Detroit Catholic Central football completes perfect season with D1 state title
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
DETROIT — Detroit Catholic Central defeated Detroit Cass Tech 42-19 on Nov. 30 at Ford Field in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state championship football game.
The final score shows a comfortable victory for Detroit Catholic Central, but the first half was much closer until a DCC touchdown before halftime.
“We knew, obviously, they were going to be a great team,” Detroit Catholic Central senior lineman Benny Eziuka said. “Defense played great in the first half. Offense was a little slower than we would’ve wanted but got the touchdown before the half.”
That momentum carried throughout the rest of the game. The 23-point margin of victory is the largest in a Division 1 title match since 2020.
“In the second half, the defense started forcing some turnovers and the offense started pouring it on,” Eziuka said. “It just became a whole team effort to get the win.”
Photos by Liz Carnegie
Dealing with holiday depression
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — ‘Tis the season to be jolly, as the saying goes. But for individuals struggling with depression, the holidays can be an especially difficult time.
“It’s really common for people to feel the holiday blues,” said Asha Shajahan, a primary care physician specializing in family medicine at Corewell Health in Novi.
Ibrahim Sablaban, a psychiatrist with Metropolitan Behavioral Health — also part of Corewell Health — described two types of depression: clinical and non-clinical.
Clinical depression, Sablaban said, is a state where “things have gone awry (and) life has become nonfunctional,” while nonclinical depression is when one experiences a “depressed mood or feeling down (that) may not be a clinical illness but could be something to address.”
The holidays can exacerbate both conditions and be particularly challenging if a person has recently experienced the death of a loved one.
“It’s a time where you see everyone is happy and joyful, and sometimes you don’t feel the same way,” Shajahan said. “There is the unrealistic expectation of perfection and joy that we put on ourselves.”
Sablaban agreed.
“Set realistic expectations for yourself,” Sablaban said. “Don’t oversell what the experience might be.” See DEPRESSION on page 7A
cmeier@candgnews.com
oys for Tots kicked off its annual toy drive campaign on Nov. 23 with a celebration honoring the achievements of two local Rosie the Riveters at the American Legion Devereaux Post 141 in Howell, as “Santa is not the only hero in town.”
“When the world asked who would keep us safe and who would bring freedom and keep it alive, you rolled up your sleeves. You answered with thunder. You
Photos by Brian Wells
LEFT: A cake recognizing several Rosie the Riveters is on display during a ceremony Nov. 23 at the American Legion Devereaux Post 141 in Howell.
BELOW: A special coin presented to Delphine Klaput sits on a table.
BOTTOM LEFT: Klaput is wished a happy 101st birthday.
See ROSIES on page 15A
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
DETROIT — Orchard Lake St. Mary’s won the MHSAA Division 2 state title in a 51-14 victory over Dexter on Nov. 28 at Ford Field.
The 51-point performance in the finals was the highest point total that the Orchard Lake St. Mary’s offense had scored all season. OLSM junior quarterback Jabin Gonzales led the team with over 100 yards rushing and 300 yards passing.
“It was good to be able to use my legs more,” Gonzales said. “I hadn’t been able to, due to some injuries earlier in the year, so I was glad that I could hurt the defense with my arm and my legs.”
The title capped off a dominant postseason run by the team. The closest matchup OLSM had in the playoffs was a 35-14 win over Brother Rice in the District Finals. Every other matchup, before the State Finals, was either a 42-7 final or a 35-7 final.
“The first time we played Brother Rice (this season) we lost. That was kind of an eye-opener for us,” Gonzales said. “From there we took off. We got so much better over the next couple of weeks. We had
SIGNATURE
Smash
Burger
that momentum and kept it throughout the whole playoffs and into the championship.”
Gonzales, the son of OLSM head coach Jermaine Gonzales, is one of the premier quarterbacks in the state and led the team to an average of 37.5 points a game in the 2025 season.
“Offensively, we could do anything. We could beat you on the ground or beat you in the air,” Jabin Gonzales said. “It was our versatility. … Being able to adapt to any game plan or team is what really separated us this year.”
Gonzales, with still a year left in his high school career, said the locker room is already focusing on a three-peat, which Orchard Lake St. Mary’s hasn’t done since 2016 at the Division 3 level.
“We set the bar pretty high,” Gonzales said. “We got to win it again. … ‘State championship or bust’ is our mindset.”
The defense was also a focal point in this year’s state championship game and throughout the season. The team only allowed more than 21 points twice on the year and didn’t allow more than 14 the entire postseason.
“Our defense was up for the challenge,” head coach Jermaine Gonzales said. “We
had a good week of practice going over what (Dexter) does well. … I thought our boys played well and made plays.”
The program ends 2025 with an 11-2 record, but a runner-up finish in the ubercompetitive Catholic High School League Central Division. Detroit Catholic Central went a perfect 14-0 and won the Division 1 state title over Cass Tech on Nov. 30 at Ford Field.
The turnaround that OLSM has seen over the last two seasons has been phenomenal. The program went 3-6 in 2023, and before 2024 it hadn’t recorded even a sevenwin season since 2019. Now, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s has state titles in 2024 and 2025 with back-to-back 11-win seasons.
“We made some changes in the staff after that year (2023),” Gonzales said. “I brought on some guys that really brought a lot to the table. … The boys bought into what we were trying to do and (the players) will only get better and better.”
This title is also special to Jermaine Gonzales because it’s the first year that every player has joined the program since his hiring four years ago.
“This group is definitely special for me because this senior class is the first class
For
that came in with me,” Gonzales said. “They went through the ups and downs to get to this point. … To see our goals come to life is a great feeling.”
This is the eighth state championship in Orchard Lake St. Mary’s history. The program has won two at the Division 2 level, three at the Division 3 level, and another two as a Division 4 program.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
2 ground brisket patties, Dearborn pork belly, American cheese, LTO
C.Y.O. Tacos
chicken, shrimp or portobello mushroom with spicy chipotle aioli & fi re roasted corn & beans
Michigan Lake Perch
local craft beer battered, with mashed potatoes, served over apple, pistachio and maple slaw
DISHES
Base Line Surf & Turf Pasta
chicken & shrimp tossed in marsala wine with mushrooms, onions and bell peppers
Greektown Chicken Skewers
served over Mediterranean salad with feta, beets, tomatoes, cucumbers, chick peas and olives
Tomahawk Pork Chop
12 oz. bone in chop topped with apple demi glaze with choice of sides
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Orchard Lake St. Mary’s Camari Patterson does a back flip after winning the MHSAA Division 2 state title.
more photos, visit candgnews.com/galleries.
NEWS & NOTES
Novi and Royal Oak residents design Bonobos storefront window display
Isabella Avila-Recillas, of Novi, center right; and Levi Mooney, of Royal Oak, center left, students at the College for Creative Studies, co-designed the storefront holiday window display for Bonobos, 1417 Woodward Ave. in Detroit. The display is part of “Windows on Woodward,” which is a collaboration between CCS, Bedrock and local businesses. Each window is designed by students with input from the retailers for festive holiday storefront galleries. The window displays will be up until Jan. 4, 2026.
Lunch with Santa
At press time, there were still some spots open for children ages 2-11 to enjoy lunch with Santa from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Santa, Mrs. Claus and some elves will be at their workshop located inside the Lakeshore Park Building. The program will include lunch, crafts, music and more. Registration is required. The cost is $13 for children ages 3-11 who reside in Novi and $16 for nonresidents. The cost for children 2 and younger is $5. To register, go to cityofnovi.org or call (248) 347-0460.
NOVI CHORALAIRES TO PERFORM HOLIDAY CONCERT
The Novi Choralaires will hold its annual holiday concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 28000 New Market Road in Farmington Hills. This year’s show is called ‘’Tis the Season’ and will celebrate community holiday traditions along with international festive folk music. The show will feature popular holiday favorites such as “Michigan Christmas,” “Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth,” and “Still, Still, Still,” as well as a sing-along. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and they can be purchased at the door. There is no cost for children under 6.
St. James Catholic Church to host concert
St. James Catholic Church, 46325 W. 10 Mile Road in Novi, will host a holiday concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 featuring the adult choir, children’s choir, members of Beyond Belief (the Novi senior chorus) and individual ensemble groups from the church.
Novi company makes a large donation to food banks
ITC Michigan, which is headquartered in Novi, recently donated $290,000 to food banks as part of its Greater Giving Program.
The company builds and operates high-voltage electric transmission systems. According to a press release, it is one of the largest independent electricity transmission suppliers in the country, with 9,100 circuit miles of transmission lines across the lower peninsula.
The donation was spread across seven food pantries:
• Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan.
• Forgotten Harvest.
• Food Gatherers.
• Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
• Greater Lansing Food Bank.
• South Michigan Food Bank.
• Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank
Those pantries in turn feed numerous smaller food banks, including St James Food Pantry in Novi and Hospitality House in Walled Lake, which also serves Novi residents.
“As the holidays approach, ITC Michigan recognises the increased need for food assistance in our communities,” Charles Marshall, president, ITC Michigan, said in a press release. “Our commitment to our communities extends well beyond the power we provide. We hope our contribution to these food banks brings comfort and relief to individuals and families in need.”
STUFF A SQUAD CAR
Novi police officers spent the last two weekends standing outside the Novi Walmart, filling a squad car with new and unwrapped toys for local children in need this Christmas. The toys benefited the Toys for Tots program in southwest Oakland County and northwest Wayne County.
According to officer Al Hakim, they received so many toys on Nov. 29 alone that they filled a large work van twice.
Photos provided by Elizabeth Botkin
Compiled by Charity Meier
city offices to have holiday hours
The city of Novi has adjusted its office hours for the holidays. City offices will be open on Dec 19 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be closed Dec. 24-25 for the Christmas holiday and Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, 2026, for the New Year’s holiday.
FRIDAY
for the 2025 season. Yard waste will be collected through Dec. 12. After that date it will not be collected again until April 2026.
“You want to make sure the ebb and flow of life is very consistent for you,” Sablaban said.
Instead, prioritize the small things that matter and bring joy to your life, such as a conversation you had with someone where both of you were engaged and enjoyed the encounter. It doesn’t have to be the centerpiece of the event.
“Try to savor and cherish (the experience) and appreciate those for what they are,” Sablaban said.
To improve your mood, both doctors recommend staying away from alcohol and drinking plenty of water while eating a variety of fruits and vegetables.
The holidays can be filled with excitement and unpredictability, so it’s important to ground oneself by maintaining a routine.
Get plenty of sleep each night — seven or eight hours. Wake up and go to bed at a consistent time and exercise regularly each day. The doctors also recommend getting outside during daylight, which helps elevates one’s mood. If getting outside during the day is not an option, Shajahan suggests trying a lux lamp rated at 10,000 lux of light.
“It basically mimics the natural daylight that helps regulate your mood and circadian rhythm,” she said. “This is a way of getting sun therapy without the harmful UV rays.”
Practice self-care by taking time to do things you enjoy. Being kind to yourself also includes avoiding situations that cause too much stress. Managing your spending habits and social commitments is also key.
See DEPRESSION on page 11A
ROSIE THE RIVETER RECOGNITION TRANSFORMS WOMAN’S LIFE
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
At 101, Delphine Tedeski Klaput can finally say she knows her worth, thanks to the acknowledgement she has received from people over the last few years since she has been recognized and honored for her service as a Rosie the Riveter during World War II.
“I feel so honored, I really do,” said Klaput of the recognition she has received. “I went all through my life thinking I wasn’t worth anything, and now all of a sudden I’m getting all of these places that they’re inviting me to. I’m very honored.”
Klaput grew up in the rural coal mining town of Cadogan, Pennsylvania. Her parents did the best they could, but they were very poor.
She said her mom worked odd jobs to help provide for them. Her father wasn’t able to work as a result of injuries he suffered during World War I.
Because of her upbringing, Klaput said she developed low self-esteem.
“We were very poor — very poor. My dad and mother raised the three of
us on $50 a month. So, you can imagine I wore dresses that she got (from care packages),” Klaput said. “They would give us flour, rice, canned goods, some clothing once a month, and that’s kind of what I lived with.”
The lack of finances greatly influenced Klaput’s decision to quit school and go work at the Glenn L. Martin aircraft factory in Baltimore. She said the work not only helped with the war effort, but it also helped her mother to care for her sister and her father. “That’s kind of why she went to work,” said Diana Kelley, Klaput’s daughter. “She gave her mom all her money except for she kept $10 from every paycheck.”
“I kept $10 because I had to eat,” Klaput said.
She explained that her uncle had found her the job at the plant, provided her with free room and board, but she had to pay for her own lunches.
Klaput said her daily life as the only woman at the factory was “not very interesting.” She said she was in charge of a team of eight men.
“I had to make sure that each man had a small part and that they had the
blueprints to work on them,” she said. “I had to know when they were finished with that part, and I had to make sure it got to where it was supposed to go.”
She said the parts were for the B-26 Marauder aircraft and were not much bigger than a small plate. Klaput said she would take them to various places within the building that they had to go.
“Sometimes it was at the other end of the building. Sometimes it was just across the aisle, and sometimes I took them to the warehouse,” she said. “She said there were all sorts of different parts that she helped to make. The parts went into the console of the cockpit.
She said the best part of working at the factory was the way the guys treated her.
“They treated me like a million dollars,” she said.
She said the planes were assembled on the second floor of the factory, but Klaput was forbidden from going there.
Klaput worked in the factory for about 14 months from 1944 until the war ended in 1945.
Following the war, she married and
See KLAPUT on page 12A
Photo by Charity Meier
Delphine Tedeski Klaput sits inext to a photo of herself as a young woman, when she served as a Rosie the Riveter.
Woman recognized for her work as a welder during World War II
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
Maryellen Robbins, 101, was recently recognized as a Rosie the Riveter for her service as a welder at a plant in Detroit during World War II. However, it is a title she doesn’t quite believe is hers.
“I never really gave it much thought. Personally, I didn’t think I was one (Rosie the Riveter). I mean, I was a welder. I wasn’t a riveter,” Robbins said. “To me, it was a job, and it had to get done, and I wanted my husband home, and he was (serving at a hospital) over in England. So, I just wanted this war over.”
Robbins said she got the job as a welder after some encouragement from her boyfriend. She said he told her she could do better than the $18 per week retail job she had.
Robbins said that the welding job required six weeks of unpaid training. After completing the training, she became an Army/Navy certified welder.
Initially, she worked with her boyfriend, who would later become her husband, and she drove him to work in his car. He owned the car, but she had a license. After he got drafted, Robbins would drive several other Rosies to and from work, which provided her with some extra money for gas.
At the plant, Robbins served on the night shift and welded small airplane parts.
“You worked your head off,” she said with a laugh.
She said they worked in teams of two. One woman would hook up a piece to the machine, then spin it over to her partner, and she would weld the part and send it back to the first woman, and the process would continue like that for 10-to 12-hour shifts, six days a week.
“It was piecework. You had to do so many pieces a day, or they would get rid of you. You couldn’t just weld something and get up and walk around,” Robbins said.
“She was saving the money to set up house when her husband got home,” said her son, Rick Robbins.
Maryellen Robbins recalled the day the war ended. An announcement was made over the loudspeaker.
“Everybody hollored and screamed and then kept on working,” she said.
The women would finish their shift and then go back to doing more traditional work for women at the time.
Maryellen Robbins would go on to raise three sons, the youngest of whom she would raise practically on her own after her husband suffered a brain injury in a car accident around the age of 40. He was left incapacitated, and ultimately she had to place
See ROBBINS on page 16A
Photo provided by Rick Robbins
Maryellen Robbins poses for a photo with her husband, Army Sgt. James W. Robbins.
After back-to-back undefeated regular seasons, the expectations surrounding Detroit Catholic Central were high, and have been high for more than a calendar year. However, the team didn’t allow the hype to weigh on the players.
“This team is just different. … We knew we were going to be good and we knew we were going to be the best,” Eziuka said. “We didn’t let anything phase us. We were confident but didn’t get cocky about it. … We had one goal in mind.”
The goal was to win the state title, and that’s been the goal for each of the last two years.
“We had a lot of seniors from last year reaching out and encouraging us. … They should’ve gone out with a state title,” Eziuka said. “We really wanted to do it for them because they really brought our program back to what it’s supposed to be: The best program in the state.”
The 2025 championship was a rematch of the 2024 MHSAA Division 1 semifinals, where Detroit Cass Tech beat Catholic Central 17-14 before going on to win the Division 1 title.
“We believed we were a better football
team than them last year,” Detroit Catholic Central head coach Justin Cessante said. “We thought if we played them five times last year that we would’ve beat them four. … But we didn’t prove it the day we needed to prove it.”
Cass Tech and DCC are two of the best and most historic programs in Michigan. Both teams were undefeated going into the final and have a combined nine Division 1 titles just since 1999.
“We talked all year that we wanted Cass Tech in the state championship,” Cessante said. “We didn’t want an easy way out. We wanted everyone to be at their best and healthy so that we can go out there and see who the best football team is.”
It’s safe to say that Catholic Central was the best football team in the state in 2025.
A 14-0 record, state title, a Catholic League Central Division title over Division 2 state champion Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, and blowout performances seemingly every week. In fact, the 42-19 state title game was the closest game the team played all postseason.
“We have a football team with a lot of really good football players,” Cessante said. “The offense was the most explosive offense, statistically, in Catholic Central history, and our defense lived up to our tradition of the ‘Brick Wall’ defense.”
Catholic Central has now had back-
That Gives You More GET AN AUTO LOAN
$100 bonus on new or used auto loans§
You’re shopping for a car that gives you more — more features, more safety, and more power. So choose a lender that gives you more. MSGCU gives you personalized guidance, plus a $100 bonus when you apply by December 31!
Anyone in Michigan can bank with us.
to-back undefeated regular seasons and is poised to be one of the best teams in the state again in 2026.
“One thing is how you handle success. Don’t forget the process of what got us here,” Cessante said. “That’s playing for something bigger than yourself. The bottom line is, we’re going to get back to work.”
This is Detroit Catholic Central’s 11th state title since 1978, and according to the school, is the program’s 15th in its history. This is the first DCC football title since 2009 and is Cessante’s first as head coach of the team.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Detroit Catholic Central players celebrate after a 42-19 state championship victory over Detroit Cass Tech on Nov 30 at Ford Field. For more photos, visit candgnews.com/galleries.
Depression
from page 7A
“I think it’s really important to say ‘no’ to things,” Shajahan said. “I think we’re so used to trying to please everyone and saying ‘yes,’ and then over-extending ourselves.”
But don’t remain isolated; instead, give back and volunteer.
“Spending time with people who are in need can help with feelings of hopelessness and social isolation,” Shajahan said.
The rates of suicide and depression rise during the holidays, with more people reporting their mood worsening during this time Sablaban said.
Many holiday songs and movies promote family togetherness and romance, which might be why people report an in-
creased feeling of loneliness during the holidays.
“Half of adults under the age of 35 actually say they feel very lonely during the holidays,” Sablaban said.
If these strategies don’t yield results and the feeling of depression continues, you may want to seek help from a doctor, both physicians said.
Sablaban said those without insurance can access programs through religious organizations and independent clinics. If a person needs immediate help and thinks they may harm themselves or others, they can go to the emergency department of a hospital.
“They can get evaluated, assessed and receive appropriate treatment in an emergency capacity without being turned away,” Sablaban said.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
from page 8A
had children. She ended up moving to Michigan when her husband got a good job offer and lived in Royal Oak until she recently moved in with her daughter.
Approximately 20 years ago, she was told by someone in Baltimore that she was not a Rosie. However, about seven years ago, she was told that indeed she is a Rosie and within the last four years, she has become very active with the other Rosies. She attends numerous events and even goes to Pearl Harbor every December to remember those who fell on Dec. 7, 1941.
Klaput said that she has enjoyed
all the different events that she has been able to attend since being officially dubbed a Rosie, but her favorite by far was going to Washington, D.C., last year and receiving the Congressional Gold Medal.
“It made me feel like I accomplished something. Before, it was just talk. Then I got a medal, so it feels like I accomplished something. I was worthwhile, is really what it was — I finally felt worthwhile.”
“She is just full of energy, but she didn’t get any of this energy until the last couple of years,” Kelley said.
“She didn’t have an active life, whereas now she has no fear to go up to someone and talk to them now. Whereas before she would have sat in the corner,” Kelley said. “So yeah, she
Spotlight on business...
has come out of her shell over the last five years because of Rosie the Riveter and being involved and the people who she’s met.”
“I love Rosie,” Klaput said.
However, Klaput said the biggest change she has seen in the last century is in people’s attitudes.
“Their attitudes. People have changed. Back when we were growing up, people couldn’t do enough to help each other,” Klaput said.
She said her secret to longevity is to just take one day at a time. She said her advice to the younger generation is to just follow your heart.
“Follow your heart, and you’re not going to go wrong,” she said.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
BuIlDinG LEGO® dReAmS one bRicK at a time.
Bricks & Mini gs Novi is more than a business opportunity for Cara Suksi and her family. It’s the stuff LEGO® dreams are made of. “It’s been a wild ride. September 21 was our of cial grand opening in 2024,” Suksi said. “We still have customers coming in every day who didn’t know we were here.”
For the LEGO® enthusiast, Bricks & Mini gs stores have something for everyone. That includes new, used, rare and retired sets, individual mini gures, bulk bricks, components, accessories, and replacement parts.
Bricks & Mini gs Novi buys and sells all LEGO® products, including unopened sets, bulk tubs of loose pieces and entire room- lling collections.
It’s a one-of-a-kind franchise with more than 100 locations in the U.S. and Canada. “The concept is very unique. We sell new LEGO®, but the niche market is that we sell bulk LEGO® for people who are building their own MOCS (my own creation) or need a piece that got lost from a set. And then we have cases and cases of mini gures,” Suksi said.
Beyond its products, the store hosts events throughout the year that inspire the imaginations of young builders. “We’ve been very successful with birthday parties, and we hosted ve summer camps that went great. What we want to do in this next year is to focus on hosting corporate teambuilding events at the store. We might even look into adult birthday parties. We’ve had some interest.”
Bricks & Mini gs Novi will hold a Magical Holiday Afternoon event on December 20th from 1 - 4 pm with visits with Santa from 1 - 3pm. There will be a holiday scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, and more. “12 Days of Brickmas” will feature a different offer per day from December 13 - 24, ending with spinthe-wheel on the last day.
Bricks & Mini gs Novi is located at 49881 Grand River Ave. For more information, call (248) 938-4219 or go to bricksandmini gsnovi.com. 0356-2550
Tous Les Jours Novi Celebrates One Year of Baking French-Asian Favorites
When Jinwan Lee expanded Tous Les Jours from Troy to Novi, he hoped the community would embrace the French-Asian bakery he had worked diligently to bring to Michigan. His hunch was right. Novi customers quickly connected with the shop’s fresh, in-house pastries, breads and cakes.
“I wanted to bring something unique to metro Detroit,” Lee said. “People appreciate the quality and we work hard to deliver it.”
Freshness is central to everything they do. Bakers start at 5 a.m. and prepare nearly all items in-house.
Professional skilled bakers rotate through Michigan stores to help train staf and maintain consistency.
Fresh breads and pastries are daily staples, and the cloud cake is a customer
favorite. “We tested more than 30 people in a blind taste test and 100% chose our cloud cake,” Lee said.
Seasonal items such as Christmas cakes also draw interest, along with the Tiramisu Latte, which has earned national recognition through the brand’s competitive beverage program.
For the holidays, the bakery is ofering a special scratch-ticket giveaway from Dec. 15 to 30. “Every scratch ticket has a present,” Lee said, noting that prizes range from free cofee to items such as an iPad, iPhone 17 Pro and AirPods.
As the Novi location marks its frst anniversary, Lee said its partnerships with local organizations have been the most meaningful part of the year. Te bakery supported the Novi High School athletic department, the marching band and the Living and Learning Enrichment Center. “Teir students come every Tuesday for hands-on experience,” he said, adding that they help support the social activities of the Living and Learning students. “Our goal is not just selling bread; it’s supporting our community.”
Tous Les Jours is located at 42970 Grand River Ave. in Novi. For more information, call (248) 308-2582 or visit tljus.com. Follow @touslesjours_ michigan on Instagram and fnd Tous Les Jours Michigan on Facebook.
Photo by Brian Wells
Delphine Klaput is recognized during a ceremony on her 101st birthday Sunday, Nov. 23, at the American Legion Devereaux Post 141 in Howell.
Chef-prepared dining experiences with desserts created by our Pastry Chef.
Apartment styles to fit every lifestylepet friendly! Life Enrichment programs providing social and wellness opportunities. Housekeeping, home maintenance, and scheduled transportation. Personal care services available when neededage in place as your needs change!
HOMES
2026 colors of the year celebrate warm, sophisticated tones
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
Trend forecasters from major paint brands have announced their colors of the year for 2026. From versatile neutrals to rich browns to earthy greens, these hues are expected to dominate interiors for at least the next year.
Benjamin Moore’s color of the year is “silhouette,” a mix of “rich espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal,” according to the company’s website.
Andrea Magno, director of color marketing and design at Benjamin Moore, said the connection between fashion and interiors has always been a source of inspiration, but this year in particular she’s noticed a renewed interest in suiting and classic silhouettes, the resurgence of timeless pieces, and the growing interest in the brown color family.
“Silhouette embodies these qualities with its depth and luxurious blend of burnt umber and delicate charcoal undertones. Like a perfectly tailored suit, this hue has the versatility and softness to bring a space from expected to exceptional,” Magno said in a statement.
Every year, the Benjamin Moore PaintOutlets.com locations in Rochester, Shelby Township and Macomb Township have a Color of the Year wall on display for patrons to see the color in person.
“Every year, we repaint the wall and we use different sheens on the wall so people can see what sheen does to color also,” said Merlin Bush, president of PaintOutlets.com, which sells Benjamin Moore products.
Bush said he really likes this year’s color.
“They wove some luxurious burnt umber into the gray, which creates a nice hue that’s chic and looks great on the walls that people are doing,” he said. “It looks great with almost anything.”
Behr announced “hidden gem,” a smoky jade, as its 2026 color of the year. The color, Behr officials said, is a dynamic blend of blue and green that creates environments that feel both grounded and energizing.
“Now more than ever, there’s a growing appetite for colors that challenge convention and bring an unexpected sense of wonder to everyday spaces,” Erika Woelfel, vice presi-
dent of color and creative services at Behr Paint Co., said in a prepared statement. “Hidden Gem captures that spirit in both name and color — its depth and refinement meets the desire for colors that are eternally stunning and stylish.”
The Sherwin-Williams 2026 color of the year, “universal khaki,” was selected by the company’s global “trendsight” team to be an ultra-usable hue, tailored for classic sophistication, according to Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams.
“Khaki is more than just a neutral — it’s a timeless, go-anywhere shade that brings a sense of grounded elegance to any space,” Wadden said in a prepared statement. “With its warm, earthy undertones, Universal Khaki SW 6150 effortlessly complements a wide range of colors, creating a rich, inviting backdrop that can transform an entire design with quiet confidence.”
Naturally restorative and serene, “warm eucalyptus” is Valspar’s 2026 color of the year. The green hue, according to the company’s website, reflects “a collective desire for calm, grounding design” that adapts to the ever-changing pace of life.
“Warm Eucalyptus is more than just a beautiful shade of green, it’s a reflection of the comfort we crave in our homes,” Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar, said in a statement. “Its warm undertones create a grounded, welcoming mood while drawing inspiration from nature and the familiarity of retro design.”
Kim said the color encourages “restoration and resilience.”
Homeowners can easily add small pops of trending colors to their homes with decor they can swap in and out.
Colleen Lipp, of Huron Carpet and Floor Covering in Wixom, said she often helps clients with home design.
“For the last several years I have been encouraging clients to go mostly monochromatic and then to pick up pops of color in the artwork, pillows, throws and things like that,” Lipp said.
Or for a bolder look, homeowners can add a new color with a feature wall, or go all in by color drenching all the walls in a room.
Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
ABOVE: Behr’s color of the year, “hidden gem,” is a great hue for a relaxing bathroom.
Photo provided by Behr
RIGHT: “Universal khaki,” by Sherwin-Williams adds a soft look to kitchen cabinets.
Photo provided by Sherwin-Williams
LEFT: “Silhouette,” Benjamin Moore’s 2026 color of the year, adorns the walls of this home.
Photo provided by Benjamin Moore
BELOW: Valspar’s color of the year, “warm eucalyptus,” is featured on the cabinets of this inviting kitchen area.
Photo provided by Valspar
Rosies
built the wings of liberty. You riveted the halls of hope, and you proved that courage wears any face and strength bears any load,” said State Rep. Jason Woolford, R-Howell.
“You truly were told that a woman’s place was in the home, but nevertheless, you showed up, and you showed up in the world, and you showed the world her place, and that was wherever that duty called, and you made a difference. It was different then, the very meaning of what a woman could be. America flew and fought and won because of you and because of these ladies we honor today. Your bandanas became banners, your sweat became sacred, and long after the last rivet was set, your spirit still holds this nation together today. God, we remember you, and we are forever in your debt, and we can do it because you did it. So, thank you, Rosies, thank you for your heart, your hearts and the greatest sacrifices that you made, and women like you made, so that we can be free here today,” Woolford said.
the presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal to Maryellen Robbins, 101, for her service as a welder at a plant in Detroit.
The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the most prestigious awards given to a civilian in the United States. The medal dates back to 1776, with the first award being presented to George Washington. In order to receive the award, both the Senate and House of Representatives must vote to approve the designation, and it must be signed into law by the president. It is given as a symbol of the country’s appreciation for a person or group’s significant contributions to American history and culture.The Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act was signed into law in December 2020.
Rosie the Riveters from across the country were presented with this award on April 10, 2024, in Washington D.C. However, as not all living Rosies were known at that time, additional medals were made for those who would one day be discovered, such as Robbins.
The kickoff event served as a surprise 101st birthday party for Delphine Klaput, of Ypsilanti, who worked as a data technician at a plant in Baltimore, and it also featured
“These ladies are very special. They stepped up by the millions to build tanks, guns, planes and ships so that our men could fight. And something very special happened last year in Washington, DC, when the Rosie the Riveters were presented with the Con-
from page 3A See ROSIES on page 16A
Rosies
from page 15A
gressional Gold Medal. There was only one gold medal struck that is on display at the (National Museum of American History). But I have here a replica in bronze, an official replica in bronze from the United States Mint of the Rosie, the regular Congressional Gold Medal, for Maryellen Robbins,” said Jeannette Gutierrez of the Michigan Rosies. Robbins said she was “overjoyed” to receive the award.
“I just can’t believe it,” she said. “That I caused all this. … To me it was a job and I wanted my husband home.”
Klaput said she was truly surprised that they held a birthday celebration for her.
“It was truly overwhelming. It was wonderful,” she said. “Never in my lifetime did I think I’d have anything like this done for me.”
Gary Dunn, Howell/Livingston County Toys for Tots coordinator and a national mentor for the program, said he has been working with the Rosies for a while now and decided to incorporate them into the kickoff
Robbins from page 9A
him in a nursing home until he died in his early 50s.
Maryellen Robbins said that she didn’t think too much of it when she was told that she was a Rosie.
“To be honest with you, I wasn’t too impressed,” she said, “because I didn’t have any doings with them, you know.”
“She didn’t feel she was a part of them doing just welding,” Rick Robbins said.
“I was just a welder. I wasn’t anything to get all excited about,” she said.
She said that although she helped with the war effort, it didn’t impress her.
“It was just something that I was expected to do,” Maryellen Robbins said. “We had to get this war over. I wanted him (her husband) home.”
She said she never took days off, as she
celebration with the help of One Stop Veteran Resources.
Klaput said that she can relate to the children in need, as she once was one of them.
“I know how they feel,” Klaput said of the recipients of Toys for Tots. “They feel warm inside that somebody cares.”
Both Klaput and Robbins donated several toys to the cause during the event.
Klaput said she didn’t feel that when she was younger, so it is important to her to contribute to programs like Toys for Tots.
“They want to be involved with the
Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com
Reporter: Charity Meier | (586) 498-1092 | cmeier@candgnews.com
Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
wanted to do her part to end the war. However, her husband had to stay in the military after the war ended for a time, as he didn’t serve on the front lines. She said he didn’t come home until March 1946.
Debbie Robbins, Maryellen’s daughterin-law, said she thought it was amazing when she learned that Maryellen was a Rosie, and she was so proud of her, as was the rest of their family.
“It made me feel special because she helped out,” Debbie Robbins said.
“I’m just an ordinary person that’s lived an ordinary life. I didn’t have an exciting life, I don’t feel — just an everyday life. My neighbors were just like me,” Maryellen Robbins said.
Rick Robbins said they are just very fortunate to have her around with such a sharp mind.
“It is amazing, her memory,” he said.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
kids so we are being more and more active towards it,” Dunn said.
Robbins said she enjoyed helping Toys for Tots to gather toys by her presence at the kickoff event. She said it is very important to her that every kid has a Christmas.
“I just wish I was younger, for then I could do more,” Klaput said.
Toys for Tots is actively collecting toys for children in need until Dec. 24. For more information on volunteering, donating to the program or to get assistance, visit toysfortots.org.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
facebook.com/NoviNoteNewspaper @candgnews
| (586) 498-1091 | cmoeller@candgnews.com
| (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099
Automotive Advertising: Jeannine Bender | (586)
Advertising:
| jbender@candgnews.com
Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com
MARCO ISLAND PARADISE BEACHFRONT
CONDO FOR RENT
Experience the best of beachfront living in this beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo on Marco Island. Located directly on the beach, this unit offers beautiful views, luxurious fnishes, and unmatched comfort—perfect for your seasonal getaway.
The complex includes a heated pool, private beach access, ftness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and a covered parking garage. Conveniently located in the heart of Marco Island, you’ll be just minutes from restaurants, shopping, a movie theater, grocery stores, and more.
Monthly rental available March 2026.
Photo by Brian Wells
Maryellen Robbins is presented with a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal during a recognition ceremony Nov. 23 at the American Legion Devereaux Post 141 in Howell.
OFFERINGS AROUND MICHIGAN
AUCTION
Huge Annual Online Tool Auction! Featuring Snap-on, Milwaukee, Dewalt, Craftsman and more! Welders, compressors, lifts, heavyduty power, and hand tools. Bid now through 12/15/2025 at Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com. Questions? Call Joe at 1-800-835-0495.
Winter Sportsman Auction. Bidding open. 250+ fine firearms, vintage sporting, antique & modern ammunition, militaria, tools. This is a Great sale! Shipping available. Bid anywhere anytime @JohnPeckAuctions.com. Ofices Gladwin & Charlotte. Selling items like this? Call John Peck 989-345-4866.
POP CULTURE, VINTAGE and MCM TOYS, cast-iron mechanical banks, diecast cars, Star Wars Prints, vintage collectibles & more. Bid online now at BidItMi.com. Call Estate Auction Experts of Michigan, 313-600-5451.
BUILDING
AMISH-built storage sheds starting at $2,500. Custom sizes & colors. We deliver anywhere in Michigan! Call 989-832-1866. MyNextBarn.com
Amish-built mini-cabins starting at $5,295. Made in Michigan! Custom sizes & colors. We deliver statewide. Call 989-832-1866. MyNextBarn.com.
Published: December 10, 2025
BUILT RITE POLE BUILDINGS Statewide. Prices starting at - 24x40x10 - $18,300.00. 30x40x10 -$20,400.00. Erected on your site. Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www.builtritepolebuildingsmi.com. Or call 989-259-2015 or 989-600-1010 or 989-324-0035.
BUSINESS SERVICES
METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695.
FURNITURE
Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made in U.S.A, in plastic, with warranty. Retail Cost $3,995.00 sacrifice for $875.00 Call for showing or delivery: DanDanTheMattressMan. com. 989-923-1278.
An AMISH LOG HEADBOARD AND Queen Pillow Top Mattress Set. Brand new-never used, sell all for $375. Call anytime, 989-923-1278. DanDanTheMattressMan.com
WANTED
Old Guitars Wanted: All Gibsons. Especially Les Pauls, ES-175s/ ES-355s, SG/SJ models. All Gibson acoustics. Fender, Martin, Rickenbacker, Gretsch. TOP DOLLAR PAID! Call toll free 1-866-433-8277.
www.printingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com
Basement
Waterproofng
ACCULEVEL.Your foundationrepairand basementwaterproofing experts.Whetherbasement,crawlspaceorconcreteslabweʼllguideyou ontherightpathtoa healthyhome.Actnow! Upto$600off.Restrictionsapply.Callfora freeconsultation. 1-866-438-1859
Bathrooms
BATHROOM REMODELING
BasicBathrooms
Startingat:$10,995.00 Experienceofover 500-bathroomsacross Metro-Detroit, Lookatourworkat: andyscarpentryllc.com 248-376-0988
Lic/Insured/References
Brick Work
MOUTON'S MASONRY
Any&allmasonryrepairs
Brick,block,steps, chimneys,porches-tuckpointing,Cementwork, mortar-matching. 25-yrsexperience Free-estimates. References/Insured. 248-252-5331
Carpet Cleaning
CARPET WAVY-n-LOOSE?
WePower Re-stretch and Steam-clean ForOneLowPrice MultipleRoomDiscount CallNow:Craddock's CarpetCare,Inc. 586-754-9222
Chimney Service
CHIMNEYS,INC
$129/Sweep& SafetyInspection •Repairs•Dampers •Caps•CrownRepair Senior/MilitaryDisc. NextDayAppointment Available 586-431-0591
ROYAL EXTREMECLEAN
586-219-0335
AirDuct&DryerVent Cleaning,GasFireplace Tune-ups&Repairs, WoodBurningFireplace Cleaning&Repairs, Multi-ServiceDiscounts. Royalextremeclean.com
Cleaning Service
CLEANINGLADY withover20-yr experienceislooking forwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830
VANTAGE
CLEANINGSERVICES: 3rooms+hallway $139.Deepcarpet cleaningforhomes andbusinesses. CallToday 586-922-6429
Electrical
586-755-3636
Dr.Electric AffordablePrices! Father&Son MasterElectricians Same-Day-Service! All-Residential-Wiring, ChangeFuseBoxto CircuitBreakerPanel, Troubleshooting,Backup GeneratorTransfer Switch,License#6109094 SenDisc.V/MC/Lic./Ins.
CASTLEELECTRIC
586-634-1152 (directcellphone#) Panelupgrades, generators,hottubs, EVCharger, 220lines.ALLSERVICE Licensed&Insured Dependable,quality work! License#-6111359
PREPARE forpoweroutagestodaywithaGeneracHomeStandbyGenerator.Actnowtoreceivea FREE5-Yearwarranty withqualifyingpurchase. Call1-855-773-8191 todaytoscheduleafree quote.It'snotjustagenerator.It'sapowermove.
Hauling & Waste Removal
Painting,Drywall, Powerwashing, SealCoating *Driveways*ParkingLots MinorPlumbing, Caulking,Shelving, CallForaFreeQuote! 248-755-0246
3Sons HandymanService 586-888-9031 (Call/Text) Electrical,Plumbing, HVAC,Minor/Major Repairs,AnySizeJob FreeEstimates 10%Discount
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall!Demolition Big&Small,Residential/ Commercial,Rubber WheelDumpsters-10,15, 20-Yards,Clean-outs, ConstructionMaterial, Small-Moving,Appliances,Furniture&More! Free-Est.Sen/Mil/Disc. 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
BURLYGUYS JUNKREMOVAL removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
Painting
(586)229-4267 AmericanPainting FallSpecials!!! Residential/Commercial •Interior/25YearsExp. •PowerWashing •Insurance•Drywall •PlasterRepair •DeckRepairs•Cleanouts•HomeRepairs •SeniorDiscounts
PEAKPAINTING
Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. *WillBeatAnyOther ReasonableEstimate! 35yrsexp.Sen.Disc.Ins. CC-Accepted/References 586-722-8381
ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall & WaterDamageRepairs Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
ANYONE'S PAINTER
MaintainceSpring2026. Free-Estimates Call248-996-2599
Painting
586-792-3117
PETE'SPAINTING WINTERSPECIALS!
10%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
Interior/ExteriorPainting Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates,Insured. Call586-921-3654
FARR'SPAINTING Interior/Exterior Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
Plumbing
586.524.6752
ANDY'SPLUMBING 33+YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
Plumbing
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
Plumbing
WATERWORK Plumbing.com •DrainCleaning •SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps •BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
Professional Services
CONSUMER Cellularthesamereliable,nationwidecoverageasthe largestcarriers.Nolongtermcontract,nohidden feesandactivationisfree Allplansfeatureunlimitedtalkandtext,starting atjust$20/month.For moreinformation,call 1-866-306-6243
Roofng
AA4DABLEROOFING
Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! WINTER-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted 586-822-5100
Roofng
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE
$225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial $88*GutterCleaning Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards Over30-yrsexp. FamilyOwned 248-707-4851
Tree Service
BERGBROS.LLC. “FullyInsured, HighlyReferred.” SeniorDiscounts Tree-Removal,Stump Grinding,Tree-Trimming, Hedging,Shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free-Estimates (586)262-3060
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB
30%-WinterDisc.Insured, SnowRemoval, EmergencyStorm Damage,LeafClean-up, Large-TreeRemovals, Trimming,Stump-Grinding,Gutters,SeasonFirewood(100acord) (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
