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By Jenn Goeddeke

DR. BENAY DABNEY’S CAREER JOURNEY BEGAN AT NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AS AN UNDERGRADUATE, MAJORING IN BIOLOGY. DABNEY WAS IN THE PROGRAM WITH OTHER SCIENCE MAJORS, PRE-MED, AND ENGINEERING STUDENTS. A UNIQUE FLAVOR.

She had an interest in clinical medicine at the time. “I always had a good relationship with my dentist, so I thought that would be a neat profession.”

In 1975, Dabney applied to dental school at Ohio State University and was accepted. She came to MI in 1979 and worked for the public health system, plus taught classes at a dental school. In 1984, Dabney opened her first practice in the 8 Mile & Livernois area before moving to Oak Park in 1990. “It’s a nice community with a steady flow of patients. I love it here!” Dabney mentioned enjoying improvements along the 9 Mile Road stretch, especially the addition of landscaping, artwork, and bicycles.

ORIGINALLY THE OFFICE BUILDING WAS DIVIDED BETWEEN the dental practice side and the larger medical side. The first building owner was Dr. Stanley Sarter, who had built a breezeway to an adjacent house as an expansion. Subsequently, the building was owned by Dr. Roiter, who sadly passed away.

“My space was fairly small at that time, and it confined my practice a bit, but it was adequate.”

Five years ago, the building was up for sale. Dabney recalled with a smile, “Dr. Roiter’s wife told me that he had wanted me to buy it. The medical tenant moved his practice out. So, I bought the building and was also able to expand my practice, to encompass the whole building plus the neighboring house. The house has been a real asset. It serves as a break room for staff, with its kitchen, plus storage space.

“I brought in a full-time dental associate, Dr. Werdlow. I have been so busy – it’s a blessing!” Dabney mentioned: “One thing that happens a lot is people approach me and they tell me: ‘No one here can ever retire!’ Some of them have been my patients for 20 years or more.”

DABNEY’S IS A FAMILY-ORIENTED PRACTICE, where they perform every procedure, such as x-rays, fillings, crowns and dentures/partials. Dabney added, “I have a gentle touch and demeanor and I can turn any nervous patient into a dedicated customer if they give us a chance! We typically get a good response once patients see how our approach is different from some other dental offices. When patients tell me of previous bad experiences, it tugs at my heart!”

The practice does have nitrous oxide available and on hand for patients who request it, but it’s not a “go-to.” Additionally, the office is designed to be both efficient and attractive. “We have a lot of modern equipment and computers in every room. Everything was updated when we remodeled and expanded about four years ago, so the office looks fresh and new. People feel very comfortable here.”

Dabney mentioned that she particularly likes doing more complex work such as crowns and bridges. “I love all the variety of my profession.”

Dabney has a dedicated team, with two hygienists. “Delrey has been with me for over 20 years and Christine for five years. They both have excellent skills. Another of my staff, Shawanna Tucker, started here while she was still in high school, at 16 or 17-years-old. She has been here ever since.”

Children are always welcome to schedule a visit. Dabney added, “My two children, Danielle and Veronica, have never known another dentist or hygienist!” Dabney is a proud mom, and described her daughters’ careers: “Danielle has been a film producer for 15 years. Her work mostly involves documentaries and commercials. Veronica set up her dog-walking business and is doing well with that!”

DABNEY HAS VARIOUS HOBBIES AND ACTIVITIES outside of dentistry. She is an active member of the Greater Wayne County Chapter of the Links. This organization has a “mission to promote and engage in educational, civic & intercultural activities.”

Dabney also likes to help and mentor younger people in the STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math), and work on acrylic paintings. Two of her artworks are on display at the practice. Travel is another of her favorite activities, in particular, her annual excursion to Martha’s Vineyards in MA.

Dr. Benay’s Dental Clinic is located at 10300 W. Nine Mile Rd in Oak Park, 48237. She can be reached at 248.543.8800 or via email: bgddds781@gmail.com. Clinic open hours are: M, T, Th, Fri, 9am-6pm; Sat, 9am-1pm; Sun, closed. Emergencies welcome.

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By Ryan R. Ennis

FOOD CRAVINGS CAN CROP UP AT ANY TIME. ONE AFTERNOON, YOU STRUGGLE TO FOCUS AT WORK BECAUSE YOU IMAGE THERE IS A DELICIOUS HAMBURGER PLATE WITH MOUHT-WATERING FRENCH FRIES SITTING BESIDE YOUR LAPTOP.

ON ANOTHER DAY, YOU STOP CLEANING THE KITCHEN and just stare at the refrigerator, wishing it had a small container of tasty potato salad you could grab and devour. Cravings often take hold at the most inopportune moments, when you lack the time and the ingredients to fix the desired foods.

Fortunately, if you live in Metro Detroit, there is Kravings — a deli offering signature sandwiches and many ready-to-eat side items that can appease your hunger. Some of the sandwich choices are the BLT, the BBQ beef, the Philly steak, and the Reuben. According to online reviews, many customers rave about the Chazal, a burger topped with beef bacon and served on a jalapeño bun. Some of the side dishes include soups, garlic bread, fries, and salads. Also available to order are sushi rolls, tempura rolls, and boneless wings.

Oak Park resident Zoya Rice praises the deli to her friends, family, and coworkers. “It has a nice environment and is very clean,” she tells them. When her cravings strike at work, she often breaks away at lunchtime and travels a short distance to the establishment to get her favorite — the grilled chicken sandwich.

The selections at Kravings are kosher. To be kosher, “the food must be prepared under certain restrictions (which adhere to Jewish dietary laws),” explains Sandy Singal, the general manager at the restaurant. “We pride ourselves on the fact that we can make anything that anyone else can under the highest kosher restrictions.”

SINGAL’S HISTORY IN FOOD SERVICE INDUSTRY GOES BACK 23 YEARS, when he began working for Kraving’s parent company Quality Kosher Catering, owned by the Kohn family. Although Quality Kosher Catering had established itself as a reputable caterer for weddings and other events within the local Jewish community, Daniel Kohn, grandson of the company’s founder, decided eight years ago it was time to tap into the market of a new generation of people seeking creative cuisine. The challenge was to find an economical and convenient way to supply kosher meal options on a smaller scale.

Enlisting Singal’s help, Kohn developed a plan to open a carryout business. As they embarked on their search for a suitable location, the owner of Unique Kosher Carry approached Kohn (as luck would have it) about buying his Oak Park sandwich shop. Realizing it was a great spot to achieve his dream, Kohn jumped at the opportunity. Once the purchase was made, the necessary workers were hired to give the place a more contemporary look with new walls, flooring, and furniture.

WHILE THE DELI’S MODERN APPEARANCE HAS ATTRACTED both former and new customers, people keep coming back because “our menu offerings are kosher and high quality at the same time,” says Singal. “We are careful about what we buy and where we buy it from.” In the present period of supply chain issues, “our chefs have learned to be creative,” continues Singal. “If a particular product is out-of-stock, they figure out how to work around it.” For example, “our menu may have more items with fish when beef and chicken aren’t available.”

With business steadily increasing, Kohn has recognized the need for adding services. If you are on a tight schedule, you can place your order in advance and also stop in to quickly buy pre-packaged foods, like roasted potatoes and rice pilaf, from the refrigerated display cases. On the occasions you would prefer to eat in, there is a dining room that comfortably seats about 25. Recently, Kohn purchased the space next door so that the site will accommodate more patrons and more tables with chairs.

As Singal will tell you, Kohn’s intention to expand could not happen at a better time. “Our burgers and sushi are very popular. Unless you live in Los Angeles or New York, it’s hard to find delis that have kosher sushi.” Whether people require a kosher menu or not, more and more customers frequent Kravings “because they love the quality and freshness of our food.”

Located at 25270 Greenfield Road, Kravings is open M-TH 11AM-9PM; FRI 9AM-3PM; SUN 4-9PM. Closed Saturdays. To view the menu or contact the staff online, visit kravingsdetroit.com. To place an order by phone or schedule a food delivery, call 248.967.1161.

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By Jenn Goeddeke

THE SAHARA RESTAURANT & GRILL, JOINTLY OWNED BY ZEANA AND SAAD ATTISHA, SERVES A WIDE RANGE OF CUISINE WITH A FOCUS ON TIME- HONORED MEDITERRANEAN DISHES. VARIOUS DINING OPTIONS ARE OFFERED, INCLUDING CATERING, BANQUETS, AND CELEBRATIONS OF ALL TYPES. CURRENTLY, THEY HAVE FOUR DINING LOCATIONS: DETROIT, STERLING HEIGHTS, OAK PARK AND WARREN.

I recently visited Zeana Attisha at their Oak Park locale, which has a spacious, warm ambiance and traditional/intricate decor. Zeana is lively, charismatic, and highly educated, with degrees from MSU and WSU in hotel management and business & finance, respectively. Her father, who immigrated here from Iraq in 1967, was determined to raise his girls to be strong and independent, “like five soldiers!”

SAAD ATTISHA CAME TO THE USA AT AGE 16, the eldest of eight children. His family immigrated here for freedom from Iraqi government oppression. The Sahara Restaurant locations have opened within areas that have both a Chaldean church with a strong community. Saad became skilled at working in the family restaurant and worked his way up from stock-boy. At 19, he opened the Eastern Restaurant at 9 & Woodward in Ferndale (across from Como’s). Then in 1983, Saad moved the restaurant to Oak Park (9 & Coolidge). At that time, they changed the name to Sahara Restaurant & Grill, now located at 24770 Coolidge Highway.

Zeana mentioned that Mediterranean food has steadily become more and more popular over the years, to the point where it is a top option for diners in the USA. She added that there are quite a few variations in how food is prepared, depending on the restaurant. In response to high demand, Sahara employs an experienced team of chefs who work together each day, preparing meals from scratch, using authentic Chaldean recipes: “straight out of mom’s kitchen!” Ingredients are always fresh, not frozen, with frequent purchasing from Detroit’s renowned Eastern Market and the Detroit Produce Terminal.

The Sahara Retaurant menu is extensive, with tempting favorites such as chicken or beef shawarma & cream chops; various lamb dishes; seafood dinners; grilled kabob kaftas; hommous (with or without meat); a full range of salads, and tasty soups such as lemon rice or adas (lentil). Also, menu options include “create-your-own” sandwiches and combo meals. The house ranch, garlic spread, pickled cabbage, plus rice & stew are all popular additional sides. Combined with the fresh bread, made from a customary Iraqi recipe, the combined result is delicious! Zeana informed me that they cater to many other forms of cuisine preferences, aside from the established Chaldean/Mediterranean fare, plus items by special request.

TOGETHER, THE ATTISHAS EFFICIENTLY HANDLE all aspects of the restaurant operations. Zeana explained with a smile, “We are like yin and yang, and so we make a great team. Saad has street smarts and I have book smarts! He is the idea-man: creative and smart. He is also very picky about all ingredients used. For example, he favors choice angus and other top-of-the-line meats. He manages the kitchen and I handle the bookkeeping and bills for all the locations. We are both outgoing and respected in the community.”

Additionally, Zeana is involved with local politics, and helped overturn the dry-city status of Oak Park (which had been in place since 1945. “I want the city to do well and so I have to be proactive!”

The Sahara Restaurant is obviously successful, despite significant adversities the Attishas have encountered while running their business. Zeana recalled that in June of 2010, while at their 9 mile & Coolidge locale in Oak Park, the premises of the neighboring tenant burned down. It was a massive fire, and several local fire departments were involved. The fire extended into the Sahara Restaurant and destroyed a lot of the property (including damage to some large, expensive equipment). Zeana added that it was a huge hurdle to deal with and recover from.

They have also felt the effects of the Covid19 pandemic in quite a few ways. Initially, there was a complete closure, followed by carry-out orders only. “We gradually got back to full restaurant service, but there have been huge changes in cost, labor, and worker expectations.” Zeana explained. “Costs have dramatically increased on just about everything they need to buy, including spices and oil, but we are trying hard not to let this affect the current menu prices. Our customers have been understanding of any small increases made because clearly food prices have gone up everywhere.” In common with many other businesses, supply-chain delays have been problematic currently for the Attishas. There is a wait time of several months for certain supplies for the restaurant (such as their signature plastic bags used for carry-out orders).

DESPITE ALL THE MAJOR CHANGES SINCE MARCH 2020, Zeana emphasized how patient and supportive their customers have been throughout the whole Pandemic upheaval. The staff has been equally loyal, something that Zeana largely attributes to Saad’s management style: “he is laid-back, and you couldn’t ask for a better boss!” Their four busy locations continue to thrive and consistently keep customers happy.

The Sahara Restaurant & Grill locations are in Sterling Heights, Oak Park and Detroit. The Sahara Banquet Center is in Sterling Heights and the Sahara Market & Bakery in Warren.

2390 Metropolitan Parkway, Sterling Heights, 586.264.0400
24770 Coolidge Hwy, Oak Park, 248.399.7744
32836 Ryan Rd., Warren, 586.274.0700
77 W. Columbia St., Detroit
www.newsahara.com

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By Jenn Goeddeke

SCHEER’S ACE HARDWARE STORE WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1946 BY BROTHERS MARTIN AND PHILIP SCHEER. THE STORE OFFERS PRODUCTS RELATING TO ALL ASPECTS OF HOME IMPROVEMENT, INCLUDING PAINT AND TOOLS.

This is a store with a rich history, spanning three generations. First known as “Scheer’s Trading Post,” it was located in Ferndale. In 1958, the store became part of the Ace Hardware cooperative.

A decade later, they moved to Oak Park, in a larger space across the street. In 1978, the store expanded again, by purchasing the neighboring building.

The second generation of ownership began in 1986, with Carol Paul, Paul Krupkin, and Howard Scheer. Currently, it is third-generation-owned, shared equally by Paul Krupkin and Bryan Golemba. Along with their long-time manager, Deborah Novak, they have formed an impressive team!

KRUPKIN HAS BEEN WORKING AT THE STORE for 50 years, (as of September 1st). He remembers working there during his high school days, then working more seriously at the store after graduating from college.

Golemba’s background is in skilled trades (electrical and plumbing), then in welding and fabricating for over ten years. In 2020, just before he took over the 50 percent ownership of the store from his mom, (Carol Paul), Golemba was working as a lien coordinator with a trucking company. Golemba recalls it was a “big decision” to leave his career in the trucking industry, but certainly not one he ever regrets.

“I was riding the store’s conveyor belt when I was a child, and there are pictures of me sitting on someone’s lap here! I have lots of great memories, and the store is a huge point of pride for me. It’s a big commitment and not simply a corporate entity. I treat my employees as family, but I am still running a business.”

GOLEMBA ADDED, “WE HAVE A DIVERSE EMPLOYEE LIST, with lots of longevity – like Theresa Farnum. Several people have retired from here. A good example of someone who has grown with the company is Leslie Miles. She has been a store manager for over seven years.”

Keeping the staff motivated is a big priority at the store. Golemba explained, “I try to make it so that employees come in and leave with a good attitude. Paul and I take out the trash, clean gutters, stock shelves, and mop floors. We like to think we lead by example, and we remain very hands-on.”

Krupkin and Golemba also keep energy levels up by interjecting fun staff activities: “Recently, we made a semi-truck out of buckets! Additionally, pins are awarded for years of service attained. These pins become more decorative and ‘blinged’ as years progress, and employees look forward to receiving them.

Golemba described recently attending an Ace Convention in Chicago, with various options for buying new products. He called the store to get the staff’s opinion. He added, “by consult- ing them in my decisions, the staff feels respected and needed. I both rely on them and trust them. I am not always right, so I get other input. Many of the staff live locally and under- stand the vibe of Oak Park, Ferndale, Detroit and surrounding neighborhoods.”

SCHEER’S ACE ALSO GIVES A BIG SHOUT-OUT to customers, who have been extremely generous in the store’s fundraising campaigns. They recently transitioned from a national charity group to serving local charities. For example, Ace raised almost $5,000 for the Detroit Food Rescue (run by Darraugh Collins) from over 10,000 “round up” store donations. Other charities the store has worked with include: ‘Building Beds for Kids’; ‘FernCare’; ‘Mission Clinic’ and ‘A Girl Like Me’. …As of Sept 2021, they have raised over $24 thousand dollars for local charities!

ONE OF THE THINGS THEY LOVE MOST OF ALL is when kids come into the store. Golemba enjoys giving them treats and says it brings back so many good memories of himself as a child in the store. Both Krupkin and Golemba take pride in the fact the store is clean and well taken care of; plus, they’re dog-friendly! When asked about this, Golemba often jokes with customers: “just no giraffes!”

Customers are encouraged to ask questions and the staff finds it satisfying to help customers figure out what is needed. Certainly, it can be a real problem-solving task to find the correct part out of several thousand items sold in the store.

ON A FINAL NOTE STAFF SUGGESTS THAT YOU VISIT THE STORE (or their website and Facebook pages) to find many extra services. Golemba explains, “We are not trying to sell customers something they don’t need. We will offer our advice on how to fix items they already have, and how to implement what we sell. Fortunately, we do have lots of knowledgeable staff on our team!

Scheer’s Ace Hardware is located at: 8601 W 9 Mile Rd, Oak Park, MI 48237.
Contact # (248) 542- 1802 or visit the website: www.scheersace.com.
Email: Scheersace@comcast.net.
Opening hours: M-F, 8am-6pm; Sat, 9am-6pm; Sun, 10am-5pm.

Helpful additional services include: carpet cleaning machine rental; computerized paint-color matching; glass and screen repairs; glass & acrylic cutting; key cutting; knife & scissor sharpening; propane; postal services.

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By Ryan R. Ennis

EXTROVERTS BY NATURE, DANIELLE FRANCASSA AND HER HUSBAND CHRIS BOUGHT AN OAK PARK HOM IN 2010 TO BE NEAR THE NIGHTLIFE IN THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES. AS THE YEARS PASSED, SHE TRIED OUT DIFFERENT PLATFORMS FOR MEETING NEW PEOPLE.

In 2017, she heard about a Girls Pint Out meetup happening one evening at the B. Nektar Meadery in Ferndale and decided to check it out. She ended up having a great time.

Typically, the beer trade is viewed as a man’s world. At the gathering, however, Fracassa happily went from table to table as she befriended women who were local experts on craft beer. While conversing with the ladies, she learned that women’s roles in the industry stretched back hundreds of years, to the days when women living on small farms labored for hours to make flavorful ale without the convenience of modern machinery. They would store their ales in wooden kegs, which they would sell to villagers so that they could earn more income for their families.

That night, she also learned that Girls Pint Out is a national organization committed to recognizing those brewers from the past as well as spotlighting present-day women who are talented beer makers.

WHEN FRACASSA GOT HOME, SHE TALKED ELATEDLY ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION with her husband. Looking forward to the upcoming local Girls Pint Out gatherings, she was disheartened when they fizzled out after only a few months. Eventually, hope reappeared on the horizon for the local chapter. By periodically checking the organization’s social media sites, she saw in early 2019 that the Detroit chapter’s president was looking for someone new to take it over.

“I immediately applied,” she says, “and I’ve been running the Detroit chapter ever since.”

As head of the local chapter, Fracassa is responsible for organizing monthly events, maintaining the group’s social media presence, and purchasing and displaying merchandise to advertise Girls Pint Out at the meetings. Her other duties include building and maintaining relationships with breweries, beer reviewers (writers), beer distributors, and other organizations focused on craft beer.

In addition to all those tasks, Fracassa works full-time as an administrative clerk at Oak Park Recreation. Although her plate is clearly full, she has no qualms about her busy calendar because of the sense of belonging she now feels.

“It took a few years before I realized what this community (of beer connoisseurs) means to me,” she says, “and how I want to make my own place within it. Now, I’m enrolled in the brewing and distillation certification program at Schoolcraft College, studying to become a certified cicerone (a professional who works with beer). It’s such a wonderful feeling to finally discover your passion.”

BY PURSUING HER INTERESTS, FRACASSA HAS GAINED many connections and friendships. “In the past year, I’ve gotten close to a couple of women who regularly attend events,” she relates. “We have our chats, and they’re wildly active — we share memes, jokes, life updates, and advice.”

When they buckle down to business, the women will discuss a variety of issues related to the beer industry, ranging from the reasons why certain beverages tend to be more popular than others, to how certain environmental factors have recently affected the production of them. Fracassa also uses the opportunities to discuss her involvement with similar organizations like Fermenta, whose mission is to provide support and scholarships for women in the industry.

SO THAT THE GIRLS PINT OUT HANGOUTS do not become mundane, Fracassa spices them up by hosting special parties, fund- raisers, and an evening of crafts at the breweries. The special events started in February of 2022, when she threw the group’s first Galentine’s Day party to celebrate the ladies’ friendships at the Urbanrest in Ferndale.

About a month later, the pandemic caused the group’s in-person meetings to be suspended for nearly 18 months, during which time Fracassa spent countless hours increasing the group’s social media subscribers and giving online shout-outs to breweries whose beverages she sampled curbside. In August of 2022, the group was finally able to reassemble for a get-together at Dog & Pony Show Brewing in Oak Park.

“It felt so good to be back in a brewery and be with my girls,” she recalls. “Since then, we’ve held about one event a month with some off-cycle hangs (as we like to call them) at various bars, festivals, and even shops.”

TO HELP ENSURE THAT MEMBERS ARE RESPONSIBLE AND STAY SAFE, meetups typically take place for a few hours during the week. Knowing their alarm clocks will be ringing early the next day for work, the women limit themselves to only a pint or two of beer before going home to bed. Since many are regulars, they feel comfortable talking about what their limits are and, consequently, watch out for each other.

“It’s not difficult to go over your own limit — everyone has done it — but I work hard to make sure the events are a safe space for women,” explains Fracassa. “I want them to look forward to these meetups, whether they’re at a brewery they’ve never been to before, or whether it’s for a specific activity, like Galentine’s Day or a day of crafts.”

Fracassa has had an especially hectic schedule this past summer, occupied with work and family commitments. However, she plans to officially restart Girls Pint Out meetups this fall. On Saturday, October 22, she attended the Michigan Brewers Guild Fall Beer Festival (held at Detroit’s Eastern Market), where she handed out Girls Pint Out materials from 1 P.M. until 6 P.M.

It’s free to become a member of Girls Pint Out. To get updates about the organization and its local chapters, visit www.girlspintout.org and click on the chapter directory. To subscribe to the Detroit chapter’s newsletter, send a message to danielle.fracassa@girlsspintout.org.

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By Ryan R. Ennis

CERTIFIED AS A ONE-STOP SERVICE CENTER, OAKLAND COUNTY MICHIGAN WORKS! OAK PARK IS A DEPARTMENT OF THE OAK PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT IN OPERATION FOR OVER 40 YEARS. THE PRIMARY GOALS ARE TO HELP THE UNEMPLOYED IN SECURING NEW POSITIONS AND TO COOPERATE WITH BUSINESS OWNERS IN HIRING STAFF.

Director Sherry Kless accomplishes those tasks by overseeing 21 federal and state programs that provide funding for both job hunters and recruiters. At times, her responsibilities can be demanding. Fortunately, she can rely on her education and experience to ensure that they are handled well.

For the past 28 years, Kless has worked “in various roles from case manager to program coordinator, to business services professional to assistant manager.” Supplying good foundations for her profession have been her master’s degree in career counseling and a certification as a career development facilitator, both obtained from Oakland University. She also holds two additional certifications: in business services from Michigan State University’s School of Labor & Industrial Relations and in talent pipeline management from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Throughout her work day, Kless meets with individuals and determines beneficial resources for them. “My focus is on those who have barriers to employment,” she explains. “I’m great at digging into my client’s work and education histories to clarify their interests, skills, and dreams for the future.”

WHEN BUSINESS OWNERS AND RECRUITERS ENLIST HER SERVICES, she sits down with them to figure out what types of obstacles they may face in hiring new staff. “Together,” she says, “we develop strategies to address the challenges created by fast-moving technologies, global competition, high rates of unemployment, and the demands for a highly skilled workforce.” To assist employers in dealing with the challenges, she has “created apprenticeships, internships, work experiences for adults and youth, on-the-job training arrangements, and customized training programs.”

“I love what I do,” emphasizes Kless.

At the Oak Park office, she shares her responsibilities with 11 career advisors and three employment services specialists. Her staff concentrate their expertise on helping clients one-on-one to begin their journeys to success. After assessing the individuals’ skills and helping them develop occupational goals, the advisors and employment specialists will show them information on how to find appropriate job listings, search for career events, use computer programs to design cover letters and résumés, and open social media ac- counts on which they can make their résumés viewable to recruiters. Depending on their proficiencies, clients may be encouraged to enroll in workshops (either in-person or virtually) to bolster their interviewing and English-as-a-second-language skills.

ONE OCCUPATION CURRENTLY IN HIGH DEMAND IS ROBOTICS TECHNICIAN. According to Kless, “advanced manufacturing is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Southeast Michigan, with thousands of positions opening up annually. If you have the interest and ambition, Oakland County Michigan Works! and Oakland Community College offer no-cost training to qualified workers.”

Another area with an immediate need is for computer numerical control (CNC) machine operators. They make parts and pieces from raw materials. Kless states that interested individuals can “learn more about this short-term, eight-week training program at Oakland Community College in Auburn Hills,” which will prepare the participants for entry-level CNC machine operator positions.”

A third critical-shortage area is for logistic technicians, who are sought after by a variety of companies and sectors, from the auto industry to e-commerce. Logistic technicians work in fulfillment centers, warehouses, distribution centers, and factories; they process and ship customers’ orders. “Opportunities in this field are booming,” states Kless, “with a projected growth of four per cent annually across the country through 2029, including Metro Detroit.” In partnership with Oakland Community College and PepsiCo, Oakland County Michigan Works! is presently offering a certified logistics technician training program, free to eligible candidates.

A fourth area with an ever-growing need is for truck drivers. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), nearly 75 percent of all freight in the United States is moved by truck drivers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stress that openings for truck drivers will continue to rise through 2029, resulting in an additional 30,600 jobs. In partnership with several truck driving schools across the tri-country region, Oakland County Michigan Works! provides short-term training opportunities with tuition assistance available to eligible candidates. To apply for the program, applicants must be 18-24 years old and possess a copy of their current driver’s license.

A fifth area with plentiful openings is for sterile processing technicians, who play a critical role in hospitals and other medical facilities. “An entry-level position in this field,” says Kless, “can lead to a number of advanced career pathways with greater pay and responsibilities, such as a surgical technologist or clinical laboratory technician. Oakland County Michigan Works! and Oakland Community College offer a special training pro- gram for sterile processing technicians. We partner with several hospitals in the county that provide the required clinical rotations for it.” After completing the program students will receive a certificate of program completion and the opportunity to take the Certification Board for Sterile Processing & Distribution (CBSPD).

ADDITIONALLY, INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE FINISHED A MEDICAL ASSISTANT APPRENTICESHIP are highly prized in the healthcare field. The Henry Ford Health System, one of the largest in the Metro area, presently has hundreds of medical assistant position openings and can provide apprenticeships for those who are interested in pursuing this career path. The one-year apprenticeship program is demanding but features a tuition-free classroom and paid on-the-job training with additional supportive services for eligible participants.

Some individuals with criminal convictions may feel that they are ineligible for the programs and services available at Oakland County Michigan Works! However, says Kless, “New expungement laws may allow them to clear their public records. Successful expungement opens the door to better jobs, housing, and educational opportunities.” For individual to take advantage of the Oakland County Clean Slate Program and have a conviction removed from their records, they can get started by registering online at OakGov.com/CleanSlate. Once a request has been submitted, a program representative will reach out to the individuals with more information on their eligibilities.

Oakland County Michigan Works! Oak Park services Southeast Michigan and the surrounding communities. Currently, because of a decrease in Workforce Innovation & Opportunity (WIOA) funds, priority is given to Oakland County residents for training services. “If customers live outside Oakland County,” says Kless, “they may be better served by their respective Michigan Works! Authority.”

Located at 22180 Parklawn, Oakland County Michigan Works! Oak Park is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. You may walk in, or schedule an appointment by calling (248) 691-8437. If you are registering for the first time or require assistance with unemployment benefits, you must be at the site by 3:30 P.M. to complete the process.

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By Sara E. Teller

THE BERKLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT SERVES STUDENTS FROM SIX MONTHS THROUGH 26-YEARS OLD, EARLY CHILDHOOD THROUGH ADULT TRANSITION.

Our 4,200 students enjoy a multitude of opportunities to engage with classes, programs, enrichment, fine arts, athletics and more that support all learners to realize their full potential.

Since 1840, the District has enjoyed support from everyone, including businesses and families without children attending school. Berkley’s students enjoy the diverse array of experiences and successes because of the overwhelming community support, the fantastic work of their great teachers and administrators, and the rich and vibrant environments that families create. The incredible successes Berkley students experience are possible, in part, because of the support provided at every level.

STRATEGIC PLAN

THE BERKLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT BEGAN THE 2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR with a new Strategic Plan leading the way. Our vision: Our inclusive culture will inspire, empower and lead all learners to realize their full potential and make a positive different in their future and community, will drive our work. This means we will set priorities to strengthen our District culture by listening, learning and leading. We will strive to become a place where all stakeholders feel a sense of belonging.

With our new Strategic Plan, we also adopted a Portrait of a Learner. The Portrait of a Learner identifies six traits that are critical to developing well-rounded individuals. We hope to partner with parents, guardians and the community, to prepare our students to be critical thinkers, creative, collaborative, communicators, curious and courageous while they are with us and take those skills with them when they graduate. You will begin to hear these words guiding and describing our work this year.

Superintendent Scott Francis shared, “It is my hope that through our new guiding principles, our students will find their passion and their purpose and let it empower them to make a difference in their future, their community and the world around them. My sincere thanks to everyone who shared their feedback to shape the Strategic Plan.”

The community can learn more about the Strategic Plan on the District’s website: www.berkleyschools.org/strategicplan

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

THE BERKLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFERS A DEPTH AND BREADTH OF LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES which are unparalleled in the area. Students are nurtured and encouraged to be creative, curious, collaborative, communicators, courageous and critical thinkers. Whether it is the 26 college level, Advanced Placement classes, Calculus III or the Syracuse University Freshman writing classes, opportunities for our students to attend Oakland Schools Technical Campus, Center for Creative Studies & the Arts (CASA), or the Berkley Building Blocks infant and child care programs, or anything in between, the Berkley School District has outstanding programs and people at every level.

Classes like zoology, forensics, Encore! show choir, robotics, Sources of Strength, creative writing, film studies, diversity council, history of the Holocaust, marketing, African-American literature, computer programming and more challenge and engage students. In addition, students can explore robotics, foreign languages, student production and various music options in middle school. Many middle school students complete high school credits while attending Norup and Anderson.

While academics is a strong focus for us, developing the whole child is the reason we’re here. We offer fine and performing arts, such as band, orchestra, choir and drama. We offer art classes at every level, musical instrument instruction in 5th-grade, and have a number of other experiences like 5th-grade camp, a high school science symposium, robotics, 8th-grade college visits, the Berkley Scholars program and many, many more that let children develop and pursue their interests.

We also offer many opportunities for students to engage with athletics, including softball, baseball, football, soccer, basketball, track and field, cross-country, wrestling, swimming, volleyball, golf, tennis, cheerleading, hockey, figure skating, dance and rugby. Students can also join clubs like the yearbook team, Gay / Straight Alliance (GSA), Black Perspectives Club, Dungeons & Dragons, gaming club, robotics, and art and drama. At the high school level, students are able to join over 50 clubs of varying interests, like DECA, GSA, drama club, future teachers and more.

DISTRICT ACCOLADES

BERKLEY HIGH SCHOOL WAS NAMED AMONG THE “BEST HIGH SCHOOLS” by U.S. News and World Report. Berkley School District has also been named a “Best Communities for Music Education” for eleven years in a row by the NAMM Foundation. In recent years, students have been named All-State and Academic All-State for swimming, baseball, tennis, volleyball, basketball and soccer. Seven student athletes signed with colleges and universities in the 2021-22 academic year. The Berkley High School (BHS) Orchestra was one of three high school orchestras nationwide invited to play at Carnegie Hall in 2019 for the World Stride Music Festival. BHS was also the first school in the state to adopt Sources of Strength, a peer-led wellness program. The Berkley School District is incredibly proud of all of its students and the paths they are forging for themselves.

COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT

FAMILIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO JOIN THEIR SCHOOL’S SUPPORT GROUPS to stay involved with their child’s school and education. In fact, each school has its own Parent Teacher Association parents can join to have a say in the opportunities offered. Choir, Orchestra, and Instrumental Booster groups support grades 6 through 12, and the Athletic Boosters support high school athletics. The Berkley Education Foundation helps all students in all buildings through teacher innovation grants, student scholarships, elementary enrichment programs, and sending students in 8th grade on college tours.

For more information on the Berkley School District, please contact the administrative office at 248-837-8000 or visit www.berkleyschools.org

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THE OAK PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT IS UNDER NEW LEADERSHIP THIS FALL, ANGEL ABDULAHAD, A 1994 ALUM OF OAK PARK HIGH SCHOOL, WAS APPOINTED NEW SUPERINTENDENT FOLLOWING THE RETIREMENT OF DR. JAMII HITCHCOCK, WHO SERVED AS THE DISTRICT’S LEADER FOR THE PAST THREE YEARS.

THE OAK PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT’S NEARLY 4,000 STUDENTS are served at Einstein Key, and Pepper Elementary Schools (grades PreK-5), the Oak Park Preparatory Academy (grades 6-8), Oak Park High School (grades 9-12), NOVA Academy (grades 3-12) and the new state-of-the-art Lessenger Early Childhood Center (Pre- K) in Oak Park, Michigan in Oakland County located in a suburban community near Detroit with approximately 30,000 residents. Our district consists of over 450 staff members, including 250 teachers and 12 building administrators.

Our school district boasts an abundance of educational and co/extra-curricular programs to meet the needs of a vast array of learners from Pre-K through twelfth grade. We encourage students to challenge themselves academically, explore comprehensive course offerings and take risks to discover their gifts.

We are dedicated to providing an intellectually challenging educational experience in safe, nurturing school environments that thrive on cultivating and empowering students to be their authentic selves. In addition, our academic and co/extra-curricular opportunities provide agency and shape self-identity, which are critical components of the adolescent development process.

The Oak Park Advantage is a holistic approach to education that not only prepares students academically, fosters a sense of belonging but also creates long-lasting connections to the Oak Park community. While attending Oak Park Schools, students develop a confidence that is woven throughout their post-secondary, professional, and social-emotional well-being years after they graduate.

“We take pride in our commitment to fostering a diverse teaching staff that is inclusive of everyone – it’s integral to our culture as we aim to empower our students to bring their best self, unique perspectives, and talents to the classroom every day.” Brandon Jiles, Director of Communications/PR.

Commitment to student growth and emphasis on athletics and the arts are just a handful of the many Oak Park advantages. The Wade McCree Incentive Scholarship Program offers four-year scholarships to attend Oakland University for Oak Park High School students who graduate with a 3.0 GPA and a score of 1060 on the SAT. Our comprehensive educational and enrichment programs allow us to distinctively meet the needs of all learners in Oak Park.

IN ADDITION TO THE MAJOR ACADEMIC AREAS, courses are offered in art, music, physical education, computer science, foreign language, bilingual education, alternative education, advanced placement, co-op, work-study, special education and college prep, advance placement courses at the Center for Advanced Studies & Arts (CASA). Special facilities include the state-of-the-art Hoffman Planetarium, a TV studio, multi-lingual studies, and computer labs.

During the struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic, Oak Park Schools continued to thrive towards excellence. Oak Park High School teacher Owen Bondono was named the 2020- 2021 Michigan Teacher of the Year (MTOY). Bondono is in his eighth year of teaching English language arts. Before teaching, he worked as a paraprofessional in the classroom for four years. Bondono’s selection as the 2020-21 MTOY began with the nomination of more than 400 teachers during the fall of 2020.

“Ultimately, teaching is an expression of my love of humanity. My way of making my mark on the world is making the next generation better. I know that growing the next generation of humanity is a community effort, so I will create that community wherever I find it.” Owen Bondono

IN ADDITION TO OUR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, a wide variety of extra-curricular activities keeps students involved after school as well, we have a Robotics team, National Honor Society, Upward Bound, Oakland University Gear Up, and also a partnership with the City of Oak Park Recreation Department offering hip hop dance classes and gaming competitions in the newly remodeled Knight Café.

According to Mlive.com, Oak Park High School’s athletic department is one of the top 50 athletic programs in the state. Our girl’s track & field program is a perennial power- house, winning MHSAA Division 1 state championships six out of the last eight years, also garnering five national titles in 2022. The Oak Park football program has 13 players currently competing on the NCAA Division 1-FBS level, which is ranked fourth-best in the State of Michigan.

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THIS IS REGINA WEISS, YOUR STATE REPRESENTATIVE. Over the past two years I have been honored to serve the people of Oak Park, the community that my husband and I have called home since 2013.

We chose to settle in Oak Park because it is such a welcoming and diverse community. Some of my favorite things to do in Oak Park are going to the Oak Park Farmers Market and other city events, riding my bike along the 9 mile bike lanes and through the woods of Shepherd Park, and enjoying a meal from Tai Fai or a drink at Berkley Coffee, Dog & Pony Show, or Unexpected Craft Brewery.

While working in Lansing for you I have been able to help hundreds of people navigate the unemployment insurance agency as well as other state services. I have also fought hard to ensure that our schools and local communities have adequate funding. We are not there yet, but I believe that we have made tremendous strides in the two years that I have been in Lansing.

Please reach out to me if you ever have any ideas for changes to state law, or if you need help navigating state agencies. You can reach out to my office, and my staff and I will be happy to help you. You can send me an email at regina.weiss@house.mi.gov or leave a voicemail at 517-373-0478.

I HAVE ENJOYED SERVING THE ENTIRE OAK PARK COMMUNITY over the past two years,
however that will come to an end in 2023. Every ten years our state redraws the legislative boundaries for our congressional, state senate, and state house districts in a process called redistricting.

In 2021, for the first time ever, this process was not done by the legislature but was instead handled by a group of citizens through the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission. While this process was not perfect, I believe that the end results were better than what an overly partisan Lansing legislature would have come up with.

Although I won my election in November, I will no longer be serving the entire community of Oak Park due to redistricting. While I am disappointed that redistricting has split our community between three new state house districts, I have a good relationship with both new representatives, Jason Hoskins and Natalie Price, and know that they will do a fantastic job. I hope to continue to represent Oak Park east of Coolidge, and I will always do my best to help the entire City of Oak Park.

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HAVE A GENERAL CITY-RELATED QUESTION AND WONDER WHO TO CALL? THE RESIDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR CAN ANSWER IT ALL!

Or at least direct you to appropriate person, department or organization. This position was created with the adoption of the 2021-22 budget as a means to support residents’ needs through providing up-to-date information on programs, projects and available services. Once the position became funded, the City of Oak Park set out to find a candidate with a strong customer service background, a love for local government, a passion for innovation and who was ready to play a key role in the City’s continuous mission of excellence.

Enter Tim Ciechorski. Ciechorski has served in his role as the City’s first Resident Services Coordinator for nearly a year now, and it has been through his extensive experience in both customer service and local government that the City’s Community Resource Center has been revamped to best meet our residents’ needs.

JUST AS CIECHORSKI IS MEANT TO BE TO A RESOURCE for various City-related issues, the City of Oak Park’s Community Resource Center is meant to be your one-stop-shop to answer common questions related to City operations, request services and streamline communications, and it is now open!

“The GOV Q/A system (Community Resource Center) is a convenient way to request information or services, although not monitored 24/7, it can be used 24/7,” said Ciechorski. “If a resident is not comfortable using an electronic device, I would encourage them to call me. I want to be sure everyone is able to get the information or services they need as quickly as possible in a way they are comfortable.”

The Community Resource Center is an online portal that can be accessed at bit.ly/OPCRC.

SO, FOR THOSE OF YOU WITH A QUESTION On when leaf pickup begins, what hours the Library is open, how to pick up extra copies of the City’s magazine…or any other general question related to the City of Oak Park, contact Resident Services Coordinator Tim Ciechorski at (248) 691-7548 or tciechorski@oakparkmi.gov or visit the City of Oak Park’s Community Resource Center today!

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