L’Anse Creuse Unified leads MAC
City takes partial ownership in apartment project
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MOUNT CLEMENS — At their first meeting of the new year, Mount Clemens City Commissioners gave the city the go-ahead to enter into a new agreement regarding the Manchester Mount Clemens apartment complex.
Approved at the commission’s Jan. 6 meeting, the new agreement sees the city and developer Jim George, doing business as 1 N River Road, LLC, become partners in the Manchester Mount Clemens low-profit limited liability corporation company. The city will provide around $20.7 million via grants from the state of Michigan for 8% ownership in the L3C, while George’s LCC will provide $1.3 million for 92% ownership. The city’s shares can be sold for profit in the future.
“In order to reach (the L3C) designation, the company must meet the definition of ‘charitable purpose,’ which, as the recital indicates, moves to ‘better the community by improving public safety, revitalizing the neighborhood, providing affordable housing, and encouraging economic development,’” City Manager Gregg Shipman said.
Robert Huth, attorney for the city, told commissioners concerned about the city’s liability that the risk is minimal.
“The question that’s posed is what would happen if something goes wrong — what would happen if, during the construction of this, a vendor doesn’t get paid, do the taxpayers and this commission have
Officers rescue driver from retention pond
NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — On New Year’s Eve, a driver sinking into an apartment complex retention pond was rescued by a team of Clinton Township police officers.
Sgt. Ryan Bates jumped in to save the driver. Bates downplayed any heroism at a Jan. 9 press conference at the Clinton Township Department, saying it was a team effort. Those involved in the rescue were from Platoon C, which Bates called “tight-knit.”
“It wasn’t just me. I couldn’t have done it without them,” Bates said. “I was just the one who got in the water the fastest.”
See RESCUE on page 11A
ABOVE: This photo shows Clinton Township police officers rescuing a driver sinking in a retention pond at The Harbours apartment complex on New Year’s Eve.
Photo provided by the Clinton Township Police Department
RIGHT: Clinton Township Police Sgt. John Kuehn assisted in rescuing a driver sinking in a retention pond at The Harbours apartment complex in Clinton Township on New Year’s Eve. In this photo from the Jan. 9 press conference, Kuehn shows the equipment used to help save the motorist.
Photo by Nick Powers
Trustees approve legal fees, seek SAD contractor
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Returning to work for the new year, the Harrison Township Board of Trustees found itself with a full agenda at its Jan. 13 meeting.
Of all the items to discuss, trustees spent the longest talking through and ultimately approving the payment of over $50,000 in legal invoices to attorneys Hallahan and Associates as part of a case seeking to determine whether cannabis growing businesses are classified as commercial or agricultural. The township has appealed a case, which currently ruled in favor of the businesses as agricultural, to the Michigan Court of Appeals.
“The Board approved an hourly rate of $195 with a projected budget of $5,000 at the July 24, 2023, meeting for these services … As the cases progressed, additional invoices came in and were approved,” Harrison Township Supervisor Ken Verkest said. “I recently learned that the amount paid for this representation far exceeded the $5,000 initial budget. We reviewed and revised the internal approval process to prevent this from happening in the future.”
Harrison Township, along with four other municipalities, are committed to the case due to the possible loss in tax revenue if the classification for these businesses is changed to agricultural.
“That classification change could result in a loss of taxes collected
See TRUSTEES on page 12A
Jay White shines like a ‘Diamond’ on stage
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@andgnews.com
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
“The Sweet Caroline Tour” starring Jay White, featuring the music of Neil Diamond, comes to the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts Feb. 1. White, a former Detroiter who performs as Diamond on the Las Vegas Strip, looks forward to playing for his hometown.
On stage, White takes on the role of the celebrated singer/songwriter with his music, mannerisms, fashion style and personality. Audience members will experience songs from Diamond’s 50-plus year career with “I Am…I Said,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Love on the Rocks” and “America.” It’s a night for any Neil Diamond fan.
“Jay White’s Sweet Caroline Tour was selected for our season based on several factors. Listening to the feedback from our donors and patrons, I felt Jay’s programming was an excellent fit for the Macomb Center,” William Wood, director of Cultural Affairs and Community Engagement, said in a prepared statement. “Plus, knowing Jay’s local roots and his status as an alum of Macomb Commu-
Shows and events kick off Art Center’s 2025
MOUNT CLEMENS — From two shows to flurry of events, the Anton Art Center is beginning 2025 with a running start.
Beginning Saturday, Jan. 18 is the Sky & Space Exhibition. A collaboration between several Macomb County artist groups — the Lakeside Palette Club of St. Clair Shores, Mount Clemens Art Association, Romeo Guild of Art, Shelby Township Fine Art Society, and the Warren Tri-County Fine Arts, Inc. — Sky & Space shows off what some of the region’s artists can do with limited prompting.
“Each year they have two shows, one in January and another in the fall,” said Stephanie Hazzard, exhibitions manager at the Anton Art Center. “The first show in January always carries a theme of some kind as a challenge for artists. This year’s
See ART on page 15A
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Neil Diamond fans, get ready to sing along to “Sweet Caroline.”
Las Vegas performer Jay White, who grew up on Detroit’s east side, will bring “The Sweet Caroline Tour” to the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts Feb. 1.
Photo provided
See JAY WHITE on page 14A
LEFT: “Lost One” by Aimee Tomlinson will be on display at the Anton Art Center as part of the Sky & Space exhibition.
RIGHT: “Kinfolks” by Robbie Best will be on display at the Anton Art Center as part of the Michigan Annual LII exhibition. Photos
CRIME WATCH
Gas station disturbance
MOUNT CLEMENS — At around 11:15 a.m. on Jan. 8, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the Marathon gas station on West Gratiot to deal with a disturbance.
According to a clerk, a 49-year-old Detroit man was asking people at the station for money and yelling at them. While the man was no longer at the station when deputies arrived, they were able to locate him on Park Street and informed him he was no longer welcome at the station.
Confused driver
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Jan. 6 at around 2:40 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the corner of South Gratiot and Church Street to perform a welfare check on the driver of a Chevy Equinox parked in the area.
The driver, later identified as a 66-yearold Westland man, was confused upon waking up and did not know where he was. He initially identified himself with a credit card and refused a field sobriety test. He agreed to a breath test and registered a 0.168 blood alcohol content, leading to his arrest.
Hit and run?
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Jan. 5, a 63-year-old Clinton Township woman parked in the Pine Street red parking lot to attend a yoga class from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. After the class, her daughter notified her of damage to her car.
She contacted the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, which reviewed security footage from the lot but was unable to notice any accidents involving the woman’s car.
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Thief tracked down
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Jan. 4 at around 11:55 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the Shell gas station at 12 Market Street to track down an accused thief.
Deputies stopped a 49-year-old Mount Clemens woman with a grocery bag. Asked if she could present a receipt for the items in the bag, she told deputies “No” and was arrested. Deputies found a bag of tobacco and box of tobacco tubes, with a total value of about $11.
The woman was arrested for seconddegree retail fraud and her bail was set at $100.
Vehicle theft reported
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 3 at around 2 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to an apartment in the 24000 block of Parkdale Street for a stolen vehicle report.
The resident, a 46-year-old man, said he last saw his Dodge Durango at around 9:30 p.m. the prior evening before falling asleep. Upon waking up, he looked through a window and saw the Dodge was no longer there. He was in possession of both keys and said the car was locked. A tracker on his phone said the car was in Canada.
Snowy drive
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At around 11:55 p.m. on Jan. 1, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies pulled over a Mazda with an expired plate along westbound Interstate 94 near Shook Road.
The driver, a 32-year-old Clinton Township woman, reportedly did not have insurance, had a suspended license and was arrested. Upon a further search of the Mazda, deputies found a bag containing suspected cocaine.
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Apartment
a liability,” Huth said. “The answer is no.”
Under the agreement, 1 N River Road, LLC is responsible for construction-related work and payments to contractors. It is the city’s responsibility to supply up to $20.7 million by June 1, 2026. Huth said the city received assurances from Lansing that the grant funds will be delivered in time.
“The administration that was in place in Lansing before the end of the year (2024) rushed to make sure the allocations were made so that this project would be funded in whole and that there was something in place so there wouldn’t be the uncertainty of a new Legislature turning it upside down,” Huth said. “But the agreement does require us to contribute only money that we receive from the state, and we’ve been promised as of the end of the last session that all branches of government in Lansing took the steps necessary to get us those funds. I have to assume that’s true, and if it’s not, we don’t have further liability.”
According to Shipman, the idea of forming an L3C was first brought to city of-
ABOVE: The site of the future Manchester Mount Clemens apartment sits behind a fence on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Mount Clemens City Commissioners approved a plan the night before that would see the city take partial ownership in the development.
LEFT: Robert Huth, attorney for the City of Mount Clemens, discusses the city’s liability protections if it were to enter a low-profit limited liability corporation contract for the Manchester Mount Clemens apartment complex at the Jan. 6 City Commission meeting.
ficials by George in December 2023. Official talks on forming the L3C began in November 2024.
Mayor Laura Kropp spoke favorably of the L3C plan in comparison to other funding schemes for housing projects, such as payment in lieu of taxes, as funds can be raised through the shares. Kropp’s support of the project goes beyond the direct financial benefits for the city government, as the Manchester Mount Clemens would increase the entire downtown area’s residential capacity by around 100 units.
“This could double — triple — the population of downtown,” Kropp said. “This is a huge opportunity even aside from all of this 8% stuff. Just the development alone is a huge opportunity.”
The brownfield agreement between the city and George, which would see some construction and demolition costs be reimbursed because the development will take place at the former Victory Inn site, remains in place. Shipman expects around $3.7 million in project expenses will be reimbursed through the brownfield agreement, which is separate from the L3C.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
Photos by Dean Vaglia
NEWS & NOTES
7A/ JOURNAL • JANUARY 22, 2025
County medical examiner receives accreditation
TOWNSHIP HOSTS YOUTH PAINTING PARTY
MACOMB COUNTY — On Jan. 9, the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office announced it received full accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners.
NAME is the premier accreditation organization for medical examiner and coroner offices nationwide and promotes the highest quality forensic pathology practice and medicolegal death investigation in the world. Originally accredited in 2014, the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office most recent accreditation marks 10 consecutive years of this distinction.
“By achieving and maintaining NAME accreditation, the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office continues to advance its level of service to Macomb County residents and law enforcement agencies,” County Executive Mark Hackel said in a press release. “This accomplishment is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of the Medical Examiner’s Office and the entire staff who helped earn this recognition.”
The Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office serves the residents of Macomb County and provides high quality forensic death investigation services. Staff assists local law enforcement agencies with forensic evaluation of death due to violence, accidents and those not attended by a physician.
Clinton Township physician stays on national commission
— Beena Nagappala, a Clinton Township physician, will stay on the American Academy of Family Physicians Commission on Federal and State policy.
Nagappala
Nagappala has been on the commission since 2023. Members serve two-year terms with the option of one two-year extension, according to AAFP’s website. Commissioners meet twice a year. Members are expected to attend both the Family Medicine Advocacy Summit and the State Legislative Conference.
“Through her work, the Commission shapes the AAFP’s federal advocacy strategy and supports state-level advocacy efforts that address key healthcare challenges,” a press release from the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians states.
Nagappala has a practice in Clinton Township. She’s involved with quality and compliance initiatives for the group and her practice. She’s the medical director of Henry Ford Southeast Michigan Community Health School-Based/Linked Health Centers. Nagappala also oversees medical care at the organization’s 24 school-based clinics in and around metro Detroit. She volunteers at the Health Unit on Davison Avenue clinic and the Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin clinic where she was the clinic director.
“I am honored to congratulate Dr. Nagappala on her appointment and continued service to the AAFP,” said Karlene Ketola, CEO of the MAFP, is quoted as saying in the release. “Her expertise and dedication will shape the work of Michigan family physicians for many years to come.”
FEBRUARY EVENTS AT CMPL
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The shortest month is not short of activity across the Clinton-Macomb Public Library’s branches.
At the South Branch in Clinton Township, community members can create and submit miniature masterpieces for the monthlong Tiny Art Show. Teens in grades 6-12 are challenged to do their worst at Bad Art Night on Monday, Feb. 10 starting at 6 p.m. Representatives from The Detroit Zoo will visit the branch for a presentation about a program focused on native Michigan wildlife, conservation and rattlesnakes at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1. Adults are invited to a Glass Etching craft on Thursday, Feb. 13 at 2:30 p.m. Participants will learn how to apply a heart stencil, etch the glass, and then add a treat.
At the North Branch in Macomb Township, middle and high schoolers are invited to an after-hours Nerf night from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15. The Macomb County Clerk’s Office will hold a tutorial about how residents can use the county’s tools to trace your roots at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25. Visit http://cmpl.libnet.info/events for a full list of events and to register for events.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — A touch of color can be helpful during these gloomy winter months. That’s where Clinton Township’s Youth Painting Parties come in. The event offers a step-bystep course for kids, according to Recreation Director Brian Kay.
“They get to take home their own masterpiece that they can put on display in their room,” Kay said.
The township has been putting on the event for the past two years, according to Kay. He said it’s been successful so far and kids have seemed to enjoy it.
“I think people have a propensity to stay at home a little bit more when it’s colder out and we just wanted to get the word out there that this class is being offered,” Kay said.
Kay said kids can be left at the event if parents are comfortable leaving them under the supervision of township staff members.
The event takes place at the Steiner Community Building and is geared toward kids 7-13 years old. It takes place on Feb. 3 from 6-7 p.m., with a required preregistration fee of $14 for residents and $18.50 for nonresidents. Art supplies are covered in the registration fee. If you miss February’s party, there’s one at the same time and place on April 7. Preregistration is also required for the event. To register, visit register.clintontownship.com/CourseActivities.aspx?id=11.
SABATINI BECOMES BOARD CHAIR
MOUNT CLEMENS — The Macomb County Board of Commissioners voted on Jan. 9 to appoint Joe Sabatini, R-District 4, as its new chair in a unanimous vote.
“I will work with each Commissioner on their individual goals to support their district,” Sabatini said in a press release. “I will ensure we effectively (execute) our legislative powers and provide sound oversight of our fiduciary responsibilities.”
Sabatini was first elected as a commissioner in November 2010 and served through the end of 2016, representing Macomb Township as well as portions of Clinton Township, Shelby Township and Utica. He was elected to return to the board in November 2020, serving two consecutive terms and was re-elected in November 2024, serving most of Macomb Township. Since his return, Sabatini served as chair of the Finance/Audit/Budget Committee, managing the board’s process in reviewing, amending and adopting the recommended budget.
‘KNOCKING VIOLENCE OUT OF MY SCHOOL’ VIDEO COMPETITION UNDERWAY
MACOMB COUNTY — The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, in partnership with “A Brighter Macomb,” will hold the third annual “Knocking Violence Out of My School” student video competition. The initiative is designed to empower students to engage with their peers to create safer, more supportive school environments.
Students can create videos that address themes of anti-threats, anti-violence, anti-weapons, and anti-bullying. Videos should be no longer than two minutes and will be judged by assistant prosecutors and staff from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office Juvenile Unit. Submit videos via email to: prosecutorvideocompetition@macombgov.org. The submission deadline is 5 p.m. March 31. The winners will be announced April 14. The prizes are: first place, $1,000 plus a Hero Award for the school; $750 for second place; and $500 for third place.
To view past video winners, visit macombgov.org/departments/prosecutors-office and click on the “Knocking Violence Out of My School Video Competition” link. For questions, contact Communications Director Dawn Fraylick at (586) 469-5737. Anyone interested in scheduling a free presentation at your school about preventing school threats, bullying, and weapons, can contact Heather Esposito at (586) 469-5642 or by email at heather.esposito@macombgov.org.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP
SPORTS L’ANSE CREUSE UNIFIED LEADS MAC, PROVES TURNAROUND IS REAL
BY SCOTT BENTLEY
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — The new year has brought new results and expectations for L’Anse Creuse Unified hockey.
Last season, the team finished in fourth place in the MAC Red, went 2-8 to end the year, had a record under .500, and was eliminated in the first round of regionals.
So far this year, Unified is 10-4-2 and has more points than any team in either division of the MAC.
“The kids are buying in,” L’Anse Creuse Unified coach Jon Nader said. “The kids are playing really good hockey right now. They’re all on board and we’re really excited about that.”
There’s been a focus on defense this year and it’s translated extremely well, with only two regulation losses in the team’s last 10 games.
“When we talk about defense on this team … we talk about how it’s not just one. It’s not just the goalie,” Nader explained. “It’s everyone on that ice.”
Although it’s not “just the goalie,” the goaltender situation has been great for L’Anse Creuse Unified with Perez Silva starting in more than half of the team’s games and posting a .926 save percentage and a goals against average of 2.86.
“Knowing that we have that in the back end has been a huge success for us,” Nader said. “I mean, all three of them have been working hard in the offseason, getting a lot of pucks hit at them. They’ve been stellar for us this year.”
Silva is joined in net by senior Zachary Hill (3-1 record, .904 SV%) and freshman Jake Stewart (1-1, .859 SV%), with all three netminders currently posting a goals against average of under 3.00 on the year.
“The chemistry between all three of us goalies is so healthy right
See HOCKEY on page 9A
ABOVE: On Jan. 14, L’Anse Creuse Unified played St. Clair Shores Unified, a team they lost to 5-0 in November. Shores again defeated L’Anse Creuse, by a score of 5-3, in a close game that saw L’Anse Creuse get out to a 2-0 lead in the first period.
LEFT: The goaltender situation has been great for L’Anse Creuse Unified with Perez Silva starting in more than half of the team’s games and posting a .926 save percentage and a goals against average of 2.86 through mid-January.
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Hockey
from page 8A
now,” Silva said. “We all want that playing time, so it’s healthy competition. It helps us stay competitive and translates over into the game which helps our back line… If we have a confident goalie back there all our team has to worry about is scoring goals.”
Scoring goals has come easy to the team’s dynamic top line of Logan Jarvey (12 goals, 16 assists, 28 points), Aiden Suchocki (12 goals, 10 assists, 22 points), and Drew Halaas (10 goals, 5 assists, 15 points), who are all scoring at least a point a game and have allowed the rest of the team to focus on defense.
“Working with my linemates Aiden and Drew, we’ve been communicating more than we were last year,” Jarvey, a junior forward and the team’s point leader, explained. “We knew we had talent, but I feel like last year we were all more focused on the individual. Now we’re starting to come together as a line and as a group.”
All of this has led to a program-wide trust from coaches to players, and everyone has bought into the team.
“I definitely think it’s trusting the system,” Silva said. “Some games you have bad bounces and stuff happens… It’s trusting the system again, trusting the coaching staff, and trusting our team most importantly.
Knowing that we’ll get those goals back… I strive to do better and I’m pretty sure Logan does, too. We want to do what’s best for the team and it’s nice to have the buy-in from the rest of the guys.”
On Jan. 14, the team played St. Clair Shores Unified, which is a program that not only started off the season as the MAC title favorites but also crushed L’Anse Creuse 5-0 in November.
“We played St. Clair Shores (in November), and they gave it to us pretty good,” Nader said. “Shores was picked to win the MAC. It’s bulletin board material. We have it in the locker room all the time. We’re going to see how much better we got because we’ve been playing really good hockey.”
St. Clair Shores Unified again defeated L’Anse Creuse Unified by a score of 5-3 in a close game that saw L’Anse Creuse get out to a 2-0 lead in the first period. Despite the loss, the team showed noticeable improvement from its November blowout and is still ahead of St. Clair Shores in the standings by four points.
L’Anse Creuse Unified is looking to keep the momentum going and take home a division title at the end of the year.
“I’m sure there’s going to be some more bumps in the road,” Nader said. “But we have 10 games left and we’re just trying to get better every time we step foot on that ice. Our goal is always to win the MAC, not just our division.”
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Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Logan Jarvey, a junior forward and the team point leader for L’Anse Creuse Unified, carries the puck in a game against St. Clair Shores Unified Jan. 14.
SPOTLIGHT ON LEARNING
MSGCU ACCEPTING SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM APPLICATIONS
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union is accepting applications for its annual scholarship program. The credit union will award over $130,000 in scholarships, including 43 scholarships of $2,500 each to help students and educators reach career goals, and 14 scholarships of $2,000 each to support future first responders.
According to a press release, 10 additional scholarships will be awarded in 2025, representing an increase of $25,000.
MSGCU will award scholarships in various categories to teachers and administrators.
Nonmembers are welcome to apply for an MSGCU scholarship and must become a member if selected as a scholarship recipient.
“Earning a degree or certification requires a great deal of determination and hard work, along with a significant financial investment,” said Steve Brewer, president and CEO of MSGCU, in a release announcing
the 2025 scholarship program. “MSGCU is increasing our scholarship awards this year to support more students in the communities we serve. We have provided over $1.25 million in scholarships since our program started 20 years ago, helping more than 600 recipients complete their education.”
The MSGCU High School Excellence Scholarship, formerly the Educational Solu-
ry Swantek Educational Studies Scholarship benefits high school seniors and current college students planning to become teachers. The Milo Perreault Educator Advancement Scholarship helps certified teachers and administrators continue their education. Four $2,500 scholarships will be offered.
William Cayen Skilled Trades Scholarship supports students pursuing certification in electrical, heating/air conditioning, automotive, or other industrial and advanced technologies or skilled trades programs. Two $2,500 awards are offered to current skilled trades students or graduating high school seniors pursuing a skilled trades certificate.
tions Scholarship, helps high school seniors who attend college. There are 18 scholarships in the amount of $2,500 each.
The Rudolph Heino People Helping People Scholarship supports college-bound high school seniors with a commitment to helping others. A total of 15 scholarships of $2,500 are being offered.
With four $2,500 scholarships, the Lar-
The credit union also funds the Stephen Thomas First Responder Scholarship, which supports first responders enrolled in police and/or fire academies at local colleges with 14 scholarships of $2,000 each. Applications occur directly with Macomb Community College, Oakland Community College, Washtenaw Community College, and Schoolcraft College.Scholarship applications can be submitted online at msgcu.org/scholarships. The deadline to apply is Feb. 25.
MSGCU will award scholarships in various categories to teachers and administrators.
Photo provided by Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union
Rescue
from page 1A
The driver was transported to the hospital after the incident, but the department did not have any further updates on his condition. The incident is currently under investigation. Bates said the vehicle was pulled out of the pond with the assistance of a diver afterward. The estimated depth of the pond is 10-12 feet.
Dispatchers received calls around 1:50 a.m. about the sinking SUV at The Harbours apartment complex on Bayview Avenue off of Hall Road.
Officer Celeste Smith first arrived on the scene and coordinated where the officers should go. The call came from a building near the south side of the U-shaped pond, according to Bates. Smith called out to the driver to climb out from a visibly open window, though the driver was not responding.
“I was asking him his name, if he was OK, how far the water was up and to let me know if it got any higher,” Smith said.
Bates said the vehicle was floating on the surface of the pond when he arrived.
“I noticed that the front end of the vehicle started going down,” he said. “At that point we didn’t have time to wait for the Fire Department or a boat to show up.”
The team sprang into action, each member playing their part. Bates attached the rescue rope to the life vest for the driver and started getting into the pond. Sgt. John Kuehn, officer Preston Ku and officer Gabrielle Mason got ready to pull the two in with a rescue rope.
“It was like a machine,” Bates said. “Everybody did their part. We didn’t have to talk about it, we didn’t have to discuss it. Everything fell into place. That’s what happens when you (have a) shift full of people that you trust.”
When Bates swam to the vehicle, he saw the driver through the sunroof trying to stay near the roof. Before the open driver’s side window was completely submerged, Bates
reached in and pulled the driver through it.
“Initially he kind of resisted because he was trying to stay where it was safe in the air pocket,” Bates said. “I ended up having to pull him underwater out through the window.”
Bates then stabilized the driver and got a life jacket on him. He started attempting to swim to shore, calling out to his fellow officers to start pulling the rope.
“Had officer Kuehn, officer Mason and officer Ku not been on the rope, myself and the driver may have been down at the bottom of the pond,” Bates said.
Bates also credited Smith’s coordination in the rescue.
“Without officer Smith telling us to go around to the north side, we would’ve been too late to get there,” Bates said. “It was seconds that we had from getting him out of the car before it was completely underwater.”
Kuehn said that efforts by Sgt. Joshua Lundin put life vests and rescue ropes in each of the department’s squad cars.
“You don’t think you’ll need it, but you come to a time like this where this was crucial in what we were doing,” Kuehn said. “Thanks to him for equipping all of our vehicles with this.”
Bates said a few years ago a similar incident happened when the Clinton River overflowed. A driver was traveling down Millar Road when the vehicle was swept off. The vests and ropes were put in the vehicles after the incident.
According to the National Weather Service website, the low temperature on New Year’s Eve was 33 degrees. Bates said he never felt cold during or after his plunge into the pond, possibly chalking it up to adrenaline.
“I jumped in the shower and changed into dry clothes. I just never had that chill,” Bates said.
After all was said and done, Bates typed up the report and said he went “right back on the road.”
Smith said the incident was “...an interesting thing that happened during the day and then we moved on.”
Photo by Nick Powers
The Clinton Township Police Department’s Platoon C includes Sgt. John Kuehn, Sgt. Ryan Bates, officer Celeste Smith, officer Gabrielle Mason and officer Preston Ku. In this photo, the officers get ready for a Jan. 9 press conference about saving a driver who was sinking into a retention pond.
Man allegedly held son and mother of his child at gunpoint
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — A Clinton Township man was arraigned Jan. 14 for a litany of charges stemming from an incident where he allegedly held his child and the child’s mother at gunpoint.
Dalvin Devonte Brooks, 30, allegedly assaulted the mother of his child and held her at gunpoint Jan. 12, according to a press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office. Brooks then allegedly held his 2-year-old son at gunpoint. When township police arrived, Brooks reportedly barricaded himself in a bedroom. The release alleges that Brooks used the child as a “human shield” as he pointed his gun at officers. Brooks eventually surrendered to authorities and was taken into custody.
Brooks is charged with seven counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, a felony with each count carrying a four-year sentence. He also faces eight felony weapons charges, with each count carrying a mandatory two-year sentence. Charges of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, a five-year felony; fourth-degree child abuse, a one-year misdemeanor; and domestic violence, a 93-day misdemeanor, were also brought against Brooks. Additionally, Brooks was charged as a habitual fourth-time offender.
Brooks was arraigned in Clinton Township’s 41B District Court by Magistrate Ryan Zemke. His bond was set at $500,000 cash or surety only.
A probable cause conference was scheduled for 1 p.m. Jan. 27 in front of District Court Judge Carrie Fuca.
“It is my duty to ensure the safety and well-being of all members of our community. The alleged actions of this individual are reprehensible,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido is quoted as saying in a press release. “Such acts of violence are intolerable, and we will pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law to protect these victims and prevent further harm.”
Brooks’ attorney, David Sinutko, did not respond for comment at press time.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
Trustees
from page 3A
on personal property,” Verkest said. “One year of tax revenue on the personal property at stake is over $105,000, and that’s just for our police and fire millage; that doesn’t include the library millage or various other taxing entities. Based on these figures, I am confident that it is financially prudent to pursue these cases.”
SAD soliciting
Trustees also approved a plan to solicit proposals from contractors interested in removing silt from canals within the Archer/ Lakeshore special assessment district.
“Originally, the homeowners had identified a preferred contractor that the township had worked with on several projects previously,” Township Clerk Adan Wit said. “But as we waited for permitting from the state, the contractor had stated he may not
be able to do the work due to issues with insurance and staffing. The homeowners spent a lot of time and effort to see if there was anyone else — at one point in time, we thought they were going to have to walk away from the project completely — but they were able to identify another system that may be usable.”
Wit said potential contractors include the newly identified one and the original one, though the original intended contractor tends to be uncertain. With the potential of multiple contractors interested in the work, trustees approved the township to work with consulting firm Wade Trim to prepare a request for proposal. The cost of developing the RFP will be paid with funds raised by the SAD. Trustees will have the final approval on who performs the work.
Brooks
nity College made this choice even more special. We’re thrilled to support a hometown talent and can’t wait for our community to experience his incredible show.”
White grew up near Seven Mile Road and Mack Avenue on Detroit’s east side. He attended St. Philomena Catholic School, Bishop Gallagher High School and in 1973 graduated from Finney High School. White also enrolled in classes at Macomb Community College in Warren and Wayne State University in Detroit, but performing was his true calling.
“I kind of gravitated towards that,” White said. “For me it felt very natural, very comfortable.”
Before his career as Neil Diamond began to shine, White had a passion for theater and was cast in several Detroit and Grosse Pointe productions, including “The Music Man,” “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Inherit the Wind.” He also fine-tuned his musical chops in various groups around town. Local residents may remember White singing baritone with an acapella doo-wop “The Voices.”
“People said to me a couple of times, ‘You sound like Neil Diamond when you sing,’” White recalled.
That sparked an idea and from 1983-87 White performed as Diamond — along with Elvis Presley, Kenny Rogers, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie and Olivia Newton-John impersonators — at Mr. F’s Beef & Bourbon in Sterling Heights, a supper club known for its cow statue outside.
It took time for White to master Diamond’s vocals, characteristics and style.
“It really did start with the voice first,” White said. “Then I started working on the look.”
By 1990, he was one of the headliners in the show “Legends in Concert” at the Imperial Palace in Las Vegas, a gig that lasted nine years and 5,014 performances. The neon lights of the Vegas strip suited White, where he has been a mainstay for more than three decades, including an 8-year stint at the Riviera Hotel & Casino.
“It’s been quite a ride,” White said.
White performs alongside a group of talented players that includes members of Diamond’s band King Errisson on conga drums and Richard Bennett on guitar. White also recruited his son, Neil White, on bass guitar. He and his wife, Pam, named their son before White embarked on a career as Neil Diamond.
White also takes the show on the road,
even traveling Down Under to Australia. When Hollywood director Ron Howard needed a Neil Diamond impressionist for a scene in his 2008 film “Frost/Nixon,” White got the job.
“It was just a tremendous experience,” White recalled.
White has met Diamond twice. The first time was before a Diamond concert at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. They also crossed musical paths again when Diamond performed at the Los Angeles Forum, where he met some of the superstar’s family, including his mom.
“We had a chance to chat,” White said. “She was very kind, very complimentary and very appreciative. The family was very, very kind and took me in very quickly.”
At one point in his career, Diamond gave White a couple of his costumes; they became part of the act. As another memento, Diamond autographed a picture of the two singers together with the following message: “Jay, keep singing so I can stay home and relax. Your friend in music, Neil Diamond.” In 2018, Diamond retired from touring and performing after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
White didn’t start out as a Neil Diamond fan. He changed his tune when in 1978, he attended a Neil Diamond concert with his then-girlfriend and her mother at Pine Knob in Clarkston.
“Wow, this guy is really good. By the end of the two-hour show, I was hooked,” White recalled. “I really loved the songs. What a great artist. His stage persona was appealing, so fun, so interesting. His personality was so likeable.”
White also makes time for this other love: hockey. When White’s not center stage as Diamond, he can be found on the ice. He played in metro Detroit as a kid and grew up watching “Hockey Night in Canada.” As an adult, he has played goalie in several NHL and Hollywood all-star games.
White will perform “The Sweet Caroline Tour” featuring the music of Neil Diamond on Feb. 1 at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, located on the Macomb Community College Center Campus at 44575 Garfield Road, at Hall Road. For tickets call (586) 286-2222, email MacombArts@macomb.edu, or visit macombcenter.com.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
NOTICE
To the residents of the Charter Township of Harrison, County of Macomb, Michigan.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clerk’s Offce for the Charter Township of Harrison will post, for public inspection, the Agenda for Township Board Meetings and a Synopsis of the approved Meeting Minutes at the Clerk’s Offce located at 38151 L’Anse Creuse Road, and to the Rosso Hall bulletin board located at 38255 L’Anse Creuse Rd. The Agenda and a full text of the Minutes will be available on the Township Website, www.harrisontownshipmi.gov and, upon request from the Clerk’s Offce.
Adam Wit, MMC, MiPMC, Clerk Charter Township of Harrison
Published: Journal 01/22/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON
0008-2504
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M. IN ROSSO MEMORIAL HALL, 38255 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING AN APPEAL BY:
CASE #01-25-ZBA: Maik Gruff and Laith Yono Property #17-12-20-479-001 Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (R1-C)
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Requesting multiple setback determinations BY REASON OF: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances Article 12, Section 12.10 – Front yard setback modifcations Article 14, Section 14.09 – R1-C single family residential
Notice is further given that the Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Board of Appeals may modify or change the variance(s) as requested, including granting of variance(s) for said purpose, which may create another and different variance(s) from the requirements of the above cited Charter Township of Harrison ordinance, all within its discretion and as otherwise permitted by law. Any interested person(s) may appear or be represented at said meeting.
Additional information or comments, written or oral, will be received at the Harrison Township Offces, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd, Harrison Twp., MI, 48045 (586-466-1461) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.
Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email pc-zba@harrison-township.org if auxiliary aids or services are needed.
0195-2504
Published: Journal 01/22/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M. IN ROSSO MEMORIAL HALL, 38255 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING AN APPEAL BY: CASE #02-25-ZBA: Bryan Saad – 25990 Crocker Blvd. Property #17-11-24-479-006 Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (GC)
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Requesting a variance from Section 72-7 (2, H) to install a 95 sq/ft rooftop sign BY REASON OF: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances Chapter 72, Section 72-7 (2, H), – Signs mounted on roofs
Notice is further given that the Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Board of Appeals may modify or change the variance(s) as requested, including granting of variance(s) for said purpose, which may create another and different variance(s) from the requirements of the above cited Charter Township of Harrison ordinance, all within its discretion and as otherwise permitted by law. Any interested person(s) may appear or be represented at said meeting.
Additional information or comments, written or oral, will be received at the Harrison Township Offces, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd, Harrison Twp., MI, 48045 (586-466-1461) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email pc-zba@harrison-township.org if auxiliary aids or services are needed.
0113-2504
Published: Journal 01/22/2025
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS
2025 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW
The Board of Review will be holding an organizational meeting at the Harrison Township Assessor’s Offce, 38144 Townhall, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 2:00 PM, for the purpose of receiving the 2025 Assessment Roll of the Charter Township of Harrison, Macomb County, Michigan.
Matters pertaining to the assessment of property may be brought before the Board of Review BY APPOINTMENT on the following dates:
Monday, March 10, 2025 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM & 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Appointments will be taken until 12:00 PM on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, by calling (586) 466-1410. Appeals will also be accepted by letter. All letter appeals must be RECEIVED by 12:00 PM on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, addressed to: Harrison Township Board of Review 38151 L’Anse Creuse
Harrison Township, MI 48045
The 2025 tentative assessment ratios and county equalization factors for the Township of Harrison, as recommended by the Macomb County Equalization Department, are as follows:
Published: Journal 01/22/2025
theme is sky and space and any interpretation of that. Some artists interpreted that very differently from one to the next.”
Garth Glazier, an artist based in Troy, was selected to be the exhibition’s juror.
Aside from jurying Sky & Space, Glazier is one of a record-setting 45 artists with works in the 52nd edition of the Michigan Annual. Opening on Saturday, Jan. 25, the Michigan Annual is the Anton Art Center’s tentpole fine arts competition.
“The selections are a wide variety of the best of the best across the state,” Hazzard said.
Artists are given full freedom to sub-
mit whatever works they want, opening the door for numerous kinds of art to be on display.
“We will have everything from fiber artwork to sculpture to photography, oil paintings, (and) illustrations,” Hazzard said. “There’s going to be a wide variety of different types of media, as usual.”
Determining who makes it to the show floor and who takes the top prizes is juror Jeff Cancelosi, best known for his work photographing artists.
Both the Michigan Annual LII and Sky & Space run until Saturday, Feb. 22. The Michigan Annual will be on the first floor while Sky & Space will be on the second floor. Both events will have opening receptions from 1-3 p.m. on their respective opening days.
Spotlight on business...
A Pro Climate Control Ready To Service Any HVAC Need
Allen Haddo understands that replacing or repairing an HVAC system and related equipment can be stressful for both businesses and homeowners. As the owner of A Pro Climate Control in Harrison Township, Haddo has built a reputation of quality and integrity with customers throughout southeastern Michigan.
A Pro Climate Control is an award-winning company that provides full replacement, quick repair and scheduled maintenance for residential and commercial heating and cooling systems, and additional services such as air puri ers, chimney liners, gas lines, generators, humidi ers and more. Haddo himself has worked in the industry for 13 years. Since he founded A Pro Climate Control, Haddo has grown the business extensively as proven by the storefront he opened this summer at 35618 Je erson Avenue.
With this growth, Haddo is looking to hire professionals interested in joining his team. Anyone with a desire to work in the HVAC eld can stop in the Harrison Township location to ll out an application or call (248) 860-8629 for more information.
New employees and clients alike will quickly come to realize that Haddo cares about those he works for and with. A Pro Climate Control will never overcharge customers for unnecessary equipment, and Haddo will always con rm if a less expensive repair is possible rst. Haddo believes in a “no pressure” approach designed to best serve customers based on their needs and budget.
A Pro Climate Control’s residential business, in particular, has grown to the point where he strives to exceed the expectations of his customers through attention to detail. On the commercial side, A Pro Climate Control can work with businesses in just about any industry, with specialization in health care, retail and manufacturing, as well as cultivation systems for businesses operating in the cannabis sector.
Whether you need a furnace tune-up, air puri er, humidi er, or a complete system, A Pro Climate Control is the solution. A Pro Climate Control is a certi ed Ruud Pro Partner, making the company certi ed for dependable, safe and satisfactory installation and servicing of high-performing Ruud products. Haddo and his employees are also IAQ Indoor Air Quality specialists.
A ordable nancing solutions are available for all customers. Contact Haddo and his team of experienced professionals for a free estimate by calling (248) 860-8629 or visiting callaproclimatecontrol.com. All customers are also eligible for monthly incentives on products and/or services and for membership in the company’s APRO Protection Plan, which o ers discounts for repeat customers.
Simply put, at A Pro Climate Control, the job isn’t done until the customer is happy.
Alongside the exhibitions, the Anton Art Center has a big weekend planned for the end of January. The Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 30, allowing people the opportunity to stop in a number of Mount Clemens establishments and find out who has the best chili in the city. Tickets are $20 and support the art center and the Mount Clemens Goodfellows.
The cook-off kicks off the Mount Clemens Ice Show on Feb. 1-2, where numerous ice sculptures will be displayed along Cherry Street. Taking advantage of this Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority event, the art center is hosting free art making activities for the duration of the event. On Friday, Jan. 31, the art center is holding a 55th anniversary celebration
from 7-9 p.m.
“We are celebrating throughout this year our emerald anniversary,” said Peggy DiMercurio, education and community engagement manager for the Anton Art Center. “We opened in 1969 and so we are taking the chance to really talk about the history of the Art Center and celebrate the impact that we had and take a look back through the years. We’re featuring a jazz artist, Kathy Kosins, and her band. They’ll be providing a jazz concert that evening and she will be painting an abstract painting during her performance. It will be a great night of music and visual art as well.”
Tickets to the anniversary can be purchased online for $25 at theartcenter.org/55. Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
HOMES
16A/JANUARY 22, 2025
COLORS OF THE YEAR DESIGNED TO ADD WARMTH, LUXURY TO YOUR HOME IN 2025
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — A new year is a great time to update the spaces in your home with fresh color.
Trend forecasters from global color authorities, like Pantone, along with various major paint brands, have announced their colors of the year — which industry leaders predict will dominate interiors in 2025.
Whether you decide to add hints of trending colors in home decor or update the paint on your walls for a bolder look, experts say these are the colors to select.
Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, is a warm, rich brown “infused with subtle elegance and earthy refinement,” according to the company’s website.
“Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence,” Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, said in a prepared statement.
The soft brown is a versatile shade that “evokes the feeling of comfort in a home,” according to Pantone — whether on flooring, a painted wall, within home decor, or in more natural materials like wood and stone, rattan and wicker or leather and linen.
Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year is Cinnamon Slate, “a delicate mix of heathered plum and velvety brown,” according to Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore. The hue, she continued, offers “enduring style and modern sensibility.”
“Adaptable, yet distinct, it brings a soothing familiarity and balance to any design,” Barone noted. “The nuances in its undertones are what make it unique, but still versatile.”
For the past couple of years, Pantone officials said, they have seen a reach for more saturated and colorful hues.
“We also continue to notice a growing sentiment of creating unique and personalized spaces that also have a sense of ease,” Barone shared. “As people gain a better understanding and overall appreciation for color and how it’s used in design, we now see them opting for more nuanced hues that are adaptable, yet distinct. Certainly not neutral, but not quite primary, these colors encourage curiosity and invite you to think of all ends of the color spectrum.”
When designing a room with Cinnamon Slate, Pantone officials said bringing in warmer accents in golds and ambers can make the violet undertone more distinguishable. On the other hand, by using cooler colors and lighting, and plum hues, Cinnamon Slate can take on more of a neutral look.
“We love it color-drenched in a living room, especially when paired with leather, warm woods and brushed gold metallic accents for a moody vibe,” Barone said. “It is also beautiful in a bedroom with layered neutrals for a truly enveloping respite.”
Behr announced Rumors, a deep ruby red, as its Color of the Year for 2025. The color, Behr officials say, is poised to add warmth and a touch of luxury throughout the home. “Rumors is a universal color that transcends design styles and embraces self-expression,” the company’s website says, “from eye-catching curb
appeal on a front door to a four-wall drench in a bedroom.”
“We’re seeing people embrace color like never before,” Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr Paint Co., said in a prepared statement. “Rumors is a modern take on the timeless red that creates an energetic appeal to make a lasting statement in a stunning way.”
After a decade and a half of annual Color of the Year announcements, Sherwin-Williams decided to celebrate color in a new way — combining its collections to curate the Sherwin-Williams 2025 Color Capsule of the Year.
“It’s very special to commemorate our 15th Color of the Year anniversary by expanding to an entire capsule that is a modern, fresh take on color, with a balanced and usable assortment of shades,” Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams, said in a prepared statement. “Together — as a complete palette or in expertly picked pairings — the capsule’s alchemy creates something to be treasured in any style or setting.”
The 2025 Color Capsule of the Year, the company says, includes “a mix of forever favorites, beautiful hues of the moment and future classics that encapsulate a variety of eras and aesthetics,” comprising the following shades: Grounded, a “versatile and captivating brown”; Sunbleached, “an adaptable and airy light neutral that is somewhere deeper than white, not quite gray, and ventures beyond a basic beige or taupe”; Chartreuse, a “vibrant yellow-green”; Rain Cloud, a “stormy and deep gray-blue hue”; Clove, an “entrancing brown”; Malabar, a “sandy beige neutral”; Bosc Pear, a “cinnamon-dusted golden hue”; White Snow, a beautiful, pure white; and Mauve Finery, a “sophisticated” true mauve.
Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
TOP: Benjamin Moore selected Cinnamon Slate, a mix of heathered plum and velvety brown, as its 2025 Color of the Year.
Photo provided by Benjamin Moore
ABOVE: Rumors, a deep ruby red, is Behr’s Color of the Year for 2025.
Photo provided by Behr
LEFT: Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year is Mocha Mousse.
Photo provided by Pantone
Board of Review appointment receives scrutiny
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The appointment of three members to the township’s Board of Review sailed by without incident at the Clinton Township Board of Trustees meeting on Jan. 13.
A fourth application, separated out into its own vote, was the source of some controversy.
Mike Licavoli, Gerald Miller and Derek Wilczynski were unanimously appointed by the township board. Outgoing Clinton Township Emergency Manager Paul Brouwer’s application was put to a separate vote.
The Board of Review’s job is to listen to appeals from residents about the tax assessments of their properties. The board then determines any necessary reassessments.
Opposition to Brouwer’s appointment was mounted by Trustee Dan Kress. Kress had written Brouwer a letter on Dec. 16 inquiring about Brouwer’s performance during the Goo Smoke Shop Explosion that left one dead last March. Kress said Brouwer never responded to that letter. Brouwer’s final day on the job was Dec. 20.
“I don’t think we should reward him with an appointment to the Board of Review because of those circumstances,” Kress said.
In the letter, Kress asked the outgoing emergency manager to give an “hour-tohour” breakdown of events on March 4; a summary of steps taken to protect citizens on that day; the plan of action put in place in the days that followed the explosion; and Brouwer’s whereabouts and response on the day of the explosion. He also inquired about why Nixle, an emergency messaging system the township utilizes, did not send out a notification to residents.
Clinton Township Clerk Kim Meltzer, Trustee Julie Matuzak and Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem all spoke to Brouwer’s qualifications for his Board of Review appointment.
“To discredit this man who has committed to 50-plus years of impeccable service to this community, I’m going to stand up for him because this is not fair,” Meltzer said. “I think you’re out of line.”
Gieleghem explained there are some limitations on what township employees are able to talk about with regard to the explosion at the direction of Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido.
“It was very, very clear from Prosecutor Lucido: This is an ongoing criminal investi-
gation. We want the township to be able to reassure the public in due time, but we do not want public comments made that will jeopardize the investigation and seeking justice for the family,” Gieleghem said.
Gieleghem tried to refocus the discussion on the Board of Review.
“The Board of Review is a statutory body that reviews applications for people who want to appeal their tax assessment,” he said. “I think we want to stick to that message and his qualifications in relation to his ability to do this appointed job that pays little, that is a lot of aggravation and some very weighty decisions for the township.”
Brouwer was ultimately approved for the appointment. All trustees voted in favor of Brouwer except for Kress.
In a previous interview for C & G Newspapers, Brouwer commented on the response to the explosion.
“That was a classic case of a multiagency response and it went quite well considering the magnitude of the incident,” Brouwer said.
Liquor
license for Vinny’s Brunch denied
Mimosas at brunch are on hold for the moment at one establishment.
A motion by Meltzer to allocate a Class C Quota Liquor License to Vinny’s Brunch was voted down by the board. Matuzak, Gieleghem, Trustee Bruce Wade and Trustee Shannon King voted against the license. Meltzer’s motion was supported by Treasurer Mike Aiello and Kress.
At the meeting Meltzer said she had spoken with township Fire Marshal Jason Kropf who said the restaurant had nine violations. However, Meltzer said the violations overlap and would be easy fixes. She said an approval could’ve been conditional upon resolving these issues.
“None of these violations send up a red flag that we couldn’t approve it with a conditional approval,” Meltzer said.
Representatives from Vinny’s said at the meeting that customers had been asking about serving alcohol at the restaurant. They said that most of the violations outlined by the fire marshal had already been addressed.
“We already have fixed most of the problems,” Laura Jakaj said. “I think it was just one more thing we were waiting for with the CO2 tank, but besides that everything was done immediately that day.”
Some trustees who voted the license
down were primarily concerned with where in the township the licenses should be allocated.
Matuzak said she wanted the license to promote businesses starting on Groesbeck Highway and Gratiot Avenue. Vinny’s is located on Hall Road.
“I personally feel like there’s a potential to use these very precious liquor licenses for some other establishment,” Matuzak said.
“We have areas in our township that I believe might be in greater need,” King said.
Meltzer said there was a reversion clause in the contract for the license. This ensures that if Vinny’s were to close the license would go back to the township to reissue to another applicant. The township currently has two licenses and another in the process of being returned. These are the remaining licenses the township has for the next 10 years.
Following the vote, the business’ owner Vilson Jakaj said he was looking into another business on Gratiot.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
18A/ JOURNAL • JANUARY 22, 2025
JAN. 22
‘Human Trafficking 101’: Presentation by Turning Point, 6 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse (Suite A), registration required, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
JAN. 23
De-Stress Fest: Crafts, games, snacks and therapy dogs, for teens in grades 6-12, 6 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, (586) 226-5072, cmpl. libnet.info/events
Tech Time: Residents can ask questions and troubleshoot technical issues, 6:30 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse (Suite A), registration required, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
JAN. 24
Detroit Zoo program: Children can learn about Michigan wildlife, conservation and mudpuppies, 4:30 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at cmpl.libnet.info/events
Euchre fundraiser: Benefits Wertz Warriors Special Olympics Michigan Winter Games, 6-10 p.m., St. Hubert Catholic Church, 38775 Prentiss St. in Harrison Township, RSVP to Rick at (586) 306-1296
JAN. 25
Bluey Party: Games, activities and meet-and-greet,1 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse (Suite A), registration required, (586) 3291261, htlibrary.org/events
JAN. 26
‘Earth After Dark’: Featuring photographer Babak Tafreshi as part of National Geographic Live series, 3 p.m., includes 20-minute Q&A afterward, Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter. com
JAN. 30
Daddy-daughter dance: Presented by Five Crown Elite Dance, includes child and adult buffets with desserts, DJ, selfie photo booths, hair braiding station, and appearances by princesses, 6-9 p.m., Italian American Cultural Society and Banquet Center, 43843 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township, more at eventbrite. com
FEB. 1
Detroit Zoo program: Children can learn about Michigan wildlife, conservation and rattlesnakes, 3 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch,
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at cmpl.libnet.info/events
FEB. 2
Polish dinner charity fundraiser: Supports ALS of Michigan and Capuchin Soup Kitchen, also 50-50 and prize raffle, 12:30-6 p.m., JFK Knights of Columbus, 33320 Kelly Road in Clinton Township, (586) 4816833 or (586) 791-5656
Macomb Symphony Orchestra: Performance part of 50-year celebration, 3 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, macombcenter.com, (586) 286-2222
FEB. 5
‘Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus — Live’: Stage adaptation of popular book about relationships, 7:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, macombcenter.com, (586) 286-2222
Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Polski’s Pub and Grub, 38730 Harper Ave. in Clinton Township, RSVP to Vicky at (586) 260-8679 by Jan 30, widowedfriends. com
FEB. 10
Bad art night: Kids in grades 6-12 compete to make worst/ugliest piece, 6 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at (586) 226-5073
ONGOING
‘Sky & Space’: Featuring works by Mount Clemens Art Association and other local clubs, exhibit on display from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays until Feb. 22, Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org
Social groups: Find meetups for yoga, knitting and crocheting, anime, babies and teens, book clubs and storytime, kids music, Lego, and more, Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse St. (Suite A), (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 10:30 a.m. every second Monday of month, Big Boy, 16880 Hall Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Gerry at (586) 556-9471, widowedfriends.com
Men overcoming loss ofpartner/spouse: Meetings from 6-7:30 p.m. every third Tuesday of month, virtual and in person, Hospice of Michigan, 39531 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, wlawton@hom.org, (586) 263-8514
The three featured books of the Clinton-Macomb Public Library’s 1-2-3 Initiative — “All the Little Bird-Hearts” by Viktoria Lloyd Barlow, “A Day With No Words” by Tiffany Hammond and “The Extraordinaries” by TJ Klune — all tackle the subject of neurodiversity.
Photo provided by the Clinton-Macomb Public Library
CMPL tackles neurodiversity for 1-2-3 series
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Since 2020, the Clinton-Macomb Public Library has strived to drive conversations in its two communities through its 1-2-3 Initiative.
“The goal was to provide space for the community to have discussions or at least think about the tough topics we face as a society,” said Amy Young, head of adult services at the CMPL. “Our goal is to provide communities with forums to learn about, think about and discuss challenging contemporary issues.”
With a record of hot button subjects like race and climate change, the library’s 2025 initiative focuses on neurodiversity. Neurodiversity refers to the differences in the brain that cause variances from “normal” functions, such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or dyslexia.
“We think neurodiversity is really an issue that nowadays affects everyone,’ Young said. “It’s a really timely topic for people to engage with, and we think it’s important … We’re excited to offer a broad range of insight into the topic, and we think the community, even with construction, will be as responsive and open-minded as they have been in the past.”
With the three in 1-2-3 standing for three books about the subject ordered by age group, CMPL librarians have selected the picture book “A Day With No Words” by Tiffany Hammond, the teen-centric “The Extraordinaries” by TJ Klune and “All the Little Bird-Hearts” by Viktoria Lloyd Barlow as the book for adults. Prior 1-2-3 selected books have been some of the most circulated library materials, so making sure there are enough copies available has been a key responsibility for CMPL collections management.
“We are looking for something we can get in multiple formats,” said Celia Mulder, head of collections management at the CMPL. “If it’s available in large print or in digital copies, then that’s a huge bonus for us … We always order a lot of copies, so we always have at least one copy on hand at all of our locations when somebody comes in. A lot of it is driven by foot traffic since we have them on display and we have signage posted about them, so we want the books to be available for someone to pick up right from that display, which means we get a lot of copies of each title.”
A reading list of other books that discuss neurodiversity will be available for further exploitation on the subject at CMPL branches.
Events and guest speakers have been a mainstay of the 1-2-3 Initiative, extending the discussion further into the spring and early summer. The 2025 edition of the initiative will be no different. Discussions on the subject of neurodiversity and specific forms of neurodiversity will be held throughout the early year alongside craft and play events for children and teens.
While much of the 2025 initiative is expected to play out like other post-quarantine editions of 1-2-3, renovations at the Main Branch on Romeo Plank Road will see the shifting of resources and events to compensate. Events will take place either online, at the North or South branches or at nonCMPL locations.
“MISD (Macomb Intermediate School District) was nice enough to give us some space, but we’re finding people are making their way to the places we’re having the programs, so we’re happy to see that,” Young said.
For more information about the 1-23 Initiative and to learn about associated books, events and more, visit cmpl.org/ events/123.php.
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Jeeps stolen, recovered
GROSSE POINTE WOODS — A resident in the 2100 block of Hawthorne Road reported to police that his unlocked Jeep Wagoneer was stolen from his driveway before 9:20 a.m. Jan. 2. The resident told police that the key fob had likely been left inside the vehicle. Police said they recovered the vehicle later in Harper Woods, but items that had been inside — including checks, camera equipment, a stroller, an iPad, a North Face jacket and a bracelet — were missing.
In a separate incident, a resident in the 2000 block of Lennon Street contacted police at 6 a.m. Jan. 6 after finding that one of the two Jeeps that had been parked in his driveway had been stolen. The other Jeep had been broken into and the victim told police that Jeep had contained keys to the Jeep that was stolen. Police said they recovered the missing Jeep later in Harper Woods.
Vehicle break-in attempt reported
GROSSE POINTE PARK — Two unknown suspects — possibly juveniles — are being sought by police after they reportedly tried to break the driver’s side window on a Chrysler Pacifica while the vehicle was warming up in the 1400 block of Lakepointe Street at 6:45 p.m. Jan. 2. Police said surveillance footage shows the suspects walk up to the vehicle and try to break in.
Vehicle theft under investigation
GROSSE POINTE FARMS — According to an online Nixle report, a vehicle was stolen from the Country Club of Detroit at around 1 p.m. Jan. 3. Police said three unknown people in a red Honda Civic — believed to be a 2006 to 2011 model — arrived at the club and allegedly entered three vehicles in the main parking lot and attempted to enter three other vehicles. The vehicle that was stolen was recovered a few hours later, abandoned on the east side around the Warren/Detroit border. The case was under investigation.
Threatening suspect sought
GROSSE POINTE CITY — An unknown woman in her mid-40s is facing possible charges for issuing threats and causing a disturbance after the suspect is said to have menaced an employee at The Village Lululemon store at around 4:15 p.m. Dec. 27. According to a police report, the suspect threatened the employee after the employee asked the suspect and the group that the suspect was with about a missing skirt that was in the group’s shopping bag, but which hadn’t been paid for. The group said they had bought the skirt.
Broken window emergency
MOUNT CLEMENS — At around 11:15 p.m. on Dec.
to the corner of Dickinson and Avery streets to speak with a 34-year-old woman about damage to her car.
The woman said her boyfriend, 36, broke the front passenger window of her Subaru Legacy after she refused to drive him home. The boyfriend walked home.
Angry diner
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Dec. 18 at around 1 p.m., a 52-year-old Harrison Township man entered Paco’s Restaurant on Crocker Avenue to pick up lunch. After eating in his van, the man reentered the restaurant with a bloody hand and claimed the restaurant was responsible for his injury. Paco’s staff called for Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies, but the man left before deputies arrived.
The Harrison Township man called Paco’s at least four more times, blaming the restaurant for his injury.
Lots of tires flattened
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers from Shelby Township were dispatched to the 40000 block of Van Dyke Avenue for a malicious destruction of property complaint at 12:11 a.m. Dec. 8. Upon officers’ arrival to the parking lot, they met with the caller. The caller advised that she noticed her vehicle had two flat tires.
The caller looked around the parking lot and noticed several other vehicles that also had flat tires.
The officers walked through the entire parking lot and found eight vehicles with flat tires. The department had no suspects and the case was turned over to the detective bureau.
Package stolen
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A Shelby Township officer was dispatched to the Police Department’s lobby to meet with a woman whose package had been taken from her porch Dec. 8. The woman said she had purchased Christmas gifts to be delivered to her home. The woman reviewed her doorbell camera surveillance video and observed an unknown male suspect take the items that were sitting on her porch.
Minivan stolen
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they investigated the theft of a Dodge Caravan from the 43000 block of Schoenherr Road Dec. 26.
According to police, the vehicle owner said the Caravan was stolen after it had been left running by itself for approximately 25-30 minutes. The owner reportedly said the minivan was in bad shape and was essentially junk, though it reportedly contained tools that were more valuable than the vehicle.
Police said they were seeking surveillance footage that might have captured the minivan’s theft.
AND NOTES NEWS
Time to check hemlock trees for invasive species
METRO DETROIT — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development are asking for help protecting eastern hemlock trees from an invasive species.
The pests are hemlock woolly adelgid and the best time to catch them feeding is in the winter months. Robert Miller, an MDARD invasive species prevention and response specialist, said this climate triggers feeding activity, making the adelgids easier to spot.
“As hemlock woolly adelgid feeds, it secretes a white, waxy material that creates ovisacs,” he is quoted as saying in a DNR press release. “The presence of these small, round, white masses makes it possible to identify infested trees.”
The insects, which aren’t native to Michigan, drain the nutrients out of the hemlocks. Infestations have been confirmed in Allegan, Antrim, Benzie, Leelanau, Mason, Muskegon, Oceana, Ottawa and Washtenaw counties. Hemlock trees have the following characteristics: Cone- or egg-shaped trees up to 75 feet tall; drooping or feathery branches; flat needles growing individually from the sides of twigs; needles that are dark green on top with two parallel, white stripes underneath; and papery cones about three-quarters of an inch long that hang downward from branches.
You can report an infestation to the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network, at MISIN.MSU.edu or available as a downloadable smartphone app. Reports can also be submitted by email to MDA-Info@ Michigan.gov or by phone to MDARD at (800) 292-3939.
to leave gas station
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to a gas station in the 8000 block of 15 Mile Road Dec. 6 upon hearing that a man wearing a beige hoodie “with cartoons on it” was acting aggressively in the store while disturbing customers and asking for money. Police said they also heard that the man smelled of alcohol.
When police arrived, a manager reportedly said the suspect was refusing to leave, though he reportedly complied once police told him to depart.
Man accused of stealing balls from store
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police heard Dec. 7 about a shoplifting incident at Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave.
Store staff said a man tried to leave the store after failing to scan a basketball and football at the self-checkout. Police said $90.94 worth of unpaid items was found with the suspect. Police said they cited the suspect for third-degree retail fraud.
Woman accused of stealing bathmat set, storage bin
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they went to Target, 2310 Metropolitan Parkway, Dec. 7, upon hearing that a woman grabbed two bathmat sets and two plastic storage bins but allegedly only scanned for purchase one bathmat set and one bin.
Police said the stolen items amounted to $44.99 in value. Although the suspect reportedly said she had scanned all the items and blamed the situation on an equipment failure, police said they cited her for third-degree retail fraud.
Electric scooter riders accused of hitting things
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police heard a Dec. 7 report of two male individuals who were allegedly refusing to leave the premises of Target, 2310 Metropolitan Parkway, despite multiple requests.
The individuals were accused of “hitting things” while riding an electric scooter, police said.
Police said one of the individuals ended up walking away, while the other one reportedly stood outside the building before leaving with his mother. Police took no further action.
Expired tags trouble
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — While patrolling around Shook and Union Lake roads at around 5:40 p.m. on Dec. 18, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies pulled over a Ford Fusion with an expired license plate tag. The driver, a 24-year-old Detroit woman, told deputies she had an appointment the next day to get new tags and a new license.
GET A SLICE OF THIS
METRO DETROIT — Michigan has good taste when it comes to pizza.
Recently, the McNair Center at Northwood University partnered with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce to conduct an analysis of who serves the best pizza. According to their report released Dec. 16, Michigan is the pizza capital of the United States and maybe even the world.
The study, “Michigan: The Unlikely Pizza Capital of the United States (and the World?),” analyzed the size and scope of the U.S. and global pizza industry and the economic role Michigan plays. The study also looked at the history and economic role in growing the U.S. and global pizza markets, and what role eight entrepreneurs from Michigan had in influencing the size, scope, and quality of the growth.
“We found that across the U.S. and around the world, millions of people speaking different languages were brought together by the common pleasure of consuming pizza, whose origins emanated from entrepreneurial activity within a 60mile radius of downtown Detroit, Michigan,” stated Dr. Timothy G. Nash, one of the study’s authors who led the McNair Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at Northwood.
The study determined Michigan is home to four of the top 10 U.S. pizza chains by sales in 2023: Domino’s Pizza at No. 1; Little Caesars Pizza at No. 3; Hungry Howie’s Pizza at No. 8; and Jet’s Pizza at No. 9. Those four institutions accounted for 30.5% of the U.S. pizza sales in 2023, recording a combined $14.36 billion of the $46.98 billion industry total.
According to the results, the four Michigan pizzerias recorded nearly 15% of global pizza sales with $23.6 billion of the $159 billion total. The headquarters for the “Michigan Four” are all located within less than 60 miles of each other in southeast Michigan in Madison Heights, Detroit, Sterling Heights and Ann Arbor.
trades. The credit union plans to award a total of $130,000 in scholarships this
“Earning a degree or certification requires a great deal of determination and
cant financial investment,” MSGCU President/CEO Steve Brewer said in a press release. “MSGCU is increasing our scholarship awards this year to support more students in the communities we serve. We have provided over $1.25 million in scholarships since our program started 20 years ago, helping more than 600 recipients complete their education.”
For a scholarship application or more information, visit msgcu.org/scholarships.
driver came by to drive her home. Guard dog
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At around 9 p.m. on Dec. 16, a 53-year-old Harrison Township woman entered her apartment in the 36000 block of Union Lake Road to discover it was broken into.
While nothing was stolen, the woman’s dog was nowhere to be found. She told Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies she believed the dog chased off an intruder, which had appeared to access the apartment through a window.
Deputies told her the dog had been found by the Clinton Township Police Department.
Condiments caper
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At around 6 p.m. on Dec. 17, a 45-year-old Harrison Township woman pulled into the driveway of her home in the 43000 block of E. Morgan Court with a rental GMC Terrain. About two hours later, she went outside to find the GMC covered in ketchup and mustard. She called for Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies to report the incident, who were greeted by a condiment-free crossover. The woman told deputies she
Abandoned
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Pups compete in annual dog show
1-3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 2 in the Berkshire Middle School gymnasium, located at 21707 W. 14 Mile Road in Beverly Hills.
All participants are required to be checked into the show by 12:30 p.m. Registration to participate has passed. Each year,
be at the event, courtesy of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department. Kids will also get a chance to learn an easy obedience command from an instructor from the Southern Michigan Obedience Training Club.
“We are thrilled that this fun event has become such a popular tradition in our community,” BYA Chair Ann Nazareth Manning stated in a press release. “The enthusiastic kids who participate each year and the generosity of our sponsors make this show possible and help further the work of Birmingham Youth Assistance.”
Visit birminghamyouthassistance.org/kids-dog-show, for more information.
COREWELL HEALTH CHILDREN’S RECEIVES $1.6 MILLION IN GRANTS
ROYAL OAK — Corewell Health Children’s has recently received $1.6 million in Children’s Miracle Network Grants.
The grants will be used to enhance pediatric programs at Corewell Health Children’s locations, and more than 60 programs received funding.
“The success of the Corewell Health’s Children’s/CMN partnership relies upon the generosity of the entire community,” Matthey Denenberg, M.D., chief of pediatrics for Corewell Health, said in a press release. “Individuals, corporate partners and hospital team members all contribute to provide our pediatric team the opportunity for ongoing advancement in medical care for our youngest patients. Together, we can give children exceptional care that positively impacts their lives.”
The grants included funding for the pediatric social work program, pediatric epilepsy research support, child life therapist program, Corewell Health’s Teen Safe Driving Initiative, more than 480 bike safety helmets for the annual Bike Day event and the purchase of neonatal intensive care unit equipment including ventilators and pediatric vision screeners. For more information on Corewell Health Children’s, visit corewellhealth.org/SEchildrens.
