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DECEMBER 17, 2025 • Vol. 22, No. 26

Defendant in Orchid Theatre shooting found not guilty BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com

See HAMMONDS on page 5A

Department of Public Works Deputy Director Michael Olson stands in front of nearly 20 feet of salt at the city of Ferndale’s salt barn on Cambourne Street. Photo by Liz Carnegie

Ferndale, Berkley ready for snow after first fall BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com

FERNDALE/BERKLEY — The snowfall hit southeast Michigan a bit earlier than some cities anticipated, but Ferndale and Berkley were ready to battle the inclement weather. While it wasn’t a heavy snowfall, the concerns about the

weather last week were enough to cancel school for the day on Dec. 10. Department of Public Works Director James Jameson said on Dec. 12 that the department had been getting ready for the snow for a while, but in the past several years, the city hadn’t been hit with snow this early into the winter season. See SNOW on page 4A

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FERNDALE — A man accused of being involved in a Ferndale nightclub shooting was found not guilty. Coreyonta Deshawn Hammonds, 29, was found not guilty on Dec. 10 on four counts related to a shooting at the Orchid Theatre, 141 W. Nine Mile Road. Hammonds’ attorney, Jeffrey Quas, could not be reached for comment before press time. The shooting outside the Orchid took place at approximately 12:30 a.m. April 13. According to police at the time, officers were conducting a foot patrol in the downtown area when they heard multiple gunshots fired. Police found a Warren man near the rear entrance of the Orchid who had been shot once, with a wound to the groin area. He was transported to a nearby hospital and released. “Investigators determined that the victim had

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SECOND FRONT PAGE Pleasant Ridge From the North Pole to Schiffer Park continues discussing regulation of short-term rentals 3A/ WOODWARD TALK • DECEMBER 17, 2025

BY MIKE KOURY

@WoodwardTalk facebook.com/woodwardtalk candgnews.com • (586) 498-8000

ABOVE: People welcome Santa Claus to Schiffer Park. He arrived via a ride from the Ferndale Fire Department. LEFT: Serenity Togger, 4, of Ferndale, lights up with a smile as she meets Santa Claus.

mkoury@candgnews.com

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

PLEASANT RIDGE — Pleasant Ridge’s discussion of short-term rentals in the city will continue. The topic of short-term rentals, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, has been ongoing in Pleasant Ridge over the course of the year. At its Dec. 9 meeting, the City Commission heard potential ideas on how to regulate shortterm rentals through an ordinance. City Manager James Breuckman said that a proposed ordinance would aim to “balance the ability of property owners to rent their homes with the need to preserve the residential character of neighborhoods and mitigate adverse impacts such as noise, parking congestion, and safety concerns,” a city document states. Residents who would want a short-term rental would have to apply for a license, which would be granted by the City Commission and be renewed each year. The occupancy limits would be two adults per bedroom and a total overnight occupancy of eight peo-

ABOVE: Kids had an opportunity to write letters to Santa Claus and put them in a mail box to be sent to the North Pole. LEFT: Savannah Creger, 9, Giovanni Cregar, 4, and Skyler Cregar, 7, of Ferndale, meet with Santa Claus.

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Snow

from page 1A

Jameson stated that Ferndale usually isn’t at 100% readiness until later in the winter season and that the DPW was still doing curbside leaf pickup until two weeks ago, so some of the trucks they use for plowing were in use for leaves. “We’ve always got kind of a staggered fleet at that point in time,” he said. “And then this week, we had extra snow coming. With the snow that we got the previous week, we were trying to convert as much as possible to snow and ice maintenance fleet. So, we’re pretty good on that. We’re actually pretty much at 100% readiness now, but typically that would not really even be necessary until closer to Christmas in a regular year.” Berkley Superintendent of Public Works Adam Wozniak said the city monitors the weather as it develops and tries to have its vehicles ready the season before. “Our mechanics are like a season ahead of going forward. So, if it’s leaf season, they’re already prepped and ready for our winter maintenance trucks to be ready for the wintertime, and then when the wintertime hits, they’re prepped and ready for springtime.” According to Jameson, Ferndale has 2,000 tons of salt in its barn, but the city can order more if needed. He believes they didn’t lay down any salt last winter until January. Likewise, Wozniak said Berkley has 2,000 tons of salt, which can fill 10 truckloads and that they share with Huntington Woods and the Berkley School District. “For a normal snowfall, no, we’re not going through that much salt,” Wozniak said. “It’s just good to have that much in stock in hand just in case we do have one of those long, lingering storms.” As far as how his workers handled the weather on Dec. 10, Jameson said it went well, though they had to declare a snow emergency one to two hours before they had to get cars off the street. “That’s not ideal, but when it happens it’s because conditions have changed rapidly,” he said. “In this case, we had about a four-hour window with which we would have had to plow every residential street. And the reason we declared it is because we knew that if we didn’t plow those streets, because of the temperature going up and then coming back down, it would have flash froze and then it would have made it impossible for us to clear the ice off the streets after that, because you can’t really plow ice. You plow snow and slush.” Wozniak’s crew got word around midnight on Dec. 10 that the weather was going to hit. For the first part of it he said they were shoving snow off their major roads and applying salt. When the snow started to fall harder, they stopped with the salt and just focused on scraping away all the snow. “You do your salt routes and plow routes that, once you do one route, you kind of circle around and hit it again and hit it again until once snow finally does taper down, then you can start reapplying salt again,” he said. “We really didn’t use much salt, but we still plow. We were out there trying to keep the roads safe for everybody.” Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.

ABOVE: When hit with a snowfall, the city of Ferndale will send out trucks like these to help keep the roads clear. LEFT: According to Ferndale, it has 2,000 tons of salt in its barn.

Photo by Liz Carnegie

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CRIME

WATCH Police investigate report of bomb threat

BERKLEY — Berkley police were called at 9:24 p.m. Nov. 23 to Ellwood Avenue for a report of a bomb threat. According to the report, a 63-year-old Berkley man called police to his home after he received a call from someone who made a bomb threat. The man told police he had made comments on a Facebook page earlier in the evening. Shortly after making the comments, he received a phone call from an unknown number. The caller, a man, stated that he knew his address and was going to come to his house and blow it up. The case is under investigation, but police believe they have a suspect, a 75-yearold man from Torrington, Connecticut. — Mike Koury

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

The shooting outside the Orchid Theatre on April 13 took place near the patio area, where the victim was found by police.

from page 1A

been standing in the patio area of the Orchid Theatre just prior to the shooting,” a press release stated at the time. “A vehicle approached the patio, and the victim walked toward the suspect vehicle. Investigators believe an exchange took place between the victim and the occupant of the vehicle, during which the suspect fired multiple shots, striking the victim.” Hammonds later was identified as a suspect using tools such as Flock Safety cameras, and he was arrested on May 23. He was charged with assault with intent to murder

and three counts of felony firearm. His case had been ongoing until his trial began on Dec. 8 After two days, the jury came back with a not guilty verdict. “As with every case, we respect the jury’s right to reach a verdict,” said Jeff Wattrick, public information officer with the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office. The Ferndale Police Department declined to comment on the case and verdict. According to the Oakland County Circuit Court’s website, a request has been sent to cancel Hammonds’ $500,000 conditional bond. Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.

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Rentals

from page 3A

ple. There would be a city cap of 12 licenses that could be distributed. Quiet hours would be enforced from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m., and there would be a ban on fireworks, open burning such as fire pits, subletting and commercial events such as yard sales. The owner of the short-term rental also must be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Civil infractions would range from $250 to $500 and escalate to a misdemeanor for repeat offenses and the possible revocation of a license. “People currently operating a shortterm rental would have a 90-day window following the effective date to apply for a license, and existing units that would be within that window would have some protections from the density limitations,” Breuckman said. “The biggest question in all of this, whether we license and limit or some other approach, the biggest question and challenge is enforcement, because this is, by and large, from an administrative standpoint, a slippery subject just in terms of where they’re advertised, how people operate them.”

Resident Tom Wilkinson felt the proposed regulations as written were thorough and addressed any concerns he had, though he would prefer if Pleasant Ridge had no short-term rentals at all. Wilkinson wanted the city to have any short-term rental listings to be listed and advertised as residential and a placard that lists the quiet hours, parking restrictions and contact numbers for the owner on call and emergency and non-emergency numbers. “Just so people can’t claim they didn’t know,” he said. “I know most people are pretty good. They put it in a notebook, but it’s on the back of the door. I think it could just make it a lot easier, and if something does happen, they don’t have to wonder, ‘Who do I call?’ Otherwise, I thought it’s very well done.” While Pleasant Ridge had no action required at the meeting, Commissioner Chris Budnik wanted to push back on the ordinance and, based on what he said he’s heard from residents, have the city look at allowing no short-term rentals. “Their perspective have been overwhelmingly consistent that short-term rentals do not align with what the community wants or what they value,” he said. “We’re a small, tight-knit community. People choose

PR for stability, predictability, neighborhood character, all those things we love, and I don’t see how short-term rentals fit within that value system.” Budnik added that regulating shortterm rentals is an operational burden with very little return and would be onerous on city staff. He felt that if there was strong community support and a clear upside, short-term rentals might be worth it, but he doesn’t see it in this case. “The benefits of (not) allowing shortterm rentals are … a little more substantial,” he said. “Maintaining a potential ban on them would strengthen the foundation of our neighborhoods. Those benefits include, but are not limited to, long-term residential stability rather than constant turnover of transient guests, noise, traffic, all the things we’ve talked about. Most importantly, maybe the neighborhood character is one of the reasons people come here. It’s why they buy a house here, why they put down roots here, raise a family. So, short-term rentals are, in my opinion, fundamentally at odds with who we are.” The City Commission directed city staff to look at the option of banning shortterm rentals, including looking at cities that have recently banned them, such as Dear-

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born Heights. Mayor Bret Scott didn’t feel as strongly about eliminating short-term rentals, as he said he’s spoken to mayors who have them where it works, and he’s spoken to mayors who have had them and they were horrible. “I’ve seen ordinances written for and against and sort of in the middle to try to regulate it in some fashion, and it’s a difficult thing because for a lot of communities, it is a new thing,” he said. “We are unusual in that we are so small that we don’t have a code enforcement office. So the notion of regulating some or none still requires work. None still requires a regulatory effort. We’ve had these conversations in the City Commission about other things where people have come in and asked for zero of something, and it’s a difficult conversation to have one way or the other.” Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.

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Wreaths laid at Berkley cemetery

BERKLEY — A ceremony from Wreaths Across America was held on Dec. 13 at Roseland Park Cemetery to honor and remember local veterans. The ceremony featured the laying of 430 remembrance wreaths on the graves of veterans interred at the cemetery, as well the playing of taps and a salute from a rifle squad. The event was coordinated by the Daughters of the American Revolution Three Flags Chapter with assistance from the Berkley American Legion Stanley J. Fons Post 374, the American Legion Coleman A. Young Post 202 of Detroit, and the Northwestern High School Junior ROTC Color Guard.

improvements, acquisitions and development,” DNR Director Scott Bowen said in a prepared statement. “Pathways, boardwalks, playgrounds, pools and more will be improved with this year’s Land and Water Conservation Fund grants, providing a valuable injection of funds into local communities for important recreation-related projects.” The grant funding will support projects that replace dilapidated play structures, restroom buildings, developing multiuse sport courts, outdoor community pools and more at local parks. One of the cities that will receive a grant is Ferndale, which will receive $150,000 for playground improvements at Martin Road Park.

Goodfellows seeking families or help

Berkley to have citizens academy

BERKLEY— The Berkley Goodfellows are seeking local families in need with children younger than 18 years old to benefit from donations. The donations to the Goodfellows go to Berkley residents in need during the holiday season, providing families with food, clothing and gifts. Anyone who knows a Berkley family in need can contact the Berkley Public Safety Dispatch Center at (248) 658-3380. All requests must be submitted by 7 p.m. Dec. 20. Donations also can be made via cash or check payable to Berkley Goodfellows at the Berkley Public Safety Department, 2395 W. 12 Mile Road.

Ferndale gets DNR grant

FERNDALE — The city of Ferndale is the recipient of a Michigan Department of Natural Resources grant for park upgrades. In a Dec. 9 press release, the department announced 13 community recreation facilities projects would be recommended to receive a combined $11.9 million in Land and Water Conservation Fund grants. “This year, the Land and Water Conservation Fund is directing just under $12 million in federal funds through the state of Michigan to local park

BERKLEY — The Berkley Public Safety Department will be hosting a seven-week Citizens Public Safety Academy for Berkley residents and business owners. The classes will be held every Tuesday from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Jan. 13 to March 3 at the Berkley Public Safety building, 2395 W. 12 Mile Road. “The Citizens Public Safety Academy provides an opportunity for residents to become familiar with the mission and operation of the Berkley Department of Public Safety,” the city’s website states. “The intent of this program is to provide information that will help participants know what they can do to support efforts to maintain a safe environment in the City of Berkley.” The academy is free, but participants must attend all sessions to earn a certificate of completion. To qualify for the academy, residents must be 18 years or older and have no criminal record. Space is limited to the first 20 eligible applicants on a firstcome, first-served basis. For more information, contact Lt. Jordan Kobernick at (248) 658-3387 or jkobernick@berkleymi.gov. For more information, visit berkleypublicsafety.org/ citizens-academy.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR DEC. 18-21

‘The Phantom Tollbooth’: Show about boy whose boredom changes to adventure thanks to mysterious package he finds in his room, performed by Stagecrafters Youth Theatre, 7 p.m. Dec. 18-19, 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 20, and 2 p.m. Dec. 21, The Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in Royal Oak, (248) 541-6430, info@stagecrafters.org, stagecrafters.org

DEC. 19-20

‘Merry Cringemas’: Original holiday sketch show, 7:30 p.m., Go Comedy! Improv Theatre, 261 E. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, gocomedy.net

DEC. 19-21

‘Steel Poinsettias’: Holiday parody sequel to “Steel Magnolias,” 7 p.m. Dec. 19-20 and 3 p.m. Dec. 21, Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, (248) 545-5545, theringwald@gmail.com, theringwald.com, read story at candgnews.com Royal Oak Holidays: Final weekend of outdoor activities includes 40-plus ice sculptures on display, appearances by The Grinch, visits with Santa, and horse and wagon rides, downtown Royal Oak and Centennial Commons, see schedule at royaloakholidays.com, read story at candgnews.com

JAN. 21

Vape 101: Free one-hour training for students, parents, community members and organizations, learn about dangers of e-cigarettes and health consequences, safety and other concerns, also why youth use them and prevention resources, presented by Oakland County Michigan Health Division, noon-1 p.m., held virtually on Microsoft Teams, register at bit.ly/3LWBi4i, email arabon@oakgov. com with questions

ONGOING

Food drive: Hosted by city of Berkley and Berkley Cares Food Pantry, drop off unexpired nonperishable food and toiletry items in plastic or paper bag at any municipal building and Vibe Credit Union until Dec. 20, (248) 658-3333, communications@berkleymi.go, berkleycaresfoodpantry.com Art exhibit: “Think Small” features work by 100-plus multimedia artists, 1-5 p.m. Sundays, noon-5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and noon-9 p.m. Fridays until Dec. 29, Lawrence Street Gallery, 22620 Woodward Ave. (Suite A) in Ferndale, www.lawrencestreetgallery.com

To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own event, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.

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Ask the Low Vision Doctor

8A/ WOODWARD TALK • DECEMBER 17, 2025

Mark Tapper (left in the color photo), Howard Tapper, and Steve Tapper (left in the black-and-white photo) stand together in photos taken decades apart at Tapper’s Jewelry. The company was founded in 1977. Photos provided by Tapper’s Jewelry

John P. Jacobi, OD, FCOVD, FIALVS

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS TALK ABOUT LONGEVITY AND ITS SECRETS BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Customer service and treatment of employees are the keys to success, according to the owners of two local businesses that have flourished for decades. “I think we have built a company based on a certain ethical standard and we’ve treated our customers the right way, and we’ve acted with integrity and trust, and we’ve treated our team members the right way who in turn have really put in that additional effort and loyalty to help us grow,” said Mark Tapper, CEO of Tapper’s Jewelry. Tapper said his father, Howard Tapper, founded the company in 1977 because he believed many other jewelry businesses at the time were not focused on customer service. “He believed many jewelry stores were not operated in a customer-centric way. So, there were silly policies that were considered the norm in 1977 that today we would think

were kind of crazy, but he didn’t like how those businesses operated,” Tapper said. According to Tapper, some of the customer-service policies that his father was very innovative in changing included giving customers cash refunds and offering them a vast selection of complimentary gift wrapping for their purchases. “He was very value oriented. He wanted to make sure that the customer got tremendous value for the price that they were paying. So, he had a very large selection of merchandise, and he really tried to give the very, very best prices in metropolitan Detroit,” Tapper said. The first Tapper’s Jewelry store opened at 12 Mile Road and Northwestern Highway in front of a racquet club. Tapper said his dad chose that location due to the popularity of the sport at the time; he thought that customers would come in and look at jewelry on their way to or from the racquet club. That idea didn’t work out as well as his See BUSINESS on page 9A

Dr. Jacobi, my usual eye doctor said she could no longer improve my vision with regular eyeglasses or surgery, but I still struggle with everything from driving to reading. She told me that my sight wasn’t that bad, but it sure feels like it is having to look through these eyes. I have been told I have “low vision,” what does that mean? What could I hope for from a low vision evaluation? Mabel M

Great question! The first step is to determine how much actual vision or useable vision you have. In addition, we need to identify your needs. I find most patients who are struggling with poor vision due to various eye diseases, still have very useable vision when they are given the right eyewear. When it comes to identifying your needs, in your case you would need specific devices for driving and reading. Others may need assistance in other areas such as hobbies, mobility, television and even seeing faces. Having visual goals is important. In fact, one of the first things I ask my patients is what they would like to accomplish with improved sight. I even ask about activities they have given up due to their visual limitations. The only limitation for the solution is usually the motivation of the patient. It sounds like you are at the beginning stages of your low vision situation, which is mild to moderate, and feels very severe to you. Oddly enough this is one of the most difficult situations because the patient is coming to terms with a permanent, lowered visual status. Most doctors interpret the complaints at this point, normal and something the patient has to learn to live with. However, this is often the best time to see a low vision specialist such as myself, because the sooner you get the right eyewear, life will be easier. During the first appointment, I spend one hour with each patient in order to pinpoint the best optical solutions (beyond regular eyeglasses). Next, I will show you what it would look like with the vision restored by the new eyewear so you can determine if that will work for you. In other words, the patient will experience exactly how she will see with her prescribed devices before she leaves the office.

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Business from page 8A

father hoped it would, but he said his dad maintained a positive attitude. He said his father sold $1,100 worth of merchandise on that first day, and with rent being $1,000 his dad knew his business would survive another month. Today, Tapper’s Jewelry has four locations, including its headquarters in West Bloomfield; Novi, which opened in 2022; and two locations that recently expanded inside Somerset Mall in Troy. “For us it’s all about the customer — giving the very, very best customer experience possible,” Tapper said. “One of our core values is about spreading joy to our guests, and it’s just really, really important to us. As soon as a guest walks into one of our stores, it’s my expectation that they really get treated as if they were a guest in your own home. “We offer beverages, we try to make it a nice, warm and welcoming environment for everyone that comes in. Whether you are buying a $50 baptism gift or a $50,000 diamond, or selling us $200 in gold, our expectation is that everyone gets the same level of high service when they come in,” said Tap-

per. “So, I really think that is what has differentiated us throughout the years, as well as a reputation of being one of Michigan’s most trusted businesses.” Ryan McInerney, executive manager of Star Lincoln in Southfield, grew up in the car business. He said he started with the company at the age of 16 as a porter. His grandfather founded the company in 1970, one of approximately 30 dealerships around the country that Hoot McInerney owned. McInerney said that he believes the successful outcome of any business, including his, is determined by the people who work there. “From a baby onward, I was always around car people, and I always heard about how to treat customers, how to treat your employees, and, you know, doing business the right way,” said McInerney. “And really, I believe it’s all about relationships that you build with the employees, with whoever the corporate people are that you’ve got to deal with (from Ford Motor Co., in the case of Star Lincoln). You’ve got to treat people with kindness and respect, and I think that goes a really long way.” McInerney said they have also hired a very diversified staff that is in tune with the latest technology and brings a wide range of cultural knowledge and experiences. He said

that their current staff ranges in age from 18 to 80-plus. “I think that has really helped us at adapting to new technology and just really doing things the right way. But I really believe it’s about how you treat your employees and how you treat your customers, and that’s something that my grandfather instilled in all of us in the car business, and I really believe that,” McInerney said. McInerney and Tapper both emphasized treating people like family and being involved with the community in many ways, including donating to various charities. Tapper said that they once brought in a strategic business planner who asked them all a question about which comes first, family or business, and all of them answered independently — family. Therefore, they run their business as a family-centered operation. “It goes with community involvement, aligned with your marketing, aligned with business functions that you put on for your employees. Everything is kind of aligned, and I think that’s what’s really making things work for us, especially with the new business climate and the new world we’re in postCOVID,” Tapper said. Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.

Ryan McInerney, executive director of Star Lincoln in Southfield — the dealership is shown years ago in this photo — grew up in the car business founded in 1970 by his grandfather, Hoot McInerney. Photos provided by Ryan McInerney

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10A

Ferndale Pride to donate $30,000 in grant funding to local organizations BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com

FERNDALE — More than $30,000 will be given to local charities as part of the fundraising from this year’s Ferndale Pride. Ferndale Pride and the Ferndale Community Foundation announced that they would be handing out grants to 15 community organizations totaling $31,186.32. The grants were presented to the groups at the Dec. 15 City Council meeting, which occurred after the Woodward Talk went to press. Executive Director Julia Music said it’s always fantastic to have the ability to donate to these local organizations each year. “We really pushed to get all those funds in,” she said. “We had a lot of people step up in our community. … We were very happy with the amount. We had a lot of people step up and donate personally, and some new businesses come forward. And because of that, we were able to meet our goal.” Pride, which celebrated its 15th event earlier this year, handed out grants to Affirmations, ACCESS, Gender Identity Network, Matrix Human Services, TGDetroit

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and Transgender Michigan. The Community Foundation, which receives funds from Pride and private donations, provided grants to Detroit Hives; FernCare Free Clinic; Ferndale Community Concert Band; Ferndale Robotics Boosters; Friends of the Ferndale Library; Michigan Stage Playlabs; Motor City Possum Rescue; Renaissance Vineyard Food Pantry; and Sing Out Detroit. In total, the event has donated more than $500,000 in grants in its history. Community Foundation Treasurer Greg Pawlica said the organizations would request up to $2,500 in grant funding “It’s great that we’re able to give to so many different organizations for small projects that have big impact,” he said. “Some organizations ask for the full amount, the maximum amount, and some organizations, the projects are smaller, so they only ask for that which they need to fulfill the project. … The request varies depending on what the project for that organization is trying to fulfill.” Music said these grants are unrestricted, so the organizations can use them for anything. “Sometimes it’s very hard to get un-

an Pay s A me va nt ila bl e

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Over a dozen organizations received funding from this year’s Ferndale Pride event. File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

restricted funding for projects,” she said. “As far as the small groups go, I mean, those grant dollars have turned into major projects. So, we see these micro grants as a chance for major launching points for proj-

auren Koteles is a driven entrepreneur and respected leader in Southeast Michigan’s real estate community. As a licensed real estate agent with Real Estate One, she helps both buyers and sellers navigate one of life’s biggest decisions with confidence and care. Known for her strong communication skills, local expertise, and client-first approach, Lauren prides herself on creating smooth, successful transactions that turn clients into lifelong connections. Beyond real estate, Lauren is the owner of Plan A Home Watch, a certified and insured home-watch service dedicated to safeguarding vacant and seasonal properties across Michigan. Through detailed inspections, maintenance coordination, and personalized reports, she provides homeowners with peace of mind while they’re away. Whether it’s checking for leaks, coordinating repairs, or simply ensuring everything is secure, Lauren’s proactive approach keeps homes

ects just because of the lightness on restriction of what they’re allowed to do, and just really engaging with the community to make sure that … if they’re creating projects, they know funding is available.”

protected year-round. Her favorite tagline says it all: “When it comes to your home, don’t settle for a Plan B— choose Plan A.” Lauren’s commitment to her industry extends beyond her own businesses. She proudly serves as the President of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® – Greater Rochester Area, where she leads with vision and inclusivity. Under her guidance, the Council has focused on building stronger professional connections, supporting community involvement, and empowering women in real estate to grow both personally and professionally. Whether she’s helping clients buy or sell a home, inspecting a seasonal property, or hosting a community event, Lauren embodies professionalism, leadership, and heart. Her ability to balance entrepreneurship with service has made her a trusted name in Michigan real estate—and a role model for women in business everywhere.

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STERLING HEIGHTS SENTRY | WARREN WEEKLY | BIRMINGHAM-BLOOMFIELD EAGLE | FARMINGTON PRESS | MADISON-PARK NEWS

WOODWARD TALK • DECEMBER 17, 2025

12A

PREP BASKETBALL MATCHUPS TO WATCH SPORTS METRO DETROIT — Boys and girls high school basketball is back as programs all over Michigan aim to start the season on a high note. Games began for prep basketball at the start of December and now, to end the calendar year, teams are looking to win showcase and classic games before conference play begins.

Marquee Matchups

BOYS Hamtramck at Ferndale Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. PRIME Basketball Showcase at Ferndale The PRIME Basketball Showcase will be a great opportunity to highlight some of the best talent in Michigan early in the 2025 season. Hamtramck was a postseason team a year ago and Ferndale is led by one of the best prep players in the state. Junior forward Eden Vinyard has already gotten off to a solid start this season and will look to lead Ferndale to a postseason run while exploring his collegiate recruitment. GIRLS West Bloomfield at Detroit Mumford Dec. 21 at 5:30 p.m. Mount Clemens Classic at Mount Clemens High School Mount Clemens will host two postseason teams from a year ago in the school’s yearly classic. Detroit Mumford reached the second round of the District playoffs in 2024 and West Bloomfield established itself as one of the best teams in Michigan. West Bloomfield finished 2024 with a 19-9 record and went on an incredible run that got them to the final four, before a semifinal loss to eventual state champion Belleville.

Games to watch

BOYS Brother Rice vs. East Lansing Dec. 28 at 7:50 p.m. Motor City Roundball Classic at Ferndale Brother Rice is consistently one of the best teams in the state and will look to carry its momentum from a 22-3 season last year into the 2025 campaign. East Lansing is the defending state champion from 2024 after a 28-1 season.

Auburn Hills Avondale at Freeland Dec. 20 at 5 Louis O’Neal Classic at Saginaw Valley State University Avondale is coming off of a 16-8 season in 2024 where the team finished in second place in an always competitive OAA-Red Division. Freeland went 22-4 last season and made the state quarterfinals. Goodrich at Waterford Mott Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Corsairs Christmas Classic at Waterford Mott In 2024, Goodrich finished with a 19-6 record and made it to regionals. Waterford Mott, the host of the event, went 22-4 a year ago and made the regional finals before losing to a heavily publicized Orchard Lake St. Mary’s team. GIRLS Troy at Rochester Dec. 18 at 7:00 p.m. Troy and Rochester both played in postseason basketball a year ago, but Troy’s district win over Troy Athens was the only win between the two teams in 2024 postseason play. Rochester went 19-4 with a 10-0 divisional record last year and is looking to win the OAA-White Division for the second year in a row in 2025.

Dec. 21 at 8 p.m.

BOYS Carrollton vs. Harper Woods Dec. 19 at 5:30 p.m.

Troy Athens vs. Harper Woods Chandler Park Dec. 19 at 8:30 p.m. Saginaw Heritage vs. Clarkston

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Rochester Adams at Birmingham Groves Dec. 22 at 12:30 p.m. For more information on The D Zone Showcase visit basketball.thedzone.com. For schedules and scores of all prep games visit MHSAA.com.

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Grosse Pointe South vs Brother Rice Dec. 19 at 4:30 p.m. North Farmington Holiday Extravaganza No notes on this matchup.

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