7/18/24 Troy Times by C & G Newspapers

Troy explores new library building/renovation options

Library circulates over a million items in a year

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

During the 2023-24 fiscal year the Troy Public Library circulated over 1,000,000 items.

That’s an average of 3,000 checkouts per day,

and on average, every resident of Troy checks out 12 items a year from the library, located at 510 W. Big Beaver Road. During that same time period, the library saw around 344,000 visitors.

“One million checkouts is a milestone number for any library serving a community the size of

TTroy,” Phillip Kwik, assistant director, said in a press release. “We are especially proud to reach this number, as it is our most checkouts since the preCOVID year of 2019.”

Library Director Emily Dumas said they want

See LIBRARY on page 12A

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

he automotive community will be celebrated through a wide variety of activities, events and vehicle displays during the 16th annual Troy Traffic Jam at the Columbia Center on Big Beaver Road Aug. 4.

The Troy Traffic Jam is free to spectators as funds raised through sponsorships, car registrations, and a 50/50 raffle fuel education at the Troy Historic Village.

Since the event’s inception 16 years ago, presenting sponsor KIRCO and the host venue Columbia Center have been dedicated supporters and key partners in raising thousands of dollars towards field trips and hands-on programs at the Troy Historic Village, organizers said.

Historic

an email. “This year we anticipate hitting 6,000. As I’m getting out registraevery

“I’ve been with the show since 2019, and I think that year we had over 4,000 visitors,” Jen Peters, Troy Historic Village’s executive director, said in an email. “This year we anticipate hitting 6,000. As I’m getting out registrations and information about the event, I get a lot of ‘we come every year, it’s our favorite car show!’ so I think it’s both a beloved and anticipated annual community event,” as well as one of the best car shows in Michigan, she said.

The Troy Traffic Jam is set to return to the Columbia Center on Big Beaver Road Aug. 4.

File photo by Donna Dalziel

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The Troy Times is one of 21 bi-weekly publications produced by C & G Newspapers, a family-owned company serving residents in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties since 1981. We deliver our papers to more than 571,000 homes in 45 communities via direct mail.

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SECOND FRONT PAGE

3A/ TROY TIMES • JULY 18, 2024

Livernois/Square Lake-area residents speak out about flooding problems

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Lakshya Matele, from Larson Middle School is one of the 26 state merit winners in Discovery Education and 3M’s 2024 Young Scientist Challenge.

The challenge asks scientists in grades fiveeight to explore innovation by submitting an up to two-minute video explaining an original idea using science to help solve an everyday problem.

“My solution to that problem is an app called

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Some residents who live in the Livernois and Square Lake Road area are voicing concerns on the impact of some recent and pending developments, saying that their homes are now subject to repeated flooding because of drainage problems.

Walter Storrs III, who lives on Martell Drive, in Sylvan Glen Subdivision 3, expressed worry about the neighborhood being affected by a storm drainage problem after large storms occurred in 2019 and 2023.

worry about the neighborhood being affected

He said in a 2023 letter to Mayor Ethan Baker and the Troy City Council that in August 2019, a major storm caused severe flooding in his subdivision.

“I personally witnessed flood waters actively flowing Eastward along both sides of my

Student wins award for food label ingredient analyzer app

IntelliEats, that I created, which when you take a picture of the ingredient label of your packaged food, it will tell you if and which unhealthy and harmful ingredients are in the packaged food,” Matele said in an email. “If people want, then they can also go to another page of my app to get a short summary of why the ingredient it detected is unhealthy.”

Matele has been an active participant in her school’s science fair club, and its science and engineering elective, and has continued to develop her app during her lab time at school. Her research and

Vendor Details Food Trucks

app plans were presented at the Science and Engineering Fair of Metro Detroit in March, where she won the Grand Award. She hopes to release her app for the public in the near future.

“My project’s goal is to help people be more aware about what ingredients are going in their daily packaged foods, as they can choose healthier foods to eat and live a healthier life,” Matele said in an email.

The subject of Matele’s submission was to provide consumers with easier access to informa-

Photo provided by Marcia Bossenberger Residents near Square Lake and Livernois are speaking out about flooding.

Troy High teacher selected for 2024 C-SPAN fellowship

ent ways for classrooms to engage with CSPAN resources.

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

Troy High School teacher Ryan Werenka has been selected for the third year in a row as one of five educators in C-SPAN’s Teacher Fellowship program.

C-SPAN is a private nonprofit public affairs media organization. It offers unfiltered access to government proceedings through TV, radio and social media platforms. Much of its programs is primarily funded by America’s cable and satellite companies. In Troy, C-SPAN is available locally on Comcast.

The 2024 Teacher Fellowship program, sponsored by C-SPAN’s Education Foundation, gives opportunities to middle school and high school educators to develop differ-

“Each year, C-SPAN chooses five teachers from around the country to utilize C-SPAN resources to create lesson plans, review materials, and much more for their education site, C-SPAN Classroom,” Werenka said in an email.

Fellows were selected by a panel of C-SPAN representatives and were evaluated based on their innovative use of C-SPAN programming in their curriculums, their commitment to professional development, and their creative use of technology and social platforms. The educators each receive $1,000 for participating in the program.

“For more than 30 years, C-SPAN’s annual Teacher Fellowship program has afforded us the privilege of working with some of the most exceptional educators in the na-

See C-SPAN on page 17A

Vote by August 6th

Since being appointed to the City Council last December, I have had the honor of working for you and your family. I voted to increase police funding by $1.7 million and authorize $12.8 million for road repairs, and I have taken the lead on preserving Troy’s parklands and evaluating our senior programs.

I’m proud to have done this all in close collaboration with the Mayor and my Council colleagues, regardless of our political opinions. I am grateful to be endorsed by Mayor Pro Tem Ellen Hodorek and Council Members Teresa Brooks, Rebecca Chamberlain-Creanga, and David Hamilton in this campaign. Te reason for this is simple: I’m an engineer by trade and a problem-solver at heart who’s devoted to getting results for Troy residents. As your Council Member, I will always make decisions using data and logic, not fear and anger.

My family and I have deep roots here, having settled in Troy twentyfve years ago. My son was born here and graduated from Troy High before attending U of M. I’m so proud to call Troy home and my goal as your Council Member is to keep our city one of the best places to live in Michigan. Tis is why I am asking for your vote by August 6th: to keep our city moving in a positive direction.

Sincerely, Hirak Chanda, Troy City Council Member

Absentee: Mail your ballot to the City Clerk’s ofce by July 31st

Early Voting:

Starting at the Community Center on July 26th

Election Day: Vote at your precinct on August 6th

Hirak Chanda: Community Problem Solver

Werenka

Troy Community Center to host ‘Bingo Bonanza’ fundraising event

BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com

On My Own of Michigan will hold its annual summer fundraising event, ‘Bingo Bonanza,’ at the Troy Community Center.

This event will be held 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, July 19. According to organizers, the event is open to the public and offers opportunities to get to know the On My Own community and win various prizes that were donated by local businesses, including Yard House restaurant, Shield’s Pizza, Hollywood Market, Shake Shack, Big Boy of Troy and Einstein Bagels, among other organizations.

On My Own of Michigan is a nonprofit organization located at 1250 Kirts Blvd. in Troy. Organizers said its mission is to support people with developmental disabilities as they build and maintain their independence. It is an Oakland County-based nonprofit with 27 years of experience helping to make independent living possible for individuals with developmental disabilities like autism and Down syndrome, they said.

General admission tickets for the Bingo Bonanza cost $10 and are available for purchase at onmyownofmi.org. Tickets must be purchased in advance. The event is sponsored by PEA Group, MSU Federal Credit Union, Somerset Inn, the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation, Innovative Learning Group, A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Directors, and Birmingham Pediatrics + Wellness Center.

For more information, visit onmyownofmi.org.

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

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Let’s Continue the Progress We’ve Made TOGETHER

I am Oakland County Commissioner Ann Erickson Gault representing District 3. I’m running for another term so I can continue the progress we’ve made together on issues you care about like building a ordable housing, improving mental health care, expanding public transit and enhancing county parks.

TROY LACROSSE GIVES SENIORS HISTORIC ENDING

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

Troy lacrosse decided it had enough in 2024.

After being pushed around in the Oakland Activities Association White last season and eliminated in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament in the blink of an eye, the Colts felt some retribution was in order.

Novi and Farmington, who both beat Troy in 2023, would be first on the list as the Colts opened up their revenge tour campaign with two quick redemption games. Outscoring both teams by a combined 2113, Troy was running hot to start early.

“The Novi game last year, we kind of got pushed around a lot,” Troy coach Brian Johnson said. “That was one that was definitely on our schedule. Going into that game, I feel like we have a lot to prove from the season, because each year, the expectations get higher and higher, as every team should. That was one of the games we circled and knew we had to come out and make a

statement, and the boys did. It really set the tone for the season.”

Troy would then tack on Royal Oak to the list before setting up for a matchup that arguably carried the most weight for the Colts.

A full circle redemption would require Troy to rewrite its double overtime playoff loss to Oxford, and it had the opportunity right in front of them April 25 at Troy High School.

“That was definitely a big revenge game,” senior Michael Lim said. “Coach was hyping us all up, especially losing to them in double overtime last year. We really needed that one.”

The Colts would pick up the 9-4 victory, kickstarting a nine-game win streak to close out the regular season and give the school best regular season record (13-3) and most regular season wins (13) in school history.

Troy also won its first OAA league championship in school history, finishing 6-0 in league play. Everything seemed to be

See LACROSSE on page 22A

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CRIME WATCH

Fake PayPal rep attempts fraudulent transaction

A resident on Hamman Drive reported June 11 that he received an email that he thought was from PayPal about a recent charge on his account.

He googled a phone number for PayPal and called the number that came up. The victim spoke with an unknown woman, who stated PayPal would give him a refund and to type the amount of $400 into the refund box, but when he did, it turned into $40,000.

The victim was then instructed to go to his bank and complete a wire transfer for the $40,000. When he arrived at his bank, the suspect told him not to tell the bank employees it was for PayPal. The victim realized it was a scam and hung up.

Obscene images found painted at Troy Athens High School

A Troy Athens High School employee reported that an unknown suspect spray painted obscene images onto the outside and inside of the girls’ softball dugout and two of the home plates on the field, located at 4333

John R Road. The incident reportedly happened between 2:30 p.m. June 21 and 7:30 a.m. June 25, according to a police report.

Customer spits at Wendy’s drive-thru

A customer reportedly caused a disturbance at the Wendy’s at 3995 Rochester Road at 5:14 p.m. June 20 due to some issues with a credit card machine.

Officers found the customer standing at the drive-thru window yelling toward the inside of the building at the employees.

Officers spoke to the customer, a 37-year-old man from Sumter, South Carolina, who initially stated nothing had happened to cause a police response.

However, employees told officers that the subject was upset over the credit card machine being down. They said he eventually approached the drive-thru window on foot and began yelling at the employees before spitting at the employee at the window. The employee closed the window, and the customer allegedly tried to open it and spit again, at which point police arrived.

When asked if he had spit at the employee, the man denied it, but he admitted to spitting at the drive-thru window.

He was arrested and transported to the

Troy police lockup, where he was issued a citation for assault and battery.

Impaired driver hits road sign, light pole

Officers responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash in the area of 14 Mile Road and northbound Interstate 75 at 2:20 a.m. June 21.

Officers found a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas with significant crash damage from running over a road sign and striking a light pole.

The driver, a 25-year-old Melvindale woman, had bloodshot and glassy eyes. Police said she slurred her words and was unsteady on her feet. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which she performed poorly. She refused to submit to a preliminary breath test.

She was arrested and transported to the Troy police lockup, where she agreed to submit to a chemical breath test, which had results of 0.147% and 0.131% blood alcohol content. She was issued a citation for operating while intoxicated and refusing a preliminary breath test.

Agitated driver arrested after crash

Officers were dispatched to the north-

bound I-75 and Crooks Road area at 1 a.m. June 20 for crash involving two vehicles.

The at-fault vehicle, a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, was located in the woods off of the right shoulder of I-75, with its airbags deployed. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 41-year-old Waterford man, reported he was not injured.

While speaking with the driver, officers noted he was speaking fast, appeared restless and fidgety, and had a white foam emanating from the corner of his mouth. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he performed poorly.

He was arrested for operating under the influence of drugs and was transported to the Troy police lockup, where he refused to submit to a blood test. A search warrant to complete the blood draw was prepared and granted, and his blood was drawn by medical personnel at Troy Beaumont Hospital.

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

Victim reports compromised Social Security account

A Troy resident reported June 17 that he had failed to receive his expected monthly

See CRIME on page 9A

Crime

Social Security check.

He checked online and discovered that the check had been issued and then deposited into a bank account that does not belong to him after someone fraudulently accessed his Social Security account and changed his information.

Costco charges escalate to international crime claims

On June 21, a Troy resident reported that in the beginning of May, he had received a phone call from an unknown male claiming to be with Costco customer service.

The caller said the man’s credit card had been used at a Costco in China and that the charges on the card had not been paid. The Troy man stated he had not been to China in years, and the caller told him he needed to make a report with police in China to document the fraud, and the caller transferred him, supposedly to the Chinese police.

The Troy resident then spoke with a man who said a report would be taken via Zoom. The Troy man spoke with a subject wearing a full police uniform who asked him questions about the incident. The subject then told the Troy man he was a suspect in a multi-million dollar theft by an international crime organization involved with the kidnapping of children.

The Troy man was transferred to a “case supervisor,” who contacted him daily. He was asked to transfer $115,000 to a Wells Fargo bank account and then was asked to transfer additional money to hold for his bail during the investigation.

Suspect attempts check fraud at Comerica Bank

Officers were dispatched to the Comerica Bank at 1494 John R Road for a report of a check fraud in progress at 3:25 p.m. June 21.

Officers found the male suspect standing at the teller window. The branch manager spoke with officers and said that the bank’s fraud department had confirmed the $2,486.44 check the man was attempting to cash was fraudulent.

Officers spoke with the suspect, a 61-year-old Detroit man, who admitted he knew the check was not legitimate.

He was arrested for uttering and publishing and was transported to the Troy police lockup.

Items, car stolen after garage entered

Between 7 p.m. June 26 and 8 a.m.

June 27, an unknown suspect went into a home’s open garage on Alameda Boulevard and entered the Cadillac CTS parked inside. Multiple items were stolen from the vehicle, including the keys, a bookbag, a laptop and its charger, food, cash and the keys to the victim’s 2011 Chevrolet Impala parked nearby.

The suspect used the keys to take the Impala, which was located a short distance away from the residence.

Keys, cash, gun stolen from vehicles

Between 6 p.m. June 19 and 7 a.m. June 21, a resident of Waltham Drive reported, someone entered his unlocked vehicle while it was parked in his driveway and stole his keys and his work ID badge.

Between 3 p.m. June 26 and 10:40 a.m. June 27, someone from Wabash Lane reported that an unknown suspect had entered his vehicle and stolen $600 cash and his loaded 9mm handgun.

Court summons reveals credit card fraud

A resident from Cambridge Crescent Drive received a court summons filed by a collections agency for defaulting on a credit card balance.

The victim became aware of allegations from the collections agency that state she owes $849 for an unpaid credit card bill from March 1 to June 26. However, she did not open the card and had no knowledge that it existed, police said. The woman said an unknown suspect used her identity to open the account fraudulently.

Loan inquiry turns out to be fraudulent

A resident of Roger Court reported June 25 that she received an unsolicited email claiming to be from a financial company and inquiring if she would like a loan. She called the listed number and told the person who answered that she was interested.

She provided her bank account information, and the suspect said he would deposit two transactions into her account. The suspect then told her she would need to withdraw the same amount and convert the funds to bitcoin and deposit the money into a provided digital account.

The woman followed the instructions, depositing a total of $2,660 for the suspect before realizing that no money was actually deposited into her account.

Intoxicated driving results in vehicle crash

On June 14, at around 11:21 p.m., officers responded to a report of a vehicle crash

in the area of Big Beaver Road and Coolidge Highway.

Officers spoke with the at-fault driver, a 26-year-old Harrison Township woman, and noted she was unsteady on her feet, her eyes were bloodshot and watery, she was slurring her speech, and there was an odor of intoxicants about her.

She was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which officers noted she performed poorly on. She refused to submit to a preliminary breath test.

At the Troy police lockup, where she agreed to submit to a chemical breath test, with results of a 0.186% and 0.182% blood alcohol content. She was issued a citation for operating with a blood alcohol content of 0.17% or more and for refusing a preliminary breath test.

Cash missing at estate sale

An estate sale company reported that a home on Larkin Drive was broken into between 5 p.m. June 9 and 9:45 a.m. June 10.

The company told police it had been hosting an estate sale at the home for several days.

When an employee arrived at the home June 10, they found the door open and the lockbox outside the property had been pried

open. Employees said $250 was found to be missing from a cash drawer set up for the sale.

Trumpet reported stolen

A resident of East Long Lake Road reported that between noon June 7 and 11 a.m. June 8, his trumpet went missing from his residence.

The trumpet is valued at $6,495. The resident believes an unknown suspect entered the home and stole the instrument.

HVAC company receives fraudulent orders

A heating, ventilation and air conditioning company on Equity Drive reported it received an email from someone claiming to be a customer the company had done business with previously.

The unknown suspect used an email that appeared to be legitimate to place $131,000 in orders between March and April.

Between March 29 and June 10, the orders were shipped out. However, after the invoices were 60 days past due, the company contacted the customer and discovered that the orders were fraudulent and had not actually been placed by them.

Op. Ed. – Tis the Season To Vote

Professor Pearl, in his Nobel Lecture concluded as follows:

“My fnal remark to women and men going into experimental science is that they should pay little attention to the speculative ideas of my generation. After all, if my generation has any really good speculative ideas, we would be carrying these ideas out ourselves.”

I fnd that statement to be remarkably relevant in the current election cycle. Very unlike the national races however, here in the City of Troy, our frequent complaints aside, we have been well served over time by a group of professionals in our Council who take time out of their lives to do thankless and unpaid jobs for the beneft of all. Obviously, almost all who choose to volunteer do so out of a genuine desire to want to help their community. Yet, I fear, seldom do we fnd that the wish to help with the important business of the city is combined with the necessary gravitas required to succeed.

In a few weeks we will cast votes for council and county commissioners. It is a great privilege to serve the people of this community despite the concerns and pragmatic difculties with which our ofcials are sometimes presented. I, of course, recognize that the City of Troy was here long before us, and it will be here long after we’re gone. Nonetheless, I know that the vote that we’re about to cast is fundamental to our immediate wellbeing. So, if you’d like to vote and forget about your local leadership, which is a natural desire, please take the time in advance to look up the current list of candidates and what they stand for. We owe it to ourselves.

REN NUSHAJ, Attorney / Prosecutor Ren@MichiganTreeIntiative.org

Ribbon-cutting highlights Camp Casey

Northwestern Mutual – Metro Detroit invited the community to gather at its new office at 101 W Big Beaver, Suite 500, July 12 for a ribbon cutting ceremony that included food, music, a visit from a horse, crafts, face painting for kids and more to help highlight it support of Camp Casey, a local nonprofit that brings free horseback riding programs to children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. The company presented the nonprofit with a $25,000 service award to provide respite to local families this summer.

“As we celebrate our new office, we are proud to incorporate our friends at Camp Casey by providing a gift that will bring smiles to local children with cancer and their families,” said Dominic Mirabella, Northwestern Mutual – Metro Detroit’s managing partner. They noted that the company has supported Camp Casey through volunteerism and financial support for over a decade.

Founded in 2004, Camp Casey is a nonprofit organization that envisions a way for every family affected by childhood illness to experience the joy and healing powers of horses. They said the money will help the nonprofit bring its “Horsey House Call” program to more local families.

“Northwestern Mutual’s Service Award grant will help us bring a day of horse camp to the homes of children who are, oftentimes, too sick to attend summer camp like their peers,” said Molly Reeser, Camp Casey’s founder.

For more about Camp Casey’s programs and how to get involved, visit camp-casey.org.

The mission of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation is to improve the lives of children and families in need. It has given more than $320 million since its inception in 1992 and is designed to create lasting impact in the communities where the company’s employees and financial representatives live and work, states a press release.

Visit northwesternmutual-foundation.com to learn more.

Golf event raises more than $250K for oncology services at Corewell Health in Troy, Royal Oak

The Drive for Life Invitational raised more than $250,000 to benefit oncology services at Corewell Health hospitals in Troy and Royal Oak.

According to a press release, sponsors and participants in the June 17 Drive for Life Invitational at Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills raised the money to support programs and services at the Walter & Marilyn Wolpin Comprehensive Breast Care Center at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak and the Wilson Cancer Resource Center at Corewell Health Troy Hospital. Approximately 200 golfers and guests participated. Top sponsors included Barton Malow, Jenkin’s & Co., HAP, Center Line Electric, Kasco Construction, Morgan Stanely, Sylvia and Ed Hagenlocker, and Walter and Marilyn Wolpin. These and other donors joined the hospital’s summer season partners: presenting sponsor AHEAD, CBTS, Others First, Roncelli and Whitlock Business Systems to support patient programs.

Visit beaumont.org/services/oncology for more information.

From left, Dr. Anthony Stallion of Bloomfield, Julie Morad Natsis of Bloomfield Hills, Jayne Hare of Glen Arbor and Dr. Daniel Carey of Birmingham enjoy golfing at the 2024 Drive For Life Invitational.

Food

from page 3A

tion in processed packaged foods that could discern ingredients and chemicals within the food products that could be considered unhealthy, harmful chemicals or potentially

lead to various chronic diseases.

Amy Nakamoto, the executive vice president of social impact at Discovery Education, said the 3M Young Scientist Challenge “nurtures student curiosity by challenging them to think big and innovate for a better world.”

“We are excited to support this effort to

Lakshya Matele submitted a video for the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, for which she was acknowledged as one of the Merit Winners. Matele’s videos detailed her work on her upcoming app, IntelliEats, which aims to provide more details about the ingredients and chemicals that can be found in different food options.

demonstrate students’ ability to use science to create a better world,” she said in a press release.

All of the entries were reviewed by a group of judges, who evaluated them on their creativity, scientific knowledge, and communication skills. Videos were recorded using a cellphone or digital camera and were not judged on production skills. This year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge offered innovative ways for students to engage in science through new entry topics, like robotics, home improvement, automotive, safety, augmented and virtual reality, and climate technology.

Each year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge recognizes a grand prize winner, 10 finalists, up to 51 state merit winners, and four honorable mentions nationwide. The 2024 challenge recognized 26 state

merit winners, along with four honorable mentions. Each state merit winner receives special recognition on the challenge website, along with a prize pack.

“The projects submitted to the 3M Young Scientist Challenge showcase how science is critical to driving progress and delivering sustainable solutions. All of these students are already making the world a better place through science, and we applaud each for their innovations,” Torie Clarke, the executive vice president and chief public affairs officer at 3M, said in a press release.

For more information about the 3M Young Scientist Challenge and to meet the 2024 competitors, visit YoungScientistLab. com.

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

Photo provided by Lakshya Matele

to express their thanks to all the Troy residents who use and support their public library.

“I can say for a fact that physical books are still king,” Dumas said in an email. “Sometimes people think that no one reads physical books anymore, and only check out digital ebooks, but at Troy Public Library physical books still out-circulate ebooks by a wide margin.”

The library offers a variety of physical books, audiobooks and e-books, as well as board games and activity kits for all ages.

Dumas said youth books circulate the most, calling Troy’s youth collection “phenomenal.”

“But the higher circulation also accounts for kids’ books usually being shorter and many more are checked out at a time than longer adult books,” Dumas said in an email.

Library materials such as books, audiovisual materials, e-books, databases, and all other circulating items generally come from the library’s dedicated millage funds. In 2020, Troy voters approved a dedicated library millage of 1.1 mils for a 10-year term.

“To make decisions about what items to purchase we use a collection development policy and best practices that staff are trained on,” Dumas said in an email. “People can also make monetary donations and ask that the funds be used to purchase for the collection.”

There is some interest in expanding their collections to a “Library of Things,” which refers to circulating items like

telescopes, gardening tools, and GoPro action cameras and more that patrons can check out. The library does not have the space for such a collection expansion currently, staff said, but that may change within a few years.

In 2023, the library hired an outside firm called ReThinking Libraries to assess the current state of Troy’s library and to help them create an improvement plan for the library for the next five years. ReThinking Libraries is a national library consulting firm focused on strategic planning, and facility assessment and design. ReThinking Libraries was awarded the consultant job through the competitive bid process at $28,000.

“We went through the competitive bid process, and we were fortunate enough to hire ReThinking Libraries to be our consultants on this project,” Dumas said in a presentation of the Troy Public Library’s 2024-2028 High-Level Strategic Plan during the Troy City Council’s June 10 meeting. “They have engaged the community like I have never seen before, and I can truly say that every member of the public and every member of the staff has had an opportunity to have a voice in this plan.”

ReThinking and the Troy library distributed a survey that allowed community members to give their feedback on how people use the library space, where library amenities could improve and what they would like to see at the library. Over 2,700 people gave responses to the survey. Through feedback from the survey as well as input from other members of the public and library staff, library officials said there is a strong desire for more space for varied library collections and more space for recreational activities for library patrons of all ages.

The building’s current size, at around 50,000 square feet, as well as the aging state of the building makes it hard to implement major improvements. The south side of the building was the original library and was built in 1971. In 1984 the north addition was added.

“The staff areas in particular, I think that’s one of the biggest areas where this library is really deficient and causing issues that aren’t always seen,” Robert Cullen, a representative with ReThinking Libraries, said during the Troy City Council’s June 10 meeting.

THE POWER OF GOLF

Flooding

house . . . The water was 100% around the foundation and approximately one inch up the northerly basement window glass. I waded Eastward to Folkstone Dr. where the water was well above My knees in the center of the street. I’m confident the streets further East of Folkstone Dr. were similarly flooded.”

Late in the evening on Aug. 24, 2023, Storrs noted that a similar storm occurred, with storm water flowing around his and his neighbors’ houses.

“Martell Dr. was not as severely flooded as in 2019 because I stationed Myself on the street with a rake to repeatedly clear debris from the storm drain grates during and for a while after the storm,” Storrs said in the letter. “The storm water comes across and from the Smith and Martell school properties and in addition carries drain clogging debris with it.”

Several community members who live on Martell Drive, Folkstone Drive and Glasgow Drive also signed the letter to indicate that they have either experienced or could confirm one or both of these flood events.

At the June 10 City Council meeting, Baker referred the flooding issues to current Manager Robert Bruner, which led to a half hour meeting with City Engineer Scott Finley and Assistant City Manager Meg Schubert, as well as one of Storrs’ neighbors who signed Storrs’ original letter.

“We continue to see storm events that push our infrastructure to the limit,” Baker said in an email. “The City of

Troy is hyper focused on proactive measures that can be taken—recognizing the value and importance of maintaining our current infrastructure—and is quick to respond when it is time to react. Concerns are often brought to us relating to the impact of new developments, and we value the input, and consistently work with developers to improve our infrastructure and ensure there is no detrimental impact on surrounding properties. We take this very seriously, and are grateful for the collaboration of all parties.”

Storrs’ said in an email to a neighbors group that they learned at the meeting that detention at the new school building west of Livernois, on 19 Mile Road, has its stormwater detention underground, as does development on the west side of Livernois, just south of 19 Mile.

“Disappointingly We also learned that in older developments the City does not have leverage to require maintenance of the detention basins,” he said in the email. “They do in the newer developments.” He reported that the city will be working with the school district on stormwater detention and will remain cognizant of residents’ drainage issues, and he said they seemed forthright and interested in helping.

Storrs also attended a Troy School District Board of Education meeting to explain the flooding issues, and he requested a meeting to discuss the upcoming new Smith Middle School project.

He said district Director of Communications Kendra Montante approached him and invited him to speak with her.

“Mr. Storrs came to our last board meeting and wanted to discuss this with the district,” Montante said, adding that they are working on connecting with each other to talk

about the issue.

Storrs’ concerns have also been recognized by other community members associated with the “Save Troy Corners”!!! Facebook group, specifically, those who had experienced similar flood issues.

“My wife and I live at … Telford Dr,” Jeff Williams, with “Save Troy Corners”!!!, said in an email. “Ever since the woods were removed north of Square Lake Rd and east of Livernois, we absolutely have had more standing water, longer in our side yard.”

The purpose of “Save Troy Corners”!!! is to appeal to city officials and developers to take more time to assess potential projects in order to ensure projects won’t negatively impact the land or people living nearby.

“I agree with Troy working very hard with putting in higher-density complexes and addressing the housing shortage,” Williams said. “We are just asking to, hopefully, keep some of these developments to what the property is currently zoned for and not changed to accommodate higher densities.” He said that a graph from the city’s website shows that only 9% of the units being built from the past four years have been traditional homes. “Higher densities, I believe, equal more traffic, more waste, more energy consumption, more water usage, less grass, less trees, bigger concrete footprints and a greater need for larger water detention areas based upon the reduced ability to have better water adsorption from the undeveloped ground.”

One of the main projects “Save Troy Corners”!!! is concerned with is the planned unit development of the Village of Hastings.

See FLOODING on page 26A

Revolve Cycling was founded after the local indoor cycling community suddenly lost multiple studio spaces.

As Founder Dennis Mitchell, Director of Operations/ Co-Lead Instructor Jillian Kuras, and Co-Lead Instructor/ Creative Director Kendra McKenzie talked to people after the closures, what they were missing most was not just the workout, but the connections with instructors and other riders. The team felt the need to build something to restore a space of acceptance, growth, and joy. At Revolve Cycling, the team is changing the idea of what group fitness looks and feels like. They are committed to the idea that indoor cycling should be accessible, inclusive, and most of all fun.

Revolve Cycling is located at 315 E. Big Beaver Road in Troy. Call 248-422-6323 or visit revolvecyclingmi.com for more information.

“We truly couldn’t pull off such a blockbuster event without the support of our KIRCO and Columbia Center team,” Peters said in a press release. “The resources they provide enable us to create meaningful education programs at the Village through a fantastic community event on Big Beaver.”

Troy’s automotive festival 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 4 will feature a diverse array of over 300 classic autos, muscle cars, and concept vehicles from the garages of hobbyists and high-end collectors.

“We worked extra hard this year to bring you a unique assemblage of rare legacy vehicles,” Alan Kiriluk, the chairman of KIRCO and a member of the TTJ planning team, said in a press release. “You won’t see these cars together anyplace else this summer.”

Organizer Jeff Nowicki, the founder and owner of Nowicki Autosport & Design, said he is passionate about blending classics with high-end exotics that highlight innovative designs.

“Last year a Ferrari Monza became a fan favorite,” he said in a press release. “This year you’ll want to see the Daytona SP3. We continue to secure more vehicles for the show, so look for more announcements through the spring and summer.”

Additionally this year, the Troy Traffic Jam is celebrating the 60th anniversaries for the GTO and the Mustang. The GTO came from Pontiac engineers dropping a larger engine in the existing Tempest LeMans to skirt regulations and appeal to younger buyers looking for horsepower, and the Mustang first premiered at the New York World’s Fair

in 1964 and was considered to be popular and affordable for young families.

In celebration of these milestones, the Troy Traffic Jam will have a special GTO Corral and Mustang Corral, each containing 30 carefully curated classics representing the various generations of each vehicle. This includes GTOs that have been featured on TV and in muscle car magazines, historic Mustang race cars, and a Mustang that may have once been owned by the Ford Family.

GTO and Mustang panels are also included in the planned panels for the Tech Talk Tent.

On top of this, attendees may enjoy robotic demonstrations and kids pedal car racing.

The award-winning robots from Troy area FIRST Robotics teams will be back to demonstrate innovations in programming as a way to inspire the next generation of engineers.

Pedal car races have occurred at multiple Troy events during the summer, and during Troy Traffic Jam, “Pedal Power 200” will occur at 1:30 p.m. Families can participate as racers or simply cheer on the competitors.

Last year, organizer Mark Lieberman, of Nostalgic Motoring Ltd., sponsored the inaugural kids pedal car race, exposing families to a popular European family tradition.

“There’s nothing like building something together as a family; a simple pedal car in your own garage could be a great place to start,” Lieberman said in a press release.

Individuals interested in exhibiting their vehicle(s) can pre-register at TroyTrafficJam.com. Pre-registration costs $25 per car and offers quick check-in and a swag bag, compliments of Traffic Jam sponsors. Registration on the day of the event will be $30. All registration fees for the Troy Traffic Jam

tax deductible and support the educational programs at the Troy Historic Village.

File photo by Donna Dalziel

Amazing vehicles will be on display, like this one, shown at the event in 2019.

from page 4A

tion,” Craig McAndrew, the director of education relations, said in a press release. “We are thrilled to collaborate closely with Ryan again this summer, to enhance and expand our digital resources for teachers, students and classrooms across the country.”

Werenka teaches AP U.S. government and politics, and AP comparative government and politics. He has served on the district’s government curriculum team for over 20 years and the district-level curriculum council for the Troy School District for six years. Werenka serves as a teacher adviser for numerous civic education organizations, including the National Constitution Center, Retro Report, PBS NewsHour Classroom, and the Council on Foreign Relations. He has served as an AP Reader for the AP U.S. government and politics exam for the last five years, scoring the exams. Werenka is currently working on a Master of Arts in history at Gettysburg College.

“I’ve been a political junkie since the age of 6,” Werenka said. “I’ve always been fascinated by all aspects of campaigns, elections, getting power and using it to help people.”

Within Werenka’s work as an educator, he has noticed that students have become more civically engaged since the 2016 election as the number of AP government courses is planned to increase. Students may also take an AP comparative government course where they can learn about politics in other countries.

“Students see what’s going on and want to be informed,” Werenka said.

Werenka has also seen that students seem less interested in the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

“The apathy for the 2024 election is noticeable,” Werenka said. “The lack of interest is dangerous, and we want kids to know why they should be invested.”

For his own classes as well as other government classes, there has been a bigger push to educate students about civil discourse in order to help students interact with different opinions.

“We have classroom deliberation models for students to help them better understand opinions and engage in civil dialogue,” Werenka said. “It really leans towards teaching kids to be more constructive.”

In terms of Werenka’s work with CSPAN, during his first two years of working with the organization, he developed numer-

See C-SPAN on page 25A

District 57 State House

Peek Inside Your Health: Full Body MRI Screenings

Unveil Silent Issues Before Symptoms Arise

(Limited Time Ofer: Continue Celebrating Independence Day Savings with $450 Of a Full Body MRI Screening!)

(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.

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

Te primary focus of Bionicc Body Screening is to deliver peace of mind, ofering a comprehensive and detailed imaging of the body’s internal structures. Te ultimate hope is for excellent health. However, in the event that something is detected, the advanced screening aims to catch any potential issues at their earliest stages. Tis approach ofers the best opportunity for successful treatment outcomes, should the need arise.

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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

VOTERS TO DECIDE LOCAL OFFICES, PLUS

COUNTY,

STATE AND NATIONAL RACES

In the Troy Times’ coverage area, voters will decide various state, county and local primary races Aug. 6, including a local council seat.

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 in their 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 Psychology-Hastings 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 (2001-2015), 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.

Harper

Slotkin

Amash

O’Donnell

Pensler

Election

from page 18A

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: 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.

State House of Representatives

District 56

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

State House of Representatives

District 57

Three Democrats and one Republican 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

Aisha Farooqi Age: 40

Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights

For how long: 22 years

Online campaign information: www.farooqifor57.com

Education: University of Detroit MercySchool of Law (JD). University of Michigan-Dearborn (BA).

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: As an attorney, I know the importance of representing and listening to the needs of our community. In Lansing, I will:

• Protect our democracy.

• Safeguard reproductive healthcare.

• Invest in public education funding and teacher salaries.

• Lower costs for seniors.

• Make healthcare, prescription drugs, mental health, and addiction services affordable.

• Support small businesses and create good paying jobs and protect workers’ rights.

• Expand access to affordable childcare.

• Improve road/water infrastructure.

• Support our local police and firefighters.

Democrat Tyler Fox Age: 28

Occupation: Purchasing Coordinator at the City of Sterling Heights Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: Five Years Online campaign information: foxformi57.com

Education: Masters in Public Administration at Oakland University

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: This campaign is centered on lowering housing costs for renters and homeowners, making childcare more available for young families, and making healthcare more accessible for our seniors. I am running to stop the regular blackouts faced in our community, reign in our energy costs, and bring investment back to our district from Lansing. I am also looking to pass Universal Parental Leave and Eliminate Medical Debt in our State.

Democrat Douglas Waggener Age: 70

Occupation: Retired IBEW Local 58 Electrician

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 36 years

Online campaign information: thevoiceofthemiddleclass.com

Education: BSEE ‘90 Lawrence Technological University. Certificate in construction management OCC 2014.

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A

Top goals: The main goal of my campaign is to give some recognition and validity to my thoughts on the current issues concerning all of us today. I would like to develop a website called www.opensourcelegislation. com where everybody is welcome to contribute and vote on the final draft of laws that are written by the people and brought forth either in the classic method via a legislator, or through the ballot initiative or referendum.

Republican

Thomas E. Kuhn

Running unopposed.

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

Stevens

Frangie

Ghanim

Farooqi

Fox

Waggener

Election

from page 19A

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:// isaiahhellner2.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 systems 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: https://www. facebook.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 University - University 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 Management - Oakland 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 nonmunicipal 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.

Blake

Hellner

Kuhn Nash

Stevens

Johnson

Election

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 (1999-2004), 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 post-secondary 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 2

Candidates in this race are unopposed in their party.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 3

Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. The annual salary for the position is $45,255.

Democrat

Ann Erickson Gault (I)

Age: 61

Occupation: Attorney Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 20 years

Online campaign information: Ann4Oakland.com

Education: B.A., Manchester University

J.D., University of Toledo College of Law

Previously and currently held elected offices: Current: Oakland County Commissioner, District 3 (Hazel Park, Madison Heights, and part of Troy). Previous: Troy City Council, four years.

Top goals: As your Oakland County Commissioner, I will continue my work enhancing and expanding our parks, building affordable housing, increasing access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, and improving public transit. I will also support the Board’s gun safety, water affordability, and environmental sustainability initiatives. If elected to a new term, I will continue to invest in our communities, meet with and listen to the residents, and address my District’s needs.

Democrat Roslyn Grafstein

Age: 54

Occupation: Mayor Municipality of residence: Madison Heights

For how long: 20 years

Online campaign information: www.electroslyngrafstein.com

Education: Economic degree, chartered financial analyst, Redevelopment Ready Communities certificate, MSU Citizen Planner course graduate, MSU Water School graduate, Level One of the MML Elected Officials Academy

Previously and currently held elected offices: Madison Heights City Council member since 2017, Mayor of Madison Heights since 2020

Top goals: My top priorities will continue to be safety and environmental initiatives to enhance infrastructure and community quality of life. I will advocate for more resources for emergency responders, including full-time mental health coresponders. I will encourage sustainable development practices, seek private grants and sponsors for environmental projects and focus on updating aging infrastructure. Additionally, I will invest in public-private partnerships to secure federal and state grants, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community improvement.

Republican Douglas K. MacLean

Running unopposed.

Troy City Council

Two candidates are running for a position on the Troy City Council for a term that will end Nov. 8, 2027. The position pays $175 per month.

Hirak

Chanda

Age: 56

Occupation: System Safety Engineer at General Motors.

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 25 Years

Online campaign information: www.hirak4troy.com

Education:

• BS in Engineering, IIT Kharagpur, India

• MS in Engineering, University of Minnesota

• MS in Engineering, University of Michigan

Previously and currently held elected of-

fices: City Council Member-Troy, MI.

Top goals: If kept on the City Council, I would continue to lead our city in a positive direction. My top priorities include hiring more police officers, revitalizing our library and parks, bringing back senior programs lost during covid, preserving green space, and keeping our city attractive to businesses and families. I will continue collaborating with my Council colleagues and use my background as an engineer to make decisions based on logic and data.

Ed Ross

Age: 45

Occupation: Software Engineer

Municipality of residence: Troy

For how long: 12 years

Online campaign information: ed4troy.com

Education: De La Salle Collegiate; Wayne State University (B.S. Computer Science); International University of Monaco (M.B.A. International Management).

Previously and currently held elected offices: N/a

Top goals: Troy deserves a council that fixes our unsolved challenges. In my first 100 days, I will collaborate with council members to permanently conserve our green spaces, use my 5 years of experience in the Troy Fire Department to create an equitable firefighter incentive plan, work to restore police pensions, establish an EMS solution cheaper than outsourcing it, and bring back our senior programs. I aim to achieve these bold goals while responsibly managing our resources.

6th Circuit Court judge

Three candidates are running for one nonincumbent 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

Gandy-Thompson

Woodward

Gault

Grafstein

Chanda

Ross

Lacrosse

clicking for Troy, and sophomore Caleb Regner said he credits the veteran players for the program’s growth.

“I feel like it just started with our leadership,” Regner said. “We had a lot of graduating seniors this year, and at the beginning of the year we just adapted the mentality that everything needed to happen this year. They drove that idea into the juniors and the underclassmen. We were playing every game like it was our last.”

Lim (all-State 2nd team) and Regner (all-State HM) forefronted an offensive attack that carried the upper hand over Utica Eisenhower and Rochester Hills Stoney Creek in the first two rounds of regionals, outsourcing both teams 26-11. Sophomore Jack Horvath paced the offensive efforts as well.

The Colts offense, which averaged nine goals per game, played to its potential in its regional finals matchup against Clarkston May 29, but a Colts defense that had been stingy all year, allowing just over five goals per game, would be hit hard in a 21-8 loss.

“Something I harped on with the kids after was just the offseason,” Johnson said.

“You know Clarkston with Brian Kaminskas over there, he runs a lot of the summer stuff and he gets his kids on summer teams, and they play together for the most part. They like to play together, and they’ve been playing together since they were in second grade, so that chemistry that you get is unteachable unless you play with each other.”

Regardless of the Clarkston game, the defense had been on point all season behind senior Ben Duda, junior Zach MacLeish (2nd team all-State), senior Conner Miller, and sophomore Joey Clark (all-State HM) in net.

Standing 6-foot-2 and with football experience in high school, Duda was someone opposing teams always had to keep an eye out for on the defensive side. Duda and MacLeish, the heartbeat of the Colts defense, made for a great pairing on the defensive side.

Although he didn’t even pick up a lacrosse stick until his sophomore year, Duda said the game came to him quickly.

“Coming from football, I already had the athleticism,” Duda said. “It was really rewarding to get used to all the stick skills. It adds a whole other dimension to the game. I was a D-lineman in football. I really enjoyed it. I actually ended up liking it more than football in the end.”

Aside from what they brought on the field, the Troy seniors’ leadership is what Johnson believes will be a key factor for the Colts next season as the underclassmen and juniors look to take the next step in their progression.

“They just embody what it means to be a Troy Colt on our lacrosse team and the culture we set,” Johnson said. “Part of that culture is helping mentor the younger kids. A lot of sophomores, you can tell, are voicing their opinions and taking roles that not a lot of sophomores do around the state.”

With 16 seniors graduating, there will be voids across the board to fill for Johnson and company before next season rolls around.

After a historic season and veterans across the board graduating, Johnson said he expects the team to be motivated and ready to step up.

“There’s room to step up, and I think a lot of the sophomores and underclassmen really embody our culture and want to step up into those roles,” Johnson said. “It’s just pushing them to get better and better. I think that they’ll do a great job of just bringing together the team as a whole in things that we do in the offseason and getting the results we want to get when we get to the season. I’m sure with 16 seniors graduating,

people are thinking we’re going to have an off year next year. I don’t see it that way. I think we’re even going to get better and just keep improving each year.”

Photo provided by Brian Johnson

Troy senior Michael Lim controls the ball during a game this year. The team won its first Oakland Activities Association league championship.

Library

from page 12A

“What we realized early on was that the realities of our outdated and deteriorating infrastructure can’t be ignored,” Dumas said. Through the assessment, the suggested options are to consider improvements and an expansion of the current building, or getting a completely new library building.

There is a strong push for a new library building.

“Yes, you’ve been making some investments, but … it’s as multiple people said across the community engagement,” Cullen said. “There’s been a lot of lipstick put on the pig. It’s maybe time to get a new pig.”

Some of the options:

• Improvements to the existing 50,000-square-foot building with no expansions would likely cost around $10 million-$19 million.

• Expanding the existing building to around 60,000 to 75,000 square feet, as well as fully renovating the building, could cost $20 million-$35 million.

• A completely new and expanded building, likely over 90,000 square feet, within the Civic Center complex would likely cost $29 million-$39 million.

• A completely new and expanded building, over 90,000 square feet, outside of the Civic Center complex could cost $33 million-$43 million.

“The community expressed a strong preference to us that the library stay in the civic complex area,” Cullen said.

To further explore these possibilities, the city was advised to conduct a full Community Needs Assessment and Facility Feasi-

bility Study, to continue engaging with the community, and to look into potential fundraising options.

City Council members have begun to further assess the possibilities.

“We are fortunate to have recently completed a comprehensive Strategic Plan for our beloved Troy Public Library — which remains our most visited community gathering place,” Troy Mayor Ethan Baker said in an email. “After receiving the plan and an accompanying report, Troy City Council held a public Study Session where a thoughtful and thorough conversation resulted in additional information being sought from City Administration, including what it would take to build a new Library for our City. Council recognizes Troy has many pressing capital needs and we look forward to receiving more information in the coming months, as we continue to plan the City of Troy’s long term capital projects.”

Visit troypl.org or troypl.org/information/learn/2024-28_strategic_plan.php for more information, or call (248) 524-3538.

Once I get the right diagnosis for the cause of your heel pain, I will provide you with a tailored treatment plan, which outlines exactly how we can ﬁx your heel pain and keep you free from future foot pain. If you are ready, call me for an appointment to start your journey back to normal life, free from heel pain.

Photo provided by the Troy Public Library

The library recently hit the 1 million per year circulation mark, and books are still the favorites.

Election

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 so-

CITY OF TROY

PUBLIC HEARING

A Public Hearing will be held by and before the City Council of the City of Troy at City Hall, 500 W. Big Beaver, Troy, Michigan, on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit, to consider a Planned Unit Development, Section 3, Presently zoned NN (Neighborhood Node “Q”) and R-1B (One Family Residential) Zoning Districts, in accordance with the provisions of Article 11, Sections 11.06 and 11.10 of the Zoning Ordinance.

The subject property is located East side of Livernois Road, North of E Square Lake.

The subject property parcel numbers are: 20-03-301-088, -023, -024, -025, & 20-03-351-004.

Comments can be expressed at the Public Hearing, or written comments can be directed to the attention of the Planning Department, City of Troy, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy, Michigan 48084, or by e-mail to planning@troymi.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. one day prior to the date of the meeting. If you have questions you may contact the Planning Department by e-mail or by phone at (248) 524-3364.

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

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

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC II City Clerk

cial 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.

PUBLISHED: July 18, 2024

POSTED: July 26, 2024

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

Published: 07/18/2024 Troy

Huddleston

Sanford

C-SPAN

from page 17A

ous practice free response questions to prepare students for the AP U.S. government and politics exam.

“C-SPAN Classroom actually has more practice Supreme Court Free Response Questions than the College Board provides for students and teachers because of the work that I did for their fellowship,” Werenka said in an email.

Werenka will collaborate with C-SPAN’s Education Relations team to create content for C-SPAN Classroom, which is the networks’ free online resource for teachers, students and the public that provides educators with video-based content, including lesson plans, current events videos, inquiry-based deliberations and more. Through the fellowship, Werenka will partner with C-SPAN to expand the collection of digital resources.

“I’ll be working with C-SPAN throughout the month of July (and throughout the school year) by developing resources for teaching about the 2024 election and developing classroom deliberations activities where students will examine both sides of political issues in a way that will foster civil dialogue,” Werenka said in an email. “My

work on the 2024 election will focus on the presidential campaign, along with creating materials for several of the key US Senate races that are taking place this year including the Senate race here in Michigan.”

As part of the Fellowship, Werenka will also be presenting his work and information about the C-SPAN StudentCam competition at the C-SPAN Summer Educator Workshop in August, as well as a session on behalf of CSPAN and the Council on Foreign Relations at the National Council for Social Studies Conference in Boston this November.

“Congratulations to Ryan Werenka for his commitment to students and being selected to the C-SPAN Teacher Fellowship,” Eric Woody, Oakland County Comcast government and regulatory affairs manager, said in a press release. “Comcast has been a longtime supporter of C-SPAN Classroom because we understand how important it is to get our youth engaged and interested in the political process. We are proud to help provide teachers with the digital tools and resources they need to effectively engage and guide our future leaders.”

Educators can learn more about teacher opportunities with C-SPAN at c-span.org/ classroom/opportunities/.

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

Flooding

The project includes 33 residential units comprising four different housing types, Community Development Director Brent Savidant said.

The housing units include multiunit row homes, singlefamily homes and single-family duplex homes, as well as attached and detached ranches. The current zoning for the area this project is planned for is considered R-1B, Single Family Residential, and an NN-Q Neighborhood Node. Approximately 4.9 acres of the site is currently zoned R-1B, which does not permit multi-family residential. Around 1.1 acres of the site is zoned Neighborhood Node, which does allow multi-family residential.

The neighborhood nodes concept, which had been something the city of Troy had long been in the process of implementing when it came up at a master plan discussion this February, focuses on developing certain intersections near major crossroads in the city with the ultimate goal of providing residents with more amenities within walking distance of major residential areas.

There had been calls from residents for more scrutiny regarding planning of two particular neighborhood nodes.

“These two neighborhood nodes have become so significant, because if you look at public comments from residents and their concerns about development, they largely come from around Crooks and Wattles, and from Square

Lake and Livernois, which are the areas around these two neighborhood nodes in question,” Baker in February. “When residents express concerns about these two specific neighborhood nodes, it warrants further scrutiny and action. The question is whether multifamily housing and mixed-use development properties is appropriate for those two areas. There also is a question of whether we want to preserve more at Square Lake and Livernois as a historical site.”

The Village of Hastings project has been under consideration by the Planning Commission and City Council for a few years and received multiple revisions in order to ensure the project is maintaining some of the historic elements of that area of Troy and considering environmental and residential impacts, officials said.

“We’re excited for this upcoming project,” Gary Abitheira, a representative with the Village of Hastings project, said in a written statement. “Troy is in need of more homes that suit its aging residents who are looking to downsize, and we aim to provide that with ranch units. Additionally, we are working to preserve the historical charm of our wonderful city by leaving 3 of the historic Livernois homes. To further preserve Troy’s charm, we will no longer be including 3 story units, for we see the value in a less dense space. At the end of the day, Troy is a great place to live, and we want residents to continue to enjoy that even as they outgrow the need for a large family home.”

At the Planning Commission’s May 28 meeting, the commission recommended the project’s approval with a vote of 6-2.

“I don’t blame Mr. Abitheira for trying to maximize the profit on the property,” said Planning Commission member Dave Lambert, who voted against. “I mean, he’s a business person, and that’s the American way as an entrepreneur, to try and maximize your profit. He builds good projects. If this gets approved by City Council, I have no doubt it’ll be a nice project, but I’m concerned about the fact, looking through the PUD standards, that not enough of them have been met in order to approve the project. So I will be voting no on the proposal.”

“I, for one, definitely appreciate Mr. Abitheira’s every edit he’s done to this project,” Planning Commission member Jayalaksmi Malalahalli said. “He has listened to us. He has gone back and he has done changes as needed to the best possible ability, which includes unit reduction, which we wanted because we didn’t want density in that area. I, for one, live very close to the neighborhood, notes I had definitely mentioned that. I also was very clear on no threestories. He complied with that, so I appreciate him for doing that, and of course this particular planned unit development, although we know that there are some voices that are still not in approval of this, I know it will definitely create more recreation space for the residents.”

The Troy City Council will consider this project at a meeting slated for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 12.

For more information, visit the “Save Troy Corners”!!! Facebook page or troymi.gov.

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

The Exterior Painters Celebrate 20 Years of Transforming Properties, Neighborhoods

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

The Exterior Painters have been revitalizing properties for 20 years.

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

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

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

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

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

The Exterior Painters also specialize in brick staining.

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

make a big difference in terms of curb

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

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

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

work spread from house to house in a neighborhood as the properties are siding repairs and much-needed to get.”

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

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

“With us you’re buying certainty. We don’t ask for a large deposit, and you don’t have to worry about anyone running off with your deposit,” Scott said. “We stand by our work. We provide a warranty and proven results by taking care of everybody in the community. We’re Nextdoor’s No. 1 preferred contractor in Rochester two years in a row. It’s that certainty factor. You know what you’re going

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

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Powerwashing

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Roofing

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Tree Service

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DAVE'S

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