12/20/23 West Bloomfield Beacon by C & G Newspapers

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DECEMBER 20, 2023 • Vol. 20, No. 27

Photo provided by Craig Bryson

One of the Road Commission’s 140 plow trucks is loaded with salt.

‘We are very much in the crosshairs’

SHERIFF CREATES TASK FORCE TO COMBAT RISE IN OC HOME BURGLARIES OAKLAND COUNTY — An increase in thieves breaking into multimillion-dollar homes across northern Oakland County and stealing valuables has prompted Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard to create a new task force targeting what he believes is a transnational crime ring. The Southeast Michigan Collaborate Arrest and Prosecute team, or SEMCAP, is a multi-jurisdictional task force made up of over a dozen police departments throughout southeast Michigan, the Michigan State Police, the FBI and others.

The task force is working together to combat organized and trained thieves who have been targeting certain areas of the United States — including Michigan — breaking into affluent homes in search of cash, jewelry, high-end clothing, purses and other products that can be easily shipped and sold. “All of the agencies involved have committed to do all they can to partner and share resources and information,” Bouchard said. “The reason it’s so important is because this group is so highly functional, they are well-trained, and they are targeting our region and other places across the country. We are very much in the crosshairs.” See BURGLARIES on page 12A

2024 Subaru Outback

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Nonprofit group tests for road salt in the Rouge BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — A local environmental group will be testing four different data collection methods to assess chloride contamination in the Rouge River this winter. Starting Jan. 20 at its stonefly search to assess river health, the Friends of the Rouge will also focus on chloride contamination in the Rouge River, See SALT on page 10A

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ABOVE: Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard announces a new task force, called Southeast Michigan Collaborate Arrest and Prosecute, or SEMCAP, to investigate the rise in high-end home burglaries.

‘When you put salt on the road, a lot of it flows right into the river’

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SECOND FRONT PAGE 3A/WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

The Beacon is one of 21 bi-weekly publications produced by C & G Newspapers, a family-owned company serving residents in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties since 1981. We deliver our papers to more than 568,000 homes in 45 communities via direct mail. Main: (586) 498-8000 Editor: Annie Bates abates@candgnews.com News: Mark Vest mvest@candgnews.com

Look for Community Calendar in Section B

Our next edition will come to homes Jan. 10

Board OKs raises for employees, elected officials BY MARK VEST

mvest@candgnews.com

WEST BLOOMFIELD — At a special meeting Nov. 1, the West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees approved raises for all township employees and elected officials. Township Supervisor Steven Kaplan, Township Clerk Debbie Binder, Township Treasurer Teri

Weingarden and Trustees Diane Rosenfeld Swimmer and Jonathan Warshay all voted in favor. Trustees Jim Manna and Howard Rosenberg were not present at the meeting. Lanny Whetstone is the director of human resources for the township. He expanded on the raises that were approved. “We gave $3,200 to every employee’s (base) wage — so we just added $3,200 to their base wage,

and then our employees were scheduled for a 3% raise Jan. 1 of 2024, so we brought that forward … to Oct. 8,” Whetstone said. “And then, also, our employees were scheduled to get a 2.5% raise, Jan. 1 of 2025, and we increased that to 3%. We raised that a half percent, and it (is) still effective Jan. 1 of 2025. … It included all of our employees and our elected officials,” he said. “Anytime we give raises to See RAISES on page 14A

Food support orgs overburdened as food prices continue to rise BY BRENDAN LOSINSKI

Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak sports@candgnews.com

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Community Calendar: calendar@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — It’s no secret that the public is hurting more than before when they head to the grocery store. However, food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens are reporting that this is affecting vulnerable members of the community even more. Brother Rob Roemer, the director of the Capuchin Services Center in Detroit, said there has been a drastic increase in those asking for help. “We are definitely seeing an increase. We’ve seen a lot of new faces in addition to the general increase of people,” said Roemer. “We were seeing about 100 people per day; now we’re seeing about 150 at our service center, which is our food and clothing pantry.” “We are absolutely seeing an uptick,” added Brother Gary Wegner, the executive director of the Capuchin Soup Kitchen. “In October

Classifieds: (586) 498-8100 Legals & Obits: (586) 498-1099 Artroom: (586) 498-1036 Retail Advertising: Gina Rieck grieck@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski kboz@candgnews.com Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar lmillar@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor pkaspor@candgnews.com

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Photo provided by the Rochester Area Neighborhood House

Increases in food prices are causing more and more people to rely on aid from food pantries such as the one operated by the Rochester Area Neighborhood House.

See FOOD on page 13A

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4A/ WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

Optimists, Jacket Club team up to help families

WEST BLOOMFIELD/KEEGO HARBOR — The West Bloomfield Optimists’ and the Keego Jacket Club’s Holiday Happiness event has 70 families and 133 children in need, according to a press release. Last year, the groups’ efforts helped an estimated 41 families and 69 children in the area. “We provided each family with a large basket of food, including all the fixings for a turkey dinner, each child with a new winter coat or hoodie and a quality wrapped gift,” the groups said in a press release. The increased need this year “is stretching our resources to the limit,” they said in the press release. “We appreciate any financial support you may be able to provide this effort.” Checks can be made payable to the West Bloomfield Optimist Club Foundation and can be mailed to the West Bloomfield Optimist Club, Chris White, Treasurer, 5688 Hobnail Circle West Bloomfield, 48322. For more information, call (248) 613-3314.

Henry Ford WB hospital opens new parking structure WEST BLOOMFIELD — Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital announced the opening of a new five-story, 614-space parking structure. It includes 24 handicap spaces and 12 charging stations for electric vehicles. Levels 1 and 2 are designated for patients and visitors, and it is free to park. “The opening of the parking structure allows our patients better access to the care they need close to home,” Shanna Johnson, the president of Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and interim president of Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, said in a press release. “Our hospital has experienced demand faster than we could have projected, and as such there is a critical need for more parking options. We look forward to continuing to serve the health care needs of our patients, while opening the door for more community events and engagement activities within our four walls.” The structure features a covered walkway connecting the structure to the hospital’s main entrance.

Pontiac opens new skatepark

PONTIAC — Skateboarders and other extreme sports fans are invited to try out Pontiac’s new skatepark. The new skatepark is located in Oakland Park, 500 E. Montcalm St. A grand opening ceremony is expected to take place in May 2024. The new facility was born of a collaboration between the city of Pontiac, the Pontiac Skatepark Project, local activists and skate enthusiasts, the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, the Oakland County Commission, and The Skatepark Project — formerly known as the Tony Hawk Foundation. Through this collaborative funding partnership, $568,000 was established in support of this project. Pontiac’s newly constructed skatepark is an estimated 10,000 square feet and features several ramps of various sizes, handrails, flat rails, ledges and other amenities to accommodate skaters of all skill levels. “Skate enthusiasts have long waited for an exciting state-of-the-art amenity,” Jacob Jefferson, the public relations and social media specialist for Pontiac, said in a press release. “And it’s another great development for the youth, which creates more recreational opportunities in the City of Pontiac.” Skatepark hours are 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 16-March 14, 2024; and 7 a.m.-8 p.m. March 15, 2024, to Nov. 14, 2024. No motorized or electric vehicles are allowed on the skatepark, skaters must wear protective equipment, and there is no skating during inclement weather such as snow, rain or fog.

State organ donations break yearly record

Photo provided by Jacob Jefferson

STATEWIDE — Gift of Life Michigan announced Nov. 20 that it broke its record for lifesaving organ donations in a single year after the 500th organ was donated through Gift of Life. Donors in 2023 have so far resulted in more than 1,200 organs transplanted, saving the lives of hundreds of critically ill patients in Michigan and beyond. Gift of Life Michigan helped a record 463 organ donors and their families give their final gifts in 2022. In 2021, the number stood at 429. “Michigan’s latest milestone is incredibly meaningful. I’m in awe of those 500 donors and their families who decided that helping others was important to them,” Dorrie Dils, the president and CEO of Gift of Life, said in a press release. “They have given their recipients the best gift — new life. As we approach Thanksgiving, we know how grateful they must be.” Gift of Life is the country’s 11th-largest federally designated organ procurement organization. Those saved by a donated organ included Sherry Johnson, of Farmington, who received a heart and kidney transplant at Michigan Medicine in late October. She went home this month after 96 days waiting for and recovering from her double transplant from a single donor. “I am home,” she said. “I am healthy and happy, and there won’t be an empty seat at my family’s Thanksgiving dinner table this week,” she said in a press release. “I’m thinking about and thanking my donor, my unknown hero. How does one honor someone who would do that for me? Together, we will do great things.” More than 4.5 million adults in this state have joined the Michigan Organ Donor Registry and have a red heart on their driver’s license or state ID, indicating their decision to donate organs and tissue. To register as an organ donor, visit a Secretary of State branch office or go to golm.org/register.

WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

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HOLIDAY GIFTS TO KEEP YOU MOVING IN THE NEW YEAR

The gift of swim lessons, which are offered yearround at the Troy Community Center, can create lifelong skills, water safety and a love for the water. Photo provided by the Troy Community Center

BY MARY BETH ALMOND

malmond@candgnews.com

hile toys and other physical gifts can be quickly forgotten, the sense of pride from learning a new skill is the gift that keeps on giving.

So rather than adding to a loved one’s overwhelming stack of belongings, why not consider giving an experience? Sports lessons and classes are a great way to keep a family member active and engaged in the new year.

See GIFTS on page 15A

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WB resident pleads guilty to charges of stealing county funds BY MARK VEST

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WEST BLOOMFIELD — On Dec. 6, West Bloomfield resident Kevin Gunn pleaded guilty to charges of stealing over $4,000 in Wayne County funds, according to a press release from the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Gunn, 64, and Westland resident Jazmine Bass, 32, were charged in August by Wayne County Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy. Gunn and Bass were accused of stealing over $4,000 in county funds while they were employed by Wayne County, in the Roads Division. Gunn was Bass’ supervisor when she worked for the Wayne County Roads Division, in the Bridges Department. On Dec. 5, 2022, Gunn reportedly diverted county workers who were paid overtime and took county-owned building materials to build out Bass’ store, Romulus Nutrition, which is located in Romulus. Romulus Nutrition is not a Wayne County enterprise. For their roles in the fraudulent scheme, Gunn and Bass were each charged with one count of larceny over $1,000 but less than $20,000. On March 24, 2022, the Wayne County Executive’s Office sent the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office an anonymous tip letter about misuse of taxpayer dollars at the Wayne County Roads Division, in connection with Romulus Nutrition. “They requested an investigation that was conducted by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” the release states. “The investigation led to the current state charges against Gunn and Bass.” According to the release, Gunn was also charged in a federal indictment based upon separate facts and allegations. On Nov. 8, he was sentenced to 32 months in prison in his federal case. He was also ordered to pay $2.3 million in restitution. Bass was arraigned Aug. 29 in 34th District Court and given a $5,000 personal bond. Gunn was arraigned Sept. 5 in 34th District Court and also was given a $5,000 personal bond. On Oct. 25, Bass pleaded guilty to larceny, $200-$1,000, and was immediately sentenced to one year of probation. She was also ordered to pay $1,182.74 in restitution personally and $2,900 in restitution jointly and severally. On Dec. 6, Gunn also pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years of probation, which is set to run concurrently with his federal sentence. He was also ordered to pay $2,900 in restitution. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 24 before Judge Nicholas Hathaway. Bass’ attorney did not provide comments by press time. An attorney for Gunn could not be reached by press time. Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.

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Put safety at the top of your holiday list BY K. MICHELLE MORAN

kmoran@candgnews.com

t’s easy to forget about safety when dealing with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. But experts say this is a bad time to let your guard down, whether in regard to fire or crime at home.

According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, larcenies and robberies rise by roughly 20% each December. A 2020 report on the website Alarms.org showed that Michigan had the highest holiday crime rate among Midwestern states and ranked 31st nationwide in terms of having the most crime during this time; Florida had the highest holiday crime rate. “It starts with keeping your doors and windows locked,” said A.J. Tononi, a sales representative for Guardian Alarm, a national provider based in Southfield. “Having a relationship with your neighbors helps.” He said outdoor lighting deters crooks, particularly at night, and motion-activated lights are also great. “The biggest and best recommendation is (to have) a home security system and cameras,” Tononi said. Public safety professionals concur. “Statistics prove alarms deter crime,” Grosse Pointe Shores Public Safety Director Kenneth Werenski said. “Activate your alarm. Make sure your cameras are working.” Werenski said leaving a light on when you’re gone also helps, as it leaves the impression that someone is home. While crime doesn’t spike in Grosse Pointe Shores over the holidays, that’s due to the nature of the city, which is small and has no commercial businesses. “My experience is, crime goes up between Nov. 1 and

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Jan. 1,” Werenski said of regional trends. “People are desperate this time of year. They need to keep warm. They need to feed their addictions.” Grosse Pointe Woods Public Safety Director John Kosanke said package theft and scams are up at this time of year. Don’t answer calls from unknown callers and independently verify calls that seem to come from legitimate sources, like a utility company or the Internal Revenue Service, as scammers use spoofing to make it appear that a call is coming from a real agency when it isn’t. “With the holidays, it brings about opportunities for criminals,” Kosanke said. “We have the porch pirates this time of year. People are taking a lot of packages.” Having packages sent to a secured post office box or a person’s workplace are a couple of ways to protect these items from being stolen. Werenski said identity theft “is huge this time of year,” so people should routinely monitor their credit reports, credit card transactions and bank accounts for unauthorized activity. With so many shopping online these days, Kosanke warned residents to not click on pop-up ads when browsing the internet, as their devices could get infected with malware or the companies might not be legitimate. Kosanke and Werenski both remind people to be aware of their surroundings, including when unloading gifts and food from their vehicles. “Crime doesn’t take that long,” Kosanke said. “Crime can take seconds.” Regular safety precautions like keeping vehicles locked, not leaving the fobs inside and taking valuables like purses and briefcases inside or putting them out of sight in the trunk are also especially vital around the holidays, as criminals know people might be more prone to neglect these steps because they’re frazzled.

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10A

Salt

from page 1A

thanks to a Rouge River Watershed Council grant of around $40,000 from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. “As an urban watershed, when you put salt on the road, a lot of it flows right into the river. So we’ve kind of known that this is a problem,” said Lauren Eaton, the monitoring manager for Friends of the Rouge. Eaton explained that the Friends of the Rouge has been monitoring road salt in the river since 2020 using free salt watch strips from the Izaak Walton League of America. These test strips have been used at the bug hunts and stonefly searches to collect data to determine how toxic the salt levels are to the aquatic life in the Rouge. EGLE has set water quality values to protect surface water from chloride based on parts per million concentrations. These are 150 ppm and above, which causes long-term effects to aquatic life called “chronic” effects, and 320 ppm and above, which causes acute effects to aquatic life, called “toxic” effects. According to the 2022 Fall Bug Hunt Report, seven sites had toxic levels of chloride. “This is particularly concerning as one would expect road salt applied last winter to be washed out of the system by October,” the report states. “EGLE has already listed Bishop Creek (Novi) as ‘impaired’ due to high salt levels. Tonquish Creek (Plymouth) , Bell Creek (Livonia) and Evans Creek (Southfield) also need further examination due to elevated concentrations.” Eaton stated that the four different testing methods that will be used are the salt tabs, two different sensor readings, and then a

physical “water grab,” which is a cup of water taken from the river that will be taken to an EGLE-approved laboratory that will analyze that water. “The end goal is to kind of test these different methods, but then also to provide our data to EGLE at the end of it so that they can dial in and pinpoint source of chloride to the river, and then go in and assess further and potentially remediate the problem,” Eaton said. Eaton said it’s a delicate balance when it comes to adding just the right amount of salt to the roads to ensure that drivers are safe and that watersheds aren’t contaminated. According to Jocelyn Garza, a communications specialist for the Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan spends $100 million statewide on winter road maintenance. Garza explained that the only salt alternative currently in use is a deicing agent called calcium magnesium acetate, or CMA, which is only used on the Zilwaukee Bridge in Saginaw County. “CMA is a low corrosive deicer, but it is only used on the Z Bridge,” Garza stated. “While it does work as a deicing agent, it’s difficult to determine if it is more effective than salt or works faster than salt.” CMA is more expensive than regular road salt, with road salt costing $50-$60 per ton and CMA costing $2,000 per ton and not sold in bulk supply. Garza added that CMA requires a different application process, so the truck used to treat the Zilwaukee Bridge is specially outfitted. “There are other measures the department has taken to improve salt application, thereby reducing the amount of salt we use, but these are not alternatives to salt. There seems to be a misconception that different products can replace salt. To date, we have not found one that does, but when using an agri-

cultural bi-product as a boosting agent, it can improve the productivity of salt by lowering the freezing point and staying in place long enough for salt to do its job.” Garza said. MDOT said it has reduced salt usage by adjusting its practices for more than 20 years by prewetting the salt and lowering the speed of a salt truck. MDOT is in year one of a five-year pilot to review liquid-only treatments, which are widely used in Wisconsin. The pilot is being completed in three locations across Michigan and uses a salt brine to treat the roads. If it is found to be effective, the state’s salt trucks will be reworked to include a liquid tank and sprayers. MDOT facilities would also need large storage tanks to hold the solutions, and “immense changes would have to be made statewide in all our facilities if this method is found to be more effective than our current methods,” Garza said. According to the Road Commission for Oakland County’s winter road maintenance document, the Road Commission maintains Michigan’s largest county road system, with only the state highway system being larger. The Road Commission oversees 2,700 miles of county roads, including 750-plus miles of gravel roads, 116 bridges, 1,500 traffic signals, 150,000 traffic signs and more than 230 miles of state highway. The Road Commission spends about $12 million annually, depending on the winter, on winter maintenance, with $4 million or more on road salt alone. Craig Bryson, the senior communications manager of the Road Commission, said that applying just the right amount of salt to the roads without harming people or the environment is a constant challenge. “There’s a lot that goes into this,” he said. “And it’s a very challenging thing for our supervision staff who have to make those calls. See SALT on page 18A

Clinton River Watershed Council gives advice on ice According to the Clinton River Watershed Council, the most important step in de-icing is to physically remove as much ice as possible before applying salt. They recommend using a shovel to break up the ice before adding another layer of salt to sidewalks — applying more salt without removing what melted could result in using more salt than needed, which will end up in the river. They also said people can reduce salt use by limiting home access to one entrance. The group said choosing calcium magnesium acetate as a de-icer results in fewer adverse environmental impacts than salt and doesn’t cause erosion. They recommend checking the air temperature before applying de-icer, reading the label and using as little product as possible and applying carefully. • For dry, powdery snow: Shovel or sweep snow immediately to avoid using de-icer. • For wet, heavy snow: Apply de-icer product as soon as snow beings falling in order to prevent it from bonding. • For sleet and freezing rain: Apply de-icer product early on during these conditions to prevent ice from building up. • For significant snowfall: When more than 2 inches of snow falls, plow or shovel first and then use a de-icing product to melt any underlying layers of ice that have built up due to packed down snow. Source: “A Citizen’s Guide to Cold Weather Practices,” from the The Clinton River Watershed Council. For more information, visit wbtownship.org.

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12A

from page 1A

Since September, there have been at least 30-40 home burglaries across various communities in Oakland County, according to Bouchard. “We are trying to get a handle on it,” he said. “All of us getting together starts to put the picture on how big this is and how long it’s been going on.” Crews targeting homes in Oakland County are of Chilean origin, Bouchard said, based on recent arrests. “Transnational gangs, specifically in our area, are Chilean, primarily, coming from Chile, typically in teams of four (to) six,” he said. “Our area has been very much hammered by the very high-end burglaries, but we also have been hit, and, thankfully — with the assistance of the Violent Crime Task Force, the FBI, Auburn Hills, Troy, Bloomfield Township and a bunch of folks gathering together — we ended up catching a team that was doing the jewelry store robberies in Oakland County. They’re in my jail. They’re all from Chile.” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced three more arrests stemming from an investigation into criminal rings op-

LAKE ORION • 51 N. Broadway

Photo provided by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office

Two suspects are caught on video surveillance breaking into a home via a glass door. one of two ways: either illegally across the southern border or through the Visa Waiver Program. “We’d love to trace them back to where they are trained. It’s hard to find out where they are living because they use different places to stay,” he explained. “This isn’t a typical investigation. That’s why we need so many partners — state, federal and local — to share information.” This particular crime ring, he explained,

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targets multimillion-dollar homes in affluent neighborhoods, breaking in through glass doors or second-story windows when homes are vacant, typically between 5 and 9 p.m. Their preferred targets are large homes that are isolated and back up to wooded areas, trails and golf courses. “A lot of people ask what neighborhoods or what communities, but it’s the target home. If you have a very high-end home —

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erating in the metro-Detroit area. The three suspects, arrested in Indiana, have been tied to eight break-ins that took place between Feb. 3 and 11 in Ada Township, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills, Grosse Pointe Farms, Rochester and Rochester Hills. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has identified each, all Chilean nationals, as being members of the formally designated South American Theft Group. But as criminals are apprehended by police, new crews are sent to the United States from overseas to replace them, resulting in what seems like a never-ending cycle of crime. “We applaud the charging of three suspects accused in high-end break-ins at homes in our county, but we want to be clear that these suspects have been in custody for months,” Bouchard said in a statement. “These suspects — while connected to the same transnational network that has committed countless burglaries across the country — are not the criminals responsible for the rash of break-ins in southeast Michigan that have risen dramatically since September. These are completely different teams who continue to traumatize residents in our area, and I urge residents to remain vigilant.” Bouchard said those in the crime ring are believed to have entered the country in

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WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

Food from page 3A

2023, at the two kitchens, we served 19,861 meals. That’s up 14% from July and a 48% increase since January. The grocery prices are killing people.” CARES of Farmington Hills serves those in need in Farmington Hills, Farmington, Livonia, Redford Township, Southfield, Northville, Novi and West Bloomfield. They, too, are seeing an increase in need. “At CARES, we are seeing an average of five to eight families each day, Tuesday through Thursdays. These are new families who are registering for food. This is on top of more than 650 households a month we are serving,” explained intake volunteer Nancy Prieskorn. “The need and growth is exponential. These are often people who have never had to reach out for help before and people who haven’t had to use us for several years. We are seeing all kinds of desperate situations.” Debra Cole manages the food pantry for the Rochester Area Neighborhood House. She said that their numbers are up and have been increasing since the COVID-19 lockdown ended. “We are very much seeing an increase

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Volunteers and staff at organizations like the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit, pictured, are finding it harder and harder to meet the number of requests for help in recent months. in requests for aid,” said Cole. “We are probably seeing an increase of 15 to 20 more families per month over last year. After things opened up after COVID, we started seeing more people. The government also lessened the amount they were getting through SNAP. The amount was brought back down to pre-COVID levels, and a lot of people weren’t ready for that.” Prieskorn said part of this stems from support many were receiving during COVID-19 no longer being available.

“I think people are finding that food prices are rising and that government help is decreasing. I think it’s a combination of those two things,” she said. “The food prices are probably an aftermath of COVID and the disruption it caused in society. We’re all trying to find a new equilibrium and, in my opinion, people aren’t finding a balance of how to divert resources to where it’s needed.” The increase of food prices, largely caused by inflation in the United States economy, is credited as the primary cause of

these difficulties by many trying to help. “I think a big part of the increase is inflation,” said Roemer. “The price of food is quite high. When I first came here in 2021, during COVID, people were receiving stimulus checks, and now those resources are gone.” Cole said that difficulties in getting a well-paying job also are certainly a factor. “A lot of families who were doing all right are now recertifying themselves with us See FOOD on page 17A

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The West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees voted to approve raises for township employees and elected officials at a special meeting Nov. 1.

from page 3A

our employees, we also give the same raise to our elected (officials); three that work at the township – township treasurer, township supervisor, township clerk. … That’s been our pattern since I’ve worked here, which is about 8 1/2 years.” According to Kaplan, the West Bloomfield clerk and treasurer earn $137,000 per year, with the supervisor earning $139,950. Although they are not full-time township employees, board trustees also received an increase in pay. During the agenda item discussion about elected officials receiving a pay increase at the special meeting, Kaplan proposed an amendment. “I would like to amend that motion — friendly amendment, I suppose, and that would be for the four township trustees — to provide them with a $10,000 stipend per year,” Kaplan said. The amendment proposal was unanimously approved. In an interview with the Beacon, Kaplan said that the trustees were previously earning $8,000 per year. He shared his rationale for the pay increase for elected officials. “The reasoning for that is, with runaway inflation, inflation reaching 7 or 8%, especially for food and gasoline, our employees essentially received pay decreases because their salaries were not even remotely keeping up with inflation,” Kaplan said. Given current economic conditions and inflation, Manna said that he supports the raises given to employees of the township. However, the raises that were approved for elected officials is another matter, he said. “Being in local government has made me be more conscious (of) all the waste there is

in government, unfortunately,” Manna said. “I don’t believe that we as part-time trustees should be given a raise, but it was voted in and I wasn’t there. I think I would’ve been in the minority. … I do not support the raise for the elected officials.” Regular Board of Trustees meetings are typically held on Monday evenings at Township Hall. The special meeting, which was an open meeting that was televised on Civic Center TV, was scheduled on a Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. in a room at the West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation building. Kaplan cited a raise for police officers as one of the reasons for the special meeting. “It was urgent for the board to take a stance on the police officers’ salaries,” he said. “We could’ve waited several weeks until the next regular meeting, but in the meantime, Oak Park and other communities had increased their salaries for police officers, and that would have an effect on recruiting and retaining police officers. … Only if it’s important to conduct business and either approve or not approve a matter is when a special meeting’s called. Otherwise, it’s a regular meeting.” According to Whetstone, members of the West Bloomfield Police Department on the top of the pay scale received an increase of $2,068 in base pay, with $3,120 being added to the base pay of all of the police officers. Those on top of the pay scale received base-pay increases of both $2,068 and $3,120. Whetstone emphasized that they were not lump-sum payments. Members of the Police Department were also included among all of the employees and elected officials who received a 3% raise. Warshay described the pay increase for police officers as “the context of where it started.” “We’re losing 10% of our police officers to other communities, even though we’re a very desirable place to work as an officer,” he See RAISES on page 16A

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WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

Burglaries from page 12A

probably a multimillion-dollar home — with any kind of approach, and there are valuables inside, you are probably that kind of target that they are looking for, regardless of what community or neighborhood you’re in,” Bouchard said. “One of the burglaries was in a home where the rest of the neighborhood probably wouldn’t have fit the bill, but that one did — that’s something to be aware of.” The thieves use jamming equipment to disrupt frequencies used by wireless security systems, preventing alarms from going off as they break into a home. “They’re very methodical,” Bouchard explained. “They come in, they’re very well trained — they are all in black, with backpacks, face masks and gloves — and they utilize a jammer that shuts down wireless, so if you have a wireless alarm system, a wireless glass break, wireless contacts, it will jam those frequencies and it won’t communicate with the alarm or get an alarm system out. So if you are in a neighborhood and your wireless seems to be going down and it never has happened before and you’re in one of these neighborhoods, it may be a good time to call your local police department.”

Losses from recent break-ins measure in the millions of dollars, officials say, as money, jewelry, luxury purses, other high-value items and safes have been stolen from affected properties. “They keep getting in houses without an alarm on and getting out with hundreds of thousands or even millions — we’ve seen homes with $3 million to $4 million in cash and jewelry — that’s a big payday anywhere in the world,” Bouchard noted. Bloomfield Township Police Public Information Officer Nick Soley said the township alone has experienced roughly eight to 10 home break-ins since September. “I can say confidently that none of our homes have been occupied during these home invasions in Bloomfield Township. They are going after that high-end jewelry, cash and some of the high-end purses and designer-named stuff like that,” he said. The Bloomfield Township Police Department has been communicating with residents and homeowner associations to keep them apprised of the criminal activity. Many township residents are scared, according to Solely. “Our residents are nervous, and rightfully so. They should feel protected in their homes,” he said. “Things are kind of changing. I don’t typically tell homeowners they need to move

things to a safety deposit box, but those are the kinds of tips we are giving. If you have highend jewelry, it needs to be moved somewhere more secure, or maybe off site.” Most of the homes burglarized in the township have video surveillance, which Soley said is a big help to investigators. Police have also stepped up patrols throughout the township. “We are putting a lot of extra patrols out there, so even if you don’t see us in a marked patrol car, we are out there,” he said. As home invasions connected to this crime ring continue throughout southwest Michigan, the investigation remains ongoing. Bouchard encourages homeowners to invest in redundant alarm systems — with an emphasis on those that are hard-wired and can communicate via radio, cellular and internet — and keep an eye out for anything unusual. “Watch out for each other. Look for suspicious cars or people,” he said. “People coming through backyards and neighborhoods like that is a phone call to your local police. … We’d rather check on 100 nothings than miss the one real deal. Calling us is not a bother.” Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

Gifts from page 6A

Ice skating, skiing and snowboarding are the perfect ways to escape cabin fever and take advantage of the snowy winter weather. The Birmingham Sports Ice Arena offers ice skating classes for ages 3 to adult of all levels year-round. “A lot of kids get skates for the holidays, and they don’t know how to skate, so they come here and want to take skating lessons,” said Ice Arena Facilities Superintendent Connie Folk. Gift givers can register a loved one for the next eight-week course, which begins the week of Jan. 15, or wait for additional ice skating lessons, which are offered in five sessions throughout the year. Ice skating classes meet once a week for eight weeks and are limited to 12 students. Classes with more than seven students will have two instructors. “If you know how to skate, you will have a better experience when you go to birthday parties, open skates or even down to the city of Detroit to skate on the outdoor rink,” Folk said. “It just makes it See GIFTS on page 18A

Peek Inside Your Health: Full Body MRI Screenings Unveil Silent Issues Before Symptoms Arise SOUTHFIELD- Full body MRI clinics have gained national attention lately, as TV personalities publicly share their personal full body scan experiences. One actress credits the scan for saving her life after doctors dismissed her unexplained pain for months. After various tests, including a CT scan, had “unremarkable” results, the pregnant actress became her own advocate, searched out a full body MRI clinic and discovered she had pancreatic cancer. Thanks to early detection the tumor was removed successfully. As a general rule, when symptoms occur related to cancer, it usually has progressed to stage three or four. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screenings only

cover about 29% of cancers with 71% occurring outside of where doctors are able to screen. However, full body MRI scans can detect cancer in every organ from the top of the head through the genitals and can detect it very early. For a long time, full body MRI scans were available only in select areas outside of Michigan, requiring expensive flights like in Vancouver or California. However, this changed when a clinic opened in Southfield, making these scans available to Metro Detroit residents. “Our advanced MRI screening can detect cancers very early when they are as small as a pencil eraser and are more easily treatable. If cancer goes undetected, however, it can grow into stage three or stage four with difficult

treatments. We can also identify conditions such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms,” stated the founder of the Southfield clinic called Bionicc Body Screening. The primary focus of Bionicc Body Screening is to deliver peace of mind, offering a comprehensive and detailed imaging of the body’s internal structures. The ultimate hope is for excellent health. However, in the event that something is detected, the advanced screening aims to catch any potential issues at their earliest stages. This approach offers the best opportunity for successful treatment outcomes, should the need arise. Robert B., age 50, opted for a full body scan from Bionicc Body Screening and a very small tumor

MRI machines use magnets and emit no radiation.

was detected. He said, “It saved my life. Their MRI found a kidney tumor that had been missed by a recent CT scan. I cannot recommend this service more.” Take the first step to learn more about full body scans by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening.com and request a free, no obligation Information Kit. Request it today and you’re also guaranteed a copy of their FREE eBook, Catching Cancer Before It’s Too Late! (This is a limited time offer.) Schedule today at 1-833-BIONICC.

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Raises

fire departments, as well as water utilities staff members. He said the raises that were approved amount to $483,946 this year and $1,242,935 next year. The township’s 2023 general fund equity balance, according to Kaplan, is $40.4 million, with $34.7 being the forecasted fund equity balance Jan. 1, 2024. He also stated that the amended revenue for this year is $130 million, with $114.5 million in expenditures. The projected revenues for next year is $129,300,000, with the projected expenditures expected to be $126,900,000, according to Kaplan. “These figures are emblematic of the township’s conservative spending and careful husbandry of its funds,” Kaplan stated via email. Weingarden also weighed in on the raises that were approved. “West Bloomfield acknowledges the dedication of our public safety, water utilities and all town hall employees and recognizes our compensation needs to be competitive,” she stated via email. “The increases were done uniformly to recognize all of our West Bloomfield

from page 14A

said. “The difference in pay was the reason they were leaving. So, we raised that, and then we had to do similarly for the rest of the employees. So then to keep a differential between the employees, the department heads and the elected officials, that’s why theirs was raised.” Warshay expanded on why elected officials were included in the mix. “Because they supervise the department heads, who were also bumped up,” he said. West Bloomfield Police Chief Michael Patton said that one of his primary responsibilities is to attract and retain quality law enforcement professionals. “We look at the wages and benefits that we offer because it is a competitive market,” Patton said. “Other communities had already done what we just did here in West Bloomfield. They looked at their wages to see if there’s anything they could do within their agencies and their communities to provide greater wages.” In an email, Kaplan stated that there are approximately 300 full- and part-time employees in the township, including in the police and

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Notice of Posting For Charter Township of West Bloomfield Township Board 1. Synopsis of the Regular meeting on: 2. Synopsis of the Regular meeting on :

Monday, November 20, 2023 Monday, December 4, 2023

The above Synopses shall be posted (in their entirety) at the following locations: (1) Office of the Township Clerk 4550 Walnut Lake Road (2) Township’s website: www.wbtownship.org Debbie Binder Township Clerk Published: West Bloomfield Beacon 12/20/2023

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employees and show our deep appreciation for exemplary service. … The salary increase was given to all full-time employees including the Police Chief, Fire Chief, Department Heads and three full-time elected officials (who serve as department heads).” According to Warshay, the money for the raises is coming from the township’s general fund. He shared a message for residents. “We understand, certainly, the appearance of granting raises. We felt it was necessary to retain the employees who serve the public,” Warshay said. At press time, Binder had not provided comments, Rosenberg declined to comment and Rosenfeld Swimmer did not respond to opportunities to comment. Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 4981052.

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Celebrate the Season of Giving at JARS Cannabis Whether it’s through fundraising, volunteer work, educating customers about the industry and the benefits of cannabis, or simply putting the right products in the hands of the right people, it’s always the season of giving at JARS Cannabis. But the holidays are certainly special, and JARS is celebrating customers and the season with its Photo by Carlito Clips. “12 Days of Giveaways” promotion from Dec. 22 through Jan. 2. The first 50 customers at each store will receive different product gifts each day, from brands including Jeeter, Stiiizy, Breeze, Wana, Wyld and more. Customers will also be entered into a daily raffle for a chance to win great gifts including a PlayStation5, Apple Watch, TV, MacBook Pro, and more, and cash prizes of $5,000, $10,000 and $15,000. “Giving back fuels our purpose at JARS. From volunteer work to fundraising and customer initiatives like our ‘12 Days of Giveaways,’ we aim to make an impact in every community we serve,” said JARS Cannabis COO Raymond Abro. Founded in 2020, JARS opened its first location as a medical-only retailer on Eight Mile at Hoover on Detroit’s east side. Through industry-leading business practices, community outreach, and an emphasis on customer service, JARS has grown to operate 37 recreational stores in the U.S., including 18 in Michigan. The company employs more than 1,000 people and remains laser-focused on providing extensive training that translates into high-quality customer service. “Our customers deserve the best, and that’s precisely what we provide by training our staff to be experts,” Abro said. “Whether you are a beginner or connoisseur, we offer a tailored experience for every visitor.” JARS offers a full range of products from flower, edibles, topicals and patches to all the accessories customers prefer. To learn more about JARS’ 18 locations, products, and promotions, visit shopJARS.com and follow @JARS_life on Instagram.

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WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

from page 8A

“All the thieves are looking for is an opportunity, and you’ve got to not give them that,” Kosanke said. Neighbors can also help by calling police immediately if they spot unusual activity. “You know the habits of your neighbors,” Werenski said. “If you see something, call us. We all work together.”

Prevent holiday fires from happening

Candles — which seem to be more popular during the holidays — were responsible for 7,900 residential fires that resulted in more than 720 injuries, dozens of deaths and almost $270 million in property damage between 2013 and 2017 alone, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. “You want to make sure you’re not leaving them unsupervised,” Kosanke said. Experts recommend using flameless alter-

Food from page 13A

Organizations across metro Detroit are asking for continued or increased support from those who can afford to give. “There are a number of organizations like CARES to contribute to,” said Prieskorn. “Everyone is asking for money, food and volunteers. We also need to talk to our legislators and encourage them to dedicate more money to help those in need of food assistance.” Some organizations are starting new initiatives to try to help more people than before as well. “We also have worked this past year with the Felician Sisters and their new Deo Gratias Ministry at Six Mile Road and Kelly Road,” said Wegner. “They offer to-go meals three days a week.” “There’s lots of resources out there. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Check at local clubs or churches or other organizations for resources like food pantries or clothes closets,” added Roemer. “Those who wish to help can donate nonperishable food and clothing. We accept everything and give everything away; we don’t sell anything for a profit. A lot of organizations are out there just like that. Hygiene items are often also something groups are in desperate need for.” Prieskorn said the need is dire and that many organizations, including CARES, are being stretched very thin. “It’s very frustrating. People are calling various agencies and looking for help,” she said. “Everyone is maxed out in their resources. People need to have perseverance. It’s hard to do if you are worrying about feeding a child or finding a place to stay that night.”

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to get food once again,” she said. “People are saying they are having a hard time getting a job. Some people aren’t used to getting a job after COVID or they have family members moving in or kids moving back in because they can’t find a job.” This means that the increase in service requests at most of these organizations is not coming from those living on the streets but those who are failing to make ends meet. “At one of our kitchens, we get more homeless people, so the economy doesn’t always directly affect them, since they are often outside the mainstream economy,” said Wegner. “However, at the other, we serve more of the working poor, single mothers and families, and they are trying to find ways to stretch their dollar.” “We’re seeing young people. We’re seeing senior citizens. We’re seeing homeless people or people living out of their cars,” added Prieskorn. “It’s anything and everyone. People are in need.” Not having to spend income on food can be immensely helpful, since it means that money can be redirected to expenses where no help is available. “We try to have people come and get groceries from us so they have money for other things,” said Cole. “If they can get two weeks of groceries, they can use that money for electric bills or gas bills and so forth. We also have a Clothes Closet, where they can get free clothing. Freeing up that money for other expenses can do a lot.”

natives, but if only the real thing will do, exercise caution with pets and children, keep them away from flammable material like curtains, place them on a flat and stable surface, and use a candle snuffer to extinguish them. Werenski said all families should have a fire safety plan in place that includes escape routes and a meeting spot outside. Anyone with a wood-burning fireplace should have it professionally cleaned as well, he said. Replace worn or broken holiday lights, don’t use outdoor lights inside, follow the manufacturer’s directions and only use lights labeled by a qualified testing laboratory, Kosanke said. Kosanke said people should turn off holiday lights before they go to bed or when they’re going to be gone, keep real Christmas trees adequately watered and keep the tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources. He said people should also make sure the tree isn’t blocking any exits. “Christmas is a great time of year,” Kosanke said. “Unfortunately, we do see tragedies this time of year that could have been avoided.”

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WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • DECEMBER 20, 2023

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from page 15A

a great gift, because it gives them the opportunity to come out, exercise and learn how to skate so they can skate with their friends.” The Birmingham Ice Sports Arena is located at 2300 E. Lincoln. To register, visit https://play. bhamgov.org. There are also many ski areas in southeast Michigan, including Alpine Valley, Mount Brighton, Mount Holly and Pine Knob. Pine Knob Ski Resort — 7778 Sashabaw Road in Clarkston — offers ski and snowboard rentals, with private or group lessons for all ages, led by certified instructors. Pine Knob has 17 runs, six chairlifts, four tow ropes, two wonder carpets and some terrain parks. Many intermediate and avid skiers hope a season ski pass will be under the tree, allowing them to ski or snowboard as many days as they want, all season. Another fun gift-giving option that can be personalized to fit a variety of interests is a gift card to the Troy Community Center. “People can use it however they want to,” said Troy Community Center Recreation Director Brian Goul. “A lot of people give gift cards that people like to use for our outdoor pool in the summertime or for a fitness pass during the year at the community center.”

The 127,000-square-foot building offers everything from year-round swim lessons, pickleball lessons and basketball leagues to karate, yoga and intro to sports classes. “In the new year, people usually want to get physically fit and get in better shape, so giving them a gift card to come and get a fitness pass and work out or be able to learn pickleball is a great way for people to do something that they might not normally do for themselves,” Goul said. A popular option is the “Pickleball 101: Intro for Beginners” class, which teaches participants the basic rules, strokes, scoring and strategies of the game. The center also offers indoor swim lessons year-round for preschoolers to adults, with the next six-week session starting in January, followed by another in late March. To expose kids to a variety of sports — including soccer, football, volleyball, T-ball, lacrosse, hockey and more — the Coach Dave Intro to Sports classes are offered for ages 3-6. “Participating in sports is a great way for kids to meet other kids, get the social skills they need, learn how to be a good teammate and have fun,” he said. For more information about the Troy Community Center, visit https://rec.troymi.gov. Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

Salt

from page 10A

The danger is, you say, ‘OK, I want to conserve salt. I’m not gonna salt. This snowfall isn’t going to accumulate too much.’ And if you’re wrong on that, and the roads ice up, and people die, that’s horrific.” Bryson explained that the Road Commission has been working for decades to address this issue. Its regulations now call for about 400 pounds of salt per mile, which is half the amount that used to be applied. They have shifted away from using gravity-reliant salt trucks that tilt for application because there is less control over how much salt comes out. “What we do now is we actually spray the salt with liquid brine, which is naturally occurring saltwater. As it’s coming out of the truck, there are little jets on either side that spray the brine right onto the salt. That means the salt is activating from the moment it leaves the spreader till it hits the road. It’s already becoming active when it actually hits the pavement. That’s allowed us also to reduce the amount of salt we use because the salt is more efficient.” In addition to this method, the Road Commission also measures pavement temperature gauges across Oakland County. Bryon explained that this has been a critical factor, because sometimes the air is colder than the pavement, which helps determine whether to salt immediately or wait. There are six garages located around Oakland County with around 140 snow plows/ salt trucks. For those interested in testing the Rouge for chloride, the Friends of the Rouge encourages people to register for the stonefly search. The deadline to register is Jan. 6. Registration can be completed at therouge.org/bug-hunts/. For more information on the Road Commission, visit www.rcocweb. org. For more information on MDOT, visit www.michigan.gov/mdot. Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.

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December 20, 2023

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36 MO.

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HUGE CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP & RAM SELECTION! • HUGE CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP & RAM SELECTION!

West Bloomfield Beacon

SALES HOURS: MONDAY & THURSDAY 8:30AM–9PM • TUES/WED/FRI 9AM–6PM • SERVICE HOURS: MONDAY & THURSDAY 7AM–9PM • TUES/WED/FRI 7AM–6PM

855.336.4595 Van Dyke & 171⁄2 Mile • www.sterlingheightsdodge.net *Lease payments add tax, due at signing add ﬁrst payment,tax,documentary fee, title, licensing fees. Lease mileage allowance is 10,000 miles per year. Overmileage is .25 cents per mile. Purchase and lease prices include Stellantis consumer rebates including return lease rebates and Chrysler Capital ﬁnance rebates where applicable. Purchase prices, add for tax, title, doc, plates, and destination. Leases include destination. Pictures may not represent actual vehicle, prices and payments are accurate at time of printing and subject to change,Residency and lender restrictions apply, see dealer for details. Exp January 2nd 2024. 0175-2351

2B - WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON, December 20, 2023

www.candgnews.com

Autos Wanted

Auctions

OFFERINGS AROUND MICHIGAN

BUYING

Coins, Sport Cards & Stamps Collections

Office/Commercial For Rent

Top $$$ Call 248-471-4451

BINGHAM FARMS

CPA Firm at Telegraph/13 Mile Window Office Includes Receptionist, Conference Room, Kitchen, Copier/Scan/Mail Meter Available.

MATTRESSES

Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made is U.S.A., in plastic, with warranty. Retail cost $3,995.00, sacrifice for $875.00. Call for showing or delivery: DanDanTheMattressMan.com 989832-1866

BUSINESS SERVICES

POLE BARNS

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00! 100% guaranteed. Firearms; Ammo; Reloading 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-835-7273 supplies, Model trains, Jon Hablamos Espano boat, Canoe, Household. MISCELLANEOUS Online bidding open at: Bid. AMISH BUILT storage sheds and SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC. mini cabins delivered to your site com 1-800-835-0495. Merry Christmas anywhere in Michigan! Starting at and Happy New Year from all of us at $2,500.00 Sherwood Auction Service! mynextbarn.com 989-832-1866 METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime asphalt shingles. Steel and vinyl siding. Hail damage. Licensed and insured builders. Pole Buildings. Quality work for 40 years! AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695.

Call 248-540-0250 Paige & Company

MEDICAL

Published: December 18, 2023

We build all year long! BUILT BEST BARNS IN A RUSH? CALL US!!!! Best Quality, Best Service. Now in our 25TH Year! Over 4,000 Buildings in Mid Michigan Call for QUOTES License/ Insured 989-205-2534 0297-2351

CandGnews.com

Help Wanted General

Job Training/Education

SUBWAY NOW HIRING

CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICESHIP

Crew Members, Managers & Assistant Managers. Restaurant & Management Experience Preferred. •Sign on Bonus •Competitive Pay •Advancement Opportunities •Flexible Scheduling •Friendly Work Environment

CALL TODAY!

586-216-2124 Job Opportunities Employment Opportunities CITY OF EASTPOINTE

Administrative Services Specialist Crossing Guard (part-time) Laborer (part-time) Police Service Aide (part-time) Reserve Police Officer (part-time) Laborer (full-time) Clerk (part-time)

The JATC for the Pipefitting Industry and Pipefitters, Steamfitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Service Local Union #636 of the United Association will be accepting applications for our Construction Apprenticeship beginning Monday, November 20,2023, through December 20, 2023. Then again starting Tuesday, January 2, 2024 through January 25, 2024. Application days and times will be as followed: Monday, Tuesdays & Thursdays from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturdays: December 9th & 16th, also January 6, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Qualifications necessary for an applicant to be considered are: 1. Must be 18 years of age or older. 2. Complete the application and return to the Pipefitting Industry Training Center with: a. A valid driver’s license. b. High School diploma or high school equivalency (GED) certificate. c. There is a $45.00 testing fee that will be collected when turning in the application. This is a drug free Program. An individual tentatively selected for entrance into the Program after testing and interview will be required to submit to a drug test, which will include testing for marijuana. The Pipefitting Industry Training Center is located at 636 Executive Drive in Troy, MI between John R and Dequindre, north of E. 14 Mile Road. PH: 248-585-0636 No resumes please. For more information, please visit our website at : www.pipefitters636tc.org

0330-2347

Antiques & Collectibles

AUCTION Online Estate Auction. Firearms, WWII collectibles, Schuetzen items, Scopes, Antiques! Shipping available. Selling guns? Call John 989345-4866. Gun Auction 1/2/24 +Military Arms/Collector Auction Coming Soon! johnpeckauctions. com Michigan’s Premier Gun Auctioneers.

Find Previous Issues of Our Papers, Photo Galleries, Breaking News, Sports and Much More...

To review the minimum qualifications, details on the position and to apply, please visit our Employment Opportunities web page at governmentjobs.com/careers/ eastpointemi 0159-2351

Help Wanted Office/Clerical

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON CLERK CASHIER Permanent full-time Clerk Cashier position $40,511 - $53,945 annually (40 Hours per week) includes benefit package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required and applicant must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit an application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Friday, January 5, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship. com, click on Employment. 0277-2351

WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON, December 20, 2023 - 3B

www.candgnews.com

Painting

BATHROOM REMODELING

BEST-Price-Period

2 BROTHERS PAINTING

Licensed/Insured References

THE bathroom of your dreams for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-877-957-1264

Brick Work NEXT LEVEL CONCRETE LLC.

All Masonry Work Steps, Tuck-pointing Porch & Chimney Repair/Rebuilds. We Specialize in all Exterior Renovations and Repairs. Free Estimates

248-383-3480 Carpentry BARRY'S CARPENTRY

•Decks •Additions •Bathrooms •Kitchens •Renovations •Plumbing Family Owned. 35 yrs experience www.Barryscarpentry.com Free Estimates

248-563-1733 GOT ROT?

Rotten Wood Replacement Specialist All Types of Wood Repair Fascia, Soffit & Siding Painted to Match AMG Applied Services

248-828-7998

Carpet Cleaning

CARPET

WAVY-n-LOOSE?

We Power Re-stretch and Steam-clean For One Low Price Multiple Room Discount

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ccarpetrepair.com Chimney Service

CHIMNEYS, INC $99 Now Until The New Year! Sweep & Safety Inspection

•Repairs •Dampers •Caps •Crown Repair Next Day Appointment Available

586-431-0591

Cleaning Service CLEANING LADY

with 10-yr experience is looking for work. Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly Excellent references. Flexible hours. Bonded & insured.

Hotchkiss Electric Lic.#6211028

586-634-1152

(direct cell phone #) Panel upgrades, generators, hot tubs, 220 lines. ALL SERVICE Licensed & Insured Dependable, quality work! License#-6111359

Gutters A.M.G. Gutters & Downspouts. Owner operated. Seamless gutter installation and repair specialist. Builders License #2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com Fully Insured

248-828-7998

ELIMINATE gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-866-495-1709

GUTTERS & WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOM MICOLI

313-656-9402 Handyman Services A#1 REPAIR SERVICES: GUTTERS Remove Ice Dams Install Guards SIDING Vinyl-Siding/Alum-Trim Gable/SoffitVents/Shutters ROOF Snow Removal Leaks/Shingles Vents/Caps

248-892-1927 AA4DABLE HANDYMAN

Home Improvement, Tile, Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath Remodeling, Plumbing, Electrical, Painting, Hauling, Clean-outs, Any Home Repairs, Free Estimates, 30% Discount, Accept All Major Credit Cards

586-822-5100

Hauling & Waste Removal ***AAA HAULING*** JUNK REMOVAL

Father & Son

Professional- We Wear Masks! We haul it all! Demolition Big & Small Residential/Commercial Rubber Wheel Dumpsters10, 15, 20-Yards, Clean-outs, Construction Material, Small-Moving, Appliances, Furniture & More! Lowest Rates!!! Free-Estimates Senior/Military Discounts

Dr. Electric

ucallwehauljunk.com

248-890-8830 Electrical

586-755-3636 Master Electricians Same-Day-Service! All-Residential-Wiring, Change Fuse Box to Circuit Breaker Panel, Troubleshooting, Electric Vehicle Chargers, Backup Generator Transfer Switch, License# 6109094 Senior/Discounts! Visa/MC /Lic./Insured

Call Frank 248-303-5897

586-291-3143

CASTLE ELECTRIC

586-360-0681

BURLY GUYS JUNK REMOVAL

removes ANYTHING! Appliances, furniture, basement cleanouts, hoarders all welcome! Call or Text

248-224-2188

• Wood Repair • Power Wash • Free-Estimates

REFERENCES AVAILABLE

Hauling & Waste Removal **CLUTTER GUY'S**

Removal-Experts Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices Garage/Storage-Areas Efficient Courteous Workers Reasonable-Rates Free-Estimates NEED CLUTTER REMOVED? LET US DO THE WORK!

586-258-6672 Home Improvement

A-1 PETROLERE CONSTRUCTION

Kitchen, Bath, Basement, Remodeling, Decks, Interior/Exterior Painting And Repairs. We Also Offer Handyman Services

Licensed/Insured

586-954-2708 ROZE REMODELING LLC.

•Interior Renovations •Kitchens •Bathrooms •Basements •Painting •Vinyl Floors •Fireplaces Free-Estimates Requests: roze cementllc@gmail.com Andre-586-354-7791

Home Repairs EXTERIOR REPAIRS LLC.

Since 1999 Roofing, Siding, Gutters and More! Reliable Ask, We Might Do It! FREE ESTIMATES

248-242-1511 Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops

MR. BACKSPLASH ·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES ·CUSTOM KITCHENS ·COUNTERTOPS *Granite*Quartz* ·Custom Bathrooms ·FIREPLACE TILE *FREE ESTIMATES*

586-552-5416

mrbacksplash.com

Painting

586-792-3117

PETE'S PAINTING HOLIDAY SPECIALS! 10% OFF Specializing in Great Rooms, Special Pricing For Decks, Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. Special pricing for vacant homes. Senior Discount, Free-Estimates, Insured.

Financing Available

FREE Camera with Drain Cleaning

Restriction May Apply

PAINTING by-GPC

MASTER-PAINTER PAINTING! PAINTING! •Interior/Exterior •Drywall/Plaster •Restoration/Repairs •Wallpaper Hanging •Wallpaper Removal Senior-Rates We-Do-It-All! B.B.B/A+Rating 30-yrs, Licensed/Insured Free-Estimates Owner-Robert

586.899.3555 (Direct) 248.566.6460 (Office)

$50 OFF Sump Pump Installation * $30 OFF Any Plumbing Service

888.572.0928 586.585.1862

Painting

www.MotorCityPlumber.com

CAPITAL PLUMBING

Plumbing

MASTER PLUMBER, LICENCED AND INSURED FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS DRAIN CLEANING SEWER CAMERA COMMERCIAL

586.421.5520 586.524.6752 ANDY'S PLUMBING

WATER HEATERS SUMP PUMPS RESIDENTIAL

CALL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE SERVICING THE TRI- COUNTY AREA FOR OVER 30 YEARS *SENIOR/MILITARY DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

248-740-7643 1(800)441-0525 (586)229-4267 American Painting

•Residential/Commercial •Interior •Power Washing •Insurance •Drywall •Plaster Repair •Clean-outs •Home Repairs •Senior-Discounts. •Guaranteed-Work. •25-yrs Experience.

ANDERSON Painting & Carpentry Complete Interior/Exterior Services Plaster/Drywall & Water Damage Repairs. Wood-Staining. Wallpaper-Removal. Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing Insured/References. Free-Estimates

586-354-3032 248-974-4012

248-740-7643 1(800)441-0525 CAPITALPLUMBINGMI.COM CAPITALPLUMBINGMI.COM

Painting

TIMELESS PAINTING L.L.C.

WOW PAINTING

CIAL

RESIDENTIAL & COMMER

• Interior & Exterior • Drywall Patching & Repair • Carpentry & Remodels We Accept Venmo, Cash, Check

Call or Text Us Today!

FREE ESTIMATES

Ask for Tony!

248-894-5804

586-343-4005

PEAK PAINTING Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, interior/exterior. Drywall-repair, paper removal, carpentry. 30-yr.-exp. Free estimates, senior discounts, insured. Credit-cards accepted.

586-722-8381

MASTER PLUMBER

Sewer & Drain Service. Remodeling, repairs, new installations. Free estimates, senior rates. 35+yrs exp. Call Paul Lic.#8109852

248-345-3308

Cabinet Painting Custom Cabinets Counter Tops & Everything in Between. Call/Text Us For Your Kitchen Transformation.

Plumbing

248-904-5822

25-Years Experience Licensed/Insured Call Us Today For All Your Plumbing Needs!! Serving The Tri-County-Area

10%/Senior/Military/Discounts

Lic#-8004254

WATERWORK Plumbing.com •Drain Cleaning •Sewer Camera •Water Heaters •Sump Pumps •Backflow Testing

248-542-8022

Same Day Emergency Service Available Reliable/Experienced License#8003885

Roofing AA4DABLE ROOFING

Hurry-up & Save Big-$$$$! WINTER-SPECIALSClean-up, Up to 30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs We accept major credit-cards. 30yrs-Experience

586-822-5100

Family Owned/Operated Since 1965 Licensed/Insured Specializing in all home improvement needs and insurance claims. One call does it all! Free-Estimates

586-436-9600 586-443-8671

REPLACE your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-866-718-3124

AAA all star repairs as low as $225.00* Gutter repairs, Flat-roofs, Reroof, New-roof, Residential /Commercial Call Silversmith Maintenance

248-707-4851

Accept credit cards Family-owned Over 30 years exp.

Tree Service DAVE'S

TREE & SHRUB 30%-FALL-DISCOUNT INSURED, Emergency Storm Damage, Large-Tree-Removals, Trimming, StumpGrinding, Gutters, Leaf Clean-up, Season-Firewood (stacking-wood/extra charge), Free-Estimates. 10% Senior-Discounts.

(586)216-0904

davestreeandshrub.com

ELITE TREE SERVICE

"Bringing 30 years of experience to your door!" Tree trimming, removals & stump grinding. Insured & FREE estimates with fair prices! Firewood For Sale

586-756-0757

YEAR-IN-REVIEW

farrsmoldremoval.com

KELLY'S KITCHEN DESIGN

Interior/Exterior Quality Painting Drywall Repairs, Remove Wallpaper, Exterior Wood Replacement, Epoxy Flooring, Insured Free-Estimates

248-990-5388

Interior/Exterior Wood & Drywall Repairs Mold Remediation Free Estimates Certified Mold Inspector

586-343-4005

Residential/Commercial

wowpaintingmi.com

FARR'S PAINTING

Now Hiring!!!

MICHAEL NORTON BUILDER

Family Owned & Operated

Repairs & Installation Master Plumber • Fully Licensed & Insured Senior Citizen & Military Discounts 100% Guarantee

Complete Interior/Exterior

0075-2332

248-376-0988

Motor City Plumbing & Drain

0325-2302

Basic Bathrooms Starting at: $10,995.00 Experience of over 500-bathrooms across Metro-Detroit, Look at our work at: andyscarpentryllc.com

Licensed/Insured. 30-yrs.-experience. Call for free-estimates. Open 7-days a week 24/hrs-day. 10%-Off For Cash Now Accepting All Major Credit Cards.

Roofing

Plumbing

0355-2235

Electrical

0133-2345

Bathrooms

ACROSS 1. *Herald, Idalia or Ophelia 6. Do this in the bud 9. Parts of play 13. Cocoon dwellers 14. Paleozoic or mesozoic, e.g. 15. Alexandre Duma’s “The Black ____” 16. Concerning, archaic 17. Talking Heads’ “And She ____” 18. Give a speech 19. *2023 World Series winners 21. *Imploded submersible’s destination 23. *Kali Uchis’ “I Wish ____ Roses” 24. Don’t step on it twice! 25. *Ryan Gosling’s #48 Across role 28. Winter window picture 30. Imprisons 35. Aphrodite’s son 37. Hindu serpent deity 39. Toughness 40. Angler’s hope 41. Stephen Curry, e.g. 43. Opposed to 44. Tastes like lemon 46. Seven-year desire 47. Turf alternative 48. *Highest-grossing 2023 movie to-date 50. Chris Hemsworth’s repeating role 52. Auction batch 53. Cheese on Peloponnese 55. Kombucha, e.g. 57. *Retired media magnate 61. *King Charles III’s Royal House 65. On the radio (2 words) 66. *Ryder Cup 2023 runner-up 68. 1000 kilograms 69. “Beat it!” 70. Lake, in France 71. Manila hemp 72. Foot digits 73. Freudian topic 74. Runner DOWN 1. Joust verbally 2. Cat food flavor 3. Word before sesame 4. Gangly 5. Type of shower 6. *Company from which #57 Across retired, ____ Corp 7. Nest egg, acr. 8. Trattoria staple 9. Sign of a saint 10. Kin group

11. South American monkey 12. Design detail, for short 15. Sacred objects on a pole 20. Bitterly regretting 22. Dwight D. Eisenhower 24. Boat race 25. Meat on a stick 26. “Fear of Flying” author Jong 27. Post-it user 29. *Site of tragic wildfires 31. Objectivity preventer 32. Declare invalid 33. Like 1950s style, today 34. *”The Eras Tour” star 36. Balkan native 38. St. Louis attraction 42. Hindu garment 45. Combining two forms 49. What kneecap and leech have in

common 51. Airbnb offering 54. Northernmost land, to the ancients 56. a.k.a. adobar or carne de vinha d’alhos 57. Lion’s share 58. Beyond natural, in U.K. 59. Steak preference

60. Days, in Havana 61. *Showtime’s “____: The Aftermath” 62. Certain social media message 63. A third of thrice 64. Infantry’s last rows 67. *____-AFTRA

www.candgnews.com

4B - WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON, December 20, 2023

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

DEC. 20-21

Holiday shop: Handmade gifts from more than 200 juried artists, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. both days, Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 S. Cranbrook in Birmingham, BBArtCenter.org

DEC. 21

Walking group: 5 p.m., meet for warm drink and cookie at Niles-Barnard House at Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, then stroll to Jeanne M. Stine Park, (248) 524-3570

DEC. 21-24

‘A Christmas Carol’: 7 p.m. Dec. 21, 8 p.m. Dec. 22, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 23 and 2 p.m. Dec. 24, Meadow Brook Theatre on campus of Oakland University, 378 Meadow Brook Road in Rochester, mbtheatre.com

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 until Feb. 19, The Rink at Royal Oak in Centennial Commons, 221 E. Third St., therinkatroyaloak.com

Visit Santa: 4-8 p.m. Dec. 21-22, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 23 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 24, also visit reindeer 11a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 23, Festival Park and Fountain Park in The Village of Rochester Hills, 104 N. Adams Road, thevorh.com/events

Seniors, 2-3 p.m., Solberg Tower Senior Community - Activity Center, 27787 Dequindre Road in Madison Heights, (586) 469-5642

DEC. 23 & 27-30

JAN. 11-14

Holiday House Tour & All Aboard! Model Railroad Exhibit: Noon-3 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills. org/mus programs

Ultimate Fishing Show: 1-8 p.m. Jan. 11, noon-8 p.m. Jan. 12, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 13 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 14, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., suburbancollectionshowplace.com

DEC. 28

JAN. 20

Winter Weather Fun: Explore science of snow, slush and ice with games, crafts and outdoor activities, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, 333 North Hill Circle in Rochester, dinosaurhill.org

‘Girls’ Weekend’: Performance by Stagecrafters, 2 and 8 p.m. (only date with tickets left), Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in Royal Oak, stagecrafters.org

DEC. 30

Frozen Paw 5K: Benefit for Leaders Dogs for the Blind, run/walk begins at 9 a.m., starts and finishes near Rochester Mills Beer Company, 400 Water St. in Rochester, leaderdogs.enmotive.com

Comfy Cozy New Year’s Party: Open gym and swimming, plus goodie bags, for ages 3-12, 6-8 p.m., Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, register by Dec. 27, rec. troymi.gov

JAN. 4

Walking group: Stroll nature parks in Rochester Hills, 5 p.m., park in back lot at Von Maur, 400 N. Adams Road, (248) 524-3570

JAN. 6-7

Novi Bridal Expo: Noon-5 p.m., Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., www.suburban collectionshowplace.com

JAN. 11

Ring in the New Year: Featuring local singer Vanessa Carr, 2:30-4 p.m., OPC Social and Activity Center, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, OPCcenter.org SCAMS presentation: Stopping Crimes Against Michigan

JAN. 21

ONGOING

Santa photos: Daily until Dec. 24, Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi, 27500 Novi Road, shoptwelveoaks.com Santa House: Visit with Kris Kringle, also horse-drawn carriage rides, character visits and free roasted chestnuts and hot cocoa, select times and dates until Dec. 24, Shain Park in Birmingham, RSVP at www. allinbirmingham.com Wild Lights: Featuring millions of LED lights and about 500 sculptures, select nights until Jan. 7, Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, wildlights. detroitzoo.org Holidays at Meadow Brook: Holiday Walk select dates until Dec. 23, Winter Wonder Lights select dates until Dec. 30, Santa Dec. 23, and more, Meadow Brook Hall,

350 Estate Drive in Rochester, meadowbrookhall.org/ holidays Big, Bright Light Show: See downtown Rochester buildings illuminated, 5 p.m.-midnight until Jan. 21, downtownrochestermi.com Holiday lights: 5-7 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 5-8 p.m. Fridays-Sundays until Jan. 15, Innovation Hills Park, 2800 W. Hamlin Road in Rochester Hills, (248) 656-4673 Science Will Always Be Here!: Grow a Grinch heart, build a snowball catapult, learn about snowflakes and more, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 27-30 and Jan. 3-6, Cranbrook Institute of Science, both 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, science.cranbrook.edu ‘The Mousetrap’: Performance by Birmingham Village Players, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 12-14, 19-21 and 26-28, 34660 Woodward Ave., birminghamvillageplayers.com ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time’: Murder-mystery presented by Avon Players, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 19-20 and 26-27, and Feb. 2-3, 1185 Washington Road in Rochester Hills, avonplayers.org ‘Father of the Bride’: Select dates Jan. 10-Feb. 4, Meadow Brook Theatre on campus of Oakland University, 378 Meadow Brook Road in Rochester, mbtheatre. com ‘The Bucket List of Booze Club’: Presented by Rosedale Community Players, 8 p.m. Jan. 26-27 and Feb. 2-3 and 9-10, and 2 p.m. Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 and 10, Peace Lutheran Church, 17029 W. 13 Mile Road in Southfield, rosedalecommunityplayers.com

NEWSAND

NEWS AND NOTE ITEMS TAKEN FROM AROUND OUR COVERAGE AREAS

Museum hosts holiday drop-in hours

ROCHESTER HILLS — Daisy Scout Troop 77820, which includes 20 first-graders at Long Meadow Elementary, recently partnered with North Oakland County Toys for Tots to host a multi-neighborhood toy drive after reading about how donations to the organization had declined the last few years. Organizers said they hoped the collection would make it convenient for those in the neighborhood to donate, give the Daisies a chance to help other kids, and introduce community service as part of earning their “be a sister to every Girl Scout” petal. The Daisies distributed flyers about the toy drive to their neighbors by going door to door with physical copies and working with their parents to post on neighborhood social media pages. When a neighbor had an item to donate, the girls would go pick it up. Altogether, they collected 565 items from their neighbors to donate to Toys for Tots.

‘The Miracle Worker’: Performance by Ridgedale Players, 8 p.m. Jan. 19-20 and 26-27, and 2 p.m. Jan. 21 and 27-28, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, ridgedaleplayers.com Rock Around the Hawk: Free mini music festivals for ages 18 months to 5 years, 10-11:30 a.m. Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 1, April 5, May 10 and June 7, The Hawk Farmington Hills Community Center, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, (248) 699-6700 Royal Oak Farmers Market: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, also antiques and collectibles 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays, 316 E. 11 Mile Road in Royal Oak, Royal Oak Farmers Market on Facebook ‘Think Small’: Exhibit featuring more than 60 pieces no bigger than 12 inches by more than 30 artists, open Wednesdays-Sundays until Jan. 14 (reception 2-5 p.m. Jan. 7), Lawrence Street Gallery, 2260 Woodward Ave. in Ferndale, lawrencestreetgallery.com Food pantries: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. every third Saturday of month, Tawheed Center of Farmington Hills/Muslim Family Services, 29707 W. 10 Mile Road, (248) 2526962 • 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays by appointment, CARES in Farmington Hills, 27835 Shiawassee Road, (248) 474-8231, caresfh.org Holly Dazzle: Renaissance Christmas featuring half-million lights along walking path and more, 5-10 p.m. Dec. 29-30 and 5-9 p.m. Dec. 31, 12600 Dixie Highway in Holly, hollydazzles.com

Karmanos Cancer Institute shares lung cancer facts

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DAISY SCOUTS COLLECTS TOYS FOR TOTS

‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’: 8 p.m. Jan 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27, and 2 p.m. Jan 14 and 21, St. Dunstan’s Theatre, 400 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills, StDunstansTheatre.com

ROCHESTER HILLS — The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm is open for drop-in hours noon-3 p.m., with a guided tour of the Van Hoosen farmhouse at 1 p.m., Dec. 23, and 27-30. The 1840 Van Hoosen farmhouse is decorated with boughs of holly, old Christmas cards, family gifts, community cookbooks and a 10-foot Christmas tree. People will also find the seasonal interactive “All Aboard: Model Railroad Exhibit!” on display in the calf barn. Included with admission is a guided tour of the farmhouse and Red House, access to all exhibits, and a self-guided tour of the bull barn, the milk house, the equipment barn and Stoney Creek Cemetery. The event is free for museum members, $5 for adults, and $3 for seniors and students. No registration is required.

STATEWIDE — The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, along with cancer centers and other organizations nationwide, recognized November as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer is the second-most common cancer, not including skin cancer. For women, breast cancer is more common, while prostate cancer is the most common cancer for men. The institute shared the following statistics about lung cancer. • About 238,340 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2023. • About 127,070 deaths will result from lung cancer in 2023. • Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women. • Lung cancer is responsible for about 1 in 5 of all cancer deaths. • Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. • The yearly number of lung cancer deaths is declining. The estimated number of deaths in 2022 was 130,180. • The chance that a man will develop lung cancer in his lifetime is about 1 in 16. A woman’s lifetime chance of developing lung cancer is about 1 in 17. • Around 80% of lung cancer deaths are thought to be a result of smoking. To learn more about lung cancer screening at Karmanos, visit karmanos.org/lungcancerscreening.

UTICA DEDICATES PURPLE HEART TRAIL

UTICA — On Veterans Day, the city of Utica honored Purple Heart recipients and dedicated the Utica Purple Heart Trail at the American Legion Post 351, 46146 Cass Ave. The Purple Heart Trail is a nationwide effort to pay tribute to those who have been awarded the Purple Heart medal with sections of roads dedicated to them. Signs are placed along the roads where elected leaders have designated part of the trail. Find more information at purpleheart.org/purplehearttrail. Mayor Gus Calandrino on his Facebook page called the dedication one of his “proudest moments” as mayor. Many local elected officials were present for the ceremony.

Troy High class raises money for nonprofit

Photo provided by Patrice Rowbal

TROY — The Troy High personal communications class recently held its annual dodgeball tournament for charity supporting Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard’s Police Athletic League program, which builds positive relationships through recreation, mentoring and sports. Competition was fierce, with the senior team declaring victory, and the event raised $14,500 for the kids at PAL. “Sports helps with competition, etiquette, confidence, teamwork, and gives them an opportunity to come here and just be kids and play,” Bouchard said in a press release. “The volunteers at PAL deeply believe that opportunities for relationship-building and high-quality sports should be available to everyone. No fine print, no asterisk, no exceptions; that’s what they stand by, and that’s why Troy High School’s Personal Communications class chose them this year as the recipient.” PAL’s goals are to provide more opportunities for young women in sports, to double the number of children served, to develop young athletes so they develop a lifelong love of being active, and to be sure every child has access to a caring coach, and the chance to belong.