Domestic violence survivors share their stories
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
SOUTHFIELD — Bright orange T-shirts lit up the municipal lawn Oct. 6 as over 500 participants gathered for the fifth annual Walk to Raise Awareness of Domestic Violence, hosted by the city of Southfield, the Southfield Police and Fire Departments, 46th District Court and community partners.
“All of us are standing here today because it’s not OK to have domestic violence in our community,” Southfield Mayor Ken Siver said. He said that domestic violence is the No. 1 crime in the city of Southfield and that there are calls to the Southfield Police Department reporting domestic violence on a daily basis.
He added that on the Friday and Saturday before the walk, there was a rare occurrence where there were no police runs for domestic violence.
Chief Judge of 46th District Court Sheila Johnson shared that many crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, assault with intent
RE-ELECT JUDGE NANCE NOV. 5TH
Dear 46th District Court
Letter from Judge Nance
Residents:
For the past 12 years, I have proudly displayed courage, strength, wisdom, competence and efficiency as your jurist in the 46th District Court. You elected me in 2012 and reelected me in 2018. Once again, I humbly ask for your vote of confidence on or before November 5th. My unwavering commitment is to what is right, fair, honest and truthful, in any and all situations, despite inconvenience, need for approval or desire for popularity. I do not compromise myself or my position to follow others. With respect and courtesy, I stand firm (and sometimes solo), in pursuing justice for everyone to ensure your confidence in the judicial process. This is a testament to my character, maturity and integrity.
Sincerely,
‘Life happens’ to us all, both personally and professionally. It has certainly ‘happened to me’. Yet these circumstances have enhanced my ability to see, hear, and decide the matters that come before me, with a judicial fairness and insight that only comes from experience.
Standing up for others as I stand up for myself is the sincerest application of justice. Since asking for your vote over a decade ago; I have worked to strengthen and share with you my own qualifications, competencies, and community service at each election. I have never used the real, alleged, or imagined misfortunes of others to win an election. My character and personal integrity would never allow it. I will continue to rise above misinformation and political spin for personal gain. I believe my residents deserve better. I remain steadfast in my commitment to fair and objective justice for all. I am dedicated to upholding a process that is in place for all of us. I too, trust the process. You can be confident that I will continue to serve you with the highest of integrity and honesty. I am excited to announce that on October 20, 2024, one of our premiere local businesses will host:
A Meet & Greet for Judge Debra Nance at Kemp Funeral Home 24585 Evergreen Road, Southfield, MI. 48075 from 3:00-5:00 pm.
Debra Nance, Judge 46th District Court
Perhaps, you have never visited my court to watch me ‘at work for you’, served as a juror for a trial, attended one of my many community service events or educational forums, called into my former radio show (Your Best Chance w/Judge Nance), or met me at a local festivity or business. If not, I invite you to come and get to know me, for yourself, on Oct 20th.
The Southfield Sun is one of 21 bi-weekly publications produced by C & G Newspapers, a family-owned company serving residents in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties since 1981. We deliver our papers to more than 571,000 homes in 45 communities via direct mail.
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SECOND FRONT PAGE
3A/ SOUTHFIELD SUN • OCTOBER 10, 2024
BY MARK VEST AND MARY BETH ALMOND
mvest@candgnews.com malmond@candgnews.com
OAKLAND COUNTY — Neighborhoods across Oakland County were reportedly peppered with antisemitic material and a building was vandal-
Antisemitic material reportedly distributed across Oakland County neighborhoods
ized between Oct. 5 and 7, according to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments.
A statement released by the Sheriff’s Office said deputies are investigating multiple instances of antisemitic flyers being distributed around the county, which the Sheriff’s Office called “completely unac-
ceptable,” adding that it stands firmly against “this disturbing and disgusting behavior.”
“It happened in a number of communities all across the county — Rochester Hills, Commerce, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, and I believe Waterford and White Lake as well,” Oakland County
Local chefs, Wildlife Council, DNR serve Harvest to Table Gala
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
SOUTHFIELD — The Michigan Wildlife Council hosted its first-ever Harvest to Table Gala Oct. 1 at the Great Lakes Culinary Center, 24101 West Nine Mile Road, showcasing the hunting, fishing and foraging heritage in Michigan and the role these natural resources play in addressing hunger statewide.
“The mission of the Wildlife Council is to promote all the benefits of hunting and fishing, that it’s a management tool to ensure that we have sustainable wildlife populations now and in the future, that hunters and anglers provide conservation funding, not only for game species like turkey and deer, but also nongame species like butterflies and salamanders, and it’s something that generates a lot of money and jobs around
NEWS & NOTES
4A/ SOUTHFIELD SUN • OCTOBER 10, 2024
SOUTHFIELD — Southfield Public Schools hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Sept. 25 to celebrate the completion of the improvements made at Adler Elementary School, 19100 Filmore St. The improvements included: a secured entrance, a new main office, exterior window and door replacements, new ceiling tiles, and painting and flooring upgrades. It also funded the installation of rooftop units, a central cooling system, heating system upgrades, and enhanced power and lighting systems. Upgraded fire alarm system, asbestos abatement and new security features were part of the work.
New playground equipment was installed, with landscaping improvements and concrete replacement. The school has new furnishings, new technology equipment and improved classroom teaching boards.
The improvements come from a $345 million bond. For more information, visit ww.southfieldk12.org/district and select “2022 Capital Facilities Bond.”
ADLER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING FOR BOND WORK
Historical Society to hold presentation on Potawatomi of Southfield and the People of the Three Fires
SOUTHFIELD — The President of the Southfield Historical Society, Darla Van Hoey, will give an educational presentation 6-8 p.m. Oct. 15 at the library, 26300 Evergreen Road, on the “Potawatomi of Southfield and the People of Three Fires” in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Additionally, the Southfield Public Library will be closed Oct. 12-14 and city offices will be closed Oct. 14 in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Club to host annual plant swap
SOUTHFIELD — The Southfield Parks and Garden Club will hold its annual plant swap 1-4 p.m. Oct. 27, at the Mary Thompson Farmhouse, 25630 Evergreen Road.
The plant swap will feature a large variety of perennials. Participants can pick up a plant with a donation or swap on a bring-one, take-one basis. The Mary Thompson Farmhouse will also be open for free tours provided by the Southfield Historical Society.
For more information, call (248) 796-5130 or visit http://www.southfieldparksandgarden.org.
Southfield PD to host Trunk or Treat
SOUTHFIELD — The Southfield Police Department will host a free Trunk or Treat 2-5 p.m. Oct. 20 in the Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road. The event is indoors and will take place rain or shine.
The Trunk or Treat will feature a variety of police cruisers and SUVs, and participants have the opportunity to get a closer look at the vehicles. For more information, contact Officer Tim Simon at (248) 796-5441.
CRIME WATCH
Business footage catches package thief
SOUTHFIELD — At 3:30 p.m. Sept. 16, a resident dropped off three boxes in the 21000 block of Melrose Avenue to be sent out of state.
Later, when she discovered only two of the boxes were successfully sent, she reached out to the business.
Upon reviewing footage from that day, the business observed the woman dropping off the boxes, and an unknown individual taking one of the boxes off the counter when the employee was not looking and then exiting the store.
Money stolen during inspection
SOUTHFIELD — A resident of the 29000 block of Farmbrook Villa Lane had a company come out to look at her home for an inspection between 7 p.m. Sept. 19 and 10:30 a.m. Sept. 23, and she reported that the suspect stole money while inside.
Gun, garden tools recovered after attempted car theft
SOUTHFIELD — A man sitting in his running vehicle at 2:42 a.m. Sept. 21 in the 25000 block of Northwestern Highway was approached by two individuals. When
the two individuals realized the victim was inside the car, they fled to a different vehicle and drove off.
The pair then crashed the vehicle they had attempted to leave in.
Officers arrived at the scene and located the suspects and the crashed vehicle.
A handgun and multiple garden tools were recovered, and the suspects were taken into custody.
Suspect throws a dumbbell through window to steal a bottle of liquor
SOUTHFIELD — A business in the 24000 block of West 12 Mile Road had a dumbbell thrown through the window at 3:13 a.m. Sept. 21. The suspect then stole a bottle of liquor. Officers responded, and they located and arrested the suspect without issue.
Diamond ring reported missing after massage
SOUTHFIELD — Between 2:45 p.m. and 4:05 p.m. Sept. 25, while getting a massage at a business in the 15000 block of West 10 Mile Road, a woman took her diamond ring off. A while after she left, she realized that she had forgotten to retrieve the ring, and she returned to the business. However, the business could not find the ring, and it was reported as stolen.
— Kathryn Pentiuk
Centropolis C3 Summit features mobility startups
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
SOUTHFIELD — The Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University’s C3 Summit featured cleantech, climate and circular economy companies that drew in a crowd of 400 attendees.
The event, held on Oct. 1 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, featured participation from more than 50 investors and resulted in 150 confirmed investor matchmaking meetings.
Centropolis connects small manufacturers and hardware entrepreneurs and provides access to resources such as mentors, workshops, cutting-edge technologies, corporate connections, student and faculty engagement, events, workspace, and a collaborative community, according to the program.
“Getting from the back of the napkin to the front of the market is no easy feat, and that makes incubators like Centropolis essential to our success, and the numbers really speak for themselves, because 40% of small businesses fail in a year, but the companies that Centropolis invests directly have a 100% commercialization success rate. One hundred percent. And there’s a reason why incubators like this one are becoming so popular. It’s because they work and because we believe so strongly in this model,” U.S. Secretary of Energy and former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm remarked. “DOE (the Department of Energy) has delivered over $18 million to incubators nationwide to our Office of Technology Transitions EPIC prize competition, including $200,000 to date for Centropolis. A number of Centropolis com-
panies have benefited directly from DOE funding, like RevX Technologies, which is a critical mineral recycling company, and they just received a $145 million grant through our battery materials processing program.”
During the C3 Company Pitches on Mobility, startups Bedestrian, BlueFlite, Civilized Cycles, LIVAQ and SeaLandAire presented before judges Kurt Baumgarten of GM Ventures, Joey Mullick of Skara Ventures, Josh Stevens of Polaris, Chris Thomas of Assembly Ventures, and Charlie Tyson of the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification.
The following day, Michigan’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, in partnership with Centropolis, announced the 17 recipients of the Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant Program. In this announcement, it was revealed that all of the startups that participated in the Mobility Pitches at the C3 Summit received funding.
The Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant Program was launched earlier this year to provide funding and technical assistance to accelerate the development of innovative mobility and electrification technologies.
The funding focuses on key areas such as product development, prototyping, product testing and manufacturing readiness. With a total of $813,000 in funding, $525,000 comes from the MEDC and $288,000 from Centrepolis Accelerator.
Ann Arbor-based Bedestrian develops autonomous delivery vehicles for urban settings. BlueFlite is a Brighton-based company that designs and manufactures an advanced
Comfort Suites Southfield celebrates 20th anniversary in city
Comfort Suites Southfield celebrated its 20th anniversary in the city Oct. 2. Devon Dallo, the general manager, celebrated the event with a ceremony that acknowledged two decades of providing exceptional service and hospitality in Southfield.
For more information about accommodations at Comfort Suites Southfield, go to choicehotels.com/michigan/southfield/comfort-suiteshotels/mi175, stop by the property in person at 24977 Northwestern Highway or call (248) 357-9990.
Harvest
the state,” said Nick Buggia, the chairman for the Michigan Wildlife Council. “This is the first time we’ve done an event like this, where we’ve invited people to come in. We tried to get a group of hunters and anglers and nonhunters and anglers to bring those two groups together over food and highlight all the natural resources that Michigan has to offer from things like wild game, like venison and fish. A lot of the sides and things today were foraged within an hour and a half of here. So they’re all things that are local. We wanted to highlight that and then educate everybody on the Wildlife Council and everything that hunters and anglers do as far as funding conservation.”
The gala’s menu featured a four-course meal inspired by Michigan’s natural resources and created by local chefs.
Chef de partie Danny Pesja, of Sylvan Table, located in Keego Harbor, prepared a wild mushroom salad for the first course, which displayed his love of foraging for wild mushrooms. He said he got into mushroom foraging around six years ago while he was working in the restaurant industry.
“Learning more about wild food and how it was what we originally had to eat back in the day was really exciting for me, on top of the flavors,” he said. “The flavors are unmatched compared to anything you can cultivate or farm. Not to mention that the nutrient value being so high makes that flavor come through so much more and so
better for you, too — on top of getting outside a little more, which we don’t often do in today’s society.”
The second course was a kombu steamed walleye prepared by Mike Ransom, the owner and chef of Ima Noodles in Detroit and Madison Heights.
“This event resonated with me because I grew up fishing, and it’s one of my hobbies,” Ransom said of the enjoyment he found combining his love of fishing and outdoor recreation with cuisine. “I think it’s kind of getting back to us understanding where our food comes from and how the nutrient base can be much richer for us, and definitely getting away from too much processed foods. And I think if we get kids into hunting and fishing and foraging, then kids will probably understand how they can base their diets on things that are going to be more nourishing for themselves and also find themselves more connected to the world around us.”
Paul Grosz, the owner and executive chef of Cuisine Restaurant, a Schoolcraft College Culinary Arts instructor and the honorary “meat cutter” of the night, prepared a roasted venison loin.
The fourth and final course was an apple crostada prepared by Abigail Tull, a pastry chef at Walnut Creek Country Club in South Lyon.
“Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger is supported by the DNR. It is a collaborative effort of Michigan hunters, processors and charities aimed at reducing hunger across our state,” Joe Presgrove, a Michigan DNR Sportsmen Against Hunger represen-
NOTICE OF BIDS
The City of Southfeld will receive proposals for the following item(s) until the time and date indicated: #24-049, Ceiling Tile Replacement, October 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM Local Time. Specifcations are available on www.mitn.info NIGP codes are 910-01. Questions contact the Purchasing Department at 248-796-5250.
Published: Southfeld Sun 10/10/2024
Janet Jackson, City Clerk
NOTICE OF BIDS
0413-2441
The City of Southfeld will receive proposals for the following item(s) until the time and date indicated: #24-060, Strategic Planning Consultant, October 24, 2024, at 2:00 PM Local Time. Questions Due, October 15, 2024, at 4:00 PM Specifcations are available on www.mitn.info . NIGP codes are 90664, 91890, 91892, 96144. Questions contact the Purchasing Department at 248-796-5250.
Janet Jackson, City Clerk
Published: Southfeld Sun 10/10/2024
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-05
CITY OF LATHRUP VILLAGE OAKLAND COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION
0415-2441
Notice is hereby given that the City of Lathrup Village Council has adopted Ordinance No. 2024-05, which is an Ordinance to amend Chapter 77 – Urban Redevelopment, Article I. Downtown Development Authority, Section 77-7. This amendment reduces the number of DDA board members from ten to eight. This Ordinance was adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on Monday, September 23, 2024. This Ordinance shall become effective ten (10) days after the date of its publication. A complete copy of the Ordinance is available for public use and inspection at the offce of the City Clerk.
Alisa Emanuel, City Clerk City of Lathrup Village 27400 Southfeld Road Lathrup Village, MI 48076 (248) 557-2600
Published: 10/10/2024 Southfeld Sun
NOTICE OF REGISTRATION FOR THE ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024 CITY OF SOUTHFIELD
0218-2441
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any qualifed elector of the City of Southfeld who is not already registered, may register to vote at the offce of the City Clerk; the offce of the County Clerk; a Secretary of State branch offce, or other designated state agency. Registration forms can be obtained at mi.gov/vote and mailed to the City Clerk. Voters who are already registered may update their registration at www.expressSOS.com.
The last day to register in any manner other than in -person with the local clerk is Monday, October 21, 2024. After this date, anyone who qualifes as an elector may register to vote in person with proof of residency (MCL 168.492) at the City of Southfeld Clerk’s offce located at 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfeld, MI 48076 at the following times:
Regular business hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m.
Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, from 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the City of Southfeld will be voting on the following:
For the purposes of electing a candidate to the following offce:
President of the United States
United States Senator Representative of Congress 12th District
State Representative 5th, 18th and 19th Districts County Commissioner 17th District County Commissioner 18th District
A sample ballot may be viewed at mi.gov/vote. Persons with special needs as defned by the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the clerk’s offce.
Janet Jackson
City Clerk, City of Southfeld 26000 Evergreen Road Southfeld MI 48076 248-796-5150 jjackson@cityofsouthfeld.com
Published: Southfeld Sun 10/10/2024
PUBLISHED LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS AND SITE PLAN REVIEWS CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF SOUTHFIELD
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a meeting will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024, at 6:00 P.M., Local Time, in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfeld, Michigan, at which time and place the Southfeld City Council will consider the following requests pursuant to Title V, Zoning and Planning, Chapter 45, Zoning, of the Code of the City of Southfeld, to wit:
PCZR24-0002 (CONDITIONAL REZONING – public hearing was held on 8/26/24, action on the item was postponed to 10/28/24) is a request of The Kroger CO of Michigan to conditionally rezone the parcel at 19991 W 12 Mile Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-14-101-227) from B-2 Planned Business to B-3 General Business.
PSLU24-0009 (SPECIAL USE – PUBLIC HEARING was postponed from 8/26/24 to 10/28/24) is a Special Use request of The Kroger CO of Michigan to construct and operate a gas station at 19991 W 12 Mile Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-14-101-227).
PSP24-0005 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) is a Site Plan Review request of The Kroger CO of Michigan, to construct and operate a gas station at 19991 W 12 Mile Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-14-101-227).
PCZR24-0003 (CONDITIONAL REZONING) is a request of Ned Hakim, Next Generations Development, LLC, to conditionally rezone the parcels at 22575-22599 Telegraph Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcels 24-32-226-020 and -036) from I-1 Industrial to B-3, General Business to permit construction of a new gas station/convenience store with alcohol sales and a drive-thru/carry-out restaurant.
PSLU24-0016 (SPECIAL USE) is a request of Ned Hakim, Next Generations Development, LLC, to permit construction of a new gas station/convenience store with alcohol sales and a drive-thru/carry-out restaurant at 22575-22599 Telegraph Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcels 24-32-226-020 and -036).
PSLU24-0017 (SPECIAL USE – PUBLIC HEARING) is a request of John Abbo, Altitude Wellness LLC d/b/a Lume Cannabis Co., to amend the conditions of special land use approval PSLU23-0005 to permit the existing Marihuana Provisioning Center/Adult-use Marijuana retailer at 26760 Lahser Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-22-102-012) to stay open until 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
PSLU24-0018 (SPECIAL USE – PUBLIC HEARING) is a request of Dreams Canna, to amend the conditions of special land use approval PSLU23-0004 to permit the existing Marihuana Provisioning Center/Adult-use Marijuana retailer at 28930 Telegraph Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-17-226-001) to stay open until 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
PSLU24-0019 (SPECIAL USE – PUBLIC HEARING) is a request of El Car Wash, to permit construction and operation of a new conveyor type motor vehicle wash at 28810-28844 Northwestern Highways, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcels 24-18-226007, -036 & -051).
PTZA24-0004 (PUBLIC HEARING) is a Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment to amend Title V, Zoning and Planning, Chapter 45, Zoning, of the Code of the City of Southfeld by amending Article 5 – Section 5.62-B; to delete provisions related to keeping of animals and add reference to the Chapter 113 Animals – Section 9.76; related to the keeping of animals other than pets (that Chapter to be amended separately).
Written comments may be delivered to the City Clerk’s offce, 26000 Evergreen Road, P.O. Box 2055, Southfeld, MI 480372055, prior to the meeting.
Questions regarding this matter should be directed to the Planning Department at (248) 796-4150 or tpaison@cityofsouthfeld.com
JANET JACKSON – CITY CLERK
Individuals with special needs who plan to attend this meeting should contact the City Clerk’s Offce at 248-796-5150 (voice) or 248-354-4831 (TDD). If auxiliary aids or services are needed, reasonable advance notice is required.
Published: Southfeld Sun 10/10/2024
from page 1A
to murder, stalking, and more, are often rooted in domestic violence.
“There is a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and so it’s defined as an individual that assaults, or assaults and batters someone. And an assault, obviously, is an attempt to commit a battery or put someone in fear of a battery. And a battery is a forceful, violent touching of a person or something connected to that person. And the next thing is as an element of this crime is that you have to be a spouse, former spouse, have a child in common, be a resident or former resident of a household, or previously had a dating relationship, and that’s it. That is the legal definition of a misdemeanor domestic violence. So, the crime itself is pretty straightforward, but we all know that abuse runs a little bit deeper in the form of intimidation; stalking; verbal, emotional and psychological abuse. There’s so many other misdemeanors and felonies that really have at its origin a domestic relationship.”
Johnson prefaced the statistics she shared from 46th District Court.
“So the statistics that I’m going to give to you today just really encompass the mis-
demeanor domestic violence, not those other felonies and not those other misdemeanors. So this is a really huge problem, because many of those crimes, as I said, are domestic in origin.”
She shared that from Jan. 1 to Sept. 30 this year, there have been 190 cases of domestic violence misdemeanors, with 130 being males accused of domestic assaults and 60 females accused of the crime.
One case has been found not guilty. Two cases have been found guilty as charged. There have been no jury trials on domestic violence this year.
“We’ve had 29 cases just dismissed flat out, usually because the victim is too afraid to come to court or they change their mind for any number of reasons, even though they may have very well been a victim. We also have some pleas of no contest. We’ve had four where somebody just doesn’t say they did anything, but they’re still convicted. We’ve had the prosecutor just dismiss two cases because they decided they didn’t need to prosecute them. Thirty-eight of them have been pled down or dismissed because of some plea bargain. So we have 73 cases currently pending, and we have 10 felony cases so far that are pending that might be domestic in nature. So this is a big problem in our court.”
Johnson said that this issue is being addressed by employing programs to educate and rehabilitate, such as risk assessments done with the Police Department, where background information is gathered and they provide referral information to HAVEN, Oakland County’s program for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault that provides shelter, counseling advocacy and
educational programming to over 30,000 people each year. This is one factor that the court uses to determine the risks involved in setting an appropriate bond and whether the individual should be released back into the community.
Johnson added that the fast-track docket for arraignments and pretrials before
BRINGING IT HOME
BUSINESS CLIP
Williams Eye Specialty Clinic celebrates ribbon-cutting
The Williams Eye Specialty Clinic celebrated a ribboncutting Sept. 27 at its brand-new location in Southfield.
Dr. Victoria Williams, the owner of the new eye clinic, is board certified through the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology. She specializes in cosmetic and functional eyelid procedures, thyroid eye disease treatment, cosmetic and functional neurotoxin injection, cosmetic filler, the treatment of neuroophthalmologic diseases and more.
For more information about eye, facial or neuro-ophthalmology care, contact Williams Eye Specialty Clinic online at williamseyespecialtyclinic.com or in person at 26771 W. 12 Mile Road. Call (248) 621-3393 to make an appointment.
the judges allows the case to be adjudicated promptly so that the individuals involved can get the services that they may need if they’re convicted. Johnson also said that there is a 52-week, four-level program in place for abusers called HEAL for Men and WEAVE for Women.
During the event, domestic abuse survivors Casey Anderson and Deodge Hill shared their powerful stories of overcoming abuse.
Anderson shared the story of her late mother, Oakland County Chief Health Officer Calandra Green.
“One afternoon, on May 11, 2023, as I was watching TV, a call forever changed my future. I was summoned to my mother’s home. As I slowly approached my family, confused as to why they were all there, questioning why there were so many police cars, my grandmother came towards me and said, ‘Casey, your mother is not here. She is gone. I am your new mother now.’ I was about to faint. I didn’t understand what was happening. This day will forever be etched in our hearts and minds. This was the day we all became victims of domestic violence.”
Anderson said that her mother was murdered by her stepfather after two years of marriage and that there were no signs of domestic abuse before the murder occurred. She remembers her mother as a “successful, young, beautiful, African American woman who created an impactful legacy before her candle was extinguished” and was the first Black female health officer in Oakland County.
Hill shared that domestic violence doesn’t have a color or class.
As a physician’s assistant, a mother of four, the widow of a fallen police officer and the founder of two nonprofits, PH1LL and I Am With You, Hill shared her story of a three-month relationship that she had in 2018 that inspired her to start a nonprofit dedicated to helping survivors of domestic violence.
“The devil doesn’t come to you with a pitchfork, and he doesn’t come to you with a red suit,” she said. “In a domestic violence situation as well, the guy doesn’t come to you looking like he’s going to abuse you.”
Hill said that when she began this relationship, there were no signs of aggression and her boyfriend was always a gentleman who opened every door for her. However, everything changed one night when he kidnapped her, beat her and held her at gunpoint.
“I was very scared, and the only thing that I could think is, ‘I can’t ever tell anybody
about this.’ I was super embarrassed about it. I prayed through the entire situation, because I told God. I said, ‘Look, you have to get me home safe to my kids.’ Because, at first, I was at peace with death. When he first put me in his car, I knew that I was going to die. I was not going to make it. His words to me was, ‘I don’t want to see you with anybody else. This night’s not going to end good, and I’m not going back to prison.’ So I knew what that meant.”
Hill shared how her faith and memorized scripture got her through the night.
After he beat her and drove her to a darker street, she thought it was the end.
“So I knew that my life was ending at that point. I looked at him in his eyes, and I said, ‘You know, I love you, and I care about you. I won’t tell anybody about this, but you gotta get help.’ And whatever that energy force that was in the car, it left. He looked at me, and he said, ‘Oh, my God, I’m so sorry. I think I overreacted. Let me take this gun back.’ I said, ‘OK.’ … We drove to take the gun back, and I survived it.”
Hill said the incident wasn’t what drove her to get away from him afterward. It wasn’t until he choked her that she confided in close friends who encouraged her to leave and arranged for her to stay in Chicago with a friend. She filed a police report before she left and expressed that she was frustrated with how the police didn’t take her seriously until she told them that she was the widow of a fallen officer and a professional with a practice in the area. When she got to Chicago, she realized that she had left her bag at home, which inspired her to start her nonprofit, I Am With You, to help women who leave in the middle of the night and take nothing with them.
She added that she wants the victimizing of the victim to end.
“The problem with people that want to help you — which I know a lot of you are here, and you want to help people — you victimize the victim over and over again. I am still victimized till today. Why? Because people that know my story: ‘We gotta watch what you dating.’ ‘Oh my God. Are you dating again?’ ‘Oh my God. Who are you dating?’ I don’t want to hear that. I don’t want to hear that because I want to always empower and tell the victim that, ‘You did nothing wrong by loving somebody. You did not do anything wrong.’”
For more information on HAVEN, visit www.haven-oakland.org.
To learn more about the Southfield Domestic Violence Group, visit southfielddomesticviolencegroup.org.
For more information about I Am With You, visit www.iamwithyouorg.org.
Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.
SPOTLIGHT ON LEARNING
HIGH SCHOOL INTEREST IN CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION SOARS
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
The rising cost of college, combined with growing demand for skilled workers, is driving more students to enroll in career and technical education programs, known as CTE programs.
The state projects more than 520,000 Michigan jobs and approximately 45,500 annual openings in the professional trades by 2030.
Amid skilled-labor shortages across the nation, many students are choosing CTE programs to explore a future career, get college credit, find an internship, and/or earn industry recognized certifications, all while fulfilling their high school graduation requirements.
At Oakland Schools Technical Campuses, high school students from the county’s 28 public school districts, public academies, private learning institutions and home schools can learn practical career
technical education. Enrolled students spend part of their day studying at their home district and the remainder involved in one of several career clusters offered at one of four of the county’s technical campuses — Pontiac, Clarkston, Walled Lake and Royal Oak.
Across Michigan, many high schools and specialty programs offer CTE courses aligned with indemand, high-wage careers in fields like business, information technology, health care, hospitality and manufacturing.
“Career and technical education is preparing students for high-wage, high-skill, high-demand jobs,” said Paul Galbenski, the dean of Oakland Schools Technical Campus Northeast in Pontiac.
OSTC offers a total of 17 state-approved CTE programs: — including agriscience and environmental technologies; automotive technology; collision repair and refinishing; computer programming; construction technology; cosmetology;
See CAREER on page 14A
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through our website and available for both Android and iOS devices — assesses your potential in the industry. If you’re familiar with Microsof Ofce, enjoy video games and navigate internet searches, you’re likely a ft for us.”
Te organization’s new NOW & LATER program allows potential learners to commit to a three-month Introduction to IoT (Internet of Tings) course now and enroll in the AI & Data Analytics/Cybersecurity Ops/Network Technician/Tech Project Management training program one year later.
Funding is available for anyone, and most participants come through the state’s workforce development organization Michigan Works!
“You don’t have to be a tech genius,” Byrd-Hill said. “Our Life Culture Audit app — accessible
“Adults 18 and up can attend the introductory session starting October 14, receive their certifcation, get a job and come back within a year to continue their training without having to pay anything extra,” Byrd-Hill said. “It’s exciting to see lives and minds transform as people escape poverty, start making good money and provide for their families.”
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Antisemetic
Sheriff Mike Bouchard said. “I would say close to 1,000 flyers were distributed.”
Officials are investigating whether it could be connected to Monday, Oct. 7 marking the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ attack in Israel.
“I don’t think it was a coincidence,” Bouchard said. “It’s the first time we’ve seen such a large number of things distributed almost simultaneously.”
The first instances were reported in West Bloomfield and Farmington Hills, followed by Rochester Hills and Commerce Township.
According to a press release, at around 8 a.m. Oct. 5, the West Bloomfield Police Dispatch Center received a phone call about residents in the 4800 block of Pelican Way finding anti-Jewish rhetoric flyers in a plastic bag.
According to the release, after officers were sent to investigate, it was revealed that over 100 households in the neighborhood had received similar material on their driveways overnight.
A resident in the neighborhood reportedly captured security camera footage of an unknown dark-colored pickup truck driving in the neighborhood around 11:45 p.m. Oct. 4, although the release states that “it is currently unclear if the truck is connected to this incident.”
No suspects have been reported.
The West Bloomfield Police Department is treating the situation as a case of ethnic intimidation, according to the release. Anyone with information is urged to call the West Bloomfield Police Department at (248) 975-8934.
The Farmington Hills Police Department responded to the area of 14 Mile and Farmington Road Oct. 5, where several residents reportedly found plastic bags containing “virulent” antisemitic material on their front lawns.
The neighbors opened the bags to find that they contained an antisemitic flyer that had been thrown onto their front lawns and driveways overnight.
“The timing of this detestable activity exacerbates the chilling effect on our community,” Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King, stated via a press release. “This type of hateful activity will not be tolerated in Farmington Hills and our agency will use all available resources to prevent, investigate, and prosecute those responsible for this incident.”
Investigators and officers eventually recovered over 100 bags containing the antisemitic materials.
The bags were found to be weighed down with various non-hazardous materials for ease in hurling onto the residential lawns and driveways, according to the release.
A team of detectives and command officers reportedly went door-to-door, collected evidence and conducted interviews with witnesses.
“This is a very active investigation, with investigators coordinating with our State and
Federal Law Enforcement partners, the AntiDefamation League, and other jurisdictions who experienced matching incidents.”
In Rochester Hills, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office said, many of the same baggies of flyers, around 200, were reportedly found in the lawns and driveways of homes in the 900 block of Majestic the morning of Oct. 7, as well as many other homes in the neighborhood and nearby subdivisions.
In Commerce Township, a baggie was discovered in the driveway of a home in the 2500 block of Northtrail Road. Detectives are investigating.
Bouchard the incidents are being “aggressively investigated” by detectives and the Sheriff’s Office is working closely with others that have similar cases.
“We suspect much of this is coming from outsiders,” Bouchard said in a statement. “I have been very clear on this topic, but it bears repeating: If you come at our Jewish community, or for that matter anyone in our Oakland County community, we will stand in front of them to protect them, and we will come for you.”
In Bloomfield Township, the Jewish Federation of Detroit, on Telegraph Road, was vandalized in the early morning hours Oct. 7.
In a statement released Oct. 7 by Jewish Federation of Detroit, CEO Steven Igber and Federation President Gary Torgow said, “We are deeply disturbed and saddened to report that early this morning, the offices of the Jewish Federation of Detroit were the target of antisemitic vandalism. This attack, occurring on the anniversary of the October 7 massacre in Israel, was not only an assault on our physical space but also on the heart of our community. It is a stark reminder of the rising tide of hate affecting the Jewish people, here and around the world.
“We unequivocally condemn this cowardly act of vandalism and stand firm in our resolve. It will not deter us from our vital mission to support the people of Israel, combat antisemitism, and foster a strong Jewish future. In the face of these challenges, we remain united and resilient, committed to defending our values and protecting our community.
“We are grateful for the support of our local community, partners, and allies during this difficult time, and we thank local, state, and federal law enforcement for their efforts.”
Nick Soley, of the Bloomfield Township Police Department, said police were notified at 4 a.m. of the spray-painted antisemitic graffiti and are currently investigating.
“It seems like most of the ground-level windows and sidewalks facing Telegraph were vandalized,” Soley said.
Soley said police are in contact with the Attorney General’s Office, the FBI and the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.
“The federation handed over some evidence to us, and we’re still working through it,” he said.
The building has video surveillance,
which is under review by police.
“It’s very unfortunate and disturbing that people would do these things,” Bouchard said.
Detectives are currently canvassing neighborhoods looking for homes that have cameras and asking to review footage.
“They have seen some footage, and that’s
an ongoing process. If someone has camera footage that they think would be helpful, it would be great if they give us a call or their local police department, if it’s not us,” Bouchard added.
Anyone who has information is asked to contact their police department.
Career
from page 12A
criminal justice; culinary arts/hospitality; cybersecurity networking; energy-electrical technology; engineering, robotics and mechatronics; entrepreneurship and advanced marketing; graphic and communication design; health sciences; machining; medium/heavy truck and equipment; and welding.
The primary focus of OSTC’s program is for students to marry their technical and academic skills together, so they are career ready. Because being career-ready looks different for each student and their field of interest, there are many options.
“They can go into a pathway where they are working on our Oakland Technical Early College, where they could come out with an associate degree in their technical area. They could be in a pre-apprenticeship program. They could go directly into the workforce. They could go into the military. They could go into a speciality trade school. They could go to a two-year community college, or they could go to a four-year university. … All of those options are on the table,” he said.
Through internships, apprenticeships and day-in-thelife job shadowing, students learn what it’s like to work in their chosen fields — instead of spending thousands to figure it out in college.
“Students that attend a technical campus have what I like to phrase as a ‘force multiplier of opportunities’
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VOTERS TO DECIDE LOCAL AND NATIONAL RACES, TAX PROPOSAL
In the Southfield Sun’s coverage area, voters will decide various state, county and local races Nov. 5, as well as a county parks tax proposal. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim. Profiles were not sent to candidates running unopposed.
U.S. Senate
Six candidates are running for one six-year term. The salary for this position is $174,000.
Democrat
Elissa Slotkin
Age: 47
Occupation: U.S. Representative (MI-07)
Municipality of residence: Holly
For how long: Grew up in Michigan; I now live on my family farm Online campaign information: elissaslotkin.org
Education: Cornell University - College of Agriculture and Life Science, Bachelor’s Degree and Columbia University - School of International and Public Affairs, Master of International Affairs
Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Representative (Formerly MI-08, now MI-07 due to redistricting): Top goals: My number one priority is to make it easier for Michiganders to get into the middle class. Michigan invented the middle class by maintaining a strong union presence and making investments in small businesses. We can keep people there by reducing healthcare costs, putting Americans on the path to homeownership and making more critical items in America. I am committed to restoring the national standard set by Roe, and ensuring voting rights for every American.
Republican
Mike Rogers
Age: 61
Occupation: Candidate for U.S. Senate, Army Veteran, Former Congressman, State Senator, and FBI Special Agent.
Municipality of residence: Brighton, MI
For how long: Nearly 50 years Online campaign information: rogersforsenate.com
Education: Adrian College and the University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Representative (20012015), Michigan State Senator (1995-2000)
Top goals: Families are struggling under the current administration and are desperately in need of relief from the high costs of gas and groceries. As a Congressman, I earned a reputation as someone who got results for Michiganders by working across the aisle, and in the Senate, I’ll bring my experience to slash inflation, lower the cost of living for families, and secure our southern border to stop the flow of crime and deadly drugs.
Libertarian
Joseph Solis-Mullen
Age: 35
Occupation: Economist, Political Scientist, and Research Fellow at the Libertarian Institute, Author, and Professor of History at SAU
Municipality of residence: Marshall
For how long: Five Years
Online campaign information: https://solismullen4senate.com
Education: BA in English and Political Science, Spring Arbor University; MA in Political Science, University of Illinois; MA in Economics, University of Missouri; PhD in History, Liberty University
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Eliminate the Federal Reserve, IRS, and Pentagon, all foreign aid, Social Security and Medicare, the Department of Education, DEA and ATF, institute federal elections by lottery and oneterm limits on those who serve, eliminate omnibus bills and continuing resolutions: basically, everything about the way Washington D.C. does business as usual needs to be scrapped, and Democrats and Republicans love their own power and privilege too much to ever do anything but continue to sail (…)
U.S. Taxpayers
Dave Stein
Age: 54 yrs old
Occupation: Retired CDL A Operator, Investing
Municipality of residence: Residence in Essexville MI.
For how long: Lived here my whole life Online campaign information:
DaveStein4Liberty.com
Education: Some college, Trade school certificates: Heating and air conditioning, Building trades, Electronics, Heavy Equipment, CDL A, Metal fabrication,Tool making, Grinding, 3D Printing. Private studies: Common law 3 years and ongoing, cooking. IQ=156
Previously and currently held elected offices: Political experience: First time directly other that participation in local committee’s
Top goals: To stop abortion abuse. Abortion should not be used as birth control and only in extreme circumstances allowed. e.g. allow abortion for incest, rape, deformation, disease, threat to Mothers life. Children have a right to live. Alternative to being a parent is adoption. Ending the war machine and concentrating on American born business. Social Security monies go to heirs. Close Border. Require legal US Citizenship to vote.
Green
Douglas P. Marsh
Age: 40
Occupation: Journalist
Municipality of residence: West Branch
For how long: No answer given. Online campaign information: https://www.electmarsh.us
Education: University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: I want to join a full-court press for Medicare-forAll (single-payer model), housing reforms and rent controls, public education funding, cleaning up PFAs and replacing Flint’s pipes, environmentally sustainable energy and transportation infrastructure investments, stopping money and weapons for war, and stopping the flow of oil through Michigan’s watersheds.
Natural Law Party
Doug Dern
Age: 62
Occupation: Lawyer
Municipality of residence: Highland MI
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: www.dougdern.com
Education: University of Oklahoma, Thomas Cooley Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: n/a
Top goals: Lots of reform that does not get media attention. Bankruptcy reform needs to be looked at on a national level. Expansion of exemptions, and stricter rules on Chapter 13 Trustees. Fair Debt Collection Practices Act needs reformed because it has not been changed since the 1970’s.
National Changes for third party ballot access. Push for a flat tax across the board equal to all. Promotion for health consciousness and cleaning up the toxic food and (...)
U.S. House of Representative District 12
Four candidates are running for one two-year term. The salary for the position is $174,000.
Democrat
Rashida Tlaib
Age: 47
Occupation: U.S. Representative (MI-12)
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Lifelong Detroiter Online campaign information: https:// rashidaforcongress.com
Education: JD - Cooley Law School, BAWayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current Congresswoman for Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, former Michigan State Representative
Top goals: Residents want to thrive and need access to resources. That’s why I created Neighborhood Service Centers that help our families, returning $5.8 million to residents. I am working on holding the auto insurance industry accountable with the Preventing Auto Insurance Discrimination Act, founded the Get
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the Lead Out Caucus for clean drinking water, and I’m fighting for resources in the federal budget. I’ve secured $850,000 for Beech Wood Park and Recreation and nearly $1 million for water infrastructure in Lathrup Village.
Republican
James D. Hooper
Age: 57
Occupation: Machine Operator
Municipality of residence: Livonia, MI
For how long: Since 2013
Online campaign information: https:// jameshooperforcongress.com
Education: High School +
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: What this country needs is a restoration of the American Dream. The Pursuit of Happiness has been a right we hold dear in this nation. As Americans we want to pursue our dreams and provide the best for our families, ensuring our children and grandchildren will have opportunities to prosper. In Congress I will work to Lower Inflation, Lower Energy Costs, and Prioritize Health Care instead of ‘Sick Care.’
Working Class Party
Gary Walkowicz
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired from Ford after 45 years as an auto worker and elected UAW representative.
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: workingclassfight.com
Education: High school graduate, some college
Previously and currently held elected office: None
Green Party
Brenda K. Sanders
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
State House of Representatives District 5
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $71,685.
Democrat
Regina Weiss
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Will Sears
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
State House of Representatives District 18
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $71,685.
Democrat
Jason Hoskins
Age: 40
Occupation: State Representative
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 9 years old
Online campaign information: votejasonhoskins.com
Education: Bachelors in Political Science
– Eastern Michigan University; Master’s in Public Administration – Eastern Michigan University, Juris Doctor – University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield City Council 2019-2022; State Representative 2023- Present
Top goals: To be a voice for working people because the two main parties only work for the corporate elite and the wealthy one per cent. The working class is being pushed backward into poverty. The working class needs its own party so we can stand together – black, white, native-born, immigrant, women, men -and use our power together as workers to fight for what we need and deserve.
State House of Representatives District 19
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. The salary for the position is $71,685.
Democrat
Samantha Steckloff
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Kevin J. Hammer
Age: 66
Occupation: Retired Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 37 years
Online campaign information: VoteKevinHammer.com
Education: University of Detroit, B.S., Accounting/University of Detroit School of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top priority is improving our public schools. After that, 1. Budget discipline, reducing the size and scope of government and reducing our tax burden, 2. Implementing energy policy that provides plentiful and reliable energy to our homes and businesses at globally competitive prices, 3. Providing resources to our police and firefighters to keep our homes, businesses and neighborhoods secure, 4. Securing parental rights in our family life and schools, and 5. Election integrity.
a top priority. I have also secured key investments in public safety, water quality and educational opportunities. We are working to lower costs by making housing more affordable, improving public transportation, expanding mental health services, and protecting women’s health care.
Republican Nik Gjonaj
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Oakland County Prosecuting Attorney
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $191,281.
Democrat
Karen McDonald Age: 54
Occupation: Oakland County Prosecutor Municipality of residence: Birmingham For how long: 16 years Birmingham; Oakland County 29 years Online campaign information: McDonaldForProsecutor.com
Education: Wayne State Law School (1998), Alma College (1992)
Top goals: Work to reimagine what economic development looks like in the state by attracting talent with mass transit, more housing, and addressing childcare needs. Address rising cost and inflation and that many Michiganders are struggling with right now. I want to increase state revenue sharing and change the state infrastructure funding formula which will result in more critical funding for our road, water and energy
Republican
Mordechai Klainberg
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Oakland County Executive
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $221,336.
Democrat
David Coulter
Age: 64 years
Occupation: Oakland County Executive Municipality of residence: Ferndale For how long: 33 years
Online campaign information: www.friendsofdavecoulter.com
Education: Bachelor’s Degree Michigan State University, Executive Education Certificate John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Executive 2019-present, Mayor of Ferndale- 20102019, Oakland County Commissioner2002-2010.
Top goals: By working across party lines, I have made balancing the budget and preserving Oakland County’s AAA bond rating
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Top goals: Keeping Oakland County safe by working with law enforcement to keep dangerous criminals off the streets. Holding Criminals Accountable, including the Oxford High School shooter and his parents, while also fighting for justice for crime victims and their families. Focusing resources on our Gun Violence Task Force, Trafficking Unit, and Hate Crimes Unit - crimes that have a huge impact on our community. Preventing future crime through the Commission to Address Gun Violence.
Republican Scott Farida Age: 34
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield For how long: Approximately 30 years Online campaign information: www.faridaforprosecutor.com
Education: Juris Doctore from University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, Graduated Cum Laude; Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Minor in History from Oakland University, Graduated Magna Cum Laude; Detroit Catholic Central High
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School; St. Hugo of the Hills School
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: We must depoliticize prosecution and re-focus on public safety and victim advocacy. Every single person in our community, regardless of race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, or any other identifier, has the right to live their life free from being victimized. Our community has seen huge spikes in crime and some of the worst offenders undercharged or pleaded down. My goal is to be fair and proportional, not to trade one political extreme for another.
Oakland County Sheriff
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $170,295.
Democrat Amrit Kohli
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Michael J. Bouchard
Age: 68
Occupation: Oakland County Sheriff
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: www.sheriffbouchard.com
Education:
• Bachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice and Police Administration, Michigan State University, Honor Student
• Graduate of the United States Secret Service in Dignitary Protection Program
• Graduate of the FBI National Executive Institute Program (NEI)
• Mid-Michigan Law Enforcement Center, Valedictorian
• Graduate of the National Sheriff’s Institute
• Graduate of Darden’s Program for emerging Political Leaders, University of Virginia
• Toll Fellow, Council of State Governments in conjunction with the University of Kentucky
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Sheriff, State Senator, State Representative, Beverly Hills Village Council
Top goals: As Sheriff, my top goal is to ensure the safety and security of everyone in Oakland County. I will
continue to focus on keeping kids and our schools safe, reducing crime, improving emergency response times, enhancing mental health resources in law enforcement and boosting training. By building strong community partnerships and investing in cutting-edge training and technology, we’ll protect our neighborhoods while maintaining trust and transparency in the Sheriff’s Office. Public safety is not partisan.
Oakland County Clerk and Register of Deeds
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The annual salary for the position is $170,761.
Democrat Lisa Brown
Age: 57
Occupation: Oakland County Clerk/ Register of Deeds
Municipality of Residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: over 30 years
Online campaign information: www.lisabrown4michigan.com
Education: Earned Bachelor of Science degree at Michigan State University and Juris Doctor at the Detroit College of Law; also earned the national designation of Certified Elections/ Registration Administrator (CERA), the highest credential for those in the elections profession
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Clerk/ Register of Deeds (2013 to present); Michigan State Representative (2009-2012)
Top goals: To continue running a Clerk/ Register of Deeds office that serves as a model for the state, receiving local and nationwide acclaim for excellence and innovation
Coordinated with local clerks to increase transparency, save taxpayer dollars, and make elections more secure, efficient, and cost effective with the Oakland County Absentee Voter counting board and administering Early Voting for 45 communities
Increased protections for property owners against fraud by implementing the first-of-its-kind Property Records Notification service
Republican Barb Pallotta
Age: An active, youthful & healthy 70 year old
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of Residence: Charter Township of Independence
For how long: ≈ 20 years
Online campaign information: www.VotePallotta.com
Education: Associates - Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: Charter Township of Independence: Appointed as Clerk February 201, Charter Township of Independence: Elected as Clerk November 2012, Charter Township of Independence: Re-elected as Clerk February 2016
Republican
Donna
Blake
Age: 65
Occupation: CFO & Small Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Oxford
For how long: 24 Years
Online campaign information: Donna Blake for Oakland County Treasurer on Facebook
Education: Bachelor of Accountancy Walsh College, CPA State of Michigan, Executive MBA Michigan State University
Top goals: Advocate for election integrity and local control of elections. Enacted proposals (2018 Proposal 3 and 2022 Proposal 2) weakens election integrity and directly impacts the sovereignty of local control.
Initiate immediate alerts about potential fraud activity to secure all Register of Deed property records 24/7.
Reassess online services and the merit of associated fees to improve access to public records. Develop a “NO FEE” policy for all electronic public records NOT subject to statutory exemption.
Oakland County Treasurer
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $170,761.
Democrat Robert Wittenberg
Age: 43
Occupation: Oakland County Treasurer Municipality of residence: Huntington Woods
For how long: 29 Years
Online campaign information: www.RobertWittenberg.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Indiana University
Previously and currently held elected offices:
State Representative - 1/1/2015 –12/31/2020
Oakland County Treasurer - 7/1/2021Current
Top goals: We accomplished a lot during my first term (lowest tax foreclosures, updated investment policy, increased efficiency/transparency, etc.), but the work is not done. My top priorities will continue to be protecting the financial security of every resident in Oakland County, maintaining our AAA Bond rating, and keeping Oakland County a wonderful place to live and work. I will do all I can to secure taxpayer dollars, preserve property values, and prevent foreclosure.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oxford Republican Delegate 3 twoyear terms
Top goals: As a former FBI Forensic Accountant, I’m passionate about rooting out wasteful spending and any misuse of funds. Let’s not be spending county taxpayer dollars for illegal immigration, DEI initiatives, or empty buses driving around Oakland County. I will accelerate the return of taxpayer money that was illegal taken through tax foreclosures. After cutting costs, I will support property tax cuts. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and work together without wasting a dime.
Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $170,761.
Democrat
Jim
Nash
Age: 67
Occupation: Water Resources Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 30 years Online campaign information: nash4wrc.com
Education: Florida State University, Bachelor’s in Political Science, minor in peace studies (1988)
Previously and currently held elected offices: I served as Oakland County Commissioner representing Farmington Hills from 2005 to 2013. I have been the elected Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner since 2013, now ending my third term.
Top goals: Continue my collaborative work with communities across Oakland County and the region to make our stormwater systems resilient to
Election
extreme weather brought by climate change and use our wastewater resources to replace fossil fuels with less expensive renewable energy. My mission is to protect our citizen’s health and safety, conserve our natural resources, continue our high-quality services, pursue sustainable/efficient infrastructure investments, protect economic prosperity for all our communities, promote public education and seek public input.
Republican
Steven Johnson
Age: 66
Occupation: Consultant
Municipality of residence: Highland For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: Steven-Johnson.com
Education:
• MBA, Masters of Business Administration, Plymouth State University - University System of NH
• Graduate Certificate, Strategic Marketing Management, Plymouth State UniversityUniversity System of NH
• BS Business Management & Economics, SUNY- State University of New York
• Harvard University JFK School, Certificate US Public Policy: Social, Economic, and Foreign Policies
• AS, Associate Degree in Business Management - Oakland Community College + Certificate: Business Entrepreneurship
• AA, Associate Degree in Liberal ArtsOakland Community College
• US Navy training: Advanced Electronics - Data Systems, electricity/electronics, computer systems
Previously and currently held elected offices: No other public office.
Top goals: If elected the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner, I am committed to protecting and being a good steward of our resources.
High-priority items:
• Nanoplastics and Microplastics
• PFAS
• Water Affordability
• Sustainable Water Management Practices
• Enhancing Water Efficiency
• Protecting and Restoring Wetlands
• Safety for non-municipal water residents
– Well and Septic
• Reducing Operational Emissions
• Safe use of fertilizers, chemicals, salt
• Resilient Infrastructure Water, Sewer, Stormwater
• Supporting Renewable Energy Initiatives
• Public Engagement and Education
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 17
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $45,131.
Democrat
Yolanda Smith Charles
Age: No answer given.
Occupation: Realtor & Investor
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 30+ years
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: Master’s Degree - Instructional Technology; Bachelor’s Degree Business Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: 9 years on the Southfield Public Schools District; 4 years - Current Oakland County Commissioner District 17 (Lathrup Village, Oak Park, Royal Oak Township and a portion of Southfield)
Top goals: 1. Establish a transparent procurement process, avoiding repeated contract awards to the same businesses. 2. Increase the number of Black Americans in supervisorial roles, ensuring the county workforce reflects its demographics. Address biases in the hiring process and allocate resources toward fair hiring practices. 3. As Chair of Economic Development and Infrastructure and a member of the County Finance Committee, I aim to enhance economic opportunities and maintain our county’s financial strength.
Republican
Aaron Tobin
Age: 63
Occupation: Instructor
Municipality of residence: Oakland County
For how long: over 30 years
Online campaign information: http://www.votefortobin.com/
Education: Southfield-Lathrup High School, and Michigan State University Graduate
Previously and currently held elected offices: Republican Party Oakland County Delegate
Top goals: I am a lifelong Resident of Oakland County, and I graduated from Southfield-Lathrup, and Michigan State University.Having grown up in Southfield and Oak Park,
and enjoying a wonderful childhood here, I would like to ensure that current and future generations have the same opportunity to grow and thrive as I did. The current County Commission has set their priorities on other issues, and I am running to shift our priorities back so that our county and its (...)
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 18
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $45,131.
Democrat
Linnie Taylor Age: 69
Occupation: Oakland County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: www.LinnieTaylor.com
Education: Central Michigan University
MASTERS DEGREE – Human Resources
Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current: Oakland County Commissioner – District 18 Past: Southfield
City Council as Council President, Council President Protem, and Council Member
Top goals: Key issues facing Oakland County are: Road repair, Clean Water, Infrastructure Maintenance, Housing, Mental and Physical Health concerns. As a Commissioner I will help establish policies, create and pass ordinances and resolutions that fairly govern these areas of concern, review and approve the budget appropriately allocating funds for operations and services.
Republican W. Jackson Age: 52
Occupation: Podiatrist
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: DrWendyJacksonforOaklandCounty.com
Education: Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine
B.S. Biology
Previously and currently held elected offices: No offices held.
Top goals: My top goals are to return Oakland County to a place that is safe with thriving businesses. I will also enact policies that will support the water quality and the health of the residents. I will keep a robust budget for the Sheriff’s department and
grants for small business development. I will seek to reduce the amount of vaccines given to our babies at one time. I want Oakland County to be the place where you don’t come if you have I’ll intentions, irregardless of color or economic status.
Southfield Public Schools Board of Education
Six candidates are running for one of two six-year terms. Board members may receive $30 per meeting attended, capped at $1,500 per year.
Zachary Anderson Age: 42
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: collectively 39 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id= 61562588392995%26mibextid=LQQJ4d Education: English Degree from University of Michigan Ann Arbor and J.D from Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: None Top goals: My goals would be to improve on the greatness of the district. I would like to see STEM added for the elementary schools and find ways retain students in our district and lose them to other districts
Michael L. Beneson Age: 38
Occupation: Senior Human Resources Business Partner, CVS Health Municipality of residence: Southfield For how long: 25 + years
Online campaign information: N/A Education: Master of Science, Global Health - Michigan State University (expected graduation: December, 2024; current GPA 3.963/4.0 scale); Bachelor of Science, Organizational Leadership and Supervision - Purdue University; Minor, International Leadership - Purdue University; Associate of Liberal Arts - Oakland Community College; K-12 Graduate - Southfield Public Schools
Previously and currently held elected offices: Trustee, Southfield Public Schools Board of Education: May, 2022 - December, 2022
Top goals: (1) School Safety, (2) Improve Student Academic Achievement Standards, (3) Increase Student Enrollment, (4) Bridge
Election
Community Relationship Gaps w/ the City of Southfield. Proudly Endorsed By - Mayor: Dr. Ken Siver, Councilwoman: Nancy Banks, Southfield Public Schools Board of Education Trustee: Darrell Joyce, Southfield Substance Prevention & Education
Coalition Director: Roger Goolsby, City of Southfield Community Relations Director: Michael Manion, former Southfield Public Schools Board of Education Trustee & retired Southfield Public Schools Teacher: Diane Aman.
Nicole Denson
Age: 39
Occupation: Development Director at Michigan Voices
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: Resident for One Year Online campaign information: https://densonforsouthfield.com
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a specialization in Women, Gender and Social Justice
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Foster open communication between the board, parents, and the community. Ensure accessible information so all are informed and involved. Safety: Prioritize a safe and supportive environment for all students. Implement policies for physical and emotional safety, including improved security and anti-bullying initiatives. Equity: Ensure every student has equitable access to resources and opportunities. Close achievement gaps, provide inclusive education, and support all students to reach their potential.
Crystal Sims
Age: 61
Occupation: Assistant Controller
Municipality of residence: City of Southfield
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: crystalsimsforsouthfieldschoolboard2024. cargo.site
Education: MSA
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: After learning that only 26% of Southfield Public School’s middle school children read at or above proficiency and that
only 13% are at or above proficiency in math, I knew I needed to help them. My goal is to diligently work with the current school board members to find strategies and solutions to increase every child educationally as well as personally. It’s all about the children.
Leslie Love Smith-Thomas
Age: 39
Occupation: Educator
Municipality of residence: City of Southfield resident
For how long: Resident since 2008
Online campaign information: https:// linktr.ee/lovelyeducator
Education: K-8 Teaching Certification, Masters of Education from Oakland University, Bachelors of Science from Eastern Michigan University, Child Development
Associate Degree
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield Public Schools Board of Education elected 2014, Re-Elected to Southfield Public Schools Board of Education in 2018
Top goals: If I am re-elected to continue my now 10 year tenure on the Southfield Public Schools Board of Education, I plan to continue advocating for equitable public education for all scholars through quality preschool through post-secondary programming and policies. I plan to continue to lift the student voice in their educational experiences, and strengthen parent advocacy for whole family services. Lastly, I plan to continue to stand firm on accountability at all organizational levels.
Betty Carlton Robinson (Write-in)
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Judge of 46th District Court
Two candidates are running for one six-year term. The salary for this position is $180,741.35.
Robin Dillard-Russaw
Age: 44
Occupation: Attorney Director of Wayne County Indigent Defense Services Department — previously appointed as Magistrate Judge at the 46th District Court
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 3 years
Online campaign information: www.russaw4judge.com
Education: BA - Political Science - Xavier
University of Louisiana
MA - Dispute Resolution – Wayne State
University
JD – University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: I’m seeking this judgeship to restore public trust in this seat at the 46th District Court by upholding fairness, transparency, and integrity. I will improve court efficiency, reduce delays, and ensure that everyone who comes before the court is treated with dignity and respect.I’m committed to expanding access to justice and supporting specialty courts, such as drug and mental health courts, to address the underlying issues in our community with compassion and accountability.
Debra Nance
Age: n/a
Occupation: District Judge, 46th District Court
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: Not for campaign purposes, but for public information my detailed biography currently appears on the 46th District Court website.
Education: Wayne State University Law School, JD
University of Detroit/Mercy, BA
Previously and currently held elected offices: Elected judge in 2012. Reelected in 2018. I serving Southfield, Lathrup Village, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms and Franklin Village.
Top goals: I am the only candidate with “actual experience as a judge” adjudicating, approximately, 200,000 cases while counseling and serving. I plan to continue: redirecting the behavior of young people in criminal cases by encouraging them to ‘see their future’ and never appear before another judge; assisting senior citizens in court for the ‘first time” in their lives, find causes and solutions, and enabling all litigants to leave the court wiser, mentally/emotionally healthier and better equipped.
Michigan Supreme Court Justice
Two candidates are running for one eight-year term. The salary for this position is $181,483.
Andrew Fink
Age: 39
Occupation: State Representative
Municipality of residence: Adams Town-
ship
For how long: 3 years (Hillsdale County for almost 6 years)
Online campaign information: FinkForMichigan.com
Education: Graduate of Hillsdale College and the University of Michigan Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative
Top goals: As a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court, Andrew Fink is running to restore our judiciary’s commitment to protecting the will of the people, interpreting the law as it is written, and ensuring everyone receives due process, not just insiders. As a former Marine Corps officer and the son of a police officer, he knows the value of public service and the rule of law and wants to empower those that keep our communities safe.
Kimberly Ann Thomas Age: 52
Occupation: University of Michigan Law School professor
Municipality of residence: Ann Arbor
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: https://www.electkimberlythomas.com/
Education: Harvard Law School, magna cum laude, 1999; University of Maryland at College Park, magna cum laude, 1994. Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A.
Top goals: I care deeply about equal justice for all Michiganders. I am an experienced trial and appellate lawyer and a law professor at the University of Michigan Law School, where I teach students the ethical practice of law and direct the Juvenile Justice Clinic. My background as a law professor and as a lawyer of 25 years gives me the expertise, experience and problem-solving ability that we need on the Michigan Supreme Court.
Michigan Supreme Court Justice — Incumbent Position
Two candidates are running for a partial term ending Jan. 1, 2029. The salary for this position is $181,483.
Kyra Harris Bolden
Age: 36
Occupation: Michigan Supreme Court Justice
Election
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: Two years, though I have lived my entire life in Michigan.
Online campaign information: www.boldenforjustice.com
Education:
B.A. Grand Valley State University
J.D. University of Detroit Mercy
Previously and currently held elected offices:
Michigan State Representative, 35th District, 2019-2023
Michigan Supreme Court Justice, 2023-Present
Top goals: The Michigan Supreme Court has offered a unique opportunity to leverage my experience as a legislature, a litigator, and as a public servant in a single position. Throughout my tenure on the court, I’m proud to have made critical decisions that will help shape what justice looks like for generations to come. My work is not done, which is why I am running for retention.
Patrick William O’Grady
Age: 54
Occupation: 15th Circuit Court Judge (Branch County Coldwater, MI)
Municipality of residence: Coldwater
For how long: 25 years (Born and raised in Michigan)
Online campaign information: www.judgeogrady4supremecourt.com
Education: Thomas M. Cooley Law School Juris Doctor, Western Michigan University Bachelors Business Administration, Michigan State Police Training Academy – Trooper, United States Army Signal Officer Basic Course, Algonac High School, Algonac MI
Previously and currently held elective offices: State of Michigan 15th Circuit Court Judge elected 2008/2014/2020
and the public security”. Federalist Paper 78, Alexander Hamilton
Judge of Court of Appeals2nd District, incumbent terms
Two candidates are uncontested on the ballot for two six-year terms. The salary for this position is $195,624.97.
Randy J. Wallace
Running unopposed.
Adrienne Nicole Young
Running unopposed.
Judge of Court of Appeals2nd District, non-incumbent terms
Two candidates are running for the non-incumbent position. The salary for this position is $195,624.97.
Matthew Ackerman
Age: 33
Occupation: Attorney at Ackerman & Ackerman PC
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Hills
For how long: Over 20 years in Michigan Online campaign information: www.ackermanforjudge.org
Education: A.B., Harvard (cum laude, high honors in Economics); M.Sc. in Economics, London School of Economics; J.D., Columbia Law School (Law Review, highest honors all three years)
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: To maintain and restore the public trust of the Supreme Court to one that all citizens look to as a guard of the Constitution and the rights of individuals. Maintaining a high level of impartiality while increasing access to justice in an ever increasing technological world. Further to make sure that the Judiciary remains as the “citadel of the public justice
high school, she attended Western Michigan University where she majored in Criminal Justice and Sociology. Latoya earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy Law School and was admitted to the Michigan Bar in 2002. Previously and currently held elected offices: NONE
Top goals: To restore the general public’s confidence in the integrity of our judicial system. For 21 years I have fought to protect the rights of citizens and as a judge I will fight to protect the Court by ensuring it is fair, impartial, and completely non-partisan. Politics have no place inside our courtrooms. Every individual should be able to trust that their case will be resolved based strictly on the merits, the evidence, and the law.
Judge of the Circuit Court6th Circuit (six six-year terms, uncontested)
Six candidates are unopposed on the ballot for six six-year terms. The salary for this position is $180,741.35
Jacob James Cunningham
Running unopposed.
Kameshia D. Gant
Running unopposed.
Maureen H. Kinsella Running unopposed.
Top goals: One of my goals is to reduce the time it takes for the Court of Appeals to issue decisions. The average time is currently 13.8 months—far too long for critical matters like child custody and criminal appeals. As a Harvard graduate, Columbia Law Review editor, and attorney with extensive appellate experience, including over 100 civil and criminal appeals, I am fully equipped to deliver highquality, well-reasoned decisions efficiently, ensuring timely justice for all.
Latoya Marie Willis
Age: 49
Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 14 years
Online campaign information: www.willisforjustice.com
Education: Latoya is a proud graduate of Renaissance High School. After graduating
Julie A. McDonald
Running unopposed.
Kwame L. Rowe
Running unopposed.
Michael Warren
Running unopposed.
6th Circuit Court Judge
Two candidates are running for a non-incumbent position. The salary for the position is $180,741.35 combined from the state and county.
Tricia Dare
Age: 53
Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Oakland County
Municipality of residence: Oxford
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: www.dareforjudge.com
Education: University of Detroit Mercy School of Law from 1994 to 1997: Juris Doctor. Western Michigan University from 1989 to 1993: Bachelor of Science in Political Science (Public Law) and Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Special Victims Unit, the Juvenile Justice Division, the Hate Crimes Unit and the Victim Services Division, my work has involved crimes committed against the most vulnerable individuals in our community. My goal is to bring the same dedication, compassion and fairness that I have displayed as a public servant for the past 27 years to the bench each and every day, as the next Oakland County Circuit Judge.
Nicole Sophia-Calhoun Huddleston
Age: 42
Occupation: Managing Director/Attorney Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Township
For how long: I’ve lived in West Bloomfield for the past 4 years. I previously lived in Southfield for approximately 14 years. Online campaign information: lecthuddlestonforjudge.com
Education: - BA in Communications from Oakland University (1999-2004) - JD from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (2010-2014)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My priorities for this family court seat are: 1.Implementing specialized dockets and support systems to address the needs of individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues. 2. Reducing delays and backlogs by streamlining court procedures and leveraging technology to expedite case management 3. Ensuring fair and equal access to justice for all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. 4. Upholding the law without bias and making decisions based on facts and legal principles
cedures to follow. Instructions should be provided on how to locate free resources about navigating probate cases.
Oakland County Probate Court Judge
Two candidates are running for one non-incumbent position. The salary is $180,741.35.
Daniel A. O’Brien
Age: 68 years
Occupation: Oakland County Probate Judge
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield For how long: 31 years
Online campaign information: Votejudgeobrien.com
Education: University of Detroit Law School, Juris Doctor - 1988
Michigan Technological University, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering – 1981
University of Detroit High School - 1974
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Probate Judge –January 2009 to the present
Top goals: My goal is to continue providing the best service that any Judge can provide to the people of Oakland County. I have provided that same service to Oakland County my entire legal career, first as an Oakland Assistant Prosecutor, then an attorney providing free legal services to needy people, then an Oakland District Court Magistrate, and now an Oakland Probate Judge for 16 years. No candidate is more qualified.
Traci Richards
Age: 54
Occupation: Lawyer and Associate Real Estate Broker
Municipality of residence: Village of Franklin
For how long: Since 2012
Online campaign information: TraciRichardsforjudge.com
Education: J.D. University of Michigan, B.S. Florida A & M University, Summa Cum Laude
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My top goal is to provide more transparency. Transparency should be the norm and not the exception. Probate judges should provide a reason when they select professionals over previously designated individuals or family members. People should know what to expect when they go to court in terms of pro-
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Millage
The Oakland County Parks System includes 17 park locations with nearly 7,200 acres of public park and recreational lands, 80 miles of trails, campgrounds, dog parks, golf courses, aquatic recreation facilities, and nature education centers. To continue to provide revenue to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, shall the current millage, which has been reduced by required rollback, be replaced, and increased to .65 mills for 20 years from 2024 to 2043, The .65 mills is equal to 65 cents per $1,000.00 of taxable value. The millage, if approved and levied, shall generate approximately $52,191,139 in 2024. The purpose of the millage is to expand, improve, operate, maintain, and acquire parks, recreational facilities, open spaces, lakes, rivers,water areas, and trailways; to support nature education, recreational, and outdoor educational and health programming; to support partnerships for access to and awareness of recreational lands and facilities; to promote the conservation and restoration of high-quality natural and wildlife habitats; and to allow free general park admission to all county parks for residents. Revenue from this millage shall be disbursed only to the County of Oakland to be used solely for the purpose of funding the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and shall be subject to oversight by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and to an independent audit.
Should the proposal be adopted?
Lathrup Village Cannabis Establishments Charter
Referendum Proposal 1
Shall the City of Lathrup Village Charter be amended to repeal the prohibition of cannabis establishments within the boundaries of the City?
Cannabis Establishments
Ordinance Initiation Proposal 2
Shall the City of Lathrup Village Code of Ordinances, Chapter 18 – Businesses, Article VI, which currently prohibits all cannabis establishments within the boundaries of the City of Lathrup Village, be amended to authorize and allow cannabis businesses and establish an application process, selection criteria, licenses, fees, and regulations for two retail facilities and two safety compliance facilities in the City.
Shall the Proposal be Adopted?
Janet
Southfeld City Clerk
C3 Summit
from
cargo drone platform to address “the modern-day challenges in the logistics industry.”
“Blueflite’s drones offer faster deliveries at a lower cost compared to conventional transport. The unique and patented design features vectored thrust and machine learning software, giving it unrivaled maneuverability and the ability to reliably operate in any weather. The platform allows for complete digital integration through blueDigital, the company’s drone operations software. It facilitates an all-automated supply chain for high-speed deliveries at scale,” stated BlueFlite CEO Frank Noppel.
Detroit-based electric vehicle manufacturer Civilized Cycles specializes in ultralightweight transportation. Civilized Cycles was recognized later in the day by Centropolis in the mobility category for its presentation on its latest development, the SemiTrike, which offers the cargo capacity of a van with the capability to carry a 750-pound cargo load at 15 mph for a price of $13,000. This electric trike and trailer system is ideal for both personal and commercial use, attracting customers from shared mobility providers to universities.
“Today, I’m going to talk to you about how our technology is going to help fleet operators reduce emissions and operate costs by 80%,” Marc Liu, chief revenue officer of Civilized Cycles, said. “Every day in the United States, thousands of fleet operators
Harvest
from page 7A
tative, said. “Our mission is simple but impactful: to connect hunters and anglers with local processors and food banks to ensure that our wild game harvests can benefit those most in need.”
He said that this effort is a sustainable way to address food insecurity throughout the state, noting that of the 1.3 million Michigan residents experiencing hunger, 300,000 are children. He added that through Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger, Michigan hunters can donate all of their legally hunted game or just part of it, which will then be processed before being delivered to local food banks and shelters.
For more information on the Michigan Wildlife Council, visit hereformioutdoors.org.
To learn more about Sportsmen Against Hunger, visit www.sportsmenagainsthunger.org.
Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.
move very large amounts of cargo relatively short distances, and say, 5 miles or less. These could include universities, campuses, hospital systems. There are many different types, but they all have roughly the same core challenge, which is to move as much power as possible, as cheaply as possible. Safety and emissions are increasingly important because this is often done in areas where there’s very heavy pedestrian traffic.”
Liu explained that for a transit van, over the course of 48 months, the total cost of ownership is about $80,000. He added, “On top of that, they’re incredibly unsafe in pedestrian areas and produce large amounts of emissions because most of them are not electric.”
LIVAQ was founded in June of 2022 in Detroit and produces electric off-road vehicles with a focus on high-performance, eco-friendly ATVS.
“Our flagship product, the EQUAD, delivers superior performance with a top speed of 87 mph and a range of 230 miles, addressing the increasing demand for sustainable alternatives in the recreational and eco-tourism industries,” commented David Medina Álvarez, the founder and CEO of LIVAQ.
SeaLandAire Technologies Inc., based in Jackson, focuses on innovating unmanned systems for environmental monitoring and defense.
For more information on the Centropolis Accelerator, visit www.centrepolisaccelerator.com.
Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.
Career
from page 14A
because they are then in each of these programs, working toward and earning industry credentials,” Galbenski explained.
For example, students in the OSTC cosmetology program can earn a cosmetology state license, while those in the computer programming course can become certified in java, HTML, or CSS3. Students in OSTC’s health sciences program, can earn a certified nurse aide license or a patient care technician credential, and those interested in the construction field can earn an Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10 safety certification, to name a few.
And, according to Galbenski, it’s all for free at OSTC.
“Every one of these credentials is free. You want to talk about return on investment. … There are many opportunities for students to be successful and look at those careers and pursue those pathways,” he said.
Utica Community Schools offers a variety of CTE courses to high-schoolers in a number of areas, including everything from computer programming, cybersecurity and engineering to finance, radio and television broadcasting, and woodworking — to name
a few. The district also features five high school specialty programs, including the Utica Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology; the Utica Academy for Health and Human Services; the Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies; the Stevenson Center for Manufacturing and Design Engineering; and the Utica Center for Science and Industry.
Scott Spry, an electronic technology and mechatronics instructor at the Utica Center for Science and Industry, said UCSI students have access to work-based learning opportunities, including job shadowing, mentoring and work-site internships. Students, he said, focus on the design thinking process and choose one of the three CTE pathways — multimedia production, mechatronics or engineering technology.
“We already know that the pipeline for career and technical education positions is very, very lean, so continuing to try to fill that pipeline from our level has been a priority for the last couple of years,” Spry explained.
At Utica Community Schools, Spry said, many of its CTE students have gone on to work in needed fields within the community.
The same is true for many of OTSC students — including former OSTC health sciences graduates, who have gone on fill
vacant, in-demand doctor and dentist positions within Oakland County communities.
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Driver found with fake grenade but real guns during arrest
BERKLEY — Police arrested a driver for felon in possession of a weapon at 11:20 a.m. Sept. 18 near Greenfield Road and Edwards Avenue.
According to the Public Safety Department, officers pulled over a 32-year-old Detroit man, as the vehicle he was driving had an expired plate and no insurance. The driver stated that the vehicle was not his.
The man was placed in handcuffs and when asked if there was anything illegal in the vehicle, he said there was a grenade. A grenade-type object was found in the glovebox. Michigan State Police advised that, based on a photo, the grenade-type object did not have an explosive charge but contained rubber BBs and was not illegal to possess. The driver said it was for paintball.
Police said they did find multiple firearms in both the glovebox and center console with rounds inside. The driver reportedly had stated that there were no firearms inside the vehicle.
Cryptocurrency fraud reported
WEST BLOOMFIELD — On Sept. 15, an officer from the West Bloomfield Police Department was dispatched to the 4800 block of Faircourt Drive to take a report of fraud involving cryptocurrency.
The reporting party informed the officer that they followed a fraudulent QR code on YouTube that advertised a service involving cryptocurrency.
The reporting party transferred money for the “service,” which resulted in a loss of over $1,000 in cryptocurrency.
There were no known suspects.
Plants go missing
WEST BLOOMFIELD — A resident filed a police report Sept. 16 stating that two plants were stolen over a one-month period.
The reporting party informed the officer that the plants were taken from in front of the Timber Edge subdivision sign, in the 14 Mile Road and Birchwood Trail area. There were no known suspects.
Extortion email threatens to share video of victim
BIRMINGHAM — Officers were dispatched to the 500 block of Westwood for a report of extortion Sept. 9 at approximately 9 p.m. The victim, a 33-year-old female resident, said she had received an email from an unknown individual who stated they had put malware onto the victim’s phone and that they had personal information about the victim.
an embarrassing video of the victim to everyone in the victim’s contacts if they did not send the suspect $2,000 in bitcoin. Officers later learned that other residents in the area had received a similar extortion email. An investigation was ongoing.
Intoxicated driver hits parked car
BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 10 p.m. Sept. 5, officers were dispatched to Lincoln and Birmingham Boulevard for a car accident that had occurred.
The reporting person stated that a white sedan had struck a parked vehicle and fled the scene.
Officers found the sedan parked nearby. Officers approached the vehicle and immediately identified signs of intoxication on the suspect, a 27-yearold from Auburn Hills. Upon failing field sobriety evaluations, the suspect was arrested and was given a citation for operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Customer pulls knife on employee
BIRMINGHAM — A 49-year-old Troy woman told police Sept. 15 that while she was working the day prior, a disgruntled customer had pulled out a pocket knife and put the knife up to the victim’s face.
The victim did not know who the suspect was, but stated he was a middle-aged male. An investigation was ongoing.
Suspicious vehicle call results in arrest of man for possession of heroin
FARMINGTON — Public safety officers were dispatched to the area of Farmington and Cloverdale for a suspicious vehicle around 3 p.m. Sept. 11.
While investigating the vehicle, officers noticed a man walking away from it. Officers noticed he was walking with an open container of alcohol concealed in a brown paper bag. They detained him and learned that he had multiple felony and misdemeanor warrants out from other jurisdictions.
While taking the man into custody, officers located suspected heroin on him. He was arrested for possession of suspected heroin and open intoxicants, as well as his warrants.
Police spot motorcycle that fled from nearby city
FARMINGTON — On Sept. 5 at 10:04 a.m., a Farmington public safety officer saw a parked yellow motorcycle that fit the description of a motorcycle that had previously fled a traffic stop in a neighboring community.
The neighboring agency was able to positively identify the motorcycle as the one that had fled
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
OCT. 12
Trump Woodward Cruise: Route travels in both directions on Woodward Avenue from Square Lake to 12 Mile roads in Walled Lake, noon-3 p.m., www. michiganconservativecoalition.com
Youth Flute Day: Inaugural event hosted by Southeast Michigan Flute Association, includes warmups at 9:30 a.m., contra dancing at 10:30 a.m. and showcase recital at 11:30 a.m., for students in grade school, Cameron’s Music, 15630 Middlebelt Road in Livonia, facebook.com/semfaflute
OCT. 14
Live 2 Lead Conference: Learn insights from top business professionals, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Lawrence Technological University, 21000 W. 10 Mile Road in Southfield, (313) 801-4765, temconsultingllc@gmail. com, temconsultingllc.com
OCT. 15
Blood drive: 1-7 p.m., Oakland Church of Christ, 23333 W. 10 Mile Road in Southfield, redcrossblood. org (sponsore code: oaklandcc), (800) 733-2767
Avoiding financial fraud: Free workshop for seniors, also refreshments, lunch and giveaways, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Gesher Human Services, 29699 Southfield Road in Southfield, registration required, (248) 233-4422, geshermi.org/events
OCT. 17
Musical benefit: Featuring violinist Sonia Lee, pianist Mitchell Garcia and tenor Ed Guay, supports Ladies of Charity of St. Vincent De Paul, 7 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m., afterglow to follow), St. Hugo of the Hills Church, 2215 Opdyke Road in Bloomfield Hills, RSVP by Oct. 10, search A Little Twilight Music on eventbrite.com
OCT. 19
Boo Bash: Crafts, games, trick-or-treating for ages 2-12 and live DJ, 1-4 p.m., also hayrides until 3:30 p.m., costumes encouraged, Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, (248) 796-4620, bit.ly/SfldBooBash24
OCT. 24
Free medicare help: Hosted by Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and AgeWays, meet with trained counselor by appointment, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road, (800) 803-7174
OCT. 26
Trunk or treat: Hosted by Southfield Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Southfield Chapters of the Divine Nine and others, event also includes resource tables focused on youth programming, free books and toothbrushes, and voter registration information, 4-6:30 p.m., Hope United Methodist Church, 26275 Northwestern Highway in Southfield, RSVP at deltasac.org/upcoming
to develop a suspect, a 20-year-old man, and also impounded the motorcycle for evidence processing.
Soda, candy bar stolen from hotel lobby
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that at 12:30 p.m. Sept. 8, an unknown person entered the lobby of Hotel Royal Oak on East 11 Mile Road and stole a can of soda and a candy bar.
Handgun taken
MADISON HEIGHTS — An unknown suspect reportedly stole a Taurus 9 mm handgun from a location in the 1000 block of West 14 Mile Road sometime between 2 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. Sept. 14. According to a police report, the gun belongs to a 21-year-old Detroit resident.
Investigations were ongoing.
OU police investigate report of sexual assault
ROCHESTER HILLS — Police were investigating a sexual assault report that recently happened on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester Hills.
The incident, according to reports, happened at 1:20 a.m. Sunday Sept. 8 in a student housing facility. The report was filed with police on Wednesday, Sept. 11.
Police said the victim had met the suspect. No other details were released.
Rental vehicle goes missing
SOUTHFIELD — A man went to visit a relative on Berg Road at noon Sept. 2. A few hours later, the man said his relative and his rental vehicle, a 2022 Toyota Corolla, were gone.
Officers apprehend suspect tampering with cars
SOUTHFIELD — At 4:13 a.m. Sept. 4, officers were dispatched to the 18000 block of Westover Avenue for a subject messing with vehicles.
Officers found the subject, who fled on foot, but officers apprehended him and took him into custody.
Scammer demands leads to fraudulent Best Buy purchase TROY — A Troy man reported that he received an email Sept. 3 from an unknown suspect demanding money or his personal information would be leaked.
The man did not comply with the request.
Household Hazardous Waste collection: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., RRRASOC MRF - Truck Entrance, 20875 Mapleridge Ave. in Southfield, rrrasoc.org
OCT. 27
Ghostly Glow Dance: 3-5 p.m., Lathrup Village City Hall, 27400 Southfield Road, (248) 557-2600
ONGOING
‘Visions of Excellence: Unveiled’: Art exhibit featuring 13 Michigan-based artists, on display until Oct. 31, Southfield City Hall, 26000 Evergreen Road, (248) 4203396, cityofsouthfield.com
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falls: Weekly workshops presented by National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, for ages 65 and older, 2-4 p.m. Mondays until Oct. 28, Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 23425 Lahser Road in Southfield, free but donations appreciated, registration required, (313) 259-1574 (ext. 2029) or (734) 222-9800 (ext. 2140), mobprogram@nkfm.org
Optimist Club of Southfield-Lathrup Village: Meets 6:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of month via Zoom, southfield-lathrupvillageoptimists.org, slvoptimist@ gmail.com
Real estate exam study group: Free classes 6-8 p.m. Thursdays, Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road, (734) 644-3947
Support group for birth moms: For those who relinquished their children for adoption, also light meal, 6:30-8:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of month, Christian Family Services, 17105 W. 12 Mile Road in Southfield, Sarah@CFS-Michigan.org
‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Oct. 25-Nov. 9, also 2 p.m. Nov. 9, Rosedale Community Players inside Peace Lutheran Church, 17029 W. 13 Mile Road in Southfield, see showtimes at rosedalecommunityplayers.com
‘The Grown-Ups’: 8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays and 3 p.m. Sundays Oct. 11-Nov. 4, Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQIA+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, theringwald.com
‘Puffs’: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Oct. 11-13, 18-20 and 25-26, St. Dunstan’s Theatre, 400 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills, www.st dunstanstheatre.com
To view more events and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise, call (586) 498-8000.
The next day, the man received an email from Best Buy that his order was ready for pickup. The man had been made for $1,430 using
OCT. 12
Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival: Pumpkin carving, pumpkin bowling, live entertainment, crafts, food, cider and doughnuts, professional pumpkin carving display and more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., also see pumpkins lit 7-9 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, Eventbrite Haunted Hazel Park: Halloween art fair, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Green Acres Park, 620 W. Woodward Heights Blvd., facebook.com/CityofHP
OCT. 13
BeWitched & BeDazzled: Hosted by Meadow Brook Theatre Guild with mistress of ceremonies Karen Carter (meteorologist at CBS News Detroit and Detroit 50), includes luncheon, vendors, caricaturist, psychic readers, photo booth, costume contest, raffles, silent auction and door prizes, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Petruzzello’s Banquet and Conference Center, 6950 Rochester Road in Troy, www.meadowbrook theatreguild.com/bewitched-bedazzled
OCT. 18
Historical Haunts Strolling Dinner: Also live music and silent auction at former century-old home of auto baron, 6:30-10 p.m., Chalmers Estate, 5263 Franklin Road in Bloomfield Township, event hosted by Preservation Bloomfield in support of Barton Farmhouse and Craig Log Cabin at Bowers School Farm, RSVP at preservationbloomfield.org/events
OCT. 19
Masquerade at the Museum: Strolling fundraiser featuring seasonal snack stations, costume contest, scavenger hunt and drink ticket, make mask on site or bring own, 7-11 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, www. rochesterhills.org/news_detail_T9_R366.php
OCT. 24
Spooky Spaghetti Dinner: Hosted by Royal Oak Woman’s Club with proceeds supporting scholarships for local students, Halloween-themed event includes all-you-can-eat pasta, plus salad, garlic bread, drinks and dessert, 4:30-7 p.m., 404 S. Pleasant St. in Royal Oak, rowc.org/events
OCT. 25
Trunk or treat: 6-8 p.m., Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital Research Institute, 3811 W. 13 Mile Road in Royal Oak, (248) 8985000
Spooky Fun at Suburban Ford of Ferndale: Indoor trick-or-treating, snacks, balloons and glitter tattoos with Tootsee The Clown, 4-6 p.m., 21600 Woodward Ave., (313) 644-4532
Falloween
(1931)
and “The Birds” (1963) Nov. 7, also three-course dinner and cash bar, 6:30-9 p.m., Meadow Brook Hall on campus of Oakland University, 350 Estate Drive in Rochester, registration required, meadowbrookhall.org/events/ dinner-and-a-movie
Downtown BOO!kley: Fall-themed events include Witches Night Out (Oct. 10), Ghost Chase (Oct. 18), Trick-or-Treat Stroll & Monster Mash (Oct. 26) and Vampire Blood Drive (Oct. 29), various locations in Berkley, facebook.com/DowntownBerkley
Private group hayrides: Maximum of 30 people can ride for 20 minutes (includes “nature-knowledge stops”), plus cider, doughnuts and four roll-up picnic blankets, slots available 5-8 p.m. Oct. 10-11 and 17-18, Marshbank Park, 2805 Hiller Road in West Bloomfield, (248) 451-1917
Hayride Central: Traverse trails of Heritage Park, then stick around for cider and s’mores, half-hour slots available 5:30-7:30 p.m. Fridays until Nov. 1, 24915 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills, registration required, (248) 699-6700 ‘Ghostly Affair’: Halloween-themed exhibition featuring 52 Michigan artists, on display Oct. 24, Paint Creek Center for the Arts,