11/24/25 Troy Times

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10A SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

TROY — An all-girls team at Larson Middle School has been coding and building robots while also running outreach events that promote interest in STEM learning — science, technology, engineering and math.

The group is called Girl Botz FTC Team 22918. While it’s based at Larson Middle School, the team includes students from all over the Troy School District.

“So, my husband and I have been helping robotics teams for the past nine years but it’s always in a co-ed team,” said Judy Bunao, co-founder and co-coach of the Girl Botz. “But in the summer of 2022, there was a gathering … called ‘Girls are Great,’ where I could bring girls from my co-ed team.”

CEREMONY TO HONOR FALLEN FIRST RESPONDERS

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI AND SARAH WRIGHT

akozlowski@candgnews.com swright@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — While many spend the holidays with family and friends, the police and firefighters who keep them safe continue to work in the dark and cold.

The stakes are made clear at the annual Project Blue Light ceremony, which remembers first responders who died in the line of duty. The

gathering pays tribute to fallen officers statewide and is attended by police and fire officials from all over.

This year’s event will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at St. Mary Magdalen Church, located at 50 E. Annabelle Ave. in Hazel Park, at the northeast corner of John R Road and Woodward Heights Boulevard. All are welcome.

“It definitely honors the fallen, but more than that, it speaks to those still doing the

During last year’s event, the Detroit Police Department Honor Guard presented a wreath in honor of the fallen.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Photo provided by Girl Botz
At the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at Athens High School on Jan. 20, 2025, Girl Botz FTC Team 22918 helped make blankets, assemble children’s activity packs, HOPE bracelets and cards to give back to the community.
See GIRL BOTZ on page 12A

Eagle Scout project helps animal shelter

TROY — Shawn Rankin, a senior at Troy High School, has brought in donations and built doghouses for the Oakland County Animal Control and Pet Adoption Center — part of his efforts to achieve the status of Eagle Scout, the highest rank for Scouting America groups.

Rankin has been involved with Scout-

ing America for more than 10 years, as a member of the Cub Scouts and the Boy Scouts. He has also always supported the work of animal rescues, which contributed to his decision to make it his Eagle Scout project.

“I have two rescue dogs of my own, named Ernie and Barry, and I believe in (the shelter’s) mission to rescue animals and provide shelter and care for needy animals waiting to be adopted,” Rankin said.

He communicated with the shelter over the last six months to find out what they needed, while also getting the doghouses ready and securing donations, which totaled more than $1,300 and included other items from the shelter’s wish list for dogs and cats.

Rankin was able to get a discount from chewy.com, as well as donations from can and bottle donations. He was also assisted by other residents of Troy.

Council continues work on cricket field at Boulan Park

TROY — A full-size cricket field is nearing completion at Boulan Park, located at 3671 Crooks Road in Troy.

During its meeting Nov. 10, the Troy City Council waived the bidding process and unanimously approved a contract to purchase a portable elevated officials stand for the project, made by Aluminum Athletic Equipment Co. The cost is estimated to be around $27,270. It’s the latest addition to a project that has been in the works since last year.

In August 2024, the council approved a contract with Premier Group Associates to build the cricket field, and construction began soon after, continuing through last month. But there were challenges along the way, officials say, which delayed the completion of the project.

However, the delay afforded a chance for improvements.

“We had an opportunity to sod the entire field because of the delay; we’ve had an opportunity to irrigate the entire field because of the delay. And what we’re bringing forward to you tonight is another opportunity,” said Troy Public Works Director Kurt Bovensiep.

The project is done in partnership

Troy High School senior Shawn Rankin helped build doghouses and bring in donations of money and supplies for the Oakland County Animal Control and Pet Adoption Center, part of his Eagle Scout project.
Photos provided by Todd Rankin

Birmingham Village Players adapt a holiday classic

BIRMINGHAM — Every holiday season, it is a family tradition for Birmingham Village Players member Joe Vercellone to watch Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” This year, Vercellone and his son Phillip adapted the show into a one-man play to be performed as a fundraiser for the Birmingham Village Players.

The world premiere of the adaptation —“An Evening with Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol” — will run Dec. 4-7 at Birmingham Village Players. All of the proceeds will go to the fundraising efforts for future building improvements at Birmingham Village Players.

“There are other theaters that do ‘Christmas Carol’ but with a full cast,” Vercellone said. “We wanted to approach it in a way that would be interesting to the community and that would be something unique and exciting for them to come and see.”

Actor Edmond Guay will be taking on the challenge for performing in the one-man show — his first time taking on such a role.

Guay has been involved with the Birmingham Village Players since around 2006. He is a retired teacher of theater and English. After 42 years of teaching, he said, “I finally get to put my money where my mouth is and, hopefully, show what I taught myself as well as I taught my students. So, this is such an incredibly awesome, challenging opportunity.”

Being in this role, Guay has had the opportunity to receive input from the objective eye of a director. “I’m enjoying getting notes from a director, as opposed to being a director and a teacher giving notes.”

The redemption of Scrooge in the story is one of Vercellone’s favorite parts. He said, See CAROL on page 9A

Photo provided by the Birmingham Village Players Edmond Guay will perform in the Birmingham Village Players’ production of “An Evening with Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol.”

NEWS & NOTES

Mighty Gobbler 5K Run/1Mile Walk

TROY — The Lutheran Church of the Master, 3333 Coolidge Highway, will host its annual Mighty Gobbler 5K Run/1Mile Walk, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Nov. 27 — Thanksgiving Day.

Now in its 11th year, organizers are expecting more than 1,600 runners to participate.

“The Mighty Gobbler is Oakland County’s largest certified, professionally timed run held on Thanksgiving Day, and the only one (probably) where participants trot through the world-famous Tunnel of Turkeys on their way to the finish line,” read a press release for the event.

The pre-registration cost until Nov. 25 is $37 for the 5K and $32 for the 1M. The fees increase by $5 on Nov. 26 and Nov. 27.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Micah 6 Community in Pontiac and Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers. Runners are also encouraged to bring canned goods to help stock the food pantry at Troy People Concerned.

To register, visit mightygobbler.com, or call (248) 643-0176 for more information.

First annual ‘Deaf Santa’

TROY — Inman Audiology has announced its first annual “Deaf Santa” event, set for noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 20 at 1740 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 100 in Troy. Inman Audiology is a patient-centered hearing care practice.

The holiday event welcomes children of all ages with hearing loss, as well as siblings and parents with hearing loss. Attendees can meet and take photos with “Deaf Santa,” who will use American Sign Language (ASL). Families can also enjoy an afternoon of free food and drinks, games and activities for kids, and gifts from Santa.

“Our goal with the ‘Deaf Santa’ event is to create a space where every child can fully experience the magic of the holidays,” said Dr. Tiffany Inman, audiologist and founder of Inman Audiology, in a statement. “Representation matters, and we’re so excited for children to meet a Santa who communicates in their language.”

The event is free to attend, but space is limited. Families are encouraged to RSVP by Dec. 5. For more information or to RSVP, call Inman Audiology at (248) 839-5429, email info@inmanaudiology.com, or visit inmanaudiology.com.

Elf Shelf Arts & Crafts Show

TROY — The Troy Women’s Association will host its 53rd annual Elf Shelf Arts & Crafts Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 29 at Troy High School, 4777 Northfield Parkway.

Attendees can expect more than 200 booths featuring handcrafted items from local artisans. There will be a variety of unique gifts, seasonal décor, jewelry, textiles and more.

“Your $3 donation at the door goes directly to local charities, helping the Troy Women’s Association support 30-plus organizations that uplift people of all ages across our community,” read a press release by the Troy Women’s Association. “This all-volunteer nonprofit has been making a difference for decades — and you can be part of it.”

For more information, visit troywomensassociation.org or call (248) 988-0426.

Compiled by Sarah Wright
Photos provided

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ABOVE: Community members observe Veterans Day Nov. 11 during a ceremony at Veterans Plaza near Troy City Hall.
ABOVE RIGHT: Tributes were paid by city officials and members of the Troy Police Honor Guard, VFW Post 4037, and Heritage Concert Band, along with Senior Master Sgt. Dan Heaton from the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard. NEAR RIGHT: Members of Heritage Concert Band performed during the Veterans Day ceremony. Photos by Erin Sanchez

Wright| (586) 498-1068 | swright@candgnews.com

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Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100

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CALENDAR

NOV. 29

Pictures with Santa: Noon-2 p.m., Premier Pet Supply, 2848 W. Maple Road in Troy, all proceeds go to local rescues, premierpetsupply.com/events, (248) 677-0154

DEC. 2

Troy Women’s Association meeting: Nonprofit dedicated to supporting local causes and enhancing lives of others, 7 p.m., new location at Community of Christ - Troy Oaks, 3830 Crooks Road, continues every first Tuesday of month (except February) until June, (248) 988-0426, troywomensassociation.org

DEC. 3

Holiday concert: Performance by Heritage Concert Band of Troy, 7-8 p.m., Troy Community Center, 3179

Livernois Road, free but registration required, (248) 524-3484, rec.troymi.gov, group also accepting donations, troyheritageband@gmail.com

DEC. 5

Tree lighting: Starts with ice skating at 5 p.m., then ceremony with tree lighting, performances by Troy High School drumline and Athens High School concert and treble choir, and photos with Santa at 6:30 p.m., also hot chocolate for purchase, new location at The Rink at Stine Community Park, 241 Town Center Drive in Troy, troymi.gov

‘Sounds of the Season: A Global Celebration’ concert: Performance by Troy Community Chorus, 8-9:30 p.m., Athens High School, 4333 John R Road in Troy, troycommunitychorus.com

DEC. 5-6

Kris Kringle Market: Open-air event inspired by

700-year-old European tradition, features 60 plus hand-picked vendors selling holiday decorations, unique gifts and seasonal food, also photos and storytime with Santa, child-sized gingerbread houses for play, s’mores station, live music, warming tents and festive drinks, 4-10 p.m. Dec. 5 and noon-10 p.m. Dec. 6, held along West Fourth Street and Walnut Boulevard in Rochester, (248) 656-0060, see schedule and map at downtownrochestermi.com

DEC. 6

Kids Christmas party: Features photos with Santa, crafts, games and more, noon-3 p.m., Clawson-Troy Elks Lodge #2169, 2549 Elliott Ave. in Troy, (248) 588-6500, clawsontroyelks.org

Winter Holiday Craft Fair: Also photos with Santa (bring pets), 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Kilgour Scottish Centre, 2363 Rochester Road in Troy, (248) 526-1849

A Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus: Starts with wagon

ride to 1840s farmhouse, also includes tasty treat, bring own camera, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills.org/musprograms

DEC. 7

Polish Christmas Buffet with Santa: Includes traditional entrees, salads, soups and sweets, noon-4 p.m., American Polish Cultural Center, 2975 E. Maple Road in Troy, see menu at americanpolishcenter.com, (248) 689-3636

Chanukah Spree: Buy items for holiday, 9:15 a.m.12:15 p.m., Congregation Shir Tikvah, 3900 Northfield Parkway in Troy, (248) 649-4418, shirtikvah.org

Rochester Area Hometown Christmas Parade: See 100-plus floats during “largest Christmas parade in Michigan,” 2-4 p.m., held along 1.5-mile route on

See CALENDAR on page 11A

Carol

4A

“I think it’s such an uplifting story, and it’s great to see Ed show that change in character throughout this production.”

Adapting a one-man show

The concept of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” being performed as a one-man show is historically accurate and references the way in which Dickens would tour his books by reading and acting them out.

“Charles Dickens actually did come to the United States in the 1860s to read ‘A Christmas Carol.’ So that’s where we are placing our one-man show at that time period,” Vercellone said.

Fans of the book will be pleased to know that the Birmingham Village Players show’s entire script is directly from the book. Though nothing has been added, some things had to be removed for length.

“Stories are written to be read, and it’s very different to write a story for reading than to write a story for performing. … You really have to go through and say, ‘what are the core elements of this story from page to page, and what can be removed without losing the beauty and the import of what he wanted to say?’” Vercellone said.

See the show

“An Evening with Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol” will be performed at the Birmingham Village Players 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4-6 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 7.

Individual reserved tickets cost $30, which includes a ticketing fee. To purchase tickets, call the box office at (248) 644-2075 or place an order at birminghamvillageplayers.com.

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

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SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

10A/ TROY TIMES • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

Groups work to ensure there is ‘No Child Without a Christmas’

The holiday season is upon us, and families all over are preparing for the next few months of fun, food and gifts. But some families are wondering how they are going to pull it off for their children.

To help, local charities and nonprofit organizations come together each year to supply families in need with gifts and food for the holiday season.

For the 31st year, the Troy Police Department is hosting “Operation Blue Sleigh,” a program aimed at helping families in need in the Troy area have the best holiday ever.

Officer Greg Pokley, with the Troy Police Department, said that the team is helping 41 families this year.

Pokley said that 95% of the families selected are identified through the school system and can include kids who are on the free lunch program, or those that teachers know need help the most. The other 15% are chosen by road patrol officers who notice families in need.

“Operation Blue Sleigh encompasses our gift card drive, Shop with a Cop, and then adopt a family,” Pokley said. “This year I have 41 families and that number keeps going up every year.”

During the Shop with a Cop portion of the program, officers take the kids through Walmart and buy the kids a gift with a $100 gift card provided by Walmart.

“We have 41 families and 41 sponsors, generous, generous sponsors, throughout the city of Troy,” he said. “That can include businesses or just residents in Troy that want to donate to families in need.”

Sponsors of the program essentially adopt a family in need. The families send See GROUPS on page 16A

The Troy Community Coalition for Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse

The Troy Community Coalition for Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse is a nonproft organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all who live or work in Troy by promoting a lifestyle free from the abuse of alcohol and drugs. The Troy Community Coalition aims to prevent addiction before it starts, limiting the emotional, fnancial, and societal impacts of addiction. We work towards this goal through a variety of programming. Over the course of the school year, the coalition sees every 4th and 5th grade student in the Troy School District where we teach youth about good decision making,

tobacco, and vaping. The coalition also sees high school students through the health curriculum where students learn about addiction directly from a person in recovery. Each summer the coalition hosts a summer camp for low-income families in Troy. This camp hosts over 50 kids in 3rd through 8th grade where they learn about substance misuse, emotional regulation, nutrition, and physical activity. By reaching low-income youth in our community, we are reaching youth who are more at risk of substance use to stop substance use before it starts. The coalition, in addition to educational materials, also

This holiday season, I’m asking Troy residents to support the Troy Community Coalition, a nonproft dedicated to preventing alcohol and drug abuse before it starts. The Coalition educates every 4th–5th grade student in Troy, reaches high schoolers with real recovery stories, provides a summer camp for low-income youth, and supplies families with tools to prevent substance misuse at home. Please help us build a healthier, safer Troy by donating through the QR code below.

Mark Gunn, Troy City Council

provides resources to families to help prevent substance abuse at home. The coalition provides medication disposal packets to allow for easier disposal of unused or expired medications. We also provide tamper resistant seals for alcohol bottles in order for parents to prevent underage drinking at home. Lastly, we provide locking bags which allow for safe storage of medications, tobacco or nicotine products, and marijuana products.

This holiday season help us achieve our goal of a healthy substance abuse free Troy whereindividuals, families, and businesses can thrive.

Mark Gunn with Abigail Tyner, Executive Director TCC.
ABOVE: Operation Blue Sleigh organizers pose together for a photo with Santa.
LEFT: Gifts are piled up at the Troy Police Department for Operation Blue Sleigh.
Photos provided by Greg Pokley

Calendar

Main Street in Rochester, rrc-mi.com/christmasparade, facebook.com/rrcchristmasparade

ONGOING

The Big, Bright Light Show: See downtown buildings illuminated from 5 p.m.-midnight until Jan. 18, (248) 656-0060, downtownrochestermi.com

Visit Santa: Bring own camera to free event, select dates and times until Dec. 24, The Village of Rochester Hills, 104 N. Adams Road, thevorh.com/events

Model railroad exhibit: Presented by Stoney Creek Model Railroad Club, on display noon-4 p.m. Nov. 28-30 and Dec. 6, 13-14, 20-21 and 26-30, Calf Barn at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills.org/musprograms

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

• Lunches at 1:30 p.m. every second Thursday of month, Alibi of Troy, 6700 Rochester Road, RSVP to Louise at (248) 338-6743, widowedfriends.com

Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line danc-

ing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS

Monthly book clubs: Find meetups for romance, mystery, learning English, kids/beginners and more, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, troypl.org

• Silent Book Club-Troy meets 6:30-8:30 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, bring own books, ebooks and audio books (with headphones), Grand Tavern Troy, 1317 Coolidge Highway, silentbookclubtroy@ gmail.com, silentbook.club/blogs/events/troy-mi

Troy Newcomers: Social group for women, activities include service projects, bowling, euchre, wine tasting, book club, games nights, golf, scrapbooking and more, meets at various times and locations, clubactivities@ troynewcomers.com, troynewcomers.com

Top of Troy Toastmasters: Weekly meetups to improve public speaking and leadership skills, noon-1 p.m. Mondays, Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road, (248) 872-6603, johnlynn910@gmail.com

MI Options Medicare Assistance Program: Get free unbiased counseling during enrollment period (ends Dec. 7), one-on-one appointments available by phone, virtually or in person, (248) 262-0545, find locations at ageways.org/calendar

HAMLIN PUB

Girl Botz

from page 1A

After attending the event, Bunao realized the value of having an all-girls team since the Troy School District didn’t have one yet. They reached out to school officials to get started.

The current team consists of Kora Locke, Anwitha Vemuri, Alissa Mutia, Jianna Cruz, Raksha Reddy, Keerthana Chandra, Haneul Kim, Varna Jayaraman, Aarohi Sonar and Merril Sanchez. Bunao and her husband Ed lead the group, along with Varun Jayaraman.

Chandra joined because of an interest in robotics she shares with her sister.

“She’s in high school right now, and ever since I was little, I would help out her robotics team and I was really inspired to always do robotics,” Chandra said.

“One of the things I was really interested in was coding, and one of things I also learned from like a pretty young age is that STEM is a very male-dominated field … so I really wanted to empower girls to go into this field. That’s when

I learned there was an all-girls team at Larson Middle School, and that’s why I decided to join.” Kim described how she found out about Girl Botz.

“I was always interested in STEM, but I didn’t really know where to start. There was an informational night for this school, and Girl Botz was there explaining to people what they were — what they really did — and when I saw that, I just felt inspired,” Kim said. “I just thought I would feel very welcomed if it was an all-girls team, and I’d be more supported.”

Jayaraman has been interested in robotics since the second grade. Over the years, she has gone to many of her brother’s robotics competitions and outreach events.

“When I did go to these competitions, I wouldn’t see many females in the robotics scene,” Jayaraman said. “I would usually just see boys, and that kind of interested me in girls in STEM, and how that could also make a big impact in the STEM field.”

Girl Botz is part of an organization called FIRST, an acronym that means “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.” Bu-

See GIRL BOTZ on page 17A

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Photo provided by Girl Botz
During Troy Historic Village’s Troy Traffic Jam, the Girl Botz team contributed to the event through STEM and robot demonstrations, partnering with their lead youth mentor and Gold Award Girl Scout, Ava Bunao, to create 340 safety kits.

Blue Light

page 1A

job, who are out there on these cold winter nights,” said Corey Haines, the police chief of Eastpointe and new mayor of Madison Heights.

The event’s name is derived from the practice of placing a blue light or red light in one’s front window or porchlight, which shows support for police and fire, respectively.

“It’s just heartwarming to see the lights in people’s homes, and very comforting to know we have their support,” Haines said.

Edwin Julian, the public information officer for the Troy Police Department, said via email that public safety work involves personal sacrifice during the holiday, like sometimes missing dinners, kids’ events and family gatherings.

“And yes, leaving your own family celebration to go help someone through an emergency can be emotionally tough, but it’s what we do,” Julian said. “When someone calls for help, we want to be there.

“Even with the challenges, we try to make the best of it,” he added. “Officers look out for each other, bring in food, and find small ways to keep spirits up during the holiday season. The community also often brings

in treats or foods to the department, which is a welcome sight after working out in the cold or in the middle of the night.”

The Project Blue Light ceremony features a wreath presentation and Roll Call of Heroes, with flowers placed by department members and family of the fallen. Special lighted wreaths are given to the families of officers who died this year. There will also be drums and pipes, prayers and poems, speeches and other tributes.

In 2025, the Roll Call of Heroes includes three men who made the ultimate sacrifice:

• Capt. Brent Kostanko, Ann Arbor Fire Department. Last alarm: Jan. 29, 2025.

• Officer Kelvin O. Patrick, Detroit Police Department. End of watch: Feb. 6, 2025.

• Capt. Jeremy Watkins, Dearborn Fire Department. Last alarm: March 2, 2025.

Debbie Swofford is the organizer of the event, which is now in its 22nd year.

“It is also our chance to support the families and live up to the pledge made with the loss of each hero — that we ‘never forget,’” she said in an email.

Julian notes that officers with the Troy Police Department usually see an increase in certain types of calls during the holiday season, such as shoplifting, domestic disputes,

See BLUE LIGHT on page 19A

CRIME WATCH

Dirt bike stolen

TROY — Between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. Nov. 2, a man from Jarman Street reported his Husqvarna FC450 dirt bike had been stolen from his garage by an unknown suspect.

Road rage incident

TROY — Officers were dispatched to the area of John R and Square Lake roads for an assault in progress resulting from a road rage incident around 10:50 a.m. Nov. 2.

The suspect was a Washington Township man, 43, who fled the scene. Officers found the victim — a 48-year-old Macomb man — lying unresponsive next to his vehicle. He was transported to the hospital with a head injury.

Witnesses told police that the suspect had exited his vehicle at the intersection and approached the victim’s vehicle, hitting him and kicking him multiple times before fleeing.

The suspect was located near Big Beaver and Dequindre roads. He was taken into custody and faces a charge of aggravated assault.

Weapon, drug charges

TROY — Officers investigated a report of suspicious behavior around 9:30 p.m. Nov. 8 on Big Beaver Road after a witness saw a woman who appeared to be using drugs. The witness was concerned for the woman’s welfare and said she was accompanied by her boyfriend.

Police located the suspect vehicle, a 2006 Hummer. The woman mentioned a weapon belonging to her boyfriend and they located an unlicensed pistol. The boyfriend, a 59-year-old man from Las Vegas, was taken into custody. A second firearm was found in the backseat, along with a stun gun, various drugs and drug paraphernalia.

The woman, from Florida, was released at the scene. The man was charged with two counts of carrying a concealed weapon and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

Uncivil behavior

TROY — Officers were dispatched to the BP gas station at 2989 Crooks Road around 1:08 a.m. Nov. 2 on a report of a man screaming at the store clerk. The witness said the man appeared to be intoxicated, slurring his words and stumbling.

Police arrived and saw the suspect exiting the parking lot in his 2023 Chevrolet Corvette. He was stopped after police witnessed multiple traffic violations. The suspect, a 30-year-old man from Detroit, failed

several sobriety tests and registered 0.126% on a breath test. He was arrested.

Drunken driver arrested after crash

TROY — Officers were dispatched to the area of northbound Interstate 75 and Coolidge Highway on report of a car crash causing injury around 11:20 p.m. Nov. 15.

Police spoke with the driver of a 2016 Chevrolet Impala with heavy crash damage and learned the driver had pulled over the shoulder of I-75 due to a flat tire when he was struck from behind by another vehicle. The Impala’s driver was bleeding from the head and transported to the hospital for medical care.

Officers observed the second vehicle — a 2010 Honda CR-V — overturned in the second lane of traffic. Its driver, a 24-year-old West Bloomfield woman, said she was not injured, and she refused medical evaluation. Officers noted she reeked of alcohol. She failed several sobriety tests and registered 0.13% during a breath test. She was arrested.

Bitcoin scam

TROY — On Nov. 12, a 43-year-old woman told police that she had been contacted by multiple phone numbers where the caller claimed she had missed jury duty and now had a warrant out for her arrest. The caller claimed to be a sheriff and instructed her to pay funds in Bitcoin to rectify the situation, depositing them at a local Bitcoin ATM. She did as she was instructed before realizing it was a scam.

Car break-ins at mall

TROY — Between 2:52 p.m. and 3:13 p.m. Nov. 14, officers responded to a situation reported by mall security in the south lot of Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver Road.

A 2024 Ford F-150 had been found with a broken driver’s side rear window. The owner said its contents had been rifled through, but nothing appeared missing. Officers then learned of a second vehicle with damage, this one in the Nordstrom parking lot.

The second vehicle was a 2015 GMC Sierra and had a broken driver’s side rear window. Multiple items were stolen, including a driver’s license, $2,300 in cash, a debit card, several company checks, and $1,200 worth of wine.

Vehicle stolen

TROY — A resident on Merrick Drive told police that their 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS and 2025 Lincoln Navigator were both stolen from their driveway sometime between midnight and 5:35 a.m. Nov. 10.

If you know more about these crimes or others, call Troy Police at (248) 524-3477.

— Sarah Wright

He built two of the three doghouses in his garage with the help of a few fellow scouts.

“The beneficiary asked me to build doghouses for large breeds,” Rankin said. “For needy families, they needed to be insulated and off the ground to keep the dogs warm during the winter.”

The donations were all dropped off at the shelter late last month.

“I felt like I was giving back to the com-

munity, and it also felt rewarding that my efforts will help a lot of dogs and cats who don’t have a home yet,” Rankin said.

Staff at the shelter appreciated Rankin’s efforts.

“We are very proud of Shawn and his project of building doghouses,” said Joanie Tool, chief with the Oakland County Animal Control and Pet Adoption Center, via email.

“These houses will help families in need within our community provide shelter for their beloved family pet.”

For more information, visit oakgov.com/ community/pet-adoption.

CITY OF TROY

THE 2025 BOARD OF REVIEW FOR THE CITY OF TROY WILL MEET AT CITY HALL ASSESSING DEPARTMENT 500 WEST BIG BEAVER ROAD ON:

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

2:00pm – 3:00pm

Be advised that the City of Troy, 2025 Board of Review will be in session on the above date and time at City Hall in the Assessing Department, 500 West Big Beaver – Troy, Michigan – (248) 524-3311. The purpose of this meeting is to review qualifed errors including clerical errors and mutual mistakes of fact for the 2025 City of Troy Assessment Roll. This notice is hereby posted as required by Section 4 of the Open Meetings Act (MCLA 15.261 et seq.).

NOTICE: Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in this meeting should contact the City Clerk at (248) 524-3316 or by email at clerk@troymi.gov at least two working days in advance of the meeting. An attempt will be made to make reasonable accommodations.

POSTED: November 13, 2025

PUBLISHED: November 13 & 25, 2025

Published: Troy Times 11/25/2025 0139-2548

RETURNS

Friday December 12, 6:00pm-8:30pm Saturday December 13, 10:00am–1:30pm & 6:00pm-8:30pm

Tickets:

In advance: THS Member: $10 | Non-Member: $12 At the door: THS Member: $12 | Non-Member $14

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Experience Christmas during the Victorian Era at the Village with costumed reenactors as they play games, decorate, and exchange gifts.

Can’t make this program? Join us for Longest Night in the Village!

at www.TroyHistoricVillage.org Victorian Christmas

Pokley a wish list which he then sends over to the sponsors.

“I recommend (to the sponsors) sending roughly $100 per person that is in the family. I divide the families into small, medium, and large so that way the sponsors can pick what size they want, because it will give them an idea of what their budget will be,” he said.

Once all of the gifts are collected from the sponsors, the Troy Police Department hand delivers the gifts to the families at home on Dec. 22.

“We get a bunch of police cars, and we have some large vehicles that are blue, and we load up the vehicles and deliver them to each house that morning,” he said. “The officers get a kick out of that. They love doing that.”

During this time the Troy Police Department is also accepting donations, including money and gift cards. He said they recommend grocery store gift cards.

“We know that the kids, sometimes their best meal is when they are at school, and over the holidays, when they are on break, they don’t get that same food,” he said. “So we ask for grocery store gift cards, and we provide those families with gift cards as well as the sponsors providing the gifts.”

‘No Child Without a Christmas’

In St. Clair Shores, the Goodfellows have been providing holiday help for 99 long years, according to president of the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows organization, Mike Cook. The Goodfellows motto is “No Child Without a Christmas.”

Each year, the Goodfellows gather volunteers to sell newspapers on city street corners and collect food donations from the surrounding schools.

The newspaper sale is always on the first Saturday in December, which this year is Dec. 6. Volunteers fill the streets from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. selling newspapers for donations.

With the money collected from the newspaper sale, Goodfellows volunteers purchase food and gift cards.

Schools around St. Clair Shores also collect nonperishable items to donate, according to Cook. That food is then put into

food baskets that are delivered by volunteers to needy families in the St. Clair Shores area.

“We collect nonperishable food through the holidays and then we have a help line that needy families can call and request help, and we interview those families and for every child under the age of 16 we give out a gift card so that parents can go buy Christmas presents for the kids,” he said. “Along with that on Christmas Eve morning, we take the food that was collected by all of the schools and deliver that to the needy families on Christmas Eve morning.”

Cook said that the food baskets even include turkeys to ensure the families have a full Christmas meal.

“We want them to have everything they need for a Christmas dinner so we go out and purchase turkeys so they have turkeys and stuffing and cranberries and all of the good stuff to go along with it, so they can have a nice Christmas dinner,” he said.

Cook said that prospective families that need Christmas help can call the Goodfellows hotline at (586) 980-0400. They start taking calls the day after Thanksgiving.

Being such a big part of these families’ lives is a heartwarming experience according to Cook, who has been with the Goodfellows for around 38 years now.

“Everybody deserves to have a nice Christmas. All children deserve to have a nice Christmas. It’s heartwarming when we can show up at someone’s house on Christmas Eve morning and bring them food and bring them the things they need, you know, maybe for some reason, they are less fortunate that year,” Cook said. “It doesn’t mean they are bad people, or they have had issues. Something has happened in their life that they need help. They may have lost their job, had an injury, they may have been hospitalized for something. So they have had an event in their life that they need assistance. And if we can help them just to brighten their day a little bit, it makes it all worthwhile.”

For more information about the Troy Police Department, go to troymi.gov. For more information about Goodfellows organizations in metro Detroit, go to detroit goodfellows.org.

For Christmas help from the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows, call (586) 980-0400. Donations can be made at any time at the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows, located at 26700 Harper in St. Clair Shores.

Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.

Girl Botz

nao said that Girl Botz is not simply about making robots; it’s also about how the experience develops the skills and character of the girls.

“Aside from the technical skills and coding skills, we also do meaningful projects — technical and non-technical,” Bunao said. “We do a lot of projects, not only locally, but nationally and internationally.”

For competitions, the girls delegate their duties for each project, with tasks such as designing, coding and building. Their robots tackle different challenges, and they have already won multiple awards, including the Inspire Award, the Connect Award, the Motivate Award, the Think Award, the Control Award and the Compass Award.

Girl Botz has also developed a reputation for helping other teams, both inside and outside the Troy School District, contributing to some of the awards they’ve won. That even takes the form of providing teams with water, treats and feminine products when a competition is underway.

“Right now, a lot of teams — even not from Larson, but from other schools — (they) come to us for mentorship, and we

don’t mind,” Bunao said. “Like, we compete, but then we are also uplifting others.”

The team has also been involved in community outreach events, ranging from booths promoting the STEM field to demonstrations at the Troy Public Library and other venues, including the Philippine-American Community Council of Michigan.

Girl Botz also collected new toys for the Ennis Center for Children and volunteered with the Tina M. Houser Food Pantry, among other charitable efforts.

Girl Botz hopes to continue its record of hard work and community service throughout the current competitive season. The team leaders say they also want the kids to have a good time, regardless of where they place in each contest.

“We want them to enjoy the tournament, win or lose,” Bunao said.

The team is currently full, but continues to keep an eye on the elementary schools and other middle schools for potential recruits, should a spot open up. Some previous members even act as mentors to current ones.

For more information, visit ftc22918. weebly.com, instagram.com/22918_girlbotz and the team’s YouTube channel by searching “GirlBotz22918.”

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

Photo provided by Girl Botz
Girl Botz members worked with other Troy robotics teams to support the Humane Society of Macomb by creating homemade dog and cat toys, gathering essential supplies and raising funds to help rescue animals.

Cricket

from page 3A

with Rep. Sharon MacDonell (House District 56). According to the council meeting’s agenda report, the city of Troy applied for a state grant for the construction of the full-size cricket field and was approved for $900,000.

The grant requires the city to complete the project by the end of the current calendar year, and to have all expenses submitted to the state for reimbursement.

Boviensiep noted that they’re prepared to have a fully functional field by next spring, and the stand will be stored with the Troy Department of Public Works during the winter months.

“That field is literally in my backyard,

NOTICE

Troy Police Unclaimed Auto Auction

The following vehicles have been deemed abandoned / unclaimed by their owners. They will be offered for sale at a Public Auction on December 5, 2025 at 10:00am. The auction will be held at A & M Towing located at 2075 Austin Dr, Troy MI. Owners may redeem their vehicles until 9:00am on the day of the auction by paying all charges against the vehicle at A & M Towing. All vehicles are sold “as is” and must be removed within 24 hours. Any questions should be directed to the Troy Police Department Impound Management Team at 248-524-3469. Please note that we are unable to answer questions regarding the condition of specifc vehicles prior to the auction and we cannot respond to such inquiries.

2014HONDA ODYSSEY GRY 5FNRL5H61EB106809

2007RAM 1500 SIL1D7HU18247J586067

2007CHEVROLETSUBURBANBLK1GNFK16337J359561

2009MAZDA MZ6 BLK1YVHP82B595M01694

2004TOYOTA CAMRY RED4T1BE32K54U319415

2010NISSAN MAXIMABLU1N4AA5AP0AC832308

2006TOYOTA PRIUS SILJTDBK20U067076058

2010NISSAN MAXIMABLK1N4AA5AP7AC827381

2003 TOYOTA HIGHLANDERREDJTEHF21A430107640

2005CHEVROLETCOBALTSIL1G1AK52F857671100

2013CHRYSLER300 BLK2C3CCABT2DH710105

2011CHRYSLER200 BLU1C3BC1FB1BN615245

2001BUICK CENTURYGLD2G4WS52J411162951

2015CHEVROLETEQUINOXSIL2GNFLFEK5F6327516

2000HONDA ACCORDWHI1HGCG2251YA022903

2016CHEVROLETMALIBUWHI1G11C5SA0GF102137

2012JEEP PATRIOTWHI1C4NJPFA9CD657033

2006HONDA ACCORDBRO1HGCM66556A023737

2021CHEVROLETSPARK BLKKL8CD6SA0MC745127

2016CHEVROLETMALIBUSIL1G1ZE5ST4GF242917

UNKUNKNOWNTRAILERBLK56VBE1215KM651672

2011FORD FOCUS BLK1FAHP3FNXBW196232

2002CHEVROLETS10 BLK1GCCT19W728220032

so I go there almost every day just to walk, and it is coming up nice,” said Troy Mayor Pro Tem Hirak Chanda. “We had some setbacks as you described, but I think we’ll have

a pretty good opening next season.” For more information, visit troymi.gov. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT ADVERTISEMENT

The Board of Education of Troy School District will receive sealed Proposals for: RFP NUMBER 2526-16 – TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT ATHENS AND TROY HIGH SCHOOLS GYMNASIUMS RENOVATIONS

There will be a Non-Mandatory pre-bid meeting on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 11:00 am Local Time, located at Athens High School, 4333 John R Road, Troy, MI 48085. Meet at Door #1 (main entrance) located on the east side of the building, south end. If a bidder would like to visit the site at another time, please contact Mark Paulus via email at lecoleplanners3@ gmail.com or via phone at (248) 880-6791. Sealed proposals should be submitted through Buildingconnected.com with the following link: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5cc9d7f637c1a90018cb55dc. No physical bids will be accepted in person or via delivery service. Bids are to be submitted no later than 11:00 AM Local Time WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2025. The District will not consider or accept a bid received after the date and time specifed for bid submission. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids with the following virtual meeting link: meet.google.com/fog-qhcf-ddb or phone number (720) 248-0736 PIN 182 468 374#. No oral, email, telephonic, or telegraphic proposals shall be considered.

Each Proposal must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the owner or any employee of the contractor and any member of the Board of Education or the Superintendent of Troy School District. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized disclosure statement.

Each Proposal must also be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement certifying that the contractor is not an Iran Linked Business. The Board of Education will not accept a Proposal that does not include this sworn and notarized statement.

Troy School District’s Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Proposals, either in whole or in part, to waive any informalities or irregularities therein, or to award the contract to other than the contractor(s) submitting the best fnancial Proposal (low bidder), in its sole and absolute discretion.

Additional bid information can be found at www.troy.k12.mi.us/departments/business-services/purchasingbids

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Published: Troy Times 11/25/2025

YEAR MAKE MODEL COLOR VIN

2015CHEVROLETEQUINOXWHI1GNFLHEKXFZ104016

2011DODGE CHALLENGERORG2B3CJ5DT9BH558120

2013CHEVROLETCAPTIVASIL3GNFL2EKXDS517044

2017TOYOTA PRIUS GRY JTDKDTB37H1594386

2008FORD ESCAPEBLK1FMCU03178KB85052

2006JEEP LIBERTYSIL1J4GL58K86W100517

2012MERCEDESC300 BLKWDDGF8BB5CR224512

2010BUICK LUCERNESIL1G4HC5EM0AU126951

2009HONDA CR-V GRNJHLRE48779C014042

2021KIA K5 RED5XXG64J29MG031949

2006CHEVROLETTRAILBLAZERWHI1GNDT13SX62270790

2007FORD F150 BLK1FTRX14W37FA72759

2009FORD ESCAPESIL1FMCU03G69KD14436

2007HYUNDAI ACCENTPURKMHCM36C17U017103

2008CADILLACESCALADEBLK1GYFK63878196805

2018CHEVROLETMALIBUSIL1G1ZD5ST7JF101690

2015VW PASSATWHI1VWAT7A35FC101469

2010NISSAN MAXIMABLU1N4AA5AP0AC832308

1995DODGE RAM 1500 GRY 3B7KC23WXSM139757

2002TOYOTA RAV 4 GRY JTEHH20V720178974

2001DODGE CARAVANSIL1B4GP25B01B119332

2016RANGE ROVEREVOQUESILSALVP2BG7GH088590

2009SATURN VUE SIL3GSCL93Z89S508018

2010DODGE CARAVANSIL2D4RN4DE2AR429477

POSTED: November 19, 2025

PUBLISHED: November 25, 2025 Published: Troy Times 11/25/2025

0371-2548

M. Aileen Dickson, MMC, MiPMC 3 City Clerk
The cricket field at Boulan Park in Troy continues to see updates before the upcoming spring season.
Photo by Erin Sanchez

Blue Light

and increased traffic crashes due to weather or people traveling in a hurry.

“It’s not that every day is chaotic, but I would say there is an uptick in activity compared to quieter times of the year,” Julian said.

Officials say events like the Project Blue Light ceremony provide a boost to their morale. The rigors of the job can take a toll on their mental health, as they often see people on their worst days in life — from victims of violence and abuse to people who lost their homes in a fire. The occasional brush with death can also lead to post-traumatic stress disorder and thoughts of suicide.

The Eastpointe police chief spoke to the pressure facing officers.

“When you’re out on patrol, there’s no such thing as a routine traffic stop,” Haines said. “Maybe it’s for speeding or running a red light, but we don’t know who the driver is or where they’re coming from. Did they just rob a bank or a party store? Only the driver knows what they did prior to that stop. And while most of the time everything goes well, it’s the times when it doesn’t that gives us pause. Our officers are going into the unknown.”

The event’s history in Hazel Park start-

ed in 2003 when Bob Williams — then the priest of St. Justin Church, the original venue, and the chaplain for the Hazel Park Police Department — led a service with Project Blue Light following the death of Jessica Nagle-Wilson.

Nagle-Wilson, a Hazel Park police officer, was killed in July 2002 while responding to a complaint that a neighbor wouldn’t leash his dog. Nagle-Wilson didn’t know a simple request would prompt the man to shoot her with a 12-gauge shotgun.

She died from a wound to the neck while the suspect survived. He was later sentenced to life in prison. Nagle-Wilson was only 26 at the time of her death; she had been a patrol officer in Hazel Park for less than two years. She was also a newlywed who had married another officer.

The incident has haunted the Hazel Park Police Department ever since.

“Fr. Bob has passed on, but the service continues in Hazel Park,” said William Hamel, the police chief of Hazel Park, in an email. “Project Blue Light is a time for everyone to take a moment to remember the first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and to support their survivors.”

Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046. Call Staff Writer Sarah Wright at (586) 498-1068.

In person from 9-12pm or virtually from 9am-4pm. Please RSVP for appointment.

BLACK FRIDAY ONLY

NOVEMBER 28th

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Indecent exposure reported

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to the Walmart at 2500 S. Adams Road on a report of an indecent exposure at 9:59 p.m. Oct. 17. Deputies gathered further information from the complainant, a store employee who was working in the women’s section of the store. The woman approached a male customer to see if he needed assistance and noticed his genitals were exposed. She immediately notified store security. Security footage shows the male exposing his genitals. It appears that the suspect flees into Subway, which is a separate business located within the store. Deputies arrived and searched the area, with negative results. Detectives were investigating.

Worker caught exposing his privates

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies responded to the Walmart at 2500 S. Adams Road on a report of an indecent exposure that had just occurred at 2:42 p.m. Oct. 19.

The caller stated that an unknown male was exposing his genitals while she was in the store. Deputies arrived on scene and contacted the woman, who said a male had been following her through the store, and she noticed he had his genitals exposed out the front of his pants. Deputies contacted loss prevention officers and learned that the incident had been caught on video. A review of the camera footage revealed that the suspect was an employee of Subway, which is a business located inside of Walmart. Deputies located the suspect in the store and placed him under arrest. The suspect, a 17-year-old male from Pontiac, was transported to Oakland County Children’s Village pending a hearing.

‘LIAR’ scraped into car door

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Emagine Rochester Hills, 200 Barclay Circle, on the report of destruction to a vehicle at 7 p.m. Oct. 25. The complainant, a 25-year-old woman from Pontiac, stated that her 2015 Chevrolet Impala was damaged with a key while she was watching a movie. The damage occurred between 7 and 9 p.m. Oct. 14. When she returned to her vehicle after the movie, she observed there was damage to the driver’s side door.

Deputies found damage to both the driver’s side doors and on the driver’s side of the hood. The word “LIAR” was scraped into the driver’s side door.

Deputies obtained camera footage of the south side parking lot but were unable to locate the complainant’s vehicle in the footage. Police said there were some blind spots in the footage, and the video quality was very poor. The complainant received a quote to repair the damage at $3,400. The complaint was under investigation.

Man arrested following hit-and-run accident

ROCHESTER HILLS — A hit-and-run accident occurred near the intersection of M-59 and Adams Road, with the victim actively following the suspect vehicle at 11:59 p.m. Oct. 28. The victim, an off-duty Oakland County sheriff’s deputy, continued to follow the suspect to a residence in Shelby Township.

Responding deputies contacted the suspect, a 33-year-old man from Shelby Township, who remained seated in his vehicle. The observing deputy noted that the suspect had glassy eyes and slurred speech, and smelled of intoxicants. The driver refused to participate in field sobriety and preliminary breath tests and was taken into custody for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. During the inventory search of the vehicle, deputies discovered a loaded and unsecured firearm. A search warrant was obtained to collect a blood sample. The suspect was then arrested and lodged at the Oakland County Jail.

Men steal items from store

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to Dick’s Sporting Goods, at 1290 S. Rochester Road, on a report of a retail fraud at 11:57 a.m. Oct. 31.

The store employee stated that three men, between 40 and 50 years old, entered and went to the Nike clothing section, where they started grabbing as much clothing as they could carry before running out of the store. The store employee estimates that over $3,000 in merchandise was stolen. The store employee observed the suspects entering a black Chevrolet Trax. Police were investigating.

Vehicle crashes into business

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — At 1:41 p.m. Nov. 6, Bloomfield Township police and fire personnel responded to a report of a vehicle crashing into a building at Thai Taste to Go, 3955 Telegraph Road.

First-arriving units confirmed a passenger vehicle had crashed into the storefront, causing substantial structural damage. Six patients were assessed by Bloomfield Township fire and EMS and West Bloomfield Township EMS. Five patients were taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

One individual was treated at the scene and released.

A 77-year-old woman from Bloomfield Hills operated the vehicle. The cause of the crash was under investigation by the Bloomfield Township Police Department. Fire personnel secured the utilities, and representatives from the Bloomfield Township Building Department and Water Department assessed the building’s structural damage. Businesses within the shopping center were to be closed until repairs were completed and safety was reassessed.

AND NOTES NEWS

ANTI-BULLYING PROGRAMMING CONTEST UNDERWAY

METRO DETROIT — Detroit-area Planet Fitness franchisees, EPIC Fitness Group and Impact Fitness Group, and the Detroit Red Wings have again teamed up for its third annual Shut Out Bullying contest, offering one school or youth organization $10,000 in funding for anti-bullying programming.

The contest opened Nov. 2 and concludes at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 21. Educational institutions and youth organizations throughout Michigan serving students in grades K-12 are invited to apply by completing a short entry form and answering questions about their current or proposed bullying prevention initiatives.

The 2026 winner will be honored during a special on-ice presentation on Jan. 18, 2026, prior to the Red Wings vs. Ottawa Senators game at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. For full contest details, eligibility requirements, and the application form, visit DetroitRedWings.com under the Fans contest page. A direct link to the contest page can also be found here: DetroitRedWings. com/ShutOutBullyingContest.

Future movie makers sought

METRO DETROIT — Emagine Entertainment and Folktellers Studios have partnered to invite young readers to bring stories to life on the big screen in a storytelling and literacy initiative that blends reading, imagination, and movie magic.

The program invites students to dive into Josef Bastian’s award-winning seven-book series, “Excerpts from an Unknown Guidebook.” After reading the books, participants will create their own three-minute movie trailers inspired by the series’ characters, worlds, and themes. Folktellers Studios and Emagine will distribute program kits and connect with classrooms and community groups across the region to make the program accessible to as many young storytellers as possible. The program is open to elementary and middle school aged students and to educators, schools, and community organizations in Michigan. Program registration began Nov. 3 at folktellersforliteracy.com.

attempt made to cash it at bank

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 28, officers were dispatched to the 6600 block of Cathedral Drive for a mail theft report. A woman reported that between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. she had placed an envelope with a check in the mailbox to be sent out.

At 12:05 p.m. she noticed the mailbox was open, the flag was still up, and the envelope was missing. She contacted her postal service driver, who stated they had not picked up the envelope.

On Oct. 30, an unknown female attempted to cash the check at a bank in Ferndale. This case was turned over to the Bloomfield Township Police Investigations Unit and was under investigation.

Three juveniles, 1 adult arrested for retail fraud

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately noon on Oct. 28, officers were notified by staff at a clothing store near the 100 block of South Old Woodward of a possible retail fraud incident in progress.

Shortly after arriving on scene, officers identified and arrested two 16-year-old suspects, a 17-year-old suspect and a 24-year-old suspect, all from Detroit.

The suspects had stolen approximately $3,772 worth of merchandise. An investigation was ongoing.

Suspects steal from local gym

BIRMINGHAM — On Oct. 23, at approximately 10 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of East Brown for a report of retail fraud that happened at a nearby gym. An unknown male and female who were not members had entered at approximately 7 p.m. on Oct. 22.

The suspects entered both the men’s and women’s locker rooms, checking for unlocked lockers in an attempt to steal items. After leaving the locker rooms, they took a water bottle from a nearby cooler and stole an article of clothing from the front lobby.

The suspects then exited the gym without paying for either item. The investigation was ongoing.

Drunken driver strikes multiple vehicles

TROY — Around 9:40 p.m. Oct. 22, officers were dispatched to the Golfview Drive area for a possible drunken driver, reported to be in a 2016 Jeep Patriot that struck multiple vehicles.

Upon arrival, officers located the vehicle and noted it had heavy crash damage from hitting a parked vehicle. Officers spoke with the driver, a 53-year-old Troy man, and noted he had slurred speech and that he reeked of alcohol.

sobriety tests, but he reportedly performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.162%. He was arrested.

FTC scam

TROY — Around 7:30 p.m. Oct. 27, an 85-yearold man from Walker Drive reported that he was contacted by phone by someone claiming to be from the Federal Trade Commission, informing him he was under investigation for money he owed. He was directed to go to his bank and withdraw funds. After doing this, the victim was then told to put the money in a shoebox, and that someone would pick up the box from his house. That evening, a man came to the house to pick up the box. The victim realized it was a scam when they continued to ask for more money.

Vehicle crashes into building TROY — Around 5:30 p.m. Oct. 27, officers were dispatched to the Woodside Trail area for a vehicle that crashed into a building. Upon arrival, they observed a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox crashed into the west side of the residence.

Officers spoke with the driver, a 45-year-old Troy woman, and noted she had glassy eyes, was unsteady on her feet and slurring her words. She also refused medical treatment on scene.

Officers spoke with witnesses and determined

of the second vehicle was transported to the hospital with injuries.

Officers spoke with the driver of the Lexus, a 50-year-old man from Shelby Township, and noted his speech was slurred and he was swaying while standing. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which he did, but the officers noted he performed poorly. He submitted to a preliminary breath test with a result of 0.186%. He was arrested.

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