DECEMBER 18, 2025 Vol. 41, No. 29
WE CARE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR CAR
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM
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Council OKs rezoning request for Village of Hastings
Serving those who serve Volunteers with Oakland Community Health Network helped give food to veterans during the Veterans and Military Drive Thru Food & Resource event, held Dec. 9 at 5505 Corporate Drive in Troy. Around 140 vets and their families participated in the event, and there were approximately 40 volunteers assisting the attendees.
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — At its meeting Dec. 1, the Troy City Council approved a conditional rezoning agreement for the Village of Hastings residential development project. The project would rezone a 5.15-acre site along the east side of Livernois Road and the north side of Square Lake Road. Previously, the project by GFA Development consisted of 33 residential units that included multi-unit row homes, single-family homes and single-family duplex homes, as well as attached and detached ranches. There was also the potential for sidewalk access, sports courts, putting greens, common areas, and 1.3 acres of open space. However, this previous proposal was unanimously denied by council in August 2024. In February 2025, the developers gave an updated pitch to the Planning Commission with 25 units including four ranch-style detached single-family homes, two duplex ranches
LEFT: Dawn O’Connor, UM clinical analyst, gives out resource bags in addition to canned corn and tomatoes during the distribution. RIGHT: Volunteer Chaka McDonald gives veterans gift cards during the event. Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
See HASTINGS on page 18A
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Our next edition will come to homes Jan. 15. Stay current by visiting candgnews.com.
3A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
Troy Community Foundation awards over $11,000 in grants BY SARAH WRIGHT
Wyatt Lucas, founder of Hockey Mentors, second from right, receives a grant for his group from the Troy Community Foundation. With him are TCF Executive Director Olivia McLaughlin, far left, and TCF Board Chair Karen Greenwood, second from left, as well as Doug Tietz, a TCF board member, right. A dozen groups received grants for their efforts.
swright@candgnews.com
TROY — The Troy Community Foundation recently awarded grants totaling $11,650 to a dozen organizations as part of its Fall 2025 grant cycle. The TCF was formed in 2016 by a group of residents and business owners. The group describes itself as supporting citizen-driven initiatives that empower the residents of Troy. Grants are available from the TCF in four key areas: youth and seniors, arts and culture, beautification, and health and recreation. This year the awardees includes Ascend Church, the Boys & Girls Club of Troy, the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity, the Community Sailing School Foundation, Girl Botz FTC 22918 and Gospel Army Black History. The awardees also include Hockey Mentors for Special Players,
Photo provided by Troy Community Foundation
See GRANTS on page 15A
Legislators to consider statewide retirement savings program BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
See RETIREMENT on page 16A
0122-2551
Photo provided by Mike McFall
State Rep. Mike McFall, D-Hazel Park, testifies at a committee hearing in Lansing. He has proposed a statewide retirement savings program that now has bipartisan support.
LANSING — A new legislative proposal calls for a statewide retirement savings program to help Michiganders save for the future, including those who work for small businesses that might not normally have such benefits. The program is titled MI Secure Retirement and comprises House Bills 5335 and 5336, introduced by state Reps. Mike McFall, D-Hazel Park, and Mark Tisdel, R-Rochester Hills. If approved by the state House and Senate and signed by the governor next year, the program will allow employees of any business to contribute to an individual retirement account directly through payroll deduction, regardless of whether their employer sponsors a retirement plan. “The heart of the issue is making sure people are ready for retirement,” McFall said. The program would operate as a public-private partnership overseen by a state board and the state treasury, growing the funds through an investment firm. McFall compared it to the 529 Michigan Education Savings Program.
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4A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
‘WONDERLAND DAY’ TO BRING HOLIDAY CHEER TO OVER 400 CHILDREN
TROY — The United Community Family Services – Chaldean American Ladies of Charity (UCFS-CALC) has announced the continuation of its “Wonderland Day” holiday event, set to take place 10 am. to 3 p.m. Dec. 22 at 2033 Austin Dr. Santa Claus and his elves will greet each family, take photos and present personalized gifts tailored to each child. Volunteers will provide crafts, activities and refreshments. “With donor numbers down due to economic changes, we felt it was important to highlight (Wonderland) as a way to showcase the heart of our mission,” said Melanie Duquesnel, president and CEO of UCFS-CALC, in a statement. “This program is more than gift-giving — it’s about creating a moment of joy and stability for families who are facing real challenges.” This year, more than 400 children are expected to receive toys and gifts through the Wonderland program. Families are referred to the program based on need, with many being newly arrived immigrant and refugee families adjusting to life in the U.S., as well as longstanding community members facing job loss, medical challenges or unexpected disruptions. Gifts are carefully prepared in advance by volunteer elves and presented personally by Santa to each child. The program emphasizes both needs and wants, with donations including age-appropriate toys, art kits, sports equipment, books, games and puzzles, and gift cards for teens. “The families we serve come from diverse backgrounds, but they share one common reality: financial hardship,” said Duquesnel. “Wonderland gives children a chance to feel seen, celebrated and cared for. It’s a reminder to parents that they are not alone, and that their community stands beside them.” UCFS-CALC invites donors, partners and community members to support the Wonderland program by donating through ucfamilyservices.org, or via secure.qgiv.com/for/ krhogd.
Photo provided by state Rep. Tom Kuhn
State Rep. Tom Kuhn meets with Troy Union Elementary school groups on the House Floor.
TROY — State Rep. Tom Kuhn (R-Troy) welcomed two fourthgrade student groups and faculty from Troy Union Elementary School to the state Capitol on Dec. 3. The group toured the Capitol building and met with Kuhn to discuss the legislative process. About 70 students and 20 parents participated in the tour.
GIRL BOTZ COLLECTS DONATIONS FOR GLEANERS FOOD BANK
Photo provided by the Girl Botz
The Girl Botz FTC 22918 robotics team collected a variety of nonperishable food items for Gleaners Community Food Bank as a part of Giving Tuesday.
TROY — For its “Giving Tuesday,” the Girl Botz FTC 22918 robotics team took time away from practice and tournament prep to give back to the community by gathering nonperishable food items for Gleaners Community Food Bank. The effort was made in collaboration with Paaralang Pilipino at the Philippine American Council of Michigan and Klawsome of Novi. “Team members say this donation represents only a portion of what they plan to deliver to Gleaners as part of their ongoing service initiatives,” the Girl Botz said in a statement. For more information, visit ftc22918girlbotz.com.
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
Chefs share tips for entertaining during holidays BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Julie Selonke, right, a professional chef and graduate of the Culinary Studies Institute at Oakland Community College, shares a moment with a student. “I fell in love with teaching as much as I fell in love with food,” Selonke said.
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
6A
BY SARAH WRIGHT
swright@candgnews.com
TROY — Troy Historic Village has been bustling with festive events this month. More than 350 people attended Cocoa and Crafts with Santa Dec. 6-7, while the Village continued to draw crowds with its Victorian Christmas Dec. 12-13, where historical reenactors demonstrated holiday traditions as they would have occurred in the 1860s. “We start working on this event as soon as Halloween is over,” said Alex Konieczny, the youth programs director at the Village, regarding Cocoa and Crafts with Santa. Families could visit Santa and Mrs. Claus inside the Niles-Barnard House during the event. “Santa and Mrs. Claus really love this event because they get to spend more time with the kids than they usually do,” Konieczny said in a statement. “It’s so much fun watching them telling kids a short story or talking about how the reindeer are hanging out at the Nature Center.” In addition to hot cocoa and crafts, visitors could enjoy games and photo opportunities throughout other areas of the Village. The event was designed to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities. Special needs were also kept in mind, with activities spaced throughout the Village for a more sensory-friendly experience, and quiet spaces were also available. “We love using the Village as a space for community events like these throughout the year,” said Jen Peters, the Village’s executive director, in a statement. “It opens up our site to families who might be visiting for their first time and offers them a fun seasonal experience.” The Victorian Christmas event, meanwhile, featured historical reenactors from Bonnets and Crooked Hats who moved into the Village for a weekend to live inside the historic homes as people would have done around the time of the Civil War. The reenactors dressed in fashions appropriate for the era and engaged in meal preparation, games, decorating and celebrating Christmas like how it was done during the Victorian Era, stopping only to educate curious onlookers. This year’s theme was “Christmas Eve & Christmas Day,” with reenactors dispensing knowledge of the traditions that typically fell on those two days, whether celebrating with family or with friends. Hot drinks were served, and stocking stuffers were available for purchase in the General Store. Visitors could also create paper ornaments to help decorate a tree in Town Hall. For more information, visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068. C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties: 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.)
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Troy Historic Village celebrates the holidays
SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS 7A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
CUSTOMER SERVICE, EMPLOYEE TREATMENT KEYS TO BUSINESS SUCCESS LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS TALK ABOUT LONGEVITY AND ITS SECRETS
C
ustomer service and treatment of employees are the keys to success, according to the owners of two local businesses that have flourished for decades. “I think we have built a company based on a certain ethical standard and we’ve treated our customers the right way, and we’ve acted with integrity and trust, and we’ve treated our team members the right way who in turn have really put in that additional effort and loyalty to help us grow,” said Mark Tapper, CEO of Tapper’s Jewelry. Tapper said his father, Howard Tapper, founded the company in 1977 because he believed many other jewelry businesses at the time were not focused on customer service. “He believed many jewelry stores were not operated in a customer-centric way. So, there were silly policies that were considered the norm in 1977 that today we would think were kind of crazy, but he didn’t like how those businesses operated,” Tapper said. According to Tapper, some of the customer-service poli-
cies that his father was very innovative in changing included giving customers cash refunds and offering them a vast selection of complimentary gift wrapping for their purchases. “He was very value oriented. He wanted to make sure that the customer got tremendous value for the price that they were paying. So, he had a very large selection of merchandise, and he really tried to give the very, very best prices in metropolitan Detroit,” Tapper said. The first Tapper’s Jewelry store opened at 12 Mile Road and Northwestern Highway in front of a racquet club. Tapper said his dad chose that location due to the popularity of the sport at the time; he thought that customers would come in and look at jewelry on their way to or from the racquet club. That idea didn’t work out as well as his father hoped it would, but he said his dad maintained a positive attitude. He said his father sold $1,100 worth of merchandise on that first day, and with rent being $1,000 his dad knew his business would survive another month. See BUSINESS on page 17A
Mark Tapper (left in the color photo), Howard Tapper, and Steve Tapper (left in the black-andwhite photo) stand together in photos taken decades apart at Tapper’s Jewelry. The company was founded in 1977. Photos provided by Tapper’s Jewelry
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS
8A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025 /9A
CDs offer CCCU members ways to save, grow money
Stuffing surplus cash in your mattress — or even into a traditional low-interest savings account — isn’t the safest or best option for most people. The financial experts at Community Choice Credit Union said certificates of deposit, currently available with terms of five, 15 and 25 months, offer a bigger interest-earning potential with a locked-in rate that consumers can feel comfortable with. “Essentially, they are risk-free. They are insured by the National Credit Union Association,” said Shadonna Rawls, the Member Center Manager at CCCU’s Farmington Hills location on West 12 Mile Road. “It’s a higher interest rate that’s guaranteed — typically higher than a regular savings account, and you don’t have
to worry about market fluctuations once you lock in.” While a traditional savings account may offer a mere 0.01% annual return on funds deposited into it, a five-month CD through CCCU offers a 4% annual percentage yield. For those who will not need access to the deposited funds for longer periods of time, locking in rates for 15 or 25 months comes with slightly lower yields, but they are still much more attractive than those of traditional savings accounts. “It’s available to anyone,” Rawls said. “Our minimum starting balance is only $500. Anyone that is looking to save without risk or is looking to put money away without touching it, we always recommend the CD option.” Security through insurance and guaranteed rates should give savers peace of
mind, Rawls said. “With the market there are fluctuations. There is volatility. You don’t have control over what’s actually going to happen,” she said. “With a CD, with it being locked in, those rates
“If you’re one of those investors who likes to stay on the safe side, the CD is the option to go with,” Rawls said. To set up a consultation about CDs or any other banking needs, call Raw-
are guaranteed. There is no risk at all with them.” CCCU even allows early withdrawals from CDs that penalize patrons only on the amount withdrawn, which should provide additional assurance in the event of a financial emergency.
ls at (877) 243-2528 ext. 4501. Her member center is located at 37600 W. 12 Mile Road, in Farmington Hills. For more about Community Choice Credit Union, go to communitychoicecu.com. 0008-2551
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
10A
T
Season’s Greetings
hroughout the year, I am reminded of how truly special Warren Consolidated Schools is, and what a privilege it is to serve as Superintendent of this extraordinary school system. I am thankful for our dedicated staff members who give so much of themselves to our students each and every day, the parents and families who provide their love and support for their children, and the community members who support our students, staff, and schools. I am also grateful for our wonderfully supportive Board of Education who are committed to creating dynamic futures for all WCS students through student achievement, high expectations, and strong relationships.
Happy Holidays, and I look forward to the New Year! John C. Bernia, Jr., Ed.D. - Superintendent of Schools 0147-2551
11A
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
CRIME
WATCH Fraudulent check caught
TROY — Around 1:22 p.m. Dec. 3, officers were dispatched to the Genisys Credit Union, at 1960 E Big Beaver Road, for a subject attempting to cash a fraudulent check. Officers located the suspect, a 25-yearold Detroit woman, at the teller counter. The woman initially claimed that the check was from work but then told officers she got the check from a friend after he posted on Instagram looking for people “18-plus” who wanted to make money. The woman and her friend exchanged text messages arranging to meet at the credit union. The friend gave her the check and was waiting for her in a nearby parking lot. Officers spoke with a credit union employee who said that she was suspicious of the check, so she contacted the account owner, who told her she did not write a check to the woman, and that the check number being used was for a payment to AT&T that she had placed in the mail. Officers located the second suspect’s vehicle unoccupied in the CVS parking lot.
The second suspect, a 23-year-old New Haven man, was located on foot and fled from officers. He was located a short time later in the stairwell of a nearby apartment complex. Both suspects were taken into custody and charged with uttering and publishing.
Credit card fraud
TROY — At 4:09 p.m. Dec. 6, officers were dispatched to the Neiman Marcus store at 2705 W. Big Beaver Road on a report of credit card fraud. Upon arrival, officers spoke with staff, who said the suspect made two purchases earlier in the day using a Neiman Marcus credit account. After the purchases, the store was contacted by the owner of the account, who said he did not make or authorize the purchases. The suspect had used a fraudulent driver’s license with the account holder’s name. Later, the suspect reentered the store and attempted to buy four jackets, valued at $3,945. Neiman Marcus asset protection officers and Oakland County Sheriff ’s Office deputies detained the suspect while Troy police responded. The suspect, a 41-year-old man from Detroit, was arrested and charged with identity theft and three counts of us-
ing a financial transaction device without consent.
Drunken driver crashes vehicle
TROY — Around 3:01 a.m. Dec. 4, officers were dispatched to the area of northbound Interstate 75 and Maple Road for a traffic crash. While speaking with the at-fault driver, a 36-year-old man from Davisburg, officers noted his speech was slurred and delayed, he was unsteady on his feet, and he reeked of alcohol. He said he was at a bar drinking alcohol prior to the crash. He was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he did, but the officers noted he performed poorly. The driver submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.16%. He was arrested and issued a citation for operating while intoxicated.
Drunken driver crashes into tree
TROY — Around 12:14 a.m. Dec. 5, officers were dispatched to the area of East Big Beaver Road and Rochester Road for a car that crashed into a tree. Upon arrival, officers observed a 2019 Jeep Cherokee with heavy crash damage, as well as significant damage to the tree and
a metal light pole. Officers spoke with the driver, a 19-year-old man from Clinton Township, and noted he had bloodshot watery eyes, slurred speech, and he reeked of alcohol. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he did, but the officers noted he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.165%. The driver was arrested.
Snow removal vehicles reported missing
TROY — A man told police that he and his employees left multiple snow removal vehicles parked in the lot at 396 John R Road in preparation for an upcoming snowfall, and when the employees returned early the next morning, two of the vehicles — a 2005 GMC Sierra and a 2002 Ford F-250, both equipped with snow plows — were missing. The vehicles had been left unlocked with the keys inside, and the incident would have occurred sometime between 4:30 p.m. Nov. 29 and 1:10 am. Nov. 30. The Ford F-250 was recovered several days later in Detroit. If you know more about these crimes or others, call Troy police at (248) 524-3477. — Sarah Wright
TROY
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
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Photo provided by The Franciscan Outreach Program
The Franciscan Outreach Program has served the community for over 65 years.
Final dress rehearsal doubles as benefit for local food bank BY MARY GENSON
mgenson@candgnews,com
BIRMINGHAM — The Franciscan Outreach Program and Birmingham Village Players are collaborating for the first time this winter for a benefit that helps feed the hungry. Birmingham Village Players will stage a benefit performance of “Once Upon a Mattress” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 7. All proceeds from ticket sales will go to the program. The Franciscan Friars have been making an impact on families for years through their partnership with the Church of the
Transfiguration, 25225 Code Road in Southfield. The program — which does not restrict to certain ZIP codes — continues to grow, currently feeding hundreds of families per month. As food insecurity grows, so does the need for funds for the Franciscan Outreach Program. “With food insecurity being what it is now, with cutbacks on so many of the government programs, we’re trying to raise more money so that we can buy more food from Gleaners and others and just be able to continue the wonderful work that this mis-
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13A
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
from page 5A
ness of ground spices is difficult to determine. The dish is typically served with tostadas, which are crunchy and flat. Galeana likes the El Milagro tostadas, available at most grocery stores that sell Hispanic food. She said the stew is simple, easy to make, and has been a crowd pleaser at her home. “It takes putting love in small ingredients,” she said. Galeana has been cooking most of her life. She started working in the industry at age 16. “I have been cooking since I was 8 … when I was tall enough to reach the pots and pans and things from the cupboard,” she said. Galeana said she knew a lot about cooking and preparing foods in the Mexican tradition, but she wanted to learn more. She has been working at an upscale Italian restaurant. “It opened up my mind to learn new things,” Galeana said. She said she’s always studying the craft, from beautifully plating a dish to incorporating different spices and preparing foods from other cultures. Galeana strives to “whip up something on the fly,” as professional chefs do. It was with this in mind that she enrolled in the program to study to be a chef. Mike Dakoske is also a first-semester student in the culi-
nary program at OCC. He describes himself as primarily a vegetarian, and he suggests preparing vegetables cooked properly for holiday entertaining. “Watch that you don’t overcook vegetables,” he said. Dakoske suggested a technique used at the vegan restaurant where he used to work. Wash the vegetables and slit the top to allow air in, keeping the vegetable whole. Put on a baking sheet, season with oil and salt and pepper, and then roast the vegetables for about 45 minutes or until they have some char. Then take the vegetables out of the oven. “People would just walk by and grab them,” Dakoske said. “They taste like candy.” Dakoske, 53, has more than 30 years of industry experience. He works at a high-end restaurant in downtown Detroit where he is responsible for cold foods, appetizers and desserts. He believes going to school and studying to be a chef makes a big difference. “I would highly recommend anybody in the culinary industry go to school,” Dakoske said. “I’m on the other side of it now. I believe in the value of school.” See CHEFS on page 17A Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
RIGHT: Mike Dakoske prepares for an event at Oakland Community College in Royal Oak. The first-semester student has more than 30 years of culinary industry experience and believes that school is important for his career growth.
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
14A
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR
DEC. 18
Wrapper’s Delight: Holiday Gift Wrapping Party: Boxes, wrapping paper, bows, bags and tags provided, also light holiday-themed refreshments, 6:30-8 p.m., Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, for TPL cardholders 18 and older only, register at (248) 5243542 or troypl.org
DEC. 19-21
‘It’s A Wonderful Life’: Radio play version of classic Christmas movie, 8 p.m. Dec. 19-20 and 2 p.m. Dec. 21, Ridgedale Players, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, ridgedaleplayers.com, read story at candgnews.com
DEC. 21
Chanukah on Ice: Presented by Chabad of Troy and Chabad of Bloomfield Hills, participants can skate and watch skating show, event also includes menorah lighting, doughnuts and Chanukah treats, themed craft, and music, 3:15-5:15 p.m., Detroit Skating Club, 888 Denison Court in Bloomfield Township, sign up at jewishtroy.com/ice
DEC. 23
Grown-Up Game Night: Play new board games or bring own, 6-8:30 p.m., Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 524-3542, troypl.org
JAN. 8
Oakland County Quilt Guild meeting: Tips, tools and how-to demonstrations by members, 7-8:30 p.m., First Congregational Church of Rochester, 1315 N. Pine St., events continue Feb. 5, March 5, April 9 and May 7, (248) 651-6225, oaklandcountyquiltguild.com
JAN. 21
Vape 101: Free one-hour training for students, parents, community members and organizations, learn about dangers of e-cigarettes and health consequences, safety and other concerns, also why youth use them and prevention resources, presented by Oakland County Michigan Health Division, noon-1 p.m., held virtually on Microsoft Teams, register at bit. ly/3LWBi4i, email arabon@oakgov.com with questions
ONGOING
Operation Blue Sleigh: Encompasses gift card drive, shop with a cop and adopt a family, run by Troy Police Department to help local families in need, gifts to be delivered to homes Dec. 22, (248) 680-7223, pokleyga@troymi.gov, facebook.com/troymipolice, read story at candgnews.com
kich Family Restaurant, 3900 Rochester Road in Troy, RSVP to Ed at (586) 909-1444, widowedfriends.com • Lunches at 1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Louise at (248) 338-6743, widowedfriends.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 Monthly book clubs: Find meetups for romance, mystery, learning English, kids/beginners and more, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, troypl.org • Silent Book Club-Troy meets 6:30-8:30 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, bring own books, e-
books and audio books (with headphones), Grand Tavern Troy, 1317 Coolidge Highway, silentbookclubtroy@ gmail.com, silentbook.club/blogs/events/troy-mi Troy Women’s Association meetings: Nonprofit dedicated to supporting local causes and enhancing lives of others, 7 p.m. every first Tuesday of month (except February) until June, new location at Community of Christ - Troy Oaks, 3830 Crooks Road, (248) 988-0426, troywomensassociation.org 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 Top of Troy Toastmasters: Weekly meetups to improve public speaking and leadership skills, noon-1 p.m. Mondays, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 872-6603, johnlynn910@gmail.com
Visit Santa: Noon-5:55 p.m. Sundays and 10 a.m.7:55 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays until Dec. 23, Somerset Collection, corner of Big Beaver Road and Coolidge Highway in Troy, somersetevents.as.me/santaphotos Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only at 10 a.m. every first and third Thursdays of month, Lu-
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15A
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
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On My Own of Michigan, the Troy Community Coalition, the Troy High Badminton Club, the Troy Nature Society, and the Troy Robotics Foundation (Circuit Breakers). In all, 12 groups were awarded. The grants will fund a variety of projects, such as a local food pantry, meadow restoration, STEM learning groups for girls and women, and a program for fourth graders in the Troy school district focused on good decision-making skills regarding drugs, alcohol, shoplifting and bullying, done in partnership with the Troy police. Wyatt Lucas founded Hockey Mentors as an Eagle Scout program in 2022. He explained in a statement that it has become an annual event that is free for any individual with special needs, regardless of age or ability, teaching them how to ice skate or play hockey. “It is now a popular program that takes place monthly because of supporters such as the (TCF) and other local businesses and organizations,” Lucas said. “I’m very grateful for this help that has allowed us to expand the program well beyond my initial vision.” Abigail Tyner, executive director at the Troy Community Coalition, said the TCF grant means her group can reach more students in the Troy school district, dissuading them from engaging with drugs and alcohol. More than 800 students are reached in all. “This program focuses on good decision making and covers the topics of the city’s youth curfew, vaping, safe medication practices and bullying,” Tyner said via email. Colleen Burtka, the revenue development manager at On My Own of Michigan, said she is incredibly grateful for the generous support of the TCF, as the grant helps strengthen her group’s Skill Building program, which empowers students with developmental disabilities as they build confidence and gain greater independence. “Thanks to this partnership, our members can more fully access the Troy community and experience all of the enriching educational, cultural and recreational opportunities it offers,” Burtka said via email. More information — including 2026 deadlines and the grant application packet — are now available at troycf.org/grants. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
16A
Retirement from page 3A
All workers would be offered the plan when they’re hired. If they decline, they can always opt in later. They can also access the funds at any time, so the funds are available in an emergency. And if they change jobs, they can still easily access the funds since they’re managed by the state. McFall originally pitched the concept last year, and bipartisan support this year has given it renewed momentum. He said the plan addresses multiple needs. First and foremost is what McFall describes as an urgent need to address Michigan’s growing retirement security gap. He points to a report by the American Association of Retired Persons, which shows
that as of 2020, nearly 42% of Michigan’s private-sector workers ages 18-64 lacked access to a retirement savings plan at their place of employment. Another report by the Pew Charitable Trusts’ retirement savings project estimates there are currently 1.5 million Michigan workers without workplace retirement benefits. McFall said the program also supports small businesses that form the economic backbone of many communities. Due to their more limited resources, small businesses can’t always afford to offer a retirement plan. With this program, they could offer that benefit at no additional cost. “It makes small businesses much more competitive when they’re trying to recruit talent,” McFall said. He believes there’s also a benefit to taxpayers, since more people being able to safely
Taste it. Feel it. Live it: The Rich Roots Behind Raíces Mexican Cantina When Maria Aldana chose the name Raíces, or roots in English, she wanted a word that explained the story behind her Mexican cantina and the deep traditions that guide every dish. She has spent nearly two decades in the restaurant business, learning to cook on the job and growing from one small operation to several locations. During the pandemic, she opened a Mexican grill and later sold it, only to discover that she missed the kitchen and the creative work behind it. So she opened Raíces in May 2024. “Mexican gastronomy is a beautiful process that comes from our seasonings, our herbs and the vegetables we serve,” Aldana explained, adding that many of her peppers and spices are sourced from Mexico, where drying, roasting and blending methods shape the flavors she wants to highlight. Much of the staff built their culinary paths by drawing from the kitchens they grew up in. “Raíces is surrounded by everything it takes to bring authentic dishes to the table,” Aldana said. Her menu showcases the magnificence of Mexican cuisine, presenting dishes with rustic character yet modern flair. Featured are mole poblano, fajitas, burritos, chimichangas and birria from her father’s recipe from Jalisco. The molcajete arrives sizzling with grilled meats and peppers, and her quesadillas and tacos are prepared with her special seasoning blend. Consistency is key in her kitchen. All ingredients come from the same trusted sources. The bar follows that standard with cocktails made from natural ingredients and no artificial flavors. Frozen margaritas and traditional versions are made to order. Taco Tuesdays, happy hour offers and occasional themed nights add energy to the scene. For Aldana, Raíces is more than a restaurant. It represents her craft, culture and the trust guests place in her food. “I love what I do,” she said. “Knowing customers enjoy it, share it with others and come back is what makes my job meaningful.” Come visit Raíces Mexican Cantina at 44805 Mound Rd. in Sterling Heights. For more information, call (586) 930-1821 or visit raicesmex.com.
0259-2551
retire would reduce the burden on public safety net programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Research by Pew estimates as much as $11 billion in taxpayer savings over the next 20 years if a statewide retirement savings program is implemented. “You go to food pickups at Forgotten Harvest and Gleaners and there are so many seniors picking up boxes. With this program, maybe they wouldn’t have to do that. I think if more people were given the proper tools to start saving, many people would take advantage of it,” McFall said. “In the end, it will also save taxpayer dollars by keeping more people off public assistance,” he said. “Hopefully it will also allow people to age in place instead of having to be forced out of a home they’ve been in for decades because they can no longer afford to stay there.”
Currently, there are 17 states in the country that have implemented similar laws, with 14 of them having active programs, often referred to as “secure choice” or “work and save.” Tisdel, the bills’ cosponsor, said such a program would make a real difference in Michigan. “Every hardworking Michigander deserves the opportunity to save for a secure future. That shouldn’t depend on the size of your employer or where you work,” Tisdel said in a statement. “Providing a simple, reliable savings option supports personal responsibility, empowers workers, and builds long-term financial independence,” he said. “This is a practical step that strengthens Michigan families.” Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
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purchasing a vacation home. Each plan is designed to help clients make informed decisions aligned with their financial goals. Through Stifel’s financial planning resources, the Thompson Wealth Management Group offers: Steven and Tarah Thompson provide • Comprehensive financial planning guidance for individuals and families at • 401(k) and 403(b) plan education every stage of life – from young professionals • Higher education planning building a foundation for retirement to established investors considering a • Investment portfolio reviews retirement plan. • Gifting strategies for the season of giving At Thompson Wealth Management Group, This holiday season, the Thompson Wealth they believe “success doesn’t just happen, Management Group invites individuals it’s planned.” The team specializes in and families to give themselves the gift navigating market volatility, portfolio of financial clarity. Contact the Thompson and cash flow analysis, and goal-focused Wealth Management Group today to strategies like saving for college or schedule a complimentary financial review.
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TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
Business from page 7A
Today, Tapper’s Jewelry has four locations, including its headquarters in West Bloomfield; Novi, which opened in 2022; and two locations that recently expanded inside Somerset Mall in Troy. “For us it’s all about the customer — giving the very, very best customer experience possible,” Tapper said. “One of our core values is about spreading joy to our guests, and it’s just really, really important to us. As soon as a guest walks into one of our stores, it’s my expectation that they really get treated as if they were a guest in your own home. “We offer beverages, we try to make it a nice, warm and welcoming environment for everyone that comes in. Whether you are buying a $50 baptism gift or a $50,000 diamond, or selling us $200 in gold, our expectation is that everyone gets the same level of high service when they come in,” said Tapper. “So, I really think that is what has differentiated us throughout the years, as well as a reputation of being one of Michigan’s most trusted businesses.” Ryan McInerney, executive manager of Star Lincoln in Southfield, grew up in the car business. He said he started with the company at the age of 16 as a porter. His grandfather founded the company in 1970, one of approximately 30 dealerships around the country that Hoot McInerney owned. McInerney said that he believes the successful outcome of any business, including his, is determined by the people who work there. “From a baby onward, I was always around car people, and I always heard about how to treat customers, how to
treat your employees, and, you know, doing business the right way,” said McInerney. “And really, I believe it’s all about relationships that you build with the employees, with whoever the corporate people are that you’ve got to deal with (from Ford Motor Co., in the case of Star Lincoln). You’ve got to treat people with kindness and respect, and I think that goes a really long way.” McInerney said they have also hired a very diversified staff that is in tune with the latest technology and brings a wide range of cultural knowledge and experiences. He said that their current staff ranges in age from 18 to 80-plus. “I think that has really helped us at adapting to new technology and just really doing things the right way. But I really believe it’s about how you treat your employees and how you treat your customers, and that’s something that my grandfather instilled in all of us in the car business, and I really believe that,” McInerney said. McInerney and Tapper both emphasized treating people like family and being involved with the community in many ways, including donating to various charities. Tapper said that they once brought in a strategic business planner who asked them all a question about which comes first, family or business, and all of them answered independently — family. Therefore, they run their business as a family-centered operation. “It goes with community involvement, aligned with your marketing, aligned with business functions that you put on for your employees. Everything is kind of aligned, and I think that’s what’s really making things work for us, especially with the new business climate and the new world we’re in post-COVID,” Tapper said. Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
Chefs from page 13A
Julie Selonke is a professional chef who has been teaching at OCC for 14 years. Her career spans nearly 30 years. She has cooked for kings and queens, U.S. presidents, and celebrities like Tiger Woods and Kid Rock — to name just a few — during her 10 years working at Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills and at the Tribute restaurant in Farmington Hills. Selonke suggests preparing as much as possible in advance to make the event go smoothly. A scalloped potato dish is an easy dish to serve when entertaining. The chef suggests prepping it in a casserole dish and then putting it in the refrigerator. The extra time will enhance the flavor. “They probably taste better after hanging out in the refrigerator for a few days,” she said. The day of the event, put the casserole dish in the oven and bake. Top with crumbled pretzels in melted butter for crunch and serve. Selonke also recommends enlisting others to bring a dish of their choice. “As host, it’s lovely to spread the workload a little bit, and that can enhance the enjoyment,” Selonke said. “When you do the major items that may be difficult for people to bring — the roast, the turkey — invite people to bring a side or some other component. … You have an opportunity to get yourself put together and not look disheveled, (but rather) like the consummate entertainer.” Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
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Free general admission is made possible by Tri-County millage support. 0223-2551
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
18A
Hastings from page 1A
and seven two-story attached condominiums, as well as the preservation of three existing homes and access to the complex off Livernois, a detention basin at the southeastern end of the site, and a centralized outdoor recreation area. At the council meeting Dec. 1, the latest proposal called for rezoning the land at the site from NN (Neighborhood Node) and R-1B (One Family Residential) zoning districts to an RT (One Family Attached) zoning district. Twenty-two new units are now planned for the area, with four ranch-style detached single-family homes, four duplex ranches, and 14 two-story attached condominium units. Additionally, the current plan includes one access point to Livernois Road, 416 new trees, and the park being maintained by the homeowners. The applicant also intends to maintain the present R-1B zoning of the three existing single-family homes on Livernois to preserve the homes. “So, I plan on selling the houses,” said Gary Abitheira, representing GFA Development. “Whoever buys them has to keep them for 15 years, and I’m sure they’re going to keep them longer, but it’s just guaranteed for 15 years.” There were still some concerns expressed by residents. “We remain deeply concerned about
future traffic on Livernois, especially with Martell Elementary and the new Smith Middle School feeding directly into this corridor,” Jeff Williams, a representative from the Telford Ridge Homeowners Association and the Save Troy Corners Facebook group, said via email. “We strongly believe that no widening of Livernois would be the ideal outcome, but if widening does occur, it must be done on the east side to protect the existing homes and families who live there. “We also want to note that the developer has agreed not to purchase or pursue any additional development to the east of the Village of Hastings, which ensures Telford Drive will remain exactly as it is today and will not connect to any new development or to Square Lake Road,” he said. “We continue to advocate for converting the proposed EVA into an actual connecting road to Square Lake Road. That single improvement would meaningfully reduce congestion, improve safety for school traffic, and address many of the concerns we raised throughout this process.” Williams also noted the neighbors’ positive reaction to the current rendition of the project after a long period of deliberations. “This process has been long, emotional, and at times exhausting for our neighborhood, community, and the Save Troy Corners (STC) Team,” Williams said. “Now, seeing it reach a fair and responsible resolution means a great deal to everyone.” The conditional rezoning request was unanimously approved by the council.
CITY OF TROY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MEETING January 20, 2026 The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing at Troy City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver, Troy MI 48084, on January 20, 2026, 7:00 pm, to consider the following:
“I appreciate the collaboration amongst so many different stakeholders,” said Troy City Councilman David Hamilton. “It was great to see, and I’m glad we brought this to a conclusion.” The project is anticipated to be completed in the next two years. In the meantime, there are more steps that will be considered as the project continues. “The next step is Gary is going to ask
CITY OF TROY PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be held by and before the Planning Commission of the City of Troy at City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver, Troy, Michigan, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit, to consider a Conditional Rezoning Request to rezone the following described property from R-1E (One Family Residential) Zoning District to BB (Big Beaver) Zoning District: The subject property is located on the East side of Frankton, North of Big Beaver. The area proposed to be rezoned is approximately 0.5 acres in area. The subject property parcel number is PIN 88-20-22-358-029. Address is 3040 and 3058 Frankton. PIN 88-20-22-358-028 is proposed to be included in the development. The applicant has voluntarily offered a number of conditions related to the rezoning application, including a site plan proposing a medical office building and parking lot. The name of the proposed development is Z Square Medical Office Building. Comments can be expressed at the Public Hearing, or written comments can be directed to the attention of the Planning Department, City of Troy, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan 48084, or by e-mail to planning@troymi.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. one day prior to the date of the meeting. If you have questions you may contact the Planning Department by e-mail or by phone at (248) 524-3364. The application on file can be viewed by contacting the Planning Department at (248) 524-3364 or by emailing planning@troymi.gov and requesting a copy. Notices and information for public hearings will also be posted on the City website Boards and Committees page at https://troymi.gov/ ____________________________________ Aileen Dickson, MMC MiPMC III City Clerk PUBLISHED: POSTED:
December 18, 2025 December 15, 2025
CITY OF TROY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE CITY COUNCIL 2026 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 2026 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, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday, Monday,
LOCATION: 2578 Devonwood ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION: 4.06 C, R-1A Zoning APPLICANT: Robert Naeyaert for Lunar Construction Inc PROPERTY OWNER: Julianne M. Bonema Trust The application can be viewed at troymi.gov/boardsandcommittees or in person at the Planning Department, City of Troy, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan, 48084.
____________________________________ Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk PUBLISHED: POSTED:
December 18, 2025 December 15, 2025
NOTICE: Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in this meeting should contact the City Clerk by e-mail at clerk@troymi.gov or by calling (248) 524-3317 at least two working days in advance of the meeting. An attempt will be made to make reasonable accommodations. Published: Troy Times 12/18/2025
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Special Meeting Dates 6:00 PM in the Council Boardroom or as otherwise provided by the City Council Rules of Procedure: Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Monday, Wednesday
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2026 Advance City Manager & City Attorney Evaluations City Manager & City Attorney Evaluations Budget Discussions Budget Discussions (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. ________________________________ M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk
0359-2551
@CANDGNEWS
0356-2551
Published: Troy Times 12/18/2025
A variance request to allow a home addition to be setback 9 feet from the side property line, and 35 feet from the rear property line. The Zoning Ordinance requires setbacks of 15 feet from the side property line and 45 feet from the rear property line. Some construction has already occurred.
Comments can be expressed at the Public Hearing, or written comments can be directed to the attention of the Planning Department at the above noted address, or by email to planning@troymi.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. one day prior to the date of the meeting. If you have questions, you may contact the Planning Department at planning@troymi.gov or by phone at (248) 524-3364.
his civil engineer to submit engineering drawings,” said Brent Savidant, Troy’s community development director. “They’re going to design the road … (and) make sure the water flows downhill, put all the details in for the road … and then send it to the Road Commission for review.” For more information, visit troymi.gov. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
POSTED: December 11, 2025 PUBLISHED: December 18, 2025 January 15, 2026 Published: Troy Times 12/18/2025
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19A
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
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Food bank from page 12A
“Once Upon a Mattress,” a whimsical retelling of “Princess and the Pea,” is a comedic show with lots of catchy music and dancing. Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased atci. ovationtix.com/35852/production/1258469. The performance for the benefit will actually be a final dress rehearsal, which is why the cost is lower than a typical Birmingham Village Players show, which usually costs $30. Cragg said the idea to have a benefit during the final dress rehearsal came to be because she knew that the cast benefits from
Photo provided by 1Detroit City Marketing
The cast of “Once Upon a Mattress” at Birmingham Village Players. having a live audience. By having people watch the final dress rehearsal, it gives the actors an opportunity to experience reactions from the audience. Before the performance, there will be themed light refreshments at 6:45 p.m. To learn more about the benefit, call (248) 5413762, ext. 117. Call Staff Writer Mary Genson at (586) 498-1095.
~ Lissa and Nick
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sion has provided for the last 65-plus years,” Mary Wallace, the director of the program, said. When Event Coordinator Dianne Cragg went to visit the food bank, she was impressed by the quantity of food they were able to distribute. “It just blows me away that they have this massive food bank over there in Southfield. … The food that they get in and how they do a turnaround — it’s wonderful,” Cragg said.
TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 18, 2025
20A
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2B - TROY TIMES, December 18, 2025
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TROY TIMES, December 18, 2025 - 3B
www.candgnews.com Plumbing
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YEAR-IN-REVIEW ACROSS 1. W.E.B Du Bois’ org. 6. Rascal 9. Ho-hum 13. “Pomp and Circumstance” composer 14. Tropical constrictor 15. Forgo 16. Tequila source 17. + or - atom 18. Reason by deduction 19. *Trade war “weapon,” pl. 21. *2025 MLB World Series winners 23. ____-tzu 24. C&H crop 25. Dunce 28. Western necktie 30. Catch in a snare 35. Ginger cookie 37. Master of his castle 39. Use a razor 40. British slang for donkey 41. Arch and ball locations 43. Winglike 44. March celebrants 46. *Arthur Sze, 2025 ____ Laureate 47. Dam-like structure 48. *BeyoncÈ’s “Cowboy ____,” 2025 Grammy winner 50. King Kong and Curious George, e.g. 52. Like a fox 53. What Pinocchio did 55. *Florida Panthers won this org.’s ‘25 championship 57. *”Wicked: ____ ____” 61. *Late environmentalist and chimpanzee expert 65. German submarine destroyer 66. *2025 Ryder Cup loser 68. Manuscript sheet 69. Brazilian coins 70. Roll-your-own one, for short 71. To the left, on a boat 72. Orpheus’ instrument 73. Geological time period 74. They are cut by Federal Reserve DOWN 1. At room temperature, bar order 2. Algae, sing. 3. Petri dish filler 4. Raise trivial objections 5. Ready to be assembled 6. Avian wader 7. Farm sound 8. China’s goodwill “____ diplomacy”
9. Collision, onomatopoeically speaking 10. *Taylor Swift’s “The ____ of a Showgirl” 11. Affirm solemnly 12. Third-person possessive pronoun 15. Makes broader 20. Why do they fall in love? 22. *Aryna Sabalenka’s seed 24. Auto contents 25. Pertaining to osmium 26. *2025 Academy Awards Best Picture winner 27. Faquir, alt. spelling 29. Pilot’s stunt 31. Spring event 32. Pneumonia symptom, pl. 33. Be of use 34. *Blue Origin’s 2025 singing passenger 36. Boll weevil, e.g. 38. *____Seek 42. Shorthand typist,
for short 45. Serfs 49. 2016 Olympics host, for short 51. Ram’s horn at a synagogue 54. Draw a conclusion 56. Parkinson’s disease drug 57. Roll up 58. Heed
59. Lion sound 60. Dorothy’s last name 61. *Lady of “The Mayhem Ball” 62. Tons (2 words) 63. Lira, pl. 64. Land parcels 67. *Gary Oldman received this honorific in 2025
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4B - TROY TIMES, December 18, 2025
K E E W E H T F O RIME C • K E E W E F TH O E M I R C • NEWSWORTHY K OF THE WEE INCIDENTS REPORTED TO LOCAL POLICE, AS COMPILED BY C & G REPORTERS
Quebec man swings at security while intoxicated
BIRMINGHAM — Officers were called to a bar in the 100 block of Willits around 11:30 p.m. Nov. 28, where a man took a swing at a security guard who was trying to remove him and his girlfriend from a stall in the women’s restroom. The suspect, a 26-year-old from Montreal, Quebec, appeared intoxicated, which a preliminary breath test confirmed. He was issued a citation for disorderly conduct.
Resident reimbursed partially after court scam
BIRMINGHAM — On Nov. 20, at approximately 2 p.m., officers were dispatched to the front lobby of the Birmingham Police Department for a report of fraud. A 33-year-old female resident reported that she was expecting a call from another district’s court regarding a payment on behalf of a relative. She was later contacted by an individual claiming to be a representative of that court, who told her she needed to pay $1,500 and stated they could accept various forms of online payment. The initial payment attempts were flagged as potential fraud, so the caller instructed her to split the payments. The victim then believed she was being scammed and contacted her bank. She was reimbursed for a portion of the money she had sent. The investigation was ongoing.
Surveillance catches suspect stealing
BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department was dispatched to Target, 2400 S. Telegraph Road, Nov. 22. Loss prevention staff had a female suspect in their office they had caught stealing on video surveillance. The suspect entered the store at approximately 4:30 p.m. and took a shopping cart down multiple aisles, selecting merchandise. The suspect was seen removing price tags from low-priced items and affixing them to higher-priced items in her cart. At 4:54 p.m., the suspect went through the self-checkout and scanned some, but not all, of her items selected and used the discount price tags for other items. She attempted to steal $243.90 worth of hangers, Christmas decorations, storage bins and a steam iron. Officers took her into custody.
Pontiac men charged after being caught stealing from Target
BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — On Nov. 17, the
Bloomfield Township Police Department was dispatched to a retail fraud in progress at Target, 2400 S. Telegraph Road. At approximately 10:45 a.m., two male suspects were seen in the electronics section removing security devices and concealing two PS5 controllers in their pants. Two 18-year-old men from Pontiac were taken into custody. A pair of scissors and two PS5 controllers were recovered from them. During the investigation, officers learned that the two suspects were also involved in similar thefts Nov. 10 and Nov. 11 at the same Target. In those incidents the suspects allegedly stole multiple PS5 controllers. The case was presented to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, which issued charges of retail fraud and theft detection removal. They were arraigned in 48th District Court and received a $7,500 10% cash and a $5,000 personal bond, respectively.
Fast food restaurant makes embezzlement complaint
BERKLEY — The Berkley Public Safety Department received a report of embezzlement at 2:22 p.m. Nov. 24 in the 3600 block of W. 12 Mile Road. According to the report, police were sent to a local Burger King for a report of embezzlement. A manager told police that the restaurant had been notified that three deposits were missing from its safe. The manager reviewed security camera footage from the day before and found that an employee, a 40-year-old Berkley man, had taken the deposits, according to the police report. The employee was told to return the deposits or the police would be involved, but he had not communicated with the business since, according to the Berkley Public Safety Department. The deposits were worth $2,095.92. The case was under investigation.
Police investigate death at Red Roof Inn
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies, along with the Rochester Hills Fire Department, responded to Room 152 of the Red Roof Inn, 2580 Crooks Road, on a report of an unresponsive male exhibiting advanced signs of decomposition and significant bloating at 12:03 p.m. Nov. 23. Upon arrival, deputies learned that hotel staff had discovered the individual, 61, of Appleton, Wisconsin, lying on his back in the bed, partially clothed and demonstrating pronounced rigor mortis and advanced decomposition. Staff immediately contacted 911 upon making the discovery. The man was taken to a local hospital and pronounced deceased. Deputies found no indications of forced entry or an unsecured window or door. A visual inspec-
tion of the body showed no sign of trauma. Detectives were investigating.
a commission. The victim then realized it was a scam and notified police.
Man arrested for felony assault following road rage incident
Driver flees police during traffic stop
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Walton Boulevard, near Old Perch Road, for a property damage accident report at 10:15 a.m. Nov. 17. The complainant, a 19-year-old man from Waterford, reported that while driving through a construction zone, where traffic was reduced to one lane, a brown/ tan pickup truck in front of him abruptly brake checked. After the roadway expanded back to two lanes, the complainant passed the truck. The pickup then pulled in behind him and struck the rear of his vehicle. The complainant stated the truck continued to ram his vehicle, causing him to fear for his safety. The complainant followed the truck and began recording video with his phone. He reported that when he attempted to pull alongside the truck to capture the driver on video, the truck swerved toward his vehicle, forcing him toward the middle lane. The complainant called 911 as the truck continued driving into Rochester. Deputies observed damage to the rear of the complainant’s vehicle and photographed it. Video on the complainant’s phone showed an older-model pickup truck with a missing tailgate and a visible license plate. The license plate returned to a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado registered to an 83-year-old man from Auburn Hills. Records show the registered owner is on probation for assault and has an extensive history of assault-related offenses. Deputies contacted the registered driver, who admitted to striking the complainant’s vehicle. Based on the statement and an investigation, he was arrested and transported to the Oakland County Jail for felony assault.
Stock investment scam
TROY — Sometime between Sept. 1 and Nov. 18, a 33-year-old man from Cottage Lane was contacted by two individuals on WhatsApp and Telegram about investing in stocks. They provided stock names that he invested in through his Robinhood brokerage account. When the stocks showed profit, he was advised to sell, which he did. Due to the profit, the victim trusted the investors when he was instructed to invest in crypto. The victim deposited funds in a crypto account but was later informed that the investment suffered a total loss. He was then instructed to deposit additional money to make back his lost funds and get four times the profit in return. Additional money was deposited, and he was later informed that he made a large profit, but that in order to withdraw the money, he needed to pay for
TROY — Around 11:30 p.m. Nov. 20, officers initiated a traffic stop around northbound I-75 and Big Beaver Road. The driver of the 2024 Buick Encore was speeding at 97 miles per hour in an area where the speed limit was 70. The driver failed to stop. Officers terminated the chase due to reckless driving and were able to keep sight of the vehicle and box it in when the driver pulled into a parking lot. The driver, an 18-year-old man from Troy, was arrested.
Purse theft at Planet Fitness
TROY — Officers were dispatched to Planet Fitness, 2880 W Maple Road, for a larceny report at 3:30 p.m. Nov. 20. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim, who said her car keys were stolen from her unlocked locker. The keys were then used to access her vehicle, and her purse was stolen. The credit cards in her purse were currently being used to make fraudulent purchases at Somerset Mall. Officers were able to identify a suspect from the gym’s security system. Officers went to Somerset Collection and located the female suspect walking with a man inside the mall. Both were taken into custody. The woman was reportedly wearing the victim’s purse, and her credit cards were found in her pocket. The man also allegedly had one of the victim’s credit cards in his possession, and he was carrying a Nike bag full of merchandise that was fraudulently purchased with the stolen cards. Officers obtained a search warrant for the suspects’ vehicle, where they allegedly located a substantial quantity of suspected fraudulent and stolen items, including driver’s licenses, bank records, debit and credit cards, and checks. They also located two bags of methamphetamine. The woman, 31, is a Lansing resident, and the man, 30, is an Eaton Rapids resident. Both were facing charges.
Gift card scam
TROY — On Nov. 24, a 42-year-old woman from East Big Beaver Road told police that she received an email claiming to be from her boss. She was instructed to purchase two $200 Apple gift cards as a surprise for the other staff. Once she purchased the gift cards, the victim was instructed to send the codes. Shortly afterward, she realized it was a scam.