5/23/24 Troy Times

FORCE Team arrests 6 in auto theft ring with help of local police

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

The state’s Focused Organized Retail Crime Enforcement team has arrested six members of a crew suspected of stealing over 400 vehicles in southeast Michigan.

The alleged criminal ring targets new vehicle storage lots at manufacturing facilities, as well as car dealerships, parking lots and individual residences. State Attorney General Dana Nessel said the operation is alleged to have operated in over 40 jurisdictions in Oakland, Washtenaw, Macomb and Wayne counties, with other instances occurring in Eaton and Kent counties.

The stolen vehicles are worth approximately $8 million, though the Nessel’s department said the stolen vehicles are sold below market value on the black market to buyers seeking unregistered vehicles.

The stolen vehicles have been linked to armed robberies, weapons offenses, felony evasion of police, car-jackings, murder and attempted murder, according to Nessel.

Sheriff hosts town hall to address high-end home robberies

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

BLOOMFIELD HILLS — A recent town hall meeting drew more attention to an issue that has been a source of concern for some Oakland County residents going back at least as far as last year.

More than 200 people attended a meeting at Christ Church

Cranbrook in Bloomfield Hills May 13 to address concerns about international organized gangs that have been targeting affluent neighborhoods in the county, according to a press release from state Rep. Donni Steele.

“Obviously, the Bloomfields have been very much in the crosshairs, Birmingham, Novi, Franklin, Farmington, Hills, Oakland Township, Rochester. I mean, you can name a bunch

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard addresses a May 13 town hall meeting at Christ Church Cranbrook in Bloomfield Hills.

See SHERIFF on page 10A

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The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Without power, your everyday modern essentials are rendered useless. Think about it, you’ll have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most. It’s time to get serious about preparing your home.

Trusted Protection During Unpredictable Weather

The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Without power, your everyday modern essentials are rendered useless. Think about it, you’ll have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most. It’s time to get serious about preparing your home.

Call or go online today for more information

Call or go online today for more information

The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Without power, your everyday modern essentials are rendered useless. Think about it, you’ll have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most. It’s time to get serious about preparing your home.

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SECOND FRONT PAGE

3A/ TROY TIMES • MAY 23, 2024

City Council adopts ‘bread-and-butter’ budget

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Troy’s planned $194.5 million city budget for 2024-25 intends to focus on public safety, infrastructure and recreational services.

The proposed budget was introduced at a special City Council meeting April 15 and was unanimously approved by the Troy City Council May 13.

“This budget in particular really is, I think, it’s more of a bread-and-butter budget,” Troy Mayor Ethan Baker said. “It’s not so much aspirational with big ideas and big projects. It’s really about the core services that you expect your local government to provide.”

The budget’s general fund shows a total of $72,426,963, with $12,065,715 for general government, $42,587,899 for public safety, $2,581,424 for public works, $5,131,506 for

community development, and $10,049,719 for recreation and culture. In contrast, the budget for 2023-24 totaled at $200.5 million between all funds.

“The 2024-2025 budget is similar to last year’s in that public safety and public infrastructure are two major priorities,” Dylan Clark, assistant to the Troy city manager, said in an email. “That said, a key difference between the fiscal year

See BUDGET on page 20A

Pitching core, long ball specialist find Colts ways to win

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

When you play in a district with the talent Troy baseball will inevitably have to face in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament, your out-of-conference schedule becomes more of a test of strength and will.

There could be a case made for the Oakland Activities Association being the toughest conference in the state from a topto-bottom standpoint, and Troy (25-6) has seen every bit of it this year.

The Colts fought through the OAA Blue to set themselves up for a potential league-winning season and faced non-league teams such as West Bloomfield (OAAWhite/No. 7 D1), Clarkston (OAA-Red) and Rochester (OAA-Red) to see where they stack up. The Colts have also faced the likes of Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice, the consensus No. 1 ranked team in the state, and Detroit Catholic Central (No. 5 D1) to add to their resume. The Colts are currently in first in the OAA Blue.

See BASEBALL on page 6A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Troy sophomore Gabe Geisner collects a hit during a matchup against Madison Heights Bishop Foley May 18 at Bishop Foley High School.

Students participate in salmon-raising project

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Classrooms from four Troy School District schools participated in a project that allowed students to assist in taking care of a batch of Chinook salmon before releasing them into the Clinton River at River Bends Park in Shelby Township May 9. The project is through the Michigan

Department of Natural Resources, and the purpose is to give students a unique experience that connects them to their Great Lakes ecosystem. During this procedure of hatching, raising and releasing the salmon, students conducted water testing, fed the salmon and ensured they were well taken care of.

Marie Woodman, a science curriculum and instruction specialist for the Troy School See SALMON on page 11A

Photo provided by the Troy School District

Representatives from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and Shadbush-Burgess Nature Center helped the students.

Library promotes sustainability with challenges, programs

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Patrons of the Troy Public Library can learn about the different ways to implement sustainability into their lives through programs offered by the library in collaboration with 86 Plastic.

Sustainability refers to the different changes that can be implemented over time within a person’s life in order to make environmental, economic and social improvements for themselves and the world around them, according to the library.

“Our patrons care a lot about sustainability, but figuring out where to begin can be tricky,” Olivia Olson, head of community engagement at Troy Public Library, said in a press release. “That’s why we decided to create a fun and educational activity for anyone trying to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. With help from Claire Mahler at 86 Plastic, we came up with some easy, realistic activities for people of all ages, and the feedback has been fantastic.”

A sustainability challenge is being of-

fered to library patrons of all ages until May 24. There are challenge checklists for kids, teens and adults. Once participants complete 10 of the activities listed on the checklists, they can turn it into the Adult Reference Desk or Outreach@troypl.org to receive a sticker. A few random winners will receive a special grand-prize basket.

Some of the sustainability suggestions on the checklists include utilizing library services more often as the library offers a wide variety of things to check out beyond books, researching ethical environmental changes through different forms of media, picking up litter, and spending more time outside, among other suggestions.

86 Plastic store owner Claire Mahler said in an email that Olson asked her to meet to see how they could collaborate on some sustainability events and projects for the community.

“We brainstormed some ideas and landed on a sustainability challenge for Earth Month through the library,” she said in an email. “Olivia also mentioned that holding a

See SUSTAINABILITY on page 8A

Baseball

from page 3A

Aside from embodying the mantra of “if you’re going to be the best, you have to beat the best,” Troy understands the challenges that lie ahead of them in districts, which Troy last won in 2019.

Top-ranked teams like Birmingham Groves (No. 8 D1) and Birmingham Seaholm (No. 6 D1) will stand in the way of the Colts alongside two league rivals in Royal Oak and Berkley.

Playing the toughest teams out there helped Troy learn something about themselves, and even in a 4-3 extra-inning win against hometown rival Troy Athens, Troy first-year head coach Joe D’Orazio said his guys continue to fight no matter the opponent or score.

“It’s something we pride ourselves on,” D’Orazio said. “As a first-year coach here at Troy, it’s what I wanted our MO to be, which was to find ways, be gritty and compete. We’ve been resilient. We haven’t shied away from playing the highest competition possible with our non-league (schedule).”

Troy would take two out of three against Athens, setting them up comfortably in a situation where Troy controlled its own destiny in the league.

The Colts can throw a pitching rotation out there as good as anyone in the OAA featuring an array of arms that would more than qualify to take the ball in a must-win game.

Senior Jon Whiteside, known for his work on the basketball court for the Colts, headlines the rotation as a Lan-

See BASEBALL on page 22A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Troy senior Clark Anderson slides into second base.

Athens pianist earns top award at Michigan Music Festival

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Saisha Srivatsan, a senior at Athens High School, was awarded the 90 Point Cup at the Michigan Music Festival for her piano performance March 4 at the Rochester Conservatory of Music.

Srivatsan started playing piano when she was 6 and was inspired to learn by watching her older sister play.

“Some of my earliest memories are of her playing her songs and me dancing alongside,” Saisha said in an email. “I immediately gravitated towards the instrument and knew it was something I would want to pursue.”

She began learning to play the piano from Carole Gilman, who has also taught Srivatsan’s sister.

“My sister used to study under her, and prior to learning from Ms. Gilman, I spent lots of time listening in on lessons,” Srivatsan said in an email. “Through that experience, I became very comfortable with her and began my studies. I am very lucky to have gotten to learn the piano from her, because her enthu-

siasm and care for her students constantly inspires me to be a better person. She has not only helped me find a passion for music but has also given me courage to perform even when I was unsure of myself.”

Srivatsan said she generally enjoys playing classical music, and some of her favorites are “Moonlight Sonata Movement 2,” by Beethoven, and “Waltz in C# Minor,” by Chopin. She has also enjoyed playing the ragtime piece by Scott Joplin called “The Entertainer,” and a contemporary piece by Melody Bober called “Amazing Arizona.” With this in mind, her musical interests have expanded beyond the piano.

“It has been exciting to watch Saisha’s musical journey over the past 12 years. She has grown from being a playful little firstgrader to a passionate, mature musician,” Nirmala Srivatsan, Saisha’s mother, said in an email. “She truly enjoys music in all forms and has a wide range of musical interests.” Nirmala Srivatsan said Saisha has played the cello for the orchestras since fifth grade; has trained as a vocalist in Carnatic

See PIANIST on page 13A

Photo by: Lori Hannon

Sustainability

from page 5A

class about sustainability would be a good tie in with the challenge.”

“I want to be involved in the community in as many ways as possible, but especially when people want to learn more about environmentalism,” Mahler said in an email.

“Through my store I have learned that reducing waste and being more conscious is all about learning the impact of what we consume, what to replace it with, and ultimately, know that no one is 100% zero-waste. We need to be kind to ourselves, over-consumerism and plastic pollution are problems that we did not create, but there are things we can do to be a part of the solution.”

Mahler hopes that the library and other public spaces, businesses and schools will continue to invite her to talk about reducing plastic waste.

For more information visit, troypl.org/services/all_ages/challenges.php.

Photo provided by the Troy Public Library

Claire Mahler owns 86 Plastic.

NEWS & NOTES

Charity Night to raise funds for endowments

The Troy Community Foundation’s Troy Charity Night will be held 5:30-7 p.m. May 30 at Walsh College’s Barry Center, 3838 Livernois Road.

The event costs $25 per person, and tickets include drinks and hors d’oeuvres. A $50 donation will be made by the Troy Community Foundation on behalf of each attendee to help grow a TCF endowment of attendees’ choice.

For more information on the 14 endowment funds, visit troycf.org/donate. Capacity is limited, organizers said. Visit troycf. org/charitynight2024 for ticket information.

Stagecrafters to present ‘Sunset Boulevard’ May 31-June 23

ROYAL OAK — Stagecrafters in downtown Royal Oak will tell the story of film star Norma Desmond and her complex relationship with Joe Gillis in the musical adaptation of “Sunset Boulevard.”

From May 31 to June 23, Stagecrafters will be putting on the show at the Baldwin Theatre Main Stage, 415 S. Lafayette Ave.

“Set in 1949 Hollywood, the story explores themes of ambition, fame, and the darker sides of the movie industry,” according to a press release.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit stagecrafters.org.

Women’s Association awards scholarships

The Troy Women’s Association recently awarded $1,000 scholarships to eight local women who have donated hundreds of hours of their time and talent to the community.

The winners are Athens High School seniors Kara Crepeau and Marlien William; Troy High School seniors Dana Garcia, Allison Giroux and Arunima Vasudev; University of Michigan student Nancy Xu; Chamberlain University student Donisha Holloway (not pictured); and Oakland University student Melanie Semma (not pictured). Also pictured is Sherry Cormier Kuhn, the president of the Troy Women’s Association.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony held for new resource center

WATERFORD — A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held April 25 for the Open Door Outreach Life Skills Resource Center in Waterford.

The center opened to help people with topics such as financial literacy, managing budgets, interview skills, resume writing, smartphone tips and more.

Work stations and computers are available on designated days and times.

For more information, send an email to ddanhausen@ opendooroutreachcenter.com or call (248) 360-2931.

of them, but, obviously, the Bloomfields have been very much part of the targeting,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said at the event.

He said that two teams have been arrested in Oakland County.

“All seven were from Chile and violated the Visa Waiver Program.” He said that just the Chilean gangs alone are estimated to have more than 100 teams in the country of three-six people each. He said they study homes with cameras and trail cams to research their targets.

“Sometimes they’ve used trackers on cars, and sometimes we’ve now seen drones. … So they try to determine when you move, when you come and go, when you’re out of town, when you’re out to dinner, what your patterns of life are.”

He said Michigan has seen mainly Chilean crime gangs, but other parts of the U.S. are seeing gangs from Columbia.

The Chileans criminal crews are contact averse and will flee if they see someone at the home, Bouchard said.

“Columnbians are not so contact averse, so they have been more violent in other parts

of the country. We’ve seen mostly the Chileans. … That has been a pattern, but it’s not something we can count on. We know for a fact that Columbians were in our county two weeks ago.”

He said the Visa Waiver Program is part of the problem because it does not include vital safeguards. Currently, it is only offered for Chile.

“We’ve asked the (Biden) administration to shut the VWP off until there’s some kind of handle on how many teams and people are coming here, because that doesn’t mean they can’t come visit — just have to get a traditional visa. … But so far that program has not been terminated or even put on pause, and in fact, Columbia has an application pending now for the VWP. So that’s a concern to us, because we can’t get a handle on how many teams are operating here and we may catch a team or two or three or even 10, but if there’s a 100 and 100 more in the pipeline — because they’re well trained.”

He said that the crews come in with equipment to breach the home, jam the wireless alarm systems and carry out heavy safes.

“They’re all ninja’d up,” he said.

He recommended having a hard-wired motion detector on every floor, considering a safety deposit box instead of a safe, and put-

ting the home’s police department number in your phone contacts so you can call the right number if you see someone on cameras while you are out of town, since a 911 call would route to the vacation-area police. He also said people should not announce their tips on social media.

“One of the best ways to prevent yourself from being a crime victim is to be situationally aware and to know steps you can take to better protect yourself and your family,” Bouchard said in a press release. In December, Bouchard organized a task force of more than 20 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies — the Southeast Michigan Capture/Arrest/Prosecute task force — and the town hall event was sponsored by Michigan Realtors, the North Oakland County Board of Realtors, and the Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtors.

The meeting was hosted by Bouchard, with Bloomfield Township Police Chief James Gallager and Bloomfield Hills Police Department Capt. Tom Van Simaeys.

Last September, Bouchard held a news conference about a transnational crime ring consisting of organized and trained thieves targeting certain areas of the United States and breaking into homes, with the intent of stealing cash and jewelry, and high-end clothing, purses and products.

Teams of criminals from Central and South America have reportedly targeted wealthy homes, stealing millions of dollars worth of jewelry, cash and other items, according to the release.

Last year it was reported that the thieves had begun targeting homes with the highest net value in Oakland Township.

Bouchard reported that the belief is that the thieves have entered the country illegally across the southern border or through the Visa Waiver Program.

They typically break in around 5-9 p.m., preferring homes that are isolated and back up to wooded areas, trails and golf courses, and in which nobody is home.

Bouchard reported that the thieves purchase fake identifications, often overstay their visas and cancel their return dates.

At the townhall meeting, Bouchard warned that international gangs arrive in teams sent intentionally for robberies, with each gang member having a backpack with specialized equipment, including breaching tools, alarm jams and more.

“I don’t think people realize the full extent of what’s happening in Oakland County,” Steele stated in the release. “The number of people at the town hall showed just how scared people are. Homeowners in Oakland

page 4A

District, said in a press release that the project connected students from elementary to high school, adding that the high school students taught lessons to the middle and elementary students.

This is the second year Troy students have participated in this project, and the classes included Michelle Dodson’s AP environmental students at Athens High School, Nate Reynolds’ seventh grade students from Boulan Park Middle School, Colleen Cain’s seventh grade students from Larson Middle School and Scott Binford’s fourth grade students from Martell Elementary.

“Raising Chinook salmon in the classroom was more than just a project, it was a journey of discovery and connection,” Larson Middle School seventh grader Ian Guilbault said in an email. “From raising them through their life cycles to releasing them into the water, every moment was a step towards helping these salmon in the wild.”

Starting in November, the students harvested eggs from fish in their classrooms, watching as the eggs morphed into the sac stage and hatched. They fed the young salmon, or smolts, and closely monitored

their classroom tanks to make sure they were exactly 52 degrees. They then carefully modulated the water temperature to match the Clinton River watershed.

“We were in charge of testing the water leading up to the introduction of the salmon eggs,” Boulan Park Middle School seventh graders Ella Stokes and Erin Christensen said in an email. “It was really fun seeing the changes in the color testing. We were really good at getting a yellow ammonia test. We are very excited for the incoming 7th graders to get to have the same experience.”

Around 250 fish were eventually released into the wild, guided by DNR conservation officers. Guests from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and the Shadbush-Burgess Nature Center were also present.

The young fish will spend up to two months in the Clinton River before migrating to Lake St. Clair to grow and potentially move on to one of the Great Lakes. The salmon will likely face many challenges and predators, but the ones who make it two years or more could return to the waters of River Bends Park to find their environmental imprint, and to spawn the next generation, which would complete their cycle of life.

For more information, visit troy.k12. mi.us or michigan.gov/dnr.

OP. ED. - WE MUST STOP CRIMINALIZING TROY RESIDENTS

As an attorney who lives and works in Troy, I am often confronted with the efects of our City’s laws such as misdemeanor (criminal) charges, municipal violations, to trafc tickets of all favors. As you can imagine, I have frsthand experience in how our local laws afect the lives of our families, friends, and neighbors.

Over the course of the last 18 years, I have witnessed the absurd application of these antiquated laws and policies. Simple acts, such as not having a license on your person at the moment, or having a temporarily lapsed insurance on the vehicle, are prosecuted as criminal acts.

For illustration, if a Troy resident is issued a ticket for not having a License on their Person (because they forgot it at home) they pay fnes, costs, are placed on probation, and threatened with jail. In other words, simple trafc ofenses are relentlessly prosecuted by our city attorney pursuant to an unjust ‘policy.’

Tese injustices are being committed in our names. After all, each prosecution begins with the caption: “Te People of the City ofTroy.” Ultimately, we are prosecuting our own friends and neighbors, husbands, wives and children, Troy residents all. As you can imagine, nobody is coming from Ohio to violate our ill thought-out laws.

Not only does overzealous prosecution have consequences, but elections do as well. It is my sincere hope that the upcoming election will lead us to seek the accountability of those who prosecute in our name. I am calling upon Council to review and update our archaic ordinances and demand the end of policies whose sole efect is to make criminals out of the citizens of the City of Troy.

REN NUSHAJ, Attorney / Prosecutor

Ren@MichiganTreeIntiative.org

Photos provided by the Troy School District

Students and staff from Troy District Schools released salmon into the Clinton River at River Bends Park May 9.

County are living in constant fear that their homes may be next on the hit list. This is the kind of fear that makes you jump at every shadow you see in the window and go to sleep with the lights on.”

Steele said she supports a House Republican plan to target criminals illegally entering the country on behalf of transnational criminal organizations. House Bill 5650 would increase penalties for crimes committed to benefit transnational crime organizations and for felonies committed by individuals who return to the country illegally after being deported, according to the release.

“We’re not talking about kids stealing stuff out of a garage,” Steele stated. “These are professional criminals who illegally entered our country to wreak havoc on our communities.”

The bill was referred to the House Government Operations Committee, according to the release.

Making sure that home security systems are on and tested, with quality cameras and layered systems throughout a home, along with securing valuables in a heavy-duty safe that is anchored, are some measures that homeowners can take.

Residents are also encouraged to contact law enforcement if they see something suspicious.

Staff Writers Mary Genson and Mary Beth Almond contributed to this report.

Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.

“Many foot problems in people with diabetes occur when injuries and infections go unnoticed and untreated. Healing can be delayed due to decreased feeling in the feet (neuropathy) and poor circulation. I will evaluate your feet regularly to detect any changes early, before they become a problem. Call me for an appointment and I will work with you to keep your feet healthy.”

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Concerned residents line up to speak at the event. According to a press release, nearly 200 people attended the town hall meeting that focused on robberies that have taken place of high-end homes in Oakland County.

Pianist

from page 7A

music, which is an Indian classical music form; and enjoys listening to Bollywood music, pop and K-pop.

For the Michigan Music Festival, Srivatsan has been competing since she was 6. The festival holds annual events where students who are studying instruments in the strings, woodwind and brass sections, as well as those who play piano, are judged on their performances and awarded points. Elementary and middle school students are judged on their performances of solo pieces and can earn up to a maximum of 5 points per year, while high school students are judged on solo and concerto pieces and are awarded up to a maximum of 13 points per year.

“Most of the solos take many weeks to practice and the concertos take more than a couple months to perfect,” Saisha said in an email. “Ms. Gilman usually gives us the music in April or May, a couple of months after festival, to prepare for the next one. However, I do not just practice the solos and concertos but rather spend time doing finger building exercises.”

She said that, in the higher levels, they use Hanon to help with speed and accuracy

of notes to increase their technicality.

“For me, even after 12 years, I still get nervous sitting and waiting for the judge to call me into the room to perform,” Srivatsan said in an email. “The judge will then listen to you perform and take notes, providing a final score out of 100 for the performance of

See PIANIST on page 17A

Photo provided by Saisha Srivatsan and Carole Gilman Saisha Srivatsan has won awards through the Michigan Music Festival.

CRIME WATCH

Man loses over $400K on gold exchange scam

A man told police that from Oct. 23 to Feb. 21, he has invested $460,000 with a woman he met online who he thought was associated with a legitimate gold exchange.

When he inquired about taking some of his earnings out, the victim was informed he had to pay a tax penalty before accessing his money. A family member of the victim recognized it as a scam.

Woman with arrest warrant apprehended after driving under the influence

Officers initiated a traffic stop at 2:27 a.m. April 27 for the driver of a 2015 Honda Accord who appeared to be failing to maintain lane control in the area of Dequindre Road and Teasdale Drive.

While speaking with the driver, a 37-year-old Sterling Heights woman, officers noted that her eyes were bloodshot and glassy, her speech was slurred, and there was an odor of intoxicants emanating from her. She denied drinking any alcohol, but stated she had taken three Xanax pills for which she said she has a prescription.

Officers noted she performed poorly on several sobriety evaluations and she refused to submit to a preliminary breath test.

The driver was arrested and was found to have a war-

rant for her arrest and an invalid driver’s license. During an inventory search of her vehicle, officers located a prescription bottle with no label that contained four pills of 1 mg alprazolam and one pill of 10 mg hydrocodone.

In lockup, the driver was read her chemical test rights and agreed to submit to a blood test. Her blood was drawn by medical personnel. The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for appropriate warrants once the blood results are returned.

Knife found on intoxicated driver

A traffic stop around west Big Beaver Road and north Adams Road was initiated on the driver of a 2008 Toyota Prius for multiple traffic violations at 4:17 a.m. May 4.

Upon speaking with the driver, a 20-year-old man, officers noted that his pupils were dilated, his speech was hesitant, and he appeared agitated. When asked, the driver told them that he’d had one beer to drink earlier in the night, and he denied taking any drugs.

The driver was asked to exit the vehicle for sobriety testing, and he consented to a pat-down prior to testing. Officers located an approximately 6-inch-long knife in a sheath underneath his shirt on the left side of his body.

The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.00%.

The driver was arrested and transported to the Troy po-

NEW

lice lockup. While he was there, officers located 96 Adderall pills in the driver’s property. He agreed to submit to a blood test, and his blood was drawn by medical personnel.

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

Facebook Marketplace rental listing revealed to be a scam

From April 22 to 30, a resident of Troy Center Drive reported that he communicated with a lessor about a Birmingham home for rent listing on Facebook Marketplace. He was able to look at the home in person, and he then sent $2,200 to the suspect via Zelle and Apple gift cards for the deposit before becoming suspicious.

The victim later learned that the home was currently listed for sale, not for rent, and it was a scam.

Business receives fraudulent email related to employee’s direct deposit

A business on Rochester Road reported receiving an email May 1 from an unknown suspect claiming to be an employee.

The email asked them to change the employee’s banking information for the direct deposit of her pay. The affected employee later notified the company, which is when they discovered the email had been fraudulent.

— Sarah Wright

SMART Fixed Route serving

Auburn Hills, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Troy, Clawson, Royal Oak and Ferndale.

From Oakland University to the State Fair Transit Center via Squirrel, University/Walton, Rochester, Big Beaver, John R, Oakland Mall, Chicago, Maple, Rochester, Main, Royal Oak Transit Center, 11 Mile, Campbell/Hilton, 8 Mile/Lindsay Lane and Woodward.

Service Available Weekdays & Saturday: Hourly from 6 AM to 10 PM

Key Destinations:

Royal Oak Music Theatre

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Flex-N-Gate

Oakland Mall

Troy Continuing Education

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Hampton Village Centre

Leader Dogs For The Blind

Downtown Rochester

Ascension Providence

Rochester Hospital

Rochester High School

Meadow Brook Amphitheatre

University Square

The Village of Rochester Hills

Pianist

from page 13A

the solos or concerto. The pieces are performed from memory and the music is handed into the judge to follow along with. After performing, the scores are not immediately released but sent out to the teacher much later in the day or week. Although performing takes some of the pressure off of my shoulders, waiting for scores still is stressful.”

Srivatsan received the 90 Point Cup, which is the highest award a young musician can receive during this portion of the festival. It is a big deal for her, as it shows the hard work Srivatsan put in throughout her 12 years of study. This was made possible due to her receiving a superior rating in all solos and concertos during her previous festival experiences.

“I was very worried while waiting for my scores and found the process extremely stressful this year because of a Science Olympiad competition happening the same day,” Saisha said in an email. She said she was elated when I found out she had received the 90 Point Cup after dreaming of it for years.

Gilman said she is proud of her student’s hard work and accomplishments.

“I feel that Saisha has done a wonderful job over the last 12 years,” Gilman said in an email. “She has received a ‘superior’ rating every year at Festival. She has completed all her ear training and has won Student of the Year awards for 5 consecutive years at Carole’s School of Music. She leads by example and encourages all my students to do well. Teaching Saisha has been a wonderful experience. She is truly a joy to work with and I will miss her when she graduates.”

Srivatsan plans to attend the University of Michigan in the fall and pursue a pre-law major. She is also considering pursuing music in some form while at college, either as a minor degree or through the campus orchestra.

“I think music has become such a big part of my life — I will never not want to play the piano or give it up altogether,” Srivatsan said in an email. “Some of my favorite music experiences have been through playing the piano, whether that is through festivals or at high school concerts. It has been such a rewarding experience for me and I do not ever plan on stopping my playing.”

Photo provided by Saisha Srivatsan and Carole Gilman Saisha Srivatsan and her music teacher, Carole Gilman.

BEHIND THE WHEEL

18A/ TROY TIMES • MAY 23, 2024

Do you own a vehicle with an interesting history?

Contact Staff Writer Maria Allard at allard@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1045, and you could be featured in an upcoming Behind the Wheel. For more stories, visit candgnews.com/news/auto or use the QR code.

Dodge Super Bee 1970 creates a buzZ

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

If you were to dig into Mike Mazelis’ vehicle history, you’d find someone who, at one time, had an interest in off-road trucks.

“I was always going out into the mud and mud-bogging and things like that,” he said. “I was always breaking the truck. Every time I’d come back, I’d have to fix something new.”

Eventually, the Warren resident switched gears and found a new pastime: muscle cars. In 2008, while perusing Craigslist, Mazelis found out about a 1970 Dodge Super Bee for sale in Hazel Park. He decided to check out the car, but when he did, it didn’t look like much.

“It was just a shell. There’s nothing on it but wheels. There’s no interior, there’s no engine,” he said. “The engine, transmission and all these boxes were just next to the car.”

Even though he “didn’t have any tools or knowledge” of restoring the car, he purchased the vehicle anyway.

“Everybody’s like, ‘How are you going to do this?” Mazelis, 51, said. “‘How are you even going to put this car together?’”

Mazelis learned from friends, watched YouTube videos and did plenty of reading to learn how to build the Super Bee.

“I spent almost every day of two years to get the car on the road, learning as I went, buying tools as I went,” Mazelis said. “A lot of trial and error.”

He made the car his own, including the sublime green paint job and addition of comfortable seats.

“It’s got a five-speed manual transmission in there. It had an automatic before. I

When Warren resident Mike Mazelis found his 1970 Dodge Super Bee in 2008, “It was just a shell.” Mazelis created the Detroit Area Only Twisted Axle Car Club on social media. The club meets at 7 p.m. every Friday at Gratiot Coney Island, 28560 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville.

Photos by Maria Allard

Auto thefts

from page 1A

The group is suspected of using countersurveillance to steal vehicles quickly and efficiently, allegedly shooting at officers and ramming security vehicles if confronted.

“The activities of criminal organizations like these go far beyond theft,” Nessel said in a press release. “They cause millions in financial losses to our retail partners, sow fear, and endanger lives. Vehicles stolen as part of this criminal enterprise go on to become tools in violence, posing additional threats to public safety. I commend the hard work of the FORCE Team, Troy Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies to investigate and dismantle this operation.”

The Troy Police Department has been investigating this crime ring since August of last year and partnered with the FORCE Team in early 2024 to bring down this expansive criminal organization, officials said.

Other agencies involved include police agencies in Auburn Hills, Canton, Dearborn, Detroit, Eastpointe, Farmington Hills, Lansing, Livonia, Novi, Roseville, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, Southfield, Walled Lake and Warren, as well as the Oakland County Auto Theft Group and the Macomb County Auto Theft Unit.

“I am extremely proud of the work that has been done by my staff and all of the participating agencies to arrest and prosecute these violent and reckless criminals,” Troy Police Chief Frank Nastasi said in a press release. “Auto theft has been a significant crime trend in our region that has impacted both the residents and many community stakeholders. In addition to the economic impact of auto theft, the violent and reckless manner in which these individuals operated put all of us in danger. I deeply appreciate the work of each of the officers on the frontline yesterday morning as they stepped up to protect the residents of the State of Michigan. I also thank the State Attorney General’s Office for their guidance and resources during this complex investigation.”

Currently, the Troy Police Department has reported a rough estimate of around 40 vehicles stolen in 2024, with some of them related to the activity of the car theft ring.

“Officers in our Special Investigations Unit, which includes Officers from Troy, Bloomfield Township, Royal Oak, Auburn Hills, and Birmingham, have worked tirelessly to identify and gather evidence on several of those who are most responsible for this dangerous crime trend,” Troy Officer Benjamin L. Hancock said in email. “As they progressed through the case it was evident that the cooperation of local, state, and federal law enforcement partners would be crucial for a successful enforcement outcome.”

The Troy police and over 200 officers from more than a dozen other state, federal and local law enforcement agencies executed eight arrest warrants against southeast Michigan men May 15. Six are in custody, and officers have recovered seven stolen vehicles, hundreds of car parts linked to stolen vehicles, a large quantity of electronic key fobs, stolen dealership license plates, burglary tools — including some devices specifically for stealing cars — thousands in cash, and a significant volume of additional evidence, including nine guns.

“Policing relies on teamwork,” Col. James F. Grady II, the director of the Michigan State Police, said in a press release. “We depend on each other to effectively serve the public. This case is an excellent example of that collaboration. Yesterday’s operation will make an immediate positive impact on public safety as we continue to build a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure.”

Each defendant has been charged with conducting a criminal enterprise and the use of a computer to commit a crime, both 20-year felonies, along with other charges:

• Kevin Lamont Stevenson Jr., 21, of Detroit, has been additionally charged with nine counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.

• Joseph David Doyle, 25, of Onsted, has been additionally charged with six counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.

• Braylen Jeese Green, 20, of Wixom, has been additionally charged with nine counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.

• Dejhon Trevon Bush, 20, of Detroit, has been additionally charged with seven counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle.

• Zamarr Terrell Johnson, 18, of Troy, has been additionally charged with 12 counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle, and two counts of fourth-degree fleeing or eluding.

• Desmond Maurice Wilson, 21, of Detroit, has been additionally charged with nine counts of receiving and concealing a stolen motor vehicle, and one count of breaking and entering with intent.

Police are working to locate and arrest two additional suspects.

“In my tenure of 30-plus years, I have never seen such bold and brazen thefts from new car auto dealerships,” Rod Alberts, the co-executive director of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, said in a press release. “This has become an epidemic of organized criminals preying on businesses in our communities and putting law enforcement and the general public in harm’s way, not just during the theft itself, but on the streets after they have stolen the vehicles. I want to thank the Attorney General and her staff for the steps and actions they have taken. It will make a difference.”

The investigation is ongoing, and the officials are working to establish cases against other members of the auto theft ring, as well as the buyers of the stolen vehicles. Each of the six defendants is presently jailed at various locations throughout Oakland and Macomb counties. No dates have yet been set by the court for subsequent proceedings, and attorneys for the suspects could not be reached by press time.

CITY

OF

TROY

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND

CHAPTER 20 - CITY OF TROY ORDINANCE

The City of Troy ordains:

Section 1. Short Title

This Ordinance shall be known and may be cited as an amendment to Chapter 20- City of Troy Ordinance.

Section 2. Amendment

Sections 5.01 and 5.02 shall be amended as follows:

5.01 Water Rates. Charges for water service to each premises within the City connected with the water supply system, for each quarterly (3 month) period, shall be $51.30 per 1,000 cubic feet. Minimum quarterly bills shall be $41.55

Private fre service lines shall be billed at a rate equal to four (4) times the minimum water bill.

Charges for water service to premises outside the City shall be 150% of those for water service within the City.

5.02 Sewer Rates

A. Charges for sewage disposal, operation and maintenance service shall be levied upon all premises having any sewer connection with the public sewers.

Those premises using metered water shall pay $35.30 dollars per 1,000 cubic foot of water consumption for sewage disposal and maintenance charges.

Where there is no water meter the sewage disposal and maintenance charges shall be $176.50

Water lines used solely for fre protection shall be exempt from sewage disposal and maintenance charges.

B. 1. Rates and charges established are based upon methodology which complies with applicable EPA regulations. 2. Users of the system must be individually notifed annually of costs for operation, maintenance, replacement and debt service.

C. A ready to serve charge shall be levied on each quarterly bill in the amount of $28.59 dollars less any amount for current consumption up to the maximum of the ready to serve charge.

Section 3. Repeal

All ordinances or parts of ordinances in confict herewith are hereby repealed only to the extent necessary to give this ordinance full force and effect.

Section 4. Savings

All proceedings pending, and all rights and liabilities existing, acquired or incurred, at the time this Ordinance takes effect, are hereby saved. Such proceedings may be consummated under and according to the ordinance in force at the time such proceedings were commenced. This ordinance shall not be construed to alter, affect, or abate any pending prosecution, or prevent prosecution hereafter instituted under any ordinance specifcally or impliedly repealed or amended by this ordinance adopting this penal regulation, for offenses committed prior to the effective date of this ordinance; and new prosecutions may be instituted and all prosecutions pending at the effective date of this ordinance may be continued, for offenses committed prior to the effective date of this ordinance, under and in accordance with the provisions of any ordinance in force at the time of the commission of such offense.

Section 5. Severability Clause

Should any word, phrase, sentence, paragraph or section of this Ordinance be held invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provision of this ordinance shall remain in full force and effect.

Section 6. Effective Date

This Ordinance shall become effective July 1, 2024 or upon publication, whichever shall later occur.

This Ordinance is enacted by the Council of the City of Troy, Oakland County, Michigan, at a Regular Meeting of the City Council held at City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver, Troy, MI, on the Thirteenth day of May, 2024.

Baker, Mayor

2024 budget and this fiscal year 2025 budget is that last year saw a significant influx of federal dollars into the city. Given the special nature of that intergovernmental funding, it is not available again this year, and that is reflected in the budget.”

The funding for public safety is intended to go toward equipment and recruitment efforts, among other areas of interest.

“Our dedication to public safety is reflected with investment in equipment and K-9s, as well as the addition of the police recruitment program,” Clark said in an email. “With this, we are hiring prospective officers and covering the cost of the academy, which will be crucial in filling open positions.”

In terms of infrastructure, there is focus on repairing and replacing roads and sidewalks in different parts of Troy.

Specifically, for summer 2024, Troy residents can expect repavement efforts for Rochester Road, from Sylvan Glen to South Boulevard. During the May 13 meeting, the City Council approved awarding the contract for the Rochester Road project to AJAX Paving Industries Inc. for just under $4 million, as well as accepting permanent easement requests related to the project for public utilities and services, and authorized compensation amounts of $6,500, $10,996 and $9,200. Also in relation to the Rochester Road project, the council approved a purchase agreement for public purposes to property owners in the amount of $101,830.

In terms of recreation, some of the main areas of interest include completing the ice rink and pavilion project at Stine Park, as well as looking into staffing for the new facility, and planning events and activities.

“I’m just reminded that a budget represents values, a budget represents vision, and a budget represents you, the community,” Troy Council member Rebecca ChamberlainCreanga said. “We have done the community engagement time and time again, and we hear you say, one, public safety. That is of the utmost importance for you as a community, so that is a top priority. Two, we hear you say that our roads, our local streets, our major roads. It’s ‘fix those darn roads,’ and that’s what we’re doing. Three, we heard you, coming out of COVID, is you want more recreation, and we have heard and made real on a longtime vision. A vision that was here long before I was ever on council or lived in Troy, and that was to activate more and more of our civic space and to have this pavilion vision with the Jeanne Stine Park.”

Glen to South Boulevard.

The project amounts for other Troy city services include:

• Capital projects fund, $19,635,444.

• Refuse fund, $6,965,940.

• Library fund, $7,694,204.

• Major road fund, $9,294,129.

• Local road fund, $6,086,513.

• Transit Center, $156,120.

• Forfeiture fund, $803,370.

• Community Development Block Grant fund, $179,662.

• Cemetery fund, $1,284.

• Series 2013 and 2020 DDA EBT fund, $819,607.

• Sanctuary Lake Golf Course fund, $3,138,669.

• Sylvan Glen Golf Course fund, $1,821,500.

• Aquatic Center fund, $831,450.

• Sanitary sewer fund, $17,198,204.

• Water fund, $25,790,715.

• Building operations, $1,723,835.

• Fleet maintenance, $10,611,029.

• Information technology, $2,943,531.

• Unemployment insurance fund, $3,800.

• Worker’s compensation fund, $840,000.

• Compensated absences fund, $5,525,000.

Troy officials said they are interested in improving the library building and parks, and potentially purchasing a new fire engine in the future.

“Limited funding means there is always compromise between projects we want to see completed and what is possible,” Clark said. “We feel that staff and City Council have done a great job of finding that compromise and maximizing available funding.”

For more information, visit troymi.gov.

PUBLISHED: May 23, 2024 POSTED: May 17, 2024

Commuters in Troy drive on Rochester Road, which will soon be under construction this summer from Sylvan

Photo by Erin Sanchez

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC II City Clerk

West Big Beaver Troy, Ml 48084 troymi.gov

Super Bee

from page 18A

added the wheels that I wanted. I added some suspension upgrades. That’s a custom hood that’s on there. It’s a steel hood with a fiberglass scoop,” he said. “I’m still modifying, adding parts, doing things to the car. People that have classic cars, they always say they’re never done because they’re always fixing things.”

One change Mazelis recently made was the engine.

“The car had a 440 six pack in it. That was getting pretty tiring,” Mazelis said. “I recently put a 512 cubic inch stroker engine in there, so it makes 650 horse (power). At least 600.”

Mazelis’ main goal was to drive the car as much as possible. During the summer, most Sundays are spent cruising Lake Shore Drive with his wife, Stacy; daughter Alaina, 15; and son Evan, 11. They’ll stop for lunch somewhere or grab an ice cream.

“It’s a special thing. It’s just quality time,” Mazelis said. “I like being able to share it with my family, driving around and going places.”

The eye-catching vehicle has been fea-

tured in many shows, including Detroit Autorama. The farthest trip he’s taken in the Super Bee was an 11-hour drive to Wisconsin for a car show.

Looking to connect with other car buffs, Mazelis created the Twisted Axle Car Club on Facebook and Instagram in 2013. At first, 30 people joined the group, and then 70 car enthusiasts came aboard. After a while, the pages went global as they reached car owners in Germany, Australia and Canada.

“Now it’s 50,000 people,” Mazelis said.

From that, Mazelis started the Detroit Area Only Twisted Axle Car Club on social media. He also has a presence on social media with Dynamic Detroit Mopars on Facebook.

“A lot of these people became my best friends. The car community’s just great, always trying to help each other out,” Mazelis said. “Metro Detroit is very diverse. You have all different kinds of cars, all cars that span decades. It’s just a very rich culture that we have here.”

The Detroit Area Only Twisted Axle Car Club meets at 7 p.m. every Friday at Gratiot Coney Island, 28560 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville. All are welcome. Car enthusiasts are also encouraged to check out the website twistedaxlemotorsports.com.

sing Community College commit, featuring a fastball that sits around 89-90 mph.

“They’re (Lansing Community College) getting a really special kid,” D’Orazio said. “Just a phenomenal character and hard worker. He’s awesome. He’s got a great frame. I’m excited for him when he gets up to the next level.”

Alongside Whiteside, junior Trevor Marshall, sophomore Jack Sobotka, senior Josh Samuelson, senior Kyle Fetherolf, sophomore Cam Adams and junior Nick Aretha have been key contributors on the mound.

Sobotka has been nearly unhittable this year as a sophomore sensation, taking the ball against some of the Colts’ toughest competition this year.

Against Algonac, one of the top teams in Division 3, Sobotka went six innings while punching out 10 batters in a 12-0 win.

The best part for Sobotka is he gets to do it all with his close friend, sophomore catcher Gabe Geisner, each outing.

The duo both play for the South Oakland A’s travel baseball organization, and Geisner said they’re always in sync.

“Me and Jack (Sobotka) have some of the best chemistry I’ve ever seen in baseball,” Geisner said. “I don’t need to tell him what to do because he already knows what to do. If he misses a pitch, I don’t have to harp on him. If he knows a hitter that is weak on offspeed is up, he already knows what to throw.”

Aside from providing efficient play behind the plate, Geisner has anchored the heart of the Colts’ batting order with senior Clark Anderson (INF), who has 10 home runs on the season

Anderson has been an RBI machine for Troy and will also play for Lansing Community College next year.

“He’s got some of the most raw power I’ve ever seen as a coach,” D’Orazio said. “It’s fun to watch on a daily basis.”

Junior Carson Noon (INF), junior Miles Carter (OF), junior Davey Crockett (OF), and senior Zach Gillespie (C/INF) have also contributed to the offensive efforts.

Crockett, who hits leadoff for the Colts, does the bulk of his damage with his elite-level speed, dropping bunts as a left-handed hitter and swiping bags efficiently.

District play is set to begin May 28 as Troy will face Berkley at Birmingham Seaholm High School. Troy swept Berkley 3-0 this season.

The Colts have been battle tested all year, so preparation for district opponents won’t be an issue for D’Orazio and company.

Troy’s rotation has the ability to throw a different arm with full confidence throughout districts and has the hitting to blow games open early on.

D’Orazio said it will take everyone on the roster to make the team’s goal a reality.

“Even guys that aren’t asked to play every day, because we have a larger roster, are being great team players,” D’Orazio said. “You need that as a program and as a team that has success. That’s been a huge plus for us with the selflessness of some.”

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SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

Foster Care Month highlights need for loving homes, support for foster children

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

round 10,000 children in Michigan are currently in foster care, but the need for loving homes remains constant.

Foster mom Michele Austin decided to open up a foster closet in her own home in 2013 to give other foster families access to items that she knew foster kids needed.

“When my very first foster child came to me, he didn’t have anything, so I started talking to family and friends and opened up the closet in my home to help other foster families,” she said.

The closet grew by leaps and bounds, and in 2018 the Oakland County Foster Closet opened as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and expanded into an office building. Today, the Oakland County Foster Closet, a nonprofit based in Farmington Hills, offers supportive services, supplies and aid to children in the foster care system and to those in crisis situations at no cost.

“We offer all of the basic essentials that

kids need in life: hygiene items, clothing, socks, underwear, school supplies — everything that they would need, and we do that absolutely for free for our foster kids and for low income,” she said.

The closet is currently in dire need of hygiene items such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion toothbrushes, toothpaste and more.

“We’ve seen a significant amount of need, because people are really struggling right now,” said Austin.

The Oakland County Foster Closet also has many volunteer options available, including one-time, once-in-a-while, and weekly opportunities for individuals and groups. For more information, call the Oakland County Foster Closet (248) 419-4487.

“It’s a really fulfilling type of volunteering because you’re seeing the impact and feeling the impact,” Austin said.

May is Foster Care Month, and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel said she is thankful for the thousands of families across the state who have already opened up their

hearts and homes to care for youth in foster care, but she said more foster families are needed to provide temporary care while the state works to reunify kids with their parents.

“There continues to be a need for more foster families to provide stable and safe family homes for children of all ages in the state’s care,” Hertel said in a statement.

Many foster children have been victims of abuse and neglect, and officials say they need a nurturing environment until they can be safely reunified with their parents or — in a smaller number of cases — until they can find adoptive homes if it’s not safe for them to return home.

In Michigan, the first step to becoming a foster parent is contacting a “foster care navigator” — experienced foster parents who can answer questions, help individuals find an agency that’s right for them, assist families with the foster home licensing process and provide guidance along their journey to becoming a foster parent. A foster care navigator can be reached at 855-MICHKIDS or www.Fcnp.org.

See CHILDREN on page 27A

Volunteers assist at the dessert table during a past Spaulding for Children holiday party for foster families at First Baptist Institutional Church.

Photo provided by Spaulding for Children

Community Choice Foundation continues to ‘Give Big’ with scholarship awards

A credit union is more than a fnancial institution. It’s a community pillar, a job of which is to add strength to the lives of its individual members and the community as a whole.

Founded in 2008 in the grip of the Great Recession, Community Choice Credit Union’s Community Choice Foundation Scholarship Program has awarded a total of $1.6 million in scholarships to 346 recipients over the 15-year life of the program.

“We are one of the largest credit union scholarship programs nationally,” said Kevin McAlpine, CFRE, the foundation’s executive director.

“Currently, we award scholarships to graduating high school seniors, people going into the skilled trades and those continuing their education.”

Tis year, 25 scholars received awards out of a feld of more than 2,500 applicants. A total of $100,000 is awarded annually.

“Te Community Choice Foundation is committed to supporting local causes and nonproft organizations through volunteerism in communities around Michigan where members and team members live, work and play,” McAlpine said. “Te Foundation supports the ‘Give Big’ philosophy of cre-

ating sustained and lasting impact on people’s lives, including causes and nonproft organizations we care about that make a positive difference. We believe in the power of giving back to our community, and with the endless support of our members and team members, we make a tremendous impact on our community by volunteering thousands of hours each year.”

McAlpine added, “Te ability

ways Community Choice Credit Union gives back through the generosity of its members and team members. Other opportunities to “Give Big” include seven Backto-School Bashes at our Hillsdale, Jackson, Livonia, Muskegon - Harvey Street, Roseville, Warren & Wyandotte member centers, where more than 3,200 backpacks will be provided for local students heading

to continue our tradition of giving means a tremendous amount to the entire Community Choice organization. We’d like to send a huge thank you to our members, team members and business partners whose support has made the program a success.”

Scholarship sponsorship opportunities are available.

Te program is just one of the

back to the classroom. Interested in supporting local children with the tools needed to thrive? Sponsorship opportunities are available, and donations can be made online at communitychoicefoundation.org.

For more information about Community Choice Credit Union, the scholarship program and the Community Choice Foundation, visit CommunityChoice.com

REFLECT ON THE BEST BACKYARD POND BUILDING OPTIONS

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

With spring in full bloom and the summer drawing near, more people are feeling the urge to head to the water. But for suburban homeowners, is it possible to gaze upon some calming aquatic scenery without living along a lake or taking a trip to the beach?

Pond maintenance experts say yes.

Matt Niemiec, aquatic manager at AguaFina Gardens International in Sylvan Lake, said a typical backyard pond could fit in a space as small as 10 feet by 10 feet.

“And obviously, you can go as big as you want,” Niemiec said.

Nick Salvatore, owner of the Sterling Heights-based online business The Pond Shop, said in an email that ponds can be constructed to fit almost any space.

“That’s the great thing about decorative ponds,” he said. “They can be small to quite large depending on the customer’s wants and yard space.”

ABOVE: Rocks surround a pond outside The Pond Shop, an online business located along Mound Road in Sterling Heights. CleanPond.com is a website affiliated with The Pond Shop. LEFT: For ponds stocked with fish, it’s important to have a filtration system in place that will suit the number of creatures living in it.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Shutterstock image

Salvatore explained that it’s important to consider a pond’s size and function before building one.

“If a customer wants to have beautiful plants, fish, or to just hear the soothing sounds of water, they can easily create it with a little vision and getting their hands dirty,” he explained.

Salvatore said The Pond Shop offers pond kits that include a pond liner, pump, filtration equipment and more. He said the kits let their owners “use their visions and creativity to create pieces of visual and functional art, by mimicking Mother Nature.”

Niemiec said it’s common to incorporate rocks into a pond — including putting them on the bottom and along the sides — to provide a natural look. While such a setup may be harder to clean, he added that “muck and debris isn’t always bad.”

He explained that “there’s no such thing as a maintenance-free pond.” Besides install-

Children

from page 23A

Spaulding for Children — a private, nonprofit child welfare agency located in Southfield — was established in 1968 to find permanent and safe families for children.

Spaulding for Children President and CEO Melissa Jenovai said there is an increased awareness of the need to search out relatives for foster children in Michigan.

“If we can’t prevent them from coming in, we know the next best place for them to go would be with a relative,” she said. “We have put a lot more effort into searching for those relatives up front, and the outcomes tend to be much greater for children and youth who are placed with their kinship families — there’s more stability, and there are better mental health outcomes for those kids.”

But, oftentimes, kids who enter the system don’t have a family member available, so the need for nonrelative foster homes remains constant.

“It can take a person, on average, seven years from the time they inquire about becoming a foster or adoptive parent, all the way up until the point that they decide to take that step and become one,” Jenovai noted.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services provides foster families a daily rate to help with the care of foster children based on the age and needs of the child. Foster families also receive a semi-annual clothing allowance, and many families

ing a filter and a pump for circulation, he also recommended a special device that he believes should be installed in every pond: a skimmer that collects surface debris for removal. It’s better than using a net, and regular use of a skimmer can cut down on pond maintenance later, he explained.

Another way to tend to a pond is to introduce beneficial bacteria, which keeps the water clean while keeping algae under control. Keeping the pond aerated with an aerator, along with the pump and filter, also helps fight algae, Niemiec said. He also recommended some algaecides such as GreenClean and Algaway — the latter especially when algae is more widespread.

“Most of the time, I like to first combat the algae by using more natural systems like using bacterial or barley products,” he said.

Salvatore said ponds should be cleaned annually and maintained on a weekly to monthly basis to keep the water clean and clear.

“Although ponds are a great addition to a landscape or backyard, they do come with a fair amount of maintenance,” Salvatore

qualify for reimbursement for the costs of day care, according to state officials. Children in foster care are eligible for Medicaid, which pays for medical, dental and mental health care.

Spaulding for Children offers monthly online orientation classes for those interested in becoming a foster or adoptive family. In June, orientation sessions will be held 6-7:30 p.m. June 12 and 1-2:30 p.m. June 20. Register by contacting Stacey Oakes at (248) 443-0300 or soakes@spaulding.org, or visit www.spaulding.org.

“Coming to an orientation does not commit you to anything. It really just helps you to learn about the need, and maybe if you decide this isn’t something for you, then you can encourage others to reach out and provide support or learn about it to eventually become an adoptive or foster parent,” Jenovai said.

Those who aren’t ready to become a foster or adoptive parent can still offer support to foster children through monetary donations to organizations dedicated to helping those in the system, volunteering during an event and more.

“We really believe that the more opportunities that we involve the community in and offer our families these positive experiences that in turn helps offset some of the trauma that our kids and families have experienced over the years. The more positive events we can have, the better outcomes we hope to be able to provide with our kids and our families,” Jenovai said.

said. “There are many products available that will assist with this, from natural water treatments to filtration, which is a big part of the design and build process.”

A pond’s location can also affect the level or type of required maintenance. For instance, a pond that is under a bunch of trees with falling leaves or buds may require more surface skimming, Niemiec said. He also said adequate filtration is all the more important if a pond is in full sunlight, since that encourages algae to spread.

Niemiec said that if someone is looking to stock a pond with fish, it’s important to have a filtration system in place that will suit the number of creatures living in it. He also said any fish pond should be at least 2 feet deep or deeper so fish can survive the winter.

“It also keeps wildlife from catching the fish easily,” Niemiec said. “Putting in some hiding spots in there too — a little cave you

can build out of rocks, plants like lily pads — also help out. They create a little bit of shade.”

Salvatore also pointed out the problem of predators.

“If pond owners are going to have a pond with fish, they will need to be aware of predators,” he said. “Even in urban settings, predators can cause havoc on their fish and also create issues with damage to their pond liner, pumps and filters. This is another reason why some regular maintenance and proper planning of their pond build is important.”

Find out more about The Pond Shop, which does not conduct walk-in business, by visiting thepondshop.com or by calling (800) 527-9420. Learn more about AguaFina Gardens International in Sylvan Lake by visiting aguafina.com or by calling (248) 738-0500.

Spotlight on business...

Tropical Smoothie Cafe launches summer events with focus on ending childhood hunger

To learn more about foster care, visit Michigan.gov/HopeforaHome.

Cafe franchisee Hani Halloun, across his 22 cafes, has a goal of raising $100,000 this year. Last year, TSC raised $93,000 from the 22 combined locations to lead the e orts! e fundraising helped bring 4.8 million meals for children to Michigan.

Kicking o summer May 29, which is National Flip Flop Day, Tropical Smoothie Cafe will be celebrating by giving out free 12-ounce Island Punch Smoothies from 2 to 7 p.m. at every Tropical Smoothie Cafe across America! Guests simply need to bring their ip ops! is event will be only during this time period on May 29, 2024, and inside the cafe. Tropical Smoothie Cafe will not be o ering this event via the drive-thru.

May 29 is also the launch date for TSC’s national campaign with No Kid Hungry! Fundraising e orts will last until June 23. Tropical Smoothie

Inside each cafe there will be a QR Code to see exactly where the donations go in each ZIP code. Each of the franchised locations in Troy, Clawson, Madison Heights, South eld, Farmington Hills, and the Haggerty Rd. Location in Livonia will have unique o ers on each donation over $1. TSC will nish its kicko to summer June 21, which is National Smoothie Day! Via the TSC app, guests will get a free smoothie with any food purchase (excludes sides/kids’ food). is summer also brings back three favorite summer smoothies: Watermelon Mojito, Mango Berry Cosmo, and Island Punch, which will be staying from May 22 until Aug. 20! Come out to celebrate summer, help children and get free smoothies!

0175-2421

Pictured is Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchisee Hani Halloun. He owns 22 TSC restaurants in Michigan and Ohio including locations in Troy, Clawson, Madison Heights, Southfield, Farmington Hills and Livonia. TSC nationwide supports No Kid Hungry, a national nonprofit created to help solve the issue of childhood hunger, from May 29 through June 23.

The Exterior Painters Celebrate 20 Years of Transforming Properties, Neighborhoods

Nothing transforms a property and makes it shine brighter than a fresh coat of paint. It’s simply the best and most cost-effective investment you can make for your home draped in the colors of yesterday.

The Exterior Painters have been revitalizing properties for 20 years.

“We specialize in just exterior painting, and the reason why we do that is we believe that repetition is the mother of all skill,” said owner Brian Scott. “For 20 years, that’s all we’ve been doing is outside work. When it comes to that, we do wood replacement and siding replacement. It makes us the perfect fit for homeowners who don’t want to re-side their whole house.”

The Exterior Painters replace damaged siding and boards as needed, but they’re not looking to push for a full siding replacement.

“It gets people by another 10 years and transforms the look of the house, bringing it to the next color trends of today,” Scott said.

“Another thing we do that makes us unique, we have a full-time color consultant,” Scott added. “For most people, that’s the hardest, most stressful part, choosing what color they want. Our consultant comes out and

meets with the homeowners and gives them an idea of what the new color trends are so they can make a good color choice that complements their landscaping, brickwork and architectural features.”

The Exterior Painters also specialize in brick staining.

“A lot of younger people are buying houses. We’re taking it from grandma’s house of the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s and bringing it to that HGTV look,” Scott said.

you’re getting a bigger bang for your buck.”

It’s a win for everyone, from the crews The Exterior Painters employ and pay well to the homeowners who see their neighborhoods transformed. The company paints 30 houses a week on average in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Livingston counties, and boasts a five-star Google review average.

Power washing the siding — and for an additional charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also make a big difference in terms of curb appeal.

charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also

transformed through fresh paint,

Scott said his crews often see their work spread from house to house in a neighborhood as the properties are transformed through fresh paint, siding repairs and much-needed washing.

“It’s the cheapest home improvement you can do without breaking the bank,” Scott said. “Compared to other home improvements,

“With us you’re buying certainty. We don’t ask for a large deposit, and you don’t have to worry about anyone running off with your deposit,” Scott said.

“We stand by our work. We provide a warranty and proven results by taking care of everybody in the community. We’re Nextdoor’s No. 1 preferred contractor in Rochester two years in a row. It’s that certainty factor. You know what you’re going

“It’s the cheapest home to get.”

The Exterior Painters are located at 2365 Avon Industrial Drive in Rochester Hills. To request a quote or for more information, call (248) 844-8888.

Carlex Glass America LLC in Troy, MI seeks an Advanced Product Development Engineer. Required: Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) & 36 months experience in Optical/CAE Engineering, to include 36 months experience using optical simulation and finite element analysis (FEA) software such as Ansys Speos and 36 months experience using computer-aided three-dimensional interactive application (CATIA) and computer-aided design (CAD) tools for automotive product design. Up to 35% travel domestic & international. Forward resume and cover letter to Carlex Glass America LLC, attn: M.Davis, 1209 E. Big Beaver Road, Troy, MI 48083. 0116-2419

Application Engineer - Engine Systems Engineering sought by Schaeffler Group USA Inc, in Troy, MI to define specs (SOR, product performance reqmts) through customer interaction. Reqts: Bach deg or foreign equiv in Mech Engg or rel + 3 yrs exp in position offd or rel. 3 yrs exp must incl: Engg principles incl materials, dsgn, dynamics, structures, & mfg; APQP rqts; & Problem slvng techniques (DOE, 5 Why, or Root cause analysis). 2 yrs exp must incl: ASPICE rqts; Product Data Mgmt prgms (TeamCenter, Windchill, BearinX, or BeltDrive); Planisware & other project mgmt sftwr (MS Project, One Note, or SAP); SystemFailure Mode & Effect Analysis (SFMEA); Design Failure Mode & Effect Analysis (DFMEA); & Dvlpg dsgn verification plans & Engg SOWs. Travel rqd up to 20% to various & unanticipated Schaeffler locs & client sites nation’ly. Telecommuting permitted 2 days/wk. To apply email resume to OR-IBC-hr-recruiting@schaeffler.com. Must specify ad code TSSGUSA 0310-2421

.NET Developer needed to develop and maintain web-based applications built on .NET framework and SQL 2008, 2012, and 2019; and Visual Studio .NET 2008, 2010, 2013, and 2019. Qualifications: MS in Comp Sci, Comp Info Systems, or a related field. Alternatively, will accept BS or equiv combined edu in one of the fields above or related field followed by 5 yrs of progressively responsible exp as a software developer or in job offered. Exp must include web development and .Net 3.5/4.0 Framework, ASP.Net, ADO.NET, SQL Server 2008. Any suitable combo of edu, training, or exp is acceptable. F/T in Troy, Michigan. Send resume & cvr ltr by mail (no calls) to: Penske Vehicle Services, SR Manager HR, 1225 E Maple Rd, Troy, MI 48083. 0397-2421

PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP

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Cleaning Service

CLEANINGLADY with10-yrexperienceis lookingforwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830

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PREPARE forpower outagestodaywithaGeneracHomeStandbyGenerator.Actnowtoreceive aFREE7-Yearwarranty withqualifyingpurchase. Call1-855-773-8191 todaytoscheduleafree quote.It snotjustagenerator.It sapowermove.

Fence Service

COPPER COUNTRYFENCING

SpecializingInAll FencingNeeds. CustomWood/Gates, Chain-link,Vinyl,Aluminum,SteelandComposite. AllRepairs.Insured. CallForFreeEstimate 313-828-4062

Gutters

STEVEʼS CONCRETE COMPANY Licensed.Bonded. Insured.Freeestimates. MichiganBuildersLicense #2101118415 (248)588-9808

A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998

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ELIMINATE gutter cleaningforever!LeafFilter,themostadvanced debris-blockinggutter protection.Schedulea FREELeafFilterestimate today.20%offEntire Purchase.Plus10%Senior&MilitaryDiscounts. Call1-866-495-1709

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Handyman Services

AA4DABLE HANDYMAN HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCredit CardsAccepted 586-822-5100

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JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall! DemolitionBig&Small Residential/Commercial RubberWheelDumpsters-10,15,20-Yards, Clean-outs,Construction Material,Small-Moving, Appliances,Furniture& More!LowestRates!!! Free-Estimates Senior/MilitaryDiscounts 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com

ABLEJUNK REMOVALAND DUMPSTERS Since1991. 5-starGooglereviews. Driveway-safedumpster trailers.Fullyinsured. Junkremovalexperts. 248-333-3933 ablejunk.com

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Heating & Cooling AFFORDABLE HeatingandCooling Greg'sHeatingLLC Familyowned company 89$servicecall 79A/Ctuneup SeniorDiscounts 586-422-8528

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Landscaping & Water Gardens ALLTIMATE OUTDOOR SERVICES DrainageSystem Professionals New-Construction, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202

DOLL'S LANDSCAPING SPRINGCLEAN-UPS! Shrub&Tree-Trimming, Planting,Removal.Mulch SodInstallation,Pavers, Garden/RetainerWalls, PorchSteps,Raise Backyards/DrainTiles, Powerwashing/Sealing, Powerrake,Aeration,

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Powerwashing AJʼsPRESSURE CLEANING& SEALCOATING •StampedConcrete(removemilkyorcloudyfilm) •ExposedAggregate •BrickPavers(resanding) Website: ajspressure cleaning.com 586-431-0591

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FlatRoofSpecialist $225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial •GutterRepairs Residential/Commercial InsuranceWork 30-yrsexp/Family-Owned WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 248-707-4851

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BERGBROS.LLC. “Fullyinsured, highlyreferred.” Seniordiscounts. Tree-removal,stump grinding,tree-trimming, hedging,shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Freeestimates! (586)262-3060

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ELITETREE SERVICE "Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757

MAY 23

Orchestra Sono: Concert at 6:30 p.m., gourmet treats and fine wine afterward, The Piano Place, 1307 E. Maple Road in Troy, www. thepianoplace.com

MAY 27

Memorial Day ceremony: Includes remarks from director of intelligence at 127th Wing of Selfridge Air National Guard Base, raising of colors, laying of memorial wreath and music by Troy Heritage Concert Band, 10 a.m., Veterans Memorial Plaza at Troy City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 524-1147

MAY 29

Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Maggiano’s Little Italy, 2089 W. Big Beaver Road in Troy, RSVP to Sue at (586) 549-1041 by May 23

JUNE 3

Troy-area Interfaith Group meeting: For all faith communities, 7 p.m. Northminster Presbyterian Church, 3633 W. Big Beaver Road, troy. interfaith@gmail.com, troyinterfaithgroup.org

JUNE 4

Summer Kick-Off Open House: Dinner, music by Dodworth Saxhorn Band, raffle and more, 5-8 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, (248) 524-3570, info@thvmail.org, troyhistoricvillage.org

JUNE 7

Charity Golf Classic Scramble: 7 a.m. registration, 7:15 a.m. breakfast and practice, and 8 a.m. shotgun start, includes 18 holes and cart with longest drive, closest to the pin and skins contests, food at turn, ends with lunch, prizes and raffle, Sylvan Glen Golf Course, 5725 Rochester Road in Troy, event supports local organizations, troyrotary. net

JUNE 14

Summer Library Program Kick-Off: Features petting zoo, reptiles, bounce house, games, food truck and more, for ages 13 and younger, 6-8 p.m., near Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 524-3538, troypl.org

salmon

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61. Domingo, Pavarotti and Carreras, e.g.

62. Nicholas II of Russia, e.g.

63. Key next to spacebar

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3. *Opposite of on land 4. Fluffy dessert 5. Hillsides in Scotland 6. Anti-seniors sentiment 7. *Opposite of awak-

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Flat-bottomed boat

ONGOING

Car Cars & Classic Food: Also music, 50-50, prizes and giveaways, 5-8 p.m. Thursdays during summer, Big Boy, 200 W. Maple Road in Troy, (248) 362-0840

Blood drives: 1-7 p.m. May 29 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 31, Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, RedCrossBlood.org

Troy United Football Club: Elite amateur men’s soccer team, home games include May 26, June 1 and 9 (doubleheader with Troy City Women’s Football Club), and July 6 and 13, Troy High School, 4777 Northfield Parkway, full schedule at troyunited.org

Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., 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, First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Ave., (248) 6423306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS

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

Troy City Women’s Football Club: Inaugural season for semi-professional soccer team, home games include June 2, 9 (doubleheader with Troy United Football Club), 13, 19, 25 and 30, and July 2, 14 and 16, locations split between Troy High School, 4777 Northfield Parkway, and Evolution Sportsplex, 141 S. Opdyke Road in Auburn Hills, full schedule at facebook. com/johnarndtraining

Photo provided by John Arndt

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

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: 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: For chronic pain, high blood pressure and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth. digitalsignup.com

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/chapter-events/527