2/6/25 Troy Times

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FEBRUARY 6, 2025 • Vol. 41, No. 3

Explosion at medical facility leads to 5-year-old’s death

TROY — At 7:54 a.m. Jan. 31, the Troy Fire Department and the Troy Police Department

responded to a report of a hyperbaric chamber explosion that killed a 5-year-old boy from Royal Oak.

The explosion took place at the Oxford Center, located at 165 Kirts Blvd.

Upon arrival, it was determined the child inside the chamber had died.

“I think the mother of the child also suffered some injuries to her arms as she was standing right

next to the chamber when the explosion occurred,” Troy Police Department Lt. Ben Hancock said during a press conference that was held at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 31 at the Troy Police Department.

The Oxford Center provides therapy to children for a wide variety of physical and mental health conditions.

“Hyperbaric Oxygen Thera-

Troy Public Library comes closer to new building plans

TROY — Plans for a new Troy Public Library building are steadily coming to fruition after City Council members approved a budget amendment and a recommended architect pick for the potential new building’s schematic design and cost opinion. The library officially opened at 510 W. Big Beaver Road in 1971. According to the TPL’s Year in Review for 2023-2024, the library has had 1,014,368 items circulated, 344, 049 patron visits, 336,791 items in collection and 71,681 library card holders. The library’s total expense breakdown is listed as $6,320,456 with the total revenue listed as $7,211,589.

In 2023, the consulting firm ReThinking Libraries was hired to assess the library and consider improvement plans for the next five years. The firm

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

TROY — The city of Troy has announced that Josh Jones has been appointed as the new chief of police for the Troy Police Department.

His appointment was confirmed at a Troy City Council meeting Dec. 16.

Troy City Manager Frank Nastasi preceded Jones as the city’s chief of police.

Jones, who was previously a captain for the Troy Police Depart-

Health workers provide insights on mental health support in the new year

TROY — For those looking for support at the start of the new year, local health professionals recently shared information to help individuals cope with a variety of mental health issues.

Lori Edelson, who is a psychotherapist and the owner of the Birmingham Maple Clinic, located at 2075 W. Big Beaver Road, noted an increase in appointments after the holidays.

“Most patients return to their therapists with intense experiences they want to process after the holidays,” Edelson said in an email. “Family issues, grief and loss issues, life changes, and relationship issues seem to be high on people’s ‘radar’ just after the holidays. . . .We receive a LOT of calls from new patients, and work hard to connect as many as possible with a therapist.”

Birmingham Maple Clinic currently has between 3,500 to 4,000 active clients and provides access to, among other services, individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, group therapy, support groups, educational groups for specific topics,

ment, began serving as active chief during the city’s search for a city manager last fall.

Nastasi was unanimously selected to serve as Troy’s city manager at a City Council meeting last November.

Jones has more than two de-

City of Troy appoints Josh Jones as new police chief

cades of experience with the Troy Police Department.

“I am truly honored and excited to serve the Troy Police Department and this community as Police Chief,” Jones stated in a press release. “In my 25 years with the department I have had the op-

portunity to work alongside some great people. I step into this role with a supportive City Council, a strong city staff, and a Police Department full of dedicated men and women. We are in a good place, and ready to continue serv-

Families enjoy educational Lunar New Year celebration

TROY — The Troy Public Library provided an opportunity for families to learn more about the Lunar New Year through a celebratory event that occurred in the library’s “Story & Craft” room Jan. 29.

According to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, Lunar New Year celebrates the return of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. The holiday is significant for those in China, South Korea and Vietnam, as well as other parts of the world.

Paper lanterns and various meals and treats can be expected as families come together to celebrate and manifest good luck for the new year.

“Lunar New Year is placed in the beginning of the lunar calendar,” YJ Shimamura, an associate of the Troy Public Library, said.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
YJ Shimamura reads “Playing with Lanterns” by Wang Yage to the families attending the Troy Public Library’s Lunar New Year celebration on Jan. 29.
See LUNAR on page 15A
See CHIEF on page 6A
See MENTAL HEALTH on page 4A

Mental health

from page 3A

psychological testing, psychiatric evaluation, medication monitoring, and community consultation. Services are offered remotely and in person.

“We cover every mental health area of specialty from birth to death,” Edelson stated. “We have therapists that are trained specifically in a variety of areas so we can treat most every mental health diagnosis.”

Licensed marriage and family therapist Carrie Krawiec, also from the Birmingham Maple Clinic, noted that there are some fluctuations in availability and motivation that can affect new and current patients’ mental health needs at the start of the year.

“Following the holidays … there are some people looking to set new goals for the year or evaluate some changes in their life,” Krawiec said in an email. “For example, some people wait until ‘after the holidays’ to take a risk such as leaving a relationship, and at the start of the year they may be motivated to make that change and need the help of a therapist. On the other hand, clients often have insurance changes in the New Year and unmet deductibles, and they may postpone therapy until deductibles are met.”

Krawiec primarily specializes in topics surrounding couples counseling, family issues, parenting problems, postpartum depression and menopause, pregnancy, fertility problems, relationship problems, and stress.

She explained that stresses from the holiday season can carry over into the new year.

“The passing of a holiday season can invoke a sense of loss or the doldrum of winter after the holiday hubbub has subsided,” Krawiec said in an email. “The passing of a holiday season can also draw attention to overeating, over drinking, overspending, and unearthing of family dynamics or a sense of grief or loss about changes to a family through death, dysfunction or even growth of new family formations (e.g.: children, grandchildren, in laws).”

In contrast, psychological testing specialist Matthew Goodman, who also works at the Birmingham Maple Clinic, says that the new year can be slower for him as people are still getting back into their routines after the holidays.

“For testing specifically, a lot of people want to do testing by the end of the year as they have already met their health care deductibles by December,” Goodman said in an email. “In January, people are a little bit more cautious to initiate testing, which for

some people looking to be tested, presents an opportunity for more availability to schedule testing.”

Marianne Burnett, who is a bereavement coordinator for Corewell Health East, primarily works with individuals who are grieving. She has worked with seniors who

may have lost their friends or their independence.

Her work also includes working with individuals who have suffered the loss of an infant. A lot of her work is done in group sessions.

“Very individualized training from staff with superior knowledge of physiology. Nick, Lissa, and their staff has extensive background in training young and old with varying levels of physical abilities. I am over 60 with knee problems and I have gained so much in strength, core and balance. Each staff member knows your abilities and there is consistent coordination among them. This business has become family to me. I cannot thank them enough.”

Photo provided by the Birmingham Maple Clinic
Experts recently offered tips for how to have positive mental health in the new year. Pictured is a room at the Birmingham Maple Clinic in Troy.

Chief

from page 3A

ing our residents by providing high level and professional law enforcement service to ensure a safe community for all.”

The city of Troy shared a press release about Jones’ promotion.

“A dedicated member of the Troy Police Department for the past 25 years, Chief Jones brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to public safety to his new role,” the release stated.

Jones has a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice from Western Michigan University and is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

He began his career in 2000 with the Troy Police Department as a patrol officer in the operations section and later served as a special investigations detective. He was promoted to sergeant in 2012.

Jones’ experience also includes overseeing the investigation services division and serving as a public information officer and a team commander for the tactical support team.

“I am fully supportive of the selection of Joshua Jones as the City of Troy’s newest Police Chief,” Nastasi said in an email. “Chief Jones has an extensive law enforcement background, a strong commitment to the Troy community and has shown time-and-time again that he serves with integrity. With Chief Jones now leading the Troy Police Department I am certain it will continue to provide the highest level of safety and community service.”

Troy Mayor Ethan Baker also weighed in on Jones’ appointment.

“The Troy Police Department has always exemplified the highest level of commitment to our community’s safety and I am certain with Joshua Jones now serving as Police Chief that commitment will continue,” Baker stated via email.

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

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

Photo provided by the Troy Police Department Josh Jones has been appointed as the chief of police for the Troy Police Department.

NEWS & NOTES

8A/

Home invasion suspect apprehended

TROY— A suspect that was believed to be involved with multiple home invasions has been apprehended by the Troy Police Department.

Officers responded to the 2100 block of E. Big Beaver Road after a resident from the area reported a home invasion at noon Jan. 24.

At 1:30 p.m. on the same day, 41-year-old Brian Maurice Kellum was taken into custody without incident during a traffic stop.

Kellum is believed to be involved in additional home invasions in Troy and the surrounding area. The arrest follows an intensive investigation led by the Special Investigations Unit, which worked to gather evidence and track Kellum’s activities.

“The arrest marks a significant step in ensuring the safety and security of our community,” a press release from the Troy Police Department said.

Kellum has been charged with two counts of home invasion in the second degree and driving while his license was suspended. He was arraigned at 52-4 District Court on Jan. 27, with a $100,000 cash or surety bond and no 10% bond.

The Special Investigations Unit is composed of officers from the Auburn Hills Police Department, Birmingham Police Department, Bloomfield Township Police Department, Royal Oak Police Department, and Troy Police Department. These Investigators work together in a collaborative, multi-jurisdictional unit that investigates criminal activity impacting the region.

“The Troy Police Department encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,” a press release from the Troy Police Department said. “Tips from the community can play a crucial role in any investigation.”

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

Human trafficking nonprofit announces fundraiser and training opportunities

TROY — Bianca’s Haven has announced fundraising and training opportunities to raise further awareness about human trafficking and to provide support. This nonprofit organization, which has locations in Michigan and Nevada, aims to raise awareness on human trafficking as well as provide fundraising, support and resources to victims and other organizations that work to address these issues.

“Human trafficking poses a significant public health challenge and ranks as the fastest-growing and second most extensive criminal enterprise worldwide,” a letter from Bianca’s Haven said. “This insidious issue involves the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion. At Bianca’s Haven, we are committed to rebuilding lives, restoring dignity, and nurturing resilience among survivors.”

From 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m Feb. 22, Bianca’s Haven will be sponsoring a complimentary training session on human trafficking, self-defense and awareness. This event is set to take place at Boombox Kickboxing and Martial Arts, located at 2871 Hilton Road in Ferndale. All participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing to fully engage in the training. For more information, call (248) 931-3611 or (313) 722-0013.

Free skating event offered

TROY — A Troy resident and Lawrence Technological University student is offering a free skating event for individuals of any age with physical and intellectual disabilities from 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Feb. 22 at the Troy Sports Center/Buffalo Wild Wings Arena, located at 1819 E. Big Beaver Road.

The event is part of the Hockey Mentors program, which was founded by Wyatt Lucas. Hockey Mentors provides hockey and ice skating programming for individuals with cognitive, physical, or emotional special needs and their family and caregivers. Annually, Lucas offers an afternoon of free hockey and ice skating.

Lucas is offering the free lessons with the help of a grant from the Troy Community Foundation.

Skates will be provided, with attendees encouraged to bring their own helmet. Advanced registration is required. To register, visit hockeymentors.net.

For more information, call (248) 686-6740.

Kellum
Compiled by Sarah Wright
Photo provided

Mental health

page 4A

“Grief is hard work and it’s exhausting,” Burnett said. “They call it grief work for a reason. You know you come to this exhausting holiday full of memories and triggers and . . . it’s been kind of a high, and now you’re coming into this season of cold and dark days, and even those of us who are not grieving struggle sometimes with that.”

Burnett advises people to be patient with themselves, slow down for a moment to breathe, exercise, practice yoga and breathing techniques, eat healthy, go for short walks, make time for friends, and practice gratitude.

“Gratitude has been shown to increase resilience . . . which is really interesting because people complain they have to send thank you cards, but thank you cards are kind of a reminder that other people love you when you do have a lot to be grateful for,” Burnett said. “So I use an app called the gratitude app. It’s wonderful. It gives you daily reminders, you can record who you’re grateful for, and I think it really does help.”

She also suggested that pets, specifically dogs, can provide comfort to others as they are processing their grief.

“If you do not have a pet, petting a dog has been shown to lower blood pressure,” Burnett said. “So if you know somebody that has a friendly dog, you can go over there. It’ll provide comfort and calm.”

Suggestions Edelson offered to help with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and seasonal stresses include maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough rest, participating in physical activities each day, which can include taking a walk, scheduling plans with others to help counteract loneliness, taking time to do something enjoyable at least every other day, and scheduling an appointment with a therapist if symptoms persist for more than two weeks.

Edelson also pointed out that alcohol is a depressant and that marijuana use causes lethargy, apathy and low motivation.

Krawiec suggests that clients consider their insurance and financial position when seeking help.

“We recommend that clients get informed of their health insurance deductible and what that deductible means to your personal finances while weighing the importance of investing in your mental health,” Krawiec said in an email. “Postponing treatment until a deductible is met may cause people to enter treatment in distress a few months down the road rather than being

prophylactic.”

Goodman suggests that potential patients try to maintain a rhythm to continue their goals for the new year.

“A lot of people may have made a New Year’s resolution to get started in therapy,” Goodman said in an email. “As we all know, these goals can fade away quickly without a plan. So, it’s good to be proactive early on to

establish a rhythm for yourself that you can sustain as the year goes on.”

For more information about the Birmingham Maple Clinic, visit birminghammaple.com.

For more information about Corewell Health, visit corewellhealth.org.

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

surveyed library staff and members of the public for current thoughts on the library and the areas it can improve.

There were over 2,700 responses to the survey.

As a result of the responses, it was determined that people would like to see more space for various library collections as well as space for recreational programs. Despite this, the current state of the library, which is a 50,000 square-foot building, provides a challenge for implementing major improvements. The Troy Public Library has had no major improvements since the 1980s.

During a City Council meeting last June, ReThinking Libraries representative Robert Cullen explained different options for improving the Troy Public Library. Some of the options included improving the building with no expansions, which would likely cost around $10-$19 million; fully renovating and expanding the existing building to around 60,000 to 75,000 square feet, which could cost $20-$35 million; and building a completely new and expanded building, which could potentially be more than 90,000 square feet, within the Civic Center complex.

The cost for that was estimated to be between $29-$39 million, with a new building outside of the Civic Center complex potentially costing between $33-$43 million.

There has been a strong push for a new library building in the Civic Center complex area by community members and library officials.

Troy Library Director Emily Dumas spoke at a City Council meeting Jan. 27.

“This is a long-awaited moment for our library, as we have faced many challenges over the last five decades from a building that is in desperate need of modernization and expansion,” Dumas said. “As determined by the 2023 strategic planning results that sought input from the Troy community, library staff, and city officials, Troy Public Library’s building is simply not able to meet the needs of the growing and diverse population within its current vastly undersized … facility.”

Dumas noted that architectural firms from all over the country have expressed an interest in the project and the selection committee considered relevant experience, cost, ability to work in a tight timeframe, work plan and methodology, references, and responses to a questionnaire in their selection process. Finalists were also invited to interview with the committee.

HBM Architects, LLC, based in Ohio, was recommended for architectural and en-

gineering services to provide a schematic design and opinion of cost for a new public library building.

City Council members unanimously agreed to award a contract to HBM at the meeting Jan.27.

“HBM Architects greatly appeal to us because they work exclusively with libraries and they bring their wealth of specialized experience to their beautiful and functional designs,” Dumas said. “Their expertise will help us create a space that fosters learning, creativity, community connection, and a library that this community deserves.”

The amount for the contract is $280,000, plus a 15% contingency of $42,000, for an estimated total project cost of $322,000, “at prices contained in the bid tabulation opened Dec. 19, 2024,” according to language from the agenda from the City Council meeting.

Troy City Council also approved a budget amendment from the library fund balance to the library operation fund account in the amount of $222,000.

Further information, after some questions from City Council members, revealed that the hope is to have a timeline, design, and cost plans by May 30, and that HBM has worked with ReThinking Libraries before and will likely work with them for this project.

“We must be the best stewards we can be on behalf of our residents and so voting ‘yes’ is not just a feel-good about how fun it would be to have a new library,” Council member Ellen Hodorek said. “This is an absolutely critical business decision for the city.”

“We have had discussions, we’ve talked about this in many, many different forums about the need for a new library, and so this is just another step towards that end,” Council Member Theresa Brooks said. “And you know just looking at where the money is coming from, it’s already money that has been budgeted and the balance remainder of the money for this project is coming from the library fund. So it’s not taking away from any other projects in the city. So it’s really a no-brainer for me.”

Troy Mayor Ethan Baker also weighed in. He pointed out that although the library ranks as the No. 1 community gathering space in the city, “it’s literally probably our worst public building as well.”

“So I don’t know how you managed to do that all this time, but it is time to move forward and look at finally putting this before voters and the people of this community to make some decisions about the kind of library they want to have in our community, and I’m excited to support this,” Baker said.

For more information, visit troymi.gov and troypl.org.

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

CRIME WATCH

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 cell phone 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.

Four vehicle thefts reported

TROY — Four residents in the area of Dashwood Street reported that their vehicles were broken into overnight by an unknown person, sometime between 5:30 p.m. Jan. 15 and 10:40 a.m. Jan. 16.

The first victim reported that shopping bags containing clothing were stolen from an unlocked vehicle.

The second victim reported that a window on their vehicle was broken out and a bag was stolen.

The third victim reported a window on their vehicle was broken out and a purse containing personal papers, credit cards and $300 was stolen.

The fourth victim reported a window was broken out on their vehicle and four pairs of shoes, two shirts and a blanket were stolen.

Door shattered at Little Caesars Pizza shop

TROY — At 7:21 a.m. Jan. 17, the owner of the Little Caesars Pizza shop at 4973 Livernois Road reported observing that the front door was shattered with a large rock inside the entrance after arriving.

Sarah Wright

Legislators work to alter wage and sick leave changes

METRO DETROIT — Drastic changes to Michigan’s paid sick leave and minimum wage will go into effect Feb. 21. Both of Michigan’s major political parties are currently trying to rein in these efforts in the Legislature.

Republicans hold a majority in the state House of Representatives, and Democrats hold a majority in the state Senate. This month Republicans passed a pair of bills in the House, and Democrats in the Senate have an alternate plan in its early stages.

The whole issue began in 2018, when two petitions for increased wages and paid sick time received enough signatures to get on the ballot. To block this, the petitions were adopted and amended by Republicans in the state Legislature, dramatically changing what would’ve appeared on the ballot.

In the Michigan Court of Claims, it was determined on July 19, 2022, that the adopted and altered acts were unconstitutional. This was reversed by the Michigan Court of Appeals but was ultimately upheld by a 4-3 Michigan Supreme Court ruling July 31, 2024.

The current minimum wage is $10.33, or $3.93 for tipped workers.

If nothing happens

If the revisions by Republicans or Democrats are not made, the court’s ruling will go into effect as planned in February.

All workers will receive a pay bump to $12.48 an hour this year, with tipped workers gradually reaching $12 in 2029. The final amounts will be determined by the state’s treasurer.

All employees, including part-time and temporary workers, are entitled to paid sick leave. Every 30 hours an employee works generates one hour of paid sick leave. Employees get 72 hours paid sick time per year at larger companies. However, employers with fewer than 10 employees need to only pay for 40 hours of sick leave a year.

Proposed Republican changes

Two Republican-led bills have passed through the Michigan House of Representatives that would augment the court’s ruling.

“These bills are now bound for the SenSee WAGE on page 14A

BUSINESS CLIP

Dale Carnegie franchise celebrates ribbon-cutting Jan. 23

Mark Wilczewski, CEO of the Dale Carnegie franchise in Southeastern Michigan, celebrated a ribbon-cutting event in Troy Jan. 23.

Wilczewski is both a master trainer and a certified trainer in all Dale Carnegie courses.

Dale Carnegie is a globally recognized leader in professional development and performance improvement. The world-famous course will give you the confidence and competence you need to gain command of your career and personal life.

Dale Carnegie is located at 3838 Livernois Road, suite 203, in Troy. Call (248) 380-7000 or go to dalecarnegie.com/en/locations/southeast-michigan for more information.

3 baths, TROY with Troy schools, immediate occupancy. $864,800
Stunning newer built 4-5 bdrm, 3+ bath ROCHESTER HILLS home with great location, Rochester Adams High School, immediate occupancy. $1,475,000 Ct.,
Karen Wilson

Editor: Mark Vest | (586) 498-1052 | mvest@candgnews.com

Reporter: Sarah Wright| (586) 498-1068 | swright@candgnews.com

Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com

Classifieds: For ad

(586) 498-8100

For retail ad rates: Amy Randolph | (586) 498-1087 | arandolph@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com

Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099

Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com

Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com

let us know. Call Gregg Demers at (586) 498-1042, email gdemers@candgnews.com

11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089.

ate where they will face another vote,” Rep. Ron Robinson, R-Utica, said in a press release. “I urge each senator to consider the needs of the small business in their communities and vote yes. It would be a massive win for Michigan if the Senate followed the example of the House and sent these bills to (the) governor’s desk.”

House Bill 4001, introduced by Rep. John Roth, R-Interlochen, would tweak the minimum wage changes. It was passed Jan. 23 with a 63-41 vote. Six House members sat out for the vote.

The bill would set the new minimum wage to $12, which is 48 cents less than what would go into effect automatically Feb. 21. The wage would increase by 50 cents in 2026, and then increase by $1 each Jan. 1

until 2029. Starting in 2030, the state treasurer would calculate the annual increase.

Tipped workers would receive 38% of whatever the minimum wage is for all other workers.

House Bill 4002, introduced by Rep. Jay DeBoyer, R-Clay Township, would alter the paid sick time changes. It passed the same day as HB 4001 with a 67-38 vote. Five members abstained from the vote.

The bill excises the earned sick time for businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Workers at larger companies would earn one hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked, not including hours used as paid leave. Sick leave accrued can carry over from year to year, or an employer can pay the employee the value of the time. Employers do not have to allow more than 72 hours of accrued sick time in a year. They also don’t have to carry over more than 72 hours from one year to the next.

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS BID NUMBER: #2425-12

The Board of Education of The Troy School District will receive sealed Bids on or before 1:00 p.m. on February 18th, 2025, for: Troy School District – BP#3G Smith Middle School Site and Signage Re-Bid. The BOE will not consider or accept a Bid received after the Due Date, the date, and time specifed for Bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud on February 18th, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at 1140 Rankin St, Troy, Michigan 48083. The public bid opening may also be attended virtually by clicking on the following Microsoft Teams Live Event: https://tinyurl.com/434pxaka Sealed bids must be submitted electronically through Building Connected at https://app.buildingconnected.com/projects/679bd91fbd9f54003cd091f0/bid-packages on or before the Due Date. Alternatively, sealed bids may be submitted to Carson, Robert of the School District, at 1140 Rankin St, Troy, MI 48083. Each bid must be accompanied by: 1) A 5% bid bond or certifed check; 2) A sworn and notarized criminal background affdavit; 3) A sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the bidder and any member of the BOE or the Superintendent of School District; and 4) A sworn and notarized Iran Disclosure Statement. The BOE will not accept a bid that does not include these sworn and notarized disclosure statements.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call (248) 953-5682 or email Adam Lewis at Adam.Lewis@bartonmalow.com

Published: Troy Times 02/06/2025

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

“We have heard again and again from thousands and thousands of restaurant workers whose jobs are at risk,” Sen. Michael Webber, R-Rochester Hills, said in a press release. “The Legislature has both the duty and ability to protect this vital industry and its employees. But the clock is ticking; we need Senate Democrats to do the right thing and join us in the fight to save Michigan’s threatened hospitality industry.”

The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association supported the changes in HB 4001.

“The House has acted to protect 1,000 independent restaurants from closing permanently,” Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association, said in a press release. “Now it’s critical for the Senate to follow suit and

pass House Bill 4001 immediately. Every day of inaction puts more Michigan restaurant jobs and businesses at risk.”

While some Democrats joined GOP members in approving the votes, some cast a vote against them. Rep. Joe Tate, D-Detroit, said in a release following the vote that the bills could have been better.

“We need to support workers receiving wages and benefits they deserve — along with creating a positive climate for employers to thrive,” Tate said in a press release.

Senate Democrats weigh in

Michigan Democratic senators have their own proposed legislation to counter Republican efforts. Sens. Kevin Hertel,

See WAGE on page 19A

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, February 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit, to consider a Special Use and Preliminary Site Plan application to allow a Vehicle Fueling Station within the NN Neighborhood Node Zoning District, in accordance with the provisions of Article 9, Sections 9.02 D and 9.03 of the Zoning Ordinance.

The subject property is located on the Southeast corner of Crooks Road and South Boulevard.

The subject property parcel number is 88-20-04-100-059. The address is 1981 West South Boulevard.

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/

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk

POSTED: February 7, 2025

PUBLISHED: February 6, 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 02/06/2025

CITY OF TROY

PUBLIC HEARING

0437-2506

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 02/06/2025

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, February 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit, to consider a Conditional Rezoning Request to rezone the following described property from R-1B (One Family Residential) and NN (Neighborhood Node) Zoning District to RT (One-Family Attached) Zoning District:

The subject property is located on the East side of Livernois, North of Square Lake

The area proposed to be rezoned is approximately 6.313 acres in area. The subject property parcel numbers are 88-2003-301-088, -023, -024, -025 and 88-20-03-351-004.

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/

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk

POSTED: February 7, 2025

PUBLISHED: February 6, 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.

0436-2506

0039-2506

Published: Troy Times 02/06/2025

from page 3A

“The lunar calendar is based on the phases of the moon.”

The Chinese Zodiac animals can play a significant role in the celebrations. Out of the 12 zodiac animals, 2025 falls under the year of the snake.

“Each Lunar New Year celebrates the annual sign of the year,” Shimamura said. “So the Chinese Zodiac has 12 animals for each year. After 12 years the animals repeat.”

At the start of the library’s Lunar New Year event, Shimamura explained what Lunar New Year is about and read the book “Playing with Lanterns” by Wang Yage to the children, parents and guardians present. The book follows a young girl, Zhao Di and her friends, as they prepare to celebrate the new year with their paper lanterns.

After that, attendees could learn how to make a colorful paper snake craft.

“I wanted to make something simple that they can enjoy,” Shimamura said.

Matal Malde came with her son and found out about the event through the library’s website. Malde and her family have also participated in Japanese classes, events about making sushi, book clubs, Lego and Minecraft groups, and other art events associated with the library.

“We regularly follow what’s coming up,” Malde said. “We do age and grade-appropriate events here.”

Ivana Tornero came with her children and found out about the event through flyers from the library.

“We love to teach our kids about different cultures,” Tornero said. “We’re very engrossed and engaged in this event, and we’re really liking the colorful aspects and cool results of this craft.”

Trammie Casianov saw the event on the library’s Facebook page and brought her kids to the event.

“It’s cute,” Casianov said. “We love doing events with different cultures.”

For more information, visit troypl.org.

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

Explosion

from page 1A

py, or HBOT, is a specialized form of medical treatment administered by delivering 100% pure oxygen to the body through increased atmospheric pressure greater than 1.3 ATA in an enclosed hard chamber,” the Oxford Center’s website states.

The oxygen from a hyperbaric chamber has up to three times the amount of oxygen that a normal room has. The presence of such a high amount of oxygen in a pressurized environment can make it extremely combustible.

“Our initial research shows that this type of incident is uncommon,” a press release from the Troy Fire Department stated.

The fire caused by the explosion was contained to the room where the explosion occurred, with no extensive damage to the facility itself.

The situation remains under active investigation.

Social workers from the Oakland Com-

munity Health Network have made themselves available to work with emergency personnel who responded to the scene and medical staff at the facility.

“As far as our investigation goes with the Fire Department, we don’t really have an investigation,” Troy Fire Department Lt. Keith Young said during the press conference. “We took our initial investigation for the fire and the explosion, but from that everything’s going to get turned over to the state.”

According to a statement from The Oxford Center, Jan. 31 was an “exceptionally difficult day for all of us.”

“The safety and wellbeing of the children we serve is our highest priority,” according to the statement. “Nothing like this has happened in our more than 15 years of providing this type of therapy. We do not know why or how this happened and will participate in all of the investigations that now need to take place.”

No further details were available at press time.

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

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
An explosion at the Oxford Center at 165 Kirts Blvd. Jan. 31 resulted in the death of a 5-year-old boy, as well as injuries to the boy’s mother.

SPOTLIGHT ON SENIOR LIVING

17A/ TROY TIMES • FEBRUARY 6, 2025

VOLUNTEERS PROVIDE CARE AND THERAPY FOR HOSPICE PATIENTS

Aloved one’s decision to enter hospice care can begin a daunting and scary time for families, but volunteers providing supporting care for their loved ones can make it a little bit easier.

Ruth Moore-Lilly, Hospice of Michigan’s volunteer program coordinator, said volunteers give additional support to patients and families during hospice care.

“Providing companionship, caregiver relief — just a more personal side where the patient doesn’t really feel like a patient,” Moore-Lilly said.

Hospice is end-of-life care, or palliative care. The volunteers provide a wide range of services, including caregiver relief, pet therapy, music therapy and much more.

“It’s really just providing that extra special support at a very sacred time,” Moore-Lilly said.

Hospice patients range in age from infants to the elderly. Their diagnoses range as well, but all are terminal.

Families can request hospice through referrals by the patient or through a doctor.

“Once a patient’s on our service, the clinical team — the nurses, the social workers, the spiritual care advisors — they’re always assessing patients to see if they would desire something from

a volunteer,” Moore-Lilly said. “And they make those referrals to the volunteer coordinator, who then starts the process to match a volunteer with a patient.”

Volunteers can meet a patient at their care facility or at their home. Usually, only one volunteer visits at a time, but Moore-Lilly said they may have more than one volunteer visit each week.

Crystal Hickerson, the volunteer coordinator at Brighton Hospice, said it’s the job of the volunteer to provide companionship for the patient.

bit of relief,” Hickerson said. “Just knowing someone

“It’s a nonclinical way to bring support to the hospice patient and to provide for the caregiver a little bit of relief,” Hickerson said. “Just knowing someone else is visiting with their loved one without it not necessarily being just someone coming to do a test or something like that.”

Hickerson said that hospice started as a volunteer service. Around the 1980s, regulations were put in place in the United States to require hospice organizations to provide volunteer support and services.

She said Medicare makes sure volunteers are utilized

Tom Kallas and his dog, Kevin, provide pice patients through Hospice of Michigan. Hospice of Michigan

and requires that 5% of the organization’s staff hours are volunteered across its teams, including administration.

Some volunteers are students in pre-med or other medical-related fields of study. Hickerson said these students get firsthand experience in the end-of-life process.

“We want them as they go in their role as a physician to know about what the end-of-life services are and that hospice is available and what it’s really about,” Hickerson said.

She said that even though they might not go into a field dealing with the end of life, it gives them knowledge about the process and when to refer someone to hospice.

“And that’s crucial, because again, like I said, in America, it’s only been here since the ‘80s, so it takes a while for some physicians to understand, even though they’re in the medical field,” Hickerson said.

She said she always asks any volunteer why they chose hospice, because it is so specific.

“There’s so many regulations around it; it’s almost like a job,” Hickerson said.

She said volunteers stay because they learn a lot from their patients.

“Just being there for someone and the humanity of it all,” Hickerson said. “It’s really great when we have younger volunteers who go out and see our patients.”

Tom Kallas and his dog, a Newfoundland named Kevin, provide pet therapy to the patients they visit.

He started volunteering two years ago, after his wife found an article about pet volunteering.

“And she showed it to me. I was recently retired, and I contacted them, and I’ve been involved with them now for the last couple years,” Kallas said.

Kallas volunteers at other places with Kevin in addition to Hospice of Michigan. He said that after 40 years of working, he was in a place mentally to want to give back.

“I spent 40 years trying to accumulate enough wealth to be able to retire, and after I retired, I just had an inner urge to do some volunteering, to do some giveback,” Kallas said.

Kallas’ training prepared him for patient deaths. He said that over long periods of time, he’s created relationships with them and their families.

“When you lose that person that you’ve seen every single week for a year, you know, it’s tough. It’s really, really tough,” Kallas said. “At the same time, you have to have in your mind the fact that you know what you were doing is doing good for that patient, and you knew going into it what the outcome was most likely going to be.”

Kallas said visits are memorable when families get together with the patient and take part in the services. He said families are very appreciative of his company.

“You’ve never seen anybody appreciate something like the families that have hospice involved,” Kallas said.

He said some of the work his fellow volunteers do is incredible.

“It’s selfless,” Kallas said.

Moore-Lilly said she thinks volunteers provide their time and companionship unconditionally.

“Volunteers aren’t expecting anything in return. They

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just have a heart to be with somebody,” Moore-Lilly said.

While she has worked in health care all her life, MooreLilly said it was not always with hospice. She started volunteering before she was employed by the organization. Hospice of Michigan and Brighton Hospice are just two of many hospice care providers in the state offering an array of services.

She reiterated that at the end of a person’s life, everything revolves around a patient’s diagnosis, and the volunteers allow them to be a regular person outside of their diagnosis.

“Volunteers always say that they take a piece of every person that they have visited with them in their own life,” Moore-Lilly said. “And it really, you know, for me, and I do speak for other staff members and volunteers, it changes our lives.”

She said it gives her a new appreciation for what she has. Moore-Lilly said the whole experience has been rewarding.

“I can’t imagine doing anything else,” Moore-Lilly said. “This is where I’ll stay for the rest of my career.”

Volunteers must be 18 to participate, and training is provided. Future volunteers also must go through a background check, fingerprinting and a tuberculosis test. They can visit the Hospice of Michigan website at hom.org or Brighton Hospice at brightonhospice.com.

“If you have a heart for other people, then you can be a hospice volunteer,” Moore-Lilly said. “You don’t have to have any special talents.”

Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.

D-St. Clair Shores, and Sam Singh, D-East Lansing, have introduced bills that would adjust the changes set to take effect in February. The bills are currently being discussed in their respective committees.

Senate Bill 8, introduced by Hertel, changes the schedule of the wage increases. The initial change in February would remain at $12.48. Each subsequent increase would happen Jan. 1. Next year it would be $13.73, and in 2027 it would rise to $15. After that, the treasurer would update the rate each year.

Unlike the Republican legislation, SB 8 would increase the wages of tipped workers. The first year tipped workers would receive 38% of the $12.48 minimum wage. The wage would rise in 2%-3% increments each Jan. 1 until hitting 60% in 2035.

SB 15, introduced by Singh, deals with paid sick time. This bill attempts to keep some of the court ruling’s original intent, while sanding down some of its edges.

Earned sick time would stay relatively the same as the Supreme Court ruling, though the threshold for a small business would change from fewer than 10 employees to fewer than 25.

Too much meddling?

The passage of the two Republican bills

wasn’t met with enthusiasm everywhere.

“Today, in a bipartisan fashion, the Michigan House of Representatives caved to corporate lobbyists and betrayed Michigan workers by voting to gut the state’s minimum wage and paid sick leave laws,” Sam Inglot, the executive director of Progress Michigan, said in a press release.

He said that the majority of Michigan residents supported the original changes as laid out by the Michigan Supreme Court’s decision. He urged the Senate to not make the two pieces of legislation into law.

“HB 4001 and HB 4002 strips workers of a well-deserved and overdue raise and strips too many workers of paid sick leave they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones,” Inglot said.

Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber accused the GOP of “unconstitutional tricks” when adopting and amending the original petition. Bieber advocated for keeping the court’s decision in place.

“Now, less than a month before workers are about to finally get the pay and benefits they deserve, the new Republican majority is trying to pull the rug out from under working families,” he said in a press release. “Every legislator, regardless of their party, should be held accountable for their vote to cut the pay and benefits for workers most in need.”

Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.

nutrition

And you get at least 4-5 visits per year with a Registered Dietitian with most insurance plans.

Biggby Coffee Troy South celebrates ribbon-cutting

Residents of Troy have a great new coffee spot for relaxing, studying, reading or just hanging out with friends. Biggby Coffee Troy South celebrated a ribbon-cutting on Jan. 24. Owner Michael Pearson is eager to make a difference in the community through great coffee and compassion. At the event, Connor Donnellon won free coffee for a year by guessing the date Biggby opened.

Biggby Coffee offers a wide range of beverages, from energy drink mocktails to delicious crème freezes. Pearson and his team of exceptional baristas are dedicated to creating the best environment for guests. Pearson proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, and Biggby has an amazing program to help our vets start a new franchise business.

Biggby Coffee is located at 1860 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy. Call (248) 422-6127 for more information.

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Police find $16,000, 4 pounds of marijuana in vehicle

BERKLEY — A 33-year-old Lennon woman was arrested for possession with intent to deliver at 1:48 a.m. Jan. 5 near Greenfield Road and Wiltshire Boulevard.

The police report states that a patrol officer noticed a vehicle traveling northbound on Greenfield crossing 11 Mile Road at a high rate of speed.

After pulling the vehicle over, the officer made contact with the woman and noticed her shifting her bodyweight in her seat and looking around. The woman stated the vehicle wasn’t hers but belonged to a friend of hers from work who loaned it to her.

The officer spoke to the woman and she appeared to be “constantly touching her thumb and fingertips together in a fidgeting motion,” indicating nervousness, the report states.

Police decided to bring in a K-9 unit, which searched the vehicle and gave two positive indications of narcotic odor. The officer reportedly found a bag with “copious amounts of a green leafy substance” consistent with marijuana and a large amount of U.S. currency. A further search of the vehicle revealed a large brown shopping bag that contained another large clear plastic bag of suspected marijuana, police said. Officers also found a clear plastic page protector containing color photocopies of U.S. passports for several individuals.

The woman was placed under arrest by police, who reportedly recovered more than 4 pounds of suspected marijuana and close to $16,000 in cash in the vehicle.

Man arrested for embezzling

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — A 25-year-old man was arrested for reportedly embezzling nearly $30,000 from a smoothie shop in Bloomfield Township last year.

Between April 30, 2024, and Sept. 18, 2024, the Bloomfield Township Police Department said, the general manager of the store embezzled $29,745 worth of cash deposits from Tropical Smoothie Café, 2510 S. Telegraph Road.

Nike items stolen from sporting goods store

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department responded to a retail fraud at a sporting goods store in the 2100 block of South Telegraph Road Jan. 6. The suspect stole eight Nike clothing items and one Nike duffel bag valued at $962. The suspect left the area in a light-colored, older model Chevrolet sedan. Police were investigating.

Package stolen from home

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department took a larceny report from a residence in the 4600 block of Chelsea Lane Jan. 8.

The victim stated a male walked up to her porch with a Trader Joe’s paper bag. The suspect left the Trader Joe’s bag, containing potato chips and water, and stole a package containing a Verizon Wi-Fi booster.

The suspect fled the scene in a small burgundy fourdoor SUV. Police were investigating.

Mail reported stolen

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department took a report of larceny from mail over two days, Jan. 1 and Jan. 10. It was reported that a black, older-model Jeep Cherokee with a loud muffler was driving around stealing mail from multiple residences. The case was turned over to the Bloomfield Township Investigations Unit and was under investigation.

Resident reports Facebook

Marketplace theft

BIRMINGHAM — On Jan. 9 at 8 p.m., a 53-yearold female resident stated that she was selling a jacket on Facebook Marketplace. After negotiating the price with the suspect, the buyer of the jacket, she informed him that she had placed the jacket on her front porch and instructed him to leave the payment under the front door mat.

The suspect, an unknown male, agreed to the arrangement. However, when the suspect arrived, he showed the money to the doorbell camera but subsequently left with both the money and the jacket.

An investigation was ongoing.

Welfare check results in arrest

BIRMINGHAM — On Jan. 9 at approximately 7 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of South Old Woodward Avenue for a welfare check.

Staff at a local restaurant informed officers that the suspect, a 42-year-old woman from Grosse Pointe Woods, was being belligerent, and they were concerned for her welfare.

Upon speaking with the suspect, officers observed signs of intoxication. They also discovered a pill bottle containing prescription drugs.

The suspect was placed under arrest for possession of a controlled substance.

Drunk driver caught after hit-and-run

BIRMINGHAM — Officers were dispatched to the area of Pierce Street and East Merrill on Jan. 11 at approximately 11 p.m. for a hit-and-run incident.

Shortly after speaking with the victim of the hit-andrun incident, officers identified the suspect’s vehicle, driven by a 62-year-old man from Missouri.

Upon approaching the vehicle, officers immediately observed signs of intoxication. The suspect admitted to consuming alcohol an hour prior to driving, and officers also noticed a cocktail in the passenger seat of the vehicle.

After being placed under arrest, the suspect admitted to hitting a road sign and a tree a couple of hours before his arrest. The suspect was issued a citation for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Nail customer leaves without paying for services

BIRMINGHAM — On Jan. 5 at approximately 1 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 block of S. Old Woodward Avenue for a report of fraud.

The suspect, an unidentified female, visited a local nail shop, received services, and attempted to pay with a debit card that was declined. The suspect told the staff she had another card in her vehicle but never returned.

An investigation was ongoing.

Alcohol stolen from local deli

FARMINGTON — At approximately 8:30 p.m. Jan. 9, officers were dispatched to a deli located on Grand River Avenue.

A review of surveillance footage showed an unknown male placing vodka valued at $20 in his pants.

The individual purchased a soda but did not pay for the vodka.

He left the business in a silver Grand Am. The surveillance footage was captured on a CD for evidence.

Liquor stolen from Holiday Market

ROYAL OAK — A complainant reported that at 6:50 p.m. Jan. 7, an unknown person stole multiple bottles of liquor from the Holiday Market at 1203 S. Main St.

Single Ugg boot stolen from vehicle

SOUTHFIELD — At 7:14 a.m. Jan. 1, a resident had one Ugg boot taken from her vehicle in the 23000 block of Laura Lane.

Ring camera stolen during an attempted vehicle break-in

SOUTHFIELD — A resident’s security camera was taken by suspects who were seen trying to get into her vehicle at around 4:24 a.m. Jan. 4 in the 25000 block of Greenbrooke Drive.

Valuables taken from home

SOUTHFIELD — At 4:38 p.m. Jan. 7, a resident reported to the Southfield Police that she had company in her home in the 20000 block of Woodburn Drive to remove an item from her home that was damaged by a storm in 2023.

After they left, she noticed that her wedding ring and some personal documents were missing from the home.

Officer apprehends driver under the influence of Xanax TROY — At approximately 4 a.m. Jan. 1, officers were dispatched to the area West Maple and Crooks roads area for a report of a possibly intoxicated driver who was driving on the rims of his vehicle. Upon arrival, officers observed a 2020 Chevrolet Traverse stopped in the left lane with the hazard lights on and recent damage to the front of the vehicle.

Officers spoke to the driver, a 69-year-old male from Clawson, who was

turned over to the detective bureau, pending blood test results.

Intoxicated driver apprehended on New Year’s Day TROY — At 3:27 a.m. Jan. 1, officers initiated a traffic stop around E. Big Beaver and John R roads due to the driver of a 2018 Jeep Compass reportedly committing multiple traffic violations. Upon speaking with the driver, a 30-year-old male from St. Clair Shores, officers noted he had slurred speech and that there was an odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle. The driver reportedly performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations. He submitted to a preliminary breath test, which came back with a result of .226%.

The driver was arrested and transported to the Troy Police Department. During an inventory search of his vehicle, officers located a flask in the back seat passenger area that contained alcohol.

The driver submitted to a chemical breath test, with results of

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