7/17/24 Eagle by C & G Newspapers

VOTERS TO CONSIDER CANDIDATES

New software makes budget viewing easier for residents

BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnew.com

BIRMINGHAM — Residents curious about how the city plans to spend its money next year can now view that information as an online flipbook, thanks to new software.

The city of Birmingham’s new OpenGov budget software is allowing them to make viewing the budget more transparent and efficient for residents and city staff. This cost the city $79,000 for the first year, which includes $34,000 for the software, and approximately $45,000 for implementation and training, which took approximately six months to complete. The annual software and support will be approximately $34,000, plus inflationary increases, going forward.

Officials said the online budget book will give residents the ability to easily access the city’s financial information online. OpenGov Budgeting and Planning is a cloud software specifically created for governments to use.

“OpenGov is a very user-friendly tool for Birming-

See SOFTWARE on page 12A

DISCOUNTS, FOOD TRUCKS, MORE PLANNED FOR DAY ON THE TOWN

BIRMINGHAM — Downtown Birmingham will host the annual Day On The Town 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, July 27.

Organizers said attendees will find deeply discounted merchandise from over 60 retailers, food trucks, chalk art displays, kids activities provided by Tree Runner and more in stores and throughout the

streets and sidewalks downtown.

Food trucks serving up frozen treats, burgers and lobster will be available throughout the event. Kevin from Channel 955’s “Mojo in the Morning” will go live from the Channel 955 Ice Cream Truck, powered by BIGGBY Coffee, 1-3 p.m.

SECOND FRONT PAGE

BIRMINGHAM-BLOOMFIELD EAGLE • JULY 17, 2024

‘Class of leaders’ call it a career

for Bloomfield Hills lacrosse

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Their first season on varsity ended in a state tournament run, so it was only right to have the final curtain call for the Bloomfield Hills girls lacrosse seniors be yet another memorable journey in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament.

Seniors Abigayle Agbay, Aubrey Agbay, Ella Lucia and Sydney Butler started their high school careers on varsity as young freshmen hoping to make an impact throughout the season, and seniors Molly Herrick, Eleen Vaupel and Cassidy Brazelton would soon join their Class of 2024 teammates.

The sensational seven would go on to win their first regional championship in the black

See BLOOMFIELD on page 35A

Birmingham United lacrosse ‘excited about the future’ after step-forward season

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

BIRMINGHAM — If they weren’t on everyone’s radar prior to this season, they are now.

Carrying one of the toughest schedules in the state this season, Birmingham United boys lacrosse not only improved its win total but did it against the best competition around.

Birmingham United, a co-op of Birmingham Seaholm and Birmingham Groves, started the season 7-1 collecting wins against Rochester Hills Stoney Creek, South Lyon East and Clarkston, who Birmigham lost to a year prior.

The second half of the season saw the Bulldogs go toe-to-toe with 2023 Division 1 state champions Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice, which won 16

Bloomfield Hills senior Ella Lucia reaches up to gain control of the ball against a Brighton player.

Photo by Susan Adams Photography

Birmingham United lacrosse lines up for the national anthem before a game this season.

Photo provided by Brett Feldamaier

CRIME WATCH

Facebook marketplace exchange turns into unarmed robbery

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Bloomfield Township Police Department was dispatched to a market in the 1500 block of South Opdyke Road for an unarmed robbery that had just occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. June 30.

The victim had posted her Apple iPhone 15 for sale on Facebook Marketplace and was supposed to meet the buyer at a grocery store in the area to make the exchange. The buyer arrived and began to bargain the price down. When the victim stated that the price was firm, the buyer allegedly grabbed the phone from the victim’s hand and ran away with it.

The suspect was described as a Black male in his late teens to early 20s, approximately 5 feet, 3 inches tall, with light skin and short dreads that were tied back. The victim and officers canvassed the area but were unable to locate the suspect.

The case has been assigned to the Bloomfield Township investigations divisions. Anyone with information should contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department at (248) 433-7755.

The Police Department’s parking lot and lobby can act as a safe exchange zone for social marketplaces, police said. Police encourage anyone selling or buying products from an individual online to utilize this space and to alert officers of the exchange prior to conducting it.

Hundreds of dollars of Nike items stolen from store

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Police were dispatched to a sporting goods

store in the 2100 block of South Telegraph Road for a retail fraud at approximately 7:30 p.m. June 29. Employees stated that at approximately 7 p.m. three females entered the store and placed several Nike apparel items into their shopping cart before walking out without paying for them.

Around $400-$600 worth of goods were stolen. Police are investigating. Anyone with any information should contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department at (248) 433-7755.

Laptops stolen from car

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP —

Sometime overnight between June 27 and June 28, someone entered a vehicle in the 500 block of Whethersfield and stole two Apple MacBook Pro laptops valued at $6,000 total. There were no signs of forced entry on the vehicle. Police said people should never keep valuables inside their vehicles, which should always be locked. Police are investigating. Anyone with any information should contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department at (248) 433-7755.

Laundry detergent, diaper stolen from store

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Police were dispatched to a grocery store in the 3600 block of West Maple Road for a retail fraud at approximately 3:30 p.m. June 26. Employees said two men and a woman pushed a shopping cart full of liquid Tide laundry detergent and diapers out of the store without paying for them. It is believed there were approximately 10 containers of detergent and 10 packages of diapers in the cart. The estimated total loss is $500. Police are investigating. Anyone with any information should contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department at (248) 433-7755.

— Mary Beth Almond

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Police seek assistance to identify injured pedestrian

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Police are asking for assistance in identifying a man who was hospitalized after being hit by a car July 11.

The Bloomfield Township Police Department received multiple calls at around 5:15 a.m. July 11 reporting a pedestrian walking in the left lane of northbound Woodward Avenue, near Big Beaver Road.

Officers were dispatched to the area, but before they arrived, the dispatch center received a 911 call that the pedestrian had been struck by a car.

According to reports, the driver called 911, remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

The pedestrian was taken to Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak. At press time, police said he was on a ventilator and in serious condition.

Police describe that man as a Black man in his 30s, approximately 5 feet, 9 inches tall, with a thin build.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Bloomfield Township Police Department at (248) 433-7755.

— Mary Beth Almond

Birmingham teen crashes into multiple cars before jumping into Lake Orion

BIRMINGHAM — A teenage driver from Birmingham crashed his car into eight vehicles in various communities while reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis.

Deputies from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office’s Search and Rescue Team were dispatched to Lake Orion at about 12:15 p.m. July 7 on a report that a man had hit multiple vehicles, abandoned his car and fled before jumping into Lake Orion. The teen reportedly swam into the lake and “began screaming at other boaters.”

Deputies and members of the Orion Township Fire Department responded and rescued the teen by rescue boat.

The entire episode lasted approximately 90 minutes, with deputies later learning the teen had crashed into several vehicles in Auburn Hills and Orion Township. Eight vehicles were damaged, and traffic on M-24 was delayed for a short period.

No one was injured in the crashes.

The teen was transported to the hospital, where deputies filed a petition for a mental health committal.

— Mary Beth Almond

Potential sale of OCC campus garners attention

BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com

OAKLAND COUNTY — Oftentimes, decisions at the local government level are made without a lot of fanfare.

However, a recent decision by the Waterford Township Board of Trustees has gotten the attention of local residents.

At a meeting May 28, the township’s Board of Trustees approved the proposed purchase of the southern portion of Oakland Community College’s Highland Lakes campus, with the intent of repurposing it for a future recreation and community center. The decision was approved 5-1, with Trustee Janet Matsura being the lone vote against the purchase.

At press time, Matsura had not replied to opportunities to comment about the reason for her decision.

On May 21, OCC’s Board of Trustees approved the sale of the property to Waterford Township, according to a press release from OCC.

Waterford Township agreed to purchase 51 acres of the southern portion of OCC’s Highland Lakes campus for $2.8 million. The campus is located at 7350 Cooley Lake Road.

The sale is contingent on Waterford Township

passing a bond proposal that is set to be on the Nov. 5 general election ballot. The bond would raise funds for the improvement and renovation of the property, according to information on the township’s website.

“Our current community center has seen its better years, and we’ve outgrown it, so we looked at the 51 acres of property and the two building there that would fit our needs – the athletic building and the student center building – that we can turn into offices and rooms and stuff like that,” said Waterford Township Supervisor Gary Wall.

According to Wall, recreation activities at the site could include a pickleball court, a softball field and a dog park.

“Lots of different things,” he said.

Although the exact language of the bond proposal has yet to be posted on Oakland County’s website, according to Wall, the proposal is not to exceed $36,410,000.

Wall acknowledged that the purchase hinges on whether or not the bond proposal passes.

“It’s contingent on that, but I feel good about it,” he said. “People are excited. We have no current debt at the township – none. … We have no bonds, nothing’s financed, everything’s paid for.. … It’s less than $100

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

The Waterford Township Board of Trustees recently approved the proposed purchase of the southern portion of Oakland Community College’s Highland Lakes campus, which borders West Bloomfield.

See OCC on page 11A

C & G Newspapers staffers win 23 journalism awards

METRO DETROIT — The 12 C & G Newspapers staffers who were recognized in the Michigan Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and the Society of Professional Journalists-Detroit Chapter’s Excellence in Journalism awards walked away with a total of 23 honors.

Both awards are held annually, and the winners were recently acknowledged for their work in 2023.

Maria Allard, a staff writer for the Warren Weekly and the Eastsider, won first place in the news enterprise reporting category of the Better Newspaper Contest for “Warren resident, World War II vet becomes centenarian.” Allard took third place and honorable mention, respectively, in the feature story category for “Warren couple embodies everlasting love” and “Student acts after bus incident, brings classmates to safety.”

“I love being a writer, and it’s nice to be included alongside my colleagues,” Allard said.

“The journalists at C & G Newspapers work tirelessly to provide essential coverage of important community news and I’m extremely proud to be a part of that,” Almond said.

Page designer Jason Clancy was awarded first and second place by the SPJ for his page one designs. First place went to the July 26 edition of St. Clair Shores Sentinel, while second place went to the Feb. 22 edition of the Royal Oak Review.

“I enjoy coming up with creative designs that help entice readers to pick up our papers,” Clancy said.

Gena Johnson, a staff writer for the Warren Weekly, took first place in the MPA’s government/education news category for “Michigan Supreme Court won’t hear term

Mary Beth Almond, staff writer for the Rochester Post, was recognized in the breaking/spot news category in both the Better Newspaper Contest and the Excellence in Journalism awards, taking second and third place, respectively, for “Oakland Township woman arraigned on charges in fatal hitand-run crash.” She also took third place in government/news reporting of the Better Newspaper Contest for “Rochester skates forward with plans for outdoor skate park.”

limits case involving Warren mayor.”

“Working as a reporter at C & G Newspapers has been a joy having my fingers on the pulse of community journalism,” Johnson said.

Andy Kozlowski, staff writer for the Madison-Park News, won two Excellence in Journalism awards. The first award was first place in the consumer/watchdog category for “Ex-contractor sentenced in Madison schools bribery case,” and the other award was first place in the explanatory story category for “Wild Wings continues mission to rescue birds in need.” The judges said, “Love this story. It gives good and vital information on how to handle baby birds that have fallen from their nest.”

“The stories couldn’t be more different: One was a public corruption case I investigated, and the other was about helping baby birds,” Kozlowski said. “But I believe each has an impact. That’s the best part of journalism.”

Charity Meier, staff writer for the Novi Note, earned honorable mention in the feature story category for “An extraordinary ‘ordinary’ life” in the Better Newspaper Con-

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(Southfeld, MI) Full body MRI clinics have gained national attention lately, as TV personalities publicly share their personal full body scan experiences. One actress credits the scan for saving her life after doctors dismissed her unexplained pain for months. After various tests, including a CT scan, had “unremarkable” results, the pregnant actress became her own advocate, searched out a full body MRI clinic and discovered she had pancreatic cancer. Tanks to early detection the tumor was removed successfully.

As a general rule, when symptoms occur related to cancer, it usually has progressed to stage three or four. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screenings only cover about 29% of cancers with 71%

occurring outside of where doctors are able to screen. However, full body MRI scans can detect cancer in every organ from the top of the head through the pelvis and can detect it very early.

For a long time, full body MRI scans were available only in select areas outside of Michigan, requiring expensive fights like in Vancouver or California. However, this changed when a facility opened in Southfeld, making these screenings available to Metro Detroit residents.

“Our advanced MRI screening can detect cancers very early when they are as small as a pencil eraser and are more easily treatable. If cancer goes undetected, however, it can grow into stage three or stage four with difcult treatments. We can also identify hundreds of conditions

such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms,” stated the founder of the Southfeld clinic called Bionicc Body Screening.

test.

For a version of this article containing links to the winning entries, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com.

“I am pleased to have been able to share the knowledge, insight and humor of Wilbur Bigelow,” Meier said. “He turned 101 recently and is someone we can all learn from.”

K. Michelle Moran, staff writer for the Grosse Pointe Times, walked away with six awards between the two organizations. She won two first-place awards in the Better Newspaper Contest: one for her spot news story, “Friends, family remember Arielle Anderson and Brian Fraser,” and a public service award for “Kroger agrees to new fence, window displays for Village store.” Moran also received second place in both the Better Newspaper Contest and Excellence in Journalism awards for the local and community news story, “Grosse Pointe Shores consider-

See AWARDS on page 12A

MRI full body screenings are safe, non-invasive and emit zero radiation. Book in July to save $450.

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Save $450 this Independence Day when you book a full body MRI appointment for the month of July. Learn more now by visiting www. BioniccBodyScreening.com (Tis is a limited time ofer.) Schedule today at 1-833-BIONICC.

0322-2429

NEWS & NOTES

Library opens new expansion and addition

BIRMINGHAM — The Baldwin Public Library announced the opening of its new street-level front entrance and collaboration space July 10.

The $4.1million project, funded through a voter-approved millage and donations to the library’s trust, marks the end of the library’s three-phase improvement plan. The first phase included the library’s adult services wing and was completed in 2017. The youth room was expanded and renovated in 2020. This final phase of improvements broke ground a year ago and includes:

An accessible street-level entrance equipped with an interior ramp and a passenger elevator.

A 2,000-square-foot addition to house a new vending café and collaboration space.

A 3,000-square-foot renovation of interior space with new furniture, flooring and energy- efficient lighting.

A centrally located information and checkout desk with integrated holds shelving and self-checkout machines.

Energy-efficient, glare-reducing glass windows and an underground water detention system.

An outdoor plaza and gardens with native plantings.

The addition of four private study rooms for one or two people.

The Used Bookshop for the Friends of the Baldwin Public Library.

A ribbon cutting and grand reopening will be held 1-3 p.m. Sept. 15. For more information about the project, including budget updates, plans, progress photos, and past meeting information, visit www.baldwinlib. org/renovation.

The Baldwin Public Library is located in downtown Birmingham at 300 W. Merrill St.

WING LAKE ROAD CLOSED THROUGH JULY 22 FOR SCHOOL ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — The Road Commission for Oakland County has issued a permit to allow a contractor for the Bloomfield Public Schools to close Wing Lake Road just north of Quarton Road in Bloomfield Township to make improvements to the entrance to South Hill Middle School through July 22.

During the closure, the contractor will replace the paved section of the road and work on drainage improvements in the vicinity of the school entrance.

The traffic detour is Quarton Road to Franklin Road to Lone Pine Road and back to Wing Lake Road. Residents living along Wing Lake Road north of the construction will need to access Wing Lake Road from Lone Pine Road.

This section of Wing Lake Road carries approximately 330 vehicles daily, according to the Road Commission for Oakland County.

TOWNSHIP CLOSES ON SALE OF $15.8 MILLION IN SPECIAL ASSESSMENT BONDS

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — On July 10, Bloomfield Township closed on the sale of $15,790,000 par value of Special Assessment-Limited Tax General Obligation bonds, Series 2024 maturing in April 2039. The township received 13 qualified bids for the bonds through a competitive sale process, and UBS Financial Services Inc. was the low bidder and was awarded the sale.

As part of the bond sale process, S&P Global Ratings reaffirmed its AAA rating on the township’s bonds, leading to an increased number of bidders and resulting in the market leading-pricing on the bonds.

The proceeds of this bond offering will fund the road replacement project currently underway in the Bloomfield Village neighborhood of the township, and the residents of that neighborhood will pay a special assessment for 15 years to repay the bonds.

In a report, S&P highlighted the township’s “very strong management, with strong financial policies and practices under our Financial Management Assessment (FMA) methodology, that underpins continued operational strength through effective measures such as long-term financial and capital planning and formalized investment, debt management, and reserve policies.”

In a statement, Township Treasurer Michael Schostak said “S&P’s reaffirmation of our AAA credit rating is testament to the smart, conservative financial practices of the Township, including keeping operating costs down and paying down long-term liabilities. There is direct savings to the residents of the Township as a result of the AAA rating, in the form of lower borrowing costs and we are gratified by achieving this rating.”

“Bloomfield Township is one of the few municipalities in the state with S&P’s highest credit rating, a distinction we are very proud of. We continue to invest in our infrastructure and are doing so in a fiscally prudent manner,” Township Supervisor Dani Walsh said in a statement.

CRANBROOK SHOWCASES CUBAN MID-CENTURY MODERN DESIGNS

BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com

BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Cranbrook Art Museum’s upcoming exhibition will showcase under-acknowledged furniture and furnishings from the decades following the Cuban Revolution.

“A Modernist Regime: Cuban Mid-Century Modern Design” was slated to open July 11 at the Cranbrook Art Museum and will run through Sept. 22 in the main and north galleries.

Chief Curator Laura Mott shared how important Cranbrook is in the history of mid-century design. Cranbrook’s website notes that “Charles and Ray Eames, who met at Cranbrook Academy of Art 80 years ago, are the definitive designers of the mid-century movement.”

Mott was inspired by Cuban design after a research trip to Cuba in 2017.

“Beyond just celebrating ourself, we should really be contributing to design history in a broader scope, and also diversifying design history,” Mott said.

Mid-century modern design has been booming in modern trends. Mott shares some of the differences that American mid-century modern designs may have from Cuban mid-century modern designs.

See DESIGNS on page 33A

Cranbrook Art Museum’s upcoming exhibition will showcase under-acknowledged furniture and furnishings from the decades following the Cuban Revolution.

Photo by Danielle deo Owensby from Cranbrook Art Museum

OCC

from page 7A

per average household.”

As for OCC, the college intends to move the Highland Lakes campus’ health sciences programs to its Orchard Ridge campus in Farmington Hills in the fall of 2026.

According to the release, the Orchard Ridge campus will house all of the college’s health sciences disciplines in a new, “state-ofthe-art” building.

“OCC supports the Township’s efforts as they explore the feasibility of a future recreation and community center,” OCC Chancellor Peter Provenzano Jr. stated in the release. “The College’s priority is for the Highland Lakes property to continue to provide great community value, enhance quality of life and meet the needs of local residents.”

The release further stated that, “OCC is not considering other offers in order to stay focused on this priority.”

According to Wall, OCC will not start moving out of its Highland Lakes campus until the end of the 2025 school year. If things move forward with the purchase agreement, he estimated that the project would take approximately 15-18 months after OCC’s move-out date, which could take place between January and December of 2026.

Wall said that OCC is going to “sell everything,” but thus far only has a purchase agreement with Waterford Township.

Although West Bloomfield resident Nancy Croitori supports Waterford’s decision to purchase the southern portion of OCC’s Highland Lakes campus, she does have some concerns.

One of those concerns is what will happen with the northern acreage of the campus.

“There are precious woodlands, nature trails and a reserve that we would like to be preserved as greenspace,” Croitori said. “We have seen plans where that could be developed.”

Given that Waterford Township’s purchase offer is contingent on the bond proposal passing, there is also concern that the development could impact the entire campus.

“If the bond proposal fails, the entire 160 acres could become a gigantic development,” Croitori stated in an email. “OCC will be the one to decide.”

Croitori isn’t the only one who has considered the potential impact if development occurs on the property.

Waterford resident David St. Dennis spoke during the public comments portion

of the Board of Trustees meeting May 28. He said that he lives about 100 yards from the campus.

“My friend and I just came back from walking; we go up the long hill and we go back through these woods – 100-year oaks and everything; it’s beautiful,” St. Dennis said. “To cut those down or do anything to damage that preserve would be a crime. I don’t know of any other (strand) of oaks and great trees in Waterford as this. … I want to see that preserved.”

Provenzano responded to some questions via email. He addressed concerns that the north end of the campus could be sold for commercial development.

“OCC is taking the interests and concerns of the community into consideration alongside our intent to seek the preservation of significant open space and wetlands at the Highland Lakes campus,” Provenzano stated. “The amount of future open space will be a critical factor in selecting a buyer. … It is OCC’s intent to preserve significant open space and wetlands including considerations to connect Hess Hathaway Park, the trail system, and the proposed Township Community Center. The College is interested in finding prospective buyers who are committed to preserving the land and ensuring it continues to provide great community value, enhance quality of life, and meet the needs of residents.”

Provenzano also added that, “At this time, OCC is committed to focusing its attention on the southern portion of the campus and support of the Waterford Township millage and is not considering other offers in order to stay focused on this priority.”

According to the email statement, the entire Highland Lakes campus is roughly 157 acres.

Waterford resident Arthur Frasca also spoke during public comments.

“I believe that is the last opportunity in this area for a piece of land that big, and doing everything we can to try and get it for Waterford is the right thing to do,” he said. “I (want to) commend you on the OCC thing. The public will have a voice in that. They vote in November, so they can turn down the bond issue, if in fact they don’t like it.”

From Croitori’s perspective, potential commercial development could also directly impact West Bloomfield residents.

“West Bloomfield residents directly across the street … will be affected by light pollution, traffic, (and) probably loss in value of their property, being right across the street from commercial development,” she said. “We’re

not in favor of that commercial carveout. We would prefer Waterford purchased all of that.”

Although some residents may be concerned about a potential increase in traffic if the property is developed, according to Wall, the Road Commission for Oakland County is going to conduct a traffic study to determine if an extra lane needs to be added to Cooley Lake Road. From his perspective, potential traffic issues would be situational.

“There are times, like at the beginning of the day when people are going to work, (and) the end of the day, when people are coming

home from work – there’s traffic jams, obviously, but it’s not like that 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Wall said. “It won’t be constant heavy traffic.”

Wall is of the opinion that gaining control of the southern portion of OCC’s Highland Lakes campus has the potential to benefit the township for decades to come.

“I hope that the people are on board with this and (want to) take this opportunity to retain 51 acres of greenspace,” he said.

Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 4981052.

Software

from page 1A

ham residents to access the City’s 2024-25 budget,” Assistant City Manager Melissa Fairbairn said in an email. “Residents can use the links in the interactive digital budget book to quickly connect with the specific information that they seek.”

Birmingham Finance Director Mark Gerber said they decided to implement this program for several reasons.

“Currently, we’re using this program to develop our budget. What this software will be able to help us to do is gather information in a more efficient manner and be able to create department pages that are a little easier to read,” Gerber said.

He said the first reason they decided to use OpenGov in Birmingham was that it would make it easier for residents to access budget information.

Gerber added that the software will also make the process of gathering information and building documents easier for city staff. He said he thinks it will save them time in the long run.

Officials said OpenGov will also give

Awards

from page 8A

ing breed ban after violent dog attack.” She took third- and fourth-place honors, respectively, in the Better Newspaper Contest and the Excellence in Journalism awards for “Fire guts nearly 100-year-old home in Grosse Pointe City.”

“It’s always a tremendous honor to be recognized by your colleagues,” Moran said.

Alyssa Ochss, staff writer for the St. Clair Shores Sentinel, took home second place in the feature reporting category of the Excellence in Journalism awards for the story “Making the paranormal more normal.”

Kathryn Pentiuk, staff writer for the Southfield Sun, won second-place honors in the Excellence in Journalism awards for environmental reporting in her story, “‘Forever chemicals’ found in Rouge, Huron River fish.”

Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak won

the city more ways to be transparent with the public. This summer they are working on developing a way to make it easier for someone from the public to find out specific budget information, such as information about how much was spent in a particular department over several years.

While developing their online budget book with OpenGov, Gerber said, the city looked at other communities throughout the country who had already been using OpenGov, including the city of Royal Oak.

“We did look at theirs to kind of get an idea of what is working in a real environment and see what we could do with a product,” Gerber said.

The 2024-2025 recommended city budget is now available to view. Among the many parts of the budget is a five-year capital improvement plan.

The budget information is also available in a PDF version and a flipbook version. Prior to the implementation of OpenGov, the budget was only available in PDF documents.

All versions can be accessed at bhamgov. org/budget.

Call Staff Writer Mary Genson at (586) 498-1095.

first- and third- place honors, respectively, in the sports reporting category of the Excellence in Journalism awards for “Girls flag football league introduced in Michigan” and “Fernsler’s ‘poised’ performance leads Novi to first state title.”

Excellence in Journalism first-place awards were shared by Clancy and photographers Patricia O’Blenes and Erin Sanchez for a feature page design about local graduates in the June 21 edition of the Eastsider.

The Michigan Press Association was founded in 1868 and promotes the power of print and the public’s right to know.

The Society of Professional Journalists is the nation’s oldest organization representing journalists in the United States. Established on April 17, 1909, at DePauw University, the organization was formerly known as Sigma Delta Chi before adopting its current name. The organization is dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and promoting high standards of ethical behavior.

Village of Beverly Hills Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting 8/12/2024

Public Notice is hereby given that the Village of Beverly Hills Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a meeting on Monday, August 12, 2024, at 7:30 pm at the Village of Beverly Hills Offce at 18500 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025.

The following case will be heard:

Case #1418: In order to construct an addition to the existing attached garage with a side yard setback of 10 feet, the applicant is requesting a dimensional variance of 5 feet from Section 22.24 “Schedule of Regulations” of Chapter 22 Zoning requiring a minimum side yard setback of 15 feet in the R-A Single Family zoning district.

Interested parties may comment on the request in person at the scheduled hearing. Written comments may be submitted in person or by mail to the Village of Beverly Hills, Zoning Board of Appeals, 18500 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025. Comments may also be submitted via email to sstec@villagebeverlyhills.com by 4:00 p.m. on the date of the hearing. The application may be reviewed at the Village

0468-2429

SYNOPSIS

SOUTHFIELD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING ON JULY 9, 2024

Board meeting was held from 7:00 p.m. to 7:39 p.m.

Supervisor O’Reilly Chaired the Meeting.

Following members were Present: O’Reilly, Harryvan, Nelson, Cook, Newitt, Chalifoux

Absent: Scarcello Others Present: Amber Taylor, Janet Mooney

Board approved, as amended, the Agenda.

Board approved, as amended, the June 11, 2024 Regular Board meeting minutes.

Board approved resolution Special Assessment District for Police & Fire to the Village of Beverly Hills 2024-2025.

Board approved resolution Special Assessment District for Franklin-Bingham Fire Department 2024-2025.

Board approved resolution Special Assessment District for Franklin-Bingham Police Department 2024-2025.

Board approved June General Fund expenditures in the amount of $177,186.68.

Eileen Harryvan

Southfeld Township Clerk

Published: Birmingham-Bloomfeld Eagle 07/17/2024

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD

SUMMARY OF JUNE 2024 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETINGS

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD

The Bloom eld Township Board of Trustees held two regular meetings on Monday, June 10th and Monday, June 24th at 7:00 p.m.

SUMMARY OF JUNE2024 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETINGS

The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees held two regular meetings on Monday, June10th and Monday, June24th at 7:00 p.m.

A full synopsis of each meeting is posted and available on the Legal Notices webpage on the Township website and in the Clerk’s Of ce for public viewing. Meetings are also televised live by Bloom eld Community Television (“BCTV”) on Comcast’s channel fteen for Bloom eld Township and Bloom eld Hills residents. Recordings can be viewed on BCTV’s YouTube account.

A full synopsis of each meeting is posted and available on the Legal Notices webpage on the Township website and in the Clerk’s Office for public viewing. Meetings are also televised live by Bloomfield Community Television (“BCTV”) on Comcast’s channel fifteenfor Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills residents. Recordings can be viewed on BCTV’s YouTube account.

The Quick Response (“QR”) codes can be utilized to view the Board meetings and supporting documents, or visit the Township website at www.bloom eldtwp.org. Please call the Clerk’s Of ce at 248-433-7702 if you have any questions.

The Quick Response (“QR”) codescan be utilized to view the Board meetings and supporting documents, or visit the Township website at www.bloomfieldtwp.org Please call the Clerk’s Office at 248-433-7702 if you have any questions

C. BROOK

Publish: July 17, 2024

MARTIN

MARTIN C. BROOK BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP CLERK

0467-2429

Kristin Rutkowski Village Clerk

Published: Birmingham-Bloomfeld Eagle 07/17/2024

SPORTS

Seaholm tennis proves it’s here to stay with runner-up finish at states

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

BIRMINGHAM — Birmingham

Seaholm girls tennis continues to be a perennial threat in the race for the Division 2 state title, and there’s no signs of slowing down.

After capturing the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 2 state championship last year for the fifth time since 2010, which also included four state runner-up finishes, Seaholm, led by head coach Casey Cullen, was facing the loss of a solid core of its title-winning team.

It was up to the juniors and seniors to pick up right where the previous class left off, and Seaholm didn’t skip a beat.

Seaholm may have finished runner-up in the MHSAA Division 2 state finals June 1 at Byron Center West Sports Complex, but not without bringing back a pair of individual state titles to add to its already impressive trophy case.

Both state champions on different doubles flights in 2023, junior Jordyn Lusky and sophomore Lucy Jen teamed up to dominate the doubles flight No. 3 bracket, failing to drop a single set en route to their championship win.

It can be difficult to match someone’s energy or merge your play styles, especially in your first year together, but Lusky said she and Jen were the perfect match.

“I’ve always felt that me and Lucy play similar anyways,” Lusky said. “One of the things that I love in a doubles team is just

energy and loudness, and that’s one thing (coach) Casey (Cullen) tries to instill a lot. I feel like when we both get loud, we have energy and we’re bouncing, we play really well together. Over the season, our communication as a partnership grew and just made us

See TENNIS on page 23A

Photos provided by Jordyn Lusky

Birmingham Seaholm finished runner-up in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 2 state finals June 1 at Byron Center West Sports Complex.

Birmingham Seaholm junior Jordyn Lusky, left, and sophomore Lucy Jen, right, teamed up to dominate the doubles flight No. 3 bracket, failing to drop a single set en route to their Division 1 championship win.

ABOVE: Downtown Birmingham is slated to host Day on the Town July 27.

LEFT: Art and entertainment are traditional parts of Day on the Town.

BELOW: Food trucks and entertainment are slated to be part of the event again this year. Photos provided by the city of Birmingham

“This is the day that shoppers look forward to all year. We encourage people to check out sales at the many retailers and to complete their day with a meal on the patio of one of our great restaurants or a nice walk through the park,” said Birmingham Shopping District Operations and Events Manager Jaimi Brook. “Be sure to get here early to find the best deals.”

A Birmingham Police Department open house event will be held on Martin Street and Pierce Street 10 a.m.-1 p.m. It will feature a driving simulator, therapy K-9s, drone demonstrations and a bike rodeo. There will also be giveaways, an opportunity to properly dispose of medication through Operation Medicine Cabinet and gunlock distribution.

The event is organized by the Birmingham Shopping District.

Old Woodward Avenue will be closed to vehicles from Willits Street to Brown Street; Maple Road will be closed from Bates Street to Peabody Street for retail displays and pedestrian traffic. Parking is free in municipal structures during the event.

Visit www.allinbirmingham.com/visitors/dayonthetown for more information. Day from page 1A

Nowthere’shopefor hormonalhealthrecovery formenandwomen

Dr. Rona Wadle, D.O., doesn’t hold back when talking about the life-changing bioidentical hormone replacement therapy that she received - and now offers to others at RenewMyWellness in downtown Birmingham.

“After suffering through severe menopausal symptoms myself, this therapy has given me my life back,” Dr. Wadle said.

Dr. Rona Wadle, D.O., doesn’t hold back when talking about the life-changing bioidentical hormone replacement therapy that she received - and now ofers to others at Renew My Wellness located in Birmingham.

Since the 1930’s patients throughout Europe, Japan and the United States have successfully used bio-identical hormones. Many studies show that when prescribed and administered correctly, bio-identical hormone pellets can help a variety of conditions and symptoms. They don’t present the potential hazards that many synthetic medications do.

“Afer sufering through severe menopausal symptoms myself, this therapy has given me my life back,” Dr. Wadle said.

As a registered nurse who later went to medical school and became board certiﬁed in emergency medicine, Dr. Wadle owned and operated an urgent care center in Birmingham. Based on her own medical journey and personal experience with hormone depletion, she founded RenewMyWellness.

“After suffering through severe menopausal symptoms myself, this therapy has given me my life back,” Dr. Wadle said.

As a registered nurse who later went to medical school and became board certifed in emergency medicine, Dr. Wadle owned and operated an urgent care center in Birmingham. Based on her own medical journey and personal experience with hormone depletion, she founded Renew My Wellness.

For men and women dealing with fatigue, depression, apathy, anxiety, weight gain, decreased libido, decreased exercise endurance and muscle mass there is a bioidentical way to improve these symptoms. “What we’re offering is hormone replacement therapy in the form of testosterone and estradiol pellets for both women and men,” Dr. Wadle explains.“Pellets provide a delivery system that mimics the human body so that even improved physiologic levels can be achieved.”

For men and women dealing with fatigue, depression, apathy, anxiety, weight gain, decreased libido, decreased exercise endurance and muscle mass there is a bioidentical way to improve these symptoms. “What we’re ofering is hormone replacement therapy in the form of testosterone and estradiol pellets for both women and men,” Dr. Wadle explains. “Pellets provide a delivery system that mimics the human body so that even improved physiologic levels can be achieved.”

Since the 1930’s patients throughout Europe, Japan and

the United States have successfully used bio-identical hormones. Many studies show that when prescribed and administered correctly, bio-identical hormone pellets can help a variety of conditions and symptoms. They don’t present the potential hazards that many synthetic medications do.

RenewMyWellness also offers testosterone injections for men and a prescription weight loss program for both men and women that is monitored to ensure it is safe and effective.

Dr. Wadle said she founded RenewMyWellness to promote wellness through a holistically-integrative approach to patient care that combines conventional and functional medicine. The results leave patients with improved conﬁdence and a whole-body sense of well-being.

Renew My Wellness also ofers testosterone injections for men and a prescription weight loss program for both men and women that is monitored to ensure it is safe and efective.

RenewMyWellness is located at 33466 Woodward Ave., in downtown Birmingham. To schedule a consultation or for more information, call 248-602-3177.

Scan to receive more information & monthly newsletters.

Dr. Wadle said she founded Renew My Wellness to promote wellness through a holistically-integrative approach to patient care that combines conventional and functional medicine. The results leave patients with improved confdence and a whole-body sense of well-being.

Scan to receive more information & monthly newsletters.

Renew My Wellness is located at 33466 Woodward Ave., in Birmingham.

To schedule a consultation or for more information, call 248602-3177. Or visit www.renewmywellness.com.

Dr. Rona Wadle, D.O.

Family, Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry

Peter T. Cracchiolo Jr., D.D.S.

John A. DeCarolis, D.D.S.

Workco Expands to Meet Growing Demand, Alongside Detroit Design Awards Win

Paying for the space you need and the amenities you want without all the hassle and overhead of owning an ofce is appealing to many. Coworking spaces have emerged as innovative hubs that foster collaboration, creativity, and community.

With the demand for fexible workspaces on the rise, Workco is thrilled to announce the expansion of their current coworking space, located in the heart of downtown Birmingham. Behind every successful coworking space is a visionary leader who orchestrates its daily op-

erations and long-term growth. Meet Brooke Wagner, the dynamic force driving the success of Workco.

“Workco is doubling in size to cater to our growing needs of our diverse community of professionals and entrepreneurs.” said Coworking Manager Brooke Wagner.

“One of the key drivers behind the expansion was the increasing demand for our private ofces. We ended up taking over the suite that’s directly behind us, doing another complete buildout, and connecting the two spaces to create one fuid space.”

“Our new space will feature a range of fully furnished private ofces, each equipped with height-adjustable desks, lockable ofce space, and the option for custom branding. We understand the importance of having a dedicated workspace that not only refects your brand but also provides the comfort and functionality needed to boost productivity.” Wagner said.

Workco was created to provide a world-class setting for individuals and teams tasked with accomplishing any mission.

With the completion of the expansion coin-

ciding with their recent win at the Detroit Design Awards. This achievement not only refects the commitment to providing an inspiring and functional environment for members but also underscores the dedication to design excellence.

“We believe that attention to detail is crucial in creating a workspace that truly supports the needs of modern professionals.” Wagner said.

“That is why our memberships also include access to ofce supplies, unlimited printing services, fast and secure Wi-Fi, and unlimited premium cofee and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day.”

“We pay attention to all the details to truly support the needs of the professionals in this space. I want to create more than just a workspace. I envision a community where people feel connected,” Wagner said.

Wagner’s passion and dedication have made Workco a thriving hub for professionals in the area. Her approach to management – combining a strong vision, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep commitment to her community.

As the demand for fexible workspaces continues to rise, Wagner is optimistic about the future. She sees additional expansions in Workco’s future, and new services, all while continuing to build a vibrant community where innovation and

collaboration can thrive.

“The journey has been incredible,” she refected. “And we’re just getting started.”

Workco is located at 280 N. Old Woodward Ave. in downtown Birmingham. For more information, visit workco.com. To inquire about a space, call (248) 590-0012.

Find Workco on Instagram @workco_birmingham or on Facebook @WorkCoBirmingham.

Staging Shakespeare: Shakespeare Royal Oak presents ‘Twelfth

Night’ in 2024

Shakespeare Royal Oak — metro Detroit’s original outdoor Shakespeare festival — returns for its 24th year in Starr Jaycee Park this summer with eight performances of “Twelfth Night” from July 25 to August 4.

“ is year marks our 24th season,” said volunteer Executive Director Ed Nahhat, an attorney with a professional theater

professional actor and director.

“In 2001 I decided to make a di erence by starting this, and it’s grown so much,” he said. “While I no longer take the stage, my focus is on recruiting and ensuring artists have an opportunity to stay in our area. is is important to me because losing our artists means losing our community’s quality of life.”

background who founded the company to give local performing artists a place to call home. “It’s a magic night in the park. Everyone has so much fun.”

eatergoers will join the crew of the Bard’s pirate ship as they set sail on a voyage to the West Indies a la “Pirates of the Caribbean.”

“ is is a true homegrown professional theater company, so we’re all about supporting local talent,” Nahhat said. “Our actors and designers are paid, plus we work with professional costume designers and directors to bring everything together. We believe the quality you’ll see at our festival is truly impressive.”

Shakespeare Royal Oak takes pride in artistically designing their stage from scratch each year, making it more than just a rectangular platform for performances.

“We even build the theater itself every year,” said Nahhat. “We are a lean 501(c) (3) nonpro t organization that couldn’t exist without volunteers and donors. Every professional in this company has another job and works with us for the love of it. Our mission is to get people to come out to the park and have a nice evening.”

Before becoming an attorney, Nahhat, who also holds a theater degree, was a

Shakespeare Royal Oak’s education curriculum includes SRO Teen Ensemble for high school students to explore both acting and technical theater skills (their show, “Hamlet,” performs July 28, 29 and 30) and KidsAct! for younger children. “Students of all grades learn Shakespearean acting skills like soliloquy and safe sword ghts,” Nahhat said. “ ey have a blast, and it’s rewarding to see families so proud of their youngsters. Some of our former students have grown up to be adult leaders in our company.”

“Twelfth Night” shows are ursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. Folks can picnic outside the theater but not inside — where the company sells Michigan beer, wine, soft drinks, Ray’s Ice Cream and “the best fresh-made popcorn anywhere,” Nahhat said.

Tickets are only $35 each and can be purchased in advance online or in person starting 60 minutes prior to each performance. Free parking is available in the park’s grassy west end, or just a couple blocks north in Royal Oak’s Senior Center lot.

Starr Jaycee Park is located at 1321 W. 13 Mile Rd. in Royal Oak. To purchase tickets, visit ShakespeareRoyalOak.com.

Photo by Kevin Walsh

a stronger team.”

Lusky was a state champion in doubles flight No. 3 with 2023 graduate Sydney Fong, while Jen partnered with now-senior Stella North to win doubles flight No. 4.

Lusky said the passion and fire of Lusky and Jen were eerily similar to how Fong carried herself as a veteran leader, and Lusky credits her for laying the groundwork.

“When I was thrown into 3 doubles with Sydney, I was ecstatic, because she was someone I wanted to build myself off of this year being the upperclassmen in my partnership,” Lusky said. “She’s a lot of who I learned the bouncing, the loudness, and just staying positive from. I think a lot of that helped with my season.”

Jen had to put in a little bit of overtime after Lusky suffered a broken left wrist in April, forcing her to play with a cast up until a week before states.

Lusky said she was able to improve her serve and formulate a backhand slice that became lethal on the court along with an improved drop shot.

The duo fought through the adversity together, and Lusky said she feels she’s stronger because of it.

“It was a lot of me being really physical with my feet and moving around to hit my forehand,” Lusky said. “Lucy was also an amazing partner in that case because she would get to balls that would be going to my backhand. In that case, she helped a lot.”

In doubles flight No. 4, it was the underclassmen flexing their muscles for the Maples as sophomore Anna Olekszyk and freshman Katie Joyce were crowned state champions as the No. 1 seeds in the bracket.

Seaholm graduated three starters in its doubles flights last year, and Olekszyk, Joyce and freshman Sophia Arndt (2 doubles) stepped up to fill the void.

“It was a pretty young group, but you wouldn’t know that because a lot of the younger girls had to step into pretty demanding roles,” senior Katie Slazinski said. “They all really took it in stride and did what was asked of them. They never complained, and they just put in the work, and I think that’s really promising for the future. They all have so much potential and are going to be very strong up the road.”

Slazinski has been an anchor for

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Seaholm doubles as a state champion and two-time state runner-up, which included her final curtain call this year as Slazinski and senior Jenna Ting, who were state champions together in 2023, solidified a well-established high school career for both with another state runner-up.

Both four-year varsity players, Slazinski and Ting have been vital to all the success Seaholm has collected throughout their tenure, but Slazinski said she couldn’t have done it without Ting.

“We’ve definitely gotten close, and our families have gotten close,” Slazinski said. “She’s definitely someone I can rely on, and she’s a comfort for me both on and off the court. I’m very glad we’ve been able to be partners, because we’ve been through the whole process together.”

Other state finals performers were sophomore Jada Josifovski, a state runner-up in singles flight No. 3 last year, continuing her success with a nice showing in singles flight No. 2 (top-4), and seniors Stella North (2 doubles) and Courtney Marcum (1 singles), both state champions last year, taking part on the Division 2 stage one last time.

Seaholm will face the loss of another strong senior class, but there’s no doubt in

any of the Maples’ minds that the squad will be contending for a state championship again in 2025.

History has a way of repeating itself, and three of the last four times Seaholm finished runner-up at states they went on to become champions the next year.

With a young core led by Josifovski, Arndt, Olekszyk, Joyce, Jen, Lusky, freshman Cate French and sophomore Kate Crowley all returning, Seaholm will be retooled and ready to go.

“I saw what our captains did and our seniors, and it was inspiring how they would always try to build us up,” Lusky said. “I want to do something similar to that and make sure the underclassmen and everyone on the team feels welcomed and not scared.”

VOTERS TO DECIDE TAX PROPOSALS, TOWNSHIP OFFICES ON PRIMARY BALLOT

In the Eagle’s coverage area, voters will decide two local tax proposals, as well as various state, county and local primary races Aug. 6. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim. Profile forms were not sent to candidates who are running unopposed within their political party.

U.S. Senate

Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and four candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one six-year term in November. The salary for the position is $174,000.

Democrat

Hill Harper

Age: 58

Occupation: Actor, Author, Activist Municipality of residence: Detroit

For how long: 8 Years

Online campaign information: www.hillharper.com/

Education: Harvard Law School J.D. Cum Laude, 1992

• John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University M.A. with Honors, Public Administration,1992

• Brown University B.A. Magna Cum Laude, Economics/Sociology (Valedictorian) 1988

• US Marine Corps OCS, Platoon Leaders Class 1, Honors Graduate, Quantico, VA 1986

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: As your U.S. Senator, my top goals would be ensuring universal healthcare for every American, safeguarding reproductive rights for all, enacting common sense gun reform to enhance public safety, reducing car insurance rates to ease financial burdens, increasing funding for education to improve our schools, and passing the PRO Act to protect workers’ rights and strengthen unions. These priorities reflect my commitment to creating a fairer, healthier, and safer society for everyone in our state.

Democrat Elissa Slotkin

Age: 47

Occupation: U.S. Representative (MI-07)

Municipality of residence: Holly

For how long: Grew up in Michigan; I now live on my family farm

Online campaign information: elissaslotkin.org

Education: Cornell University - College of Agriculture and Life Science, Bachelor’s

Degree and Columbia University - School of International and Public Affairs, Master of International Affairs

Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Representative (Formerly MI-08, now MI-07 due to redistricting):

Top goals: My number one priority is to make it easier for Michiganders to get into the middle class. Michigan invented the middle class by maintaining a strong union presence and making investments in small businesses. We can keep people there by reducing healthcare costs, putting Americans on the path to homeownership and making more critical items in America. I am committed to restoring the national standard set by Roe, and ensuring voting rights for every American.

Republican Justin Amash Age: 44

Occupation: Lawyer and small business owner

Municipality of residence: Cascade Charter Township

For how long: 20+ years in Cascade. I’ve lived my whole life in Michigan. Online campaign information: www.justinamash.com

Education: A.B., Economics, University of Michigan; J.D., University of Michigan Law School

Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Representative, 2011-2021; Michigan State Representative, 2009- 2010

Top goals: My priorities are to follow the Constitution, protect everyone’s rights, uphold the Rule of Law, restore representative government, read the bills, stop governing by emergency, balance the budget, defend economic freedom, end the forever war, and oppose the surveillance state.

Republican Sherry O’Donnell

Age: 62

Occupation: Physician/ Business owner private medical practice

Municipality of residence: Stevensville; Berrien County

For how long: 24 years

Online campaign information:

Docsherry2024.com

Education: Bachelor Degrees in Biology and Chemistry/Minor in PsychologyHastings College, NE

Doctor of Osteopathy: College of Osteopathic Medicine OK State University: Tulsa, OK

Ministerial Certificate: Biblical studies: Victory Bible Institute, Tulsa, OK

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: Securing the Borders and Inflation

Failure to secure our borders has many consequences. It jeopardizes public safety and national security. It is worsening our inflation. It also diminishes the value of citizenship in our nation. Dr. O’Donnell has been to the border and is endorsed by Tom Homan, former director of I.C.E under President Trump.

We must enact a balanced budget and stop reckless spending and entitlements. Dr. O’Donnell signed the “No New Tax” pledge

Republican Sandy Pensler Age: 67

Occupation: Manufacturer and economist. Owner of Pensler Capital and Korex Companies

Municipality of residence: Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan

For how long: No answer given. Online campaign information: sandypensler.com

Education: Sandy worked his way through Yale University where in just four years he earned a B.A. in Chemical Engineering, a B.A. in Economics and an M.A. in Economics –receiving high honors in all degrees. He received his law degree, with honors, from Harvard.

Previously held and currently held elected offices: No answer given.

Top goals: Restore moral direction to our decision making. Spend only on what we

need not on what we want. This will reduce the deficit, inflation and interest rates. Rely on market mechanisms and competition to solve problems rather than government directives. Support decisions based on merit not skin color or creed. In foreign policy, weakness begets aggression. Stop funding terrorists if you do not want terrorism. Stop illegal immigration stone cold -no benefits except for legals.

Republican Mike Rogers

Age: 61

Occupation: Candidate for U.S. Senate, Army Veteran, Former Congressman, State Senator, and FBI Special Agent.

Municipality of residence: Brighton, MI

For how long: Nearly 50 years Online campaign information: rogersforsenate.com

Education: Adrian College and the University of Michigan

Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Representative (20012015), Michigan State Senator (1995-2000)

Top goals: Families are struggling under the current administration and are desperately in need of relief from the high costs of gas and groceries. As a Congressman, I earned a reputation as someone who got results for Michiganders by working across the aisle, and in the Senate, I’ll bring my experience to slash inflation, lower the cost of living for families, and secure our southern border to stop the flow of crime and deadly drugs.

U.S. House of Representatives District 11

Two Democrats and two Republicans are running for their party’s nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. The salary for the position is $174,000.

Democrat

Ahmed Ghanim

Age: 49

Occupation: Healthcare Management Municipality of residence: Ferndale, MI

For how long: Oakland County since 2002 Online campaign information:

Harper

Slotkin

Amash

O’Donnell

Pensler

Rogers

Election

www.AG4Congress.com

Education: Medical Degree - Bachelor Degree in Medicine and Surgery

Previously and currently held elected offices: Not Applicable

Top goals: If elected, my top priorities are to end endless/costly wars, reduce healthcare costs, tackle inflation, and invest in our local economy. I will focus on reforming immigration, protecting Michigan’s clean water, and advocating for the environment. By addressing these critical issues, we can create a stronger, more prosperous, and sustainable future for all Michiganders. Together, we will make a real difference. We are the Answer.

Democrat Haley Stevens

Age: 41

Occupation: Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District

Municipality of residence: Birmingham

For how long: First Seaholm Grad to Congress!

Online campaign information: https://haleystevensforcongress.com/

Education: I received both a B.A. in Political Science and Philosophy and a M.A. in Social Policy and Philosophy from American University.

Previously and currently held elected offices: I am serving my third term as the Congresswoman for Michigan’s 11th district. Top goals: I am running for re-election to continue to build on my legislative track record of delivery for Oakland County. Whether on trade, manufacturing, and education issues; each term in Congress I have passed laws to meet the needs of our district. With over 200 visits to manufacturers through my Manufacturing Monday program and helping shepherd the CHIPS and Science Act into law, the families of our district remain my top priority. We must enshrine women’s rights like abortion access into law and protect the LGBTQ+ community. I remain committed to equality and justice for all.

Republican Charles Frangie

Age: 74

Occupation: Attorney

Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Twp.

For how long: 11 years

Online campaign information: frangieforcongress.com

Education: Law Degree University of Lebanon, University of Mississippi, JD LLM

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: Reducing inflation so families can better make ends meet is my top priority. No longer should the most expensive vehicle operated by a family be a shopping cart. I will also work with President Trump to secure our southern border and end the illegal immigration that is causing a crime wave across the nation, including right here in Oakland County. I will also fight the Biden Electric Vehicle mandate that threatens Michigan’s most vital industry.

Republican Nick Somberg

Did not return questionnaire by press time.

U.S. House of Representatives District 12

One Democrat is on the ballot and two Republicans are running for their party’s nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Ryan Foster was disqualified from the Democratic primary ballot and said he is running as a write-in candidate. The salary for the position is $174,000.

Democrat

Rashida Tlaib

Age: 47

Occupation: U.S. Representative (MI-12)

Municipality of residence: Detroit

For how long: Lifelong Detroiter

Online campaign information: https://rashidaforcongress.com

Education: JD - Cooley Law School, BAWayne State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: Current Congresswoman for Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, former Michigan State Representative Top goals: Residents want to thrive and need access to resources. That’s why I created Neighborhood Service Centers that help our families, returning $5.8 million to residents. I am working on holding the auto insurance industry accountable with the Preventing Auto

Insurance Discrimination Act, founded the Get the Lead Out Caucus for clean drinking water, and I’m fighting for resources in the federal budget. I’ve secured $850,000 for Beech Wood Park and Recreation and nearly $1 million for water infrastructure in Lathrup Village.

Write-in Democrat

Ryan Foster Age: 44

Occupation: Transportation

Municipality of residence: Southfield

For how long: born and raised Online campaign information: https://www.rf4us.com

Education: Ferris state BA history 2002

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: Stand with Israel, in the bible, in Genesis it says, the people who bless Abraham I will bless, people who curse Abraham I will curse. People who support Gaza and are completely lost and wrong. Black representation in congress and Michigan. All these candidates use black people for votes. They never lived in black cities, work around black people or even like black people. They just run for mayor or state senate and show up in their black church (...)

Republican

James D. Hooper

Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican

Linda Sawyer Age: 61

Occupation: Retired Nurse Researcher Municipality of residence: Livonia/Redford Township

For how long: 40+ years

Online campaign information: https://www.lindasawyer. com

Education: Northern Mich University/ Nursing degree

Previously and currently held elected offices: Elected Delegate to the National Convention, Precinct Delegate

State House of Representatives District 5

Four Democrats are running for their party’s nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. One Republican is running unopposed in the primary. The salary for the position is $71,685.

Democrat

Crystal Bailey Age: 41

Occupation: Entrepreneur (Walk Fashion Show LLC)

Municipality of residence: Oak Park, MI

For how long: 25 years

Online campaign information: https://www.wevotecrystalbailey.com

Education: A.A. Wayne State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: Oak Park School Board of Education

Top goals: My goals are to reallocate funds to help combat the mental health crisis the State of Michigan is in. I plan to create laws that will hold gun manufacturers accountable for this public health crisis our community is faced with due to gun violence epidemic. Also, the Michigan Agee v. Benson redistricting lawsuit creates the new Motown Sound Map which creates seven majority minority Detroit Based Districts. District 5 has a 75 % Black Voting Age Population (BVAP) base. I was born and raised (...)

Democrat

Kevin Keys III Age: 22

Occupation: Teacher

Municipality of residence: City of Oak Park

For how long: 4

Online campaign information: www.keys2success24.org

Education: Oak Park

Top goals:

1. WALTS BILL : Decriminalization of medical marijuana on a federal level.

2. DIRECT PATIENT CARE: Low cost preventive health care I will introduce.

3. Bring back federal funding for inpatient mental health and detox.

High School, Miles College- Bachelors of Science In Political Science. Texas Southern University- Masters of Education in Educational Administration with concentration in Higher Education and Human Resources

Previously and currently held elected offices: None.

Top goals: My primary goal is to implement an education policy that increases funding for teachers, provides more

Ghanim

Frangie

Stevens

Tlaib

Foster

Sawyer

Bailey

Keys

Election

from page 25A

resources for students, and supports initiatives to help students access transportation to school. Additionally, I aim to expand programs that offer trade certifications and vocational training opportunities for high school graduates, ensuring they are wellprepared for the workforce.

Democrat

Eric Love

Age: 29

Occupation: Minister

Municipality of residence: Oak Park MI

For how long: 7 Years

Online campaign information: https://ericlovemichigan.com

Education: Current Student

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: - Education

Reform: Increase funding for public schools, universal pre-K, and affordable childcare. Make college and vocational training more affordable.

- Workers’ Rights: Raise the minimum wage, strengthen collective bargaining, and enact paid family leave and sick time.

- Housing: Increase funding for affordable housing, implement rent control, and address homelessness.

- Gun Laws: Enact universal background checks, red flag laws, and waiting periods. Ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Democrat

Regina Weiss

Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican Will Sears

Running unopposed.

State House of

Representatives District 20

One Democrat and two Republicans are running for their party’s nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. The salary for the position is $71,685.

Democrat

Noah Arbit

Running unopposed.

Republican Hermon Barbe

Age: 43

Occupation: Presidents’ Club Mortgage Banker

Municipality of residence:West Bloomfield

For how long: Nine years.

Online campaign information: www.Hermon2024.com

Education: Bachelor of Arts, Western Michigan University

Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate (2018 - Present), West Bloomfield Twp, Oakland County.

Top goals: When elected to the State House for District 20, my primary goal is to help restore common sense and fiscal responsibility to our Legislature. We must roll-back bureaucracy, cut taxes, and make sure that our government creates better value for We The People. As a grassroots conservative voice for families in Oakland County, I plan to help reign-in the state budget and cut government spending --- which has grown dramatically, over these last few years.

Republican Brendan Cowley

Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Oakland County Executive

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland Prosecuting Attorney

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Sheriff

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Clerk and Register of Deeds

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Treasurer

Three Republicans are running for their party’s nomination to compete for one fouryear term in November. One Democrat is running unopposed. The salary for the position is $170,761 annually.

Democrat

Robert Wittenberg

Running unopposed.

Republican Donna Blake Age: 65

Occupation: CFO & Small Business Owner

Municipality of residence: Oxford

For how long: 23 Years

Online campaign information: Find Donna Blake for Oakland County Treasurer on Facebook

Education: Bachelor of Accountancy Walsh College, CPA State of Michigan, Executive MBA Michigan State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: Oxford Delegate 2010, 2023, & 2024

Top goals: Across the board, ensure our community’s money is used wisely and responsibly. You work too hard to support the current giveaways and waste. With my background in financial investigations with the FBI, I’ll root out the misuse of funds. For example, we should not be spending county taxpayer dollars to resettle people entering our country illegally. Lastly, eliminate funding for DEI—let’s stop the racism and hire the best person for the job.

Republican Isaiah Hellner

Age: 27

Occupation: Investment Advisor/Insurance Agent

Municipality of residence: Brandon Township/Oakland County

For how long: 27 years

Online campaign information: https://isa iahhellner2.adlocal.multisiteadmin.com/

Education: Bachelor of Science-Marketing from Oakland University

Previously and currently held elected offices: First time running for office

Top goals: My top goals if elected are to maintain our county’s AAA bond rating, prevent home foreclosures. Establish strong oversight mechanisms to make sure tax payer funds are used efficiently and correctly.

Republican Susan Kuhn

Age: No answer given.

Occupation: previous Oakland County Commissioner, auditor DaytonHudson’s(Macys) ; current co-owner Pain Mgt Without Drugs, in home x-rays, back braces, etc

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: Homeowner since 1991

(Wattles & John R)

Online campaign information: No answer given.

Education: Graduate with Economics/ Accounting major from Albion College Previously and currently held elected offices: EIGHT YEARS as elected Oakland County Commissioner … and TEN years Troy Precinct Delegate

Top goals: Oakland County Treasurer’s office MUST return all the money wrongfully taken from taxpayers amounting to millions of dollars. Wrongful seizure of property for non-payment THEN selling that property for MORE than is owed and Oakland County Treasurer keeping the money is UNACCEPTABLE. Many lawsuits in favor of the property owners are delayed. Money needs to be RETURNED to original property owners that the courts have ordered NOW, no more foreclosure irregularities or $ wasted

Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner

Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for a four-year term in November. The annual salary for the position is $170,761.

Democrat

Jim Nash

Age: 67

Occupation: Water Resources Commissioner

Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills

For how long: 30 years

Online campaign information: nash4wrc. com

Education: Florida State University, Bachelor’s in Political Science, minor in peace studies (1988) Previously and currently held elected offices: I served as Oakland County Commissioner representing Farmington Hills from 2005 to 2013. I have been the elected Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner since 2013, now ending my third term.

Top goals: Continue my collaborative work with communities across Oakland County and the region to make our stormwater sys-

Love

Barbe

Blake

Kuhn

Hellner

Nash

tems resilient to extreme weather brought by climate change and use our wastewater resources to replace fossil fuels with less expensive renewable energy. My mission is to protect our citizen’s health and safety, conserve our natural resources, continue our high-quality services, pursue sustainable/efficient infrastructure investments, protect economic prosperity for all our communities, promote public education and seek public input.

Democrat

Jim Stevens

Age: 62

Occupation: currently work for a Dept. of Defense company

Municipality of residence: Rochester Hills

For how long: 37 years

Online campaign information: www.face book.com/groups/870126655145858/

Education: Engineering GMU and Macomb Community College

Previously and currently held elected offices: none

Top goals: Provide the best service for our Residents. Take action to ensure our lakes and rivers are safe from polluters. Use common sense measures on Septic Field maintenance. Our lakes are especially important for recreational use, our kids swim and fish in our local lakes. We need to educate on how important our resources are by keeping them clean. Our county will strive to enforce and punish polluters. SCHOOL WATER TESTING

- Testing is a good safety check for our children (...)

Republican

Steve Johnson

Age: 66

Occupation: Consultant

Municipality of residence: Highland

For how long: 15 years

Online campaign information: Steven-Johnson.com

Education:

• MBA, Masters of Business Administration, Plymouth State University - University System of NH

• Graduate Certificate, Strategic Marketing Management, Plymouth State UniversityUniversity System of NH

• BS Business Management & Economics, SUNY- State University of New York

• Harvard University JFK School, Certificate US Public Policy: Social, Economic,

and Foreign Policies

• AS, Associate Degree in Business ManagementOakland Community College + Certificate: Business Entrepreneurship

• AA, Associate Degree in Liberal Arts - Oakland Community College

• US Navy training: Advanced Electronics - Data Systems, electricity/electronics, computer systems

Previously and currently held elected offices: No other public office.

Top goals: If elected the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner, I am committed to protecting and being a good steward of our resources.

High-priority items:

• Nanoplastics and Microplastics

• PFAS

• Water Affordability

• Sustainable Water Management Practices

• Enhancing Water Efficiency

• Protecting and Restoring Wetlands

• Safety for non-municipal water residents –Well and Septic

• Reducing Operational Emissions

• Safe use of fertilizers, chemicals, salt

• Resilient Infrastructure Water, Sewer, Stormwater

• Supporting Renewable Energy Initiatives

• Public Engagement and Education

Republican Steve Klein Age: 37

Occupation: Driver

Municipality of residence: Waterford

For how long: 37 years, minus 8 years in Highland Twp. Ten years since moving back.

Online campaign information: cedotortoise.com

Education: Some college. Two years at Lawrence Tech in Southfield toward engineering.

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: To ensure the organization is supporting staff properly, being respectful of taxpayers, and operating effectively, efficiently, and sustainably for the long-term. More detailed goals would be developed according to those overarching aims, when high-quality information is available directly from staff.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 1

Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running unopposed as a Republican to compete for one four-year term in November.

Democrat

Charlie Gandy-Thompson

Age: 58

Occupation: Engineering Leader (22 years)

Municipality of residence: Royal Oak

For how long: 22 years

Online campaign information: @CGT4OCC

Education: MS Engineering Management and BS Computer Engineering both from Oakland University

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: I am committed to ensure communication and implementation of initiative that ensure safety and security for all residents. Collaboration between the community and law enforcement is critical to ensure safety for bikes, water (pool/lakes), fast cars, and yearly activities. I am committed to work on policies and initiative that strengthen law enforcement and response to mental illness and supporting innovative ideals. Multiple safety strategies are required to ensure the security of all residents.

Democrat

Dave Woodward (I)

Age: 48

Occupation: Chairman of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, small business owner

Municipality of residence: Royal Oak, MI

For how long: 45+

Online campaign information: No answer given.

Education: B.S. Mathematics, Wayne State University

Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative (19992004), County Commissioner (2005-present)

Top goals: Build an economy that works for everyone by lowering costs and raising wages for working families:

• Achieve 80% of workforce having a postsecondary degree or skill certification.

• Eliminate burdening medical debt for families.

• Lower energy costs for seniors and working families with home energy efficiency

improvements.

• Accelerate our county’s advanced manufacturing sector to make more things in America and create good-paying jobs.

• Reduce college debt for graduates.

• Improve and expand public transportation.

Republican Regina Wilk

Running unopposed.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 9

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 11

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 18

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 19

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Bloomfield Township Supervisor

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Bloomfield Township Clerk

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Bloomfield Township Treasurer

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Johnson Klein

Stevens

Gandy-Thompson Woodward

Election

from page 27A

Bloomfield Township Trustee

Three Democrats and five Republicans are running for their parties’ nominations to compete for four, four-year terms in November. Trustees receive a compensation of $250 per meeting they attend, for a grand total of $6,000 per year if they attend all of them.

Democrat

Oscar Garner Jr. Age: 52

Occupation: Senior Quality Manager

Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: 18yrs Online campaign information: www.ogarnerjr.com

Education: Bachelor Science in Business with concentration in Finance

Previously and currently held elected offices: Bloomfield Township Precinct Delegate

Top goals: Community Advocacy: I’ll advocate for our community’s needs and concerns in local government decisions.

Fiscal Responsibility: I’ll prioritize responsible financial management for the benefit of the entire community.

Sustainable Development: I’ll promote practices that preserve our environment and support economic growth.

Accessibility and Transparency: I’ll ensure open communication and address resident concerns promptly.

Collaboration and Inclusivity: I’ll work with diverse backgrounds to find innovative solutions to our shared challenges.

Democrat

Roman Grigoriev Age: 49

Occupation: Software Engineer

Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: 20 years Online campaign information: None

Education: Bachelor of Applied Science from University of Michigan

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: Investing in more resilient infrastructure to significantly reduce the impact

of power outages.Enhancing police presence to effectively curb porch theft, shoplifting, and other minor crimes.

Democrat

Valerie Sayles Murray

Age: 65

Occupation: Trustee at Bloomfield Township

Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: 38 years

Online campaign information: http://www. facebook.com/ValerieMurrayTrustee

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Michigan State University, 1981

Previously and currently held elected offices: I am currently an elected Trustee in Bloomfield Township (2020) serving a 4 year term.

Top goals: If the residents choose to reelect me as Trustee for another term, I would continue to be an advocate for the residents, keep us on the path of more transparency, fiscal responsibility, and complete a well thought out Strategic Plan to keep us on track for years to come. I am honored to serve in this position, to continue to help residents and businesses with issues, and vote for what is right, for everyone concerned.

Republican Mark Antakli

Age: 55

Occupation: Consultant

Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: November 2018

Online campaign information: M.J. Antakli on Facebook

Education: University of Michigan – Dearborn, Masters Business Administration with Finance Concentration (Beta Gama Sigma Business School National Honor Society); University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering; Completed Six Sigma Black Belt Training

Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate 2020 to present.

Top goals: The water and sewer rates are too high. Water and Sewer Fund Reserves increased by $15 million over 3 years. Why are rates still increasing?

Property taxes should be capped at the increase to social security payments. It is unreasonable for local governments to

expect property tax increases above social security increases.

Improve financial transparency. The $5 million annual pension bond payment expires in May2033. Therefore,whereisthemillager eduction?

Republican Neal Barnett Age: 70

Occupation: Attorney

Municipality: Bloomfield Township

For how long: 50 years

Online campaign information: N/A

Education: Michigan State University, B.S.; Oakland University, MA Clinical Psychology; Wayne State University Law School, JD

Previously and currently held elected offices: Bloomfield Township Trustee since 2004

Top goals: Return the Township to the high level of attention to detail we previously had. Improve overall services provided to residents particularly snow removal and road salting. Improve timeliness of safety path/walls/fence repairs. Improve water and sewer infrastructure. Improve retention of staff and staff recruiting. Develop stronger collaborations with surrounding municipalities. Emphasize beautification of public and commercial space with increased landscaping and art work

Republican Malissa Bossardet

Age: 57

Occupation: Customer Success Manager –Wedgewood Pharmacy/Blue Rabbit Inc. Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: Nine Years

Online campaign information: No answer given.

Education: Indiana University (Bloomington) – B.A.

Previously and currently held elected offices: Republican Precinct Delegate –Bloomfield Township

Top goals: The delivery of basic township services tops my list. The ice storms earlier this year created rutted road conditions for days on major east-west roads such as Quarton. The township did nothing to resolve this, placing blame everywhere else. I support efforts to strengthen our police protection. High-tech gangs have targeted Bloomfield Township for frightening home invasions. I have been a Republican activist concerned

about the disturbing lack of value for money township taxpayers receive.

Republican Margo K. Cargill

Age: 46

Occupation: CEO, Titanium Linx. Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: 1 Yr

Online campaign information: No answer given.

Education: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.

Top goals: To be a steward and embodiment of our community ensuring the board considers not only the loudest voices or most popular views but also the more tempered ones to safeguard measured growth and continued prosperity. To contribute my knowledge and expertise in public relations, government affairs, and labor negotiations while bringing fresh perspectives and best practice approaches to challenging issues drawing from my experiences in other municipalities across the country where I’ve lived and served.

Christopher M. Kolinski

Age: 38

Occupation: Firefighter/Builder Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township

For how long: 11 years

Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/TrusteeKolinski

Education: BS in Finance, Minor in Applied Technology in Business from Oakland University Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently serving as a Bloomfield Township Trustee

Top goals: My top priorities will be to ensure Bloomfield Township remains competitive in attracting top talent and investing in our infrastructure. Attracting the best staff is crucial for providing exceptional service to our residents. To achieve this, I will focus on maintaining a strong workforce and updating our infrastructure, including water/sewer systems, public safety, and Township Hall. By making these investments, we can deliver worldclass services and maintain a high quality of life for all residents

Antakli

Barnett

Garner

Grigoriev

Murray

Bossardet

Cargill

Kolinski

6th Circuit Court Judge

Three candidates are running for one non-incumbent 6-year term. The salary for the position is $155,621 combined from the state and county.

Tricia Dare

Age: 53

Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Oakland County

Municipality of residence: Oxford

For how long: 15 years

Online campaign information: www.dareforjudge.com

Education: University of Detroit Mercy School of Law from 1994 to 1997: Juris Doctor. Western Michigan University from 1989 to 1993: Bachelor of Science in Political Science (Public Law) and Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology

Previously and currently held elected offices: None

Top goals: As Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Special Victims Unit, the Juvenile Justice Division, the Hate Crimes Unit and the Victim Services Division, my work has involved crimes committed against the most vulnerable individuals in our community. My goal is to bring the same dedication, compassion and fairness that I have displayed as a public servant for the past 27 years to the bench each and every day, as the next Oakland County Circuit Judge.

Nicole Sophia-Calhoun Huddleston

Age: 42

Occupation: Managing Director/Attorney

Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Township

For how long: I’ve lived in West Bloomfield for the past 4 years. I previously lived in Southfield for approximately 14 years. Online campaign information: electhuddlestonforjudge.com

Education: BA in Communications from Oakland University (1999-2004) - JD from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (2010-2014)

Previously and currently held elected offices: None Top goals: My priorities for this family court seat are: 1.Implementing specialized dockets and support systems to address the needs of individuals with mental

health and substance abuse issues. 2. Reducing delays and backlogs by streamlining court procedures and leveraging technology to expedite case management 3. Ensuring fair and equal access to justice for all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. 4.Upholding the law without bias and making decisions based on facts and legal principles

Moneka Sanford

Age: 57

Occupation: lawyer

Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills

For how long:15 years

Online campaign information: monekasanfordforjudge.com

Education: Bachelor’s in Psychology and Sociology, Masters in Social Work, Juris Doctorate

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: My goal is to uphold justice, integrity, and fairness in every decision. I am dedicated to serving the community with respect, dignity, and impartiality. I aim to foster a transparent, accessible, responsive judicial system that safeguards fundamental rights. My background in social work enables me to apply the law with wisdom and compassion. I will listen with an open mind and deliver timely, equitable justice while preserving public safety and providing resources to strengthen families.

Bloomfield Township Public Safety Millage Renewal

Shall the Charter Township of Bloomfield renew and continue to levy the voter authorized public safety tax levy of 0.6474 mills, due to expire in 2026, authorizing a levy of $0.6474 per $1,000 of taxable value to finance the Charter Township of Bloomfield’s continued providing of fire, police and public safety protection, for a period of 10 years, with the renewed millage to be levied commencing in December 2026. This renewal public safety millage will be subject to applicable statutory and constitutional tax limitation provisions at the time of the levy and will not exceed the above stated rate. It is estimated that this proposal would result in the authorization to collect $4,000,000 in the first year if approved and fully levied. Shall this proposal be adopted?

Bloomfield Hills Schools Operating Millage Renewal Proposal

This proposal would renew the authority of the School District, which expires with the 2025 tax levy, to levy up to 18.00 mills for general school district operating purposes on taxable property in the School District to the extent that such property is not exempt from such levy, restrict the levy on principal residences (owner-occupied homes) to no more than 9.65 mills and protect against the impact of future Headlee rollbacks of up to 4.0 mills, This authorization would allow the School District to continue to levy the statutory limit of 18.00 mills on non-homestead property (principally industrial and commercial real property and residential rental property) and to continue to levy on principal residence property (owner occupied homes) only that portion of the mills necessary to allow the

School District to receive the full revenue per pupil foundation allowance permitted by the State. The School District estimates that it will levy not more than 5.1338 mills on personal residences (owner occupied homes) in 2024. Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on taxable property in the Bloomfield Hills Schools, County of Oakland, Michigan, be increased in the amount of 22 mills, with 18 mills being the maximum allowable levy ($18.00 per $1,000 of taxable value), to the extent such property is not statutorily exempt, and of which not more than 9.65 mills may be imposed on principal residences, for twenty (20) years, the years 2026 to 2045, inclusive, to provide funds for operating expenses of the School District? This operating millage, if approved and levied, would provide estimated revenues to the School District of $18,300,000 during the 2026 calendar year, to be used for general operating purposes.

Editor: Annie Bates | (586) 498-1071 | abates@candgnews.com

Reporters: Mary Genson | (586) 498-1095 | mgenson@candgnews.com Mary Beth Almond | (586) 498-1060 | malmond@candgnews.com

Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com

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

retail ad rates: Pam Tassoni | (248) 821-6210 | ptassoni@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com

(586) 498-8100 Legals and

(586) 498-1099

Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com

Dare

Huddleston

Sanford

BEHIND THE WHEEL

Chrysler Windsor Coupe celebrates the past, creates new memories

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — When Don Starlin was in the market to buy a classic automobile, he initially thought about going with a muscle car.

“I wanted to go fast,” the Clawson resident said.

But he changed his mind after he saw an advertisement for a 1949 Chrysler Windsor Coupe for sale at a local shop.

“With all the chrome, I kind of fell in love with it,” he said.

According to the website metrommp.com, the 1949 Chrysler Windsor Coupe “captivated onlookers with its sleek, rounded body and fluid lines that hinted at the aerodynamic designs of the future. Its chrome-trimmed grille and proud hood ornament were symbols of post-war luxury. The technological advancements were equally impressive, with features like fluid drive semi-automatic transmission and luxurious ‘chair-height’ seats.”

Starlin, 72, has been enjoying his Chrysler Windsor for several years now. He’s also researched the coupe’s history with a data book he picked up at a car show. The guide was published in 1949 and is very similar to the Kelley Blue Book of today. Starlin’s Windsor comes with a six cylinder engine and padded dashboard that was considered a safety feature at the time it was manufactured.

“They didn’t make too many of these,” he said of the two-door look. “Everybody wanted four doors back in ’49.”

One thing Starlin doesn’t worry about is getting a speeding ticket because the car doesn’t go very fast. And something still up for debate is the official color of the car. The data book says it could be one of three blue hues: ensign, ocean or mist.

Starlin has made several updates to the car to keep it in tip-top shape. One noticeable piece is the addition of a sun visor on the front window.

“This changed the whole character of the car and makes it gangster,” he said.

He also upgraded the inside.

See WINDSOR on page 31A

LEFT AND TOP: The 1949 Chrysler Windsor Coupe has fluid lines that, when built, hinted at the aerodynamic designs of the future. Don Starlin, of Clawson, often takes his 1949 Chrysler Windsor Coupe to local car shows.

ABOVE: Starlin installed carpeting in the interior, had the seats reupholstered and added seat belts.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Windsor

“When I first got the car, the interior was not too impressive,” Starlin said.

So, Starlin installed carpeting to the interior, had the seats reupholstered and added seat belts. While the Windsor does not have air conditioning, the vintage vehicle stays cool through an air duct that sucks in air and blows it into the cab. The Chrysler Windsor has one more special touch. On the gear shift is a shiny door knob that was from the home in which his mother-in-law once lived.

On a recent sunny Tuesday morning, Starlin’s childhood friend, Tim Walkaus, 72, of Berkley, stopped by. The pair have been friends since attending Norup Junior High School in Oak Park.

“We probably met in a backyard riding a motorcycle,” Walkaus said.

Bonding over cars was always a pastime. When Starlin, for instance, bought his Windsor Coupe, he drove it home on a trailer with Walkaus following him. That’s when Walkaus spotted the initials “DS” on the license plate from 1949, which are Starlin’s initials.

“That was kind of cool,” Walkaus said. “Destiny, I guess.”

“You’re part of this thing,” Starlin told his buddy. “You’ve helped me work on it so many times.”

When in high school, Starlin drove around in a 1965 Plymouth Belvedere while Walkaus had a 1969 Dodge Dart.

“We always had Plymouths. My dad was a Chrysler draftsman in Highland Park,” Starlin said. “Back then, it didn’t cost much to buy a used car. I picked up many a car for $50.”

Cruising Woodward Avenue was the game of sport. The Totem Pole drive-in restaurant and Big Boy were regular hangouts.

“You’d have $3 in your pocket and you’d get three quarters of a tank of gas,” Starlin said. “That was Friday night, Saturday night, if not more.”

Their days and nights of riding up and down Woodward eventually came to an end, though, when they were both called to serve their country during the Vietnam War.

“The service was the demise of both of our muscle cars,” Walkaus said, he in the Army and Starlin in the Navy.

Decades later, the pair are enjoying classic car shows and cruising again. Walkaus has a 2004 Chrysler Crossfire, and Starlin is a regular at many local car shows, including the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site in Shelby Township, the annual Berkley

Don Starlin’s Windsor has won 15 trophies, including first place in the 2011 Bud Light Mount Clemens Car Show and the sponsor’s choice in the Clawson car show in 2017. Paying homage to the 1960 song “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini,” Starlin sometimes decorates the front engine with a yellowand-white polka-dot bikini top.

CruiseFest, and the Thursday night cruise nights at the Big Boy located at 200 W. Maple Road in Troy.

Paying homage to the 1960 song “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini,” Starlin sometimes decorates the front engine with a yellow-and-white polka dot bikini top. The Chrysler Windsor is always a conservation piece guaranteed to stir up memories.

“It’s surprising how many people have cars tucked away in their garages. Everybody’s got a story,” Starlin said. “A lot of people like to take photos of the dashboard. When I go to a car show, if I see a little kid, I let them get in it.”

Starlin’s Windsor has won 15 trophies, including first place in the 2011 Bud Light Mount Clemens Car Show and the sponsor’s choice in the Clawson car show in 2017. He has given some of the awards to his grandchildren.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

BACKYARD FIRE PITS HELP CREATE ATMOSPHERE, SPARK CONVERSATION

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — It’s a summertime tradition: sitting around a backyard bonfire while toasting marshmallows with your family or having a few cocktails with neighbors.

With the ambiance of a fire pit, memories are made, bonds are formed and laughter is contagious.

An outdoor fire pit also can be a cozy way for couples to enjoy a romantic evening together.

The main options for fueling a backyard fire pit are wood, propane and natural gas. Some gas fire pits can be started with an electric ignition, where you basically push a button to turn it on. When choosing a fire pit, it’s about aesthetics, preference, budget-

ing and safety.

Sara Filthaut, owner of KayBrook Design in Birmingham, said fire pits have always been popular but have grown in popularity because there are more styles, sizes and choices available. While there are still traditionallooking fire pits, portable and freestanding versions are now popping up.

“The designs over time have come so far, and there are so many different options,” Filthaut said. “There are different shapes: rectangular, round, square and linear. We have seen an uptick in fire pits in different finishes, colors and materials.”

Fire bowls, too, have caught on. A fire bowl operates like a fire pit but is bowlshaped and creates a warm and inviting space that brings about a certain mood. Some fire pits are low to the ground, but Filthaut also has customers who are in the market for fire

pits in a table setting. Another current trend is a fire pit that looks like concrete but is actually lightweight. Adding lava rocks, too, can produce a decorative setting.

When shopping for a fire pit, Filthaut suggests first deciding how you want to use your backyard space.

“That will guide you into what type of fire pit you want,” she said. “You have to think about furniture placement.”

Keep in mind if you’ll be having guests over to enjoy the bonfire and how many.

“For smaller gatherings, a 24-inch fire pit would work,” Filthaut said. “If you like entertaining, you’ll need a 36 or 48 inches.”

Filthaut said customers usually begin shopping for backyard furniture, including fire pits, in March and April to prepare for the summer.

Kristen Doetzkies, of St. Clair Shores, always has a bonfire on Christmas Day with her family and friends. Photo provided by Kristen Doetzkies

Designs

“What’s distinctive about Cuba, and this also goes for a lot of other Latin American designs, is that it’s made for the climate,” Mott said.

Mott said the designers in more tropical areas are mindful of the materials that they use to ensure they can be functional in warmer temperatures. Due to this attention to climate, the materials they use may vary from Michigan designers, where the temperature is often cooler.

One of the designers featured in this exhibition is Clara Porset, whose career focused on furniture and interior design.

“This exhibition shows very rare objects by her that have never been seen before,” Mott said.

In “A Modernist Regime: Cuban MidCentury Modern Design” there will also be pieces from the furniture brands led by Gonzalo Córdoba and María Victoria Caignet. The exhibit is complemented by two contemporary shows. “A Modernist Regime: The Contemporary Cuban Lens” features “Marco Castillo: The Hands of the Collector” and “Cuba Dispersa.” These shows showcase the response from contemporary artists to design history and the current landscape of creative freedoms in modern day Cuba.

“Marco Castillo: The Hands of the Collector” will run until Sept. 1 in the Hartmann and Larson Galleries. “Cuba Dispersa” runs July 11-Sept. 1 in the Larson Gallery.

“A Modernist Regime: Cuban MidCentury Design” and “A Modernist Regime: The Contemporary Cuban Lens” were curated by Abel González Fernández and Mott,

along with director Andrew Satake Blauvelt, and Jeanne and Ralph Graham Curatorial Fellow Andrew Ruys de Perez.

These exhibitions are possible through the support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Clannad Foundation, the George Francoeur Art Museum Exhibition Fund, Marc Schwartz and Emily Camiener, Karen and Drew Bacon, Jennifer and Brian Hermelin, Kelsey and Evan Ross, and ArtMembers of Cranbrook Art Museum.

“Since Cranbrook is known around the world as an incubator of mid-century design, we are drawn to narratives of similar developments elsewhere, in this case, from the Global South,” Blauvelt, Cranbrook Art Museum’s director, said in a statement. “Just as designers in the U.S. interpreted the tenets of modern design, so did Cubans, although in a completely different economic, social, and cultural context.” He said the exhibit “is a fascinating case study of how modernism was adapted to not only the tropical climate and local materials on the island but also to that country’s diverse racial and ethnic history and the new nation-state’s position and identity in the world.”

Fernández explained that, “when looking at Cuba, we must recognize our fascinating, tragic, elegant, and complex Cuban history. What are we going to keep? We may not have a land for all Cubans to be reunited now because of the dictatorship, but we have a shared memory that unites us.” The exhibition features six new commissions, one by each artist, who will mine these design and material histories to highlight the past while imagining potential futures.

For more information, visit https:// cranbrookartmuseum.org.

Photo by Danielle deo Owensby from Cranbrook Art Museum

state championships since 2005, and 2024 state champions Detroit Country Day (D2) and Detroit Catholic Central (D1). You can throw Ada Forest Hills Eastern, who won 16 games this year, and Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern into the mix as well.

Through the gauntlet, Birmingham United emerged 9-6 in regular season play and poised for a run in the state tournament.

“I definitely think that we had some games this year that proved our work was paying off and we could beat those top teams in the state,” senior Spencer Garrett said. “Although the score wasn’t in our favor, there were things in many of those games that we learned and were able to put to use as the season continued.”

The Bulldogs made quick work of Detroit Cass Tech in a 25-0 win and followed it up with a convincing 15-7 win over a Livonia Stevenson team, which is always in the double-digit win column, to set up a regional championship matchup with Brother Rice May 29.

Brother Rice would get the better end of Birmingham United by a final score of 15-3, ending its season for the third time in four years, but the gap may be closing in for the emerging Bulldogs.

“They’re (Brother Rice) not getting all

Fire

pits from page 32A

“In Michigan, we’re trying to make good use of the weather to be outside,” she said.

When having a backyard bonfire, it’s important to remember several safety rules. For starters, when purchasing a fire pit, it’s suggested to make sure the style you buy is in compliance with the Underwriters Laboratories and has the UL label imprinted on it.

It’s also essential to use fire pits properly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure your city or township allows fire pits and, if so, check the local ordinance for guidance, including what materials you can burn.

Eastpointe, for instance, permits open burning, but several rules must be followed. The fire pit needs to have a lid on it, and while the lid can be grated, it cannot have large holes in it.

“The lid keeps the sparks to a minimum,” said Eastpointe Fire Chief Brian Marquardt, adding that backyard fire pits in the city need to be 15 feet away from any build-

the best athletes anymore and the best lacrosse players,” Birmingham United head coach Nick Stensen said. “They’re starting to come to us. I don’t know why, but it probably has to do with the facilities, the athletic department, our staff, our youth investment we’re making in the youth programs to keep kids instead of having them go away. We keep that up and good things are going to keep happening.”

The Birmingham Bulldogs Youth Lacrosse Program prides itself on developing and engaging with elementary and middle school lacrosse players in efforts to keep young athletes engaged in the sport and prepared for the high school level.

With camps year round and Birmingham United holding a strong relationship with the program, young Bulldogs are able to play at the high school facilities and work closely with high school players in the lacrosse program serving as coaches.

“I got to take part in coaching some of the youth teams right away,” junior Brett Feldamaier said. “I’ve had a great experience so far being able to see what the future looks like and just be able to teach the game of lacrosse to the younger kids.”

“I had played in the youth program since I was in third grade and coached in it for the last two years,” Garrett said. It is an awesome opportunity to help out in the youth program and have the two-way support as a result. Our high school team prac-

ing, including houses, garages and sheds.

Remember to place your fire pit on a noncombustible surface. Also, in Eastpointe, residents cannot hold bonfires in the front of the house, only in the backyard. But again, check with your local government about what is permitted.

“You can only burn hardwood you bought. It has got to be hardwood,” Marquardt said. “No scrap wood, no tree trimmings, no leaves. That’s when the fires can get out of hand and cause excessive smoke.”

And too much smoke could be a nuisance to neighbors.

“If we get a complaint, we check it out,” Marquardt said.

Also in Eastpointe, residents must either have a fire extinguisher or hose nearby in case of emergency. It’s also a good idea to have sand or dirt handy when having a bonfire. Never leave a bonfire unattended.

“There must be an adult constantly attending it,” Marquardt said.

Also, it’s not a good idea to use a fire pit when there hasn’t been rain and the ground is dry or when it’s too windy.

Kristen Doetzkies, of St. Clair Shores,

ticed with them and prepared them for varsity lacrosse, and the youth players came to our games and cheered us on. It’s always fun to look up and see them in the stands.”

Another key component to continuing a culture and upward trend of a program is an effective leadership group, and the Bulldogs had an embarrassment of riches.

It doesn’t get much better than a senior core led by James Chinonis, Jace Lugar, Cooper Jurkovich, Ethan Jeffrey, Dylan Gottesman, Connell Hughes, Nate Henderson, Jonny Lewand, Coen Nystrom, Sebastian Henry and Garrett

The all-State accolades added up for the senior group as Garrett (2nd team midfield), Chinonis (3rd team defense), Henry (HM defense) and Jeffrey (HM goalie) all earned selections. Garrett posted 33 goals and 22 assists while Chinonis, Henry and Jeffrey anchored a Bulldogs defense that allowed only eight goals per game.

“They were the first group, I would say, that I had enough time invested in them where they understood exactly what the expectation of them was, and they couldn’t have done better,” Stensen said. “They were a phenomenal senior class from a leadership standpoint, from a ‘this is my role’ standpoint and understanding what I need to do on and off the field, the way they performed in the classroom and on the field, and just the excitement to come to practice. They couldn’t have been better role models for our

grew up around bonfires.

“It’s such a staple in our family,” she said. “There was always some sort of campfire. You didn’t want to just sit inside.”

Doetzkies currently has two fire pits that get plenty of use. One she received as a gift and shares with her sister, Stefanie, who lives next door. Doetzkies made the second fire pit with supplies from Home Depot. She always keeps safety in mind, especially when children are around.

“We make sure they are always supervised,” she said.

Sipping on hot chocolate or warming up with a cup of coffee around the fire pit is always part of Christmas Day for Doetzkies, her boyfriend, and family and friends. The bonfire looks especially festive with Christmas lights on in the background.

“It’s a fun atmosphere. People love it,” Doetzkies said. “It’s just lightweight conversation. There’s some reminiscing.”

It was also an ideal way to social distance during the COVID-19 restrictions. Doetzkies’ fire pits get just as much use during the summer as in the winter.

“We make s’mores and are more likely

very talented freshman class to learn from and look up to, and that rubs off on the juniors and sophomores too.”

Birmingham United returns the bulk of its scoring department behind Feldmaier, a University of Michigan commit, and his younger brother, Brody Feldmaier, a freshman this season.

The Feldmaiers accounted for 99 of Birmingham United’s 231 goals this season, with Brett tallying 63 of his own with 34 assists en route to a second team all-State selection on attack.

“He’s (Brett Feldmaier) an all-American in any book,” Stensen said. “He’s one of the best players by far in the state.”

The Bulldogs will also return firepower on the scoring side courtesy of junior Frank Hill, who notched 19 goals and 28 assists this year while the defensive group hopes to see players eager to step up and fill the void of Chinonis and Henry.

With another year of success under its belt and a solid core returning, expect Birmingham United to be a threat in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament.

“We’re in a really good place,” Stensen said. “We’re excited about the future. Now we have a program that is more running itself versus having to have so much hands-on involvement. Now it’s the right people who are in the right places, and they’re trusted to do their role.”

to have some beers,” she said. “It’s such an ancient tradition. There’s something so primitive about getting together with people and catching up. It brings people in over the course of a few hours.”

Bloomfield

and purple and tally another regional title to their name in 2022, and another one, and finally earn their fourth-straight championship as seniors.

Unfortunately for Bloomfield Hills, Brighton was always waiting in the wings at the state semifinals game, ready to put an end to Bloomfield Hills’ season.

At this point the team was past the feeling of a Groundhog Day as both teams matched up for the fourth-straight time June 5 at Fenton High School, but this loss (14-10 in favor of Brighton) felt like it carried a much more gut-wrenching blow than years prior.

“It was a tough one at the end of the game, emotionally, because they’re a great group,” Bloomfield Hills head coach Christina Arens said. “Four of them made varsity straight on as freshmen, and the other three were pulled up for playoffs. All seven of them are great kids, great players, and have really impacted this team in terms of the culture, the positivity, and just the overall hard work and dedication to Bloomfield Hills lacrosse the past four years.”

There was a lot that could be said about the group just from an on-the-field point of view, starting with Butler, who plans to attend Cornell University for academics and potentially play club. Butler was a team captain who took the goalie position as a freshman and earned first team all-State honors before eventually becoming a four-time allState selection.

Butler wasn’t the only one with a handful of all-State selections as Lucia (3x allState honoree) and the Agbay sisters each earned three all-State selections of their own.

Lucia, who led the team in goals (119) and assists (43) this season and has been a staple of the Black Hawks’ attack, is a generational type of player in the lacrosse high school scene, but she’s just as dominant on

the ice.

A scoring machine at the center position for the Little Caesars AAA hockey organization, Lucia, who was named a high school All-American by USA Lacrosse, is currently committed to Harvard University for girls hockey.

“She’s one of those players that, regardless of how talented of a kid I have come into the program in the future, she is a once-ina-lifetime player to coach, because, yeah, she’s super talented, but her biggest plus side to her is honestly how hard of a worker she is,” Arens said. “She’s confident, but she’s humble. She’s not one that walks around with an ego. Do I probably have a slight bit of bias with her being my player? Yes, but I’ve coached players that are very talented and that have that edge and that ego because they know they’re good. That’s not her. She makes a mistake, and I bring her over to talk to her, and I can see the tears in her eyes. She’s not doing it for herself. She’s doing it for the team.”

Statistics are one-dimensional in terms of measuring leadership and what a player brings to the table. What really matters is how they get their teammates involved and how they elevate the players around them, and this senior class prided itself on making sure everyone succeeded.

For sophomore Solei Ewing, who earned her first all-State selection this year, it was the comfortability and confidence the upperclassmen gave her as a young player. Ewing, a southpaw, said her first season was a ton of nerves and a lack of confidence in her abilities, but 25 goals, an all-State nod and a core of leadership around her helped her grow into the player she is today.

“They’re like the mothers on the team,” Ewing said. “They were really there, and if everyone on the team was down and in our heads they would be like, ‘Come on guys, we got this. Let’s get out of our heads.’ Even when there were times where not everyone scored on the team or no one on the team made a goal yet beside the upperclassmen,

they would give that assist to the underclassmen to give them that goal. That’s what really made them a leader.”

Ewing is slated to be a team captain next year alongside junior Anna Rubel and junior Alia Somero, where it will be their turn to embody the Bloomfield Hills culture and carry on what classes before them have built, but with their own twist on it.

“She’s (Anna) a quieter person, but when she’s comfortable, and she knows she’s confident in her spot. She becomes very vocal and has a really strong lacrosse IQ, which I think I brought to our team,” Butler said. “She’ll be a great vocal leader along with Solei, who will be a great vocal leader. Alia will do great things too, but I think she takes over Ella’s role of more leading by example. She’s an amazing player and she’s super fast. I think that’s where she’ll thrive.”

The captain trio will have a strong supporting cast around them with junior Samantha Ayiar, sophomore Ella Griffin, freshman Molly Rubel, freshman Olivia Brodsky, sophomore Brooke Sanders, junior Paige Gardner, and a slew of other talented Black Hawks players.

There’s an expectation given the past four years ending with a regional title, but Bloomfield Hills has all the talent in the world to carry on the tradition of winning.

“I think this senior class was probably the most influential in Bloomfield history just because all of our seniors were such strong players and we were all over the field,” Butler said. “Not only that, we all were truly friends on and off the field. I think our chemistry could be seen while playing because it was so strong.”

“Bloomfield Hills lacrosse was so amazing all four years,” Lucia said. “Yeah, we did lose to Brighton all four years in the state semis, but we did win our region every year, which is something no lacrosse team has ever done at Bloomfield. It’s crazy that it’s done now. I’m excited to watch them in the future and come back for games.”

Photo by Susan Adams Photography

Bloomfield Hills senior Ella Lucia celebrates after scoring a goal against Brighton in the MHSAA Division 1 semifinals June 5 at Fenton High School.

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JULY 17

Outstanding Women Series: Hear from owner of Sister Pie in Detroit, also cocktails and conversation, 5-7 p.m., The Village Club, 190 E. Long Lake Road in Bloomfield Hills, registration required, (248) 6443450, thevillageclub.org

JULY 18

‘City of Lights’ photography: Local artist highlights design, art and culture in Paris, 6:30 p.m., Franklin Public Library, 32455 Franklin Road, (248) 851-2254, franklinlibrary@franklin.lib.mi.us, franklin.lib. mi.us

JULY 20-21

‘Addams Family’: Presented by Dream Arts Company and featuring students from Beverly Hills, Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills, 6:30 p.m. July 20 and 3 p.m. July 21, Flagstar Strand Theatre, 12 N. Saginaw St. in Pontiac, dacodetroit@hotmail.com, dacompany.org

JULY 26-28

One Act Festival: Presented by Playwrights@Work (writers group at Birmingham Village Players), audience can watch four plays and provide feedback via comment sheets, then meet authors and cast, 8 p.m. July 26-27 and 2 p.m. July 28, 34660 Woodward Ave., (248) 644-2075, birminghamvillageplayers.com

JULY 27

Day on the Town: Deep discounts from 60-plus premium retailers, plus food trucks, chalk art displays, kids activities, giveaways and more, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., streets and sidewalks of downtown Birmingham, ALLINBirmingham.com/DOTT

AUG. 1-3

Birmingham Groves High School Class of 1984: 40-year reunion events include brunch at Beverly Park, Tigers game, tour of school’s new outdoor athletic facilities, and stay and celebration at Somerset Inn, myevent.com/grovesclassof84

AUG. 7 Music on the Green: Featuring Rhythm Society Orchestra,

p.m., includes “The Muppets Christmas Carol” July 19 and movies determined by vote Aug. 9 and Sept. 6, also complimentary treats and giveaways, Booth Park, west of North Old Woodward Avenue and south of Harmon Street in Birmingham, ALLINBirmingham.com/ events

Michigan Stage: Performances produced by local nonprofit, shows include “Lost in Yonkers” (July 17-20), “Peerless” (July 18-28) and “Guys and Dolls” (July 25-Aug. 3), Seaholm High School, 2436 W. Lincoln St. in Birmingham, see times at michiganstage.org

In the Park Summer Concert Series: 7 p.m. July 17 (Re’Monda, neo soul, R&B and jazz), July 24 (Listen To The Music, The Doobie Brothers tribute), July 31 (Rebecca Cameron, country), Aug. 7 (Magic Bus, Woodstock-era) and Aug. 14 (Mainstreet Soul, variety), Shain Park, 270 W. Merrill St. in Birmingham, bhamgov.org/summerconcerts

Art exhibits: “Cuba Dispersa (Cuba Dispersed)” and “Marco Castillo: The Hands of the Collector” on display 11 a.m. Wednesdays-Sundays until Sept. 1 and “A Modernist Regime: Cuban Mid-Century Design” on display until Sept. 22, Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, cranbrookartmuseum.org

• Michigan Fine Arts Competition features 85 works, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays until Aug. 15, Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 S. Cranbrook Road in Birmingham, bbartcenter.org

Senior Men’s Club of Birmingham: Speakers and luncheon, 10:30 a.m. every Friday, Iroquois Club, 43248 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Township, also on Zoom, RSVP by previous Monday, www.seniormens clubbirmingham.com

Birmingham Metropolitan Women’s Club: Meets 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. every second Tuesday of month, Iroquois Club, 43248 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Township, RSVP two weeks prior to each event, (248) 303-7339, chriswludyka@outlook.com, thebirminghammetropolitan womensclub.weebly.com

Cranbrook on the Green: Play artist-designed min-golf course Wednesdays-Sundays through August and weekends Sept. 7-22, Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, tickets include admission to galleries, cranbrookartmuseum.org

Free days at Cranbrook Institute of Science: Every first Friday and every third Thursday of month, 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, see hours at science.cranbrook.edu

Monthly movie/book clubs: Movie discussion group meets 7 p.m. every first Thursday and book club meets 10 a.m. every fourth Thursday, Bloomfield Township Public Library, 1099 Lone Pine Road, (248) 642-5800, btpl.org

Second Saturday Book Sale: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every month, Bloomfield Township Public Library, 1099 Lone Pine Road, (248) 642-5800, btpl. org

Birmingham & Ferndale Stamp Club: Meets 6-8 p.m. every first and third Tuesday of month, fellowship at 5:30 p.m., NEXT Senior Center, 2121 Midvale St. in Birmingham, birminghamstamp.club

Photo provided by the Birmingham Shopping District