Swim lessons, life jackets and situational awareness can prevent drownings
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
OAKLAND COUNTY — Drowning is fast and silent, and it can take less than 30 seconds for someone to drown. In Oakland County, there have been 11 drowning deaths in 2024 alone.
The number of drownings in 2024 is a significant increase compared to 2023, which had three drownings. A “Vital Signs” study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in May found that an increase in drownings could be seen across America in recent years.
RELATED: Sylvan Lake drowning is 11th in county this year — 5A
The study found that over 4,500 people died due to drowning each year from 2020 to 2022, which was 500 more per year compared to 2019.
Oakland County is home to 358 lakes, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, making it the county with the highest number of lakes in all of Michigan. This easy access to lakes, boats and beaches increases the danger of drowning in the Oakland County area.
“Even if someone is a good swimmer, this can still happen to
See DROWNINGS on page 14A
Ballot proposal could open door to Orchard Lake’s first-ever city manager
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
ORCHARD LAKE — If a ballot proposal is approved by Orchard Lake voters Nov. 5, a first will occur in the city’s history.
The person who is primarily responsible for handling city operations in many cities has the title of
“city manager,” but that has never been the case in Orchard Lake. Instead, the director of city services position was created many
See PROPOSAL on page 12A
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The title for current Orchard Lake Director of Services Gerry McCallum may be changing soon.
Walk4Friendship to return next month
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD — In what has become a summer tradition in West Bloomfield, the Walk4Friendship event is scheduled to return for its 19th year Sept. 1.
According to a press release, it is the township’s largest summer event. One element that may appeal to some is the opportunity to combine entertainment with a good cause.
The event is free to participate in and is hosted by the Friendship Circle, a nonprofit that provides special needs services to children and young adults, and their families.
The Walk4Friendship event has proven that it knows how to draw a crowd. Bassie Shemtov, the organization’s co-founder and director, estimated that last year it was attended by 2, 000-3,000 people.
The event is the nonprofit’s largest fundraiser, and last year was its most successful to date. According to Shemtov, more than $900,000 was raised, which broke a record.
Riding off of that success, this year’s sights have been set higher than ever, with an announced goal of $1 million.
“It’s the first year that our goal is a mil-
lion dollars, so it’s a biggie,” Shemtov said. “It was a feeling like, ‘We’ve gotta do this. … Our community needs us, and we have to figure it out.’”
The Walk4Friendship event has come a long way since its inception, as Shemtov recalled that in its first year, approximately $100,000 was raised.
“And that was a surprise,” she said. “We had no idea that the walk would be this successful.”
West Bloomfield resident Lori Ellis has been a part of many of the nonprofit’s walks. She estimated that she has participated in approximately 10 of them.
“I love to be in that environment that is helpful with others, and this event brings in so much money to help kids with special needs,” Ellis said. “I think it’s so rewarding and I look forward to it.”
Ellis is a retired speech pathologist teacher for Royal Oak Schools. She recalled that she used to encourage students to attend.
Seeing familiar faces is one of the highlights of attending.
“I get to see a lot of my friends and, sometimes, some old students of mine,” Ellis said.
The Friendship Circle’s Walk4Friendship event is scheduled to take place Sept. 1. According to a press release, it is West Bloomfield Township’s largest summer event.
The community gathering together is what Shemtov cited as her favorite part of the Walk4Friendship event.
“You really could tell when people want to be somewhere and when they’re just doing you a favor,” she said. “I believe that people that come to the walk want to be a part of
it, and it shows. So when you see adults and kids with special needs and families and grandparents (and) everybody is there together, you know that this is a community that wants to be here for each other, genuinely; not in a superficial way.”
See WALK on page 9A
Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic
What started as a one-person auto repair shop has grown into a high-tech, highly knowledgeable locally owned automotive clinic that treats its clients and employees like family.
Just as importantly, Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic in Farmington Hills is focused on continuing education and mentorship in a fast-paced industry, according to Owner Bill Griffin. With 10 full-time employees, Griffin’s has evolved into one of the most advanced auto clinics in metro Detroit, with a loyal customer base and a collective knowledge rivaled by few.
The clinic handles basic repairs like brakes shocks, exhausts and alignment, but stands apart from its competitors by offering OEM-level, one-stop repair services of diagnostic equipment and multiple makes and models. Several other auto repair shops refer more complex, diagnostic projects to Griffin’s because of that knowledge and expertise. “We enjoy doing some of the repairs that other shops won’t, like in-house programming calibrations, current ramping, pressure transducers and handling complex electronic systems,” says Griffin. “We operate on a different level of expertise.”
senior, certified mechanics will train younger staff in the shop on more complex repairs. This ensures a higher level of knowledge that benefits the entire clinic and its clients. All employees work as a team – none are paid by commission.
“I’ve set up the compensation structure here so that it benefits everyone if every job is done right the first time,” Griffin says. “We operate as a team. may ask three different (technicians) to look at a client’s vehicle to make sure a repair or maintenance is done properly.” Team members at Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic are often state and nationally certified in multiple auto technical segments. All have been personally mentored by Griffin. Many of his employees have stayed with him for years, building a strong bond with longtime, repeat customers.
That also includes tackling heavy engine and transmission projects that other auto shops won’t touch, he adds. Over the years, Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic has invested in both the tools and teaching needed to complete such complex repairs. As a result, the clinic has developed a reputation for handling performance engines and classic car repairs, along with aftermarket enhancements.
“We’re proud to have a mix of cutting-edge and high-tech repairs,” Griffin says. Education is an important part of the Griffin experience. The auto clinic is open weekdays, but on Saturdays Griffin and other
“Building qualified staff is important because the number of young people entering the trade is not keeping pace with the number of people retiring”, Griffin adds. He has hired young people still in high school, and mentors them in a way so that they can have the skills and certifications needed to have a high-paying career immediately after they graduate from high school.
“We’re always striving to build long-term relationships with our customers and our employees,” Griffin says. “They aren’t just a name and a number. They really are like family to us.”
Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic is located on 23905 Freeway Park Drive and is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free shuttle transportation and towing to and from the clinic is available in most cases. Learn more by calling 248-888-9406
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The Beacon 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.
Main: (586) 498-8000
Editor: Annie Bates abates@candgnews.com
News: Mark Vest mvest@candgnews.com
Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak sports@candgnews.com
Community Calendar: calendar@candgnews.com
Classifieds: (586) 498-8100
Legals & Obits: (586) 498-1099
Artroom: (586) 498-1036
Retail Advertising: Gina Rieck grieck@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski kboz@candgnews.com
Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar lmillar@candgnews.com
Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor pkaspor@candgnews.com
candgnews.com facebook.com/candgnews
@candgnews
instagram.com/candgnews
SECOND FRONT PAGE
3A/ WEST BLOOMFIELD
West Oakland County prep football preview
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
We’re back in full swing with gridiron action at the high school level. Here are previews for all teams in the C & G Newspapers coverage area in western Oakland County.
West Bloomfield
Last season’s record: 10-3. League: Oakland Activities Association Red Division.
First game: vs. Clinton Township Chippewa Valley, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
HearingQuiz
Don’t let your hearing go on vacation. Enjoy the sounds of summer. Our comprehensive hearing evaluation is always no charge.
DoIhearsounds,buthavetrouble understandingwords? Dopeopleseemtomumble? Ifyouanswered‘Yes’toeitherofthose questions,ahearinglossmaybepresent. Callustodayforacomprehensive hearingevaluation.
Groves eyes OAA White title, Seaholm hopes to stay on top of OAA Blue
A thrilling state semifinals matchup last year was fought between West Bloomfield and Southfield A&T, and being that close has the Lakers motivated for this season. Returning one of the best wide receiving duos in the state in seniors Elisha Durham and Kamren Flowers, a University of Toledo commit, West Bloomfield’s offense should pick up right where it left off. Senior running back Josh Tate is expected to handle the bulk of the carries, with senior defensive back Jaiden Allos, senior
defensive back Jonathan Edison Jr. and senior defensive back Brody Pikur headlining the defensive unit. West Bloomfield head coach Zach Hilbers said he expects the offensive and defensive lines to be the Lakers’ strong suit this year, featuring University of Colorado commit Jay Gardenhire, who stands at 6 feet, 8 inches, 350 pounds; junior Travis Robertson (DL); senior Joshua Bryant (DL); junior Jeremiah Benson (OL/DL); junior Kamari Pittman (DL); senior Ashton McCoy (OL); and senior Dwayne Broome Jr. (OL).
“These guys don’t get the recognition they deserve,” Hilbers said.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
West Bloomfield head coach Zach Hilbers speaks with his offensive and defensive lines behind him at the Oakland Activities Association media day Aug. 9 at Rochester High School.
Football
from page 3A
Orchard Lake St. Mary’s
Last season’s record: 3-6. League: Catholic High School League Central.
First game: vs. Portage Northern, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
A team that’s flying under the radar, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s is looking to announce its presence this year in the CHSL. Led by a trio of Michigan State University commits in Bryson Williams (ATH), Charles White (LB) and Jayden Savoury (TE), Orchard Lake St. Mary is quietly flying under the radar with an array of talent ready to leave it all on the field. Sophomore Jabin Gonzales will command the huddle with three-star recruit senior Antonio Johnson anchoring the offensive line group.
Walled Lake Central
Last season’s record: 3-6.
League: Lakes Valley Conference.
First game: vs. Berkley, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
With back-to-back 3-6 seasons, the three-straight winless years from 2019-2021 are a thing of the past for Walled Lake Central. Central opened up the season with a
win before dropping five-straight, but rebounded with a 2-1 record to end the year.
Walled Lake Northern
Last season’s record: 1-8.
League: Lakes Valley Conference.
First game: vs. South Lyon, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
It’s been a pair of underwhelming seasons for Walled Lake Northern, but, hopefully, the tides turn in its favor in 2024. Northern returns an all-Region talent in senior linebacker Jackson Ferguson.
Walled Lake Western
Last season’s record: 10-2.
League: Lakes Valley Conference. First game: Waterford Mott, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
The playoff streak now stands at 14 for Walled Lake Western, and they even added a district championship to the fold last year.
Returning an all-State talent in senior offensive lineman Liam Vaughn, a Western Michigan University commit, and an all-Region talent in senior linebacker Shane Rachner, Walled Lake Western should be a threat in the Lakes Valley Conference, which they’ve won the last two seasons.
Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice
Last season’s record: 0-9.
League: Catholic High School League Central.
FINANCIAL CHAMPION
First game: vs. Roseville, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
It was an out-of-character season for Brother Rice, which was winless in 2023. Now under the direction of head coach Aaron Marshall, who coached Southfield A&T to a state championship last year, Brother Rice is hoping to become players in the CHSL Central Division. Led by junior quarterback Brady Thomas, Rice’s offense hopes to get back on track with senior Nolan Hannawa (LB) and senior Alex Grochowski (DB) commanding the defense.
Birmingham Groves
Last season’s record: 6-4.
League: Oakland Activities Association White Division.
First game: at Detroit U of D Jesuit, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
With the level of talent Groves possesses, there’s no reason why it’s not competing for an OAA White league title this year. Headlined by University of Michigan commit Avery Gach (OL); senior running back Noah Sanders, a three-star recruit, according to 247Sports; and senior defensive back Chris Little, a Grand Valley State University commit, Groves has elite-level talent on both sides of the ball. Senior Ryan Counts will command the huddle this season with senior Mario Campoy-LoVasco (RB), senior
Around The Corner
Nick Hardy (WR) and Little (WR) also contributing offensively. On the defensive side, Little leads the group alongside senior Jalen Brooks (DB), with junior Joshua Hammonds (DL), senior Teddy Abbot (DB), senior Paul Hubbard (LB), junior Carter Hladki (LB) and senior Wyatt Shortridge (LB) all set to contribute as well.
Birmingham Seaholm
Last season’s record: 9-2.
League: Oakland Activities Association Blue Division.
First game: vs. Troy Athens, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
It will be a tough hill to climb in order to stay at the top of the OAA Blue, but Seaholm is looking for its inexperienced players to step up to fill the void. Returning only two starters on each side of the ball, head coach Jim DeWald said his guys are hungry to prove what they’ve got this season.
“I think they’re trying to carry on that tradition of being a gritty and tough group of kids, and every coach probably says that, but I really believe that in my heart,” DeWald said. “The last three days, we’ve been as physical as we can be without pads. We have a couple new coaches, and they’re saying how they’ve seen teams never be this physical in full pads.”
See FOOTBALL on page 11A
Sylvan Lake drowning is 11th in Oakland County this year
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
SYLVAN LAKE — According to a press release from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the body of an 84-year-old Sylvan Lake man was recovered Aug. 10 after his unattended boat was found drifting in the lake hours earlier.
The body of Louis William Petro was discovered around 10 p.m. by divers from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team and Southeast Michigan Dive Group in 5 feet of water approximately 200 feet from the shore, the release states.
The preliminary cause of death was determined to be from drowning. Petro was not wearing a life jacket, according to the release.
“In an already extremely tragic summer, the loss of another person while they were enjoying the water is very sad,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard stated via the release. “While we don’t know what happened in this case yet, we encourage people if they are not strong swimmers or they are alone in the water to consider using a flotation device.”
According to the release, it was the 11th drowning in an Oakland County lake so far this year.
Other boaters saw Petro taking his 18-foot Glastron pleasure boat onto the lake at approximately 2:30 p.m. Aug. 9. He was a regular boater on the lake and was in the boat alone.
At around 5:15 p.m. Petro’s unoccupied boat was seen drifting in the water, and authorities were notified, according to the release.
Other boaters on the lake tied up the drifting Glastron to prevent it from getting in the way of other boaters.
Petro’s personal effects, including his cellphone, wallet and car keys, were discovered in the boat by deputies.
No signs of a struggle or foul play were discovered. There was no evidence of alcohol or drug use.
Oakland County Sheriff’s Office divers were assisted by dive group strike teams from Chesterfield Township Public Safety, the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, the Lapeer County Sheriff’s Office, Livingston County, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office drone unit and aviation unit also assisted in the search, along with boats equipped with side scan sonar.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team is investigating the incident, according to the release.
Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.
NEWS & NOTES
Interim superintendent appointed for Waterford School District
WATERFORD — On Aug. 1, the Waterford School District Board of Education voted to enter into a contract with the Michigan School Boards Association to conduct a search for a new superintendent, according to a press release.
In June, the district’s superintendent, Scott Lindberg, announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31.
Since then Lindberg has gone on an extended medical leave, according to the release.
On-demand grief and support services website launched
LANSING — According to a press release, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with Michigan 211, has launched a website for grief and bereavement support services and resources.
The website was made possible via a $490,000 grant to the MDHHS Division of Maternal and Infant Health from the Michigan Health Endowment fund.
The funding also provided grants to improve partnerships between hospitals, community-based organizations and hospice, with “activities designed to address the critical need for support following the death of a mother or infant and to provide linkages to ongoing support for grieving families, communities and care providers,” the release states.
According to the release, any member of the community, including bereaved families and health care professionals, can access resources by calling 211.
Residents can also visit mi211.org.
As a result, the district’s Board of Education appointed Darin Holley, who is the assistant superintendent of pre-K through grade five, as the interim superintendent.
According to the release, the district planned to begin the search for a new superintendent “immediately.” Holley
“There was a need for a statewide system to support individuals dealing with the loss of a loved one,” Elizabeth Hertel, who is the MDHHS director, stated via the release. “Each person’s grief is affected by their relationship to the deceased as well as the circumstances surrounding the loss. This partnership offers on-demand access to a wide range of bereavement support services through 211 to help Michigan families navigate loss.”
West Bloomfield posts firefighter/ paramedic job opening
WEST BLOOMFIELD — According to the West Bloomfield Township website, the Fire Department is accepting applications for an entry-level firefighter/paramedic position.
Duties include fire suppression, emergency medical care and transportation, and maintaining equipment.
The starting pay can range from over $54,000 to more than $64,000, depending on qualifications, according to the website.
A benefits package and paramedic pay up to 5.5% of base salary are offered, according to the site.
Visit wbtownship.org/jobs for more details and to download an employment application.
Full Body MRI Scans: Is Tis Hottest Health Trend Right for YOU?
(Southfeld, MI) Te Silent Killer Within. You feel fne. No aches, no pains. But what if something sinister lurks beneath the surface, silently growing, waiting to strike? Te truth is, traditional checkups often miss the early warning signs. Cancer. Aneurysms. Blocked carotid arteries. Tese silent killers can progress undetected for years, only revealing themselves when it’s too late.
Te Full-Body MRI Revolution
Tat’s where the full-body MRI comes in. Screenings evaluate the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, shoulders, hips and spine. It’s like a high-defnition movie of your insides, revealing hidden threats that other tests miss. We catch them early, before symptoms and when they’re easiest to treat.
We all know someone who woke up one day with an unexplained symptom, only to be told they have stage four cancer. Te
pancreas, liver, brain and all other major organs get evaluated during a full body MRI screening. Tumors can be detected in stage one – before symptoms develop. Early detection can be the diference between life and death.
Bionicc Body Screening: Your Early Warning System
Bionicc Body Screening in Southfeld is Michigan’s frst MRI full body screening center. We’re not just scanning your body; we’re safeguarding your future. Our stateof-the-art facility and expert team provide a comfortable, reassuring experience. Our advanced MRI technology can detect tumors as small as a pencil eraser. Screenings can detect aneurysms; risk of stroke and hundreds of conditions that could be lurking undetected. Is it Right for You?
If you’re serious about your health, if you
want the ultimate peace of mind, then YES, a full-body MRI could be the most important decision you make this year. It’s not just for the privileged few; it’s a health resource available to those willing to make a proactive investment in their well-being, ofering peace of mind and early detection opportunities.
DETROIT AUTO SHOW RELEASES 2025 SHOW SCHEDULE
DETROIT — The Detroit Auto Show recently announced its 2025 show schedule.
The event will take place Jan. 10-20 at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit. Highlights of the show will include a charity preview Jan. 10, which, according to the release, has raised more than $100 million for children’s charities in southeastern Michigan over the past 25 years. Tickets cost $400 each or $700 for a pair.
“Industry Days” will take place Jan. 15-16 featuring innovators in mobility, design and technology sharing their insights.
The public show is slated to take place Jan. 11-20, featuring cars, public figures, music and more, according to the release.
Tickets are scheduled to go on sale Oct. 14.
Visit detroitautoshow.com for more information. File
full body screenings are safe, non-invasive and emit NO radiation. Scans are not only for cancer, but are capable of detecting hundreds of abnormalities.
Don’t Gamble with Your Health
Every day you wait is a risk. A small tumor today could be a major problem tomorrow. Take control. Get the screening. Get the answers.
Robert B., age 50, did just that. He opted for a full-body scan from Bionicc Body Screening, and a very small kidney tumor was detected that had been missed by a recent CT scan. “It saved my life,” he said. “I cannot recommend this service more.”
Limited-Time Ofer Learn more at www.BioniccBodyScreening.com and request a Free Welcome Information Kit and a $200 Savings Ofer. Schedule today
photo by Dean Vaglia
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
8A/ WEST BLOOMFIELD BEACON • AUG. 28, 2024
AUG. 28-31
‘Beyond Boundaries’: See exhibit featuring six Michigan artists, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Art Leaders Gallery, 33086 Northwestern Highway in West Bloomfield, artleaders.com
AUG. 29
West Bloomfield/Farmington Senior Expo: Connect with 50-plus organizations specializing in assistance and care, also free health screenings, prize drawings, giveaways and refreshments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., The J (formerly Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit), 6600 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield, (248) 524-4868, seniorexpousa.com
SEPT. 1
Walk4Friendship: Fundraiser for special-needs community, 1.7-mile walk at 11:45 a.m. (registration at 10:30 a.m.), starts at Friendship Circle’s Farber Center, 5586 Drake Road in West Bloomfield, and ends at Friendship Circle’s Meer Center, 6892 W. Maple Road, activities from noon-3 p.m. include live music by American-Israeli hip-hop artist Nissim Black, petting zoo, zip line, bounce houses, face painting and more, plus food, walk4friendship.com
SEPT. 19
Family Caregiver Expo: Guest speakers, sharing of personal stories, consultations with therapists, exhibitor tables and more, 1-4:30 p.m., Jewish Family Service, 6555 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield, free but registration required, jfsdetroit.org/expo
SEPT. 21
Julie Run to End Hunger: Includes 5K run/walk and 1-mile run (both 9 a.m. starts), Oakland Community College - Highland Lakes Campus, 7350 Cooley Lake Road in Waterford, proceeds benefit Open Door Outreach Center, runsignup.com/julieruntoendhunger
SEPT. 24
Seeking Dead People: Genealogist discusses history of cemeteries and stone choices, types of available burial records, and tips for accessing obituaries, death certificates and more, 7 p.m., West Bloomfield Township Public Library - Main Branch, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, (248) 682-2120, wblib.org
SEPT. 27-28
Camp Out: Set up tents at 3 p.m., activities such as crafts, fishing and toasting s’mores starts at 4:30 p.m., guided hike in morning, and checkout at 10:30 a.m., Marshbank Park, 2805 Hiller Road in West Bloomfield, (248) 451-1917, lazoury@wbparks.org, wbparks.org/event/camp-out
ONGOING
Waterford Oaks Wave Pool: Open select dates until Labor Day, 1702 Scott Lake Road, (248) 858-0918, waterfordoakswaterpark@oakgov.com, oakgov.com
‘The Book Club Play’: Performance by The Inspired Acting Company, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Sept. 20-Oct. 4, 1124 E. West Maple Drive in Walled Lake, (248) 863-9953, inspiredacting.org
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Orchard Lake Village Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive comments on the following proposed Planned Development (PD), Orchard Shoppes - 4196 & 4200 Orchard Lake Road. The developer is proposing a multi-story building to include retail on the frst foor and three foors of residential units above.
Complete copies of the request are available for review at the Offce of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Offce, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing.
Rhonda McClellan
CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon 08/28/2024
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE NOTICE OF ZONING BOARD PUBLIC HEARINGS
0322-2435
AUG. 29-SEPT. 2
Michigan State Fair: Activities include live music and entertainment, midway rides and games, agriculture and livestock showcases, Shrine Circus, Beginning of Life exhibit, competitions for giant pumpkins, home brewing, baking, singing and more, 5K, racing pigs and Rock-N-Roll K-9’s, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 29-30, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 31-Sept. 1 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 2, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi, michiganstatefairllc.com
AUG.
31-SEPT. 2
Vikings Invasion at Michigan Renaissance Festival: 9 a.m.-7 p.m., 12600 Dixie Highway in Holly, other themed weekends include Wonders of the World Sept. 7-8, Shamrocks & Shenanigans Sept. 14-15, Harvest Huzzah Sept. 21-22, and Festival Friday and Sweet Endings Sept. 27-29, michrenfest.com
Farmers markets: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays through October, Ambrose Public Safety Campus, 1499 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake, walledlake.us
• 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through end of December, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford, (248) 858-5495, ocmarket@oakgov.com, oakgov.com
Game nights: For Sylan Lake residents only, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Sylvan Lake Community Center, 2456 Pontiac Drive, (248) 682-1440, sylvanlake.org/ community_center
• 5-6:30 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, Commerce Township Community Library, 180 E. Commerce Road, (248) 669-8108, commercetwp. com/library
Veterans peer support group: For men, hosted by Oakland Community Health Network, 5:30-7 p.m.
every third Tuesday of month through November, CNS Healthcare, 279 Summit Drive in Waterford, RSVP to (248) 294-0063
Enchanted: Immersive and illuminated forest walks, 1-mile tours take approximately one hour to complete and start around dusk with final entries around 10:15 p.m., held Thursdays-Sundays Sept. 20-Nov. 3 (except Halloween) with special event programming on select nights, Glenlore Trails, 3860 Newtown Road in Commerce Township, glenloretrails.com
Live music: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, Fork n’ Pint, 4000 Cass-Elizabeth Road in Waterford, (248) 7913256, forknpintcasslake.com
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth.digitalsignup.com
To view more events and to submit your own, visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended, the City of Orchard Lake Village Zoning Board of Appeals will consider the following appeal at their Regular Meeting on Monday, September 16, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan:
- Sammut Appeal - 3905 Laplaya Lane (Height Variance to Allow a Retaining Wall to Remain on the Lakeside of the Property)
- Manna Appeal -4825 Willow Lane (Lakeside Setback Variance for Installation of Retaining Walls)
- Brownstein/Birnbaum Appeal - 3555 Shady Beach Blvd-(Front Yard Setback Variance for a Fence)
Complete copies of the request are available for review at the Offce of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written Comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Offce, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing.
Rhonda McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon 08/28/2024
0321-2435
Man accused of criminal sexual conduct with minor at local park
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD — A police officer on routine patrol in a park at 3333 W. Long Lake Road around 1 a.m. Aug. 15 discovered an incident that led to an arrest and a first-degree felony charge.
Although all West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Commission parks are closed to vehicles and pedestrians at sunset unless otherwise posted, the officer observed a parked vehicle and two individuals nearby.
One of the individuals was an adult male, and the other was a female child.
“The officer conducted a preliminary investigation and learned the adult male had just engaged in alleged criminal sexual conduct with the minor child,” a press release from the
Walk
from page 2A
That sentiment ties in with this year’s theme, which is “Brighter Together.”
“When we are together, we are brighter,” Shemtov said. “When we bring people with special needs in our life, we’re the ones that are brighter together. So it really all comes together.”
Activities, games, live entertainment, food, interactive booths, a scavenger hunt with hidden messages throughout the walk, face painting, a petting zoo and rides are all slated to be part of the event.
Part of the entertainment will feature Nissim Black, an American-Israeli hip-hop artist.
Aside from raising funds, the Walk4Friendship event can also help the nonprofit in another big way.
“It is letting our community-at-large know that we are here, and that we are here with a mission in mind of how to view people with special needs, which is, thank God, something that has really been successful as well – letting people know that people with special needs have a lot to offer us and have lessons to teach us that we can’t learn anywhere else,” Shemtov said. “And that’s something that’s really important to us, is beyond the obvious of fundraising, really sharing that message and getting the community to kind of rally around it. … Every person that a person with special needs affects, it’s constantly an excitement. That never dims, that feeling, because it’s so powerful, what they could accomplish for us when we bring them into our life.”
Police Department states. “The officer arrested the adult male and took him into custody. The minor female child was reunited with her parents and since then has received medical and supportive care.”
The suspect was identified as 25-year-old Detroit resident Joshua Charston Brown-Hill.
He was charged and arraigned on three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, which is a felony charge, on Aug. 16.
A $3 million bond was set for BrownHill through the 48th District Court, and he was taken to the Oakland County Jail.
A probable cause conference has been scheduled for Aug. 29.
At press time, there was no attorney listed for Brown-Hill.
Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 4981052.
Ellis shared a couple of the positives of the event.
“The parents are grateful and it helps to bring in so much funding,” she said.
Shemtov is keenly aware of what the support of people like Ellis means to the Friendship Circle’s mission.
“Being there for our families, the only way all of that could happen is when we have support from our community,” Shemtov said. “We are so grateful and we know that what we have to do, we’ll be able to accomplish.”
Registration opens at 10:30 a.m., the opening ceremony begins at 11:30 a.m. and the walk is scheduled for 11:45 a.m.
The walk is approximately 1.7 miles, beginning at the Friendship Circle’s Farber Center and ending at the nonprofit’s Meer Center.
For those who prefer not to walk, a shuttle will be available approximately 15 minutes after the walk starts to transport individuals to the Meer Center.
Parking will be available at Temple Israel, located at 5725 Walnut Lake Road.
Drake and Walnut Lake roads will be closed off 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
For more information about the event, visit walk4friendship.com.
According to the site, in order to access Temple Israel parking, individuals must be in the parking lot by 11:15 a.m.
For information about the mentalhealth services and vocational training offered by the Friendship Circle, visit friendshipcircle.org.
Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.
CRIME WATCH
Suspicious call reported
WEST BLOOMFIELD — On Aug. 14, an officer was dispatched to the Police Department to take a report from someone who said that they had received a phone call from a blocked number, and the caller stated that the individual had a warrant for their arrest.
The reporting party was sure there was no such warrant and wanted to have the situation documented, according to the report.
Pickup truck damaged
WEST BLOOMFIELD — An officer took a report Aug. 14 about intentional damage to a resident’s pickup truck.
The resident had been at a job site in a residential neighborhood when a resident accused the reporting party of parking the pickup truck on the neighbor’s grass.
Although the reporting party moved the truck and later learned that there were intentional scratches in multiple places on the truck.
No further information was provided.
Harassing phone calls reported
WEST BLOOMFIELD — A resident informed an officer Aug. 14 that an unknown male caller had made a threat about the resident owing him money and said he knew the resident’s location.
The resident reported receiving at least five calls, the number blocked each time.
No suspect was identified.
Missing jewelry reported
WEST BLOOMFIELD — An officer was dispatched to a location on West Maple Road Aug. 13 to take a report about missing jewelry.
The reporting party last saw a piece
of jewelry in their elderly mother’s bedside drawer, but recently noticed that it was no longer there.
They suspect it was taken by an unknown person.
No further information was provided.
Medication goes missing
WEST BLOOMFIELD — On Aug. 13, a resident told police that after a gathering at their home with more than 40 people they noticed that several medications were missing.
No suspects were identified.
PayPal scam shows fake phone number on internet search
WEST BLOOMFIELD — On Aug. 13, an officer was dispatched to the 5400 block of Fairway Court to take a fraud report.
The resident reported having received a potentially fraudulent email about a PayPal charge.
The resident searched for a customer service number and reportedly called a fraudulent one by mistake.
The unknown suspect or suspects allegedly conned the resident out of thousands of dollars by stating that there was a problem with the resident’s computer.
Unauthorized transactions reported
WEST BLOOMFIELD — On Aug. 11, an officer was dispatched to the 5800 block of Naneva Court to take a report about “mysterious” unauthorized transactions occurring over several months in 2023.
The resident provided a limited number of possible suspects who may be responsible.
No further information was provided.
Anyone who has information about these crimes or others is asked to call the West Bloomfield Police Department at (248) 975-9200.
— Mark Vest
Seniors Matt Erne and Magnus Branstrom return to the offensive line, with senior Penn Roberts expected to handle the bulk of the carries offensively. Defensively, Roberts will anchor the linebacking core alongside senior Alejandro Rauth, while senior Nathan Walsh (DB) will be the mainstay in the secondary. Of course, who could forget senior kicker Wesley Billings, who gives Seaholm a chance any time it’s in opponent territory.
Bloomfield Hills
Last season’s record: 1-8.
League: Oakland Activities Association Blue.
First game: vs. Troy, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
The OAA White wasn’t kind to Bloomfield Hills, so it returned to its roots of the OAA Blue, where it posted a 9-1 record the last time it competed in the league in 2021. Senior running back Evan Becker will headline the offensive unit with senior wideout Payton Parsons, while senior linebacker Sam Doerr leads the defense.
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
Last season’s record: 2-7.
League: Catholic High School League
Intersectional #1.
First game: vs. International Academy of Flint, 5 p.m. Aug. 29.
We’re three years removed from Cranbrook Kingswood’s seven-straight seasons of making the playoffs. With only a handful of returning starters on each side of the ball, it will be up to senior wideout Owen Steinke and sophomore Anthony Warchuck to lead the offense, while sophomore defensive end Charlie Fogle commands the defense.
Detroit Catholic Central
Last season’s record: 8-3.
League: Catholic High School League Central.
First game: at Dearborn, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
Detroit Catholic Central has been the masters of consistency, and they should have no problem continuing that trend this season. Posting eight or more wins the past four seasons, DCC will lean on senior Jaden Pydyn (Army commit) to handle the bulk of the carries alongside senior running back Lee Krueger, with junior Benny Eziuka anchoring the offensive line. The Shamrocks’ defense is led by senior defensive lineman Danilo Guberinich, a Western Michigan University commit, and Krueger, who headlines the linebacking core. It’s always a dog-
fight in the Central, but don’t be surprised if DCC is still standing as one of the top teams in the league by the end of the regular season.
Detroit Country Day
Last season’s record: 3-5. League: Independent.
First game: vs. Portland, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
The 2023 campaign saw Country Day take a step back after seeing 16-straight playoff appearances in 17 seasons, but it’s only a minor setback if you come back strong the next season. Led by returning all-Region talent Chase Dawkins (QB) and Cade Wilhelmi (OL/DL), a University of Toledo commit, Country Day is poised for a successful year to return them back to form. Last year’s three wins was the lowest win total for Country Day since 2005.
Novi
Last season’s record: 7-3. League: Kensington Lakes Activities Association West Division.
First game: at Sterling Heights Stevenson, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
Tallying its highest win total since 2008 last season, Novi was an offensive juggernaut last season. Now only returning three starters on offense and five on defense may lead some to think Novi is vulnerable this year, and that’s
just the way head coach Jim Sparks likes it.
“I kind of like it because on paper we only have three offensive returners and five on defense, but every one of those guys that are first-year starters have been in the program for four years,” Sparks said. “They know what they’re doing, but they just lack game experience. They’re ready to step in. I hope people underestimate us because of the fact that, on paper, we only have three starters on offense.”
Senior running back Logan Ellison will handle the bulk of the carries this year, while senior Sele Cox and senior Jaden Vondrasek lead the wide receiving core. Senior Johnny Aurilia, a standout baseball player for Novi, is the leader in the clubhouse to take over at quarterback where former Novi baseball standout, Caleb Walker, shined last season. Defensively, it’s senior Ethan Young, senior Christian Molnar, senior Christian Cobb and senior Cash Warren manning the trenches, with senior Mario Miminllari, junior Reece Pippin and junior Colin Edwards at the linebacker spots. Novi was one win away from clinching the league title before losing to Northville, so expect the Wildcats to use it as motivation in 2024.
For the full version of this story, which includes Farmington and North Farmington, visit candgnews.com/news/sports.
Proposal
from page 1A
years ago, according to Gerry McCallum, who currently serves in that role for Orchard Lake.
A ballot proposal on the general election ballot could lead to Orchard Lake aligning with many other cities, with the ballot language asking: “Shall the City of Orchard Lake Village be authorized to change the name and responsibilities of a Director of City Services to a City Manager authorizing duties and responsibilities per ordinance.”
Orchard Lake City Council members unanimously approved having the proposal placed on ballots at a meeting in June.
McCallum explained the rationale for the decision.
“What really brought this to a head is that there’s been some documents for the state of Michigan, treasury documents, that I can’t sign because I’m not designated as a city manager, even though I act like one
(and) operate like one,” McCallum said. “I could not sign the documents because, legally, my title is not city manager; so, therefore, it required the highest elected official, the mayor, to sign, and we just felt it’d be more appropriate to have a manager’s position versus a director. But more importantly, a lot of organizations, like leadership organizations, don’t understand what a director of city services does, whereas a city manager’s pretty straightforward.”
Orchard Lake Mayor Norm Finkelstein said that director of city services is an “unusual title.”
He explained the potential benefits of making a change.
“The advantage of having a city manager is they have more responsibility for overall management of the city, including perhaps the Police Department, which is not included now,” Finkelstein said. “And often they need to enter into certain agreements or sign documents that (require) a city manager, and we don’t have one. And in the
See PROPOSAL on page 16A
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE SUMMARY OF THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 19, 2024
At the August 19, 2024 Regular City Council Meeting, Council took the following action:
o Postponed a Height Variance to Allow a Retaining Wall to Remain on the Lakeside of the Property at 3905 LaPlaya Lane until the September 16, 2024 Regular City Council Meeting;
o Denied a Side Yard Setback Variance to Allow a Recently Constructed Swimming Pool/Spa to Remain at 2940 Orchard Place;
o Approved Side Yard Setback Variances for Construction of a New Single-Family Home at 3763 Indian Trail;
o Postponed a Lakeside Setback Variance to Replace a Fire Damaged Home on the Property at 4200 Commerce Road until the September 16, 2024 Regular City Council Meeting;
o Approved a General Business License for the St. Mary’s Rowing Regatta;
o Approved a Vehicle Purchase Request from the Police Department;
o Approved a Vehicle Purchase Request from the Building Department;
o Held the First Reading of General Ordinance Amendment Chapter 2, Administration, Article III - Offcers and Employees (Change Director of City Services to City Manager);
o Accepted all Department Reports.
Norm Finkelstein, Mayor
Rhonda R. McClellan, City Clerk
Publish: West Bloomfeld Beacon 08/28/2024 0320-2435
Drownings
from page 1A
them,” National Drowning Prevention Alliance President Michele Long said. “No one should swim alone at any age, because no one is completely drown-proof.”
Many factors can lead to a drowning incident. According to ndpa.org, most teenage and adult drownings happen in natural and open waters such as lakes, rivers, ponds and oceans.
Drownings in Oakland County were caused by various dangers, including boating incidents, assisting someone else who was drowning, or in some cases, individuals drowned because of their limited swimming ability.
In one drowning case that took place on Taylor Lake the morning of July 20, a 20-yearold Detroit man, Marsalis Quintin Carter, lost his life while trying to save two of his coworkers who were struggling to stay above water.
Carter’s mother, Daileen Carter, was presented with a citizen citation honoring the heroism of her son, who was able to save his two coworkers from drowning.
Going in to save multiple people from drowning is something that takes a lot of strength, especially if the individual involved does not have lifesaving training, according to Long.
Witnesses validated that Carter was prob-
ably exhausted while trying to save the two individuals and went underwater and never came back up, according to a press release.
Long said that, more often than not, the person trying to save an individual from drowning will end up drowning.
“Emotions play into that very strongly; the thing to do is, unless you’re trained in lifesaving, throw something to them that they can use as a flotation device. We have a lot of people, unfortunately, that have drowned trying to save someone else and do the right thing,” Long said. “So, getting someone and yelling to the people around you to call for help and then throwing something out is the best thing to do.”
The first step to preventing a potential drowning incident is to take swim lessons. According to the CDC, over 40 million adults in the U.S. do not know how to swim, and nearly half, 54.7%, have never taken a swim lesson.
“It is important that you start out with basic swimming, because swim lessons, no matter what, are going to be important,” Long said. “Swimming lessons in general can save a life and can reduce the risk of drowning by 88%.”
Swimming lessons are not only for kids, and often swim lesson facilities or recreational centers offer children and adult swim classes. Some swim lesson organizations offering adult lessons in Oakland County include Royal Swim School, the YMCA, SafeSplash and more.
by Taylor Christensen
“No one should have to lose a loved one to drowning. Improving access to effective prevention strategies, like basic swimming and water safety skills training, can reduce drowning risk,” Tessa Clemens, a health scientist in the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention, said in a press release.
To find the best option for swim lessons, it is recommended to look online. There are a wide variety of options available across Oakland County.
Oakland County offers educational pro-
grams dedicated to lake safety throughout the year. Boating safety courses are offered by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office at no charge. More information on these courses can be found at oakgov.com.
Long also said that it is important for people to be aware of the environment they are going to be swimming in, especially when that environment is a lake.
“In pools you have your fences, your locked doors, but also in open water you need
See DROWNINGS on page 15A
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WEST BLOOMFIELD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPERTY TAXES
The Charter Township of West Bloomfeld will hold a public hearing on the proposed 3.3056 mills in the operating tax millage rate to be levied in 2024.
The hearing will be held on Monday, September 09, 2024 at 6:00 PM, at the West Bloomfeld Township Hall, 4550 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfeld, Michigan 48323.
The taxing unit publishing this notice, and identifed below, has complete authority to establish the number of mills to be levied from within its authorized millage rate.
This notice is published by:
Notice of Posting For
Charter Township of West Bloomfeld Township Board
1. Synopsis of the Regular meeting on: Monday, August 12, 2024
2. Adoption – of Ordinance No. C-834, Acceptance of Water Supply and Sanitary Sewer System for Edgewood Condominium Development, Parcel No. 18-19-376-006 & 18-19-376- 007
The above Synopsis and Ordinance shall be posted (in their entirety) at the following locations:
(1) Offce of the Township Clerk
4550 Walnut Lake Road
(2) Township’s website: www.wbtownship.org Debbie Binder Township Clerk
Published: West Bloomfeld Beacon 08/28/2024
DEBBIE BINDER
West Bloomfeld Township Clerk 4550 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfeld, MI 48323 (248) 451-4848
Photo
Drowning can be prevented if people learn the dangers of a lake environment and prepare with swim lessons, wearing a life jacket and being aware of the surroundings. Sylvan Lake, pictured, was the site of Oakland County’s 11th drowning this year.
Drownings
to understand what you’re swimming in, looking at the weather, or you should be in a U.S. Coast Guard life vest if you are not a proficient swimmer,” she said.
Wearing a life vest is a major key to provide a sense of safety and reassurance.
Lakes have unseen dangers that can cause drownings. Water currents can sweep swimmers away and tire them out, water depth can suddenly change, and underwater hazards can trap swimmers, keeping them from swimming back to shore or up from the bottom, according to the National Park Service at nps.gov.
Wearing a life vest is a reliable way to prevent these hazards from turning a fun day into a tragic one. The main purpose of a life vest is
to prevent drowning, keep a swimmer afloat if they get tired and give the person time while awaiting rescue.
According to the National Park Service, there are three basic kinds of life jackets that can be chosen based on activity or swim level.
Inherently buoyant life jackets are made of primarily foam and are low maintenance, making them both comfortable and reliable. They are designed for both swimmers and nonswimmers. They come in adult, youth, child and infant sizes.
Inflatable jackets are lightweight and comfortable, and they are only available in adult sizes. According to NPS, these should not be worn by weak swimmers or nonswimmers.
Hybrid life jackets are reliable and available in adult, youth, child and infant sizes. They are recommended for both swimmers
and nonswimmers, and some are designed specifically for different water sports.
When choosing a life jacket, it is important to remember that the vest must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved. This can be found on the label of the life jacket. It is also recommended to choose a brightly colored life jacket that can be easily spotted.
To be sure that the life jacket fits, the individual should test if it fits comfortably, and snugly, by fastening and securing the straps and raising their arms. If the vest slides up, it is too big. This can also be tested by someone else pulling the jacket up at the shoulders, and it should not go above the ears.
“It is kind of like having a seat belt; you have to be wearing it for it to work,” Long said. “Even if you don’t think you’re going in the water, you have got to have that life vest on.”
In a press release regarding one of the drowning incidents, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard emphasized the importance of safety precautions.
“A source of great fun and joy can become a location of tragedy as we have seen far too often in our lakes this summer,” he said. “I encourage people to have emergency capabilities nearby including floatation devices and watch each other while in the water. If you are not a strong swimmer, it’s a good idea to wear a floatation device.”
For more educational resources on water safety, and programs to learn CPR and first aid, visit oakgov.com, the Great Lakes Surf and Rescue Project at glsrp.org, the American Red Cross at redcross.org, or the CDC at cdc. gov.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen (586) 498-1081.
Find your happy place at Waltonwood
move to waltonwood now and enjoy :
• Chef-prepared dining experiences with desserts created by our Pastry Chef.
• A variety of Life Enrichment programs providing social and wellness opportunities.
• Personal care services available when needed - age in place as your needs change!
• Housekeeping services and home maintenance.
• A variety of apartment styles to fit every lifestyle - pet friendly!
• Scheduled transportation.
Waltonwood supports residents’ active and independent lifestyles and removes the worry and stress that seniors — and their family members — often experience when they’re living on their own.
Move to Waltonwood and spend time doing the things that make you happy. We’ll take care of the rest.
Proposal
future – I hope it’s the distant future – that Gerry McCallum decides to retire and we need to include a replacement – it would be much easier to recruit a city manager than something that people are not accustomed to seeing as a title.”
McCallum is also of the opinion that if and when he decides to retire, recruitment prospects would be improved by changing the title of his current position.
“Some people say, ‘What does a director do?’ I say, ‘I act as a city manager; I just don’t have the title as a city manager.’”
Finkelstein said that the position of director of city services was in place long before his involvement with the city, which has been for approximately 20 years.
“It arose because prior to that, our longtime city clerk, Janet Green, was in charge of everything, and as the city grew a little bit more sophisticated and she was going to retire, it became obvious that somebody would have to take on some of her responsibilities for managing the DPW and other aspects of the city, and that we’d have a separate person to be the city clerk to manage the financial affairs,” Finkelstein said. “Since the charter
did not allow for a city manager without a vote of the council, they decided to create the title of director of city services.”
According to McCallum, who stated that he has been in his current role for 13 years, he and the chief of the city’s Police Department are currently lateral in their positions. However, if the proposal is adopted, the chief would be under the direction of the city manager.
“Not that the intent was to have me over the chief,” McCallum said. “It’s just that’s how city managers are structured and how they function throughout other municipalities. Chief still runs his department. … I’m not (an) elected official. I am the chief administrator as a city manager.”
McCallum’s current duties include handling the administrative functions of the city, including the Department of Public Works, the Building Department, code enforcement and administration staffing.
If the ballot measure is approved, according to McCallum, it does not change anything from a financial perspective, in regard to city taxes or his salary.
Given that he already functions like a city manager, McCallum said that trying to make it official was a pretty easy decision to make, and from his perspective, “I don’t think there’s any drawbacks whatsoever.”
He gave the current health of the city a solid report.
“We’re in great shape,” McCallum said. “We are fiscally responsible. … (The) city’s running on all cylinders.”
The idea of having an official city manager in place is not a new idea in Orchard Lake.
“We’ve wrestled with it for more than a few years and talked about it, and it’s time to just get it done,” Finkelstein said. “So I hope the voters will approve it and then we will change the ordinance to allow it.”
Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.
Brunch Menu 11am-2pm
$9 Mimosas, $2 Each Additional $7 Bloody Marys Fri.-Sat. Late Night Happy Hour 8-10pm 25% Off
$5 Well Drinks & $5 Domestic Pints
Orion Location
Brunch Buffet 10am-2pm $9 Mimosas, $2 Each Additional $7 Bloody Marys Dine In Only All You Can Eat Perch- $20, 4-9pm SUNDAY
FOOTBALL
Tues.-Fri. 3-6pm & Thurs. All Day Fri. & Sat. 8-10pm • Sat.-Sun. 3-5pm Super Specials on Drinks & Food
Lion's Run to the Championship at 7pm
$7 Cocktail of the Week $8 Appetizer Menu
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
If a proposal passes in November, the city will have a new position of city manager.
West Bloomfeld Beacon
Homes For Sale
HOMEFORSALE BYOWNER
34817DrydenDr. SterlingHeights,48312. CapeCod,4/Bedrooms, 11/2Bath,LivingRoom, FamilyRoom,LargeKitchen,FinishedBasement, NaturalWoodBurning Fireplace.BrickPaved DrivewayFor6+Vehicles, 2-1/2CarGarage. $275,000 586-279-3360 Willingtoworkwith buyer'sagent.Absolutely NOlistingsolicitations!
Vacation Property & Time Shares
VACATIONRENTAL
TAMPA,FL
Cozy,PrivateGuesthouseForRentIncluding Kitchenettew/Essentials, FurnishedBedroom, Bathroom,Patio,Private Entrance,FreeParking onPremisesandWi-Fi.
*NoPets/PartiesPlease* Call/Text 313-461-8485
Antiques & Collectibles BUYING
Coins,SportCards& StampsCollections Top$$$ Call248-471-4451 For Sale
ACCORA High/Low HospitalBed, WithRemote, ExcellentCondition, GreatSafetyFeatures, ManuelsIncluded. 248-330-7381
OFFERINGS AROUND MICHIGAN
AUCTION
Vanamburg Online Estate Auction Sept. 1-24. Firearms, ammo, John Deere tractors w/buckets & quick hitches, implements, Kubota RTV, lawn & garden, power tools, rough sawn wood, more. Visit Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com. Call 1-800-835-0495.
Epic Virtual Simulcast Real-time Online Toy Auction, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. Featuring amazing toys from multiple generations. Visit EpicAuctions.com for full catalog, photos, to bid and more. Call 517927-5028 for information.
Large Blue Star Online Equipment Auction, 9-24-24, from 8-4 p.m. Dozers, loaders, trailers, trucks, tools, generators, sky-jack lifts, commercial pumps and more! CrydermanAuctions.com to view catalog, other auctions. Call 586784-8890.
Janish Online Estate Auction. Bidding open! Nice Chevy Silverado, JD-2510, LS-U5030, equipment, lawn, garden, tools. Bid anywhere anytime @JohnPeckAuctions. com. Need an auction? Call John Peck 989-426-8061 Award winning auctioneers since 1979.
BUILDINGS
BUILT RITE POLE BUILDINGS
State-wide. Prices starting at24x40x10 - $18,300.00. 30x40x10 -$20,400.00. Erected on your site. Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www. builtritepolebuildingsmi.com. Or call 989-259-2015 or 989-600-1010..
BUSINESS SERVICES METAL ROOFING regular and shingle
Published: August 28, 2024
style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. AMISH CREW. 800-983-0462.
MATTRESSES
Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made is U.S.A., in plastic, with warranty. Retail cost $3,995.00, sacrifice for $875.00. Call for showing or delivery: DanDanTheMattressMan. com 989-832-1866
MEDICAL
VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888835-7273 Hablamos Espano
MISCELLANEOUS
AMISH BUILT storage sheds and mini cabins delivered to your site anywhere in Michigan! Starting at $2,500.00 mynextbarn.com 989-832-1866
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-950-6757
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-922-0420 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Ofer – 50% of installation + Additional 10% of install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-888-718-1856
0174-2435
Miscellaneous For Sale
SAFE Step.NorthAmerica's#1Walk-InTub. Comprehensivelifetime warranty.Top-of-the-line installationandservice. NowfeaturingourFREE showerpackageand $1600Offforalimited time!Calltoday!Financingavailable.CallSafe Step1-855-861-4501
Dogs & Cats For Sale
AKCSHIHTZUPUPS
Born06-05-24
$1,000,Chocolate TeddyBears, 810-358-1417
Help Wanted Medical/Nursing/ Dental
DENTALASSISTANT
Part-Time/Flexible
NorthRoyalOak. Musthaveexperience, beorganized, motivatedandfriendly. Lowstressenvironment. Contact:Shelly, 248-280-4500
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON PERMANENT PART-TIME MEDIA SPECIALIST
Permanent part-time Media Specialist position $22.43 - $23.81 hourly (29 Hours per week). Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit an application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, September 9, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on Employment.
0326-2435
BATHROOM REMODELING
BasicBathrooms
Startingat:$10,995.00
Experienceofover
500-bathroomsacross Metro-Detroit, Lookatourworkat: andyscarpentryllc.com
248-376-0988
Licensed/Insured References
THE bathroomofyour dreamsinaslittleas1 day.LimitedTimeOffer$1000offorNoPaymentsandNoInterestfor 18monthsforcustomers whoqualify.BCIBath& Shower.Manyoptions available.Qualitymaterials&professionalinstallation.Senior&MilitaryDiscountsAvailable.Call Today!1-877-957-1264
Brick Work
AA4DABLE MASONRY
586-822-5100
Chimneys,Porches, Steps,Flat-Work, Residential/Commercial Tuck-Pointing,CulturedStone,AllBrick&MasonryRepairs/Needs. SPRINGSPECIALS
Upto30%-OFF Free-Est./SeniorDisc.
MOUTON'S MASONRY
Any&allmasonryrepairs. Brick,block,steps, chimneys,porches-tuckpointing,Cementwork, mortar-matching. 25-yrsexperience Free-estimates. References/Insured. 248-252-5331
PREFERRED
BROTHERSMASONRY
•Tuckpointing•Brickwork
•ChimneyRepair/Rebuild
•ChimneyCaps
•CementFlatwork•Steps
•PorchRebuild/Porch Caps•CultureStone Senior/MilitaryDiscount Upto20%off! 586-944-8898
Brick Work
586-944-3669
AAABROOKSIDE
Porches,Steps, Chimney's,Tuck-pointing, CulturedStone,PreventativeMaintenance, Concrete,Custom MortarMatching, Free-Estimates,Senior Discounts,37yearsexp.
A-DMASONRYLLC. AllMasonryWork Bricks,Stones,Pavers, Blocks,Porches, Chimneys.Tuckpointing. 26-yrsexperience Insured,FreeEstimates. 586-873-8210 Filip
Building & Remodeling
CUSTOMBUILDER
Additions,Renovations, CustomDesignService, Decks,Financing, CallForYourPersonal ConsultationAppt. 248-760-0043
Decks/Patios
2024SPECIALS
CustomDeck Building/Repair, Power-Washing, DecksRemoved, Composite,Treated &CedarMaterials, CustomRailingMaterials, CustomFence Installation. 586-260-5218
Drywall LAKESHORE DRYWALL &PAINTING Over30Years
J&WPropertiesLTD. FullyLicensed/Insured 37YearsinBusiness Carpentry
BARRY'S CARPENTRY
•Decks•Additions •Bathrooms•Kitchens •Renovations•Plumbing FamilyOwned. 35yrsexperience www.Barryscarpentry.com FreeEstimates 248-563-1733
GOTROT?
RottenWood ReplacementSpecialist AllTypesofWoodRepair Fascia,Soffit&Siding PaintedtoMatch AMGAppliedServices 248-828-7998 www.amgapplied services.com
Carpet Cleaning
CARPET
WAVY-n-LOOSE?
WePower Re-stretch and Steam-clean ForOneLowPrice MultipleRoomDiscount CallNow 586-754-9222 Cement ALLEN CEMENT a.k.a "TheDrivewayGuy" Established1999 Driveways/Garage Floors/Patios,etc. Licensed/Insured CheckoutAllen CementonFacebook! VernAllen 586-457-1300
Cement POBLETECEMENT BrickPavers,LLC. •Driveways•Patios •Porches•Steps •Stamp•Color •Exposed•Floors•Walks •Licensed/Insured 30+years!Troy,MI 248-743-1220 248-496-4964(Cell)
ROZECEMENTLLC CONCRETE,MASONRY &LANDSCAPING 10%OffPre-Spring! •Driveways•Patios •Brick/Stone•Pavers •Sidewalks Free-Estimates Requests: roze cementllc@gmail.com Andre-586-354-7791
Cleaning Service
CLEANINGLADY with10-yrexperienceis lookingforwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830
Experience InteriorPainting Wall/CeilingRepairs DrywallFinishing Shon- 586-801-6190
Electrical
BEST-Price-Period Licensed/Insured. Additions,Remodels, Basements,Kitchens, CarChargerInstalled, 30-yrs.-experience. Callforfree-estimates. Open7-daysaweek 24/hrs-day. HotchkissElectric 586-291-3143 Lic.#6211028
586-755-3636
Dr.Electric AffordablePrices! Father&Son MasterElectricians Same-Day-Service! All-Residential-Wiring, ChangeFuseBoxto CircuitBreakerPanel, Troubleshooting,Backup GeneratorTransfer Switch, License#6109094 Senior/Discounts! Visa/MC/Lic./Insured
CASTLEELECTRIC 586-634-1152
(directcellphone#) Panelupgrades, generators,hottubs, 220lines.ALLSERVICE Licensed&Insured Dependable,quality work! License#-6111359
Electrical
PREPARE forpower outagestodaywithaGeneracHomeStandbyGenerator.Actnowtoreceive aFREE7-Yearwarranty withqualifyingpurchase. Call1-855-773-8191 todaytoscheduleafree quote.Itʼsnotjustagenerator.Itʼsapowermove.
Gutters
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998
*”STEVE'S SEAMLESSGUTTERS” Made&installedonthe spot.5”&6”Gutter Cleaning.Treetrimming, exteriorpainting, powerwashing. 586-778-3393 586-531-2111
ELIMINATE gutter cleaningforever!LeafFilter,themostadvanced debris-blockinggutter protection.Schedulea FREELeafFilterestimate today.20%offEntire Purchase.Plus10%Senior&MilitaryDiscounts. Call1-866-495-1709
GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI 313-656-9402
Handyman Services
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling, Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCredit CardsAccepted 586-822-5100
ERRANDS IPickup,Deliver (toyourHOME, Office).-Groceries, Food,Retail(no medicine).CALLJake TODAY-($40hourly) 248-571-2826
Hauling & Waste Removal
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall! DemolitionBig&Small Residential/Commercial RubberWheelDumpsters-10,15,20-Yards, Clean-outs,Construction Material,Small-Moving, Appliances,Furniture& More!LowestRates!!! Free-Estimates Senior/MilitaryDiscounts 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
ABLEJUNK REMOVALAND DUMPSTERS Since1991. 5-starGooglereviews. Driveway-safedumpster trailers.Fullyinsured. Junkremovalexperts. 248-333-3933 ablejunk.com
Hauling & Waste Removal
BURLYGUYS JUNKREMOVAL
removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
**CLUTTERGUY'S**
Removal-Experts
Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices
Garage/Storage-Areas EfficientCourteous Workers
Reasonable-Rates Free-Estimates
NEEDCLUTTER REMOVED?
LETUSDOTHEWORK! 586-258-6672
Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 Roofing,Siding, GuttersandMore! Reliable
Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops
MR.BACKSPLASH
·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES
·CUSTOMKITCHENS
·COUNTERTOPS
*Granite*Quartz*
·CustomBathrooms ·TILEREPAIRS
*FREEESTIMATES* 586-552-5416
mrbacksplash.com
Landscaping & Water Gardens
ALLTIMATE OUTDOOR SERVICES
DrainageSystem Professionals
New-Construction, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts
Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202
Landscaping & Water Gardens
DOLL'S LANDSCAPING SPRINGCLEAN-UPS!
Shrub&Tree-Trimming, Planting,Removal.Mulch, SodInstallation,Pavers, Garden/RetainerWalls, PorchSteps,Raise Backyards/DrainTiles, Powerwashing/Sealing, Powerrake,Aeration, Seeding,DebrisRemoval 586-634-0033
SUPREMEOUTDOOR SPECIALISTS
Lawncare,Landscaping, Pavers,Walls,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, Mulching,Power-washing, CementWork,Sprinklers. 35YearsExperience FreeEstimates Christmaslight install/leasing. 586-727-3924 supremeoutdoor@ gmail.com
TOTALBRICKPAVING LANDSCAPINGPROS
586-420-3531 Brickpaving,Patio, Walkways,Driveways, Porches,Repairs, Powerwash,Rock Installation,Mulch,Sod, CompleteLandscape Design.
Lawn Maintenance
2024SPRING
586-260-5218
Commercial/Residential *Landscaping *Decks *SpringClean-Ups *LawnCutting *LicensedFertilization *Aerating&Thatching VisitFacebook: BrightHorizonServicesInc.
Painting
(586)229-4267
American Painting
•Residential/Commercial
•Interior/25YearsExp.
•PowerWashing
•Insurance•Drywall
•PlasterRepair
•Clean-outs
•HomeRepairs
•SeniorDiscounts •Guaranteed-Work.
Painting
PEAKPAINTING
Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. 30-yr.-exp.*WillBeat AnyOtherReasonable Estimate! Senior-Disc. Insured.Credit-Cards Accepted.References. 586-722-8381
2BROTHERS PAINTING
CompleteInterior/Exterior WoodRepair, Powerwash, Free-Estimates CallFrank 248-303-5897 ReferencesAvailable
ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry
CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
ANYONE'S PAINTER
Interior/ExteriorPainting Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates Call586-921-3654
FARR'SPAINTING
Interior/Exterior Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
NEBOPAINTING
ServiceAllYearRound
Interior/Exterior 15YearsExperience WeMakeIt EasierForYou, AllNeedsAreMet! Call 248-953-7807
MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN
Roofng
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE
$225•MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial $88*GutterCleaning Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 30-yrsexp. FamilyOwned 248-707-4851
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC.
BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600 Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
• Interior & Exterior
• Drywall Patching & Repair
• Carpentry & Remodels
We Accept Venmo, Cash, Check
WOWPAINTING
Residential/Commercial
Interior/Exterior QualityPainting DrywallRepairs, RemoveWallpaper, ExteriorWood Replacement, EpoxyFlooring, Insured Free-Estimates 248-990-5388 wowpaintingmi.com
586.421.5520 586.524.6752 ANDY'S PLUMBING 25-YearsExperience Licensed/Insured CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX PLUMBERSCORP 586-210-0903
35-YearsExperience Seniors/Military/ Multi-TaskDiscounts Free-Estimates •DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures •SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters Licensed/Insured apexplumbers corporation.com Lic#8111771
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
WATERWORK
Plumbing.com
•DrainCleaning •SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps •BackflowTesting 248-542-8022 SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
Roofng
PREFERRED
BROTHERSROOFING
•FullTear-off•Recover •ShingleRepair •Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
AA4DABLE ROOFING
Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! SPRING-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.Allmajor creditcardsaccepted. 586-822-5100
Tree Service
DAVE'S TREE&SHRUB
20%-SpringDisc.Insured, EmergencyStorm Damage,Large-Tree Removals,Trimming, Stump-Grinding,Gutters, Season-Firewood (100acord)Free-Estimates/10%Senior-Disc. (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
PROLINES TREESERVICE
TreeRemoval/Trimming, Pruning,StumpRemoval, SpecializeinLargeTrees, Licensed/Insured 20%SeniorDiscounts 313-293-1337
Plumbing
The Exterior Painters Celebrate 20 Years of Transforming Properties, Neighborhoods
Nothing transforms a property and makes it shine brighter than a fresh coat of paint. It’s simply the best and most cost-effective investment you can make for your home draped in the colors of yesterday.
The Exterior Painters have been revitalizing properties for 20 years.
“We specialize in just exterior painting, and the reason why we do that is we believe that repetition is the mother of all skill,” said owner Brian Scott. “For 20 years, that’s all we’ve been doing is outside work. When it comes to that, we do wood replacement and siding replacement. It makes us the perfect fit for homeowners who don’t want to re-side their whole house.”
The Exterior Painters replace damaged siding and boards as needed, but they’re not looking to push for a full siding replacement.
“It gets people by another 10 years and transforms the look of the house, bringing it to the next color trends of today,” Scott said.
“Another thing we do that makes us unique, we have a full-time color consultant,” Scott added. “For most people, that’s the hardest, most stressful part, choosing what color they want. Our consultant comes out and
meets with the homeowners and gives them an idea of what the new color trends are so they can make a good color choice that complements their landscaping, brickwork and architectural features.”
The Exterior Painters also specialize in brick staining.
“A lot of younger people are buying houses. We’re taking it from grandma’s house of the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s and bringing it to that HGTV look,” Scott said.
you’re getting a bigger bang for your buck.”
It’s a win for everyone, from the crews The Exterior Painters employ and pay well to the homeowners who see their neighborhoods transformed. The company paints 30 houses a week on average in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Livingston counties, and boasts a five-star Google review average.
Power washing the siding — and for an additional charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also make a big difference in terms of curb appeal.
charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also
transformed through fresh paint,
Scott said his crews often see their work spread from house to house in a neighborhood as the properties are transformed through fresh paint, siding repairs and much-needed washing.
“It’s the cheapest home improvement you can do without breaking the bank,” Scott said. “Compared to other home improvements,
“With us you’re buying certainty. We don’t ask for a large deposit, and you don’t have to worry about anyone running off with your deposit,” Scott said.
“We stand by our work. We provide a warranty and proven results by taking care of everybody in the community. We’re Nextdoor’s No. 1 preferred contractor in Rochester two years in a row. It’s that certainty factor. You know what you’re going
“It’s the cheapest home to get.”
The Exterior Painters are located at 2365 Avon Industrial Drive in Rochester Hills. To request a quote or for more information, call (248) 844-8888.