City’s first mini-forest takes root in Rochester
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER — The city of Rochester recently planted its very first mini-forest, just the second of its kind in southeastern Michigan, according to officials.
The concept of the mini-forest was first developed in the 1970s by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, who created a method to restore native ecosystems by planting dense, fast-growing forests on small, degraded urban lands using only native trees and shrubs.
See MINI-FOREST on page 21A
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — A man linked to a transnational gang suspected in a series of affluent home break-ins across Michigan has been convicted on charges.
On April 23, Chilean national Ignacio Ruiz-Saldias, 29, was found guilty of one count of conduct-
ing a criminal enterprise, a 20-year felony; and three counts of conspiracy to commit second-degree home invasion, a 15-year felony; for his role in various home invasions across Michigan.
Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard said Ruiz-Saldias is the first defendant tried in Oakland County with ties to a South American theft ring that he said targeted eight homes in Oakland Township and Rochester Hills, as well as Bloomfield Township,
Man convicted in connection to high-end home invasions
Bloomfield Hills, Grosse Pointe and Ada Township, between Feb. 3 and 17.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said the highly orchestrated home invasions Saldias participated in typically occurred when the homes were vacant. The gangs used techniques to thwart alarm systems and employed extensive precautions to avoid personal identification on home security camera systems and
Ruiz-Saldias
See RUIZ-SALDIAS on page 8A
The 1,000 square foot mini-forest was densely planted with 290 diverse native species of canopy trees, understory trees, and shrubs.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Memorial Day Parade of Heroes takes a new route
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS — This year’s Memorial Day Parade of Heroes will honor the fallen veterans of the Rochester area May 26 with a new route.
The Rochester area has had a longstanding tradition of hosting a parade on Memorial Day, organized for many years by John and Mary Modetz, along with co-chair Terri Williams. However, it fell by the wayside several years ago and was resurrected in 2022.
Today, the Rochester Regional Chamber Foundation facilitates the parade on behalf of local municipalities, including Rochester and Rochester Hills.
“We’ve done the Memorial Day Parade of Heroes, my staff and I, for quite a few years now,” said Maggie Bobitz, president of the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
This year’s parade will kick off at 9 a.m. Monday, May 26, at Mount Avon Cemetery in Rochester, finishing at Veterans Memorial Pointe in Rochester Hills.
“This will be the first year that we do this route, and I’m super excited about it,” said Bobitz. “The parade starts on First Street, traveling to Castell. Castell turns into Harding, and then Harding to Livernois. We’ll go south on Livernois to Avon Road, where the parade will end and everyone will be able to go over to Veterans Pointe and attend the city of Rochester Hills event.”
Prior to the parade, the city of Rochester will host a Memorial Day event at 8 a.m. at Mount Avon Cemetery, 400 Sixth St. The event will include music by the Stoney Creek Band, opening
See MEMORIAL DAY on page 10A
RCS orchestra program strikes a chord with students
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS/ OAKLAND TOWNSHIP — This month, the district’s first orchestra program students will graduate, hitting a high note for the Rochester Community Schools music program.
For 10 consecutive years, RCS has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.
“We are only one of 21 school districts in the state of Michigan to receive this honor and we remain committed to a curriculum and student experience that values rigorous academic
See ORCHESTRA on page 24A
Jacob Thor, Rochester High School Class of 2025, with his mother, Jennifer, at the debut Rochester Community Schools districtwide orchestra performance in April.
Photos provided by Rochester Community Schools
Keenan Thomason, RCS instrumental music director and the director of West Middle School’s band and orchestras, leads the orchestra at the first districtwide orchestra performance.
ABOVE: The Wilson family of Rochester Hills enjoyed the “Playdate with Mommy - Handprint with Mommy Art Class” offered at RARA Recreation May 10. From the left, Francesca Wilson holds her 2-year-old son, Thomas, while her 4-year-old daughter, Parker, works with their grandmother, Linda Wilson.
LEFT: Two proud moms stand with their kids after completing mixed media art projects. From the left, Sarah LaFevre and daughter, 2-yearold Violet from Sterling Heights, are joined by Sarah Malak and her sons, 3-year-old Oliver and 5-year-old Benjamin, from Macomb.
Photos by Liz Carnegie
Ruiz-Saldias
from page 1A
by forensic analyses of crime scenes. Nessel said losses from similar break-ins in recent years fitting this pattern measure in the millions of dollars as money, jewelry, high-value items and safes have been stolen from affected properties.
“These home invasions were not random – they were deliberate, highly organized, and had a significant impact on the families and communities involved,” Nessel said in a statement. “I am grateful to the jury, as well as the FORCE Team and task force who made this conviction possible. We will continue to work together to protect Michigan residents and hold accountable any individuals connected to these sophisticated criminal enterprises.”
Ruiz-Saldias and four other defendants were arrested in March 2023 in Carmel, Indiana. Through cooperation between law enforcement in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, similarities were discovered in home invasions, and criminal cases were made against the defendants.
Ruiz-Saldias was charged while in custody at the Hamilton County Jail in Hamilton County, Indiana, where he was convicted
on separate home invasion-related charges.
“I am proud of the teamwork and the effort that brought this case to a close with a conviction,” Bouchard said in a statement. “I hope it sends a clear message to the transnational gangs that there are consequences for criminal behavior in Oakland County.”
At press time, three additional defendants were in custody in Ohio awaiting extradition to Oakland County to face charges.
Bouchard said previously that these transnational crime groups are made up of individuals from South American countries. He said Oakland County is now on their radar. Bouchard said they are believed to have entered the country in one of two ways, either illegally across the southern border or through the Visa Waiver Program.
He said they purchase fake identification and often overstay their visa and cancel their return date. They also are known to establish residency in the areas they are targeting. They do this through fraudulent housing applications or Airbnb, he said in a past report.
Ruiz-Saldias was scheduled to be sentenced June 16 by Circuit Judge Kwame Rowe. His attorney, Scott Kozak, declined to comment at press time.
Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
remarks and a medal presentation by Mayor Nancy Salvia, a lowering of the flag by Rochester Police Lt. Keith Harper, a prayer by Pastor Don Anderson, a speech by former U.S. Navy Seal Cmndr. Adam Weiner, laying of the wreath, a moment of silence and more.
Livernois will be closed from Walton to Livernois 9-10 a.m., or when the last parade participant has safely gone through the route. The side streets on Livernois will be closed at that same time.
“I think it’s wonderful to see this new route,” said Rochester Hills City Council President Ryan Deel. “I think it’s fantastic that people will have the opportunity to participate in both the Rochester ceremony and the ceremony here in Rochester Hills. It’s just such a nice show of support between the two communities.”
Following the parade, the city of Rochester Hills will host a Memorial Day cer-
emony at 10:30 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Pointe, 1015 S. Livernois Road.
The day’s celebrations will conclude with hot dogs at the Rochester Fire Department 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP at jcieslik@ rochestermi.org or (248) 651-4470.
Rochester Hills City Councilwoman Theresa Mungioli said she’s looking forward to walking in the parade this year.
“I will be making sure to ask many members of the community to pray for no rain, because last year it was cancelled due to thunderstorms, and we were not able to host the parade last year. We’re looking forward to a beautiful Memorial Day and walking down Livernois as part of this.”
In case of inclement weather and/or the cancellation of the parade, Rochester’s events will move indoors to the Mausoleum and then the Rochester Fire Station.
For more information, visit www.rrcmi.com or call (248) 651-6700.
Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
Reporter: Mary Beth Almond | (586) 498-1060 | malmond@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
The late Dr. Ringold founded Bionicc Body Screening in 2022 after battling cancer twice. He believed MRI full body screenings could empower individuals to take control of their health.
Softball Size Tumors Silently Grew
Dr. Ringold discovered he had stage four cancer with tumors as large as softballs silently growing inside his body after experiencing shortness of breath. His treatment was brutal. He su ered cruel side e ects. After his cancer went into remission, it returned a year later as a brain tumor. Dr. Ringold believed there had to be a better way. He envisioned a future where individuals could take control of their
A Father’s Legacy, A Son’s Mission: Full Body MRI Scans Without a Doctor’s Referral
(South eld, MI) e late Dr. Warren Ringold knew rsthand the devastating impact of late-stage cancer diagnoses. As a respected family physician, he witnessed countless patients battling illnesses that could have been detected earlier. His own grueling battle with late-stage cancer ignited a passion, leading him to create Michigan’s rst MRI full body screening center called Bionicc Body Screening.
health and detect potential problems before they escalated. In his nal days, Dr. Ringold passionately advocated for MRI full body screenings, a proactive approach he believed could empower individuals to take control of their health.
Raising Awareness
Today, his son Ryan carries on this mission. ough not a medical professional himself, Ryan’s dedication to his father’s legacy drives him to raising awareness of this service for families of Michigan. “Every week I learn of another person who felt perfectly ne, only to wake up with an unexplained symptom and discover they have stage four cancer. Once symptoms manifest cancer is usually advanced,” says his son Ryan. “My father never wanted another family to su er the emotional and physical hardships that our family and he endured. He wanted to save lives.”
Full Body MRI Scans Without a Doctor’s Order
Bionicc Body Screening o ers elective, full-body MRI screenings that provide a comprehensive picture of your internal health, going beyond what traditional checkups often reveal. State-of-the-art technology can detect tumors as small as a pea, aneurysms, risk of stroke and a multitude of other conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Screenings include scans of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, hips, shoulders and spine.
A Life Saved
Mark B. and his younger brother decided to visit Bionicc Body Screening last spring for a proactive screening because cancer ran in their family. Mark was skeptical until his results returned a 3-centimeter mass on his lung, which tested positive for cancer. He had three-fourths of his lung removed. He credits the scan for saving his life. Meanwhile, his brother’s results were clean.
Scans are safe, non-invasive, emit no radiation and are available without a doctor’s referral.
LIMITED TIME OFFER - Learn more now. Visit BioniccBodyScreening.com to download a free Welcome Information Kit and $200 savings o er. Book an appointment by calling 1-833-BIONICC.
(833-246-6422)
Advertorial
CRIME WATCH
Deputies investigate student sending alleged threatening picture
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies received information via OK2Say that a student from the Rochester Community Schools was sending pictures of herself holding a pistol to another student’s head at 2:05 a.m. April 22. The caller was able to provide the students’ information.
Deputies located the student’s residence and conducted a welfare check. Deputies spoke with the student, a 16-year-old from Rochester Hills, and her grandmother. The student said the incident was a prank and the pistol was a facsimile weapon. No one was harmed or injured. The facsimile firearm, the student said, was the property of her girlfriend’s friend, who took the photograph. The student’s grandmother ensured no firearms were present in their residence and that they do not own any firearms.
Deputies were able to identify and locate the second female student involved, an 18-year-old from Rochester Hills. Deputies spoke with the student and her parents. She also said the incident was a prank, the firearm was a facsimile, and no one was harmed. She also provided her boyfriend’s information and location, and deputies were able to verify the firearm was indeed a facsimile and the incident was a prank.
Man revived after having heart attack at gym
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to a fitness center in the 300 block
of S. Livernois Road on a report that a patron of the gym was having a heart attack at 11:21 a.m. April 24. Deputies found a 40-year-old Waterford man collapsed on the floor, not breathing and with no pulse. Deputies and Rochester Hills Fire Department personnel started performing CPR and additional life saving measures. The patron’s pulse was regained, and he was stabilized. He was transported to the hospital for continued care.
Woman hit by car in store parking lot
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 1100 block of Rochester Road for a pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle in a retail parking lot in the 1000 block of Rochester Road at 4:04 p.m. April 25.
When police arrived, the Rochester Hills Fire Department was rendering aid to the injured pedestrian, a 60-year-old woman from Clarkston. Deputies gathered further information from several witnesses, who stated that the driver had struck several vehicles prior to hitting the pedestrian.
Deputies spoke to the responsible driver, a 64-year-old woman from Rochester Hills, who stated she had been parking her vehicle prior to crashing. The Rochester Hills Fire Department transported the victim, whose injuries were not life-threatening, to the hospital. Drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash.
Woman arrested for second-degree retail fraud
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to a retail store in the 400 block of N. Adams Road on a report of a retail fraud at 1:38 p.m. April 24. Deputies learned that
a woman had stolen three bangle bracelets from the jewelry department.
The woman, 64, of Oakland Township, was seen concealing two in her pants pocket and wore one on her wrist. She was stopped at the vestibule after passing all points of purchase without offering payment for the items that were for sale. The merchandise totaled $240. A search of her purse revealed a shirt that had also been stolen. A citation for retail fraud, second-degree, was issued. A copy of the surveillance footage was obtained.
Scammer transfers $20K in stocks, deletes victim’s info
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the 500 block of Millstone Drive on a report of a fraud that had occurred involving an online account at 4:25 p.m. April 24.
Deputies learned that the caller had $20,000 worth of Apple and Amazon stock stolen from his online investment account. An unknown individual had gained access to the caller’s account and transferred all the stocks he had purchased over the last week on Cash App. The suspect gained access to the victim’s cellphone, changed his name and deleted all his personal information.
The caller stated that he has bank records and transaction receipts for the amounts purchased. The caller was instructed to notify his bank and investment company about the incident. Deputies also had the caller log into the FBI (IC3) and file an affidavit and complaint documenting the incident.
Man arrested for bond violation
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 3100 block of John R
Road on a report of a felony assault at 11:54 p.m. May 6.
A woman reported that she was at the location attempting to retrieve pills that belonged to her when the suspect, a 19-yearold male from Rochester Hills, pulled a gun and threatened her. The suspect left the location before deputies arrived. A vehicle description was obtained, which was passed on to local agencies.
Troy Police located the suspect vehicle and initiated a traffic stop on John R, near Wattles. Deputies met with Troy police officers and took custody of the suspect. A gun was not located. Detectives determined the felonious assault was unfounded. The suspect was found to be in violation of bond conditions, prohibiting him from being at the location on John R Road. The suspect was lodged at the Oakland County Jail for violation of bond conditions.
Man arrested for felonious assault, malicious destruction of property
ROCHESTER
HILLS
— Deputies were dispatched to Mirabeau Drive in reference to a felonious assault at 12:25 a.m. May 3.
The caller reported that the father of her child had arrived at the residence, which she shares with her boyfriend, a 46-year-old man from Rochester Hills. It was reported that the father struck her boyfriend with his vehicle, and a physical altercation ensued. The suspect, a 33-year-old man from Flushing, then allegedly slashed her boyfriend’s car tire before leaving.
A deputy located the suspect and initiated a traffic stop on Hamlin, near John R Road. The suspect was found to have a
Continued on page 19A
SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH
Build a toOlkit to adDresS stresS
BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — 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 peo-
These tables are based on tests conducted by GLWA in the year 2024 or the most recent testng done within the last fve calendar years. GLWA conducts tests throughout the year only tests that show the presence of a substance or require special monitoring are presented in these tables. The State allows us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentratons of these contaminants are not expected to vary signifcantly from year to year. The data is representatve of the water quality, but some are more than one year old.
2024 Lake Huron Tap Water Mineral Analysis
Rochester East – GLWA Water Quality Data
2024 Lake Huron Regulated Detected Contaminants Table
2024
02-13-2024ppm44 0.8n/ano Erosion of natural deposit; Water additive, which promotes strong teeth; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories.
Nitrate 02-13-2024ppm1010 0.35 n/ano Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of natural deposits.
Lead and Copper Monitoring at the Customer’s Tap in 2024 Regulated Contaminant
2024 Disinfection By-Products - Stage 2 Disinfection By-Products Monitoring in the Distribution System Regulated Contaminant Test
(TTHM)
Trihalomethanes
(HAA5) Haloacetic Acids
2024 Turbidity - Monitored Every 4 Hours at the Plant Finished Water Tap Highest Single Measurement Cannot Exceed 1 NTU Lowest Monthly % of Samples Meeting Turbidity Limit of 0.3 NTU (minimum 95%) ViolationMajor Sources in Drinking Water
0.2 NTU 100 % no Soil Runoff
Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of water. We monitor it because it is a good indicator of the effectiveness of our filtration system.
2024 Special Monitoring Contaminant Test Date Unit MCLGMCL Highest Level Detected Source of Contaminant Sodium 02-13-2024 ppm n/an/a 5.1 Erosion of natural deposits
Regulated Contaminant Treatment Technique Typical Source of Contaminant
Total Organic Carbon ppm The Total Organic Carbon (TOC) removal ratio is calculated as the ratio between the actual TOC removal and the TOC removal requirements. The TOC is measured each quarter and because the level is low, there is no requirement for TOC removal.
Radionuclides - Monitored at the Plant Finished Tap in 2014
Erosion of natural deposits
Regulated Contaminant Test Date UnitMCLGMCL Level Detected Violation Major Sources in Drinking Water Combined Radium Radium 226 and 228 5/13/14 pCi/L 05 0.86 + 0.55 no Erosion of natural deposits
These tables are based on tests conducted by GLWA in the year 2024 or the most recent testng done within the last fve calendar years. GLWA conducts tests throughout the year only tests that show the presence of a substance or require special monitoring are presented in these tables. The State allows us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentratons of these contaminants are not expected to vary signifcantly from year to year. The data is representatve of the water quality, but some are more than one year old.
2024 Lake Huron
Tap Water Mineral Analysis
Water Quality Data
The tables on the following pages list all the drinking water contaminants that we detected during the 2024 calendar year. The presence of these contaminants in the water does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. Unless otherwise noted, the data presented in this table is from testing performed January 1 - December 31, 2024. The State allows us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants are not expected to vary signifcantly from year to year. All of the data is representative of the water quality, but some are more than one year old. As you can see, our system had no violations. We’re proud that your drinking water meets or exceeds all Federal and State requirements. We have learned through our monitoring and testing that some contaminants have been detected. The EPA has determined that your water is SAFE at these levels.
We will update this report annually and will keep you informed of any problems that may occur throughout the year, as they happen. If you have any questions about this report or concerning your water utility, please contact the City of Rochester DPW at (248) 651-5165. We want our customers to be informed about their water utility.
Regularly scheduled City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, at 7:00 PM, in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 400 Sixth Street, Rochester, MI. For more information about safe drinking water, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at www.epa.gov/safewater.
PLEASE NOTE that this report will not be mailed to each customer in the City of Rochester. Copies of this report are available at http://www.rochestermi.org/234/Water-Quality-Report and at Rochester City Hall, 400 Sixth Street, upon request.
Key to the Detected Contaminants Table
SymbolAbbreviation
AL Action Level
°C Celsius
> Greater than
HAA5 Haloacetic Acids
Level 1 Level 1 Assessment
LRAA Locational Running Annual Average
MCL Maximum Contaminant Level
MCLG Maximum Contaminant Level Goal
MRDL Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level
MRDLG Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal
n/a not applicable
ND Not Detected
NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Units
pCi/LPicocuries Per Liter
ppbParts Per Billion (one in one billion)
ppmParts Per Million (one in one million)
RAA Running Annual Average
SMCL Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level
TT Treatment Technique
TTHMTotal Trihalomethanes
μmhos Micromhos
Definition/Explanation
The concentration of a contaminant, which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.
A scale of temperature in which water freezes at 0° and boils at 100° under standard conditions.
HAA5 is the total of bromoacetic, chloroacetic, Dibromoacetic, dichloroacetic, and trichloroacetic acids. Compliance is based on the total.
A study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found in the water system.
The average of analytical results for samples at a particular monitoring location during the previous four quarters.
The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology.
The level of contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health.
The highest level of disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants.
The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRLDG’s do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants.
Below the detection limit of the method
Measures the cloudiness of water.
A measure of radioactivity
The ppb is equivalent to micrograms per liter. A microgram = 1/1000 milligram.
The ppm is equivalent to milligrams per liter.
A milligram = 1/1000 gram.
The average of analytical results for all samples during the previous four quarters.
An MCL which involves a biological, chemical or physical characteristic of water that may adversely affect the taste, odor, color or appearance (aesthetics), which may thereby affect public confidence or acceptance of the drinking water.
A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.
Total Trihalomethanes is the sum of chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane and bromoform. Compliance is based on the total.
Measure of electrical conductance of water
ROCHESTER GARDEN CLUB AWARDS TWO COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
ROCHESTER — The Rochester Garden Club helped two graduating high school seniors reach their goal to pursue environmental studies in college. This year, two students each received a $1,500 scholarship in support of these goals. The scholarship winners are Ruby Howe from Rochester High School and Katherine Dick from Stoney Creek High School.
Howe was influenced to study environmental science at the university level by her AP environmental science teacher and Green Club advisor. She hopes to use her knowledge to shape environmental law either locally or nationally to help protect the world. Ultimately, she would like to become a global environmental public policy advocate. Howe will be attending Loyola University in the fall.
Dick was influenced by her AP environmental teacher. She hopes to promote sustainable actions to help the earth, possibly in the field of research. Her interest in physics may also guide her research goals. She will be attending the University of Michigan this fall.
Funds for the college scholarships and all the other charitable donations made by the Rochester Garden Club are from the annual Gifts and Greens Market, a Rochester holiday tradition for over 70 years. This year the market will be held at Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, on Walton Boulevard. The Rochester Garden Walk will be held this year on June 19. For more information, visit www.RochesterGardenClub.org.
— Mary Beth Almond
Waltonwood supports residents’ active and independent lifestyles and removes the worry that seniors — and their family members — often experience when they’re living on their own. Move to Waltonwood and spend time doing the things you love most. We’ll take care of the rest.
Orchestra
page 3A
and arts instruction,” said Keenan Thomason, RCS instrumental music director and the director of the West Middle School band and orchestras.
The RCS music curriculum, he said, is well-rounded and begins early in a child’s educational journey, with an exploration of musical textures, forms and compositions.
“It advances from preschool throughout high school to include musical understanding, evaluation, analysis, expression, and performance,” Thomason noted.
The idea of adding a strings program in the district was first introduced when two community members and local strings teachers, Clarke Bonten and Nicole Shogren, gave a presentation at a Board of Education meeting a few years ago.
In 2016, the district initiated a task force to research, explore and discuss the feasibility of the program.
On Feb. 12, 2018, the Board of Education approved the initiation of a strings program to complete the district’s music curriculum offerings.
“That vision was realized thanks to
a donation of $137,000 — the largest gift ever awarded by the Rochester Community Schools Foundation. At that time, the Rochester Community Schools Foundation unanimously approved the award to cover startup costs, which included instruments, instrument cabinets, music stands, seats, music books and other items, which will continue to be used for years to come,” Pasquale Cusumano, assistant superintendent of secondary and adult education, explained.
To launch the 2018-19 school year, violins, violas, cellos and double base instruments were added to sixth grade music rooms at all RCS middle schools, giving students the option to select either the new orchestra program, or the existing choir or band programs, as one of their elective courses. All RCS sixth-graders are required to take a full year of music.
The program attracted participants quickly and grew each time those initial orchestra students advanced to the next grade level.
“Now, we have a full district orchestra that includes musicians in grades six through 12, sharing their creative talents across the community,” Cusumano explained.
On April 1, the district gathered all 540 orchestra students from all four middle
schools and three high schools to share their musical progress in a collective concert.
“The progress we are making is truly impressive and a testament to the dedication of our amazing community, who support and encourage our students,” Cusmano said during the concert.
Rochester High School senior Jacob Thor is one of the first graduates of the district’s orchestra program.
“I joined orchestra because it felt like
a good fit for me,” Thor said in an email. “It taught me how to work and perform in a group environment, and eventually, I became a viola section leader. Each school year, I started to enjoy it more and more.”
Music is a passion for Thor, who intends to continue studying it in college.
“As our inaugural orchestra students prepare to graduate and continue their education and training beyond high school, we wish them great success,” added Cusmano.
Elmer Davis
Orchestra students perform during a districtwide concert April 1. Photo provided by Rochester Community Schools
Homes For Sale HOMESFORRENT Manyareasandstyles
Cozy,PrivateGuesthouseForRentIncluding Kitchenettew/Essentials, FurnishedBedroom, Bathroom,Patio,Private Entrance,FreeParking onPremisesandWi-Fi. *NoPets/PartiesPlease* Call/Text 313-461-8485
AmericanPainting •Residential/Commercial •Interior/25YearsExp. •PowerWashing •Insurance•Drywall •PlasterRepair•Cleanouts•HomeRepairs •SeniorDiscounts •Guaranteed-Work.
PEAKPAINTING Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. *WillBeatAnyOther ReasonableEstimate! 35yrsexp.Sen.Disc.Ins. CC-Accepted/References. 586-722-8381
2BROTHERS PAINTING CompleteInterior/Exterior WoodRepair, Powerwash, Free-Estimates CallFrank 248-303-5897 ReferencesAvailable
(586)795-8122 ChrisCronin Painting& StainingInc. Professionalquality. Interior-exterior. Power-washing, decksealing.Insured, References.Free-Est. MC/VI/DC/AXaccepted.
NEBOPAINTING ServiceAllYearRound
Interior/Exterior WeMakeIt EasierForYou, AllNeedsAreMet! FreeEstimates Call 248-953-7807
Painting ANDERSON Painting&Carpentry CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
FARR'SPAINTING Interior/Exterior Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
VKPERFECTPAINTING
Interior/Exterior SpecializesinKitchen &Bathroom CabinetPainting. Drywall/Plaster/Repair Free-Est.26YearsExp. CallBill 313-433-9400 586-746-9846 vkperfectpainting.com
WOWPAINTING
Interior/Exterior QualityPainting DrywallRepairs,Remove Wallpaper,ExteriorWood Replacement,Epoxy Flooring.Ins./Free-Est. 248-990-5388 wowpainting00@ gmail.com wowpaintingmi.com Plumbing MASTER PLUMBER Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
586.524.6752 ANDY'SPLUMBING 33+YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX PLUMBERSCORP 586-210-0903 35-YearsExp.Seniors/ Military/Multi-TaskDisc. Free-Est.•DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures•SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters.Lic/Ins. apexplumbers corporation.com Lic#8111771
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312 WATERWORK Plumbing.com •DrainCleaning •SewerCamera
Type of salmon
47. Sol, or la, or ti 48. *Eponymous 1978 Franki Valli song
50. To, archaic
52. *Ryan Gosling’s 2023 “I’m Just ____”
53. Part of a jousting outfit
55. Tax pro, acr.
57. *”I Will Always Love You” of “The Bodyguard” singer
61. *”(I’ve Had) ____ ____ of My Life” of “Dirty Dancing”
65. Desert wanderer’s hope 66. Morning condensation
movemilkyorcloudyfilm) •ExposedAggregate •BrickPavers(resanding) Website: ajspressure cleaning.com 586-431-0591
ALLWASHEDUP POWERWASHING SPRINGSPECIALS! Weofferpowerwashing& deckstaining.Houses/
SOUNDTRACK SONGS
•Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
AA4DABLEROOFING Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! SPRING-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted. 586-822-5100
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE $225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial GutterCleaning Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 30-yrsexp.FamilyOwned 248-707-4851
CHERRY CONSTRUCTION Roofing,Gutters,Cement, RefinishingHardwood Floors,NewHomes, Remodels,Additions, Doors,Windows, Fencing,Decks, Kitchens,Bathrooms. 586-291-2647
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB 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
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC. BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600 Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds. Tree Service BERGBROS.LLC. “FullyInsured, HighlyReferred.” SeniorDiscounts Tree-Removal,Stump Grinding,Tree-Trimming, Hedging,Shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free-Estimates (586)262-3060
