FOOTBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH, PROJECTED STANDINGS /3A
Paraprofessional positions can be gateway into educational career
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON/FARMINGTON HILLS — Paraprofessionals, aka paraeducators, are needed across the Farmington Public School District and the state to provide much-needed support for teachers of students with special needs.
“Paraprofessionals really are individuals that we hire and provide training for in order for them to support our special education students or our students who have medical needs or reading needs,” said Dorene Forster, the principal of Visions Unlimited. “They’re really teacher assistants.”
In order to meet the need for parapros, FPS held its annual paraprofessional job fair July 26-27 at the Maxfield Education Center. Several district staff members were on hand to conduct immediate interviews.
During the job fair, candidates were also able to ask staff members questions about the positions before they apply, allowing candidates to have a clear understanding of the position and the terminologies used within the educational realm.
See CAREER on page 10A
After investigating a cellphone battery pack that exploded and caught fire, Farmington Hills Fire Department
Fire Marshal Jason Baloga helped launch an investigation that eventually led to a product being recalled.
Local fire marshal helps in national recall of unsafe cellphone battery charger
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON HILLS — A Farmington Hills fire marshal is credited with helping launch a nationwide investigation.
In February, the Fire Department received a call
about a cellphone booster battery pack exploding and catching fire.
Jason Baloga, a fire marshal with the department, said he wanted to personally oversee an investigation.
A resident was at home with his 2-year-old, and while doing dishes, the resident was charging a cell-
See BALOGA on page 14A
Lydia Moore, executive director of special education for Farmington Public Schools, and Dorene Forster, the principal of Visions Unlimited, interview a candidate for a parapro position during the job fair July 26 at the Maxfield Education Center in Farmington.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
SECOND FRONT PAGE
3A/ FARMINGTON PRESS • AUGUST 14, 2024
C & G NEWSPAPERS’ PROJECTED STANDINGS FOR OAA FOOTBALL
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
Home to two state champions last year — Southfield
A&T and Harper Woods — the Oakland Activities Association is propping itself up to be the conference to beat this year. Below is C & G Newspapers’ projected standings for the 2024-2025 OAA football season. Regular season and division records from last year are in parenthesis.
OAA Red Division
West Bloomfield (10-3, 3-2)
Lake Orion (10-1, 5-0)
Clarkston (6-6, 4-1)
Rochester Adams (6-4, 2-3)
Oxford (4-6, 1-4)
Rochester Hills Stoney Creek (3-6, 0-5)
Heading into the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament last year, the OAA Red was home to three potential Division 1 state championshipcaliber teams in West Bloomfield, Clarkston and Lake Orion.
That was until the league beat up on itself, and Clarkston, who finished second in the league, earned some revenge by eliminating Lake Orion, who won the league, from the playoffs.
West Bloomfield then eliminated Clarkston before coming up a game short of the Division 1 championship
See STANDINGS on page 6A
Players to watch in the OAA football league
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
C & G Newspapers sports reporter Jonathan Szczepaniak looks at players to watch in the Oakland Activities Association League.
Elisha Durham, West Bloomfield
A 50/50 ball is more like a 90/10 when it’s in the vicinity of Durham.
As a junior in 2023, Durham had a breakout campaign for the Lakers, racking up 41 receptions for 1,124 reception yards and 11 TDs.
West Bloomfield had an array of receivers with 2024 senior Nigel Dunton, 2025 senior Kamren Flowers and Durham all sharing the receptions, but Durham still found a way to separate himself.
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More often than not, when 2024 senior quarterback Reqez Nance found himself in trouble he’d take a deep shot to Durham. Having that kind of trust in a receiver speaks volumes to Durham’s playmaking capability.
Currently a three-star recruit (according to 247sports) with offers from various D1 colleges — such as the University of Wisconsin, the University of Toledo, Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University — another monster year from Durham should only result in more colleges looking his way.
There’s very few wide receivers who possess the type of hands Durham has, which is why he holds the rank as one of the top high school receivers in Michigan.
See PLAYERS on page 7A
Birmingham Groves senior Chris Little makes an incredible one-handed grab.
Photo by Donna Dalziel
West Bloomfield head coach Zach Hilbers looks on before a game last year.
Photo by Donna Dalziel
Farmington Hills recognizes employees
FARMINGTON HILLS — The city of Farmington Hills held its 47th Outstanding Employee Recognition and Service Awards at the Longacre House July 25.
The event celebrated employees for their excellence, dedication and service throughout 2023 to the city and community, according to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills.
Those who were recognized were nominated by their peers, based on criteria that included outstanding job performance, service to the public, rapport with co-workers and positive contributions to their departments and the city, according to the release.
Michael Presson, an information systems analyst in the city’s Central Services Department, was selected as Employee of the Year; Sean Beacome, a fire inspector with the city, was selected as Firefighter of the Year; Alexander Aquiline was selected as Police Officer of the Year; and Paul Cischke, a video production specialist in the Communications and Community Engagement Department, Brant Klassen, an accounting specialist in the Finance Department, Barbara Smrtka, the secretary to director of the Public Services Department, and James (Jimmy) Vayis, the facilities supervisor for the Special Services Department at The Hawk, were selected as the Outstanding Employee Award winners.
The event also acknowledged 58 employees who had “milestone” anniversaries in 2023, including the longest-serving employee, Elsie Hellner, a parks worker in the city’s Special Services Department.
— Mark Vest
FARMINGTON HILLS RESIDENT CHARGED IN FATAL SHOOTING
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
DETROIT — A Farmington Hills resident has been charged for a fatal shooting that took place in Detroit.
On July 13, at approximately 4:45 p.m., Detroit police officers were dispatched to the intersection of Cardoni Street and Robinwood Street for a reported shooting, according to a press release.
Upon their arrival, officers located Tavita Hunter, 23, of Detroit, on the grass suffering from a gunshot wound to the back.
Members of the Detroit Fire Department arrived at the scene and pronounced that Hunter was dead.
Brandon Butler, 17, of Farmington Hills, was charged in connection with the shooting.
“It is alleged that an altercation between the defendant and the victim escalated, and Defendant Butler produced and fired a handgun, fatally wounding Ms. Hunter, before fleeing the scene,” the release states.
Butler has been charged with first-degree murder and felony firearm.
He was arraigned in 36th District Court Aug. 1 and was given a $200,000 cash/surety bond and was ordered to have a GPS tether.
Butler was also ordered to be under house arrest.
A probable cause conference was scheduled for Aug. 13, with a preliminary examination to follow Aug. 19.
At press time, the defender’s office representing Butler had not returned a phone call seeking comment.
Man shot multiple times at apartment complex
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON HILLS — A suspect was apprehended after a shooting was reported at an apartment complex located near 12 Mile and Middlebelt roads July 27.
At approximately 2:30 a.m., the Farmington Hills Police Department responded to the 27000 block of Gateway Drive South, in the Retreat at Farmington Hills apartment complex, on a report of “family trouble.”
A 911 caller reported that a male was attempting to kick in the door of his ex-girlfriend’s apartment.
While officers were en route, the caller advised dispatchers that the situation had escalated and that the ex-boyfriend had shot the current boyfriend and fled the scene in his vehicle, according to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills.
Officers located and stopped the fleeing vehicle.
The suspect was identified as Sean McCombs, a 28-year-old resident of Detroit.
McCombs was reportedly armed with a loaded handgun.
In an interview with officers, he admitted to shooting the victim but claimed it was in self-defense, according to the release.
“Officers learned that McCombs was upset that his ex-girlfriend was seeing another man,” the release states. “He came to the apartment in the middle of the night and began kicking on the apartment door to retrieve children he has in common with
his ex-girlfriend. When she opened the door, a physical altercation ensued between McCombs and the new boyfriend. Ultimately, McCombs fired four shots at the man striking him in both hands and his hip.”
The victim, who is a 29-year-old resident of Farmington Hills, was treated for injuries and was transported to a hospital, where he was reportedly in stable condition.
Following an investigation, McCombs was arrested.
The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office authorized a four-count felony warrant charging McCombs with assault with intent to murder, felony firearm, malicious destruction of property, and driving with a suspended license.
He was arraigned at 47th District Court July 30.
A plea of not guilty was entered on his behalf, with bond set at $250,000 – 10% cash or surety.
An in-person exam has been scheduled for Sept. 18. McCombs’ attorney declined to comment when reached by phone.
Community members who would like to access resources to help prevent acts of violence are encouraged to contact the Farmington Hills Police Department or local agencies.
The Farmington Hills Police Department can be reached at (248) 871-2600.
McCombs
Standings
from page 3A
game, falling to OAA White’s Southfield A&T in the semifinals.
The top three teams are interchangeable, so the standings could shake out either way. For the sake of having a league champion, our projections favor West Bloomfield because of its returning cast of Kamren Flowers (WR), Elisha Durham (WR), Jay Gardenhire (OT), and Josh Tate (RB), but the Lakers matchup against Clarkston Sept. 27 will be one to watch.
To show how close it’s been, the Lakers are 7-9 against Clarkston since 2010 while posting a much more respectable 9-5 record against Lake Orion.
Adams, Oxford and Stoney Creek will try to do what they do best: make the top three teams sweat. Stoney Creek had onescore losses to both West Bloomfield and Clarkston, while Adams also posted a onescore loss to West Bloomfield during the regular season.
If one thing is for sure, there are no days off in the OAA Red.
OAA White Division
Birmingham Groves (6-4, 4-1)
Harper Woods (11-3, 3-2)
Southfield A&T (13-1, 5-0)
Rochester (3-6, 2-3)
Farmington (2-7, 1-4)
Bloomfield Hills (1-8, 0-5)
How about two state champions coming out of the OAA White? And they say the OAA Red is the one to beat.
Harper Woods graduated a top D1 college talent in Jacob Oden, a University of Michigan commit, but there’s still plenty of talent from their title-winning season with Dakota Guerrant (WR), Colby Bailey (ATH), Jevon Jones (DL) and Matthew McCraw (ATH) all returning.
As good as Harper Woods has been, the Pioneers are winless against Groves since joining the OAA in 2022, and Groves should only be stronger this year after returning the majority of its offensive and defensive weapons.
Groves, who finished second in the league last season, had its only league loss come at the hands of Southfield A&T, the eventual D1 state champion who had an abundance of D1 college talent.
Graduating the majority of its skill players on both sides of the ball, Southfield A&T is expected to drop a few spots, but it’s difficult justifying a defending state champion any further than third.
Rochester, Farmington and Bloomfield
MORE High School FOOTBALL COVERAGE AT CANDGNEWS.COM
Hills will look to play spoiler for the top three teams while also battling against each other.
OAA Blue Division
Birmingham Seaholm (9-2, 4-0)
Oak Park (3-6, 2-2)
North Farmington (4-5, 3-1)
Troy (5-4, 1-3)
Troy Athens (3-6, 0-4)
The OAA Blue could inevitably end up being the league with the most movement in the standings, which makes for some great football.
Our projected standings give Seaholm the benefit of the doubt as the two-time league champions (tied for first with Farmington in 2022), but there’s a lot of unknown with the OAA Blue heading into the year.
Seaholm obliterated the OAA Blue last year, outsourcing opponents 189-62 en route to an unbeaten league record, and the hope is that the well-oiled machine continues to run without all-Region talents, such as Granden (RB) and Colton Kinnie (QB) as the skill positions and Blake Baldner (OL) on the line.
Prior to last year, Seaholm was 0-6 against Oak Park since 2010. Oak Park will play host to this year’s matchup on Sept. 20.
North Farmington hopes its 4-2 stretch to end the year continues on this season after handling Troy and Troy Athens by a combined score of 46-13. The Raiders are 4-0 against Troy and Troy Athens since 2022, when the program rejoined the OAA Blue.
OAA Gold Division
Auburn Hills Avondale (9-2, 4-0)
Ferndale (4-5, 3-1)
Royal Oak (3-6, 2-2)
Pontiac (3-6, 1-3)
Berkley (0-9, 0-4)
A conference is only top-to-bottom strong if every division can bring something to the table, and the OAA Gold reserved itself a seat last year.
Auburn Hills Avondale made quick work of its league opponents and even crossed over to the Macomb Area Conference Gold to beat Warren Cousino and Warren Fitzgerald.
With the type of showing the Yellow Jackets put on in 2023, it’s impossible to not have them reclaim the top spot in the league
PLAYERS TO WATCH IN THE CHSL FOOTBALL LEAGUE AND C & G NEWSPAPERS PROJECTED STANDINGS FOR CHSL FOOTBALL
C & G Newspapers sports reporter Jonathan Szczepaniak looks at players to watch in the Catholic High School League, as well as C & G Newspapers’ projected standings for the Catholic High School League’s 2024-2025 CHSL football season — both regular season and division records from last year.
again.
As for Avondale’s league counterparts, Ferndale earned a MAC Gold win of its own by besting St. Clair Shores Lake Shore, and handled league business by beating Royal Oak by 19 points and taking care of Berkley.
Pontiac showed life early in the season and hopes to re-light its flame, but the only movement to potentially foreshadow is Ferndale and Royal Oak in the second and third spots.
Pontiac has suffered eight-straight losses to Royal Oak after beating them in 2011.
WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO THE UNITED STATES? Our Country Needs You to VOTE with us! For These Reasons
Individual Freedoms— God given liberties preserved against government intrusions. 2. Limited Government— Legitimate Government operates by Consent of the Governed. 3. Peace through Strength— First Obligation of the Federal government is Defense of our Nation. 4. The Rule of Law— A government of Laws, Not of Men
Fiscal Responsibility— Government must live within its means; the current crisis must be resolved. 6. Free Markets— Along with Competition are to be encouragement and government intervention and regulation are to be limited. 7. Human Dignity— Driven from men created in the images of GOD and measured only by the content of their character.
Players
from page 3A
Matteo Humbert, Rochester Adams
Having a nearly four-minute highlight tape for both offense and defensive plays should tell you all you need to know about Humbert and what he brings to the table.
Humbert may not have the college offers stacking up for him, but he has the skill-set and heart all college coaches are looking for.
Handling the bulk of the carries for the Highlanders offense and anchoring the linebacker core, Humbert does whatever is asked of him, and he does it with extreme efficiency.
He’s a gritty, north-and-south kind of runner with the ball in his hands, and he’s equally as physical when he’s going after a ball carrier, but can also drop back in coverage if needed.
Wherever the football is on the field, you’re guaranteed to see No. 39 right near it.
Hopefully, an impressive senior year throws some attention Humbert’s way, because it’s well deserved.
Chris
Little, Birmingham Groves
What can you say about the Grand Val-
ley State University commit other than he’s an absolute athletic freak?
Against Birmingham Seaholm last year, Little made one of the greatest catches you’ll ever see in a high school football game, running a fade route towards the corner of the back end zone and reaching up for a onehanded grab over a Seaholm defender.
The best part? That’s not even the position he earned first team all-State honors for. As a defensive back, he tallied seven interceptions to notch his career total at 17 now in only two seasons as a starter.
Little is a natural athlete with elite-level speed and playmaking ability, making him a defensive back with explosive closing speed who can wrap up on a tackle or lockdown any receiver.
On the offensive side, he tallied 620 receiving yards and 4 TDs this year. So whatever side of the ball you’re on, Little can make you pay with his skill-set.
Jordan Melton, Southfield A&T
There’s a lot of question marks surrounding Southfield A&T and its flurry of losses, from graduation to head coach Aaron Marshall now manning the sidelines for Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice, but the
See PLAYERS on page 9A
Peek Inside Your Health: Full Body MRI Screenings
Unveil Silent Issues Before Symptoms Arise
(Southfeld, MI) Full body MRI clinics have gained national attention lately, as TV personalities publicly share their personal full body scan experiences. One actress credits the scan for saving her life after doctors dismissed her unexplained pain for months. After various tests, including a CT scan, had “unremarkable” results, the pregnant actress became her own advocate, searched out a full body MRI clinic and discovered she had pancreatic cancer. Tanks to early detection the tumor was removed successfully.
As a general rule, when symptoms occur related to cancer, it usually has progressed to stage three or four. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screenings only cover about 29% of cancers with 71%
occurring outside of where doctors are able to screen. However, full body MRI scans can detect cancer in every organ from the top of the head through the pelvis and can detect it very early.
For a long time, full body MRI scans were available only in select areas outside of Michigan, requiring expensive fights like in Vancouver or California. However, this changed when a facility opened in Southfeld, making these screenings available to Metro Detroit residents.
“Our advanced MRI screening can detect cancers very early when they are as small as a pencil eraser and are more easily treatable. If cancer goes undetected, however, it can grow into stage three or stage four with difcult treatments. We can also identify
hundreds of conditions such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms,” stated the founder of the Southfeld clinic called Bionicc Body Screening.
MRI full body screenings are safe, non-invasive and emit zero radiation. Book in August to save $450.
Te primary focus of Bionicc Body Screening is to deliver peace of mind, ofering a comprehensive and detailed imaging of the body’s internal structures. Te ultimate hope is for excellent health. However, in the event that something is detected, the advanced screening aims to catch any potential issues at their earliest stages. Tis approach ofers the best opportunity for successful treatment outcomes, should the need arise.
Robert B., age 50, opted for a
full body scan from Bionicc Body Screening and a very small tumor was detected. He said, “It saved my life. Teir MRI found a kidney tumor that had been missed by a recent CT scan. I cannot recommend this service more.” Save $450 when you book a full body MRI appointment for the month of August. Learn more now by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening.com (Tis is a limited time ofer.) Schedule today at 1-833-BIONICC.
0301-2433
Photo by Donna Dalziel
West Bloomfield senior wideout Elisha Durham attempts to make a grab with two defenders around him.
NEWS & NOTES
Photos by Erin Sanchez
LOCAL PRIMARY RACES DECIDED
Farmington and Farmington Hills residents decided several local races Aug. 6.
In the Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 16 Democratic primary, William Miller’s 5,131 votes were enough to secure a nomination over Sean C. Thomas, who finished with 2,600 votes.
Miller is set to take on Republican Jacob Kovacs, who was unopposed in the primary, in the general election Nov. 5. The position is for a term of four years.
In a non-partisan selection, Tricia Dare secured the one spot that was available for the position of 6th Circuit Court Judge. She was credited with finishing with 79,608 votes to put her ahead of Nicole Sophia-Calhoun Huddleston (45,469) and Moneka Sanford (34,160).
The position is for a term of six years. For more election results, visit candgnews.com, “Elections.”
FREE CAR SEAT INSPECTIONS OFFERED
OFF TO HARVARD
FARMINGTON — Farmington Mayor Joe LaRussa and Fraser Mayor Michael Lesich were named as Taubman Fellows, according to a press release. As Fellows, both will attend the “prestigious program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government at Harvard University this summer,” the release states.
Administered through the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, the Taubman Fellowship for Executive Excellence “provides local public officials with demonstrated leadership an opportunity to broaden their awareness of effective approaches to public-sector problems.”
LaRussa, who was elected to Farmington’s City Council in 2017, became the city’s mayor last year.
“Attending this program will prepare me to serve out my current term with higher knowledge, skills, and abilities from a public service perspective and make me the best Mayor I can be,” LaRussa stated via the release. “I can use these skills beyond my own city as well as I continue my service to the region as a member of SEMCOG.”
FARMINGTON HILLS — The Farmington Hills Fire Department is scheduled to host a car seat installation and inspection 8 a.m.-noon Aug. 18 at Fire Station No. 3, located at 29260 Grand River Ave. The inspections are free with an appointment. The inspections are slated to be performed by nationally certified child car seat technicians from the city’s Fire Department, according to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills.
“We know that proper car seat installation can drastically reduce injuries to children in the event of a car crash, and it can be confusing to properly install a car seat since every vehicle is slightly different,” Farmington Hills Fire Chief Jon Unruh stated via the release. “Our staff is trained to confirm your child’s seat is installed properly, no matter what type of vehicle you drive. We just want to make sure your child is as safe as possible.”
Inspections take approximately 45 minutes, with no residency requirements, according to the release. To register, send an email to fdevents@fhgov.com.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Kamren Flowers (WR), West Bloomfield
Beau Jackson (QB), West Bloomfield
Tristan Hill (QB), Lake Orion
Ryan Rocheleau (WR), Lake Orion
Greyson Clark (ATH), Clarkston
Lachlan Tillotson (WR), Rochester Adams
Ryland Watters (QB), Rochester Adams
Luke Johnson (RB/LB), Oxford
Spencer Beckeman (OL), Rochester Hills Stoney Creek
Brandon Dobos Jr. (FB/LB), Rochester Hills Stoney Creek
Jevon Jones (DL), Harper Woods
Bryant Weatherspoon (OL/DL), Harper Woods
Colby Bailey (RB), Harper Woods
Matthew McCraw (LB), Harper Woods
Nick Hardy (WR), Birmingham Groves
Noah Sanders (RB), Birmingham Groves
Players
from page 7A
Southfield A&T defense should still be strong, courtesy of safety Melton.
A key member of the state championship-winning defensive unit in 2023, Melton led a defense that held one of the most prolific offenses in Michigan high school football, Belleville, to only 10 points at halftime to help win the school’s first-ever state title.
Melton has a natural nose for the ball and can drop back in coverage, which is a necessity for an OAA White league that can be pass-heavy.
From a leadership standpoint, Melton learned from guys like Dorian Freeman and Reggie Gardner on the defensive side, so he knows what is expected for this unit to click in 2024.
With Melton anchoring the defense along with some key returners, expect the Southfield A&T defense to hold its own.
Melton currently has offers from Wayne State University and Lawrence Technological University.
Penn Roberts, Birmingham Seaholm
Roberts simply embodies everything that Seaholm football is about, which is a blue-collar, hard-nosed brand of football.
As a linebacker, Roberts embraces con-
OTHER OAA PLAYERS TO WATCH: CANDGNEWS.COM
Mario Campoy-Lovasco (RB), Birmingham Groves
Avery Gach (OL/DL), Birmingham Groves
Kenneth Brooks (LB), Southfield A&T
Jaun Mitchell (WR), Southfield A&T
Jack Lower (RB/LB), Rochester
Daniel Vukaj (TE/LB), Farmington
Payton Parsons (WR/DB), Bloomfield Hills
Wesley Billings (K), Birmingham Seaholm
Ron’Dre Austion (DB), Oak Park
Brendon Rice (DL), North Farmington
Terrance James (WR), North Farmington
Jaielen Peacock (WR), Troy
Nathan Piggott (WR/DB), Troy Athens
Cooper Voeffray (WR/DB), Auburn Hills Avondale
Jaden Mills (ATH), Ferndale
Blaze Jeffries (WR/CB), Royal Oak
Khanye Donalson (QB), Pontiac
Benjamin Bullock (LB), Berkley
tact and has a natural nose for the ball on the defensive side.
When he’s a running back, the mentality doesn’t change. Roberts can either lay a block on a rushing defender to free up some time for his quarterback or space for his running back, or he can drag three defenders with him as he carries the ball.
After graduating a slew of talent on both sides of the ball, especially with lead ball carrier Granden Kinnie graduated, Roberts will be someone Seaholm heavily leans on this year on both sides of the ball.
Noah Oury, Troy
Standing at 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, Oury is a physical quarterback who can showcase just about any ability the position asks for on the football field.
A Grand Valley State University commit, Oury has the arm talent that translates to the next level, combined with the mobility to evade the pocket and either find an open receiver or run at a defender.
Troy was on the cusp of reaching its fourth-consecutive state playoff last year after starting 3-0, but a rocky finish saw the Colts slip to 5-4, a tough record compared to the 7-3 and 8-2 record the Colts had the two seasons prior.
With Oury under center, Troy is never out of a game as long as the receivers are still running and the offensive line is still standing.
Career
Parapro positions are full time and generally do not require anything more than a high school diploma or a general education degree. There are a few positions that require additional certifications, but the district will pay for that for those who need it.
“We want people who first and foremost love working with students,” said Lydia Moore, the executive director of special education for Farmington Public Schools. “We want people who are people people, so they like to work with people. We are looking for people who like to learn and grow — so, that growth mindset. We don’t expect people have all the instructional skills, because that’s what teachers have in their programs. What we want are people who work well with others, believe in teamwork, are willing to grow and learn and just have a passion for making a difference in the lives of people with special needs.”
The job fair allows the district the opportunity to make the community aware of the positions as well as the need, which is countywide, according to Forster.
“The need is always there, and it’s not a job that people are truly aware of. When you think about schools, you think about teachers, but you don’t think about paraeducators,” said Forster. “Paraeducators are like bus drivers in the fact that they’re essential components that help us support our students, but they’re not always a recognized folks in their level of importance. So, (the job fair) gives us a way to reach out to the community to let them know (about parapros).”
Through the job fair, the district was
able to fill nine of 15 positions available this fall. They are continuing to move through the hiring process to fill the remaining six positions. Hired paraprofessionals will receive a full week of training before the school year begins, as well as training throughout the school year.
“All in all, we believe the event was a huge success,” said Moore.
Moore said the parapro provides adult support for some kids who need assistance to learn and/or access and participate in the curriculum. She said parapro positions vary depending on the individual needs of each specific child. Some parapros work specifically with an individual child and travel from class to class with them, while others remain with a specific program to provide assistance.
Forster said the parapro position is considered an entry level position into education. She said it often opens the gateway to a career in education, as it did for her. Forster explained that she initially got a degree in human resources, and after taking a position as a parapro, she found that she had a passion for education and went back to school to get a masters in education and special education. She said she always worked “helping” positions, but was attracted to the parapro position because of its daytime hours and holidays off.
“It’s hard to describe what a paraeducator does, but it can be a very, very fulfilling role,” said Forster. “For me what was so fulfilling was seeing students be able to become independent.”
Moore and Forster said that the positions also provide parents the opportunity to have work hours that correlate with their children’s school schedule.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Farmington Public Schools administrators and educators conduct interviews for parapros during a job fair at the Maxfield Education Center in Farmington July 26.
Family Caregiver Connections Event Helps People Caring for an Older Loved One Find Help, Resources
AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services is hosting an event to help family caregivers connect with resources and learn more about caregiving topics — like legal issues surrounding caregiving or communicating with a loved one with dementia.
Family Caregiver Connections:
Learn, Link & Lunch is on tap from 10 am-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.
A $10 entrance fee covers a light breakfast and boxed lunch, along with a program that features two dynamic speakers who will talk about their experiences in the caregiving trenches.
WDIV/TV-4 anchor Christy McDonald will provide the keynote address. She lost her husband
Jamie Samuelsen, a Detroit sportscaster, to colon cancer in 2020.
McDonald will speak on “Hope, Grief and the Unknown: A Caregiver’s Journey” about her experience and what helped her through it. She’ll help caregivers embrace their own tough and beautiful moments - what makes us laugh and what gives us hope.
Jim Mangi, PhD, will speak about caring
for his wife, a fellow scientist who developed Alzheimer’s disease in her late 50s. Mangi is a sought-after speaker who is often called upon to share his experience caring for his wife for the last 16 years. In his role as a volunteer community educator with the Alzheimer’s Association, he will speak on effective communications with people who have dementia. Mangi’s talk will include how to manage behaviors and how to recognize when more help is needed.
Mangi also works with Area Agencies on Aging in his role as founder and chair of Dementia Friendly Saline, a nonprofit that helps persons dealing with dementia live their best lives in their communities, with less difficulty and more dignity.
Attorney Jason Tower will also be on hand to talk about important legal documents caregivers should have.
Participants may also browse caregiver-focused exhibitor tables throughout the event and get onsite help from the AgeWays Resource Center team.
“We know that supporting family caregivers is critical to caring for the older adults in our region.
Family caregivers can’t do it alone. They need information and resources,” said AgeWays Director of Communications Kathleen Yanik. “The event is all about helping caregivers connect with resources and get the help they need.”
To register for the event, visit YouAreACaregiver.org . You can also call 800-852-7795 if you have trouble registering online. Proceeds from the event will benefit the AgeWays Holiday Meals on Wheels Program.
Parking is free.
NOTE: If cost is a barrier, a fee waiver may be available. Please contact communications@ageways.org or 248-6065798 for more information.
Are you providing support to an aging family member or friend? You are a caregiver. Join us for an event made just for you! Saturday, October 5, 2024 | 10am - 1:30pm
Suburban Collection Showplace, Legacy Ballroom 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi Parking is free
Hear from Detroit TV personality Christy McDonald as she shares her personal caregiving journey. This event also features expert presentations on legal topics and Alzheimer’s care, resources from 20 senior- and caregiver-focused organizations, and onsite help from AgeWays Resource Specialists.
TV Personality Christy McDonald, WDIV Channel 4, Lunchtime Keynote
Jim Mangi, volunteer Educator, Alzheimer’s Assoc. Speaks on caring for loved one w/dementia
Novi resident Robert Fridenberg purchased his 1972 DeTomaso Pantera three years ago. The 1972 DeTomaso Pantera is painted mandarin copper metallic. Cruising Hines Drive in Wayne County is a favorite spot for Fridenberg.
‘It feels almost like a race car’
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — In the mid-1990s, the Woodward Dream Cruise in Oakland County was officially established, giving classic car owners the chance to relive the heyday of cruising the avenue in their souped-up vehicles, muscle cars and vintage models.
Novi resident Robert Fridenberg has attended the
Dream Cruise many times over the years, but his cruising days began long before — in 1979 — when he and a pal regularly drove up and down Woodward Avenue in his buddy’s “hopped up” 1976 Pontiac Trans Am.
They spent most of their Saturday nights cruising to the tunes of Journey, ELO and the Cars playing on the radio. The young adults — who grew up across the street from each other in Southfield — often stopped at the Northwood Shopping Center at Woodward and 13 Mile Road in Royal Oak.
Retired Ford engineer says driving Pantera is an event
“It had a huge parking lot,” Fridenberg recalled. “Back in the day, that place was full of hot rodders. That’s where we hung out, met girls and met up with some of our buddies.”
The following year, the duo were back at cruising altitude and that’s how Fridenberg met his future wife, Chris. She knew Fridenberg’s friend first, and when the couple married 33 years ago, he was best man at their wedding.
Three years ago, Fridenberg purchased a 1972 DeTo-
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
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phone battery pack made of lithium-ion batteries.
“It overheated and exploded right next to him,” Baloga said. “It caught fire while he was doing dishes. (He) swept it into the sink and drowned it in some water. So with that story we wanted to do our fire investigation.”
The fire was out when crews arrived, and it caused minimal damage and no injuries. Baloga notified the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission nonetheless to determine if there were similar complaints and if a recall was needed.
Angie Ott, a safety investigator for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission began to work on the case, and last month, approximately five months into the investigation, Baloga learned that the product had been taken off of the market.
“She was able to work the case through her agency and ultimately ended up taking a faulty product off of the market, preventing any further injuries or fires throughout the community or even the country,” Baloga said. “We were able to confirm that there was a thermal event in that battery pack, and they used significant lab analysis to further study that product to determine if it was being used properly (and) if it had the correct charger. I believe they also conducted a field investigation at the location to rule out any other potential causes or anything that would cause a failure of that battery pack other than a manufacturer issue.”
The product, the Baseus Magnetic Wireless Charging Power Bank, was connected to at least 39 reported fires, 13 burn injuries and $20,000 in property damage, according to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills.
The product has sold over 130,000 units on Amazon and similar online marketplaces, the release states.
Career
from page 10A
“Being a paraeducator is really a wonderful opportunity for people to explore education and see the vast array of opportunities that one can teach in,” said Forster. “It also provides an opportunity for moms and dads to work the same schedule as their children do.”
Parapro positions, as with any type of educator or support staff position, allow people the opportunity to develop relation-
“Team members like Fire Marshal Baloga who take the time to report these types of incidents make a huge impact on the mission of CPSC and their communities,” Ott stated via email. “Consumers in Michigan and across the country have Fire Marshal Baloga and his collaboration efforts with CPSC to thank for their safety.”
Ott went to the Farmington Hills Fire Department Aug. 1 to thank him in person.
“We get a lot done through networking, and I think this was a special case where that Consumer Product Safety Commission investigator took time out of her day to thank us, so it’s worth showcasing,” Baloga said.
Baloga said lithium-ion batteries are part of daily life, and many fire chiefs and marshals are noting that fires are burning hotter and faster than they did in the past.
“So we’re trying to gather a lot of information on this to track it, but this is actually a combination of efforts between local, state — with the state fire marshal helping us gather data — and now a federal resource as well, with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission,” Baloga said. “Even if it’s a small battery pack that has an issue, we really want to know about it, be able to identify that (and) collect the data to potentially take faulty products off the street. With the batteries, a lot are safe, but if you don’t utilize them properly – for example if you’re trying to charge a damaged battery pack –that could cause an issue, because the battery pack is already swelling or it smells.”
Baloga recommends people purchase devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory and always follow the manufacturer’s suggestions.
He also suggests not mixing and matching batteries and charging cords.
“Don’t just grab any old charging cord and plug it into your battery charger,” Baloga said. “(It) may not be rated for that specific battery, so that’s been a problem (that) can also occur.”
ships with students, and to connect with and support the community as a member of the educational team, Forster said.
Moore said they are always looking for paraprofessionals, as the need is constantly changing. She said they could have more students enter the district at any given time who would require a parapro. She said they are also. People who are interested in being a parapro but who do not have full time availability are welcome to apply as a sub.
To apply for a paraprofessional position, visit the district’s website, farmington. k12.mi.us.
Don’t charge devices under pillows, on beds or couches; keep batteries at room temperature; don’t overchare them; and don’t place them next to a large quantity of combustibles.
Don’t charge a device if there is an odor or a change in the product’s color, if it starts to swell or change shape, or if it begins to leak or make odd noises.
“If you do have a bad battery, take it outside; don’t bring it back inside,” Baloga said. “And then you can call your local community on proper disposal. We don’t want that battery ending up in the trash. That can cause other issues.”
Potential resources for disposal include Oakland County NoHAZ, (248) 858-5656, and the Resource Recovery and Recycling Authority of Southwest Oakland County, (248) 208-2270, or call the Oakland County Health Division, (248) 858-1280.
Call 911 in case of a fire, and be sure to
BUSINESS CLIP
have a working smoke alarm on each level of a home, including in bedrooms.
Residents can get a free smoke alarm from the Farmington Hills Fire Department, and staff can install them. Call (248) 8712800.
Baloga said that having a potentially dangerous product removed from the marketplace is a “success story.”
“It’s a conglomeration of effort between (the) state fire marshal’s office, us at the local level and then federal resources,” he said. “It boils down to the people of the community also notifying us of the event. … It was a home run on this one for us to get a faulty product out of people’s homes or off the street.”
To report unsafe products, visit saferproducts.gov/IncidentReporting. To search active recalls, visit cpsc.gov/Recalls. To receive new recall notifications, visit cpsc.gov/ Newsroom/Subscribe.
Director celebrates fourth anniversary at Farmington Family YMCA
In May, Douglas Edwards celebrated his fourth anniversary as the executive director of the Farmington Family YMCA, 28100 Farmington Road. Edwards said he is honored to lead this branch of the more than 170-year-old organization.
“At the Farmington Family Y, we welcome all people and strengthen communities by connecting people to a purpose and their potential,” he said in a statement.
A Farmington Hills resident, he has worked for the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit for more than 12 years.
Call (248) 553-4020, go to ymcadetroit.org/locations/Farmington, or find them on Facebook and Instagram.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Angie Ott, a safety investigator with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, presents Farmington Hills Fire Department Fire Marshal Jason Baloga with a certificate for the role he played in helping to launch an investigation into a potentially unsafe product.
Pantera
maso Pantera. He drives it every chance he can. Fridenberg first became familiar with the Pantera as a kid. When he headed to the bus stop each morning for school, he’d walk past a neighbor’s yellow-hued model.
Several years back, Fridenberg owned a Porsche 911 Turbo, but after a while he wanted a different car. When looking to replace it, he turned to someone he knew who owned an exotic car consignment business. He hadn’t planned on owning a Pantera but soon changed his mind after spotting the vehicle on the business website.
“When I saw this, it kind of rekindled the memory,” Fridenberg said. “Having worked for Ford, the fact it has a Ford motor in it just kind of got me excited to arrange to buy one. We arranged a swap.”
Fridenberg’s Pantera was originally red, but a previous owner painted it mandarin copper metallic.
“It’s a Ford color. It was used on Mustangs and SUVs in the early 2000s,” Fridenberg said. “This color really makes the car pop. The metallic makes the lines show up more.”
The Pantera has the original body, but because the car sat for so long, Fridenberg did a lot of work to get it road-ready.
“When the Panteras were originally made and developed, the quality wasn’t very good. So over the years a lot of owners had to do upgrades,” he said. “I pretty much had to fix every system on the car. The cooling system had problems with overheating. The horns didn’t work. The windows didn’t go up and down. The seats wouldn’t go back and forth. The brakes had to be rebuilt.”
With his automotive knowledge, Fridenberg was able to overhaul the car. He has also connected with other Pantera owners through clubs online, and has read up a lot on the car’s history. According to his research, the midengine sports car was made in Italy as a joint venture with the Ford Motor Co.
“As a retired Ford engineer, I was honored to purchase this car and show it off, as it is a unique part of Ford’s history,” he said. “The design is over 50 years old, but it’s still very modern.”
It was a lot of work, but it was worth it. He takes it out often, including in the wintertime if the weather is favorable and the roads are dry. It always draws interest at local car shows.
“Bakers of Milford is a big one, and I
take it to some of the cars and coffees around here,” the classic car owner said.
But he’d rather drive than sit. One favorite spot is cruising Hines Drive in Wayne County.
“It’s slow, but it’s a nice drive to go on. I usually go up to Newburgh Lake or I’ll go as far as Ann Arbor Trail with it,” he said.
“There’s a nice road if you take Seven Mile west, it dead-ends at Whitmore Lake. That road has a lot of nice twisties. It’s a beautiful ride.”
Because the Pantera is so low to the
BUSINESS CLIP
ground, “it feels almost like a race car.” Fridenberg drives it during non-peak traffic times.
“It’s loud, it’s hot, there’s no electronics. It’s more like an event when you go for a drive, because you worry something is going to go wrong,” he said. “It just makes it more of an experience to take it out and drive it. People will pull up next to me. I can see them on their phones. They’ll roll their windows down and say, ‘What is that? Is that a Pantera?’ Everywhere you go someone wants to talk about it.”
Graves is a master’s-level psychologist from the Michigan School of Psychology in Farmington Hills. He specializes in men’s issues, social anxiety, shyness, “small talk skills” and depression, and can work in person and via telehealth with clients.
Call (313) 338-8130, or visit www.kingandassociatespsych.com or 32770 Grand River Ave. in Farmington.
0269-2433
Jeffrey Graves joins staff at King & Associates
Jeffrey Graves, MA, TLLP, joined the therapy team at King & Associates in Farmington.
Homes For Sale
HOMEFORSALE BYOWNER 34817DrydenDr. SterlingHeights,48312. CapeCod,4/Bedrooms, 11/2Bath,LivingRoom, FamilyRoom,LargeKitchen,FinishedBasement, NaturalWoodBurning Fireplace.BrickPaved DrivewayFor6+Vehicles 2-1/2CarGarage. $275,000 586-279-3360 Willingtoworkwith buyer'sagent.Absolutely NOlistingsolicitations!
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Help Wanted General
Renesas Electronics America Inc., in Farmington Hills, MI is in need of: Sr. Mgr, Field Apps Engr (YO0801) Resp for mangng, leading & mentorng the Digital Field App Team. Suprvse a team of 7 field app engrs. Refer to job#. Apply: us-hr-staffing@dm.renesas.com 0266-2433
Help Wanted General DIRECTCARE WORKERPOSITION Full/Part-time,Morning Shift,Weekends. Assistingresidentsina grouphomeinHazel Park.DCWtrained preferred,Butwilltrain. Call313-377-4486
Antiques & Collectibles BUYING Coins,SportCards& StampsCollections Top$$$ Call248-471-4451
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IT Professionals: Ent. Lvl to Sen. Lvl Sftwr Dvlprs. are needed for our Farmington Hills, MI Office. May req. traveling. Send resume, Cvr Ltr., & Sal. Req. to Polygon IT Solutions LLC, 24155 Drake Rd, Ste 109, Farmington Hills, MI 48335. 0291-2433
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SAFE Step.NorthAmerica's#1Walk-InTub. Comprehensivelifetime warranty.Top-of-the-line installationandservice. NowfeaturingourFREE showerpackageand $1600Offforalimited time!Calltoday!Financingavailable.CallSafe Step1-855-861-4501
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Carpentry
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FencingNeeds. CustomWood/Gates, Chain-link,Vinyl, Aluminum,Steeland Composite.Insured. CallForFreeEstimate 313-828-4062
Gutters
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998
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Handyman Services
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ERRANDS IPickup,Deliver (toyourHOME, Office).-Groceries, Food,Retail(no medicine).CALLJake TODAY-($40hourly) 248-571-2826
Hauling & Waste Removal ***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall! DemolitionBig&Small Residential/Commercial RubberWheelDumpsters-10,15,20-Yards, Clean-outs,Construction Material,Small-Moving, Appliances,Furniture& More!LowestRates!!! Free-Estimates Senior/MilitaryDiscounts 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
ABLEJUNK REMOVALAND DUMPSTERS Since1991. 5-starGooglereviews. Driveway-safedumpster trailers.Fullyinsured. Junkremovalexperts. 248-333-3933 ablejunk.com
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**CLUTTERGUY'S** Removal-Experts Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices Garage/Storage-Areas EfficientCourteous Workers Reasonable-Rates Free-Estimates NEEDCLUTTER REMOVED? LETUSDOTHEWORK! 586-258-6672
Home Improvement
A-1PETROLERE CONSTRUCTION Kitchen,Bath,Basement, Remodeling,Decks, Interior/ExteriorPainting AndRepairs.WeAlso OfferHandymanServices Licensed/Insured 586-954-2708
Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 Roofing,Siding, GuttersandMore! Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
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Painting
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
AUG. 14 Family movie night: Free showing of “Trolls Band Together: Sing-Along Edition,” bring blanket and dinner/snack, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Farmington Community Library, 23500 Liberty St. in Farmington, (248) 553-0321, farmlib.org
AUG. 16-17
Woodward Dream Cruise: Officially held 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 17, partic-
ipating cities along 16-mile radius of M-1 include Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Huntington Woods, Berkley, Royal Oak, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township and Pontiac, more events for both days at woodwarddreamcruise.com
AUG. 17
Adult laser tag: After-hours event for ages 18 and older, 7-9 p.m., Farmington Community Library, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills, registration and waiver required, (248) 553-0300, farmlib.org
AUG. 24
Pollinator festival: Learn about pollinators and how to help, plus hands-on activity stations and honey for sale, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Marshbank Park, 2805 Hiller Road in West Bloomfield, wbparks.org
AUG. 29
West Bloomfield/Farmington Senior Expo: Connect with 50-plus organizations specializing in assistance and care, also free health screenings, prize drawings, giveaways and refreshments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Jewish Community Center of Metro Detroit, 6600 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield, (248) 524-4868, facebook.com/SeniorExpoUSA
AUG. 29-SEPT. 2
Michigan State Fair: Activities include live music and entertainment, midway rides and games, agriculture and livestock showcases, Shrine Circus, Beginning of Life exhibit, competitions for giant pumpkins, home brewing, baking, singing and more, 5K, racing pigs and Rock-NRoll K-9’s, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 29-30, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 31-Sept.
1 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 2, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi, michiganstatefairllc.com
SEPT. 7
Spaulding Scramble: Golf fundraiser supporting Spaulding for Chil-
CLASS REUNIONS
Franklin School - all alumni and family/friends: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 1 at Franklin Historical Museum, 26165 13 Mile Road, open house 2-4 p.m. at former Franklin School (now Huda School & Montessori), 32220 Franklin Road, and happy hour 4-6 p.m. at Franklin Community Association Park, 26495 Carol Ave., RSVP for happy hour by noon Aug. 31 at fcamichigan.org/form/m/284879
Cousino High School Class of 1969: 55-year reunion, classes of 1967-1971 also welcome, 7 p.m. Sept. 6, Roger’s Roost, 33262 Schoenherr Road in Sterling Heights, RSVP to Larry Wilk at lwilk@ comcast.net
Mount Clemens High School — all alumni: Cash food and
dren (child welfare agency), 7:30 a.m. registration and light breakfast, 8:30 a.m. shotgun start, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. lunch at turn, and 1:30-3 p.m. dinner and awards, Farmington Hills Golf Club, 37777 11 Mile Court, (947) 224-8467, cgist@spaulding.com, events.golfstatus. com/event/2024-spaulding-scramble
ONGOING
Farmers market: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays through early November, Riley Park, 33113 Grand River Ave. in Farmington, facebook.com/ FarmingtonMarket
• 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays through October, Ambrose Public Safety Campus, 1499 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake, walledlake.us
• 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through end of December, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford, (248) 858-5495, ocmarket@oakgov.com, oakgov.com
Splash pad: Open daily 10 a.m.-8 p.m. until Sept. 2, Heritage Park, 24915 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills, (248) 699-6700, specialservices@fhgov.com, facebook.com/fhspecialservices
Summer concerts: 7 p.m. Aug. 15 (Farmington Chorus), Heritage Park, 24915 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills, (248) 473-1850,
YOUR OWN
With the same link, click and sign in using your Google or Facebook information, or easily create a CitySpark account.
Input the details, upload a photo and select “Review Changes,” then “Submit and Finish.” Events should appear online within 2 hours, and will appear in print as space permits. There’s no limit as to how many you can submit.
refreshments, 5 p.m. Sept. 13, Rec Bowl, 40 Crocker Blvd. in Mount Clemens, contact Ron Hiestand at (586) 463-6386 or drron82@ yahoo.com with questions
Osborn High School Class of 1974: 50-year reunion includes dinner and open bar, 6-11 p.m. Sept. 20, Blossom Heath Inn, 24800 Jefferson Ave. in St. Clair Shores, osborn1974.com
Grosse Pointe North High School Class of 1974: 50-year reunion includes cash bar, food stations, photo booth and GPN gift, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 21, Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, 788 Lake Shore Road in Grosse Pointe Shores, also casual gathering 7 p.m. Sept. 20, WaterMark Bar and Grille, 24420 Jefferson Ave. in St. Clair Shores, grossepointenorth1974.com
also 7-9 p.m. Aug. 16 (Steely Dan tribute Major Dudes), Aug. 23 (The Paisely Fogg) and Aug. 30 (Linda Rondstadt tribute Just One Linda), Riley Park, 33113 Grand River Ave. in Farmington, (248) 699-5114, facebook.com/DowntownFarmington
Lunch Beats in Riley Park: Eat and see live music noon Wednesdays in August, Sundquist Pavilion, 33113 Grand River Ave. in Farmington, (248) 699-5114, facebook.com/DowntownFarmington
Farmington Cruisin The Grand Car Show: Also door prizes, 50-50, music and snacks, 4-7 p.m. Mondays through mid-September (weather permitting), Village Commons, 32780 Grand River Ave., find the group on Facebook
Michigan Renaissance Festival: New activities include House of Dragons, Barbi Mermaid, and crow’s nest and barrel rides, themed weekends include Pirates & Pups Aug. 17-18, Highland Fling Aug. 2425, Vikings Invasion Aug. 31-Sept. 2, Wonders of the World Sept. 7-8, Shamrocks & Shenanigans Sept. 14-15, Harvest Huzzah Sept. 21-22, and Festival Friday and Sweet Endings Sept. 27-29, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., 12600 Dixie Highway in Holly, michrenfest.com
Health workshops: For ovarian cancer support, diabetes prevention, nutrition education and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth.digitalsignup.com
SOUTHFIELD — At 1:30 p.m. July 11, a guest heard a knock on the door of her hotel room in the 27000 block of Northwestern Highway.
When the guest opened the door, there was a man with a gun pointing at her.
The guest ran out of the room and to the front desk, and the gunman fled the area. Nothing was taken and no one was injured during the incident.
Guitar stolen from car
SOUTHFIELD — Someone had their guitar stolen from their vehicle between 1:30 and 9:40 a.m. July 8 in the 26000 block of Berg Road, according to a police report.
$1K stolen in home invasion
SOUTHFIELD — Between 9 a.m. and 11:34 p.m. July 13, a resident discovered that her front door had been damaged, according to a police report. Approximately $1,000 in cash was taken from the home, located in the 26000 block of West 12 Mile Road.
Witness reports car stolen
SOUTHFIELD — A caller told Southfield police that they observed four to five males break out of a window of a 2023 Kia Forte at 12:37 a.m. July 14 in the 25000 block of Grodan Drive. The caller said the men started the car and left.
Police apprehend car thief
SOUTHFIELD — A 2021 Mazda CX-9 was stolen from the 28000 block of Franklin Road at 9:38 p.m. July 11. Officers located the stolen vehicle as it was leaving the immediate area, and a chase ensued.
The chase resulted in the suspect exiting the vehicle and fleeing on foot, but officers apprehended him.
Vehicle theft outside restaurant
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 9 p.m. July 12 and 3 a.m. July 14, an unknown person stole the complainant’s vehicle from his parking spot in the street at Hop Cat at 430 S. Main St.
Intoxicated driver found asleep outside Sunoco
TROY — Officers on patrol saw a suspicious vehicle at the Sunoco gas station at 5012 Rochester Road at 3:18 a.m. July 12.
The business was closed and the 2020 Ford F-150 was along the curb outside the front entrance. The vehicle was
Officers awoke the driver, a 56-year-old Macomb man. While speaking with him, they noted that his eyes were bloodshot and glassy, his speech was slurred, and there was an odor of intoxicants emitting from his person.
The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, and the officers noted that he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of a 0.14% blood alcohol content.
He was arrested and transported to the Troy police lockup, where he agreed to submit to a chemical breath test, with a result 0.175%. He was issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol content of 0.17% or more.
Fraudulent U.S. Immigration letter results in check scam
TROY — In December 2023, a Troy resident reportedly received a letter supposedly from U.S. Immigration, demanding a check payment of $137.20.
The resident sent the check to the address provided, but did not notice it had not been deposited.
In July, the resident was notified by their bank about an overdraft alert. Upon contacting their bank, the resident discovered an unknown suspect had altered the check, changing the payee and increasing the amount to $9,500.
Shoplifting incident reveals possession of illegal substance
TROY — On July 19, at 11:05 a.m., police officers were notified by Kohl’s loss prevention officers of a retail fraud in progress and responded to the store at 500 John R Road.
The suspect, a 42-year-old Detroit man, was observed exiting the store with a duffel bag full of unpaid merchandise. Officers detained him, and he was escorted back to the security office.
Loss prevention officers inventoried the stolen merchandise and found 24 items worth $1.011.24 total. During a pat-down of the man, officers located a glass crack pipe in his pants pocket.
The suspect was arrested and transported to the Troy police lockup facility. During the booking process, lockup staff observed a brown powdery substance in the suspect’s sock. The substance later tested positive for heroin.
The suspect was charged with retail fraud and possession of a controlled substance.
Inebriated driver found slumped over in 7-Eleven parking lot
TROY — Officers were dispatched to the 7-Eleven at 3982 Crooks Road after a caller reported a tan
the driver appeared to be slumped over the center console at 1:41 a.m. July 18.
Upon arrival, officers knocked on the vehicle’s window and awoke the driver. While speaking with her, officers noted a strong odor of intoxicants emanating from the vehicle.
The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, and the officers noted she performed poorly. She submitted to a preliminary breath test, with a result of a 0.185% blood alcohol content.
The driver, a 47-year-old West Bloomfield woman, was arrested. During the impound of her vehicle, officers noted both the front and rear passenger tires were flat.
The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate charges.
Suspect
fraudulently orders products using another person’s account
TROY — A resident of Dorchester Road reported July 13 that an unknown suspect gained access to his Amazon account.
The suspect ordered $450 worth of products to be delivered to an address that the resident was unfamiliar with.
The resident became aware of the fraud when he received an email from Amazon notifying him that his purchases had been delivered.
Attempted Vehicle Theft
NOVI — A man parked his rental car in a lot on Haggerty Road at 5 p.m. July 15, and when he returned to the vehicle at 7 a.m. the next day, he found that the rear passenger side window of the Dodge had been broken out and that some of the electrical components under the glove box had been tampered with. When officers arrived, they noted shattered glass inside the vehicle and on the ground. Officers also said in the report that a control module under the glove box had been pulled out and “obviously” tampered with. The center console tray had also been taken. Police searched the area but there were no cameras that would have recorded the incident.
Police make arrests for alleged fraud
NOVI — A man and a woman reportedly were caught making fraudulent transactions at 8:25 p.m. July 18 at Walmart in Novi. The couple was seen at the self-checkout attempting to commit fraud with an exchange of gift cards. In order to prevent the couple from leaving, the police officer handcuffed both of them pending investigation.
After viewing the security footage, police advised the couple that they were under arrest for fraud. They
released with a court date.
Purse snatched
MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, an 85-year-old Troy resident had a purse stolen from a shopping cart in the 32000 block of John R Road between 4 p.m. and midnight July 13. Police were investigating.
AirPods stolen
BERKLEY — A 38-year-old Hazel Park man was suspected of retail fraud July 8 at a cellphone store at 27861 Woodward Ave.
According to the report, police were called to a T-Mobile store at 12:42 p.m. July 9 for a report of a larceny the day before. The manager told police a man came in and purchased items on his T-Mobile account. It was discovered after the man left the store that a pair of Apple AirPods
Burglary at Berkley business