SPOTLIGHT ON KIDS

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — Troy City Council approved multiple contracts and a budget amendment for the construction of pickleball courts at Firefighters Park at a meeting April 7.
According to information from the April 7 Troy City Council meeting packet, the city of Troy offers four dedicated outdoor pickleball courts at Redwood Park, along with Tennis courts at Boulan Park and Brinston Park that are lined for pickleball. Additional courts have been considered previously, but
According to Transportation Security Administration officials, an Enhanced Driver’s License is REAL ID-compliant.
Image provided by the Transportation Security Administration
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Starting May 7, in order to board a domestic flight within the United States, a REAL ID or a compliant document will be required. C and G Newspapers recently explored some of the pertinent facts.
Why
Requiring that passengers have a REAL ID is based on a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission, according to Jessica Mayle, who is the regional spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration.
“Identity verification is such an impor-
tant part of TSA’s mission, knowing who is going through the checkpoints,” Mayle said.
“With 50 states issuing 50 different (driver’s) licenses, we wanted one baseline set of security standards, so we knew that all (driver’s) licenses issued from any state met minimum security protocols.”
See REAL ID on page 11A
Our next edition will come to homes May 1. Stay current by visiting
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — Community members came out to Jeanne M. Stine Community Park to help pick up trash for The Cleanup Club’s Troy Cleanup Walk April 17.
The Cleanup Club is a Michigan-based nonprofit founded by environmental advocate and artist Hannah Tizedes. The nonprofit advocates for protecting communities and the Great Lakes from plastic pollution while having fun through different cleanup events and environmental activities. Tizedes’ group has been a part of a lot of events around the southeast Michigan area as well as other parts of Michigan, including Sleeping Bear Dunes.
“I’ve been doing cleanup events and art with plastic pollution for years,” Tizedes said. “We usually see 50 to 60 people and our numbers keep growing.”
On April 17, The Cleanup Club worked with the Troy Public Library and 86 Plastic to help facilitate the cleanup event around the Rink at Jeanne M. Stine Community Park.
“I went to one of Hannah’s events two summers ago and I (have gone) to every cleanup event ever since,” Claire Mahler, the owner of 86 Plastic, said.
Attendees were provided with gloves, vests, trash bags and other cleanup mate-
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Last May, the state’s Focused Organized Retail Crime Enforcement team — FORCE — arrested and charged six members of an alleged criminal organization responsible for the thefts of hundreds of vehicles in southeast Michigan. They were allegedly responsible for the theft of over 400 vehicles that were worth approximately $8 million.
Four additional members of the alleged criminal organization have since been charged, with those individuals now set to face trial. They were arrested and arraigned Jan. 7.
Davonta Jones, 31, Donovan Tucker, 22, Davion Tucker, 21, and Timothy Bell, 23, all of Detroit, allegedly carried out thefts on more than a dozen occasions last year.
The Troy Police Department, the Michigan State Police and the Detroit Po-
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — The Troy School District (TSD) has announced that Phyllis Walters, a secretary at Wass Elementary School, has been named as the district’s 2024-2025 Outstanding Support Staff Person of the Year.
Walters has been with the Troy School District for 33 years. She has served at Wass Elementary School under three of the four principals in the school’s history.
The announcement for this honor took place April 9. She was nominated by Kristyn Cubitt, a literary specialist with the Troy School District.
Cubitt shared her admiration for Walters’ ability to remain calm in all situations.
“When Phyllis is in the office, we know any question we have or help we need will be given,” Cubitt stated via a press release. “One year, we had a student who wasn’t doing his reading at home, and I asked Phyllis if he could come read to her in the morning. She, without hesitation, said yes, and it became this boy’s favorite time of day — to read to Mrs. Walters. As the literacy specialist at Wass, I appreciated that Phyllis would give this time to him and saw the kindness in the way she attentively listened to him read and praised him for the good work he’d done.”
Matt Jansen, who is the Troy School District director of athletics, continuing education, and enrichment, as well as a former principal at Wass, complimented Walters’ dedication to serving the Wass Elementary School community and working along many different principals, teachers and students over the 30 years she’s been with the district.
“She is the most longstanding employee at Wass — truly the individual who has helped principals, teachers, countless families, and students acclimate to Wass and become part of the positive culture of the Wass Wolf Pack,” Jansen said in a press release.
Ashleigh Jennings, who is the Wass Elementary PTO co-president, referred to Walters as “the heart of our school” in a press release.
“As the frontline of our building, she greets everyone with a warm smile and ensures that all visitors feel welcome,” Jennings stated via a press release. “Her exceptional organizational skills keep our school running smoothly, and she is always prepared to handle the myriad small crises that arise
daily. Whether it is a scraped knee, a forgotten lunch, or a last-minute schedule change, Phyllis manages it all with grace and efficiency.”
In addition to being presented with flowers and cookies to share with the Wass staff, Walters was given a $250 check from a representative of the Troy Foundation for Educational Excellence.
“I am honored to have been selected as Support Staff of the Year,” Walters stated via email. “I would like to give a special thanks to the Wass staff and PTO for taking time to submit letters on my behalf. Their comments and letters were very heartfelt and much appreciated. Wass is a special place that is made up of the most amazing students, parents, and staff. I am very fortunate to be a part of this great school.”
For more information, visit www.troy. k12.mi.us/.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
TROY — The Troy Community Chorus (TCC) will present its spring concert, “We Are One – Songs of Love, Hope & Unity” at Troy Athens High School on Friday, April 25.
The Troy Community Chorus was founded in 1978 and is a non-audition choir consisting of over 100 members from across the metropolitan Detroit area, with ages ranging from 24 to 85-plus.
The concert, under the direction of Sheryl Hauk and accompanied by Min Sook Chung, features a mix of accompanied and acapella chorale selections such as, “You Raise Me Up,” “You’ve Got a Friend” and “The Man in the Mirror,” among other song selections. Additionally, Omar Atasi, a junior at Athens and the 2025 recipient of the TCC Shirley Darge Memorial Vocal Music Scholarship will be performing during the concert.
The concert will take place at 8 p.m. at 4333 John R Road in Troy. Advance tickets are $12 for patrons ages 13 to 62 and $10 for seniors and children ages 6-12.
Children under the age of 5 are admitted free of charge. Tickets are set to be available at the door for $15 each.
To order tickets, contact Gina Sweet at (248) 762-6862 or ginasweet@gmail.com. Will-call tickets will be available for pick-up at 7:30 p.m. on the night of the concert.
For more information, visit troycommunitychorus. com.
TROY — The Rogel and Blondy Center for Pancreatic Cancer at the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center will be sponsoring the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s (PanCAN) PurpleStride® Michigan walk on April 26.
The walk is scheduled to take place at Troy Community Park, located at 3179 Livernois Road. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m., followed by the opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. and the walk at 10 a.m.
The Rogel and Blondy Center for Pancreatic Cancer supports patient care and translational research for pancreatic cancer. It has sponsored the PanCAN PurpleStride walk since 2018 in recognition of a shared commitment to making a transformative impact on this disease.
“Pancreatic cancer is complex. To solve a disease like this and truly make a difference in the lives of patients and families, we need to work together as clinicians, researchers, advocates, and families,” Timothy Frankel, who is a medical doctor and the codirector of the Rogel and Blondy Center for Pancreatic Cancer, stated in a press release.
According to the release, “Pancreatic cancer is the world’s deadliest cancer with a five-year survival rate of just 13 percent. In 2025, more than 67,400 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and nearly 51,980 will die from the disease, making it the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S.”
Michigan’s PurpleStride walk is coordinated with close to 60 other communities across the nation. In each city, thousands of supporters will walk the nation in solidarity to raise national awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer. Funds raised through this nationwide movement support programs and services for pancreatic cancer patients and their families.
“By taking action locally, we have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients nationwide,” Kandi Wood, chair of PanCAN’s Michigan affiliate, stated via the release. “We are grateful to the Rogel and Blondy Center for Pancreatic Cancer’s commitment to raise vital funds and awareness to support the pancreatic cancer community through this important event.”
For registration information or to make a donation, visit pancan.org.
TROY — The Troy Historic Village will be hosting the Kiwanis Club of Troy’s annual ”Harvesting Hope: Healing Begins With U” youth mental health fundraiser May 16.
The Kiwanis Club of Troy aims to serve kids in the community through focusing on projects that aids access to mental health services and programs and provides opportunities to develop young people’s leadership abilities.
“Harvesting Hope: Healing Begins With US” supports the Kiwanis Inspired Teens FUND — KIT — which provides mental health financial assistance for youth needing mental health counseling. Corporate sponsors include Kelly Services, Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C. Trusts and Estates Practice Group, Mike Savoie Chevrolet, Diversified Members Credit Union, ARISE Counseling Center and Training Institute, Rivers Bend, PC, Horizons Advisers, Modern Wealth Management, Automotive Authority and Great Dane Marketing Services.
“Together we can make a difference in helping youth obtain the needed counseling for mental wellness,” a press release from the Kiwanis Club of Troy, stated.
The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 60 W Wattles Road. Guests may expect wine tasting, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants and a variety of music and entertainment.
Tickets are $60 per person if purchased online and $70 per person at the door. Online purchases can be made at k06542.site.kiwanis.org/harvesting-hope/#tickets and must be made by May 15 at midnight.
For more information, visit k06542.site.kiwanis.org/harvesting-hope/.
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT —The Detroit Institute of Arts announced the Oakland County communities that are participating in the museum’s 2025 Inside|Out program.
The initiative brings reproductions from the DIA’s world-class collection to outdoor spaces across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties. The program aims to make it easier for residents to engage with art in their everyday lives and inspire a visit to the museum, according to a press release from the DIA.
“We’re honored to bring Inside|Out to communities in southeastern Michigan and connect people with the museum’s collection in new and exciting ways,” Julie McFarland, the executive director of public affairs and engagement for the DIA, stated via the release. “This year, with reproductions placed across Oakland County, we hope this small representation of the collection not only brings art to people’s everyday lives but also inspires a visit to the museum.”
The Inside|Out program will share artwork reproductions with various communities throughout
Oakland County, including Beverly Hills, Waterford Township, Madison Heights, Lake Orion, some Oakland County Parks locations and all of Oakland Community College’s campuses.
Inside|Out is scheduled to run from May until October, with the installation dates varying.
This is the sixth year that Oakland Community College will have installations on all five of its campuses. At OCC’s Auburn Hills campus, “Cycles” by Norval Morrisseau is scheduled to be displayed, according to a representative of the DIA.
“OCC will once again be home to 15 pieces of art from 15 artists, on all five campuses, from May to October this year. The Inside|Out partnership highlights the power of two great community institutions coming together to ensure art is accessible for all to enjoy,” Eunice Jeffries, who is the executive director of government and community affairs for OCC, stated via email. “Each piece was selected to enhance and complement the natural beauty of OCC’s campuses, while capturing individual curiosity and interest in art appreciation. These pieces are strategically located so that students, employees and our community can enjoy while
from page 1A
receiving funds to move forward with the project have been unsuccessful.
“We’ve seen the demand for pickleball over the last several years in the community and this is one of those projects that compete with the rest of our capital needs every year,” Troy Public Works Director Kurt Bovensiep said. “We’ve put in for some increased pickleball courts. Unfortunately, those infrastructure projects have always taken precedence over these leisure services-type projects, but because of our good fiscal responsibility and the fund balance policy that council set in place back in 2014, we’re at a great position to do what I would consider some of these one-off projects.”
Within their research, city staff compared several surrounding pickleball courts to determine the amount of courts, amenities, and location. After reviewing 25 different locations around Troy, it was determined that eight courts would be an appropriate size and the location should include restroom facilities.
“This narrowed the site selection to developed parks that currently have restrooms,” according to information provided
from the meeting packet. “Additionally, the noise of the sport was also a consideration and influenced the proximity of the courts to surrounding residential neighbors. For these reasons, Firefighters Park between the current play structure and the Baseball field was selected.”
City staff also reached out to community members and game advocates through letters, emails and phone conversations. Also taken into consideration were casual conversations after City Council meetings and opinions shared during “Troy Talk,” which is a monthly community meeting involving Troy City Manager Frank Nastasi. At the meetings, community members are invited to share thoughts at a public venue.
Some of the design suggestions that were included in the final bid proposal entail taller fences on the exterior of the courts, shorter fences between the courts, shade structures, benches, and paddle racks.
“We reached out to the neighboring residents,” Bovensiep said. “We realized that pickleball does create some additional noise, so we wanted to make sure that the . . . neighbors to the park were OK with the concept, and the homeowners association president (Wyngate Home Owners Association) represented all the letters we sent out to those residents and they were happy with
some of the things we were doing.”
Troy City Council unanimously approved a contract to Best Asphalt, Inc. of Romulus to construct eight pickleball courts at Firefighters Park for a total cost of $489,509.82, plus a 15% contingency of $73,000. Council also approved a contract to Anderson, Eckstein & Westrick, Inc. of Shelby Township for contract administration
services, construction observation services and testing, for a fee of $56,800, plus a 10% contingency of $5,600.00. A budget amendment from the unassigned general fund balance to the capital fund in the amount of $625,000 was also part of the approval.
“I just wanted to point out, governing is such a team sport and there’s so many
See PICKLEBALL on page 14A
from page 3A
lice Department Commercial Auto Theft Unit executed four arrest warrants Jan. 2 and seized a large quantity of electronic key fabs and cash.
Each defendant was charged with conducting a criminal enterprise, which is a 20year felony.
Davonta Jones and Donovan Tucker were also charged with eight counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.
Davion Tucker was additionally charged with seven counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.
Bell was additionally charged with 10 counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.
Jones, Donovan Tucker and Davion Tucker have a pretrial conference scheduled May 8, with a trial set to begin Aug. 4. They were arraigned in 19th District Court in Dearborn.
This past January, they were each given a $500,000 cash/surety bond.
At press time, a trial date had not been set for Bell. He had a pretrial conference April 4.
He was arraigned in 1st District Court in Monroe.
Bell was given a $500,000 cash/surety bond in January.
The members of the alleged criminal organization are suspected of using counter surveillance to steal vehicles quickly and efficiently, allegedly using violence and ramming security vehicles if confronted.
The Troy Police Department, which has been investigating the alleged crime ring since August 2023, partnered with the FORCE team in early 2024.
The investigation has also been aided by the efforts of local police agencies, including the municipal police departments of Auburn
Hills, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Canton, Dearborn, Detroit, Eastpointe, Farmington Hills, Lansing, Livonia, Novi, Roseville, Royal Oak, Southfield, Sterling Heights, Walled Lake and Warren.
The Oakland County Auto Theft Group and the Macomb County Auto Theft Unit were also credited with playing a role in the investigation.
“We are very proud of our Special Investigations Unit and Detectives who continue to work tirelessly on this case,” Troy Police Department Sgt. Benjamin Hancock stated via email. “We are thankful for our positive relationship with the Michigan Attorney General’s office to assist in apprehending these suspects, getting them off the streets. This is just one of many examples of a great collaborative effort between many Law Enforcement agencies.”
Officials allege that the crime ring targeted new vehicle storage lots, car dealerships, parking lots, and individual residences. Stolen vehicles can be sold significantly below market value on the black market to buyers seeking unregistered vehicles.
“I am pleased to see this case proceed in court thanks to the efforts of the FORCE Team and more than a dozen law enforcement agencies across metro Detroit,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel stated via a press release. “Sophisticated auto theft rings threaten the safety and well-being of our communities, and I will continue to work with our partners to dismantle these violent and prolific criminal organizations throughout Michigan.”
At press time, Bell’s attorney, Thomas Ruddy, Jones’ attorney, Randall P. Upshaw, Davion Tucker’s attorney, Robert F. Kinney III, and Donovan Tucker’s attorney, Matthew H. Forrest, had not responded to an opportunity to provide comment.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
ANN ARBOR — On April 2, the United States Golf Association announced that the 2026 U.S. Senior Women’s Open will be played at Barton Hills Country Club in Ann Arbor.
This event started in 2018 and travels to a different course in the country every year. This summer, the tournament will be played at San Diego Country Club in Chula Vista, California.
“We make several visits in advance to check out the golf course… and really be sure that we’re playing on what is a U.S. Open-caliber course,” Katherine Khoury, who is the assistant director of the U.S. Senior Women’s Championship, said. “Then we progress and look at the area around it… to be sure that it will be ready for play come time for the Senior Women’s Open.”
Barton Hills checked all of the boxes for the USGA and was chosen for the event due to the combination of a stellar course and
a fantastic area to host such a large tournament.
“(Barton Hills) is a phenomenal golf course and their facilities are outstanding,” Khoury said. “There’s really no downside (to choosing Barton Hills). Ann Arbor’s a great location. … We’re very excited.”
The course has a history of hosting USGA events, including the 1998 U.S. Women’s Amateur and the 2008 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur. It’s also a frequent host of Michigan’s amateur championships, including the Golf Association of Michigan men’s amateurs just last summer.
In 2026, Barton Hills will host the eighth U.S. Senior Women’s Open Championship. It’s an event that already means a lot to the community.
“Michigan really embraces championship golf,” Michigan Golf Hall of Famer and Barton Hills member Suzy Green-Roebuck said. “Women’s golf in particular. … The LPGA loved coming to Ann Arbor.”
Green-Roebuck is golf royalty in the
See GOLF on page 10A
from page 9A
metro Detroit area and has seen firsthand the growth of women’s golf locally and nationally. Being a part of that growth and seeing the event come to her own backyard is special.
“We have a great venue for it. Our course is one of the best,” Green-Roebuck said. “I just think it will really suit this tournament to a tee.”
The success of the event over the last seven years has been apparent. Not only has the tournament itself grown over time, but now women are continuing to golf later in life because of the opportunities available.
“I’ve already seen the trickle down. I’ve seen women in their 40s staying invested in
the game… to have the potential to be a part of this,” Green-Roebuck explained. “It’s really a great collection of great amateurs and professionals… names that have walked away and came back and names that have stayed in it.”
It’s an important event. This is a way to celebrate the trailblazers and legends of women’s golf in a way that wasn’t possible before 2018.
“This is a selection of our golfing champions and a population that really needs to be appreciated and celebrated,” Green-Roebuck said.
Among those who will hopefully be participating in the event is 86-year-old JoAnne Carner. Carner is one of the more famous golfers in the history of the sport and is one of the most influential players ever. Her career has helped pave the way for
See GOLF on page 18A
Who
According to the Transportation Security Administration’s website, only adults 18 and older are required to have a REAL ID when boarding a plane traveling within the United States. Passengers are encouraged to check with airlines about specific ID requirements for children, according to the site.
A REAL ID is a driver’s license that has an image of the state of ID holders, with a star in the middle. An Enhanced Driver’s License is automatically REAL-ID compliant, whether or not it displays the star, according to the Michigan Department of State website.
A REAL ID, or compliant documents, will also be required for entrance into some federal buildings.
For a list of other compliant documents, visit www.tsa.gov/travel/securityscreening/identification.
Although May 7 is the date when the REAL ID requirement begins, Secretary of
State offices will continue to issue REAL IDs moving forward, according to Mayle.
“Maybe you’re not traveling until June or July,” Mayle said. “That gives you a little more time.”
To schedule an appointment at a local Secretary of State office, call (888) 767-6424 or visit https://dsvsesvc.sos.state.mi.us/ TAP/_/.
The documents that are needed at an appointment include a driver’s license or state ID card, a birth certificate with a raised seal of stamp issued by a governmental agency, a valid unexpired U.S. passport or an approved citizenship or legal presence document.
According to the Secretary of State Michigan website, faxes or photocopies of these documents won’t be accepted.
Married women who have taken their husband’s last name should bring a marriage license or other supporting documentation to verify the name change, according to Mayle.
Sarah Webb is currently gathering the required documents for herself, along with helping her clients navigate the new requirements.
Webb is a certified dementia practitio-
ner and care partner.
Although some effort is required to get a REAL ID, from her perspective, going to the Secretary of State is more convenient than it used to be.
“It is so much easier now that you can make appointments at the Secretary of State, rather than wait in line for an indefinite time,” Webb said.
Andy Howell owns a travel agency in Farmington Hills. He shared that only one client has asked about a REAL ID.
“Most of the people I deal with already have the REAL ID,” Howell said.
Howell advised his client as to what documents to take to a Secretary of State appointment.
Although domestic travelers may still be able to board a plane without a REAL ID, according to Mayle, those who don’t have one can expect delays, as they may have to sign identity-verifying documents.
According to Mayle, the TSA recommends arriving two hours before a domestic flight when domestic travelers have a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant documents. However, more time should be factored into travel plans when they don’t have those documents.
“(The) TSA is going to take a phased enforcement approach, but we don’t really know what that’s going to look like,” Mayle said. “It’s just important you take care of this before any trips you have planned after May 7. … This is something you need to get done sooner rather than later.”
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
Obtaining a driver’s license is one of the major milestones in life but also can become a liability very quickly.
“Statistics show that young drivers are involved in more car accidents, and many companies consider them a greater risk,” a fact sheet shared at michigan.gov states. “As a result, automobile insurance will be one of the most expensive costs teens will face in relation to obtaining their driver’s license and earning the privilege to drive.”
To help ensure that young drivers and their parents don’t find themselves in a sticky situation with a car accident, parents must take action to put their child on car insurance as soon as the child gets their learner’s permit.
“People are mostly nervous about the fact that their car insurance for teen drivers does rake their prices up pretty high,” said Azaila Powell, of Powell Insurance Agency. “In the event of an accident, your child needs to be listed on your own insurance, because it can cause voiding their insurance and your own.”
In terms of costs for insuring a teenager, every company is different, according to Sue Crowe, an insurance agent with State Farm in St. Clair Shores.
Crowe said that at State Farm, it is nearly impossible to predict the general cost of insurance after adding a teen because of an algorithm they use to give families coverage that makes sense based on their personal situations.
“You can’t even guestimate anymore. Thirty or 40 years ago, I could tell you exactly what it would be. Now, all of us insurance companies have our secret algorithms, and for me to spit out the cost, I can’t even do that anymore,” Crowe said. “It used to be so easy. I think insurance companies are better at matching a risk to the price now… you need to find a good, reputable company with a good agent that can help guide you when you are making the choices to pick out the discounts.”
Every state is different when it comes to insurance policies. In Michigan, a teen has to be 18 or older to be able to purchase their own car insurance, according to Powell. The teen driver must be put onto their parent’s
from page 7A
‘push-me, pull-you’s’ on our budget,” Troy Mayor Pro Tem Ellen Hodorek said. “It’s unbelievable, and the fact that we’ve been able to bring this forward when we identified we could move as swiftly as we did is very much appreciated by everyone involved and I just would really like to to note that there are a number of residents who became involved in the discussion, and understanding what we were trying to do. I just want to give a shoutout to their efforts and their voices and their involvement.”
“It’s really one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.,” Troy City Council member Hirak Chanda said. “People from all age groups are interested in the sport and I’m really happy that we can support this.”
Troy Mayor Ethan Baker acknowledged the popularity of pickleball in the city.
“I know that a lot of brainstorming, a lot of work, went into trying to figure out where the best location was,” Baker said. “I know there was some competing locations, potentially, at the community center and civic center, and I understand and I’m thrilled to look at the cost-saving mechanism by doing (this) at Firefighters — to have the restrooms already in place to the community members. … There’s a huge pickleball community in the city of Troy and I guess I want to say this is exciting. I think this takes our dedicated pickleball courts from four to 12 when these are completed.”
The courts will likely be completed by June 30.
For more information, visit troymi.gov.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
on campus attending classes, community events, or simply walking our campuses.”
Other pieces of art that are set to be displayed include “Fruit Piece” by Robert S. Duncanson in Lake Orion; “Portrait of Postman Roulin” by Vincent van Gogh in Waterford; and “Woman Supreme” by Wadsworth Jarrell in Madison Heights.
“Seeing art in the community is just one way we hope people will connect with our collection,” McFarland stated via the release. “Now, with a simple scan of a QR code
from page 3A
rials from the various trail areas.
During the event, the Troy Public Library Bookmobile was available from 6-6:30 p.m. and after 7:15 p.m., attendees could return to the meeting spot at the Rink for cocoa.
“Picking up trash helps people make the connection that what we throw away doesn’t go away,” Mahler said. “We’ll try
next to any Inside|Out installation, you can find the next closest artwork or start planning your visit to the DIA.”
The new web experience launches later this spring, according to the DIA. In the meantime, for more information visit dia. org/insideout.
The Detroit Institute of Arts’ Inside|Out program is made possible by tri-county millage support and Ford Philanthropy, according to the release.
General admission to the DIA is free for residents of Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
to walk around, getting the most impact around the tree lines, the fence line and the businesses on Big Beaver Road.”
The Cleanup Club is scheduled to have other cleanup events throughout the year in other parts of Michigan. 86 Plastic, located at 5075 Livernois Road, has a plant swap event scheduled from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. April 26.
For more information, visit thecleanup club.org or 86plasticco.com.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
APRIL 24
ment (presidential resignation and disability), 2-3:30 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, register at troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/constitution-cafes
‘4,456 Miles: A Survivor’s Search for Closure and Awakening her Daughter’s Search for Understanding the Holocaust’: Presentation part of monthly Thursday Teas program, 2 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, register at (248) 5243570 or troyhistoric village.org/programs/teas-at-two
APRIL 26
Paper shredding: Free event co-sponsored by Jo + Co Realtors, securely dispose up to three boxes of documents, participants entered to win spring and fall gutter cleaning from J & A Exterior, also bring new personal hygiene and cleaning products and monetary donations for Child Safe Michigan, 10 a.m.-noon, Smith Middle School, 5835 Donaldson Road in Troy, (248) 225-7419, realtorjoanna.com
Plant Swap: Drop off plants, props, cuts and bulbs during week of event, exchange from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on day of event, 86 Plastic, 5075 Livernois Road in Troy, 86plasticco.com/events
MAY 1
National Day of Prayer: Also reflection and music, all faiths welcomes, refreshments after program, presented by Troy-area Interfaith Group, 7 p.m., Balkan American Cultural Center, 1451 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy, troy.interfaith@gmail.com, troyinterfaithgroup.org
MAY 3
History Tea Tour: Sample and learn about five teas from around world while traveling through Troy Historic Village, also presentations about history of tea and slices of pie offered inside Old Troy Church, 1-3 p.m., 60 W. Wattles Road, (248) 524-3570, info@thvmail. org, troyhistoricvillage.org
MAY 4
Constitution Cafés: Free program about 25th Amend-
MAY 6
Troy Women’s Association: Nonprofit dedicated to supporting local causes and enhancing lives of others, learn more at free monthly meeting, 7-8 p.m., Boys and Girls Club, 3670 John R Road in Troy, also held June 3, troywomensassociation.org
‘How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying’: Satire about man who goes from window washer to executive and antics of office life, 8 p.m. FridaysSaturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays May 2-18, Ridgedale Players, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, www.ridge daleplayers.com
Heritage Concert Band of Troy: Practices for adult musicians at 7 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, group also performs during year, troyheritageband@ gmail.com
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only at 10 a.m. every first publicand third Thursday of month, Lukich 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
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, ebooks and audio books (with headphones), Grand Tavern Troy, 1317 Coolidge Highway, silentbookclubtroy@ gmail.com, silentbook.club/blogs/events/troy-mi
TROY — On April 9, a 35-year-old resident of Lovington reported that a Facebook friend of his listed numerous items for sale due to a family member being sick.
He was interested in a car that was listed and messaged his friend to put down a $500 deposit. After making the deposit, the victim found out his friend’s account had been hacked and the items for sale were a scam.
TROY — An individual from Serbian Orthodox Church, located at 1755 E. Wattles Road, reported that an unknown person stole the top of the mailbox, leaving the base intact sometime between March 31 at 9 a.m. and April 6 at 9 a.m.
TROY — At 6:12 p.m. April 9, officers responded to an area near Maplelawn Drive and Crooks Road after a caller reported that the driver of a gray Dodge Dart struck another vehicle and left the scene with a flat tire and a missing bumper.
The vehicle came to a stop on Maplelawn Drive and the driver fled from his vehicle on foot. Officers located the driver, a 54-year-old male from Troy, in the parking
lot of a nearby apartment building. While speaking with the driver, officers noted he had bloodshot and watery eyes, his speech was slurred, and there was an odor of alcohol coming from his person.
The driver reportedly performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations. He was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department.
He was charged with operating while intoxicated, third offense.
TROY — At 2:41 p.m. April 8, officers responded to a location near southbound I-75 and Big Beaver Road for a possible intoxicated driver after multiple callers reported a Chevrolet Trax was swerving all over the road before crashing into another vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers spoke with the driver of the Trax, a 51-year-old male from Oakland, and noted he had slurred speech and was unable to remember simple commands. The driver reportedly performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations.
The driver was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department.
The case was turned over to the detective bureau for appropriate warrants.
TROY — A resident of Bridle Path Drive reported that between April 5 at 7:30 a.m. and April 6 at 10 a.m., an unknown person entered her unlocked vehicle overnight and stole her purse.
— Sarah Wright
insurance policy as soon as they receive their learner’s permit.
Michigan is a no-fault state, and the law requires people to have no-fault insurance on all cars. If you have an accident, no-fault insurance will pay for the injuries to the people involved and for the damages your car does to other people’s property, according to michigan. gov.
“It is against the law to drive, or let your car be driven, without no-fault insurance. If you are caught driving without insurance, you could be fined $500, sentenced to jail time, and have your license revoked,” according to michigan.gov.
“If you don’t notify your car insurance company of a new driver and they are the cause of an accident while they are driving, the insurance may not cover your teens medical bills,” Powell said. “They also may not be able to sue the at-fault driver who caused an accident if they are not listed, even if your teenager wasn’t found guilty or at fault, even if they suffered an injury. Putting off adding your child to your car insurance policy is definitely not a good call.”
To help parents navigate saving money on car insurance, Crowe said it is important
to find a trustworthy insurance agent who can help find all of the discounts that the company has to offer.
“Take advantage of every discount that an insurance company has to offer. You need to find a good, reputable company with a good agent that can help guide you when you are making the choices to pick out the discounts.” Crowe said. “For example, we (State Farm) have a good student discount that has a very good effect on the cost… Bottom line, buy a safer car, because with a safer car, the less extreme injuries can happen, and therefore the cost of the insurance is reflective.”
Making sure that new drivers are practicing safe driving is another major suggestion that both Crowe and Powell emphasized to help avoid accidents in the first place.
“A lot of parents don’t talk to their teens about driving safety. There are times it seems that they may have left it up to the drivers training school to kind of help, but it’s important for parents to be involved in that process,” Powell said. “Distracted driving is a very serious issue that goes on within our community. It is important for teen drivers to have guidance when it comes to driving and understand the importance of not being on their phones.”
For more information about teen car insurance in Michigan, visit michigan.gov.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:
(586) 498-8000
Editor: Mark Vest | (586) 498-1052 | mvest@candgnews.com
Reporter: Sarah Wright| (586) 498-1068 | swright@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 For retail ad rates: Amy Randolph | (586) 498-1087 | arandolph@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099
Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com
Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle • Farmington Press • Fraser-Clinton Township Chronicle • Grosse Pointe Times • Macomb Township Chronicle Madison-Park News • Mount Clemens-Clinton-Harrison Township Journal • Novi Note • Rochester Post Roseville-Eastpointe Eastsider Royal Oak Review • Shelby-Utica News • Southfield Sun • St. Clair Shores Sentinel • Sterling Heights Sentry Troy Times • Warren Weekly West Bloomfield Beacon • Woodward Talk • C & G Special Edition (Grosse Pointe/Macomb Co.) • C & G Special Edition (Oakland Co.)
& G Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.
from page 10A
female golfers everywhere.
“She’s the G.O.A.T.(greatest of all time),” Green-Roebuck said. “Last year in Pittsburgh was the first time she was in a (golf) cart.”
One of the best parts about the event is that the course is very open to walk as a spectator. You can walk up to the golfers and interact with legends of the game throughout the day. It’s truly a unique and special atmosphere.
“It’s one of those unique opportunities you truly don’t get at any other U.S. Open. We don’t rope the golf course,” Khoury said. “We rope the tees and the greens, but pretty much after they leave the tee box we encour-
age fans … you can walk right behind them.”
The hype has already started for the U.S. Senior Women’s Open, as Michiganders everywhere are excited to be a part of the event.
“Very aware and very happy to be a part of history bringing the tournament here,” Green-Roebuck said. “I think the ability to host a third USGA women’s event is pretty special for any club, and I’m excited it’s ours.”
The U.S. Senior Women’s Open is for professional and amateur golfers that are at least 50 years of age by the start of tournament play and have a handicap index of 7.4 or less.
The event is scheduled for Aug. 20-23, 2026. Visit www.usga.org for more information.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
The Board of Education of Troy School District will receive sealed Proposals for: RFP NUMBER 2425-16
TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT TRANSPORTATION CENTER SITE LIGHTING
Sealed proposals should be submitted through Buildingconnected.com with the following link: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5cc9d7f637c1a90018cb55dc. No physical bids will be accepted in person or via delivery service. Bids are to be submitted no later than 1:00 PM Local Time WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2025. The District will not consider or accept a bid received after the date and time specified for bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids with the following virtual meeting link: meet.google.com/ywk-eueo-rcr or phone number (413) 497-4022 PIN 967 244 869#. No oral, email, telephonic, or telegraphic proposals shall be considered. Each Proposal must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the contractor and any member of the Board of Education or the Superintendent of Troy School District. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized disclosure statement.
Each Proposal must also be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement certifying that the contractor is not an Iran Linked Business. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized statement.
Troy School District’s Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Proposals, either in whole or in part, to waive any informalities or irregularities therein, or to award the contract to other than the contractor(s) submitting the best financial Proposal (low bidder), in its sole and absolute discretion. Additional bid information can be found at https://www.troy.k12.mi.us/departments/business-services/purchasingbids TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Published: Troy Times 04/24/2025
In accordance with Section 8.3 of the Charter of the City of Troy, notice is hereby given that the City Council will conduct a Public Hearing on the three-year budgets for fiscal years 2025/2026, 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 7:30 PM, or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit.
The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing.
The proposed budget is available on the City of Troy website at www.troymi.gov/budget. A copy of the proposed budget will be on file in the City Clerk’s office and the City Public Library for inspection by the public during regular office hours for one week prior to the public hearing.
M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk
POSTED: April 11, 2025
PUBLISHED: April 17, 2025 April 24, 2025 May 1, 2025
Published: Troy Times 04/24/2025
BRIEFS TAKEN FROM AROUND OUR COVERAGE AREAS
Oakland Elementary student wins ‘Why Compost’ poster and essay contest
ROYAL OAK — Jose F. Aguado, a student at Oakland Elementary School, has been chosen as the winner of the district’s “Why Compost” Poster and Essay Contest.
Aguado created an entry called “Soil Doesn’t Spoil,” which detailed the purpose and benefits of composting. His work was chosen for the clear message and strong visual presentation.
Aguado will receive a composting bucket from the city of Royal Oak for winning, and will be honored April 25 with a tree planted in his name for Earth Day.
The winning poster will be displayed at Oakland Elementary, and Aguado will be recognized at the Royal Oak Schools Board of Education meeting May 10.
WARREN — Warren Consolidated Schools is hosting its annual Festival of the Arts now through May 16 at the Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden Ave.
The show is open to the public and features approximately 400 pieces of artwork created by students in early childhood through 12th grade. District officials will host a special awards ceremony May 8 at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. for elementary students and at 7:30 p.m. for secondary students.
Spectrum Orchestra wraps up season with special performance BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Spectrum Orchestra will close the season at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 2, with a concert at Bloomfield Hills High School, located at 4200 Andover Road in Bloomfield Township. Jeremy Crosmer of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra will perform Antonín Dvořák’s famous Cello Concerto in B minor.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Jeremy back as a soloist for the fourth time — that’s how popular he’s been,” said Eszter Horváth, Spectrum Orchestra’s music director, in a press release.
“He’s a fantastic cellist and performer. The Dvořák concerto is nothing short of a masterpiece, and this is a wonderful opportunity to hear it played so beautifully by Jeremy.”
Tickets, available for purchase online or at the door, are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors 65-plus and free for those under the age of 18. For more information, visit spectrumorchestra.org.
UTICA — Mayor Gus Calandrino said he’d like to thank the management team at the Hyatt Place in Utica for the nearly $2 million renovations they made.
Calandrino called the transformation “incredible” and said it is a source of pride for all Utica residents.
“Council and I have worked hard to stimulate growth in this area and this project is a clear message to all developers that this is a viable and worthwhile area for investment. I encourage any business to consider Park Avenue, Utica, as a destination for their business,” he said.
Connect Macomb celebrated the renovations with a ribbon-cutting in March.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Henry Ford Health is bringing its healthy heart screening event to Henry Ford Macomb Hospital from 7-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 26. Originally held in 2005, the heart screening has been provided to over 10,000 people across metro Detroit. Participants receive a free whole heart checkup, including an electrocardiogram (EKG), all at no cost to them. Other free screenings include blood pressure, BMI and blood glucose. Patients will receive results that day and meet one-on-one with a doctor. There will also be a stroke assessment and information on weight loss, diet and nutrition. Other Henry Ford hospitals taking part in the screenings include Grand Blanc, Rochester, Southfield, Warren and Wyandotte.
Man taken to hospital after running around naked, acting ‘bizarre’ ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the area of S. Livernois and Brompton Drive for a welfare check at 1:01 a.m. March 22. The caller advised that an unknown naked male attempted to get into his vehicle through the sunroof. The male was last seen on foot in the wooded area of the subdivision. Deputies located the male, 31, of Rochester Hills, who was rambling and acting bizarre. He was ordered to the ground and taken into protective custody due to the nature of the call and his behavior. When asked what he had ingested (narcotics), he replied, “Everything.”
Deputies transported the male to the hospital for medical attention and evaluation. He was then turned over to hospital staff, who were advised on the circumstances. Deputies were able to locate his wife and parents. His wife advised that she had no knowledge that he had left their residence and that there is no history of drug abuse. She also checked their residence and found nothing. She further advised that his family does have a history of mental illness, but he had not been diagnosed.
Man with felony warrant arrested
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies received information that a Rochester Hills resident had an active felony warrant for receiving and concealing stolen property, and that he was driving a red 2009 Dodge Caliber at 8:35 p.m. March 24.
Deputies received a notification that the suspect car was near the area of Rochester Road and Owendale Road. Deputies responded to the area, located the vehicle, contacted the driver and arrested him on the felony warrant. A search of his vehicle revealed a loaded Glock 17 9 mm handgun. The vehicle was impounded, and the driver, 23, of Rochester Hills, was lodged at the Oakland County Jail pending arraignment.
Woman with warrant arrested; suspected narcotics found in her backpack
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to 2228 Crooks Road on the report of a suspicious woman carrying a backpack who was loitering in a shopping plaza at 6:37 p.m. March 25. The caller stated the woman had been peering into parked vehicles while in the parking lot. Deputies located the female, 35 of Burton, at which time she identified herself by a false name. Once identified, deputies learned that she had a valid warrant out of the 71-A District Court. The female was arrested and taken into custody. Following her arrest, a search of her person and belongings revealed suspected narcotics in her
County Jail, she complained about a medical issue. She was then transported to the hospital for examination and clearance. Once released from the hospital, she was transported to jail for lodging.
Borrowed car stolen overnight
BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 9 a.m. March
28, officers were dispatched to the BIPD lobby for a stolen vehicle report. The victim, a 29-year-old male from Macomb, stated that he had allowed another individual, a 31-year-old male resident, to borrow his mother’s vehicle, which was stolen overnight.
The 31-year-old reported that he was unsure whether the key fob had been left inside the vehicle. A credit card that was inside the vehicle was later used fraudulently in Detroit on the same day. An investigation was ongoing.
Taser found in arrested suspect’s vehicle
BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 9 p.m. March
27, officers on patrol near Woodward Avenue identified multiple vehicles in the bottom level of a parking area with their headlights on. Knowing that the parking area is a common location for unsanctioned car meets, officers informed the parties that the parking area was private property and that they had to leave.
As the vehicles were leaving, officers noticed two of the three vehicles had unreadable plates. Officers followed the vehicles and performed a traffic stop.
Upon speaking with the suspect, a 24-year-old male from Hamtramck, officers learned he was driving without a driver’s license and that his license had been suspended.
Officers arrested the suspect and found a Taser in his vehicle, for which he did not have a permit.
Unlocked vehicle with keys inside stolen
BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 8 a.m. April
1, police were dispatched to the 800 block of Wimbleton, where a vehicle was stolen from the driveway overnight. Its 26-year-old owner said the vehicle was unlocked with the keys inside.
Larceny reported in Bloomfield Square sub
BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Police took a report for a larceny in the Bloomfield Square subdivision on March 29. The victim stated two metal “R” and one metal “L,” approximately 10” x 10” in size, were stolen off their subdivision entrance sign. In front of the missing letters were signs painted with the individual
were investigating.
Yeti cooler stolen from store
BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department took a third-degree retail fraud report from a sporting goods store in the 2100 block of South Telegraph Road March 25. The manager reported that a male suspect approached the cash register with a yellow Yeti cooler and bottle of water. The suspect stated he had previously purchased the Yeti cooler and a kayak but a store employee had forgotten to load it into his vehicle. The subject purchased the bottle of water, with cash, and left the store with the Yeti cooler and got into a white sedan. After the store inventory was checked, it was discovered they were one Yeti cooler short. The Yeti cooler was valued at $200. Police were investigating.
Fake DTE Energy call
nearly scams resident
TROY — At 11 a.m. March 31, a 38-year-old resident of Robinwood Street reported that he received a call from someone claiming to be with DTE Energy.
The caller informed him that he owed $492.61 for an energy bill. The resident was sent a barcode via text message and instructed to go to 7-Eleven to process the payment with the clerk.
After transferring the money at 7-Eleven, the clerk informed the resident that it may be a scam.
The resident then refused to provide the access code to the caller.
Resident reports $12,500 scam
TROY — Between April 1 at noon and April 2 at 7:30 p.m., a 79-year-old resident of Round Tree Drive reported that she received a text about charges to her Apple account and called the number provided.
She was told there were charges on her account and she would need to talk to a supervisor. Upon talking to the supervisor, the victim was instructed to withdraw a total of $12,500 from her bank and deposit it at a Bitcoin machine, which she did.
Inebriated driver crashes vehicle
TROY — At 10:30 p.m. April 3, officers were dispatched to the areas of Northfield Parkway and Long Lake Road for a single-vehicle crash.
Upon arrival, officers observed a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox fully engulfed in flames with heavy crash damage to the entire vehicle. Officers spoke with the driver, a 27-year-old male from Bloomfield Hills, and noted there was an odor of alcohol coming from his breath. The driver refused medical treatment from paramedics at the scene.
Police Department, where he was read his chemical test rights and refused to take a breath test. A search warrant to complete the blood draw was prepared and granted, and his blood was drawn by medical personnel. The case was turned over to the detective bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results were returned.
Miscellaneous snacks stolen from snack bar
SOUTHFIELD — At 12:17 a.m. March 29, an unknown suspect walked into a business located in the 27000 block of Northwestern Highway, stole from the snack bar and fled the area in a white SUV.
Suspect scared off by resident of home during home invasion
SOUTHFIELD — Around 3:41 p.m. March 26, an unknown suspect entered through the back door of
Stolen