SETTING UP ESTATE SALES
OAKLAND TOWNSHIP, ROCHESTER NEGOTIATE
WITH LIBRARY IN AN EFFORT TO RETAIN SERVICES
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS/OAKLAND TOWNSHIP —
Oakland Township and Rochester are negotiating with the Rochester Hills Public Library for new contracts for services after voting against putting a library millage proposal increase on their ballots.
Library Director Juliane Morian said the costs to run the library have risen over the years, but the library’s millage rate has not changed since it was approved by voters in 1924.
When the library was first formed, the millage rate was set at 1 mill in perpetuity. However, the Headlee Amendment, which was introduced in the 1970s, places a constraint on how much a public entity can tax its residents so that the revenue earned from taxes cannot outpace inflation. It was designed to protect homeowners from steep tax increases due to market fluctuations.
In Rochester Hills, the 1 mill is currently levied at 0.73 mill due to the Headlee rollback — which Morian said amounts to approximately $3.2 million for the library. On Aug. 6, Rochester Hills voters approved an increase of 0.39 mill for 10 years. One mill is $1 per $1,000 of a home’s taxable value. The annual cost for a home with a market value of $300,000 — which typically would have a taxable value of $150,000 — is $109.50 per year for library service. Because the proposal passed, homeowners will pay an additional $58.50, for a total of $168 annually, according to the library’s website.
LIBRARY SENT NOTICE TO COMMUNITIES AFTER EACH VOTED AGAINST PUTTING A PROPOSED LIBRARY MILLAGE INCREASE ON NOVEMBER BALLOT See LIBRARY on page 6A
Teen librarian Matt Kessler and Library Director Juliane Morian tidy up the magazine section.
Photo Patricia O’Blenes
SECOND FRONT PAGE
3A/ ROCHESTER POST • OCTOBER 31, 2024
Men posing as DTE employees charged with murder, denied bond
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER HILLS — The two men accused in the Oct. 11 slaying of 72-year-old Rochester Hills businessman Hussein Murray have been charged.
Carlos Jose Hernandez, 37, and Joshua Zuazo, 39, both of Dearborn, were recently charged with felony murder and two counts of unlawful imprisonment.
“I want to reiterate how proud I am of our whole team and what they did to quickly move this case forward, not only taking our suspects off the street, but bringing evidence
to the prosecutor to move this into her court for the next phase,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a statement.
“Again, I compliment and thank our partners on the state, federal and local level for helping bring these individuals to the bar of justice.”
Hernandez was arraigned Friday, Oct. 25. He entered a not-guilty plea to his charges and his bond was denied.
According to Darla Finley of Pretrial Services, Hernandez is a multi-state offender with other convictions in the 53rd District Court and Ohio.
“There is concern for flight, given the
New $2.9M visitor center opens at Meadow Brook Hall
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER HILLS — Meadow Brook Hall has a new center for visitors to gather in and learn about its rich history.
The National Historic Landmark, located on Oakland University’s campus, recently welcomed its De Carlo Visitor Center to help the estate expand and enhance its collection of tours, educational programs and community experiences.
“The De Carlo Visitor Center establishes a formal entrance to the estate now, rerouting our entrance to provide a magnificent first look at the historic home. But the visitor center at Meadow Brook Hall is more than a gateway, it’s an embodiment of Oakland’s past and a symbol of our future,” Oakland University President Ora Pescovitz said during an Oct. 7 ribbon cutting ceremony.
The $2.9 million De Carlo Visitor Center is a new stand-
See VISITOR CENTER on page 10A
seriousness of the offenses, while taking into account the concerning and random allegations surrounding this matter,” she said.
Hernandez’s attorney, Paulette Michelle Loftin, said her client is married with a minor stepchild and is employed.
“He owns his own company, so he does have a means to be a productive member of society,” she said.
Judge Laura Polizzi said the charges are “very serious,” including a charge of murder.
“This court does have concern about a flight risk, as the defendant was found in another state. I have an obligation to ensure the protection of the public, ” Polizzi said,
before she denied his bond. Hernandez is scheduled to appear in court for a probable cause conference
See CHARGES on page 27A Hernandez Zuazo
Nov.
The De Carlo Visitor Center at Meadow Brook Hall is the first new major construction on the “Great Estate” since the historic mansion was built 95 years ago.
Photo provided by Oakland University
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Veterans Day ceremonies planned
OAKLAND TOWNSHIP/ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS — The Veterans Tribute of Oakland Township is holding a Veterans Day Ceremony 1-2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10, at the tribute, 5236 Adams Road in Oakland Township. The event is open to the public, and local state Rep. Josh Schriver, R-Oxford, will speak at the event. The event will be held rain or shine. For more information, visit https://VTOTMI.Org.
Rochester Hills will host its Veterans Day ceremony 11 a.m.-noon Nov. 11 at Veterans Memorial Pointe, 1015 S. Livernois
Road. Guest speakers will be Bryan Barnett, mayor of Rochester Hills, and post commanders from local VFW, DAV and American Legion posts.
The city of Rochster will host a Veterans Day event at 1 p.m. Nov. 11 at the Heroes’ Point, located at the Rochester Fire Station, 277 E. Second St.
Library, RAYA present ‘Connected but Disconnected’ Nov. 7
ROCHESTER — The Rochester Hills Public Library will present “Connected but Disconnected: Fostering Genuine Communication in the Age of Screens with Samantha Walters, MSW” at 7 p.m. Nov. 7. The program is presented in partnership with the Rochester Area Youth Assistance League’s Family Education Committee as part of their speaker series. The event is open to the pub-
Police respond to Lululemon thefts twice in two days
MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Lululemon, 252 N. Adams Road, for a report on a retail fraud that had just occurred at 6:58 p.m. Sept. 14. The store employee stated that two females entered the store with empty bags. Once inside the store, they started putting clothing into the bags, and once the bags were full, both females exited the store.
The store employee observed the two females enter a white Chevrolet Cruze, which had a tinted license plate. The store employee could not read the license plate. The suspect vehicle fled in an unknown direction. Deputies searched the area, with negative results. Deputies requested store video footage and a statement of loss. Police described the suspects as two Black females, approximately 25 to 30 years old, and each weighing approximately 200 pounds. One was reportedly wearing a blue outfit and glasses, and the other was wearing all black clothing. Police are investigating.
The next day, deputies were dispatched to Lululemon for a report on a retail fraud that had just occurred at 3:51 p.m. Sept 15.
lic. Registration is required. To register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or call (248) 656-2900.
Paint Creek Garden Club to meet Nov. 8
ROCHESTER HILLS — The Paint Creek Garden Club will meet Friday, Nov. 8 in the dairy barn conference room at Van Hoosen Farms, 1005 Van Hoosen Road in Rochester Hills. Coffee and refreshments will begin at 9:30 a.m., the general meeting at 10 a.m. and a presentation by speaker
Heather Johnson, Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club at 11 a.m. Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club, established in 1981, provides opportunities for amateur and experienced hunters to commune both with nature and with others who share an interest in and appreciation for nature’s bounty.
For more information and a membership application, visit www.michiganmushroomhunters.org, or call or text Anita at (248) 709-7103. Visit www.paintcreekgar denclub.org.
The store employee stated that a middle-aged woman wearing all black entered the store carrying three bags, one of those being an empty trash bag. She browsed the store before selecting four pairs of pants and then entered a fitting room. She exited the fitting room with clothing concealed in the plastic bag.
She exited the store without paying for the items. The store employee observed the woman enter a U-Haul van bearing an Arizona license plate number AM28130 and drive away in an unknown direction. Deputies conducted a search of the license plate, locating the vehicle near Woodward Avenue and Bassett Street.
The Birmingham Police Department located the U-Haul with the matching license plate parked near a Lululemon located at 101 S. Old Woodward, in Birmingham.
When the suspect exited the Lululemon store, she was taken into custody. It was learned that she had just committed another retail fraud at the Birmingham Lululemon store. A search of the U-Haul revealed over $1,000 in stolen merchandise from the Rochester Hills Lululemon store. The woman was a 55-year-old resident of Pontiac.
The millage increase will generate an additional $1,724,195 in funding for the library, allowing the materials budget to expand to over $1 million annually, with priority given to popular materials and e-books. Library officials said Sunday hours will be added year-round, program offerings will increase, building renovations will begin — with the exploration of a possible new café — the building will obtain greater Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility, the roof will be replaced, the heating and cooling systems will be modernized, and new bookmobiles will be put into service for the 70-square-mile service area.
The library serves the residents of Rochester, Rochester Hills and Oakland Township. While all three municipalities pay tax money to operate the library, the communities of Rochester and Oakland Township do not have a vote on the library board, according to the charter, since they contract with the library for services.
In the two contract communities, Morian said, the annual payment adjusted for Headlee is also currently levied at less than
a mill — 0.68 mill for Rochester, which amounts to nearly $610,000 from the general fund in Rochester, and 0.57 mill in Oakland Township, which provides over $1 million from the township, paid for via two millages.
“Part of our goal was to modernize our agreements and bring our rate for paying for operational services at the library into parity,” Morian said. “Now that the city of Rochester Hills has approved a 10-year increase in the amount of 0.39, that changes the amount of revenue that community is raising. The library board let both of our community partners know that if the millage was approved in Rochester Hills, a proportional ask would be made of each of the contract communities.”
However, the Rochester City Council and the Oakland Township library board each voted to not put the millage proposal on their primary or general election ballots.
In Rochester, Mayor Stuart Bikson said the city decided not to ask its residents for a millage increase because it funds the library services out of the city’s general fund.
“We are 100% pro-library. Our City Council wants to support the library,” said Bikson. “We’re going to work very hard to assure that we support our library and that our citizens can continue to use that library.”
As for the contract, Bikson said the city is currently negotiating with the library.
“There are details we need to work out, but I’m confident we are going to work it out. We support the library, and our citizens want to be there, but we want to look at the numbers and see how we work it out,” he said. “I am very confident we are going to work it out and keep our library access the same as it’s always been.”
In Oakland Township, Michael Tyler, the township library board’s former president, voted to put the millage question on the ballot, while board members Mark Gerhard, Marisa Kallie and Shirley Frazier voted against it. Board member Henry Carels, who also opposed the millage, was absent.
Kallie said she doesn’t see a significant financial need for additional revenues for the library. Frazier suggests allocating funds from the interest fund to support library projects as they arise, instead of an increase in the millage for the residents. Carels said he researched the library budget and had issues with slated expenditures being unnecessary and extravagant.
“We agree on 90% of things,” Gerhardt said of the township library board and the RHPL library board. “What it comes down to is there are a lot of questions about costs and expenditures — those need to be ironed out in an open forum. If they can’t, we’ll turn them over to the lawyers to do their thing.”
The contract between the township and the library expires March 31, 2025, while the contract between the library and Rochester expires June 31, 2025.
The library sent a letter to township residents notifying them they will lose library privileges on April 1, 2025, without a mechanism for meeting terms of the new contract.
The library also sent a letter to Rochester residents notifying them they will lose library privileges July 1, 2025, unless a new contract can be negotiated.
The letters, according to Morian, were “largely a technicality.”
“In order for us to propose a new library agreement, we had to give notice that we were ready to cancel the current agreement. But the letter is very quick to point out that this is a two-part process. One, get the technicality out of the way that we were ready to sunset the old agreement, and two, establish a new agreement moving forward.”
The library anticipates presenting new agreements to both Oakland Township and the city of Rochester by Nov. 8 — which, if passed, would go into effect Jan. 1, 2025.
The township’s library board is responsible for negotiating a new contract with the library. There are currently four active mem-
See LIBRAARY on page 7A
bers — Carels, Gerhard, Kallie and Frazier. Andrew Parker resigned in June when he moved out of the township, and Tyler resigned in late September.
Gerhard was named the new township library board president, and since then, the township library trustees have allocated more than $47,000 to hire an attorney and a consultant, and to create a survey for residents regarding what library services they would like to see.
“The survey is, in our view, more important than ever right now,” Gerhard said.
“I think the people deserve to tell us what kind of library they want,” Carels added.
The responsibility of the township’s library board is to provide library services to its residents, Morian said.
“I don’t begrudge their desire to understand what we’re offering, as a provider of library services, but if they choose, they could contract through a different community. We would like to believe that our services are high-caliber and provide the best, most enriching library experience for the greater Rochester community, but their charge is to figure out with whom they should contract for library service.”
The township, she added, relies on both of the township’s library millages to provide the necessary revenue to fulfill the contract terms with the library. To keep things status quo, they would have to still renew the expiring mileage, separate from any talk of an increase.
“This is a very real and necessary thing that they need to consider doing,” Morian said.
“It would be a tremendous loss to the library, not only because of revenue, but also because we take great pride in serving the greater Rochester area. … My goal is that we reach a mutually agreeable contract that al-
lows us to continue serving all of the greater Rochester area.”
Gerhard noted that the township library board continues to meet with the Rochester Hills Public Library board and has “no intention of breaking its relationship” with the library.
“I think we can come to an amenable agreement with them. I’m very confident it’s going to happen before their stated Nov. 8 deadline for doing that. I think this will be in motion this month at some point, and I think we’re going to be in good shape. There’s no animosity there,” he said. “Rest assured the library is not going away, so if you’re reading the Nextdoor, Facebook, or whatever social media craziness out there, just know that that is absolutely not true.”
On Nov. 5, 11 candidates are running for the township library board’s six open seats — including Carels, Gerhard, Frazier, Kallie, Tyler, Jim Kiefer, Heidi Miller, Kathy Pritchard, Kristin Syverson, Margaret Willard-Traub and David Youngman. However, the only name that will appear on the ballot is Jim Kiefer.
The Oakland County Clerk ruled Frazier, Kallie, Parker, Tyler, and two other candidates disqualified from appearing as library board candidates on the November general election ballot due to an oversight on the affidavit of identity form that each submitted. The law in question is an amendment to 1954 Public Act 116, section 558, which states that an affidavit of identity must contain the date of the election in which the candidate wishes to appear on the ballot, but the amendment does not give provisions for library boards, which could potentially appear on the primary or the general election. The amendment was signed into law in 2021. Officials said candidates for library board in several other townships were similarly disqualified and must run as write-in candidates in the Nov. 8 election.
For more information, visit www.rhpl. com.
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NEWS & NOTES
Sen. Webber honors Rochester Hills resident who served as Donut Dolly during Vietnam War
ROCHESTER HILLS — On Oct. 9, Sen. Michael Webber presented a state tribute to Rochester Hills resident Joann Kotcher on the floor of the Michigan Senate in honor of her service as a Donut Dolly during the Vietnam War.
Kotcher was one of 627 women who served in the American Red Cross Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas program during the Vietnam War, joining the effort in May 1966 after earning her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan.
“The legacy of the Donut Dollies goes far beyond their namesake of passing out donuts to soldiers, and our nation is grateful for brave individuals like Ms. Kotcher who answer the call to support our active military,” Webber, R-Rochester Hills, said in a statement. “As the first women in history to be allowed into combat zones at the invitation of U.S. Army Gen. William Westmoreland, Ms. Kotcher and the Donut Dollies helped pave the way for women to be able to work in many different positions to support American troops on the ground. And while doctors and nurses treated physical injuries, the presence and friendship of the Donut Dollies offered invaluable psychological support long before we had the understanding and vocabulary of post-traumatic stress and its effects on soldiers.”
Historical
The candidate profiles from all 19 C & G Newspapers are available online at candgnews.com/news/elections.
ROCHESTER AREA SERVICE CLUBS COLLECT NECESSITIES FOR FOSTER CHILDREN
ROCHESTER — The local Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions clubs have again joined forces to support Michigan children in foster care.
Currently, around 10,000 children in Michigan are in foster care, with many more living in kinship families, where relatives like grandparents, aunts or uncles step in when parents are unable to care for their children. To address the needs of these children, the Rochester service clubs organized a collection drive for essential items, including new underwear, socks, pajamas, jeans, jackets and diapers.
The donations, valued at approximately $6,247, will be distributed to several organizations — including the Macomb Foster Closet, Mandy’s Place Residential Center, True Vision Church, Community Mission Center, Friends of Foster Kids, Wayne State University’s program for students from foster care, and the Park West Foundation, which supports women aging out of foster care. Additionally, individual foster, adoptive, and kinship families who reach out in need will also receive assistance.
Individuals interested in joining one of
Society presents ‘He Rode With Custer: Rochester’s Samuel Harris’ Nov. 7
these service clubs can get more information on membership on each club’s website: www. rochesterlionsclub.org; www.facebook.com/ KiwanisClubOfRochester; https://e-clubhouse. org/sites/rochesterhills; or www.rochester rotaryclub.org.
ROCHESTER — Join the Rochester-Avon Historical Society at 7 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road in Rochester Hills, for a discussion about local historical figure Samuel Harris — Rochester’s most famous Civil War hero.
Society member and local historian/tour guide Chris Brown will explain how Harris rode into battle with Gen. George Armstrong Custer at Gettysburg before being captured in Virginia. His capture was to result in his hanging, but a stay of execution from the Confederate first lady saved his life. Harris moved to Chicago after the war, but never forgot Rochester and came back to dedicate a monument in 1917 that still stands today.
The event is free for Rochester-Avon Historical Society members. Nonmembers are asked to consider a $5 suggested donation at the door. Registration is required. Register at www.rochesteravonhistoricalsociety.org/event, email rahsupdates@gmail.com, or call (248) 266-5440.
Visitor center
from page 3A
alone building located in a section of what was once Meadow Brook’s visitor parking lot.
The impetus for the visitor center, according to Meadow Brook Hall Executive Director Bill Matt, was really to improve and increase the visitor experience, whether they come for programs, events or tours.
“The visitor center was intended to be a new front door for us. It’s a new front door welcome mat that we’ve thrown out for the community that has a lot of new amenities that will make their visit that much better,” he said.
The previous gate had no entrance or signage and little indication of where people were, Matt explained.
“It was important to us to have a kind of a gateway that was very clear and visible for people as they are approaching and entering Meadow Brook Estate,” he said.
The 3,000-square-foot facility is accessible to all and is the first new major construction on the Great Estate since the historic mansion was built 95 years ago. Officials said it serves as a new formal entrance to the
estate, rerouting the entrance to provide a magnificent first look at the 88,000-squarefoot historic home. It also provides modern amenities and versatile spaces for Meadow Brook to expand and enhance its collection of tours, events, educational programs and community experiences. Inspired by the hall’s Gate Lodge, the visitor center is a welcome gateway to greet guests, including an open-air plaza and a patio for gathering, an orientation gallery, a learning center, an interactive exhibition and gallery space, a multimedia theater, and more.
Construction was managed by Rochester-based Frank Rewold & Sons, whose owner, Frank Rewold Jr., is the grandson of the company’s founder, Frank Rewold, who was Matilda Dodge Wilson’s personal handyman and built and repaired many of the structures at Meadow Brook and Oakland University. The design was handled by HopkinsBurns Design Studio.
A philanthropic campaign raised $2 million toward the project, and Matt said Meadow Brook Hall is borrowing the remainder from Oakland University at “a favorable interest.”
For more information, call (248) 3646200 or visit meadowbrookhall.org/vistor center.
CRIME WATCH
Home invasion reported
OAKLAND TOWNSHIP — Deputies responded to the 5000 block of Orchard Ridge Drive for a panic alarm at 7:40 p.m. Oct. 11. The homeowner advised that someone was breaking into her residence and that she could see subjects via a camera in her backyard.
The complainant stated she and her husband were on their way back to their residence. Upon arrival, deputies met with the homeowners, who had arrived home. Deputies found that the bay window at the back of the residence had been broken. Deputies searched the residence for suspects, without results. The master bedroom and walk-in closet had been ransacked.
The homeowners stated that it appeared that several items had been stolen. Detectives are investigating.
OU Police investigate stalking case
ROCHESTER HILLS — The Oak-
land University Police Department is investigating the report of a domestic violence/ stalking incident reportedly committed by a male suspect in the Oakland Center Oct. 8. He is known to the victim and has been identified to police, but left campus after the incident. The suspect is described as a 54-year-old man, 6 feet tall and weighing 270 pounds. He is bald, has a black and white beard, and is known to drive a 2019 White Chevy Impala. Police report that this individual is currently banned from campus, and they ask anyone observing him on campus to call the OU police at (248) 370-3331.
Police investigate potential school threat
ROCHESTER HILLS — The Sheriff’s Operation Center advised deputies of a threat targeting Stoney Creek High School, 6755 Sheldon Road, that came from a crisis hotline center in Utah at 8:56 p.m. Sept. 15.
Deputies contacted the number given by the crisis center, and a subject who stated his name was “James,” and that he attended ninth grade at the high school, wanted $200 sent via PayPal, or he would shoot up the high school with an AR-15.
“James” asked deputies if they could set
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up a bitcoin account. Deputies advised that they could not.
“James” gave an address in the 400 block of Oak Street in the city of Rochester, where the money could be slid under the door. The incident was investigated and deemed to be unfounded.
Dog owner issued citation after dog jumps fence, chases child
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to a home in the 2700 block of St. Clair Drive on the report of an animal complaint at 4:28 p.m. Sept 17. Upon arrival, deputies were informed that a dog from an address in the 2700 block of York Road had climbed the neighbor’s fence and was chasing their 11-year-old daughter in their backyard. Their daughter was terrified and began screaming and running toward their house. The dog turned, ran back to the fence and returned to its yard. The same dog had been involved in an incident Sept. 13 where the dog had attacked and killed six chickens at the same residence. The owner of the dog was contacted and issued a citation.
In a separate report, deputies were dispatched to the 2700 block of St. Clair Drive on the report of an animal complaint at 6:32
p.m. Sept. 22. Upon arrival, deputies were informed that the dog from an address in the 2700 block of York Road had forced its way onto her property by pushing itself underneath her chain link fence. The dog attempted to gain access to the neighbor’s chicken coop, where one chicken was securely locked inside. The neighbor’s dog had exited the yard prior to the arrival of deputies. The owner of the dog was contacted and issued a citation.
Racial slur spray painted on car
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 200 block of Tourangeau Drive for a report that someone had spray painted a racial slur on the tailgate of a woman’s pickup truck Sept. 17. The 57-year-old woman from Rochester Hills stated she had parked her vehicle in her driveway at approximately 11 p.m. Sept. 16. The following morning, at approximately 11 a.m. she discovered that someone had spray painted a racial slur on her vehicle. Deputies searched the area but did not locate any additional evidence of the crime. The victim did not have exterior cameras, and no witnesses could be located. Deputies expanded
Continued on page 13A
their search area and located racial slurs on a fence and sidewalk in close proximity of the victim’s residence. The victim was able to remove the painted slur with WD-40.
Student suspended after allegedly threatening to bomb school
ROCHESTER HILLS — The school resource deputy at Avondale Middle School was made aware of a threat from a student that occurred in class at 1 p.m. Sept. 18. A student told their teacher that another student stated he wanted to get rid of the school and he was going to bomb it. The suspect was a 12-year-old student with autistic spectrum disorder from Pontiac, according to reports. The school resource officer and school administration interviewed the incident with the student and his parents present. The parents stated there were firearms in the home, locked and secured. The school resource officer contacted the on-call referee, who denied lodging at the time. The student
was given a 10-day suspension by school administration. A petition was submitted to the Juvenile Division of the Prosecutor’s Office for review. The school resource officer went to the residence of the student to check on the safety and security of the firearms.
Car stolen
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 200 block of Tanglewood Drive on the report of a stolen vehicle at 3:39 a.m. Sept. 19. The owners reported they had two vehicles parked in their driveway overnight. Both vehicles were parked at 9 p.m. Sept. 17.
The next morning, the owners realized one of their vehicles, a 2021 White GMC Acadia, was missing. The other vehicle was found with an open driver’s side door, and the contents of the vehicle had been searched, but nothing was stolen. Deputies reviewed homeowners video footage, which shows the vehicle leaving their driveway at 3:39 a.m. Sept. 18. Deputies learned that the owner left the vehicle unlocked, with the key fob still inside the vehicle.
A report was completed, and the vehicle was listed as stolen.
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CRIME WATCH
Police investigate cement mixer crash
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies and the Rochester Hills Fire Department responded to M-59 and Rochester Road for a report of a personal injury crash involving a cement mixer truck at 1:35 p.m. Sept. 19.
A 34-year-old resident of Clarkston was operating a cement mixer eastbound in the middle lane of M-59 when he lost control while making a lane change and the vehicle overturned onto its side. The cement mixer spilled out a large amount of cement and fuel covering all lanes of traffic. The driver of the cement mixer was transported to Troy Beaumont Hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries. Alcohol or drug use do not appear to be a factor in the crash. The traffic lanes of eastbound M-59 were temporarily reduced to one lane, and then had to be completely closed for several hours due to the extensive cleanup process. The driver was issued a citation.
Jewelry stolen from home
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 400 block of Pinehurst Drive for a report of stolen jewelry at 4:17 p.m. Sept. 21. The victim stated she’d had her carpet replaced the day before. She also stated that she’d had workers at her home painting. Prior to the arrival of the carpet crew, she moved her jewelry box from her primary bedroom into a separate one where work would not be performed. The next day, a company delivered furniture to the residence. Once the furniture delivery was complete, she returned her jewelry box to her primary bedroom. She opened the jewelry box to put on some of the jewelry she wore daily and discovered that multiple pieces of her jewelry were missing — including a diamond-set gold band ring, a diamond-encrusted aquamarine gold band ring, a diamond-encrusted pendant on a gold chain, a pearl pendant on a gold chain, and three gold bracelets. Deputies searched the residence, without success. The victim believes the carpet crew is responsible for the theft of the jewelry. She believes this because she was with the painter and furniture delivery team the entire time. The investigation is ongoing.
Man cited for urinating in public
ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to a cider mill in the 1900 block of Avon Road for a report of indecent exposure at 12:29 a.m. Sept. 22. The complainant stated that he observed a man in his mid60s urinate on the ground’s main walkway in front of children and adults. The male suspect walked towards Avon Road to exit the park. The complainant provided a description of the suspect to deputies.
Deputies searched the area and located a man matching the description outside the grounds walking toward an area of parked vehicles. The suspect was wearing gray sweatpants that had a large urine stain. When questioned by deputies, the suspect admitted to urinating in public. Deputies issued the suspect an appearance ticket for disorderly person.
Student suspended
ROCHESTER HILLS — A school resource deputy was informed by a student that while passing through the hallway, the student was bumped into Sept. 24.
The first student stated to the other student, “You could say excuse me.” The other student replied, “I will stab you.”
The responsible student was brought to the office with their belongings, which were checked for weapons, with negative results. Interviews were conducted with all students involved. The responsible student was sent home with her mother and was suspended by school administration. A threat assessment has been scheduled, and the student was referred to the Rochester Area Youth Assistance Program.
Police assist with garage fire
ROCHESTER HILLS — The Rochester Hills Fire Department requested the assistance of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Fire Investigations Unit in the 2900 block of Adams Road for a garage fire at a residence at 10:49 p.m. Sept. 25. No injuries were reported. The incident remains under investigation.
— Mary Beth Almond
SPOTLIGHT ON SENIOR LIVING
ESTATE SALE COMPANIES
PROVIDE HELPFUL SERVICE FOR DIVERSE HOME SITUATIONS
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — For those looking to move or for those who have lost someone and are interested in downsizing their possessions, estate sales professionals can provide assistance as individuals and families navigate through these issues.
Mara Topper, CEO and mediator for Senior Counseling Services, has worked with many people interested in scoping out estate sales professionals as they look to move and consider selling their houses.
“There’s a couple of people I refer clients to,” Topper said. “I also suggest they go with someone with good reviews that are clear about what they do.”
Potential clients are advised to consider how companies deal with cleaning out the home as well as donations and any other items that don’t sell. Clients should also consider what they want to take with them or give to family members, and if
there are items they can’t take, they should consider taking smaller pieces or photos of the items.
Clients may also need emotional support through the process of these sales and may consider reaching out to friends, family members, or mental health professionals for emotional support. On the day of the sale, they should also consider doing something special with their loved ones and letting the estate sale companies handle the sales.
“This can be a very emotional event for seniors, children and families,” Topper said. “If you hire an estate company, let them run it.”
Clearview Estate Sales & Auctions provides support to interested parties throughout the metro Detroit area as well as in other parts of the country.
Chris Deneau, owner of Clearview Estate Sales & Auctions, has been interested in collecting and selling household items and antiques for around 25 years. He held his
of Clearview Estate Sales & Auctions.
Photos provided by Clearview Estate Sales & Auctions
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Veterans Ride Free
Frank Withers’ world has opened up a bit with the help of a transportation program for veterans ofered by Oakland County in partnership with the state and local public transit providers.
“I use this for all my traveling,” Withers, a retired Army Sergeant from Waterford, said during a recent trip to the Waterford Senior Center. “It brings me to places like this here and makes my problems non-existent for a little while.”
Te “Tis Ride’s on Us” program, which ofers Oakland County military veterans and their caregivers free, door-todoor public transportation rides for medical appointments, chores like grocery shopping and visits to senior centers, began in June and has provided more than 2,750 rides.
Tey can get out and socialize. Tey can go to a senior center and interact with other seniors,” said Garth Wooten, Division Manager of the county Veterans Services ofce. “Tis is a quality-of-life program not only for the veteran but also for their family, who may have had to take time of from work to take their loved one to appointments.”
ofce through a grant from the Michigan Veterans Afairs Agency, the free ride service was supposed to end on Sept. 30, but a $530,000 additional grant from the state will allow the program to continue through September of 2025.
“Tis has already helped so many Oakland County veterans and I’m thrilled that we can continue this vital service,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “Our goal is to eliminate any barriers to transportation for our veterans who have sacrifced so much in service to us all.”
Te Veterans ofce had ofered free rides to county ofces for several years so that former service members could meet with counselors about the benefts they earned through their active duty. However, they consistently heard that transportation for day-to-day tasks was a challenge for many of the 53,000 veterans in the county, more than half of whom are older than 65 and many of them with disabilities.
All the local public transit providers in Oakland County – North Oakland Transportation and Western Oakland Transportation authorities, People’s Express and OPC Social and Activity Center along with the SMART system – participate in the Veterans Ride Free initiative.
Administered by the Oakland County Veterans Services
Tat was the genesis of the “Veterans Ride Free” concept and the pilot project was of the ground.
“Tey’re not so stuckin their house anymore.”
“Our veterans don’t have to rely on other individuals to get them around anymore,” Wooten said. “It allows them to be more independent.”
And that’s priceless, said Withers. “I can come here and relax with my friends,” he said. “And that’s good for my mental health.”
To book a ride, veterans can call 248-419-7984 and provide proof of their military service through their DD214 discharge papers.
Frank Withers (retired veteran)
WUJEK-CALCATERRA & SONS: Round-the-Clock Compassion since 1913
With 15 licensed funeral directors, totaling 350 years of combined experience, Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is uniquely qualifed to bring peace and comfort to grieving families in their time of need. And these aren’t ordinary funeral directors. Each one was specifcally sought out by the Wujek and Calcaterra families based on their individual talents and expertise.
Licensed funeral director Dominick Astorino, managing director at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, is honored to be a part of this exceptional team. “My colleagues and I are career professionals,” stated Astorino. “Most of us have been with Wujek-Calcaterra for over 20 years. We are dedicated to our career in a long-standing way.
“We also have an excellent collection of younger funeral directors. As the embalming professor at Wayne State University School of Mortuary Science, I have taught many of them. I see their potential from the frst day I meet them and watch them develop.”
Tese devoted individuals represent a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds. Tey have formed enduring relationships with local families and the community. Tey are familiar with the neighborhood churches and have worked alongside their pastors. Tis allows them to connect with all types of families, putting them at
ease at a most difcult and overwhelming time.
Furthermore, their compassion isn’t strictly confned to business hours. Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is one of the few funeral homes in the area where there is someone present 24/7.
According to Astorino, “We have never taken a day of since opening our original location in Detroit back in 1913. Christmas, holidays, brownouts, the worst snow storms – there has always been someone here to pick up the phone. We treat our families the way we would like to be treated. Tey never have to talk to an answering machine, and they know their loved one is never lef unattended.”
In addition to the 15 funeral directors, there is a support staf of 35 capable and compassionate individuals to complete the team at Wujek-Cacaterra & Sons. “We can serve all of our families, giving them everything they need – much like a personalized concierge.”
From preplanning to afercare services, Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is available seven days a week, 365 days a year. Tey ofer two welcoming locations: 36900 Schoenherr Road in Sterling Heights, phone (586) 588-9117; and 54880 Van Dyke Avenue in Shelby Township, phone (586) 217-3316. For more information, visit wujekcalcaterra.com or follow Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons on Facebook.
Estate sales
from page 18A
first estate sale when he was 19 years old and, through his business, aims to provide clients with a stress-free experience as Clearview Estate Sales & Auctions provides assistance with valuation, research, advertising and sales for each of their planned sales events.
“The industry standard (commission) is typically between 35-45%,” Deneau said in an email. “We however tailor each estate to the client’s needs. In estates that are higher dollar we lower the percentage to be fair to the client and ourselves. We also do not play the ‘first $5,000 is ours and then 45% after that’ like many companies do.”
On top of estate sales, another service that this business provides includes buy out and clean out services which allows for Clearview to quickly purchase and clean out items or residences so that the estate may be prepared for its next plans. Consignment sales are also available through their website, which features a variety of coins, antiques,
jewelry, boats, motorcycles, vehicles and art among other items. Some items may be shipped to buyers, though most items are sold in person.
“We have a heavy online presence but we don’t specifically sell online,” Deneau said.
Through Clearview’s clients, Deneau and his staff have also found some unexpected items like homemade drug-related board games from the 1970s, tiny vials of cocaine, bricks of silver, and gold coins among other antiques and odd items. Deneau and his team will dispose of or hand over any concerning items like drugs and firearms to the proper authorities.
“You never know what you’re going to find,” Deneau said. “We’ve found all kinds of valuable crazy items.”
A lot of cleaning and preparation goes into each sale. If personal items are found, they will generally be hidden away in order to check with the clients.
“We scour the houses before the estate sale,” Deneau said. “We also reduce commission on high end items.”
Op. Ed. We Deserve Better
One of the less desirable costs of democracy is the triumph of mediocrity. Our elections, unfortunately, do sometimes have that disagreeable efect. And the ultimate price we pay for it is the eventual inevitability of electing to our legislature those whose idea of governance is to provide this community with the lowest common denominator of needed outcomes. We are now in the unenviable position of experiencing the pain of career politicians ready, able and willing to do whatever it takes to further their political ends to the detriment of all else. And as a result, we all sufer.
Our cities are not merely places we drive to and from work. Tey are the communities where we grow our families, raise our children and celebrate life with our friends and neighbors. When our legislature refuses, as they have done for years now, to adequately share statutory funding with our cities the loss belongs to all of us. Revenue sharing is critical to the funding of public safety, infrastructure maintenance and community programs.
Our community does not lack individuals with a desire to serve and the means to be able to accomplish great things for us. Tat’s why so many fght like hell, knock on doors, attend meetings and pay close attention to the work of our legislature. Tey carry with them the hopes, expectations and aspirations of us all and operate as a control valve limiting the extremes of some of our current elected ofcials. In turn, we need representatives in the state house and senate who don’t merely have an appreciation for the issues facing this community but the desire and wherewithal to be able to foster the solutions necessary for the well-being of all. Tis community deserves it.
REN NUSHAJ – Attorney / Prosecutor
Ren@MichiganTreeInitiative.org
These estate sales will generally run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the different addresses listed and each sale may take a few days depending on the client’s preferences. Once the sale ends, clients can expect to receive their check after a week.
“Everything is beautifully displayed,” Deneau said. “We get an eclectic mix of people and have gathered such a following. Our clients do very well.”
In July 2024, Deneau’s company worked with a retired 91-year-old resident of Long Lake Road in Troy, with the assistance of the resident’s friend and neighbor Karol Szymula, for a large estate sale that featured a large collection of different art pieces and antiquities.
“We already tried to help him sell some things,” Szymula said. “Clearview is the best
and really tries to give the best bang.”
This Troy sale saw a long line of people come through, with over 130 people signed in for this event.
“When we started on Thursday, the first guy in line came from Seattle,” Szymula said. “The line never stopped.”
According to Szymula, it took roughly around 15 months to get the house prepared for the sale with over 2,500 boxes full of stuff. The sale likely brought in over $100,000.
“The sale was unbelievably successful,” Szymula said. “We couldn’t do what Chris has done. It’s amazing.”
For more information, visit seniorcoun seling.info or clearviewestatesales.com.
Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.
MHSAA GIRLS GOLF RECAP
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
Coaches across the state couldn’t ask for better weather as the Michigan High School Athletic Association hosted the girls golf state finals Oct. 18.
It was a nice change of pace from the heavy obstacle mother nature threw in the faces of teams in 2023, but as more things seemed to change, more stayed the same for some schools. Below is a recap of the local teams.
Rochester Adams (D1)
It’s not often you can graduate two top-10 state placers and still be in the thick of things, but the Highlanders stayed resilient all season.
The mindset stayed true Oct. 19 at Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids as Adams, the reigning state champion two years straight, placed fourth overall behind consistent play from all five of its golfers.
Junior Hannah Wang, who finished 29th last season and has been a vital part of Adams’ dominance, continued her sensational high school career with a two-day score of 163, finishing 12th. Wang was also the regional champion this season. Wang will be a force to be reckoned with in her senior year and should be viewed as one of the top golfers in Division 1.
Nobody was more excited to be a part of the state finals
stage than senior Alexa Camargo, a Kalamazoo College commit, who missed out in 2023 due to injury.
She has embodied the role of being a senior leader, which is a title that comes with a ton of pressure at Adams, and she flourished to end her final season.
Camargo posted the second-best score on the team with a 175, finishing 29th out of 107 golfers.
“She really played well, especially the second day, dropping five or six off her score,” Adams head coach Jeff Kutschman said. “She really performed well for the team. That was awesome.”
While Camargo was taking in the moment one last time, junior Brianna Park and freshman Saisha Dhawan made names for themselves as first timers, finishing 48th and 71st, respectively.
Park and Dhawan consistently improved as the season progressed, and Kutschman said he was impressed by their state finals performances.
“I was really proud of them,” Kutschman said. “It’s a big stage and Ferris (State University’s) Katke is no joke, and I think they handled it very well. I think the experience was awesome for them. They got to be a part of it and fight for places at the end of it, and they performed very well. It’s great for them and our team this year and going forward as well.”
Senior Peyton Sage, who had been steady all season for the Highlanders, finished 37th with a 180 and will continue
See GOLF on page 24A
MHSAA BOYS TENNIS RECAP
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
Oakland County typically seems to have a hold on the high school tennis scene, but the schools located in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills and Beverly Hills took it to a whole new level this season.
Below are the boys tennis state finals recaps for the local teams.
Rochester Hills Stoney Creek (D1)
How about a history-making season for the Cougars.
Typically on the outside looking in at the top-10 the past few seasons, Stoney Creek earned its highest state finals placement in school history, finishing fifth.
There’s plenty of talent you can point to as to why the 2024 campaign became so successful, but head coach Dave Pietrangelo said it all starts with his seniors.
“They were awesome,” Pietrangelo said. “They definitely created kind of a brotherhood, which this is the first year that I can really confidently say that
See TENNIS on page 24A
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT specials
her golf career at Albion College.
The importance Sage, Camargo and senior Eryn Yang had in where the Adams golf program currently stands can’t be underestimated.
“Where I’ve been really lucky is that all the seniors I’ve had, going back to Carly Ortwine, who was a freshman nine years ago, they’ve been really good at not only learning from the seniors before them but improving on it next year and passing it along,” Kutschman said. “Our seniors this year, they had great role models with Alexa, Eryn and Peyton. They saw how the team works and how all the big meets go. Those girls are going to be ready to step up.”
With Wang headlining the returners and Park and Dhawan both expected to improve, Adams should be right back in the top-five conversation. Expect junior Lydia Mercado and sophomore Aubrey Koenig to also be impact pieces next season.
Rochester (D1)
Some could view it as a down year for a Rochester team that finished fifth overall
at states in 2023 and was expected to have a shot at the top three, but the only things that should be discussed are the incredible seasons from senior Madison Yang and junior Ananya Kumar.
Yang, a Central Michigan University commit, and Kumar both won three tournaments each this season with Kumar taking home the Oakland County Championship and Yang capturing the regional championship, which Rochester won as a team as well.
The dynamic duo put on a show-stopping performance over the two-day tournament as Yang placed fourth with a 157 and Kumar was right behind her in fifth with a 160. Kumar will be tasked with the No. 1 role, but Rochester head coach Jeff Haney said Kumar is up for the challenge.
“She worked a lot in the offseason with her strength, so she was hitting the ball further this year,” Haney said. “I thought that made a big difference for her. Before, she always had a great short game and putting the last couple years. This year, she was hitting the ball further. She’s just such a good ball striker.”
Other scorers for Rochester were junior Ella Harrison (77th), sophomore Isha Chauhan (75th), and the duo of sophomore Kendall Markham and senior Natalie Dolezel, who combined for 89th. Golf from page 22A
Tennis
from page 22A
we’ve had that at Stoney. I hope that can continue.”
The singles flights led the way for Stoney Creek as senior Andrew Vincler (1 singles) and junior Quentin Rangi (2 singles), and junior Gavin Clark (4 singles) all reached the semifinals, paving the way for Stoney Creek’s 12 points, which tied with Ann Arbor Skyline for fifth.
Vincler has been a mainstay in the Stoney Creek singles lineup since his freshman year and will be a tough void to fill, but Pietrangelo said the singles talent returning makes for another exciting season ahead.
“We have a good core of singles players coming back, and I’d like to rather use the word that we’re ‘retooling’ in the doubles rather than rebuilding,” Pietrangelo said.
In Loving Memory of
Judy Barnett-Langford
Born June 25, 1953 and Passed October 16, 2024
It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother and grandmother. She lef us peacefully, blessing us with a legacy of joy, love, and unwavering faith.
Judy Barnett-Langford was born in Pontiac, MI on June 25, 1953. Judy graduated from Pontiac Northern High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Oakland University. A rewarding career educating students followed. Daughter to Duane and Darlene Justin. Sister to Diane (Gary) June and Mike (Faith) Justin. Wife of Kenneth (until his passing) and wife of John (until hers). Mother to Bryan, Chris, Andrea (Jan) Asche and Matthew (Cara). Bonus mom to Brian (Robin), Michele (Paul) Grandy and Sheryl. Grandmother to Rachel (Noah), Sydney, Addison, Kenneth, Tristan, Shiloh, Isaiah, Naomi, Kenlee, Katelyn, John (Ashley), Lauren, Jack, Nick.
Judy was a woman like no other, the heart and soul of every gathering, and the light that brightened every room she entered. With 14 grandchildren who adored her and countless friends and family members, she spent her life spreading love in the most personal way. Her handwritten notes, letters, and greeting cards—each one flled with warmth and care—were more than just words on paper; they were gifs of her heart. Whether it was a birthday, holiday, or simply a day she thought you needed cheering up, you could count on a card from Judy to make you smile.
But above all, her greatest joy and foundation was her deep faith in Jesus Christ. Her relationship with the Lord was central to everything she did, and sharing that faith with others was as natural to her as breathing. She found ways to weave her love for God into every conversation and every note, encouraging others to know the peace and joy she found in Him. Her faith wasn’t
just something she held dear; it was a light she shared with everyone she encountered, inspiring many to draw closer to God.
She truly “grabbed gusto,” lived life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to dance, laugh, play games, always choosing adventure with the people she loved. Her energy was contagious, her laughter unforgettable, and her spirit unbreakable. She was the life of every party, always making sure everyone felt welcome and loved. It’s no wonder she earned her nickname, “Party Gram.”
Tough she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. We will carry with us the lessons she taught: to love deeply, celebrate life, follow Jesus, and always take the time to remind those we care about that they are special. And most importantly, she knew where she was going and wants us to all “Show Up”.
Rest in peace, Party Gram. You will be missed beyond measure, but your legacy of faith, love, and joy will live on forever.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to two organizations close to Judy’s heart: Hope Lodge in Cleveland, OH or Woodside Church, Troy Campus Faithful Friends.
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4 and a preliminary examination Nov. 12.
Zuazo was arraigned Oct. 18. He also entered a not-guilty plea to his charges, and his bond was denied.
According to Darla Finley of Pretrial Services, Zuazo has a history of violence — including convictions for armed robbery and receiving stolen property — and failing to appear in court.
Zuazo’s attorney, Josh Aprile, said his client is a father of three who is employed with a cement company in Detroit.
“He had been working there for about six-seven months. In fact, it is to my knowledge, based on my conversations with my clients, at the time of his arrest, he was on a job site, actually, so he was still in the community. Additionally, based on my conversations with my client, I don’t think there was any resistance to the police. He was brought into custody without any incident,” he said.
Polizzi said it’s “obvious that these charges are very serious.”
“This court has concern about the public safety, and this court does have concern about a flight risk,” Polizzi said before she denied his bond
Zuazo is scheduled to appear in court for a probable cause conference Oct. 29 and a preliminary examination Nov. 4.
The charges stem from the death of Hussein Murray, who was killed in his Rochester Hills home Oct. 11. The 72-year-old victim was the owner of Gold & Glitter Jewelry in Hamtramck.
The incident happened around 11:20 a.m. in the 3700 block of Newcastle Drive, according to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
Hernandez and Zuazo first arrived at the Murray’s home the evening of Oct. 10, claiming to be DTE employees. They said they were investigating a gas leak but were attempting to gain access to the home to rob
him and his 72-year-old wife, according to reports.
They were turned away but returned the morning of Oct. 11 and were allowed in the home.
“We responded to a call that they had intruders come into the house posing as DTE workers and said there was a gas leak they needed to check, and they let them in,” Bouchard said in a previous interview. “The husband went to the basement with the two individuals, and a period of time later, the two individuals came back up without the husband, restrained the wife with duct tape and searched the house for a period of time and then left.”
The woman, who was upstairs, was able to free herself enough to call 911. The wife told deputies she believed at the time that her husband may have been kidnapped. It was not clear what was taken from the home.
“When we responded, we found a very tragic situation. The husband was deceased in the basement,” Bouchard said in a previous interview.
Authorities believe the incident to be a targeted and isolated attack.
Hernandez was arrested in Shreveport, Louisiana, by the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office. Caddo deputies on Interstate 49 spotted a vehicle that matched the description of Hernandez’s vehicle Oct. 12. Deputies there made a traffic stop and arrested Hernandez for multiple armed robbery warrants from Ohio and the Oakland County murder warrant. He was extradited from Louisiana and brought to the Oakland County Jail Oct. 24.
Zuazo was arrested Oct. 14 in Plymouth Township by members of the Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Team, with assistance from the Detroit Fugitive Task Force, the Michigan State Police and the U.S. Marshal’s Service.
If convicted on the felony murder charge, both men face the possibility of life in prison without parole. Unlawful imprisonment is a felony punishable by up to 15 years and/or a fine up to $20,000.
CALENDAR COMMUNITY
NOV. 1
Pumpkin Roll: Also cider, doughnuts and prizes, 4-6 p.m., sledding hill at Bloomer Park, 345 John R Road in Rochester Hills, rararecreation.org
NOV. 2
Book exchange fundraiser: Swap gently used books for fee, money goes toward information and resources to families of children with special needs and complex medical conditions, event also features snacks, raffle prizes and photo opportunities, 1-4 p.m., Chief Financial Credit Union, 20 S. Main St. in Rochester, healingcomplexkids.org
Taste & Tunes 2024: Presented by Rochester Symphony Guild and featuring electro-pop violin ensemble Nuclassica, also cocktails, gourmet dinner and silent auction, 6:30-11 p.m., Great Oaks Country Club, 777 Great Oaks Blvd. in Rochester Hills, (586) 322-6077, rochestersymphony.com
NOV. 7
Connected But Disconnected: Presentation about “fostering genuine communication in the age of screens,” 7 p.m., Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne Road in Rochester, registration required, (248) 656-2900, rhpl.org
NOV. 8
Paint Creek Garden Club: 9:30 a.m. coffee and refreshments, 10 a.m. general meeting and 11 a.m. presentation by Mushroom Hunters Club, Dairy Barn at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, (248) 709-7103, paintcreekgar denclub.org, michiganmushroomhunters.org
NOV. 9
Holiday Craft & Vendor Show: 40-plus booths expected, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Rochester Avon Recreation Authority, 500 E. Second St., rararecreation.org
Artisan Holiday Market: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., OPC Social & Activity Center, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, (248) 656-1403, opccenter.org
Tin Whistle Coffeehouse Concert: Presented by Paint Creek Folklore Society, features bluegrass band Wilson Thicket as headliner and singer-songwriters Tom Bowes and Evie Boss as openers, 2 p.m., University Presbyterian Church, 1385 S. Adams Road in Rochester Hills, paintcreekfolkloresociety.org, (248) 289-0057
NOV. 10
Gordon Lightfoot Tribute: Performance by Jackie Davidson and Gary Brandt, 2 p.m., Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne Road in Rochester, open to RHPL carholders and registration required, (248) 656-2900, calendar.rhpl.org
Veterans Day ceremony: Presented by Veterans Tribute of Oakland Township, includes speech by State Rep. Josh Schriver and refreshments afterward, 1-2 p.m., outdoor at VTOT, intersection of Adams and Silverbell roads, vtotmi.org
NOV. 11
Veterans Ice Cream Social and Monday Movie: See documentary “Bob Hope – Entertaining the Troops,” 2:30 p.m., OPC Social & Activity Center, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, (248) 659-1029, opccenter.org
Veterans Day breakfast: 8-10 a.m., cafeteria at Stoney Creek High School, 6755 Sheldon Road in Rochester Hills, RSVP to lscurti@rochester.k12.mi.us
Downtown Rochester Holiday Expo: Shop 60-plus businesses, also light refreshments and door prize drawings, 5-7:30 p.m., Royal Park Hotel, 600 E. University Drive, www.downtownrochestermi.com
NOV. 12
Rochester Cancer Support Group: Free meetings for patients, survivors, family, friends and caregivers, guest speakers at 7 p.m. and sharing from 7:30-9 p.m., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo Road, (248) 736-3253, wskihanes@yahoo.com
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
Trick-or-eat
October 31, 2024 Rochester Post
AROUND MICHIGAN
BUSINESS SERVICES
AUCTION
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Licensed/Insured References
Brick Work
AA4DABLE MASONRY
586-822-5100
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SPRINGSPECIALS
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MOUTON'S MASONRY
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PREFERRED
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Brick Work
586-944-3669
AAABROOKSIDE
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A-DMASONRYLLC.
AllMasonryWork Bricks,Stones,Pavers, Blocks,Porches, Chimneys.Tuckpointing. 26-yrsexperience Insured,FreeEstimates. 586-873-8210 Filip
Building & Remodeling
CUSTOMBUILDER
Additions,Renovations, CustomDesignService, Decks,Financing, CallForYourPersonal ConsultationAppt. 248-760-0043
J&WPropertiesLTD. FullyLicensed/Insured 37YearsinBusiness
Carpentry
GOTROT?
RottenWood ReplacementSpecialist AllTypesofWoodRepair Fascia,Soffit&Siding PaintedtoMatch AMGAppliedServices 248-828-7998 www.amgapplied services.com
Carpet Cleaning
CARPET
WAVY-n-LOOSE? WePower Re-stretch and Steam-clean ForOneLowPrice MultipleRoomDiscount CallNow 586-754-9222
Cement ALLEN CEMENT a.k.a "TheDrivewayGuy" Established1999 Driveways/Garage Floors/Patios,etc. Licensed/Insured CheckoutAllen CementonFacebook! VernAllen 586-457-1300
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810-523-9200
CEMENT-IT
Residential/Commercial ConcreteSpecialist DecorativeStamped
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POBLETECEMENT
BrickPavers,LLC. •Driveways•Patios •Porches•Steps •Stamp•Color •Exposed•Floors•Walks •Licensed/Insured 30+years!Troy,MI 248-743-1220 248-496-4964(Cell)
STEVEʼS CONCRETE COMPANY
Licensed.Bonded. Insured.Freeestimates. MichiganBuildersLicense #2101118415 (248)588-9808
Chimney Service
CHIMNEYS,INC
$139/Sweep& SafetyInspection
•Repairs•Dampers •Caps•CrownRepair Senior/MilitaryDisc. NextDay Appointment Available 586-431-0591
Cleaning Service
CLEANINGLADY with10-yrexperienceis lookingforwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830
Decks/Patios
2024SPECIALS
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Drywall
LAKESHORE DRYWALL &PAINTING
Over30Years
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Electrical
BEST-Price-Period Licensed/Insured. Additions,Remodels, Basements,Kitchens, CarChargerInstalled, 30-yrs.-experience. Callforfree-estimates. Open7-daysaweek 24/hrs-day. HotchkissElectric 586-291-3143 Lic.#6211028
586-755-3636
Dr.Electric AffordablePrices! Father&Son MasterElectricians Same-Day-Service! All-Residential-Wiring, ChangeFuseBoxto CircuitBreakerPanel, Troubleshooting,Backup GeneratorTransfer Switch, License#6109094 Senior/Discounts! Visa/MC/Lic./Insured
Electrical CASTLEELECTRIC
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Gutters
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998
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Gutters
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GUTTERCLEANING, WINDOW/POWERWASHING Veteran/Firefighter Owned/Operated championwindow cleaning.net 248-765-0613
GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI 313-656-9402
Handyman Services
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling, Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCredit CardsAccepted 586-822-5100
Handyman Services
MOWTOWNSERVICES "OldSchoolWorkEthic" FALLCLEANUPS Plumbing,Electrical, WoodRepair(Inside/Out), Drywall,Painting,Gutter Cleaning,Drainage Problems. 248-709-4992
Hauling & Waste Removal
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall! DemolitionBig&Small Residential/Commercial RubberWheelDumpsters-10,15,20-Yards, Clean-outs,Construction Material,Small-Moving, Appliances,Furniture& More!LowestRates!!! Free-Estimates Senior/MilitaryDiscounts 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com AAHAULING JUNKREMOVAL 40YearsExperience RubberWheelDumpsters AllSizes,EstateClean OutBigandSmall, Available24/7 586-872-0498 586-778-4417 **CLUTTERGUY'S** Removal-Experts Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices Garage/Storage-Areas EfficientCourteous Workers Reasonable-Rates Free-Estimates NEEDCLUTTER REMOVED? LETUSDOTHEWORK! 586-258-6672 Heating & Cooling AFFORDABLE HEATING&COOLING Family-ownedBusiness Greg'sHeatingLLC Servicecalls89.00 FurnaceTuneup79.00 SeniorandVeteran Discounts 586-422-8528
HOMEREMODELING
Kitchens,Baths,
Landscaping & Water Gardens
ALLTIMATE OUTDOOR SERVICES
DrainageSystem Professionals New-Construction, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202
SUPREMEOUTDOOR SPECIALISTS
FallClean-ups,Lawncare, Landscaping,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, SprinklerBlow-out, GutterCleaning, 35YearsExperience FreeEstimates Christmaslight install/leasing. 586-727-3924 supremeoutdoor@ gmail.com
TOTALBRICKPAVING LANDSCAPINGPROS
586-420-3531
Home
EXTERIOR
Since1999 Roofing,Siding, Gutters,LEAFGUARDS andMore!Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops
MR.BACKSPLASH
·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES
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Landscaping & Water Gardens
DOLL'S LANDSCAPING FALLCLEAN-UPS! Shrub&Tree-Trimming, Planting,Removal.Mulch, SodInstallation,Pavers, Garden/RetainerWalls, PorchSteps,Raise Backyards/DrainTiles, Powerwashing/Sealing, Powerrake,Aeration, Seeding,DebrisRemoval 586-634-0033
Painting
PAINTINGby-GPC MASTER Plaster/Drywall CompleteRestoration &InsuranceProjects Wallpaper Removal/Hanging PAINTING!PAINTING! A+BBB-Rating/20yrs 30-yrs,BuilderLicense SeniorDisc/FreeEst. 586.899.3555(Cell) 248.566.6460(Office)
(586)229-4267
American Painting •Residential/Commercial •Interior/25YearsExp. •PowerWashing •Insurance•Drywall •PlasterRepair •Clean-outs •HomeRepairs •SeniorDiscounts •Guaranteed-Work.
248-216-3355
NEWPALACE PAINTING
Brickpaving,Patio, Walkways,Driveways, Porches,Repairs, Powerwash,Rock Installation,Mulch,Sod, CompleteLandscape Design.
Lawn Maintenance
2024Fall
586-260-5218
Commercial/Residential
*SnowRemoval *FullSaltingServices *FullLandscaping/Design *FallClean-up &DebrisRemoval *Aerating&Thatching. brighthorizonservices.biz
Painting
586-792-3117
PETE'SPAINTING FALLSPECIALS! 20%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
(586)795-8122
ChrisCronin Painting& StainingInc. Professionalquality. Interior-exterior. Power-washing, decksealing.Insured, References. Freeestimates. MC/VI/DC/AX accepted.
Painting
FARR'SPAINTING
Interior/Exterior
Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
PROTOUCH
PAINTINGLLC
PAINTING!PAINTING! PAINTING! FreeEstimates SeniorDiscounts COMPETITIVELY PRICED
PEAKPAINTING
Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. 30-yr.-exp.*WillBeat AnyOtherReasonable Estimate! Senior-Disc. Insured.Credit-Cards Accepted.References. 586-722-8381
Interior/Exterior SpecializesinKitchen &Bathroom CabinetPainting. Drywall/Plaster/Repair Free-Estimates 26YearsExperience CallBill 313-433-9400 586-746-9846 vkperfectpainting.com
ANYONE'S PAINTER
Interior/ExteriorPainting Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates Call586-921-3654
Interior/Exterior 30-yrs-experience, Power-washing, Drywallrepairs, Staining, Free-Estimates. AllWorkGuaranteed. AffordablePrices. SeniorDiscount/Insured. 248-495-3512
Plumbing MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
Plumbing
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
Roofng
AA4DABLE ROOFING
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SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE
$225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial $88*GutterCleaning Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 30-yrsexp. FamilyOwned 248-707-4851
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600
Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
Tree Service
BERGBROS.LLC.
0109-2437 We Accept Venmo, Cash, Check Call or Text Us Today!
586.421.5520
586.524.6752 ANDY'S PLUMBING
25-YearsExperience Licensed/Insured CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX
PLUMBERSCORP
586-210-0903
ANDERSON Painting&Carpentry CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
35-YearsExperience Seniors/Military/ Multi-TaskDiscounts Free-Estimates •DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures •SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters Licensed/Insured apexplumbers corporation.com Lic#8111771
WATERWORK
Plumbing.com
•DrainCleaning •SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps •BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
“Fullyinsured, highlyreferred.” Seniordiscounts. Tree-removal,stump grinding,tree-trimming, hedging,shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Freeestimates! (586)262-3060
DAVE'S TREE&SHRUB
40%-FALLDisc.Insured, EmergencyStorm Damage,LeafClean-up, Large-TreeRemovals, Trimming,StumpGrinding,Gutters, Season-Firewood (100acord)Free-Estimates/10%Senior-Disc. (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com Roofng
PREFERRED
BROTHERSROOFING
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ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
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