12/4/24 Troy Times by C & G Newspapers

Troy police chief selected as city manager

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Frank Nastasi has been unanimously selected as Troy’s city manager by the Troy City Council at its Nov. 25 meeting.

“Frank (Nastasi) has a long history with Troy and has continually demonstrated the type of relational leadership that we know will serve our City best,” Troy Mayor Ethan Baker said in a press release.

“A successful City Manager must have the respect of our valuable City employees, must have a good sense of our residents’ and business owners’ needs, demonstrating the ability to communicate and relate to our diverse population, and finally, must work well with City Council, executing our directives in an efficient and ethical manner, and also providing Council with regular information and guidance. There is no doubt Frank will live up to these standards and be a fantastic City Manager,” Baker said.

Previously, after Mark Miller retired from the city manager position and stepped down in May, Troy Deputy City Manager Robert Bruner was

TROY RESIDENT RECEIVES ONE OF THE 2024 GOVERNOR’S SERVICE AWARDS

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Hemant Tadepalli, a 23-year-old Troy resident, is one of 38 individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations that were honored at the 2024 Governor’s Service Awards by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Community Service Commission.

The ceremony took place Nov. 14 at the Detroit Opera House, where each of the awardees were celebrated for their commitment to volunteerism, service or philanthropy.

“Community service makes Michigan a better place to live and every year, we get to honor some exemplary Michiganders who have gone

Nastasi

ABOVE: Hemanth Tadepalli received one of the Youth Volunteer of the Year awards at the 2024 Governor’s Service Awards on Nov. 14 at the Detroit Opera House.

Photo provided by Hemanth Tadepalli

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Troy Public Library sees power outage, pest control issues

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Troy Public Library was forced to temporarily close in November due to a power outage that happened to coincide around the same time library staff reportedly experienced issues with cockroaches.

The Troy Public Library’s current location

at 510 W. Big Beaver Road officially opened in 1971. It was reported that during the 2023-24 fiscal year, the Troy Public Library circulated over 1 million items.

The closure occurred on Nov. 20 as the power outage affected a large portion of staff and public spaces within the library building.

“The outage is the result of the failure of an electrical line that runs to the library only,

so no other city buildings are impacted,” TPL Director Emily Dumas said in an email.

Troy Public Library was able to reopen on Nov. 23 at noon and has been utilizing a generator while the library staff works with DTE Energy for a more permanent solution for the issue.

“The generator has been pretty consistent though there are occasional one- to two-hour

shutdowns,” TPL Assistant Director Phillip Kwik said.

There are hopes for the remaining electrical issues with the library to wrap up during the first week of December.

“Our last report hopes this wraps up next week but there’s no guarantee.” Kwik said.

On top of these power issues, some li-

Italian Holiday Market features treats and gifts

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Community members can expect the return of the annual Italian Holiday Market hosted by the Cucina Lab Torino and Vino Lab in Troy during December.

Cucina Lab Torino and Vino Lab are located at 3960 Crooks Road and are both family-owned and -operated businesses that feature Italian food and drink options along with wine tasting events and cooking classes.

Much of the business’ operations are helmed by chef and owner Elisabetta Balzola, who came from Torino, Italy, and later moved to Michigan with her extensive culinary experiences in 2014. She began the Cuciniamo Italiano catering business, which later led to opening the restaurant Cucina Lab Torino and the wine bar, Vino Lab.

“As Metro Detroit’s only event of this kind, the Holiday Market offers an authentic Italian experience curated by Chef Elisabetta

These are some of the different food and drink items available during the Italian Holiday Market hosted by the Cucina Lab Torino and Vino Lab on Dec. 8, 14, and 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photos provided by Cucina Lab Torino and Vino Lab

Local filmmakers make ‘MAD’ passion project into a reality

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

A documentary film made by some Michigan locals promises to give viewers insight into Mad Magazine’s history and its impact on the culture through its satirical influences.

The idea for this “When We Went MAD!” documentary came from its Director Alan Bernstein from Pleasant Ridge, who has been a fan of Mad Magazine since he was 7 years old. Bernstein said he was waiting for someone to make this film but decided to take on this challenge himself when no one else did.

“I’ve been interested in this since I was a kid and I’d have loved to write for MAD or make movies and I chose film making,” Bernstein said.

Mad Magazine is an American humor magazine that was started by Harvey Kurtzman and William Gaines in 1952. Much of its comedic content comes from poking fun at different aspects of

pop culture and politics, and it would reach 2.5 million issue sales in the 1970s.

“For generations, MAD Magazine shaped and warped its readers’ senses of humor and their very outlook on the world around them.

From the McCarthy hearings and the Cold War to Taylor Swift and social media, MAD Magazine was there to poke fun at all of it,” said a press release from the “When We Went MAD!” team.

In 2019, the magazine would cease to publish new content, though previous editions can be mailed to subscribers or found at comic book shops.

For this film, Bernstein, documentary editor Erich Wiemer and cinematographer Scott West have been working with former magazine staff members and celebrity guests for around 16 years to tell a compelling story about Mad Magazine’s history and impact. Through a Kickstarter, the filmmakers were able to raise $40,000$50,000 for the project.

“We’re not trying to make

a History channel piece,” said Wiemer, who is from Troy. “We want to look at Mad from a satirical standpoint of how the culture feels about presidents and hippies, and make sure people know about the cultural impact that led to its demise by making (‘Saturday Night Live’) or ‘The Simpsons.’”

The film initially started with interviews from the Mad staff. Through the connections of production company Chassy Media, the film was able to include interviews with well-known names like Quentin Tarantino, Judd Apatow, Bryan Cranston, Gilbert Gottfried, Howie Mandel, and Weird Al Yankovic.

“We interviewed Weird Al at the Cherry Festival in Traverse City before his performance,” Wiemer said. “We were brought into the makeup trailer and hung out for 45 minutes to an hour. We’re all Weird Al fans.”

The film had its world premiere in New York in October and recently held a Midwest premiere at the Redford Theatre in Detroit

in November. “When We Went MAD” will likely have another premiere in Los Angeles in the near future, and the filmmakers are currently exploring streaming service options with Amazon Prime and Apple.

“We hope to expand to other

screenings,” Bernstein said. “We’re looking at film festivals and figuring out what our distributor will let us do.”

For more information, visit the “When We Went MAD” Facebook page or www.whenwewent mad.com

Photo provided by Alan Bernstein

Alan Bernstein is the director of the “When We Went MAD!” documentary film.

CRIME WATCH

Intoxicated driver gives thumbs-up, then hits street sign

Officers were dispatched to the Lanergan Drive and Newgate Road area for a welfare check at 1:51 p.m. Nov. 22.

The witness reported observing a vehicle stopped in the intersection of Wendover and Paddington for over 20 minutes. He went to check on the driver, who reportedly gave him a thumbs-up before driving away slowly. The witness then reportedly saw the vehicle travel off the road onto multiple yards and hit a street sign.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 59-year-old woman from Troy, officers immediately noted she was in an altered state. The driver allegedly admitted to drinking Champagne before driving. She submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.219%, police said.

She was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department lockup facility, where she agreed to submit to a chemical breath test with results of 0.266% and 0.279%, police said. The driver was issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol content of 0.17% or more.

Intoxicated driver apprehended during traffic stop

On Nov. 23 at 1:02 a.m., officers initiated a traffic stop on the driver of a 2009 Ford Flex for speeding around southbound Interstate 75 and Rochester Road.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 22-year-old man from Grosse Pointe, officers noted he had glassy eyes and there was an odor of alcohol and marijuana coming from the vehicle. When asked, the driver reportedly admitted to consuming two beers and smoking marijuana from a vape pen earlier in the evening.

The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he did, but the officers noted he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.02% blood alcohol content.

Police said the driver was arrested for operating under the influence of drugs and was transported to the Troy Police Department’s lockup facility, where he was read his chemical test rights and reportedly agreed to submit to a blood draw. His blood was drawn by medical personnel.

The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results were returned.

Traffic stop leads to inebriated driver’s arrest

Officers said they initiated a traffic stop on the driver of a Mazda 3, around Kirts

Boulevard and Livernois Road, for multiple traffic violations at 10:12 p.m. Nov. 17.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 36-year-old man from Troy, officers noted that he appeared confused and drowsy and that his eyelids were droopy.

He was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department’s lockup facility, where he was read his chemical test rights. Police said he refused to take a breath test.

A search warrant to complete the blood draw was prepared and granted, and his blood was drawn by medical personnel, police said.

The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results were returned.

Speeding inebriated driver gets arrested

At 10:27 p.m. Nov. 17, officers initiated a traffic stop on the driver of a 2018 Jeep Cherokee for speeding around southbound Interstate 75 and Crooks Road.

Officers spoke to the driver, a 33-yearold man from Pontiac, who reportedly said he drank three beers prior to driving. The driver submitted to a preliminary breath test with results of 0.095% and 0.096%, police said.

He was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department’s lockup facility, where he was read his chemical test rights. Police said the man refused to take a breath test. A search warrant to complete the blood draw was prepared and granted, and his blood was drawn by medical personnel, police said.

The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results were returned.

Graffiti found on multiple utility boxes

It was reported on Nov. 21 that 17 utility boxes at locations throughout the city of Troy were spray-painted with graffiti by an unknown person.

A Facebook post from the Troy Police Department’s Facebook page said, “The police are actively addressing these incidents to preserve the beauty and safety of our neighborhoods. We are confident this graffiti is from a local individual and not the product of any gang activity in the City of Troy.”

Citizens may contact the Troy Police Department at (248) 524-0777 with any questions or information.

— Sarah Wright

Market

from page 3A

Balzola, renowned for her dedication to quality and culinary tradition,” Martina Rabajoli, marketing and communications director at Cucina Lab Torino and Vino Lab, said in an email.

“This year’s market provides a unique opportunity to discover exclusive Italian holiday products, with each item carefully selected to showcase the true flavors of Italy.”

Their Italian Holiday Market started as a way to introduce the community to their business after the restaurant officially opened around four years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Holiday Market was about getting to know the brand, who we are and what we sell,” Balzola said.

This year on Dec. 8, 14, and 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests may shop for Italian holiday gifts and treats and potentially grab a drink during their business during this free event. While this event is free, guests may sign up for tickets online so the event coordinators can gauge attendance numbers.

“It started as a one-day event and has been upped to a three-day event,” Balzola said. “Numbers are pretty high and there could be around 400-500 attendees in three days.”

Shoppers may enjoy artisan cakes, pasta, Italian gelato, house-made liquors, sauces, and cheeses as well as other items, many of which come from vendors based in Italy. The sauces, cakes and cookies have been popular requests among guests.

“The Holiday Market has become a beloved tradition, drawing hundreds of visitors eager to find one-of-a-kind holiday items crafted with care,” Rabajoli said in an email.

“Last year, guests waited in line for hours to enjoy the flavors that Cucina Lab and Vino Lab are known for, and with this year’s expanded selection, we anticipate an even bigger turnout.”

Many community members have expressed interest in the return of this event.

“We have a close relationship with (Troy Mayor Ethan) Baker and they were so excited,” Balzola said.

For more information, visit cucina-lab.com and vino-lab.com

Awards

above and beyond to make a real difference in people’s lives,” Whitmer said in a press release.

“At this year’s award ceremony, I look forward to celebrating 38 people, businesses, and nonprofits for the example they have set for all of us to follow. I hope their stories inspire everyone to go out and make life a little better for those around them. Let’s keep rolling up our sleeves to help our neighbors.”

The Michigan Community Service Commission supports Michigan volunteers, organizations and businesses that are committed to service and play a critical role in improving the lives of different people and communities. The Governor’s Service Awards have been presented since 1994.

Tadepalli received the Youth Volunteer of the Year award at this event along with Julia G. Jablonski, from Port Huron; Lauren Mroczek, from Mattawan; Arjun Saini, from Northville; Piper Shumar, from Traverse City; and Khyiana Tate, from Detroit.

The Troy honoree is a cybersecurity expert at May Mobility, which has contributed to his large history of community involvement.

“I was considered for the Governor’s Service Award due to my long-standing commitment to both community service and cybersecurity advocacy,” Tadepalli said in an email.

“Over the years, I’ve led initiatives that empower others, from creating opportunities for students to engage with local government and civic leadership in Troy, to mentoring early-career professionals in cybersecurity through groups like the Young Cybersecurity Analysts and Professionals. My work has focused on bridging gaps—whether between technology and governance or between communities and the resources they need to thrive.”

In 2016, Tadepalli joined the volunteer Troy Public Library Teen Advisory Board, where he collaborated with city and library officials and created programs and proposed ideas on how to enhance the library’s culture, like the International Fair for the city of Troy.

This led him to joining the Troy Planning Commission in 2019 as a student representative, and he assisted the commission by making sure that development aligned with local regulations and that future generations’ interests were in mind during planning.

“Additionally, I’ve made it a priority to connect students with local government,” Tadepalli said in an email.

“I’ve helped candidates run for non-

partisan local offices, including leading campaigns for Troy Mayor Ethan Baker and Councilwoman Rebecca Chamberlain Creanga. These efforts opened doors for students to volunteer, gain firsthand experience in civic engagement, and learn the importance of local government. … Currently, I also serve on the City of Troy’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, contributing to the revitalization of underutilized properties and fostering economic growth.”

Tadepalli has also had an impact on college campuses. At Kettering University, he served as the university’s student ambassador, served on the School of Management’s Dean Advisory Council, and partnered with the League of Women Voters to provide a safe and welcoming space for students to access voting resources.

At Oakland University, Tadepalli served as a judge for its hackathon. At the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, he spoke to students, faculty and staff about cybersecurity. He advised students on finding internships, selecting classes and finding opportunities in today’s technological market.

“As a mentor and judge, I’ve contributed to numerous hackathons and cybersecurity bootcamps, sharing my expertise and helping participants build skills in solving real-world challenges,” Tadepalli said in an email.

“I also volunteer with TechTown Detroit, where I support innovative entrepreneurs and technology-driven initiatives that help transform communities and create opportunities. Beyond mentorship, I’ve volunteered to speak at schools and universities, educating students about cybersecurity, the evolving threats we face, and how we combat them. I’ve also spoken at industry events, sharing insights on modern cybersecurity challenges and the role of autonomous vehicles in our connected future.”

Tadepalli has also served on the advisory task force for Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and founded and led a group called the Young Cybersecurity Analysts and Professionals.

“I was considered for the Governor’s Service Award due to my long-standing commitment to both community service and cybersecurity advocacy,” Tadepalli said in an email.

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NEWS & NOTES

Compiled by Sarah Wright

Troy community gets ready for annual Holiday Lights Contest and tour

Once again for the holiday season, the city of Troy will acknowledge residents who go above and beyond in decorating their homes for the winter holiday season with its annual Holiday Lights Contest.

Troy residents may nominate themselves or someone they know who has put a lot of work into their holiday decorations by submitting a nomination via email to holidaylights@troymi.gov by Sunday, Dec. 8.

Nominations should include a photo (small file size JPG) of the home, the home’s address, and the name of the homeowner (if possible). Decorations must be visible from the roadway and should be lit up between Dec. 8 and 13 between the hours of 6 and 10 p.m. for judging.

All Troy residents are encouraged to participate, including previous winners. Also, contest participants (winners and honorable mentions) will be included in the city’s interactive Holiday Lights Tour Map.

Contest winners will be notified by Dec. 19. All contest winners will receive a lawn sign, a certificate signed by the mayor and special designation on the tour map.

The tour map will be available at troymi.gov/holidaylights beginning Wednesday, Dec. 18. Addresses will be added to the map as nominations are received throughout the nomination period.

For questions about the contest or help with a nomination, email the Community Affairs Department at holidaylights@troymi.gov or call (248) 524-1147.

Troy resident offers skating opportunity for individuals with disabilities of any age

Troy resident and Lawrence Technological University student Wyatt Lucas will be offering free skating lessons for any individuals with any type of special needs on Dec. 7.

Lucas founded Hockey Mentors to provide opportunities for indi-

Troy Community Foundation awards over $12,000 to local organizations

The Troy Community Foundation recently awarded grants totaling $12,000 to 13 organizations as awardees of their fall 2024 grant cycle.

Grants from the Troy Community Foundation are available in the four areas of youth and seniors, arts and culture, beautification, and health and recreation.

The organizations include Another Hope: Science Medicine Scholars, Hockey Mentors for Special Players, On My Own of Michigan, Reboot Future, Rotary Club of Troy, Troy Athens Dance Team, Troy Athens Media Center, Troy Athens Senior All-Night Party, Troy Community Coalition, Troy High Band Boosters, Troy Historical Society, Troy Nature Society, and Troy Robotics Foundation/The Circuit Breakers.

The grants go toward funding a wide variety of local projects such as a teacher makerspace on wheels project; nature-based programs and mindfulness programs for pediatric patients; skill-building workshops for adults with developmental disabilities; and Thanksgiving meals for local families in need.

“The newly reformed Troy Athens Dance Team is so grateful to have been selected as a Troy Community Foundation grant recipient,” Kaitlyn Gerasimovich, coach of the Troy Athens High School dance team, said in a press release.

“This grant will allow us to provide uniforms and poms to our dancers for not only this year, but in years to come. We are so excited to represent our school and the city of Troy!”

For more information, including 2025 deadlines and grant application packets, visit www.TroyCF.org/grants.

viduals with physical and intellectual disabilities of any age to enjoy and experience hockey and ice skating. Annually Lucas offers an afternoon of free hockey and ice skating for these individuals and their families and caregivers.

With the help of a grant from the Troy Community Foundation, on Saturday from 8 to 9 a.m., Lucas will be offering free skating lessons at the Troy Sports Center/Buffalo Wild Wings Arena on 1819 E. Big Beaver

Road. Guests may learn how to skate or get more practice skating with experienced skaters on hand to help out where they’re needed.

Skates will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own helmets. Advance registration is needed and can be submitted online.

For more information, visit hockeymentors.net or call (248) 6866740 with any questions.

Photo provided by the Troy Community Foundation

Coach Kaitlyn Gerasimovich and the Troy Athens Dance Team celebrate their grant.

Photo provided by the city of Troy

This display is from a previous Holiday Lights Contest.

City manager

from page 1A

selected to serve as city manager during a council meeting in April. However, after issues with the negotiation of his employment agreement, Bruner has remained deputy city manager.

In September 2024, Nastasi, who was Troy’s police chief at the time, was unanimously appointed by the City Council to temporarily serve as city manager while officials searched for someone to fill the position permanently. During this time, Troy police Capt. Joshua Jones served as acting police chief.

Troy’s city manager search was led by Jaymes Vettraino, of MGT (formerly GovHR USA). During this process, community stakeholders and city staff were invited to meet the three finalists and provide feedback to members of the City Council. The City Council also publicly interviewed all three finalists on Nov. 16.

As the city searched for a permanent candidate to fill the manager position, they came down to three finalists, which included Nastasi, Pontiac Deputy City Manager Khalfani Stephens and Huntington Woods City Manager Chris Wilson.

During the Nov. 25 meeting, the City Council members spoke positively about the attributes of each of the candidates but ultimately selected Nastasi for the role.

Baker noted that Nastasi’s ability to work with City Council members and employees as well as Troy community

members was a large factor in considering his selection for the role.

“I feel comfortable saying tonight that more has been done in the past two months in response to what City Council has asked and the needs we face than was in the five years prior, and I am excited that we are now where I think the issues that are facing our city can be addressed in a timely fashion, in an ethical fashion, in a responsive fashion to what the policy-setting body up here is pushing for,” Baker said.

Troy City Council member Rebecca ChamberlainCreanga spoke on her positive experiences working with Nastasi and Stephens on the Board of Trustees of the Michigan Municipal League as well as how Wilson impressed her during the interview process. But her consideration of Troy’s pressing issues, specifically with public safety, influenced her decision.

“You have to pan out and think of both contexts — what are the most pressing challenges that we’re facing as a city, and also the input of our staff — because this is the most direct person who is going to engage our staff when it comes to context,” Chamberlain-Creanga said.

“We heard it tonight. We didn’t go into detail, but if you’ve been looking at our agendas, our next big issue we have to address is one of public safety. … I recognize that Frank does have that experience when it comes to tackling some of those public safety issues we have to address,” Chamberlain-Creanga said.

Troy City Council member Hirak Chanda expressed similar sentiments with the three candidates.

“I just briefly want to mention Chris Wilson ... actually

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impressed me in the interview process quite a bit,” Chanda said. “He has roots in the city. You know he appeared to be very comfortable with the interview process, probably because he’s been a city council (member) or city manager.

“So, second was Khalfani Stephens. I was very impressed with his resume. He has done wonderful things in Pontiac and in Flint. ... We have a lot of pressing needs that the city is facing including the library, the EMS and Frank impressed me tremendously. ... He’s already doing a real good job as a short-term city manager.”

Now that Nastasi has been selected to serve as city manager, his contract to serve in the position will be approved at a future City Council meeting. The position was posted with a salary range of $177,500-$240,000.

“I’m honored to serve as City Manager and look forward to building on Troy’s strong foundation,” Nastasi said in a press release. “My focus will be on enhancing collaboration, driving community-focused initiatives and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional service to our residents and businesses.”

In terms of filling the police chief role, according to Michigan Civil Service regulations, an acting police chief may be appointed whenever there are urgent reasons to fill a vacancy, but this temporary appointment cannot continue for more than three months.

With the three-month deadline to permanently fill the police chief position approaching on Dec. 26, the city posted the position and continues to work through the recruitment process to fill the role.

For more information, visit troymi.gov.

Op. Ed. Time to learn from our mistakes

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Eleanor Roosevelt once quipped: “Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.” Among attorneys living or working in Troy, it is easy to learn from the mistakes of others on account of the less than brilliant work from our own city attorney.

Sometime ago, the Home Builders Association filed a lawsuit against the city. Among others they alleged that the city had violated state law, insofar as the city’s fee charging practices were an improper tax upon the citizens.

The city attorney has litigated this issue for the past 14 years. The matter was brought up in the Oakland County circuit court, and it has gone to the Michigan Court of Appeals as well as the Michigan Supreme Court multiple times. The most recent decision from the Court of Appeals handed the city yet another loss. In a unanimous decision, the court rejected the city’s appeal and set us up for a hearing in December where we will likely be responsible for up to $600,000 of the other side’s, attorney fees.

Mayor Baker, and others have recently floated the idea of passing a bond to raise funds for the much-needed new library. I would respectfully submit that we would have the money if we properly managed the city’s attorney who persists on litigating these kind of cases that cost us millions in attorney fees paid to others.

Is it too much to ask and hope that 14 years ought to be enough time for our city attorney to learn a lesson?

REN NUSHAJ – Attorney / Prosecutor Ren@MichiganTreeInitiative.org

Awards

munities and the resources they need to thrive.”

Tadepalli’s achievement has been celebrated by Troy Mayor Ethan Baker and 56th District state Rep. Sharon MacDonell.

“Congratulations to my friend, Hemanth Tadepalli, who has received a 2024 Governors Service Award! I have known Hemanth since he was a member of the Troy Public Library Teen Advisory Board, where he impressed me with his dedication and commitment to service,” Baker said in an email.

“Over the years, Hemanth has been instrumental in helping the City of Troy and played a key role in my campaign for Mayor in 2019. Politics aside, Hemanth is known to go above and beyond in any project he is working on, and consistently demonstrates his service heart. We are all proud of you, Hemanth! Keep up the spectacular work!”

“I am thrilled to celebrate Troy’s very own Hemanth Tadepalli for receiving Governor Whitmer’s 2024 Governor’s Service Award,” MacDonell said in an email. “Hemanth’s contributions are extensive, and he has shown true dedication to our community. I am so happy to celebrate this well-deserved honor.”

Other winners of the 2024 Governor’s Service Awards include:

• Gov. George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award: James B. Nicholson (Grosse Pointe Farms).

• Lifetime Humanitarian Award: Vivian Pickard (Grand Blanc).

• Spirit of Hope: David Merritt (Detroit), Thomas Burke (Jackson).

• Corporate Social Impact Award: Ford Motor Co. (Dearborn), Priority Health Total Health Foundation (Southfield).

• Older Adult Volunteer of the Year: Cathy Balik (Kalamazoo), David Baur (Lansing), Darlean Carpenter (Saginaw), J.W. Henderson (Detroit), Linda and Wayne Pynnonen (West Olive).

• Volunteer of the Year: Clare Clark-Carlisle (Detroit), Sarah Emmerson (Muskegon), Jessica Faith Becker Beamer (Farmington), Tricia Garbarino (Plymouth), Bernice Mason (St. Joseph).

• Youth Impact Award: Destined for Greatness (Detroit), Stewards Sustainability Leadership Institute 4-H Club (Novi), STEM Greenhouse (Grand Rapids), John Dorr (Bloomfield Hills), William Kitchen III (Muskegon Heights).

• National Service Impact Award: Darcele Marie Cole Robinson (Flint), Sandra Miller (Crystal), Vachal L. Moore Jr. (Detroit), LaShaunta Waller (Mason), Lois Westman (Ishpeming).

• Community Impact Award: Eastside Community Network (Detroit), Dementia Friendly (Saline), Ladies Entrepreneur Empowerment Circle (Detroit), Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy (Galesburg), Friends of Sleeping Bear (Empire).

For more information, visit michigan.gov.

The joy of giving can be as uplifting as a well-executed workout. This holiday season, Peak Physique Fitness is not only helping clients achieve their fitness goals but also partnering with Rainbow Connection to bring hope to families that need it most. Members of Peak Physique Fitness, a personal training studio in Troy, donated food and gifts for the holidays. Rainbow Connection’s vision is “to bring joy, happiness and hope to families during an unimaginable time.” They grant wishes and provide support to Michigan children battling life-threatening illnesses. By partnering with Rainbow Connection, Peak Physique Fitness shows that fitness is not just about personal health but also about the well-being of others.

Peak Physique is located at 1071 E. Long Lake Road in Troy. Pleae call 248-879-3141 or visit peakphysiquetroy.com or peakwomentroy.com for more information.

9am-5pm

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

12A/ TROY TIMES • DECEMBER 4, 2024

DEC. 6

Holiday concert: Performance by Troy Community Chorus, 8-9 p.m., Athens High School, 4333 John R Road in Troy, troycommunitychorus.com

Tree lighting: Also performances by Troy High School drumline and Athens High School choirs, hot cocoa and doughnuts, and Santa visit, 6:30-8 p.m., Troy City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, troymi.gov

DEC. 7

Polar Party: Ice skating, bounce houses, open gym and swim, snacks, games, art and crafts, and more, 5-8 p.m., Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, and Stine Park, 241 Town Center Drive, free and no registration required, rec.troymi.gov/polarparty

DEC. 7-8

Cocoa and Crafts with Santa: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, (248) 524-3570, troyhistoricvillage.org

DEC. 8

Pictures with Santa: 1:30-3:30 p.m., Premier Pet Supply, 2848 W. Maple Road in Troy, (248) 677-0154

DEC. 10

Veteran and Military Family Drive Through Resource & Food Distribution Event: Presented by Oakland Community Health Network and Forgotten Harvest, items include food box, resource bag and gift card, 9 a.m.-noon, OCHN, 5505 Corporate Drive in Troy, registration required, mcdonaldc@oaklandchn.org, (248) 764-4443

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, ageways.org, tinyurl.com/agewaysworkshops

DEC. 13-14

To view more calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar.

Victorian Christmas: See reenactors play games, decorate, exchange gifts and more circa 1850s-60s, also carols, crafts, hot cider and cocoa, and shopping in general store, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 13, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Dec. 14, Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/ victorian-christmas

DEC. 13-15

‘Babes in Toyland - The Musical’: Performance by Junior Actors of Ridgedale, 7 p.m. Dec. 13, 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14, and 3 p.m. Dec. 15, Ridgedale Players, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, ridgedaleplayers.com

DEC. 14-15

Holiday Art & Cookie Sale: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 14 and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 15, Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 4230 Livernois Road in Troy, www. beaconcongregation.org

DEC. 15

Breakfast with the Victorians: Join reenactors for dishes, chats and entertainment circa 1850s-60s, also explore Victorian Christmas Village, 10-11:30 a.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, registration required, troyhistoricvillage.org/programs/ breakfast-with-the-victorians

DEC. 19

Thursday Teas: Monthly history talks, teas and sweet treats, last event of 2024 is “Talking Shop: From General Stores to Five and Dimes,” 2 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, troyhistoricvillage.org/ programs/teas-at-two

ONGOING

Santa photos: 10 a.m.-7:55 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-5:55 p.m. Sundays until Dec. 23, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road in Troy, www.the somersetcollection.com

Blood drives: 1-7 p.m. Dec. 5, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

CITY OF TROY

THE 2024 BOARD OF REVIEW FOR THE CITY OF TROY

WILL MEET AT CITY HALL

ASSESSING DEPARTMENT

500 WEST BIG BEAVER ROAD ON:

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024

2:00pm – 3:00pm

Be advised that the City of Troy, 2024 Board of Review will be in session on the above date and time in Assessing Department at Troy City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver – Troy, Michigan – (248) 524-3311. The purpose of this meeting is to review qualified errors including clerical errors and mutual mistakes of fact for the 2024 City of Troy Assessment Roll. This notice is hereby posted as required by Section 4 of the Open Meetings Act (MCLA 15.261 et seq.).

Kelly Timm City Assessor

NOTICE: Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in this meeting should contact the City Clerk at (248) 524-3316 at least two working days in advance of the meeting. An attempt will be made to make reasonable accommodations.

POSTED: November 25,2024

PUBLISHED: November 25, 2024 & December 4th, 2024

Published: 12/04/2024 Troy Times

Dec. 19, 23 and 26, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, (313) 300-9617 or (248) 524-1147, redcrossblood.org

Free medicare help: Hosted by Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and AgeWays, meet with trained counselor by appointment during open enrollment period (until Dec. 7), Disability Network of Eastern Michigan, 1709 John R Road in Troy, (586) 268-4160

Heritage Concert Band of Troy: Practices for adult concert band musicians, 7 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, group also performs throughout year, troyheritageband@gmail.com

Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS

Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only, 10 a.m. every first and third Thursday of month, Lukich Family Restaurant, 3900 Rochester Road in Troy, RSVP to Ed at (586) 909-1444

• Lunches 1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Joyce at (586) 323-6007

Library

from page 3A

brary staff members say they also saw some pest control issues around the same time, when nymph cockroaches were reportedly found on some of the items that were returned in the library’s drop box.

“The pest issue was completely unrelated to the power outage and closure, but coincidentally happened at the same time,” Dumas said in an email. “Some items were returned to the library drop box and opened by staff that contained what turned out to be a few nymph cockroaches.

“Staff took quick action to quarantine items and a professional exterminator was called out. Thankfully the issue was easily contained and all impacted areas have been treated.”

A Facebook post from the city of Troy noted that there were no additional pest control concerns and that the materials that are currently checked out are not contaminated and should be safe to use.

“The library conducts routine pest prevention and control each month, and do have a bed bug sniffing dog visit regularly who checks all public and staff areas,” Dumas said in an email. “We also have a custodial crew who works continuously to make sure the library is clean and safe for the patrons.”

For more information, visit troypl.org

CITY OF TROY, MICHIGAN

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY COUNCIL 2025 REGULAR MEETINGS

In accordance with the provisions of the Michigan State Law, Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Troy shall hold Regular Meetings in the calendar year 2025 on the following dates at 7:30 PM in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 500 West Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan, (248) 524-3300, or as otherwise provided by the Council Rules of Procedure.

Regular City Council Meeting Dates:

Monday, January 13 & 27

Monday, February 10 & 24

Monday, March 10 & 17

Monday, April 7 & 21

Monday, May 5 & 19

Monday, June 9 & 30

Monday, July 14 & 28

Monday, August 11 & 25

Monday, September 8 & 29

Monday, October 6 & 20

Monday, November 10 & 17

Monday, December 1 & 15

Special Meeting (Budget Discussions) Dates 6:00 PM in the Council Boardroom or as otherwise provided by the City Council Rules of Procedure:

Monday, April 14

Wednesday April 16 (as needed)

Troy City Council may reschedule Regular Meetings and/or schedule additional Special Meetings in accordance with the City Charter and Michigan Open Meetings Act.

POSTED: November 27, 2024

0007-2449

PUBLISHED: December 4, 2024 December 12, 2024 December 19, 2024 Published: 12/04/2024 Troy Times

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC3 City Clerk

#CS0627

Product Design Engineer sought by Schaeffler Group USA Inc. in Troy, MI to dsgn product to intended level of function, durability & cost w/ focus on manufacturability for thermal mgmt systems. Rqts: Bach deg or foreign equiv in Mech’l Engg or rel +2 yrs exp in job offd or rel. 2 yrs must incl GD&T; Testing, analysis & DVP&R process; D-FMEA; CAD s/ware; CREO, CATIA V5, NX, SolidWorks, & Ansys; Advanced Spring Dsgn; Wiring harness dsgn; Actuator Dsgn & testing; & Durability testing. Travel reqd up to 20% to various & unanticipated Schaeffler locs & client sites, domestic & int’l. Telecommuting permitted 2 days/wk. To apply, email resume to OR-IBC-hr-recruiting@schaeffler.com. Must specify ad code KGSGUSA. 0010-2449

Validation Engineer @ Troy, MI Req’d: Master’s Deg. in Engineering or Engineering Technology. Mail Resume to KET USA, Inc. 3221 W Big Beaver Rd. STE 119

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ACROSS

1. Combat vehicle

5. Semi

8. *Biathlon gear, sing. 11. Keiko of “Free Willy”

12. *Ashi Waza and jugodi sport

13. Audienceís approval

15. Tandoori bread

16. Ned Stark’s daughter, “Game of Thrones”

17. Rˆntgen beams

18. *Warning track sport

20. Monetary “thank you,” pl.

21. Indigo dye shrubs

22. “Arabian Nights” bird

23. Destroyer

26. Danced to certain Polish music

30. Crematorium container

31. One without magic powers in Harry Potter stories

34. Largest volcano in Europe

35. Do nothing (2 words)

37. Singer Yoko

38. Be at the helm

39. Tropical tuber

40. *Player who delivers in a crucial sports moment

42. Recipe qty.

43. Display proudly (2 words)

45. Smells

47. Lake, in France

48. Clean a spill (2 words)

50. #8 Across, pl.

52. *Cornerback and direct snap sport

55. Russian pancake

56. Pasta option

57. Go cold turkey

59. *Reward for multiple sports championships, pl.

60. “Breaking Bad” victim

61. The Beehive State

62. King Kong, e.g.

63. Type of lightbulb, acr.

64. Spooky

DOWN

1. Boatload

2. Riyadh native

3. *Collegiate sports grp.

4. Topeka native

5. Not urban

6. Short poems of pastoral life

7. *Hockey score

8. *Powerful shot in hockey

9. 11th letter of Roman alphabet, pl.

10. Elvis’ “____ Now or Never”

12. White and black stork

13. Glorify

14. *Gully and deep mid wicket sport

19. Foe

22. Fish eggs

23. Corrodes

24. Heep of “David Copperfield”

25. Preface

26. Scheme

27. Mr. T’s TV show “The ____”

28. Olden days constipation treatment

29. *Bag of nails and baby ton sport

32. *Eagle and mulligan sport

33. African migrator

36. *Turkey and split sport

38. Woody perennial

40. Chlorofluorocarbon, abbr.

41. He gets a flag?

44. Reprieve in a desert

46. Not light-transmitting

48. Dots and dashes code

49. Did like goo 50. Women’s underskirt

51. Plural of cow, arch.

52. *Sports transgression

53. Plucked string instrument

54. Pinocchio, e.g.

55. Type of undergarment

58. Olden day “your”