FAMILY MARKETS, GARDEN CENTERS ROOTED IN HOMETOWNS /10A
Developer met with resistance over housing proposal
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD — The West Bloomfield Planning Commission and members of the community have expressed concerns about a local developer’s proposal to rezone the site of the former Bloomfield Orchard Nursing Home and redevelop it into single-family housing.
The site is located at 7277 Richardson Road between Forbush and Greendale avenues.
Officials said that the township has a gap in what they referred to as “middle housing” — homes that appeal to empty nesters who are scaling down, young families starting out and individuals looking to buy their first home.
Developer Steven Schafer, of Schafer Development, believes his proposal would address this need. His proposal, presented at a July 22 work session, is to purchase the land on the site, which is about 2.06 acres, and build 15 new single-family homes there.
The homes would start in the $400,000 price range for a unit spanning 1,400 square feet and increase to more than $500,000 for homes spanning 2,700 square feet.
See DEVELOPER on page 8A
to build 15 new single-family homes on the site. The West Bloomfield Planning Commission took issue with how the plan would increase the density of residents.
AUTHORITIES ID BODY FOUND IN PINE LAKE AS SOUTHFIELD MAN
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD — Authorities have identified the remains of a man discovered in Pine Lake July 29 as Alfonce Capone Friday, 30, a Southfield resident who had gone missing.
Friday’s mother had filed a missing person report with Southfield police Aug. 13.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation and requested several of Friday’s personal effects from his mother.
Forensic laboratory analysts at OCSO determined Friday’s identity Aug. 21.
See MISSING on page 9A
Reportedly, she told police that her son had taken all his things with him. Investigators later found some items, including a bottle of lotion they used to extract a DNA sample.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes Bloomfield Orchard Village Nursing Home sits on 2.06 acres where a local developer seeks
SAPPORO HIBACHI STEAKHOUSE
Sapporo Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi is probably best known for...its hibachi lunch and dinner meals of course. But customers know that Sapporo is much more than that, from its daily specials to its recently expanded menu.
e restaurant opened in 2017 and has been known for its great take outs ever since. Owner Jenny Wu has more than three decades of experience in running successful takeout restaurants and managing a catering business, regularly providing food for the meetings hosted by various departments at the University of Michigan, and worked closely with the Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels in providing food for the seniors in our community.
Nabeyaki Udon is a Japanese noodle soup dish that includes a poached egg, chicken, Japanese vegetables, seaweed and 2 pieces of tempura shrimp. Like other noodle soup dishes, it can be ordered with Ramen instead, an authentic Japanese
Sapporo meals are full of avor from sushi to hibachi to salads and soups. Wu and her sta have added recently to their menu Ramen noodle soups and special sushi appetizers and rolls. For example,
One of Sapporo's most popular appetizers is the Crab Rangoon, which can be an appetizer or part of a light lunch or comes with the Teriyaki dinner meals. Sapporo's chefs have also created a new batch of special sushi rolls that o er
creativity and a unique avor pro le. Hibachi o erings include numerous types of meat, seafood, tofu and vegetables. For those couples who are celebrating a special event, or are simply very hungry, may want to consider the Sapporo Extreme for Two people. It includes all of the meats, seafood with hibachi rice, noodles and vegetables, and even lobster and let and more.
"We are best known for our steak, so that's our best seller but really we're known for our wide range of menu options." Wu said. "We like to o er new menu items so people can come in and enjoy something new even if they've been here before"
Everyday there can be a celebration at Sapporo Hibachi Steakhouse because guests celebrating an important event in their lives such as a birthday or a
graduation will also receive a free gift along with their meals. Guests without a speci c reason to celebrate can still save with an Early Bird Discount of 10 percent o . Seniors 65 and over and veterans can also save 10 percent o menu prices anytime.
Plus, patrons can enjoy unique happy hour specials weekdays from 2:305:30pm and lunch specials before then. Customers who haven't been to Sapporo in several months may also notice that the restaurant has undergone some interior remodeling work to lighten colors, increase space and provide a more relaxing atmosphere for all.
e restaurant is open seven days a week from noon to 9:30p.m. for dining in or takeout service. Wu promises that all takeout will be properly packed so that hot food stays hot and cold food remains cool.
Wasabi Novi family and sta has joined Sapporo under one management. Please call 734-266-0888 or visit sapporolivonia.com to learn more.
wheat noodle.
Progress being made on new activities center
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD — Kelly Hyer, the executive director of West Bloomfield Parks, presented an update to the township board Aug. 11 regarding plans to build a new activities hub called the Connect Community Center.
In November 2024, West Bloomfield voters approved a $25 million bond to build a new activities center. This year, the Parks Department is celebrating 55 years of parks in the township, and the new center, spanning 48,000 feet, will be its largest endeavor to date.
“This project addresses a longstanding need for updated, accessible and centralized recreation space,” Hyer said.
The new building will be in the general location of the current Recreation Activities Center and Nature Room buildings, located at 4640 Walnut Road in West Bloomfield.
Hyer said that a team has been assembled that includes architects, designers and engineers. Several items have been completed so far, such as requests for proposals and reference checks.
The new building will support multigenerational use. It is being designed for accessibility and sustainability, supporting a variety of programming and events.
Fiscal responsibility is another focus.
Don’t let your hearing go on vacation. Enjoy the sounds of summer. Our comprehensive hearing evaluation is always no charge.
DoIhearsounds,buthavetrouble understandingwords? Dopeopleseemtomumble? Ifyouanswered‘Yes’toeitherofthose questions,ahearinglossmaybepresent. Callustodayforacomprehensive hearingevaluation.
See CONNECT on page 18A
Our next edition will come to homes Sept. 17. Stay current by visiting
Council rejects housing proposal for Farmington Hills
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON HILLS — At the Aug. 11 meeting of the Farmington Hills City Council, members voted 6-1 to reject a proposal for a planned unit development spanning Mulberry Park and The Tabernacle, both on 13 Mile Road west of Middlebelt Road.
The properties were described as multi-family housing by
Schafer Development, LLC, and would have had 63 units total, with Mulberry Park featuring 31 of the units.
Joe Tangari, a city planning consultant at Giffels Webster, said most of the units in Mulberry Park were slated to be twostory, three-bedroom townhomes, with ranch-style units bordering the southern edge of the property. The ranch-style units were a change from the original proposal where they were all two-story townhomes; the change was made to prevent them from ob-
See HOUSING on page 16A
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
West Bloomfield has outgrown its current recreation hub and plans to build a new one spanning 42,000 square foot. The building will be called the Connect Community Center.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The Farmington Hills City Council rejected a proposal for a 63-unit development on 13 Mile Road west of Middlebelt Road, citing concerns by neighboring residents.
Week 2 high school football matchups to watch
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The 2025 high school football season is officially underway as last weekend teams all over Michigan played their first game of the year. Week 2 looks like it will provide the early season big-name matchups that the state has waited all offseason for.
Premier matchup of the week
Port Huron Northern at Madison Heights Lamphere
7 p.m. Sept. 5
This matchup features two MAC division winners from 2024 and is a rematch of a game played last season. Lamphere won the
MAC-Gold with an 8-1 record last year and beat Northern 21-13. Despite the loss, Port Huron Northern finished with a 7-2 record and a MAC-Blue title. Both teams have high hopes for this season and will look to get a big win before division play starts.
Matchups to watch
Harper Woods at Clarkston
7 p.m. Sept. 5
An OAA crossover matchup between two fixtures in the MHSAA postseason. Last season, Harper Woods made it to the state semifinals before losing to eventual state champion Goodrich. Clarkston is a blue-blood program that wins playoff games seemingly every year and is coming off of a
See FOOTBALL on page 20A
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The Harper Woods football team celebrates in 2023 with the MHSAA Division 4 trophy.
NEWS & NOTES
Navigating Medicare
WEST BLOOMFIELD — An upcoming program will allow guests to ask questions about annual Medicare enrollment in a comfortable and supportive environment.
The event will be held 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17 at the West Bloomfield Township Public Library, located at 4600 Walnut Lake Road in West Bloomfield Township.
Registration is required by calling the library at (248) 682-2120 or by emailing the library at events@wblib.org
Road closures announced
FARMINGTON HILLS — Haggerty Road will be closed from 13 Mile to 14 Mile roads on the Farmington Hills and Novi borders from now through late September.
This is necessary to replace a culvert that carries the Seeley Drain under the road. The road will be completely closed at the culvert, which is just north of Lancaster Drive.
The detour is 12 Mile Road to M-5 and back to Haggerty Road.
The city of Novi has also closed 13 Mile Road from Haggerty to M-5 for paving projects throughout the month.
SEPT. 12-13
Gone fishing
FARMINGTON HILLS — Farmington Hills will be celebrating Grandparents Day at Founders Fishing Pier from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Sept. 7. The pier is located at 35500 W. Eight Mile Road in Farmington Hills. The fishing rod, reel, bait and basic instructions will be provided. To register, visit tinyurl.com/fhncfallkidsfishing
CONSUMERS
METRO DETROIT — Consumers Energy is offering payment assistance for customers with overdue electric and natural gas bills resulting from high usage this summer.
This is a one-time form of assistance. To qualify, customers must be past due, shut off or have a balance on a former address. To apply, call (800) 866-8429, or visit thawfund.org.
One can also apply through the Salvation Army at salarmy.us/energy.
Mount Clemens High School — all alumni: Includes DJ and cash food/refreshments, no ticket required, 5 p.m. Sept. 12, Rec Bowl, 40 Crocker Blvd. in Mount Clemens, also MCHS tour at 9 a.m., tailgate and car show at 11 a.m., and football game at 1 p.m. Sept. 13, contact (586) 463-6386 or drron82@yahoo.com with questions
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, includes open bar and professional pho-
tographer 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
Photo provided by Road Commission of Oakland County
HOMES
AUTUMN FLOWER PLANTING BRINGS FALL CHEER AND A BRIGHTER SPRING
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
Planting flowers around your home in the fall can help bring color and cheer to the otherwise dreary autumn season, and it will brighten your spring season as well.
“It’s a great time of year to grow flowers,” said Matt Colonius, co-owner of Piechnik’s Garden Center and Nursery in Oakland Township and Piechnik’s Greenhouse in Clio. “I mean, it’s a great time of year to establish gardens and rework beds.“
He said that as a landscape architect, the flowers do a lot to enhance the entryway of a home. He said the options are “endless,” and there are plenty of things to be added to a flower garden to enhance it, such as gourds, pumpkins and cornstalks.
“It’s endless. It’s not just natural beauty, but there’s other elements to this that can be added,” Colonius said.
“Fall is for planting,” said Nancy Kassab, owner of Flowers by Nancy K in Berkley. “By planting now, you’ll enjoy early blooms as soon as spring arrives.”
Colonius said that early fall is the best time for planting your spring flowers, but it can be done until at least Halloween.
“It’s a great time to plant perennials, especially this year with the cooler weather moving in early, they get rooted into the ground really well now and should be in place and ready for spring,” Colonius said.
“Tulips and daffodils are planted in the fall and not in the spring,” Piechnik’s co-owner Stan Piechnik said. “Everybody thinks that because it’s a spring flower you plant it in the spring, and it’s not. Fall bulbs are important.”
Kassab said that fall planting gives perennials and spring bulbs such as tulips and daffodils time to establish roots before the ground freezes. She said the cool weather reduces stress on plants, and fall is therefore an ideal time to refresh garden beds.
“It’s more hostile for rooting in the summer than it is in the fall,” Colonius said. “The spring is also a good time for us where rooting is heavier than growth. So, if the plant is not producing a lot of growth, it’s rooting into the ground stronger.”
Kassab said it is also a good time to plant hardy seasonal flowers. She said the most popular outdoor fall flower by far is the chrysanthemum, but other seasonal flowers include pansies, violas, ornamental kale and cabbage, camellias, and winter jasmine.
“For fall color you want to put in a lot of hardy mums; we sell some other hardy annuals like pansies, celosia, and some of the other annual grasses like purple fountain grass, and those are best used in planters for the fall,” said Colonius. According to Colonius, many people are looking for fall flowers right now to enhance and freshen up their gardens as a result of the heat this summer.
“Hardy mums are a great way to do that, and we sell over 80 different varieties of hardy mums,” he said. “Hardy asters are great this time of year both for gardens and for planting in planters.”
He said the flowers that are not going to come back are best used for color by the door of your home, and the hardy perennials should be put directly into the ground.
Piechnik said that it is important to look into flower bulbs that are more resistant to deer. According to Piechnik, daffodils are much more resistant to deer than tulips; however, there are some newer tulip varieties that are resistant to deer.
Colonius said that in the spring, the flower bulbs come up and the deer like to eat them, essentially eating the flowers and ruining a garden.
Colonius said that they have a lot of products that offer some resistance to the deer, but nothing is foolproof.
“There’s really nothing that completely works for the deer,” he said. “They may smell at one and back away from it, but long term they might get used to the smell and figure nothing happened so I’m going to go ahead and eat it anyways, so we sell a lot of products that are kind of that way and they begin to work, and when the deer figure it out, they go ahead and chow down anyway. So, the jury’s kind of out on that one,” Colonius said.
He said there have been changes in the flower, nursery and landscaping industry because of the deer. He said they now often consider what plants will grow and not get eaten because of the deer.
Fall bouquets are another option to brighten a home. Kassab said the best flowers for fall bouquets include sunflowers, dahlias, roses, eucalyptus and narcissus. She said winter jasmine is “sunshine in winter,” amaryllis is “festive and dramatic,” paperwhites offer “fragrant elegance,” cyclamen has vibrant petals and heart leaves, and orchids offer lasting beauty.
“Flowers are so beautiful; they add color, texture and variety, instantly brightening up any space,” Kassab said.
She said that sun-loving flowers are usually low-maintenance if watered regularly and are good for those who are new to gardening.
Other easy-to-care-for flowers are marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers and geraniums, Kassab said, while roses, lavender and daisies need more moderate care.
According to Kassab, flowers are proven to reduce stress and boost happiness.
“Coming home to a garden of blooms creates a calming, uplifting environment,” she said.
ABOVE: Floral designer Amy Carrier shows some of the fall decorations and flowers offered at Piechnik’s Garden Center and Nursery in Oakland Township.
LEFT: Pansies are a popular flower that can be planted in the fall.
Photos provided by Piechnik’s Garden Center and Nursery
LEFT: Nancy Kassab, owner of Flowers by Nancy K, poses for a picture inside her flower shop in Berkley.
RIGHT: Kassab said that fall flower arrangements can brighten up a home.
Photos provided by Nancy Kassab
Thank you, Oakland County, MI for raising a scout.
Scout Motors salutes the towns, cities and neighborhoods that shaped our earliest employees—the places that taught them to lead with grit, to go first and go further. To roll up their sleeves. To get their hands dirty. To break new ground and never forget where they came from. Because of them, we’re well on our way developing the Scout ® Traveler ™ and Scout ® Terra,™ and building a factory in South Carolina that aims to hire 4,000 more bold trailblazers. Because of them, we’re building something that lasts.
So here’s to Neil Sitron , our 20th employee, and Kevin Daniels , our 103rd employee, and to you, for helping them get here.
Developer
Schafer also proposed building on lots measuring 5,000 square feet, compared to the 10,000 square feet required by the current R10 zoning.
“This brings great value to the community,” he said. “It is something that doesn’t exist. There is a need for this type of housing.”
Currently, the township requires no more than four lots per acre.
One resident, Stephanie Tuttle, pushed back against the proposed change.
“I am asking you to stay true to West Bloomfield and our standards of 100 feet by 100 feet,” Tuttle said.
The commissioners asked questions and listened to Schafer’s proposal, but many felt that 15 units on 2.06 acres is too dense.
Schafer also proposed rezoning the property as a Planned Development District, or PDD. Liz Hart, the township’s consultant from municipal planning firm McKenna, explained that rezoning for PDD would allow greater flexibility in terms of open space and sustainable design.
Commissioner Lance Stokes asked if Schafer met any of the current R10 standards.
“You don’t meet any of them,” Stokes said.
A recurring request from the commissioners was for Schafer to produce a proposal with less density. Schafer said that while he did not wish to reduce the development from 15 units to eight units, he suggested a compromise where the township covers the cost of water, offsetting the revenue lost from a possible reduction in units.
Schafer described the proposal as a small project for him. He said he is only trying to help a friend who owns the property.
“It is not going to make or break what I do on a daily (basis), but I would like to make it happen for the community if I can,” Schafer said.
As deliberations continue, Chairperson Karmen Santourian said the result may be neither eight units nor 15, adding that perhaps the two sides can meet somewhere in the middle.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Now Enrolling – Lower Elementary Program
• Classroom designed for children ages 6–9.
• Children learn in mixed-ages classrooms as they did in Preschool and Kindergarten.
• Curriculum includes group research projects and concrete materials for Math, Grammar, Geography, Science and Reading.
If You Think Your Child Would Thrive in a Montessori Environment, Call us Today for a Visit and Learn More.
Orchard Lake Rd.• Farmington Hills • 248-477-8020 countryhillsmontessori.net | email: countryhillsmontessori@gmail.com
Whether it’s a design-build plan for new construction or “landscape rejuvenation” of an existing yard, The Landscaping Authority brings vision, expertise and a dedication to positively transforming properties to each and every job. “Our passion is to change things for the better, to improve the curb appeal of someone’s place,” said Jason Iras, the owner of The Landscaping Authority, based in Shelby Township. “We love to do before-and-afters. It motivates us to do an amazing job. To see something that’s down and drab, and turn it into something that’s very photogenic and very pretty to look at, that’s what we love.”
Serving metro Detroit’s northern suburbs, The Landscaping Authority works on new or preexisting projects. “We’re a design-build and maintenance company. We’ll design new construction landscape. We can do everything from sprinklers, sod, hardscape, brick pavers and retaining walls, all that stuff. We can pull weeds, remove stumps and put in trees to give a property a fresh look,” Iras said.
A designer by trade, Iras said a project starts with a free consultation where goals and a plan are discussed. “We implement that by taking a look at the property, seeing what they have, what’s available, and seeing what we can reuse to beautify the property,” Iras said. Creating borders and lines to complement the existing architecture, incorporating desired colors and maximizing their impact is all part of the plan.
“We do annuals and perennials, fall mums and tulip bulbs. We do outdoor kitchens and living spaces,” Iras said. “It adds tremendous value to someone’s home when we can increase that curb appeal.”
When the winter winds blow and the yard goes to sleep for the year, The Landscaping Authority’s team transitions to commercial snow and ice management. “That’s a very big part of our business, making sure we keep our clients and customers and employees safe from the hazards of Michigan winters,” Iras said.
879-5947 or go to thelandscapingauthority.com.
To set up a consultation or for more information, call
from page 1A
“The manner and cause of the death are pending a toxicology report,” said Tyler Sweers, an officer with OCSO.
Officers with the West Bloomfield Police Department were dispatched to the 3200 block of Pine Lake Road when an unidentified man was found dead in Pine Lake July 29.
The county’s Special Investigations Unit arrived at the scene for a search and rescue operation that night, joining police officers from West Bloomfield Township, who determined that the individual was deceased.
No identification was found on Friday’s body. At the time, Friday was described as standing 6 feet tall and weighing about 140 pounds. He was wearing a white T-shirt, black jogging pants and black Adidas athletic shoes.
Anyone who may have seen Friday alive from July 27 through July 29 is asked to call OCSO at (248) 858-4940.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
FAMILY MARKETS, GARDEN CENTERS ROOTED IN HOMETOWNS
BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com
Creating a lasting business in a community can be quite difficult. Growing that business can be even more stressful. Some of the longest lasting businesses in metro Detroit are its family markets and garden centers, founded decades ago. Many still can be visited at their original locations.
Impressively, there might not be many other businesses that have lasted longer than Kutchey Family Market. It has been part of the fabric of the city of Warren since the early 1800s. The original farm and store were located at 3202 East 10 Mile Road.
It was eight years ago when David Kutchey decided to sell that land and open a market at 27825 Ryan Road to sell produce and an
MARKETS
Al the Fal Fels at the
Standing in front of his produce and previous awards, David Kutchey holds the historical marker for Kutchey Family Market. Kutchey Family Market was founded in Warren in the early 1800s and hasn’t left since. The current location on 27825 Ryan Road was opened eight years ago.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Bringing Women Together for Faith, Worship and Connection
Come gather with women of all ages at Christian Tabernacle Church’s Bloom Conference Sept. 18-21, 2025, and experience four days of powerful worship, inspiring speakers and fellowship.
This faith-filled gathering was born from a desire to give women a space where they feel “heard, seen and valued,” said co-host Pastor Loretta Forbes, who is leading the event alongside her mother, Loretta Morman. “My mom has always made sure women have a place to connect with God and with one another,” Forbes explained. “We want women to know they aren’t alone, that this is a safe space to be their truest selves and leave as better versions of themselves.”
The conference will feature worship led by psalmists Casey J and Naomi Raine, along with messages from global speaker Charlotte Gambill, author and tech innovator Nona Jones, faith leader Dr. Dee Dee Freeman, Pastor Michelle Ferguson and influencer Brelyn Bowman.
Sessions will include topics such as blooming in identity, purpose, wellness, womanhood and motherhood. Workshops and panels will address mental, spiritual, social and physical health.
“The wellness panel will include a medical doctor, nutritionist and marital therapist,” Forbes noted. “We’re targeting the whole woman—not just one part of her life—because we women tend to juggle so many things.”
Sisterhood is at the heart of Bloom. “We’re being intentional about every vendor, speaker and activity,” she added. “We even have sisterhood activation
stations so women can come together to connect, chat over cofee, share a photo and combat the false idea that women can’t get along.”
The event will also feature live Q&A sessions to encourage candid discussions. “Every speaker is going to keep it honest, open and transparent,” Forbes emphasized. “We want that deeper engagement between the women in the audience and the women on stage.”
Attendees can expect special surprises, including giveaways and the Bloom Boutique, a marketplace for self-care items, wellness products and clothing. Forbes hopes every woman leaves with confidence, freedom and a strengthened sense of community. “I want participants to walk away knowing they have sisters around them—women who understand what they’re going through—and that they can do this journey together.”
Christian Tabernacle Church is located 26555 Franklin Rd. in Southfield. Learn more and register at ctabchurch.org/events.
Identity, purpose, wellness, womanhood and motherhood
Experience power washing the way it should be done, by ‘Honest Guys’
Whether it’s dirty from the elements or everyday wear and tear, your property’s exterior takes a beating. For your home or business, maintenance is the key to preserving your investment.
When it’s time to clean and freshen up the look of almost anything, Honest Guys Power Washing is the only call you need to make. Owner Dan Taylor and his “guys” handle expert power washing for everything: homes, decks, brick pavers, cement, gutters, siding, industrial buildings, and even construction vehicles.
Dan said decks and brick pavers are their specialty, where they o er a better quality of service than the competition, the materials they use leave a longer lasting finish and the scope of work goes beyond power washing.
“We’ll refinish decks, replacing boards and fixing structural issues,” Dan said. “We fix patios and pavers that are falling apart.
Not only do we li and level and repair the base, we get the moss out of the cracks and put polymeric sand in the joints that prohibits weed growth and prevents moisture penetration.”
The power washing season heats up in mid-April and runs through October, which means now is the perfect time to protect
your property by keeping it clean and performing optimally.
“It’s worth investing in maintenance,” Dan said. “It’s a lot cheaper to maintain something than it is to repair it or replace it.”
Honest Guys o ers competitive pricing with a quality of work that exceeds what the competition o ers. Dan and his team can also quote pricing for new brick installation, add-ons, retaining walls, rock and more.
“We’re the best,” Dan said. “We take care and pride in our work. We use only the best products and our employees are educated technicians with years of experience.”
Honest Guys Power Washing has a new o ce and showroom in Clarkston. For more information or to set up a consultation for a free estimate, visit honestguyspowerwash.com or call (248) 568-7152.
Ask us for a quote on your new brick install,add ons,retaining walls,rock & more!
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON — Shiawassee Park in Farmington welcomed Michigan’s first Fitness Court featuring a studio at a ribboncutting ceremony Aug. 12.
Fitness Courts are outside workout stations available to the public at no cost. The addition of a studio allows for special programming such as exercise classes.
Farmington Mayor Joe LaRussa was excited about this addition in the city.
“These new Fitness Courts are an in-
vestment in the health, well-being, and connection for our community. By creating free, accessible spaces for people of all ages to get active, we’re reinforcing Farmington’s commitment to quality of life,” LaRussa said. “I encourage everyone to come out, explore the courts, and make outdoor fitness a part of their routine.”
The city of Farmington partnered with Priority Health to bring the Fitness Court to Farmington as part of its commitment to quality of life.
“Priority Health is excited to provide
See FITNESS on page 19A
BEHIND THE WHEEL
14A/ WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • SEPTEMBER 3, 2025
SETTING UP ‘CAMP’ IN A CUSTOM-MADE CARAVAN THAT CRUISES IN REVERSE
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
When it comes to car cruises, Jerry Naumann knows how to make a grand entrance. For many years, the car enthusiast drove an upside-down GMC 1984 Rally van that attracted crowds from St. Clair Shores to downriver communities. After owning it for several years, he sold the vehicle to a gentleman in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where the upside-down van currently rests.
But the wheels behind Naumann’s cruising days are still spinning. A couple of years ago, he purchased another offbeat vehicle that looks like a camper riding backward while connected to a 1985 Ford Ranger pickup truck. Naumann drove the memorable trailer in this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise Aug. 16 and made an appearance at the Berkley CruiseFest Classic Car Parade Aug. 15 where he “had a blast.”
Here’s the twist: the trailer isn’t really a camper but is manufactured to look like one.
“It’s just vinyl siding and it has a 2-by-2 framework,” Naumann said.
With a 1998 Chevrolet S-10 Blazer floor plan with drivetrain, a front and back seat, and steering wheel, it appears as if the Ford Ranger is backing up with the trailer behind it. But it’s really the trailer driving forward while pulling the Ranger behind it.
“Pretty much the body was removed off the ’98 Chevy Blazer and the seats were left there. The camper is bolted to it. It just drives itself. The Blazer is what pulls the whole framework of the camper,” Naumann said. “You can see the dashboard and the engine is all intact. The four wheels actually propel this camper.”
Naumann said the engine from the Ford Ranger was removed to make the ride lighter. The camper can drive by itself, but Naumann always has the Ranger with it so spectators can get the full illusion.
“The same guy that did the van for me did this,” Nau-
Jerry Naumann, of Berkley, brought his backwards trailer to this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise Aug. 16 and the Berkley CruiseFest Classic Car Parade Aug. 15. Naumann’s camper looks like it rides backward while pulling a 1985 Ford Ranger pickup truck.
mann said. “I saw this about three years ago up in Flint at Back to the Bricks. Very nice, high-end cars go there.”
While en route, Naumann often keeps the speedometer at 40 mph. There is no radio, and the air conditioner doesn’t work, but the windows bring in fresh air. Naumann attaches a wire between the two vehicles so the Ranger’s taillights and turn signals work.
“That way people see when they’re coming up behind the truck if I’m turning or breaking,” he said.
The camper stands about 7 1/2 feet in height. Naumann gets a kick out of driving the rig around town. When people see him driving by, they pull out their cameras to take photos and videos.
“It’s that shock and awe, I guess,” Naumann said. “When driving down the road, you love to see people, especially little kids, smiling and pointing at it. I just love seeing the expression on their faces and the fact they enjoy it.”
Naumann lives close enough to the Berkley CruiseFest Classic Car Parade on 12 Mile Road that he can see people as they mark their spots with lawn chairs and canopies to get a good view of the event. He loves to see so many spectators come to town, which he said boosts the economy and puts Berkley on the map. The same goes for the Woodward Dream Cruise, which stretches through several communities in Oakland County.
Naumann has always been interested in cars, something that was in the family’s DNA.
“I restored many cars and painted many cars,” he said. “My dad was into cars and my older brother was into cars.”
Along with the backward camper, Naumann owns two Plymouth Prowlers: a 1999 model and a 2001 model. The ’01 Prowler has 130,000 miles on it.
“That one, I drove all over the country just to events,” said Naumann, who belongs to the online Plymouth Prowler Enthusiasts car club.
This year, the club met up in Hocking Hills, Ohio. Last year, the Prowler peeps got together for camaraderie in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
Classic Cars for the Cure Sept. 20
DETROIT/CLAWSON — The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute will hold its third annual Classic Cars for the Cure from 7 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 20 at a private garage at 1330 N. Crooks Road in Clawson. Funds raised will support cancer research at Karmanos in Detroit.
The event will include a strolling supper by Forte Belanger, live 1950s and ’60s music by Stella and her band Intrigue, a performance and swing dance lessons from the Oakland University Dance Team, and dessert served in a 1950s diner. Guests, too, can learn more about Karmanos’ research.
Attendees are asked to wear cocktail attire or 1950s and 1960s-style flair. Al Trombetta, Classic Cars for the Cure automobile curator, has gathered 25 rare classic cars from museums and top collectors to showcase. The event is personal for Trombetta, whose mother died of lung cancer.
Debra Partrich, of Bloomfield Hills, is a member of the Karmanos Cancer Institute Board of Directors and also a cancer survivor who underwent treatment at Karmanos.
“If it weren’t for a doctor doing research to find a cure for the cancer I had, I would not be here today. I would not be able to watch my grandsons grow up, spend more time with my family, enjoy trips with my husband, or be around with my friends,” she said in a prepared statement. “That’s the most important thing. Just to be present. This event is a wonderful evening full of classic cars, dancing, music and just a lot of fun. And we are raising dollars for research. Research that will hopefully someday cure cancer.”
Helping to make Classic Cars for the Cure a success is Franklin resident and event sponsor Jeff Kopelman. His wife, Sandy, was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer but lived for 4 1/2 years because of the cancer treatment she received from Dr. Robert Morris and the Karmanos staff. Tickets cost $250 each at karmanos.org/cars25.
— MARIA ALLARD
Partrich
Kopelman
Photos by Liz Carnegie
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
SEPT. 14
Music @ Main: Free concert features Voxanna, 2-3 p.m. (doors at 1:30 p.m.), West Bloomfield Township Public Library - Main Branch, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, (248) 682-2120, wblib.org
Apple Island tours: Take pontoon ride to 37-acre nature sanctuary, also see outdoor exhibits, learn from docents and hear presenter, 2-3 hour self-paced tours run 10 a.m.-3:40 p.m., meet at Orchard Lake Museum (home of Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society), 3951 Orchard Lake Road, purchase tickets during event, (248) 757-2451, gwbhs.org/appleisland-tours
SEPT.
16
Optimist Club of West Bloomfield meetings: Hear from Dr. Dania H. Bazzi about state of West Bloomfield School District, also discussions about program planning and club updates, 7:15 a.m., All Seasons of West Bloomfield, 5600 Drake Road, continue Oct. 7 and 21, Nov. 4 and 18, and Dec. 2 and 16, facebook. com/westbloomfieldoptimist
SEPT. 18
What’s Cooking? series: Former Detroit Institute of Arts Executive Chef Larry Duren demonstrates how to prepare easy game day feast, samples provided during free event (but seating limited), 6-8 p.m., West Bloomfield Township Public Library - Main Branch, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, (248) 682-2120, wblib.org
SEPT. 18-20
Harvest Moon Celebration: Includes harvest food pairings, 40-plus craft beers and ciders, fine wines and live music, for ages 21 and older, 6-11 p.m. Sept. 18-19 and 6-11:30 p.m. Sept. 20, see band lineup at downtownfarmington.org
SEPT. 19
Family game night: Bring games and snack to share, 6-8 p.m., Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, 4800 Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield, (248) 682-5441
SEPT. 20
Harvest of Hope Gala: Annual fundraiser for The Bonnell Foundation (provides emotional and financial support to families living with cystic fibrosis), includes CF speakers, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and silent auction, 6:30-11 p.m., Laurel Manor Banquet & Conference Center, 39000 Schoolcraft Road in Livonia, www. thebonnellfoundation.org/night-of-hope-celebration
SEPT. 26-27
Camp Out: Activities include fishing, tent decorating contest, stargazing with Oakland Astronomy Club, s’mores over campfire, naturalist-led hike and more, also food truck during dinnertime, for ages 2 and older, set up at 3 p.m. Sept. 26 and check out by 10:30 a.m. Sept. 27, Marshbank Park, 2805 Hiller Road in West Bloomfield, wbparks.org/event/ camp-out
SEPT. 26-28
Metro Detroit Women’s Expo: Find 200-plus local businesses specializing in fashion, beauty, wellness, home décor, gourmet treats, handmade goods, financial advice and more, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sept. 26, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 27 and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 28, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi, kohlerexpo.com, suburbancollectionshowplace.com
ONGOING
‘Crimes of the Heart’: Play filled with comedy, tragedy and raw emotion as sisters reunite in small-town Mississippi home following shooting of youngest’s abusive husband, 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays Sept. 12-28, The Inspired Acting Company, 1124 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake, (248) 863-9953, info@inspiredacting.org, inspiredacting.org
Food Truck Tuesdays: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., held in tent between West Bloomfield Township Public Library and Recreation Activities Center on Civic Center Campus, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, continues weekly until Sept. 30, see schedule at wbparks.org/series/ foodtrucktuesday, (248) 451-4845
Game nights: For Sylan Lake residents only, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Sylvan Lake Community Center, 2456 Pontiac Drive, (248) 682-1440, sylvanlake.org/ community_center
• 5-6:30 p.m. every first and third Wednesdays of month, Commerce Township Community Library, 180 E. Commerce Road, (248) 669-8108, commercetwp. com/library
Free food distribution: Drive-up program for families and individuals in need, presented by Gleaners Community Food Bank, see dates and locations at pantrynet.org/mobile-distribution-events
Farmers markets: 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford Township, ocmarket@oakgov.com, (248) 858-5495, also tai chi Sept. 6, yoga Sept. 6 and 18, and craft nights Nov. 20 and Dec. 4, oakgov.com/ community/oakland-county-parks/parks-trails/ farmers-market
• Celebrating 20 years of local farmers and artisans, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays until Oct. 29, Casey J. Ambrose Public Safety Campus, 1499 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake, walledlake.us
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
ADHD meetings: Hosted by CHADD of Eastern Oakland County, for adults and parents, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Zoom, see schedule on chadd.net/chapterevents/527
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF A GENERAL ORDINANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at the August 18, 2025 Regular Meeting of the City of Orchard Lake Village Council the second reading and adoption was held on General Ordinance Amendment Chapter 12, (Buildings and Building Regulations), Article VI, Section 12-130 (Code Adopted), the 2024 Property Maintenance Code.
This ordinance will take effect ten (10) days following publication of this notice.
Complete copies of the full text of the General Ordinance are available for inspection by and distribution to the public between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except legal holidays, at City Hall.
Nancy Morogi
CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
Published: West Bloomfeld Beacon 09/03/2025
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS CITY OF KEEGO
HARBOR OAKLAND COUNTY, MICHIGAN
0351-2536
TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF KEEGO HARBOR, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS:
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a general summary of amendments to the City of Keego Harbor Zoning Ordinance text, Ordinance 2025-02, which were adopted by the City of Keego Harbor City Council at the meeting held August 21, 2025:
The amendments clarify that the architectural standards in Section 9(A).05 – Architectural Design Standards apply to principal buildings, remove required architectural materials from this Section, and refer to a “Village Overlay District Permitted Materials” list on fle at City Hall that can be updated by City Council resolution.
Tammy Neeb, Clerk City of Keego Harbor Oakland County, Michigan 2025 Beechmont St. Keego Harbor, MI 48320
Published: West Bloomfeld Beacon 09/03/2025
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
SUMMARY OF THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 18, 2025
At the August 18, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting, Council took the following action:
0392-2536
o Approved a Front Yard Setback Variance for an Enclosed Dining Area on the Front of the New Restaurant Currently under Construction at 4170 Orchard Lake Rd;
o Approved a Placement Variance to Place a Sports Court in the Front Yard, Commerce Road Side of the Property at 3875 Summers Ridge;
o Approved the Oakland County Brownfeld Redevelopment Authority (OCBRA), Brownfeld Redevelopment plan for 4196-4200 Orchard Lake Road, the Proposed Orchard Shoppes Development;
o Approved Sanitary Sewer Agreement for Orchard Shoppes LLC, 4196, 4200 & 421 O Orchard Lake Road;
o Renewed a Comcast Local Franchise Agreement;
o Postponed the approval of Ezee Fiber METRO Act Permit Application;
o Approved an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) Permit for 5430 Pontiac Trail;
o Approved and adopted the second reading General Ordinance Amendment Chapter 12, (Buildings and Building Regulations), Article VI, Section 12-130 (Code Adopted), the 2024 Property Maintenance Code;
o Approved the Clinton River Watershed Council’s (CRWC) Stormwater Public Education Program Contract Agreement;
o Approved the First Reading General Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 20 - Fire Prevention and Protection;
o Approved a Business License for St. Mary’s Rowing Regatta;
o Approved lnterlocal Agreement for Damage Assessment Mutual Aid;
o Accepted the Other Post Employment Beneft (OPEB), June 30, 2025 Actuarial Valuation Report;
o Accepted all Department Reports.
Norm Finkelstein, Mayor Nancy Morogi, City Clerk
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon 09/03/2025
0350-2536
Housing
page 3A
structing the view of neighbors in adjacent subdivisions. The price of the units would have started around $400,000.
The units proposed for The Tabernacle, meanwhile, consisted of 32 ranches for residents 55 years old and older. It was to be part of The Baptist Manor development on the west of the site. These were described as apartments, with rent starting around $2,000 per month.
Michael Bridges, a member of the Farmington Hills City Council, said the development would have required rezoning from RA1 to RC1, with RC1 being less restrictive in terms of density — the number of people living in an area.
“I always thought that neighborhoods were very strong in our community. People move to Farmington Hills because of the rural character, open spaces, wooded lots,” he said. “This project would somewhat disturb that.”
The residents that spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting were all against the development because of the increased density of people, as well as stormwater drainage issues, increased traffic and potential loss of property value.
Many felt the proposal was a poor fit for an area with many neighboring homes on lots nearly a half-acre or more. As it stood, the proposal aimed to squeeze 63 units onto 12 acres.
“Our lifestyle will totally and completely change, both Holly Hills Farms and West Gate (Franklin Village) subdivisions, because of the density of the homes, the density of the traffic, and the restrictions against the animals that live there,” said resident Katherine Leik. “We live there for the wildlife. I have fawns being born in my backyard.”
Many trees would also have to be removed for the development, although the developer said new ones could be planted.
“This will definitely affect my property value and privacy,” said resident Craig LaPointe.
According to Councilman Randy Bruce, for months, he asked the developer Aaron Schafer for proof that the property had been marketed and put up for sale as an RA1. Bruce said that he never received that information.
“(Whether) this project can be marketed as an RA1 is critical in understanding your proposal,” Bridges said. “Not providing that data calls into question was that the plan all along.”
Schafer said the plan to rezone as RC1 was because RC1 calculates density by the number of rooms per acre, rather than the number of units per acre.
Schafer said the proposal should fall under the flex residential designation, a provi-
sion intended to help certain properties sell for redevelopment.
“Flex residential understands the fact that there are challenging parcels in the city of Farmington Hills,” Schafer said. “I think there was an understanding (that) if the property sat for 30 or 40 years as RA1 and nothing happened, the master plan changed it to flex residential.”
Bruce and other council members assured Schafer they had no issue with the developer but questioned the motives of the owners of the property. Bruce explained how the properties there were left blighted with abandoned boats, cars and trash.
“Statements have been made that the owners have been unable to sell or market these properties (as RA1 that) appear to be false on its face, and more so with the testimony I have heard here tonight,” Bruce said.
One of the parcels had a sale price for about $700,000. Bruce encouraged reasonable pricing for the land and the individual sale of each parcel.
“I believe these properties have been allowed to rot so that they can be packaged and sold to a developer at a premium to maximize the return on the properties,” Bruce said. “I believe this is a scam and we are being played. I do not for a moment believe that these properties could not be sold and developed individually at the RA1 level.”
Residents urged the council to stand firm.
“The precedent that is being set today is if you bully Farmington Hills, they will acquiesce (and) you don’t have to follow the rules,” Eric Schmidt said at the meeting.
The consensus by council and residents was that not all development is good development.
“It is not sufficient by our own standards,” said Councilman Jon Aldred, as he voted no.
Mayor Pro Tem Bill Dwyer differed.
“In my opinion, this is a great development for the city,” he said. “I think it is necessary.”
Dwyer was the lone yes vote, noting the developers have gone back to the drawing board after each meeting and study session to implement the suggestions of the community and council since the process began in April 2024.
The project originally featured more than 70 units.
Although Farmington Mayor Theresa Rich and Councilwoman Jackie Boleware were initially going to vote to approve the proposal, citing the housing shortage at all price points in Farmington Hills, they voted no after listening to residents, as did Councilwoman Valerie Knol.
“I like this project,” Rich said. “(But) it is quite clear that this motion is going to fail.”
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Markets
from page 10A
expanded inventory of flowers and gardening supplies. The land was formerly home to Young’s Garden Mart & Christmas Fantasy, another longtime family farm business in Warren.
Kutchey said they always wanted to stay in Warren when looking for a new spot, as the community has always supported the business. They want to support the community, too.
“We just obviously enjoy the community and we’re so well known in the community,” he said. “People know us from being here for the original farm on 10 Mile. Being there for over 170 years, it’s just been a staple in the community … I don’t want to start
all over. We have an excellent reputation and people know us and they trust us, and they know they can get good quality produce when it’s in season. So it was the right thing to do to stay here.”
Over in Troy, Uncle Luke’s Feed Store found its home in the city around 100 years ago in the 1920s selling their products to locals in one form or another, originally as Stiles Feed Store. The market operated out of a shed next to the current location as a farm outlet and hardware store.
The market eventually found its current home at 6691 Livernois Road in 1946, opening as “Uncle Luke’s Print Shop.” It has been there in Troy ever since.
Longtime employee Gil Tufts said their longevity in Troy has been due to their loyal customers.
“That’s the secret to our business,” he
said. “I’ve got one lady that travels from Petoskey down here, and probably some further. … If you don’t have a loyal customer base and you don’t treat your customers right, you’re not going to be in business and that’s something we always strive to do here.”
Troy also is home to Telly’s Greenhouse & Garden Center at 3301 John R Road, where it was founded in 1978.
Telly’s Greenhouse kind of fell into the family’s lap, according to owner George Papadelis, as they had been neighbors next to an old woman with a greenhouse who then died in 1976. Papadelis’ father, Gust, bought that land in 1977.
Papadelis said the business got its start when, as a kid, it was suggested he and his brother grow plants in the greenhouse and sell them to make money for a family trip to Greece. They then painted a sign and sold
flowers from the side of the road, making $1,000.
The business eventually grew and became what it is today, where it took on the name Telly’s, which was the name of Gust Papadelis’ Greek restaurant.
Since its beginnings, Telly’s has grown to include multiple locations in Michigan but currently has its base of operations at its Troy location and in Shelby Township, where they bought several acres of land 15 years ago to grow their flowers and plants. That’s where they do more than 90% of their growing.
That being said, Papadelis said they plan to stay at their Troy home.
“We’re staying here at the Troy location because it’s an excellent location and we’ve developed a property well to accommodate
See MARKETS on page 20A
Your Brightest Season Yet Begins at
Connect
“We shaved (costs) where we could shave,” Hyer said. “We really didn’t want to change our program. If you look at other community centers, a 48,000 square (foot) building is small. … We didn’t want to go to the voters and ask for more than $25 million.”
Hyer said that the building should support operations for the next 20-30 years. It will feature a high school-style gymnasium, even though a middle school-size gym would cost about $250,000 less, according to Laura Hester, the owner’s representative and project manager.
“From a programming perspective, we thought it was really, really important to have a true high school gym,” Hester said. “Also, there is opportunity for rentable space with it being the larger size.”
Other planned amenities include a three-lane track, where completing 18 laps equals 1 mile.
During the meeting, a rendering of the prospective building was shown, prompting some concern about the narrow shape of the windows.
Debbie Binder, the township clerk and a member of the board, questioned whether the limited view of the outside made sense with a building concept that emphasizes nature.
According to the presentation, the reduced size and number of windows is intended to lower costs and keep birds safe, preventing them from flying into closed windows.
The windows were also designed to mimic the shape of trees, Hester said. The smaller windows are only present on the north and east sides of the building where they overlook a parking lot and road.
“We are taking a building that is focused on nature, and it is surrounded by parking lots. That concerns me,” Binder said. “We’re
moving vegetation to put in parking.”
Another board trustee, Jim Manna, also noted the lack of windows.
“I know from experience that stationary windows are not as expensive as windows that open up,” Manna said. “I’m surprised it doesn’t have more glass.”
A rendering of the building facade was also met with mixed reactions.
Manna admired some aspects of the design.
“I’m really, really happy that this is finally coming to fruition. It is badly needed for our township,” Manna said. “When I look at the center building, I love it.”
The rendering showed the center building with a variety of shapes at the top of the facade in colorful hues of green, yellow, teal and blue, each with a shiny finish
“These are fun colors now in this year, and we love your logo at (West Bloomfield) Parks. We always thought it was fun and popping,” said Teri Weingarden, the township treasurer and a member of the board. “I’m (just) wondering if 20 years from now — 30, 40, 50 years from now — if this is going to be more stylized.”
She suggested using more natural-looking design elements such as stone, rock and brick, while still infusing the design with colors that pop.
Manna raised concerns about the aesthetic of the side buildings.
“The sides look like buildings from the 1970s,” Manna said. “I’m shocked that this is all they could come up with. It doesn’t reflect 2025 whatsoever.”
Hyer was originally going to request a budget amendment to appropriate $3.25 million, which would be the balance of the $25 million bond, but she opted to delay the request. Instead, she will return with additional updates, including design development and construction drawings.
The next update is expected in October.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Fitness
easy access and free fitness opportunities in key communities around our state,” said Christa Klein, vice president of client experience at Priority Health. “We hope all the residents of Farmington will come and try out this wonderful fitness opportunity in their city.”
There are seven exercise stations that allow for a complete workout. The equipment ranges from stairs to pull-up bars and others. Each station is adaptive, suitable for users 14 and older.
If you don’t know how to use the equipment, no worries. There is an app available for free at nationalfitnesscampaign.com/ watch. The app is billed as a “coach in your pocket.”
There are now 29 Fitness Courts across Michigan. According to Priority Health, more than 205,000 Michigan residents used the courts last year, burning more than 51 million calories.
“We are excited to have Farmington join us in the journey to improve health and wellness as we work to make a powerful and long-lasting impact on health outcomes and happiness by building healthy communities across America,’’ said Mitch Menaged, founder of National Fitness Campaign, in a written statement. “The addition of the two outdoor Fitness Courts to Shiawassee and Flanders parks, along with digital wellness programming, demonstrates a tremendous commitment to health and well-being within the community.”
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
Photos by Liz Carnegie
The Fitness Court in Farmington is unique in that it’s the only one in Michigan to feature a dedicated studio for exercise classes and other programming. The exercise stations are adaptive to meet the needs of users ages 14 and older.
Markets
from page 17A
the store and, quite frankly, I feel like we’ve done a lot to promote gardening in the area and sort of get people to appreciate it more and enjoy it more,” he said.
Papadelis said the city of Troy has grown around them, as has the need for plants from a reputable and family-owned garden center
“We just grew along with that need,” he said. “As the market changed, we adapted to it because the same person that was growing the plants was selling the plants, which is me. So things have changed an awful lot since, of course, we started almost 50 years ago, but we’re still all about plants that we grow, and we love doing that and we’re good at it and we’re very service-oriented. Customers expect to see me here and they expect
Football
from page 4A
big week 1 matchup against Belleville in the Amazon Prep Kickoff Classic. The game is also “Community Night” and kids ages 12 and younger will get in for free.
Rochester at Rochester Adams
7 p.m. Sept. 5
This cross-town rivalry is a matchup played every season, outside of 2011. Amazingly, and despite its annual setup, Rochester hasn’t defeated Adams since a 1996 game that had a score of 20-14. It will be a tall task, however, as Rochester went 4-5 a year ago while Adams put up a 10-3 record and made the state semifinals.
Warren De La Salle Collegiate at Davison
7 p.m. Sept. 5
De La Salle went 8-3 last year with
Reporters: Gena Johnson | (586) 498-1069 | gjohnson@candgnews.com
Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com For retail ad rates: Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com
to get their questions answered accurately and, in most cases, passionately.”
In the case of Kutchey Family Market, the business has made such an impact in Warren that it was designated with a historical marker.
Kutchey said the designation was something that made him proud that he could continue his family’s legacy in Warren.
“It makes me very proud that I can continue on the family legacy that my great grandfather and my grandfather and my father and all them, that when they settled on 10 Mile and that was the original property, and then they started farming, that I can continue that and bring people good quality fruit and vegetables … and continue the legacy and keep supporting the community that supports us,” he said.
Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.
a pair of playoff wins. This year, the team looks to make a run at the Catholic High School League Central Division championship. Davison lost to De La Salle on opening night in 2024 by a score of 21-3, but the team recovered nicely and finished the season 7-3.
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep at Jackson Lumen Christi
7 p.m. Sept. 5
This is not only one of the most anticipated matchups of the week, but it’s one of the biggest games of the entire season. 2024 Division 5 state champion Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is going to Jackson to face 2024 Division 6 state champion Lumen Christi. The teams went a combined 25-2 last season and look to be two of the best teams in Michigan again this fall.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
Advertising: Jeannine Bender | (586) 246-8114 | jbender@candgnews.com
Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
and Obits: (586) 498-1099
AUCTION
AROUND MICHIGAN
MISCELLANEOUS
Multiple online auctions at Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com; visit to view all lots, to bid. Guns, ammo, shop tools, power tools, collectables, furniture, property and much more! Need an auction? Call Joe at 1-800-835-0495.
Multiple Quality Online Estate Auctions. Bidding now open. Tractors, tools, ATV’s, guns, sporting, motorcycles, +much more. Bid anywhere anytime @JohnPeckAuctions.com. Need an auction? Call John Peck 989-345-4866. Ofices Charlotte & Gladwin.
Amish-built mini-cabins starting at $5,295. Made in Michigan! We deliver statewide. Call 989-8321866. MyNextBarn.com.
IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800535-5727
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BUSINESS SERVICES
METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695.
MATTRESSES
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POND/LAKE
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Published: September 3, 2025
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Garage/Yard Sale
EMERALDLAKES SUBDIVISION GARAGESALE inTroy (E./of-Rochester, N./of-SquareLake) Sept.19th-21st,9-4pm, (Some-Open-Thurs) Clothes/Tools/Dishes/ Dolls/Furniture/Jewelry/ Antiques/Books/Loadsof OtherTreasures.
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GARAGESALE, Multi-Family NorthfieldHills Condominiums, ClubhouseParkingLot, 1750Brentwood,Troy, Sept.6th,9am-4pm
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Bathrooms
BATHROOM REMODELING
BasicBathrooms
Startingat:$10,995.00
Experienceofover
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Lic/Insured/References
Brick Work
AA4DABLEMASONRY
586-822-5100
Chimneys,Porches, Steps,Flat-Work, Residential/Commercial Tuck-Pointing,CulturedStone,AllBrick&MasonryRepairs/Needs.
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Brick Work
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CENSODEVELOPMENT
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Carpentry
BARRY'S CARPENTRY
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CARPET
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Decks/Patios
Gutters
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Chimney Service
ROYAL EXTREMECLEAN 586-219-0335 AirDuct&DryerVent Cleaning,GasFireplace Tune-ups&Repairs, WoodBurningFireplace Cleaning&Repairs, Multi-ServiceDiscounts. Royalextremeclean.com
Cleaning Service
CLEANINGLADY withover20-yr experienceislooking forwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830
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CASTLEELECTRIC
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GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI
313-656-9402
Handyman Services
HANDYMANWOW Painting,Drywall, Powerwashing, SealCoating *Driveways*ParkingLots MinorPlumbing, Caulking,Shelving, CallForaFreeQuote! 248-755-0246
Painting
Exterior Painting
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BURLYGUYS
JUNKREMOVAL
removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
Heating & Cooling
HEATMASTERS
HEATING&COOLING Sale/Service &Installations. A/CSpecialsUntil EndofSeptember. AcceptingCredit-Cards Free-Est.onNewInstalls. Licensed/Insured 586-770-3233 Lic#-7116542
Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 GUTTERCLEANING LEAFGUARDS Roofing,Siding, Gutter,Repair.Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Landscaping & Water Gardens
ALLTIMATE OUTDOORSERVICES DrainageSystem Professionals Big/SmallJobs, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202
Lawn Maintenance
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Drywall • Carpentry and Remodels
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BROTHERSROOFING
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PEAKPAINTING
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2BROTHERS PAINTING
CompleteInterior/Exterior WoodRepair, Powerwash, Free-Estimates CallFrank 248-303-5897
ReferencesAvailable
ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry
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FARR'SPAINTING
Interior/Exterior
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NEBOPAINTING
ServiceAllYearRound
Interior/Exterior WeMakeIt EasierForYou, AllNeedsAreMet! FreeEstimates Call 248-953-7807
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PETE'SPAINTING FALLSPECIALS! 10%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
(586)229-4267
AmericanPainting FallSpecials!!! Residential/Commercial •Interior/25YearsExp. •PowerWashing •Insurance•Drywall •PlasterRepair •DeckRepairs•Cleanouts•HomeRepairs •SeniorDiscounts
MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
WATERWORK
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
Powerwashing
AJʼsPRESSURE CLEANING& SEALCOATING EndofSummerSale 25%OffAllServices! •StampedConcrete(removemilky/cloudyfilm) •ExposedAggregate •BrickPavers(resanding) Website: ajspressure cleaning.com 586-431-0591
ALLWASHEDUP POWERWASHING FALLSPECIALS! Weofferpowerwashing& deckstaining.Houses/ awnings/fences/driveways/porches/windows/ gutters/doorsandmore!! FREE-ESTIMATES SeniorDiscounts 586-360-0827
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE
MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial, Re-Roofs,Tear-Offs, Flat-Roofs, AllInsuranceWork, Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 248-707-4851
AA4DABLEROOFING Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! FALL-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted. 586-822-5100
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600
Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB
25%-SpringSpecial. Insured,Emergency StormDamage, Large-TreeRemovals, Mulchinbeds/spreading, Trimming,Stump-Grinding,Season-Firewood (100acord)30YrsExp. (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
Roofng
Come run our beautiful memorial park grounds linedwith over500 large American fl�gs ... all frThe Michigan Wounded& Returning Warrior Program that benefts so many veteranswitb struggles thatlinger on. Then stayfr a fntastic concert featuring three countrystars, andvisitTheWall ofRemembrance honoring sacrifces during the War On Terror.
HEROE