1/8/25 Farmington Press by C & G Newspapers

SKI SEASON IS UNDERWAY IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN

LEAVING A ‘LEGACY’

KING RETIRES FROM POSITION AS CHIEF OF POLICE

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON HILLS — Farmington Hills Mayor Pro Tem Bill Dwyer recently reflected on hiring Jeff King as a police cadet in 1995.

At that time, Dwyer was the chief of police for the Farmington Hills Police Department, prior to accepting a position with the city of Warren.

Little did Dwyer know at that time that years later King would rise through the ranks of the Farmington Hills Police Department and one day become its chief.

King served as the city’s police chief for approximately five years before recently leaving to accept a role as the director of public safety for Bloomfield Hills.

King’s last official day with the Farmington Hills Police Department was Dec. 16. At a Farmington Hills City Council meeting Dec. 9, the city presented a proclamation that recognized King’s retirement and “years of dedicated service to the City.”

Dwyer read the proclamation. Prior to that, he shared some words about King.

“This is really big for me because I hired the chief,” Dwyer said. “He impressed me so much. I never envisioned

Big

DEVELOPMENT ON FORMER SARAH FISHER PROPERTY MAY BE ON THE WAY

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON HILLS — A property that has historical significance in the city of Farmington Hills is one step closer to potentially being redeveloped.

The St. Vincent and Sarah Fisher Center was located on the northwest corner of 12 Mile and Inkster roads for approximately 75 years before relocating to Detroit more than 15 years ago.

Since then, the center site, which housed mothers and children in need, has been vacant, with no offers for the property coming to fruition.

Robertson Brothers Homes, which builds townhomes, condominiums and single-family homes, is hoping to change that.

Jeff King, left, the former chief of police for the Farmington Hills Police Department, recently accepted a position as the public safety director in Bloomfield Hills. File photo provided by the city of Farmington Hills

File photo provided by Ken Klemmer

A development project at the former site of the St. Vincent and Sarah Fisher Center was recently recommended to Farmington Hills’ City Council. Development could begin this year.

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SECOND FRONT PAGE

STEAM Academy student using 3D design skills to help classmates focus and to fight hunger in the community

BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON HILLS — An eighth grade student at the Farmington STEAM Academy is utilizing his 3D design skills to help students focus on their studies and to help in the battle against hunger.

Andrew Rathe, 14, is making and selling 3D fidget toys and phone holders to benefit the CARES of Farmington Hills family food pantry for his eighth grade capstone project.

For the project, students must do something that provides a way to help a local community.

“One of the biggest challenges our society faces is the growing problem of food insecurity,” the CARES website states. “Approximately 1.9 million Michiganders are struggling to buy the healthy food they need. One in 7 Michigan children are food insecure.”

Rathe’s project can have a direct impact on hundreds of families in several local communities.

According to its website, CARES assists

AUTO SHOW SET TO RETURN FOR 2025

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

DETROIT — The world’s automotive industry will descend again upon Huntington Place for the Detroit Auto Show Jan. 10-20.

A roster of 22 different automakers and brands — including Alfa Romeo, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Jeep, Kia, Lincoln, Ram, Toyota and Volkswagen — will have cars on display with support from dealers and manufacturers, along with a showcase of upcoming luxury cars in “The Gallery” section.

“Through this blended automaker and dealer participation, we’re able to give attendees a totally immersive experience in some of the most exciting products available on the market today — whether that’s comparing a variety of propulsion systems on one of four tracks, to seeing hundreds of brand-defining vehicles, upclose-and-personal and all in one place,” Detroit Auto Show Chairman Karl Zimmermann said in a press release.

Attendees will be able to interact with some cars through ride-alongs. Rugged experiences include the “Ford Bronco Built Wild Track” and “Camp Jeep” course, while the “Powering Michigan EV Experience” gives attendees the ability to ride in the passenger seat of electric vehicle offerings by BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC and Rivian. A sportier experience will be held on Friday, Jan. 17 with a course designed in collaboration with the Detroit Grand Prix, where two Chevrolet Corvette E-Rays will be on track and ride-alongs in Buick, Ford, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen vehicles will be provided.

The grand prix-inspired course comes as part of the show’s “Racing Day” on Jan. 17,

See AUTO SHOW on page 5A

Our comprehensive hearing evaluation is always no charge.

Andrew Rathe, 14, and his mom, Jennifer, sell his homemade fidget toys, to benefit CARES of Farmington Hills, at the Lanigan Elementary Craft Show on Dec. 14.

Photo by Charity Meier

See RATHE on page 8A

that I would be here as a City Council person and he would be here as police chief, and I would be here to do a proclamation from the City Council on your retirement. That’s the way things work out.”

When it was his turn to speak at the City Council meeting, King also acknowledged Dwyer.

“So many things that I look to in my career today is because of that man right there (Dwyer) and his leadership that he brought to this Police Department,” King said. “He brought the level of professionalism that myself and my officers and all the command staff enjoy today.”

In an interview with the Press, Farmington Hills City Manager Gary Mekjian said that it was a pleasure to have King as the city’s police chief.

According to Mekjian, under King’s leadership, there was a lot of “transformation.” He cited Kings’ efforts to have fair and impartial policing, as well as public outreach.

Last year, the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards also recognized the Farmington Hills Police Department as the first law enforcement agency in the state to provide mental health training to all its officers, cadets and dispatchers.

“Police departments were spending additional funding to hire a social worker or a psychologist to respond to on-scene issues with folks having mental crises. Farmington Hills took a different tack,” Mekjian said. “Rather than hiring an individual that maybe wasn’t a sworn police officer, we thought it was a better strategy to actually train all of our police officers to the highest level of mental health crisis response. We believe that’s been a huge benefit for our community.”

Aside from those accomplishments, Mekjian also discussed something else that

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Last year, the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards recognized the Farmington Hills Police Department as the first law enforcement agency in the state to provide mental health training to all its officers, cadets and dispatchers. At that time, Jeff King, center, was the department’s chief.

King was a part of during his tenure.

“(We) became one of the first departments in the state of Michigan to have multiple reaccreditations for their professional association, the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission,” Mekjian said. “That was a huge lift by Jeff and his staff.”

At the City Council meeting, King was also recognized for spearheading the decision to equip officers with body cameras.

During City Council comments, Michael Bridges focused on one of the influences King had on the Farmington Hills Police Department.

“You always had a priority regarding training in your department, and that’s evident regarding what we do in our city,” Bridges said. “Thank you for your service. I know (the) Bloomfield Police Department’s getting a person that listens (and) has a high priority on training.”

City Councilman Randy Bruce congratulated King on his career and said that he could “go on for hours” about his accomplishments.

“You’ve been such a leader in this com-

munity,” Bruce said. “You are leaving this place better. Thank you for all your efforts.”

City Councilwoman Valerie Knol credited King for the “fine job” he has done in the area of recruiting.

“You have been a mentor to the men and women in your department, and your focus on development and training them, I think that is so important for Farmington Hills, for all the residents out there. They know they have such a professional department. That’s because of you and your leadership,” Knol said.

The proclamation that was read for King and the accomplishments that were cited as part of it got the attention of City Councilwoman Jackie Boleware. However, that was not the primary focus of her comments.

“The proclamation talked about exemplary service, distinguished career, your

achievements, mentorship to fellow officers and the legacy you’ll be leaving the city, but to me it’s the friendship,” Boleware said. “You were always very respectful. It’s part of your professionalism that you display every day, your compassion, and your understanding of the community. It’s all of those things that make you the person that you are and the person I have come to view as a good friend.”

After Councilman Jon Aldred acknowledged the Citizens Police Academy, which is offered by the Farmington Hills Police Department, as well as the professionalism of the officers, Farmington Hills Mayor Theresa Rich shared that “many firsts” happened under King’s leadership in a diverse city that she said is the second largest in Oakland County.

“And yet you work to bring us together and police without prejudice or partiality,” Rich said. “The legacy you’ve left is great. You cast a very, very long shadow, sir. We will miss you.”

The city announced via a press release that John Piggott, who was serving as the assistant chief of police, was named as the interim police chief upon King’s retirement. According to the release, the city intends to select its new police chief by this spring.

“The person that is selected will continue with the efforts of Chief King and the vision and the strategic plan that he brought forward for openness and transparency and integrity in policing,” Mekjian said. “Those are all very important for our public to know. We’re hiring the best person for the position based on the criteria that we’re looking for.”

Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.

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Dr. Monoseta C. Burwell

File photo provided by the city of Farmington Hills

Auto Show

from page 3A

where drivers from the NTT IndyCar Series and Indy NXT by Firestone, including twotime Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden, are slated to appear.

“The Detroit Grand Prix embodies innovation and the spirit of Detroit,” Sam Klemet, co-executive director of the Detroit Auto Show, said in a press release. “We are thrilled to have a partnership with the Detroit Grand Prix and bring this amazing experience of Racing Day to the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.”

Other notable events during the show include the Driven by Service Day on Saturday, Jan. 18, Industry Days, AutoMobili-D and the Mobility Global Forum on Wednesday, Jan. 15 and Thursday, Jan. 16.

Tickets, speaker lineups and other information about the 2025 Detroit Auto Show can be found at detroitautoshow.com.

Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.

• Discover God’s plan for your marriage.

• Learn healthier communication skills.

• Deepen your connection & grow together.

Bella Group celebrates grand opening with ribbon cutting

The Bella Group celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting on Nov. 14. CEO and owner Melissa Youngs opened the business on July 1 in downtown Farmington at 23348 Farmington Road.

The Bella Group is a luxury beauty and wellness collective that specializes in hair loss and includes Merle Norman Cosmetics, Rebecca’s Wigs and now Bijou Salon and Day Spa.

For more on the Bella Group or for an appointment for one of its many services call (248) 477-3033 or visit www.merlenorman-rebeccaswigs.com, Facebook or Instagram.

BUSINESS CLIP

Detroit Auto Show attendees peruse the show floor at Huntington Place in Detroit.

Photo provided by Detroit Auto Show

NEWS & NOTES

Resident shares remarks at Michigan State University commencement

FARMINGTON HILLS/EAST LANSING — Farmington Hills native Tessa Kresch recently had the opportunity to be the commencement speaker at Michigan State University’s fall graduation ceremonies.

Kresch pursued a double major in theatre and journalism at Michigan State.

Her achievements at the university include being in the main cast of six productions on campus, serving as a senior news producer and as a podcast host and producer for a weekly radio show on MSU’s student radio program, winning first place for “Best Regularly Scheduled Entertainment Program” as part of the College Broadcasters Inc. 2024 National Student Production Awards, and winning first place in the “on-air personality” category at the Michigan Association of Broadcasters student broadcast awards.

Donating blood could lead to Super Bowl tickets

FARMINGTON HILLS — In collaboration with the American Red Cross, the city of Farmington Hills is scheduled to host a blood drive from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 8 at the Costick Activities Center, located at 28600 W. 11 Mile Road.

According to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills, donors will be entered for a chance to win two Super Bowl LIX tickets, “including travel to New Orleans,” a $1,000 gift card and more.

Entries are made via the donor’s email address and are limited to one entry per email. To schedule an appointment, call (800) RED CROSS or visit RedCrossBlood.org and use the sponsor code “costickcenter.” Health history questions can be completed in advance by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass.

According to the release, those ages 16 and up “are encouraged to participate in this vital community effort.”

The minimum weight requirement for those 18 and older is 115 pounds. A parental consent form is required for 16-year-olds, according to the release.

CHILDREN GIVEN OPPORTUNITY TO ‘SHOP WITH A HERO’

NORTHVILLE — On Dec. 14, 34 local children had the opportunity to go shopping with officers from the Farmington Hills Police Department, Farmington Public Safety Department and local firefighters. The “Shop with a Hero” program took place at a Meijer store located on Haggerty Road in Northville. The children bought items for themselves and loved ones to share on Christmas, according to an email about the program.The program was supported by Farmington Youth Assistance.

FARMINGTON — At a Farmington City Council meeting Dec. 16, Bryce Neal and JR Solomon were officially sworn in as the newest members of the Farmington Public Safety Department.

Solomon studied criminal justice at Wayne State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree.

Neal also attended Wayne State University and was a cadet with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department and the Milford Police Department.

Farmington Public Safety Director Bob Houhanisin spoke at the City Council meeting.

“The job of a public safety officer is not easy,” he said, according to a press release. “Not only will you be a police officer and firefighter, but you will be a counselor, a handyman, a listener, and be expected to fix whatever personal emergency someone may be experiencing at that moment. You will experience joy and sadness, sometimes both in the same day. But you will find no other profession to be as fulfilling or rewarding.”

Over the past year, Neal has had police and fire academy training, as well as medical first-responder training.

Solomon served in the Air Force as a firefighter. Following active duty, he enlisted in the Michigan Air National Guard, according to the release.

Photo provided by Jeffrey Brough

Kresch

Photo provided by Melissa Andrade

After listening to details about a planned unit development proposal at a Farmington Hills Planning Commission meeting Dec. 19, Planning Commission members unanimously approved Robertson Brothers’ requested action of recommending the proposal to Farmington Hills’ City Council.

Tim Loughrin, who is the vice president of land acquisition for Robertson Brothers, anticipates that the proposal could go before City Council sometime in February.

If all goes well, according to Loughrin, land development could begin sometime in the middle of the year.

According to Loughrin, the site is 30.4 gross acres.

Robertson Brothers is proposing to develop 75 detached ranch condominium units and four single-family homes, with the condominiums expected to be between 1,850 and 2,100 square feet.

The single-family homes are expected to be between 2,000 and 3,000 square feet.

Loughrin discussed the appeal of developing on the site.

“Finding a site that’s large enough with nice, open space to work with was very appealing,” he said. “Every city in southeast Michigan is in need of this type of housing and Farmington Hills is a great spot to have these homes as an option (for) buyers. It was a combination of the site having as much open space as it has, and the layout is ideal for what we were looking for. But also, being able to be in Farmington Hills and provide a site large enough to provide this is what was exciting for us.”

Although Loughrin isn’t sure of the exact number, he said that there are multiple existing buildings on the site.

According to him, Robertson Brothers received approval from the Historic District

Commission to remove all of them with the exception of a chapel that is on the site.

“That’s part of the story of the property, so not only are we saving the chapel and rehabbing it, we’re also saving a lot of elements,” Loughrin said. “There’s some gates and fencing at the corner of 12 Mile and Inkster that we’ll be saving and retaining. There’ll be some reuse of some materials from the buildings that are being removed that we’ll be incorporating into the project, such as on our signage walls and that sort of thing, and then we’ll be providing some historical markers for the history, so I think it’s important to retain that for the community.”

Evangelical Homes of Michigan, which is a nonprofit, is listed as the owner of the property.

At press time, no representatives from the organization had responded to opportunities to comment.

Inquiries about the purchase price of the property were also not responded to by press time.

Loughrin said that the units would have two bedrooms with a den. He expects pricing to start at the mid-$500,000 range.

A previous proposal for the property was made in 2022, when Optalis Healthcare, which develops buildings for rehabilitation and nursing homes, was set to occupy the south part of the property, with Robertson Brothers developing condominiums on the north side of the property. However, that proposal did not come to fruition.

“We’re now in control of the entire site and we’re proposing detached ranch condominium homes,” Loughrin said.

At the Planning Commission meeting, there was some discussion among Planning Commission members about the possibility of having lots for three single-family homes, as opposed to the four that were proposed. However, after Loughrin, who spoke at the meeting, made it clear that it’s important that four lots remain part of the plan and that in his estimation that is an appropriate

number, he was supported.

“We got a project, probably the best we’ve seen on this property, and this has been going on for much of my stint here on the Planning Commission,” Planning Commissioner Dale Countegan said. “I think it’s a pretty good plan, so I support the four lots.”

Planning Commissioner Marisa Varga made the motion to recommend the proposal to City Council.

“The plans are consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the master plan,” Varga said.

From Loughrin’s perspective, the project is positive for the community.

“There’s almost 50% open space,” he said. “We’ve got the rehabbed chapel building, which will be a community building, and lots of open space and natural areas. It’s a beautiful site plan.”

Photos by Liz Carnegie

LEFT: Tim Loughrin, who is the vice president of land acquisition for Robertson Brothers Homes, speaks to Farmington Hills Planning Commission members about a development proposal at the former site of the St. Vincent and Sarah Fisher Center Dec. 19. Planning Commission members unanimously approved Robertson Brothers’ requested action of recommending the proposal to the Farmington Hills City Council. RIGHT: Farmington Hills Planning Commission member Dale Countegan said that a development proposal at the former site of the St. Vincent and Sarah Fisher Center is “probably the best we’ve seen on this property.”

plastic that create a “calming” effect when rubbed together.

from page 3A

an average of 700 to 750 families from multiple cities, including Farmington, Farmington Hills, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Redford, Southfield and West Bloomfield.

“It’s something I’m very passionate about. I could make a project … that helps the community,” Rathe said of his project.

He said he decided to create fidgets as a way to help his peers stay out of trouble and focus better in the classroom.

“I find myself fidgeting with pencils and stuff in class,” Rathe said. “Some people, they want to stay focused, but they need something to move around. … So, I did this because it benefits the school, CARES and other people.”

Rathe said his merchandise selection is based on feedback from a survey he created.

He said he made the survey and asked the middle school teachers to have his peers complete it and return it to them.

He then created the fidgets from the most popular choices, as well as student requests.

The fidgets include hexagon-style toys, snakes, sharks and rings. They come in a variety of colors.

Rathe said he designed some of the fidgets himself and found some design files online for others.

He said he tinkered with the designs he saw online to “make them his own.”

Rathe’s mom, Jennifer, shared some thoughts about the project.

“The phone holders were really just a supplement,” she said. “We figured that some people … would like phone holders rather than just the fidget stuff.”

Along with the fidgets and the phone holders, Rathe created “finger sliders.”

The sliders are two small pieces of

The sliders have a variety of colors and come in two different sizes.

Rathe said he can make approximately 30 fidget toys from one $20 roll of plastic material, with the fidgets taking anywhere from one to two hours to make.

Although the toys come in various colors, there is no guarantee that specific color preferences will be available.

The fidgets range in price from $1 to $4 and are being offered for sale at various craft shows and events until the end of the school term in June, with proceeds from the sales benefiting the food pantry.

Rathe hopes to raise at least $500.

“I chose the food pantry as I thought it would be a good place for the money to go so that people could get food that they couldn’t get elsewhere or couldn’t afford,” Rathe said.

“He just thought he could help out,” said Jennifer.

Jennifer said that her son, who is also involved in the Boy Scouts, has always had an interest in helping solve issues with hunger, and even expressed interest in volunteering at area soup kitchens.

Rathe is seeking more places and events where he can sell his merchandise. His mom has some ideas.

“I’d like to be able to open it up to do something like this (school craft show) at other places, such as the library or churches, (or) any kind of place that does a bazaar or something like that,” Jennifer said. “We are always looking for a place to sell.”

Anybody that is interested in having Rathe sell his fidgets at an event or venue, as well as those who are interested in purchasing them, can call Jennifer Rathe at (352) 226-1134.

Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.

Farmington Public Schools offers a wide variety of learning opportunities, both in the classroom and online, in a diverse community.

Farmington Public Schools, you will find:

• Students who consistently score well above average on assessments

• A 96% graduation rate

• Numerous opportunities for students to achieve in academics

• Free full-day Young 5s program providing extra time for students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally

• A wide variety of experiences in award winning arts and athletics

• One of the largest CTE programs in Oakland County

• A diverse student body where more than 67 languages are spoken

• A highly acclaimed high school International Baccalaureate Programme

• No Pay to Participate fees which increases opportunities for students to be able to participate in the athletic program

Andrew Rathe is offering 3D printed fidget toys for sale to benefit CARES of Farmington Hills.

Photo provided by Jennifer Rathe

THE FOLLOWING IS PART OF C & G NEWSPAPERS’ FEATURE SERIES ABOUT NORTHERN MICHIGAN DESTINATIONS TO EXPLORE.

SKI SEASON IS UNDERWAY IN MICHIGAN

BY GREG TASKER

NORTHERN MICHIGAN — Nearly a year ago, despite the scarcity of snowfall in northern Michigan, I found myself gliding along a powdery, groomed trail in the woods at Forbush Corner Nordic, a cross-country ski destination outside Grayling.

And I wasn’t alone. With its state-of-the-art snowmaking system, Forbush had created a snowglobe amid an otherwise dreary, barren landscape, drawing amateurs and polished skiers alike. As long as temperatures cooperate, Forbush can pump out enough snow to create a figure-eightloop at the 200-acre destination.

This ski season Forbush has expanded its snow-making prowess to blanket another km of trails. And that’s just one of the many improvements this winter at the dozen or so Nordic and downhill ski resorts across the northwest lower peninsula.

Nearly all of the downhill ski areas — from Thompsonville to Traverse City and beyond — have unveiled a slew of upgrades, many of them focused on improved snow-making capabilities. But that’s not all. There are new ski lifts. New rental equipment. New trails. New ticket options. And new dining and apres-ski possibilities.

All of these resorts, of course, are looking to create optimal skiing conditions for skiers and riders as well as a better winter experience for all of their guests.

“Northwest Lower Michigan’s ski areas have undergone impressive off-season improvements, ensuring an exciting winter season for all,” says Mike Panich, who is executive director of the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association,

the trade group for the state’s ski and snowboard industry. “From advanced snowmaking to exciting new trails and guest-focused upgrades, Michigan’s ski destinations are ready to impress this winter.”

No wonder. After last year’s forgettable winter, ski areas across the region are pumped about this season’s prospects, already benefiting from cooperative temperatues for plenty of snow making as well as frequent lake-effect snow.

“The 2024 season started with a great early blast of cold air and lake effect snow, allowing most ski areas in Michigan and the rest of the Midwest to open earlier and with more terrain than in the recent past,” Panich says.

Despite the recent warm up and rain over the holiday, ski areas “were able to take advantage of the early cold weather and build significant snow reserves and will be able to ride it out until the cold returns with the new year,” he adds.

Here are some highlights of ski area improvements this season (Note: most resorts have upgraded snow-making capabilities so they are not mentioned below):

• In mid-December, the Highlands at Harbor Springs unveiled its newest lift — the Interconnect triple. The new lift cuts the amount of time up the hill by one-third and improves access to the North Peak area. The lift includes RFID gates providing hands-free, direct-to-lift access. This is the second new lift in two years at the 4,000-acre resort. Last year the Highlands introduced the Camelot 6, a six-person bubble chairlift, the fastest in the Midwest. New food options include a Brew Bar at the Day Lodge, serving a selection of craft beer, and a Ramen Bar at the Food Market.

• With more snowmaking power, Boyne Mountain is creating the Victor Glacier, a ski run being designed to offer

great snow conditions earlier and later in the season. The signature blue run is reminiscent of Vermont’s legendary King of Spring, late-season skiing at Killington Ski Resort. Additionally, Boyne has unveiled nearly 18 acres of fresh, glade terrain within its Disciples Ridge area. The new glade terrain is located between Grice’s Way and Zippie’s and features wide-open, gentle slopes for beginners and more challenging terrain for the more experienced. Other improvements include synchronized music and vibrant LED lighting displays at the resort’s Tubing Hill.

• In Thompsonville, Crystal Mountain has expanded its selection of rental equipment, adding more than 400 new sets of rental skis and 55 snowboards. The 1,500-acre resort has also upped its apres-ski game with new rooftop igloos at the Level4 Lounge. The heated igloos offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests will also find expanded trail loops and new rental gear at the Cross-Country Learning Center. More than half the guest rooms of the Hamlet Hotel have been renovated with new furniture, flooring and accessories.

• Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire offers a new 18 km cross-country trail system through Schuss Village, one of four villages on the 5,500-acre property. Non-skiers looking for something to do can hop aboard the new Alpina Snow Glider, for a free, hour-long ride through the expansive resort. Shanty Creek has also extended private ski and snowboard lessons to include evening sessions.

• Outside Gaylord, Treetops Resort boasts two new trails. Razzle Dazzle promises “a thrilling new experience for those who love gladed slopes,” resort officials say. The other is the Woodsplitter, providing a new route between Kathryn’s

LEFT: The Highlands at Harbor Springs unveiled its newest lift — the Interconnect triple.

Photo provided by The Highlands at Harbor Springs

ABOVE: Skiers of all ages enjoy the slopes at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire.

Photo provided by Shanty Creek Resort

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

FPS Names Teachers of the Year

FARMINGTON/FARMINGTON HILLS — Farmington Public Schools named its 2024-2025 teachers of the year just before Christmas break.

The awardees were surprised in their classrooms in front of their family, friends, colleagues and students with balloons and a large sign by Kelly Coffin, the district’s superintendent, as well as other representatives from the district’s administration.

The award recipients are:

Early Childhood: Lara Ligerakis, preschool special education teacher at Farmington Early Childhood Center.

Elementary: Laura Orlowski, fourth grade teacher at Beechview Elementary School.

Middle: Susan Kim, eighth grade math and algebra teacher at Power Middle School.

High School: Joseph Lazzarino, an auto technology teacher at Farmington High School.

Novi Choralaires to hold open rehearsal

NOVI/FARMINGTON — The Novi Choralaires, which is celebrating 50 years of performing for the cities of Novi and Farmington, has an opportunity for community members to join its choir.

The singing group will have an open rehearsal on Jan. 14 at Novi Middle School, located at 49000 W.11 Mile Road in Novi.

For more information, send an email to novi.choralaires@gmail.com.

Skiing

from page 10A

Way and Lookout at the 3,300-acre destination.

• Caberfae Peaks, one of the country’s oldest ski areas, outside Cadillac, has renovated guest rooms, which feature custommade furniture.

Back at Forbush Corner, which is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization, the addition of another km of manmade sn0w coverage extends that trail network to nearly 3.5 km. Overall, Forbush has more than 30 km of trails. This year snowshoe trails also have been expanded, with 8 km now dedicated to snowshoeing paths. By the way, the region’s other popular Nordic ski spot, Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Higgins Lake, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this winter. A 50th Anniversary Ribs

Information is also available online at novichoralaires.org or on the group’s Facebook page.

Public service updates offered by the city of Farmington

FARMINGTON — The city of Farmington recently announced that it is now using TextMyGov to keep the community informed and engaged.

The service allows residents to receive important updates via text messages. Residents can learn about emergencies, road closures, severe weather, election dates and other city updates.

For city alerts, residents can text “farmingtonalerts.”

For public safety alerts, text “farmingtonpolice.”

For Farmers Market alerts, text “farmingtonmarket.”

The number to text for all of the alerts is 91896.

The TextMyGov platform also has a feature that provides quick answers to resident questions by texting single-word topics to (947) 900-8099, according to a press release from the city of Farmington.

Key words such as “leaves” or “rink” results in automated responses from the city’s website, according to the release.

“We’re excited to introduce TextMyGGov as a powerful tool to keep our community informed and connected,” Farmington City Manager David Murphy stated via the release. “This new system ensures that residents can receive critical information instantly, right at their fingertips.”

For more information, visit farmgov. com.

and Blues celebration is planned for February 22. The ski center also offers free beginner lessons every Saturday.

In the meantime, don’t let the warmerthan-usual and rainy weather around the holidays deter your skiing plans. Wintry weather is around the corner.

“After the terrible winter of 23-24, we have entered a much more winter-like pattern and meteorologists are predicting a much snowier and cooler January and February than we have experienced over the last several seasons,” Panich says. “With good weather and regular snowfall, skiers should expect to have great snow covered slopes all season long, with great conditions.”

For more information about what’s new at Michigan’s ski areas visit Michigan Snowsports Industries Association at goskimichi gan.com.

Greg Tasker is a Traverse City-based freelance writer.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

12A/ FARMINGTON PRESS • JANUARY

JAN. 9

Unplugged Concert Series: Hear Detroit-based folk artist Mike Ward: Psychosongs, 7 p.m., The HawkFarmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, thehawktheatre.com

JAN. 16

Thursday Night Jazz Series: Hear Royal Oak Blues Band, beer and wine available, 7-9 p.m., The HawkFarmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, thehawktheatre.com

JAN. 18

Comedy show: Featuring actor and comedian Mark Boyd and other local talent, intended for ages 18 and older, 8 p.m. (beer and wine served at 7 p.m.), The Hawk - Farmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, thehawktheatre.com

JAN. 20

Legacy March: Annual event honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., 11-11:45 a.m., meet at Farmington Community Library, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills, also make sign to carry, 10-11 a.m., more events at farmlib.org

JAN. 21

West Bloomfield/Farmington Senior Expo: Connect with dozens of organizations specializing in as-

sistance and care, also free health screenings, prizes, giveaways and refreshments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., The J (formerly Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit), 6600 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield, (248) 524-4868, seniorexpousa.com

JAN. 25

Lunar New Year Celebration: Cultural exploration at 6 p.m. and concert featuring Xiao Dong Wei (erhu) and Yuki Mack (piano) at 7 p.m., The Hawk - Farmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, thehawktheatre.com

ONGOING

Ice skating: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, special events include Game On Skate from 2-3:30 p.m. Jan. 17, Glow Skate from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 25 and Valentine Skate from 2-3:30 p.m. Feb. 8, Riley Park, 33113 Grand River Ave. in Farmington, free but donations encouraged, facebook.com/rileyparkicerink, (248) 474-5500

Art exhibit: FeaturesSukanya Ramakrishna’s “Journey Collection” of paintings and photographs from travels to national and state parks, on display 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays-Fridays until Jan. 10, Farmington Hills City Hall, 31555 W. 11 Mile Road, (248) 699-6709

The Farmington Chorus: Rehearses 7:30-9:30 p.m.

To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.

Tuesdays until concerts May 9-10, auditions follow rehearsals Jan. 14 or 21, can be done remotely or in person, Performance Studio of the ARTS Wing at The Hawk - Farmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, manager@farmingtonchorus.com, farmingtonchorus.com

Oakland County Farmers Market: 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturdays, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford, (248) 858-5495, ocmarket@oakgov.com

The Silence Between the Shelves: A Beginner’s Meditation Series: 1-2 p.m. Jan. 11 (“Body Scanning”), Jan. 25 (“Mindfulness of Sound”), Feb. 1 (“Mindful Movement”), Feb. 8 (“Self-Compassion”) and Feb. 15 (“Loving-Kindness”), Farmington Community Library, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills, registration required, (248) 553-0300, farmlib.org

Grief and loss support group: 4:30-5:45 p.m. every second Tuesday through April, Adat Shalom Synagogue, 29901 Middlebelt Road in Farmington Hills, jfsdetroit.org/upcoming

Senior Social Hour: For adults 60 and older and caregivers, includes crafts, music, games, puzzles, coffee and light refreshments, 10:30 a.m.-noon every fourth Friday of month, Farmington Community Library, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills, (248) 553-0300, farmlib.org

GIVE BLOOD FOR CHANCE TO SEE SUPER BOWL LIX IN PERSON Winner gets two tickets, access to pre-game activities, round-trip airfare to New Orleans, hotel accommodations, gift card for expenses and more, donate through Jan. 26, find participating center and make appointment at redcrossblood. org/give.html/find-drive, (800) 733-2767

Detroit Auto Show: Public hours run 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 11-14, 1-8 p.m. Jan. 15-16, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 17-19 and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 20, Huntington Place, 1 Washington Blvd. in Detroit, detroitautoshow.com

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, 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

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Published: January 8, 2025

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Permanent full-time Utility Worker position, $47,528 - $64,230 annually (40 Hours per week) includes beneft package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, November 25, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on Employment.

Adult Home Care/ Adult Day Care

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Brick Work

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Electrical

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Electrical

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Handyman Services

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Hauling & Waste Removal

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Home Improvement

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ROZE REMODELINGLLC.

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Home Repairs EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 Roofing,Siding, Gutters,LEAFGUARDS andMore!Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511

Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops

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Painting

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Gutters

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Interior/ExteriorPainting

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ANDERSON Painting&Carpentry

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FARR'SPAINTING

Interior/Exterior

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MASTER PLUMBER

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ACROSS

1. Half of half-andhalf

6. *Gratuity

9. Remain unsettled

13. Pita, alt. sp.

14. Uncle Sam wants whom?

15. Played violin, e.g.

16. “Encore!”

17. Young canine

18. Amber warning

19. *Entice

21. *Agreement

23. “____ Te Ching”

SYNONYMS

Plumbing

APEX PLUMBERSCORP

586-210-0903

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DRAINWIZARDS 248-953-1874 FamilyOwned PlumbingCompany Senior/MilitaryDiscount CameraInspections, DrainCleaning, Toilets,SumpPumps, Excavations. Lic/Ins.Free-Estimates Lic#8113785

EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN

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WATERWORK Plumbing.com •DrainCleaning •SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps •BackflowTesting 248-542-8022

SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885

Roofng

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MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC. BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600

Licensed/Insured Since1965

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Tree Service

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24. Goose egg

25. Antonym of keep 28. *Affection

30. Open wine, e.g.

35. Frosts a cake

37. Leave in a bucket

39. *Parlor

40. Coating of aurum

41. Like many bathroom foors?

43. Border pass

44. Full of emotion (2 words)

46. Opposite of talker?

47. Tel ____, Israel

48. Auto____ website

50. *Module

52. Compass point between NE and E

53. *Insane

55. Old-fashioned before

57. *Prevent

60. *Ditch

63. Peninsula of 38th parallel fame

64. Single-____ plastics

66. Donkey + horse, pl.

68. All told (2 words)

69. ‘80s band “____ At Work”

70. Bay window

71. Chapter 11 issue

72. Mouse turf

73. Email option

DOWN

1. Tax pro, acr.

2. Capital of Latvia

3. Bibliographical abbr.

4. Not upright

5. Instructions handbook

6. Use an Underwood

7. Promissory note letters

8. Cocoon dwellers

9. Horse and mallet sport

10. *Pitcher 11. One ridiculed for studiousness

12. Banned insecticide, acr.

15. Kevin ____ and Sir Francis ____

20. Resting spot for a chicken

22. French vineyard

24. *Avid

25. *Correct

26. *Slipperier

27. 4th letter of Greek alphabet

29. *Nothingness

31. Spanish sparkling wine

32. Martini garnish

33. Violinist’s pine resin

34. *Rogue

36. Wall support

38. It often precedes “eye”

42. Laundry room appliance

45. Correspondence friend

49. Feel remorse

51. Seismic shake

54. Card game move

56. Accustom

57. *Sharpen

58. A in UAE

59. Cheesy patty

60. Be inclined

61. Paper holder

62. Dog command

63. Baby goat

65. Pirate’s turf

67. “Rocky” creator

Plumbing

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