Royal Oak City Commission to interview 3 finalists for city manager job
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak City Commission has selected three finalists to interview for the city manager position.
At 12:30 p.m. Oct. 12, the City Commission will publicly interview Joseph Gacioch, Khalfani Stephens and Erik Tungate at City Hall, 203 S. Troy St.
Each candidate will be interviewed for approximately 75 minutes, according to interim City Manager Mark Wollenweber.
On Sept. 20, the Royal Oak City Commission met in a closed session and selected the finalists. There were 54 applicants to choose from.
The search process was led by Double Haul Solutions, an executive search and consulting firm hired to assist the city in finding a qualified candidate, according to a press release.
Double Haul Solutions suggested to the City Commission 12 candidates who had been vetted through a questionnaire and a screening interview. Those 12 candidates were then reviewed by the City Commission.
See CITY MANAGER on page 21A
DETROIT ZOO’S FALL FEST ACTIVITIES IN FULL SWING
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Detroit Zoo is hosting several spooky events throughout the month of October to celebrate the spirit of Halloween.
New to the Detroit Zoo Fall Fest activity lineup is an immersive Jack-O’-Lantern Jour-
ney that includes lights and sounds.
Senior Events Manager Megan Gregg said that the Jack-O’-Lantern Journey came about because the team wanted to have an activity that appeals to the whole family.
“The biggest thing we thought of is, ‘What can we do that is new and exciting, that will draw guests to choose the zoo?’” Gregg
See FALL FEST on page 23A
ABOVE: The Detroit Zoo 2024 Fall Fest features a new attraction called the JackO’-Lantern Journey. The event will be open from 5 to 10 p.m. on Oct. 25, 26 and 27.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Great Gift Idea
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SECOND FRONT PAGE
Clawson voters to decide on $64.5 million infrastructure bond
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
CLAWSON — An infrastructure improvement bond will be on the ballot for Clawson residents during the Nov. 5 election.
UNVEILING HISTORY
The infrastructure improvement bond for $64.5 million would fund improvements to the city’s sewer systems, water distribution systems and roads.
If the proposal is approved by the voters, the total debt millage levied in 2025 will be 6.9 mills, which is a 2-mill increase from the current debt levy of 4.9 mills. One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value.
“The funds will be directed toward high-priority projects such as road repairs, water main replace-
ABOVE: Hamer family descendant LaKeesha Morrison and artist Austen Brantley spoke at the ceremony about the history and meaning behind Brantley’s sculpture. BELOW: Rochelle E. Danquah, chairperson of the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission, talks about the history of Hamer.
Descendants of the Hamer, Finch and Wilkins family, plus Northwood Elementary students and community members gather together for the unveiling of the Elizabeth Hamer statue in Hamer Finch Wilkins Park, 1800 Beechwood Drive, Sept. 23.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Royal Oak gives high schoolers ability to vote on boards and committees
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — High school students who are on governmental boards or committees in the city of Royal Oak are now allowed to have a vote in matters discussed on said boards or committees.
On Sept. 23, the Royal Oak City Commission approved an amendment in a 6-1
vote allowing appointed student members of advisory boards and committees to vote.
The first reading of this amendment took place on Aug. 12 at the City Commision meeting, and then on Aug. 26 it was decided that the City Attorney should take some more time to revise the proposed ordinance.
“The revised proposed ordinance first
See VOTE on page 22A
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — It’s one of the first things you learn courtesy of “The Tortoise and the Hare”; slow and steady wins the race.
The saying is interpreted differently in soccer terms, but Royal Oak Shrine Catholic High School boys soccer head coach Mark Soma feels like he’s finally getting through to his No. 2 ranked squad in Division 4.
“It’s the experience, but mostly the buyin as well,” Soma said. “They’re listening to the coaches. We didn’t always have that. We’re getting a lot of buy-in this year, and it’s translating to the field and our performance.”
What are the Knights buying into exactly? A more methodical approach to how they play on the field as opposed to being overly aggressive and sending long passes back and forth like a tennis rally.
Royal Oak Shrine Catholic High School junior Adam Imai controls the ball.
Photo provided by Anne Whitbeck
NEWS & NOTES
Wild Game Dinner and Shotgun Sports fundraiser supports Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial
ROYAL OAK — The Michigan World War II Legacy Memorial board of directors will host a Wild Game and Shotgun Sports fundraising event starting at 1 p.m. Oct. 12 at Multi-Lakes Conservation Association at 3860 Newton Road in Commerce Township.
The event will include skeet and trap shooting, a sporting clay circuit with a 2 p.m. shotgun start, and a wild game dinner at 5:30 p.m. prepared by Chef “Rocky” Rachwitz. The registration period has passed for the Shotgun Sports portion of the fundraiser.
Doors for the dinner will open at 4 p.m., and there will be an after-dinner program featuring Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard.
Rachwitz, of Steve and Rocky’s, will be preparing roasted leg of venison au jus, elk and rabbit sausage in peppers and onions, fried walleye, and semi-boneless quail with bacon wrapped jalapenos stuffed with cream cheese.
The event is to raise money for the continued building of the Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial and is open to the public. Attendees do not need to participate in the shotgun sports to attend the dinner and program.
Registration for the dinner, which costs $125 per person, $65 for World War II veterans and original Rosie the Riveters, and $875 for a table for eight, can be made at michiganww2 memorial.org.
Compiled by Taylor Christensen
Downtown Royal Oak Halloween bar crawl
ROYAL OAK — Get spooky on Oct. 12 at the annual Halloween Bar Crawl in downtown Royal Oak.
Over 2,000 Halloween fans will show up to this event dressed in costumes and ready to spread the Halloween spirit.
Multiple downtown Royal Oak bars and restaurants are participating in this event including Fifth Avenue, Royal Oak Taphouse, The Side Bar, Tequila Blue and more.
Seven DJs, karaoke at Pronto Lounge, games and contests are going to fill up the night for the bar crawl participants.
There will also be a costume contest on social media where participants can post a photo and tag @royaloakbarcrawls and #royaloakbarcrawls to be featured on the bar crawls social media platform. The best photos/videos will have the chance to win prizes.
Tickets are being sold for $40. A link for the event can be found at romi.gov/calendar. The tickets include a wristband, no cover charges at participating locations, entry into the Monster’s Ball Detroit ticket giveaway, contests, event photographers, a photo booth and karaoke.
Registration to get the wristband will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 12 and is located at Bohemia Nightclub, Bar Louie, Blind Owl, 526 Main, Tequila Blue and Royal Oak Taphouse.
Trick or Treat Trail in Clawson
CLAWSON — Grab a bag to collect candy and meet at Clawson City Park from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20 for the Clawson Halloween Trick or Treat Trail.
Local businesses and organizations will be posted along the trail to give out candy to all who attend.
After the trick-or-treating, there will be cider and doughnuts provided by the Clawson Parks and Recreation Department.
Clawson businesses are encouraged to apply to take part in the event. If interested, businesses are to get in touch with the Parks & Recreation Department at (248) 589-0334 or parksrec@cityofclawson.com to get an application.
The event is free and sponsored by Clawson Youth Assistance.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN christensent@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — Two muralists have been approved to start painting in the downtown area after the unanimous decision of the City Commission at its Sept. 23 meeting.
The murals came in front of the commission because of the Downtown Development Authority’s Painting Downtown Project that “aims to enrich the city’s urban environment with artworks that reflect the community’s values, diversity, and creativity,” according to the project’s final proposal.
Throughout the fiscal year 2024-2025, which started July 1, the project will serve as a pilot program targeting areas of high traffic and public engagement for the initial mural installations.
One of the paintings approved at the Sept. 23 meeting will be located on the side of Cacao Tree Cafe at 204 W. Fourth St. The second mu-
See MURAL on page 20A
Renderings provided by the city of Royal Oak
TOP: Amadeus Roy is going to be painting this mural titled “Inflection Point” alongside the Cacao Tree Cafe. BOTTOM: Sean Graham is going to be painting this mural design on the side of Noir Leather. It is meant to pay homage to the history of Royal Oak.
During The Games)
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
SPOTLIGHT ON LEARNING
HIGH SCHOOL INTEREST IN CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION SOARS
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
The rising cost of college, combined with growing demand for skilled workers, is driving more students to enroll in career and technical education programs, known as CTE programs.
The state projects more than 520,000 Michigan jobs and approximately 45,500 annual openings in the professional trades by 2030.
Amid skilled-labor shortages across the nation, many students are choosing CTE programs to explore a future career, get college credit, find an internship, and/or earn industry recognized certifications, all while fulfilling their high school graduation requirements.
At Oakland Schools Technical Campuses, high school students from the county’s 28 public school districts, public academies, private learning institutions and home schools can learn practical career technical education. Enrolled students spend part of their day studying at their home district and the remainder involved in one of several career clusters offered at one of four of the county’s technical campuses — Pontiac, Clarkston, Walled Lake and Royal Oak.
Across Michigan, many high schools and specialty programs offer CTE courses aligned with in-demand, 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; 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.
OVER 50% OF REGINA FAMILIES RECIEVE TUITION ASSISTANCE
13:1 STUDENT: TEACHER RATIO
OVER $12 MILLION EARNED IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS BY THE CLASS OF 2024
100% OF THE CLASS OF 2024 ENROLLED IN FURTHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
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.
“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-the-life 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’ because they are
then in each of these programs, working toward and earning industry credentials,” Galbenski explained.
For example, students in the OSTC cosmetology program can earn a cosmetology state license, while those in the computer programming course can become certified in java, HTML, or CSS3. Students in OSTC’s health sciences program, can earn a certified nurse aide license or a patient care technician credential, and those interested in the construction field can earn an Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10 safety certification, to name a few.
And, according to Galbenski, it’s all for free at OSTC.
“Every one of these credentials is free. You want to talk about return on investment. … There are many opportunities for students to be successful and look at those careers and pursue those pathways,” he said.
Utica Community Schools offers a variety of CTE courses to high-schoolers in a
number of areas, including everything from computer programming, cybersecurity and engineering to finance, radio and television broadcasting, and woodworking — to name a few. The district also features five high school specialty programs, including the Utica Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology; the Utica Academy for Health and Human Services; the Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies; the Stevenson Center for Manufacturing and Design Engineering; and the Utica Center for Science and Industry.
Scott Spry, an electronic technology and mechatronics instructor at the Utica Center for Science and Industry, said UCSI students have access to work-based learning opportunities, including job shadowing, mentoring and work-site internships. Students, he said, focus on the design thinking process and
choose one of the three CTE pathways — multimedia production, mechatronics or engineering technology.
“We already know that the pipeline for career and technical education positions is very, very lean, so continuing to try to fill that pipeline from our level has been a priority for the last couple of years,” Spry explained.
At Utica Community Schools, Spry said, many of its CTE students have gone on to work in needed fields within the community.
The same is true for many of OTSC students — including former OSTC health sciences graduates, who have gone on fill vacant, in-demand doctor and dentist positions within Oakland County communities. Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
PRESIDENT, U.S. SENATOR, JUDGES AND MORE ON NOV. 5 BALLOT
In the Royal Oak Review’s coverage area, voters will select candidates for federal, state, county, judicial and local offices in the Nov. 5 election.
Voters also will decide the fate of a countywide parks and recreation
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)
millage, and Clawson voters will decide on a proposed city charter amendment to allow two retail cannabis establishments in the city and a $64.5 million bond to be spent on infrastructure projects.
Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top
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:
goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim except where material is omitted due to personal attacks, items we know to be false, or blatant misrepresentations. Unopposed candidates are listed by name only.
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 66
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. The salary for the position is $71,685.
Democrat
Shawn Almeranti-Crosby
Age: 50
Occupation: Teacher
Municipality of residence: Brandon Township
For how long: 11 Years
Online campaign information: Facebook
Page: Shawn Almeranti-Crosby for Michigan House D-66, www.facebook.com/pro file.php?id=61562578400997
Education: Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University Master’s Degree from Marygrove College
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals are to promote and continue Michigan’s Safe Storage Law. I will also advocate for additional funds to be allocated toward Michigan’s public schools to allow for more counselors and other mental health professionals. I will push for legislation to reduce the current average student to counselor ratio of almost 600 students to 1 counselor. I will push for access to quality health care for all, including reproductive rights for women.
Republican
Joshua Schriver
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
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 of-
fices: 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
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 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.
Oakland County Executive
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for this position is $221,336.
Democrat
David Coulter Age: 64 years
Occupation: Oakland County Executive Municipality of residence: Ferndale
For how long: 33 years
Online campaign information: www.friendsofdavecoulter.com
Education: Bachelor’s Degree Michigan State University, Executive Education Certificate John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Executive 2019-present, Mayor of Ferndale- 20102019, Oakland County Commissioner2002-2010.
Top goals: By working across party lines, I have made balancing the budget and preserving Oakland County’s AAA bond rating 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
Somberg
Campbell
Kniffen
MacDonell
Coulter
McDonald
Election
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.
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 potential fraud activity to secure all Register of Deed property records 24/7.
Reassess online services and the merit of associated fees to improve access to public records. Develop a “NO FEE” policy for all electronic public records NOT subject to statutory exemption.
Oakland County Treasurer
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $170,761.
Democrat
Robert Wittenberg
Age: 43
Occupation: Oakland County Treasurer
Municipality of residence: Huntington Woods
For how long: 29 Years
Online campaign information: www.RobertWittenberg.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Indiana University
Previously and currently held elected offices:
State Representative - 1/1/2015 –12/31/2020
Oakland County Treasurer7/1/2021 - Current
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
ELECTION on page 15A
Wittenberg
Blake
Brown
Pallotta
Farida
Bouchard
Election
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 Online campaign information: Steven-Johnson.com
Education:
• MBA, Masters of Business Administration, Plymouth State University - University System of NH
• Graduate Certificate, Strategic Marketing Management, Plymouth State UniversityUniversity System of NH
• BS Business Management & Economics, SUNY- State University of New York
• Harvard University JFK School, Certificate US Public Policy: Social, Economic, and Foreign Policies
• AS, Associate Degree in Business Management - Oakland Community College + Certificate: Business Entrepreneurship
• AA, Associate Degree in Liberal ArtsOakland Community College
• US Navy training: Advanced Electronics - Data Systems, electricity/electronics, computer systems
Previously and currently held elected offices: No other public office.
Top goals: If elected the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner, I am committed to protecting and being a good steward of our resources.
High-priority items:
• Nanoplastics and Microplastics
• PFAS
• Water Affordability
• Sustainable Water Management Practices
• Enhancing Water Efficiency
• Protecting and Restoring Wetlands
• Safety for non-municipal water residents
– Well and Septic
• Reducing Operational Emissions
• Safe use of fertilizers, chemicals, salt
• Resilient Infrastructure Water, Sewer, Stormwater
• Supporting Renewable Energy Initiatives
• Public Engagement and Education
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 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.
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
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 19
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The annual salary for the position is $45,131 a year.
Democrat
Charlie Cavell
Age: 33
Occupation: Social Worker/County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Ferndale
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: cavell4commission.com
Education: BSW, Wayne State University; MSW, University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: County Commissioner since 2020! Top goals: 1) More funding/programming for vulnerable people in Oakland County for example…Mothers and babies, through a program called RX for Kids
2) Increasing accountability through policymaking… Surveillance Policy, Tax Increment Policy
3) Building trust in government by being available and communicative…call/text anytime 947.500.1144
Republican
Paul Taros
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired Certified Public Accountant
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 27
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61559084051317
Education: MBA from Wayne State University, BBA from the University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: None Top goals: Some people support crony capitalism. See ELECTION on page 16A
Nash
Johnson
Woodward
Wilk
Luebs
Cavell
Taros
Election
They want to give millions of taxpayer dollars to wealthy developers, so they can build low-income housing in neighborhoods over the objections of area residents. I will oppose all crony capitalism and fight to keep Oakland County’s AAA bond rating. Some people foolishly want to end cash bail for nonviolent offenses, while I strongly support law enforcement and want to continue requiring bail for criminal offenses.
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
Top goals: As a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court, Andrew Fink is running to restore our judiciary’s commitment to protecting the will of the people, interpreting the law as it is written, and ensuring everyone receives due process, not just insiders. As a former Marine Corps officer and the son of a police officer, he knows the value of public service and the rule of law and wants to empower those that keep our communities safe.
Kimberly Ann Thomas
Age: 52
Occupation: University of Michigan Law School professor
Municipality of residence: Ann Arbor
For how long: 20 years Online campaign information: https://www.electkimberlythomas.com/
Education: Harvard Law School, magna cum laude, 1999; University of Maryland at College Park, magna cum laude, 1994. Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A.
Top goals: I care deeply about equal justice for all Michiganders. I am an experienced trial and appellate lawyer and a law professor at the University of Michigan Law School, where I teach students the ethical
practice of law and direct the Juvenile Justice Clinic. My background as a law professor and as a lawyer of 25 years gives me the expertise, experience and problem-solving ability that we need on the Michigan Supreme Court.
Michigan Supreme Court Justice — Incumbent Position
Two candidates are running for a partial term ending Jan. 1, 2029. The salary for this position is $181,483.
Kyra Harris Bolden
Age: 36
Occupation: Michigan Supreme Court
Justice
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: Two years, though I have lived my entire life in Michigan. Online campaign information: www.boldenforjustice.com
Education:
B.A. Grand Valley State University
J.D. University of Detroit Mercy
Previously and currently held elected offices:
Michigan State Representative, 35th District, 2019-2023
Michigan Supreme Court Justice, 2023-Present
Top goals: The Michigan Supreme Court has offered a unique opportunity to leverage my experience as a legislature, a litigator, and as a public servant in a single position. Throughout my tenure on the court, I’m proud to have made critical decisions that will help shape what justice looks like for generations to come. My work is not done, which is why I am running for retention.
Patrick William O’Grady
Age: 54
Occupation: 15th Circuit Court Judge
(Branch County Coldwater, MI)
Municipality of residence: Coldwater
For how long: 25 years (Born and raised in Michigan)
Online campaign information: www.judgeogrady4supremecourt.com
Education: Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Juris Doctor, Western Michigan University
Bachelors Business Administration, Michigan State Police Training Academy – Trooper, United States Army Signal Officer Basic Course, Algonac High School, Algonac MI
Previously and currently held elective offices: State of Michigan 15th Circuit Court
Judge elected 2008/2014/2020
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.
Judge of Court of Appeals2nd District, non-incumbent terms
Two candidates are running for this 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 high-quality, 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.
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
ELECTION on page 17A
Bolden
Thomas O’Grady
Ackerman
Willis
Fink
Education: University of Detroit Mercy School of Law from 1994 to 1997: Juris Doctor. Western Michigan University from 1989 to 1993: Bachelor of Science in Political Science (Public Law) and Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Special Victims Unit, the Juvenile Justice Division, the Hate Crimes Unit and the Victim Services Division, my work has involved crimes committed against the most vulnerable individuals in our community. My goal is to bring the same dedication, compassion and fairness that I have displayed as a public servant for the past 27 years to the bench each and every day, as the next Oakland County Circuit Judge.
Nicole Sophia-Calhoun Huddleston
Age: 42
Occupation: Managing Director/Attorney Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Township
For how long: I’ve lived in West Bloomfield for the past 4 years. I previously lived in Southfield for approximately 14 years. Online campaign information: lecthuddlestonforjudge.com
Education: - BA in Communications from Oakland University (1999-2004) - JD from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (2010-2014)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My priorities for this family court seat are: 1.Implementing specialized dockets and support systems to address the needs of individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues. 2. Reducing delays and backlogs by streamlining court procedures and leveraging technology to expedite case management 3. Ensuring fair and equal access to justice for all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. 4. Upholding the law without bias and making decisions based on facts and legal principles
Oakland County Probate Court Judge
Two candidates are running for one non-incumbent position. The salary is $180,741.35.
Daniel A. O’Brien
Age: 68 years
Occupation: Oakland County Probate Judge
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 31 years
Online campaign information: Votejudgeobrien.com
Education: University of Detroit Law School, Juris Doctor - 1988
Michigan Technological University, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering – 1981
University of Detroit High School - 1974
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Probate Judge –January 2009 to the present Top goals: My goal is to continue providing the best service that any Judge can provide to the people of Oakland County. I have provided that same service to Oakland County my entire legal career, first as an Oakland Assistant Prosecutor, then an attorney providing free legal services to needy people, then an Oakland District Court Magistrate, and now an Oakland Probate Judge for 16 years. No candidate is more qualified.
Traci Richards Age: 54
Occupation: Lawyer and Associate Real Estate Broker
Municipality of residence: Village of Franklin
For how long: Since 2012
Online campaign information: TraciRichardsforjudge.com
Education: J.D. University of Michigan, B.S. Florida A & M University, Summa Cum Laude
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My top goal is to provide more transparency. Transparency should be the norm and not the exception. Probate judges should provide a reason when they select professionals over previously designated individuals or family members. People should know what to expect when they go to court in terms of procedures to follow. Instructions should be provided on how to locate free resources about navigating probate cases.
Judge of the 44th District Court, incumbent position
One candidate is running unopposed for one six-year term. The salary for the position is $180,741.35.
Derek W. Meinecke
Running unopposed.
Judge of the 44th District Court, incumbent position, partial term
One candidate is running unopposed for a partial term ending Jan. 1, 2029. The salary for the position is $180,741.35.
Andrew Kowalkowski
Running unopposed.
Royal Oak Schools Board of Education
Four candidates are running unopposed for four four-year terms. Board members do not receive compensation.
Erika Alexander Running unopposed.
Timothy J. Ciechorski Running unopposed.
Maryanne VanHaitsma
Running unopposed.
Matt Wickey
Running unopposed.
Clawson
Public Schools Board of Education
Three candidates are running unopposed for three four-year terms. Compensation is $30 per meeting up to 23 meetings per year.
Michael A. Frink
Running unopposed.
Angela Hamilton
Running unopposed.
Joseph Savel Running unopposed.
Clawson Public Schools Board of Education partial term
One candidate is running unopposed for a partial term ending Dec. 31, 2026. Compensation is $30 per meeting up to 23 meetings per year.
Jacqueline Stanley Running unopposed.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Millage
The Oakland County Parks System includes 17 park locations with nearly 7,200 acres of public park and recreational lands, 80 miles of trails, campgrounds, dog parks, golf courses, aquatic recreation facilities, and nature education centers. To continue
to provide revenue to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, shall the current millage, which has been reduced by required rollback, be replaced, and increased to .65 mills for 20 years from 2024 to 2043, The .65 mills is equal to 65 cents per $1,000.00 of taxable value. The millage, if approved and levied, shall generate approximately $52,191,139 in 2024. The purpose of the millage is to expand, improve, operate, maintain, and acquire parks, recreational facilities, open spaces, lakes, rivers,water areas, and trailways; to support nature education, recreational, and outdoor educational and health programming; to support partnerships for access to and awareness of recreational lands and facilities; to promote the conservation and restoration of high-quality natural and wildlife habitats; and to allow free general park admission to all county parks for residents. Revenue from this millage shall be disbursed only to the County of Oakland to be used solely for the purpose of funding the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and shall be subject to oversight by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and to an independent audit.
Should the proposal be adopted?
Proposed Clawson City Charter Amendment
This proposed charter amendment, if adopted, would establish an application process, selection criteria, licenses, fees, and regulations for two adult use retail cannabis establishments in the City.
Shall The Proposal be Adopted?
Clawson Infrastructure Improvement Bond
Shall the City of Clawson, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Sixty-Four Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($64,500,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds, in one or more series, payable in not to exceed twenty-one (21) years from the date of issuance, for the purpose of paying all or part of the costs to acquire, construct, reconstruct and improve infrastructure for the City, including road and street improvements, water main replacements and improvements, sanitary sewer improvements, and storm sewer improvements, together with all related site improvements? The estimated millage to be levied in 2025 is 3.50 mills ($3.50 per $1,000 of taxable value) and the estimated simple average annual millage rate required to retire the bonds is 5.26 mills ($5.26 per $1,000 of taxable value).
Dare
Sophia-Calhoun
Huddleston
O’Brien
Richards
Soccer
from page 4A
It’s about making multiple passes, working your way up the field, and finding the open man and making the pass when needed.
“It’s knowing when to go and when to take it back and figure out what you can work with,” junior goalkeeper Sean Murphy said. “It’s a little more passive, but not too passive because it works. With high school, there’s a lot of long ball after long ball, like a kickball style. We play more tic-tac and build up.”
Murphy, a returning all-league player, headlines a Shrine back line, alongside junior Josh Mackey, junior Aidan Malloy, and sophomore Jack Rice, that’s totaled nine clean sheets this season and is one of the many reasons Shrine took a 7-9-2 regular season in 2023 and flipped the script on the entire Catholic High School League Intersectional 2, finishing 11-1-3, capturing the league title, and being ranked No. 2 in Division 4 soccer. Senior Thomas Jablonski has also contributed to the defense.
The Knights opened up their season with a quick 2-0 win over Clarkston Everest Collegiate, who finished a game back of first place in the league. Shrine and Everest would tie later on in the season, but who knew Shrine’s seasonopening win would end up being the difference maker in the division?
Soma and company’s three straight wins to open the 2024 campaign against Everest, Madison Heights Bishop Foley, who eliminated Shrine from the state tournament last year, and North Muskegon, who finished 12-4-2 on the year, and is ranked No. 6 in Division 4, skyrocketed the team’s confidence.
“Starting out the year beating Everest, that’s a pretty big win because they always have a good team and are always very physical, so it was nice to beat them right out of the gate to gain some confidence,” Murphy said. “North Muskegon, that’s a good team and it was a great game we were able to pull out.”
While the back line has done its job this season, the constant attack effort led by returning all-Catholic players
CJ Soma (junior) and Adam Imai (junior) has led to a Shrine offense that averages nearly four goals per game, including seven games of four or more goals. Junior Caden Whitbeck has also paced the offensive effort.
But even in a game against Hillsdale Academy, currently 10-3-3 on the year, where Shrine was missing seven players, guys like Anthony Soma (freshman), Will Bernacki (freshman) and Zander Kryzanswki (sophomore) stepped up to help force a 1-1 tie. That kind of depth and mentality has elevated Shrine to the team it is right now.
“We’re a lot more well-rounded team,” Murphy said. “We have players up top, in the middle, in the back, so that helps with just being able to trust your guy next to you.”
Shrine was unbeaten prior to its CHSL Cardinal Championship match against Detroit Cristo Rey, who bested the Knights 2-0 to win its first-ever division title.
It’s a tough loss to suffer right before the state tournament begins, but don’t be quick to call it a negative for a Shrine team that just might have needed a tally in the loss column.
“It proves we’re not invincible,” CJ Soma said. “We never really thought we were, but from our standpoint the
toughest opponent we probably played was Everest and (North) Muskegon, and those two were tough. The games were always tough, but not as much as those two. Then (Detroit) Cristo Rey came in, who is really good and really high ranked.”
Shrine will host the winner of Novi Christian Academy and West Bloomfield Frankel Jewish Academy, who Shrine is 2-0 against this season and has outscored 11-0, on Oct. 15 in the district semifinals.
Prior to the state tournament, Shrine tacked on some additional achievements with CJ Soma, Imai, Whitbeck, and Mackey earning all-Catholic honors while Jablonski, Murphy, Rice and senior Jackson Poulton earned all-league honors. Senior Carmine Copp earned all-academic honors as well.
Shrine has had a tough go in districts the past few seasons, last reaching regionals in 2020, but the mindset is different for this Knights’ squad.
“It’s just about pulling it together and proving we’re a good team,” Murphy said. “It’s a get-back year.”
Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 4981090.
Photo provided by Anne Whitbeck
Royal Oak Shrine Catholic huddles up before a matchup this season.
CRIME WATCH
Items stolen from car
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 5 p.m. Sept. 21 and 9 a.m. Sept. 22, an unknown person stole a camping chair and other property from the complainant’s unlocked car near Woodward Avenue and 12 Mile Road.
Package stolen
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that at noon Sept 23, an unknown person stole a package from the complainant’s front porch near Marywood Drive and West Derby Avenue.
Cash register taken from Best Cleaners
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 5:30 and 6 p.m. Sept. 19, an unknown person stole a cash register from the Best Cleaners at 32974 Woodward Ave.
Two separate wallets stolen from locked lockers at LA Fitness
ROYAL OAK — Two complainants reported that between 5 and 6:45 a.m. Sept. 25, an unknown person cut the locks off the complainants’ lockers and stole both of the complainants’ wallets at the LA Fitness at 25352 Woodward Ave.
Graffiti found in parking structure
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 7 p.m. Sept. 22 and 12:30 a.m. Sept. 23, an unknown person painted graffiti in multiple areas of the parking structure at 212 S. Center St.
— Taylor Christensen
Te Ultimate Health Check-Up:
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Te Full-Body MRI Revolution
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Is it Right for You?
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want the ultimate peace of mind, then YES, a full-body MRI could be the most important decision you make this year. It’s not just for the privileged few; it’s a health resource available to those willing to make a proactive investment in their well-being, ofering peace of mind and early detection opportunities.
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Robert B., age 50, did just that. He opted for a full-body scan from Bionicc Body Screening, and a very small kidney tumor was detected that had been missed by a recent CT scan. “It saved my life,” he said. “I cannot recommend this service more.”
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Royal Oak prepares for 41st annual Spooktacular
event
ROYAL OAK — The annual Spooktacular is coming back to Royal Oak for its 41st edition from 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 20 in downtown Royal Oak and Centennial Commons at 204 S. Troy St.
The event is free of charge and will include trick-or-treating, entertainment, face painting, a costume contest and more.
From 1 to 4 p.m. will be trick-or-treating, and children, parents and caregivers are encouraged to dress up for the occasion. Attendees must bring their own trick-or-treat bag.
There will be a map of the trick-or-treat trail located at the Greater Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce booth in Centennial Commons. From 2 to 5 p.m., the other events will begin in Centennial Commons.
There will be a costume parade and contest with prizes sponsored by Genisys Credit Union, which will take place in Centennial
Mural
from page 6A
ral will be located on the Noir Leather building at 124 W. Fourth St.
The artists involved had to go through an approval process by submitting a proposal, including a rendering of the mural, by Sept. 3.
Both artists, Amadeus Roy and Sean Graham, had their proposed murals approved through this process by the DDA on Sept. 18. On Sept. 23, they were seeking final approval by the City Commission to begin painting.
The murals are funded completely by the Royal Oak Downtown Development Authority.
Roy’s mural, titled “Inflection Point,” will be painted alongside the Cacao Tree Cafe. Roy said at the commission meeting that his work is often surrealist and abstract art. Roy has been a resident of Royal Oak for approximately four years. It has an installation cost of $8,364.50.
“It captures two abstracted mountainscapes with my character The Nomad who I use to capture the storytelling of the human experience. ... It (the figure) is more a depiction of overall humanity,” Roy said. “This is kind of telling the point of the hero’s journey where it’s a leap of faith, where you really bank on your own skills and knowledge and take a step towards whatever change you are pushing.”
Roy said at the meeting that he is trying to portray positivity through his art and catch the viewer’s attention by using vibrant colors like purples and pinks.
“I am excited to do this project,” he said.
Commons at 4:30 p.m. The sign-up location for the contest will be at the chamber booth.
Royal Oak Historical Society to have 83rd annual dinner
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Historical Society will be hosting its 83rd annual dinner from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Royal Oak First United Methodist Church at 320 W. Seventh St., at Washington Avenue.
At 6 p.m. there will be a social hour, and starting at 7 p.m. will be dinner, awards and trivia.
To be entered into a drawing to win a $50 gift card to Frentz & Sons Hardware, bring a donation of socks, athletic shoes, mens hoodies, mens sweatpants, backpacks, duffel bags, fruit cups, snack chips, deodorant, razors or shaving cream.
People interested in the drawing can also donate cash to Outreach on 7th to be entered.
Tickets cost $40 and can be purchased at royaloakhistoricalsociety.com. Parking is free in the church’s lot on Lafayette Avenue west of the church.
— Taylor Christensen
Graham will be painting a mural on the side of Noir Leather and said his design is an homage to the history of Royal Oak. He mentioned that he does not live in Royal Oak but has been coming to the downtown area since 1987. It has an installation cost of $21,399.
“It’s my homage to Royal Oak’s past — I have been coming here since 1987 — and then looking forward to the future, I wanted to make it futuristic,” he said at the meeting. “It’s a great honor to even be considered for this, and I’m really excited about it.”
City Commissioner Brandon Kolo said that because the cost and design for these murals was approved, the artists will begin painting as soon as possible, if the weather permits. The goal is to have these completed in time for the holiday season.
There are three more spots in the downtown area awaiting the approval of the City Commission in the next few weeks.
The three other locations are at The Rock on Third, at 112 E. Third St.; Henry Ford Health Care at 110 E. Second St.; and Yogurt City at 122 S. Main St.
“I think this is a great program and I thought these two pieces were stunning. I really loved the color and they just seem very forward thinking to me, so I really like that,” Commissioner Rebecca Cheezum said. “I did have the thought that people riding on the Amtrak from Pontiac to Chicago will go right by these beautiful murals and they will be so striking to the people on the train, so we are making a little bit of a better railway experience there.”
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
City manager
page 1A
“Many of those were significantly wellqualified folks, and that, I think, is a reflection of the interest in the position,” Wollenweber said. “I think this is a great place to work.”
The candidates were given questionnaires that included different values, characteristics and skill sets that the City Commission would be looking for in a city manager, according to Wollenweber.
“I thought it was a good process,” Wollenweber said. “So far we have had qualified candidates that they’ve selected from the dozen or so that the consultant felt could be really qualified to do the job.”
The press release states that the city looked for candidates who have skills and qualities in effective communication, financial acumen, the ability to build strong organizational cultures, operational innovation and accountability.
Gacioch is currently serving as the Ferndale city manager. Gacioch is a credentialed manager under the International City/ County Management Association. He is active with the Michigan Municipal Executives, where he serves on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.
During his tenure as Ferndale’s city manager, which began in 2019, Gacioch oversaw the development of the city’s first climate action plan.
Stephens is a “seasoned government administration professional,” according to the release. He has been serving as the deputy mayor of Pontiac since 2022.
Stephens has experience at local, county and state levels and has strong community and economic development experience, according to the release. He also holds an economic development finance professional certification, serves on the Michigan Municipal League Board of Trustees and is active in multiple professional and nonprofit organizations. He is also a finalist for the city manager job in Berkley. Berkley planned to interview finalists Oct. 1 and to make a decision Oct. 7, after press time.
Tungate is a credentialed city manager through the International City/County Management Association. He is also certified in ‘Leading with Excellence,’ according to the press release.
Tungate has served as the city manager of Oak Park since 2012 and prides himself on being “an exceptional communicator and collaborator with the ability to implement change,” the release states.
Tungate has a human resources senior
certified professional certification and was named Public Service Executive of the year by the American Society for Public Administration Detroit Chapter.
Following the interviews Oct. 12, the City Commission will choose a candidate to be the next city manager in around a week, according to Wollenweber. The candidate will go through a comprehensive background check and reference check, he said.
“We are fortunate to have attracted
such highly qualified professionals to our amazing community,” Royal Oak Mayor Michael Fournier said in the press release.
“The City Commission and I are looking forward to a robust process to ensure we find the best candidate to lead our organization and support an elected body focused on developing a new strategic direction built upon community principles.”
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
Photo provided by Judy Davids
The Royal Oak City Commission has chosen three finalists for the position of city manager. At 12:30 p.m. Oct. 12, the City Commission will publicly interview Joseph Gacioch, Khalfani Stephens and Erik Tungate at City Hall, 203 S. Troy St.
states that all student members will be voting members unless the commission determines that a particular student’s appointment to a board or commission is non-voting,” the document states.
The document also states that there are only to be two student members appointed to a board or commission at any given time, as discussed by the City Commission.
The term of student appointments will be the duration of the school year and will end at the start of summer.
“The membership changes the composition of the board during the term of the student’s time on the board,” City Attorney Niccolas Grochowski said at the meeting. “It coincides with their school year.”
City Commissioner Melanie Macey said that she is pleased with the rewriting of the proposal.
“This is a very elegantly crafted solution, I love that it is flexible and works for all of these boards,” Macey said.
Commissioner Amanda Herzog agreed with Macey, saying that having the students vote enhances their time as board members and gives them an opportunity to voice their opinions.
In a meeting that took place Aug. 26, the commissioners had an in-depth discussion on what allowing student members of boards to vote would look like.
Macey was in favor of the idea on Aug. 26, saying that it seemed “unfair” to have students on the boards while not allowing them to vote.
“There are some very capable, smart kids, and those are the ones who are coming forward and saying, ‘I want to help my community by serving on these boards,’” she said. “Once they are there (on the boards), it feels really unfair to say, “Your voice counts, but not as much as everyone else’s.’”
Commissioner Brandon Kolo said Aug. 26 that allowing students to vote adds a different perspective that can help bring additions to the city for younger generations.
“If we don’t actually have youth engaging in what we are talking about and looking at the best way to make these decisions, you know, they are the future and really can add a new multigenerational voice to how we grow and improve our city,” Kolo said.
On Sept. 23, Mayor Michael Fournier voted no on the motion. He said he has a few reservations about allowing students to have this voting member power.
At the Aug. 26 meeting, Fournier went more into detail about why he did not 100% support the idea, saying that it’s not a matter of maturity, but a matter of protecting the students from consequences that can come from being a voting member.
“I can only imagine a 14-, 15-, 16-year-old kid having a discussion about what books should or should not be put in the library and having folks try to persuade that individual, and I think that is a concern to me,” he said. “For me, it is not an issue of maturity or competency; it’s more of a concern of unfortunately in today’s political climate there are aggressors out there that challenge anybody who votes.”
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
Bond
from page 3A
ments, and sewer improvements, addressing critical infrastructure needs that surpass the city’s annual budget,” the city states in information posted on its website, cityofclawson. com.
If approved, construction and maintenance is expected to begin as early as 2025, according to the information provided about the bond on the Clawson website.
The city also states that by coordinating road work with sewer inspections and repairs, the city will be minimizing distractions that can occur while projects are happening.
Along with the infrastructure improvements, the bond would be providing funding for a closed-circuit television program that will clean and inspect the municipal sewer mains.
This would mean a camera would be put into “every foot of our city-wide system to document its condition,” according to the website. The cleaning would remove roots and other blockages in the sewer system.
In a sewer project conducted on Elmsford Drive, the CCTV system was used and “showcased the abilities of CCTV cameras in monitoring stormwater sewer systems. It also demonstrates the effectiveness of sewer cleaning operations,” the city states on its website.
According to the “Bond Proposal FAQ’s” section on the website, the improvements could lead to the boosting of property values, economic growth, safety and quality of life for residents.
“Improvements could include decreased flooding and sewer backup, improved water pressure, and the reconstruction or re-paving of damaged and deteriorated roads,” the document states.
During the June 4, 2024, City Council meeting, the council approved the bond language for the Nov. 5 general election in a 5-1 vote.
The council was tasked with choosing one of three options for a bond proposal. The gold bond was the biggest amount with $64.5 million, the silver bond was for $56 million, and the bronze option featured a bond in the amount of $46 million.
Council member Susan Moffitt said at the June 4 meeting that she did not think it was a good idea to approve the gold bond.
“I think the gold is too aggressive, and I have talked to people in the community who said that they would not vote for it — they would support something lesser,” Moffitt said. “I think it’s tone-deaf to go for the gold.”
Council member Glenn Shepard said he had heard the opposite response from residents.
“There may be something down the line that we won’t be able to get all of this done because of all the financial costs that are going to occur,” Shepard said. “So I would like to get the gold now and see how much we can cover.”
Mayor Paula Millan said at the meeting that the best decision would be to choose the gold plan to provide the people of Clawson with a plan that she hopes will complete all the improvements the city needs.
“I think we owe it to the residents to come up with a plan that will get the most done, and to keep us on track,” Millan said. “Let’s give people confidence that we are going to take care of as much as we can.”
Clawson residents looking for more information on the infrastructure improvement bond can find it at cityofclawson.com/top_ alert_detail.php. That link also includes a tax calculator and an infrastructure priority list.
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Fall Fest
said. “There is so much to do in the fall, and we wanted to think about how we can differentiate ourselves and get guests excited to come to something new at the zoo.”
Senior Director of Guest Experience Emily O’Hara said that the journey is fun for all ages.
“It’s meant to add an additional experience that if you have older children or if you have a family with a lot of mixed age groups, all of them can still come and enjoy,” O’Hara said.
The Jack-O’-Lantern Journey is a trail of illuminated pumpkin sculptures featuring animal scenes, fan-favorite characters, and more, according to detroitzoo.org.
“The zoo is absolutely beautiful during the fall, and when you add in these displays that you can see during the day really come to life at night, it’s just a really special time to come to the zoo in the fall,” Gregg said. “I think there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
There are no lights inside of any of the enclosures to keep the animals safe and comfortable during their sleeping hours, but O’Hara said the night is the perfect time to visit the beavers, who are a nocturnal species.
“They have been known as kind of the elusive species, and for years folks have said, ‘I’ve never seen the beavers,’ and we always say, ‘Come to one of our evening events,’” she said. “We make sure to keep animal well-being in mind when setting up events like these.”
Jack-O’-Lantern Journey will be open from 5 to 10 p.m. Oct. 25, 26 and 27. There are a range of ticket options starting at $19 for Detroit Zoological Society members.
Along with the pathway of Halloween lights, the Detroit Zoo will continue its Halloween traditions throughout October during the Fall Fest.
The Fall Fest includes fall decor, festive food and beverages, themed education stations, animal enrichments, and more.
The annual Zoo Boo event will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 18, and 2 to 9 p.m. Oct. 12, 13 and 19. It provides families with an opportunity to dress up and trick or treat all while enjoying the animals at the zoo.
During the Zoo Boo there is entertainment, face painting, photo opportunities, educational stations and Blake’s Market that has everything fall. Tickets can be found on the zoo’s website.
Fall-themed animal engagements are daily occurrences included with zoo admission.
Fall-themed engagement activities can include training, special enrichment objects, treats and more. They encourage species-typical behaviors, according to the Detroit Zoo’s website.
“It’s also a great time to come check out some of the animals who maybe folks haven’t seen yet. So there is a baby gorilla who lives at the zoo now, and we want folks to know that we are open for most of the year,” O’Hara said.
For more information on all the Fall Fest activities and tickets, visit detroitzoo.org.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
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 Erin Sanchez
Displays at the Detroit Zoo Jack-O-Lantern Journey can be enjoyed throughout the day, but the light show is open from 5 to 10 p.m. Oct. 25, 26 and 27.
Photo by Brian Kurtz
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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
third Wednesday, and writing group meets 6-7:30 p.m. every fourth Wednesday, Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, clawson.lib.mi.us
709 N. Washington Ave., royaloakorchestra. org
OCT. 19
Clawson Comic Book and Toy Show: Also meet horror artist Steve Bejma, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Knights of Columbus Father Lynch Council 4188, 870 N. Main St.
OCT. 22
Royal Oak/Ferndale Senior Expo: Connect with dozens of organizations specializing in assistance and care, also free health screenings, prizes, giveaways and refreshments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, seniorexpousa.com
ONGOING Farmers markets: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, also antiques and collectibles 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays, 316 E. 11 Mile Road in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3276, more on Facebook
Fall color walks: 2 p.m. Oct. 20 and Nov. 3 (Cummingston Park, park and meet at intersection of Torquay and Leafdale), and Oct. 27 and Nov. 10 (Tenhave Woods, park at Marais/Lexington lot and meet at Lexington entrance), also mushroom walk at 10 a.m. Oct. 26 (Tenhave Woods), all in Royal Oak, romi.gov/411/Nature-Walks
Car shows: 4-8 p.m. Mondays through October, Old Port Family Restaurant, 278 E. 14 Mile Road in Clawson, (248) 588-2660
Harmony United Chorus: Open rehearsals for men’s Barbershop-style group, 7-9 p.m. every Tuesday, choir room at Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., greaterdetroit.org
Monthly groups: Find book clubs for horror fans, kids, LGBTQIA+ and more, Royal Oak Public Library, 222 E. 11 Mile Road, (248) 246-3700, romi.gov/1532/library
• STEM and electronics hobbyists meet 6-7:30 p.m. every first Wednesday, book club meets 1-2 p.m. every
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 man
OCT. 12
Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival: Pumpkin carving, pumpkin bowling, live entertainment, crafts, food, cider and doughnuts, professional pumpkin carving display and more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., also see pumpkins lit 7-9 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, Eventbrite Haunted Hazel Park: Halloween art fair, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Green Acres Park, 620 W. Woodward Heights Blvd., facebook.com/CityofHP
OCT. 13
‘The Grown-Ups’: 8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays and 3 p.m. Sundays Oct. 11-Nov. 4, Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQIA+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, theringwald.com
‘Puffs’: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Oct. 11-13, 18-20 and 25-26, St. Dunstan’s Theatre, 400 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills, www.St DunstansTheatre.com
‘Next to Normal’: Performance by Birmingham Village Players, 8-10:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2-4:30 p.m. Sundays Oct. 25-27, Nov. 1-3 and Nov. 7-10, 34660 Woodward Ave., birminghamvillageplayers.com
‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Oct. 25-Nov. 9, also 2 p.m. Nov. 9, Rosedale Community Players inside Peace Lutheran Church, 17029 W. 13 Mile Road in Southfield, see showtimes at rosedalecommunityplayers.com
Bingo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. every first Friday of month, Mahany/Meininger Senior Community Center, 3500 Marais Ave. in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3900
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 9:30 a.m. every second and fourth Wednesday of month, The Avenue Family Restaurant, 31253 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak, RSVP to Marilyn at (248) 543-1018
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), City of Clawson, 425 Main St., (248) 589-0334, and Mahany/Meininger Senior Community Center, 3500 Marais Ave. in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3900
To view more events and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise, call (586) 498-8000.
BeWitched & BeDazzled: Hosted by Meadow Brook Theatre Guild with mistress of ceremonies Karen Carter (meteorologist at CBS News Detroit and Detroit 50), includes luncheon, vendors, caricaturist, psychic readers, photo booth, costume contest, raffles, silent auction and door prizes, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Petruzzello’s Banquet and Conference Center, 6950 Rochester Road in Troy, www.meadowbrook theatreguild.com/bewitched-bedazzled
OCT. 18
Historical Haunts Strolling Dinner: Also live music and silent auction at former century-old home of auto baron, 6:30-10 p.m., Chalmers Estate, 5263 Franklin Road in Bloomfield Township, event hosted by Preservation Bloomfield in support of Barton Farmhouse and Craig Log Cabin at Bowers School Farm, RSVP at preservationbloomfield.org/events
OCT. 19
Masquerade at the Museum: Strolling fundraiser featuring seasonal snack stations, costume contest, scavenger hunt and drink ticket, make mask on site or bring own, 7-11 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, www. rochesterhills.org/news_detail_T9_R366.php
Boo Bash: Crafts, games, trick-or-treating for ages 2-12 and live DJ, 1-4 p.m., also hayrides until 3:30 p.m., costumes encouraged, Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, bit.ly/SfldBooBash24
OCT. 24
Spooky Spaghetti Dinner: Hosted by Royal Oak Woman’s Club with proceeds supporting scholarships for local students, Halloween-themed event includes all-you-can-eat pasta, plus salad, garlic bread, drinks and dessert, 4:30-7 p.m., 404 S. Pleasant St. in Royal Oak, rowc.org/events
OCT. 25
Trunk or treat: 6-8 p.m., Corewell Health William Beaumont
Photo by Brandy Joe Plambeck