7/12/23 Farmington Press

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS HELP CO-AUTHOR CHILDREN’S BOOK /3A

‘IT TAKES OVER THE TOWN’ FOUNDERS FESTIVAL SET TO RETURN

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON — A longstanding tradition is set to continue in Farmington, as the Greater Farmington Founders Festival is scheduled to take place July 20-22 in the downtown area. It is the 59th year for the event, and multiple options for entertainment have been scheduled for residents to enjoy.

The agenda includes a 5K color run that is scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 22, giving participants an opportunity to run through Shiawassee Park and downtown Farmington. The Founders Festival Parade is scheduled to take place along Grand River Avenue starting at 10 a.m. July 22.

A kids area is set to be part of the fun 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 21 and 22.

The kids area is scheduled to feature the Airborne Bouncers stage shows, live sand art and a foam party.

The Crafters Market is set to take place July 21 and 22, with vendors offering “vintage decor, shabby chic designs, up-cycled items, handmade consumables, rustic inspirations and one-of-akind furniture.”

See FESTIVAL on page 4A

‘PUT THOSE PHONES DOWN, AND YOUR TABLETS’

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

Some people are hoping Michigan roadways will become safer to travel after a new bipartisan law took effect June 30 to prohibit driving and holding a cellphone for any use unless there is an emergency.

After being introduced in the state Legislature, three bills related to distracted driving were recently signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

LOCAL POLICE OFFICIALS DISCUSS NEW DISTRACTED DRIVING LAW

According to a press release issued on behalf of Insurance Alliance of Michigan, data from the Michigan State Police showed that in 2021, more than 16,000 motor vehicle crashes involved a distracted driver, with 59 of those crashes resulting in a fatality.

A press release from the Michigan Department of Transportation stated that MDOT will install 37 signs at state line and border crossings announcing the hands-free cellphone law.

Michigan is now the 26th state to adopt a hands-free driving law.

According to the release from MDOT, texting while driving has been illegal in Michigan since 2010, but increasing the parameters of the law to prohibit the use

See DISTRACTED on page 10A

The Greater Farmington Founders Festival is scheduled to return this month.

File photo provided by 360 Event Productions

Catching Cancer Before It’s Too Late

Early Cancer Detection Made Possible: Michigan’s First MRI Total Body Screening Clinic Now Open in Southfeld, Pioneering Symptom-Free Diagnosis.

I’ll never forget the words of a patient who recently completed a total body cancer screening with me: ‘Doc, you saved my life!’ Despite having no symptoms, we discovered a tiny tumor lurking and growing inside of him. Without early detection, the mass could have silently grown into late-stage cancer, leading to excruciating treatments and a potentially dire outcome.

Tanks to the power of early detection, cancer was discovered before it was too late. It’s moments like these that are precisely why total body screening saves lives. As a general rule, when someone presents to the doctor with a symptom related to cancer, they are usually at stage III or stage IV.

Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screening tests that are covered by insurance companies only cover about 29% of cancers. Te other 71% of cancers occur in areas where doctors are unable to screen, and insurance companies will not pay for screening. Tis is where Bionicc Body Screening in Southfeld can save lives.

I am Dr. Warren Ringold, and last month marked the ffth anniversary of the day my life changed forever. Five years ago, I was diagnosed with stage IV cancer in my chest and

abdomen. Te most alarming part is that I had no symptoms before this diagnosis. Tis is the great dilemma of cancer: the need for early detection. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment, and cancer needs to be detected when it is most treatable.

My personal stage IV cancer journey has been long and rugged. My tumor eventually was recurrent in my brain after an initial seven months of chemotherapy. I have been extraordinarily lucky. After being told that I would live only two months without treatment on my brain, I was fortunate enough to become patient number one in a new drug study and I have been in remission 5 to 8 times longer than expected.

During that time, instead of ending up with the indignation of dying, from a brain tumor in front of my family with seizures and eventual blindness, I have been able to see twins, born as grandchildren, ball games, swim meets, graduations, while watching my grandchildren and children achieve.

Most importantly, I’ve gotten to hold my wife, Nancy, in my arms for more than 1500 more nights of my life. I get to hug my children and kiss my 13 grandchildren. Tey don’t have to look at me with tears in their eyes, because

they see Papa deteriorating. What a gift that has been. But very few patients are as fortunate as I have been, which is why I founded Bionicc Body Screening.

At Bionicc Body Screening, we can screen for cancer from the top of the head through the genitals, detecting cancers as small as the size of a pencil eraser. We use highly advanced and sophisticated MRI screening, which can fnd small cancers in areas where doctors cannot order testing that will be covered by insurance.

Te irony is that these cancers start out very small, and they are very treatable at this stage. Tey are usually stage one and can be seen in

every organ of the body, including the dreaded pancreas. While screening for cancer, we can also fnd many other things that need to be treated or watched, such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms.

If detected at this stage, treatment for stage one cancer is usually simple resection of a tumor. Unfortunately, if you are stage III or IV like most people, it results in vigorous and difcult treatment with much poorer outcomes.

It is unfortunate that some patients resist screening due to fear. Despite their desire to take the test, they unnecessarily delay it out of fear of receiving potentially distressing news about their health. Giving in to fear can only make matters worse and potentially allow undetected health problems to spiral out of control. Don’t put of your screening any longer. Ask yourself, when is a better time to take action than right now? Don’t wait another 6 months or even another day. Prioritize your health and get screened today.

Te only regret patients have is that they waited. Don’t wait. Get a total body cancer screening today. Call 1-833-BIONICC (1-833-246-6422) today, or learn more now by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening.com.

Dr. Warren Ringold, M.D.

Body Screening is ofered exclusively at Bionicc Body Screening in Southfeld

“It saved my life. Their MRI found a kidney tumor that had been missed by a recent CT scan. I cannot recommend this service more”

– Robert B., age 50

HHHHH

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS HELP CO-AUTHOR CHILDREN’S BOOK

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON HILLS — They may be young, but a group of fifth grade students at Beechview Elementary School in Farmington Hills can already lay claim to being authors.

In all, 12 students from the school helped to take part in a book with children’s author and Novi resident Andy Gutman.

The book is titled “My First Day of Kindergarten” and can be found on gutcheckbooks.com and amazon.com.

The origin for the book came when Gutman was invited to Beechview to read one of his books to students, pre-COVID.

“As I went there, the staff says, ‘Oh, it would be great if one day we could do a book together,’” Gutman said. “Then COVID hit and we didn’t talk about it for a few years.”

The idea lay dormant until Gutman got a call from Rick Segal, a behavioral interventionist at

Beechview.

“Rick re-introduced the idea to me,” Gutman said. “Rick and I used to be youth group advisors years ago together, and he said, ‘Would love to get together a group of fifth graders (and) do a book. Would you be interested in helping us figure out how to get it published?’ I thought it was a fantastic idea.”

Gutman said it’s “a lesson from 12 fifth graders of what they learned on their first day of school. … It’s their gift to incoming kindergartners to say, ‘Hey, you may be nervous on your first day. You may be worried. Everything’s going to work out well.’ … It’s really a nice note for the kids to be able to say, ‘We know everyone worries and is nervous and unsure, and everything’s going to be OK.’ I thought it was a beautiful sentiment.”

Gutman said the theme came from the school, and students were given the opportunity to apply to be part of it.

“Our students felt that creating a book that would help incoming kindergartners with apprehen-

See BOOK on page 13A

Teacher illustrates how art can shine light on education

BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON — An art teacher who has devoted her entire career to the Farmington Public School District was recently surprised to be named the Judy-White Ora teacher of the year.

Kimmi Dukes, who has taught art for 23 years in the district — 19 at the former Farmington Hills Harrison High School and four at Farmington High School — was surprised with the Judy-White Ora award for teaching with “Heart and Soul” May 23 while teaching a class.

Members of the Farmington High School staff, along with her friends and family, filled the room to see her get the award.

She said she was shocked to see her daughter there, as she was supposed to have been in school. Her husband, Steve, who had been

See DUKES on page 7A

HearingQuiz

Photo provided by Farmington Public Schools Farmington High School art teacher Kimmi Dukes holds a sign naming her as the 2022-2023 Judy-White Ora Teaching with Heart and Soul Award winner.

Fifth grade students at Beechview Elementary School in Farmington Hills had the opportunity to co-author a book with children’s author Andy Gutman.

Photo provided by Catalyst Media Factory

from page 1A

The Crafters Market is scheduled for 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on both dates.

Farmington Fido Fest is also scheduled to take place 10 a.m.-7 p.m. July 21 and July 22. Entertainment will include the Ultimate Air Dogs and the Disc Dogs of Michigan Frisbee Show.

From July 20-22, a spot at Grand River and Farmington Road will be home to a dance party, live music, beverages and a variety of food trucks. To enter the beer tent, residents must be 21 or over and have valid identification. According to foundersfestival. com, there is a $5 cover starting at 5 p.m., with only cash accepted. There is no ATM onsite, according to the website.

Multiple bands are scheduled to be part of the festivities in the afternoon and evening July 21 and 22. On July 20, Powerplay Detroit is scheduled to perform 7-10 p.m.

Farmington Mayor Sara Bowman said that the festival is her favorite weekend of the year and that she takes three days off of work so she doesn’t miss anything.

“The Founders Fest is probably the biggest homecoming event that Farmington has,” Bowman said. “It’s got so many years of tradition behind it and has grown and changed over the years, but the core basis is just an opportunity to get the entire community together for a weekend celebration.”

Farmington Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Kate Knight provided details about how popular the festival is.

“It’s about a half-century of Farmington tradition, and it’s by far our biggest draw into the downtown all year long,” Knight

said. “We have development software from Oakland County that shows us that we had more than 86,000 trips into downtown, our district, that week last year. … It’s a great reunion weekend. It’s quintessential Farmington summer, and our businesses and residents really look forward to it.”

Farmington’s downtown plays a large role in the atmosphere that comes with the Greater Farmington Founders Festival.

“It’s been the center of it all for about 200 years, and we’re continuing to invest,” Knight said. “We’re looking at ways to attract and retain the families that have made this their home and show off what a great spot Farmington is.”

Bowman shared what her favorite part of the festivities are.

“The parade, without a doubt — it’s the biggest, it’s the longest, it’s the most fun,” she said. “It incorporates so many of our different civic organizations, the schools, and our scouting troops. It’s sort of like the pinnacle, the highlight – you’ve warmed up a little bit with Thursday night music, and then again Friday with Fido Fest starting, but by the time you get to Saturday morning you’ve hit the high mark, and then it just keeps going from there.”

From Bowman’s perspective, for those who live in Farmington, it’s hard to avoid the festival.

“It’s smack-dab in the middle of town,” she said. “It’s a time to park your car, hop on your bicycle or walk into town and just mingle. … I hear from so many people that they plan their summer vacations around Founders Fest weekend to make sure that they’re home for it. … There’s no way to avoid being involved because it takes over the town.”

For scheduled events, visit foundersfes tival.com.

All virtual and remote programs are:

•Supported by Farmington Public Schools’ teachers

•Follow the rigorous Farmington Public Schools’ curriculum

•Meet or exceed all State standards

While participating in remote or virtual programs, students can:

•Play sports, join clubs, and attend after-school events at their home school

•Graduate with a Farmington or North Farmington High School diploma

Please note:

Students and families must reside within the Farmington Public Schools’ district boundaries in order to enroll in Farmington Online.

Enrollment starts by visiting www.farmington.k12.mi.us/enroll.

NEWS & NOTES

6A/ FARMINGTON PRESS • JULY 12, 2023

FARMINGTON HILLS POLICE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONS AND NEW OFFICERS

FARMINGTON HILLS — Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King recently announced the promotion of two Police Department dispatchers and the hiring of three new police officers following recent retirements and vacancies, according to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills.

Dispatchers Elizabeth Jackson and Emily Mesaros have been promoted to the rank of dispatch supervisor, according to the release.

Susan Woodward, Colby Morrison and Logan Kabrovich were hired as officers.

According to the release, there were two

separate ceremonies held in June to celebrate the promotions and new positions.

NATURE CENTER SET TO HOST KIDS FISHING DAY

FARMINGTON HILLS — Kids Fishing Day is scheduled to take place Saturday, July 29, at the Founders Fishing Pier, located at the pond in Founders Sports Park at 35500 W. Eight Mile Road in Farmington Hills.

Four hour-long sessions have been scheduled, starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m.

“Children ages 4 to 16, along with their parents, grandparents or friends, are invited to share in the fun of catch and release fishing,” a press release from the city of Farmington Hills states. “All supplies needed for a safe and successful experience will be provided including a high-quality fishing rod and reel, stocked tackle box, live bait and how-to videos.”

Sessions are scheduled to run 9-10 a.m., 10-11 a.m., 11 a.m.-noon and noon-1 p.m. Pre-registered families may choose the time for curbside pickup of supplies in the Founders Sports Park Ice Arena parking lot. Participants are then welcome to head out to a list of suggested local fishing spots or join the volunteers at the Founders Fishing Pier for instructions and fishing practice, according to the release.

The fee to participate is $20 per person for

residents and $25 for non-residents.

“Dress for the weather and bring a hat, sunglasses, and water bottle,” the release states. “Adult supervision is mandatory at all times. Pre-registration is required.”

For additional details, call the Nature Center at (248) 473-1870 or send an email to asmith@fhgov. com.

Dukes

from page 3A

out of town, was also a surprise, as were her parents.

“It was a huge surprise, but now all my students know that they’ve met my whole family,” said Dukes. “I never expected to look up at work and see my mom and dad there. “

Dukes was later formally presented with the award during a Board of Education meeting June 6, alongside teachers who were retiring.

“It’s just nice to see people being recognized for doing such a meaningful job,” said Dukes of teacher recognition at the meeting.

The Judy White-Ora Award is presented annually to an educator who exemplifies what the late assistant superintendent, Judy White-Ora, stood for — belief in other people and relationships. During her career at the district, White-Ora, who passed away in 2006, created a pledge for teachers which says, “Today I will: respect the uniqueness of each child, ignite the joy of learning, listen to their voices, put human connections first, encourage the spirit and let their light shine, create a caring learning community.”

The award is given to teachers who lead their lives by the words of that pledge.

“I really do truly love art, and I’m inspired by people. It sounds cliché, but the human experience, nature inspires me. I’m really inspired by my students, which is probably one of the reasons that I love my job so much,” said Dukes. “Teaching is such a strange thing, because I feel like, especially teaching art, I can work with these kids that come in as these young (men and women) like my freshman babies, and then I can have them every semester and watch them grow and mature. … It’s really inspiring to see them come in and be a little excited, nervous, maybe even a little insecure about if they’re not good or they don’t really know yet who they are and then to kind of watch them grow into who they’re going to be and gain confidence, and take risks and try new things. They kind of learn they can be inspired by each other, because there’s so much talent (amongst the students). … There’s always very creative kids. It just never is dull. It’s never the same. So it keeps me very young at heart and energized and excited. … It can be very challenging, but definitely something that I think is worthwhile.”

Dukes was nominated for the award by her students and two of her colleagues, Jeremy Robinson and Kevin Miesner. Together the men gathered statements from numerous students as to why Dukes should win the award and submitted them with their

nomination packet.

“We took the words of her students and used them to nominate her for the award,” said Miesner. “What she won the award for is not something concrete, like test scores or competition scores, but rather an intangible. That is impossible to quantify, but we thought that by using the students’ own words was the best we could do to show how special she is.”

He said that as the International Baccalaureate coordinator he often speaks with Dukes’ students, and they love her. He said he chose to use their words as he knew they would have great insight about what makes her so special.

“I’ve known Kimmi since I started in 2002, and she’s always been an inspiration to myself as well as other teachers in the building as far as how she approaches teaching — always student first. She is able to find and get the best out of each kid that comes through her classroom,” said Robinson, a social studies teacher, of his reason for nominating Dukes.

He said that Dukes is able to offer students a vast array of mediums to express themselves.

He said she is always there to help kids get better in art, but also to inspire students to do their best work. He said she also is an asset to teachers like himself in other departments. He said that Dukes gave him guidance for teaching an AP European history class as it had a huge art component.

“Kimmi is an incredible teacher. … Kimmi creates a space where students can be themselves, explore who they are and learn how to express that in art. She epitomizes teaching with heart and soul, and I can’t think of a more deserving person,” said Miesner, who’s own child was a student of Dukes.

In his nomination letter. Robinson also told of how Dukes had been able to work with one of his economics students who did not seem to like school, but had a passion for digital printing. He said the student was not enrolled in an art class, but after he showed the student’s artwork to Dukes, she worked with him before and after school to get him into an art contest put on by the Center for Creative Studies. As soon as the student began working with Dukes, Robinson said, he saw the student start to take a more active role in his schooling.

“It means a lot to me that they (my students) nominated (me), and it’s not an award about art skills so much as that they feel like I care about them,” said Dukes.

She said it means even more to her that fellow teachers thought to nominate her and put together statements from her students.

“I think they’re both very caring, pas-

sionate teachers, so that makes it really nice that they took the time to nominate me,” said Dukes. “I’m just really overwhelmed and touched that my students and coworkers did that. It just means a lot coming from people that I work with every day.”

Dukes graduated from Livonia Churchill High School and double majored in English and art at Albion College.

She got a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University in studio art with a concentration in drawing. She never taught in any other district as she even did her student teaching at Harrison as well.

She teaches drawing, painting, ceramics, and IB and AP courses. She said she loves the diversity of the FPS community and the opportunities the district provides students.

“Mrs. Dukes has always embraced the things that make each student unique, such as race or gender or other identities that are very important to them. She is very encouraging of her students and pushes them to do art of things that inspire them personally and also pushes them to try new things,” said student Ash C. “She helps anybody who needs it, pushes her students in the right direction

and informs them of opportunities they may not know they have. … She has made a very positive impact on my life and she deserves the award.”

Dukes has received other awards throughout her career, including the Educator Award from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, the FPS High School Teacher of the Year Award in 2012, and the HHS Impact Teacher of the Year awards in 2008 and 2014.

She resides in Plymouth with her husband and daughter.

Dukes said she would advise teachers to get to know their students’ interests and be able to joke with them. “Don’t just talk to them about subject matter. I know that sounds a little bit preachy, but they have some great stories. They’re pretty fun and funny,” she said.

Dukes said when she thinks of teaching she often reflects on a quote from Maya Angelo that really resonates with her: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Saturday July 152023

All events on sale beginning Monday, July 17

SEASON CALENDAR

October 2023

6 Afer The Downbeat with David Phelps

7 Tony Orlando

10 Sugar Skull! A Día de los Muertos Musical Adventure | Page to Stage

13 The Sicilian Tenors

14 Celebratng Meat Loaf, The Neverland Express + Caleb Johnson

17 The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Gen | Page to Stage

20 Kevin Nealon | Comedy and Cocktails

27 The Doo Wop Project

29 Madagascar The Musical

November

4 Heart by Heart Featuring Steve Fossen & Michael Derosier of Heart

26 Assisted Living: The Musical® THE HOME…for the holidays

December

8 Celtc Angels Christmas

January 2024

12 Rumours: The Ultmate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show

13 ruben & clay Twenty | The Tour

20 The American Soldier 21 Hiplet Ballerinas

26 Best of Broadway: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber

27 The Letermen

February

3 Steve Solomon’s Cannoli, Latkes & Guilt! …the therapy contnues

6 Rapunzel | Page to Stage

10 Lee Rocker of The Stray Cats

16 The Chipper Experience! Where Comedy & Magic Collide

17 Superstar. The Carpenters Reimagined

23 The Barricade Boys, Stars from the West End cast of Les Miserables

March

startng at 10am. In person only. Doors will open at 9am.

44575 Garfeld Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038 Macomb Community College—Center Campus

MacombCenter.com

586.286.2222

Front Row Center: Icons of Rock, Blues, and Soul Photo Exhibit

July 12–Sep. 27, 2023

Monday—Friday | 10am—4pm and Saturday July 15 | 10am—4pm

Front Row Center: Icons of Rock, Blues, and Soul is organized and toured by Internatonal Arts & Artsts, Washington, D.C.

2 Leahy

9 Puppy Pals Live!

15 Alfreda Sings Aretha

16 Drum Tao

19 Rainbow Fish | Page to Stage

23 ABBA-Mania—An ABBA Tribute

April

13 Tweet Tweet!

18 The Greatest Piano Men

21 360 Allstars

SNL Alumnus Kevin Nealon

0265-2328

Distracted

of phones “without hands-free technology is expected to further improve safety for all road users, including passengers, pedestrians and road workers.”

Information shared by the Michigan State Police states that the Michigan Vehicle Code has been amended to prohibit an individual from using an electronic mobile device while operating a motor vehicle, a commercial motor vehicle or a school bus.

Mobile electronic device means an electronic device that is not permanently installed in a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to, a device capable of text messaging, voice communication, entertainment, navigation, accessing the internet or producing email.

The use of a mobile electronic device means using a mobile electronic device to do any task, such as sending or receiving a call; sending, receiving or reading a text message; viewing, recording or transmitting a video; and accessing, reading or posting to a social networking site.

Police officers who observe those actions can treat a violation as the sole reason for issuing a citation to a driver.

Exemptions include calling or texting 911; making an emergency call to a law enforcement agency, health care provider or fire department; and reporting a fire, a traffic accident, a serious road hazard, a hazardous materials emergency, a driver who is driving in a reckless or unsafe manner, a driver who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or a crime that is being committed.

From the perspective of Keego Harbor Police Chief John Fitzgerald, distracted driving is a “huge” problem, and the new law makes the job of police officers easier.

“Now it says exactly what you can’t do,” he said. “It was kind of broad before. When they get specific, it helps us out. … We’re (not) having to make up decisions and make the call as each individual officer sees it. Now, all the officers will see the exact same thing.”

Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King shared a similar sentiment.

“We’ve been looking for some additional measures or legislation to come through to allow us to enforce this law,” he said. “(It’s) not just texting while driving — we see people driving watching videos on their phone, watching videos on their dashboard devices suction-cupped to their windshield; they’re doing FaceTime with individuals on their phones. When it all comes down to it, it’s distracting them from the safe and effective operation of their vehicle. … When you’re

driving, the only thing you should really be doing is driving that vehicle, maintaining not only the safety and operation of your vehicle and what it’s doing and what you’re doing in it, but being on the lookout for the other driver.”

West Bloomfield Police Chief Michael Patton also weighed in on the new law.

“It basically boils down to, when you’re driving the car, don’t handle or use your cellphone for talking or texting,” he said. “The whole import of all this is that distracted driving’s a thing. Help be part of the solution to minimizing issues that come up with distracted driving — the near misses or the ones that result in crashes, injuries or deaths, because there’s a lot of sad stories out there that you can point to that were a result of distracted driving. Sometimes, particularly, using a cellphone while driving.”

Orchard Lake Lt. Jeff Gomez said the new law is “great” and that distracted driving has been a problem for a long time.

“Here in Orchard Lake, one of the most common types of crashes that we tend to respond to are rear-end type crashes, and I believe a contributing factor to those crashes are distracted driving, especially in slowmoving traffic,” he said. “Somebody may be distracted (by) their device and not necessarily notice the traffic that’s stopped ahead of them, and that leads to a rear-end type crash.”

Gomez also wanted to make clear what he thinks the new law is not about.

“Critics will say that this is about revenue generation, when it’s not — it’s compliance and safety,” he said. “But if you don’t have some sort of consequence, then what’s the reason to abide by it, right?”

Michigan law requires drivers, frontseat passengers, and passengers 15 or younger in any seating position to be buckled up.

Many in the state are familiar with the “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement campaign, and King discussed that law, in comparison with the new state law that makes it illegal to use a cellphone with your hands while operating a vehicle.

“It (seatbelt violations) is significantly lower than what it was, in my experience and in the experience of my officers, but it took a long time, a lot of enforcement, tickets and education,” King said. “I think this is going to be even harder to break, because you had technology that when you got in your car and you didn’t put your seatbelt on, you got that annoying bell or buzzer that kept going off the more you drove. … People are really addicted to these cellphones and their handheld devices. … It’ll take some time, but I think we’ll get there.”

Gomez, who also pointed out that dis-

See DISTRACTED on page 12A

Corner of Ann Arbor Road and N. Haggerty

Sachin

Distracted

from page 10A

tracted drivers can seriously injure or kill bicycle riders, particularly in areas where the shoulder isn’t very broad, thinks that the new law will eventually lead to fewer traffic crashes.

“I think it’s going to take people some time to adjust, because before, the Legislature was saying you can use it at a stop light,” he said. “Well, that’s no longer the case. If you’re operating a vehicle, if the car is on the roadway, engine’s running or car’s in gear, you’re operating the vehicle, so that’s no longer acceptable. So I do think that in the long run it will make things safer.”

Although police departments have been using social media to get the word out about the new law, Patton understands that it is likely going to be an adjustment for many people.

However, one specific detail could help drivers be alert and aware.

“(This) is what we call a primary offense, in so much that police officers, if they have a reasonable basis to believe that (there’s been) a violation of these new distracted driving laws, they could stop you just

for that, and drivers ought to be mindful of that,” Patton said. “They’re going to need to maybe modify or adapt their behavior accordingly to be in compliance with the law.”

The new law also means that drivers cannot use their phones while at stop signs or red lights.

If someone breaks the new law, the first violation calls for a $100 civil fine or 16 hours of community service, or both. A second violation carries with it a $250 civil fine or 24 hours of community service, or both.

The fines and hour requirements double if the individual is involved in a crash.

Three or more civil infractions within a three-year period can lead to a court order that individuals have to “complete a basic driver improvement course within a reasonable time as determined by the court.”

Fitzgerald shared a message that could both save lives and save drivers some money.

“I want to say, everybody, put those phones down and your tablets,” he said.

More information about the legislation and the penalties are available at www.michi gan.gov/DistractedDriving.

Staff Writer Mike Koury contributed to this report. Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.

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sion or common fears would be something that they wanted to leave as a legacy — how to experience the joy of kindergarten and that it’s OK to be nervous,” Beechview principal Shawndra Hernton said.

All proceeds go to Beechview.

Gutman, who acknowledged that he went out-of-pocket to help put the book together, worked with a graphic designer and the kids to complete it.

He said that there was only a period of about three months to put the book together, which he described as a quick process.

Staff members from Beechview served as mentors for the students, with each fifth grader picking characters from previous books he had authored and developing a story.

“I worked with them on a few occasions at the school,” Gutman said. “I went back and read their stories with them, helped them edit during a session, then I took their stories, edited them a little further, checked for spelling, checked for grammar, etcetera, (and) then I worked with my graphic designer and helped take their verbal stories and create the scenes behind them — the graphics that support the story, and really help flesh that out. Each one of the students got two pages for their story, and so we had a total of 24 different graphics to create, plus a cover and a back cover to it. So my involvement was putting all that together, working with my designer to create the vision behind all of that, make sure that it met everybody’s expectations, continuous revisions and so on during this process.”

Gutman said that his co-authors did a “fantastic” job.

“I loved their storytelling,” he said. “When you embrace and embolden the imagination of children they really come up with

some fantastic, fantastic stories, and more than that, they feel heard and seen. … I think too often these days we don’t focus our kids enough on reading and writing, really push their imagination to expand, because there’s so much stimulation in the world, whether it’s online or on your phone, where they can get lost in someone else’s world, as opposed to creating their own, or imagining, and bringing a book to life.”

Segal discussed the most pleasing aspect of the project for him.

“To see it through and have everybody receive it so well,” he said. “Hopefully, we’ll have a lot (of) preschoolers entering kindergarten get some real benefit out of hearing from fifth graders about, they don’t have to be scared. It’s really a fun experience, they’re gonna enjoy it.”

Gutman graduated from SouthfieldLathrup High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Michigan State University.

His career is in commercial real estate, and his first book was published about eight years ago.

Gutman said he started writing books as a tribute to his daughter.

What he helped do for the students of Beechview could have a long-lasting impact.

“The greatest thing that came out of this is that you now have 12 published authors that were fifth graders when they got their first book published, which I think is really cool,” Gutman said. “I’m happy to be supportive of it and every year give another group of fifth graders or whatever a chance to see success … doing something like this for children where they suddenly realize, age 10, 11, whatever, they’re published authors and they can do anything they want in life.”

Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 4981052.

New to Medicare?

There are many options available with Medicare Supplement Insurance plans and Medicare Advantage plans. Many people find that all these choices can be confusing. If you are one of those people, we can help!

As a licensed agent with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, we can help you review your Medicare options from a variety of recognized insurance companies in this area. We are happy to meet with you to explain the details of each option at NO COST to you for our services.

As your agents, we can:

Explain the differences between programs.

Help determine the options that best meet your needs and budget. Help you enroll properly.

Answer your questions.

Remain attentive to your needs as they may change over time.

We believe it’s important for you to work with an agent as it provides you with an advocate who can assist you as time goes on.

Since we are local agents, there are a number of ways we can “meet”—by phone, by a virtual (computer) meeting, or in person, whichever way works best for you—to answer any questions you may have.

We look forward to speaking with you regarding how we can help you understand your Medicare options.

Thank you,

CRIME WATCH

Police respond to loud party

FARMINGTON — At approximately 11:30 p.m. June 17, officers responded to the 36000 block of Vicary Lane for a loud music complaint.

A resident there told police they were turning the music off for the night and going to bed.

Residents report check fraud

FARMINGTON — A Farmington resident went into the police station at 1 p.m. June 16 to report that a check was fraudulently altered and cashed on behalf of their personal bank account.

The victim reported that they wrote two checks for $200 each; however, the checks were altered to show a new amount of $6,500. The payee’s name was changed, and the checks were then presented to a local bank, where they were cashed. A report was taken and turned over to the detective bureau for further investigation.

At 4 p.m. June 14, a second resident reported a similar incident where they mailed a check in the amount of $695; however, the check was altered to show a new amount of $6,200.

Resident loses $8K in computer scam

FARMINGTON — At approximately 1 a.m. June 14, a Farmington resident went into the station to report that they were a victim of fraud.

The resident had received a notification on their computer advising them that their computer was infected with a virus and to call a phone number to resolve the issue. The resident called the number and spoke with the suspect, who convinced the resident to transfer $8,000 to a Bitstop ATM using a QR code. A report was taken and turned over to the detective bureau for further investigation.

Purse stolen, credit cards used

FARMINGTON — A Farmington resident’s vehicle was parked, unlocked, at Drakeshire Apartments June 22, and the resident later began receiving notifications from credit card companies that unauthorized charges were occurring.

The resident also noticed that a purse was missing from the vehicle. A report was taken and forwarded to the detective bureau for further investigation.

Catalytic converter stolen off of company vehicle

FARMINGTON — On June 22 at 11:30 a.m., Farmington Public Safety officers responded to the 30000 block of Grand River Avenue on a report of a stolen catalytic converter.

The victim reported that the catalytic converter was cut off a company vehicle sometime overnight. A report was taken and forwarded to the detective bureau for further investigation.

Bank customer bothers others

FARMINGTON — Farmington Public Safety officers responded to the Chase Bank on Farmington Road for a report of a customer trouble at 2 p.m. June 24.

An investigation revealed that a customer had been at the location for over two hours disturbing other customers, and began swearing and yelling at the bank staff. The customer was advised to leave and not return at the request of the business.

Shoplifter tracked and arrested

FARMINGTON — On June 25 at around 11:30 a.m., police responded to Nankin Hobby, on Nine Mile Road, on a report of a retail fraud in progress. Officers were advised that the suspect fled the location on foot.

A search of the area was conducted, and the suspect was located several blocks from the store. The suspect was arrested and issued a citation for retail fraud.

PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP

The JATC for the Pipefitting Industry and Pipefitters, Steamfitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Service Local Union #636 of the United Association will be accepting applications for our Construction Apprenticeship beginning Wednesday, May 31,2023, through July 20, 2023. Application dates and times will be as followed: Monday, Wednesday & Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 10 & Saturday June 24, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

1. Qualifications necessary for an applicant to be considered are:

A. Must be 18 years or older.

B. A valid driver’s license

C. High School diploma or high school equivalency (GED) certificate.

D. Have an 85% or better combined score of these 3 tests WORK KEYS MATHMATICS WORK KEYS GRAPHIC LITERACY AND WIESEN MECHANICAL APPTITUDE TEST within one year of August 1st, 2023.

2. For details of the application process see our web page at www.pipefitters636tc.org

3. Applications may be downloaded and filled out or picked up at the training center but MUST be turned in in person at the Training Center.

a. There is a $45.00 testing fee if you schedule your tests with us at Schoolcraft Community College. That will be collected when turning in the application.

b. You may also schedule the testing on your own at participating Community Colleges.

THIS IS A DRUG FREE PROGRAM. AN INDIVIDUAL TENTATIVELY SELECTED FOR ENTRANCE

INTO THE PROGRAM AFTER TESTING AND INTERVIEW WILL BE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT TO A DRUG TEST. SO THERE IS NO MISUNDERSTANDING AS TO MARIJUANA/CANNABIS (MARIJUANA), TESTING POSITIVE FOR MARIJUANA IN ANY FORM FOR ANY REASON WILL BE CONSIDERED A FAILED TEST AND YOU WILL NOT BE ADMITTED TO THE PROGRAM. THIS APPLIES EVEN IF YOU WERE INSTRUCTED BY A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL TO USE MARIJUANA (WITH OR WITHOUT A PRESCRIPTION), USED IT TOPICALLY OR IN ANY OTHER MANNER (FOR EXAMPLE, CBD LOTIONS, INHALED OIL CONCENTRATES, ETC), OR WERE NEAR OTHERS LEGALLY USING MARIJUANA.

The Pipefitting Industry Training Center is located at 636 Executive Drive in Troy, MI between John R. and Dequindre, north of E. 14 Mile Road. PH: 248-585-0636. No resumes please. For more information, please visit our website at: www.pipefitters636tc.org.

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Painting (586)229-4267 American Painting •Residential •Commercial. •Interior& Exterior •PowerWashing •Insurance,•Drywall, •PlasterRepair, •Senior-discounts. •Guaranteed-work. •25-yrsexperience.

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Tree Service

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AND

NOTES NEWS

AND NOTE ITEMS TAKEN FROM AROUND OUR COVERAGE AREAS

300 LOCAL GIRL SCOUTS HONORED FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT

METRO DETROIT — Girl Scouts is about more than selling cookies, and the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan are here to prove that. More than 300 Metro Detroit girls were recognized for their commitment to community and creating positive change in the world during the GSSEM’s annual High Honor Award Reception June 25.

Nisha Singhi, from Bloomfield Hills, pictured, took home the prestigious 2023 Young Woman of Distinction Award for her project about the detrimental impact of released balloons on wildlife, marine life, natural resources and the economy. Singhi spent more than 170 hours on The Balloon Project, which resulted in policy changes at the local and statewide levels. The Bloomfield Hills City Commission and International Academy in Bloomfield Hills adopted policies banning the release and litter of balloons.

At the state level, she worked with former state Rep. Mari Manoogian to introduce House Bill 5373 and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow to introduce Senate Bill 0675.

“The High Honors Awards highlights the remarkable young women of GSSEM who embody everything that Girl Scouts stands for — programming that develops young women of the utmost courage and confidence who have the character, skills and relationships to make real changes in their communities,” said GSSEM CEO Monica Woodson. “As we honor this year’s class of outstanding Girl Scouts, we recognize their extraordinary achievements and the profound difference they can make in the lives of others. They are the driving force behind a brighter future for all, and we are proud to celebrate this moment with them, their families and their troops.”

Scantily clad man accused of touching himself in front of females

WEST BLOOMFIELD — Female pedestrians told police that they saw a male watching them from his car as they began walking on a trail at Arrowhead and Pontiac Trail at 1:17 p.m. June 8.

When they returned to their vehicle, the male exited his vehicle in a Speedo and short shirt, and allegedly put his hand within the Speedo.

The females quickly left the scene.

Officers arrived, spoke to the male subject, cited him for obscene conduct and escorted him from the area, the report states.

Stolen vehicle recovered

MADISON HEIGHTS — An unspecified vehicle was stolen from a business parking lot in the 100 block of West 14 Mile Road between 9 p.m. June 14 and 7 a.m. June 15.

The vehicle was later found abandoned in Macomb County and recovered. The suspect is unknown. The vehicle was a company car for a business.

The investigation was ongoing.

Woman arrested for graffiti

ROYAL OAK — While conducting a parking structure check at 7:27 p.m. June 15 at 212 S. Center St., officers observed a group of people on the top level of the structure with fresh graffiti on the walls. Police located the person who allegedly was responsible, and she was arrested for malicious destruction of property.

Man arrested for damaging businesses, vehicles

ROYAL OAK — A 41-year-old Pontiac man was arrested for malicious destruction of property during the early morning June 10.

At approximately 6 a.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Woodward Avenue and Normandy Road for a report of a man who threw a rock at a window of a nearby business.

Once officers arrived, they located and took into custody the suspect, who police said was hiding behind a business on Woodward. Police said they observed damaged windows on the building and a vehicle.

Police continued their investigation and found eight more businesses along Woodward with damaged windows, including a car dealership that had windows broken on all 29 of its vehicles.

“Royal Oak detectives are continuing their investigation while the suspect was turned over to medical professionals for mental health concerns,” the report states.

Canine fans push for Gordonsetter as Michigan’s state dog

While each state has its unique official designations — state flowers, mottos and insects — many people are surprised to learn that only 13 states have a state dog. It’s estimated that approximately two-thirds of American households, tallying up to around 65 million, are dog owners. The pet advice website known as The Pampered Pup recently conducted a poll of 3,000 respondents to find out their preferred breed if given the opportunity to vote for an official state dog. Michiganders opted for the Gordon setter. In second place, Michigan residents voted for the Labrador retriever, while their third-place pick was the American Eskimo dog.

CAPTURING CAPOEIRA

TOP: Capoeira Detroit performs June 20 at Macomb Mall in Roseville. Capoeira is a physical activity that combines music, martial arts and dance. ABOVE: After demonstrating, members of Capoeira Detroit encouraged kids to join in and taught them moves. LEFT: Capoeira is a full-body workout that is often called a gamebetween two people.

Middle school student brings kitchen knife to school

SOUTHFIELD — At 12:25 p.m. June 9, officers contacted the dean of a local school regarding his report that students had advised him that another student had a knife in his backpack and was showing it to other students.

The dean contacted the student, interviewed him and confiscated the kitchen knife from him.

The dean stated that this student does not have any prior issues with the school or students, and does not have a record. The student made no threats.

The dean reported that the student was suspended for the rest of the school year, and they will follow up with staff on what actions need to take place going forward. The student’s parents picked him up prior to the officers’ arrival. The knife was turned over to the Southfield Police Department. The investigation was ongoing.

Man stops car theft with Ring

doorbell alarm

SOUTHFIELD — A resident in the 28000 block of Valley Forge received a notification from his Ring doorbell that someone was in his driveway at 2:41 a.m. June 7.

When he opened the Ring app, he saw a suspect in his mother’s vehicle. He hit the alarm on the Ring doorbell to scare off the victim.

The suspect initially ran south on Valley Forge and then headed westbound across the road and through yards toward Lahser Road. The reporting party checked the vehicle and noted that nothing was taken.

Truck stolen after being left unlocked with keys inside

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department took a report of a stolen vehicle from the 7000 block of Mohansic Drive June 12.

The vehicle, a 2020 Ram pickup truck, was stolen from the driveway overnight. The truck was left unlocked, and the keys were left in the vehicle. The case was under investigation by the Bloomfield Township Investigations Unit.

Man steals king crab legs, drops them in parking lot and flees

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department took a retail fraud report at Nino Salvaggio’s, 6592 Telegraph Road, on June 13. According to reports, an unknown man attempt-

store. The suspect ran out of the store toward the parking lot, and dropped the tote of crab legs.

The suspect fled from the store in a black Ford Escape. Video surveillance was not obtained. The case was under investigation.

Man arrested during altercation involving pepper spray

BIRMINGHAM — Officers were dispatched to the intersection of Pierce Street and Maple Road for a report of a male being pepper-sprayed after an altercation at 2:20 a.m. June 18.

Officers determined that two males were walking down Pierce Street when another group of three to four males yelled at them while driving by.

An argument ensued and became physical. One of the subjects involved, a 25-year-old Rochester Hills resident, allegedly pepper-sprayed a 21-year-old West Bloomfield resident and was arrested for assault and battery.

Stolen car recovered in Detroit

BIRMINGHAM — A Birmingham resident reported that his Toyota Rav 4 was stolen from his driveway between June 15 and 16 in the 500 block of Aspen Road. The doors were left unlocked, and the keys were in the cupholder. There was an Apple AirTag on the key ring, tracking to Detroit. The vehicle was later recovered in Detroit, and the driver was arrested.

Ford Explorer reported stolen

BIRMINGHAM — On June 15, a 53-year-old Birmingham resident reported that his Ford Explorer was stolen from his driveway overnight in the 1100 block of Fairfax.

The victim said that his vehicle had been locked, with a keyfob inside. The case was under investigation.

Threatening drawing discovered at Stoney Creek High School

ROCHESTER HILLS — On June 2, a student at Stoney Creek High School found a threatening message and drawing written in pencil on a toilet paper dispenser in a female restroom. The student reported it to staff, who notified the school resource officer. The drawing was of a stick figure shooting another stick figure in the head with a pistol.

School resource officers responded and initiated an investigation, including reviewing camera footage. No other students claimed knowledge of the drawing. There were no known social media posts made

were no known witnesses or suspects. School administrators were advised. The threat was not considered credible. An investigation was ongoing.

iPad stolen after Facebook Marketplace deal goes wrong

ROCHESTER HILLS — A resident in the 500 block of Yorkshire Drive posted an iPad Pro for sale on Facebook Marketplace. A male subject arrived to purchase the iPad at around 12:47 p.m. May 20. The man grabbed the iPad from the victim, assaulted her and ran off, according to a police report.

The subject ran to an older model red Dodge minivan and drove off in an unknown direction. Deputies checked the area, with negative results. The victim refused medical treatment.

Unlocked car stolen from driveway

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the 600 block of Sunlight Drive for an unlawful driving away of an automobile report at 7:41 a.m. May 25.

The complainant, a 60-year-old man from Rochester Hills, stated his 2016 Mazda CX5 was parked in his driveway the evening of May 24. At 3:27 a.m. on May 25, there is video of the vehicle being driven away by an unknown person.

The complainant stated the vehicle was left unlocked and the key fob was left in the vehicle, along with a wallet belonging to another family member. Police search for man wanted for fleeing and eluding ROCHESTER HILLS — A traffic deputy running radar on eastbound M-59 initiated a traffic stop on a white Chrysler Pacifica at M-59 and Rochester Road at 9:27 a.m. May 31.

When asked for his driver’s license, the driver, a 33-year-old man from West Bloomfield, handed the deputy a wallet containing identification. The driver told the deputy his license was suspended. The deputy also noticed a large stack of U.S. currency in the vehicle. The driver told the deputy there was $7,000 in the vehicle. The deputy asked the driver to step out of the vehicle, but the driver did not and instead accelerated away. The deputy terminated his pursuit of the vehicle and provided information on the suspect and car to neighboring agencies.

Within hours, the suspect vehicle was located in the 5400 block of Twin Oaks in Sterling Heights. The owner of the wallet arrived at the substation, and it was determined that he was not the driver of the suspect vehicle. The deputy was able to obtain positive identification of the suspect driver. The investigation continued.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Photo provided by Rachel Felice