Wildcat Willy receives face-lift from one of Novi’s largest graduating classes
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
Wildcat Willy, the Novi High School mascot, received a dramatic face-lift from one of the school’s largest graduating classes — 576 students — during the school’s commencement ceremony May 18 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti.
The longtime mascot had started to become weathered over the years, so the class of 2025 gave the
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
Oakland County’s economic future is
“complicated” as Michigan’s economy slows, and national and global policies coming from Washington, D.C., are currently very fluid, according to economist Gabriel Eh-
rlich, of the University of Michigan. Ehrlich co-authored the county’s 2025 economic outlook report with fellow University of Michigan economist Donald Grimes.
“The message in this year’s report is … it’s complicated because Michigan’s economy has been slowing down recently,” said
Photos by Erin Sanchez
ABOVE: Members of the Novi High School Class of 2025 seal their status as graduates by joyfully tossing their caps in the air at the completion of their commencement ceremony at the George Gervin GameAbove Center at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti May 18. LEFT: Wildcat Willy shows off his new look compliments of the class of 2025.
SECOND FRONT PAGE
Rain doesn’t stop Novi residents from remembering those who died in service
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
The Novi community could not be deterred from remembering its fallen soldiers with its annual Fuerst Field of Honor ceremony, despite rain on May 21. However, the weather resulted in a change of venue and the absence of the 21-gun salute.
Instead of being held at Fuerst Park, the annual remembrance ceremony was held inside the Novi Civic Center auditorium.
“Obviously, we’d like to be outside at Fuerst Park, but Mother Nature apparently had a little bit of a different plan for us,” Mayor Justin Fischer said.
The ceremony featured Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1519 presenting the colors, laying a wreath and performing taps. Local Scout troops led the community in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Novi Choraliares paid tribute with the singing of the songs for the different military branches.
“It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you, but also an astounding responsibility, as we all come together to honor great men and women who gave their lives in sacrifice. Memorial Day offers us the chance to pause, to reflect and to express our deep gratitude to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedoms we enjoy each and every day,” Fischer said.
Fischer said that they not only remember the names that are etched on walls, memorials and monuments, but their stories as well.
Memorial Day, then called Decoration
LUXURY REMODELING
Novi BBQ Fest returns for Memorial Day weekend
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
The sixth annual Novi BBQ Fest returned for its second run on Memorial Day weekend at Twelve Mile Crossing at Fountain Walk.
Despite unusually cool weather, crowds of people from all over metro Detroit came out to Novi to celebrate the holiday with some good eats.
Bart Loeb, who runs the festival, said that despite presale ticket sales being down almost 40% and the cooler weather, attendance actually increased this year by approximately 4,000 people, or over 10%.
The festival started as a few trucks getting together to sell some barbecue and has now grown to a large-scale festi-
Photo by Charity Meier
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1519 Honor Guard parades the colors at the start of the annual Fuerst Field of Honor ceremony May 21 at the Novi Civic Center auditorium. See HONOR on page 13A
See BBQ FEST on page 10A
Photo by Erin Sanchez
A mouthwatering slab of ribs cooks on a grill during the Novi BBQ Fest May 26.
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
MC3 provides opportunity for local youth to meet celebrity heroes
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
Twice a year, the Motor City Comic Con, marketed as “Michigan’s largest and longest-running pop culture event,” takes over the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi and provides the opportunity for fans of all ages to be able to interact with their celebrity heroes.
This year, two local youth were particularly excited to attend the Spring MC3 on May 18 for the chance to interact with Colleen Clickenbeard, who voices Monkey G. Luffy for the anime series “One Piece.”
Alexis Tittle, 15, of Brownstown, said she came to the con to specifically meet Clickenbeard and get her autograph. She said she had never been to a con before and was really nervous, as she had never had an opportunity to meet a celebrity before.
“I was, like, shaking, I was so happy I was meeting her,” Tittle said.
She said that she really enjoyed the convention and seeing all the things the various vendors had to offer, but meeting Clickenbeard was the highlight of her day.
“Just getting to meet somebody that I hear all the time but have never actually got to meet them, it’s like surreal — you just don’t feel like you could do that,” Tittle said.
Atticus Smith, 12, of Garden City, said he also had been counting down the days to the convention in anticipation of meeting Clickenbeard. He said that “One Piece” is his favorite anime, and his favorite character from the series is Luffy.
“The thing I like about ‘One Piece’ is that ‘One Piece’ is real — yeah, you can quote me on that. Trust me, my fellow geeks will know,” Smith said. “I love the story. I like the characters. It’s super fun and I just love seeing what they’re up to. To be honest, I can’t explain the ‘One Piece.’ You just have to watch it — all 1,000-some episodes.”
Smith has been attending MC3 regularly over the last three years, but this was the first celebrity that he really was excited to meet. He said he had wanted to meet her for five years. So, he took the opportunity to ask Clickenbeard some questions about the anime series he knows so well, as if he were a reporter like his mom, Charity Meier, and insisted on writing them down on a journalist-style notepad, and was very proud to flash his press pass as he went around the con.
“(The best part was) just talking to her about ‘One Piece.’ She’s been voice acting Luffy for (18) years, and that’s (18) years of voice acting, one character plus all the other characters she does, which is a lot,” he said.
Smith said he also asked for some advice on how to get into voice acting. He said that is something he would really like to do when he gets older. He said Clickenbeard advised him to take online workshops on voice acting so he could get practice and feedback from others.
Tittle said her first con was exactly what she expected it to be. She said she had seen videos from past years and that this year was no different, aside from the fact that she was there in person.
See MC3 on page 10A
Photo by Charity Meier
Voice actress Colleen Clickenbeard, known for her work in the anime series “One Piece,” and Atticus Smith pose at the Spring Motor City Comic Con May 18.
Photo by Brian Wells Stitch, from the Disney movie “Lilo & Stitch,” is interviewed at Motor City Comic Con Friday, May 16, in Novi.
NEWS & NOTES
Novi to do cross connection control testing
Novi residents living in District 4 and District 5, which are south of 11 Mile Road to the city’s southern border and between Beck and Haggerty roads, should expect to have cross-connection control water testing this year. The testing helps to prevent contamination of potable water systems by verifying that nonpotable water sources do not connect with the drinking water supplies. The city has sent out letters with more details to residents living in those areas. Residents who live in District 4 and have already completed the testing can disregard the letter, according to the city’s website. For more information, visit cityofnovi.org.
Jessica’s Splash Pad is open for the season
Jessica’s Splash Pad, 25805 Beck Road, is now open with new hours for the 2025 season. The splash pad will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Safe drivers can enter to win a $250 gift card
Michigan Auto Law is asking drivers to sign a pledge to drive safely this summer. Those who sign the pledge will be entered into a competition for one of two $250 gift cards. The company will also give a matching donation to The Keifer Foundation, which works to end distracted driving. According to a press release, drivers can increase their chances of winning by engaging with the campaign on social media, referring friends and sharing their pledge using the hashtag #SafeDriveSummer. To sign the pledge, go to michiganautolaw.com/Safe-Drive-Summer.
Summer reading program to begin in June
The Novi Public Library summer reading program will begin June 2. The program will run through Aug. 9 and is open to readers of all ages, from young kids to adults. Register at novilibrary.beanstack.org.
Sip, Sip, Hooray
Seniors are invited to kick off the summer with the annual Sip, Sip, Hooray from 7 to 9 p.m. June 4 at the Lakeshore Park Building, 601 S. Lake Drive in Novi. Participants will enjoy Sporcle Trivia in teams of six and charcuterie-style food. The event is BYOB, and both wine and beer will be permitted. The event costs $10 for residents and $12 for nonresidents. Participants must register by 8 a.m. June 2. To register, visit cityofnovi.org.
Classic car exhibitors sought for Alzheimer’s benefit car show
Rose Senior Living Providence Park, 47400 Heritage Drive in Novi, is seeking classic car exhibitors for its Alzheimer’s Longest Day Car Show from 1 to 3 p.m. June 20. The car show will coincide with the senior living facility’s annual Alzheimer’s walk to bring awareness and funding for research on the disease. Those interested in participating in the car show should contact Monique Furness at (248) 513-8877.
ITC doing aerial transmission line inspections
ITC will be conducting aerial patrols of the high-voltage transmission structures and lines in Michigan from May 27 to June 30, weather permitting. The helicopter patrols are conducted to provide an overall status of the overhead transmission system that is operated by ITC’s Michigan operating entities, ITC Transmission and Michigan Electric Transmission Company LLC.
The aerial inspections will cover nearly all of the Lower Peninsula, including Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties May 27-30.
File photo by Brian Wells
File photo provided by ITC
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
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 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.
Economy
page 1A
Ehrlich. “And that’s at the same time as we’re now facing new challenges with an uncertain policy environment going forward.”
Nationwide, Gross domestic product growth is expected to slow down this year, dropping from 2.8% in 2024 to 1.4%, according to the economists.
“This is given we do expect higher tariffs and a lot of economic uncertainty going forward,” he said.
He said they expect GDP to slowly go back up over the next couple of years. He said they anticipate it to go to 1.6% in 2026 and 2.2% in 2027.
“You know the tariffs have been getting all of the attention lately, but there are other things going on in the economy that should boost growth,” Ehrlich said.
Ehrlich emphasized that they are not forecasting a recession in the U.S. at the moment. They are relatively optimistic about the U.S. economy because they expect the Federal Reserve to continue to cut interest rates at a moderate pace, and large tax cuts are on the horizon that should provide a short-run stimulus to the economy.
It is expected that, as a result of tariffs, there will be a sharp decline in light vehicle sales. The sales pace is expected to bottom out at just under 50 million units during the third quarter of this year before a modest recovery begins.
Payroll employment in Oakland County declined by 0.1% last year. There were job losses in manufacturing, professional and technical services, and administrative support services.
However, he said they are forecasting that the county will have a job growth of 0.5% per year over the next three years.
“The blue-collar industries have been leading the way in Oakland County’s recovery from the pandemic. Job gains are expected to be modest this year, as tariffs weigh on these industries, but growth then picks up in 2026, 2027, bringing blue-collar employment to nearly 6% above its pre-pandemic level,” Ehrlich said.
He said that growth is coming from outside the auto sector, which is losing a small number of jobs from 2023 to 2027.
Higher education service industries they expect to grow to their pre-pandemic level by the middle of next year, with private health and social service jobs accounting for 70% of those job gains.
Jobs that don’t require a degree will remain nearly 8% below their pre-pandemic level by the end of the forecast period, they project.
Nuthatch
“This reinforces the importance of education in building Oakland County’s economy going forward,” he said.
They forecast that real wages, which increased by 1% last year, will continue to grow by 0.5% per year through 2027.
“That may not sound like a lot, but with real wages, that’s what we want to see: moderate, but steady growth,” he said.
“We’re forecasting ongoing wage growth, you know, growth in the real living standards over the next couple of years, despite a period of very uncertain economic policy,” Ehrlich said.
All counties in Michigan had a higher unemployment rate at the start of this year than they did at the start of 2024. The state’s unemployment rate rose from 4% at the start of 2024 to 5.5% in April 2025. Every county in Michigan had a higher unemployment rate this year. Oakland County’s unemployment rate rose from 3.1% at the beginning of 2024 to 4.2% as of March 2025, according Ehrlich.
“That was a significantly smaller increase than most of Michigan,” he said. “In fact, Oakland’s unemployment increase was tied for the fourth smallest out of 83 counties in the state. So, you know, not immune from the statewide trend but doing better relatively than most of Michigan.”
Ehrlich said he believes the key reason Oakland County has fared well is that it has solid fundamentals.
He said that they rank Oakland County against its peer counties throughout the country annually based on educational
See ECONOMY on page 14A
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Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter discusses the 2025 Oakland County Economic Outlook during a press conference May 22 at Novi’s Suburban Collection Showplace.
Photos by Erin Sanchez
BBQ Fest
from page 3A
val on Memorial Day weekend over the last two years.
“Last year it exploded and got much bigger. For the last two years, it’s been on Memorial Day weekend and we found a home. I think barbecue is traditionally a Memorial Day thing, and ever since we moved it to Memorial Day (weekend), it’s grown quite a bit,” Loeb said.
This year, the festival featured 12 barbecue food trucks from all over the country and 10 food trucks with other types of food specialties such as tacos and ice cream, as well as local musicians, games and contests for adults and children, as well as plenty of shopping with local vendors.
Tonie Young, of Farmington Hills, has attended the festival for the last two years with her husband, Robert. She said she loves everything about the festival. She said it is perfect for those who don’t want to cook themselves and or don’t have a party to go to.
“I love the food, and I love the vendors out there too. I always find something to buy. And the music — love the music. It’s very diverse,” Tonie Young said. “We just have a ball. Everybody should go.”
Robert Young enjoyed the festival too.
“The food was great. The weather was great. The people are cheerful. Everything’s great,” he said.
Robert Young said the only thing that could make the festival a bit better would be to have more beverage trucks or beverage stands, as most of the food trucks did not offer any type of beverage and he had to seek out a beverage stand after purchasing food.
Tracy and Jon Curtis, of Gladwin, have operated a food truck business for the last three years with the help of their son, Greg.
MC3
from page 5A
This was their first year serving people at Novi BBQ Fest, but they said that it proved to be quite fruitful for them, although the first few days were slow as a result of the weather.
“It was rough the first few days with the weather and not very many people came out. We were kind of skeptical with it being our very first year being here. We wondered if we underestimated what really happens, as everyone kept telling us it’s huge, but the numbers weren’t there, but other than that, once the sun came out yesterday, it was fun. We stayed busy,” Tracy Curtis said.
“Overall, we met some very neat people and made some new friends. Some close enough to the boys that we pretty much call them family now after spending the four days with them (at the event),” Tracy Curtis said.
Their business, Yetti Old World Cuisine,was declared to be the best overall food truck, based on the People’s Choice Award on Monday night. Attendees voted
for the best overall food truck by scanning a QR Code at each truck.
“Astonishing. Very unexpected,” Tracey Curtis said. “The only thing I could tell my husband is, ‘Your food spoke for us.’”
Jon Curtis, who is the primary cook, was surprised to learn they had won best food truck.
“It blew my mind because I definitely wasn’t expecting that one,” Jon Curtis said.
However, she said the best part of the convention was just hanging around people who enjoy the same things she does and who “freak out” over the same things, such as anime, horror movies and art.
“I like just everything. I like all the different people and things that are here,” Tittle said. Smith said he likes coming to MC3 because of the celebrities, but he also likes to see the various vendors — especially the sword vendors.
“I like seeing the swords, and some of the costumes I think are really cool,” Smith said. Tittle said she would definitely like to come to MC3 again and would recommend that others attend the con as well.
“It’s something that if you want to de-stress and stuff and if you just want to have a good time and not really worry about anything, it’s the perfect place to go to,” Tittle said.
Motor City Comic Con is scheduled to return to the Suburban Collection Showplace Nov. 14-16.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
“I’m just a humble old farm kid.”
The family business will be presented with a trophy for the distinction in the upcoming weeks.
Loeb and his wife, Karen Stetz, are now working on putting together the Novi Fine Art Show, scheduled for June 20-22 at Twelve Mile Crossing at Fountain Walk.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
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Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com
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People wait in lines to purchase barbecue dishes from food trucks during the Novi BBQ Fest May 26.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
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.
A CELEBRATION OF CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY
The Novi Fine Art Fair will take place June 20-22, promising a weekend filled with vibrant art, food and live entertainment.
The program does not mandate enrollment, specific documentation, or eligibility requirements.
“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 lateAugust. 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
Hosted by Art as Healing, the event features a selection of artists from across the Midwest and welcomes visitors of all ages.
Event organizer Karyn Stetz, founder of Art as Healing, said the fair will spotlight a variety of artistic mediums and high-quality artists. “They’re juried in, meaning a panel has reviewed each application, and we make sure to have a balance of mediums so we’re not oversaturated in one area,” she explained. “It’s a chance for the community to come out and support small artist-owned businesses whose work is a labor of love.”
This year’s lineup includes a wide array of talents—from painters and printmakers to glass and leather artisans. “We’ll have about 10 di erent painters,” Karyn added, “ranging from oil and traditional to contemporary and mixed-media styles. Jewelry artists with handmade pieces will be there as well, including one who creates her own glass beads. But they’re not just little round beads; they’re intricate flowers and designs that become jewelry. We’ll have some really talented printmakers too—I’m a big fan of that. These aren’t ink-jet prints but hand-printed pieces, including some screen-printed.”
Glass artists, woodworkers and even a furniture maker whose pieces stand out for their distinctive cra smanship will be on display. A featured fiber artist will showcase intricate collages made from tiny pieces of paper, and 3D artists and ceramicists add to the eclectic mix.
A variety of food trucks will be there, and visitors can enjoy the live acoustic music and interactive children’s activities. A henna artist will also be on-site, and young scientists from Kid Chemist will present a show blending science and art.
Karyn sees the fair as an important platform for creatives across the region. “There really isn’t a gallery in Novi,” she said. “This is a way to bring art to the community and support small creative businesses.” An artist herself, she finds joy in organizing the fair. “I love seeing it come together from an empty field to a vibrant space filled with creativity,” she shared. “It’s inspiring to see people, especially young ones, connect with art.”
Novi Fine Art Fair will be held Friday, June 20, from 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, June 22, from noon to 6 p.m. at Twelve Mile Crossing At Fountain Walk, 44275 W. Twelve Mile Rd. (near Emagine Theater in the lot by Chuck E Cheese) in Novi.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit novifineartfair.com. Those who are interested in volunteering or participating in future events may reach out through the event’s website.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The Forgotten Harvest mobility market is fully stocked and ready for guests to select what they want.
from page 3A
Day, was first observed in 1868, a few years after the American Civil War, when people started putting flowers on the graves of soldiers who died representing both the Union and the Confederacy. It has now become a national day of unity, Fischer said.
Fischer then commemorated those from the city who died in service by reciting each of their names.
“Their lives remind us that freedom is never free. It is secured and preserved by those willing to give everything for it,” Fischer said.
He said that in times of challenge and uncertainty, the community could look to the service of those who made the ultimate
sacrifice to find its way forward with integrity, resilience and compassion.
The city then opened the Fuerst Park Trail of Honor, which commemorated all the city’s fallen heroes with both their names and stories on plaques displayed throughout the park. The trail was open through Memorial Day, May 26.
“The Girl Scout Troops in Novi were honored to take part in the city’s Memorial Day ceremony,” said Jamie Kliebert, a troop leader. “It was a meaningful opportunity for our girls to pay tribute to those who served, especially (Novi Community School District) alumni Andrew Becker, and to learn the importance of remembrance and community service.”
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
American flags billow in the breeze along the Fuerst Field of Honor Trail May 21.
Economy
attainment, child poverty, median family income, the share of high-income senior citizens, and the share of professional and managerial occupations. This year, Oakland County was ranked 11th overall out of 27 counties. He said it ranked in the top 10 as far as low poverty rate, high educational attainment, and a high share of professional and managerial occupations.
“So those fundamental metrics that we always look at every year, they are holding up well in Oakland County, and that is part of why we believe that the county has been relatively resilient in the face of a little bit of an economic wobble here in Michigan recently,” he said.
This year, Oakland County looked at the state of its small businesses. Small businesses are those with 49 or fewer employees. The economists found that Oakland County is home to nearly 25,000 small businesses and about 3,600 large businesses. This means that small businesses account for nearly 7 of every 8 businesses in Oakland County.
“Something that we found that really was cool to see and that I had not known is that small businesses in Oakland County
tend to pay significantly higher wages than those in Oakland County’s peer group,” said Ehrlich.
According to Ehrlich, small businesses in Oakland County on average pay almost $5,700 per year more, or about 12% higher than the average in one of its peer counties. Oakland County ranks fourth for average wage in small businesses.
Oakland County saw a population increase over the last year.
“The reality is Oakland County is better off today than it was 10 years ago, and so I’m really excited to hear about the future,” said Peter Provenzano, chancellor of Oakland Community College.
Oakland County Executive David Coulter said that he firmly believes that uncertain times call for innovation and investment. He said the county is doing this with organizations such as Oakland Thrive and Main Street Oakland County.
“This report is maybe not as rosy as some have been in the past, and Oakland County isn’t immune to the effects of the national and global economy, or what I would call the uncertainty being driven by the seesawing policy decisions, issues like taxes and tariffs, coming from Washington, D.C. We can’t immune ourselves from them,” Coulter said. “But despite these headwinds, which
communities across Michigan are facing and I would say the country … you don’t back away or shy down or cower, but you invest and you innovate and that is how we will meet the current moment as well.”
“We continue to think there’s a path to growth for Oakland County’s economy over the next few years despite the speed bumps that may be coming from national economic
policy,” Ehrilch said. “The reasons are the ones we traditionally highlight. They’re Oakland County’s investments in its people, its communities and its businesses. Oakland County’s high quality of life and well-educated workforce should provide resilience in the face of the day’s economic uncertainty.” Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Economic forecaster from the University of Michigan Gabriel M. Ehrlich, Ph.D., presents some highlights of the 2025 Oakland County Economic Outlook to members of the press May 22 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.
Meals
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.
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, 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
from page 12A See MEALS on page 19A
“All of the food we rescue is distributed
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
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.
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.
Photo by Maria Allard
Photo by Liz Carnegie
Graduation
from page 1A
school a new, and more eccentric, wildcat costume.
The mascot went from a realistic cat-like appearance to a green and white cartoonish cat. Willy showed off his new look by performing during the ceremony, as the gift was revealed by Class of 2025 student council representative Eesha Kodali and student council executive board secretary Sanaa Mulay.
“This year our contribution to the school reflects the immense pride we feel as Novi Wildcats,” Kodali said.
“This new mascot represents new beginnings for our graduates, new opportunities for Novi students, and the power of our school spirit when we come together as one,” said Mulay.
“In all the challenges experienced, we have defined what it means to be a Novi Wildcat,” senior class president Kareena Ashok said. “To be a student not only acknowledges embracing the struggle, coming out as better versions of ourselves than before. Novi not only showed us the importance of simply pushing through, but to also be comfortable with the uncomfortable, to accept the growing discomfort that these challenges bring us, and to develop our original thinking into one that promotes creativity, optimism and strength. We, as high school students, left each high school year with a new perspective to face the next challenge. Now, as we enter a new phase as high school graduates, the wildcat stands as a symbol of our expanding growth, honoring the place that helped shape who we are.”
“This is more than just a gift, it’s our legacy, our story woven into the fabric of the Novi Community School District. We may be graduating, but part of us will always remain wild and fierce just like the wildcat,” said Kodali.
“I really like the guns on the new Wild-
cat Willy,” said Superintendent Ben Mainka, before offering the students some final advice on the importance of human connection.
“I love Wildcat Willy. He’s awesome. That’s a great class gift,” Mainka told the Novi Note. “I think a lot of times there’s things that are more traditional, like a bench or something that leaves some sort of a mark inside a building, but this is one that I think is a living gift that people will see regularly at the school.”
For school board President Danielle Ruskin, as her youngest child, Harrison Ruskin, graduated with the Class of 2025, the ceremony marked the end of her time as a Novi parent.
“It’s time to turn the page on a new chapter for him and for me,” Ruskin said. “I’ll still be on the board and I enjoy that role, but I get to take my Novi Schools mom hat off after 15 years.”
She said her role as a parent showed her the amount of support offered throughout the district.
“There is always someone out there to support you and your child (within the district),” Ruskin said. “Even when there’s highs and lows in the journey, you just have to find
Kareena Ashok, senior class president, addresses the Class of 2025 during the commencement ceremony May 18 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti.
the right people to support the kids on whatever that looks like for them, and it’s different for every kid, but there’s a place for everybody here at Novi.”
Mainka said the class of 2025 surpassed all expectations.
“We’re just really fortunate to have really incredible students here in our school district,” Mainka said.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
CRIME WATCH
Someone punctures trailer tires
Four trailer tires valued at $200 each were reported as damaged while the trailer was parked off 10 Mile Road on May 11. The owner said that the tires were fine when he parked the vehicle at 4:30 p.m. May 10 and that he found them punctured and deflated at 8:15 a.m. May 11, according to the report. The man told police that he had no idea who would have done it. The case was documented so that the owner could file an insurance claim. It has since been closed.
Man caught allegedly attempting to steal phone
Store security caught a man allegedly stealing a phone and trespassing at 7:08 p.m. May 10 at a business on Wixom Road. The man tried to walk away from security before police arrived, but he ended up being apprehended by Novi police as they arrived on the scene. The store’s security officer told police that the man had tried to give the phone back once he was caught. The phone was valued at $100. The man was arrested and charged with second-degree retail fraud and trespassing.
— Charity Meier
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Car shows
“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.
Meals
page 15A
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,” 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 pro-
grams 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 (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.”
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.
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.
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SpringClean-ups, Lawncare,Landscaping, Pavers,Walls,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, Mulching,Power-washing, Sprinklers.FreeEst. 586-727-3924 supremeoutdoor@ gmail.com
Painting
2BROTHERS PAINTING
CompleteInterior/Exterior WoodRepair, Powerwash, Free-Estimates CallFrank 248-303-5897 ReferencesAvailable
ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry
586-792-3117
PETE'SPAINTING
SPRINGSPECIALS!
10%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
(586)229-4267
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
CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
ANYONE'S PAINTER
Interior/ExteriorPainting Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates,Insured. Call586-921-3654
FARR'SPAINTING
Interior/Exterior
Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
NEBOPAINTING
ServiceAllYearRound Interior/Exterior WeMakeIt EasierForYou, AllNeedsAreMet! FreeEstimates Call 248-953-7807
Gutters
Gutters
Painting
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
WATERWORK Plumbing.com
•DrainCleaning
•SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps
•BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
Plumbing 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
Plumbing
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
Plumbing
GREATLAKE PLUMBING
LicensedPlumber Re-piping,WaterHeaters, DrainCleaning,Plumbing Repairs,GasLines. SprinklerBackflow Testing,FastFriendly Service,Lic#8112407 586-823-9744 greatlakeplumb.com
Plumbing
586.524.6752 ANDY'SPLUMBING 33+YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
Powerwashing
AJʼsPRESSURE CLEANING& SEALCOATING
•StampedConcrete(removemilkyorcloudyfilm)
•ExposedAggregate •BrickPavers(resanding) Website: ajspressure cleaning.com 586-431-0591
ALLWASHEDUP POWERWASHING SPRINGSPECIALS!
Weofferpowerwashing& deckstaining.Houses/ awnings/fences/driveways/porches/windows/ gutters/doorsandmore!! FREE-ESTIMATES
SeniorDiscounts 586-360-0827
Professional Services
CONSUMER Cellularthesamereliable,nationwidecoverageasthe largestcarriers.Nolongtermcontract,nohidden feesandactivationisfree. Allplansfeatureunlimitedtalkandtext,starting atjust$20/month.For moreinformation,call 1-866-306-6243
TMEDIAIMPACT SOLUTIONS
ExpertGrantWriter& DevelopmentCoordinator! Capacitybuilding, communityimpact, fundingforoperations, programming,andyouth programs.Emailtoattach: tmediasitee@gmail.com
Roofng
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
Roofng 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
PREFERRED BROTHERSROOFING
•FullTear-off•Recover
•ShingleRepair
•Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600
Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
AMISH FURNITURE
An AMISH LOG HEADBOARD AND Queen Pillow Top Mattress Set. Brand new-never used, sell all for $375. Call anytime, 989-923-1278.
Fine Firearms, Coins, Tool Estate Auction. Bidding open. Winchesters, Rugers, Brownings, Remington Bronzes, ammo, Morgan Dollars, machinists tools. Bid@JohnPeckAuctions.com.
Need an auction? Call John Peck 989-345-4866. Ofices Charlotte & Gladwin.
AUCTION
George King Online Estate Auction, bid now through June 3. 2002 Dodge Ram B1500 van, Craftsman mower, milling tools, RC planes, ham radios/ equipment, tools, more at Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC. com. Questions? Call Joe, 1-800835-0495.
BUILT RITE POLE BUILDINGS State-wide. Prices starting at24x40x10 - $18,300.00. 30x40x10 -$20,400.00. Erected on your site. Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www. builtritepolebuildingsmi.com. Or call 989-259-2015 or 989-6001010 or 989-324-0035.
Tree Service
BERGBROS.LLC. “FullyInsured, HighlyReferred.” SeniorDiscounts Tree-Removal,Stump Grinding,Tree-Trimming, Hedging,Shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free-Estimates (586)262-3060
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB
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
BUSINESS SERVICES
METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695.
MATTRESSES
Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made in U.S.A, in plastic, with warranty. Retail Cost $3,995.00 sacrifice for $875.00 Call for showing or delivery: DanDanTheMattressMan.com. 989-923-1278
MISCELLANEOUS
Amish-built mini-cabins starting at $5,295. Made in Michigan! We deliver statewide. Call 989-8321866. MyNextBarn.com.
AMISH-built storage sheds starting at $2,500. We deliver anywhere in Michigan! Call 989-832-1866. DanDanTheMattressMan.com
POND/LAKE
Eco-Friendly Pond & Lake weed removal tools. Veteran made in Michigan. Visit our website www. WeedGatorProducts.com or call 989-529-3992. 5% discount code GATOR5.
