



BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@cangnews.com
Over the last 18 years, the people of St. James Catholic Church in Novi have blessed one family every year with home repairs through Rebuilding Together Southeast Michigan.
This year, the recipient, Lynne Vogl, of Farmington Hills, who has various medical issues, and her family found that the program she had volunteered for years ago was now helping them.
Vogl said they knew of the Rebilding Together program because her parents, who were founding members of the former St. Alexander Parish, used to volunteer for the program.
“My mom and the church ladies used to make lunch for Rebuilding Together back then. They used to make sandwiches; they didn’t have anything bought or catered back then,” Vogl said.
Her sister, Michele Macy, who also lives in the
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have found employment held a discussion at the Novi Public Library May 8 as ambassadors for
Mi Work Matters, a nonprofit organization, on the value of workers with disabilities.
“This team will show you disability does not mean inability,” said Novi librarian Jennifer McArdle, who organized the event.”They are living proof that inclusivity
brings strength and prosperity to both business and communities.”
Presentations by the group provide a way to empower the ambassadors and serve as an opportunity to debunk myths about workers with disabilities.
One of those myths is that employees with disabilities will
Mi Work Matters provides leadership training for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy, paid work experience and transferable job skills. It was started in 2018 by families, caregivers and advocates.
cost more, but according to the group, they increase revenue.
The motto for Mi Work Matters is “work the dream,” a philosophy that stresses how important work is for an individual.
“Work the dream. Work is a
(Located inside Sheraton Hotel Novi)
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
Letter carriers from the Walled Lake Post Office were among the millions of letter carriers across the country working to Stamp Out Hunger on May 10 as part of the National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual food drive.
The Walled Lake letter carriers put in long hours on Saturday, collecting nonperishable food items from customers on their routes and then delivering them to Hospitality House, a food pantry in Commerce Township.
Tavares Anderson, 50, of West Bloomfield, said that his route, which services Fox Run Senior Living along with some other neighborhoods in Novi, takes about two hours longer as he makes sure to locate and pick up all the food his customers put out. He said people tend to leave them in varying spots near their mailboxes, as well as in the mailboxes.
“It’s a longer day than normal,” he said.
Taylor Morris, 32, who works with Anderson on the Fox Run route, said that the senior living community does a fantastic job of accumulating donations for the can drive. He said it’s just an “insane” number of cans that they collect at Fox Run alone. He said it’s overwhelming to know that they are helping many people who are suffering from food shortages.
”I’m blessed to be on this route and be surrounded by people who are so caring and giving,” Morris said.
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
The Novi Choralaires marked 50 years of bringing people together through music with their annual spring concert on May 10 at the Novi Middle School auditorium.
The Choralaires opened their anniversary concert with what Artistic Director Aidan Rickel called “a special piece” — a rendition of the song “Wild Bird,” which was written by a late Choralaire, Don Still, and composed by former Artistic Director G. Kevin Dewey and then remastered by Rickel.
In honor of their anniversary, the Choralaires, under the direction of Rickel, took the audience on a lively 90-minute journey through music that the group had performed during each decade of its existence.
“It’s the 50th anniversary of our amazing choir, and we’re going to celebrate each of the decades,” Rickel said. “We’re going to go all the way back to where we began.”
He said the music that the choir started performing in 1975 included songs such as “This Land is Your Land” and music by George Gershwin.
“It was some interesting pieces that you would not necessarily think of as coming from the ’70s, but that’s what people were singing in choirs in the ’70s,” Rickel said.
The show went on to include some pop-
dream come true for most of us. We all need a job. We need money. We need social connection. Having a job is more than money; it’s part of your identity, it’s being part of the community. So, work truly is a dream come true,” said Grace Boldman, who coaches the ambassadors. “The other thing that ‘work the dream’ means to us is that you have to work to make your dreams come true.”
Nathan Smith, a married father who has Asperger’s syndrome, spoke about the importance of work to him. He works for Kohl’s and serves as an auxiliary member for the United States Coast Guard.
“My words to live by are, ‘You are always at your best when you are serving others,’” Smith said.
Smith said that because of Asperger’s, he struggles to comprehend communication differences such as sarcasm. But in spite of that, he has loving relationships, an enthusiasm for learning and a talent for leadership.
“What makes me a great employee? I’m a leader. I’m willing to try new things. I don’t let my disability define what I can do,” he said.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The city of Novi is seeking the public’s input on its 2025 master plan for land use, which is currently being developed. The public is invited to comment on the plan via the city’s website, cityofnovi.org.
Hospitality House Food Pantry will hold its eighth annual golf outing fundraiser on July 28 at the Edgewood Country Club, 8399 Commerce Road in Commerce Township. The event will feature a “beat the celeb” competition with former Detroit Tigers catcher Lance Parrish, as well as prizes, a live auction, a raffle and a 50/50 drawing. Registration for team participants and sponsors is now open. The cost of a foursome is $700 and includes an 18-hole scramble; a cart; breakfast, lunch and dinner; and a drink ticket. Those interested in dinner only can participate for $50. For more information or to register, visit hhfp.org.
The annual spring Motor City Comic Con will take over the Suburban Collection Showplace this weekend, May 16-18. MC3 features something for everyone including numerous celebrities with ties to popular movies and TV shows such as “Star Wars,” “The Office,” “One Piece” and “Bill Nye the Science Guy.” The show will also feature comic book artists and writers, vendors from around the country with various pop culture paraphernalia, and people watching as many enjoy seeing the elaborate costuming. Tickets are available online at motorcitycomicon.com or at the door.
METRO DETROIT — In observance of May is National Bike Month, AAA – The Auto Club Group is reminding residents of the importance of safety for cyclists and motorists.
In a press release issued May 1, AAA said 1,166 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes and an estimated 49,489 bicyclists were injured, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2023.
• Wear a helmet. Helmets, when worn properly, are up to 85% effective in protecting the head and brain in the event of a crash.
• Follow the rules of the road. Obey traffic signals, signs and lane markings. Ride on the right side of the road, never against traffic.
• Be visible. Ride where drivers can see you. Do not ride on the sidewalk. Wear bright colors during the day, reflective gear in low light conditions, and use head and taillights at night.
• Make safe choices. Do not wear headphones while riding. Keep both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling. Keep both feet on pedals.
• Watch for pedestrians. Pass pedestrians with care by first announcing “on your left” or “passing on your left” or use a bell.
• Stay alert. Always scan ahead, center, left, and right for bicyclists, especially at intersections and during turns.
• Give space. Allow at least 3 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
• Be patient. Avoid honking or aggressive driving near cyclists. Remember, they have the same rights to the road as vehicles.
• Be cautious near children on bikes. They are often unsteady and unpredictable.
The Fuerst Field Trail of Honor, which commemorates the soldiers from the community who died in service to the country, will open May 21 following the annual ceremony that features a dinner for veterans, concessions, the laying of a wreath, the playing of taps and a 21-gun salute by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post, as well as a speech by Mayor Justin Fischer and the vocal stylings of the Novi Choralaires. The trail will be available through Memorial Day, May 26.
The annual Memorial Day parade will take place from 10 a.m. to noon May 26. Spectators can watch the parade along 10 Mile Road between Meadowbrook Road and the Novi Civic Center.
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home, said that as kids, they would help their mom by making salads and other dishes for the volunteers.
“Now it’s come full circle,” Macy said, and Vogl agreed.
Rebuilding Together is a nonprofit founded in Texas and has now been in Michigan for 30 years. The company’s mission is to repair homes, revitalize communities and rebuild lives.
According to Len Krichko, CEO of Rebuilding Together Southeast Michigan, applicants must own their homes, be current on their taxes or be on a payment plan, and be economically disadvantaged according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development standards, and they must have homeowners insurance. He said Rebuilding Together Southeast Michigan does have a waitlist, and it can take anywhere from a couple of months to several years to get applicants the help they need.
Vogl said she applied for assistance with the encouragement of a friend who still works for the program, and after four years of applying annually, she was able to get help with the repairs this year.
She said that there was an electrical issue in the home, where in order to operate her dryer, she would have to have someone unplug the stove and move the dryer to the kitchen area, as they didn’t have a 220 line in the laundry room. Another issue was that the floor in one of the bathrooms was rotting.
Paul Livernois, a St. James parishioner and owner of Diamond Development, a home renovation business, along with his crew repaired the issues inside the home over a four-day period the following week. They repaired drywall, the bathroom floor, installed a new toilet and sink, and changed out the approximately 50-year-old breaker box.
While a team of 26 volunteers from St. James, staff members from Rebuilding Together and the Macy family worked from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 3 to fix exterior issues including staining a deck, repairing the railing, power-washing the home, fixing loose boards, replacing a piece of siding and a screen door, and replacing a few light fixtures. They also put down mulch and more.
Vogl and Macy said that the help with repairs to their home, which they grew up in, really means a lot. Vogl said that her health issues impede her mobility, making the brunt of the housework fall on Macy.
“It’s just a blessing, really, to have someone come and help that doesn’t want an arm and a leg,” said Macy. “It’s so expensive now, and I just lost my job.”
Macy, a mother of five — two grown children and three kids living in the home — said she was working for Big Lots but is now unemployed as stores have closed down. Macy said it has been difficult to find work, and two of her kids are graduating from high school this year. Her daughter Madelyn, 17, will graduate from Farmington Central High School and her son Evan, 19, will graduate from the Farmington Online School with a ceremony June 5. Her youngest son,
See REBUILD on page 15A
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“I just love the fact that it gives us the opportunity to give back to everybody,” said Morris, of Southfield. “The outpouring of love and support that everybody gives is just incredible to me every year. Usually, I’m not a big fan of working Saturdays, but this is one Saturday I don’t mind coming into work for sure.”
For letter carrier Tracey Pinion, 53, of Commerce Township, the annual event has become a family affair. Pinion’s twin daughters, Amber and Nicole, 26, with the help of Pinion’s mom, Darlene Chruscial, of Wixom, have been assisting Pinion during the food drive since they were in junior high, when they needed to get volunteer hours for school, and they liked it so much that they have continued the tradition. Chruscial and the twins follow behind Pinion, and the twins will hop out and grab the cans and load them into the car.
This year they had so many cans that the back of Chruscial’s Subaru Forester was full, Chruscial said.
Chruscial said that she has always donated to Hospitality House, and anytime she gets to spend time with her children and grandchildren is wonderful.
“What could be better than spending time with my family and helping Hospitality House,” Chruscial said.
Susan Erspamer, executive director of Hospitality House Food Pantry in Commerce Township, helps her staff and volunteers unload and sort food May 10 as letter carriers deliver donations from residents on their routes.
“I’ve always been a believer that wherever I put my time or my money into something, I want it to do the most good, and, I mean, food everybody needs. And we all know somebody who has went through bad times and stuff, so I think it’s a very honorable thing to do,’ Chruscial said.
Pinion said the drive is so important to them that she takes part in the event every year, even if it is her day off.
“I’ve known quite a few people who need help. So anytime I can help, I would like to help,” Pinion said.
“It’s fun,” Nicole Pinion said as to why she continues to volunteer year after year. “It helps out other people and it helps out my mom.”
As of 6 p.m. May 12, the carriers had delivered 20,560 pounds of food to the pantry, more than 2,000 pounds more than last year, with more items still expected to come in, according to Susan Erspamer, executive director of Hospitality House. She said that is enough food to feed the 5,000 people that the pantry currently serves for approximately two months.
“I tell you our pantry is stocked to the gills,” Erspamer said after receiving the donations.
“This Stamp Out Hunger (campaign) means a lot to us,’ she said. “It’s when the community comes together like this to support us that we can continue doing what we do.”
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“I care deeply about people and feel best when I am helping,” he said.
Jared Lonnerstater said that he was the first employee with a disability to be hired at Mod Market in Northville. He said that since then he has been recognized as hardworking and dedicated to his job.
“I love working and I never want to stop,” he said. “Having a job is an important part of my life.”
Anastasia and Katie’s Coffee Shop and Cafe in Livonia is named after the daughters of the co-founders of Mi Work Matters. It opened in 2019 as a social enterprise of the nonprofit.
“It is a coffee shop with a purpose. We believe everyone is unique in their own way and makes an undeniable contribution to our society,” Jane Musynski said.
The shop provides support and training for people with and without disabilities. The shop offers breakfast and lunch as well as catering and box lunch services.
“Their coffee shop is a beautiful example of what’s possible when we make room for everyone,” McArdle said.
“My words to live by: ‘Never ever give up,’” said ambassador Ian Edgar, who has hydrocephalus.
Edgar said he has learned a lot from working at the coffee shop for the last five years and has been able to utilize those skills and expand his work by creating Anastasia and Katie’s Car Show.
Edgar suffered a stroke as an infant that caused cerebral palsy, a cognitive impair-
ment, and a speech impediment. However, he said, despite his disability, he is a great employee because he is enthusiastic, reliable, punctual and supports his team.
“Having a job has made my whole life better,” Edgar said.
“My favorite thing about working at the coffee shop is just knowing that I’m starting the customer’s day off right,” he said. “Whenever I serve a customer and they are happy, it just makes my day.”
Of those in the U.S. with an intellectual disability, only about 20% of them are working, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“Aren’t these ambassadors wonderful? They are proof positive that inclusive hiring works, and it doesn’t just work for you, it works for our world,” Muszynski said.
She said that people with intellectual disabilities have a lot of support from family, friends and caregivers, and therefore it is a huge target audience.
“So, including them is not just a good thing to do to be a good person, it’s good business,” Muszynski said.
“Regardless if you have a disability or not, just do what feels right for you and don’t let anybody stop you,” Edgar said. “If anyone tries to give you a hard time about the choices you make, just forget about them. Don’t let them stop you.”
A waitlist is available online for those with intellectual and physical disabilities interested in employment at the coffee shop. To sign up for the waitlist, go to anastasia andkatiescoffee.com.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
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Hospitality House is a no-borders pantry, meaning that anyone who needs assistance is welcome, regardless of where they live. It offers assistance in a client choice format where customers are able to go “shopping” in the pantry and pick out the items that they like. Erspamer said this food drive helps Hospitality House to provide a variety of choices for clients.
Hospitality House is always in need of volunteers to assist with various jobs within the operation, including stocking shelves, rescuing food from stores and restaurants that would otherwise go to waste, and helping customers shop in the pantry. Donations of food and household/personal items are always welcome as well. Those in need of services, or interested in volunteering or to make a donation, should contact Erspamer at (248) 960-9975 or email her at susan@hhfp.org.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com
From the contentious political climate to the economy to the rapid pace of modern life, stressors are everywhere and impact people of all ages. A 2022 survey by the American Psychological Association reported that 76% of respondents experienced at least one stress symptom in the past month.
Prolonged periods of stress can put people at risk for many medical conditions, including digestive problems, weight gain, headaches, sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease and problems with memory and concentration, according to the American Heart Association.
All of this means that stress management is vital for overall health and well-being. Fortunately, there are tools people can acquire to reduce stress and improve their quality of life.
Kristina Mansour is a therapist and part owner of Reflective Therapy Center in Troy and Northville. She said anxiety “is a fictional land” the mind creates, so focusing on the senses — what you see, smell and hear around you — can ground a person.
Challenging automatic negative thoughts is another tool.
“We don’t even recognize that it’s happening,” Mansour said of these intrusive thoughts.
She said it can take a lot of effort — and sometimes time — to do this, but the benefits are worth it.
Mansour said they use the ABC method to counter negative thinking. “A” is for the activating thought, such as being on a plane. “B” is for the belief, such as the fear the plane will crash. “C” stands for the consequence, or the emotion that comes from this thread.
She said patients keep the same “A” — so they’re still that person on the plane — but they’re asked to come up with a different “B” and “C,” such as thinking that they’re going to be seeing loved ones when they land, which would result in a happy emotional outcome. Mansour said she recommends that people journal an ABC once a night for the day to come, coming up with one negative and one positive scenario. It’s all about reframing.
“It’s just about redefining what the ‘A’ leads to,” Mansour said. “You have control (over that).”
Cognitive behavioral therapy is something she said she does with many patients.
“It just allows you to recognize you really have more control than you think you do,” Mansour said.
The ABCs can be recorded in a journal. Mansour said journaling is useful for many people, as they can refer back to previous entries and see the progress they’ve made.
A deep breathing exercise is something Dr. Jayanti Mischra, a psychologist at Mind Empowerment in Troy, recommends for people of all ages. It involves inhaling for four seconds, holding
STRESS on page 17A
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
Walking into the Pontiac Transportation Museum is like spending time in your grandfather’s pristine garage as a kid.
The museum is a leisurely walk back in time that pays tribute to the car manufacturers and assembly line workers who made everything from 19th century carriages to late ’60s GTOs in Pontiac-based automobile plants. That includes the Oakland Motor Car Co., Pontiac Assembly, the Pontiac Tractor Co. and GMC.
Memorabilia tells the city’s auto history, vehicles from different decades are on display, there’s a section dedicated to 50 years of Pontiac coach buses, visitors can view interactive videos, and much more. Volunteer docents are available to answer questions and take guests on museum tours. There’s also a gift shop that sells T-shirts, baseball caps, glassware and stickers.
“Our scope is basically wheel vehicles in Pontiac, either engineered here or manufactured here and or both. Forty-seven companies were here over time. We live in southeastern Michigan. Everybody is related to somebody that worked in the auto business,” said Pontiac Transportation Museum Board Chair Terry Connolly, a Rochester Hills resident. “The nice thing about opening the museum is people walk up almost every day with a box of stuff. You find some
MUSEUM PAYS TRIBUTE TO PONTIAC’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE AUTO INDUSTRY See MUSEUM on page 16A
ABOVE AND LEFT: The Pontiac Transportation Museum, located at 250 W. Pike St., opened in May 2024. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. The public is welcome to attend.
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Eyan, is in 10th grade at Farmington High School.
“It means a lot knowing that my mom’s satisfied, that she doesn’t have to overwork herself and pay someone else an exorbitant amount of money to come do it individually,” Evan Macy said of the help the volunteers from St. James provided his family. “It’s just more of a blessing and peace of mind knowing that my mom can go to sleep knowing she’s not (overexerting) herself.”
Dean Pasquali and Keith Girard have led the volunteer effort for the church’s Rebuilding Together mission work for the last two years. The two are construction workers by trade.
“Giving back (to the community) is always great, and just being outside and getting people engaged to want to help give back (is the best part of the project),” Pasquali said.
He said the project provided a way for him to get his kids involved in mission work.
“It’s really just sharing Christ’s love in any way that we can and making sure my kids can see that and know that it’s a big part of what’s needed in a community,” Pasquali said.
The exterior materials for the repairs, excluding the mulch, were approximately $800, according to Girard.
“This is really fun,” Girard said. “I enjoy being a part of this and just seeing all the different skill sets come together. People jump in and they do a lot of good work.”
Rebuilding Together Southeast Michigan, located at 27840 Independence St. in Farmington Hills, relies on donations, sponsors and volunteers to repair homes. For more information on how to get involved or to sponsor an event, go to rtsemi.org.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
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ular hits such as “Walking on Sunshine” and “Stand by Me,” as well as some classic Disney songs like “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” from Disney’s 1994 film “The Lion King.”
The show concluded with the song “Music Brings Us Together,” which was the theme of the show and, as Rickel put it, “Our gift to you.” This was followed by the return of approximately 10 alumni to join the choir for the singing of “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
For more information on the Novi Choralaires, including how to join the choir, visit the group’s website at novichoralaires. org. Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
artifacts in there that are just amazing that people kept.”
The museum, located at 250 W. Pike St., opened in May 2024 with phase I of its installation. Just a year later, organizers will open the second phase of the museum on May 17, and the public is cordially invited to the “Phase II Fanfare” event.
The day will begin at 9 a.m. with a car cafe kickoff that will include free coffee, doughnuts and cider. Car buffs who drive classic Pontiac, Oakland and GMC brands are welcome to showcase their models on the museum grounds as space allows.
The museum will open at 10 a.m. with “Phase I” admittance prices. At noon, the event will switch gears with guest speakers and a ribbon-cutting to officially open phase II of the museum. From 1 to 5 p.m., the public can enjoy live music outside, and food will be for sale.
“We want people to be proud of what happened in Pontiac. We want to attract heritage tourism to Pontiac,” said Connolly, a retired automobile engineer. “There was a lot of wealth accumulation in Pontiac at one point in time. It happened because of manufacturing prowess and science and technology.”
There are bits of history throughout the museum that highlight all kinds of vehicles made in the city: carriages, sedans, station wagons, sports cars, convertibles, 18-wheeler trailers, medium-duty trucks, pickup trucks, and buses. Inside the museum is a 1908 Pontiac High Wheel Runabout, a 1912 Flanders Colonial Electric, 1968 Pontiac Firebird Ram Air II, 1940 GMC pickup truck, the very last Pontiac 2010 G6 sedan and more.
“Pontiac had 80% of the transit market in the whole United States for about 40 years,” Connolly said. “The Department of
Justice didn’t take kindly to that and took GM to court for about 10 years and said, ‘It’s a monopoly, you’ve got to break it all off.’ So GM sold it all off, but most of the transit buses in the United States were built in Pontiac.”
Also on display are Whizzer motorbikes, which ran on gasoline and became popular during World War II.
“Gas was rationed, and women began working at plants,” Connolly said. “They all bought Whizzers” to get to work. The Pontiac manufacturing plants also supplied vehicles during World War II, including DUKWs, antiaircraft guns, armored cars, torpedoes, parts for tanks and landing craft and artillery ammunition.
In another site, volunteers placed two cars next to each other that represent the beginning and end of manufacturing in the city: a 1927 Landau sedan and a 1982 Grand Prix. Guests might also spot the 21-foot 1986 Vixen recreational vehicle on exhibit. Only 587 models were produced in 19861987 at the Vixen Motor Co.; they really didn’t generate much interest.
“My assessment is it was too expensive for its market in the mid-’80s because you could buy a bigger motorhome for the same amount of money,” Connolly said. “These were built right next door to where the Silverdome used to stand.”
The Pontiac Transportation Museum was built inside the former Crofoot Elementary School. Private donors have funded the museum along with support from the city of Pontiac’s Arts and Culture American Rescue Plan Act grant of $250,000. Since opening last year, the PTM has welcomed about 5,000 guests from 16 countries and nearly every U.S. state.
A list of admission prices is on the PTM website at pontiactransportationmuseum. org/visit. Information regarding donation opportunities also is available on the website. School groups are welcome for tours.
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your breath for four seconds and exhaling for four seconds, which can be done several times in a row.
“It helps a lot with people who are feeling stressed,” Mischra said. “It helps you to focus in that moment on the task that you are doing.”
Getting up from the chair or couch can help, too.
“I also recommend moving around,” Mischra said. “If you are at a workplace and you feel that tension in your back and your head, walk around the building for 10 minutes. If it’s possible to be outside, that’s the best thing to do.”
While walking, she said a person can also practice deep breathing for an additional calming effect.
Mischra said positive affirmations, such as, “I’m going to have a good day,” and having a positive conversation with yourself — speaking to yourself in a positive way, instead of a negative or critical way — can be helpful as well, whether these conversations and affirmations are said aloud or silently.
Mischra advises people to spend at least 10 minutes each day practicing mindfulness
and meditation; she said guided meditation is especially good for people who aren’t used to meditating and there are guided meditation videos on YouTube and apps like Headspace and Calm that can assist newcomers.
We are often our own harshest critics, so Mischra said she asks patients to list three positive things from their day.
“It helps to be gentle to yourself and reflect on your day,” she said.
The mind-body connection is powerful. Mischra and Mansour both said they ask patients about their diet and sleep habits.
Sugar, caffeine and water intake, for example, “can contribute to emotional stressors,” Mansour said.
For better sleep, Mischra said people should turn off their TV and avoid looking at devices like their phone or laptop at least 45 minutes to an hour before they go to bed. Limiting stimulants like caffeine and sugar before bed is critical as well.
“Following good sleep hygiene habits helps to combat stress,” Mischra said.
Stress might seem like an insurmountable mountain to climb, but it can be done.
“If you put in the work, you will see that success,” Mansour said.
Call Staff Writer K. Michelle Moran at (586) 498-1047.
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NO-VI Chess Club: For ages 5 and older, includes lectures, practice games, analysis and other training, 7-8 p.m., Novi Public Library, 45255 10 Mile Road, registration required, (248) 349-0720, novilibrary.org
The Tears Foundation: Groups for those who lost infant (6:30 p.m. every first and third Thursdays of month) and child (7:30 p.m. every first and third Wednesdays of month), New Hope Center for Grief Support, 133 W. Main St. (Suite 113) in Northville, newhopecenter.net
Farmers markets: 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford, (248) 858-5495, ocmarket@oakgov.com,
see dates for paper shredding, yoga and tai chi, flower and plant sales, moonlight markets, and craft nights at oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/ parks-trails/farmers-market
• 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays until Oct. 30, new location at 550 W. Seven Mile Road in Northville, northville. org/farmers-market-vendors
Free community lunches: Noon-1 p.m. Thursdays, Salvation Army Farmington Hills Corps Community Center, 27500 Shiawassee Road in Farmington Hills, centralusa.salvationarmy.org/farmingtonhills
Health workshops: For hypertension, diabetes, pre-diabetes and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
ADHD meetings: Hosted by CHADD of Eastern
Oakland County, for adults and parents, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Zoom, see schedule on chadd.net/chapterevents/527
Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com
Reporter: Charity Meier | (586) 498-1092 | cmeier@candgnews.com
Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
Moeller | (586) 498-1091 | cmoeller@candgnews.com
Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099
Automotive Advertising: Jeannine Bender | (586) 246-8114 | jbender@candgnews.com
Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com
Walk into Tarnow Doors and you won’t just see garage doors—you’ll see possibilities. Since 1966, the family-run business has served the region with entry doors, storm doors, motorized retractable screens and custom garage doors designed for both style and durability.
Owner Henry Tarnow’s path into the industry wasn’t planned. “I was a co-op student at University of Michigan–Dearborn, working at Pontiac Motors on alternating semesters, when an associate suggested I buy some garage door openers and sell them door to door,” he said. “Back then, a garage door opener was considered a luxury item.” Before long, builders started calling, business picked up and he expanded into selling wood doors.
Nearly 60 years later, Tarnow Doors remains a local go-to for garage doors, entry doors, storm doors, motorized retractable screens and more. The business has a loyal following of homeowners, contractors and even third-generation customers who rely on the team’s expertise and honest service.
The company’s long-serving staff and commitment to customer service have helped build lasting relationships. “We educate our customers and walk them through the options, so they can make an intelligent decision,” Henry said. “Our employees have been with us for 10, 20, 30 or even 40 years.” The front office is anchored by longtime employees Bud and Kelly, who help keep things running smoothly and make sure every customer
gets the attention they need. “Our people are trained professionals,” he added. “We’re not hiring subcontractors who might install a dishwasher one day and a garage door the next.”
In addition to garage doors and screens, Tarnow Doors also provides repair services, including fixing broken springs, realigning safety sensors and troubleshooting garage door openers. “Our Gold Bar Warranty gives customers long-term value,” Henry said. “If someone is planning to stay in their home, it just makes sense—better springs, better hardware, fewer service calls.”
Henry and his staff take pride in showing customers their full range of the highest quality solutions. “We offer good, better, best—and let them decide,” he said. “Most people have no idea how many styles exist until we explain the differences. There’s no reason two houses on the same street need to have the same door.”
Inside the showroom—open five-and-a-half days each week—customers can see the colors, patterns and finishes up close, with full sections of doors on display. “Come out, see them, touch them—rather than looking through a catalog,” Henry said.
And while you’re there, you just might meet “Henry”—or at least his stand-in. “We had a caricature statue of me made of papier-mâché and clay,” Henry laughed. “It’s been around for 20 years, and when I’m on vacation or out of the office, if someone says they want to speak with Henry, we tell them to go talk to him in the showroom. It’s just a little inside joke to make things fun.”
Tarnow Doors is located at 23701 Halsted Rd. in Farmington Hills. For more information, call (248) 478-9060 or visit tarnowdoor.com.
0344-2520
While body shops handle large jobs and collision accidents, here at Top Gun, Incorporated our specialty is small repairs such as dented bumpers, scrapes/gouges in bumpers, small to medium size dings/dents, scratches, scu s and chips on the body, etc.
Top Gun is able to do these repairs cheaper because it takes less time and material. Less time usually means we would be working on the vehicle for a week or less. ese types of repairs that we do at Top Gun Inc. are great for lease return cars or a vehicle that you want to sell or trade-in, or for general upkeep. Top Gun, Inc. is a professional specialty paint repair company that has been doing work for the used car departments at many dealerships in the Detroit tri-county area for 33+ years.
Top Gun has established a great reputation over the years in the car industry and has been recognized as the only auto paint company that does minor repairs at the International Auto Show at Cobo Hall. Work is done on-site for any of the show cars that get scu ed or damaged while moving into the showroom and placed for the event. We are very fortunate to have been asked to help with this many years ago.
As a small niche company, owner Bruce Antayas’ vision, insight, focus, and hard work is re ected by Top Gun’s longevity and has brought his company to the top of the chart in the industry. For three decades, Top Gun has been ever-changing to t the customer’s needs while being very current in the eld in today’s challenges.
Top Gun has a great loyal team of technicians. ey are all extremely seasoned and talented individuals. My team has been with me for 15 + years. We all strive to do and be our best in all situations along with staying current in today’s challenges.
We specialize in and focus on small automotive paint repairs. e Top Gun shop has all the tools of the trade along with a wide variety of equipment, paints, tints, and a current upgraded paint mixing system and booth on site.
at 40030 Grand River Ave. in
TOP GUN INC is located at 40030 Grand River Ave. in Novi. For more information call 248-471-7110 or visit us at topgunautopaint.com and on Facebook.
Fun online auctions at Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com. Golf cart, tractor, 4-wheeler, mowers, garden/power tools, antiques, collections, shotgun, wood stove, patio furniture and much more! Bid now and visit often. Questions? Call Joe, 1-800-835-0495.
Fine Firearms, Coins, Tool Estate Auction. Bidding open. Winchesters, Rugers, Brownings, Remington Bronzes, ammo, Morgan Dollars, machinists tools. Bid@JohnPeckAuctions.com.
Need an auction? Call John Peck 989-345-4866. Ofices Charlotte & Gladwin.
BUILDINGS
POLE BARNS We build ALL year long!
BUILT BEST BARNS IN A RUSH? CALL US!!!! Best Quality, Best Service, Now In Our 25TH Year! Over 4,000 Buildings In Michigan Call for QUOTES License/Insured 989-205-2534
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State-wide. Prices starting at24x40x10 - $18,300.00. 30x40x10 -$20,400.00. Erected on your site. Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www.builtritepolebuildingsmi.com. Or call 989-259-2015 or 989-6001010 or 989-324-0035.
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Amish-built mini-cabins starting at $5,295. Made in Michigan! We deliver statewide. Call 989-8321866. MyNextBarn.com.
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POND/LAKE
BUSINESS SERVICES METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695. 0193-2520
HOMESFORRENT Manyareasandstyles tochoosefrom.Buy withverylittledownand paymentscheaperthan rent!Callforfreelist! HarveyatLeeRealty 586-771-3800 License#6502401322 Vacation Property & Time Shares VACATIONRENTAL TAMPA,FL Cozy,PrivateGuesthouseForRentIncluding Kitchenettew/Essentials, FurnishedBedroom, Bathroom,Patio,Private Entrance,FreeParking onPremisesandWi-Fi. *NoPets/PartiesPlease* Call/Text 313-461-8485
Weedgator: Eco-Friendly Pond & Lake removal tools. Can Cut, pull & rake. $150. Also have Cattail cutter $100. Veteran made in Mi. Contact www.weedgatorproducts.com or 989-529-3992.
Legal Notices IF YOUHADKNEEOR HIPREPLACEMENT SURGERYandsuffered aninfectionbetween2020 andthepresenttime,you maybeentitledtocompensation.CallAttorney CharlesH.Johnson 1-800-535-5727 Antiques & Collectibles BUYING Coins,Sport Cards&
OaklandHills Cemetery,Victory Garden-RareDeal! Call270-210-1700
MULTIPLEHOMES RIVERSIDESUB DIVISIONSALE OffofNorthAvenue, S.of23Mile, May15th-17th, 9am-4pm
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The JATC for the Pipefitters, Steamfitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Service Local Union #636 of the United Association will be accepting applications for our Construction Apprenticeship beginning June 2nd, 2025 through June 20th, 2025 ONLINE ONLY! Please visit our website at www.pipefitters636tc.org
– Qualifications necessary for an applicant to be considered are:
1. Must be 18 years of age or older.
2. Complete the application on our website at www.pipefitters636tc.org. At which time you must:
a. Provide a valid driver’s license.
b. Provide a H.S diploma or high school equivalency (GED) certificate or transcripts.
c. There is a $100.00 testing fee that will becollectedwhen submitting your application online. You MUST schedule a test at this time for your application to be accepted.
This is a drug free Program. An individual tentatively selected for entrance into the Program after testing and interview will be required to submit to a drug test, which will include testing for marijuana. ThePipefttingIndustryTrainingCenterislocatedat636ExecutiveDriveinTroy,MIbetween JohnR.andDequindre north of E. 14 mile Road. PH: 248-585-0636 Noresumesplease.
For more information please contact our web site at: www.pipeftters636tc.org.
DF-GCI1062707-01
Technical Consultant with The MathWorks, Inc. located in Novi, MI. Assist customers in the application of MathWorks solution for Model-Based Design. Understanding customers’ development processes and engineering challenges. May telecommute up to 40%. To apply, please visit https://www.mathworks.com/ company/jobs/opportunities.html select “Search Jobs,” enter job requisition # 35386 in the “Job ID or Keywords” feld, and submit resume. Alternatively, you may apply by submitting a resume via e-mail to mwjobs@mathworks.com. Reference requisition # 35386 in subject of e-mail. 0432-2520
STEELSERVICE CENTER
Roseville/Warren
Seekingpackagingline operators,forklift,overheadcrane-willtrain, healthbenefits,401k, profit-sharing,roomfor advancement.Applyat: 24417Groesbeck, Warren,or hr@mststeel.com
WE areseekinga dedicatedandskilled operatorwhoisfamiliar withfour-slideormultislidemachines.Great benefitspackage. Includesgoodhealth insuranceand401Kwith employermatch.Payis basedonskillleveland experience.4daywork week. 586-755-7778 info@four-slide.com
To review the minimum qualifications, details on the position and to apply, please visit our Employment Opportunities web page at 0104-2520
Home Repairs
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SpringClean-ups, Lawncare,Landscaping, Pavers,Walls,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, Mulching,Power-washing, Sprinklers.FreeEst. 586-727-3924
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Painting
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AmericanPainting
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PEAKPAINTING
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ANDERSON
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CONSTRUCTION
Roofing,Gutters,Cement, RefinishingHardwood Floors,NewHomes, Remodels,Additions, Doors,Windows, Fencing,Decks, Kitchens,Bathrooms. 586-291-2647
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
Professional Services
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Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
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WOWPAINTING
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
Powerwashing
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Tree Service
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WEDDING INVITATIONS
WEDDING INVITATIONS
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WATERWORK
Plumbing.com
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PREFERRED
BROTHERSROOFING
BERGBROS.LLC. “FullyInsured, HighlyReferred.” SeniorDiscounts Tree-Removal,Stump Grinding,Tree-Trimming, Hedging,Shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free-Estimates (586)262-3060
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB
Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style.
Simply Perfect
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WEDDING INVITATIONS
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248-542-8022
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ANDY'SPLUMBING
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25%-SpringSpecial. Insured,Emergency StormDamage, Large-TreeRemovals, Mulchinbeds/spreading, Trimming,Stump-Grinding,Season-Firewood (100acord)30YrsExp. (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
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• Free AcuGraph screening and ear seeds with Alleviate
• Meet Dr. Tracy Kreider, ND and National Educator for Vital Planet for expert advice on Digestive Health
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• Free healthy snack & drink samples
• Free face painting from 12-2
• Huge weekend sale