Holiday cheer radiates from Royal Oak
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — Royal Oak is the destination to be during the winter season with plenty of different holiday-themed events for all to enjoy.
Royal Oak kicked off the holiday season Nov. 22 at the Lighting of the Park ceremony. The event included music, ice skating at The Rink, singing from the Royal Oak Children’s Choir, hot cocoa and of course the lighting of the park, including the giant oak tree.
Centennial Commons, 221 E. Third St. in Royal Oak, is
BIRMINGHAM COIN & JEWELRY
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
CLAWSON — Clawson police officer Aundreana Beydoun was taught growing up to always respect the elderly.
When she noticed an influx of welfare-check calls for seniors called into the Clawson Police Department, she wanted to create a program that would provide more efficient help to the senior community.
Last spring, Beydoun began creating the Clawson Officers Protecting Seniors Care program to help encourage the independence and safety of seniors living in their homes. The program seeks to accomplish this through check-ins, resources and social opportunities.
“We (Clawson) have a high population of elderly people. People come here and they stay here,” Beydoun said. “While I was responding to calls, I noticed a lot of them were for the elderly or vulnerable adults that had financial hard-
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Moonbeams for Sweet Dreams back for sixth season
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — It’s that time of year again to light up the windows of the young patients of Corewell Health and spread the love as the holiday tradition Moonbeams for Sweet Dreams begins for its sixth year.
Moonbeams for Sweet Dreams is an event dedicated to the children in the hospital during the holiday season and lights up their nights Dec. 9-23. The event is located at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital at 3601 W. 13 Mile Road in Royal Oak.
For 10 minutes each night, starting at 8 p.m., people of all ages use flashlights to beam up light to the windows of the pediatric unit. Patients inside the hospital return the glow with flashlights of their own.
Lighting up the windows of the most vulnerable patients in the hospital gives them the joy and excitement of connecting with the community, which is a normal part of the holiday season for most.
“It’s such a simple thing that’s happening, but you can kind of see the impact it has on our patients and families just in that they’re stuck in a hospital or stuck in the building during what is kind of the busiest hustle and bustle time of the year,” Amanda Lefkof, one of the leaders of the Moonbeams initiative, said.
Family finds peace for the holiday season through Grace Centers of Hope
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
CLAWSON — Last year, Alyssa Depaolis and her two sons celebrated Christmas
in a hotel room with just the three of them.
The family made the most of the situation, ordering in and opening gifts ordered from Amazon together.
This year, 33-year-old Depaolis and
her two sons will be celebrating the holiday surrounded by residents at Grace Centers of Hope after spending nine months learning the skills necessary to live an independent life.
Originally from Clawson, Depaolis lived a life of uncertainty, moving from place to place. She ended up in North Carolina, where she worked a midnight shift and
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Mobile lab brings the farm to the city through education
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The students of the Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy were given the opportunity to experience life in the agricultural world on Nov. 22 during a virtual farm science lab.
The FARM Science Lab provides students with hands-on opportunities to experience what it is like to be a farmer and learn more about the inner workings of agricultural occupations.
The lab was presented by the Michigan Farm Bureau through the Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom program and took place at the Gathering House in Royal Oak, 1326 E. Lincoln Ave.
Farming has a role in nearly all the items people use on a daily basis, according to Raphael Weaver, regional community coordinator of Stride Inc., an education management organization that provides online education.
“Part of it is to get them exposed to different occupations and for them to understand where their food comes from,” Weaver said. “A lot of products that they wear, or even in their shampoo, toothpaste, where that stuff comes from, farming is a big aspect of that.”
Children in kindergarten through the fifth grade from the Great Lakes Virtual Academy participated in this hands-on experience.
Kendall Schroeder, executive director and head of school at Great Lakes Virtual Academy, said that this is the first year her students have done a lab like this. She also said that
learning in person is an experience that she always tries to provide for the virtual students.
“We know the value of coming together in person, face to face, and there’s just something different about that, that you can see the connection being made when that happens,” Schroeder said. “That’s what I saw at these events that we’re hosting, is the connection that students are having with each other, I think is really, really powerful.”
See FARM on page 20A
OLSM grad McKay named among top defenders in Northwoods Baseball League
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK/ORCHARD LAKE —
He was one of the toughest players to strike out in the National Collegiate Athletic Association this past season, and now he’s one of the top second basemen in the Northwoods League.
The NWL, one of the largest organized baseball leagues in the world with more than 340 players advancing to the Major League Baseball level, released its list of 2024 recipients for the Rawlings “Finest in the Field” award for baseball and softball, recognizing the top defensive players at each position.
Posting 85 putouts, 122 assists, and only three errors in 374 innings, the Royal Oak Leprechauns’ Ryan McKay, who tallied a .986 fielding percentage in the NWL, was awarded the honor for his standout performance at second base.
“I’ve literally played second base since I was 6 years old,” McKay said. “Here and there I would pitch when I was younger, but I stopped pitching freshman year of high school. I never was a full-time shortstop or third baseman. I was always playing second base every single game. I think just knowing
that position like the back of my hand has helped me so much, and obviously the work ethic helps. Just being so comfortable there is the reason I can perform the way I do, and I have a great fielding coach at Michigan State with Andrew Stone.”
While the glove was hot for the incoming sophomore at Michigan State University, McKay also provided a spark at the plate with 10 doubles, 23 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and an offensive slash line of .302/.420/.413.
McKay’s success on the field was a continuation of his successful freshman year with the Spartans, where he posted a .958 fielding percentage and hit .287 with seven doubles and 30 RBIs.
With only 14 strikeouts in 189 at-bats, McKay was ranked the 14th toughest player to strike out in Division 1 baseball, striking out once in every 13.5 at-bats.
“He’s got incredible hands,” said Jonathan Vance, head coach of the Royal Oak Leprechauns. “His hand-eye coordination is really good, so the swing-and-miss really isn’t there. It’s really good bat-to-ball, but at the same time he understands counts and count leverage. He still runs into baseballs and gets his extra base hits. He hit a couple (home runs) this year, and same thing in college.
He’s not a one-dimensional hitter because he can do it all. He was a pleasure to watch this summer.”
A 2023 Orchard Lake St. Mary’s graduate and Clarkston native, McKay was a twotime state champion for the Eaglets before packing his bags for East Lansing.
For any player who competes in the NWL, they’re automatically part of a distinguished group. In terms of defense, NWL alumni Matt Chapman (San Francisco Giants), Marcus Semien (Texas Rangers) and Nico Hoerner (Chicago Cubs) are all current MLB infielders who went on to win a Rawlings Gold Glove Award.
McKay has already put together strong seasons in his first year with both the Leprechauns and the Spartans, so it will be exciting to see how he progresses in his sophomore year at MSU.
“We faced this kid from Gonzaga, and I think he was throwing 94 to 96 (mph), and I think I was lucky enough to go 3-for-3 off of him,” McKay said. “If I’m seeing guys like that in the summer, that’s the most ready I’ll ever be. Then it leads right into fall ball. The Northwoods League is the best.”
Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.
7A/ ROYAL OAK REVIEW • DECEMBER 11, 2024
Santacon: Royal Oak’s holiday-themed bar crawl
ROYAL OAK — Enjoy a variety of holiday themed bars and drinks from 2 to 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the annual Santacon bar crawl.
This is a 21 and over event and is taking place at various locations in downtown Royal Oak. Participating locations include Cantaritos Mexican Bar, Pinky’s, Bohemia Nightclub, North End Taproom, Iron Horse, Motor City Gas and more.
Tickets for the event include a wristband for $3-$5 beer, cocktail and shot specials at all participating locations. Wristbands are required for all bar crawlers. Tickets include no cover charges to all participating locations.
The first 1,500 participants to check in will receive “holiday and Santa themed swag.” Tickets include photo booths and pictures with Santa, face painting, contests and free drawings to win prizes. The tickets also include karaoke.
Pictures with Santa will take place at Bohemia from 3 to 6 p.m. Santa and holiday attire is encouraged but not required.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Royal Oak Youth Assistance.
Tickets are available starting at $10. For more information and to register, visit santaconroyaloak.com.
SANTA TO VISIT THE ROYAL OAK HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
ROYAL OAK — Take a photo and meet Santa Claus from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Royal Oak Historical Society Museum at 1411 W. Webster Road.
Santa will be giving the sleigh a break and riding to the event on a Royal Oak Fire Department vehicle.
Seasonal refreshments and family-friendly fun and festive activities will be provided at the event. Admission is free and all are welcome, according to the Royal Oak Historical Society website.
For more information visit royaloakhistoricalsociety. com.
ROYAL OAK CONCERT BAND TO PLAY ON DEC. 15
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Concert Band will be performing their second concert of the 2024-2025 season at 3 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Royal Oak Middle School Auditorium at 709 N. Washington Ave.
The performance is named “O Wondrous Day!” and is directed by Kevin R. Czarnik. To celebrate the holiday season, the concert will showcase holiday music featuring special guests the Madrigal Chorale and Santa Claus.
The Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra will also be performing a jazzy set directed by James Cann.
Admission costs $12 for adults and $10 for seniors. Children under 12 will be admitted for free. Tickets will be available at the door or online at royaloakconcertband.org.
Learn about the past, present and future of Royal Oak parks
ROYAL OAK — Discover more about the history of the 51 parks in Royal Oak with a presentation Dec. 13.
Judy Davids will be presenting about this topic at 7 p.m. at the Royal Oak Historical Society, 1411 Webster Road.
Davids is the community engagement specialist for the city of Royal Oak and has lived in Royal Oak for more than three decades.
Davids will be taking attendees on a journey through the history of the names of the parks, community initiatives, and plans for sustainability and growth.
Tickets cost $15 and the presentation is limited to 50 people. To purchase tickets, visit royaloakhistoricalsociety.com.
The Bottomless Toy Chest visits young patients of Corewell Health
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — Santa and his “Elf Squad” visited the Children’s Garden Room in the Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital Dec. 4 to surprise the pediatric patients with presents and holiday cheer.
Hosted by The Bottomless Toy Chest, Santa and his elves visited around 75 pediatric patients and their siblings for a holiday party. The kids had the chance to open presents, make crafts, eat holiday treats, and more with their friends and families.
“It’s hard being in the hospital any time of year, but I think during the holidays, it’s particularly difficult for kids, and the event helps really inspire positive feelings about being in the hospital, even though you might be going through something really difficult,” said Mickey Guisewite, founder and executive director of The Bottomless Toy Chest.
One special thing about the gifts is that they are all wrapped in cellophane. The cellophane helps to keep the presents safe for the children who open them, as a lot of the kids who are in the hospital have low immune systems.
Guisewite said that the special wrapping also provides a sense of control for the children.
“Another reason we wrap the toys in
cellophane is that it gives children a choice in a hospital setting where so many choices are made for them,” she said. “It’s giving the child an ability to be in charge and be in control.”
Five-year-old patient Stella Campbell, from Newaygo, Michigan, chose dolls from the toy bin.
“It helps the kids; it gives them something to look forward to,” said Becca Campbell, Stella’s mother. “And just watching her have joy, it helps me.”
Rose Freigeh, child life specialist at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, emphasized the hardships the children deal with while being in the hospital over the holidays.
“They’re away from their friends and from all of the activities they normally would be participating in or doing when they’re not in the hospital,” Freigeh said.“Something as simple as a new toy can really help them cope with their hospital stay, and it just brings joy and happiness during such a difficult time.”
During the party, children of all ages from the pediatric ward were able to visit the Garden Room, choose a toy and celebrate together. Freigeh said that the hospital invited back previous patients to come and enjoy the party, even if they were not hospitalized recently.
Gifts were also delivered to the children
Detroit sailor killed at Pearl Harbor laid to rest
John Cuthbert Auld’s remains identified through DNA
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
DETROIT — While growing up, Richard Auld remembers his grandmother, Lillian, and his dad, Edwin, sharing memories about a family member named Jack.
But he wasn’t sure who Jack was, until one day he realized the stories were about his uncle, John Cuthbert Auld, who was nicknamed Jack. The U.S. Navy man, who grew up in Detroit, was killed during the bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.
This year marks the 83rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, which killed approximately 2,400 American service members and civilians.
In time, Auld learned more about his uncle, a 23-year-old seaman 2nd class who was aboard the USS Oklahoma when naval and air forces of the Japanese empire attacked the American base on Hawaii’s island of
See SAILOR on page 16A
Photo provided by Public Affairs Office, Navy Personnel Command
While serving in the U.S. Navy, John Cuthbert Auld, of Detroit, was killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. At press time, he was expected to be laid to rest on Dec. 6 with full military honors at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Pearl Harbor artifacts link back to day of infamy 83 years ago
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The belongings, material and personal, of Michiganders who were at Pearl Harbor on and around that infamous day continue to make their way home.
John Lind, director of the Detroit Arsenal of Democracy Museum, has been able to secure several items from the USS Oklahoma and USS Arizona: a prayer book from either ship and four envelopes from the Arizona postdated Dec. 7, 1941.
The Arizona items come from the estate of a Michigan man, who Lind did not name, who was on his way out of the Navy on Dec. 6.
“This person went to the mail section on the ship and got these envelopes in advance,” Lind said. “The story is this gentleman here was transferred on Dec. 6, the Saturday before, because they conducted no business on Sunday.
… He was going back stateside. He was done, his hitch was over, and he reached California and he said, ‘You know what? I’m going back in.’”
The unnamed Arizona sailor joined over 300,000 Americans who showed up to recruitment offices on Dec. 8, 1941. Lind says about 30,000 people volunteered at the Detroit office.
The Oklahoma prayer book, which is in a more fragile state than the Arizona book, was acquired from a separate sailor who reached out to Lind.
“He was on (the USS) Oklahoma,” Lind said. “He came back to the United States, was retrained and then he got on other ships throughout the war.”
Prayer books were commonly taken from ships while the envelopes were postdated sometime before Dec. 7.
The attack on Pearl Harbor is as much a story of what was not lost as it is about what was. While the battleships USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma and USS
See ARTIFACTS on page 13A
CRIME WATCH
Clothing stolen from residence
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 7:20 a.m. and 6:40 p.m. Dec. 3, an unknown person entered the complainant’s residence near West Thirteen Mile Road and Edgar Avenue and stole clothing.
Bike stolen from inside entrance to CVS
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 12:25 and 12:30 p.m. Dec. 4, an unknown person stole an unlocked bicycle from the store vestibule at the CVS Pharmacy at 30900 Woodward Ave.
Wallet stolen during shopping
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 12:05 and 1:10 p.m. Dec. 4, an unknown person stole the complainant’s wallet from the complainant’s purse while shopping at the Meijer located at 5150 Coolidge Highway.
Keys and car stolen
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that between 7:11 and 7:50 p.m. Nov. 24, an unknown person stole the complainant’s car keys from an unlocked locker and proceeded to steal the complainant’s car from the parking lot of LA Fitness at 25352 Woodward Ave.
Wallet stolen from Corewell employee
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that at 3 p.m. Nov. 22, an unknown person stole the complainant’s wallet from a purse while the complainant was working at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital at 3601 W. 13 Mile Road.
Bicycle stolen from porch
ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that at 9:52 p.m. Nov. 26, an unknown person stole a bicycle off the complainant’s porch on Barrett Avenue near South Campbell Road.
— Taylor Christensen
homeschooled her children. She lived paycheck to paycheck until it was no longer sustainable.
“I got burnt out on that and kind of lost our rental housing because it was really hard to live paycheck to paycheck and keep that up for a long time,” she said. “I realized that we had to move back home to Michigan.”
Upon moving back, Depaolis called Grace Centers of Hope looking for guidance and a place to stay. This was the beginning of her life-changing journey in the women’s one-year life skills program.
“It’s been a phenomenal stay. There is nothing that we have gone without. Grace Centers of Hope have provided everything that me and my kids need,” she said. “My kids have now rejoined the public school system, they are socializing with kids their age and thriving in school. I have gotten myself back on my feet by remaining stable and learning coping mechanisms for my emotional and mental stability for my future.”
Depaolis lives with the Grace Center community at 35 E. Huron St. in Pontiac and spends time serving at Grace Gospel fellowship located at 65 E. Huron St. in Pontiac in the kids ministry. On the weekends she works as a resident assistant.
“It is a very happy and healthy environment for us here, and I have been really thankful to have been a part of it,” she said.
Throughout the year, Grace Centers of
Hope makes sure the residents experience all the holidays.
“Grace has events and celebrations to make us residents feel like we are not missing out on something, and gaining memories and experiences,” Depaolis said. “I have really enjoyed that.”
This Christmas season, the center will be making a huge dinner for the residents and hosting a few different Christmasthemed events for the kids and parents. Santa Claus will visit the center with toys for the kids, the church will host a Christmas party, and more.
“It feels like a family-based setting, especially because we have been there for so long. We know everyone there, all the residents really love my sons, and they compliment them all of the time,” Depaolis said.
Depaolis said that her boys are grateful for the Christmas celebrations that the Grace Center is going to provide. She said they love to be there and have made some great memories and friends along the way.
“They will not feel any loss about spending the holidays at Grace. They don’t want to leave; they really like the friends they have made,” she said. “There’s got to be at least 20 Grace kids or more that they have grown close to and are looking forward to spending the holidays with.”
CEO of Grace Centers for Hope Darin Weiss said that Depaolis’ journey is one he will continue to remember.
“Alyssa is a joy to be around. She is lifegiving and always joyful with a smile on her
Artifacts
from page 10A
Utah were scrapped and the aircraft carriers assigned to the base were saved by virtue of being out of port, the lightly attacked support facilities — dry docks, maintenance shops and oil yards — allowed for the other damaged ships to be repaired and returned to service. Lind says that Michiganders were sought out to repair and retrofit the fleet.
“The Navy came to Detroit and took as many skilled trades (as possible) to go to Pearl Harbor to get Pearl Harbor back in shape,” Lind said. “If the Japanese would have concentrated on the rebuilding centers, the fuel farms, the maintenance shops, Pearl Harbor would have come back but it would have been years later. Instead, within six weeks basically, all the dry docks and maintenance shops at Pearl Harbor were back online.”
It is hard to determine how many Pearl Harbor
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veterans are still alive for the 83rd anniversary, though the number is certainly not many. Anyone serving in the U.S. military at the time would be a centenarian by now.
An Associated Press article about the 2023 commemoration mentions five survivors were in attendance with a sixth unable to make it due to health concerns. The Los Angeles Times reported nine Pearl Harbor survivors attended a ceremony at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans in January 2023. Lou Conter, the last surviving sailor from the USS Arizona, died in April 2024 at 102 years old.
According to NBC’s KNHL local news in Hawaii, at least one survivor was expected to attend this year’s commemoration of the 83rd anniversary of the attack at 104 years old.
The National World War II Museum in New Orleans says that of the 16.4 million Americans who served during World War II, around 66,140 were alive as of 2024. Of that number, 2,520 were Michiganders.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
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Lighting
from page 1A
where the lighting took place, and it is going to be hosting multiple activities for Royal Oak Holidays, a five-week program featuring winter festivities.
Judy Davids, community engagement specialist for the city of Royal Oak, said that this is the first year the city has lit up the oak tree near City Hall.
“We estimate the tree to be between 85 and 90 years old, and actually, a long time ago, there was a park there, and then they got rid of the park to build City Hall, and then built a new City Hall and brought the park back,” she said. “That tree is the one thing that’s consistent with the original City Hall park that existed decades ago.”
Royal Oak Holidays shines light on local businesses, and includes ice skating, carriage rides, visits with Santa Claus, The Great Elf Hunt, Cookie Crawl, and the array of holiday lights that light up the park all winter long.
The Holiday Mini Market is the spot to purchase any local business merchandise for the holiday season. From 4 to 9 p.m. every Friday, noon to 9 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays Nov. 22 to Dec. 22, the Mini Market is going to be open to the public.
The Mini Market rotates through different local businesses in Royal Oak. This is the first year that Royal Oak Holidays has had the mini market, according to Davids.
Jon Witz, event coordinator of Royal Oak Holidays, said that there is potential to expand the Mini Market in the future at a Nov. 11 City Commission meeting.
“They (Mini Market participants) are just a kickoff to their presence as a potential to add more in the future and create a whole holiday village,” he said. “We have nine retailers that will open there. ... We’re excited to show those structures and see how they fit.”
One of the major attractions of the Royal Oak Holidays is The Rink, which will be open until Feb. 17. The Rink is open 11-9 p.m. Sundays, noon to 9 p.m. MondaysThursdays, noon to 11 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays.
Davids said she cannot ice skate due to a previous injury but has heard all good things from people in Royal Oak about the ice skating rink.
“I’ve heard it’s actually really a great place. People enjoy it,” she said.
The captivating part of Royal Oak Holidays is the sense of community, Davids said. She mentioned that it’s almost
impossible to walk downtown and not see a familiar face, comparing it to a Hallmark movie.
“It’s just good overall for the pulse of our downtown during a really important season of gathering and shopping and all of these things. And you can do it all in your backyard!” Davids said. “I think it’s more of a community pride thing, and supporting businesses here in Royal Oak, I think that’s important.”
On Dec. 14 and 15, the Grinch will be visiting Royal Oak with a packed schedule of holiday fun.
Starting 1-2 p.m. Dec. 14, there will be an opportunity to have lunch with the Grinch at Lockhart’s BBQ at 202 E. Third St. followed by skating with the Grinch 2-3 p.m. at The Rink at Centennial Commons at 221 E. Third St.
From 3 to 4 p.m., the Grinch will be giving away gifts and goodies downtown, and from 4 to 5 p.m. there will be photo opportunities with the Grinch.
From 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, the Grinch will be
back at The Rink ice skating followed by giving out gifts downtown until 4 p.m. From 4 to 5 p.m., the Grinch will be doing story time and pictures at Sidetrack Bookshop’s Caboose at 220 W. Fourth St.
To finish off the weekend there will be a dinner with the Grinch 5-6 p.m. at Lily’s Seafood Grill and Brewery located at 410 S. Washington Ave.
Horse and wagon rides will be touring around downtown Royal Oak from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Dec. 22. The ride will go through all the holiday lights set up in the downtown area.
Santa will be visiting from 5 to 7 p.m. Fridays and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays until Dec. 22 at Centennial Commons. There will be opportunities to take photos for family holiday cards.
For more information on Royal Oak Holidays, visit royaloakholidays.com.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
C.O.P.S
ships, physical disabilities or different medical conditions and not having any family in the area.”
Beydoun said that she conducted research on her own as well as through the Clawson Senior Center to launch the program and provide all the necessary services that seniors potentially need to lead an independent life.
Lisa Ball, Clawson’s assistant director of recreation and senior services, said that she is very pleased with the creation of this program. She often gets calls from worried family members or friends looking for a program like C.O.P.S Care.
“This type of program is really vital to do these check-ins with older adults to just to make sure that they’re OK when it comes to home safety and to ensure, you know, just to support their mental well-being and socialization,” Ball said.
C.O.P.S Care is a voluntary check-in and referral program. Seniors who wish to be enrolled or people who know of a senior to refer must fill out an application and send it to the Clawson Police Department.
Beydoun is in charge of the program, so when the applications are sent in, she will review them herself and then reach out and set up a time to meet with the senior to go over a list of survey questions and gather more information.
The survey includes questions regarding home security, medical conditions, medications, pets, emergency contacts and more that can be beneficial to the officers who respond to the location.
“Everything with our program is voluntary, so they’re advised of that upfront, but a lot of the information is very beneficial to us,” Beydoun said. “So, if we do respond to their address for a medical emergency or some kind of crisis or anything like that, we have that information in a secured database that officers can pull up, and we can more effectively help them when the time matters.”
The seniors can choose to have weekly calls over the phone or have biweekly or monthly in-person checks to their home. During the initial interview process, seniors will work with the officers to choose a schedule that works best for them in terms of calls or in-person visits.
Participants are informed during the interview that if they do not respond to one of the scheduled checks, the officers will respond to their home like a welfare check, according to Beydoun.
“That doesn’t mean we’re going to go busting down any doors. It just means we’re going to go to their house and try to make contact to make sure that they’re OK,” she said. “If we’re looking through the window and see that they are on the ground and they don’t look like they’re doing very well, then at that point we will do what we have to do as police to get them the assistance that they need.”
During the scheduled calls or check-ins, the officers will ask general questions to see if the senior needs anything or wants more information on any social activities.
Beydoun hopes that through the C.O.P.S Care program, the Clawson Police Department can begin to build a relationship of trust with the senior citizen community.
“With our program, the goal is to try to prevent emer-
gencies and to rebuild that trust, and to kind of educate them as well, because a lot of times too we go to their houses for things like identity theft, fraud, you know, scams, things like that,” Beydoun said.
Through the C.O.P.S Care program, Beydoun hopes to mend the divide of trust between seniors and first responders, while giving them a sense of security and comfort while they continue to live in their homes.
“This is a huge passion of mine, this program. And I hope we can get more eyes on it and more exposure so that we have more participants,” Beydoun said. “The seniors are a very important part of my life. I’ve always been raised to respect your elders. So that’s kind of how everything started.”
Enroll or refer a senior to the C.O.P.S Care program by contacting officer Aundreana Beydoun at the Clawson Police Department at aallen@cityofclawson.com or call (248) 435-5000.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
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Oahu. On the following day, Dec. 8, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt addressed Congress and asked for a declaration of war with Japan, which drove the United States into World War II.
“They rescued several sailors that day after the attack,” Auld said. “Everyone else was presumed dead. They didn’t have much hope. They always told me he died on the Oklahoma.”
While the family knew John didn’t survive, his remains were only officially identified after Auld provided a DNA sample in 2017. At press time, John was set to be laid to rest at 10 a.m. Dec. 6 with full military honors at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, New
Mexico. Auld, who resides in Albuquerque, said the cemetery was chosen because that is where Lillian and Edwin are buried.
“It will be an honor to have him with his mom and his brother,” Auld said.
Family members and friends were expected to attend the burial. John also was expected to receive military honors at the airport when his remains arrived.
For his service, John was awarded the following medals and decorations: Purple Heart medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal with fleet clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with bronze star, World War II Victory Medal, and American Campaign Medal.
‘It’s definitely a huge loss’
John was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, on June 15, 1918. The family moved to the U.S. and settled in Detroit. On Nov.
Coleman, 4, of Clinton Township, picked out a Bluey set during the Bottomless Toy Chest event on Dec. 4 at Corewell Health
6, 1940, John enlisted in the Navy and underwent basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes, in Illinois.
John’s seaman duties included painting, cleaning and polishing the vessel’s brightwork, equipment repair, storing and securing items, and assisting with cargo. The young man also stood watches as a lookout, telephone talker and messenger, and he was a member of a gun crew.
Richard Auld’s dad, Edwin, four years younger than John, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1942-46.
“They were normal kids in a good family. It’s definitely a huge loss. I never got to meet him,” said Auld, who was born in 1960. “Every Dec. 7, we talked about him. I feel like I know him now after the Navy’s recovery efforts.”
Auld’s dad moved the family, including wife, Esther, to New Mexico to work in the
grocery business. Auld has some photos of his uncle and has been told there is a family resemblance.
A few years ago, Auld and his wife Karen traveled to Honolulu, Hawaii for a ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific to pay tribute to the 33 unaccounted for sailors from the USS Oklahoma buried with full military honors.
“Very emotional,” Auld said. “It was very moving.”
According to the Navy, since the ceremony, one more sailor, radioman 3rd class Frank Hoag Jr., has been identified.
Project Oklahoma
On Dec. 2, the Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office issued a press release that included information about Project Oklahoma, a disinterment and identification See SAILOR on page 20A
from page 8A
in the pediatric ward who were unable to attend the party due to medical reasons or isolation precautions.
“We’re so grateful for organizations that want to give back, especially during this time of year,” Freigeh said. “So we’re very thankful to Bottomless Toy Chest for this opportunity for our patients and families.”
The Bottomless Toy Chest is in its 16th year of operation and visits 15 hospitals in Michigan, and it also visits 15 differ-
ent states. The program visits hospitals that have hematology and oncology, according to Guisewite.
“We are a weekly toy experience program. So I always say, ‘Like cancer and critical illness do not end when the holiday lights come down, so we are somewhere every single week of the year,’” she said. “I always say, ‘We can’t cure cancer, but I think maybe what we’re here to do is cure a tough day, or help make a tough day a little bit better.”
For more information on The Bottomless Toy Chest, visit bottomlesstoychest.org.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
17A/ ROYAL OAK REVIEW • DECEMBER 11, 2024
DEC. 11 & 18
Powerful Tools for Caregivers: Virtual workshop hosted by AgeWays, learn to communicate with family and healthcare providers, reduce stress, guilt, anger and depression, and make difficult decisions, 6-7:30 p.m., free but donations accepted, (833) 262-2200, wellnessprograms@ageways.org, tinyurl.com/ageways workshops
DEC. 12-15
‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’: Performance by Stagecrafters Main Stage, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12-14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in Royal Oak, stagecrafters.org
‘Present Laughter’: Performance by Birmingham Village Players, 8 p.m. Dec. 12-14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15, 34660 Woodward Ave., birminghamvillageplayers.com
DEC. 14
Santa photos: Also holiday refreshements and festive activities, plus Kris Kringle arrives on fire truck, 1-4 p.m., Royal Oak Historical Society and Museum, 1411 Webster Road, curator@royaloakhistoricalsociety.org, (248) 439-1501, royaloakhistoricalsociety.org
National Wreaths Across America Day: Local ceremony followed by laying of wreaths on graves of veterans, noon, Oakview Cemetery, 1032 N. Main St. in Royal Oak
DEC. 15
Holiday concert: Presented by Royal Oak Concert Band and Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra with guest Madrigal Chorale, also Santa visit, 3 p.m., Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., www. royaloakconcertband.org
Old-fashioned holiday celebration: Open house featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music, and traditional decorations, 1-4 p.m., The Orson Starr House, 3123 N. Main St. in Royal Oak, facebook.com/ orsonstarrhouse
DEC. 18
Community Music Jam Session: Session open to violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, clarinet, flute, mandolin, oboe, bassoon and more, music books available, 6-7:30 p.m., Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, (248) 588-5500
Blood drive: 7 a.m.-noon, Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, 3601 W. 13 Mile Road in Royal Oak, donate.michigan.versiti.org
JAN. 4
Royal Oak Woman’s Club: Monthly meeting includes pancakes and meditative drumming circle, wear flannel, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 404 S. Pleasant St. in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3066, rowc.org
ONGOING
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.
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 until Jan. 5, Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, dzoo.org/ wildlights
Royal Oak Holidays Horse & Wagon Rides: 5-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays until Dec. 21, pick up/drop off on Third Street across from Lockharts BBQ, romi.gov
Ice skating: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sundays, noon-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, noon-11 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays until Dec. 31, then new hours in 2025, The Rink at Royal Oak in Centennial Commons, 221 E. Third St., therinkatroyaloak.com
‘The E(Xmas)ist’: 8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays and 3 p.m. Sundays until Dec. 22, Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQIA+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, theringwald.com
Farmers markets: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, also antiques and collectibles 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays, 316 E. 11 Mile Road in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3276, more on Facebook
Santa visits: 5-7 p.m. Fridays and noon-4 p.m.
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Te Full-Body MRI Revolution
Tat’s where the full-body MRI comes in. Screenings evaluate the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, shoulders, hips and spine. It’s like a high-defnition movie of your insides, revealing hidden threats that other tests miss. Full body MRI screenings can catch them early, before symptoms and when they’re easiest to treat.
We all know someone who woke up one day with an unexplained symptom, only to be told they have stage four cancer. Te
pancreas, liver, brain and all other major organs get evaluated during a full body MRI screening. Tumors can be detected in stage one – before symptoms develop. Early detection can be the diference between life and death.
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Bionicc Body Screening in Southfeld is Michigan’s frst MRI full body screening center. We’re not just scanning your body; we’re safeguarding your future. Our stateof-the-art facility and expert team provide a comfortable, reassuring experience. Our advanced MRI technology can detect tumors as small as a pencil eraser. Screenings can detect aneurysms; risk of stroke and hundreds of conditions that could be lurking undetected. Is it Right for You?
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Saturdays-Sundays until Dec. 22, Centennial Commons, 221 E. Third St. in Royal Oak, romi.gov
Harmony United Chorus: Open rehearsals for men’s Barbershop-style group, 7-9 p.m. every Tuesday, choir room at Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., greaterdetroit.org
Bingo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. every first Friday of month, Mahany/Meininger Senior Community Center, 3500 Marais Ave. in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3900
Monthly groups: Find book clubs for horror fans, kids, LGBTQIA+ and more, Royal Oak Public Library, 222 E. 11 Mile Road, (248) 246-3700, romi.gov/1532/ library
• STEM and electronics hobbyists meet 6-7:30 p.m. every first Wednesday, book club meets 1-2 p.m. every third Wednesday, and writing group meets 6-7:30 p.m. every fourth Wednesday, Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, clawson.lib.mi.us
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 9:30 a.m. every second and fourth Wednesday of month, The Avenue Family Restaurant, 31253 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak, RSVP to Marilyn at (248) 543-1018
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth.digitalsignup.com
want the ultimate peace of mind, then YES, a full-body MRI could be the most important decision you make this year. It’s not just for the privileged few; it’s a health resource available to those willing to make a proactive investment in their well-being, ofering peace of mind and early detection opportunities.
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Robert B., age 50, did just that. He opted for a full-body scan from Bionicc Body Screening, and a very small kidney tumor was detected that had been missed by a recent CT scan. “It saved my life,” he said. “I cannot recommend this service more.”
Limited-Time Ofer Learn more at www.BioniccBodyScreening.com and request a Free Welcome Information Kit and a $200 Savings Ofer. Schedule today at 1-833-BIONICC
Moonbeams
from page 3A
Lefkof participates in the event almost every night. She said that when the patients look outside to see the people there to support them and be there for them, the reactions are “incredible.”
“It really, really makes a huge impact on them just to feel like you’re still connected and still considered,” Lefkof said. “It means a lot for them to feel like they are still thought about in a time when it can feel really isolating and lonely to be stuck in the hospital.”
Moonbeams for Sweet Dreams has been a tradition since 2017 and was started by nurses and child life specialists at Corewell Health Children’s in Southeast Michigan.
Lefkof said that the goal was to create a simple gesture that is accessible and meaningful to everyone involved.
“We’re asking people to travel and to come and stand outside at night in Michigan in December, you know,” she said. “It’s really about just something powerful and for our families that are in the hospital.”
On Dec. 8, Corwell held a sensory friendly night dedicated to families who have loved ones with special needs.
The sensory friendly night on Dec. 8
provided a support table with stress balls, fidget toys, ear plugs and colored paper to cover flashlights with.
“Moonbeams aren’t just about flashing lights and booming sounds. It’s about creating connections,” said Kathleen Grobbel, Moonbeams co-leader and manager of the Child Life program at Corewell Health Children’s. “If we can make small changes to accommodate members of our community who might not otherwise be able to participate, as caregivers, it just makes sense for us to do so. This part of our community has so much to offer.”
The program also welcomes donations of new, specified toys from the Beaumont Child Life Wish List at amazon.com. Items can be delivered via Amazon or in person at the event. There is a drop box located inside the Medical Office Building.
Attendees are asked to arrive by 7:45 p.m. to leave time for parking. Participants gather on the sidewalk near the Medical Office Building located across from the East entrance; wayfinding signs are posted around campus.
Parking is available in the small parking lot across from the North parking deck, and just east of the Medical Office Building campus. Additional parking is also available near the Coolidge Highway entrance and at the Neuroscience Center.
Participants are not allowed to bring laser pointers or drones to the event and are instructed to only use the restrooms located in the Medical Office Building, according to the press release. It also says do not attend if
experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, cold or flu. For more information, visit beaumont. org/moonbeams.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
Hope
from page 12A
face,” Weiss said. “It is very encouraging to us and to the staff and residents to see somebody that was in a really bad palace, struggling with homelessness, getting back on her feet with not just her but her kids.”
Weiss said that it’s always great to see the success of residents who go through the program. Weiss said that the majority of the people who enter into the one-year life skills program have a good chance of leaving Grace Centers ready to lead an independent lifestyle.
“People who graduate from our yearlong program and go into our aftercare program, like 90% of them are still working,” Weiss said. “Over 90% are still working, paying rent. They’re sober, they have their lives back in a lot of tangible ways.”
Depaolis will move into the aftercare housing after her completion of the one-year program in February and begin her new job as an operation specialist at United Wholesale Mortgage.
“I am very grateful that Grace gave us this opportunity. My family, I don’t know where I would be without them,” she said. “God has really blessed our life and my family specifically. The opportunities that my future holds now give me a lot of motivation and I am always going to be grateful for the steppingstone in life that Grace has given me.”
Grace Centers for Hope has multiple programs for all walks of life, all funded by volunteers, donations and money made through their three thrift stores.
“If anybody wants to help, we are always eager. We have thousands of volunteers every year and just really believe in people helping people in the community,” Weiss said.
Weiss said that Grace Center’s doors are always open to those in need.
“I would encourage anyone to come out here. I would love to give them a tour and show them around, and show them that our programs work amazing,” he said. “We want to help people go from homelessness to homeownership. We don’t want to just feed, clothe and shelter people and sort of enable the same situation. We want to give them their whole life back.”
For more information on Grace Centers of Hope, visit gracecentersofhope.org.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
Farm
from page 4A
Kids K-2 had a different learning curriculum than students in grades 3-5.
“The younger kids learned all about cows, so they learned the different kinds of cows, what cows are used for milking. They learned all about the different cows, where cows come from, what the cows eat, and a little bit about the makeup of a cow,” Weaver said. “They had an activity where they drew a cow and named the cow.”
The older kids in grades 3-5 learned about the necessary things and materials needed to have a successful farm. They created their own miniature farms that they could wear as a necklace by collecting the necessary materials like soil, sun, seeds and animals and adding them to a bag to make the mini-farm necklace.
“The Farm Bureau has a whole bunch of different lessons, because we even had farm lessons on erosion, where they have the kids have a hands-on experiment where they’re pouring water down different soil structures to see which holds soil and moisture better,” Weaver said.
Agriculture in the classroom lessons are matched to the Michigan educational standards, according to miagclassroom.org.
Weaver mentioned that the students were receptive to the experience and stated that one student said to him through a parent’s email that “it was very fun seeing different students, and students that she hadn’t met before.”
“She enjoyed learning about toothpaste and medicine that was made from pigs, and she enjoyed getting out of class and seeing classmates,” Weaver said.
Exposing the students to agricultural
learning is a unique experience that can help broaden the students’ future pathways in life, and maybe even push them to consider joining the agricultural workforce.
“It’s really a valuable lesson to show where all that comes from, and it could be right in their back door and they don’t even realize it,”
Schroeder said. “I think the value of helping students understand that process of farm to table and then coming together face to face to actually handle and work with those materials brings it to life for students.”
For more information on the farm lab, or for educational resources for teachers, visit miagclassroom.org.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
from page 16A
project through the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.
During Project Oklahoma, the Navy’s POW/MIA Office contacted family members to ask for their participation in the Family Reference Sample Program. That is where surviving family members of a veteran killed on duty offer DNA samples that are used to determine if there is a match.
That is exactly what Auld did to confirm his uncle’s remains.
Through the process, 356 of the 388 service members from the USS Oklahoma who were originally unaccounted for have now been identified, according to Capt. Jeff Draude, director, Navy Casualty Office.
Scientists with the DPAA, in Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii and Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska, are responsible for identifying unaccounted for service members by matching the DNA reference samples from surviving family members. Other documents, including available medical and dental records, are also used.
The Navy Casualty Office’s policy for notification is to work directly with the primary next of kin with matters involving their loved one’s remains. Once the DPAA makes
Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com
Reporters:
Taylor Christensen | (586) 498-1081 | tchristensen@candgnews.com
Mike Koury | (586) 498-1077 | mkoury@candgnews.com
Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
a positive identification, the Navy’s Casualty Office conducts an official notification to the next of kin.
Once the identification brief has concluded, the family can decide to have the remains interred in a local national or state cemetery, a private cemetery, reinterred in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii, or Arlington National Cemetery. Families may also choose to have the remains cremated and retained with the family.
“When briefing families, we often hear things like, ‘My family did not believe he was dead,’ or, ‘He probably was not on board the ship,’ or, ‘Maybe one day he would walk through the door,’” Draude said. “Being able to recover and identify the remains of these sailors aids in the closure to these families.
“It is especially important to the Navy to honor our sailors and Marines who paid the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives for our country,” Draude said. “Often the notification and identification briefing can be emotional, overwhelming and relieving for the families. Most families we speak with cannot believe their loved one has actually been recovered and/or identified after so many years.”
The Navy covers all primary mortuary expenses: preparation of the remains, casket of choice, all transportation of remains from the lab to final resting place, and family travel and lodging for up to three family members.
498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com
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JAYNMARIE C. HUBANKS CITY TREASURER
Published: Royal Oak Review 12/11/2024
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ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry
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FARR'SPAINTING
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0109-2437
We Accept Venmo, Cash, Check Call or Text Us Today! FREE ESTIMATES
Plumbing MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822
Lic.#8109852
586.421.5520
586.524.6752
ANDY'SPLUMBING 25-YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX
PLUMBERSCORP
586-210-0903
35-YearsExp.Seniors/ Military/Multi-TaskDisc. Free-Est.•DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures•SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters.Lic/Ins. 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
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•SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps
•BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable
Reliable/Experienced
License#8003885
Powerwashing BRIGHTSIDE -SnowRemoval -GutterCleaning -HolidayLighting -PermanentLighting -HouseWashing -WindowCleaning Call248-632-0963
Roofng
PREFERRED
BROTHERSROOFING
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BERGBROS.LLC. “Fullyinsured, highlyreferred.” Seniordiscounts. Tree-removal,stump grinding,tree-trimming, hedging,shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Freeestimates! (586)262-3060
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB
AA4DABLEROOFING
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MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600 Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
40%-WinterDisc.Insured, SnowRemoval, EmergencyStorm Damage,LeafClean-up, Large-TreeRemovals, Trimming,Stump-Grinding,Gutters,SeasonFirewood(100acord) (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
PROLINES
TREESERVICE
TreeRemoval/Trimming, Pruning,StumpRemoval, SpecializeinLargeTrees, Licensed/Insured 10%SeniorDiscounts 313-293-1337