City adds new parking fee at Innovation Hills
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER HILLS — Residents and visitors will now be charged a fee to park at Innovation Hills.
The city announced the paid parking plan — which City Council approved April 7 — via social media in early May.
Starting May 27, the city is introducing a parking fee of $1.50 per hour for the Innovation Hills parking lot. The fee will be collected through a contactless system called ParkMobile.
“ParkMobile is a very user-friendly and convenient way for people to pay for the parking via the app, scanning the QR code on the park signage, texting or calling, so it ensures accessibility for all user types,” said Parks Division Manager Dennis Andrews. “It requires zero upfront investment, there’s no booth that’s needed, and there’s no build-out of infrastructure needed to support it. Essentially, it’s signage that will be posted in the parking lot, as well as the main entryways into the park.”
To avoid hourly fees, park-goers can opt to pur-
See INNOVATION HILLS on page 12A
County rate spike for assessing services hits triple digits
RECENT COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY COST SPIKE HAS COMMUNITIES LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI AND MARY BETH ALMOND akozlowski@candgnews.com, malmond@candgnews
OAKLAND COUNTY — 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” raises the rates
See RATE SPIKE on page 20A
Visitors will now be charged a fee to park in the lot at Innovation Hills.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
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Four accused of stealing $63 million in checks from mail
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT – Four people, including a rapper from Rochester Hills, are accused of stealing $63 million in checks from the U.S. Postal Service and selling them online.
According to federal prosecutors, the scheme involved two postal employees who allegedly diverted and stole checks and “other negotiable instruments” from the mail, including tax refund checks issued by the U.S. Treasury.
The two postal workers would then give the stolen checks to two co-conspirators in exchange for money.
The stolen checks were sold online via Telegram Messenger — a cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging application — on the channels “Whole Foods Slipsss” and “Uber Eats Slips.” Purchasers of the stolen checks — also known as “slips” — would buy the checks using various methods, including the mobile financial services platforms, and then attempt to fraudulently cash them.
“When public employees break the public trust, they enrich themselves at the expense of the American taxpayer and undermine the institution itself,” U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon Jr. said in a statement. “We will find and prosecute those who exploit their position for personal gain.”
Four people were charged with conspiracy to aid and abet bank and wire fraud, a 30-year-felony: Rapper Jaiswan Williams, 31, of Rochester Hills, accused of administrating the “Whole Foods Slipsss” channel; Daquan Foreman, 30, of Eastpointe, ac-
See CHECKS on page 8A
ADVENTURE AWAITS
ABOVE: A child scales the Oakland County Parks rock wall during the OAK (Outdoor Adventure Kickoff) in the Hills event at Spencer Park May 17.
RIGHT: The OAK in the Hills attendees learn about wildlife from various nature groups in the boathouse shelter.
BELOW: People of all ages try out kayaking at Spencer Park during the OAK in the Hills event.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Rochester Rotary donates $10,000 to Neighborhood House
ROCHESTER — At a May 20 meeting, Rochester Rotary Charities President Tom Townsend presented a $10,000 check to Neighborhood House to support the organization’s food pantry and sustainability services.
Neighborhood House is a nonprofit dedicated to helping neighbors in need achieve self-sufficiency during times of hardship. The organization serves individuals and families in Addison Township, Auburn Hills, Oakland Township, Rochester, and Rochester Hills experiencing poverty or classified as ALICE: short for asset-limited, income-constrained, employed.
Although only about 5.5% of the area’s population lives in poverty — well below state and national averages — this still represents approximately 8,000 people.
In 2024, Neighborhood House made a significant impact by providing 436,068 meals to 601 households and assisting 6,183 unhoused individuals with emergency aid and meals through its food pantry. The organization offered $105,664 in financial assistance, helped 25 clients find employment, and prevented 70 evictions. Its clothes closet distributed 28,276 clothing items to 365 households, and its community events served 1,052 families, benefitting 1,334 children. Neighborhood House also provided 463 rides to medical appointments, job interviews and food pickups, and distributed 60 bicycles to both children and adults for transportation and recreation.
Founded more than 50 years ago by a coalition of eight local churches, Neighborhood House continues to receive strong support from the faith community. Volunteers are welcome to assist in the food pantry, Clothes Closet, and main office. Donations of gently used clothing, shelf-stable food items, and financial contributions are always needed. More information on Neighborhood House is available at www.ranh.org.
Mountain dulcimer group to perform
ROCHESTER — First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Rochester, is hosting a concert by a local mountain dulcimer group, the River Strings of St. Clair County, at 7 p.m. May 30. The concert is free, but freewill offerings will be collected during intermission and after the concert to support the church’s music program. The church is located at 1315 N. Pine St. in Rochester.
MUSIC IN THE PARK
Hear Metamorphic (high-energy rock and ’80s/’90s dance music) June 19, Acoustic Madness June 26, Marshall Luna Blue (blues power rock) July 3, Sheila Landis Rick Matle Band (Latin jazz) July 10, Hynde Sight (Pretenders tribute) July 17, Melody Balos Jazz Sextet July 24 and Rochester Symphony Orchestra July 31, all 7-8:30 p.m., bring blankets and chairs, plus own food or purchase snacks from Kiwanis Club of Rochester, Rochester Municipal Park, 400 Sixth St. For more info, visit.facebook.com/kiwanisclubofrochester.
Help solve the mystery in ‘Shear Madness’
ROCHESTER — “Shear Madness,” Rochester’s hilarious “whodunit” murder-mystery runs through June 22 at Meadow Brook Theatre, on the campus of Oakland University. Tickets range from $39 to $48 and are available by calling the Meadow Brook Theatre box office at (248) 377-3300 or visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Student discounts are available at the box office. Groups of eight or more should call (248) 370-3316 for group pricing. “Shear Madness” is suggested for audience members in middle school and up.
“Shear Madness” is made possible through the support of The Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, The Michigan Arts and Culture Council, and the Meadow Brook Theatre Guild.
COMPOSTING CAN BENEFIT THE GARDEN AND THE ENVIRONMENT
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 decomposition 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
Composting
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 to 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.
Primary Care Designed for
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.”
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.
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_gar dening and canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/ tip_sheets.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
CRIME WATCH
Driver pulled over for being on phone, arrested for warrant
ROCHESTER — An officer performing traffic enforcement near University and Walnut saw a driver using a cellphone while driving at approximately 4 p.m. May 19.
The officer conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, who had an active warrant and was placed under arrest.
Driver caught on the road with a suspended license
ROCHESTER — An officer on patrol near Diversion and South Street observed a vehicle fail to stop at the stop sign at approximately 11:30 p.m. May 16.
The officer also observed the license plate to be expired. The officer conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, who had a suspended license. The driver was placed under arrest, processed and released from jail with a citation for a court date.
Teen on motorcycle arrested after reportedly head-butting man in neighborhood
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 2000 block of Melvin Avenue on a report of two men fighting in the street at 9:13 a.m. May 11.
Deputies learned that the two individuals were fighting over a traffic altercation involving one of the combatants allegedly driving his motorcycle at a high rate of speed through the neighborhood. It was reported that the motorcyclist, while wearing his motorcycle helmet, head-butted a 45-year-old
Checks
from page 3A
cused of administering the “Uber Eats Slips” channel; U.S. Postal Service worker Vanessa Hargrove, 39, of Detroit; and U.S. Postal Service worker Crystal Jenkins, 31, of Detroit.
Sean McStravick, acting inspector in charge of the Postal Inspection Service’s Detroit Division, said the charges underscore the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s commitment to securing the nation’s mail system from those who seek to exploit it for personal and financial gain.
man from Rochester Hills, and then proceeded to attack him, striking him several times with his fists.
Deputies arrived and separated the two subjects. Witnesses said the suspect on the motorcycle, a 19-year-old Rochester Hills man, was the aggressor and attacked the other man.
The suspect fought with deputies trying to arrest him and had to be restrained. Once he was placed in the patrol vehicle, he continued screaming and yelling, attempting to kick out the patrol vehicle windows. Deputies eventually calmed the suspect with the help of his mother. Rochester Hills Fire Department paramedics medically cleared the suspect for incarceration. The suspect was arrested for felonious assault, assault and battery, and resisting and obstructing a police officer, and was lodged at the Oakland County Jail pending prosecutor review.
Drunken driver caught on the roads
ROCHESTER — An officer on patrol near University and Madison observed a vehicle traveling 42 mph in a 25 mph zone at approximately 12:30 a.m. May 22. The officer conducted a traffic stop and observed signs of impairment.
The driver failed field sobriety tests, refused a preliminary breath test and was placed under arrest. The driver refused the chemical breath test, and a blood search warrant was sought. The driver was lodged until sober and will be charged pending the results of the blood test.
— Mary Beth Almond
“Postal Inspectors utilize every tool at their disposal, including crucial partnerships, to uncover, investigate, and prosecute these schemes to the fullest extent of the law. Thank you to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our investigative partners for working tirelessly with us to bring charges in such an impactful mail theft investigation and maintain the integrity and respectability of the U.S. Postal Service,” he said in a statement.
Williams also faces charges for money laundering for activities dating back to October 2022, and for millions of dollars of fraudulent pandemic unemployment insurance benefit claims submitted between August and December 2020.
Rochester Garden Walk celebrates 25 years of garden walk
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER — This year, the 25 annual Rochester Garden Walk is offering a selection of private gardens to satisfy the most discerning and curious gardeners.
This year’s event takes place 10 a.m.5 p.m. June 19 and is co-sponsored by the Rochester Garden Club and The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm.
In addition to the garden walk, guests can visit the grounds of the Nationally Registered Historic Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. The Rochester Garden Club will also host a native plant sale on the museum grounds 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. To preorder, go to www.RochesterGardenClub.org. Customers do not have to purchase tickets to the garden walk to purchase these plants.
At 10:30 a.m. there will be a presentation called “Expert Tips and Tricks for Native Plant Gardens” in the Calf Barn at the Van Hoosen Farm Museum. Angela Nelson, the owner of East Michigan Native Plants, will present details on the benefits of incorporating natives into your landscape. The newfound knowledge can be used to purchase just the right plants after the talk.
Garden club members will welcome guests to refresh themselves with complimentary cookies and lemonade in the renovated Dairy Barn.
The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm and the Rochester Garden Club use profits from the walk to help fund many of their charitable activities.
Advance purchase tickets will be available at www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms and from Auburn Oaks Garden Center, Bordine’s Nursery (Rochester location only),
Foglers Greenhouse, and Piechnik’s Garden Gate. The cost is $16 in advance or $20 on the day of the event.
Ticket exchange (and purchase of) Garden Guides with the garden locations will be available at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road June 16, 17 and 18. Hours for purchase and exchange are 1-4 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays, and on the day of the Garden Walk. For more information, visit RochesterGar denClub.org or call (248) 656-4663.
13650 E. Eleven Mile Rd.
Warren, MI 48089
Photo provided
This year’s Rochester Garden Walk takes place 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 19 and is co-sponsored by the Rochester Garden Club and The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm.
Innovation Hills
from page 1A
chase an annual Rochester Hills Parks Pass for unlimited access to Innovation Hills, Spencer and Bloomer parks. Resident passes cost $35, or $20 for seniors, military and handicap passes. Non-resident passes cost $70, or $40 for seniors, military and handicap passes. The passes are available for purchase at rochesterhills.org/parkspass.
Those who want to enjoy the park for free, and don’t mind a bit of a commute, can still walk or bike, or use the free lot on the opposite side of Hamlin Road for free entry into the park.
The city’s Parks and Natural Resources Director Ken Elwert said over 450,000 people visit the park each year.
“It really is over and above our expectations,” he said.
The 100-acre park, at 2800 W. Hamlin Road, features a variety of nature trails and play areas. The park includes a wooden boardwalk that is kept clear year-round, as well as a paved trail, a rustic trail, and a pond with a water feature. The park features an all-abilities playground centered with a multi-level tree-shaped playhouse. The city
also recently added a suspension bridge over the Clinton River, which connects to a forested nature path. New restroom facilities, funded in part by a $250,000 allocation from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and a $250,000 grant through Oakland County Parks, are currently in progress.
When City Council President Ryan Deel entered Innovation Hills for the first time, he said he was “truly blown away at what an impressive park we had built.”
“Apparently, it wasn’t just me. It was also about 450,000 other people per year
that we’re drawing into this park,” he said. “It turns out, when you think big and you build big and you build these great things, they become a regional destination, and that seems to be what we’ve done here with Innovation Hills.”
With people from all over the region visiting the park, Deel said the fee is needed.
“That’s why it becomes necessary (to charge for parking), because this park is seeing wear and tear at a much higher rate than what other parks would typically see, because it’s such a nice park and such a great place to bring your kids,” he said.
City officials estimate the parking fee will bring in $250,000 in net revenue per year to support the park operations and development.
“How we came up with the amount is very similar to the cost recoveries that we have in our other regional parks, such as Spencer Park or Borden Park. To support the operations and the investment the city continues to make in (Innovation Hills), we thought it was appropriate,” Elwert added.
Andrews said the city plans to hire an additional part-time staff person to educate the public on this, enforce parking regulations, and support other park duties.
“The goal is to educate the public, so we plan to adopt a warning notice for a limited time that will encourage folks to buy an annual pass,” he said.
For the first month the fee is in effect, there will also be a tent stationed at Innovation Hills during peak hours where visitors can ask questions or buy a pass on-site.
Rochester Hills also charges a fee for the use of Bloomer Park and Spencer Park.
For more information about Innovation Hills, visit www.rochesterhills.org/in novationhills.
Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
EXPLORE
Feature Series
ISLAND TIME
BY GREG TASKER
MACKINAC ISLAND — Mackinac Island celebrates a big anniversary this year.
For a couple decades in the late 19th century, about half of the island was a national park, the country’s second, behind Yellowstone National Park.
Mackinac National Park was short-lived, a footnote in national park history. Still, the federal government’s efforts laid the foundation for what hundreds of thousands of tourists enjoy each summer — a well-preserved historic community and state park.
You can learn more about that past at Fort Mackinac this summer (more below), and also explore some of the island’s new additions.
Before you even depart Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, you’ll notice two ferry services are again running to and from the island — Arnold Transit Company and Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry. Visitors can also expect an uptick in the number of daily runs to the island as well as later departures back to the mainland.
Several hotels welcome the summer with renovations big and small. The Harbour View Inn boasts a renovated
lobby, dining room and parlor. The Chippewa Hotel reopens with three remodeled rooms with new showers and fresh paint. And The Inn at Stonecliff welcomes a new chef, who is eager to bring fresh flavors and inspired dishes.
At the Grand Hotel, the expansive parlor famous for its red geranium and classic Grand Hotel green decor has been redesigned to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Dorothy Draper & Company, the legendary designers responsible for a makeover in 1976. Guests should expect to see vibrant red geranium, alongside beloved colors and patterns that define the iconic space.
The iconic hotel also has expanded its island footprint with the new Grand Hotel Mackinac Market in downtown Mackinac Island. The Grand’s first retail location offers a curated selection of Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island merchandise, including apparel, bath and body products, and home decor. The shop also is the second location of the hotel’s Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor.
On the other side of the island, the family-owned Mission Point Resort has continued to make improvements, this year offering a fresh take on dining at Chianti
ABOVE: Arch Rock is a popular spot for visitors to visit on the island.
RIGHT: In springtime, lilac bushes line the streets where visitors can walk and bike along.
Photos provided by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
See MACKINAC on page 18A
Softball Size Tumors Silently Grew
Dr. Ringold discovered he had stage four cancer with tumors as large as softballs silently growing inside his body after experiencing shortness of breath. His treatment was brutal. He su ered cruel side e ects. After his cancer went into remission, it returned a year later as a brain tumor. Dr. Ringold believed there had to be a better way. He envisioned a future where individuals could take control of their
A Father’s Legacy, A Son’s Mission: Full Body MRI Scans Without a Doctor’s Referral
(South eld, MI) e late Dr. Warren Ringold knew rsthand the devastating impact of late-stage cancer diagnoses. As a respected family physician, he witnessed countless patients battling illnesses that could have been detected earlier. His own grueling battle with late-stage cancer ignited a passion, leading him to create Michigan’s rst MRI full body screening center called Bionicc Body Screening.
health and detect potential problems before they escalated. In his nal days, Dr. Ringold passionately advocated for MRI full body screenings, a proactive approach he believed could empower individuals to take control of their health.
Raising Awareness
Today, his son Ryan carries on this mission. ough not a medical professional himself, Ryan’s dedication to his father’s legacy drives him to raising awareness of this service for families of Michigan. “Every week I learn of another person who felt perfectly ne, only to wake up with an unexplained symptom and discover they have stage four cancer. Once symptoms manifest cancer is usually advanced,” says his son Ryan. “My father never wanted another family to su er the emotional and physical hardships that our family and he endured. He wanted to save lives.”
Full Body MRI Scans Without a Doctor’s Order
Bionicc Body Screening o ers elective, full-body MRI screenings that provide a comprehensive picture of your internal health, going beyond what traditional checkups often reveal. State-of-the-art technology can detect tumors as small as a pea, aneurysms, risk of stroke and a multitude of other conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Screenings include scans of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, hips, shoulders and spine.
A Life Saved
Mark B. and his younger brother decided to visit Bionicc Body Screening last spring for a proactive screening because cancer ran in their family. Mark was skeptical until his results returned a 3-centimeter mass on his lung, which tested positive for cancer. He had three-fourths of his lung removed. He credits the scan for saving his life. Meanwhile, his brother’s results were clean.
Advertorial
The late Dr. Ringold founded Bionicc Body Screening in 2022 after battling cancer twice. He believed MRI full body screenings could empower individuals to take control of their health.
Michigan High School Athletic Association set to add boys volleyball in 2026
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The Michigan High School Athletic Association is on track to reach its target of adding boys volleyball by the spring of 2026.
Last year, the MHSAA announced that it would be adding boys volleyball to its official sports listing at some point in the future, with a target date of 2026. One year removed from the MHSAA meeting where the council voted on the matter, the sport continues to grow and the association is on pace to have everything ready by next spring.
“I think there was a feeling at that meeting that it had to happen now. There was no putting it off,” MHSAA Director of Communications Geoff Kimmerly said about the sport’s addition. “The growth was too significant. … I think boys volleyball will slide very easily into our lineup.”
In terms of growth, the Michigan Interscholastic Volleyball Coaches Association started the boys branch in 2018 with just four teams. Last year, according to Kimmerly, the league had 1,160 athletes participate.
“And I’m assuming that’s probably grown again this year, to be honest, just because of the trajectory of that sport,” Kimmerly said. “I think it will probably continue to grow going forward.”
Aside from the growth in numbers, there will also be growth in competitiveness. The addition of boys volleyball in the MHSAA allows for more opportunities for students and more serious and structured competition.
“Early on in this we have some athletes who are doing boys volleyball as a second sport. … I think that will be something that will become a primary sport in the spring,” Kimmerly said. “Those will be more of onesport spring athletes.”
The focus has always been on doing
what’s best for the kids. Even with just four teams at the boys league’s inception, the MIVCA trio of Jason Heerema, Aaron Smaka and Brad Poel have always just wanted to provide opportunities.
“We do this for the kids. We’re here to serve the kids,” Heerema said. “There are boys across the state that are having experiences and creating friendships … that will benefit them for the rest of their life.”
A league that didn’t even exist in 2017 now has around 70 teams statewide and has added double-digit teams every year since 2021.
Girls volleyball has been a huge sport for decades now and the MHSAA structure with the girls will be an inspiration for the future of boys volleyball. The goal all along was to get the boys that same type of league.
“When we started it, I always wanted it to be a MHSAA sport,” Heerema said. “So, that’s how we structured it. That’s how we
grew it and developed the rules. We always had the goal of being a MHSAA sport.”
The group of people who brought the sport to a point where it can be a recognized sport in the state and can make this handoff happen should not go unnoticed. Coaches, parents, officials and more all over the state have dedicated countless hours to getting the boys volleyball program to this point.
“Virtually everybody in this process is a volunteer,” Heerema said. “It’s been strictly a volunteer process from start to finish. … (The students) wouldn’t have this opportunity unless all of these people stepped into this process and volunteered their time and their heart.”
This was an easy decision for everyone involved. The sport has grown so much that the infrastructure put in place when the league was just a handful of teams might not have been able to handle the continued
See VOLLEYBALL on page 23A
CONDITIONERS
REVERSE
Whole
Whole
Replacement
Equipment
CLARKSTON, MICHIGAN
Mackinac
from page 14A
with a new Lilac Lounge, a reimagined marketplace and immersive experiences.
Chianti, Mission Point’s signature fine dining restaurant, has undergone a thoughtful transformation inspired by the colors and natural beauty of the island. The refreshed ambiance brings the island’s floral landscape indoors and creates a lighter atmosphere. The Lilac Lounge, billed as “a destination for foodies and wine lovers,” offers an aperitif hour where guests can sip on handcrafted cocktails, nibble on seasonal small plates, and listen to live piano music.
“We are always looking for ways to enhance our guest experience while staying true to the spirit of Mackinac,” said Liz Ware, vice president of sales and marketing at Mission Point.
These changes come on the heels of other recent upgrades including a revamped Main Lobby and Round Island Kitchen. The refreshed lobby, “Mackinac Island’s newest living room,” is a welcoming, open space with light colors and panoramic views through the restaurant of the expansive lawn and the Straits of Mackinac.
More than 80 percent of Mackinac Island is a state park, so it should come as no surprise that at least one company has begun offering curated hiking tours.
Great Turtle Kayak Tours, which has long offered water excursions around the island, has branched out to include land adventures. Guided tours include treks to Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf Rock and a focus on fall colors. Customized tours are available, revealing “hidden spots, unknown to most visitors,” according to the company.
“It’s kind of our goal to get people out of the Main Street area,” said Jon “Chappy” Chapman, lead reservation for the outfitter. “People don’t necessarily know their way around the island or know that there are 80 miles of trails. Once people find out, they like getting out there. They’re interested.”
At Fort Mackinac, the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the national park status will include daily and special programs tied to that brief chapter in the island’s history. At the time Mackinac became a national park in 1875, the federal government already owned 50 percent of the island and maintained Fort Mackinac. The aim was to protect Mackinac’s natural beauty and historical significance. For 15 years, Yellowstone and Mackinac were the only two national parks in the country.
In 1895, deeming Fort Mackinac no longer necessary and shuttering military operations, the federal government had second
IF YOU GO:
Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
7274 Main St., Mackinac Island (906) 847-3783 mackinacisland.org
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry (231) 436-5023 sheplersferry.com
Grand Hotel (800) 334-7263 grandhotel.com
Mission Point Resort (906) 847-3000 missionpoint.com
Mackinac State Historic Parks (906) 847-3328 mackinacparks.com
Great Turtle Kayak Tours (231) 715-2925 mackinackayak.com
thoughts about maintaining a national park there. State officials stepped in to reclaim the land and created Michigan’s first state park.
Creating the national park was a reaction to development pressures as tourism began to grow. By the 1870s, the island had become a retreat and getaway for city dwellers and others. By the last decades of the century, tourism had become the island’s dominant industry.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this anniversary,” said Dominick Miller, who is chief of marketing for Mackinac State Historic Parks. “We’re excited to get people out and into the former national park and explore the things that helped make Mackinac become a national park. We’re also thankful to the state of Michigan for realizing it was a special place.”
Daily programs share the story of Mackinac National Park. Those programs will focus on the rise of tourism on the island and how the island and fort have been preserved.
Special events will explore the creation of the park and all the questions it raised, as well as walking and bike tours focused on other aspects of that history. A guided walking tour, for example, will explore the cottages of Mackinac Island. Looking for money to fund park operations, the federal government granted leaseholds on the East and West Bluffs. The first summer cottages went up on the bluff in 1885.
In addition, the historic park will offer special screenings of an anniversary documentary, limited edition logo and merchandise, and new art exhibits.
“This is a really fascinating story,” Miller said. “It’s right here in our backyard.”
Greg Tasker is a Traverse City-based freelance writer.
Rate spike
more gradually, averaging 26% the first year and 140% the third year.
Rochester and Oakland Township are among the communities that contract with the county for assessing services. Rochester Hills has its own assessing department.
In Rochester, the year one increase without smoothing would be an eye-watering 84.91%, rising to nearly 102.34% the third year. In neighboring Oakland Township, the rate increase without smoothing would be 62.3% the first year, rising to 77.6% the third year. Rochester was billed nearly $98,000 for assessment services in 2024, while Oakland Township was billed $149,080.
Local officials were outraged by what they saw as an inexplicable increase, one with little warning.
“I think this is quite outrageous, these
increases,” Oakland Township Supervisor Robin Buxar said of the county’s new assessing rates.
Marcy Moriwaki, the deputy finance director and deputy treasurer for Rochester, agreed.
“We were just shocked by the increases that have been levied,” she said. “Everyone is just trying to figure out, do we stay with Oakland County or do we go with a different contractor?”
Moriwaki said the city didn’t receive adequate notice from the county for budget planning purposes.
“The city is doing the very best we can to control costs and provide the best services that we can, but this came out of left field,” she said. “We had already presented our budget to the City Council, and our budget for next year had already been approved. We heard about the increases the day after we had presented our proposed budget to the City Council in April.”
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 revenue 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 human resources 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.”
When informed about the county’s decision, some cities began exploring other options.
The Oakland Township Board of Trustees unanimously voted to go out for a bid for assessing services.
“I’m really disturbed at the continual attitude of the county, just increasing these without much input from the townships that they serve,” Oakland Township Trustee John Casadei said. “We have to go out (to bid). They almost look like they don’t want to be in the assessing business anymore. (My) personal opinion.”
Oakland Township Treasurer John Giannangeli said the increases go to show what municipalities “can be expecting from the county” following a recent increase in the county’s fee for public safety services.
“Our biggest expense is our safety, and they went up 35%, or roughly $600,000$700,000,” he said, referring to the public safety service fee increase the county recently passed on to the township. “You’re looking at another $100,000 here. I believe all the services the county (provides), and we
See RATE SPIKE on page 22A
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Rate spike
have relied on, are going up significantly. So I think we need to, where we can, look for alternatives to that.
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.
“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,” said Madison Heights Mayor Pro Tem Mark Bliss.
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 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 1. The room was tense as the measure passed by a vote of 10-9.
The “yes” votes were Woodward; Gault; Penny Luebs, D-District 2; Gwen Markham, D-District 15; Angela Powell, D-District 9; Marcia Gershenson, D-District 11; William Miller, D-District 16; Yolanda Smith Charles, D-District 17; Brendan Johnson, DDistrict 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, D-District 19; and Robert Smiley, R-District 14.
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, Spring-
field 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.”
Spotlight on business...
Brighten Your Summer with Colorful Annuals
A splash of color can transform any yard or garden, and now is the time to plant bold annual fowers that thrive all season.
At Piechnik’s Garden Gate, customers will fnd a variety of plants suited for porches, patios and garden beds—as well as custom combo pots.
“Annuals are a versatile way to refresh your space with color and create a new theme every year,” said Rachel Zorn, who has worked in the industry for 25 years and joined Piechnik’s as general manager in March.
Popular picks this year include warm-toned blooms and textured foliage, like vibrant dahlias and richly colored coleus. “People are gravitating toward color and texture—something that brings something unique to their space,” Rachel said.
She also noted that Piechnik’s stocks some harder-to-fnd varieties, such as rare types of cuphea, coral bells, penstemon and tropicals. “You won’t see these in just any garden center,” she said.
Beyond fowers, the garden center ofers one of the largest selections of yard and garden décor. “Right now, we’ve got a really fun frog display,” Rachel said. “And we always have oodles of wind chimes. It’s the largest selection around.”
While classes won’t resume until fall, including the popular succulent pumpkin workshop, customers can fnd inspiration among the displays and chat with knowledgeable staf. “We’ve got a fantastic team—whether it’s the friendly faces at the register or those helping customers with their selection in the garden center— everyone here really enjoys being part of the experience,” Rachel said.
Come out and get inspired! Te garden center is open seven days a week: Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Piechnik’s Garden Gate is located at 1095 N. Rochester Rd. in Oakland. For more information, call (586) 336-7200 or visit piechniks.com. Follow @ piechniksgardengate on Facebook and Instagram.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
23A/ ROCHESTER POST • MAY 29, 2025
MAY 30
‘Cultural Infusion’ concert: Performances by Terry Lower Trio, vocalist Edye Evans Hyde and winner of Young Artist competition, 8-10 p.m., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo Road in Rochester, rochestersymphony.com/event/cultural-infusion
Hear mountain dulcimer group: Performance by River Strings of St. Clair County, 7 p.m., First Congregational Church of Rochester, 1315 N. Pine St., free but donations appreciated, (248) 651-6225
JUNE 7
Learn about Stoney Creek Schoolhouse: Also activities during public drop-in visit, noon-3 p.m., 1051 Washington Road in Rochester, check in at Dairy Barn at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills.org/museum
5K run/walk benefits Meals on Wheels: 8 a.m. with course along Clinton River Trail, pancake breakfast afterward, OPC Social & Activity Center, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, opccenter.org/event/5k-run-walkfor-meals
JUNE 10
Golf tournament fundraiser: Proceeds support Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce’s programs and services, registration and continental breakfast from 8-8:45 a.m., shotgun start at 9 a.m., boxed lunch on course, banquet buffet at 3 p.m., and awards and mixer at 3:30 p.m., Cherry Creek Golf Club, 52000 Cherry Creek Drive in Shelby Township, (248) 6516700, rrc-mi.com
JUNE 11
Harmony in the Hills concert series: Hear Musica Batteria Marimba Duo in garden, 7 p.m., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo St. in Rochester, series continues with Paul Keller Jazz Trio July 9 and North Star Saxophone Quartet Aug. 20, both 7 p.m., (248) 651-9361, stpaulsrochester.org/index.php/ harmony-in-the-hills
JUNE 12
All Things Real Estate: Free seminar presented by
Volleyball
from page 16A
growth as is.
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
Linda Rea Team, 6:30 p.m., Royal Park Hotel, 600 E. University Drive in Rochester, RSVP at lindarea.com or (248) 709-3786
‘The Enduring Popularity of ‘Murder, She Wrote’ and Cozy Mysteries’: Author Bridget Kies discusses popular television series that aired from 1984-96 and its impact on books, TV and film today, 7 p.m., Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne Road in Rochester, registration required, (248) 656-2900, calendar.rhpl.org
JUNE 19
Rochester Garden Walk: Visit private gardens in greater Rochester area, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., buy discounted ticket at rochesterhills.org/musprograms or at Auburn Oaks Garden Center, Bordine’s Nursery (Rochester location only), Fogler’s Greenhouse or Piechnik’s Garden Gate, then exchange for guide with map from 1-4 p.m. June 16-18 at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, museum also offering native plant sale hosted by Rochester Garden Club from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., “fleatique” market from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., native plant garden program with East Michigan Native Plants from 10:30-11 a.m., and all-day tours, event co-sponsored by Rochester Garden Club, (248) 656-4663, rochestergardenclub.org
JUNE 21
Downtown Rochester Makers’ Market: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., West Fourth Street, downtownrochestermi.com
ONGOING
Downtown Rochester Farmers’ Market: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays until Oct. 25, new temporary location at East Parking Platform, 415 East St. in Rochester, downtownrochestermi.com/farmers-market
Rochester Grangers Vintage Base Ball Club: Live games featuring teams using equipment (or lack thereof), uniforms and rules circa 1870s, 1 p.m. June 7, 6:30 p.m. June 12, 6:30 p.m. July 24, 1 p.m. Aug. 2 and 1 p.m. Aug. 16, Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills. org/musprograms
‘Shear Madness’: Comedy-whodunit about murder at hair salon that changes with each performance, select times and dates until June 22, Meadow Brook Theatre (room 207 in Wilson Hall on campus of Oakland University), 378 Meadow Brook Road in Rochester, (248) 377-3300, mbtheatre.com
Dutton Farm Market: Purchase of produce, plants, art, and bath and body products from Dutton Farm participants supports nonprofit’s mission to empower and support adults with disabilities, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays through September, 2290 Dutton Road in Rochester, facebook.com/duttonfarm
“To say that it’s busy doing this … would be an understatement,” Heerema said. “I will be grateful when the MHSAA takes it over, because I know it will be run very, very well.”
The MHSAA taking the reins of the sport will end a nearly decade-long journey for Heerema, Smaka and Poel. They started something that has flourished and now get to hand it off to someone else to make it grow even more.
“I think when I get to pause and reflect it will be humbling to be a part of something that’s a pretty wonderful historical event, starting a sport and bringing it to fruition with a couple of wonderful friends (Aaron Smaka and Brad Poel),” Heerema said.
For more information on the boys volleyball league, visit mivca.net or mhsaa.com.
Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve activities: Story & STEAM(ages 3-5, 10-11 a.m. every second and fourth Friday of month) and Nature Tales Classic (story, snack and craft, ages 3-5, 10-11 a.m. every third Thursday of month), 333 N. Hill Circle in Rochester, dinosaurhill.org
Rochester Toastmasters: Meets 6:30 p.m. every first and third Thursday of month, Pixley Memorial Hall, 322 W. University Drive in Rochester, (248) 828-5649, www.4890.toastmastersclubs.org
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-01
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 8, ANIMALS, ARTICLE I, IN GENERAL, OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF ROCHESTER, TO ADD A NEW SEC. 8-9 FEEDING OF ANIMALS TO PROHIBIT GROUND FEEDING OF ANIMALS AND STRAY/FERAL CATS AND DOGS.
THE CITY OF ROCHESTER ORDAINS:
Section 1. Chapter 8, Article I of the Rochester Code shall be amended to add Sec. 8-9 as follows: ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
Sec. 8-1. Cruelty to animals. (unchanged)
Sec. 8-2. Poisoning animals. (unchanged)
Sec. 8-3. Birds and bird’s nests. (unchanged)
Sec. 8-4. Feeding birds (including waterfowl). (unchanged)
Sec. 8-5. Unlawful to keep certain animals and fowl. (unchanged)
Sec. 8-6. Horses. (unchanged)
Sec. 8-7. Loud or dangerous animals. (unchanged)
Sec. 8-8. Animals deemed public nuisances.
Any animal which shall, by loud or frequent or habitual barking, yelping or howling, or other noises, cause serious annoyance to the neighborhood, or to people passing on the streets, or which shall injure or destroy real or personal property of persons other than its owners, or molest or injure any person, or shall cause unsanitary conditions because of droppings, uneaten food, or any other thing to cause odor or attraction of ies and vermin, shall be deemed a public nuisance per se, and the owner deemed in violation of this section.
Sec. 8-9. Feeding of Animals
(a) Unlawful ground feeding.
(1) Generally. It shall be unlawful for any person to feed any wild animal or to place or permit placement on the ground of any fruit, berries, grain, vegetables, nuts, salt, or other edible material or bait that may be reasonably expected to feed wild animals, which include, but are not limited to, raccoons, skunks, rodents, rabbits, crows, wild birds, rats, mice, fowl, waterfowl, gophers, groundhogs, moles, opossums, squirrels, chipmunks, and any and all other types of wild animal, reptile and the like.
Limitation. The general prohibition contained in subsection (a)(1) shall not apply to the feeding of wild birds by way of bird feeders that are elevated off the ground to avoid other animals from accessing the bird food.
(b) Unlawful feeding of feral or stray cats or dogs. It shall be unlawful as to feed any feral or stray cat or dog by any means, including hand feeding or setting out food or water, whether or not the food or water is attended or left unattended. Such prohibition does not preclude having water in elevated birdbaths. The City’s code enforcement of cers may review and approve feeding or watering that may otherwise be prohibited so long as such feeding or watering is in accordance with City-approved animal control efforts.
(c) A person who violates any part of this Sec. 8-9 shall be responsible for a civil infraction as set forth in City Code Sec. 1-11.
Section 2. SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct, and independent portion of this Ordinance, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
Section 3. REPEAL
All ordinances or parts of ordinances in con ict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
THIS ORDINANCE shall become effective immediately upon publication.
A true copy of this ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the of ce of the City Clerk at the Rochester Municipal Building, 400 Sixth Street, Rochester, Michigan, 48307, during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, except weekends and holidays.
Made and passed by the City Council of the City of Rochester, State of Michigan, this 28th day of April, 2025.
CITY OF ROCHESTER
A Michigan Municipal Corporation
By: _________________________________ Nancy Salvia, Mayor By: _________________________________ Lee Ann O’Connor, City Clerk
Published: 05/29/2025 Rochester Post
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Help Wanted General
Subject Matter Expert - Contact Physics and Tribology, Molex LLC, Rochester Hills, MI: Understand the contact mechanics/ physics, friction, wear and lubrication of separable interfaces to improve separable electrical/electronics connector interface performance. Telecommuting up to 1 day per week. International travel required up to 5%; Domestic travel required up to 15%. To apply, send resume to mlxjobs@kochind.com. Please include job number 172549 in the subject line.
0122-2522
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
Noresumesplease.
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Job Training/Education
CHARTER TOWNSHIP
OF CLINTON
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES
WATER & SEWER DIVISION
UTILITY WORKER
Permanent full-time Utility Worker position, $48,484 - $64,230 annually (40 Hours per week) includes beneft package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, 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.
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON
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.
Metro-Detroit, Lookatourworkat: andyscarpentryllc.com 248-376-0988
Lic/Insured/References
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Chimney Service
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*FenceInstallation *Decks*Landscape *TreeRemoval Wecoveryouroutdoor needs.FullyInsured. CALLNOW! 844-ALL-FENCE (844-244-3363) 248-830-3333
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998
*”STEVE'S SEAMLESSGUTTERS” Made&installedonthe spot.5”&6”Gutter Cleaning.Treetrimming, exteriorpainting, powerwashing. 586-778-3393 586-531-2111
GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI 313-656-9402
Handyman Services
3Sons
HandymanService 586-888-9031
Electrical,Plumbing, HVAC,Minor/Major Repairs,AnySizeJob. FreeEstimates 10%Discount
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN
HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling, Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCC'sAccepted. 586-822-5100
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN
HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling, Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCC'sAccepted. 586-822-5100
Home Improvement
GOLDENBUILT CONSTRUCTION Additions,Garages, Roofing,Siding,Basements,ConcreteWork, Foundations,Driveways, PorchesandSidewalks. Over40YrsExperience Licensed/Insured 586-948-4764
HOME REMODELING
HANDYMANWOW
Painting,Drywall, Powerwashing, SealCoating *Driveways*ParkingLots MinorPlumbing, Caulking,Shelving, CallForaFreeQuote! 248-755-0246
Hauling & Waste Removal
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall!Demolition Big&Small,Residential/ Commercial,Rubber WheelDumpsters-10,15, 20-Yards,Clean-outs, ConstructionMaterial, Small-Moving,Appliances,Furniture&More! Free-Est.Sen/Mil/Disc. 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
Hauling & Waste Removal
BURLYGUYS JUNKREMOVAL removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
Heating & Cooling
HEATMASTERS
HEATING&COOLING Springishere! $79.00/ACTune-ups, ACReplacement SpecialsNowThrough EndofMay. Call586-770-3233
Home Improvement
CLASSIC
REMODELINGLLC. -AllHomeRenovationsInterior/Exterior Residential/Commercial, Insured,QualityWork FreeEstimates Painting,Tiles,EpoxyFloors,DrywallRepairs, Carpentry 586-909-2078
Landscaping & Water Gardens
ALLTIMATE OUTDOORSERVICES
DrainageSystem Professionals Big/SmallJobs, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202
Kitchens,Baths, Mudrooms Licensed&Insured FreeEstimates-Call HomefrontServicesLLC 248-670-0507
Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 GUTTERCLEANING LEAFGUARDS Roofing,Siding, Gutter,Repair.Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops
MR.BACKSPLASH ·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES ·CUSTOMKITCHENS ·COUNTERTOPS *Granite*Quartz* ·CustomBathrooms ·TILEREPAIRS *FREEESTIMATES* 586-552-5416 mrbacksplash.com
SUPREMEOUTDOOR SPECIALISTS SpringClean-ups, Lawncare,Landscaping, Pavers,Walls,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, Mulching,Power-washing, Sprinklers.FreeEst. 586-727-3924 supremeoutdoor@ gmail.com
Lawn Maintenance 2025SPRING 586-260-5218
Commercial/Residential
*Landscaping *Decks *SpringClean-Ups *LawnCutting *LicensedFertilization *Aerating&Thatching VisitFacebook: BrightHorizonServicesInc.
Painting
2BROTHERS PAINTING CompleteInterior/Exterior WoodRepair, Powerwash, Free-Estimates CallFrank 248-303-5897
ReferencesAvailable
Gutters
Gutters
Painting
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
Painting (586)795-8122
ChrisCronin Painting& StainingInc. Professionalquality. Interior-exterior. Power-washing, decksealing.Insured, References.Free-Est. MC/VI/DC/AXaccepted.
ANDERSON Painting&Carpentry
CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
ANYONE'S PAINTER
Interior/ExteriorPainting
Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates,Insured. Call586-921-3654
WOWPAINTING
Interior/Exterior QualityPainting
DrywallRepairs,Remove Wallpaper,ExteriorWood Replacement,Epoxy Flooring.Ins./Free-Est. 248-990-5388 wowpainting00@ gmail.com wowpaintingmi.com
NEBOPAINTING ServiceAllYearRound Interior/Exterior WeMakeIt EasierForYou, AllNeedsAreMet! FreeEstimates Call 248-953-7807
VKPERFECTPAINTING
Interior/Exterior SpecializesinKitchen &Bathroom CabinetPainting. Drywall/Plaster/Repair Free-Est.26YearsExp. CallBill 313-433-9400 586-746-9846 vkperfectpainting.com
FARR'SPAINTING
Interior/Exterior Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates
CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
586.524.6752
ANDY'SPLUMBING
33+YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX
PLUMBERSCORP
586-210-0903
35-YearsExp.Seniors/ Military/Multi-TaskDisc. Free-Est.•DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures•SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters.Lic/Ins. apexplumbers corporation.com Lic#8111771
WATERWORK Plumbing.com
•DrainCleaning
•SewerCamera
•WaterHeaters
•SumpPumps
•BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable
Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
Plumbing
GREATLAKE PLUMBING
LicensedPlumber Re-piping,WaterHeaters, DrainCleaning,Plumbing Repairs,GasLines. SprinklerBackflow Testing,FastFriendly Service,Lic#8112407 586-823-9744 greatlakeplumb.com
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
AJʼsPRESSURE CLEANING& SEALCOATING
•StampedConcrete(removemilkyorcloudyfilm)
•ExposedAggregate •BrickPavers(resanding) Website: ajspressure cleaning.com 586-431-0591
Powerwashing
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 PREFERRED BROTHERSROOFING
•FullTear-off•Recover •ShingleRepair •Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
AA4DABLEROOFING Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! SPRING-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted. 586-822-5100
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE $225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial GutterCleaning Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 30-yrsexp.FamilyOwned 248-707-4851
Roofng
CHERRY CONSTRUCTION
Roofing,Gutters,Cement, RefinishingHardwood Floors,NewHomes, Remodels,Additions, Doors,Windows, Fencing,Decks, Kitchens,Bathrooms. 586-291-2647
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600
Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
Tree Service
BERGBROS.LLC. “FullyInsured, HighlyReferred.” SeniorDiscounts Tree-Removal,Stump Grinding,Tree-Trimming, Hedging,Shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free-Estimates (586)262-3060
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
OFFERINGS AROUND MICHIGAN
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.
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.
