2/20/25 Troy Times

SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Oakland Mall Macy’s expected to close at the end of March

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — The Macy’s store at Oakland Mall is included among 65 other Macy’s stores across the country that are expected to close by the end of the first quarter this year.

Macy’s is a department store chain that carries items such as clothing, shoes, accessories, cosmetics, homegoods, toys and furniture.

On Jan. 9, the New York City-based retail titan announced its intention to close 66 locations across the country.

“Closing any store is never easy, but as part of our Bold New Chapter strategy, we are closing underproductive Macy’s stores to allow us to focus our resources and prioritize investments in our go-forward stores, where customers are already responding positively to better product offerings and elevated service,” Tony Spring, chairman and chief executive officer of Macy’s, Inc., said in a press release.

The closure of the Oakland Mall location came as a surprise to staff members, as they hadn’t expected the store to close.

Community expresses concerns with potential development project

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — A residential development project from GFA Development, Inc. has raised some concerns for community members that live around Ottawa Drive.

At the Troy Planning Commission’s Jan.

14 meeting, a preliminary site plan review for the proposed Oak Meadow site condominium development project was approved 6-2, with Michael Hutson being absent.

GFA Development previously submitted an application for a 16-unit one-family cluster development at 400 and 500 Ottawa Drive in an area that’s south of Ottawa,

north of Square Lake, and west of Rochester. It is currently zoned as a one-family residential district.

In a 7-1 vote, the application was approved for recommendation by the Planning Commission in 2018. However, the applicant later requested that the application be placed on hold and did not go before City

Council for consideration before later withdrawing the application.

“When I was here in 2018, we had six or seven issues that we talked about,” Gary Abitheira, a representative for GFA, said during the meeting. “One of them was density. We had passed 16, and now I’m back with

See MACY’S on page 23A See DEVELOPMENT on page 8A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

The Macy’s store at the Oakland Mall is expected to close March 31. Along with that store, 65 other Macy’s locations across the country are expected to close this year.

SECOND FRONT PAGE

Troy Kiwanis Club promotes leadership opportunities, mental health advocacy

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — The Kiwanis Club of Troy, Michigan aims to serve children in the Troy community through focusing on projects that aids access to mental health services and programs, and provides opportunities to develop young people’s leadership abilities.

The club is a part of Kiwanis International, which aims to help children around the world with a wide variety of service and fundraising projects.

“Every year, Kiwanis members stage more than 1.3 million service projects and raise nearly US$390 million for children, families and communities around the world,” the Kiwanis International website said. “Kiwanis club projects are based on the community’s needs — we build playgrounds, purchase medical equipment, stuff backpacks with school supplies, restock libraries and much more. The average Kiwanian makes an impact on the lives of 106 children.”

The Troy club has been a part of the community for over 50 years and has many community leaders and business owners as members involved in supporting the club’s fundraising efforts and program efforts.

“We work with a different variety of professionals to share community support,” Vicki Cerven-Astell, Kiwanis Club of Troy, MI President, said. “We try to go out and work with different organizations to help children.”

Kiwanis Club of Troy, MI aims to provide mental health counseling for those in

ABOVE: This past December, the Kiwanis Club of Troy presented a check to International Academy East Principal Patrick Griffin and the academy’s counselor, Whitney Bernstein, to further support youth mental health.

LEFT: The club is set to host a fundraising event this May. Pictured are supporters at a previous event.

Two suspects arrested after multiple restaurant burglaries

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — The work of the Troy Police Department Special Investigations Unit helped lead to the arrests of 37-year-old Justin Shipp and 45-year-old Jackson Upton.

The two men were accused of robbing 11 retail businesses. Both have been charged by the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.

Late last year and early this year, police investigated overnight burglaries committed by the same two suspects, who were both described as white males.

The suspects reportedly threw large rocks through the storefront glass of businesses and stole register drawers and cash.

In each case, the suspect vehicle the suspect vehicle was identified as a black Chevrolet Malibu.

According to information from Troy Police Department Community Services Lt. Benjamin Hancock, burglaries ocShipp

RAINBOW PRESCHOOL • CITY OF TROY

Photos provided by the Kiwanis Club of Troy

Upton

Troy High School orchestra director named MASTA Teacher of the Year

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

TROY — The Michigan Chapter of the American String Teachers Association (MASTA) has named Wendy Stuart, who is the orchestra director at Troy High School, as the 2025 Teacher of the Year.

MASTA exists to support music educators by providing resources for classroom and private studio instruction. Its Teacher of the Year award recognizes educators who have dedicated at least a decade to teaching in Michigan, demonstrated excellence in music performance and education, and provided outstanding service to string education in the state.

“Wendy Stuart exemplifies these qualities, inspiring countless students and setting the standard for music education through her leadership at Troy High School,” a press release from Troy Public Schools said.

The announcement was made Jan. 24 during the Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids.

“I’m so honored to have been named MASTA Teacher of the Year,” Stuart said in a press release. “I learned only the morning the award was presented that it was a former student, now orchestra teacher, who nominated me. That alone was incredibly meaningful to me. I am grateful to all of the students I’ve worked with over the years. They truly inspire me daily to be more creative in my teaching and I love being able to share my love of music with them.”

Stuart studied music at Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan. She earned a bachelor’s degree at Eastern Michigan and a master’s degree at Michigan.

Stuart has also studied conducting internationally.

She began her teaching career in Ohio, spending 10 years building a string program before moving to Michigan. She taught in Clarkston Community Schools for 21 years, building that district’s strings program before becoming the director of the Troy High School Orchestras in 2021.

“We are so proud, but not at all surprised, that Wendy Stuart has been named the MASTA Teacher of the Year,” Troy School District Superintendent Rich Machesky said in an email. “Since joining our staff, she has furthered the tradition of excellence that Troy High Orchestras are known for. She is an exceptional music educator, and Troy High students are lucky to have a teacher and musician of her caliber on the podium.”

Teachers Association Teacher of the Year Award from Jim Van Eizenga, MASTA’s presidentelect.

Stuart is also the principal cellist for the Oakland Symphony Orchestra, the assistant principal cellist for the Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra, and a director with Oakland Youth Orchestras in her spare time.

Remo Roncone, the principal at Troy High, acknowledged Stuart for the recognition that she has received.

“Congratulations to Wendy Stuart, our MASTA Teacher of the Year,” Roncone said in an email. “Her dedication, passion, and creativity have inspired countless students and enriched our community. Thank you for sharing the beauty of music with us and for being an exceptional educator.”

For more information about MASTA and its awards, visit astamichigan.org/.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Getting it right

C & G Newspapers strives for accuracy and fairness to its readers. If you think we got it wrong, please let us know. Call Gregg Demers at (586) 498-1042, email gdemers@candgnews. com or write us at 13650 11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089.

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Call to RSVP for our Family Night on Thursday, March 13, and meet our caring team members who help create our warm and welcoming atmosphere. While you’re here, learn about our special $1,000 OFF for 3 months!*

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Photo provided by the Troy School District

Wendy Stuart, the orchestra director at Troy High School, accepts the Michigan Chapter of the American String

Compiled by Sarah Wright

TROY COMMUNITY CHORUS INVITES

HIGH SCHOOL VOCALISTS TO ENTER SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION

TROY — High school students that either reside in Troy or go to school in Troy can apply for the Troy Community Chorus’ (TCC) annual vocal music scholarship.

Founded in 1978, The Troy Community Chorus is a non-audition choir that was founded in 1978 and consists of more than 90 adult members from across the metro Detroit area with a passion for singing and developing their vocal skills.

The scholarship is $750 and is designed to further the applicant’s musical education or training in vocal music. It is open to high school students.

Applications must be submitted by Feb. 28. Applicants will be required to audition for TCC board members March 11 between 6-7 p.m. at Athens High School, located at 4333 John R Road.

The scholarship recipient will be invited to perform at the TCC’s spring concert April 25 at Athens.

Applications for the scholarship, as well as information about previous recipients, are available at the Troy Community Chorus website at www.troycommunitychorus.com.

Troy Women’s Association welcomes new members

TROY — Community members are being invited to join the Troy Women’s Association (TWA) and support local causes in support of people of all ages in the community.

“Since its founding in 1959, TWA has been a vibrant, all-volunteer, non-profit that channels the talent and creativity of women to fundraise and support local initiatives,” a press release from TWA states.

According to the release, TWA is committed to serving the community by understanding its needs and taking action to help, building connections through camaraderie, respect, and mutual support among members, and empowering women to grow personally by strengthening their skills and confidence.

The TWA’s monthly meetings are at 7 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club of Troy, located at 3670 John R Road, on the first Tuesday of every month from March-June and from SeptemberJanuary.

Residents are encouraged to confirm the meeting location in advance, as meetings occasionally take place off-site.

For more information, call (248) 988-0426 or visit troywomensassociation.org.

Volunteer uses Nextdoor app to launch successful coat drive

TROY — Troy resident Patrice McDonald Rowbal received multiple donations from her neighbors for a coat drive for Lighthouse in Pontiac, through the Nextdoor app.

Lighthouse provides assistance to individuals in a variety of ways, including with food and shelter, crisis referrals, and affordable housing development, with the goal of helping people become self-sufficient.

“They help youth, families, and individuals experiencing homelessness find shelter and provide food and other resources,” a press release from PMR communications states. “The coats will be a great help.”

Rowbal’s neighbors came through by dropping off more than 50 coats.

Hats, mittens, scarves, boxes full of boots, sweaters, pajamas, hygiene products and a container full of handmade stuffed teddy bears were also donated.

“I am an avid user of Nextdoor and enjoy the lively conversations there,” Rowbal said. “As a volunteer at Lighthouse in Pontiac, my husband and I have seen firsthand how much is needed right here in our own backyard. As recent retirees, we wanted to give of our time in a way that makes a difference locally. … I challenged my neighbors in a coat drive for Lighthouse.”

For more information about Lighthouse, visit lighthousemi.org.

Photo provided by the Troy Community Chorus

Photo provided by PMR Communications

Troy High bowling goes from coaching vacancy to top-end program

BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com

TROY — Heading into the school year, Troy High School was prepared to not have a bowling season at all. Now, the school is ranked in both its boys and girls programs, with regionals looming.

Head coach Dave Harris was hired in October, well after the school year began, and yet Troy’s bowling program is in fantastic shape. The boys team has one of the better bowlers in the state and was ranked just outside the top five in the January Michigan High School Interscholastic Bowling Coaches Association Division 1 rankings, with the girls also ranked among the top-10 teams.

“It’s been a little bit of controlled chaos,” Harris said. “I graduated from Troy High School in 1993… When Jacob said, ‘We don’t have a coach; we’re not going to have a season,’ I said, ‘Let me see if I can help out.’… So I took on the role.”

Jacob Kondratyev, the student who reached out, is also one of the best bowlers in Michigan. Going into the school year, there was a real worry he wouldn’t have any way of showcasing his talent.

See BOWLING on page 12A

Photo provided by Troy High School bowling

Troy High’s boys bowling team poses with the LCN Bakers Dozen trophy at Imperial Lanes in Clinton Township earlier this year. After it looked like there may not even be a season due to a coaching vacancy, Troy has gone on to be ranked as one of the top Division 1 teams.

After an 11-day run that included ride-alongs, celebrity appearances and visits from some of the greatest cars to grace the silver screen — including the Ferrari from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” — the Detroit Auto Show drew in 275,000 visitors with an estimated $370 million financial impact on the region.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

2025 Auto Show has estimated $370 million impact

DETROIT — After an 11-day run in January, organizers of the Detroit Auto Show announced on Feb. 5 the show drew in 275,000 visitors with an estimated $370 million financial impact on the region.

“The impact the Detroit Auto Show has had on our remarkable region cannot be overstated — with hundreds of thousands of Detroiters and visitors

experiencing the best we have to offer, supporting our economy and dining in our amazing restaurants,”

Claude Molinari, president and CEO of Visit Detroit, said via press release. “Every year the Detroit Auto Show is one of the most important and influential mobility events in the world, shining a light on the city and creating experiential opportunities with the brands and technologies that define us as the Motor City.”

The show’s black-tie Charity Preview drew 7,000 attendees and raised $1.7 million for six children’s charities in the region, while bringing the total funds generated since 1976 to over $125 million.

— DEAN VAGLIA

Photo by Dean Vaglia

Development

10. So I’ve lowered the density by 40%.”

The current application includes a 10unit site condominium, consisting of one-family detached homes, with nine of the homes expected to be new and the other an existing home.

One home is also expected to be removed to create access to the road. On top of that, sidewalks, trees and a stormwater facility located near the southern facility detention basin that is north of the 100-year flood plain are being considered to be added as part of the development plans.

“Any sort of stormwater management plan, and potentially any impact on the flood plain, would all be reviewed by engineering as a part of the final engineering plan,” Benjamin R. Carlisle, the president of Carlisle/Wortman Associates, said when he was presenting the initial plans during the Planning Commission meeting last month.

Community members have listed a multitude of concerns about the project.

“You know, it’s not the multiple houses we were dreading,” Rosemarie Thommes, a resident who lives near the Ottawa Drive area, said. “What’s the future look like for our existing subdivisions in Troy? Can we expect that to happen in the future to our neighborhoods — that builders are going to come in purchasing single-family homes, destroy them, and put in multiple homes in one lot.”

Marcia Bossenberger, also a resident who lives near Ottawa Drive, shared her concerns.

“The platted boundaries was not properly described — definitely concerns about emails not being read,” Bossenberger said. “(I) was disappointed, also that . . . the flood zone area hasn’t been updated in 19 years by FEMA. I think that’s significant. We’ve changed a lot in 19 years.”

Given that the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy identified wetlands on the site, totaling 0.29 acres, the potential impact on the wetlands was another concern that was raised.

Bossenberger said that she had seen Abitheira, or workers associated with Abitheira, potentially clearing out 2 acres from the 500 Ottawa property in 2023.

“I had called EGLE . . . multiple times that I’m concerned that he’s clear-cutting the property, and according to EGLE’s wetland map viewer, that it’s marked hydric soil in that area,” Bossenberger said.

Bossenberger also said that an EGLE representative was out there to assess her concerns and found that apparently wetland delineation markers had been bulldozed over and allegedly the markers were not seen while the area was

being cleared, though Bossenberger contests that they were hard not to see.

“My issue is to the east of the property, there’s a stream that runs right through it, and right through all the tagged wetland areas. And then on the wetland map viewer, you can see where it picks up on the east side of the property,” Bossenberger said.

During the Jan. 14 meeting, Abitheira didn’t addressed the claims. However, he did say there were no wetlands there when he went to a Planning Commission meeting six years ago.

“Since then, the wetlands have gotten there, “ Abitheira said.

Abitheira also mentioned that there is a process of transferring wetlands to another area, known as a land bank, that is being considered.

Another concern from community members is traffic. According to OHM Advisors, an architecture, engineering and planning firm, the projected numbers for Oak Meadows is nine trips per hour during peak morning hours and 11 trips per hour during peak afternoon hours, totaling 121 trips per day.

“We have to walk in the middle of the road with our hands up in the air yelling ‘slow down’ because people coming from Livernois, on Ottawa, they fly, and they take that corner without even touching the brakes. And the entrance to the new subdivision is 65 steps away,” Bossenberger said.

Thommes also shared another perspective.

“It’s ludicrous because this road in the middle of two homes that were built … in the early 1960s. (It) just doesn’t fit,” Thommes said. “It’s creating like this multi-street intersection now, which is very confusing, and I honestly question if any of the city Planning Commission (members) has even actually been in our neighborhood to look at the site in person to see any of this before they approved it.”

Some residents also felt they were not made aware of the item being included on the Planning Commission’s agenda in a reasonable amount of time.

“I feel like it was intentional to do this at the very last minute,” Bossenberger said. “We had to scramble to get a lawyer and have him get prepared to come to our meeting, which, that was a disaster in itself.”

However, Community Development Director Brent Savidant noted that the Planning Department listed the development on the planning and development portal as soon as it was submitted.

“The portal was updated to reflect the date of the Planning Commission meeting as soon as the date was confirmed,” Savidant said in an email. “There was enough notice provided to provide neighbors opposed to the development to post numerous signs opposing the development along Ottawa Street prior to the meeting.

SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Local women in business offer insight into success, struggles

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

According to a report from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy citing business ownership statistics for 2024, more than 12 million small businesses in the U.S. are owned by women, with a total of $2.1 trillion in sales.

The metro Detroit area is home to a wide variety of womenowned businesses offering a diverse array of merchandise and services.

At the request of C & G Newspapers, a group of owners recently reflected on their achievements and stresses and also provided insight for other potential entrepreneurs.

Follow the dream

Terri Cooper owns the Village Boutique at 6457 Inkster Road, which was recently moved from its previous location in Franklin to Bloomfield Hills. Cooper took over ownership of the business in June 2015

“I walked into a little shop in Franklin to return something my sister had bought me, and I looked around and I thought, ‘Oh, I’d love to have this,’ and I somehow got around to asking the nice ladies who owned it if they were interested in selling and they were eventually,” Cooper said.

The boutique sells different contemporary fashions, acces-

See WOMEN on page 11A

Lissa Pietrykowski owns Peak Physique Fitness Training in Troy with her husband, Nick. They currently have around 140 clients. “My husband bought Peak Physique Fitness in 2008, and then I came on board in 2014, and in June of this year I started kind of a sister business called Peak Women,” Pietrykowski said.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

LIECHTY LAW : Compassionate Immigration Representation

Erin Liechty’s law practice is rooted in a deep commitment to supporting immigrants navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law. She provides compassionate and strategic representation for immigration matters ranging from routine to complex, and her work directly impacts individuals and families striving to establish a secure life in the United States.

“My passion is to work with people who are in the most challenging situations,” Liechty explained. “There is a lot of misinformation out there, and my job is to provide clarity for clients so they can evaluate their options and take the best next step.”

Her interest in human rights and refugee law work began during her time in law school at the University of Michigan. “They have an excellent refugee and international law program. After graduating, I pursued a fellowship that gave me the opportunity to provide legal aid to refugees in Egypt.”

After her fellowship, Liechty came back to the States and worked with unaccompanied minors in New York before returning to her home state of Michigan and later founding her own frm.

“Starting my own practice was about taking more ownership of my cases and also building deeper connections with my clients,” she said. “It also gave me fexibility as a mom, which has been great for my family.”

Her frm also handles a wide range of visa categories, including the EB-1, EB-2, EB-3 and H1-B visas, which are essential for those seeking to

work in the United States under employment-based immigration programs.

“Many of the clients I’m working with now are seeking asylum, but I also enjoy the employment side of immigration and exploring all potential pathways for them to get here and stay here,” she said.

Also a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, advocacy is central in every aspect of Liechty’s work. She is dedicated to demystifying the immigration process and educating the public on these critical issues.

Although her practice is relatively new, Liechty cherishes each victory. “Every time someone gets to stay here, wins asylum or other forms of relief, it’s a huge relief for them and a signifcant accomplishment for us,” she said. “Many times, my clients are already established here, and I feel privileged in my position to hear so many stories from those who’ve had to overcome tremendous challenges to get here and fnd a safe place. Whenever there’s a success, it’s rewarding to be an integral part of people either pursuing a dream or making advances in their business or their family. I love that. It’s a very practical service to provide. It makes me feel grateful that I could be in this position and have the knowledge and skills to be able to serve people. I’m happy to be part of someone’s win, and I value the trust that clients have placed in me.”

Liechty Law is located at 210 W. University Dr., Ste. 11, in Rochester. To schedule a consultation, call (248) 532-0303 or visit www.liechtylaw.com.

• Family Immigration

• Removal Defense

• Employment-based Immigrant Visas

• Non-immigrant Visas • Naturalization

• Humanitarian Applications

• Waivers • Asylum

• Employment-based Immigration

- EB-1A

- EB-2 National Interest Waiver  - H-1B

• Family Immigration

• Asylum and Humanitarian Applications

• U.S. Citizenship

Women

sories and gifts for shoppers of all ages.

“When we first got it, it was in Franklin,” Cooper said. “It was maybe geared toward a slightly older crowd, much more conservative crowd, and we slowly started changing things so that it could appeal to a broader mass of people.”

“We switched it all around. It’s nothing like when the ladies had it, and they’ve been in support of our changes, too,” she added.

Lissa Pietrykowski owns Peak Physique Fitness Training at 1071 E. Long Lake Road in Troy with her husband Nick. They currently have around 140 clients.

“My husband bought Peak Physique Fitness in 2008 and then I came on board in 2014, and in June of this year I started kind

of a sister business called Peak Women,” Pietrykowski said. “We’re a personal training studio only.”

The studios provide a wide range of personal training services online and in their studio space that can be open for one-onone and shared training sessions. This includes prenatal and postpartum training, sport-specific training, corporate training, and senior training among other services with personal trainers.

“I think that women suffer from mental health (issues) as men do. However, I think sometimes women are a little bit more intimidated to go to a gym, and exercise is good for mental health in so many different ways,” Pietrykowski said. “Just getting out of the house, releasing endorphins or just accomplishing something, all those different things. But sometimes I think that when you’re in that state or even for other reasons,

you just feel intimidated going to the gym.”

“Our gym is very welcoming and loving. If you were there, you would never feel (intimidated) that way. However, just getting some people to walk through the door is the first step. So I wanted to open up an opportunity for people to benefit from exercise that wouldn’t normally do something like that,” Pietrykowski added.

On top of being a nutritionist, a registered dietitian and certified Lifestyle Eating and Performance therapist, Shivani Sharma is the owner of Right Food Choice at 1380 Coolidge Hwy. in Troy.

Right Food Choice provides patients with one-on-one nutrition consultation, group coaching and nutrition-related courses.

“I had been practicing dietetics for over two decades now,” Sharma said. “I studied here in Wayne State and then I moved to

Texas for some time and that’s where I started the company Right Food Choice.”

“Right Food Choice is nutrition and wellness consulting for kids and adults where we provide nutritional counseling or medical nutrition therapy for diabetes, chronic kidney disease, heart disease, high cholesterol,” Sharma said. “So we serve wherever the nutritional need is, and we are a team of three dietitians right now.”

Weight management, gut health treatment, food allergies and gluten free options, metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, sports nutrition, nutritional options for female-related health concerns, and meal and diet plans are among the services offered.

“We have a weight loss program running right now which is a 12-week transformation program,” Sharma said.

She said the program focuses on “im-

Bowling from page 6A

“Three to four weeks before the season even started my athletic director called me in,” Kondratyev said. “She said, ‘We have no one lined up right now.’ I’m under this impression that I may not even have a season.”

From Kondratyev’s perspective, the way things have turned out is “truly a blessing.”

Kondratyev is committed to bowl at Lawrence Tech next year, which, according to Harris, is the No. 1 bowling team in the country.

Harris stated that Kondratyev led the Oakland Activities Association with a 218 average score last season. He is over 220 this year, according to Harris.

Troy’s season has allowed Kondratyev to not only showcase his talent, but also be a leader and bond with the team outside of the lanes.

“When I’m at a match or a tournament, if I need somebody to mark out or strike out

See BOWLING on page 22A

Photo provided by Troy High School bowling

Troy High’s girls bowling team poses at Imperial Lanes in Clinton Township earlier this year. The program’s boys and girls teams are set to participate in a regional tournament.

Development

from page 8A

Over 30 people opposed to the development attended the Planning Commission meeting. Everyone who attended the meeting was provided an opportunity to speak at the public meeting.”

During the meeting, Abitheira also discussed criticism that was submitted via emails to the Planning Commission from community members, with potential biases of city officials being the subject of the criticism.

“I don’t mind people always taking shots at me, which is fine, but I do not get special treatment here,” Abitheira said. “I’m knocked down four or five times on projects sometimes, and I keep coming back because I listen to what everybody wants and I come back, and I come back, and I come back, and I still go to City Council and get knocked down.”

Bossenberger did note that some of her concerns, as well as other community members, has to do with Abitheira having a spot on Troy’s Building Code Board of Appeals.

“Do I think Gary’s talking with the people on Planning Commission? No, I don’t,” Bossenberger said. “Do I think maybe he has a little more insight with (the) engineering or planning or building department? Maybe, because he’s free to come and go.”

Planning Commission members Toby Buechner and Dave Lambert voted against the agenda item.

“He’s met a lot of the criteria that’s been asked for, but as I read the site plan, standards to enhance the character of the surrounding area , I mean it’s not enhancing the character of the surrounding area,” Buechner said. “I think what we’re trying to do is make it as good as it could be.”

Although Lambert said that Abitheira does have a right to build homes in the area, the sidewalk was one of the concerns that he expressed.

“I don’t think it fits with the joining subdivision because there’s no sidewalks there,” Lambert said. “I think this would be an opportunity for us to adopt a plan that would allow better control of flooding by eliminating the sidewalk and putting in the same kind of bioswale. So that’s why I have a concern about the plan as presented.”

The rest of the Planning Commission members approved the agenda item, although they did add some conditions to the approval, which includes revising plans to reflect accurate parcel numbers and a continuing sidewalk along the west side of the internal road.

“I am inclined to say yes to this project because I am in favor of single-family homes

See DEVELOPMENT on page 19A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

“I think it’s very important to have that work/family life balance but at the same time I would tell all women entrepreneurs to just don’t give up,” said Shivani Sharma, owner of Right Food Choice in Troy. “Start wherever you can and if it requires you to work only part time, don’t give up hope, don’t give up on your dreams.”

Women

from page 11A

proving gut health, reducing inflammation and feeding your gut microbiome good bacteria really while balancing your blood sugar, balancing your hormones, focusing on how to improve your stress and sleep and how to conquer your sugar cravings, and how to have a total behavior modification.”

“We provide ongoing coaching calls for medication, exercise, and behavior modification,” Sharma said.

Living the dream

All three women discussed their personal and professional struggles as business owners.

“I’m one of those people who prefer to work 24 hours a day and when you have your own business that’s exactly what you do,” Cooper said. “This is not my first business. I owned a cheerleading camp for 20 years and I was a teacher and a coach and a counsellor before this, so I knew what I was in for, and I make the sacrifices really happily.”

She added, “I have one son, and he is graduated from school and is off to Chicago, so I don’t have those responsibilities like I once did. I have five animals at home, so that’s the only thing, and my husband’s really helpful. So it’s a balance but it’s a really fun balance and I’m in the age group I can do this.”

Pietrykowski said running a business, and a household, is both rewarding and a lot of work.

“I think that if you don’t own a business or work for yourself that sometimes people

don’t understand we work every day,” Pietrykowski said. “I train during the day. I’ve got four kids as well and then I get home, pick everybody up and make dinner, and then usually sit down and work for another couple hours. Then I take one day on the weekend, work for a couple hours but I love it. It’s not necessarily a hard thing to do but it does require some sacrifice.”

Sharma said she never worked full time until she started her own business.

“This is the first time that I am like all in right now,” Sharma said. “I have two kids. I have one son who is working, and I have a daughter who will be going to college this year. So right now, I feel now is the right time for me to go full in because I personally never worked full time before for the last 20 years.”

She said the biggest struggle she has encountered professionally is the lack of dietician credentialing in Michigan.

“Michigan is one of the only states that does not credential dieticians,” Sharma said. “So it is very hard for me to accept insurance in Michigan and because you have to pay for the service out of pocket. I think sometimes it becomes less reachable for people who just want to go through their insurance, who don’t want to pay up front.”

She said that Right Food Choice does accept Medicare, which covers nutrition counseling for diabetes and chronic kidney disease but not for weight loss.

Growing the dream

All of these local business owners are considering their goals as their work continues.

“We’re always looking to grow it,” Coo-

First suspect charged by OC Human Trafficking Task Force

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

OAKLAND COUNTY — Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has announced the first person arrested and charged by the newly formed Oakland County Human Trafficking Task Force.

Wayne County resident Damon Napier, 61, has been charged with human trafficking enterprise resulting in injury, third-degree criminal sexual conduct, prostitution — accepting earnings, prostitution — pandering, and prostitution — transporting, with a conviction for any of the prostitution charges punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

He faces charges in both Hazel Park 43rd District Court and Southfield 46th District Court. Napier was arraigned in Hazel Park Jan. 21 and in Southfield Jan. 18, with his bond in each case set at $500,000 at cash/surety. At press time, he was being held in Oakland County Jail.

Court records list Napier’s attorney as Melissa Sue Krauskopf. At press time, she had not returned a request for comment.

According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Napier has a decades-long rap sheet that includes convictions

in Michigan, Indiana and California. Prior crimes include kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon and assorted drug charges.

His most recent arrest was the result of an investigation started by the Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with the Madison Heights Police, along with the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.

The victims in the case are two women, both age 31, who were residents of Oakland and Macomb counties. What began with a missing person report filed in 2023 ended with Napier’s arrest in Dearborn on Jan. 17 by members of the Fugitive Apprehensive Team, part of the Sheriff’s Office.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Napier allegedly used tactics such as controlling his victims’ ability to use a phone, moving them to different places to engage in prostitution, providing them illegal narcotics to create a drug dependency, and assaulting them physically and sexually — all common tactics employed by human traffickers.

“We know human trafficking is one of the most insidious and terrible crimes through its ongoing victimizing of those that are being trafficked,” Bouchard said in a statement. “We will do all in our power to hold these disgust-

ing criminal individuals accountable for their acts, and to remove trafficked individuals from this torture. Sadly, we have another example of a career criminal out on the street in a position to hurt more people.”

Madison Heights Police Chief Brent LeMerise said in an email that human trafficking takes place all around us, and people must be vigilant to root it out.

“Human trafficking, in this case forced sex labor, is not a problem that only exists in distant lands or on a movie set, but it’s a serious problem right here in metro Detroit,” LeMerise said.

He noted that most trafficking operations center around hotels, with traffickers abusing their victims and limiting their access to ID cards, money, transportation and any form of communication with the outside world, as well as providing them with narcotics.

He said certain circumstances and behaviors might be red flags of a potential victim.

“Some signs you may see are someone who has an unstable living situation, is the victim of violence or abuse, has run away from home, or is addicted to drugs or alcohol,” LeMerise said.

See TRAFFICKING on page 22A

Hills. “I walked into a little shop in Franklin to return something my sister had bought me, and I looked around and I thought, ‘Oh, I’d love to have this,’ and I somehow got around to asking the nice ladies who owned it if they were interested in selling, and they were, eventually,” Cooper said.

Women

from page 14A

per said. “It was hard to grow it in such a little village like Franklin where a lot wasn’t going on, so we’re just looking to grow it as much as we can, and I think our customers are hoping to help us in that process.”

“Our goal right now is to make Peak Women have its own space near Peak Physique and have that running separately,” Pietrykowski said. “We also are hoping, longterm, to be able to start our own certification process and train trainers to do our type of training.”

“I think what I see as a practice, because now we have three dietitians, I really want to be able to see more and more people who we can help change their life with food, especially diabetes and chronic kidney disease and high cholesterol because those are the things that can be easily fixed by a diet,” Sharma said. “Also (to) see if we can reach more kids and moms who are stressed out if the child cannot have gluten for some reason, if (the child) cannot have dairy, or what if you are a vegetarian or a vegan, if you need help with a high protein diet. So we would like to cater to a big area of (the) population with nutrition and the best thing is we are in house as much as we are virtual.”

Advice for other entrepreneurs

Cooper, Pietrykowski and Sharma also shared a few tips for potential entrepreneurs looking to pursue their own endeavors

“My first thing is I don’t consider myself a woman business owner. I’m just a business owner,” Cooper said. “I don’t take stock in any of that stuff. I want to be successful as anyone could be in this business and I would say if you are willing to think about it and work for it 24/7, then it’s for you. If that doesn’t appeal to you, being an entrepreneur probably isn’t your thing.

“I would say just do it, I mean absolutely give it a shot,” Pietrykowski said. “I had this idea for a while but kind of went back and forth about even bringing it up because I was scared, I didn’t want it not to work and then it got to the point where the worst thing that can happen is that it doesn’t work and if it doesn’t work, that’s okay.”

“I think it’s very important to have that work/family life balance but at the same time I would tell all women entrepreneurs to just don’t give up,” Sharma said. “Start wherever you can and if it requires you to work only part time, don’t give up hope, don’t give up on your dreams.”

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Terri Cooper owns the Village Boutique which was recently moved from its previous location in Franklin to Bloomfield

Arrests

from page 3A

curred at Subway restaurants, Hungry Howies, Tubby’s, Luca’s Street Tacos, Little Caesars, and Jet’s Pizza in multiple parts of the metro Detroit area.

The Special Investigations Unit worked collaboratively to identify Shipp and Upton as the perpetrators.

The unit included collaborative work with officers from the Auburn Hills Police Department, Birmingham Police Department, Bloomfield Township Police Department, Royal Oak Police Department and Troy Police Department.

“We commend our Special Investigations Unit and Criminal Information Unit for their extensive investigative work involved in this case,” Hancock said in an email. “The collaboration between these special units and the agencies that participate in them is an outstanding asset for all cities involved.”

On Feb. 6, officers responded to a suspicious person/vehicle call made by a concerned patron at a hardware store in Highland Township. When officers arrived, Upton and Shipp attempted to flee on foot, but were apprehended.

The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office charged the two with continuing criminal enterprise, multiple counts of breaking and entering with intent, and multiple counts of retail fraud. Upton and Shipp were both arraigned at the Oakland County 52-4 District Court in Troy Feb. 7.

“My office takes property crimes seriously because they endanger our communities and threaten the livelihood of small businesspeople and their employees,” Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said in a press release. “Prosecutors and police across jurisdictions are working together in Oakland County to bring these criminals to justice.”

Upton’s bond was set at $1 million cash or surety, with no 10%.

Shipp’s bond was set at $750,000 cash or surety, with no 10%.

Upton and Shipp are scheduled for a probable cause conference Feb. 20.

At press time, there was no attorney of record for Upton or Shipp.

For more information, visit troymi.gov/departments/police/index.php.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

being their idea before embracing it. Conceivably that explains why progress in this city moves at a glacial pace. Tis subdued pace and lack of resolve have long put us at odds with our own creed: City of Tomorrow, Today.

have tackled head-on with remarkable success. Yet, while others take bold strides forward, Troy remains stagnant. Nonetheless, opportunities still exist to retroft a downtown—whether within the City Center or along Big Beaver Road.

Big Beaver has evolved into a vibrant commercial and residential corridor. Now is the time to take the fnal steps: reducing speed limits, implementing a road diet, adding protected bike lanes, expanding pedestrian walkways, and introducing other trafccalming measures. Tese improvements could fnally complete the transformation of Big Beaver into the downtown Troy needs and deserves.

those communities have not collapsed. We can do the same—and more—to achieve what has eluded us for so long.

money come from?”—this investment is mere pennies on the dollar compared to what has already been spent. More importantly, I would add a gentle reminder that we continue to waste at least $1 million annually on the city attorney’s ofce for consistently mediocre results. It’s long past time to prioritize our citizens over bureaucracy and dedicate resources to a city that truly serves its people.

REN NUSHAJ

Prosecutor

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

18A/ TROY TIMES • FEBRUARY 20, 2025

FEB. 22

Hockey mentors: Free event for anyone with disability or challenge to learn hockey basics and how to skate, includes skate rental and on-ice buddies, 7-8:30 a.m., Buffalo Wild Wings Arena, 1819 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy, registration required, hockeymentors@ gmail.com, hockeymentors.net

FEB. 28-MARCH 2

Detroit Autorama: 72nd annual event includes more than 800 customs, trucks and motorcycles, Megamorph Transforming Robot Car, Barbie Pink Cadillac Convertible, appearances by Danny Koker and Kevin Mack from “Counting Cars,” Miss Autorama Pinup Girl contest, and more, noon-10 p.m. Feb. 28, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. March 1 and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. March 2, Huntington Place, 1 Washington Blvd. in Detroit, autorama. com, read about local gearheads at candgnews.com/ news/auto

MARCH 4

Troy Women’s Association: Nonprofit dedicated to supporting local causes and enhancing lives of others, learn more at free monthly meeting, 7-8 p.m., Boys and Girls Club, 3670 John R Road in Troy, also held April 1, May 6 and June 3, troywomensassociation.org

MARCH 6

Iftar dinner: Presented by Intercultural Association

of Michigan, celebrates praying and fasting during Ramadan, 6 p.m., Balkan American Community Center, 1451 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy, info@intercultural michigan.org, interculturalmichigan.org

MARCH 8

Dancing with the Stars: Fundraiser for Faith in Action Oakland, 6-10:30 p.m., San Marino Club, 1685 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy, register and see participants and judges at faithinactionoakland.org/events.html

MARCH 11

Troy/Birmingham/Bloomfield Senior Expo: Connect with dozens of organizations specializing in assistance and care, also free admission, health screenings, prizes, giveaways and refreshments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., San Marino Club, 1685 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy, (248) 524-4868, seniorexpousa.com

ONGOING

Fish fries: Hosted by St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit, bagpipes and Highland dancers during dine in, carryout also available, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Fridays March 7-April 18, Kilgour Scottish Centre, 2363 Rochester Road in Troy, detroitscots.com/tickets

‘Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr.’: Performed by Junior Actors of Ridgedale, 7 p.m. Fridays, 3 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, and 3 p.m. Sundays March 7-9 and

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

14-16, Ridgedale Players, 205 W. Long Lake Road in Troy, ridgedaleplayers.com

Ice skating: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays, noon-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, noon-9 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m.9 p.m. Saturdays until March 16, also special events from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 28 (S’mores Skate) and March 14 (St. Paddy’s Skate), The Rink at Stine Community Park, 241 Town Center Drive in Troy, rec.troymi.gov/therink

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

Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts for men only at 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, widowedfriends.com

• Lunches at 1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Joyce at (586) 291-2471, widowedfriends.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

Monthly book clubs: Find meetups for romance, mystery, learning English, kids/beginners and more, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, troypl.org

Top of Troy Toastmasters: Meets noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 872-6603

Troy Newcomers: Social group for women, activities include service projects, bowling, euchre, wine tasting, book club, games nights, golf, scrapbooking and more, meets at various times and locations, clubactivities@ troynewcomers.com, troynewcomers.com

Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan

Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups

ADHD meetings: Hosted by CHADD of Eastern Oakland County, for adults and parents, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Zoom, see schedule on chadd.net/chapterevents/527

being built in a single-family area,” Planning Commission member Jayalakshmi Malalahalli said.

Planning Commission member Marianna Perakis shared her rationale for approving the agenda item.

“I … feel for the neighbors because this is a big change for them to have this road and they’ve been there for many years and they’ve enjoyed the woods in the back, but I do feel like our hands are tied in this situation and that it

does meet the standards,”Perks said.

An EGLE permit will be required for final site plan approval, which also involves a review of detailed engineering drawings.

At press time, there was no information about when that will take place.

Those living around the Ottawa Drive area are consulting with a lawyer to further address their concerns with the development project.

Abitheira could not be reached for further comment at press time.

For more information, visit troymi.gov.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

9 for

CRIME WATCH

Resident reports scam attempt

TROY — A resident from Forsyth Avenue reported that on Jan. 28 he was on his computer when a pop-up appeared stating he had been hacked and to call the phone number provided.

The victim called the number and spoke with a subject claiming to be from Microsoft. The subject instructed the victim to enter various commands on his computer before transferring him to a second subject, supposedly from the Federal Trade Commission.

The victim was told by the second subject that there was a $20,000 transaction pending on his account relating to child pornography. He was instructed to go to his bank, withdraw the $20,000, and put the funds into an electronic account.

The victim went to the bank but became suspicious and confirmed with the teller that no transactions were pending, at which point he ended contact with the subjects.

Tools stolen from work vans

TROY — A business located on Elmwood Avenue reported that two individuals in a van backed into a parking spot next to one of the company’s work vans at 2:50 a.m. Jan. 25.

The individuals reportedly proceeded to force entry into the vehicle and steal almost $4,000 in tools.

Business reports breaking and entering attempt

TROY — At 5:09 a.m. Jan. 26, officers responded to a possible breaking and entering in progress at a business located on Austin Avenue.

The owner advised that he was notified

by his alarm company of multiple people in masks attempting to gain entry to the business.

Upon arrival, officers were notified that the suspects had already left the scene. Officers found fresh damage to a door of the business and a hole in the concrete wall of the building, where the suspects attempted to enter.

Traffic stop leads to inebriated driver’s arrest

TROY — At 12:03 a.m. Jan. 26, officers initiated a traffic stop near Big Beaver and Dequindre roads.

According to a report, the driver of a 2014 Jeep Compass was speeding and swerving.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 28-year-old female from Shelby Township, officers noted her speech was slow and slurred and her eyes were glassy.

The driver reportedly performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations.

She submitted to a preliminary breath test, with a result of .214%.

The driver was arrested and issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol content of .17% or higher.

Intoxicated driver apprehended during traffic stop

TROY — At 2:06 a.m. Jan. 30, officers initiated a traffic stop near E. Wattles Road and Shadrock Drive.

According to a report, the driver of a 2021 Jeep Wrangler was continually drifting back and forth in a lane.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 33-year-old female from Rochester Hills, officers noted her eyes were red and there was an odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle.

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The driver reportedly performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations.

She submitted to a preliminary breath test, with a result of .170%.

The driver was arrested and issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol content of .17% or higher.

Intoxicated driver apprehended from parking lot

TROY — At 3:50 a.m. Feb. 6, officers responded to a parking lot on Investment Drive for a welfare check on the driver of a 2025 GMC Sierra.

The vehicle was reportedly in the parking lot with its hazard lights on and the driver of the vehicle slumped over the wheel.

Upon arrival, officers spoke with the driver, a 37-year-old male from Royal Oak, and noted his speech was slurred and there was an odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle.

Officers also noted the vehicle had crash damage and two flat tires.

The driver performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations and refused to submit to a preliminary breath test. He was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department.

He was issued a citation for operating while intoxicated.

Caller threatens victim

TROY — A resident on Philantha Street reported that she received a threaten-

ing phone call from an unknown number on Feb. 3 at 2 p.m.

The male caller threatened to shut off the resident’s television if she did not give him the personal information he requested, including her social security number and bank account number.

After the call, the victim contacted a family member who canceled her account and notified police.

Welfare check leads to inebriated driver’s arrest

TROY — At 11:49 p.m. Feb. 8, officers went to the areas of W. Wattles Road and Walnut Hill Drive area for a welfare check on the driver of a 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The vehicle had reportedly driven off the roadway into the grass, with the driver slumped over the wheel. Upon arrival, officers awoke the driver, a 47-year-old female from Detroit. She advised that she was on the way home from a party and had two drinks prior to driving.

Officers noted her speech was slurred and that there was an odor of alcohol coming from her breath. The driver failed several sobriety evaluations and refused to submit to a preliminary breath test.

The driver was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department. She was issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol content of .17% or more.

— Sarah Wright

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT ADVERTISEMENT

The Board of Education of Troy School District will receive sealed Proposals for: RFP NUMBER 2425-14 – TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT INTERIOR PAINTING SERVICES – (SCHROEDER & WATTLES ELEMENTARY AND TROY HIGH SCHOOLS)

Sealed proposals should be submitted through Buildingconnected.com with the following link: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5cc9d7f637c1a90018cb55dc. No physical bids will be accepted in person or via delivery service. Bids are to be submitted no later than 2:30 PM Local Time WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2025. The District will not consider or accept a bid received after the date and time specifed for bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids with the following virtual meeting link: meet.google.com/ctg-xzza-jvy or phone number (216) 532-3946 PIN 858 597 921#. No oral, email, telephonic, or telegraphic proposals shall be considered.

Each Proposal must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the contractor and any member of the Board of Education or the Superintendent of Troy School District. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized disclosure statement.

Each Proposal must also be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement certifying that the contractor is not an Iran Linked Business. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized statement.

Troy School District’s Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Proposals, either in whole or in part, to waive any informalities or irregularities therein, or to award the contract to other than the contractor(s) submitting the best fnancial Proposal (low bidder), in its sole and absolute discretion.

Additional bid information can be found at: https://www.troy.k12.mi.us/departments/business-services/purchasingbids/ TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Opinions expressed in this newspaper are the opinions of the individual sources and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of C & G Publishing Inc.,

Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

Published: Troy Times 02/20/2025

Kiwanis

from page 3A

need, as well as provide awareness about the mental health needs that young people may be facing in their lives through fundraising opportunities and working with different community organizations, including Troy schools.

“Troy School District identifies students through a referral letter for entry to counseling sessions,” said Vicki Cerven-Astell, president of Kiwanis Club of Troy, MI. “There’s a maximum of 12 sessions, and we currently have five to 10 in counseling, but we’re hoping to increase.”

Troy School District works with Arise Counseling Center and Training Institute to help provide these services to students through the Kiwanis Inspired Teens (KIT) Program, which is designed to streamline access to mental health care, reducing long wait periods.

“In Michigan, families seeking mental health assistance often face significant barriers, including long wait times, limited in-person availability, and overwhelming financial burdens,” Colleen Reveley, LMSW, of ARISE Counseling & Training Institute said in a press release. “Kiwanis’ KIT Program steps in to eliminate these obstacles, providing a lifeline of support to youth and their families. This initiative enables and empowers youth in our community to move towards wellness and healing during such a critical time in their lives. We are grateful for Kiwanis’ commitment to our community and our youth.”

Kiwanis Club of Troy, MI also works with the International Academy in Troy and recently presented a check to International Academy-East Campus Principal Patrick Griffin and Counselor Whitney Bernstein,

to further help provide funding for mental health initiatives.

“This funding will bolster school-based mental health initiatives, aligning with the Kiwanis Club of Troy’s mission to empower every youth to be their best self by providing the tools necessary to thrive,” a press release from the Kiwanis Club of Troy, MI said.

In terms of leadership opportunities, Kiwanis works with Key Clubs at International Academy East (IA East), International Academy Okma (IA Okma), Athens High School and Troy High School, by supporting their service projects, helping to facilitate meetings, and providing mentorship on top of providing other leadership development opportunities.

“We have also partnered with them on Career Fairs, Leadership Exploration Events, and Community Service Events,” Troy School District Communications Specialist Alison Hendry said in an email.

Community members may plan to attend a fundraising event in May to benefit the KIT Mental Health Program.

“To continue supporting youth mental health initiatives, Kiwanis Club of Troy invites the community to attend the Harvesting Hope: Healing Begins with US Youth Mental Health Fundraiser on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Troy Historic Village,” a press release said.

Attendees may expect curated wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, music, silent auction, raffles and opportunities to learn about the Kiwanis Club’s assistance mission. Tickets are $60 per person when purchased online ahead of time and $70 on the day of the event at the Troy Historic Village registration table.

For more information, visit k06542. site.kiwanis.org.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

Bowling

from page 12A

to win it, I want the ball in his hands. There’s nobody else that I want to throw a shot that matters,” Harris said. “Not only is he the best bowler, but he’s able to lead… He’s just a phenomenal leader.”

The girls program has also been producing at an incredible rate this year. According to Harris, four of the team’s five girls have bowled a 200 this season, with Peytyn Herron up for Bowler of the Year.

“Highest scorer (for the girls team) is 236 by Peytyn,” Harris said. “She’s got, I think, a 175 average. She’s having a really solid year and is our anchor bowler. Then I’ve got three seniors to help carry us a little bit… like Ellie Pfauth, who does bowl anchor sometimes.”

Regionals are coming up this weekend and the Troy program is preparing by bowling as much as it possibly can. The team has top-to-bottom talent, with other contributors like Adeline Alex, Joey Lindholm, Ethan Fischer, and more.

“The expectation right now is that we go to regionals, we get that top-two spot, and we go to states at Thunderbowl,” Kondratyev said. “It’s not something we came into the season thinking, but I think that’s something that’s truly reality now.”

In a program that’s filled with talent, one of the most noticeable distinctions of Troy’s teams is the attitude of the program’s bowlers. Perhaps it’s due to being grateful that the teams even exist, but everyone is rooting for each other and putting the team first.

“The thing that’s really different about our team, at Troy High, specifically, is that we’re all so close,” Kondratyev said. “We all talk to each other and come up with different ideas. I think that’s something that’s very different about our team… That’s what helped us become really successful this year.”

For a season that wasn’t even supposed to happen, aside from merely being able to participate, Troy has become a dangerous team that’s on the rise. Although no one would have expected it back in September, both the boys and girls will head to Regional 5 and attempt to make a run at states.

“This season has gone way above not only mine, but I think everybody else’s expectations,” Kondratyev said. “Troy bowling right now just has a lot going for them. It’s just awesome.”

Boys and girls regionals are being held Feb. 19-22, with both Troy teams playing at Century Lanes in Waterford Township. The Division 1 bowling state finals are February 28-March 1 at Thunderbowl Lanes in Allen Park.

Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.

CITY OF TROY

THE 2025 BOARD OF REVIEW FOR THE CITY OF TROY WILL MEET AT THE CITY OFFICES IN CONFERENCE ROOM C, 500 WEST BIG BEAVER ROAD ON:

TUESDAY MARCH 4TH (Organizational meeting) 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM In session to hear appeals:

MONDAY MARCH 10TH 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

TUESDAY MARCH 11TH 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM

WEDNESDAY MARCH 12TH 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

THURSDAY MARCH 13TH 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Be advised the City of Troy, 2025 Board of Review will be in session on the above dates and times in Conference Room C at Troy City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver – Troy, Michigan 48084.

CONTACT THE ASSESSING DEPARTMENT AT (248) 524-3311 BY MARCH 13th, NO LATER THAN 9:00AM, FOR AN APPOINTMENT. This notice is hereby posted as required by Section 4 of the Open Meetings Act (MCLA 15.261 et seq.).

Kelly Timm City Assessor

Trafficking

from page 15A

He noted that tips on human trafficking can be reported by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888, or by texting 233733.

“It takes vigilance from the community to help law enforcement intervene on human trafficking,” LeMerise said.

While an arrest has been completed, the Sheriff’s Office believes that other victims of Napier’s alleged human trafficking ring are still out there and have not yet come forward. Some have already been identified by investigators.

Any victims or individuals with more information about this human trafficking case or others are urged to call the

Sheriff’s Office at (248) 858-4950, Madison Heights Police Det. Arnela Dizdarevic at (248) 837-2762, or their local police department.

Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.

CITY OF TROY

PUBLIC HEARING

A Public Hearing will be held by and before the Planning Commission of the City of Troy at City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver, Troy, Michigan, on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit, to consider the proposed Somerset West Planned Unit Development (PUD-021). The Parcels are currently zoned PUD, and have been zoned this way since 2007 when the development project was known as The Pavilions of Troy PUD. Applicant now seeks to restate and amend the Concept Development Plan and PUD Agreement for the Planned Unit Development, in accordance with the provisions of Article 11 of the Zoning Ordinance. Applicant further requests Preliminary Development Plan approval for Phase 1 which includes infrastructure and roads. The applicant seeks a mixed-use project featuring a range of uses including but not limited to a University of Michigan Health facility, offce, commercial, restaurant, residential, and public gathering spaces. The subject property is described as follows:

The subject property is located North of Big Beaver and West of Coolidge.

The subject property parcel numbers are 88-20-19-476-002, 88-20-19-476-003, & 88-20-19-430-004. Property may be further divided in the future per the requirements of the Land Division Act and/or Condominium Act. Comments can be expressed at the Public Hearing, or written comments can be directed to the attention of the Planning Department, City of Troy, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan 48084, or by e-mail to planning@troymi.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. one day prior to the date of the meeting. If you have questions you may contact the Planning Department by e-mail or by phone at (248) 524-3364.

The application on fle can be viewed by contacting the Planning Department at (248) 524-3364 or by emailing planning@troymi.gov and requesting a copy.

Notices and information for public hearings will also be posted on the City website Boards and Committees page at https://troymi.gov/.

POSTED: January 23, 2025

PUBLISHED: January 23, 2025 February 6, 2025 February 20, 2025

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.

Published: Troy Times 02/20/2025

0020-2508

PUBLISHED: February 20, 2025

POSTED: February 21, 2025

NOTICE: Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in this meeting should contact the City Clerk by e-mail at clerk@troymi.gov or by calling (248) 524-3317 at least two working days in advance of the meeting.

An attempt will be made to make reasonable accommodations.

Published: Troy Times 02/20/2025

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk

“They had three one-year options to renew, and we didn’t find out until right before the holiday that they were not (going to) exercise their option to renew and … leave the property,” Mario Kiezi, the president of MKiezi Investments and owner of the Oakland Mall, said.

The Macy’s store at the Oakland Mall, located at 412 W. 14 Mile Road, is expected to officially close on March 31.

Shoppers can expect multiple “going out of business” sales before then.

“Macy’s represents about 8% of our foot traffic,” Kiezi said. “We receive about 5 million visitors at Oakland Mall every year and Macy’s represents 365,000 of those, according to the data we have. So as of right now, Macy’s is a little bit busier because they are closing and there are sales going on, but aside from that it’s business as usual here.”

Kiezi is looking into filling the space with other businesses after Macy’s officially closes.

“It opens up a world of opportunities, including the land along the highway,” Kiezi said. “It’s not your typical department store that closes down. This is in the heart of metro Detroit and it has billboard-type highway exposure in a market that has a lot of real estate and scarcity.”

There are also short-term plans to utilize the space for events as permanent options are considered.

According to Kiezi, the plan is to utilize the land to host events and have festivals.

“And (for) what we call ‘Oakland Mar-

ket MKT,’ which we’re hoping to launch immediately,” he said.

Kiezi described it as an artisan-style marketplace that will be open on Saturdays and Sundays.

“So we’re looking to activate the department store immediately,” he said.

Although Troy city officials have expressed some sadness about the closure, there is also hope for what’s to come for the space.

“While it is always difficult to hear the news of a major retailer closing, I am confident The Oakland Mall will continue to evolve and ultimately succeed without Macy’s,” Troy Mayor Ethan Baker said in an email. “The City of Troy attracts the best and brightest across all economic sectors and I have no doubt Mario Kiezi is working very hard to take the mall into the next generation. I am excited to see what comes next and am committed to ensuring the City provides any support needed.”

Tara Tomcsik-Husak, who is the president and CEO of the Troy Chamber of Commerce, also shared some thoughts.

“While many of us are very sad to see the closure of Macy’s at Oakland Mall, I actually toured the space yesterday with the owner, Mario, and he had some great ideas and exciting opportunities for that space already in the works, which will include many job opportunities and new products and services for our community,” Tomcsik-Husak stated via email.

For more information, visit oaklandmall.com.

Staff Writer Dean Vaglia contributed to this report.

Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT

ADVERTISEMENT

The Board of Education of Troy School District will receive sealed Proposals for:

RFP NUMBER 2425-13 – TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT OPERABLE WALL REPLACEMENT & INSTALLATION PROJECT (HAMILTON & WASS ELEMENTARY AND TROY HIGH SCHOOLS)

Sealed proposals should be submitted through Buildingconnected.com with the following link: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5cc9d7f637c1a90018cb55dc. No physical bids will be accepted in person or via delivery service. Bids are to be submitted no later than 2:00 PM Local Time WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2025. The District will not consider or accept a bid received after the date and time specifed for bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids with the following virtual meeting link: meet.google.com/dfb-smbs-uyz or phone number (219) 321-0407 PIN 609 346 418#. No oral, email, telephonic, or telegraphic proposals shall be considered.

Each Proposal must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the contractor and any member of the Board of Education or the Superintendent of Troy School District. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized disclosure statement.

Each Proposal must also be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement certifying that the contractor is not an Iran Linked Business. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized statement.

Troy School District’s Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Proposals, either in whole or in part, to waive any informalities or irregularities therein, or to award the contract to other than the contractor(s) submitting the best fnancial Proposal (low bidder), in its sole and absolute discretion.

Additional bid information can be found at www.troy.k12.mi.us/ TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Published: Troy Times 02/20/2025

THE 1960S

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metal water bottle

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 26, police took a report of an assault and battery at a fitness business in the 4000 block of West Maple Road after two men reportedly got into a verbal altercation in the parking lot over a parking space. The argument escalated and one of the men struck the other in the head with a metal Yeti water bottle, according to reports. Police were investigating.

$3,350 in items stolen from locker room

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Police took a report of larceny from a fitness facility in the 4000 block of Telegraph Road Jan. 25. The victim reported that he left his black/gray Louis Vuitton duffel bag, containing No Bull Shoes and Apple AirPods, on a locker room bench while he showered. When the victim returned to his bag, he discovered that it was stolen. The items stolen are valued at $3,350.

Resident reports scam

TROY — Sometime between Sept. 1, 2024, and Jan. 10, 2025, a resident from Ardmore Drive reported that he made a series of investments with three separate apps that he believed were legitimate.

When he inquired about withdrawing his funds, he was advised he would have to pay an exorbitant fee to recover his money.

He then realized that it was a scam.

Scammer attempts to impersonate pizza owner

TROY — At 8:57 p.m. Jan. 15, an employee at a pizzeria located on John R Road reported having a phone conversation with someone that she believed was the store owner.

The unknown male told the employee to call him from her cellphone for privacy and was then instructed to take $170 from the business and go to the nearest retail store to put the money on a MoneyPak card.

The employee followed the instruction and provided photos of the MoneyPak card and receipt to the suspect.

However, the employee became suspicious when he asked for a code.

The employee contacted her boss and was advised that she was not speaking to the owner.

Door shattered at pizza shop

TROY — At 7:21 a.m. Jan. 17, the owner of the Little Caesars Pizza shop at 4973 Livernois Road

shattered with a large rock.

Running vehicle stolen

SOUTHFIELD — Between 6:10 a.m. and 6:19

a.m. Jan. 24, a resident started her vehicle and left it unoccupied in the 25000 block of Greenfield Road while it was running.

Upon return, she noticed that her 2010 Toyota Corolla was gone.

Patrol car struck by stolen vehicle

SOUTHFIELD — At 7:52 p.m. Jan. 25, Southfield

Police Department officers located a stolen vehicle, a 2021 BMW X3, near Paul Revere Street & Virginia Street.

The officers apprehended the driver after the vehicle struck a patrol vehicle.

A handgun was recovered from the vehicle.

Resident discovers stolen electricity

NOVI — A Howell woman allegedly opened an account with an electric company in the name of a Novi resident. That resident found out about it and contacted police on Jan. 23. The Howell woman allegedly had racked up a bill of about $300 before the Novi resident noticed. Charges had yet to be filed against the Howell woman.

Woman arrested for shoplifting

NOVI — The loss prevention department at Walmart in Novi apprehended a woman after she allegedly tried to walk out without paying for toilet paper and paper plates Jan. 24. The items totaled $22.96. The woman was arrested and charged with shoplifting.

Vehicle stolen from Washington Blvd.

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 7 a.m. Jan. 23, officers were dispatched to a home in the 1400 block of Washington Boulevard for a reported stolen vehicle.

The residents, a 28-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man, said their vehicle was taken from their driveway overnight. In it were belongings valued at more than $1,800 and $1,100 in cash. An investigation was ongoing.

Taxi driver chases down

fraudulent customer

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 12:30 p.m. Jan. 21, officers were dispatched to a business in the 34500 block of Woodward Avenue for a reported fight. They found a 63-year-old Center Line man who is a taxi driver holding another man, a 25-year-old Detroit resident, up against a building.

driver’s vehicle without paying his $38 fare. The driver chased and caught the passenger and asked someone inside the building to call the police. Officers arrested the passenger for fraud and discovered a warrant for his arrest out of Detroit. The suspect was transferred to the Wayne County Jail.

Footprints in snow lead to broken-into vehicles

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 3:30 a.m. Jan. 23, officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Cedar Street, where a resident reported seeing a vehicle slowly driving northbound on Cedar as people got out and ran into multiple driveways and backyards.

Officers canvassed the area and found footprints in the snow leading to 15 vehicles parked outside 13 homes on Cedar, Lincoln, Henrietta and Pierce.

Three of those vehicles had unlocked doors, with consoles that were open with contents in disarray. An investigation was ongoing.

Money and miscellaneous items taken from vehicles

WEST BLOOMFIELD — Items from the glove compartments and $320 were taken from a gray Lincoln Navigator and black Chevrolet Tahoe around 1:50 a.m. Jan. 13.

The vehicles were parked and unlocked in the owner’s driveway in the 6600 block of Crest Top Drive.

According to the Ring doorbell video, the suspect was dressed in a brown Carhartt jacket, dark jeans and carrying a black bag, in which he put the contents from the vehicles. The suspect used a flashlight while in the vehicles.

Wallet reportedly stolen

WEST BLOOMFIELD — A resident in the 7100 block of Orchard Lake Road reported that his wallet was stolen after patronizing a bar in Ferndale Jan. 12.

The wallet contained several credit cards and other items. The West Bloomfield resident was alerted about fraudulent purchases from Best Buy and a Marathon gas station on one of his credit cards. Officers advised the victim to report the incident to the Ferndale Police Department.

Delivery driver robbed

WEST BLOOMFIELD — A resident in the 5800 block of Cherry Crest Drive called West Bloomfield police around 2:24 p.m. Jan. 10 when a man in his 20s “forcefully” took the package out of the hands of a delivery driver.

Reportedly, the package had several iPhones and was intended for the Cherry Crest resident. The

vehicle where a driver was waiting. The vehicle was described as a black, newer model Jeep Grand Cherokee with tinted windows.

Items stolen from vehicle

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, an unknown suspect entered a 2013 Lincoln belonging to a 26-year-old Madison Heights resident while the vehicle was parked in the 31000 block of Concord Drive between 4 p.m. Jan. 17 and 10:15 a.m. Jan. 18, and stole photography equipment. There was no damage to the vehicle. Investigations were ongoing.

Telephone fraud

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, a 38-year-old resident in the 27000 block of Brush Street received a telephone call from an unknown suspect sometime between Jan. 16 and Jan. 17, in which the caller represented themselves as a bank representative and convinced the victim to send them money via bitcoin. Police were investigating.

Truck and trailer disappear

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police re-

Local group celebrates its birthday DETROIT/GROSSE POINTE FARMS — More than 80 members were on hand at the Country Club of Detroit in Grosse Pointe Farms Jan. 18 to mark the 132nd birthday of the Louisa St. Clair Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. The Louisa St. Clair Chapter, which is based in the Grosse Pointes, presents scholarships to local high school seniors, offers essay and art contests on American history topics, supports veterans and active duty servicemembers and works with the Grosse Pointe Historical Society.

moniker pretty liberally to allow us to bounce around to whatever topics interest us, as long as there’s a tie to storytelling, books, or other forms of media,” Adult and Teen Services Librarian and co-host Drew Heuser said in a statement. “We’ve had fun covering things like guilty pleasures, reading slumps, and adaptations of books and stories, as well as telling a few stories of our own, and we’re looking forward to seeing where being easily distractible will take us next.”

The podcast is hosted by librarians from adult and teen services as well as youth services. The librarians partner with Bloomfield Community Television to use their recording space and sound editing expertise, as well as another avenue to share episodes.

Podcast episodes are released on the first and 15th day of each month and can be found on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast content outlets. Episodes are also available on the library website and the Bloomfield Community Television YouTube channel.

The Distracted Librarians can be reached at distracted@btpl.org or btpl.org/the-distracted-librarians.

A posthumous American History Medal was awarded to Mary Upshaw Evans McClendon for her efforts to improve wages and conditions for domestic workers in metro Detroit. McClendon’s granddaughter, Esteralita Evans, was present to accept the award. University Liggett School student Da’Mya Johnson, whose research brought McClendon’s story to the attention of DAR members, was on hand as well when Louisa St. Clair Past Regent Peggy King Scully presented Evans with the medal in honor of McClendon’s Free skating

event offered