Help urgently needed as situation in Haiti worsens
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT —
A mission group to Haiti that includes churches in Sterling Heights, Southfield and more is sounding the alarm on the plight of the country — the poorest in the Western Hemisphere — as gangs have captured the town of Mirebalais, once a safe haven.
A letter by Kesner Gracia, an Episcopalian priest in Haiti, described the scene in April.
“Haiti has become a veritable human slaughterhouse,” he wrote. “In Mirebalais, the streets are littered with corpses. … Unspeakable scenes of terror unfold before our very eyes.”
Haiti Outreach Mission, a Troy-based nonprofit, has been wiring funds to partners in Haiti since it’s no longer safe to travel there. Projects include medical and
OF WEST BLOOMFIELD BECOMES A VILLAGE
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD — The Zox HOA recently won the designation from the state of Michigan to become an incorporated village.
“By becoming a village, we will then qualify to participate in different public programs to support infrastructure,” said Chris LaDuke, chair of the Village Committee and a current HOA board member.
The village extends from Rosedale Drive on the west, Cass Lake on the south and east, and the Clinton River to the north.
According to LaDuke, becoming a village was important since it will
Photo by Valerie McNeece
Dr. Dominque Monde-Matthews, founder of Haiti Outreach Mission, treats a young patient during a trip to the country in 2012. Many families have been displaced following recent events there.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The Zox HOA in West Bloomfield Township was recently incorporated as its own village. With its canals and waterways, this third-of-a-mile area is often described as “a little Venice.”
Communities protest county rate spike for assessing services
Increases average 75% the first year, 92% the third year
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI AND GENA JOHNSON akozlowski@candgnews.com
• gjohnson@candgnews.com
ORCHARD LAKE — Communities that contract with Oakland County for assessing services are raising concerns — and in some cases, changing vendors — after a narrowly divided Oakland County Board of Commissioners voted to raise rates.
There are 19 cities and 13 townships that contract with the Oakland County Equalization Division for assessing services, which determine taxable values. The county charges communities on a per-parcel basis. The contracts are for a three-year period, beginning July 1.
The increase affects each community, averaging an increase of 75% the first year and nearly 92% the third year. An optional “smoothing method”
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON HILLS/FARMINGTON — A collaborative community art fair is returning to town.
The city of Farmington Hills and Farmington Downtown Development Authority announced that the event, titled ART on the GRAND, will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 7 and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 8.
The fair spans nearly a quarter of a mile along Grand River Avenue, from Grove Street to Farmington Road. Admission is free, and there are no parking fees.
Now in its 16th year, the fair is known for its friendly environment and approachable artists, with something for everybody in terms of taste, style and price.
Items include ceramics, jewelry, painting, photography, wood, wearable art, glass, sculpture, printmaking and more.
During the county board meeting May 1, Oakland County Commissioner Michael Spisz, R-District 5, criticizes the board majority’s decision to raise rates on communities contracting with the county for assessing. The final vote was 10-9. Spisz voted against the rate increase.
Photos provided by the city of Farmington Hills
ART on the GRAND will feature more than 100 artists. The two-day event is expected to pull in more than 40,000 attendees.
NEWS & NOTES
Compiled by Gena Johnson
Vehicles to find gas leaks, protect customers
METRO DETROIT — Consumers Energy is hitting the road to protect the safety of its natural gas customers this year, deploying eight state-of-theart vehicles that will survey the company’s nearly 30,000-mile system to find methane leaks.
“We are getting ahead of potential problems, using this advanced technology to find and fix leaks. That’s important for the safety of our customers, our coworkers and our Michigan communities,” said Holly Bowers, Consumers Energy’s vice president of natural gas engineering and supply.
“We’re excited this is the first year our methane detection vehicles will survey our entire system, giving us the precision we need to proactively find leaks and make our system safer for all of our customers,” Bowers said.
Consumers Energy last year expanded its fleet of methane detection vehicles to eight, allowing the company to look for natural gas leaks in more communities.
Hite Photo celebrates 100 years
WEST BLOOMFIELD — Hite Photo, a cornerstone of Detroit’s photographic industry, is celebrating over 100 years. Founded in 1924 by Howard Hite, the company began with a modest loan secured with a Model T Ford. Over the decades, Hite Photo has grown into a thriving business,
operating in two locations: one in West Bloomfield and another in Bloomfield Hills.
Today, the third-generation leadership of brothers Don and Tom Hite, along with fourth-generation Julia Hite, continue the family’s dedication to preserving memories.
Celebrate Luminosity: A Detroit Arts Gathering
METRO DETROIT — Artist and West Bloomfield resident Larry Green is showcasing his works, “The Spirit of Detroit: The Bloom of Inner Greatness” and “Splash, The Simple Joy of a Child” at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E. Warren Ave. in Detroit, in the exhibition, “Luminosity: A Detroit Arts Gathering.”
The exhibit bills itself as a dynamic showcase celebrating 60 years of The Wright, with more than 60 works from Detroit artists and the museum’s archive. The works include paintings, sculptures, photography and more.
The exhibit is open now through March 31, 2026.
Melvindale man allegedly plotted mass shooting at TACOM
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
WARREN — A former Michigan Army National Guard member from Melvindale is accused of planning a mass shooting, which was set for May 13, at the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command in Warren.
Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, planned to carry out the attack for the terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), according to a May 14 press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
“ISIS is a brutal terrorist organization which seeks to kill Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. in the release.
“Helping ISIS or any other terrorist organization prepare or carry out acts of violence is not only a reprehensible crime — it is a threat to our entire nation and way of life. Our office will not tolerate such crimes or threats, and we will use the full weight of the law against anyone who engages in terrorism.”
Said is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist
organization and distributing information related to a destructive device. Each charge carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, according to the release.
The arrest came from the efforts of two undercover FBI agents who Said attempted to recruit for the attack. The court filing details the prep work for the alleged attack planned for May 13.
“…Said provided assistance to the attack plan he originally devised — one that he believed would result in the death of many American citizens — including operational reconnaissance and surveillance of TACOM, including through the use of an aerial drone; providing ammunition and magazines Said understood would be used during the attack, including ‘armor piercing’ ammunition; training regarding the use of a firearm and construction of Molotov cocktails that Said understood would be used during the course of the attack; and planning, guidance and military expertise with respect to execution of the attack,” the court filing states.
Said was caught planning for the attack, according to the court filing. The undercover agents and Said went to a preselected location near TACOM on May 13, dressed in
black clothing, to launch a drone that would provide advance surveillance before the attack.
“The FBI in Michigan is unwavering in our mission to safeguard the American people, particularly our brave service members who risk their lives to defend this nation,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, special agent in charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office.
“In strong partnership with the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force will relentlessly identify, disrupt, and bring to justice anyone who attempts to carry out violent attacks against the United States and its territories.”
Said joined the National Guard in 2022, according to the court filing. He did his basic training at Fort Moore in Georgia and, after completion, reported to the Michigan Army National Guard Taylor Armory. He was discharged around December of last year.
“The arrest of this former Soldier is a sobering reminder of the importance of our counterintelligence efforts to identify and disrupt those who would seek to harm our nation,” Brig. Gen. Rhett R. Cox, the com-
criminal complaint sworn to in federal court on May 13 includes this screenshot image, which investigators said shows Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, in front of an ISIS flag. See TACOM on page 12A
Photo provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office
The
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
MAY 30-JUNE 1
Detroit Sports Spectacular: Cards and collectibles show, 300-plus vendors and more than 50 sports celebrity guests signing autographs expected, 3:30-8:30 p.m. May 30, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. May 31 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 1 (VIP hours also available), Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi, suburbancollectionshowplace.com
JUNE 12
Kick Off 2 Summer: Bouncers, fitness obstacle course, nature trail ribbon cutting, basketball skills contest, fitness sampler class, crafts, cornhole, golf simulator competition, raffle, giveaways and more, 5-8 p.m., The Hawk - Farmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, facebook.com/fhspecial services
JUNE 14
Meet Your Police Force: Also food trucks selling coffee and desserts, 9-11 a.m., West Bloomfield Civic Center Campus, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, (248) 451-4845
JUNE 14-15
Apple Island tours: Take pontoon ride to 35-acre nature sanctuary in center of Orchard Lake and learn from docents during 2-3 hour self-paced tours, 10 a.m.-3:40 p.m. (can stay until 5 p.m.), meet at Orchard Lake Museum (home of Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society), 3951 Orchard Lake Road, (248) 757-2451, gwbhs.org/apple-island-tours
JUNE 21
Summer Solstice Celebration: Take hayride, toast marshmallows, explore nature center, create fairy/elf craft, play games and more, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Heritage
Park, 24915 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills, register at tinyurl.com/fhncsummersolstice25
ONGOING
Food Truck Tuesdays: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., held in tent between West Bloomfield Township Public Library and Recreation Activities Center at Civic Center complex, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, continues weekly until Sept. 30, see scheduled businesses at wbtownship.org
Open Play at The J: Drop-in program for ages 4 and younger, 9 a.m.-noon most Mondays while school is in session, The J, 6600 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield, jlive.app/events/9144
Game nights: For Sylan Lake residents only, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Sylvan Lake Community Center, 2456 Pontiac Drive, (248) 682-1440, sylvanlake.org/ community_center
• 5-6:30 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, Commerce Township Community Library, 180 E. Commerce Road, (248) 669-8108, commercetwp. com/library
Free food distribution: Drive-up program for families and individuals in need, presented by Gleaners Community Food Bank, see dates and locations at pantrynet.org/mobile-distribution-events
Farmers markets: 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford Township, (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/oaklandcounty-parks/parks-trails/farmers-market
• Celebrating 20 years of local farmers and artisans, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays until Oct. 29, Casey J. Ambrose Public Safety Campus, 1499 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake, walledlake.us
BRICK REPAIR
dental clinics, a lab and pharmacy, water purifiers, and funding for food, shelter and supplies.
People can help by donating to HOM, which also urges churches to help.
Five local churches are already involved: St. Blase Catholic Church in Sterling Heights; St. David’s Episcopal Church in Southfield; Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Northville; St. Clare of Assisi Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor; and Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Detroit. A sixth is outside of Michigan: St. Bernard Catholic Church in Billings, Montana.
Dr. Dominique Monde-Matthews, HOM’s founder, said the people of Mirebalais have left their homes.
“The priests know where the camps are and they’re bringing them supplies. They’re also trying to continue schooling so the little ones have some normalcy,” she said. “By helping them stay alive, we hope they can return home someday.”
Another world
John Messina, a parishioner at St. Blase in Sterling Heights, has gone to Haiti with various groups 28 times.
“I remember the first trip in 2000,” he said.
“It was like walking into a heatwave — just overwhelming.”
The town of Mirebalais is perched on a plateau in the mountains near the capital of Port-au-Prince, home to an estimated 200,000. Driving there is perilous, with blind switchbacks along sheer cliffs.
Aid workers say that once in town, outsiders are hit with the stench of sweat and garbage mixed with burning charcoal — the primary means of cooking in a place with no power.
Tightly packed houses line the winding streets. The homes are made of cement block with metal roofs. Light flows through small windows with no screens. There are no furnaces or air conditioning.
There is no municipal water supply, either. Potable water is sold in 5-gallon jugs or smaller.
A Haiti Outreach Mission store helps filter and disinfect the water.
Even before the gangs grew in strength, electricity was unreliable, created by hydropower strained by low levels in the river. HOM has tried to offset this with solar panels at the clinics and priest residences.
Yet despite the challenges, the Haitians endured.
‘They were still giving’
Aid workers describe the people of Mire-
Tom Maza and John Messina, volunteers with Haiti Outreach Mission, assist a patient at a clinic during a visit in 2012.
Photo by Valerie McNeece
See HAITI on page 13A
COMPOSTING CAN BENEFIT THE GARDEN AND THE ENVIRONMENT
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Two master gardeners from Michigan State University Extension recently shared their expertise on composting and gardening during presentations at the Bloomfield Township Public Library.
Imagine food rotting away in a garbage can and then being transported to a landfill, or intentionally disposing of food scraps to enrich the soil.
Which sounds better?
Composting describes the intentional way of disposing of organic waste to enrich the soil.
Michigan State University master gardener Sara Covatta presented “Helping to Demystify and Normalize Composting in Michigan” at the Bloomfield Township Public Library April 22. She defined compost as a dark, crumbly material with an earthy smell that is produced by the natural decom-
position of organic materials. Compost is a living soil amendment. Microbes do all the work to break down the materials.
Some composting enthusiasts have suggested having a container to collect food scraps in the kitchen and store it in the freezer. After a week or month of collecting, see how much has been collected. From that, determine what size compost bin is needed.
To start composting, Covatta recommended collecting vegetable scraps, coffee grounds and egg shells.
Use a carbon source, such as fall leaves, in the compost bin. Stockpile the leaves that fall from the trees in the autumn. Store the leaves in an enclosed container by the compost bin. Covatta suggests that whenever adding to the compost bin, add the leaves. This prevents odors and breaks down the food properly.
If the center of the composting pile is dry, add water and turn the pile.
If the pile is damp and will not heat up, this is due to a lack of nitrogen, according
Covatta. Mix in a nitrogen source such as grass clippings.
“Despite my efforts, there are people who are not going to backyard compost,” Covatta said in a subsequent interview.
According to Covatta, people are unnecessarily afraid of composting.
“Municipalities, businesses, schools are sometimes afraid to add food scrap collection, but their fear is really misplaced,” Covatta said. “Because if the thought process is you’re going to attract rodents by having a food scrap collection when you’re already putting it in the garbage, that’s really not a very rational thought process.”
Composting food scraps produces dividends.
“We really truly have to start looking at food scraps as a resource and an extremely valuable resource that is not waste,” Covatta said. “It allows us to make a really valuable product.”
According to Covatta and other master gardeners, soil with compost improves
plant growth, reduces soil erosion, benefits soil structure, and allows soil to retain more water and nutrients.
Every 1% increase in organic matter can result in up to 20,000 gallons more water held in the soil per acre, according to the presentation. The presentation said that healthy soils have high water-holding capacity.
“Composting is awesome,” Michigan State University Extension advanced master gardener Louise Sloan said. “I am making free fertilizer to enrich my yard.”
In her presentation, “Working with Your Garden, Not Against It,” April 29, she focused on soil, light and labels.
Sloan referred to the soil as the foundation of the garden.
“If we don’t take care of our soil, our plants aren’t going to do well,” Sloan said. She categorizes Michigan as having “great soil,” and the soil in its yards are a “precious, precious commodity.”
to
LEFT: Read the labels of each plant and know how much sun exposure and water it needs to thrive. CENTER: Beautiful flowers can enhance any yard, but before planting, master gardeners suggest having a soil sample tested. RIGHT: Compost is defined as a dark, crumbly material with an earthy smell that is produced by the natural decomposition of organic materials.
Photos provided by Michigan State University Extension
C & G Newspapers staffers recognized with 17 journalism awards
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Seven C & G Newspapers staffers received 17 awards from the Society of Professional JournalistsDetroit Chapter’s Excellence in Journalism awards and the Michigan Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest.
Nearly 300 awardees were announced by SPJ Detroit at its Excellence in Journalism banquet at the San Marino Club in Troy May 14. The C & G journalists won their awards in the Print Class C division.
Maria Allard, a staff writer for the Eastsider, the Sterling Heights Sentry and the Warren Weekly, won first place in the feature reporting category of the Excellence in Journalism awards for “Behind the Wheel: Camping trails from the dusty roads of the Southwest to the Atlantic City Boardwalk.” Judges commented, “What a pleasure to read. The crazily exact details up high kept me reading to see where they came from. After that, a childhood worth of great stories.” Allard also took home second place in the general reporting category for the story, “Fallen GIs remembered an ocean away.”
“I was so happy to hear that I received two awards from SPJ for stories I loved writing and hoped our readers enjoyed,” Allard said. “I also want to congratulate my coworkers who earned awards. I know how hard we all work here at C & G Newspapers, and it’s nice when others notice that.”
Mike Koury, staff writer for the Woodward Talk, took first place in the consumer/watchdog reporting category for the article,“Ferndale bar lives to see another
day.” Judges said, “Good reporting on the potential loss of a community business with interesting insight on the transfers of liquor licenses.” Koury also won first place in the open reporting category for “Ferndale voters reject Headlee millage restoration,” with judges commenting, “Solid coverage on an important local taxing issue.”
Koury said it’s “always nice to be recognized.”
“I’m flattered by both awards from SPJ Detroit and I appreciate the continued support and readership from everyone that reads the Woodward Talk,” he said.
Andy Kozlowski, staff writer for the MadisonPark News and Eastsider, won first place in the general reporting category of the Excellence in Journalism awards for the story, “City Hall conference room named after Lindell Ross.” Judges said, “What could have been a routine story about the honoring of a former city council member is transformed into thorough background reporting that sets the stage for the councilman’s reflections on the times.”
Kozlowski said he enjoyed meeting this former councilman from Madison Heights and learning about “how he served the people there by protecting parks and public health.”
Photo by David Meier
C & G Newspapers Staff Writers Maria Allard, Charity Meier, K. Michelle Moran and Dean Vaglia pose with their awards during the Society of Professional Journalists-Detroit Chapter’s Excellence in Journalism awards banquet at the San Marino Club in Troy May 14.
Koury
Kozlowski
Ochss
SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS
Food pantries, lunch programs help fill summertime meal gaps
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — As the school year ends and the second year of the Michigan School Meals program nears completion, C & G Newspapers looked across metro Detroit to see what food programs are available to bridge the food insecurity gap during the summer.
The Michigan School Meals program provides free breakfasts and lunches to all students from pre-K to 12th grade during the school year, according to the Michigan Department of Education’s website. Without this program, what will students do for meals?
Among the programs that fill this void are the United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Meet Up and Eat Up, several programs at Forgotten Harvest, and local food pantries, including one offered through Heritage Church, in Sterling Heights.
Meet Up and Eat Up
Meet Up and Eat Up is a food program offered throughout the state. It provides free meals for children 18 and younger or anyone with a disability 26 and under, according to Madelyne Wright, assistant director of nutrition services for the Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency, which facilitates the program in Pontiac.
The program does not mandate enrollment, specific documentation, or eligibility requirements.
See FOOD on page 12A
The Forgotten Harvest mobility market is fully stocked and ready for guests to select what they want.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Your Next Chapter
Are you or someone you know wondering what will be the Next Chapter of Their Life?
Your children no longer need as much of your time. Your work schedule has changed. You are becoming an empty nester. You are soon to be retiring.
Moving into your Next Chapter can impact your life in many ways. Join our speakers as they discuss the social, emotional, and health issues that may arise in your next chapter. They will also share community resources and exciting new program information that can help bring meaning to you.
Featured Speakers:
Evie Lynn Breuer - LMSW, CDP
Senior Director, Community Outreach & Wellness Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit
Becky Eizen - MBA, CSA, CADDCT, BCPA Program Manager, Retirement Reimagined Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit
Amy Zeskind - President, National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan
Presented by National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
7:00pm - 9:00pm at the NCJW | MI Office 26400 Lahser Rd., Suite 306, Southfield
This program is free of charge. Pre-registration by June 2nd is required by calling NCJW | MI at 248.355.3300, ext. 0, or emailing mail@ncjwmi.org. Funding provided by Jewish Women’s Foundation of Metropolitan Detroit
Food
from page 10A
“This eliminates the burden of administrative paperwork,” said Wright. The idea is to begin the Meet Up and Eat Up program as soon as the kids are out of school.
“So the kids don’t have any gaps in nutritional support,” Wright said.
This year, the Meet Up and Eat Up program through OLHSA is slated to begin June 16. Food trucks will visit apartment complexes, schools and day camps.
The need keeps growing in the community, according to Wright.
“We keep breaking records,” she said. “Last summer, 2024, we served about 50,000 meals between mid-June until late-August. The summer before that (2023), we served 40,000 meals.”
“We get a massive turnout for food,” Wright added.
Meet Up and Eat Up works to meet the demands of the community.
“If we go to a mobile site and there are 100 people waiting for food and the vendor only made 50 meals, we’ll come back and serve the rest of the 50 people,” Wright said. “We always make sure to serve everyone.”
Meet Up and Eat Up programs are offered in other communities throughout Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties. For a detailed list of locations go to unitedwaysem.org/resources/meet-up-and-eat-up.
For volunteer opportunities at Meet Up and Eat Up in Pontiac, call (947) 957-4599.
Forgotten Harvest
In 2024, Forgotten Harvest fed 474,637 children, according to Christopher Ivey, marketing and communications director for the nonprofit. As of mid-May, it had fed 358,682 children so far in 2025.
If the trajectory continues, this year’s numbers will surpass last year’s numbers.
The need is increasing, according to Ivey.
“All of the food we rescue is distributed free of charge without any real questions asked,” Ivey said.
They only ask generic questions for the purpose of analytics to determine the organization’s impact on the community, according to Ivey. Those questions include where the persons served live, where they are coming from and the makeup of their household — children,
See FOOD on page 20A
TACOM
from page 5A
manding general of Army Counterintelligence Command, said in the release. “I commend the tireless work of our special agents and FBI partners who worked together to investigate and apprehend this individual. We
will continue to collaborate with our partners to prevent similar incidents in the future. We urge all Soldiers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to their chain of command, as the safety and security of our Army and our nation depends on our collective efforts to prevent insider threats.”
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Orchard Lake Village Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI. The purpose of the Hearing is to receive comments on the following proposed amendments to the City Zoning Ordinance No. 14.01 as listed below:
- Article II. Defnitions, Section 2.02 - Defnition of Floor Area, Usable.
- Article VI. Off-Street Parking and Loading Requirements, Section 6.02 - Table of Off-Street Parking Requirements, C. Business and Commercial
Complete copies of the request are available for review at the Offce of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Offce, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing.
Rhonda McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
balais as warm and welcoming. Their faith keeps them strong, with many walking miles to church in their bare feet so their shoes won’t be dirty when they arrive.
Messina recalled driving with a priest to a church in the mountains — actually a blue tarp strung over some trees above an altar — and having to park on the road with rocks behind each wheel so it wouldn’t slide back downhill. He noticed a group of young adults following them.
“We found out they just wanted to make sure we got there safely,” Messina said. “After Mass, they clung to us and didn’t want us to leave. One gentleman went out and he brought a bushel of coconuts. He was apologetic about the condition of the roads and opened a coconut for each of us. He said, ‘This is a refreshment for you on your way back down the mountain.’ They don’t have enough food for themselves, but they were still giving to us.”
In Mirebalais, laundry is done in the river with lye soap, laid across bushes to dry, and then smoothed with a metal iron filled with charcoal. Much of their time is dedicated to hygiene.
“We usually have rice, but one day they included drumsticks. And I saw a cleaning lady take one that we’d already eaten, and
she started chewing on the gristle,” he said. “That was the first time I realized hunger.”
‘Difficult to walk away’
Monde-Matthews is a Haitian native who still has family there. She and her husband, Roger Matthews, founded HOM in 1998 after their honeymoon in her homeland. Backed by six U.S. churches, the group also works with two in Mirebalais: St. Pierre Episcopal Church and St. Louis Catholic Church.
HOM helped St. Pierre convert a building into a clinic staffed by a doctor, dentist, nurse and others. A lab was added later.
When the clinic’s generator needed repairs, HOM replaced it. HOM also sent a compressor for the dental clinic and paid for provisions to feed kids. When mission trips were still possible, the group would also bring fluoride and medicine.
HOM also supports schools such as Monsignor Remi Augustin School — originally an orphanage built with money from St. Blase. The water purifiers nearby were funded by HOM and maintained by St. Louis.
Recently, HOM paid for solar panels at the St. Pierre clinic and St. Louis rectory. The panels are more reliable than the power company and cheaper than diesel.
But there’s much to be done, Messina said.
• Anti-Infammation
• Anti-Pain (Analgesic)
• Accelerated Tissue Repair and Cell Growth
• Improved Vascular Activity
• Increased Metabolic Activity
• Trigger Points and Acupuncture Points
• Reduced Fibrous Tissue Formation
• Improved Nerve Function • Immunoregulation
• Faster Wound Healing
Photo by Bill McNeece
Valerie McNeece, executive committee member with Haiti Outreach Mission, takes a moment to show children some pictures that she took on her camera’s screen.
RETRO RIDES REV UP LOCAL CAR SHOWS
FUN TIME CRUZERS FIND NEW LOCATION
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — “This is quite a group. I was here last week. There were 374 cars,” Shelby Township resident Tom Konicki said. “There are quality cars here. Cars that are so rare. Beautiful cars.”
Konicki was talking about the Fun Time Cruzers, back on the road for another season of hot rods, muscle cars and vintage vibes. For almost 20 years, the Cruzers met at Lakeside in Sterling Heights. When the mall closed last year, it put the brakes on their weekly car shows.
Start those engines because the group found a new home from 4 to 8 p.m. every Monday until September at NAPA Auto Parts, located on Van Dyke Avenue, north of 21 Mile Road, in Shelby Township. President Ken Savage said it took nine months to find a new location.
It all began in 2005 when Savage’s son worked at Lakeside Mall and a store owner wanted to start a weekly classic car show. He recruited Savage and his son to help, but after a year, he left the group. Savage kept the Cruzers’ motor running.
“When I began, there were just 50 cars. It started going more and more. I have 600 cruise emails now,” said Savage, a Shelby Township resident who owns a Grabber Blue 1970 Ford Mustang convertible.
Fun Time Cruzers posts musical photo slideshows available on YouTube. Every week, Savage — with help from other members including Jerry Benoit, of Chesterfield Township, and Dave Gmerek, of Clinton Township — holds an awards ceremony with local businesses as sponsors. Categories range from
CAR SHOWS on page 18A
LEFT: Ken Savage is the president of Fun Time Cruzers, which meets every Monday in the parking lot of NAPA Auto Parts in Shelby Township. Every week, he presents awards in different categories. The winner of the “Sweetest Ride” award also receives a lollipop.
BELOW: The Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum will host a classic car show from 9 a.m. to noon on the third Saturday of every month through Oct. 18. The event is open to all classic car fans with no fee or preregistration. The museum is located at 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe.
Photo by Maria Allard
Photo by Liz Carnegie
“The people line up outside the clinic the day before we arrive and wait all through the night. And the sad thing is when we leave, the line is just as long,” Messina said. “It’s difficult to walk away. I don’t know anyone who’s gone who wouldn’t be willing to go back.”
‘The biggest thing we give them is hope’ Now, much of the city is abandoned. HOM estimates there are about 10,000 people displaced nearby.
“When the gangs started taking over Port-au-Prince, the refugees wound up in Mirebalais, and we helped them. Now, the tables have turned, and the people of Mirebalais are refugees. And one wonders if the gangs will march farther and get them again,” said Monde-Matthews. “It’s so sad.”
In his letter, Gracia, the Episcopalian priest in Mirebalais, said that “misery, for its part, is intensifying.”
“Bellies are empty. Children are crying from hunger. Parents, who left without taking anything with them, are powerless to hear their children’s cries,” he wrote.
He urged Americans to give what time and money they can.
“Every gesture counts,” Gracia said. “Solidarity can save a life.”
Messina agreed.
“The biggest thing we give them is hope,” he said.
Donations to HOM are tax deductible. To donate, click the “Donate” button at haitioutreachmission.org, or write a check to “Haiti Outreach Mission,” 5700 Crooks Road, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48098. To learn more, call (248) 385-7411 or visit haitioutreachmission.org.
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
NOTICE OF ZONING BOARD PUBLIC HEARINGS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended, the City of Orchard Lake Village Zoning Board of Appeals will consider the following appeal at their Regular Meeting on Monday, June 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan:
- Nafso Appeal-2940 Orchard Place (Lakeside Setback Variance for Installation of a Retaining Wall)
- Henri LLC/Orchard Restaurant Inc Appeal - 4170 Orchard Lake Road (Front Yard Setback Variance for an Enclosed Dining on the Front of the New Restaurant Currently under Construction)
Complete copies of the request are available for review at the Offce of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written Comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Offce, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing.
Rhonda McClellan
CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon 05/28/2025
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
SUMMARY OF THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 19, 2025
At the May 19, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting, Council took the following action:
o Held a Public Hearing on the Orchard Lake Special Assessment District (SAD) Confrmation of the Special Assessment Roll;
o Approved a Rear Yard Setback Variance for Construction of a Patio/GLUP at 4000 Oak Grove;
o Approved a Front Yard Setback Variance for Installation of an Entrance Gate at 3115 West Shore Drive;
o Postponed until the June 16, 2025 Regular Meeting a Contract for the Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Services;
o Adopted a Resolution for the Assessment Roll for the Orchard Lake Special Assessment District (SAD);
o Approved General Business Licenses;
o Approved the Purchase of a Police Patrol Vehicle;
o Approved the Purchase of Police Video Equipment;
o Approved a Building Permit Extension for 5430 Pontiac Trail;
o Approved a Building Permit Extension for 5555 Shore Drive;
o Approved a Business License for St. Mary’s Founders Day at 3535 Commerce Road:
0396-2522
o Held the First Reading of City Zoning Ordinance No. 14.01 - Amendment to Article IV-A, Signs, Section 4A.03 (Defnitions), Section 4A.05 (General Provisions - B. Prohibited Signs) Section 4A.06 (Sign Design Standards), and Section 4A.08 (Non-Residential District Signs);
o Held the First Reading of City Zoning Ordinance No. 14.01 -Amendment to Article II, Defnitions, Section 2.02 - to Add a Defnition to Sports Courts;
o Approved an Agreement for Orchard Lake with the Oakland County Sheriffs Marine Patrol Services;
o Approved a Cooperative Agreement with the Southeastern Oakland County Public Works Association (SOCPWA);
o Adopted a Resolution Revising the Master Fee Schedule;
o Accepted all Department Reports.
Norm Finkelstein, Mayor Rhonda R. McClellan, City Clerk
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon
provide resources to maintain a 100-year-old community that has 15 vehicular bridges, as well as water mains and canals that are also more than a century old. He described the community as “unique” and as a “little Venice.”
This incorporation allows them to borrow money to maintain the aging infrastructure.
“None of these tools have been at our disposal for the last 108 years,” LaDuke said.
A village is a subsection of a township, whereas a city would break off the township entirely, he explained.
“It is important to say, we will still pay every dollar of West Bloomfield Township taxes that we currently pay,” LaDuke said. “They will get all the income from us that they currently get.”
As such, city services including police, fire, paramedics and library will still be maintained.
In addition to continuing to pay West Bloomfield Township taxes, the community will also pay village millages that will be based on the property value of their homes.
According to LaDuke, property values in this community range as high as $2-3 million or as low as $200,000. The taxes will be structured based on this range rather than the flat rate they currently use.
The last village incorporated in Michigan was 27 years ago. Prior to this new incorporation, the last village in Oakland County
was more than 60 years ago, according to LaDuke.
Congresswoman Haley Stevens was instrumental in getting this village designation.
“Congratulations to the Zox HOA on achieving the designation from the state to become your own incorporated government! Michiganders deserve to have a government that’s innovative and works best for them, and it’s even better when members of a community come together as the drivers of that change,” Stevens said in a written statement.
“I applaud every community member for your hard work in officially getting Lakeside Park designated as a village and look forward to working alongside all of you and your new colleagues as you make this transition,” Stevens concluded.
According to LaDuke, the next steps are to establish the permanent name. “The Village of Lakeside Park” is a placeholder name. One of the leading contenders is “Cass Lake Village.”
An elected five-person charter commission will make that decision.
“Becoming a village will allow residents to seek grants and loans they would otherwise not be entitled to, repair their infrastructure, and create a more enjoyable and livable community,” said West Bloomfield Township Supervisor Jonathan Warshay, in a written statement. “I congratulate our neighbors in the newly designated village of Lakeside Park on their achievement and wish them the best of luck.”
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
0104-2522
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
“The Village of Lakeside Park” is a placeholder name for this new incorporated community that features 15 vehicular bridges and water mains built more than a century ago.
Assessing
raises the rates more gradually, averaging 26% the first year and 140% the third year.
Orchard Lake is among the communities less affected. The increase there is 7.75% the first year, without smoothing, and nearly 18% the third year. It’s a modest increase compared to other municipalities that had double- and triple-digit increases.
Orchard Lake City Manager Gerry McCallum explained why his community saw less of an increase.
“The city is fortunate, in a way,” McCallum said. “We have (already) been paying a larger amount than other communities for assessing services.”
He explained this is because of the large
homes, sprawling properties and substantial structures in Orchard Lake. In addition, the assessing service also handles the city’s tax tribunal cases.
“When (other communities) see a double-digit increase of assessing services … it’s kind of hard to digest, especially when most of our budgets are in place,” McCallum said. “If they had phased it in a little softer, it would have been more acceptable to the communities, and easier for them to absorb.”
According to McCallum, it’s not only the contract for assessing services with Oakland County Equalization that has seen an increase, but others as well, including contracts with the Sheriff’s Department and Marine Patrol.
“We’re not only being hit in one department, but in multiple departments,” McCallum said.
That being noted, the city manager said Orchard Lake currently has no plans of changing vendors for assessing services.
“Oakland County Equalization has done a great job for us in the past,” he said.
Elsewhere in the county
Another example is in the city of Hazel Park. Here, the Year 1 increase without smoothing would be an eye-watering 112%, rising to nearly 133% the third year. In neighboring Madison Heights, the rate increase would be 74% the first year, rising to roughly 90% the third year.
Hazel Park was billed roughly $124,400 for assessment services in 2024; with the increase, the same bill in the new budget would be over $263,700. For Madison Heights, the 2024 bill of nearly $229,800 would be just shy of $400,000.
Officials there were outraged by what they saw as an inexplicable increase, one with little warning.
“This huge increase doesn’t make any damn sense,” said Ed Klobucher, city manager of Hazel Park. “We understand that in an inflationary environment, there may need to be reasonable increases, but this is an absurd increase with no notice, no heads up, no alternatives. It’s a really poor way to do business with local units of government that have been faithful customers (of the county) for years.”
Oakland County Commissioner David Woodard, D-District 1, chairs the county board. He explained the rationale for the increase at a meeting of the Madison Heights City Council April 28.
“The cost of providing this service is roughly $6.5 million. The amount of rev-
ASSESSING on page 19A
Car shows
page 14A
“Coolest Cruze 2025” to “Best Original/ Restored Cruzer” to “Best Corvette.” At the May 19 event, Madelyn Upleger won “Best Orphan Cruzers” for her 1999 Plymouth Prowler.
“That means they don’t make it anymore,” said Madelyn, who attended the weekly show with husband Dale Upleger.
Dale once owned the Prowler but gave it to Madelyn when he purchased a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette C8.
“She loved it and she didn’t want to sell it,” Dale said. “OK, we’ll keep it.”
“I always wanted a Prowler,” Madelyn said. “We saw them at a car show, and I fell in love with it.”
Both cars garner a lot of attention when on the road.
“I think it’s because of the color,” Dale said. “It draws the eye to it.”
The Rochester Hills couple, who have three children and two grandchildren, have been married 64 years.
For more details about the Fun Time Cruzers, call (586) 260-3459 or check the website at funtimecruzers.com.
There is at least one classic car show every night in metro Detroit where chrome shines and engines purr. Here is a list of other weekly and monthly car shows that we know of in the C & G Newspapers coverage area.
Mondays
• Jimmy’s Tavern behind the National Coney Island, located on Van Dyke Avenue north of 12 Mile Road, in Warren. It begins at 11 a.m. and it lasts all day.
• Lumberyard Pub and Grub, 26700 Schoenherr Road in Warren, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Tuesdays
• The Ukrainian Cultural Center, 26601 Ryan Road in Warren, from 5 to 8 p.m.
• Cruisers also will spin their wheels at the Ram’s Horn at Garfield and Utica roads from 5-8 p.m.
Wednesdays
• Classic car owners can drive into Sandbaggers Sports Bar and Grill, 25615 Van Dyke Ave. in Center Line, from 5 to 8 p.m. Organizer and Warren resident Paul Gutkowski, owner of a 1968 Mercury Cougar, said the car show brings in anywhere from 25 to 45 car owners each week.
“We just hang out, look at all the other cars and get to know each other,” Gutkowski said.
Gutkowski also runs the Pauly G’s Car
Cruis’n Page on Facebook, where he lists various car shows happening in the area. Check the page for more car shows not listed in the C & G Newspapers guide.
Thursdays
• Car enthusiasts will mingle from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Big Boy restaurant located on West Maple Road in Troy.
• Beginning in June, antique automobiles will line the pavement at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church, 21201 E. 13 Mile Road in St. Clair Shores, from 5 to 8 p.m.
• The Stahl’s Automotive Collection at 56516 N. Bay Drive in Chesterfield Township will hold cruise nights from 4 to 7:30 p.m. every Thursday, minus the third Thursday of the month.
• Culver’s, located at 66227 Van Dyke Ave. on the Romeo and Washington Township border, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Fridays
• Weekly car shows at the Walter F. Bruce Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1146, located at 28404 Jefferson Ave. in St Clair Shores, will begin in June. The events will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the back of the facility, between the building and Lake St. Clair.
• Twisted Axles will meet from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Lucky Leprechaun Pub, 32456 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville.
Saturdays
• Gearheads can get an early morning fix from 7 to 10 a.m. at Parking at Pasteiner’s Cruise-In at 33202 Woodward Ave., one block north of 14 Mile Road, in Birmingham.
• The Michigan Military Technical and Historical Society will hold monthly car shows from 9 a.m. until noon on the third Saturday of the month. The museum is located at 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe.
Sundays
• Eddie’s Drive-In, 36111 Jefferson Ave. in Harrison Township, from 4 to 8 p.m.
Charity drive
• For more than 30 years, the nonprofit Friends of Mount Clemens has organized the Mount Clemens Cruise in downtown Mount Clemens at the center of Main Street and Market Street. Money raised has provided Kroger gift cards for families in need and helped many charities, including the city of Mount Clemens Santa Parade, Turning Point, the Mount Clemens Lions Club and the Macomb Food Program. This year’s two-day Mount Clemens Cruise is set for June 6-7. This year’s event will feature a car cruise, awards, live entertainment and special attractions. For a complete schedule of events, visit mountclemenscruise.com.
The entrance to the offices of the Oakland County Equalization Division, in Pontiac. The county’s rates for assessing services is set to increase more than 100% for some communities during the next three years, prompting local officials to explore other options.
… That’s the problem we’re living in here.
enue that’s been coming in from these contracts after a complete overview is, I believe, less than $4 million,” Woodward said. “So, there’s a massive deficit there.”
He noted the cost increase would help cover many “indirect costs” associated with assessment work, such as HR support to process dedicated staff for each project, the space and equipment required to do that, associated printing and postage costs, and more.
“We are not in the business of making a profit,” he said. “We’re in the business of fiscal responsibility, making sure we’re covering the cost.”
Shortly after the county’s decision, some cities began exploring other options. At its City Council meeting May 12, Madison Heights switched to a new vendor: Assessment Administration Services LLC.
The new firm offered Madison Heights four times the in-office hours provided by Oakland County, at a cost less than the budget originally planned for fiscal year 2026: $229,980 for the year, with a 4% increase each following year, compared to the county’s anticipated cost of nearly $408,600 without smoothing.
Prior to that, at the April 28 council meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Mark Bliss expressed his concerns about the county’s proposal.
“Imagine that you’re paying rent or mortgage on your house at $1,200, which would be a great rate in Madison Heights. Then you get a call two months before the increase that it’s going up to (about) $2,128.
“When we’re planning five years in advance and we’re doing all the work we can to provide the best services we can for residents while keeping taxes as low as possible, being hit with this increase at the last minute is just not OK,” he said. “I bet if you polled the residents in this room, they would be wondering where all the increase in this is going to go, if it’s not going to help citizens like us.”
Melissa Marsh, the city manager of Madison Heights, said the city didn’t receive adequate notice.
“You (Woodward) keep alluding to this March memo, which I did receive; I read it at least 10 times since I got this notification. Nowhere in there does it talk about a significant increase,” Marsh said. “Our budget is pretty well set, and I don’t have any flexible money to spend this. I don’t have a fund balance equal to what Oakland County has. I mean, Oakland County has a fund balance of over $200 million, or 45%. We struggle to pay for our policing services here, and had to eliminate four positions and at least $1 million in capital.”
A divided county board
Representing the cities of Madison Heights, Hazel Park and Troy is Oakland County Commissioner Ann Erickson Gault, D-District 3. She voted in favor of the increase. Gault said it wasn’t an easy decision, but she felt it was needed due to rising operational costs.
“I am keenly aware of the financial challenges that our cities face, and I will always try to find a solution that will not burden our communities,” Gault said via email. “That being said, the current assessing rates
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
adults and seniors.
The summer programs include a youth snack program distributed through the Detroit Public Library. There are 12-15 summer pantries that still run throughout the schools and mobile distribution.
“So if the family is in need of food, they can still go back to a location that is familiar to them,” Ivey said.
With 40 pantry partners, Forgotten Harvest runs a subsidized summer lunch program in addition to the Forgotten Harvest Summer Lunch Program where they will do about 100,000 lunches communitywide, according to Ivey. In addition, they are the lunch partners to Metro Youth Day on Belle Isle July 9 where they will do an additional 3,000 lunches.
The lunch programs start June 23 and go through Aug. 29.
Last year there were 29 sites where Forgotten Harvest distributed food throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.
“We’re working to expand that list,”
Assessing
from page 19A
are unsustainable, and everyone agreed that the rates had to be increased to cover the county’s costs.
“Even with the new rate (of about $30 per parcel the first year), Oakland County assessing services remain less expensive than the average municipal self-managed cost of $33 per parcel,” she continued. “Troy, which I also represent, has its own internal assessing department. Based on its 2024 data, it costs Troy at least $35 per parcel to assess their properties.”
A split Board of Commissioners approved the rate increase at its meeting May
Ivey said. “Or at least working to confirm we have that many pantry partners again.”
Forgotten Harvest has a mobility market, which is a food pantry on wheels. It goes to various neighborhoods throughout Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties. There is also a truck on their Oak Park Forgotten Harvest campus. Guests are allowed to go in and select what they want.
According to their website, the mobility markets are open Monday through Saturday except for holiday weekends.
For more information about their programs and a schedule of their mobility market, go to forgottenharvest.org/find-food/
Heritage Church
While most food pantries are not open on the weekend, the Heritage Church food pantry is only open on Saturdays.
Drivers pull up and are given a shopping list, where they check off items they want. Volunteers bag the groceries and deliver the groceries to the car.
Although anyone in need can come and get food assistance, they have a program for parents with special needs children.
“Because the child is challenged, they
1. The room was tense as the measure passed by a vote of 10-9.
The “yes” votes were David Woodward, D-District 1; Ann Erickson Gault, D-District 3; Penny Luebs, D-District 2; Gwen Markham, D-District 15; Angela Powell, DDistrict 9; Marcia Gershenson, D-District 11; William Miller, D-District 16; Yolanda Smith Charles, D-District 17; Brendan Johnson, D-District 4; and Linnie Taylor, D-District 18.
Voting against the increase were Michael Spisz, R-District 5; Michael Gingell, R-District 6; Karen Joliat, R-District 8; Kristen Nelson, D-District 10; Christine Long, R-District 12; Robert Hoffman, R-District 7; Philip Weipert, R-District 13; Charlie Cavell, DDistrict 19; and Robert Smiley, R-District 14.
(their parents) are pulled out of their work and they can’t make ends meet,” said Candi James, the pantry manager. “We don’t know who they are, but we have it set up. We will bless them with whatever we have.”
The program started more than a decade ago and has grown as the needs of the community have grown.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Heritage Church is located at 44625 Schoenherr in Sterling Heights. The pantry is open Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
In all, 32 communities are affected: Berkley, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston, Clawson, Commerce Township, Farmington, Ferndale, Groveland Township, Hazel Park, Holly Township, Huntington Woods, Keego Harbor, Lathrup Village, Lyon Township, Madison Heights, Milford Township, Novi Township, Pleasant Ridge, Pontiac, Oakland Township, Orchard Lake, Orion Township, Oxford Township, Rochester, Rose Township, Royal Oak Township, South Lyon, Southfield Township, Springfield Township, Walled Lake and Wixom.
Immediately before the vote May 1, two commissioners spoke out in protest.
Cavell said he didn’t understand the urgency in raising rates.
“There is time to talk it out,” he said.
“We’re not in a massive crisis where we need money tomorrow.”
Spisz said the extra money will vanish into what he called the “black hole” of the county’s fund balance “and just sit there in the bank.”
“I cannot believe the amount of effort going into screwing our communities. This is nothing but a freaking money grab,” Spisz said. “I hear ya, we want to get those numbers there. But tell me the last time this county has been hurting for money in the last 25, 30 years? We have yet to have a year where we’ve been in the red.”
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Heritage Church pantry volunteers bag groceries making sure if they have the items and if the guests request it, it goes in the bag.
from page 3A
The fair will feature more than 100 artists and is expected to attract 40,000 art lovers.
Debbie Lim, the 2025 Farmington Hills Artist in Residence, will be in Booth 60 with feng shui drawings and wildlife photography.
“I am so excited,” she said on her YouTube channel.
Lim was originally a clothes designer in the ‘80s.
“I have always been an artist. I was a child with less words, so I used my creativity to express myself,” she said. “If I can’t feel it, I won’t do it.”
She will be joined by the 2018 Artist in Residence, John Martin, who will feature “Star Wars” and Big Foot digital drawings in Booth 1. Meanwhile, ArtPrize artist Kelly O’Neill will sell steel and glass sculptures in Booth 57.
“ART on the GRAND is one of the first art fairs of the season, so the artists always get a lot of love from fairgoers who have a sizable appetite for art and are ready to jump
in,” said Rachel Timlin, cultural arts supervisor for the Farmington Hills Special Services Department.
“In Farmington Hills, we are proud to be one of the few Michigan cities with a dedicated Cultural Arts Division, and even prouder to create spaces where artists of all backgrounds can share their work, connect with the public and spark creativity across generations,” she said.
ART on the GRAND also features Kids Art Alley, where 45 budding artists from fifth through 12th grades will sell their art.
Kids Art Alley is located near the center of ART on the GRAND in the parking lot of the Huntington Bank. Fun activities will also be available to young fairgoers in the KidZone, such as art workshops presented by the Detroit Institute of Arts.
The city of Farmington Hills claims to have the largest dedicated municipal Cultural Arts Division in the state. The Division coordinates programming that includes classes, events and activities in visual and performing arts, and year-round performances at The Hawk Theatre.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
CITY OF KEEGO HARBOR
NOTICE OF BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING
THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2025
7:00 P.M.
The City Council of Keego Harbor will hold a Public Hearing to discuss the proposed 2025 - 2026 City budget. Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing.
Copies of the proposed 2025-2026 City budget will be available at City Hall for review the week before the hearing. Please contact City Hall at (248) 682-1930 to receive a copy. Public comments, oral or written, are welcome at the hearing of the proposed City budget.
Tammy Neeb
City Clerk
Published: West Bloomfeld Beacon 05/28/2025
STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF OAKLAND
CITY OF SYLVAN LAKE
ORDINANCE NO. 376
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF SYLVAN LAKE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 10, “ANIMALS,” ARTICLE III, “DOGS,” SECTION 10-70, “DOGS ALLOWED IN SPECIFIED PARK AREAS,” AND SECTION 10-71, “DOGS PROHIBITED IN PARK AREAS,” IN ORDER TO CONFORM THE SECTION WITH OTHER ORDINANCE PROVISIONS.
This amendment pertains to Section 10-70 and 71 Pets in park areas and does the following:
• Limits allowable areas for dogs to the east side of the Community Center only.
Section 6 of Ordinance. Enactment.
This Ordinance is declared to have been enacted by the City Council of the City of Sylvan Lake at a meeting called and held on the 14th day of May, 2025 and ordered to be given publication in the manner prescribed by law.
A true copy of this ordinance is kept at the Sylvan Lake Clerk’s offce, 1820 Inverness, Sylvan Lake, Michigan 48320, and may be reviewed, inspected and/or obtained during normal business hours.
Megan Synk, Deputy Clerk
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon 05/28/2025
Notice of
Posting
For Charter Township of West Bloomfeld Township Board
1. Synopsis of the Regular meeting on: Monday, May 12, 2025
0170-2522
2. Emergency Adoption of Ordinance C-645-D, titled Fire Prevention and Protection, Article III, Sections 11-36, 11-37, 11-39, and 11-40 to Adopt and Incorporate the International Fire Code, 2024 Edition, with Amendments.
The above Synopsis and Ordinance shall be posted (in their entirety) at the following locations:
(1) Offce of the Township Clerk 4550 Walnut Lake Road
(2) Township’s website: www.wbtownship.org
Debbie Binder Township Clerk
Published: West Bloomfeld Beacon 05/28/2025
Photo provided by the city of Farmington Hills
ABOVE RIGHT: Debbie Lim, the 2025 Farmington Hills Artist in Residence, has been an artist her entire life. She will be at Booth 60.
Awards
“His life story made for great material,” he added.
Kozlowski also earned second place in the community/local news reporting category for the story “Animal rescue in crisis after its Facebook account is closed.”
“The Animal Welfare Society of Southeastern Michigan was at risk of closing after Facebook shut down its network,” Kozlowski said. “Thankfully, a data analyst saw my story and worked with Facebook to get it restored.”
Charity Meier, staff writer for the Farmington Press and the Novi Note, earned first place in the health reporting category for “Novi police officer’s wife spreading awareness after breast cancer diagnosis,” in the Excellence in Journalism awards. Judges commented, “What made this story compelling was the human element. The second paragraph would make a better lead, but overall the voices of the patient, her husband, doctors and the use of data came together to shine light on a less common form of breast cancer. Katie’s and Adam’s courage in telling their story could help others. The writer did a good job of letting them speak.”
“I am thrilled to have been recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists for my coverage of a rare form of breast cancer, which is common among women during childbearing years. I commend Katie McGee for having the courage to share her story with me, as she underwent treatment, to bring awareness to the disease and help other at-risk women,” Meier said.
K. Michelle Moran, staff writer for the Grosse Pointe Times, walked away with seven awards between the two contests. She won two awards in the feature story category of the Better Newspaper Contest — first place for “Exhibition celebrates work of acclaimed longtime artist and art educator,” and third
place for “Music producer from Grosse Pointe makes sound decisions as an artist.” She also took first in the government/education news category for “Teachers, administrators leaving Grosse Pointe schools as contract talks remain unresolved.”
In the Excellence in Journalism awards, Moran took home second and third place in the education reporting category for the stories, “Language teacher brings the world to her students” and “CEO dishes about school food services during visit to North.” Moran also took second place in the feature reporting category for the story,“‘I’m just like every other kid,’ As regional youth ambassador, Grosse Pointe Woods boy raises awareness after own diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes,” and third place in the breaking/spot news category for the story, “Gearheads make district history scoring silver medals at international competition.”
“We work so hard on these stories, so it’s always rewarding to be recognized by our peers,” Moran said.
Alyssa Ochss, staff writer for the FraserClinton Township Chronicle, Mount ClemensClinton-Harrison Journal and the St. Clair Shores Sentinel, took home second place in the breaking/spot news category of the Excellence in Journalism awards for the story “Priests move to close St. Germaine despite fundraising,” and fourth place in the community/local news reporting category for “St. Clair Shores leaders respond to double voting allegations.”
Ochss said she’s “happy and honored” to receive the awards.
“I worked hard on the two pieces I turned in and I’m glad they were recognized,” she said.
Dean Vaglia, staff writer for the FraserClinton Township Chronicle, the Macomb Township Chronicle and Mount ClemensClinton-Harrison Journal, won second place in the environment reporting category for “Animals of Metro Detroit.”
“Winning an environmental reporting
CITY OF KEEGO HARBOR NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING COMMISSION
TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held before the Keego Harbor Planning Commission for a regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., at City Hall (located at 2025 Beechmont St, Keego Harbor, MI 48320). This meeting will be held for the purpose of hearing comments on proposed amendments to the City of Keego Harbor Zoning Ordinance.
Updates include amendments to Article 3: Neighborhood Residential District, specifcally Section 3.02 Accessory uses permitted, Article 12: Schedule of Regulations, Building Form and Design Standards, specifcally Section 12.01, Article 16: General Provisions, specifcally Section 16.12 Accessory Buildings and Article 26: Glossary, specifcally Section 26.00, Defnitions.
A complete copy of the amendments may be examined at the Keego Harbor City Hall, 2025 Beechmont St., Keego Harbor, MI 48320, prior to the public hearing, during the City’s regular business hours, Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM through 4:00 PM. Written comments may be addressed to the Planning Commission at the City Hall address. Oral comments will be taken during the public hearing.
The City of Keego Harbor does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to a public hearing. If assistance is needed, contact Keego Harbor Clerk’s Offce at least 24 hours in advance at 248-682-1930. This notice is published pursuant to the requirements of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, PA 110 of 2006, as amended. Tammy Neeb, City Manager May 21, 2025
West Bloomfeld Beacon 05/28/2025 0458-2522
award for my series on animals surprised me at first, but these stories have inspired more calls, emails and letters from readers than any of my other articles, both with C & G and at other publications. Deer, coyotes and birds in the sky capture the curiosity of Michiganders young and old. By using my position to explore these animals and their place within metro Detroit’s ecosystems, readers are able to have their curiosities satisfied, their worlds expanded and be a better neighbor with the many creatures that also call the region their home,” Vaglia said.
“In a year that began with an explosion and ended with an election, 2024 has been
taxing for myself and the C & G newsroom as a whole. Being recognized by the SPJ for my work is a high honor, and I thank the judges for their selections and my peers for pushing me to perform my best,” he added.
The Society of Professional Journalists — originally established on April 17, 1909, as Sigma Delta Chi — is dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and promoting high standards of ethical behavior.
The Michigan Press Association was founded in 1868 and promotes the power of print and the public’s right to know.
Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
CRIME WATCH
Home invasion and mental crisis
WEST BLOOMFIELD — A call came into West Bloomfield Police dispatch April 19 to report hearing a male voice calling “help me,” coming from within another apartment.
When the police arrived, they saw an open rear door. They entered the apartment and described it as in complete disarray.
They heard yelling coming from upstairs and went upstairs. There they reportedly saw a naked male inside a bathtub that was filling with water.
Police described the 34-year-old-male as having a mental health crisis. He was covering his head and screaming for help.
The man was identified. It was determined he lived in another apartment in the same building.
Police determined the suspect had entered his neighbor’s home and smashed various property totaling $350,000 worth of damage. Among the destroyed items were expensive French vases, glass plates and Persian rugs, police said.
The man was taken into custody and then transported to an area hospital. A psychological evaluation was requested.
Composting
from page 8A
According to Sloan, only 10% of the earth has growable or arable soil.
She recommends getting a soil test of the area in which one plans to plant. A sample can be mailed to the Michigan State University Extension. Visit shop.msu.edu/ products/soil-test-mailer for more information.
The results of the soil test will include the pH of the soil, which indicates the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. A pH of 7 represents neutrality of the soil. Numbers below that represent increasing acidity levels, while numbers above 7 indicate increasing alkalinity. According to the Michigan State University Extension soil testing website, a pH of 6 to 7 is optimal for nutrient availability for plant growth.
“There are 18 nutrients that are really important that help plants live,” Sloan said. “If you already have it (those nutrients), you don’t have to add it, but if it (soil) is deficient, you will want to add it.”
According to Sloan, compost can be added to the top of the soil. Let water and Mother Nature work it in the soil without tilling.
Girlfriend reports her boyfriend to police
WEST BLOOMFIELD — A 23-yearold female Holly resident came into the West Bloomfield Police Department to report her 26-year-old boyfriend on April 19.
She told police that her boyfriend slapped her cellphone out of her hand during an argument. The action followed her taking out her phone and recording her boyfriend during an argument.
Her phone case was cracked; however, she did not suffer any injuries.
Larceny on Rafford Lane
WEST BLOOMFIELD — A female resident reported on Feb. 20 an unknown person was in her unlocked 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was parked in her driveway. Reportedly, the suspect ransacked her glove compartment, but nothing was missing.
The victim’s neighbor showed her the video footage from her home’s Ring doorbell system. Neither the gender nor race of the perpetrator could be determined from it.
The incident happened just before 4:00 a.m.
If you know more about these crimes or others, call the West Bloomfield Police Department at (248) 975-9200.
Light is integral to any garden, and every plant has a different need for light.
Sloan suggests looking at the various locations across one’s yard throughout the day and in different seasons. A south-facing yard gets the best sun, according to Sloan. The north side of the home is generally going to be cooler and not have as much light.
The east side will have the morning sun, which is generally cooler than the west side, which has sun exposure from midday to sunset.
Don’t be fooled by the sunlight in the winter, when no leaves are on the trees, and put in tomato plants or other plants that need full sunlight where there will be shade once the trees have full foliage. According to Sloan, it will be a disaster.
When buying plants, look at the plant label that comes with it, which indicates how much light and water the plant needs to thrive, and follow the label, Sloan suggested.
Whether composting or gardening, finding good information is key. For more information visit canr.msu.edu/home_gardening and canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/ tip_sheets.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Oakland County Prosecutor charges Southfield man with assault and ethnic intimidation for antisemitic threats
METRO DETROIT – Oakland County Prosecutor Karen D. McDonald charged Toby Jacob Rhodes, 54, of Southfield, with one count of felony assault and one count of ethnic intimidation.
The defendant allegedly shouted antisemitic slurs toward the victim, a Jewish man, who was walking on the sidewalk in front of the defendant’s house.
Reportedly, the defendant was holding
Reporter: Gena Johnson | (586) 498-1069 | gjohnson@candgnews.com
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a power tool and allegedly shook it at the victim while yelling at him.
“Every person has a right to walk down the street without fearing violence or intimidation,” said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “This case sends a clear message that harassment because of someone’s race, religion, creed, or sexuality is never acceptable and in Oakland County those responsible will be held accountable.”
Felony assault is punishable by up to four years in prison and/or a $2,000 fine. Ethnic intimidation is punishable by up to two years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.
— Gena Johnson
| jbender@candgnews.com
| pkaspor@candgnews.com
SURGERYandsuffered aninfectionbetween2020 andthepresenttime,you maybeentitledtocompensation.CallAttorney CharlesH.Johnson 1-800-535-5727
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES PARK MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
Permanent part-time Park Maintenance Personnel position, $18.37 - $22.92 hourly (32 hours per week) includes beneft package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination(s) is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, as well as possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, June 9, 2025. Te Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on employment.
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Job Training/Education
PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP
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
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CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES WATER & SEWER DIVISION
UTILITY WORKER
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