10/10/24 Troy Times by C & G Newspapers

MEET CANDIDATES FOR LOCAL, FEDERAL RACES 21A

Troy police chief appointed to serve temporarily as city manager

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Troy Police Chief Frank Nastasi will temporarily serve as the Troy city manager while city officials are still considering applicants. Earlier in the year, former City Manager Mark Miller retired from the position and officially stepped down in May.

In April, the Troy City Council passed a resolution to appoint Troy Deputy City Manager Robert Bruner as city manager. However, due to some complications, Bruner has remained deputy city manager.

Community to consider Troy school operating millage renewal proposal

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

In November, voters in Troy will decide a Troy School District operating millage renewal.

The proposal would renew both the non-homestead operating millage and the hold-harmless millage.

“There are no proposed increases to either of these millages, but rather just renewing them,” Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Daniel Trudel said in an email. “These millages are used for operational expenditures, such as salaries, benefits, teaching sup-

plies, utilities, etc. If the millages do not pass, we will be forced to reduce compensation and programming for our students. This would be detrimental to providing a world class education for our students and community.”

The non-homestead millage would only apply to businesses, second homes, vacant land, and rental properties. All Michigan school districts are required to levy 18 mills on non-homestead property in order to receive state aid in the form of a determined student foundation grant amount. The hold-harmless mills apply to primary residences.

In November, voters in Troy will decide a Troy School District operating millage renewal. File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

On Sept. 26, Frank Nastasi was sworn in as the Troy city manager and Joshua Jones was sworn in as

Troy’s acting police chief.

Photo provided by the city of Troy

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The Troy Times 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.

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SECOND FRONT PAGE

3A/ TROY TIMES • 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

Creative Guild supports students through different media interests

Students get experience in podcasting, videography and more

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Students with an interest in different creative media-based projects like photography, podcasting, audio work and videography, among others, may now explore their interests through Troy School District’s Creative Guild.

The Creative Guild is operating for its fourth school year, though similar programs have existed within the district in the past.

The aim of the Creative Guild is to utilize social media technology for the different district programs and events, and to give students the means to put their own voices into the various projects they will work on.

Some of the projects these students may work on include doing

Photo provided by Troy School District

Troy High School senior Michael Zheng covers sporting events for Troy schools as a part of his work with the Creative Guild. See CREATIVE on page 4A

Creative

page 3A

camera work for school games and concerts, doing video production work for Board of Education meetings, as well as podcasting and documentary projects.

“We’re very fortunate to have support from the board and district administration who value this experience for our students,” Thomas Butcher, a district creative content producer, said in an email. “Student Producers of the Creative Guild have the opportunities to share their own stories from the classroom and beyond. Knowing these talented young individuals is my favorite part of my role, and I’m always excited to get to work alongside them on various projects.”

Middle school and high school students can join, and currently, the program has around 40 members. The Creative Guild also offers paid work opportunities that pay students minimum wage, as well as non-paid projects.

“It’s flexible work,” Butcher said. “Students have the opportunity to volunteer for what they want to do.”

Students who are interested in joining the program do not have to have prior experience with these various mediums.

“Everyone joins at different experience levels,” Butcher said. “Some are pros, and some have zero experience. We’re not going to rehash different programs, and we’re going to meet them where they are at.”

Troy High School senior Michael Zheng does some photography and videography work with the Creative Guild and has done work at football games, concerts and with documentaries that focus on highlighting different district staff and students. He was part of his school’s film and photography

club when Butcher approached him about joining.

“Doing work for the school district helped me get connections and network,” Zheng said. “I definitely enjoy doing photography for sporting events, talking with teams and documenting success.”

Zheng has some interest in pursuing film throughout his life.

“I’m not sure if I’ll pursue it as a major, but I do want to pursue film in college and the rest of my life,” Zheng said.

Troy High School senior Meera Iyer became interested in joining the Creative Guild after listening to a podcast associated with the district during the COVID pandemic.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Troy School District Creative Content Producer Thomas Butcher helps students involved with the Creative Guild for Troy schools.

AISHA FAROOQI

Support small businesses, create good paying jobs and protect workers’ rights

Lower the cost of living for working families and seniors

Support our local police and re ghters

Invest in public education funding and teacher salaries

Support our veterans and their families

Make healthcare, prescription drugs, mental health, and addiction services affordable

Safeguard reproductive healthcare

Protect our democracy

Keep our water and air clean

Prioritize green space preservation

From a young age, my parents taught me that the American Dream is made of opportunity, hard work, and determination. As a prosecuting attorney understand the importance of listening to people while leading with compassion and justice. I will always put the residents of District 57 rst to make sure Michigan has an economy that works for all of us. As your representative in Lansing, I will:

Local women put a new spin on annual Navaratri Golu celebration

BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com

The Hindu festival of Navaratri is celebrated over a nine-day span every fall, typically in October. During the festival, women traditionally have Golu (religious doll displays) set up in their homes and invite friends and family to view them.

“We invite our neighbors, friends, family and we treat each of them as goddesses themselves and we offer them food, they come and view the display and they offer their good wishes and blessings,” said Raje Angamuthu, of Sterling Heights. “It’s nine nights of getting together, praying and socializing.”

The displays are similar in that they consist of the same gods and goddesses, but there are multiple variations of the dolls themselves, much like various Christian Nativity scenes. The Golu is often displayed in different orders to tell a different Hindu story.

“No two doll displays are the same,” said Shuba Ganapathy, of Novi.

Every year, Hindu women travel all

See NAVARATRI on page 19A

Photo by Erin Sanchez

Community members celebrate their heritage during their Golu-Valam (or Golu on Wheels) events. These events took place on Oct. 5 at Raintree Park in Troy and on Oct. 6 at Fuerst Park in Novi.

Hamilton Elementary named National Blue Ribbon School

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

The U.S. Department of Education announced 356 National Blue Ribbon Schools in the U.S., including Hamilton Elementary School in the Troy School District.

“We are grateful for this distinguished recognition of the entire Hamilton community,” Assistant Superintendent Kris Griffor said in an email. “Specifically, we appreciate the leadership of principal, Dr. David Recker, and his work to carry-out the vision of the district with staff, families, and students throughout the school.”

It is one of the U.S. Department of Education’s longest-running recognition programs, beginning in 1982, and it aims to recognize outstanding public and non-public elementary, middle and high schools based on their overall high academic achievement or success in closing the achievement gap among diverse student groups, according to the National Blue Ribbon Schools’ website.

The department recognizes schools based on student performance data, includ-

ing assessment results, student subgroup performances and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories.

Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body, according to the program.

Each nominated school submits an application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family and community involvement.

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The department invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education officials in the country.

Some important traits that can be found in National Blue Ribbon Schools include leadership that encourages upholding See HAMILTON on page 16A

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 11A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Antonio Acuna guides Avondale High School junior, Angel Mendoza through a dent repair in collision repair and refinishing course at Oakland Schools Technical Campuses-Northeast.

NOW OPEN!

Discover the Brand-New Academy of Troy!

Te Learning Grove Academy of Troy is thrilled about the grand opening of its brand-new daycare and preschool, located in the heart of Troy, Michigan! Te Learning Grove Academy welcomes families to explore the state-of-the-art facility - just call to set up a time. Programs are open for infants through pre-kindergarten with an additional Montessori classroom.

A child’s frst fve years are crucial, and Te Learning Grove Academy is designed to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children. Teir goal is to foster a love of learning, build confdence, and develop critical thinking skills through positive learning experiences. Tis new school features bright and spacious classrooms equipped with brand-new toys and educational materials.

Key highlights include:

• STEM Lab & Engaging Curriculum: A dedicated STEM lab fosters interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. Overall, their curriculum promotes cognitive, social, and emotional development through a variety of hands-on activities.

• Brand New Facility: A modern, purpose-built space designed to meet the highest standards of safety and comfort for young children.

• Four New Playgrounds & Indoor Gym: Te outdoor play areas feature the latest equipment, providing a safe, fun environment for children. Additionally, a new indoor gym is available for physical activities and motor skill development.

“I am excited to open our doors to the Troy community,” said Danielle Walker, Center Director of Learning Grove Academy of Troy.

“ My family-oriented approach extends seamlessly into my work, where I value building strong relationships with both the children and their families. My commitment to creating a warm and supportive atmosphere is evident in every aspect of my life.”

For more information about Te Learning Grove Academy of Troy, please visit www.learninggroveacademy.com or contact them at (248) 466-0846.

Join us as we celebrate the opening of a new chapter in early childhood education in Troy!

About Te Learning Grove Academy of Troy: Te Learning Grove Academy of Troy takes a child-centered approach to curriculum. From infants to pre-k students, our dedicated educators will provide engaging hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and success!

“I really want to keep taking photos and keep podcasting,” Iyer said.

“I mainly create and produce podcasts, but I also take photos at sporting events,” Iyer said. “I started podcasting a year in and had a passion for photos.”

Iyer has little trouble balancing her work with the Creative Guild and her school work.

“Mr. Butcher understands we’re students, and he supports everyone,” Iyer said. “I don’t have any issues balancing it.”

She is very interested in continuing this kind of work outside of high school and potentially working in a sports social mediabased job.

Athens High School Senior Anoush Rophael found the Creative Guild after discovering a video club during a high school club fair. She mainly does photos and videos with the group. She has covered sporting events and concerts.

“It’s more like a hobby to me,” Rophael said. “Hopefully, I’ll do more in the future, maybe as a freelance photographer.”

For more information, visit the Creative Guild’s Instagram page @tsdcreativeguild or the Creative Guild’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/@TSDCreativeGuild/ featured.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Photo provided by Troy School District

Troy High School senior Meera Iyer covers sporting events for Troy schools as a part of the Creative Guild.

Career

from page 8A

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’

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Chef Justin Howard goes over proper dining room service with students at Oakland Schools Technical Campuses - Northeast. The northeast campus, located in Pontiac, serves students who live in or attend schools in the Avondale, Lake Orion, Oxford, Pontiac and Rochester school districts.

See CAREER on page 13A

Proposal

One mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of taxable value.

“By law, we are required to levy (with voter approval) a non-homestead operating millage in order to receive our full foundation allowance,” Trudel said in an email. “If a district does not levy a non-homestead operating millage, then about 15%-20% of their foundation allowance would go away. This operating millage generates around $32.7 million annually.”

The hold-harmless millage, which was first approved by voters in 1994 with the passage of Proposal A, applies to all properties.

“The hold harmless millage is authorized by the state specifically for districts that have a foundation allowance that exceeds the state’s minimum foundation allowance,” Trudel said in an email.

“When Proposal A was adopted in 1994, districts were to calculate what their equivalent ‘per pupil’ funding was in the prior year before there was a foundation allowance. This calculated per pupil amount was then compared to the per pupil foundation allowance that the state determined to be the new “minimum” in 1995. Some districts had a calculated per pupil funding amount that exceeded the new minimum state foundation allowance. In order to hold those districts harmless, the state authorized (with voter approval) the levy of a hold harmless millage to ensure the equivalent amount of per pupil funding would be met. This hold harmless millage generates around $9.8 million annually.”

If this proposal isn’t renewed, the school district could likely lose around $42.5 million in operating revenue, and its educational programming may see considerable reductions.

“The non-homestead operating millage and hold harmless millage are fundamental to the Troy School District’s financial stability, enabling us to deliver a world-class education,” Superintendent Rich Machesky said in an email.

“These critical funding streams allow us to sustain comprehensive academic programs, attract and retain top-tier teachers and staff, and ensure our students are provided with the best opportunities for success. This is a renewal of our expiring millage and does not represent an increase for our taxpayers. Without these millages, we would face significant budget cuts that could jeopardize the high-quality education our community expects and deserves.”

Voters in the district may consider voting on this item at the polls Nov. 5 or via absentee ballot.

According to the item on the ballot,

The tax proposal would renew both the non-homestead operating millage and the hold-harmless millage. For the exact language of this tax proposal and a county parks tax proposal, see our Voter Guide on page 21A.

the proposal would renew the authority of the school district to levy up to 18 mills for general school district operating purposes on non-homestead property in the district and would “restrict the levy on principal residences (owner-occupied homes) to no more than 5.7049 mills and protect against the impact of Headlee rollbacks of up to 4.0 mills.”

It would “continue to levy on principal residence property (owner-occupied homes) only that portion of the mills necessary to allow the school district to receive the full revenue per pupil foundation allowance permitted by the State. The school district only levied 2.7936 mills on personal residences (owner-occupied homes) in 2024.”

For more information, visit troy.k12. mi.us/about-us/millage-renewal or troymi.gov/ departments/city_clerk/election_information. php.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

BUY 3 TIRES,

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Career

from page 11A

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

SMOOTHIES,WRAPS, SALADS

vacant, in-demand doctor and dentist positions within Oakland County communities.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Lake Orion High School seniors Logan Silaghi, left, and Brodey Selent, right, work on an assembly system. The workstation lets students experience an integrated work system and utilize electrical and mechanical systems at Oakland Schools Technical Campuses- Northeast.

FALL: A TIME FOR GARDENERS TO PREPARE FOR NEXT SPRING

BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com

all gardening can look daunting, but remembering a few simple steps could make it easier.

Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care of outdoor spaces, said fall is a critical time for gardening because what gardeners do right now determines how everything looks in the spring.

“One of the challenges (is) you won’t see it immediately,” Kiser said. “If you’re going to overseed the yard or fertilize or dethatch, now is the time to do it.”

He also said this is the time to plant bulbs for the spring.

Raking leaves or not depends on how many trees are in the yard.

“If you have lots and lots of trees and you have a lot (of leaves), it can become suffocating,” Kiser said.

If a resident has a couple of trees that drop leaves on the lawn, Kiser recommends to mow the leaves with a mulching mower.

“That mulch is a terrific natural fertilizer,” Kiser said. “It’ll help the lawn and breaks down over the course of the winter.”

Residents should continue to mow their lawns as long as the lawns

See GARDENS on page 28A

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes TOP: Merri Busch’s garden is filled to the brim with flowers, pollinators and many other plants. ABOVE: Bees are attracted to plants, such as caryopteris, commonly known as Bluebeard, in Busch’s garden. LEFT: Busch centered the theme of her garden around reading. Several teapots with old necklaces hanging out of them decorate her space.

high standards and instructional excellence through effective teaching skills and strong professional development with staff members. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is very important to their success.

“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a press release. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”

Hamilton Elementary School is one of 12 Michigan schools that were named National Blue Ribbon Schools.

“Hamilton has dedicated teachers, supportive families, and curious students,” Recker said in an email. “Together, we work daily to help our kids become the best versions of themselves.”

The district celebrated Hamilton Elementary School’s

from page 7A See HAMILTON on page 18A

Once I get the right diagnosis for the cause of your heel pain, I will provide you with a tailored treatment plan, which outlines exactly how we can ﬁx your heel pain and keep you free from future foot pain. If you are ready, call me for an appointment to start your journey back to normal life, free from heel pain.

Photo provided by Troy School District

Hamilton Elementary School principal David Recker stands with some of the school’s students.

Antisemetic

from page 3A

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.

See ANTISEMETIC on page 19A

Photo by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office

A photo of an antisemitic flyer left on a front lawn in metro Detroit was posted on the Oakland County Sheriff’s Offices Facebook page.

City manager

“This resolution was contingent upon the successful negotiation of an employment agreement; this contingency was not satisfied,” Troy Communications Director Courtney Flynn said in an email. “Additionally, according to the City of Troy Charter, Council shall appoint a City Manager within 120 days of the office being vacated. Troy’s former City Manager, Mark Miller, retired on May 31, 2024, making Sept. 28, 2024, the date in which City Council should appoint a City Manager on or before. City Manager Nastasi has now filled the role while the City Council continues their search for a permanent City Manager.”

Nastasi was unanimously appointed by the City Council to serve as City manager Sept. 16; he was sworn in Sept. 26.

According to Michigan Civil Service regulations, an acting police chief may be appointed whenever there are urgent reasons to fill a vacancy, but this temporary appointment cannot continue for more than three months.

“I’m honored to step into this role as City Manager and look forward to working closely with our team and the community to build on what makes Troy great, ensuring we continue moving in the right direction,” Nastasi said in an email.

With Nastasi serving as city manager, his position of police chief needed to be temporarily filled. Troy Police Capt. Joshua Jones now serves in the role of acting police chief. Jones was sworn in for this temporary position Sept. 26.

Both Nastasi and Jones will serve in their temporary roles for no longer than three months while the Troy City Council

continues its search for a permanent city manager.

“Frank has dutifully served this City for many years in our Police Department, and has been our esteemed Chief of Police for almost 6 years,” Mayor Ethan Baker said in an email. “We have watched Frank lead the Police Department with exceptional skills and look forward to having him in our City Manager’s office to continue his ethical, stable, and impressive leadership.”

MGT, formerly GovHR USA, continues to be engaged by the City Council for its city manager search. The Troy City Council originally voted to utilize MGT for a search Oct. 16, 2023, following the announcement of Miller’s retirement. The approved contract with MGT was for $23,500 and obligates the Illinois-based search firm to continue its efforts if the city is unable to successfully reach a contract with a candidate from its initial search. As this was the case, the continuation of the city manager search will not cost the city additional funds for the recruitment portion of the process.

“In the meantime, we continue our external City Manager search,” Mayor Baker said in an email. “The application period ended October 1st, and we have scheduled a Special Meeting for October 21st to review the applicants in a closed door session, prior to the interview list being made public and public interviews being scheduled. I remain very confident in our ability to attract a talented pool of top-notch City Manager applicants and look forward to continuing this process.”

Bruner could not be reached for comment.

For more information, visit troymi. gov/. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

achievement in a youtube video on their channel.

Other Michigan schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools include:

• Chandler Woods Charter Academy in Belmont.

• Hill Elementary School in the Davison Community Schools in Davison.

• Dearborn STEM Middle School in the Dearborn City School District in Dearborn Heights.

• Pembroke Academy in Detroit.

• Rosy Mound Elementary School in the Grand Haven Area Public Schools.

• Hughes Elementary School in the Marshall Public Schools.

• Moraine Elementary School in the Northville Public Schools.

• Pellston Elementary School in the Pellston Public Schools.

• Meadow Ridge Elementary School in the Rockford Public Schools.

• Handley Elementary School in the Saginaw Public School District.

• Lake Hills Elementary School in the Grand Haven Area Public Schools in Spring Lake.

For more information, visit nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

BUSINESS CLIP

Somerset Park Apartments celebrates opening of new building in Troy

Somerset Park Apartments celebrated the opening of its 6,500-square-foot Lifestyle Center Sept. 20. Residents of the Somerset Park Apartments community can now enjoy the brandnew fitness center with state-of-the-art Precor equipment, a resident cafe and flexible workspaces. The $3 million renovation also encompassed upgrades to the community’s outdoor spaces that include three pickleball courts, six tennis courts, a softball and cricket field, a sand volleyball court, a 16-acre park with multiage playgrounds, a basketball court, two additional playgrounds and a new dog park.

For more information, call (248) 965-1629, stop by the office at 1911 Golfview Drive in Troy or visit somersetapartments.com.

BUSINESS CLIP

Angela Kiryakos Luxury Hair Salon holds ribbon-cutting

Angela Kiryakos, a dedicated hairstylist and bridal hair specialist for over 15 years, is the owner of the new Angela Kiryakos Luxury Hair Salon. The salon held a ribbon-cutting event September 18 in Troy.

Kiryakos built her career around helping brides and clients feel confident, beautiful and true to themselves on their wedding day and for any special event. The salon provides full hair service, whether you’re a bride-to-be or someone looking for a fresh new style, haircut, color, extensions or treatments.

Angela Kiryakos Luxury Hair Salon is located at 3520 Rochester Road. Go to angelakiryakos.com for more information.

Blaze your Path

Guiding young men from grades 7 to 12 through a Jesuit education, where leadership, service and academic excellence unite.

• 28 AP/Honors classes • 40+ clubs • 14 different sports/37 teams

• Service and cultural immersion opportunities “Go forth and set the world on fre.” -St. Ignatius Loyola

Navaratri

from page 6A

over, often visiting eight to 20 homes a night during the festival.

This year, to help ease their friends’ burden of traveling long distances to view numerous displays across the metro Detroit area, three local women decided to bring their Golu to two central locations, Fuerst Park in Novi and Raintree Park in Troy.

“We usually go from Ann Arbor to Auburn Hills and some, like, hundred people invite us and hundred women visit us. It gets hard to accommodate every house within the nine days,” said Vidya Venkatesh, of Canton, who co-organized the event with Ganapathy and Angamuthu. “So, this time we decided that, hey, we are going to bring our Golu to your location to make it easier.”

Angamuthu said that she felt they had a nice turnout at each of the two events with 60-70 people attending during the two hours they had their Golu on display at each location. Venkatesh said that attendees at both locations were thankful that they didn’t have to drive far to view their Golu.

“They can all come and see it in one place and they don’t have to go to multiple houses,” Angamuthu said.

“It’s very unique and I think it’s very imaginative of them to do that to bring it here,” said Nachu

See NAVARATRI on page 29A

Antisemetic

from page 17A

“This is a very active investigation, with investigators coordinating with our State and Federal Law Enforcement partners, the Anti-Defamation 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 lo-

cal, 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.

NEWS & NOTES

20A/ TROY TIMES • OCTOBER 10, 2024

Fall walk scheduled at Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary

WEST BLOOMFIELD — The Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary Autumn Nature Walk is scheduled for 2-3 p.m. Oct. 20.

The Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary is located at 4700 Pontiac Trail in West Bloomfield.

“Join naturalist Carol Fink for a walk through rolling terrain and explore seasonal autumn beauty,” information released about the event states.

For more information, call (248) 757-2451 or send an email to communications@gwbhs.org.

Public invited to give info on Paint Creek Trail survey

ROCHESTER — The Paint Creek Trailways Commission and Trail Manager Tom Correll are working with Giffels-Webster to update a recreation master plan and coordinate public input.

Through Oct. 14, the public can share their thoughts by taking a short, anonymous survey at https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/PaintCreek2024.

The link is also available on the Paint Creek Trailways Commission facebook page. Stakeholders can continue to give input during a public forum, tentatively to be held Oct. 17. The current plan is available on the Trailways Commission’s website at http://paintcreektrail.org/wordpress/recreation-master-plan/.

For more information, email manager@paintcreektrail.org or call (248) 651-9260.

AUSTRALIA TRIP PROVIDES TROY RESIDENT WITH WILDLIFE VETERINARY EXPERIENCE

Troy resident Pelon Lin, 16, embarked on a two-week adventure in Australia, immersing himself in wildlife veterinary work, according to Loop Abroad’s Australia High School Pre-Vet Wildlife Medicine program.

Pelon joined a team of high school students at Walkabout Wildlife Park in providing care for koalas, kangaroos and other native Australian animals.

During the program, Pelon and the team completed a course on how to support and study the wildlife at the park.

“The program emphasizes learning from leading veterinarians, conservationists, and animal experts, enhancing students’ veterinary education through cross-cultural experiences. Walkabout Wildlife Park plays a crucial role in caring for animals in need and conserving local habitats. The veterinary service program aids these efforts, providing medical care and enrichment for the animals while educating students like Pelon in zoo and wildlife medicine techniques,” states a press release.

Photos provided by 2024 Loop Abroad

VOTERS TO DECIDE LOCAL AND NATIONAL RACES, TAX PROPOSAL

In the Troy Times’ 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 Representatives District 11

Three candidates are running for one two-year term. The salary for this position is $174,000.

Democrat

Haley Stevens

Age: 41

Occupation: Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District

Municipality of residence: Birmingham

For how long: First Seaholm Grad to Congress!

Online campaign information: https://haleystevensforcongress.com

Education: I received both a B.A. in Political Science and Philosophy and a M.A. in Social Policy and Philosophy from American University.

Previously and currently held elected offices: I am serving my third term as the Congresswoman for Michigan’s 11th district.

Top goals: I am running for re-election to build on my legislative track record for Oakland County. Whether on trade, manufacturing, or education issues; I have passed laws to meet the

Slotkin Rogers

Solis-Mullen

Marsh

Stein

Dern

Stevens

Election

needs of our district. As can be seen by the 200+ visits to manufacturers through my Manufacturing Monday program and the CHIPS act, our district’s families remain my top priority. We also must protect our LGBTQ+ community and install nationwide reproductive care. I remain committed to equality and justice for all.

Republican

Nick Somberg

Age: 35

Occupation: Attorney, Entrepreneur

Municipality of residence: Oakland County, Michigan

For how long: 2007

Online campaign information: www.NickSomberg.com

Education:

J.D., Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School

B.A., Oakland University

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: My top goals are to restore the Constitution, ensure government accountability, and reduce inflation by cutting wasteful spending. I will fight to secure our borders, defend free speech, and protect the Second Amendment. My focus is on improving economic freedom, securing energy independence, and protecting the rights of families and individuals from government overreach.

Green Party

Douglas Campbell

Age: 65 years

Occupation: Registered Professional Engineer, semi-retired

Municipality of residence: Ferndale

For how long: 24 years

Online campaign information: https://migreenparty.org

Education: Bachelor’s degree

Previously and currently held elected offices: none

Top goals: Embargo weapons shipments to belligerent nations.

Re-introduce John Conyer’s H.R.676 - Medicare For All.

Overturn Citizens United and eliminate corrupt money from elections. Amend the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act

to include digital electronics & software. Repeal the Taft-Hartley Act and restore the protections of the Wagner Act.

Implement James Hansen’s Fee & Dividend program for fossil fuels.

Repeal the Trump tax cuts for billionaires & corporations.

Raise the federal minimum wage; index it to inflation.

State House of Representatives District 56

Two candidates are running for one two-year term. The salary for the position is $71,685.

Republican

Dave Kniffen

Age: 45

Occupation: Small Business Owner

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: No answer given. Online campaign information: https:// votekniffen.wixsite.com/votedave

Education: 3x Associates degrees from OCC, & 1 bachelors form UM

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals:To hold the State of Michigan accountable to the citizens. This means defending liberty, and citizens rights, this means balancing budgets and curtailing wasteful government spending. Such reckless spending has played a role in our inflation problem which desperately needs to be brought under control.

Democrat

Sharon MacDonell

Age: 62

Occupation: Elected Official/State Representative

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 19 years

Online campaign information: ElectSharonMac.com

Education: BA, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative

rights, and ensure that our most vulnerable citizens receive the care they deserve. Next term, I will continue fighting to make District 56 and Michigan safer, stronger, and more prosperous for all.

State House of Representatives District 57

Two candidates are running for one two-year term. The salary for the position is $71,685.

Democrat

Aisha Farooqi

Age: 40

Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights

For how long: 23 years

Online campaign information: www.farooqifor57.com/

Education: University of Detroit MercySchool of Law (JD), University of Michigan-Dearborn (BA).

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: As a prosecuting attorney, I know the importance of representing and listening to the needs of our community. In Lansing, I will: Lower the cost of living for our working families and seniors.

Support small businesses and create good paying jobs.

Invest in our local police and firefighters. Fully fund public education and teacher salaries.

Protect our water.

Safeguard reproductive healthcare. Make healthcare, prescription drugs, mental health and addiction services affordable. Improve our infrastructure.

Republican

Thomas E. Kuhn

Age: 73

Occupation: Attorney Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 23 years

Online campaign information: Facebook.com/VoteTomKuhn

and providing common-sense solutions. Because of my extensive experience in local governments, I bring a broad perspective to our state legislature. My legal experience provides me with thorough understanding of our criminal justice system, and what is needed to keep our families, neighborhoods and schools safe. I will continue to be a pragmatic problem-solver-dedicated to all citizens.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 1

Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The annual salary for the position is $45,131.

Democrat

Dave Woodward Age: 48

Occupation: Chairman of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, small business owner

Municipality of residence: Royal Oak, MI

For how long: 45+

Online campaign information: No answer given.

Education: B.S. Mathematics, Wayne State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative (1999-2004), County Commissioner (2005-present) Top goals: Build an economy that works for everyone by lowering costs and raising wages for working families:

• Achieve 80% of workforce having a post-secondary degree or skill certification.

• Eliminate burdening medical debt for families.

• Lower energy costs for seniors and working families with home energy efficiency improvements.

• Accelerate our county’s advanced manufacturing sector to make more things in America and create good-paying jobs.

• Reduce college debt for graduates.

• Improve and expand public transportation.

Top goals: I began my journey as a community activist, working to save Troy’s Public Library. In my first State House term, I’ve championed initiatives to secure funding for education, support small businesses, advance commonsense gun reforms, enhance our infrastructure, safeguard our environment, protect reproductive

Education: BA, University of Michigan, Political Science; MA, PhD- University of Toronto, Political Science; JD, Detroit College of Law (now MSU College of Law)

Previously and currently held elected offices: City Council, 12 years; Oakland Community College trustee, 12 years; 2 as Board Chair; Oakland County Commission, 4 years; State Representative, 2 years.

Top goals: I want to ensure that our citizens have representation focused on their best interests, addressing their concerns,

Republican

Regina Wilk

Age: No answer given.

Occupation: Business Owner / Consultant

Municipality of residence: Royal Oak

For how long: 29 years

Online campaign information: reginawilk.com

Education: B.S. Engineering, Michigan State University; MBA Finance, Wayne

Somberg

Campbell

Kniffen

MacDonell

Farooqi

Kuhn

Woodward

State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: Revitalize Oakland County into the premier place to live, work, and grow your business.

• Prioritize Public Safety: Fully support a strong Sheriff’s Department to restore safety to our neighborhoods.

• Put More Money in Your Pocket: Reduce property taxes and trim the budget to ease financial burden.

• Foster Economic Growth and Job Creation: Build a business-friendly climate to encourage investment and job creation.

• Increase Affordable Housing: Create initiatives to expand housing options for middle-income households.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 2

Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $45,131.

Democrat

Penny C. Luebs

Age: 70

Occupation: Social Worker

Municipality of residence: Clawson For how long: 44 years

Online campaign information: Facebook

- Penny Luebs Oakland County Commissioner

Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work; LMSW

Previously and currently held elected offices:

Oakland County Commissioner 2018 to present Mayor, City of Clawson 2007-2017 Council Member, City of Clawson 20032007

Top goals: Public safety, Mental Health and Senior services are the top 3 priorities. Affordable housing and transportation also rate high. Public safety includes ensuring our officers, fire, dpw, ems staff have commensurate pay and the tools to do their job.

Mental health - we need to support positive mental health. I was able to introduce a resolution in 2023 providing a minimum grant of $175,000.00 to each school district in Oakland County to address mental health. We need to do

more preventive work in our schools and communities. Senior services - about 37% of our population is over 50 years old. In a few short years that number will be close to 60%. Our population is aging at a faster rate than other states. People want to age in place. Licensing and fair wages for direct care workers is a focus. Our Senior Ad hoc committee (of which I am a member) recently approved a grant for chore programs for seniors.

Republican Edward Kempen

Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 3

Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $45,131.

Democrat

Ann Erickson Gault

Age: 61

Occupation: Attorney

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 20 years

Online campaign information: www.ann4oakland.com

Education: Manchester University BA 1985, University of Toledo College of Law JD 1997

Previously and currently held elected offices: I served from November 2019 until November 2023 on Troy City Council. In November of 2023 I was appointed to Oakland County Board of Commissioners, District 3 representing Madison Heights, Hazel Park and part of Troy. Currently holding that seat on the board after the August 6 primary election.

Top goals: As your Oakland County Commissioner, I am working to enhance and expand our parks, build affordable housing, increase access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, and expand public transit. I also want to focus on increasing gun safety, ensuring water affordability, and improving our environmental sustainability. In a new term, I will continue this work to invest in and improve our communities.

Republican Douglas K. MacLean

Age: 82

Occupation: Retired Madison Heights, Police Officer

Municipality of residence: City of Madison Heights

For how long: 80 years

Online campaign information: ctedougmaclean.com

Education: Madison High School 1960 Attended Oakland Community Collage

Previously and currently held elected offices: 17 years on the Madison District School Board 19781995 returned special election December 2023 elected to fill vacancy on Board in December 2023 for one month Board of Directors

Gateway Counseling Center

Top goals: To keep always diligent the Fiduciary responsibility of Taxpayers money.

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- 2010-2019, Oakland County Commissioner- 2002-2010.

Top goals: By working across party lines, I have made balancing the budget and preserving Oakland County’s AAA bond rating 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)

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 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.

McDonald

Farida

Gault

MacLean

Coulter

Luebs

Wilk

Election

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

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 poten-

tial 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.

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

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 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

Nash

Bouchard

Wittenberg

Blake

Pallotta

Brown

Election

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

Troy School District Board of Education

Seven candidates are running for one of three six-year terms.

Gary N. Hauff

Age: 75

Occupation: Retired

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: Over 36 years

Online campaign information: no campaign information

Education: B.A., Wayne State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: Trustee, Troy Board of Education, since 1998.

Top goals: It is a distinct honor and privilege to serve the Troy community for the past 52 years: As a Troy Police Officer and now 26 as a school board trustee. I am asking for another term as your Board Trustee to make sure that your child reaches their world class American

dream. I will work for high goals in your child’s skills in science, mathematics, fine arts, and enhance opportunities for our Special Needs students.

Alex Karpowitsch

Age: 38

Occupation: Senior Product Data Analyst @ Plex/Rockwell Automation Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 30 Years

Online campaign information: https://kmz4tsd.com/

Education: University of Michigan - Ann Arbor | Bachelor of Arts Degree - Political Science

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: 1) Restore Middle School & High School Honors Math & English Courses 2) Remediate Covid Learning Loss - Include M-STEP/PSAT/SAT Target Score Goals in 2026 Troy School District Strategic Plan. Report progress in every BoE meeting 3) Establish Academic, Finance, and Inclusion Committees with Board Member, Teacher, Curriculum & Instruction, Assistant Superintendent, and Support Staff participation. Discuss Committee progress updates in every BoE meeting.

Audra Melton

Age: 55

Occupation: Retired Troy School District

Teacher/Principal

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 42 years

Online campaign information: https://kmz4tsd.com/

Education: PhD K-12 Educational Administration (Michigan State University), Master of Arts in Teaching (Marygrove College), Bachelor Degree Biology & Secondary Education (Capital University, Columbus, OH)

Previously and currently held elected of-

fices: None

Top goals: Restore Honors classes and improve special education supports and services to meet the learning needs of all students. Implement a board finance committee to improve the budgeting process with the goal of ensuring that teacher/support staff contracts are negotiated in a timely manner and that our teacher/support staff pay scales are competitive to attract and retain quality employees, as well as to examine district spending to find efficiencies and maintain district financial stability.

Ayesha Potts

Age: 50

Occupation: Registered Nurse

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 19 years

Online campaign information: https://ayeshapotts.com

Education: Health Science Degree - Nursing

Previously and currently held elected offices: PTO President, Wass Elementary School. Teacher Appreciation Chair, Larson Middle School.

Top goals: Restoring Honors Classes, Ensuring School Safety and Supporting Special Education. People move to Troy for excellence in schools—and that means Honors to challenge advanced learners AND the right supports in place so that ALL students can achieve their goals. As parents, we entrust our schools with our children, so safety must be a critical priority—constantly reviewed, improved and strengthened. Working together and supporting our teachers, I’m confident that we can achieve these goals.

Karl Schmidt

Age: 60

Occupation: President and owner, Emicity Market Research (Troy, MI)

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 30 years Online campaign information: www.fortroykids.com

Education:

BA, Michigan State University

MBA, Oakland University

Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) Master Platinum Award Status (have completed Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5; including 19 advanced (200- or 300-Level) classes and 813 education credits)

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) certified for Foster Children with active cases in Oakland County Courts

Previously and currently held elected offices: Troy School District Board of Education Trustee, first elected 2011. Have served as President for past 7 years.

Top goals:

Continue the positive trajectory of the Troy School District:

Maintain our tight strategic focus that drives our world-class curriculum, teaching, assessment, and fiscal success

Build on our recent success at lobbying the state legislature for continued funding of public PreK-12 education above the rate of inflation to counter 20 years of disinvestment

Continue efforts to provide ALL Troy kids with a safe, inclusive, and inspirational environment to reach their full potential

Nicole L. Wilson

Age: 49

Occupation: Spiritual Director

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 17 years

Online campaign information: fortroykids.com

Education: BA Oakland University, MA Teaching Marygrove College, MA English Wayne State University, PhD Children’s Literature Wayne State University, Direction Certification Richmont Graduate School

Previously and currently held elected offices: Troy School District Board of Education Trustee

Top goals: Continued focus on the wellbeing and flourishing of ALL Troy School District students and employees through: Maintaining focus on our strategic plan and fiscal responsibility.

Continuing to follow emerging research and data collection for decision-making regarding curriculum. Persisting in the pursuit of community partnerships in a variety of areas, including: mental health support for students and families as well as businesses for internships and eye-opening opportunities. Responsible construction and inviting environments.

Stephanie Zendler

Age: 48

Occupation: Owner Whatever It Takes

Melton

Potts

Schmidt

Wilson

Johnson

Hauff

Karpowitsch

Election

Support LLC (Special education lay advocate/ Carreer and college coach for teens, young adults and their parents)

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 12 years

Online campaign information: https://kmz4tsd.com

Education: BS: Elementary Education WMU (1997)

MA: Public Administration UM Dearborn (2003)

Ed.S: Educational Leadership. Curriculum and Instruction EMU (2010)

Previously and currently held elected offices: None- 100% novice politicion!

Top goals: A primary focus should be on academic enrichment and support. For TSD to be “world class” it must meet the needs of ALL learners including offering honors programming and effective special education services. Establishing BOE committees to support academics, finance and inclusion should also be a focus. Last, aligning spending with priorities based on data and expecting spending to equal improved student performance/ outcomes. The strategic planning and improvement process should guidepost success for TSD.

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 Township

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

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

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:

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

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 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.

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

Michigan State Representative, 35th District, 20192023

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

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: 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 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.

Zendler

Bolden

O’Grady

Ackerman

Willis

Thomas

Fink

Election

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.

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

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

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

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

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 procedures to follow. Instructions should be provided on how to locate free resources about navigating probate cases.

Troy School District Operating Millage Renewal Proposal

the State. The School District only levied 2.7936 mills on personal residences (owneroccupied homes) in 2024. Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on taxable property in the Troy School District, County of Oakland, Michigan, be increased in the amount of 22 mills, with 18 mills being the maximum allowable levy ($18.00 per $1,000 of taxable value), to the extent such property is not statutorily exempt, and of which not more than 5.7049 mills may be imposed on principal residences, for twenty (20) years, the years 2026 to 2045, inclusive, to provide funds for operating expenses of the School District? This operating millage, if approved and levied, would provide estimated revenues to the School District of $42.5 million during the 2026 calendar year, to be used for general operating purposes.

Oakland County Parks and Recreation Millage

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

This proposal would renew the authority of the School District, which expires with the 2025 tax levy, to levy up to 18.00 mills for general school district operating purposes on taxable property in the School District to the extent that such property is not exempt from such levy, restrict the levy on principal residences (owner-occupied homes) to no more than 5.7049 mills and protect against the impact of Headlee rollbacks of up to 4.0 mills. This authorization would allow the School District to continue to levy the statutory limit of 18.00 mills on non-homestead property (principally industrial and commercial real property and residential rental property) and to continue to levy on principal residence property (owner-occupied homes) only that portion of the mills necessary to allow the School District to receive the full revenue per pupil foundation allowance permitted by

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?

O’Brien

Sophia-Calhoun Huddleston

Richards

Gardens

keep growing. Kiser said that when the lawn stops growing will depend on where a person lives.

“It does depend on temperature, water, sunlight,” Kiser said.

Aerating the lawn is also very important. It dethatches it and loosens up dead grass as well as punches holes in the ground. This is good for those who want to overseed. Kiser said overseeding is the best way to get a great spring lawn.

Kiser recommends that residents plant any perennials they have now, and they can plant just about anything aside from spring or summer flowering plants.

“(They can) get acclimated and growing some roots before the first freeze,” Kiser said. “Typically, when the first freeze comes, they’ll stop and they’ll go dormant. Some evergreens will stay on a little longer.”

A quick online search will tell what bulbs and plants are best at lasting through the winter and into the warmer seasons, Kiser said. He also said regional garden centers and nurseries buy plants that are ideal for their specific climates. He suggests asking

the employees at these places of business for gardening tips and tricks.

Madison Heights resident Merri Busch is an avid gardener and has been cultivating her garden for around two years. Before she moved to her current location with her sister, she gardened at her home for around 30 years. She said gardening is a yearlong endeavor.

“In the spring, you’re basically preparing your beds, and in the summer, you’re planting everything and deadheading and cultivating and weeding,” Busch said. “And in the fall, you’re putting in more perennials that you want to add that are on sale, and in the winter, you’re looking at gardening catalogs and seeing how the stuff you planted survived.”

Busch got into gardening at a young age. Her mother was a farmer and Busch saw how much she enjoyed it.

“I think there’s a combination of both it being in my genes and me just finding joy in it myself,” Busch said.

Her garden is made of many different species of plants with some that attract pollinators, including marigolds, violets and others. She has a mixture of native and nonnative plants. This time of year, she thins a few plants such as her irises and waits until

1343 Piedmont Dr. S. of 16 Mile, Off Stephenson 248-341-3731 Mon- Sat 8am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm

FERNDALE

310 W. 9 Mile Rd. 248-632-1199 Mon-Wed 9am - 7pm, Thurs-Sat 9am-9pm, Sunday 9am- 6pm

everything is done blooming to prune everything back.

Some of the leaves on the plants have turned yellow, and Bush said she used to think this was a nutritional issue. Through research, she found that the plant was going into dormancy.

“What I’ll do is when it gets, like, around November, I’ll just cut all those leaves down,” Busch said. “Throw a little mulch on top. Not much.”

When planting near sidewalks, Busch said it’s important to find plants that are salt tolerant. A few of the plants she has are junipers and Russian sages. Busch said that in the fall, she leaves her plants alone.

“I leave everything for the birds because there’s lots of birdseed out there,” Busch said. “And it provides a place for bees to live in hollowed out stems. So I just let everything die back and then in the spring is when I’ll take out the dead stuff.”

Busch’s favorite tool is a handheld item called a “hori-hori knife.” It has a serrated blade on one side and a curved blade on the other which is perfect for digging deep in the dirt to plant or weed. Busch said people can use them for all seasons.

Kiser recommends that residents plan

their gardens to suit their tastes and the climate.

“The nice thing about our lawns and landscapes is you can tailor them to your needs,” Kiser said.

Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.

CITY OF TROY, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST OF VOTING EQUIPMENT FOR THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

To the qualifed electors of the City of Troy, Oakland County, State of Michigan: Notice is hereby given that a Public Accuracy Test for the electronic equipment that will be used in Precincts for the November 5, 2024 Presidential Election is scheduled for Monday, October 14, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the City Clerk’s Offce in City Hall, located at 500 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48084.

The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the computer programming used to tabulate the votes cast at the election meets the requirements of Michigan election law.

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk (248) 524-3316

POSTED: October 4, 2024

PUBLISHED: October 10, 2024

Published: 10/10/2024 Troy Times

0420-2441

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

From watching her mother farm to cultivating gardens for more than 30 years, Merri Busch has been gardening all her life.

Navaratri

from page 19A

Vella, of Novi. “It’s nice too that I don’t have to go far. It’s close by.”

Vella said she also liked that they did it with a nature backdrop, as nature is very significant in Hinduism.

“It’s easier this way,” said Raj Sivakamar, of Farmington Hills. “Instead of carting my wife around to all these places, I can just cut my chauffeur duties in half.”

Roger Natarajan, program director of actuarial science at the University of Michigan, said that by holding the event in this format, more people can come together in one place and that he hopes that by publicizing the event, it will promote a broader understanding of Hndu culture.

Ganapathy’s husband, Sri, said the holiday is about female empowerment and that women and men are equal.

“I don’t want to get too far into it, but there is Shiva and Shakti, husband and wife. They are god and goddess. So it is to kind of represent that they are both the same,” Sri Ganapathy said.

Navaratri celebrates Shakti, goddess of strength and energy; Saraswati, goddess of education; and Lakshmi, goddess of wealth.

Angamuthu said women in all forms are celebrated during the holiday. She said it celebrates women’s joy and strength, which is brought out in all the forms of the goddesses they celebrate.

“The energy of women. That’s what we celebrate,” she said.

Angamuthu, who works for the U.S. Army and is on a diversity, equity and inclusion team, said that by explaining the festival to the public, she hopes that people will gain some understanding of her culture and be more willing to open their eyes to other cultures.

“At the basic essence, it’s a celebration of people and women. It is a sense of community, a sense of joy together,” she said of Navaratri.

“Most of it is live your life well — in a good way, and here’s some ways to be a good person, think good, do good,” said Angamuthu. “That’s what all our gods represent. Basically, they represent good over evil. How to be closer to god and not attach to worldly things. Those are the lessons that all of our history and culture teaches us, which I think is universal.” Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.

Some of the different dolls featured in a Golu display for the Golu-Valam (or Golu on Wheels) event at Raintree Park in Troy on Oct. 5. This event also took place at Fuerst Park in Novi on Oct. 6.

Photo by Erin Sanchez

CRIME WATCH

Personal stress leads to random assault

Officers were dispatched to Crooks Road for a report of an assault that just occurred at 11:01 a.m. Sept. 27.

Upon arrival, officers spoke to a man who said he was walking his dog when an unknown male suspect came up to him, yelled in his face, punched the top of his head, and ripped his shirt.

Officers located the suspect in the area of Crooks and Wattles, and he was taken into custody. The suspect stated he had just quit his job and had gotten into an argument with his family, so he walked up to the first person he saw and assaulted them.

The suspect, a 27-year-old man from Troy, was arrested and was issued a citation for assault and battery and a petition for a mental health evaluation.

Apple Watch reported stolen during delivery process

A resident of Kirts Boulevard reported he received notification that the Apple Watch he ordered had been delivered by UPS to his apartment Sept. 12.

When he checked the common area of the building, he discovered the package was missing, which likely occurred between 10:50 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. The victim checked the UPS tracking, and it showed the package was signed for by a subject he does not know.

Church window damaged

A representative for Central Woodward Christian Church, at 3955 W. Big Beaver Road, reported that a large plate-glass window on the building was broken by an unknown suspect between noon Sept. 1 and noon Sept. 8.

Handgun found during traffic stop of intoxicated driver

Officers initiated a traffic stop on the driver of a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee for speeding around East Big Beaver Road and Rochester Road at 2:39 a.m. Sept. 19.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 36-year-old man from New Haven, officers noted his speech was slurred and there was a strong odor of intoxicants emanating from the vehicle. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, and the officers noted he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of a 0.17% blood alcohol content.

The driver was arrested. During an inventory search of his vehicle, officers located a Sig Sauer P365 handgun in the center console. The driver was found to not have a concealed pistol license.

In lock-up, the driver refused a chemical breath test. A search warrant to complete the blood draw was prepared and granted, and his blood was drawn by medical personnel at Troy Corewell Health Hospital.

The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results are returned.

Vehicles of two victims broken into

A victim from Winter Drive reported an unknown suspect entered his unlocked vehicle while it was parked in his driveway overnight and rummaged through it between Sept. 18 and 19.

While officers were on scene speaking with the first victim, a neighbor across the street approached officers and advised that his vehicle was also entered. The second victim reported a pair of sunglasses and $15 in miscellaneous change were stolen.

Blank checks stolen and cashed

On Sept. 24 at 3 p.m., a complainant from Livernois Road reported that his mother had four blank checks stolen from her room.

One of the checks was forged and cashed in the amount of $900.

Break-in occurs at Golden Gate Cleaners

Officers were dispatched to Golden Gate Cleaners, at 2997 E. Big Beaver Road, for a possible break-in Sept. 23.

Upon arrival, officers saw heavy damage to the front of the business caused by a vehicle driving through the front entry to gain access. Officers contacted the business owner, who said the only thing stolen was the cash register.

Drunk driver apprehended during welfare check in 7-Eleven parking lot

On Sept. 24 at 10:55 p.m., officers conducted a welfare check on the driver of a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu around West Wattles Road and Crooks Road, in the parking lot of 7-Eleven.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 46-year-old Detroit woman, officers noted

her speech was slurred, her eyes were bloodshot and glassy, and there was a strong odor of intoxicants emanating from her person. Officers observed an open bottle of tequila in her vehicle and noted the passenger front and rear tires were flat.

The driver performed poorly on sobriety tests. She submitted to a preliminary breath test, with a result of a 0.231% blood alcohol content.

She was arrested and refused to take a chemical breath test. A search warrant to complete the blood draw was prepared and granted, and her blood was drawn by medical personnel. The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results are returned.

Intoxicated driver found at Speedway

On Sept. 28 at 6:29 a.m., officers were dispatched to the Speedway gas station at 880 W. Maple Road for a report of an unconscious man near the gas pumps.

Officers found an unresponsive man sitting in the driver’s seat of a 2013 Dodge Avenger that was idling in the parking lot. After multiple attempts, officers were able to awaken the driver, and he was assisted out of the vehicle.

While speaking with the driver, a 28-year-old male from Warren, officers noted his eyes were glassy, his speech was

slurred, and there was a strong odor of intoxicants and marijuana coming from his person. The driver was unable to attempt any sobriety evaluations and had urinated on himself.

He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of a 0.177% blood alcohol content . The driver was arrested and agreed to submit to a chemical breath test, which showed a 0.184% blood alcohol content.

The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants.

Speeding leads to inebriated driver’s arrest

Officers initiated a traffic stop in the area of Rochester Road and East Big Beaver Road on the driver of a 2013 Chevrolet Spark for speeding in excess of 100 mph at 2:32 a.m. Sept. 21.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 27-year-old man from Troy, officers noted his eyes were bloodshot, watery and glassy, and there was a strong odor of intoxicants emanating from the vehicle. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test, which showed a 0.164% blood alcohol content.

The driver was arrested. A chemical breath test, with results of 0.156% and 0.149%. He was issued a citation.

— Sarah Wright

CORRECTION: A photo caption that ran with the story “Moving into the multigenerational-living era” Sept. 25 should have said that Jennifer Toomajian, of Real Estate One in Troy, is showcasing this home at 8905 Ridge Drive, Washington Township. It is currently on the market for $1,650,000 and was designed by 213 Designworks. For more information on the home, and buying inquiries, visit realestateone.com/ MI/Macomb/Washington/8905-Ridge-Drive-Washington-MI-48095/20240064203-MIRC#.

Photo by Brian Kurtz

Landscaping & Water Gardens

Hauling & Waste Removal

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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. 10

Thursday Walking Group: Take 1.3- to 2.5-mile route around city campus, 6 p.m., meet at Huber Park, 3500 Civic Center Drive in Troy, troyhistoricvillage.org/ programs/walking-group, (248) 524-3570

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

OCT. 13

Chic & Unique Vintage Market: 100-plus small businesses expected, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds.org

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.meadowbrooktheatreguild.com/ bewitched-bedazzled

OCT. 17

Thursday Walking Group: Take 2-mile route from Avondale GATE Magnet School (formerly Avondale Meadows Upper Elementary School) to Hackett Pocket Park (also known as Ruby Green Space), 6 p.m., meet at 1435 W. Auburn Road in Rochester Hills, troyhistoricvillage.org/ programs/walking-group, (248) 524-3570

OCT. 17-19

Rummage sale: 4-6 p.m. Oct. 17, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 18 and 8 a.m.-noon Oct. 19, First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 879-6363

OCT. 24

Thursday Walking Group: View “Scarecrow Row” and more during 2- to 3.25-mile route, 6 p.m., meet at Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, troyhistoricvillage. org/programs/walking-group, (248) 524-3570

OCT. 26

Family Fun Fall Festival: Face painting, games, pumpkin carving and spooky storytelling, costumes encouraged, pumpkins, hot dogs, cider and doughnuts for sale, 3-6 p.m., Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 4230 Livernois Road in Troy, www. beaconcongregation.org

ONGOING

Thursday Teas: Monthly history talks, teas and sweet treats at 2 p.m., topics include “Michigan Haunts: Public Places, Eerie Spaces” Oct. 31 and “Unintended Consequences: Submerged Settlements of Lake St.

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.

The next day, the man received an email from Best Buy that his order was ready for pickup. The

Clair” Nov. 21, Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road,troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/teas-at-two

Constitution Cafés: Learn about Amendment XVIII (prohibition) Oct. 13 and Amendment XIX (women granted right to vote) Nov. 10, 2-3:30 p.m., Old Troy Church at Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles, www. troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/constitution-cafes

Free medicare help: Hosted by Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and AgeWays, meet with trained counselor by appointment during open enrollment period (Oct. 15-Dec. 7), Disability Network of Eastern Michigan, 1709 John R Road in Troy, (586) 268-4160

• Hosted by Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and AgeWays, meet with trained counselor by appointment, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 15 and Nov. 19, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, (800) 803-7174

Heritage Concert Band of Troy: Practices for adult concert band musicians, 7 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, group also performs throughout year, troyheritageband@gmail.com

Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook. com/OCTDS

Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only, 10 a.m. every first and third Thursday of month, Lukich Family Restaurant, 3900 Rochester Road in Troy, RSVP to Ed at (586) 909-1444

• Lunches 1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Joyce at (586) 323-6007

Monthly book clubs: Find meetups for romance, mystery, learning English, kids/beginners and more, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, troypl.org

Top of Troy Toastmasters: Noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 872-6603

Troy Newcomers: Social group for women, activities include service projects, bowling, euchre, wine tasting, book club, games nights, golf, scrapbooking and more, meets at various times and locations, clubactivities@ troynewcomers.com, troynewcomers.com

ADHD meetings: Hosted by CHADD of Eastern Oakland County, for adults and parents, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Zoom, see schedule on chadd.net/chapter-events/527

OCT. 11

Halloween Spooktacular: Free trick-or-treating for residents (fee for nonresidents), half-hour time slots from 6-7:30 p.m., Heritage Lake, 52700 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, registration required, register.shelbytwp.org

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

OCT. 13

Pumpkin Painting Party: Also treats, pumpkins and paints supplied, costumes encouraged, noon-4 p.m., Whispering Woods Kiwanis Park, 11000 21 Mile Road in Shelby Township

OCT. 17

Trunk or treat: 6-8 p.m. (rain date Oct. 24), Rafih Auto Group, 45441 Dequindre Road in Shelby Township, aninneman@rafihautogroup.com

OCT. 18

Haunted Nature Center: Sensory friendly hour includes games, animals and ventriloquist, 4-5 p.m., Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, facebook.com/ TheShelbyTwp

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. 20

Costumes and Candy: Halloween event for special-needs children, includes trick-or-treat stations, pumpkin decorating, cider and doughnuts, games, karaoke and more, 1-4 p.m., Play-Place Autism & Special Needs Center, 42301 Mound Road in Sterling Heights, registration required, (586) 2546533, info@autisticplayplace.org, autisticplayplace. org/cc2024

OCT. 24

Trunk or

6:30-8 p.m., Stony Creek Church, 45835 Van Dyke Ave. in Utica, donations of Hats and gloves for adults and toiletries for Blessing Box supply drive appreciated, facebook.com/CityofUticaMichigan

OCT. 31

Widowed Friends Halloween lunch: Costumes optional, 1:30 p.m.,

ONGOING

and

Park, 104 N. Adams Road in Rochester Hills, 100% of funds go to The Rainbow Connection Fall Fest at Detroit Zoo: Includes Zoo Boo (treat stations, 5-9 p.m. Fridays and 2-9 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays Oct. 11-13

ballroom: Watch “Dracula” (1931) Oct. 31 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

Enchanted: Immersive and illuminated forest walks, 1-mile tours take approximately one hour to complete and start around dusk with final entries around 10:15 p.m., Thursdays-Sundays until Nov. 3 (except Halloween), Glenlore Trails, 3860 Newtown Road in Commerce Township, glenloretrails.com

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.