
Troy Theatre Ensemble presents ‘White Christmas’
RIDGEDALE
PLAYERS PRESENTS ‘BABES IN TOYLAND’ MUSICAL
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
Community members may enjoy a “Babes in Toyland” musical from the junior actors of the Ridgedale Players during the 2024 holiday season.
“Babes in Toyland” is a romantic comedy show with music by Victor Herbert and book/lyrics by Glen MacDonough that features some wellknown characters and themes from the Mother Goose nursery rhymes.
The story follows the couple Mistress Mary Quite Contrary and Alan, who are trying to escape Alan’s uncle Barnaby.
Barnaby is determined to marry Mistress Mary to the point he is willing to threaten her mother, Widow Piper, with foreclosure on her house and try to get rid of Alan with the help of some ruffians he’s hired. This leads the couple to run through different parts of Mother Goose Land and Toyland to escape Barnaby’s clutches.
See TOYLAND on page 20A
and
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
Troy High School’s theater troupe, the Troy Theatre Ensemble, will be presenting their production of “White Christmas” during December.
“White Christmas” is a holiday-themed romantic comedy show that is based on the 1954 film of the same name and features the music and lyrics of Irving Berlin and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake.
The score features some classic songs like “Happy Holiday/Let Yourself Go,” “Sisters,” and “White Christmas.”
“This modern musical based on everyone’s favorite Christmas movie is a wonderful blend of nostalgic and contemporary elements, and is a great way to kick off the holiday season,” Director Marc Vickers said in a press release.
Photo provided by Marc Vickers
Cast members of the Troy Theatre Ensemble’s production of “White Christmas” are preparing for their upcoming performances at Troy High School.
See CHRISTMAS on page 12A
Photo by Erin Sanchez
From left, Taylor Wolfe,13; Beckham Shear, 11; Simran Mohan,11;
Maria Xydas,12, are part of Ridgedale Players’ upcoming production of “Babes in Toyland.”
5A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 12, 2024
Troy Public Library experiences another power outage
The Troy Public Library experienced another power outage on Dec. 7, which resulted in a temporary closure.
Previously, on Nov. 20, the library had closed until Nov. 23 due to a power outage that affected staff and public spaces within the building. The library was able to reopen with the help of generators while library staff worked with DTE Energy to figure out a permanent solution.
On Dec. 6, the Department of Public Works and an electric crew worked overnight to move the library back to the DTE power source. Despite this, the library reportedly saw another power outage issue, which forced it to close at 1 p.m. on Dec. 7.
“While they were successful in getting us back on DTE, there was a hiccup that caused issues with the HVAC and other key systems in the library, and unfortunately we had to close midday for DPW to address these problems,” Library Director Emily Dumas said in an email.
The library said it was able to reopen on Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. and continue to utilize DTE’s power source.
“They were able to quickly fix the issue, and we opened for business the next day on time,” Dumas said in an email.
For more information, visit troypl.org.
SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN
The North American Aerospace Defense Command will again track Santa Claus on Christmas Eve Dec. 24. The program, based at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, is in its 69th year.
NORAD monitors and defends North American airspace 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. On Dec. 24, NORAD takes on an additional mission of tracking Santa Claus as he makes his way across the globe.
The NORAD Tracks Santa website, noradsanta. org, launched Dec. 1. It features Santa’s North Pole Village, a holiday countdown, games, a movie theater, holiday music, a web store and more.
The website is available in nine languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Chinese and Korean. Children awaiting Santa can count the days on mobile devices with the official NORAD Tracks Santa app, via social media and on Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM and OnStar.
Health Division offers virtual Vape 101, prescription medication disposal programs
The public is invited to participate in two free substance use disorder prevention programs offered virtually by the Oakland County Health Division this month.
Vape 101 — a free educational training about the real dangers of vaping — will be held at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 17, via Microsoft Teams online.
Learn more about how e-cigarettes operate and identify commonly used products; the health consequences, safety and other concerns; why youth are using these products; and vaping prevention resources. Parents; community members and organizations; and middle, high school and college students can take the training.
In addition, Oakland County Health Division health educators will share how to dispose of medications safely and properly during a “Dispose of Unused & Expired Medications — Education and Technical Support” program at noon Dec. 19 via Microsoft Teams online.
Learn which local stores in Oakland County accept medications and provide safe medication disposal kiosks. The class is open to adults.
To register for either program, contact Nadli Arabo at arabon@ oakgov.com or Melanie Stone at stonem@oakgov.com.
City of Troy receives clean audit opinion
The city of Troy received an unmodified opinion for the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, which was conducted by Yeo & Yeo.
“This opinion is the highest level of assurance given and means the City continues to meet its responsibility for sound financial management,” a press release from the City of Troy said.
Yeo & Yeo is a Michigan-based advisory firm with an audit and assurance division.
Highlights of the audit include:
• Total governmental fund revenues exceeded expenditures in 2024 by $5.4 million.
• An increase in capital funds expenditures, which allowed for park development and major and local street improvements.
• An overall increase in the city’s unassigned fund balance, which allows for healthy savings in case of an emergency and the added ability to make long-term strategic financial decisions. The current Unassigned Fund Balance for the city of Troy is 42.1% of General Fund expenditures, which is above the recommended standard of 20%-30%.
“The City had a very strong financial year,” Troy Chief Financial Officer Rob Maleszyk said in a press release.
Maleszyk said property taxes increased by 7.55% from the prior year, and he said interest income was $4.5 million “because the City took advantage of higher interest rate opportunities, and expenditures were curtailed by strict financial controls including strong purchasing practices and budget monitoring.”
With this in mind, the city said it will continue to monitor its tax base, investment practices, grant funding allocations and overall financial strategy. Current financial practices, along with further consideration of the community’s future, have allowed the city to take a deeper look at long-term capital needs, city officials said.
For more information, visit troymi.gov.
Shutterstock image
Gold coin gets dropped in red kettle one last time
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Lots of coins get dropped in the Salvation Army’s red kettles, but for 12 years one donation has stood out. On Dec. 2, a mysterious deep-pocketed donor dropped off a final gold Krugerrand coin at a Kroger in St. Clair Shores.
This year’s coin came with a note: “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night! I am sorry to say — this is my last (Krugerrand). Hoping there are others who have (Krugerrands) that can help keep up this tradition in the future to help so many in need during the holidays. God Bless!”
The donor’s identity has been kept secret throughout the years. The coin has been dropped at the Kroger near the intersection of Marter Road and Jefferson Avenue each year. According to Monex last week, the value of the coin is $2,642. Last year’s coin was valued at $2,031 when it was donated.
“(It was) very generous that someone was able to do that every year,” said Salvation Army Maj. Charlotte Hall, who oversees the organization’s Great Lakes Division.
When a coin is received by the organization, it is cashed in, and funds are distributed back to the unit that received the coin, according to Hall.
Hall said she has been stationed at Salvation Army locations throughout the country during her career and has seen gold Krugerrands donated.
“It’s amazing,” Hall said. “I was in Aurora, Illinois, and we had one donated while I was there.”
The donation came a day before Giving Tuesday, when all statewide donations to the Salvation Army Great Lakes Division, up to $25,000, were doubled. This match also comes from an anonymous donor, according to a press release.
The Krugerrand started being produced in South Africa in 1967. It’s named after Paul Kruger, who was the president of the South African Republic from 1883 to 1900.
article states that $600 million worth of Krugerrands were marketed in the United States in 1984. A Seattle Times article states that the ban on importing the coins into the U.S. was lifted in 1991.
How are people giving?
This year, the Salvation Army is pushing its “Tap to Give” option. This allows donations to be made with a cash app, credit card and debit card at locations throughout metro Detroit. When giving, donors will be prompted with different amounts they can contribute.
“You can use your phone or any of your chipped cards,” Hall said.
Donations are down nationwide 40%, according to Hall, though she said the Detroit area holds its own in comparison to the rest of the country.
According to a Los Angeles Times article, President Ronald Reagan banned imports of the currency in 1985 following pressure from Democrats to crack down on South Africa’s apartheid government. The
“Detroiters are known for supporting the Army,” Hall said. “They always come through for us and we really appreciate that.”
Galina Roehl, who does public relations
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
From left, Warren Woods Christian School students Fisher McLeigh, 12, and Leo Duncan, 9, volunteer as bell ringers for the Salvation Army. The pair are joined by Leo’s mom, Suzi, to get donations at the Kroger near the intersection of 13 Mile and Schoenherr roads.
Pearl Harbor artifacts link back to day of infamy 83 years ago
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The belongings, material and personal, of Michiganders who were at Pearl Harbor on and around that infamous day continue to make their way home.
RELATED:
stateside. He was done, his hitch was over, and he reached California and he said, ‘You know what? I’m going back in.’”
The unnamed Arizona sailor joined over 300,000 Americans who showed up to recruitment offices on Dec. 8, 1941. Lind says about 30,000 people volunteered at the Detroit office.
Detroit sailor killed at Pearl Harbor laid to rest, 8A
John Lind, director of the Detroit Arsenal of Democracy Museum, has been able to secure several items from the USS Oklahoma and USS Arizona: a prayer book from either ship and four envelopes from the Arizona postdated Dec. 7, 1941.
The Arizona items come from the estate of a Michigan man, who Lind did not name, who was on his way out of the Navy on Dec. 6.
“This person went to the mail section on the ship and got these envelopes in advance,” Lind said. “The story is this gentleman here was transferred on Dec. 6, the Saturday before, because they conducted no business on Sunday. … He was going back
The Oklahoma prayer book, which is in a more fragile state than the Arizona book, was acquired from a separate sailor who reached out to Lind.
“He was on (the USS) Oklahoma,” Lind said. “He came back to the United States, was retrained and then he got on other ships throughout the war.”
Prayer books were commonly taken from ships while the envelopes were postdated sometime before Dec. 7.
The attack on Pearl Harbor is as much a story of what was not lost as it is about what was. While the battleships USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma and USS Utah were scrapped and the aircraft carriers assigned to the base were saved by virtue of being out of port, the lightly attacked support facilities — dry docks, maintenance shops and oil
See ARTIFACTS on page 21A
Detroit sailor killed at Pearl Harbor laid to rest
John Cuthbert Auld’s remains identified through DNA
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
DETROIT — While growing up, Richard Auld remembers his grandmother, Lillian, and his dad, Edwin, sharing memories about a family member named Jack.
But he wasn’t sure who Jack was, until one day he realized the stories were about his uncle, John Cuthbert Auld, who was nicknamed Jack. The U.S. Navy man, who grew up in Detroit, was killed during the bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.
This year marks the 83rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, which killed approximately 2,400 American service members and civilians.
In time, Auld learned more about his uncle, a 23-yearold seaman 2nd class who was aboard the USS Oklahoma when naval and air forces of the Japanese empire attacked the American base on Hawaii’s island of Oahu. On the follow-
See SAILOR on page 11A
Photos provided by Public Affairs Office, Navy Personnel Command
LEFT: While serving in the U.S. Navy, John Cuthbert Auld, of Detroit, was killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. At press time, he was expected to be laid to rest on Dec. 6 with full military honors at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sailors aboard the USS Oklahoma pose for a group photo.
Sailor
ing day, Dec. 8, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt addressed Congress and asked for a declaration of war with Japan, which drove the United States into World War II.
“They rescued several sailors that day after the attack,” Auld said. “Everyone else was presumed dead. They didn’t have much hope. They always told me he died on the Oklahoma.”
While the family knew John didn’t survive, his remains were only officially identified after Auld provided a DNA sample in 2017. At press time, John was set to be laid to rest at 10 a.m. Dec. 6 with full military
honors at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Auld, who resides in Albuquerque, said the cemetery was chosen because that is where Lillian and Edwin are buried.
“It will be an honor to have him with his mom and his brother,” Auld said.
Family members and friends were expected to attend the burial. John also was expected to receive military honors at the airport when his remains arrived.
For his service, John was awarded the following medals and decorations: Purple Heart medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal with fleet clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with bronze star, World War II Victory Medal, and American Campaign Medal.
Photo provided by Public Affairs Office, Navy Personnel Command
The USS Oklahoma was commissioned in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 2, 1916. The ship’s history includes sailing in August 1918 with her sister ship, the USS Nevada, to protect and escort allied convoys in European waters during World War I. In December 1918, the vessel escorted then-President Woodrow Wilson to France to negotiate the Treaty of Versailles. In June 1919, it returned to France to escort the president home.
from page 8A
SAILOR on page 15A
The show follows Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who have both served in World War II and are currently well-known as musical producers and a performing duo. The two meet the singing sisters, Betty and Judy Haynes, and both later develop romantic feelings for each of the sisters.
The four find themselves at a struggling inn in Vermont, which happens to be owned by Maj. Gen. Thomas F. Waverly, whom Bob and Phil served under during the war. To help the general with his business’s money problems, the couples decide to put on a holiday show at the inn.
Troy Theatre Ensemble’s production features a cast, crew, and band of more than 80 students. The music and different show elements have given the “White Christmas” cast and crew some challenges as they’ve rehearsed.
“The tap and ballroom is something more challenging and we provide students with as much experience as they need,” Vickers said.
The show features the talents of junior Omar Atasi as Bob Wallace, senior Rishi Rao as Phil Davis, sophomore Quin VanA-
mberg as Betty, sophomore Kate Brokenshire as Judy, and sophomore James Christiani as Maj. Gen. Thomas F. Waverly, among many other talented Troy High School students.
This is Atasi’s third show with TTE, and he hopes to play different roles in the future and gain more experience.
“There’s been a lot of time spent on perfecting the show with extra music and dance practice,” Atasi said.
VanAmberg has done around 19 shows from multiple theater ensembles, and “White Christmas” is her third show with TTE.
“I’m honestly ecstatic,” VanAmberg said. “I was so nervous and I cried when I saw my name on the cast list. I think I learned last spring that we were doing this show and started preparing in early August.”
For Rao, this is his fourth show with TTE and his first leading role. He is interested in further exploring dancing and singing as a hobby.
“It felt great like this part is a danceheavy role,” Rao said. “I have experience with Indian dance and this has been a little bit of an adjustment.”
Vickers has been with the ensemble for five years and chose to do “White Christmas” after the vocal director suggested it. While there have also been some concerns about scheduling the show around other school
events that are planned during the holiday season, Vickers and the ensemble team have worked to make sure this event is ready for their upcoming show dates.
“We knew it would be a challenge because there are a lot of concerts in the auditorium,” Vickers said. “We’re figuring it out. This show is a lot of people’s favorite.”
Performances are Dec. 6, 7, 13, and 14 at 7 p.m., and Dec. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. Tick-
ets for adults are $20, senior citizens age 60 and over are $15, and students K-12 are $15.
General admission is sold at the box office 30 minutes prior to showtime. All seats are reserved and sold online at troytheatreensemble.seatyourself.biz
For more information, visit ttensemble. weebly.com
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
Photo provided by Marc Vickers
The Troy Theatre Ensemble performs the finale of “White Christmas” for their upcoming performances at Troy High School.
Tree lighting
Also during this event, attendees could enjoy hot cocoa and Timbits from Tim Hortons Troy — sponsored by Troy Auto Care/Troy Auto & Truck Center — and visit with Santa under a tent on the north side of City Hall.
“Families always look forward to the annual Christmas Tree Lighting,” Baker said in a press release. “I hope that everyone will come out and enjoy the festivities.”
Additionally, guests could make their way over to the rink at Jeanne M Stine Community Park for ice skating.
The new skating rink and pavilion at the park, located at the southeast corner of Town Center Drive and Civic Center Drive, officially opened in June 2024. The rink’s size is 8,500 square feet, and it provides opportunities for roller skating and ice skating.
The rink’s ice skating season began on Dec. 6 and 7, with evening hours open for skating during community events like the Christmas Tree Lighting and the Polar Party. After these events, the rink’s normal operating hours were implemented on Dec. 8.
“Starting on Sunday, it will be the regular hours,” Baker said. “Lots of ice skating opportunities here in the city of Troy over the next couple of months.”
The operation hours include:
• Monday-Thursday: 12-8 p.m.
• Friday: 12-9 p.m.
• Saturday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Sunday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
From Dec. 24 to 31, rink hours will be 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. It will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Skaters may bring their own skates or rent ice skates on the property. Rental costs are $3 for residents and $5 for nonresidents, though children under the age of 3 are free.
Adults and teens around the ages of 16 and up must show photo ID, and children ages 13-15 must show school ID if not accompanied by an adult. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information, visit rec.troymi.gov. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
Young and old community members enjoy the light displays outside of Troy City Hall during Troy’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting event.
Photo by Donna Dalziel
Sailor
from page 11A
‘It’s definitely a huge loss’
John was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, on June 15, 1918. The family moved to the U.S. and settled in Detroit. On Nov. 6, 1940, John enlisted in the Navy and underwent basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes, in Illinois.
John’s seaman duties included painting, cleaning and polishing the vessel’s brightwork, equipment repair, storing and securing items, and assisting with cargo. The young man also stood watches as a lookout, telephone talker and messenger, and he was a member of a gun crew.
Richard Auld’s dad, Edwin, four years younger than John, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1942-46.
“They were normal kids in a good family. It’s definitely a huge loss. I never got to meet him,” said Auld, who was born in 1960. “Every Dec. 7, we talked about him. I feel like I know him now after the Navy’s recovery efforts.”
Auld’s dad moved the family, including wife, Esther, to New Mexico to work in the grocery business. Auld has some photos of his uncle and has been told there is a family resemblance.
A few years ago, Auld and his wife Karen traveled to Honolulu, Hawaii for a ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific to pay tribute to the 33 unaccounted for sailors from the USS Oklahoma buried with full military honors.
“Very emotional,” Auld said. “It was very moving.”
According to the Navy, since the ceremony, one more sailor, radioman 3rd class Frank Hoag Jr., has been identified.
Project Oklahoma
On Dec. 2, the Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office issued a press release that included information about Project Oklahoma, a disinterment and identification project through the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.
During Project Oklahoma, the Navy’s POW/MIA Office contacted family members to ask for their participation in the Family Reference Sample Program. That is where surviving family members of a veteran killed on duty offer DNA samples that are used to determine if there is a match.
That is exactly what Auld did to confirm his uncle’s remains.
Through the process, 356 of the 388 service members from the USS Oklahoma
See SAILOR on page 18A
CRIME WATCH
Suspect extorts victim for money with explicit Instagram messages
On Nov. 27, a victim from Troy reported that he was messaging with someone on Instagram when they began to send explicit photos.
The victim sent photos back and after sending the pictures, the person he was messaging began demanding money or they would post the photos online. The victim sent an initial payment of $500 via Zelle, however, after sending the payment, the suspect demanded an additional $400.
The victim did not make the second payment and contacted police.
Donation box stolen from Tim Hortons
On Nov. 23 at 8:47 p.m., the manager of Tim Hortons at 507 E. Big Beaver Road reported that an unknown person entered
the business while it was closed and stole a donation box containing money from the front counter.
Victim reports stolen package containing iPhone
Between 2:48 p.m. and 3:03 p.m. on Nov. 27, a victim from Somerton Drive reported that he received notification that the new iPhone he ordered had been delivered by FedEx.
He went outside to retrieve the package a few minutes later and discovered that the iPhone package was gone and had been replaced with an empty box.
Multiple items stolen from residential home
Victims from Forest View Drive reported that an unknown suspect forced entry to the home by prying open a locked window at the back of the house on Nov. 27 at 2:41 p.m.
The suspect then ransacked the master bedroom, stealing jewelry, cash, high-end purses and personal documents.
Intoxicated driver apprehended in gas station parking lot
On Nov. 30 at 3:25 a.m., officers made contact with the driver of a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of the closed Shell gas station around East Maple Road and Stephenson Highway.
Upon speaking with the driver, a 30-year-old woman from Center Line, officers noted that her speech was slurred and that there was an odor of alcohol coming from her person. Officers also observed multiple empty bottles of vodka — and one open bottle — in her vehicle, police said.
The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, to which she did, but the officers noted she performed poorly. She submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.200% blood alcohol content, police said.
She was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department’s lockup facility, where she agreed to submit to a chemical breath test with results of 0.178% and 0.168% blood alcohol content, police said. The case was forwarded to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants.
Inebriated driver hits a pole
Officers were dispatched to the Rochester Road and East Square Lake Road area at 3:56 a.m. Nov. 30 after a witness reported that a vehicle crashed into a pole and was on fire.
Upon arrival, officers observed a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek on fire and a power pole split in half due to the vehicle striking it. The driver of the vehicle, a 19-year-old man from Troy, was out of his car.
While speaking with the driver, officers noted an odor of alcohol coming from his person. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, to which he did, but the officers noted he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.194% blood alcohol content, police said.
The driver was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department’s lockup facility, where he agreed to submit to a chemical breath test with results of 0.241% and 0.234%, police said. The report said he was issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol level of 0.17% or more.
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Detroit Auto Show to feature ‘Racing Day’ Jan. 17
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
DETROIT — The Motor City has added a thrilling experience to the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.
The Detroit Auto Show, slated to be open to the public Jan. 11-20 at Huntington Place in Detroit, and the Detroit Grand Prix have worked in collaboration to provide auto show attendees with the return of Racing Day on Jan. 17.
The two brands that pride themselves on embodying the automotive culture of Detroit will offer an array of interactive experiences for attendees, providing two Detroit Grand Prix interactive display areas
on the concourse area at Huntington Place, which is free and open to the public, and the floor of the Detroit Auto Show. The floor display area will be located “trackside.”
A brand-new feature to the show will be the addition of two indoor tracks. One track will feature signature characteristics of the Detroit Grand Prix that is set to gear up for May 30-June 1.
The track will be accessible throughout the entirety of the Detroit Auto Show, but Jan. 17 will be dedicated to the Racing Day festivities where the Detroit Auto Show said in a press release that attendees will have the opportunity to “witness the intersection of automotive innovation and competitive motorsports.”
“The Detroit Grand Prix embodies innovation and the spirit of Detroit,” Sam Klemet, co-executive director of the Detroit Auto Show, said in a press release. “We are thrilled to have a partnership with the Detroit Grand Prix and bring this amazing experience of Racing Day to the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.”
Attendees will also have the opportunity to interact with some of the Detroit Grand Prix’s very own racers from NTT IndyCar Series and Indy NXT by Firestone. Two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden is slated to make an appearance. Several cars will also be on display as well.
“We’re excited to partner with the Detroit Auto Show and bring together two
great Detroit traditions,” Michael Montri, president of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear, said in a press release. “For many years, Racing Day was a popular attraction at the Detroit Auto Show and we look forward to bringing this tradition back to the Motor City with some of the highpowered stars and cool race cars that take center stage every summer at the Detroit Grand Prix.”
The Detroit Auto Show will make additional announcements about Racing Day as the show nears.
For more information, visit www. detroitautoshow.com.
Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.
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Sailor
from page 15A
who were originally unaccounted for have now been identified, according to Capt. Jeff Draude, director, Navy Casualty Office.
Scientists with the DPAA, in Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii and Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska, are responsible for identifying unaccounted for service members by matching the DNA reference samples from surviving family members. Other documents, including available medical and dental records, are also used.
The Navy Casualty Office’s policy for notification is to work directly with the primary next of kin with matters involving their loved one’s remains. Once the DPAA makes a positive identification, the Navy’s Casualty Office conducts an official notification to the next of kin.
Once the identification brief has concluded, the family can decide to have the remains interred in a local national or state cemetery, a private cemetery, reinterred in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii, or Arlington National Cemetery. Families may also choose to have the remains cremated and retained with the family.
“When briefing families, we often hear things like, ‘My family did not believe he was dead,’ or, ‘He probably was not on board the ship,’ or, ‘Maybe one day he would walk through the door,’” Draude said. “Being able to recover and identify the remains of these sailors aids in the closure to these families.
“It is especially important to the Navy to honor our sailors and Marines who paid the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives for our country,” Draude said. “Often the notification and identification briefing can be emotional, overwhelming and relieving for the families. Most families we speak with cannot believe their loved one has actually been recovered and/ or identified after so many years.”
The Navy covers all primary mortuary expenses: preparation of the remains, casket of choice, all transportation of remains from the lab to final resting place, and family travel and lodging for up to three family members.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
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MINI FAIRY BERRY
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
19A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 12, 2024
DEC. 13
Meet actors from ‘A Christmas Story’: Q&A with Zack Ward (Scut Farkus) and Yano Anaya (Grover Dill) at 8 p.m. and screening at 8:30 p.m., also VIP meet-andgreet with photo opportunities and autographs from 4-7:30 p.m., Emagine Rochester Hills, 200 Barclay Circle in Rochester Hills, emagine-entertainment.com
DEC. 13-14
Victorian Christmas: See reenactors play games, decorate, exchange gifts and more circa 1850s-60s, also carols, crafts, hot cider and cocoa, and shopping in general store, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 13, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Dec. 14, Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/ victorian-christmas
DEC. 13-15
‘Babes in Toyland - The Musical’: Performance by Junior Actors of Ridgedale, 7 p.m. Dec. 13, 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14, and 3 p.m. Dec. 15, Ridgedale Players, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, ridgedaleplayers.com
DEC. 14-15
Italian Holiday Market: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Cucina Lab Torino and Vino Lab, 3960 Crooks Road in Troy, cucina-lab.com, vino-lab.com
Holiday Art & Cookie Sale: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 14 and
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 15, Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 4230 Livernois Road in Troy, www. beaconcongregation.org
DEC. 15
Breakfast with the Victorians: Join reenactors for dishes, chats and entertainment circa 1850s-60s, also explore Victorian Christmas Village, 10-11:30 a.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, registration required, troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/ breakfast-with-the-victorians
DEC. 18
Powerful Tools for Caregivers: Virtual workshop hosted by AgeWays, learn to communicate with family and healthcare providers, reduce stress, guilt, anger and depression, and make difficult decisions, 6-7:30 p.m., free but donations accepted, ageways.org, tinyurl.com/agewaysworkshops
DEC. 19
Thursday Teas: Monthly history talks, teas and sweet treats, last event of 2024 is “Talking Shop: From General Stores to Five and Dimes,” 2 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, troyhistoricvillage.org/ programs/teas-at-two
DEC. 23
Blood drive: 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Corewell Health Beau-
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.
mont Troy Hospital, 44201 Dequindre Road, donate. michigan.versiti.org
ONGOING
Santa photos: 10 a.m.-7:55 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-5:55 p.m. Sundays until Dec. 23, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road in Troy, www. thesomersetcollection.com
Blood drives: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 19, 23 and 26, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, (313) 3009617 or (248) 524-1147, redcrossblood.org
Heritage Concert Band of Troy: Practices for adult concert band musicians, 7 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, group also performs throughout year, troyheritageband@gmail.com
Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only, 10
a.m. every first and third Thursday of month, Lukich Family Restaurant, 3900 Rochester Road in Troy, RSVP to Ed at (586) 909-1444
• Lunches1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Louise at (248) 338-6743
Monthly book clubs: Find meetups for romance, mystery, learning English, kids/beginners and more, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, troypl.org
Top of Troy Toastmasters: Noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 872-6603
Troy Newcomers: Social group for women, activities include service projects, bowling, euchre, wine tasting, book club, games nights, golf, scrapbooking and more, meets at various times and locations, clubactivities@ troynewcomers.com, troynewcomers.com
Live entertainment: Upcoming shows include Motown tribute/Christmas Show featuring The Prolifics (Dec. 13), Christmas with The King - The Ultimate Elvis Tribute (Dec. 14), Aaron Caruso - Christmas Crooner (Dec. 15) and Journey Tribute featuring Captured Detroit (Dec. 20), The Roxy, 401 Walton Blvd. in Rochester Hills, (248) 453-5285, theroxyrochester.com/events
Toyland
This production’s show director, Peggy Miller-Zelinko, has been with the Ridgedale Players for 25 years and has likely been involved with over 60 shows.
“It’s a very old story that was resurrected as a play,” Miller-Zelinko said. “The kids really liked it. We have 35 kids and started rehearsing in October. The kids are also learning lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, and hair and the parents are involved.”
The show features the talents of the different youth performers. Many of these young actors have been involved in other shows inside and outside of the Ridgedale Players, though some actors have not been in a show before.
Maria Xydas is playing Mistress Mary in this production and has been involved in other productions like “Willy Wonka” and “Honk! Jr.” and is planning to audition for the Ridgedale Players’ production of “The Little Mermaid Jr.” later in the season.
“This is my first time working with Peggy,” Xydas said. “I haven’t played a character with this personality and I like that. A lot of my family is coming to see it.”
For Simran Mohan, who plays Widow Piper, this is her first show.
“I like singing, pretending, acting, and dressing up at home,” Mohan said. “In the show I play the mother of 14 children who’s trying to protect kids from Barnaby and trying to pay the mortgage.”
Max Steiger plays Barnaby and has done four shows with Ridgedale and a few shows with Stagecrafters in Royal Oak.
“I decided I should go out for a bigger role and this was a really good spot to get a role,” Steiger said. “It’s fun to play a cartoonishly evil (character), someone who is not who I am and lets me think.”
Carter Phillips, who plays Alan, has been involved with five shows with the Ridgedale Players.
“Alan knows he’s cool,” Phillips said. “He’s a determined person who’s kind and a little dumb.”
“Babes in Toyland” will be playing at 205 W. Long Lake Road from Dec. 13 to 15. Showtimes will be going on at 7 p.m. on Friday, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Audience members may also expect ice cream to be served during intermission and a visit with Santa Claus during the show dates.
For more information on show dates and tickets, visit ridgedaleplayers.com
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Some of Ridgedale Players’ young actors rehearse for their upcoming performances of “Babes in Toyland” on Dec. 13, 14 and 15.
Artifacts
from page 7A
yards — allowed for the other damaged ships to be repaired and returned to service. Lind says that Michiganders were sought out to repair and retrofit the fleet.
“The Navy came to Detroit and took as many skilled trades (as possible) to go to Pearl Harbor to get Pearl Harbor back in shape,” Lind said. “If the Japanese would have concentrated on the rebuilding centers, the fuel farms, the maintenance shops, Pearl Harbor would have come back but it would have been years later. Instead, within six
weeks basically, all the dry docks and maintenance shops at Pearl Harbor were back online.”
It is hard to determine how many Pearl Harbor veterans are still alive for the 83rd anniversary, though the number is certainly not many. Anyone serving in the U.S. military at the time would be a centenarian by now.
An Associated Press article about the 2023 commemoration mentions five survivors were in attendance with a sixth unable to make it due to health concerns. The Los Angeles Times reported nine Pearl Harbor survivors attended a ceremony at the Na-
tional World War II Museum in New Orleans in January 2023. Lou Conter, the last surviving sailor from the USS Arizona, died in April 2024 at 102 years old.
According to NBC’s KNHL local news in Hawaii, at least one survivor was expected to attend this year’s commemoration of the 83rd anniversary of the attack at 104 years old.
The National World War II Museum in New Orleans says that of the 16.4 million Americans who served during World War II, around 66,140 were alive as of 2024. Of that number, 2,520 were Michiganders.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
An envelope from the USS Arizona postdated for Dec. 7, 1941, leans against prayer books from the Arizona and USS Oklahoma.
of the Troy Historic Village with fresh greenery, Christmas trees and twinkling lights. The “Hanging of the Greens” has been a tradition for the Troy Garden Club since 1976.
“Member volunteers (19 this year) gather rain, snow or sun to decorate the tree, drape the roping and hang the wreaths and swags,” Co-chair of the Hanging of the Greens Committee Cindi O’Neil said in an email.
“The actual ‘Hanging of the Greens’ takes about 2-3 hours. My guess is that the planning, making of the bows, purchasing and gathering of the greens and other supplies, and the embellishment of the wreaths and swags takes another 15-20 hours (the exact number of hours is difficult to determine as several members are involved and some of the tasks are performed individually).”
The fresh green roping and wreaths have been purchased locally from Telly’s Greenhouse and Garden Center and Kroger for the past three years. Some of the greenery pieces were also made from trees on a member’s family farm. The Christmas tree was donated to the Troy Historic Village, and the ornaments have been donated by the Troy Garden Club’s members.
“The decorations highlight a decorated tree in the gazebo, fresh green roping on the gazebo, Chapel, General Store, and Niles Barnard House,” O’Neil said in an email.
“All the buildings are decorated with a wreath or swag. Members also design and assemble the planters located at the Chapel and the Main Office. ... Members embellish the purchased wreaths and member made swags with pine cones, holly berries, holly leaves and member made bows.”
In terms of the Village’s holiday events, Cocoa & Crafts with Santa was held on Dec. 7 and 8. Families could meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy making simple crafts, playing holiday games, and warming up with hot cocoa courtesy of Troy Garden Club. The event was sponsored by Genisys Credit Union.
Another event that guests can enjoy is
Sarah Wright| (586) 498-1068 | swright@candgnews.com
Victorian Christmas. It will be open to visitors of all ages on Dec. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Reenactors from the living history group Bonnets and Crooked Hats will move into the Village for one weekend, living inside the historic homes as people would have done in the 1850s and 1860s. They will prepare meals, read and sew by candlelight, play games, decorate, and prepare for Christmas as many Americans did during the Victorian era. Guests are encouraged to chat with these reenactors to learn more about Christmas celebrations and life in the mid-19th century.
“Reenactors will be doing everything from decorating and wrapping gifts to playing games and singing carols,” Troy Historic Village Youth Programs Director and reenactor Alex Konieczny said in a press release.
“We’re even planning on reading ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas.’ The Victorian is a really cool era to talk about Christmas, because so many ‘classic’ Christmas traditions and decorations are from this era. We will be portraying 1865, the first Christmas after the Civil War has ended, so there’s another cool layer to this event.”
The theme of this year’s Victorian Christmas is “The Arts at Christmas,” and reenactors will be sharing their knowledge of literature, music, Currier and Ives, and other arts from the Victorian holiday season. Friday night will feature live music in the form of period-appropriate songs in the Village’s church, and families will also be able to make a pinprick card craft.
Stocking stuffers will be available for purchase in the Village’s general store, and hot drinks will be served. Small tour groups run every 15 minutes during the event.
Tickets are $10 for Troy Historical Society Members or $12 for nonmembers and can be purchased in advance online at TroyHistoricVillage.org or by calling (248) 524-3570. Tickets will also be sold at the door.
For more information, visit TroyHistoricVillage.org
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
(586) 498-1087 | arandolph@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099 Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle • Farmington Press • Fraser-Clinton Township Chronicle • Grosse Pointe Times • Macomb Township Chronicle Madison-Park News • Mount Clemens-Clinton-Harrison Township Journal • Novi Note • Rochester Post Roseville-Eastpointe Eastsider Royal Oak Review • Shelby-Utica News • Southfield Sun • St. Clair Shores Sentinel • Sterling Heights Sentry Troy Times • Warren Weekly West Bloomfield Beacon • Woodward Talk • C & G Special Edition (Grosse Pointe/Macomb Co.) • C & G Special Edition (Oakland Co.) C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:
CITY OF TROY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY COUNCIL 2025 REGULAR MEETINGS
In accordance with the provisions of the Michigan State Law, Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Troy shall hold Regular Meetings in the calendar year 2025 on the following dates at 7:30 PM in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 500 West Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan, (248) 524-3300, or as otherwise provided by the Council Rules of Procedure.
Regular City Council Meeting Dates:
Monday, January 13 & 27
Monday, February 10 & 24
Monday, March 10 & 17
Monday, April 7 & 21
Monday, May 5 & 19
Monday, June 9 & 30
Monday, July 14 & 28
Monday, August 11 & 25
Monday, September 8 & 29
Monday, October 6 & 20
Monday, November 10 & 17
Monday, December 1 & 15
Special Meeting (Budget Discussions) Dates 6:00 PM in the Council Boardroom or as otherwise provided by the City Council Rules of Procedure:
Monday, April 14
Wednesday April 16 (as needed)
Troy City Council may reschedule Regular Meetings and/or schedule additional Special Meetings in accordance with the City Charter and Michigan Open Meetings Act.
POSTED: November 27,
M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC3 City Clerk
Photo provided by Troy Historic Village
Some of the reenactors who were involved with previous “Victorian Christmas” events dress in costume at Troy Historic Village.
Red kettle
from page 6A
for the Salvation Army, said donations are up from last year. Though, she said, donations to the red kettles themselves are down.
“They’re getting more money from mail and social media,” Roehl said, who added that these alternative sources include the “Tap to Give” option.
Hall said volunteer hours have been down this year. The organization is looking for those who can help to meet its goal.
“It really just takes an army of volunteers to raise $7 million,” Hall said. Those interested in volunteering can sign up at registertoring.com.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
DRIPBaR celebrates November ribbon-cutting
The DRIPBaR held a ribbon-cutting on Nov. 21 to celebrate its focus on helping people take their health care beyond diet, exercise, and traditional medicine by supporting physical, mental, and cellular wellness.
Since diseases start with the breakdown of cellular health, the DRIPBaR works with clients to address health at the cellular level. Whether you’re looking to increase energy, combat the signs of aging, give your immune system some support, or recover from a long weekend, the DRIPBaR has a drip for you.
The DRIPBaR is located at 2916 W. Maple Road in Troy. Call (248) 291-3636 or go to thedripbar.com for more information.
BUSINESS CLIP
this coupon only. Not to be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Limited time offer. Offer expires 1/11/25.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
____ ____”
66. Knot-tying vow (2 words)
SALE! Log Home kits selling for Balance Owed. Up to 50% off. Design plans can be modified! No time limit on delivery. Call 1-877-411-0998, M-F 9am–5pm ET. WANTED Old Guitars Wanted: Gibson Les Pauls,
68. Dispatch boat
69. Carthage’s ancient neighbor
70. *Egg___ 71. Oil lamp dweller
72. Fishing poles 73. Bigheadedness 74. Painter Degas DOWN 1. Lore people 2. Mideast ruler
Hindu princess
Jittery 5. Farthest from point of origin
tion
Any day now, to Shakespeare
Swerves
King’s order
Increasing 22. Philosophy ending
Undo, as in strings
Green side
Before, in the olden days
J.M. Barrie’s Pan 29. “Howdy, ____!” 31. Internal picture 32. Meltable home 33. Singer Sam of “Twistin’ the Night Away” fame
Weasel’s aquatic cousin 36. *”Last Christmas” band, with !
Edible pod
Like Lemmon and Matthau together 8. Merchandise 9. Swim’s alternative 10. Dwyane, once of Miami Heat
Busybody, in Yiddish 45. Mountain range
Certain fraternity house letters
Cruel
Œle de la CitÈ river 56. Tripped the light fantastic 57. *Number of ghosts in “A Christmas Carol” 58. *”He’s Just Not That ____ You”, movie 59. Police’s surprise
60. Habitual twitches 61. Not happening (2 words)
62. Minor bumper damage 63. “Heat of the Moment” band
64. Opposite of talker?
67. *The Grinch’s Max
Mortgage Loan Officer
Job Description: This is a full-time on-site role for a Mortgage Loan Officer at Lit Financial located in Troy, MI. The Mortgage Loan Officer will be responsible for day-to-day tasks including loan origination, mortgage underwriting, providing exceptional customer service, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Key Responsibilities: Client Consultation, Application Processing, Product Knowledge, Compliance, Relationship Building, and Pipeline Management. For more information go to linkedin. com/company/lit-financial/
