11/25/24 Rochester Post by C & G Newspapers

DOWNTOWN EVENTS HELP SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER THIS DECEMBER

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — Downtown Rochester is making spirits bright with a number of holiday events to complement the city’s popular Big, Bright Light Show.

Rochester has become one of metro Detroit’s Christmas destinations over the years, according to Rochester Downtown Development Authority Director Kristi Trevarrow, who said this year is no exception.

Arguably the city’s most popular holiday event is the Big, Bright Light Show — which lights up downtown storefronts with more than 1 million multicolored Christmas lights and brings over 1 million people into town.

This year’s light show made its debut during Lagniappe Nov. 25, but it continues to sparkle nightly from 5 p.m. to midnight through Jan. 19.

Along with the light show, downtown visitors and guests can check out

City Council passes new local ordinance for disclosure of a concealed pistol license

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — The city of Rochester is hoping to crack down on concealed pistol license holder violators by taking matters into its own hands.

In Michigan, a person licensed to carry

a concealed pistol must immediately disclose the fact to a police officer if they are stopped while carrying the pistol, and must also show the officer their license and ID.

Previously, if a person pulled over by Rochester police did not disclose they were carrying a concealed pistol, officers could write violations under the state law, but the

charges had to be filed and processed with the Oakland County Prosecutor’s office.

“The issue that we have now is we stop cars here, and there are not many, but if they don’t disclose it and they have a CPL, they don’t have ID or they don’t have their license on them, we have to take it up to the Prosecutor’s Office. They are backlogged usually,

and they don’t want to mess with civil infractions — and I don’t blame them. They have a pretty heavy caseload,” Rochester Police Chief George Rouhib said.

On Nov. 11, the Rochester City Council voted 6-0 to pass an ordinance adding a section on the disclosure of concealed pistols

See ORDINANCE on page 16A

Downtown Rochester is full of holiday cheer with festive windows, holiday shopping, the Big Bright Light Show and more.

Photo provided by Downtown Rochester

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Neighborhood House collecting donations for local families through holiday programs

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS/OAKLAND TOWNSHIP — The community is invited to help spread some holiday spirit and make Christmas magical for local families in financial need.

Neighborhood House helped over 400 low-income children in the greater Rochester area through last year’s Holiday Giving Tree program, and organizers expect even more local families to seek assistance for the program this year.

With continued economic challenges, Neighborhood House anticipates serving the same number, if not more, children in need this holiday season in Rochester, Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Oakland Township and Addison Township.

“We are all feeling the effects of inflation, but for families who are already struggling, the holidays can be especially difficult,” Neighborhood House Executive Director Michael Dreon said in a statement.

“Thanks to the generosity of our community, we can help lighten the load for these families and bring joy to their homes this season.”

Bris Roberts, the director of marketing and communications for Neighborhood House, says many families in the area are struggling leading into the holiday season.

Neighborhood House Volunteer Barb Cenko sets up donated toys from the Giving Tree program for clients to “shop” and pick out two toys for each child.

Photo provided by Neighborhood House

TOP: Children enjoy a bright night with an after-dark dinosaur dig for glowing prizes at Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve.

ABOVE: A child puts glow-in-the-dark paint on a dinosaur key chain craft.

LEFT: Bianca D’Agostini, 3, of Birmingham, paints a dinosaur key chain craft during the Glow Dig event at Dinosaur Hills Nature Preserve Nov. 16.

Photos by Erin Sanchez

SPORTS

Rochester Raiders’ 40th anniversary celebrated in style

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — The longstanding Rochester Raiders, formerly known as the Rochester Redskins, youth football and cheer organization celebrated a milestone anniversary, and they did it the only way they know how.

Bringing home the Michigan Youth Football and Cheer Conference (MYFCC) Super Bowl championship and a pair of cheerleading titles this season, the Raiders’ hardware-winning season is a testament to the legacy that has surrounded the organization for the last 40 years.

“The teams operate as teaching more than just the sport,” Jessica Yodzio, vice president of the cheerleading program and freshman cheer coach, said.

“Obviously we’re teaching these young athletes to be prepared as they go on to middle school and high school, but we’re also shaping them as young men and women to be prepared to carry on whatever interest they have later in life.”

Yodzio’s freshman cheerleading squad (first through third graders) took first overall alongside the junior freshman team (third and fourth graders) Oct. 26 in the MYFCC’s Super Cheer at Madonna University. The junior varsity team (fifth and sixth graders) took second overall.

The Super Cheer is divided into two rounds with a winner for each round and an overall winner of combined score. The MYFCC currently has 10 programs in their league, but not every team has a cheer/football team at every grade level.

“Our round 1 is almost like a combination of high school’s round 1 and round 2 where our girls do the 10-count and are judged on the 10-count, their precision, and their jumps,” Yodzio said.

“Round 2 is kind of like a round 3 in high school where they’re doing stunts and tumbling. Our league allows the girls to have music in their material too, so it is stunting and tumbling with a little bit of dance aspect thrown in there as well.”

The Raiders captured both rounds on the junior freshman side

Make a puppy’s spirit bright.

Volunteer to give a puppy a home for the holidays.

Imagine the joy of helping one of our puppies on its journey to transform the life of someone who’s blind. Each puppy awaits a hero like you to provide love and guidance for one year as a volunteer puppy raiser. And you don’t need any prior experience—just the kindness to make a diference.

Open your heart and your home, and together, we’ll make an impact that lasts a lifetime.

To sign up for an information session, scan the QR code.

to dominate the

Photo provided by Kristen Alexander

The Rochester Raiders varsity football team celebrates a 46-22 win over the Plymouth Canton Steelers in the MYFCC Super Bowl Nov. 2 at Westland John Glenn High School.

Photos provided by Jessica Yodzio

The Rochester Raiders junior freshman cheerleading team celebrates a first-place finish at MYFCC’s Super Cheer Oct. 26 at Madonna University.

The Rochester Raiders junior varsity team celebrates a runner-up finish at MYFCC’s Super Cheer Oct. 26 at Madonna University.

The Rochester Raiders freshman team celebrates a first-place finish at MYFCC’s Super Cheer Oct. 26 at Madonna University.

NEWS & NOTES

A VISIT WITH SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS

ROCHESTER HILLS — Santa and Mrs. Claus have, once again, set aside a day to visit children 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. Enjoy a farm wagon ride to the 1840s Van Hoosen Farmhouse, where you’ll find Santa nestled by the fireplace and a tasty treat in the kitchen. Don’t forget to bring your Christmas list and your camera to take a photo.

Tickets are required for ages 16 years and younger. Tickets are $7 for museum members and $10 for nonmembers. Limited tickets are sold per hour, and advance registration is required at rochesterhills.org/ musprograms.

Rochester Garden Club hosts Gifts & Greens Market

ROCHESTER — For 78 years, the Rochester Garden Club has marked the beginning of the holiday season in Rochester by offering its popular Gifts & Greens Market. This year, the tradition continues Dec. 5-7 at the Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, 1550 Walton Blvd., just west of Livernois Road.

Shoppers will find displays of fresh greens, fresh and permanent table arrangements that are handmade by the club’s designers, holiday cookies and gourmet items, herbal concoctions and handmade gifts.

“As a new member of the club,” Ashely Gearhart said in a press release. “I am excited to see how club members make the incredible arrangements and crafts that are sold. They are talented and generous people.”

This three-day event begins with the Opening Gala from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5. The entrance fee is $5. Market days are held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 7, with a $2 entrance fee.

All proceeds are returned to the community in the areas of conservation, education, scholarships, horticulture therapy, and civic improvement. The club supports the Children’s Garden at Van Hoosen Farm, college scholarships, summer camp scholarships in partnership with 4-H, annual flower plantings at parks and public spaces, Seven Ponds Nature Center, the Wildflower Association of Michigan, the Clinton River Watershed Council, and many other causes.

For more information, visit RochesterGardenClub.org.

The Rochester-Avon Historical Society presents ‘Lost Restaurants of Detroit’ with Paul Vachon Dec. 3

ROCHESTER HILLS — The Rochester-Avon Historical Society welcomes author Paul Vachon at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 3, at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm for a look at some of Detroit’s most notable restaurants.

Vachon, an author, explores the history of the Motor City’s fine dining, ethnic eateries and everything in between. Vachon has a strong interest in Detroit history and has written six books devoted to the subject.

He’s also written a guidebook on Michigan travel. Vachon’s recent book, “Detroit: An Illustrated Timeline,” was published by Reedy Press in 2019. The event is free for historical society members. Nonmembers are asked to consider a $5 suggested donation at the door.

Registration is required. Register by clicking the “Get Tickets Now” link at rochesteravonhistoricalsociety.org, send an email to rahsup dates@gmail.com, or call (248) 266-5440.

Library presents a concert with The Luddites Dec. 1

ROCHESTER — The Rochester Hills Public Library welcomes The Luddites for a concert at 2 p.m. Dec. 1. The Luddites are a 10-piece original music group with a “Bohemian Folk Orchestra” sound, according to library staff. The Luddites have received eight Detroit Music Awards, the latest in 2020 under the World Music category. The event is open to the public. Registration is required. To register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or call (248) 656-2900.

Library presents ‘The History of the Willow Run B-34 Bomber Plant and the Legacy of Rosie the Riveter’ Dec. 3

ROCHESTER — The Rochester Hills Public Library presents “The History of the Willow Run B-34 Bomber Plant and the Legacy of Rosie the Riveter” at 7 p.m. Dec. 3. Event organizers say Claire Kitchin Dahl highlights the boldness, determination, creativity and bravery of American men and women as they prepared for, and then valiantly fought, World War II. Spurred on by the challenge presented by Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s “Arsenal of Democracy” speech, Dahl shares the story of Rosie the Riveter. The event is open to the public. Registration is required. To register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or call (248) 656-2900.

Holiday Home Tour bigger than ever

ROCHESTER — Mark your calendar for Sunday, Dec. 15. That’s the date of the 2024 edition of the Friends of the Library Holiday Home Tour, allowing you to see six homes dolled up for the Yule season — more than ever. And don’t forget the gift boutique at the Van Hoosen Farm and a tour of the annual model train exhibit there. The home lineup includes residences in Rochester, Rochester Hills and Oakland Township. The event starts at noon and runs through 5 p.m.

Your $35 ticket includes a map to the decorated homes, all within driving distance from the Rochester Hills Public Library’s home base at 500 Olde Towne Road. You can visit the boutique at the beginning, middle or end of your day and see any number of the six decorated homes. The merchants at the boutique offer many unique items, and the Van Hoosen-based event includes entry to the annual model train exhibit at the farm complex.

Tickets are $35 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the library store or online — see the “Friends events and Book Sales” link at rhpl.org. Tickets will not be mailed, but will be available for pickup at the library on the day of the event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 15, with directions and wristband for entry. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the library that day.

Vachon

Raiders

overall score while the freshman earned third in round 1 and first in round 2, finding a way to still claim the top overall score.

For the junior varsity squad, it was the Plymouth Canton Steelers who gave them fits, keeping them in second place.

The Steelers and Raiders, much like the old days of the National Football League when the Raiders were actually competitive, carry a little bit of a rivalry in the MYFCC league as top of the top programs.

So when the Steelers came out on top in cheerleading for the junior varsity level, the varsity football program quickly exacted its revenge in the MYFCC Super Bowl Nov. 2 at Westland John Glenn High School.

The two teams met under different circumstances in the regular season, playing on a Friday night at the University of Michigan.

Both teams had full locker room access, were able to run onto the field, and the league was able to use the stadium’s public address system for the nearly 800 fans in attendance.

“That’s kind of our rival there,” Raiders varsity head coach Ryan Alexander said.

“They’re one of the good organizations in our league as in they got their stuff together. We’ve worked well with them to get this whole thing done. It was just a really cool night. We were probably favored in the game, but to have it end in a tie – they felt like they won the Super Bowl and we felt like they lost, but we knew we’d see them again.”

The tie would be the only blemish on the Raiders’ record this season as they finished 8-0-1, but they made the most of their second meeting against the Steelers in a 4622 win in the Super Bowl.

This particular Raiders squad is no stranger to hosting the Super Bowl trophy, winning it as junior freshman, freshman, junior varsity, and now varsity.

Varsity football roster: Carmelo Walker, Lucas Budrick, Charlie Jablonski, Anthony Thompson III, Reeve Stark, Carter Bolin, Cooper Boughner, Max Ricketts, Caleb Cumiskey, Declan Raschke, Kyle Moussa, Matthew Meyers, Dominic Szymanski, Owen McCune, Joseph Sirianni, Ethan Reeves, Cullen Morgan, Brayden Markey, Butch Weghorst, Mason Cooke, Isaac Chue, Tristan Sudderth, Cooper Schultz, Mikhali Telegadas, Avery Rambow, Marcus Ibori, Drew Given, Matteo Trombetta, Tino Palazzolo, Kellen Alexander, Jaxon Papke, Benicio Borrego.

Junior freshman cheer roster: Ava Thompson, Lydia Hathaway, Willa Doski, Giuliana Caruso, Arabella Kolo, Daisy McNamara, Amelia Laporte, Eleanor Ortiz, Londyn Smith, Lucy Newingham, Taylor Korynski, Alanna Latra, Harper Weghorst, Charley Vogt, Harper Williamson, Kennedy Brown.

Freshman cheer roster: Addison Johnson, Lillian Orchell, Lucy Bittner, Paisley Florkey, Leighton Peglowski, Mae Colarossi, Nora Schornak, Ashlyn Koike, Ella Burzynski, Adalyn Rambow, Emily Wilson, Paisley Steenbergh, Mia Cumiskey, Callie Pollard, Hannah Stetson, Audrey Kuhlman, Brooklyn Scally, De’Myla Etchen, Arianna Yodzio, Addison Pollard, Brie Osmanski, Claire Poirier.

Junior varsity cheer roster: Anna Martin, Hope Barrett, Claudia Scruggs, Anna Fick, Sofia Caruso, Emma Brazen, Isabella Saverino, Joei Contompasis, Layla Kerry, Lyla Latra, Addilynn Hoekstra, Brooke Harrington, Vivian Kim, Marissa Fandakly, Mila Bedricky, Elena Ramos, Vivian Kolo, Alice Schaedel, Amelia Abela, Ashlyn May, Zoey Goedtel, Brianna Koetting.

“I think it was the preparation and hard work, and also a historic level of pure talent,” Alexander said. “The kids that we had are just exceptional players. You’ll recognize their names in years to come when they go on to (Brother) Rice, (Rochester) Adams, and Rochester. We were blessed with a huge amount of talent on this team. It was incredible.”

Alexander had 10 coaches alone on his staff to guide the 32 players on their roster, and Alexander said it’s the kind of coaching that’s tough to find anywhere else.

“If you talk to any of the varsity coaches like (Tony) Patritto or (Erik) Vernon from Rochester, I can’t remember the guy from Stoney Creek (Rick Powell), but they know when a Rochester Raider/Redskin is coming into their organization,” Alexander said.

“They’re just more prepared, and that’s just a testament to our coaches. You have former college players that are on our staff and you have current high school coaches that actually come over after an Adams practice and are in our organization. It’s just a high level of coaching.”

Aside from all that, what makes the Raiders special is their bond and commit-

ment to the program.

You have Alexander and Yodzio, both leading squads they once played for when they were kids, and you have other coaches such as Mike Sirianni and Eric Boughner, both assistants on the varsity level, who were with the organization when it first started 40 years ago.

You leave the organization as an adolescent, but it always has a way of staying with you for the rest of your life.

“It was my most memorable experience

Op.

as a kid,” Alexander said. “The best man (Brandon DeCourcy) in my wedding is a former Rochester Redskin, who now coaches the junior freshman. Once I had kids, I just knew I would coach again. I coached my kid the second he signed up in the league and I’ve never stopped.”

“It was something very important and special to me growing up and being a part of the community, so it was exciting to me for her (Yodzio’s daughter) to show an interest,” Yodzio said.

Ed. – Te Next Election

Professor Pearl, in his Nobel Lecture concluded as follows:

“My fnal remark to women and men going into experimental science is that they should pay little attention to the speculative ideas of my generation. After all, if my generation has any really good speculative ideas, we would be carrying these ideas out ourselves.”

I fnd that statement to be remarkably relevant in the election cycle we just went through. Very unlike the national races however, in this community, our frequent complaints aside, we have been well served over time by a group of professionals in most levels of government who take time out of their lives to do thankless and unpaid jobs for the beneft of all. Obviously, almost all who choose to volunteer do so out of a genuine desire to want to help their community. Yet, I fear, seldom do we fnd that the wish to help with the important business of the community is combined with the necessary gravitas required to succeed.

We will soon be entering the next campaign season though we just fnished one in November. It is a great privilege to serve the people of this community despite the concerns and pragmatic difculties with which our ofcials are sometimes presented. I, of course, recognize that this community was here long before us, and it will be here long after we’re gone. Nonetheless, I know that who we select for our local ofces is infnitely more fundamental to our immediate wellbeing than the national ones. So, if you’d like to vote and forget about your local leadership, which is a natural desire, please take the time in advance to look up our current elected ofcials and what they stand for. We owe it to ourselves. Te next election cycle has already begun.

REN NUSHAJ – Attorney / Prosecutor

Scammers use bogus QR codes on parking meters to cash in

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

ROCHESTER — A sneaky new scam that’s draining motorists’ wallets has made its way to Rochester.

Rochester police Chief George Rouhib said he was recently notified by another police department in the area that had bogus QR codes on all their parking meters, so he directed his officers to check the meters in Rochester.

After checking the black QR codes on the city’s 709 parking meters, police found 20 meters had bogus QR code stickers carefully attached over the real ones.

“At first, if you click on the code, it would go to a Park Mobile site — that’s who we use for parking, so it looked legit — but you could only insert a license plate and you couldn’t do anything after that,” Rouhib said.

“We thought maybe it was just a test, because they weren’t in just one spot, they were spread out all over the place in the city and whoever put them on took some time to put them on, they looked very nice. So the next day, you could go on and — our biggest fear — you could put your credit card there.”

IRISH TAVERN

Police are currently investigating the matter and trying to determine where that money is going and who set it up.

“We did remove all the bogus ones off the meters and we’re checking them every single day to make certain that it doesn’t continue,” Rouhib said. “But this is going on, it’s probably happening in 50 different cities, so it’s a clear criminal enterprise.”

Rochester Police are working to find out who’s responsible for the fake QR codes, Rouhib said.

“We’re safe in town here for now,” he added. “We’re on top of it.”

While there have been no issues reported at parking meters within the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction, OCSO Public Information Officer Steve Huber said QR codes can be posted anywhere and act as a fast pass for scammers to your bank account and other personal information.

“We have regularly put out safety warnings about scanning QR codes as a threat to your personal information and phone,” he said.

The OCSO encourages the public to avoid scanning QR codes positioned in public places or that appear to be tampered with and says to download apps referenced with QR codes directly from the app store.

To report a concern, call the Rochester Police Department at (248) 651-9621. You can also report scams to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

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

The FBI issued a warning that criminals are hijacking QR codes by placing stickers with codes they create over the top of the real QR code. When scanned, these malicious codes direct victims to phishing websites where they can steal personal or financial information. After checking the black QR codes on the city’s 709 parking meters, police found 20 meters had bogus QR code stickers carefully attached over the real ones.

Photo by Mary Beth Almond

Events

the fourth annual Snowman Stroll, which is on display along Main Street, from Second Street to University, Dec.1-31.

“We are always trying to infuse art into our programs. As it is right now, we seem to have some type of art project going on every quarter, which I think is amazing, and we are able to attract more artists to participate in those events,” Trevarrow said. “The Snowman Stroll has artists as young as high school that are doing those for us.”

The public art event features 12 5-foot fiberglass snowmen designed by local artists and sponsored by local businesses.

“My personal favorite is ‘Santapool,’ who is from the (‘Deadpool & Wolverine’) movie,” Trevarrow added. “He’s Deadpool but in Santa garb.”

While checking out the lights and the snowmen, festive friends and family can visit an expanded Kris Kringle Market Dec. 6-7. Inspired by the 700-year-old tradition of the European Christmas market, the Kris Kringle Market will run from 4 to 10 p.m. Dec. 6 and from noon to 10 p.m. Dec. 7 on West Fourth Street and Walnut Boulevard.

“After many years of the public requesting a larger holiday market, we are offering just that,” said Taylor Knuth, marketing coordinator for the Rochester DDA.

The open-air holiday market will double in size this year with more vendors, more musical entertainment, Santa’s Village and more room. Over 60 handpicked vendors will offer an array of holiday decorations, gifts, and seasonal foods.

New this year is Santa’s Village, where children can enjoy a visit and photo opportunity with Santa Claus, as well as a magical story time. Santa will be available from 4 to 9 p.m. Friday — with a story time at 7 p.m. — and from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday — with a story time at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will also be a chance to play in the child-sized gingerbread houses and warm up by the s’more station.

Visitors can also purchase a commemorative mug filled with hot-spiced wine or enjoy handcrafted beer inside the warming tent. Proceeds from the warming tent will benefit the Rochester Area Youth Assistance on Friday evening and the Rochester Avon Recreation Authority on Saturday.

“With the holidays coming, I think people are looking for good food, good decor and good gifts, and the market offers all

of that,” Knuth said.

The city’s fifth annual Neighborhood Light Fight also extends the Big, Bright Light Show into the neighborhoods, allowing the public to vote for their favorite street Dec. 1-15. The community is invited to check out the displays and text a code to the number on their favorite street’s yard signs to cast a vote in their favor. The winning street receives $500 in food for a summer block party.

The third annual Pancakes and PJs event will be held at the Rochester Fire Department 5-8 p.m. Dec. 12. Attendees, many dressed in pajamas, will enjoy a holiday-themed pancake dinner cooked and provided by Rochester firefighters, a kids craft, a holiday-themed photo spot and visit with Santa.

Tickets cost $15 each, and advance reservations are required online at the Rochester DDA website. Each one-hour reservation block has limited seating, and proceeds from the event benefit The Big, Bright Light Show.

For more information, visit www. DowntownRochesterMI.com or call the Rochester DDA at (248) 656-0060.

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

Approximately 12 fiberglass snowmen, like this one from last year’s event, will be on display along Main Street in downtown Rochester during the Snowman Stroll Dec. 1-31. Photo provided by Downtown Rochester

Donations

“Our clients are barely making ends meet, living paycheck to paycheck, so this is a huge help for our clients,” she said.

“These are families that otherwise would not be able to afford gifts. It’s a choice for them, it’s a choice between putting food on the table for their children or giving them a gift.”

Neighborhood House recently kicked off its 2024 Holiday Giving Tree program — which includes traditional gift trees and tags in the community, as well as an electronic shopping option — to provide food, clothing and gifts for those in need.

The giving trees hold tags, each assigned to a young person — ages newborn to 18 — in the program with an age-appropriate gift item.

Through Dec. 3, those who prefer to shop in stores can drop off new toys and clothing for the program at one of four locations — Neighborhood House, 1720 S. Livernois Road; Retro Fitness, 637 N. Main St.; the Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne Road; and the Auburn Hills city manager’s office, 1827 N. Squirrel Road. All gifts must be new and unwrapped.

The electronic Holiday Giving Tree also allows the community to shop online for the most requested items for struggling families — including hoodies, pajamas, gloves, hats, books, board games, toys and gift cards — and ship them directly to the Neighborhood House by Tuesday, Dec. 3.

Through the Holiday Giving Tree Program, each child receives two gifts or gift cards, a pajama set, a hoodie or sweatshirt,

a winter hat, gloves/mittens, one book and a family board game. The program’s success depends on the generosity of community and individual donors.

Last year, 200 families with over 400 children received clothing and gifts through the program, and this year, organizers hope to serve many more.

“We try to make it very bountiful so the families that we serve, there is no difference in the gifts they are getting from their peers in this community. For a lot of our families, really these are the gifts that their children will be getting — otherwise there would not be gifts,” Roberts said.

Participating is simple: Sign up to be a donor at go.ranh.org/2024GTDonors or shop the Giving Tree Amazon Wish List at go.ranh.org/Holidaywishlist.

Neighborhood House is also working with local churches and organizations to facilitate the distribution of holiday food baskets for individuals and families in need. Last year, over 350 families received a food basket. Donations of nonperishable food items, gifts, cash and gift cards can be given anytime, because if the donations aren’t used immediately for the holidays, they can be put toward the food pantry program or other giving programs throughout the year.

“This year, we are actually seeing — in our food pantry — about 20% more than last year, so the need is higher. I’m sure that’s due to inflation and grocery prices skyrocketing,” Roberts said. “Our food pantry always has a need for food.”

For more information, to adopt a family or to make a donation, call the Neighborhood House at (248) 651-5836, ext. 36, or email bris@ranh.org.

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

CRIME WATCH

Ethnic intimidation

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the 900 block of Majestic for the report of a baggie left on the driveway containing antisemitic writing and what appeared to be some unknown pellets at 9:02 a.m. Oct. 6, according to police.

Deputies learned that over 200 separate homes and adjoining neighborhoods had the same baggies thrown on their driveways.

Deputies searched the area for the suspect with negative results and proactively walked through the neighborhoods removing the antisemitic material. Detectives are investigating.

Retail fraud

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Kohl’s, 223 E. Auburn Road, for a report of a retail fraud at 6:26 p.m. Oct. 14.

Upon arrival, deputies learned that the retail fraud involving three female suspects occurred Sept. 25. According to reports, the suspects entered the store each carrying a large black purse, went to the Sephora section and collectively concealed 47 bottles of Sol de Janeiro body spray. They exited the store, passing several open registers while not making any attempt to pay for the concealed items, police said.

The total amount of stolen merchandise was valued at $1,898. Deputies requested store video footage and a statement of loss.

It was later learned that the suspects returned to Kohl’s Oct. 13 and entered

Sephora before being confronted by loss prevention. The suspects reportedly exited the store and were seen entering a white Chrysler 200. Loss prevention obtained the license plate numbers at that time. Police are investigating.

Student sent home after drawing inappropriate cartoon

ROCHESTER HILLS — The Avondale Middle School school resource deputy was made aware of an inappropriate drawing by a student at 2:13 p.m. Oct. 7.

The drawing depicted a cartoon with a character telling another that he would kill them, according to reports. The student was taken to the administrative office where his backpack was searched.

The student reportedly stated he got the idea from an anime show he was watching and that was all he could think of to complete his assignment. The student was reportedly sent home and given school consequences for violating the code of conduct. A threat assessment has been scheduled.

Students

approached

by strangers at bus stop

ROCHESTER HILLS — An email was sent to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office regarding two students being approached by strangers as they exited the school bus at their bus stop after school at 4:15 p.m. Oct. 7.

The event happened near the 900 block of Bolinger Street. The two strangers were reportedly talking in a foreign language.

The students ran home and reported the incident to their parents. A photo of the suspects at the bus stop was also included. A deputy contacted the family, gathered infor-

mation and completed a report. Patrols were added to the area during bus times.

Garage fire investigated

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies, along with the Rochester Hills Fire Department, were dispatched to a residential structure fire on the 1300 block of Rochdale Court.

Upon arrival, the garage was engulfed in flames, and all occupants of the home had escaped. A resident of the home stated she arrived home around 8 p.m. and parked her vehicle in the garage. A couple hours later, she discovered the fire in the garage and exited the home.

Firefighters extinguished the fire and requested the assistance of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office’s Fire Investigations Unit. The incident remains under investigation.

Man with felony warrant arrested at Innovation Hills

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Innovation Hills, 2800 W. Hamlin Road, for a report of a fight occurring in the parking lot between four unknown individuals at 6:27 p.m. Oct. 12.

The caller stated that a female and two males, both wearing tan hoodies, were fighting with an individual who was sitting inside of a vehicle. The individual in the vehicle left the area in an unknown direction. The caller stated that the three individuals left on foot walking in the direction of the overflow parking on Hamlin Road.

Deputies arrived on scene and discovered one of the three individuals had an active felony warrant out of the 40th District Court for aggravated assault. The sub-

ject was arrested on the felony warrant and turned over to the St. Clair Shores Police Department. After interviewing the three suspects, it was determined that no fight had taken place.

Student investigated after making inappropriate gesture

ROCHESTER HILLS — The Avondale Middle School school resource deputy was made aware of an inappropriate gesture by a student at 10:42 a.m. Oct. 14.

The teacher stated that a student in her class was being disruptive. When he was asked to complete a behavior worksheet, he reportedly made a hand gesture as if he had a shotgun, acting as if he pumped it and verbally made the pump sound as he pointed his hands toward the ground. The child later admitted to making the gesture and stated he was frustrated when he received the behavioral sheet, police said.

The student was brought to the office with his backpack and his musical instrument. Both items were searched for weapons with negative results. His locker was also searched with negative results.

The student’s mother reportedly arrived at the school and was asked about access to weapons in the home. She advised there were no weapons in the home. The mother advised the school administration that her child is in therapy and is seen by his therapist on a consistent basis, police said.

According to police, the student was given school consequences for violating the code of conduct. A threat assessment has been scheduled, and the student is not to return to school until its completion.

— Mary Beth Almond

Ordinance

from page 1A

to City Code. Councilwoman Sara King was absent from the meeting.

The new ordinance continues to allow officers to write a civil infraction ticket for offenders, but it allows violations to be handled under local ordinance and also utilizes the Rochester city prosecutor to handle such tickets in court.

“This way we don’t just let people who are violating this slide, because you could lose your CPL if you fail to disclose,” Rouhib said. “Also, any kind of fine goes back to the city, rather than the state.”

Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Salvia said the new ordinance just “makes sense.”

“Anything we can do to help our local police force continue to keep us safe,” she said.

The new city ordinance outlines three potential violations, all of which City Attorney Jeffrey Kragt said mirror state law.

Anyone who is licensed to carry a concealed pistol and is not carrying one’s concealed pistol license and either a state-issued driver’s license or personal identification card will receive a municipal civil infraction and be fined.

“There are three different violations that are here: One is to carry the ID, one is to show the ID, and those two are each … $100 fines, so that could be two different violations,” Kragt explained.

“Then, if you have your weapon on you and you don’t disclose that you have your weapon on you, that’s where it jumps to a $500 fine. It’s not a penny more than what state law identifies, it just allows a ticket to be written under local ordinance instead of state law.”

For more information regarding statewide handgun regulations or concealed weapons and firearms laws, contact the Rochester Police Department at (248) 6519621.

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

”

The Wujek and Calcaterra families wish you a Thanksgiving flled with blessings and surrounded by the ones you love. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful families in this community who have chosen us to serve them. We are humbled by your trust.

www.WujekCalcaterra.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

18A/ ROCHESTER POST • NOVEMBER 25, 2024

NOV. 25

Lagniappe/The Big, Bright Light Show: Kickoff event featuring Santa, Rochester buildings illuminated and fireworks, 6-9 p.m., stage set up on West Fourth and Main streets in Rochester, lights continue 5 p.m.midnight until Jan. 19, www.downtownrochestermi. com/lagniappe, www.downtownrochestermi.com/ the-big-bright-light-show

DEC. 3

‘Lost Restaurants of Detroit’: Presented by Rochester-Avon Historical Society and led by author Paul Vachon, noon, Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, free but $5 donation by RAHS nonmembers encouraged, registration required, leave message at (248) 266-5440, rahsupdates@gmail.com, rochesteravonhistoricalsociety.org

DEC. 4

Grand Marshal Gala: Event honoring Rochester Area Hometown Christmas Parade grand marshal Greg Kampe (Oakland University men’s basketball head coach), also networking, dinner, cash bar and Santa visit, 6-9 p.m., Great Oaks Country Club, 777 Great Oaks Blvd. in Rochester, registration required, rrc-mi.com

DEC. 5-7

Gifts & Greens Market: Fundraiser for Rochester

Garden Club with all proceeds assisting community, 5-8 p.m. Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 6 and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 7, Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, 1550 Walton Blvd. in Rochester Hills, rochestergardenclub.org

Quality sale: Hosted by Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library, includes books, puzzles, games, DVDs, CDs and other like-new items, 3-8 p.m. Dec. 5, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 6 and 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Dec. 7, RHPL, 500 Olde Towne Road in Rochester, rhpl.org

DEC. 6-7

Kris Kringle Market: Open-air event featuring 35-plus vendors, live music and caroling, warming tent with hot-spice wine, beer and food, child-size gingerbread houses for play, Santa visits and s’mores station, 4-10 p.m. Dec. 6 and noon-10 p.m. Dec. 7, West Fourth Street between Main Street and Walnut Boulevard in downtown Rochester, downtownrochestermi.com/ kris-kringle-market

DEC. 6 & 13

Advent concerts: Noon, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo St. in Rochester, stpaulsrochester. org/index.php/harmony-in-the-hills

DEC. 7

A Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus: Bring wish list and camera, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at

To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.

Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, registration required, (248) 656-4663, rochesterhills.org/ musprograms

DEC. 8

Rochester Area Hometown Christmas Parade: Features more than 100 floats, marching bands, community groups, and Santa and Mrs. Claus, 1.5-mile route along Rochester Road, 2 p.m., rrc-mi.com/christmas-parade

DEC. 11

Winter Wonderland Ball: Holiday cookies, snacks and drinks, dancing, and photos on red carpet, for kids in grades 1-5, 6-8 p.m., Rochester Avon Recreation Authority, 500 E. Second St., rararecreation.org

DEC. 12

Pancakes & PJs: Dinner cooked by Rochester firefighters, Santa visit, kids craft and holiday-themed photos, proceeds benefit The Big, Bright Light Show, 5-8 p.m., Rochester Fire Department, 277 E. Second St., register at downtownrochestermi.com/pancakes-pjs

DEC. 13

Milk & Cookies with Santa: Also photos, activities and meet The Grinch, 4-8 p.m., Rochester Avon Recreation Authority, 500 E. Second St., rararecreation.org

DEC. 14

Gingerbread House Challenge: Get decorating tips from chef and his team, also pop-up shops featuring local makers and Neighborhood House collecting mittens and hats, noon-3 p.m., Twin Lakes Golf Club, 455 Twin Lakes Drive in Oakland Township, (248) 601-4172

DEC. 19

Candlelight Walking Tours: Features historic vignettes and campfire cooking, a capella carols, and decorated 1840s farmhouse, guided tours includes inside and outside stations, hour times slots available 6-9 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, registration required, (248) 656-4663, rochesterhills.org/musprograms

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Rochester Community Schools – 2020 Sinking Fund

Project: Rochester Community Schools

Description: Bid Package 45 – RCS Admin Data Room Cooling

Architect: Ghafari 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126

Construction Manager: Frank Rewold and Sons Inc.

303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307

Estimators: Mike Gagnon (248) 618-0220 mgagnon@frankrewold.com

Questions addressed ONLY to Mike Gagnon

Bid Documents: Bid documents including bid forms may be obtained from Frank Rewold and Sons Portal at:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/cs71yjd9t8eki6eoybcgg/AKzAECKqrk5KSy1R4uoFKUc?rlkey=izp03cifr4n2jv58yvh1faims&st=t6xoebwo&dl=0 Bid documents will be available on or after December 3, 2024

Non-Mandatory Prebid Walk-Through: 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 10, 2024 - Meet at 52585 Dequindre Rd., Rochester, Michigan 48309. Meet at the front entrance.

Bid Due Date: 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Bids will only be accepted on forms provided. Proposal forms must be in a sealed envelope, mailed or delivered in person prior by 2:00 p.m. EST on the due date to:

Attn: Jennifer Fickel, Rochester Community Schools C/O Frank Rewold and Sons Inc.

303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307

2:00 p.m. Public Bid Opening: Frank Rewold and Sons Inc. Tuesday, December 17, 2024 303 E. Third St., Suite 300, Rochester, MI 48307 4th Floor Mezzanine

Labor and Material and Performance Bond: In accordance with Michigan Compiled Laws Section 129.201, successful contractor(s) must obtain Performance and Payment Bonds for any Bid Category exceeding $50,000. The Performance and Payment Bonds shall be in an amount equal to the contract amount. The Performance and Payment Bonds shall be for the protection of Rochester Community Schools and Frank Rewold and Son Inc. and shall be executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state of Michigan

TAKE OUR SURVEY

Oakland County is developing the Community Transit Plan (CTP) to enhance public transportation services. This plan will assess current conditions, explore industry best practices, and gather input from residents and stakeholders. Our goal is to create effective strategies and recommendations for future growth and service improvements across our Community Service Area, which includes cities, villages, and townships served by local transit providers

Current Riders: Share your experiences with our transit providers. Your insights will help us enhance services and better meet your needs.

Non-Riders: Let us know your thoughts and sentiments about public transit in the county. Your feedback is crucial for understanding barriers and improving accessibility.

Survey will close Nov. 18, 2024

30. Miner’s load

31. Member of Round Table

34. Quartet minus one

35. Spacious

37. Last word of “America the Beautiful”

38. Young chicken

39. Cocoyam

40. Largest Asian antelope

42. Haute couture gala location, with The 43. Slimy phlebotomists

45. *____phobia, fear of public speaking

47. Took the bait

48. Tempter

50. Dumbstruck

52. *Gamophobia, fear of ____

55. September stone

56. Cantina cooker

57. Apple leftover

Agora, plural

Delphi talker

Say “pretty please”

59. Lakes, in Scotland

60. ____ gin

61. “On a ____,” or carefree

62. *____mania, obsession with oneself

63. Cough syrup amt. 64. Additional DOWN

1. *____phobia, fear of bees

*____phobia, fear of snakes and crocodiles

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WATERWORK

OF

INCIDENTS REPORTED TO LOCAL POLICE, AS COMPILED BY C & G REPORTERS

Suspect posing as victim attempts to donate vehicle to tow yard

SOUTHFIELD — Between 3:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Oct. 21, a resident had their vehicle stolen and taken to a tow yard in the 22000 block of Le Rhone Street, where an unknown individual posing as the victim stated they wished to donate the 2005 Dodge Durango.

Woman flees car thief

SOUTHFIELD — At 3:25 a.m. Oct. 24, a woman was walking to her car in the 22000 block of Essex Way Street when she noticed an unknown male standing at her car.

The unknown male stated he wanted the keys to the vehicle, and the woman noticed the butt of a gun in the suspect’s pants.

The woman was able to run away from the suspect without injury, and the suspect left the area.

Intoxicated driver apprehended after fleeing from vehicle crash

TROY — Officers were dispatched to East Maple and John R roads for a report of a vehicle crash at 1:49 p.m. on Oct. 25.

One of the drivers reported the other driver had fled the scene after striking his vehicle. Officers were able to confirm the identity of the driver who fled and proceeded to his address in Sterling Heights.

Outside his apartment, officers observed his 2022 Honda Civic with crash damage. Upon speaking with the driver, officers noted an odor of intoxicants. The driver admitted to drinking prior to the crash. A preliminary breath test showed a 0.16% blood alcohol content.

The driver was arrested and was issued a citation for operating while intoxicated, failing to stop and ID after an accident, and failing to report an accident.

Driver veers into trees

TROY — Officers were dispatched to East Square Lake Road and Rochester roads for a report of a vehicle crash at 2:34 p.m. Oct. 25.

The driver, a 39-year-old man from Troy, was in a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado that sustained heavy damage after veering off the roadway, hitting multiple ditches, and ending up in the trees.

Officers noted the driver’s eyes were bloodshot and watery and there was a strong odor of intoxicants coming from his person. He refused to perform sobriety evaluations or submit to a preliminary breath test.

He was arrested and a search warrant to complete a blood draw was prepared and granted. His

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

Thousands of dollars in perfume stolen from beauty store

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield

Township Police Department was dispatched to Ulta Beauty, located at 2161 S. Telegraph Road, for a retail fraud in progress at approximately 8 p.m. Nov. 2.

A customer from inside of the store called to report two females stealing merchandise. Once officers arrived it was discovered that the two suspects had already left the building. Police said approximately $3,000 of perfume was stolen.

Checks stolen, cashed

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield

Township Police Department took a report of a stolen checkbook from a private residence near Long Lake and Telegraph roads Nov. 1 with multiple checks fraudulently written and cashed.

The resident reported that at the end of September he met a woman at a bar and invited her back to his home. Soon after, he discovered one checkbook missing from his office desk. After checking his bank account, he discovered four checks, with a forged signature, had been written to people he didn’t know. The four checks were cashed and totaled over $24,000.

Suspects get refund for stolen goods

FARMINGTON — On Nov. 1 at approximately 8:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the TJ Maxx on Grand River Avenue for two female suspects approximately 30 years of age attempting to return stolen items for a refund. Loss prevention said the items — kitchen supplies — were stolen from other TJ Maxx locations. The value refunded was approximately $760. The suspects obtained the refund and left prior to officers’ arrival. The case was forwarded to the detective bureau.

Vehicle reported stolen FARMINGTON — A tenant from the Drakeshire

Apartments reported that her vehicle, a 2005 Mercury Sable, was stolen from her parking lot between 9 p.m. Oct. 20 and 4 p.m. Oct. 21.

Gun accidentally goes off in man’s pocket

FARMINGTON — Police were dispatched to Corewell Health for a 42-year-old gunshot wound victim from Farmington at approximately 5 p.m. Oct. 18. Officers contacted the man and learned he had

AND NOTES NEWS

BRIEFS TAKEN FROM AROUND OUR COVERAGE AREAS

PANTRY ACCEPTING DONATIONS

BERKLEY — The city of Berkley is partnering with the Berkley Cares Food Pantry to help those in need. Through Dec. 12, the city is collecting nonperishable food and toiletries to benefit the food pantry. City Hall, the Public Safety Department, the Community Center, the library and the Department of Public Works each have a collection box to drop off donations.

Nonperishable items that can be donated include canned fruits, vegetables and proteins, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, dry and wet pet food, granola bars, pudding, and kids’ lunch snacks like pretzels and chips, canned soups, ravioli, pasta, pasta sauce, and mashed potatoes. Other suggested items include formula, diapers, toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, laundry detergent, feminine products, dish soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. For questions, contact communications@ berkleymi.gov. A monetary donation also can be made at berkleycaresfoodpantry.com/give.

block of Grand River Avenue when he’d placed a tool into the same pocket where he was legally carrying a firearm. The firearm discharged, and the subject suffered an injury. The case was forwarded to the detective bureau for warrant consideration.

Social media interaction leads to crypto wallet scam

BIRMINGHAM — A 46-year-old man told police that on Oct. 24 he met an unidentified female through a social media app.

He said she persuaded him to invest in a crypto wallet, but after depositing funds and attempting to withdraw, the man discovered that the wallet was a scam. An investigation was ongoing.

$19,000 in designer handbags stolen from boutique

BIRMINGHAM — On Oct. 24, officers were dispatched to a retail store in the 300 block of East Maple around noon for a retail fraud that had just occurred.

The boutique owner, a 48-year-old West Bloomfield woman, said a female customer hid something in front of her waist as she exited the store. The suspect and her male companion drove away in a gray minivan; meanwhile, the store owner noticed that several designer handbags valued at more than $19,000 were missing. An investigation was ongoing.

Woman steals beer

BERKLEY — A 52-year-old Berkley woman was arrested for retail fraud at 10:10 p.m. Oct. 24 at 1715 Coolidge Highway.

Police reported to the CVS Pharmacy after a retail fraud had been committed. According to the report, the woman was attempting to purchase three cans of beer. The suspect said the employee could trust her as she visibly was over the age of 21. The employee insisted that she show an identification, to which the woman said she was walking out of the store without paying.

The woman was able to leave the store but was chased down by the employee, who told her to give the cans back. While the employee was attempting to get the beer back from the suspect, she allegedly told the employee that she was going to shoot him. The suspect gave back two cans of beer, but cracked open the third can, drank from it and threw it at the employee before leaving on foot northbound on Coolidge, according to police.

Police were able to track down the woman and place her under arrest for third-degree retail fraud and simple assault and battery.

Deputies assist in arrest ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies monitoring neighboring jurisdictions’ radio traffic overheard Royal Oak and Troy police in an active pursuit of a tan/gold Ford Windstar minivan northbound on I-75, heading onto eastbound M-59, at 3:46 a.m. Oct. 2. The pursuit continued into and then out of the city’s jurisdiction, with only Royal Oak and Troy following. Troy discontinued via radio traffic, with Royal Oak still actively engaged. The pursuit continued northbound on Adams, crossing South Boulevard, when Royal Oak terminated and lost sight of the vehicle. A few moments later, deputies responded to a 911 call in the area of Adams and M-59. The caller claimed she had been carjacked in her Ford Windstar, which also matched the description of the vehicle Royal Oak and Troy were pursuing.

Deputies canvassed the area and located the vehicle on the westbound M-59 shoulder, west of Adams. The vehicle was occupied by a lone female driver who said she had been carjacked and the suspect fled on foot southbound across the freeway. While deputies were checking the area for the suspect, Royal Oak confirmed that the vehicle had only been occupied by a lone female driver. Deputies detained the woman until Royal Oak arrived. Royal Oak police investigated, took custody of the driver and impounded the vehicle.

Drunken people issued citations after fighting ROCHESTER — Officers were dispatched to the area of Main and University for a fight in progress at approximately 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3. Officers arrived in the area and were unable to locate any altercation. After a check of the area, officers were able to locate the involved parties, who were highly intoxicated. Both subjects were placed under arrest and were transported to the Police Department. Both subjects were cited and released when sober.

Mother caught driving drunk to pick child up from scene of incident

ROCHESTER — An officer was dealing with a juvenile matter at 11:56 p.m. Nov. 4 and told the juvenile to contact a parent. A few moments later, the juvenile’s mother drove to the scene, and the officer observed signs of impairment. Field sobriety evaluations were conducted, which the driver failed. The driver was given a preliminary breath test, which resulted in a blood alcohol content of 0.09%. The driver was placed under arrest, the juvenile was turned over to the other parent, and the mother was taken to the Police Department. A chemical breath test was administered, and the blood alcohol content was 0.11%. The driver was lodged until sober and was released with a pending court date.

Troy Community Chorus to perform ‘Yuletide Dreams’

TROY — The Troy Community Chorus will present its holiday concert, “Yuletide Dreams,” at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, in the auditorium of Athens High School, 4333 John R Road.

The program, under the direction of Jonathan Lowrie and accompanied by Min Sook Chung, will be a combination of traditional and contemporary songs of the season.

Advance tickets cost $12 for ages 13-62, $10 for seniors and ages 6-12, and they are free for children younger than 5. Tickets will be available at the door for $15 each. To order tickets, contact Gina Sweet at (248) 762-6862 or ginasweet@gmail.com. Will-call tickets will be available for pickup at 7:30 p.m. the night of the concert.

Attendees can win a variety of items by participating in a fundraising basket raffle. The Troy Community Chorus is a non-audition choir consisting of more than 90 members ages 24-85 from across metro Detroit. It was founded in 1978. For more information, visit www.troycommunitychorus.com.

DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER CELEBRATES ANNUAL HOLIDAY WINDOW CONTEST

ROCHESTER — Nearly 20 local businesses will participate in the Holiday Window Contest in downtown Rochester, which has a “Winter Wonderland” theme this year. The community event encourages businesses to showcase their creativity and holiday spirit by transforming their windows into a winter wonderland display. From Nov. 25 to Dec. 4, residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the downtown area and text their vote for their favorite holiday window display. People can cast their votes by following the voting information displayed outside each participating business’s window. A complete list of participating businesses and a map are located at www.downtownrochestermi.com/holiday-win dow-contest. The winner will be announced onstage at the Kris Kringle Market Friday, Dec. 6. For more information, including a complete list of events, visit www.DowntownRochesterMI.com.

Park ice rink to reopen STERLING HEIGHTS — The Dodge Park Ice Rink will return to the

ADACHI WINS BURGER CONTEST

and rules.

BIRMINGHAM — The Birmingham Shopping District’s inaugural BirminghamBURGER recently wrapped up. During the month of October, 18 Birmingham restaurants participated in a competition of who can make the best specialty burger. Throughout the contest, there were a total of 2,900 burger ratings.

Adachi’s burger, titled “Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover,” received the highest ratings and won the competition.

Executive chef Lloyd Roberts and executive sous chef Eppie Marie created this Japanese-inspired katsu burger. While the burgers for BirminghamBURGER were created for the event, this burger will remain on Adachi’s lunch menu.

“We congratulate Adachi on receiving the people’s choice of Best BirminghamBURGER! We were thrilled to have such incredible participation from our restaurants and the local and regional community for this first-time event! We experienced significant engagement both in-person at many of our restaurants and on our voting platform and social media channels during the event. We look forward to this event returning in October 2025 and cannot wait to see what our local chefs dream up next,” said Erika Bassett, BSD executive director, in a press release.

Photos provided by the Birmingham Shopping District