Shelby Township Giving Tree collects over 2,900 items for Samaritan House
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Thanks to the community’s donations, the Shelby Township Giving Tree collected more than 2,900 items for Samaritan House.
On Jan. 14, led by Township Clerk Stanley Grot, staff from Township Hall and the Shelby Township Police Department gathered at Township Hall to load ve-
hicles with donations collected through the Giving Tree program. From there, they drove to Samaritan House to unload the donations and formally present them to the Samaritan House team.
The Giving Tree program is an annual tradition in Shelby Township. Each holiday season it brings together the community to support local families in need by collecting nonperishable food items, household goods and
See GIVING TREE on page 18A
Shelby Township mother and daughters publish first book together
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Vicki Cantu and her two daughters recently published their first book as a team, “The Everyday Adventures of Meep & Beep.”
The 27-page children’s book is inspired by their dogs, Mila and BeeWee, aka Meep and Beep, and their interesting adven-
Mila and BeeWee, aka Meep and Beep, check out the children’s book that Vicki Cantu and her daughters, Emma Cantu and Jenna Neilson, published about them.
Photo provided by Vicki Cantu
Shelby Township Police Sgt. Kevin Bailey and Deputy Clerk Craig Cowper load up the donations that the Shelby Township Giving Tree program collected during the holidays for delivery to Samaritan House in Washington Township.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Cub Scout Pack 92 to host Pinewood Derby for adults as fundraiser
EVENT TO TAKE PLACE AT PACKARD PROVING GROUNDS
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Cub Scout Pack 92 will be running the races at the Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, Feb. 8.
Senior Center’s featured artist knew what he wanted from a young age
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Shelby Township Senior Center’s featured artist for January and February is Tony Warren.
“Down and Derby” will be an adults-nightout fundraiser featuring the Pinewood Derby. This event will give adults the opportunity to relive their own Cub Scout days or enjoy the opportunity to hone their car-making skills. The joint event will benefit both the Packard Proving Grounds, which is a historic site and nonprofit organization in Shelby Township, as well as Pack 92. Pack 92, which currently serves students and families of Beacon Tree, Ebeling, Flickinger and Monfort elementary schools, welcomes all boys and girls in the local area to join. The pack’s goal is to cultivate outdoor, service, leadership, citizenship, engineering and more skills and knowledge through educational and adventurous events.
There will be a barbecue-dinner-only option for $20, a Pinewood Derby car kit-only option for $15, a dinner and car option, and a $10 spectatoronly option for admission. The doors will open at 5 p.m., racing will begin at 6:30 p.m. and dinner will begin at 7 p.m. Racers must have their cars turned in and weighed for compliance with standard Pinewood Derby rules prior to the race start time.
Pack 92 Cub Scouts will be offering former
See DERBY on page 16A
Warren’s work is on view at the Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, which serves as the senior center from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
Born in Detroit in 1955, after studying under a full scholarship at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, Warren has gone on to teach, lecture and demonstrate hundreds of times each year in public and private studios. In addition to hosting his own national cable TV program, “Expressions,” Warren has won well over 100 awards and recognitions. He is a member of the Michigan Watercolor Society and has been published internationally in books, newspapers and magazines. He is represented in collections across the United States and Canada.
He said he is one of the lucky ones.
“I knew what I wanted to do at a very early age. The fire of desire began to burn at age 5. As far as I can remember, I always liked to work with my hands, creating things to entertain myself. In a short time, I realized oth-
The Shelby Township Senior Center artist of the month for January and February is Tony Warren.
Photo provided by Fu-Yuan Ciricola
See WARREN on page 9A
ABOVE: Cub Scout Pack 92 will host the Down and Derby fundraiser on Feb. 8 at the Packard Proving Grounds.
RIGHT: Cub Scout Pack 92 will have cars available in case any participant’s car does not meet the rules for weight and size.
Photos provided by Kristen Benvenuti Pytel
UCS students earn $5.3 million in scholarships at Michigan Thespian Festival
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP/STERLING HEIGHTS/UTICA — Utica Community Schools theater students received top honors and more than $5.3 million in scholarships at the Michigan Thespian Festival that was held December 13-14 in Lansing.
Students from more than 80 schools across Michigan took part in the annual festival, which featured keynote speakers and nearly 100 workshops.
In the Individual Event categories, students performed or presented in front of a panel of three judges and received a rating of fair, good, excellent or superior, with excellent being the “Gold Standard.” Seniors could also audition for college scholarships.
Utica High School student Jaelyn Kaczmarczyk was named among the top 10 of the more than 1,600 students participating in the festival, earning a $500 thespian scholarship and nearly $500,000 in college scholarships. Her 11 college scholarships included scholarships from Central Michigan University, Eastern Michigan University, Northern Michigan University, University of Detroit Mercy and Wayne State University.
Kaczmarczyk said she was proud of all the hard work to get where she is now.
“I am so honored by the recognition. It is exciting to see all of my hard work pay off and to be representing Utica High School in this way,” she said in a press release.
Her theater teacher, Joel Kaczmarczyk, described her as a self-starter with strong organizational skills and persistence.
“Her perfectionist nature ensures that every task she undertakes is executed flawlessly. Jaelyn is well-liked and respected by everyone she meets. Her charming personality, positive outlook, and caring nature make her … fun to be around. I am not surprised so many colleges are showing interest in recruiting her,” he said in a press release.
Eisenhower High School students earned $4.8 million in combined scholarship offers.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
MEDICARE 101
February 20th 6:30pm-8:30pm • March 20th 6:30pm-8:30pm May 22nd 6:30-8:30pm • June 26th 6:30pm-8:30pm
Hardworx All Women’s Group Strength Training:
Join a community of strong, empowering women! Strong bodies, strong lives: Strength training empowers women to build confidence, boost health, and stay unstoppable at every stage of life! Led by a certified personal trainer, these classes are perfect for all levels—whether you’re new to strength training or a seasoned lifter.
Staff Hours: Mon, Wed & Fri: 9am-1pm Tues & Thurs: 3pm-7pm Sat: appointment only Sun: No staff
Altercation occurs in McDonald’s drive-thru
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 3:31 a.m. Dec. 15, an officer from the Shelby Township Police Department was contacted to investigate an incident that took place in the drive-thru at McDonald’s. The officer met with the victim, who advised that while he was waiting to get his food, another vehicle in front of him stopped and a subject exited the vehicle. The subject had a water bottle in his hand and he threw it at the victim’s windshield, causing damage, according to the report. The suspect and the vehicle left the parking lot at a high rate of speed. The case was turned over to the detective bureau for investigation.
The detective working on the case was able to locate the vehicle and suspect in question, police said. The suspect reportedly admitted to throwing the bottle at the vehicle. The victim refused to follow through with charges. The case was closed without further police assistance.
Altercation involves drunken driving and speeding away from police
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 11:39 p.m. Dec. 27, Shelby Township police officers observed an erratic driver in the area of Ryan and Hamlin roads. The officers in the patrol vehicle activated the overhead lights and attempted to make a traffic stop. The vehicle in question accelerated and turned down a side street.
The vehicle attempted to turn into a driveway, striking the mailbox for the home, and two occupants of the vehicle quickly exited. The officers met with the two occu-
pants of the vehicle, a man and a woman. The woman stated that while they were at a bar, they got into an argument over text messages on her boyfriend’s phone. Once they left, the argument continued in the vehicle. Officers met with the man, who reportedly had fresh blood visible from his nose and mouth. The man stated that the woman had struck him; the woman was arrested for domestic assault. The man was driving at the time of the traffic stop and was showing signs of intoxication, police said. After a series of field sobriety tests, he was arrested for operating while intoxicated.
Driver causes crash
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer from Shelby Township were dispatched to the area of 22 Mile Road and Grand Valley Drive for a traffic crash at 4:52 p.m. Dec. 27. The officer met with both drivers involved. The officer spoke with the at-fault driver and could smell an odor of intoxicants on his breath, according to police. The driver denied having any alcohol in his system. After the officer conducted field sobriety tests the driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated.
Home broken into
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers from the Shelby Township Police Department were dispatched to the 49000 block of West Woods Drive, near 22 Mile Road and the Van Dyke Freeway, for a breaking and entering complaint at 12:09 a.m. Dec. 27. Officers met with the caller, who advised that when he and his family arrived home, they noticed the garage door to the home was open.
Officers made sure the home was clear prior to letting the family inside. Once the family entered, they were able to confirm that items were taken from inside the home. The caller was able to pull surveillance footage and turn it over to detectives working on the case.
— Kara Szymanski
NEWS & NOTES
JUSTICE SWEARS IN WOZNIAK
LANSING — State Rep. Doug Wozniak, R-Shelby Township, takes a ceremonial oath of office, alongside his staff – Andrew Festerman, left, and Jacob Ramlow, on Wednesday, Jan. 8. The oath was administered by state Supreme Court Justice Kyra H. Bolden.
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.
Prosecutor lists 7 priorities for new term
MACOMB COUNTY — According to a press release, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido shared his vision for the next four years with the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office staff. Lucido, who was reelected in November, named seven priorities for his second term. The priorities are to act with integrity while holding criminals accountable; focusing on juvenile justice and reducing juvenile recidivism; expanding access to specialized services, such as diversion programs and specialty treatment courts for nonviolent offenders; transparency; supporting crime victims; using technology to be more efficient; and investing in the office’s people through training opportunities and the internship program.
A Night at the Races
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — St. Thomas Community Presbyterian Church, 55355 Mound Road in Shelby Township, will be holding A Night at the Races at 6 p.m. Jan. 24 to raise funds for its 2025 mission trip to South Africa.
Admission will includes dinner, beverages and free play of all mini-games. Fried chicken, hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, salad, baked beans, popcorn, and dessert will be on the menu.
The main event will be horse racing. Purchase a horse to customize and race it around the track, place bets at the betting window to win cash prizes, and come dressed in your finest Derby attire. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume. The cost is $20 for adults, $10 for children under 10 and $15 to purchase a horse. Age-appropriate games and prizes will be available for all children.
Utica approves Lucky Leprechaun race
UTICA — The Utica City Council approved a request to hold the 5K Lucky Leprechaun race from 7:30 a.m. to noon March 15 on Auburn Road at its Jan. 14 meeting.
Utica sets puppy parade date
UTICA — The Utica City Council approved that the Utica puppy parade will be held at 2 p.m. April 26 at Grant Park in Utica.
Henry Ford II opens Zen Den
STERLING HEIGHTS — Henry Ford II High School has opened a special place for students to relax called the Zen Den.
School counselor Wendy Johnson, supported by Principal Lori Singleton, created the space where students can go and relax by doing calming activities or just hanging out with their peers. Once they finalized the details and the logistics of the space, the counseling department introduced the Zen Den. The Zen Den is located off the lunchroom where students can access it during lunch. With the creation of the Zen Den, Singleton and Johnson want it to align with their broader mission to support student wellness, improve school culture, and enhance academic outcomes by addressing students’ mental health needs. In the Zen Den, students have access to
C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:
Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com Reporter: Kara Szymanski | (586) 498-1029 | kszymanski@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
JAN. 24
Princess Fantasy Fun Night: For ages 3-10, includes dinner, craft, gift and visit from princess, costumes encouraged, 6-8 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, register. shelbytwp.org
JAN. 31
Superhero Fun Night: For ages 3-10, includes dinner, craft, gift and visit from superhero, costumes encouraged, 6-8 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, register. shelbytwp.org
FEB. 2
‘Tetanus in WWI and the Horses Who Saved Lives’: Presentation part of Historical Speaker Series, 1-2 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds.org
FEB. 13
Shelby Gardeners Club: Hear presentation “Reducing Risks for Hurting Yourself in the Gardens and in Life in General,” 1-2 p.m., BurgessShadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, (586) 823-8555
| (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com
Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com
Photo provided by the Michigan House Republicans
board games, puzzles, crafts, fidgets and more. Utica Community Schools said in a press release that more than 100 students visit the Zen Den each week.
Utica meetings at City Hall
Shelby Township meetings
Seniors Elijah White and Brennan File Play chess in the Zen Den.
Photo provided by Utica Community Schools
Warren
page 3A
ers enjoyed my work, and sharing my skills (teaching) became a large part of my life. My work is always maturing and evolving. I’m always looking for new media to try a different twist; something out of the ordinary,” he said.
He described his creative process.
“Whether 2D or 3D, the power of the moment is what drives my creative process. The brushwork is confident, sure and deliberate. Nothing is wasted or extraneous. In more involved work, it’s hard to pace myself. The creative voice comes out more sporadically than in a steady stream. Everything fascinates me. I love to read and visit museums, view film, and make observations of life. Information is the fodder that becomes the meat of self-expression. Our life experiences become the defining moments in the quest to reach the inner core of the viewer. The artist’s definitive moment becomes the fuel, in the vehicle of self-expression, on the road to the viewer psyche. If I have touched a heart or moved a soul, I have accomplished what I set out to do. I am merely a conduit. For God both creates the subject and stirs the soul to its interpretation,” he said.
Lucienne Kiefer said she doesn’t care how long one has been on a creative journey, Warren has information and instruction that is helpful and new.
“His presentations are sharp and understandable for every level of student. He is a wonderful communicator and speaks to you, not at you. His critiques are genuine, yet still sensitive. If you need a boost of encouragement, you need to learn to paint fearlessly,” she said.
Cheryle Wesley said Warren shares a tremendous depth of knowledge with other artists.
“He met everyone’s individual needs and also challenged all of us to leave our comfort zone to learn so much more. Never felt embarrassed or inept with my painting abilities and I was given the confidence to continue my journey with watercolor. It was so much fun and I hope he returns to the area in the future. I would love the opportunity to continue to learn more from his wealth of knowledge and his demonstrations,” she said.
Donna Benoit said Warren is passionate about teaching.
“He uses exercises, demonstrations, and written material to get his points across.,” she said.
For more information, visit his website at tonywarrenfineart.com.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15TH
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23RD
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1ST 1ST SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH SATURDAY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH NEW
SATURDAY, MARCH 1ST FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH
FEBRUARY 22ND 22ND SATURDAY, MARCH 1ST SATURDAY, SATURDAY, MARCH 8TH
ALL EYES ON STATES FOR UTICA-EISENHOWER BOWLING FOLLOWING MERGER SPORTS
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA — It’s not every day you see something like this in the high school sports world.
It’s a merger unlike anything the bowling community has ever seen, and it’s catapulting Utica High School and Eisenhower High School to the top of the list for state championship contenders.
Holding a long-standing rivalry, Utica and Eisenhower bowling had internal conflicts of their own to go head-to-head with, as Eisenhower and Utica boys bowling both struggled with numbers for the upcoming season.
The girls side was in perfect shape on its own with Eisenhower returning as the Macomb Area Conference Red champions and Utica as the reigning MAC White champions.
Since the boys were in need of bowlers, Utica and Eisenhower merged together to form a girls and boys bowling team that should give any other team in the state a run for its money.
Girls
Both returning as MAC Champions in their respective leagues and Utica coming off a third-place finish at the Michigan High
School Athletic Association Division 1 state championship, Utica-Eisenhower girls bowling, which competes in the MAC Red and is in first with a 4-0 record, is shaped up to be not just the best team in Macomb County, but in the entire state.
Sophomore Ava Mazza (Utica), a first team all-state honoree, and senior Sophia Matheson (Eisenhower), a second team allstate honoree, lead the squad as returning state qualifiers with a strong supporting cast full of all-conference bowlers.
“It’s always tough because there’s so much depth on the team now after the merger,” Utica-Eisenhower girls head coach Taran Heersma said. “A lot of the JV-A team could comfortably be on varsity too.”
Alongside Matheson and Mazza are senior Hadley Clark (Utica), a state qualifier and all-conference honoree; sophomore Ayvree Clark (Utica), an all-conference honoree; sophomore Adriana DiPonio (Utica); senior Lauren Milot (Eisenhower); and senior Emerson Rietsch (Eisenhower).
Mazza, the regional champion, and Hadley Clark, the regional runner-up, both made it happen on the singles side while also
See BOWLING on page 13A
LEFT: Utica-Eisenhower sophomore Ava Mazza bowls during a league matchup against Sterling Heights Stevenson Dec. 20 at Shelby Lanes. ABOVE: Utica-Eisenhower senior Hadley Clark follows through on her roll. BELOW: The Utica-Eisenhower boys team looks on during a meet against Sterling Heights Stevenson Dec. 20 at Shelby Lanes.
Photos by Erin Sanchez
Bowling
leading Utica to a team regional championship last season, but you never know how a team with established success is going to pair up with another dominant squad.
“I think we were all really excited about it,” Mazza said. “Last year, we placed third at states, and we knew Ike was a really good team, and we knew most of the girls. When we came together, it was almost meant to be.”
Since bonding together, the team has only gotten louder during matches, which was an Eisenhower speciality last season with its patented chants that rang throughout the entire bowling alley.
Utica was loud and carried enough energy on its own, but now paired with Eisenhower, it’s a whole different animal — an animal that can be referred to as the “Cheagles,” as Utica-Eisenhower refers to itself.
“I think Ike, especially, was known for being loud,” Matheson said. “You can walk into a building, and just by hearing ‘Holla!,’ or now ‘U-E,’ you know where we’re at.”
The bowler who makes a strike says “U” while the team responds with “E,” and there are many more chants in Utica-Eisenhower’s back pocket.
In its first match against Macomb L’Anse Creuse North, Utica-Eisenhower earned a convincing 28-2 win, spearheaded by the team’s electric environment.
“I feel like we’re the loudest team, first of all,” Hadley Clark said. “I think that’s part of the reason we won, because you need that hypeness.”
Utica-Eisenhower also picked up another league win in a 30-0 victory over Sterling Heights Stevenson, but the girls have also made their presence felt on the tournament scene.
The Cheagles started off with a firstplace finish in the Dakota Cougar Classic Dec. 14 at Imperial Lanes, beating out 15 other teams while Ayvree Clark (second), Hadley Clark (fourth), Matheson (fifth) and Rietsch (seventh) all placed in the top 10 for the singles side.
The girls again flexed their muscles in a runner-up finish in the Henry Ford Bowl Swami Motor City Challenge Tournament Dec. 21 at Imperial Lanes as Ayvree Clark (second), Mazza (third), Matheson (sixth) and Hadley Clark (eighth) all placed in the top 10 for singles.
Mazza is also coming off a first-place finish at the Utica Singles Jingles Tournament Dec. 29 at 5 Star Lanes, as she outlasted 54 girls, defeating Lake Shore’s Sara Augustitus in the final match.
There’s a lot to be said for how quickly the team has jelled and gotten off to an incredible start, especially with the pressure of everyone looking at them as a powerhouse in the state, but Heersma said the team is just focused on one match at a time.
“That’s (states) totally the goal, but it’s very important at the same time that we don’t get ahead of ourselves,” Heersma said. “We absolutely have to go one day at a time.”
Utica-Eisenhower girls bowling has also earned first in the L’Anse Creuse North Bakers Dozen Tournament and the Macomb County Team Championship.
Boys
The girls side must be leaving some kind of mark on the boys because the energy is at an all time high, and it starts with sophomore Marco Mazza.
Marco and Ava Mazza, who are twins, are the children of former Professional Bowlers Association star John Mazza, and Marco Mazza carries that “PBA energy,” according to senior teammate Kingston Corpuz.
Add Corpuz and returning Division 1 singles state champion Dylan Harnden, and Utica-Eisenhower was ready to explode out the gate this season.
“I was really surprised with the merge because I wasn’t 100% sure with how it would go,” Dylan Harnden said. “Obviously going with two schools — Utica and Ike — that clash in other sports and mashing them together was unique. I was also curious how it would go because adding Marco, who’s really, really good, helps replace last year where we could’ve done better. I think the whole jelling together and energy is way better, and I think everyone is better because of it.”
Marco Mazza is the sparkplug if you will, and Utica-Eisenhower, currently 3-1 in the league holding a loss to Macomb Dakota, was electric in its first tournament showing at the Dakota Cougar Classic, capturing first-place and defeating Davison, the Division 1 state runner-up last season, in the final match. Corpuz earned first on the singles side while Harnden finished sixth overall.
“With the whole team coming together, it (first) was huge,” Dylan Harnden said. “I was hoping we’d win a tournament, but I wasn’t expecting us to just win one right off the bat with the second tournament of the year, especially with the teams we had to go through.”
Utica-Eisenhower, who competes in the MAC Red, has already jumped out to a 2-0 league record with wins over Macomb L’Anse Creuse North and Sterling Heights Stevenson.
Corpuz and Harnden have been as advertised throughout their high school careers, but Mazza has been a strong addition to Corpuz and Harnden along with Evan Cicotte, Nolan Kukuk and Zach Kukuk also bringing consistent contributions.
“To put him (Marco) with Dylan and Kingston, we go from having a team that should make it to states to now giving us a legitimate chance to win states,” UticaEisenhower boys bowling head coach Mark Harnden said. “Both Zach and Nolan, who were both on the JV team last year, really practiced over the summer and got really good too. Now we got the team we thought we were going to have in Dylan and Kingston’s senior year, which was, ‘Are we even going to have enough to compete as a team’ to a team that legitimately has a chance to win states with the way we’re throwing the ball.”
Harnden and Corpuz are two of the top bowlers in the class of 2025, especially with Harnden returning as the defending Division 1 singles champion, but the team state title has been the tricky part.
In their freshman season, Eisenhower finished state runner-up, but it’s been an uphill battle ever since to get back to where it all started.
Mazza said it’s his job as an underclassman to “come in here and get you guys a
title,” but Corpuz said he’s focused on ending his high school career strong while taking it all in one last time.
“I’ve always looked up to all the seniors on the team as being role models,” Corpuz said. “Not numbers-wise but just seeing them in their last year and how they appreciated everything for the last three years. Now that we’re one of them, it’s definitely different.”
Harnden, a returning first team allstate selection and Macomb County champion this season, and Corpuz, a returning second team all-state selection, have looked more determined than ever so far, as Corpuz finished second and Harnden third at the Henry Ford Bowl Swami Motor City Challenge, while Harnden recently finished first in the Utica Singles Jingles Tournament Dec. 29 at 5 Star Lanes.
Both collegiate bowlers with Corpuz committed to Spring Arbor College and Harnden still undecided, it will be exciting to see how these two end their high school careers.
“If it’s going to come down to the ninth and 10th, who are the two kids you’d want? You’d want two of the best kids in the state on the same team,” Mark Harnden said. “I consider myself lucky and spoiled to watch those two bowl all the time. It’s top-level bowling.”
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
AGENDA/PUBLIC
HEARING
The Charter Township of Shelby ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS meeting will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., in the Shelby Municipal Building, Board Room, 52700 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan 48316.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
ROLL CALL:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Zoning Board of Appeals Regular Meeting January 9, 2025
APPLICATIONS:
1. ZBA #24-084 ALENA GORGES; 51015 Van Dyke Avenue, Parcel No. 23-07-16-476-014, located on the northwest corner of 23 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.134, Section No. 5.24.B.2.r(2) to permit a changeable message sign to exceed the standards established for the C-3 zoning district for size and height and Section No. 5.24.E.3.c, to permit modifcations to a legal nonconforming sign.
2. ZBA #24-087 GUY RIZZO (RFT Group, LLC); 55133 Van Dyke Avenue, Parcel No. 23-07-04-476-005, located north of 25 Mile Road, on the west side of Van Dyke Avenue. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.134, Section No. 5.17.A.4 to permit the elimination of the required six-foot high decorative masonry wall and to permit a reduced percentage of required evergreen trees (60 percent required, 30 percent proposed).
3. ZBA #24-082 MARK MALLOY (All Seasons Sunrooms Plus for Arthur Paruch); 53474 Tundra Drive, Parcel No. 23-07-07-476-001, located north of 24 Mile Road, west of Shelby Road. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.134, Section 3.28.B.9.a to permit a reduced rear yard setback (35 feet required, 31 feet proposed).
4. ZBA #25-001 ANTHONY GRUBOWSKI (Rock Solid Exteriors) for Rich Lange & Kristen Peretto-Lange; 12407 25 Mile Road, Parcel No. 2307-02-376-006, located on the north side of 25 Mile Road, east of Jewell Road. Requesting a variance to Code of Ordinances, Chapter 10, Article VIII, Section 10-324(b) to permit a fence to encroach into the front yard setback and interpretation to Section 10-322(a) to determine if a four foot green galvanized coated fence would be considered a decorative type.
PLANNING DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
ADJOURNMENT:
All interested persons may attend and be heard on any item on the agenda. The Zoning Ordinance and a copy of the application may be examined at the Municipal Building, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or you may call (586) 726-7243.
RUSS RICE, CHAIRMAN ZONING BOARD
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-
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 Larry 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.
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.
With Foot Wound Care
My approach, using advanced treatments, personalized care, and a commitment to saving limbs and lives, offers a new horizon for those afflicted with chronic foot wounds. If you or someone you know is navigating the challenges of foot wound care, the opportunity to transform this struggle into a story of healing and hope is within reach. Call me for an appointment today.
MSGCU will award scholarships in various categories to teachers and administrators.
Photo provided by Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union
Derby
from page 3A
Pinewood Derby racers as part of a Pack 92 Pinewood Car Rental Shop for any vehicles that don’t comply with the weight and size requirements.
Prizes for first place, second place, third place and best in show for the most creative design will be awarded at the event. Several items including tickets to Nascar SpeedPark, an autographed photo of Detroit Red Wings player Andrew Copp, a four-hour rental for Rzr Ripn’ Rentals, and more will be raffled off at the event, which will also have a cash bar. Registration for the event is now open until early February or until space sells out.
Kristen Benvenuti Pytel, pack committee chair of Cub Scout Pack 92, said this event is a way to bring together people in the community to support the Cub Scout pack.
“We want to make sure our adventures and activities are accessible and affordable for all the families in our pack, and fundraising helps us offset costs. The kids in our pack learn important lessons about leadership, working together, outdoor skills and more through unique programming from Scouting America that we put into action through different activities and events for our kids,” she said.
She said Pinewood Derby is one of the most anticipated events of the season for
Book
from page 1A
tures together every day. Children might find it easy to read and adorable.
Meep is a 1-year-old Australian shepherd and Beep is a 12-year-old Maltese/Shih Tzu mix. According to Cantu, it definitely was an adjustment for Beep when Meep arrived.
Cantu and her daughters just this month received the author copies of the finished book.
Cantu said they created everything on their own, including the illustrations.
“This is a rhyming children’s book that’s good for young readers. My youngest daughter, Emma Cantu, and I wrote the book, drew the illustrations, and all but one picture was taken by us. My oldest daughter, Jenna Neilson, was a huge help with the technical side of things. It was truly a labor of love and we are so very proud of the result. It’s available on Amazon,” Vicki Cantu said.
The book costs $9.99 on Amazon.
“We’ve sold a few, but really are just getting started with promoting it. We only
their Scouts, so they are excited to bring it to parents, grandparents, former Scouts and any adult member of the community who is interested in creating a Pinewood Derby car.
“It’s a great creative outlet while benefiting our pack to help us keep our programming, events and activities running. I can remember attending my brother’s Pinewood Derby as a kid, so I think it’s a positive memory in the lives of many people that have been involved in Scouting in the past that they can enjoy bringing to life again,” she said.
Mary Anne Demo, executive director of the Packard Proving Grounds, said the event will bring the thrill of the Pinewood Derby to a whole new level.
“This event is a fantastic way for adults to channel their creativity, enjoy a night of friendly competition and support the adventures of our local Cub Scouts,” she said.
She said this is more than just a night of racing; it’s a celebration of tradition, community and creativity.
“We’re proud to host an event that not only brings people together but also supports the invaluable experiences the Cub Scouts provide,” she said.
For more information about the Packard Proving Grounds, visit packardprovinggrounds.org. For more information about Cub Scout Pack 92, including how to register for Down and Derby, visit facebook. com/cubs92.
just recently got copyright and then selfpublished through Amazon KDP,” Vicki Cantu said.
They started writing the book in the spring of 2024.
Vicki Cantu said she thinks children would like the book because it’s a fun story and will be enjoyable to read.
Emma Cantu said she had a lot of fun writing the book with her mom.
“We couldn’t have done it without Jenna’s help. We based it off of our dogs, Mila and BeeWee. They go on adventures together and we wanted to bring those to life. I am so happy for this book to be available on Amazon,” she said.
Neilson said she enjoyed helping with the technical aspects of the book and using her talents to help bring it to life.
“We wrote this book for young children, and it is fun and upbeat. We based our book on our two dogs. This is a story of two dogs who become friends and have adventures together. I helped my mom and sister upload their images, place their drawings on pages, and I helped them apply for copyright. I really enjoyed my part in making this book come to life,” she said.
Giving Tree
from page 1A
personal care items. For the 10th consecutive year, Shelby Township officials and residents kicked off the new year by helping their neighbors.
Lynde Oddo, the township’s deputy supervisor, said that since its inception in 2015, Shelby Township employees and residents have collected nearly 24,000 items for Samaritan House.
“The Giving Tree is a program we all look forward to so we can give back to the community. The need in our community doesn’t end with the holidays. The purpose of our giving tree is to restock the shelves at Samaritan House for the new year and help provide vital resources to those served by their program. When speaking with Kathy Wojcik, the executive director of Samaritan House, she stated that as quickly as food and donations come in their doors, they leave just as quick, reiterating the absolute need. We plan to continue this tradition, so be sure to keep an eye out for the Samaritan House wish list next December,” she said.
Wojcik said that with the rising cost of everything, all the donations they received
were amazing.
“As soon as the donations come in, they go back out. We rely on the support of our communities. This year’s donation count nearly doubled the collection from 2023.
“Without the support of Shelby Township residents and all our communities, we could not do what we do. We support more than 250 families a month now, so the support means more than ever. Since the pan-
demic, it just seems like the need is greater and greater, so we’re very grateful for the support of our communities,” she said. Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
LEFT: Shelby Township Clerk Stanley Grot wheels a cart of donations to waiting vehicles Jan. 14 at Township Hall for delivery to Samaritan House. ABOVE: Shelby Township Deputy Supervisor Lynde Oddo and intern Vaselika Camaj talk with Samaritan House Executive Director Kathy Wojcik during the delivery of more than 2,900 donations collected through the Shelby Township Giving Tree program during the holidays.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
THE GRAMMYS
erator.Actnowtoreceive aFREE7-Yearwarranty withqualifyingpurchase. Call1-855-773-8191 todaytoscheduleafree quote.It snotjustagenerator.It sapowermove.
Handyman Services
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCC'sAccepted. 586-822-5100 Hauling & Waste Removal
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall!Demolition Big&Small,Residential/ Commercial,Rubber WheelDumpsters-10,15, 20-Yards,Clean-outs, ConstructionMaterial, Small-Moving,Appliances,Furniture&More! Free-Est.Sen/Mil/Disc. 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
Home Improvement
586-610-1209
PaintingInterior/Exterior RemodelingKitchens, Bathrooms,Finish Basement,Tiles,Drywall, Repairs,Remove Wallpaper,Repairingand StainingDecks,Power washing.Free-Estimates.
ROZE
REMODELINGLLC.
•InteriorRenovations
•Kitchens•Bathrooms •TileWork•Basements •Painting•VinylFloors
•Fireplaces •CustomDesigns Free-Estimates Andre-586-354-7791
Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 Roofing,Siding, Gutters,LEAFGUARDS, HandymanRepairs& More!Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops
MR.BACKSPLASH
·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES ·CUSTOMKITCHENS ·COUNTERTOPS *Granite*Quartz* ·CustomBathrooms ·TILEREPAIRS *FREEESTIMATES* 586-552-5416
mrbacksplash.com
Painting
Painting
PEAKPAINTING Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. *WillBeatAnyOther ReasonableEstimate! 35yrsexp.Sen.Disc.Ins. CC-Accepted/References. 586-722-8381
STEVE'SCUSTOM PAINTING 586-350-1717 Since1985 ProfessionalQuality, Neat,MeticulousPrep, Drywall/PlasterRepair, Interior/Exterior, Insured,References, Free-Estimate, 10%SeniorDiscount. (586)795-8122 ChrisCronin Painting& StainingInc. Professionalquality. Interior-exterior. Power-washing, decksealing.Insured, References.Free-Est. MC/VI/DC/AXaccepted.
ANDERSON Painting&Carpentry CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall & WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
Painting DʼAchillePainting &Decorating 3-generationsof comprehensive-service. Extremely-neat, meticulous-prep. Wallpaper/removal/installation.Interior/Exterior Free-Est.&consultation Licensed/Ins. Nathan 586-855-9766
Plumbing MASTER PLUMBER Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
thesamereliable,nationwidecoverageasthe largestcarriers.Nolongtermcontract,nohidden feesandactivationisfree. Allplansfeatureunlimitedtalkandtext,starting atjust$20/month.For moreinformation,call 1-866-306-6243 Roofing
AA4DABLEROOFING Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! WINTER-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted. 586-822-5100 Tree Service DAVE'STREE&SHRUB 40%-WinterDisc.Insured, SnowRemoval, EmergencyStorm Damage,LeafClean-up, Large-TreeRemovals, Trimming,Stump-Grinding,Gutters,SeasonFirewood(100acord) (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com ELITETREE SERVICE "Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
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.
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.
career goals and scholarships for future first responders and those seeking careers in skilled trades. The credit union plans to award a total of $130,000 in scholarships this year. “Earning a degree or certification requires a great deal of determination and hard work, along with a significant 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
Condiments caper HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At around 6 p.m. on
17, a 45-year-old Harrison Township woman pulled into the driveway of her home in the 43000
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
Abandoned
Pups compete in annual dog show
BIRMINGHAM/BEVERLY HILLS — The Birmingham Youth Assistance’s 42nd Annual Kids’ Dog Show will take place from 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, kids ages 4-14 bring their dogs to compete in a fun competition for prizes. The categories are designed to be low stress and include, Best Costume for dog and child, Best Trick, Waggiest Tail, Best Looking, and Musical Sit, which is a game similar to musical chairs.
Comfort dogs will 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.
Photo provided by Birmingham Youth Assistance
