PROPER PLANNING TAKES SENIORS ABROAD /10A
Community welcomes new amenities at Sylvan Glen Lake Park
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — Officials and residents gathered to celebrate additions to Sylvan Glen Lake Park during a ribboncutting ceremony Sept. 5.
“It really is fantastic,” Mayor Ethan Baker said. “I would say it’s like the best of what Birmingham has
and what Troy offers … and I’m so thrilled to have it.”
Sylvan Glen Lake Park, 5501 Rochester Road, is the largest of the 10 neighborhood parks in Troy, spanning about 40 acres. This includes a 16-acre lake and walking trails.
Officials say that its size, amenities and potential for future develop-
During a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Sylvan Glenn Lake Park Sept. 5, families and officials celebrated the addition of new grant-funded play structures and other amenities. The park is the largest of Troy’s 10 neighborhood parks. Officials say its size and amenities may qualify it for future reclassification as a community park.
Local coach inducted into Hall of Fame
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — Gary Fralick, a basketball coach at Troy High, is one of 14 high school coaches to be inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
The MHSCA, founded on the campus of Central Michigan University in 1954, has nearly 12,000 members representing 18 sport-related associations. The Hall of Fame spans the hallway of the old Rose Arena entrance at CMU.
Fralick said in an email that he’s thrilled to be selected for induction.
“This honor is only possible because of the encouragement and support of my family, friends, co-coaches, administrators, and student/athletes that I have had the pleasure of coaching over the years,” Fralick said. “I feel so fortunate to coach at Troy for the past 37 years!”
Fralick
Photos by Liz Carnegie
SECOND FRONT PAGE
Artisans to demonstrate their craft at upcoming fair
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — On Sept. 27, the Troy Historic Village will welcome visitors for a special event called “Handcrafted: A Traditional Trades and Crafts Fair.” The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Village, located at 60 West Wattles Road.
The Village also features a collection of vintage buildings, with programs detailing Troy’s humble origins as a settlement in the 1800s and its growth over the following two centuries.
Artisan-led classes are held there year-round, highlighting crafts such as blacksmithing, coppersmithing, leatherworking, basketweaving, broom making and more.
The upcoming fair will continue this trend, allowing guests to visit with different crafters where they can see firsthand how they ply their trade.
TROY CITY COUNCIL APPROVES NEW EMS CONTRACT
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — At its meeting Aug. 25, the Troy City Council unanimously approved Star EMS as the city’s new contractor for emergency medical services.
The city has been contracting for EMS services since 1981. Most recently, Troy had been in a threeyear agreement with Alliance Mobile Health that began at the end of 2022.
Late last year, the council received a report on the state of the city’s EMS services that found room for improvement. It noted that minutes could be shaved off response times.
This led to the city soliciting proposals for a new vendor in May 2025. Five companies attended a meeting on the topic, including AmeriPro Health EMS, LifeLine Ambulance, Medstar Ambulance, Star EMS and Universal Macomb Ambulance.
In the end, Star EMS was the
ABOVE: Alex K., the youth programs director for Troy Historic Village, demonstrates his traditional woodworking skills. RIGHT: The Village will be hosting two blacksmithing classes during its upcoming fair Sept. 27.
Revised plans approved for Wesley Park
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
TROY — At its meeting Sept. 8, the Troy City Council unanimously approved revised plans for the Wesley Park project around Rochester Road and Shallowdale Drive.
The property is 3.77 acres, owned by MNK Troy 1, LLC. The original plan back in 2021 was to build 32 townhome units there spanning up to eight buildings. The plan was also subject to certain requirements that largely remain in place.
Among those requirements is an easement to preserve open space as a buffer between the complex and properties to its east. In addition, screening will be installed along 250 feet of the southern boundary.
The plan also calls for a detention pond to store stormwater, with its own screening that includes rows of coniferous trees on the pond’s north and south sides.
As for the homes, each unit will feature a two-car garage. The complex will also feature at least nine spaces for guest parking. A separate building will be placed at the northernmost driveway to shield the homes there from headlight glare.
Delays in the project led to a conditional rezoning agreement lapsing in February 2025, prompting the new submission.
“So, coming out of COVID, things were a little uncertain,” said Scott Finlay, city engineer for Troy. “There were some delays but they’re back together, they’re partnered up and they’re ready to move forward.”
MNK Troy 1 has formed a purchase agreement with applicant M/I Homes of Michigan. The two asked the council to reinstate the expired rezoning agreement and to approve the revised preliminary site plan.
Not much had changed with the proposal, which closely resembled its form from 2021. Crucially, the building heights are still
See WESLEY on page 14A
First year of MHSAA-sponsored field hockey begins
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The six high school girls field hockey matches Aug. 19 were the first field hockey games in Michigan played as a Michigan High School Athletic Association-sponsored sport.
The 2025 school year is the inaugural season for girls field hockey in the MHSAA after a vote in May of 2024 approved the ad-
dition. The committee also voted to add boys volleyball, which will play its first season as an MHSAA sport in the spring of 2026.
“Field hockey has been among the sports that have shown interest in receiving sponsorship … for a little while,” MHSAA Director of Communications Geoff Kimmerly said. “And we found ourselves in a position over the last couple of years to add a sport or two.”
See FIELD HOCKEY on page 18A
Photo provided by Steven Angus
Novi’s girls field hockey team squares off against Saline at Novi High School.
BASEMENT BACKBEAT
Angeles area. “You just go over and over it to get it as close as you can.”
The band didn’t soundproof their basement digs nor dim the lights to create a mood.
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — When teenagers start a rock band, they need a place to set up their equipment, practice, hash out ideas and let their creativity flow.
So, they often transform their parents’ basements into makeshift rehearsal spots amid washing machines, low ceilings, wornout carpeting and concrete floors.
By the time Jimmy Burkard was 12 years old, he knew he wanted to play guitar. A few years later, with music pumping in his veins, he recruited friends Mike Alonso, a drummer, and Kurt Bardak, a bassist, to form Atomic Axe around 1979-80.
The teenage rockers could be found in the basement of Burkard’s Warren childhood home rehearsing KISS, Black Sabbath, Rush and Van Halen tunes. Burkard’s mom, dad and four sisters became used to the sonic booms that shook the walls. Atomic Axe was pre-internet and relied on vinyl records and cassette tapes to hone their craft.
“You kept having to rewind cassette tapes. You put the (record) needle back to where you needed it to be,” said Burkard, a 1982 Mott High School graduate and professional musician who now lives in the Los
“It was just a hard tile floor and very bright,” Burkard said.
But it worked.
“The basement was like a sanctuary,” Burkard remembered. “You felt safe. It was your space.”
Early on, they relied on a “little practice amp.” When Bardak and Burkard got jobs at the local Towne Club soda store, they spent their paychecks on stacks of Marshall amps.
“We wanted the gear our idols were using,” Burkard said. “It was all set up along one wall.”
Sometimes the decibels went to “11.” Burkard can still picture “my dad laying on the couch after work” upstairs telling the band “You guys sound great.” At one point, two of Burkard’s sisters — Krissy and Judy — moved their bedroom downstairs. Krissy’s bed was right next to the band’s speakers with only a curtain in between. There were many nights while in college she stayed up late studying to drum beats and guitar riffs.
“I did well in school, so maybe that helped me,” Krissy said. “I didn’t mind it. It was something to remember.”
Atomic Axe became the go-to band at basement parties in the neighborhood, including the night law enforcement busted up one out-of-control bash.
Photo provided by Jimmy Burkard
With a stack of Marshall amps, Jimmy Burkard’s first band, Atomic Axe, practiced regularly in his parents’ basement in Warren back in the 1980s.
Oakland County Undersheriff Timothy
was
Bianca’s Haven fundraiser
TROY — This year’s annual Bianca’s Haven fundraiser at the Embassy Suites by Hilton saw more than 140 people attend. Bianca’s Haven is a nonprofit organization that supports survivors of human trafficking through fundraising and educational opportunities.
The event took place Aug. 9. This year’s theme was an adult prom.
“The collaborative efforts and support from various individuals and organizations were instrumental in the event’s success and in advancing the crucial cause of combating human trafficking,” said Dr. Vernal Teresa Tiller, board chair at Bianca’s Haven, in an email.
For more information, visit biancashaven.org.
WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The United Community Family Services Chaldean American Ladies of Charity (UCFS-CALC) celebrated the life and volunteer service of the late Ban Farida during its Timeless Hope annual gala Sept. 4. The nonprofit organization provides educational services, food and other resources for those in need.
Free Bikes 4 Kidz kicks off eighth season
DETROIT — Free Bikes 4 Kidz Detroit is once again calling on the public to donate used bicycles at multiple locations across Southeast Michigan on Sept. 27. FB4K Detroit is one of 20 FB4K affiliates across the U.S. that has been helping the community since 2018. So far, FB4K Detroit has given away 14,614 bikes to kids in need.
“Bike Collection Day inspires our entire FB4K family every year,” said Bob Barnes, the group’s executive director, in a statement. “People in our community really show their true colors when they donate their time and their kid’s beloved but outgrown wheels. Last year, we collected over 2,500 bikes, and we’re confident we can beat that this year with the incredible support of the public, our team and our volunteers.”
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 27, one can donate used bikes at the following locations:
• Michigan Institute for Human Performance, 2265 Livernois Road in Troy.
• Niles Industrial Coatings, 201 S Alloy Dr. in Fenton.
• TruGreen Ypsilanti, 4875 Carpenter Road, Suite A, in Ypsilanti.
• TruGreen Taylor, 22260 Pennsylvania Road in Taylor.
• FB4K Warehouse, 2990 Hubbard St. in Detroit.
• The War Memorial - Grosse Pointe, 32 Lake Shore Drive in Grosse Pointe Farms.
• TruGreen Macomb, 50526 Corporate Drive in Macomb.
• Bordine’s, 1835 S Rochester Road in Rochester Hills.
• Woodward Corners, 3601 13 Mile Road in Royal Oak.
• Brother Rice High School, 7101 Lahser Road in Bloomfield Hills.
• Temple Israel, 5725 Walnut Lake Road in West Bloomfield Township.
• Schoolcraft College, 18600 Haggerty Road and Vistatech Drive, in Livonia.
Volunteers will be available to help unload bikes. Volunteers of all skill levels are needed between Sept. 29 and Dec. 4 for cleaning and repair. Those interested can go to the FB4K Detroit website to sign up for a three-hour volunteer shift. Groups can schedule a shift by emailing volunteer@fb4kdetroit.org.
During the event, iHeart radio station 106.7 WLLZ Detroit’s Wheels, will be broadcasting from Woodward Corners and will host a live band, Holeshot. In addition, Brown Iron Brewhouse will have its food truck available, and will be offering coupons to bike donors at this location.
Donated bikes will be delivered to a warehouse provided by the Piston Group at 4015 Michigan Ave. in Detroit, where they will be stored, cleaned and refurbished.
Just before the Christmas holiday, the bikes will be given to under-resourced kids through schools and pre-registered faith-based and community organizations. For more information, visit fb4kdetroit.org.
Farida had worked as a volunteer with the UCFS-CALC for many years. During the height of the ISIS crisis in 2014, she spent countless hours collecting, purchasing and packing essential supplies for refugees, long before UCFS-CALC had its own dedicated space.
“She never waited for systems to be in place,”
said Kristin Olmedo, president and CEO of UCFS-CALC, in a statement. “She simply saw a need and filled it.”
Even before dying from cancer in August 2023, Farida had been consistently helping those in need, whether stocking shelves at a food pantry or rolling up her sleeves at fundraising events.
“Her generosity wasn’t performative,” said her
longtime friend, Vinos Kassab, in a statement. “It was simply who she was. Her heart was always open.”
To honor Farida, UCFS-CALC paid tribute to her and the Farida family at their Timeless Hope Annual Gala at Shenandoah Country Club at 5600 Walnut Lake Road.
For more information, visit ucfamilyservices.org.
Photo by Karmen Elaine
Willis
one of the speakers during the annual Bianca’s Haven fundraiser at Embassy Suites Aug. 9.
Photo provided by Free Bikes 4 Kidz Detroit
Volunteers help process bikes donated through Free Bikes 4 Kidz Detroit.
Compiled by Sarah Wright
Detroit City Football Club new stadium named AlumniFi Field
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
DETROIT — The future home of Detroit City FC, which is scheduled to be ready for the start of the 2027 United Soccer League Championship season, has officially been named AlumniFi Field.
On Aug. 12, the club announced that DCFC and AlumniFi had agreed to extend their partnership together. The multiyear agreement includes remaining the club’s exclusive financial partner, being Detroit City FC’s front-of-kit sponsor, and the exclusive naming rights on the club’s new stadium in southwest Detroit. The deal was brokered by Sports Revenue Advisors and M3 Group.
“We appreciate AlumniFi seeing the value of our club and being willing to make an investment in our vision and community through this long-term partnership,” DCFC co-founder and CEO Sean Mann said.
Construction of AlumniFi Field is pending public approvals and is scheduled to begin in late 2025. The stadium will be located at the corner of Michigan Avenue and 20th Street, where the Southwest Detroit Hospital has stood since 1973. The lo-
cation has been abandoned since 2006. The stadium is estimated to cost around $150 million, and a $42 million parking complex is added onto that as well.
“The stadium’s location, in the heart of Detroit, places the club within a vibrant and diverse community, creating opportunities to grow the game locally while strengthening its national ambitions,” Mann said.
The current plan is for the venue to seat 15,000 fans. The stadium will also be revolutionary in its funding, as the soccer-specific venue will be Detroit’s only privately owned and financed professional sports stadium.
“In an effort to pursue an alternative approach to the usual financing model of most American pro stadiums, DCFC is supporting costs for the venue’s construction through investor debt and equity rather than relying on municipal bonds or direct public funding,” Mann said. “In order to make the full mixed-use project viable, DCFC is seeking limited public support for site demolition and remediation, streetscape enhancements, and reimbursements applied to non-stadium components of the broader development.”
DCFC will now wear AlumniFi-branded kits.
“We launched AlumniFi in 2023. … We have been growing that membership base and supporting communities throughout the state of Michigan since then,” AlumniFi Chief Experience Officer Ami IcemanHaueter said. “The Detroit City Football Club … their values in community support, giving back to the community, and growing Detroit’s involvement has really met our values. … It was a natural match.”
AlumniFi is already putting together
Photo provided by DCFC
Fans check out renderings of AlumniFi Field. Construction is set to start at the end of 2025.
West Nile virus confirmed in county
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
OAKLAND COUNTY — Michigan health officials are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites due to the threat of West Nile virus.
The first West Nile virus activity in the state was confirmed in a resident of Livingston County in August, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
On Aug. 18, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that an Oakland County resident, who did not report recent travels, was sickened by the West Nile virus.
“This is an important reminder that West Nile Virus is present in our community,” Kate Guzman, the health officer for the Oakland County Health Division, said in a release. “We strongly encourage residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes until the first hard frost of the year.”
Oakland County officials did not release identifying information of the resident for health privacy reasons.
The risk for mosquito-borne illness rises throughout the state over the course of the mosquito season, peaking in August and
September, until the first major frost occurs.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people by mosquitos that have fed on birds infected with the virus.
Although the risk of illness is low for most people, there is a greater risk for seniors, very young children and anyone with a weak immune system. About 1 in 5 people will develop flu-like symptoms — including a high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, a severe headache or a faint rash — becoming sick three to 15 days after exposure. But in rare cases — less than 1% of those infected, according to the CDC — serious and potentially life threatening symptoms of West Nile virus can develop, including neurological illnesses, such as meningitis and encephalitis.
The best way to prevent West Nile virus or any other mosquito-borne illness, according to health officials, is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and to take personal precautions to guard against mosquito bites.
“It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness. Use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors during times when mosquitoes are active,” Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS’s chief medical executive, said
See WEST NILE on page 21A
Proper planning takes seniors abroad worry-free
TBY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
raveling as a senior can be daunting, but with travel professionals and the right shoes, it can be smooth sailing all the way to your “bucket list” destination.
Jeffery Leonardi, a travel professional and the owner of Travel Time Vacations in Shelby Township, said a lot of seniors want to connect with their roots by visiting their country of origin, including many countries in Europe. He also sees a lot of seniors visiting places like Alaska. The state in particular has been popular with seniors and their families.
“I have a lot of 50th anniversary trips and they want to take their family,” Leonardi said.
He specializes in group trips as well.
Other popular trips for seniors include getaways to view the northern lights and, for Macomb County in particular, Palermo, Sicily, since many Italians in the area can trace their roots back to the country.
“Then there are people who just want to travel, and they want to make sure they’re safe and that’s my job,” Leonardi said.
Leonardi said the trips he books are fully insured, with secured bookings. He said the most important thing for se-
11A
Wednesdays and Fridays from 1:00-2:00 PM October
Rita LoGrasso and her husband Alan Klinger have been to many destinations including Europe and sailing on cruises.
Photo provided by Rita LoGrasso also
All I-96 Flex Route ramp meters are now
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
NOVI — The Michigan Department of Transportation activated all traffic metering lights along the Interstate 96 Flex Route in western Oakland County as of 2 p.m. Sept. 3.
The I-96 Flex Route runs from Kent Lake Road to the Interstate 275/Interstate 696/M-5 interchange. The route utilizes the left shoulder as an extra traffic lane during peak traffic times to help eliminate traffic congestion.
“Drivers need to be aware and alert to the flashing yellow lights, possibly turning red/green,” an MDOT representative said in a press release.
The traffic lights on the ramps are programmed to change from yellow to red/
See RAMP METERS on page 18A
File photo by Patrica O’Blenes
This photo from Aug. 30, 2024, shows a ramp meter along the Interstate 96 Flex Route in western Oakland County. All such meters are active as of Sept. 3, 2025, and will show drivers red and green signals under certain traffic conditions.
active
Travel
from page 10A
niors is feeling safe on their trips. A good way to accomplish that, he said, is through travel protection insurance.
“The ones that I sell will waive a preexisting condition when paid on deposit,” Leonardi said. “And so that gives people freedom that they can go because they know that they’re insured for it.”
Most seniors know where they want to go when they meet with Leonardi and if they don’t, he will ask them identifying questions to choose a destination.
Rita LoGrasso has traveled to many different countries and places with her husband Alan Klinger. She’s been on many different trips including land tours and cruises. She said land tours include walking.
“But they also take into consideration the ages, so they slow it down,” LoGrasso said. “We hit all the highlights and all the ports and all that at a much slower pace.”
She recommends that seniors bring appropriate shoes for their trips. She said not to bring anything with a heel or strappy sandals as they get ripped apart.
“Comfortable sandals, gym shoes, laced up gym shoes, something you’re not
going to trip all over,” LoGrasso said. “Got to be comfortable.”
She also recommends light packing in terms of clothing and other things. She explained that when exiting the bus, attendants take their suitcases to their rooms and pick them up afterward.
“So every day or every other day, someone is taking care of your luggage,” LoGrasso said.
LoGrasso said to enjoy and eat normally while on vacation and unless someone is a big drinker, they don’t buy the liquor packages.
Cruise costs are usually paid in installments over a certain time period with Leonardi’s company, LoGrasso said.
“By the time you get on the cruise, it’s all free and clear,” LoGrasso said.
She said seniors can’t beat going to Europe.
“The United States, you can see that anytime, but if you have the opportunity to go abroad and check what your heritage is or your ancestors, you can’t beat it,” LoGrasso said. “It might be a once in a lifetime trip, but well worth it. And take your kids, too, if you got any. If you can afford it.”
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.
Musicians
page 6A
“Getting shut down by the police, that was like a badge of honor,” Burkard said.
Still playing music, Burkard tours with the Sweet and performs solo. Check him out on Instagram at @ jimmyburkard and @spsweetband.
‘Music is what
drew us all together.’
In 1997, eight Cousino High School band students in Warren formed their own ska group, Peanut Butter Mosquito, better known as PBM. They either headed over to rhythm guitar player Nate Castle’s or trumpeter Tom Torrento’s to rehearse, where their parents welcomed the “noisy chaos.”
“Nate’s parents were both musicians. His mom liked to sing. Dad was a very accomplished bluegrass guitar player,” Torrento said. “They’d rather have us in the basement innocent and productive than out on the streets getting in trouble. Music is what drew us all together.”
Although the basement dwellings were cramped with so many musicians, they found their groove.
“There was never enough room for all of us to be way too loud. We would spread out and tuck the drum set into any open corner,” Torrento said. “It was tight.”
Rehearsal lasted anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours. It often started when a band member, at his school locker, blurted out, “Do you guys want to get together
and practice?” But there was one stop to make first: the local coffee shop to get wired on caffeine.
At the Torrento household, there was an old dining room table that came in handy. The guys lounged around and relaxed during breaks. PBM played original music.
“Nate would write the songs,” Torrento said. “We’d figure out the lyrics and chords and add the layers of music to kind of build the song.”
Others noticed their talents. From 2003 to 2007, PBM toured Europe, the U.S. and drew fans at many college towns. Torrento said the tour bus “fueled writing new stuff. We were immersed in the music.”
Currently, Torrento is the director of bands at Grosse Pointe North High School and Parcells Middle School in the Grosse Pointe Public School System. PBM reunited a few years ago for its 25-year anniversary. Check them out at Shorestoberfest from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 12 at Blossom Heath Park, 24800 Jefferson Ave. in St Clair Shores. For more information, go to pbmband.com.
‘We had some great times, I mean just great times.’
Before China White ventured onto the local music scene, the five members rotated practice spots in their parents’ basements between Utica and Romeo. That meant hauling instruments up and down the stairs, but the change of pace kept the band from becoming complacent. They’d secure their speakers along the cinder block walls and play away.
“It was a full volume basement practice,” singer
See MUSICIANS on page 17A
DCFC
from page 8A
plans for outreach events that will be hosted at the new stadium. The goal of helping the community will remain the same.
“We’ve been able to collaborate on how we can use the space to do outreach in the area,” Iceman-Haueter said. “To do financial wellness sessions in the community or to bring in youth players and talk about different opportunities that they might need to learn about finances and all of that. DCFC has been super welcoming to us.”
The duo hopes to remain partners for a long time, in what they are calling DCFC’s “forever home.”
“It brings us a lot of pride in what we’re doing both in the partnership and with the organization,” Iceman-Haueter said.
“You can see the impact of what the team is doing. … It is such an honor to be on their kits and be on their stadium. I don’t think I’ll ever get over how cool it is.”
The new stadium provides a venue to hold the continued significant growth of the club, fan base and city going forward.
“The future of Detroit City FC takes a major step forward with the completion of AlumniFi Field,” Mann said. “Not only will the venue offer modern amenities in the first professional, soccer-specific stadium in the city’s history, but its 15,000-person capacity aligns with the USL’s new Division One league standards and positions DCFC to compete at the highest domestic level.”
DCFC will continue to play at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck through the 2026 season. Keyworth has been the club’s home since 2016.
For more information, visit detcityfc.com and alumnifi.org.
CRIME WATCH
Officers find handgun on driver without permit
TROY — Around 1:24 a.m. Sept. 1, officers stopped the driver of a 2024 Chevrolet Corvette who was driving down Rochester Road with an expired license plate.
The driver was a 26-year-old Rochester Hills man. Officers asked him if there were any weapons in the vehicle. The driver reportedly said there was a handgun in the glovebox, and he had an expired concealed pistol license. The driver also allegedly had a revoked driver’s license.
Officers recovered a Glock G30 from the glove box. The driver was arrested.
Inebriated drivers
TROY — Around 5:33 a.m. Sept. 2, officers were dispatched to northbound I-75 and Crooks Road for a road hazard, reported to be a white SUV driving on the shoulder with multiple flat tires and the rear hatch open.
Upon checking the area, officers located a vehicle matching the description in a parking lot on Crooks Road. Officers approached the vehicle and spoke with the driver, a 56-year-old man from Sterling Heights.
While speaking with him, officers noted he had glassy eyes and that he reeked of alcohol. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety tests, but he performed poorly. He also allegedly refused to submit to a preliminary breath test. The driver was arrested.
In another case, officers were dispatched around 5:50 a.m. Sept. 2 to the Livernois Road area for a welfare check.
Upon arrival, officers observed a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica stopped in the left lane and spoke with the driver, a 38-year-old woman from Macomb. She reportedly reeked of alcohol, and the officers allegedly observed an open bottle of vodka behind the front passenger seat.
The driver was asked to perform several sobriety tests but performed poorly. She also submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.162%. She was arrested.
Car vanishes from parking lot
TROY — A resident of Lovington Drive told police that an unknown person stole his 2014 Chrysler 300 from his apartment complex parking lot sometime between 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sept. 6.
TVs taken
TROY — A representative from Troy Inn and Suites, 575 W Big Beaver Road, told police that 15 65-inch TVs were stolen from a storage room while the building was undergoing renovations around 1:44 p.m. Sept. 5.
If you know more about these crimes or others, call Troy Police at (248) 524-3477. — Sarah Wright
Wesley
from page 4A
below 30 feet, which helps qualify the project for the rezoning request.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy had minor concerns about a water main. The engineering plans have been updated to address this and were submitted to EGLE.
Troy City Councilmember Rebecca Chamberlain-Creanga, who had seen the original plans for the project at a previous meeting, expressed her admiration for the developer’s engagement with the neighbors that live nearby.
“I was impressed with the extent to which the developer had really engaged the neighborhood around there,” Chamberlain-Creanga said. “That means everything to us on council when a developer takes that effort … (to) go above and beyond and really make sure that they take into account the concerns, respecting those residents and what they want.”
For more information, visit troymi. gov.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
A new vendor has been contracted for emergency services in the city of Troy, one that officials hope will result in shorter response times. File photo
from page 3A
sole bidder, but officials were satisfied with what it offered.
“After these discussions and meetings, the EMS committee agreed that Star EMS would be able to meet the requirements and provide the services being requested by the city of Troy,” said Peter Hullinger, the fire chief of Troy.
The new contract begins Jan. 1, 2026. The two-year contract includes the option to renew annually for another three years. The cost is around $771,100 for the first year and
around $794,200 for the second year. Officials noted that if the city doesn’t see improvement, it may establish its own in-house EMS services in the future, instead of continuing to use third-party vendors.
“I mean, I think we are making progress from eight minutes to six minutes. That’s the goal that we set forward for our insourcing also,” said Troy City Councilmember Hirak Chanda. “So, we’ll give it a try (to see) if it can be achieved with outsourced vendors. … Otherwise, we’ll move forward in the long run for an in-house EMS.”
Troy Mayor Ethan Baker said via email that staff carefully examined the issue.
“This is a decision made after much due diligence,” Baker said. “Members of our public safety team — first responders from our (police), fire and dispatch — were an important part of this decision-making process. Key to their review was a determination that Star is best prepared to bring key operational improvements our first responders have identified in this important part of our service delivery. At the end of the day, we are listening to our first responders — the experts in our city for public safety.”
For more information, visit troymi.gov. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
Sylvan
ment position it for possible reclassification as a community park in the future.
U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Birmingham, helped secure a $1.5 million grant that enabled Troy to add multiple family-friendly features to the park.
“Each year, I work closely with our municipal leaders to determine their community’s needs,” Stevens said in a statement. “This project was selected given its wide community impact. These expanded amenities and playground improvements will foster community and recreational opportunities to be enjoyed for many decades to come.”
The latest amenities include a pavilion, play structures suitable for ages 2–5 and 5–12, a cardboard sled hill, an embankment slide, a rope climber, a nest swing, and a four-bay swing set with two toddler seats.
In addition to providing more play opportunities for different age groups, the placement and layout of the amenities are designed to make the play structures appear as though they grew naturally from the park environment.
The process for the park’s improvements started five years ago with plans for the restrooms and parking lot, which later
led to plans for the play structure and other additions.
“This has been in design for about a year,” said Kurt Boviensiep, the public works director. “It was under construction for about four months.”
Even more items might be added to Sylvan Glen Lake Park in the future, as well as at other parks in Troy, but officials say it depends on whether the bond issue passes Nov. 4.
The bond would generate an estimated $137 million over 20 years by levying an additional 1.1329 mills. The city collects $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, multiplied by the millage rate. A home with a taxable value of $100,000 would pay an extra $113.29 per year.
The funds would be used to build and furnish a new public library, improve the roads, enhance parks and recreational facilities, and acquire and install equipment for public safety services including police and fire.
“This particular park has several other phases that we will look forward to in the future,” Boviensiep said. “It includes a fishing pier, and we probably have to expand the parking at some point because it’s going to get so popular.”
For more information, visit troymi.gov.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
On November 4th, Troy residents can transform our city for generations. A YES vote is your chance to build a Troy that's aligned with your needs!
YES For A New Library
Failing to meet current demands and draining our tax dollars with costly repairs, the current library has reached the end of its useful life. The new library will be a true center for lifelong learning and a gathering place for every need. For example, the new maker-space takes users beyond book learning to thoroughly engage you in hands-on experiences. Ample meeting and study rooms provide ideal spaces for
collaboration as well as contemplation. Open seating and comfortable chairs beckon you to curl up with a book and a cup of coffee. These are but a few of the amenities that await you. Your YES vote creates a relevant learning center and community hub equipped for now and prepared for the future.
YES For Public Safety
We all want to keep Troy’s reputation as one of Michigan's safest cities. But to do so, we must continue to equip our first responders with the best tools. Your YES vote replaces wornout equipment with modern, state-of-the-art body cameras and safety vehicles, allowing
police and fire to respond more effectively and to keep our families safe.
YES For Safer Roads
This bond proposal answers the call to Fix The Roads! A YES vote will see a full rebuild of failing arteries like Coolidge Highway and Wattles Road, smoothing out the rough rides and ensuring our daily commute is safer and more efficient.
YES For Parks & Rec
We can’t send our kids to playgrounds with failing equipment, nor do we want to travel out of Troy for adequate parks, pickleball courts, or wellkept trails. Your YES vote will
bring new life to aging parks, creating safe spaces for families and children to exercise and play. You will also be able to enjoy expanded trails, an updated Troy Farm, new pickleball courts, and much needed maintenance to our Community Center - everything that makes Troy an even more desirable place to call home!
Vote YES and build the future we deserve!
BEHIND THE WHEEL
Do you own a vehicle with an interesting history?
Contact Staff Writer Maria Allard at allard@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1045, and you could be
QR code.
Chevy Camaro rides along ‘in memory of Mom’
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
Each time Roger Cremont parks his 1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 at a car show, he isn’t interested in trophies or awards.
Instead, the Shelby Township resident passes out stuffed animals, Hot Wheels miniature cars and Beanie Babies to spectators, including kids and adults.
The gesture is done in memory of his mother, Louise Cremont, who died from esophageal cancer in 2018. Cremont, 56, places the items on the ground in front of his convertible. Spectators can pick something out to take home with them.
“It’s always set up for the kids,” Cremont said. “The little boys, the little girls and women all flock to the Hot Wheels. The kids just light up. They’re all smiles. That makes me happy. It’s just a blessing all the way around. That’s all the gratification I need.”
Cremont, also known as “Big Dog” to family and friends, replenishes his goodies supply with donations he receives. Through a friend, he’s able to purchase brand-new Hot Wheels for a nominal fee. Cremont, too, decorates the Camaro with car culture memorabilia, tributes to his mom and Old Glory.
“The U.S. flags are in memory of all of the people who fought for our country,” he said. “Just respect for the people who have served our country.”
That includes his uncle, Roger Cremont, an Army veteran for whom he was named.
Cremont takes the burgundy-colored Camaro to different car shows and cruises around town.
“Every weekend there is something going on,” Cremont said.
One of his favorite hangouts is Eddie’s Drive-In, a throwback to the 1950s where carhops on roller skates serve hamburgers, corn dogs, ice cream treats and more. Cremont meets up with car buffs at the Harrison Township eatery, which hosts a classic cruise-in from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sun-
See CAMARO on page 18A
ABOVE: Roger Cremont, of Shelby Township, brought his 1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 to the Patrick L. Rinke Memorial Peach Festival Car Show Aug. 31. RIGHT: Cremont passes out stuffed animals and Hot Wheels miniature cars in memory of his mom, Louise Cremont, who died from esophageal cancer in 2018. Photos by Maria Allard
Musicians
from page 12A
Chris Neumann said. “We had all the regular guitar amps. Full microphones.”
The band created a following with gigs at the Romeo Theatre, Romeo Peach Festival, the Rink in Shelby Township, the Ritz in Roseville and the Lewisville Smoke Bar and Grill in Port Hope, Michigan. China White, which took its name from a Scorpions song, got together in the mid-1980s playing everything from the Guess Who and the Monkees to Ratt and AC/DC with some Ozzy Osbourne tossed in.
“It was basically covers, album-oriented rock playing on radio stations,” Neumann said. “That’s what people in the bars wanted to hear at the time.”
The parents were good sports about the rumblings underneath the stairs, even when a picture frame or two got knocked over. Their moms and dads went to the bars to see the band perform live.
“All the parents were supportive,” said Neumann, a 1982 Utica High School graduate. “My mom and dad loved it when we came over and played.”
While rock ‘n’ rollers are known for hard partying, China White kept it professional. They didn’t drink alcohol when working on songs. To stay focused on the music, rehearsals were off limits to their girlfriends and friends at the time, except for the last few minutes when everyone got a sneak peak. After practice, the group decompressed at Big Boy or Ram’s Horn.
“Fun — that was the goal,” Neumann said of the band. “We had some great times, I mean just great times. It was friends that were playing music.”
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
Getting it right
C & G Newspapers strives for accuracy and fairness to its readers. If you think we got it wrong, please let us know. Call Gregg Demers at (586) 498-1042, email gdemers@candgnews.com or write us at 13650 11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089.
Ramp meters
from page 11A
green when traffic on the freeway is moving slower than 60 mph. This allows MDOT to control the amount of traffic on the highway, enabling it to flow more smoothly. When a ramp metering light is active, vehicles will be shifted into two lanes on the ramp. Each lane will follow instructions from a separate ramp meter.
Camaro
from page 16A
days during the warmer months. Part of the fun is getting there in his convertible.
“It’s a nice, scenic drive,” he said. “When you got the top down, it’s so freeing. The wind is blowing in your hair. It’s just awesome.”
On Aug. 31, Cremont brought his Camaro to the Patrick L. Rinke Memorial Peach Festival Car Show at Blue Water Trucking in Bruce Township. He mingled with families, including 4-year-old Avery Bazydlo, her 6-year-old sister, Aaliyah Bazydlo, and their family members.
Other stops this past summer for Cremont included the Yale Bologna Festival, Rockin Rods n’ Rochester, and the Shorewood Kiwanis Club of St. Clair Shores Harper Charity Cruise. Cremont purchased the Camaro two years after his mom died. He found the 1991 model in Inkster and paid $7,000 cash for it. But it needed $7,755 in repairs. When he discovered his mom had left $7,780 in her checking account, he felt
Drivers should stop at the white line and then wait for a green light at the ramp meter to proceed onto the freeway. The ramp meter lights will alternate, indicating which lane can enter the freeway and allowing one vehicle to proceed at a time.
Drivers who fail to stop for a red light on a ramp meter are guilty of a traffic violation, which is equivalent to running a red light. In Michigan, drivers who run a red light face fines of $100 to $350, up to 93 days in jail, and two points on their licenses.
that was ‘kind of a sign from heaven — let’s go ahead and get that car done.’”
“She always wanted a convertible, but never got one,” Cremont said.
The Santa Bears that Cremont gives out at car shows once belonged to his mother. At one time, she owned 30 of them. Her collection grew while working for the J.L. Hudson’s Department Store and continued when the retailer became Macy’s. In all, she put in 49 years of service at Oakland Mall in Troy and Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights. On the side, she taught catechism at St. Kieran Catholic Church in Shelby Township.
“Everyone loved her,” Cremont said. “Just a good soul. I was taking her to her first cancer treatment, and five days later she was gone.”
Cremont also has dealt with cancer. Last year, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 head and neck cancer. He is in remission, which gave him his health back, which he feels is his chance to bring happiness to others with Hot Wheels and stuffed animals.
“I think that is why God put my cancer on pause,” Cremont said. “I’m just thankful every day.”
Field hockey is growing across the nation and the MHSAA sponsorship will provide more of an opportunity for girls to participate in the sport.
“Having that MHSAA attached to it potentially brings more attention, obviously,” Kimmerly said. “I’m hoping that charges things up in that community. I think we’re excited because we’re always looking to add activities that our students are most excited about.”
Another factor in the addition to the MHSAA lineup is when the season falls in the school calendar. In terms of multisport athletes, soccer and lacrosse is where there is expected to be the most overlap. Girls field hockey will be a fall sport, while girls lacrosse and soccer will stay in the spring.
“We think that there’s enough of a connection between lacrosse and soccer that we won’t necessarily be taking athletes away from other fall sports,” Kimmerly said.
Girls field hockey has been an established sport in the area for a while now, even if it wasn’t a sponsored activity. The MHSAA will help promote and guide the sport from the foundation that’s been in place for a while.
“It’s been really exciting. It’s something we’ve been working for and wanting
If the ramp lights are flashing yellow, traffic can proceed straight onto the freeway without stopping.
“Most of the time, they will just be yellow. But the sensors in the road will determine the speed of traffic on the freeway, and then trigger whether or not the meters go to green or red,” Diane Cross, MDOT com-
munications representative, said in an email. MDOT has a video posted on its YouTube channel to educate drivers on how the ramp meters work. More information on freeway ramp metering is available on the Federal Highway Administration website. Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
Novi High School’s girls go on the attack in a field hockey game against PlymouthCanton Educational Park.
Photo provided by Steven Angus
Fralick began his coaching career at Kensington Academy in Bloomfield as the middle school men’s basketball coach (197478), the middle school baseball coach (197487) and the middle school soccer coach (1975-76).
He has also worked in coaching positions at schools like Bishop Foley Catholic High in Madison Heights, Thurston High in Redford, and Kimball High in Royal Oak before moving on to Troy High in 1988.
At Troy High, he served as the assistant varsity basketball coach (1988-94), the assistant varsity women’s basketball coach (19891993), the freshman women’s basketball coach (1989), the freshman men’s basketball coach (1991-93), and the JV women’s basketball coach (1992-93).
A year later, in 1994, he became the head coach of the men’s varsity basketball team — the position he continues to hold today.
“Since 1988, Coach Fralick’s dedication and guidance have shaped generations of Troy High basketball players,” said Karen Baird, the athletic director at Troy High, in an email.
“His many wins and championships are a testament not just to his coaching success,
but to the disciplined, hardworking and resilient young men he has developed. For decades, he has represented Troy High and the community with the highest level of character, pride and class.”
With Fralick as their coach, the women’s varsity basketball teams at Troy High have earned two Southeastern Michigan Conference titles and two MHSAA district titles.
Fralick also led the men’s varsity basketball teams to five Southeastern Michigan Conference titles, five Oakland Activities Association Conference titles, four Southeastern Michigan MHSAA district titles, nine Oakland Activities Association district titles, and two MHSAA regional titles.
His teams have also earned 16 Basketball Coaches Association Academic Awards.
So far, Fralick’s overall win/loss record is 608/442.
“Coach Fralick’s commitment to the student-athletes at Troy High has been unmatched,” said Remo Roncone, principal of Troy High, in an email. “Since arriving in 1988, he has led numerous teams to conference and district championships. But more importantly, he has helped shape the lives of countless young people. Coach Fralick is an outstanding coach and truly deserving of his place in the MHSCA Hall of Fame.”
Fralick has received other accolades, as
well. He was named “Coach of the Year” by the Detroit Free Press in 1982, by the Observer/Eccentric in 1998 and 2004, by the Royal Oak Tribune in 2002 and 2009, by the Northwest Suburban League in 1983, and by Oakland Activities in 2011-13 and again in 2017 and 2024.
In 2022, he was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Oakland
County Athletic Directors Association. He has also occupied a spot on Troy High’s own Wall of Fame at since 2002. As for his latest honor, by way of the MHSCA, he and the other coaches were inducted during a ceremony Sept. 14 in Mount Pleasant.
For more information, visit mhsca.org. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
20A/ TROY TIMES • SEPTEMBER 18, 2025
SEPT. 18-21
‘The Merry Wives of Windsor’: Produced by Rochester Christian University Theatre Company and UnCovered Theatre Company as part of outdoor festival Shakespeare Upon Avon, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18-20 and 2:30 p.m. Sept. 21, Lake Norcentra Park (on RCU campus), 800 W. Avon Road in Rochester Hills, (248) 218-2149, theatre@rcu.edu, rcu.edu/theatre
SEPT. 19
Golf Fore Change: Raises funds for OLHSA’s emergency support programs for local families during times of crisis, breakfast and registration at 8 a.m. and shotgun start (with opportunity to tee off with pro golfer) at 9 a.m., also lunch, dinner, contests and raffles, Westwynd Golf Course, 4161 Adams Road in Oakland Township, register at olhsa. org/fore
SEPT. 20
Mixed doubles pickleball tournament: 8 a.m.-6 p.m., OPC Social & Activity Center, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, registration required, (248) 6080278, opccenter.org
Glow Run: 7:30 p.m., 1-mile fun run starts and ends at Jimmy John’s Field, 7171 Auburn Road in Utica, 5K run/walk heads to River Bends Park, 5700 22 Mile Road in Shelby Township, benefits Cassie Hines Shoes Cancer Foundation (supports advocacy and active programming for young adults addressing cancer diagnoses), cassiehinesshoes cancer.org/glow-run, read story at candgnews.com
SEPT. 25
Wine dinner fundraiser: Benefits Bear Hug Detroit (supports mental health for children in crisis and first responders), includes five-course dinner with four wine pairings from South American region, also dessert and silent auction, 6:30 p.m., Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, 301 W. Big Beaver Road in Troy, bearhugdetroit.com
SEPT. 27
Handcrafted: A Traditional Trades and Crafts Fair: See demonstrations and learn about blacksmith-
Reporter: Sarah Wright| (586) 498-1068 | swright@candgnews.com
Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
(586) 498-8100
To view more and to submit your own event, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar.
ing, coopering, crocheting, fabric mending, leatherworking, quilting, spinning, traditional woodworking, weaving, and sawing and carpentry, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Troy Historic Village, troyhistoricvillage.org
SEPT. 28
Walk ’n Roll for ALS: Money provides direct assistance to Michigan families dealing with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (aka Lou Gehrig’s disease), 25th annual event also includes music, food and entertainment, 11 a.m. (10 a.m. check-in), Wintercove South Picnic Shelter at Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Road in Shelby Township, alsofmichigan.org
OCT. 7
Troy Women’s Association meeting: Nonprofit dedicated to supporting local causes and enhancing lives of others, 7 p.m., new location at Community of Christ - Troy Oaks, 3830 Crooks Road, continues every first Tuesday of month (except February, July and August), troywomensassociation.org, (248) 988-0426
Fall Fest Gala: Fundraiser for Face Addiction Now (connects individuals and families impacted by substance use with no-cost programs and resources), includes family-style dinner, live entertainment, silent auction, raffles and prizes, open bar (with mocktails for those in recovery) and sweet treats, 5:30-9:30 p.m. (doors at 5 p.m.), Palazzo Grande, 54660 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, www. faceaddictionnow.org/events/fallfest2025
ONGOING
Weekly car show: Also DJ, 5-7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Big Boy, 200 W. Maple Road in Troy, (248) 3620840
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only at 10 a.m. every first and third Thursdays of month, Lukich Family Restaurant, 3900 Rochester Road in Troy, RSVP to Ed at (586) 909-1444, www. widowedfriends.com
• Lunches at 1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of
month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Louise at (248) 338-6743, widowedfriends.com
Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 6423306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS
Heritage Concert Band of Troy practices: For adult musicians, 7 p.m. every first and third Wednesdays of month, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, group also performs during year, troyheritageband@gmail.com
Monthly book clubs: Find meetups for romance, mystery, learning English, kids/beginners and more, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, troypl. org
• Silent Book Club-Troy meets 6:30-8:30 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, bring own books, e-books and audio books (with headphones), Grand Tavern Troy, 1317 Coolidge Highway, silentbookclubtroy@gmail.com, silentbook.club/blogs/ events/troy-mi
Troy Newcomers: Social group for women, activities include service projects, bowling, euchre, wine tasting, book club, games nights, golf, scrapbooking and more, meets at various times and locations, clubactivities@troynewcomers.com, troynewcomers.com
Top of Troy Toastmasters: Meets noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 872-6603
Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less: Virtual 15-week program presented by AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services and led by registered dietitian nutritionist, free for first-time participants ages 60 and older, register at (833) 262-2200 or wellnessprograms@ageways.org, tinyurl.com/ agewaysworkshops
CLASS REUNIONS
SEPT. 27
South Lake High School — Class of 1975: 50th reunion, includes appetizers and soft drinks, plus cash bar, 6-10 p.m., Fishbones Rhythm Kitchen Cafe, 23722 Jefferson Ave. in St. Clair Shores, purchase ticket at eventbrite.com
Ferndale High School — Class of 2005: 20th reunion, 6-10 p.m., Fifth Avenue Royal Oak, 215 W. Fifth St., purchase ticket at eventbrite.com
OCT. 4
Seaholm High School — Class of 1995: 30th reunion, includes live music by Lain Hanna, DJ Coop (Kevin Childs) and DJ Second Nature (Brett Belcastro), also light food and drinks, 7-11 p.m., ZANA, 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. in Birmingham, purchase ticket at eventbrite.com
OCT. 11
Warren Cousino High School — Class of 1980: 45th reunion, includes appetizers, buffet dinner, open bar, DJ playing ’70s music, photo booth, prizes and surprises, 6-10 p.m., Vintage House, 31816 Utica Road in Fraser, purchase ticket at warrencousinoclassof1980@gmail. com
Henry Ford II High School — Class of 1975: 50th reunion for first graduating class, includes open bar and professional photographer from 6-11 p.m., strolling hors d’oeuvres and desserts from 6-8 p.m., and pizza buffet at 9:30 p.m., Fern Hill Golf Club, 17600 Clinton River Road in Clinton Township, purchase ticket at myevent. com/henryford2classof1975reunion
Seaholm High School — Class of 1975: 50th reunion, includes food stations, drink ticket, music and other activities, also cash bar, 6 p.m., The Kingsley Bloomfield Hills — A Doubletree by Hilton, 39475 Woodward Ave., purchase ticket at seaholm1975@gmail.com or (248) 217-0990, make optional hotel reservation at (248) 644-1400
OCT. 18
Lahser High School — Class of 1985: 40th reunion, 5-11 p.m., The Kingsley Bloomfield Hills — A Doubletree by Hilton, 39475 Woodward Ave., purchase ticket at eventbrite.com
Amy Randolph | (586) 498-1087 | arandolph@candgnews.com
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and Obits: (586) 498-1099
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West
Nile from page 9A
in a statement. “These precautions are especially important during peak mosquito-biting hours, which are from dusk to dawn.”
The CDC recommends using an insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535, or para-menthane-diol, which they say have shown a high degree of effectiveness in warding off mosquito bites. Health officials also suggest that people wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors, limit outdoor activities from dusk to
dawn, avoid areas where mosquitoes may be present, maintain window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes and buildings, and empty water from mosquito breeding sites — such as flower pots, pet bowls, clogged rain gutters, swimming pool covers, discarded tires, buckets, barrels, cans and similar items where mosquitoes can lay eggs.
Health officials said the virus has also been found in mosquitoes collected this year from Bay, Kalamazoo, Kent, Macomb, Midland, Saginaw, Tuscola and Wayne counties.
For more information on West Nile virus, call (800) 848-5533 or visit www.oakgov. com/health.
Handcrafted
from page 3A
Jen Peters, the executive director of the Village, said via email that this year’s fair will be the third one to date. She said it’s a way to highlight the programs offered at the Village, and to introduce guests to the craftsmen helping to keep traditional techniques alive.
“It’s a program that lines up with our
mission of sharing history through meaningful experiences,” Peters said. “We hope that it inspires the next generation.”
Some of the crafters include several of the Village’s own staff and board members, as well as quilters from the CAMEO Quilters Guild, based in Clawson, and skilled woodworkers from the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute, located in Adrian.
“(This event) is a unique trades and crafts fair because the focus is on sharing crafts —
She became used to hearing things that try to delegitimize the sport.
not selling crafts,” said Shelby Nelsen, the Village’s adult programs director, in a statement. “We hope that people will leave curious and inspired to pursue a new hobby.”
For more information, including how to participate as a crafter, email apd@thvmail.org. There is no vendor fee.
As for the Village itself, admission is free for members of the Troy Historical So-
Drunk Driving
• Divorce, Custody Support & Parenting Time
ciety, while the cost for non-members is $7 per adult, $5 per senior ages 60-plus, $5 for youth 6-17, and free for children ages 6 and younger.
Registration isn’t required, but one can reserve a time slot and receive an event reminder by visiting troyhistoricvillage.org. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
for a long time,” Novi coach and MHSAA Field Hockey Committee member Amy Kilgore said. “We had a great representative body that organized our tournament, and we’ve had a state title since the ’80s … but the perception will change dramatically.”
This sponsorship will add to a sport that also already has an established network of club teams around the state. The club field hockey scene is vital for recruiting and playing at the next level, and this move can help grow the club scene significantly.
“There’s a really robust club system in the US,” Kilgore said. “But not in Michigan, Michigan just has three clubs. … It’s exciting to see those changes and opportunities for girls to get recognized.”
Kilgore herself runs the Live Oak Field Hockey Club, which aims to grow the sport in Livingston and Oakland counties. The club wants to make sure the experience is fun and is open to all skill levels.
Kilgore currently coaches a competitive Novi team and had a successful playing career before making the jump to coaching.
“We would get comments growing up, ‘I play a real sport,’ ‘Your sport isn’t even recognized,’ and ‘Oh, you’re just a club,’ Kilgore said.
“Winning a MHSAA state title or regional title … it certainly carries a different weight,” Kilgore said.
This sponsorship will also provide more opportunities to recognize players. Now that the sport has the MHSAA structure, there will be the chance for district, regional and conference titles that weren’t available before. Athletes will have a more clear path to playing at the next level.
“To watch it grow both in metro Detroit and on the west side of the state I think would be a huge thing for us,” Kilgore said. “For girls to have a certain sense of pride … that it’s no different than any other sport, that’s the hope.”
The state finals will be played Oct. 25 at a location yet to be announced. For more information, visit www.liveoakfieldhockey club.com or email liveoakfieldhockeyclub@ gmail.com.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
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8. This and that 12. Title for Turkish leader
13. Tarantino’s “____ Bill: Vol.1”
14. Ten million, in India
15. Type of word
16. Kent State state
17. Oohed partner
18. *Sleeping in a very fancy tent
20. Board game of diplomacy
21. Canada’s favorite tree?
22. Long time
23. Asian wild sheep
26. Galilei’s first name
30. Ever, to a poet
31. Lease giver
34. Hokkaido native
35. Sends unwanted emails
37. Charlotte’s creation
38. “Bravo! Bravo!”
39. Roughly (2 words)
40. Common spa treatment
42. Gobbled up
43. *Movie theater snack
45. Infer using data
47. Entrepreneur Mary Ash’s middle name 48. Wiser
50. Decomposes
52. *Communication device
55. Veranda, in Honolulu
56. Rum-soaked cake
57. Shades of color
59. Those against 60. Tehran location
61. Small island
62. Violin’s Renaissance predecessor
63. Cloud’s domain
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Woman caught stealing electric shopping cart
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to a store in the 2500 block of Adams Road on a report of a stolen Amigo electric shopping cart at 2:12 a.m. Aug. 17.
A 33-year-old Pontiac woman reportedly had attempted to drive an Amigo electric shopping cart back to her residence in Pontiac.
Auburn Hills officers initially observed the woman driving the Amigo on Adams Road, near Marketplace Circle. She was identified and instructed to drive the Amigo back to the store while being followed by Auburn Hills. She was found to be in possession of other stolen merchandise from the store.
Upon further investigation, deputies learned she had a warrant for her arrest from the 50th District Court. She was arrested and transported to the Oakland County Jail.
Man arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies received notification that a license plate reader alerted on a stolen motorcycle near Crooks and Avon at 8:23 p.m. Aug. 8. Deputies looked up the license plate, which revealed a known suspect and showed him residing in the 500 block of University in Rochester Hills. Deputies checked the area and observed a motorcycle traveling east on University Road. The license plate matched that of the stolen vehicle.
Deputies initiated a traffic stop and took the operator of the motorcycle into custody, a 43-year-old man from Harrison Township. A passenger was released at the scene. The motorcycle was impounded, and the operator was transported to the Oakland County Jail without incident.
Man caught on video allegedly attempting to photograph under woman’s skirt
ROCHESTER HILLS — A 35-year-old woman from Rochester Hills said that as she was shopping with her two children at the Target at 2887 S. Rochester Road, she noticed a man taking photos or videos under her dress. When she turned around, the man was near her, squatting on the floor, with his phone out.
She walked away and over to the next aisle. The man followed her to the next aisle, and she noticed him attempting to get close to her with his phone out. She found a Target security guard and told him what had happened. The unknown subject left the area.
Deputies reviewed the store video and observed the unknown man squat down next to her with his
enough that it doesn’t appear that the unknown man was able to obtain a picture or video. The complainant completed a witness statement.
Banking scam
TROY — An 83-year-old resident of Emerald Lake Drive told police that he received a text message on Aug. 12 claiming to be from Bank of America, notifying him of unauthorized activity on his account. He was told someone had used his account for Apple Pay, and he was instructed to call the phone number provided.
At the number, he spoke with someone who claimed that all his devices had been hacked, and that he would be receiving a separate call from Huntington Bank to resolve the matter.
A few hours later, he received a call from a man claiming to be a fraud officer with Huntington Bank. The victim was told his accounts and phone had been hacked, and that the bank would have to move the money from his account to a federally controlled ATM for protection.
The victim was instructed to withdraw funds and deposit it at a bitcoin ATM, which he did. He then realized it was a scam when he was then instructed to make additional deposits.
Fraudulent purchases
TROY — A 57-year-old resident of Grand Haven
Drive told police that she was attempting to update her Paramount Plus membership when she searched for the company’s phone number on Google Aug. 14 and called what turned out to be a scam number. The victim was told by a man on the phone to download an app, which the man then used to take remote control of her phone, making $700 worth of purchases using her accounts.
Text scam
TROY — A 74-year-old resident of Colony Drive told police that he received a text from an unknown person recruiting him for a remote job Aug. 15. He called the number provided and was told he could make $300-$700 a week watching videos at home. He was then convinced to invest in bitcoin, and that he would be paid for watching the videos once he deposited money into a bitcoin ATM. The victim did as he was told but the suspect continued to ask for money, at which point the victim realized it was a scam.
Cement put into gasoline tank
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 11 a.m. and noon Aug. 20, an unknown person
tank at Nex Transportation at 30701 Woodward Ave.
Expensive watch, wallet taken from vehicle
BERKLEY — A 38-year-old Rochester Hills man reported to the Berkley Public Safety Department that his watch and other items had been taken from his vehicle.
According to the report, the man came to the department on Aug. 2 to report that someone had gone through his black 2025 Ford F-150 pickup truck where he had parked it at 28975 Woodward Ave. the day prior. While working, the man did receive a notification from his credit card company about suspicious activity, but he didn’t think much of it.
When the man later went back to his truck, he found that a Rolex watch he had left inside, valued at $6,000, was missing. Also missing from the truck was a Louis Vuitton wallet valued at $450, which contained his credit cards, and a bottle of cologne valued at $250.
The man checked the security cameras near his business and did find some footage of a suspect.
Driver dragging city lamppost arrested for drunk driving, weapons charge
BIRMINGHAM — On Aug. 16, at approximately 2 a.m., officers observed a vehicle dragging an unknown object and conducted a traffic stop, determining the object to be a portion of a city lamppost.
The driver, a 34-year-old Detroit woman, displayed signs of intoxication and admitted to returning from a bar but could not remember how much alcohol she had consumed.
Further investigation revealed she had struck and damaged a restaurant wall, a tree, a lamppost, and an electrical box after driving at a high rate of speed near eastbound Brown Street and Woodward Avenue. A handgun registered to the suspect was located in her purse. Following field sobriety evaluations, she was arrested and issued citations for driving under the influence of alcohol, possession of a weapon while under the influence of alcohol, and failure to report a crash.
Necklace reported stolen with vehicle
BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 12:30 p.m. Aug. 18, an officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Pierce Street, where a 44-year-old man reported that his vehicle had been stolen from his driveway overnight.
The victim said he may have left the key in the vehicle, and officers observed no broken glass where it had been parked. The victim reported that a
the vehicle. An investigation was ongoing.
Stolen car found totaled BIRMINGHAM — Oak Park police contacted the Birmingham Police Department at around 3:30 a.m. Aug. 16 after finding a possibly stolen vehicle registered to a 41-year-old Birmingham resident. The vehicle had been totaled, and the keys were inside it. An officer was dispatched to the woman’s home, where her son was shocked to learn the vehicle was missing. He said no one has authorization to drive it except his mother, who was away, and that he last saw it parked in the driveway the previous evening. The son does not drive. An investigation was ongoing.
Suspects flee after failed larceny from locked vehicle
BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Bloomfield Township officers were dispatched to the 1600 block of Bloomfield Place Aug. 18 for a possible larceny in progress. The reporting party witnessed two males wearing masks covering their faces near some vehicles. The suspects ran into a wooded area when they saw the reporting party. A second caller contacted dispatch to report the same incident, but stated that the suspects had left the area in a white SUV. Video surveillance revealed that
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Suspicious circumstances
