David Knezek

I am excited to announce that Ms. Christina Petricca has been selected as my May Teacher of the Month!

Ms. Petricca currently serves as the 11th grade English Language Arts teacher and AP Literature and Composition teacher at Crestwood High School. She graduated from Allen Park High School and went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree, with concentrations in Behavioral Sciences, Business, and Spanish, from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. She also received her Education Certification and Social Services Certification from UM-Dearborn.

Ms. Petricca is currently in her third year of teaching, with all three years being spent at Crestwood High School. She transitioned into the field of education after working in mental and behavioral health for several years. She made the switch because she believed teaching would allow her to create more meaningful and impactful relationships where she felt she could truly make a difference. She says, “Teaching also affords both staff and students a place to showcase their creativity that other fields unfortunately don't offer.”

When reflecting on her career, Ms. Petricca noted that the bonds she has been able to foster not only with students, but with staff as well, are among her favorite aspects of teaching. She says it is extremely rewarding to watch students grow into themselves and begin carving out their own paths in life.

For those interested in pursuing a career in education, she says that teaching offers the opportunity to have genuine interactions and new adventures every single day. She also suggests reaching out to former impactful teachers for inspiration and valuable advice.

Congratulations, Ms. Petricca! Thank you for all that you do to support and inspire the next generation.

Eid Mubarak! Sending my warmest wishes for joy, peace, and happiness to my Muslim brothers and sisters. 🤲💙

I’m excited to announce Family Heating, Cooling & Electrical as my March Business of the Month!

Located in Garden City, Family Heating, Cooling & Electrical is a local, family-owned and operated business founded in 1968 by George Klempert. For over 50 years, they have provided heating, air-conditioning, water heater installations, electrical services, generator installations, and repair services to Metropolitan Detroit and surrounding areas.

Today, George’s daughter, Crystal Palko, serves as CEO. After 29 years as an educator in Garden City, she brings that same dedication and community-first mindset to her work. I was proud to previously recognize her as Garden City Educator of the Year, and it’s wonderful to see her continue making an impact in the community.

With three locations across Southeast Michigan, their growing team combines more than five decades of industry experience with a commitment to integrity, skill, and personalized service. None of their employees work on commission, so you can trust they’ll never sell you products or services you don’t need or want.

At Family Heating, Cooling & Electrical, they believe in being part of the community they serve - their customers aren’t just numbers, they’re family. They are committed to giving back to the community through initiatives such as The Lyman Foundation, local food banks, Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, and youth sports, dance, and community events and causes.

Congratulations to Family Heating, Cooling & Electrical! If you’re ever in need of their services, be sure to visit them at 30210 Ford Rd, Garden City, MI 48135, or give them a call at (734) 422-8080.