3A
Voters narrowly approve site sinking fund for Madison Schools
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
MADISON HEIGHTS — When voters were asked in the general election Nov. 5 whether taxes should be raised to help maintain infrastructure in the district, a slim majority said “Yes.”
The proposal was for a building and site sinking fund that would raise their taxes by 3 mills for a period of 10 years. According to unofficial election results from Oakland County, as of press time Nov. 6, 52.88% of voters approved the measure (2,812 votes), while 47.12% of voters were against it (2,506 votes).
With its approval, the district will be authorized to levy an additional $3 per $1,000 of taxable valuation on homes in the district from Dec. 1, 2024, through Dec. 1, 2034.
The millage will provide estimated revenues of $1,005,508 during the first year. The funds cannot be used
See SINKING FUND on page 13A
Voters favor incumbents in Oakland County races
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
OAKLAND COUNTY — In Oakland County, current officeholders ranging from the county executive to the sheriff and more held onto their seats in the general election Nov. 5.
Oakland County executive
Two candidates were on the ballot for a four-year
term as the county executive. The salary for this position is $221,336.
The Democratic incumbent, David Coulter, won with 416,742 votes (56.68%).
His Republican opponent, Nik Gjonaj, received 317,444 votes (43.18%).
There were 1,051 unassigned write-ins, accounting for 0.14%.
Coulter, 64, has been the Oakland County executive
See ELECTION on page 8A
Sonja Baldwin-Siegmann, chair of Precinct 2 in Madison Heights, consults with poll worker Linda Corbett, seated, as voters line up inside Wilkinson Middle School during the election Nov. 5.
Photo by Liz Carnegie
Fiber arts group creates tight knit community
BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Fiber arts help soothe the mind, and, in this group, they bring people together and create a sense of community.
Amy Romanoski, a founding member of the group, said she started the original Facebook page, Macomb Area Yarn Addicts, after a not-so-great experience with another similar page. Since its creation in 2018, the group grew from around 40 members to 120.
The fiber arts group at the Clinton-Macomb Public Library welcomes all kinds of arts. Members crochet, knit, needle point, spin yarn and much more.
The Sterling Heights Fiber Frolic at the Sterling Heights Public Library is called the Knit and Crochet Meetup. The group used to meet at the main branch of the library, but they temporarily meet at the South Branch.
“It’s a neighborhood group. Everybody meets here,” Romanoski said.
Romanoski was working on a project that used Tunisian crochet, but she said she personally prefers regular crocheting. She said they engage the community by bringing in excess mate-
See FIBER ARTS on page 12A
Members work on their individual projects in a group. They help each other and have fun as well.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
City Hall conference room named after Lindell Ross
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
MADISON HEIGHTS — Today, Madison Heights residents enjoy cleaner air, safer roads and more green space thanks in part to Lindell “Lin” Ross. The former City Council member helped shut down a trash incinerator, pushed for five lanes on 13 Mile Road instead of four, and rescued Suarez Friendship Woods from development into homes.
Now, his name adorns a plaque outside the executive conference room at Madison Heights City Hall, located at 300 W. 13 Mile Road. The room is where officials study sensitive issues before they vote in the council chambers.
Ross, 85, was there Oct. 28 at a dedication ceremony in his honor. The room was packed to capacity with current council and staff, as well as family, friends and neighbors.
Ross still lives in Madison Heights and served on the council for 15 years: 1977-81 and 1982-93, including six years as mayor pro tem. He resigned in 1993 to run for mayor — a step that is no longer
Bill extends free state park access to partially disabled veterans
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
HAZEL PARK/MADISON HEIGHTS — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed into law a new bill that will expand eligibility for the disabled veteran registration plate. Now, service members with 50% disability or higher are
eligible. Before, it was limited only to those with 100% disability.
The measure, House Bill 5127, was signed into law Oct.
29. It was introduced by state Rep. Mike McFall, D-Hazel Park, who now serves the newly redistricted District 14. The benefits of the registration plate are twofold. First, there is an element of respect: the plate signals the veteran’s service and sacrifice, inviting others to treat them with dignity. But more tangibly, it also provides disabled veterans with
BELOW: Lindell “Lin” Ross, middle, a former council member for Madison Heights, was honored at City Hall Oct. 28 in the executive conference room, which has been renamed after him. LEFT: A plaque outside the door to the conference room commemorates the dedication.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
See BILL on page 7A
Voters choose trustees for HPPS Board of Education
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
HAZEL PARK — During the Nov. 5 general election, eight candidates competed for four seats on the Hazel Park Public Schools Board of Education.
The winners were April Beaton, in first with 3,839 votes (20.33%); Heidi Fortress, in second with 2,948 votes (15.61%); Darrin Fox, in third with 2,338 votes (12.38%); and Nathan Becker, in fourth with 2,296 votes (12.16%).
Coming up short were Chris Johnston with 2,267 votes (12.01%), Ryan Bischoff with 1,852 votes (9.81%), Dennis Whittie with 1,766 votes (9.35%), and Charles Hemple with 1,431 votes (7.58%). There were also 145 unassigned write-ins, accounting for 0.77%.
The board members are paid $45 per meeting, according to the superintendent, Amy Kruppe.
Beaton, an incumbent, was previously elected to serve on the board to fill a vacated seat from May 2024 through December 2024. She has lived in Hazel Park for seven years. She is employed as a grant manager.
In an email Nov. 6, Beaton said, “I am honored to have earned such overwhelming trust and support of Hazel Park and Ferndale voters! I’m excited to continue serving on the board, and firmly believe we have what Hazel
Park students need — a shared commitment to the future of our students. My involvement in schools began with advocating for my own children, and I promise Hazel Park parents I will do the same for theirs. Public education is at a crossroads, but I will never stop believing in every child’s right to a fair and equitable education, and will work to ensure every child has the opportunities they need to thrive.”
Fortress, 52, is an incumbent. She is a lifelong resident of Hazel Park and is employed as a corporate accountant. She has served on the school board since 2020. She said in her election profile that transparency, honesty and accountability are crucial to an effective school board.
“We need to provide safe learning experiences for all students while supporting our staff with a voice and needed classroom resources,” Fortress said previously. “Meaningful discussions should incorporate the past, present, and most importantly, the future. I believe in asking bigger questions, and probe challenges and opportunities before taking action.”
Fox, 57, has been a resident of Hazel Park for more than 50 years. He is a network security administrator retired from the school district. In his election profile, he said he wants the district to improve academic performance, address absenteeism, and ensure transparency in decision-making.
Voters cast their ballots Nov. 5 inside the Hazel Park Community Center.
Photo by Liz Carnegie
NEWS & NOTES
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
NOV. 16
Chic and Unique Vintage Market: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sports & Expo Center, Building P on Macomb Community College - South Campus, 14500 E. 12 Mile Road in Warren, (734) 250-2328, chicanduniquemi.com
NOV. 17
Michigan Psychic Fair: Readings, guidance, energy healings, connections with deceased loved ones and more, noon-6 p.m., Crimson Commuter, 28736 John R Road in Madison Heights, michiganpsychicfair@gmail.com, mipsychicfair.com/events
NOV. 19
EXPLORE MICHIGAN’S
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
MADISON HEIGHTS — The Red Oaks Nature Center at Suarez Friendship Woods, located at 30300 Hales St. in Madison Heights, will hold a program about Michigan’s Native American heritage from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. There will be a storytelling session, a traditional craft, and discussions about Indigenous perspectives on land stewardship and conservation, followed by a guided hike through the woods.
The program is suitable for all ages and costs $5 per person. Preregistration with payment is required by calling (248) 858-0916 weekdays or (248) 585-0100 during nature center hours.
OPEN HOUSE AT HERITAGE ROOMS
MADISON HEIGHTS — The Madison Heights Historical Commission will hold an open house at the city’s historical museum, known as the Heritage Rooms, from 10 a.m. to noon (or later, depending on the turnout) on Saturday, Nov. 16. The Heritage Rooms are located on the lower level of Madison Heights City Hall, 300 West 13 Mile Road.
As always, admission is free. Visitors access the rooms from the elevator door located at the northwest corner of City Hall. The rooms are handicapped accessible, and a wheelchair is available.
Mindfulness for holidays: Learn to stress less during season of joy, 11 a.m.-noon, Madison Heights Active Adult Center, 260 W. 13 Mile Road, call Jennifer at (248) 545-3464
‘Super Mario’ Mania: Crafts and activities as part of monthly Tinker Tuesday program, 6 p.m., Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, (248) 588-7763, madison-heights.org/library
NOV. 25
Tree lighting: Also cookies and hot cocoa, 6-7:30 p.m., Madison Heights Civic Center Plaza, 300 W. 13 Mile Road, madison-heights. org/2017/annual-tree-lighting DEC. 14
Santa visit: Crafts, snacks and photos, 1-3 p.m., Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, (248) 546-4095, hpmlibrary@gmail. com, hazel-park.lib.mi.us
ONGOING
Social clubs: Ham Radio (7:30-9 p.m. every second Wednesday of month), Stitch & Knit (4-6 p.m. every first Thursday of Month), Lego/Pokémon (6:30-7:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of month) and various book groups, Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, (248) 546-4095, hpmlibrary@gmail.com, hazel-park.lib.mi.us
Senior Storytelling: Discuss topics with others, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays until Nov. 27, Hazel Park Recreation Center, 620 W. Woodward Heights Blvd., (248) 547-5535
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar.
Fun Fridays: Games, crafts, snacks and movies, 3 p.m. every Friday (except day after Thanksgiving), Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, (248) 546-4095, hpmlibrary@gmail.com, hazelpark.lib.mi.us
Hazel Park Garden Club: Workshops and events include Putting the Garden to Bed (Nov. 13) and Bug and Bat Houses (Nov. 27), noon, Hazel Park Community Center, 620 W. Woodward Heights, (248) 546-7000, facebook.com/HPBeautification
Senior card playing: Noon-3 p.m. every Monday and Thursday, Hazel Park Community Center, 620 W. Woodward Heights, (248) 547-5535, facebook.com/CityofHP
Book clubs: Mind Readers (discussions of self-improvement through self-help books and narrative nonfiction), LitWits (general club for avid readers), Novels & Neighbors (focuses on range of viewpoints and life experiences) and Golden Bookworms (for ages 50 and older), Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, find times, dates and more at madison-heights.org/1907/ Book-Clubs
Speaker Series: Hear from bestselling authors and thought leaders, topics include “On Childhood Migration from Central America” (4 p.m. Nov. 14), “Native Rights and Culture in Fiction” (7 p.m. Nov. 20), “Unearthed: Exploring the Smithsonian National Gem Collection” (2 p.m. Dec. 4) and “On Pulse-Pounding, Family Driven Mysteries” (2 p.m. Dec. 11), Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, registration required, (248) 588-7763, libraryc.org/ mhlibrary/upcoming
Wild Lights: Millions of lights,500-plus displays, interactive wishing tree, seasonal drinks, food and treats, warming stations with live entertainment, and more, select dates and times Nov. 23-Jan. 5, Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, dzoo.org/ wildlights
‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’: Performance by Stagecrafters Main Stage, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Nov. 22-24 and 29-30 and Dec. 1, 5-8 and 12-15, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in Royal Oak, stagecrafters.org
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Volunteering an option for those seeking to bond with animals
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — For those who seek to build bonds with animals, getting a pet is one way to go. But not everyone has the time or space to commit to a furry friend for years.
For those whose love of animals runs against their time or spatial commitments, volunteering may be a better approach.
Volunteering at an animal shelter is one way to help a variety of animals. At shelters like the one operated by Macomb County Animal Control, volunteers are able to work with or for the benefit of animals in many roles including working at adoption events, photographing pets, grooming animals, walking dogs, taking part in the feline friends group and helping greet people as they arrive.
“For people who can’t have an animal at home, I think it is the best of both worlds here because it is really hands-on,” Macomb County Animal Control operations assistant Lori Hampton said. “You can take dogs for a
walk. You can help with enrichment. There are so many opportunities here that are just like owning a pet at home.”
Volunteers tend to vary in the pet-owning backgrounds, ranging from those who have never owned an animal to those who have spent their whole lives around them. Volunteering at the shelter allows people to interact with a wider number of pets than they may be used to. Aside from cats and dogs, the shelter houses birds, reptiles, pigs, rabbits and other such animals. Volunteers can also see what being around more common pets is like.
“A lot of (volunteers) are animal lovers,” Hampton said. “Perhaps they have recently lost a pet, and they are not ready to make that commitment to them, so it is very fulfilling to them to come in and fill that void of having a pet at home. They are also able to take pets for pets’ days out. A lot of our volunteers will take them to Metro Beach or Partridge Creek to socialize them.”
Getting involved with Macomb County Animal Control as a shelter volunteer
See ANIMALS on page 13A
Future Leader Dogs sit together with their raisers in public. Raising puppies that will become seeing eye dogs is one way people can volunteer at Leader Dogs for the Blind.
Photo provided by Leader Dogs for the Blind
free access to all state parks in Michigan.
And unlike a similar provision in the state budget that isn’t guaranteed to return in future years, House Bill 5127 makes this benefit permanent for all who qualify.
McFall said one goal of the bill is to help disabled veterans with their mental health. Not all battle scars are physical, he said, alluding to challenges such as posttraumatic stress disorder.
Access to Michigan’s state parks can be therapeutic, he added, with their serene landscapes and natural beauty along the Great Lakes. Between the Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula, Michigan boasts a total of 103 state parks, offering a mix of windswept beaches, lush green woods and sandy dunes.
“Going outside is good for everyone’s mental health, but it can be especially helpful for those with physical disabilities,” McFall said. “Mental health has always been one of my top priorities since first taking office in 2023, and this bill directly impacts that in a positive way.
“It’s very important that not only are veterans recognized for the sacrifice they
made for us all, but that we hold up our end of the bargain, and make sure they’re fully supported when they come back home,” he said.
McFall noted that House Bill 5127 had bipartisan support — something not to take for granted in Lansing. The representative from Hazel Park lamented how veterans are sometimes treated like political props, where officeholders talk a big game about helping them but don’t always match their words with deeds. He said House Bill 5127 is a step in the right direction.
“Depending on where they were stationed and the nature of their disability, there could be multiple challenges they’re facing beyond a physical disability,” McFall said. “It’s so important to support them, both physically and mentally, because of how they’ve been impacted.”
He also pointed to increased rates of homelessness among the disabled veteran population, along with higher instances of suicide and self-medicating with drugs and alcohol.
“I’m hoping that at some point next year, we can pass additional legislation helping veterans as they deal with mental health issues,” McFall said.
One person who spoke on behalf of the bill in the state house is Sean Fleming,
a member of the Madison Heights City Council. Fleming is a veteran who served with the Signal Corps in the U.S. Army during Operation Joint Endeavor in Bosnia and Croatia. He also previously served as the senior vice commander for Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1407, which has members in both Madison Heights and Ferndale.
He said he previously pitched similar bills to legislators as far back as 2017, but prior attempts failed to cross the finish line.
“But when I told Mike McFall about my idea in 2023, he went right to work on it and had it reintroduced in its current form. Now it’s finally been made into law,” Flem-
a new bill extending the disabled veterans registration
ing said. “I feel excited to see it get all the way through. Not only as a veteran myself, but for all the other veterans who will be able to enjoy the benefits of the plate.
“And personally, I have veteran friends who succumbed to suicide, so this is just another way to try and prevent that worstcase scenario,” he said. “I think being able to go someplace like a park, by yourself or with others, and kind of take in the planet, it really helps to de-stress yourself while living in this fast-paced world. Sometimes, you just need a break from it all.”
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Rep. Mike McFall, D-Hazel Park, left, and Madison Heights City Councilman Sean Fleming spoke in the Michigan House of Representatives on behalf of
plate to partially-disabled veterans. The bill was signed into law by the governor late last month.
Photo provided by Michigan House Democrats
Election
since 2019. Prior to that, he was the mayor of Ferndale from 2010 to 2019, and on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners from 2002 to 2010. He has been a Ferndale resident for 33 years.
“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,” Coulter told C & G Newspapers in his election profile. “We are working to lower costs by making housing more affordable, improving public transportation, expanding mental health services and protecting women’s health care.”
Gjonaj did not respond to profile questionnaires or immediately return a request for comment by press time. According to his campaign website, Gjonaj is a Detroit native who was born and raised in a union household to Albanian immigrants. He currently works in the insurance industry.
He campaigned on strengthening support for the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and cutting government spending at the county while reducing property taxes. A stated top priority was directing more resources to schools and mental health services.
Neither candidate answered a request for comment by press time Nov. 6.
Oakland County sheriff
Two candidates competed for a fouryear term as the county sheriff. The salary for this position is $170,295.
The Republican incumbent, Michael Bouchard, prevailed with 445,165 votes (60.25%).
The Democratic challenger, Amrit Kohli, came up short at 292,454 votes (39.58%).
There were 1,248 unassigned write-in votes, accounting for 0.17%.
Prior to his current role as sheriff, Bouchard, 68, also served as a state senator, state representative and on the Beverly Hills Village Council. He has lived in Bloomfield for eight years.
In an election profile for C & G Newspapers, Bouchard previously said that 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 the trust and transparency in the Sheriff’s Office. Public safety is not partisan.”
He did not answer a request for additional comment at press time Nov. 6.
His opponent, Kohli, 50, said in an interview that he originally wanted other Democrats to run, and that at one point he planned to drop off the ballot. But when it was too late to make that change, he decided he would continue to make himself available as an option.
A Ferndale resident since 2006 — during which time there was a 10-year stay working in politics in Oakland, Calif., returning in 2011 — Kohli is a musician and software engineer with a cybersecurity degree. He ran on issues such as incarceration reform, including jail debt forgiveness so that inmates aren’t billed for their time there, reduced cost of commissary so third-party vendors don’t overcharge for basic items while in jail, and reduced cost of collect calls out of jail, which he said are too expensive for family members receiving them.
He also ran on a promise of police reform.
“First, expose the count of lawsuits filed against and won against the Sheriff’s Office for wrongful deaths, as well as drug overdose statistics and incidents of police violence, and how many officers were involved in those incidents. I would want to expose whatever I can, legally,” Kohli said. “Really, I want more insight into any violence happening with the Sheriff’s Office, because we simply don’t know. And then we should modify policy so it’s harder for police to use excessive force.”
Oakland County prosecuting attorney
Two candidates ran for one four-year term as the county’s prosecuting attorney, a position that pays a salary of $191,281.
The Democrat incumbent, Karen McDonald, received 419,935 votes (57.63%), while her Republican opponent, Scott Farida, received 307,681 votes (42.23%).
There were 1,000 unassigned write-ins, accounting for 0.14%.
Prior to her current role as prosecuting attorney, McDonald, 54, served as a judge in the Oakland County Circuit Court. She has been a resident of Birmingham for 16 years.
In her election profile for C & G Newspapers, McDonald said that her goals are “keeping Oakland County safe by working with law enforcement to keep dangerous criminals off the streets” and “holding criminals accountable, including the Oxford High School shooter and his parents, while also fighting for justice for crime victims and their families,” as well as focusing resources on groups addressing gun violence, human
trafficking and hate crimes.
In an email Nov. 6, McDonald said, “I’m grateful to all of the people who supported and voted for me. I’m humbled and thankful that hundreds of thousands of Oakland County voters have again put their trust in me. The prosecutor plays a critical role in keeping the community safe, and I am committed to ensuring justice for all.”
Farida, 34, an attorney who has lived in West Bloomfield for about 30 years, said in his election profile that he wants to “depoliticize prosecution” and refocus the prosecutor’s office on matters of 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,” Farida said previously. “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 clerk and register of deeds
Two candidates were on the ballot for a four-year term. The salary for the position is $170,761.
Lisa Brown, the Democratic incumbent, won with 406,615 votes (56.55%).
Brown’s Republican challenger, Barb Pallotta, received 311,267 votes (43.29%).
In an election profile for C&G Newspapers, Brown shared that her goal is 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.”
Pallotta previously served as the clerk for Independence Township.
In her election profile, she stated that one of her goals is to advocate for election integrity and local control of elections.
She also shared that she wants to initiate “immediate alerts about potential fraud activity to secure all Register of Deed property records 24/7” and “Reassess online services and the merit of associated fees to improve access to public records.”
Oakland County treasurer
Two candidates were running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $170,761.
The Democratic incumbent, Robert Wittenberg, won reelection, garnering 383,503 votes (53.52%). His Republican opponent, Donna Blake, received 331,837 votes (46.31%).
Wittenberg, 43, has been a resident of Huntington Woods for 29 years. He stated
in his election profile for C & G Newspapers, “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.”
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 3
Two candidates were running for one four-year term on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners representing District 3, which covers Madison Heights, Hazel Park and part of Troy. The position pays a salary of $45,131.
The Democrat incumbent, Ann Erickson Gault, defended her seat with 19,647 votes (56.41%), while her Republican challenger, Douglas MacLean, received 15,086 votes (43.32%).
Gault, 61, is an attorney who was appointed to the county board in November 2023 following the death of her predecessor Gary McGillivray. She previously served on the Troy City Council from 2019 through 2023. She is an attorney and has lived in Troy for 20 years.
Her goals include investing in communities by enhancing and expanding the park system, building affordable housing, increasing access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, and expanding public transit. She also wants to work on improving gun safety, ensuring water affordability, and improving environmental sustainability.
The morning after the election, Gault said in an email, “I am grateful that the people of Hazel Park, Madison Heights and Troy have shown their faith in me to represent them on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. Regardless whether I earned your vote in this election, I will work for your best interests and fight for everyone in my district.”
“Thank you Doug MacLean for campaigning with integrity and civility, which is so important in these divisive times,” she added. “Special thank you to my supporters, who worked tirelessly and helped me financially. I could not have won this without your help.”
MacLean, 82, is a retired police officer who has lived in Madison Heights for 80 years and served with the Police Department there. He served on the Board of Education for the Madison District Public Schools for
CRIME WATCH
Solicitor scam
MADISON HEIGHTS — An unknown suspect reportedly called a business in the 1000 block of West 11 Mile Road around 8:05 p.m. Oct. 24, claiming to be a representative with a company and scamming the business out of $1,700.
According to a police report, the theft was perpetrated through the conversion of cash to gift cards.
Police were investigating.
Bicycle recovered
MADISON HEIGHTS — According
Election
from page 8A
around 17 years.
“I would like to say thanks to all who helped me along the way,” MacLean said via email Nov. 6. “May God bless each and ev-
to a police report, officers recovered an abandoned Royce Union bicycle, purple in color, in the area of Barrington and Whitcomb avenues at around 8 p.m. on Oct. 23.
Identity theft
MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, an unknown suspect used information stolen from a 34-year-old Madison Heights resident in the 30000 block of Winthrop to open an AT&T account in their name, sometime in early 2023. The victim told police the it was only discovered recently. Police were investigating.
If you know more about these crimes or others, call Madison Heights Police at (248) 585-2100.
— Andy Kozlowski
ery one of you for the help you gave me. And may God continue to bless America. This is why people fight and claw their way to get into this wonderful country of ours — the freedom this country gives is like no other. God has a reason for all of this to happen this way. Just have to wait and see what is going to happen next.”
BUILDING UP WOMEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Careers in law enforcement take a great amount of dedication and sacrifice.
According to the National Policing Institute, the number of women police officers has greatly increased since 1974, when there were only about 1,000 women police officers working in the United States. Now, it is estimated that there are about 96,000 women police officers. While the number has gone up significantly, only about 12% of police officers are women.
Local women recently shared their experiences and advice with C & G Newspapers on pursuing a career as a police officer.
Teresa Young is the executive lieutenant to the chief of police at the Southfield Police Department. She started her career as a 911 dispatcher in West Bloomfield and began rising in the ranks once she joined the Southfield Police Department in 2009.
While Young was in each position, she maximized her impact by taking on different roles and responsibilities throughout the department. For example, after she became a sworn officer in December 2009, she took
See POLICE on page 11A
RIGHT: Detective L. McDonald has been with the Farmington Hills Police Department’s Investigations Division since 2011. BOTTOM RIGHT: Teresa Young, executive lieutenant to the chief of police at the Southfield Police Department, said women in law enforcement have a “unique set of challenges” that men usually do not face.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
ABOVE: Capt. Jennifer Miles, commander of the Emergency Communications and Operations Division at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, has been at the Sheriff’s Office for 25 years.
Photo provided by Jennifer Miles
the time to learn as much as she could. She worked the midnight shift and became an honor guard member, field training officer and evidence technician.
“I made it a point to diversify my career as much as I could so I could keep taking that next step. I’m always looking for what my next step is going to be,” Young said.
When Young was starting out, she said it took a long time to earn trust as a female officer.
“I think there was a perceived vulnerability that not just my coworkers, but even suspects out on the road underestimated me or targeted me just because I was a female. They thought that maybe I was weaker or easier to manipulate,” Young said.
Young said that being a woman in law enforcement, especially early on in a career, it can feel like “having a bad day” was not an option because it feels like everyone is looking at you.
“There are times where I came in with a chip on my shoulder, you know, I wanted to prove to everybody that I belonged here, and that I was going to go far in my career, and that no matter what was thrown at me, I was
going to overcome it,” Young said.
Young urges women who are new to law enforcement to find a mentor. She adds that it is important for female officers to remember who they wanted to be in the field in the first place.
“You are going to have a unique set of challenges that your male counterparts don’t have to deal with. You’re going to be judged a little harder, you’re going to be maybe criticized a little harsher,” Young said. “I think it’s all about not losing sight of who you are.”
Detective L. McDonald is with the Farmington Hills Police Department’s Investigations Division.
McDonald started at the Farmington Hills Police Department in November 2011 as a police service aide, which is a civilian position with the department. After graduating from the Oakland Police Academy in December 2012, she applied for a police position at the department. She completed several months of training and about nine years of working road patrol before moving to her current position.
When she first started working in law enforcement, she said there were not nearly as many female officers at the department as there are today. The Farmington Hills Police Department currently has 16 female sworn officers.
They also have a program to recruit women police officers. “Blue, Red & You” is a workshop for women who are interested in becoming a first responder. This program was developed in 2022 in efforts to recruit more women for careers at the Farmington Hills Police and Fire departments.
“I wanted to succeed and do well so that I could show the other female officers here, ‘Look what you can accomplish,’ and just kind of be a mentor to the female officers that are coming in, just like I had mentors when I was coming in,” McDonald said.
Capt. Jennifer Miles is the commander of the Emergency Communications and Operations Division at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. She started at the Sheriff’s Office in 1999 and has held several positions in her 25 years of service.
One of her many duties, which she be-
gan in 2009 and still does today, is a women’s self-defense program for civilian women throughout the county.
Miles is currently at the FBI National Academy to bring back skills in leadership, mindfulness and resilience to her agency.
“I think that we as women think and feel like every day you have to prove yourself that you belong there, and so every day is 100%. You don’t get to have a bad day,” Miles said.
Miles encourages anyone interested in law enforcement to come apply to make a difference in their community.
“We are the heart and soul of protection and making sure that everybody goes home to their family. So if there are things that are perceived injustices or just straight up injustices, come help us, from the inside, solve that,” Miles said.
Fiber arts
from page 2A
rial and yarns to share.
“I wasn’t using any of the stuff I brought in today. Here you go,” Romanoski said.
Romanoski said she and Katie Kruszka, another founding member and Romanoski’s friend, were looking for ways to get involved with crafts in the community and it brought them to the group.
“It’s nice to see other people that have kind of the same interests that we do,” Romanoski said.
The members don’t just work in silence. Romanoski said they talk about everything from their projects to random events and more. She said she tries to keep religion and politics discussion off the Facebook group due to the differing beliefs of the members.
“I want to be all inclusive. I want everybody to feel welcome,” Romanoski said.
The group welcomes participants of all ages. Romanoski said they’ve had high school students who made fashion show pieces completely out of fiber arts.
Members help each other with their skills. If someone gets stuck on a certain stitch, another member will lean over and help them out.
Jenn Towianski, a member of the Ster-
ling Heights Fiber Frolic, spun dyed wool into yarn. The wool she used she bought in its raw state as dirty sheep’s wool. She then went on to prepare the wool by carding it and making sure it’s smooth. Her spinning wheel was made in Poland, and she painted it herself. Towianski also crochets and knits.
“I’ve always wanted to spin, but I put it off until after I’ve had my kids grown up,” Towianski said.
The Sterling Heights Fiber Frolic has been around since about 2021. She’s been in the Clinton-Macomb group for around two years and said she loves it.
Susan Stephens, a member of the group, said she started attending meetings when she was working on a cross-stitching project. She read about the group in the library’s newsletter.
“I was looking for something to do, so I thought I would try it,” Stephens said.
She said she has a lot of fun in the group.
“We’re very open, we talk about stuff. We have several teachers in the group, so we talk (about) teaching stuff,” Stephens said. “I’ve made friends here and I’m a very nervous person so that was a big step for me.”
Working on fiber arts such as cross stitch and crocheting helps to keep Stephens’ mind and hands busy. She said she usually
has a couple projects going at the same time. “One of the best parts about this group is if you’re stuck on a pattern or what to do,
they’re very helpful,” Stephens said. “They’ll help you figure out the stitches, or they’ll help you find a pattern.”
NOTICE:
Ordinances Numbers 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 were adopted by the City Council after the second reading at the City Council Meeting of October 24, 2024. Synopses of said Ordinances are as follows:
Ordinance No. 2022
Zoning Text Amendment 24-01
An ordinance to amend Ordinance 2198, being an ordinance codifying and adopting a new Zoning Ordinance for the City of Madison Heights, by amending Appendix A, Section 8.03 – Accessory Buildings, Structures, and Uses – to create more fexible standards for unenclosed structures and utility structures.
Ordinance No. 2023
Zoning Text Amendment 24-02
An ordinance to amend Ordinance 2198, being an ordinance codifying and adopting a new Zoning Ordinance for the City of Madison Heights, by amending Appendix A, Section 7.03.10– Detached One-Family Dwellings – to modify standards relating to driveway widths.
Ordinance No. 2024
Zoning Text Amendment 24-03
An ordinance to amend Ordinance 2198, being an ordinance codifying and adopting a new Zoning Ordinance for the City of Madison Heights, by amending Appendix A, Section 7.03.43– Temporary Uses – to modify standards relating to seasonal sales lots and recurring special events.
Ordinance 2025
Zoning Text Amendment 24-04
An ordinance to amend Ordinance 2198, being an ordinance codifying and adopting a new Zoning Ordinance for the City of Madison Heights, by amending Appendix A, Section 12.06 – Measurement of Sign Area and Height – and Section 12.07 –Regulations for Permitted Signs – to modify standards relating to wall sign measurements and allowances. Ordinances 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 shall take effect November 13, 2024. Full copies of the Ordinances are available on the City’s website at www.madison-heights.org.
Cheryl E. Rottmann, MMC
City Clerk (248) 583-0826
Published: Madison-Park News 11/13/2024
Sinking fund
for the salaries of teachers, administrators or other district employees.
The proposal followed a separate proposal earlier this year during the Aug. 6 primary election, where voters also narrowly approved a millage renewal that adjusted the millage rate to offset automatic rollbacks caused by the Headlee Amendment.
The measure approved in August had no impact on taxes paid by homeowners in the district, affecting only non-homestead properties such as businesses. It allows the district to levy the statutory rate of up to 18 mills on all properties except principal residences.
As for the proposal on the ballot for the Nov. 5 election, officials said it will maintain the costly renovations and repairs the district has nearly completed using a previous bond issue that voters approved in November 2021. That particular bond levied 1.8 mills in its first year, and represented a zero mill increase over the prior debt millage.
In the three years since, the district has fully replaced the roof at Madison High School, installed air conditioning throughout the building, replaced its boiler, increased lighting throughout to enhance security, and upgraded the bells, surveillance cameras and public announcement system.
In addition, the district has been replacing roofing at the Madison Early Childhood Center, Madison Elementary School and Wilkinson Middle School, resulting in increased efficiency, comfort and safety for students and staff.
Earlier in the school year, the district had been working with Plante Moran Realpoint
Trustees
“I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each supporter, volunteer and community member who believed in our vision for the Hazel Park school district. Your encouragement, generosity and commitment to positive change made this journey possible,” Fox said via email Nov. 6. “As I step into this role on the Board of Education, I am energized by the trust you’ve placed in me.”
Becker, 43, has been a resident of Hazel Park for nearly his entire life. He is a utility worker who is new to politics. In his election profile, he described his top goals as increasing community involvement, maximizing academic and extracurricular opportunities, ensuring safe schools, and supporting teach-
to prepare for the remaining bond-funded projects, which include replacing flooring at Madison High School and larger sections of roofing at Wilkinson Middle School.
After voters approved the bond issue in November 2021, funding was secured in 2022 when the district completed the sale of its school building and site bonds, the net proceeds of which amounted to about $11.31 million. That allowed the project to proceed.
The November 2021 bond was also structured so that taxpayers didn’t see a resulting increase in their school taxes. Even so, like the recent millage renewal in August, public reception was mixed, with nearly 900 votes cast in favor and nearly 600 against.
With the approval of the new site sinking fund, a slim majority has once again signaled its support of continuing to invest in the school district.
“I’m very thankful this passed,” said Cindy Holder, the board president. “I’m hoping this shows a vote of confidence for the work that we’ve put in. Hopefully we will be able to give reassurance to the people who didn’t support it. We understand times are tough, but we’re eager to prove this is a good investment in the safety and education of our kids. We’re hoping this is another milestone in the recovery of the district.”
Mark Kimble, who was the only board trustee not in favor of the proposal, said that he was surprised by the results.
“I initially thought it was overly ambitious — too large an increase to ask for all at once. I would have bet good money this would fail since it nearly doubles the debt load for taxpayers. But I guess that I was wrong,” Kimble said. “I just hope that we’re worthy of the faith that people have put in us.”
ers and staff.
“I’m excited to support the students of Hazel Park,” Becker said via email Nov. 6. “I’m looking forward to working for the students and staff of Hazel Park Schools.”
Johnston, one of the runners-up, said via email Nov. 6 that he wishes all four winners well.
“I have complete faith and trust in you to be the advocates our students need,” Johnston stated via email Nov. 6. “Thank you to my amazing wife for her unwavering support throughout the campaign — I love you. Thank you to everyone that voted, donated or supported me — I appreciate you. I hope to remain an active supporter and advocate for our Hazel Park students; I just have to figure out how best to do that.”
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Animals
from page 6A
involves filling out an application available at macombgov.org/departments/animalcontrol and going through orientation.
For those who are able to keep animals at home but may not be able to have pets for long periods of time, volunteer opportunities through Rochester Hills-based nonprofit Leader Dogs for the Blind can be a way to make connections with four-legged friends.
“We have more volunteers than we do team members, so we really could not do what we do without them,” said Christina Hepner, Leader Dog’s digital marketing manager. “The things that (volunteers) do for our mission is incredible. Volunteers really mean the world to us, and we are so thankful for them … They’re really essential to what we do every day.”
Leader Dog’s volunteering opportunities with animals fall into two categories: raising puppies and hosting a breeding dog.
“Raising a future Leader Dog is when you have the dog for 12-15 months and you’re going through basic obedience (training) with that dog,” Hepner said. “You’re teaching the dog to sit and stay and basic obedience, and you have so much support. You don’t have to have ever had a dog.”
Puppy-raising volunteers are backed by a counselor from the organization and the wider community of fellow Leader Dog volunteers. After the 12-15 months are up, the dog is returned to Leader Dogs for the Blind to begin its formal training to serve as guides for people with visual impairments. Some dogs are deemed “career changed,” meaning they may become a different kind of service dog or become available as a pet.
Puppy raising can be done as a single-household endeavor or it can be done by a group. Primary and secondary raisers can split rearing responsibilities, while corporate volunteers and some college campuses can raise a puppy as a team. Puppy raisers are given the opportunity to name their puppy as well.
Hosting breeding dogs allows volunteers the opportunity to live with a matured animal for a number of years and is more in line with traditional pet ownership.
“Once a breeding dog retires, they actually become a permanent member of your family. They retire and they get to be your house dog,” Hepner said. “We specifically need hosts who will host a Leader Dog mom, and the responsibility of that is about two years and the dog will have four litters in your home.”
Prior whelping experience is not required, and the Leader Dog vet team and breeding department are on standby to help volunteers, though ample space and the ability to provide regular exercise and care for the dogs is required. Puppies are kept for seven weeks after birth before being brought to the campus. Volunteers are also able to volunteer for a partial period; they can be non-whelping or specifically whelping volunteers, as well as host a breeding dog for a limited amount of time.
To volunteer with Leader Dogs for the Blind, interested people are asked to attend monthly informational sessions on the first Wednesday of each month for puppy raising and the third Wednesday for breeding dog hosting. Applications are available at www. leaderdog.org/volunteer.
Informational sessions are held remotely and in person at the Rochester Hills campus.
required by the city charter — but lost to George Suarez, the incumbent.
While Ross never returned to politics, supporters say he had already cemented his reputation by that point as a model public servant.
“Lin was ahead of his time,” said Mark Bliss, the current mayor pro tem, after the dedication. “The issues that he tackled, today, would be super popular and common sense … but he was a strong voice of leadership on these issues at a time when they weren’t as prevalent.”
One such issue was the effort to save Suarez Friendship Woods, on 13 Mile Road just west of Dequindre Road. In 1981, the 35-acre tract of land was known as Simonds Woods, and it was at risk of being sold by the Lamphere Schools district for development into homes.
Ross urged the school board to preserve the land as park space, siding with a group known as the Friends of Simonds Woods. While protecting a park may seem like a popular position in 2024, back then it was political poison. Many voters in the
district felt the homebuilding opportunity was too lucrative to pass up. As a result, Ross lost hundreds of supporters, and in turn, the election of 1981.
“They were mad at me (in the Lamphere Schools district). Very mad. And I knew it, and I knew that it would cost me my seat,” Ross said in an interview in the conference room. “But I truly believed the woods were more important than my council seat. It’s very rare in this area to have 35 acres like that.”
Despite the political setback, his call for action endured. When the Lamphere Schools district received a state grant that satisfied its financial needs, it caved to growing public pressure and allowed the city to rezone the property as a nature preserve.
The city manager at the time suggested renaming the park in honor of the mayor, but Ross insisted on also dedicating it to the Friends group that helped save the forest in the first place. It thus became known as Suarez Friendship Woods. Home to the Red
Oaks Nature Center, the park is currently managed by Oakland County through a lease with the city.
As for Ross, his time off the City Council was short-lived. He returned within a year, appointed back to the panel when two sitting members vacated their seats: one due to death, and another due to a work transfer out of town.
It was only a matter of time before Ross had another fight on his hands, calling for the closure of the trash-burning incinerator on John R Road north of 12 Mile Road. The facility was run by the Southeastern Oakland County Resource Recovery Authority. The waste giant sought to expand and modernize the facility.
“We had some indication that the cancer rate was higher around that incinerator than would be expected in the area, and also it was right next door to the junior high school with all those kids, exposing them to all that allegedly clean steam,” Ross said. “There was public support for this issue, thankfully. It was more popular at the time than me giving Lamphere a hard time. The newspapers put heat on SOCRRA. It was the leadership at SOCRRA that were resisting — not the cities.”
Madison Heights mobilized an envi-
ronmental counsel and staff to challenge SOCRRA in court. Ross personally attended SOCRRA meetings on behalf of the city. He also handed out literature such as a booklet that listed 26 reasons why the incinerator should close, each starting with a different letter of the alphabet. The campaign succeeded, and by the end of the 1980s, the twin smokestacks were no longer pumping out pollution.
Earlier in his time on the council, the city manager put forth a proposal to make 13 Mile Road four lanes. In the 1970s, the road was just two lanes. Feeling it would be safer to make it five lanes instead of four, including a dedicated left-turn lane, Ross sided with his political rival on the council, Robert Raskowski, in a rare display of unity when Raskowski went against the proposal, tipping a divided council toward five lanes, which were completed in late 1977.
“I got the mayor’s attention, and he gave me the floor, and … everyone fell out of their chair, because usually I was opposed to 90% of (Raskowski’s) stuff,” Ross said.
In his personal life, Ross and his wife Patricia have six children, 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He has been retired for more than 20 years from a career
See ROSS on page 15A
Lindell Ross
from page 14A
that included nearly 40 years in marketing and advertising, 15 of which were as vice president at two different companies.
Ross has spent his retirement in Michigan and Florida, as well as in Colorado, where for more than a decade he has been a part-time resident poet and ranch cook at Powderhorn Guest Ranch, run by his daughter in the Rocky Mountains.
His weekly poetry readings around the campfire there were met with such a positive response that he published 100 of them in his book, “The Old West,” each based on a true story about life on the frontier in the 1800s. Ross himself was born on a cotton farm in southeast Missouri, where he would play cowboys and Indians with his friends and collected arrowheads throughout the area.
He also tried his hand at newspaper writing with a weekly volunteer column for more than year in the Madison Heights Reporter, where he chronicled people, places and everyday living in a series called “Slices
of Life.”
As for the room at City Hall, the Madison Heights Historical Commission was behind the effort to rename it in honor of Ross. It’s part of a larger ongoing initiative to honor those who have made contributions to the community.
The Historical Commission is chaired by Margene Scott, herself a former council member.
“Ross never did (council service) for the glory. He did it for the betterment of the city,” she said. “When (Ross) left his seat to run for mayor … I got to sit in his seat, since that was the only vacant seat after he left. And when I sat there, I always thought about (Ross). He was a role model for me. He really was. And I never did it from a place of politics. I was there to be a public servant.”
Bliss said that philosophy of service to others should be an example to other aspiring leaders.
“I’m hoping his name coming into this room will inspire future councils to make the same sorts of tough calls as Lin Ross, and to be as forward-thinking as him,” Bliss said.
Ross said he originally ran for office
Steak
because some council members at the time were violating the city charter by issuing direct orders to staff. He said there was even a time when a couple council members used an on-duty police car to travel to the airport in Detroit for a conference.
“I was outraged at the conduct of some on the council,” Ross said. “I had a good job and a good academic background and a good ego. I didn’t need any of those reasons to run for office. But we had some members who were motivated by those things. I was in a situation where I could ignore all of that,
where I could do what was the right thing to do. I don’t know if that came from my southern fundamentalist early background, but I look at things on an ethical and moral basis.”
Ross had some words of advice for those seeking elected office.
“Just start at the bottom and learn what you’re doing so that you do a good job at each level,” Ross said. “It’s about the satisfaction of preventing bad things, and making good things happen.”
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Madison-Park News
Autos Wanted
$1,500 AND UP!
Cars For Sale
1965California VolkswagenBeetle, Needsrestoring. Firstofferover $5,000getsit. Call586-907-6825
Antiques & Collectibles
BUYING Coins,SportCards& StampsCollections Top$$$ Call248-471-4451
Miscellaneous For Sale
SAFE Step.NorthAmerica's#1Walk-InTub. Comprehensivelifetime warranty.Top-of-the-line installationandservice. NowfeaturingourFREE showerpackageand $1600Offforalimited time!Calltoday!Financingavailable.CallSafe Step1-855-861-4501
Jeeps/SUVs/Trucks For Sale
2012SilverFordF150 SuperCrewCab 3.5literEcoBoost w/6ftbedandcap, Newtires&brakes, Goodongas, Under108kmiles, $13,000 CallorText (586)291-4030
Vacation Property & Time Shares
VACATIONRENTAL TAMPA,FL Cozy,PrivateGuesthouseForRentIncluding Kitchenettew/Essentials, FurnishedBedroom, Bathroom,Patio,Private Entrance,FreeParking onPremisesandWi-Fi. *NoPets/PartiesPlease* Call/Text 313-461-8485
Dogs & Cats For Sale
KINGGERMAN SHEPARD PUPPIES FORSALE ToGoodHome 8WeeksOld Call586-222-4288
ICCFCANE CORSOPUPS, BornJuly22nd,2024. $1,200, RoyalGuardian. 313-350-0073
Lost & Found Pets
LOSTCAT “SMOKEY” SOLIDGREY, SHORT-HAIRED YELLOW/GREEN EYESCALL (586)873-4628
Help Wanted General
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES
WATER & SEWER DIVISION UTILITY WORKER
Permanent full-time Utility Worker position, $47,528 - $64,230 annually (40 Hours per week) includes beneft package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, November 25, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on Employment. 0305-2446
Job Training/Education
Help Wanted General
Help Wanted General
EMERGENCY VEHICLE/CAR
AUDIOINSTALLER, 12VoltAutomotive Experiencerequired. Troyarea. Sendresume/SALARY Requirements
Email:Dennis@ cynergyproducts.net 248-298-3855
HELPWANTED
Eastpointe OilChange, EXPERIENCED TECHNICIAN, Full/Part-Time
Applyinperson: 17830E.9MileRd. Eastpointe,48021
Bathrooms
BATHROOM REMODELING
BasicBathrooms
Startingat:$10,995.00 Experienceofover 500-bathroomsacross Metro-Detroit, Lookatourworkat: andyscarpentryllc.com 248-376-0988
Licensed/Insured References
Brick Work
AA4DABLE MASONRY
586-822-5100
Chimneys,Porches, Steps,Flat-Work, Residential/Commercial Tuck-Pointing,CulturedStone,AllBrick&MasonryRepairs/Needs. SPRINGSPECIALS Upto30%-OFF Free-Est./SeniorDisc.
MOUTON'S MASONRY
Any&allmasonryrepairs. Brick,block,steps, chimneys,porches-tuckpointing,Cementwork, mortar-matching. 25-yrsexperience Free-estimates. References/Insured. 248-252-5331
PREFERRED
BROTHERSMASONRY
•Tuckpointing•Brickwork
•ChimneyRepair/Rebuild •ChimneyCaps •CementFlatwork•Steps •PorchRebuild/Porch Caps•CultureStone Senior/MilitaryDiscount Upto20%off! 586-944-8898
586-944-3669
AAABROOKSIDE
Porches,Steps, Chimney's,Tuck-pointing, CulturedStone,PreventativeMaintenance, Concrete,Custom MortarMatching, Free-Estimates,Senior Discounts,37yearsexp.
A-DMASONRYLLC. AllMasonryWork Bricks,Stones,Pavers, Blocks,Porches, Chimneys.Tuckpointing. 26-yrsexperience Insured,FreeEstimates. 586-873-8210 Filip
Building & Remodeling
CUSTOMBUILDER
Additions,Renovations, CustomDesignService, Decks,Financing, CallForYourPersonal ConsultationAppt. 248-760-0043 J&WPropertiesLTD. FullyLicensed/Insured 37YearsinBusiness
Carpentry
GOTROT? RottenWood ReplacementSpecialist AllTypesofWoodRepair Fascia,Soffit&Siding PaintedtoMatch AMGAppliedServices 248-828-7998 www.amgapplied services.com
Carpet Cleaning
CARPET
WAVY-n-LOOSE?
WePower Re-stretch and Steam-clean ForOneLowPrice MultipleRoomDiscount CallNow 586-754-9222
Cement
ALLEN CEMENT
a.k.a "TheDrivewayGuy" Established1999 Driveways/Garage Floors/Patios,etc. Licensed/Insured CheckoutAllen CementonFacebook! VernAllen 586-457-1300
POBLETECEMENT
BrickPavers,LLC. •Driveways•Patios •Porches•Steps •Stamp•Color •Exposed•Floors•Walks •Licensed/Insured 30+years!Troy,MI 248-743-1220 248-496-4964(Cell)
Chimney Service
CHIMNEYS,INC
$139/Sweep& SafetyInspection •Repairs•Dampers •Caps•CrownRepair Senior/MilitaryDisc. NextDay Appointment Available 586-431-0591
Chimney Service
ALLTIMATE OUTDOORSERVICES
•FreeEstimates Startingat-$139incl. inspection•Chimney Repairs•Tuck-Pointing •PorchRepairs •Steps•GutterGuards AllMasonryRepairs Senior-Military-Discounts 586-719-1202
Cleaning Service
CLEANINGLADY with10-yrexperienceis lookingforwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830
Decks/Patios
2024SPECIALS
CustomDeck
Building/Repair, Power-Washing, DecksRemoved, Composite,Treated &CedarMaterials, CustomRailingMaterials, CustomFence Installation. 586-260-5218
Drywall
LAKESHORE
DRYWALL &PAINTING Over30Years Experience InteriorPainting Wall/CeilingRepairs DrywallFinishing Shon- 586-801-6190
Electrical
BEST-Price-Period Licensed/Insured. Additions,Remodels, Basements,Kitchens, CarChargerInstalled, 30-yrs.-experience. Callforfree-estimates. 24/7Service HotchkissElectric 586-291-3143 Lic.#6211028
586-755-3636
Dr.Electric AffordablePrices! Father&Son MasterElectricians Same-Day-Service! All-Residential-Wiring, ChangeFuseBoxto CircuitBreakerPanel, Troubleshooting,Backup GeneratorTransfer Switch, License#6109094 Senior/Discounts! Visa/MC/Lic./Insured
Electrical
CASTLEELECTRIC
586-634-1152 (directcellphone#) Panelupgrades, generators,hottubs, 220lines.ALLSERVICE Licensed&Insured Dependable,quality work! License#-6111359
PREPARE forpower outagestodaywithaGeneracHomeStandbyGenerator.Actnowtoreceive aFREE7-Yearwarranty withqualifyingpurchase. Call1-855-773-8191 todaytoscheduleafree quote.Itʼsnotjustagenerator.Itʼsapowermove.
Gutters
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998
*”STEVE'S SEAMLESSGUTTERS” Made&installedonthe spot.5”&6”Gutter Cleaning.Treetrimming, exteriorpainting, powerwashing. 586-778-3393 586-531-2111
ELIMINATE gutter cleaningforever!LeafFilter,themostadvanced debris-blockinggutter protection.Schedulea FREELeafFilterestimate today.20%offEntire Purchase.Plus10%Senior&MilitaryDiscounts. Call1-866-495-1709
GUTTERCLEANING, WINDOW/POWERWASHING Veteran/Firefighter Owned/Operated championwindow cleaning.net 248-765-0613
GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI 313-656-9402
Handyman Services
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling, Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCredit CardsAccepted 586-822-5100
Hauling & Waste Removal
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall! DemolitionBig&Small Residential/Commercial RubberWheelDumpsters-10,15,20-Yards, Clean-outs,Construction Material,Small-Moving, Appliances,Furniture& More!LowestRates!!! Free-Est.Sen/Mil/Disc. 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
AAHAULING JUNKREMOVAL 40YearsExperience RubberWheelDumpsters AllSizes,EstateClean OutBigandSmall, Available24/7 586-872-0498 586-778-4417
BURLYGUYS JUNKREMOVAL removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
**CLUTTERGUY'S** Removal-Experts Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices
Garage/Storage-Areas EfficientCourteous Workers Reasonable-Rates Free-Estimates NEEDCLUTTER REMOVED? LETUSDOTHEWORK! 586-258-6672
Heating & Cooling
AFFORDABLE HEATING&COOLING Family-ownedBusiness Greg'sHeatingLLC Servicecalls89.00 FurnaceTuneup79.00 SeniorandVeteran Discounts 586-422-8528
Lawn Maintenance
2024Fall
586-260-5218
Commercial/Residential
*SnowRemoval
*FullSaltingServices *FullLandscaping/Design *FallClean-up &DebrisRemoval *Aerating&Thatching. brighthorizonservices.biz
Roofing,Siding,
Painting
586-792-3117
PETE'SPAINTING FALLSPECIALS! 20%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
·COUNTERTOPS
*Granite*Quartz*
·CustomBathrooms
·TILEREPAIRS
*FREEESTIMATES*
586-552-5416
mrbacksplash.com
Landscaping & Water Gardens
DOLL'S
LANDSCAPING
FALLCLEAN-UPS!
Shrub&Tree-Trimming, Planting,Removal.Mulch, SodInstallation,Pavers, Garden/RetainerWalls, PorchSteps,Raise Backyards/DrainTiles, Powerwashing/Sealing, Powerrake,Aeration, Seeding,DebrisRemoval 586-634-0033
ALLTIMATE OUTDOORSERVICES
DrainageSystem Professionals
New-Construction, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202
SUPREMEOUTDOOR SPECIALISTS
FallClean-ups,Lawncare, Landscaping,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, SprinklerBlow-out, GutterCleaning, 35YearsExperience FreeEstimates Christmaslight install/leasing. 586-727-3924 supremeoutdoor@ gmail.com
PAINTINGby-GPC MASTER Plaster/Drywall CompleteRestoration &InsuranceProjects Wallpaper Removal/Hanging PAINTING!PAINTING!
A+BBB-Rating/20yrs 30-yrs,BuilderLicense SeniorDisc/FreeEst. 586.899.3555(Cell) 248.566.6460(Office)
248-216-3355
NEWPALACE PAINTING
PAINTING!PAINTING! PAINTING! FreeEstimates SeniorDiscounts COMPETITIVELY PRICED
(586)229-4267
American Painting
•Residential/Commercial
•Interior/25YearsExp. •PowerWashing •Insurance•Drywall
•PlasterRepair •Clean-outs
•HomeRepairs •SeniorDiscounts •Guaranteed-Work.
PEAKPAINTING
Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. 30-yr.-exp.*WillBeat AnyOtherReasonable Estimate! Senior-Disc. Insured.Credit-Cards Accepted.References. 586-722-8381
Plumbing
Roofng
Tree Service
Painting ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry
CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
ANYONE'S PAINTER
Interior/ExteriorPainting Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates Call586-921-3654
PROTOUCH PAINTINGLLC
Interior/Exterior 30-yrs-experience, Power-washing, Drywallrepairs, Staining, Free-Estimates. AllWorkGuaranteed. AffordablePrices. SeniorDiscount/Insured. 248-495-3512
FARR'SPAINTING
Interior/Exterior Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
VKPERFECTPAINTING
Interior/Exterior SpecializesinKitchen &Bathroom CabinetPainting. Drywall/Plaster/Repair Free-Estimates 26YearsExperience CallBill 313-433-9400 586-746-9846 vkperfectpainting.com
MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
586.421.5520 586.524.6752 ANDY'S PLUMBING 25-YearsExperience Licensed/Insured CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX PLUMBERSCORP 586-210-0903 35-YearsExperience Seniors/Military/ Multi-TaskDiscounts Free-Estimates •DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures •SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters Licensed/Insured apexplumbers corporation.com Lic#8111771
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
WATERWORK
Plumbing.com •DrainCleaning •SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps •BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
PREFERRED BROTHERSROOFING
•FullTear-off•Recover •ShingleRepair •Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
AA4DABLE ROOFING
Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! SPRING-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!!
Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.Allmajor creditcardsaccepted. 586-822-5100
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE
$225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial $88*GutterCleaning Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 30-yrsexp. FamilyOwned 248-707-4851
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600 Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
Tree Service
PROLINES TREESERVICE
TreeRemoval/Trimming, Pruning,StumpRemoval, SpecializeinLargeTrees, Licensed/Insured 20%SeniorDiscounts 313-293-1337
BERGBROS.LLC. “Fullyinsured, highlyreferred.” Seniordiscounts. Tree-removal,stump grinding,tree-trimming, hedging,shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Freeestimates! (586)262-3060
DAVE'S TREE&SHRUB
40%-FALLDisc.Insured, EmergencyStorm Damage,LeafClean-up, Large-TreeRemovals, Trimming,StumpGrinding,Gutters, Season-Firewood (100acord)Free-Estimates/10%Senior-Disc. (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
