‘He made a little speech and he said, ‘All right, let’s get to work’’
Eastpointe councilman reflects on volunteering with former president
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
EASTPOINTE — Eastpointe City Councilman Harvey Curley said that when he met former President Jimmy Carter, he wasn’t what he was expecting.
“(Habitat for Humanity) said President Carter is going to be here Wednesday morning, so we’re all standing outside,
See CARTER on page 4A
EXPLORE
BY GREG TASKER
NORTHERN MICHIGAN — Nearly a year ago, despite the scarcity of snowfall in northern Michigan, I found myself gliding along a powdery, groomed trail in the woods at Forbush Corner Nordic, a cross-country ski destination outside Grayling.
And I wasn’t alone. With its state-of-the-art snowmaking system, Forbush had created a snowglobe amid an otherwise dreary, barren landscape, drawing amateurs and polished skiers alike. As long as temperatures cooperate, Forbush can pump out enough snow to create a figureeight-loop at the 200-acre destination.
SKI SEASON OPENS IN MICHIGAN
This ski season Forbush has expanded its snow-making prowess to blanket another km of trails. And that’s just one of the many improvements this winter at the dozen or so Nordic and downhill ski resorts across the northwest lower peninsula.
Nearly all of the downhill ski areas — from Thompsonville to Traverse City and beyond — have unveiled a slew of upgrades, many of them focused on improved snow-making capabilities. But that’s not all. There are new ski lifts. New rental equipment. New trails. New ticket options. And new dining and apres-ski possibilities. All of these resorts, of course, are looking to create
Former President Jimmy Carter, working with Habitat for Humanity, paints a doorframe during a project in Washington, D.C., in 1992. Rob Crandall/Shutterstock.com See EXPLORE on page 11A
The Highlands at Harbor Springs unveiled its newest lift — the Interconnect triple.
Photo provided by The Highlands at Harbor Springs
DETROIT AUTO SHOW SET TO RETURN FOR 2025
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
DETROIT — The world’s automotive industry will descend again upon Huntington Place for the Detroit Auto Show Jan. 10-20.
A roster of 22 different automakers and brands — including Alfa Romeo, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Jeep, Kia, Lincoln, Ram, Toyota and Volkswagen — will have cars on display with support from dealers and manufacturers, along with a showcase of upcoming luxury cars in “The Gallery” section.
“Through this blended automaker and dealer participation, we’re able to give attendees a totally immersive experience in some of the most exciting products available on the market today — whether that’s comparing a variety of propulsion systems on one of four tracks, to seeing hundreds of brand-defining vehicles, up-close-and-personal and all in one place,” Detroit Auto Show Chairman Karl Zimmermann said in a press release.
Attendees will be able to interact with some cars through ride-alongs. Rugged expe-
See AUTO SHOW on page 7A
Photo provided by Detroit Auto Show
Detroit Auto Show attendees peruse the show floor at Huntington Place in Detroit.
SECOND FRONT PAGE
3A/ EASTSIDER • JANUARY 8, 2025
Districts share good news items at the end of 2024
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
ROSEVILLE/EASTPOINTE — As 2024 came to a close, officials in both Eastpointe Community Schools and Roseville Community Schools shared some good news at their board meetings.
Roseville
At the Roseville Community Schools Board of Education meeting Dec. 16, educators shared one item in the “Nice Things Happening in Our Schools” portion of the evening when they recognized Roseville High School student Daniel Duhaylonsod.
The senior was chosen by the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association to perform with the 2025 All-State High School Jazz Ensemble Jan. 25 at the 20th annual Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids.
Under the guidance of Director Daniel Cheshner, Duhaylonsod completed the blind audition for the ensemble in October. According to school officials, the MSBOA required applicants to record and prepare a short musical composition, sight read an excerpt and play a series of scales from memory. The auditions were held at Cousino High School in Warren.
“Every musician comes in and they all get the same piece that they have to play. It’s kind of like the baseline for the judges to be able to see how well the musicians
perform,” Roseville High School Principal Jason Bettin said, adding he also had to do some improvisation. “Daniel is only one of 18 students across the entire state of Michigan that was chosen for the all-state jazz band. He’s the only trumpet player that will have a solo when the band performs.”
A panel of expert adjudicators listened to recorded auditions from all over the state to choose the all-state players. This marked the third straight year Duhaylonsod was selected to perform at the conference. In 2023 and 2024, he performed with the All-State High School Band. The school board presented him with a certificate.
Eastpointe
At the Dec. 9 Eastpointe Community Schools Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Christina Gibson shared two different honors the district recently received.
Gibson announced that the Michigan Association of School Boards designated the school board as an Honor Board, which is given to boards when all the members have achieved Level 1 certification through the MASB’s Certified Board Member CBM program.
“A huge thank you to Eastpointe Community Schools Board of Education for their dedication to learning as school board members. There is a lot to know about being an elected official, and there is a lot of effort that goes into preparing for board meetings as well
Northeast
Other programs available for individuals with special needs
ROSEVILLE/EASTPOINTE — The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe is kicking off 2025 with a slam dunk.
For the first time, RARE has joined the Northeast Adaptive Recreation Basketball League, which consists of teenagers and adults with special needs who play basketball with teams from surrounding communities. The team will be known as the RARE Penguins.
The team’s first game of the season — against the Shelby Pistons — is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Recreation Authority Center. The Pistons have been a part of the league for many years. In 2012, current RARE Deputy Director Sara Frederick assisted with practices with the Shelby Pistons
when she interned for the Shelby Township Parks and Recreation Department.
Working with athletes with special needs is a passion for Frederick, who has interned for Special Olympics Michigan. When Frederick worked for Waterford Township Parks and Recreation, she introduced a social club for individuals with special needs.
RARE has added several programs for those with special needs, Upcoming events include a walking group, a social game club, a St. Patrick’s Day dance and a bingo night. Anyone interested in finding out more about RARE’s “therapeutic recreation” for residents with special needs is encouraged to attend a resource fair from 5 to 6 p.m. Jan. 8 at the RARE center, located at 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville.
For more information on RARE, visit rare-mi.org or call (586) 445-5480.
— Maria Allard
Photo provided by Sara Frederick
The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe has a number of therapeutic classes for individuals with special needs. A resource fair on the programs will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Jan. 8 at the RARE center, located at 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville.
Adaptive Recreation Basketball League comes to RARE
Photo by Maria Allard
Roseville High School senior Daniel Duhaylonsod was chosen by the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association to perform with the 2025 All-State High School Jazz Ensemble Jan. 25 at the 20th annual Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids.
EASTPOINTE — A series of drunken driving incidents occurred over the holidays.
At around 4:10 a.m. Dec. 27, Eastpointe police officers were dispatched to Gratiot Avenue and Stephens Road on a report of a two-car traffic crash in which a black Ram pickup had been struck by a gray Kia.
Upon investigating, the officers found that the Ram had been waiting at the traffic signal when it was rear-ended by the Kia. The Kia’s driver told police that the accident was his fault, and that he had been coming from a bar. Officers smelled a strong odor of intoxicants on the driver, and the driver’s speech was slurred. Upon agreeing to a sobriety test, he was unable to follow instructions, police said.
A breath sample was also taken, according to police, showing a blood alcohol content of 0.204%, which is two and a half times the legal limit. The driver was taken into
Carter
from page 1A
and of course we don’t know any better: We think he’s going to come in a big black limousine with guards and all,” Curley said, “but here he comes down the road in a golf cart.”
Curley said Carter showed up wearing a cap and an orange bandana, shook hands with the volunteers, and got to work.
“He made a little speech and he said, ‘All right, let’s get to work,’” Curley said.
The encounter happened in 2005, when Curley, along with 34 other volunteers from the Michigan Baptist Church and even more from the Detroit area, worked with Macomb County Habitat for Humanity to build homes in Detroit, west of Woodward Avenue. While more than 30 homes were built at the time, only one was built by the volunteers from the church, Curley said. Carter, who served as President of the
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custody and charged with operating while under the influence, first offense.
In a separate incident the same day, at around 11:30 p.m., police officers were dispatched to northbound Gratiot Avenue near Owen Avenue to investigate another traffic crash.
Upon their arrival, the officers observed that a Cadillac Escalade had jumped the curb in the median and struck a large tree, with the driver unresponsive and trapped in the vehicle. The police called Eastpointe firefighters, who extricated the driver from the vehicle and took him to a hospital where he was in critical condition.
Officers smelled intoxicants coming from the driver’s person, and a blood sample was sent to the Michigan State Police lab for further investigation, according to police.
The third incident occurred shortly after the start of the New Year, at around 3:30 a.m. Jan. 1. An Eastpointe police officer stationed on northbound Gratiot Avenue near Glander Avenue saw a silver sedan traveling at 51 miles per hour
United States from 1977 to 1981, died Dec. 29, 2024. He was 100 years old.
Accompanying Carter in 2005 in Detroit was his wife, Rosalynn, and his daughter, Amy, whom Curley said worked to lay the floor in the kitchen of the home.
During his interactions with Carter and his family, Curley said, they never talked politics. Instead, between painting and installing doorframes, he asked Carter how it felt to be teaching Sunday school at his old church, and about his peanut farm.
Curley said Carter worked just as hard as the rest of the volunteers.
“Christ, he worked hard — I’m not kidding you,” Curley said. “He built that (doorframe), then he did the other frames in the other bedrooms.”
Curley said Carter told him he still loved the church and teaching Sunday school. Carter was there Wednesday and Thursday, Curley said, and before he left, he visited each of the owners of the new homes.
“Late Thursday afternoon, he went
on a stretch of road where the speed limit is 40.
A traffic stop was initiated, and the officer said the driver had glassy, bloodshot eyes; slurred speech; and a strong odor of intoxicants. The driver was unable to provide her driver’s license or proof of insurance upon request, and she could not complete a sobriety test as instructed, police said. When her breath test was taken, her blood alcohol content level registered as 0.116%. She was taken into custody, and her case was pending review by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
“The Eastpointe Police Department wants to remind the public not to drive while intoxicated,” Eastpointe Police Lt. Alexander Holish said in an email. “When someone is doing it, they endanger themselves and other motorists. Also, they are at risk of being arrested. Taxicab, Lift or Uber are much cheaper than an OWI charge. Sleeping in one’s own bed at home is also much more comfortable than spending a night in jail. Please drive responsibly.”
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
around to all 35 houses and gave the new owners a Bible, and said goodbye to us. We all said goodbye to him, and that was that,” Curley said.
Two years ago, Curley said, he and his wife drove by the homes.
“(My wife) and I drove over there on the west side of town about two years ago, and all 34 houses are still standing perfectly. There’s no vacant houses, no houses torn apart,” Curley said. “They’re just like they were the first day that we were there.”
In a statement posted on its website, Habitat for Humanity referred to Carter as “a champion for affordable and decent housing.”
According to the statement, Carter and his family began volunteering with the organization in March of 1984. They continued to volunteer until 2019, and Carter served on the organization’s board of directors from 1984 until 1987.
The statement said Carter and his family inspired more than 108,000 volunteers
across the United States and in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,447 homes.
“We are grateful for the incredible impact the Carters have had on Habitat and on the families who have benefited from their shining example,” Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International, said in the statement. “The Carters put Habitat for Humanity on the map, and their legacy lives on in every family we serve around the world.”
Curley said he still feels honored to have been a part of something Carter was involved in.
“Was he the best president we ever had? That’s debatable,” Curley said. “He didn’t stop. You know, most presidents, they sit back and relax, which is OK if that’s what they want to do, but he didn’t. He didn’t stop. He wanted to reach 100, and he did.
“So, yeah, that’s my story,” Curley said. Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
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NEWS & NOTES
Lucido, others take oath of office
MACOMB COUNTY — On Jan. 2, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido, pictured center, and 91 assistant prosecuting attorneys took their oaths of office, which marked the start of a new four-year term. The ceremony, held at the Macomb County Administration Building, was presided over by Macomb County Circuit Court Chief Judge James Biernat Jr., Circuit Court Judge Joseph Toia and Clinton Township District Court Judge Sebastian Lucido.
“Today is more than just the beginning of another term,” Lucido said in a prepared statement. “It is a recommitment to the ideals that make our community strong and our justice system fair.”
During the swearing-in ceremony, Lucido encouraged all to see their work as a commitment to serve the community.
“Remember the faces behind the files,” he said. “The victims seeking justice, the families yearning for closure, and the community relying on your expertise and integrity.”
Compiled
by
Maria Allard, Brian Wells and David Wallace
THE DETROIT RIVERWALK IS ENGAGING FOR COUPLES
DETROIT — The Detroit Riverwalk earned first-place honors as the top location for marriage proposals in Michigan on New Year’s Eve, according to 3,000 women who were surveyed by the website DatingNews.com. The women, currently in relationships but not yet married, indicated the location has a mix of “urban excitement and natural beauty” to make for the ideal marriage proposal setting.
“Couples can enjoy the lively energy of the city while sharing an intimate moment along the serene riverfront, making it a perfect spot for a romantic proposal,” DatingNews.com. states.
Per the website, 78% of the women said they prefer the moment to just be between the two of them while 20% said they would “be happy” to have a small group of family or close friends present. Just 2% of those surveyed opted to have a large audience on hand during the proposal.
Nearly half of the survey participants would love to be proposed to just before midnight. According to the survey, 60% wanted their partner to kneel down for the ring reveal, 22% were up for a creative surprise, and 18% would love to find their engagement ring hidden, such as in a book or an ice cream sundae.
CBS broadcasters mention Cloverleaf during Lions game
EASTPOINTE — Coming out of a commercial break during the first quarter of the Detroit Lions football game against the Buffalo Bills Dec. 15, CBS sportscasters discussed and showed images of Cloverleaf Pizza.
“Cloverleaf Detroit-style pizza, serving up customers since 1946. A favorite of our esteemed producer Jim Rikhoff, who just tore apart an entire pizza on his own at our production meeting last night,” CBS sportscaster Jim Nantz said on the broadcast as footage aired of the restaurant.
“I saw that too,” analyst Tony Romo said with a laugh, before he and Nantz returned to the game action.
MCC receives workforce training grant
WARREN — On Dec. 30, the U.S. Department of Labor announced the award of $65 million in Strengthening Community Colleges grants to 18 colleges — including Macomb Community College — in 14 states.
Macomb received a $1.5 million grant designed to help with affordable, highquality workforce training to meet employers’ needs in critical industry sectors, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, semiconductors and biotechnology.
“Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, the fifth round of Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants will use proven strategies to enhance career pathway programs and support more equitable outcomes for marginalized and underrepresented populations,” a press release states.
Grantees will provide training across multiple sectors, many of which align with the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, such as advanced manufacturing, health care, information technology, agriculture and infrastructure-related sectors. Through five rounds of grants to date, the department has invested $265 million in 207 colleges in 35 states.
CURL UP WITH A GOOD BOOK
ROSEVILLE — The Roseville Public Library’s Book Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9 to discuss “The Secret Life Of Sunflowers,” by Marta Molnar. Patrons are welcome to join even if they have not read the book. The library is located at 29777 Gratiot Ave. For more information, call (586) 445-5407.
Upcoming Eastpointe library events
EASTPOINTE — The Eastpointe Memorial Library has some events planned for January.
There will be a Friends of the Library meeting at 10 a.m. Jan. 11. The group consists of volunteers who support the library with fundraising activities. All are welcome.
“PJ Storytime” will be held at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15. Scrapbooking will be held at 2 p.m. Jan.16. For more information, call (586) 445-5096. The library is located at 15875 Oak Ave.
FOOD BANK DISTRIBUTION JAN. 9
EASTPOINTE — Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan will have food distribution from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Jan. 9 in the circle drive in front of the building of Kelly Middle School, 24701 Kelly Road. If interested in volunteering, contact Ron Smith at (586) 533-3950.
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, too, 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 60-mile 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.
Learn about Ford-built World War II gliders
EASTPOINTE — The next lecture in a series put on by the Michigan Military Technical and Historical Society will take place at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12. Kenneth Hafeli will give a presentation focused on Ford gliders in World War II. The museum is located at 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe. For more information, call (586) 872-2581.
Photos by David Wallace
Photo provided by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office
as learning the role of a board,” Gibson said. “The members you see before you this evening have put in that work. We are proud to acknowledge them.”
Gibson also thanked outgoing Board of Education members Jon Gruenberg, who served from 2004 to 2024, and Mary HallRayford, who served from 2021 to 2024, according to Gibson’s presentation.
There were other reasons to celebrate. During the meeting, Gibson disclosed that the Michigan School Public Relations Association recognized the district in four areas in 2024. The district received an excellence award in special purpose projects for its strategic plan portraits, and three merit awards in the social media, newsletter and marketing materials categories.
“Eastpointe works hard at our public relations and our communications, both on a number of platforms,” Gibson said. “A huge accomplishment for Caitlyn Kienitz, our communication and marketing (coordinator). Congratulations, Caitlyn, and thank you for all the hard work that you put into helping tell our story of good here in Eastpointe Community Schools.”
At the Nov. 25 Eastpointe Board of Education meeting, Gibson provided an update on the school system’s Partnership District status. In 2022, Eastpointe High School and Pleasantview Elementary School were identified by the state as being in the bottom 5% and identified for comprehensive support, which requires a three-year partnership agreement with the Michigan Department of Education.
improvement at both schools. For instance, school officials set a goal to improve the Eastpointe High School graduation rate by 3% during the 18-month process. Gibson said the graduation rate was 69% in 2022, and the district exceeded that in 2024 with a graduation rate of 86.7%. At Pleasantview,
service. Gruenberg, who served as president many years, was not reelected to the
one of the goals was to improve attendance by 1%. According to Gibson’s presentation, attendance was at 82.2 percent for the 20212022 school year with an increase to 87.7% in the 2023-2024 school year.
During the district’s 18-month partnership review for both schools, the MDE and
the Macomb Intermediate School District both confirmed that both schools met all their 18-month benchmarks, and in several cases already exceeded the 36-month benchmarks that are in place.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
“Many foot problems in people with diabetes occur when injuries and infections go unnoticed and untreated. Healing can be delayed due to decreased feeling in the feet (neuropathy) and poor circulation. I will evaluate your feet regularly to detect any changes early, before they become a problem. Call me for an appointment and I will work with you to keep your feet healthy.”
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Christina Gibson, fourth from left in this 2023 file photo, announced that
as an Honor Board. She also thanked outgoing board members Jon Gruenberg, center, and
board by the voters in the
Roseville Community Schools places employee on administrative leave
ROSEVILLE — On Dec. 17, Roseville Community Schools officials placed an employee on paid administrative leave effective immediately.
According to a letter that district Superintendent Mark Blaszkowski sent to parents, the decision was made as part of a standard procedure that included contacting local law enforcement. School officials also are reviewing information regarding “alleged unprofessional conduct” that occurred at a previous place the employee worked, the letter states.
“Please note that this action is not a
determination of wrongdoing but rather a procedural step to ensure a thorough and fair review,” Blaszkowski said. “Our priority remains the well-being of our students, staff and the broader school community.”
Because the matter is under investigation, school officials said they could not provide any further details.
“We are committed to maintaining transparency while also respecting the privacy and rights of all involved,” the letter states.
— Maria Allard
Auto show
riences include the “Ford Bronco Built Wild Track” and “Camp Jeep” course, while the “Powering Michigan EV Experience” gives attendees the ability to ride in the passenger seat of electric vehicle offerings by BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC and Rivian. A sportier experience will be held on Friday, Jan. 17 with a course designed in collaboration with the Detroit Grand Prix, where two Chevrolet Corvette E-Rays will be on track and ridealongs in Buick, Ford, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen vehicles will be provided.
The grand prix-inspired course comes as part of the show’s “Racing Day” on Jan. 17, where drivers from the NTT IndyCar Series and Indy NXT by Firestone, includ-
School districts to undergo water filter updates
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
EASTPOINTE/ROSEVILLE — The water filters inside the classrooms and hallways in Eastpointe Community Schools and Roseville Community Schools will soon undergo updates.
Last month, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy awarded $50 million in grant funding to schools across the state for the installation of bottle-filling stations, faucetmount filters and more.
The upgrades are designed to protect students from lead under the Michigan Filter First law, which Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law in October 2023.
Eastpointe Community Schools received a $137,584 grant to purchase bottle-filling units, faucet-mounted filters, filtered pitcher, and replacement filter cartridges.
Roseville Community Schools received a grant for $539,153 for bottle-
filling units, faucet-mounted filters and replacement filter cartridges.
According to Eastpointe Community Schools Executive Director of Business and Operations Robert Carlesso, the district has not yet received the grant money. The district will spend the money for the upgrades and then be reimbursed.
“There are water quality standards that go into effect next year,” Carlesso said before the district went on holiday break in December. “This is to offset the cost of that. This is for all of our buildings.”
Under the new law, schools and child care centers must complete a drinking water management plan by Jan. 24, 2025. Additionally, schools are required to have approved filters on all consumptive fixtures by the end of the 2025-2026 school year.
The Michigan Filter First law mandates schools and child care centers have ongoing water samplings and certify compliance with requirements once filters are installed. Schools must sample annually,
ing two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden, are slated to appear.
“The Detroit Grand Prix embodies innovation and the spirit of Detroit,” Sam Klemet, co-executive director of the Detroit Auto Show, said in a press release. “We are thrilled to have a partnership with the Detroit Grand Prix and bring this amazing experience of Racing Day to the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.”
Other notable events during the show include the Driven by Service Day on Saturday, Jan. 18, Industry Days, AutoMobili-D and the Mobility Global Forum on Wednesday, Jan. 15 and Thursday, Jan. 16.
Tickets, speaker lineups and other information about the 2025 Detroit Auto Show can be found at detroitautoshow.com.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
Photo by Maria Allard
A Roseville Community Schools employee was put on paid administrative leave Dec. 17.
‘I WANTED TO MAKE SURE OUR TREE WOULD BE MEMORABLE’
Gardner White ‘Parade of Trees’ contest winner named
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
WARREN — When Heather Holihan was diagnosed on April 17, 2023, with stage 1B breast cancer, she underwent a double mastectomy and took a few months off work to focus on her recovery.
The Roseville resident received no income during her leave of absence. It was a trying time, not only physically and emotionally, but financially as well.
So when Holihan found out about Hot Pink Helpers, a nonprofit organization that provides grants to breast cancer patients, she applied for financial assistance. It didn’t take long for Hot Pink Helpers to gift her with a $5,000 grant.
“They came out to my house and sat with me for quite a while. What a blessing to me and my family,” said Holihan, 47. “It helped out during that time so much with house payments, car payments, living life.”
Hot Pink Helpers is a Michigan-based cancer
foundation that provides financial and emotional support to families affected by cancer with a primary focus on breast cancer. The charity is 100% volunteer run. Every dollar raised goes directly towards helping families in need as they face cancer.
At present, Holihan said she is “feeling well.” In March, she will undergo a hysterectomy as a preventive measure for ovarian cancer.
“I have a doctor team out of Henry Ford,” she said. “They are so fantastic. What a great team that takes care of me.”
She also is an “open book” about the disease.
“If there is anything I can do to help anybody out,” she said.
Hot Pink Helpers will be able to assist even more people. The charity just received a $10,000 donation from Gardner White. Gardner White’s flagship store in Warren recently held its third annual Twinkle Town community celebration.
As part of the festivities, 20 local celebrities, influencers and businesses were selected to decorate Christmas trees to display in the store’s “Parade of Trees” contest. Each participant chose a charity in which to try to raise money. The public was invited to walk the store’s “Candy Cane Lane” from
See TREES on page 14A
Filter
from page 7A
and child care centers must sample every two years.
Carlesso said the Eastpointe district already performs water testing, which is paid for out of the general fund. The district will most likely go for bids this winter for the bottle-filling units, faucet-mounted filters, filtered pitchers and replacement filter cartridges purchased under the new law.
“We’ll know more in January once we start digging into the grant requirements,” he said.
At the Dec. 16 Roseville Community Schools Board of Education meeting, the school board voted 7-0 to give Director of Buildings and Grounds Joe Smith permission to seek bids from companies for the water filter project.
Once school officials receive bids, they will be presented to the school board for approval, either this month for next month. The plan is to begin the project during the summer of 2025 when students are on break.
“It’s going to be a big bid. I’m going to throw it out there, see what we get and come back,” Smith said at the meeting. “They’re saying every drinking fountain has to have a filter on it.”
Roseville is a bit ahead of the law. Not all the district’s drinking fountains need to be replaced because school officials had already changed some over the last couple of years to meet the new requirements. A total of 90 inline filters and 42 drinking fountains will be changed out. All the drinking fountains will need to have a filter installed, along with a filter cleaner and a dirty indicator light to meet the new law mandates.
According to Smith, the district will use general fund dollars to absorb the costs of the annual water testing. The school districts also will be responsible to change filters regularly, which is another expense for the district moving forward.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
MCC men’s basketball pushing limits for national championship run
DR. SAM H. AWADA, MD SELECTED FOR INCLUSION IN THE TOP DOCTORS OF AMERICA 2024 HONORS EDITION
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
Recognized as one of the premier junior colleges in the nation, Macomb Community College is doing everything it can to regain the magic of the 2023 season.
The Monarchs shocked the world when they reached their first national championship game two seasons ago, falling to Milwaukee Area Technical College 86-65, but regained momentum with a stellar showing in head coach Christopher Burns’ first season at the helm in 2024.
Burns earned Michigan Community College Athletic Association Coach of the Year honors as Macomb set a school record for wins in a season (31) and captured its conference, the MCCAA, and a region title all in the same season for the first time in program history. Macomb was eliminated in the Sweet 16 last season but finished the national tournament 3-1.
The achievements and national ranking for Macomb, which is ranked No. 4 in the National Junior College Athletic Association DII, are a great nod to the program and how far it’s come, but there’s an expectation now.
What used to be MCC’s best is no longer enough — it’s about reaching the brightest stage of the season and bringing home history for the school.
“Last year, we had a good run nationally,” redshirt sophomore guard Josh Hines said. “I’m looking to go way past that point and learn from what happened last year and push the guys to their limits and go all-in.”
Hines, a 2021 Macomb Dakota graduate, has been the leader the Monarchs needed after the majority of the team transferred on after their sophomore seasons, which included leading scorer Juwan Maxey (Youngstown State University), leading rebounder Tymias Williams (Rochester Christian University), and a slew of other guys.
Posting 24.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, Hines has answered the call and then some, leading the Monarchs to a 10-1 record so far this season.
Hines, who tallied 11.6 points per game last season with MCC, not only leads on the court with his play, but is a symbol for what MCC prides itself on — working harder than everyone else.
See MCC on page 10A
TOP DOCTORS OF AMERICA
WARREN, MICHIGAN, November 15, 2024, Dr. Sam H. Awada, MD has been selected for inclusion in the forthcoming Nationwide Registries Top Doctors of America 2024 Honors Edition for demonstrating superior expertise, leadership, and professional excellence in healthcare. His dedication and tenacity set the standard in the industry. Representing the state as one of the best in the country requires tenure, experience, and a proven track record. There is humble yet strong will embedded inside his drive to succeed. As a talented and intelligent man, his discipline about work ethic, morals and character is what sets him apart. During the vetting process it was noted along with his extraordinary reputation that he has also consistently maintained a positive peer rating throughout the years. Inclusion was based several factors along with results and fndings after a several month vetting process which included academic history, feedback from constituents and patients as well as years of service, community involvement, and overall contribution to the betterment of society. He prides himself on transparency and integrity. He is the kind of professional admired by colleagues and peers alike. His kindness and willingness to always help others and fnd solutions to most questions is both noble and highly respected. He has made a signifcant difference in the lives of his patients; Therefore, it is a fact that after considerable review and research, he has been deemed a true Top Doctor, always practicing with strength and excellence always putting the wellbeing of his patients frst.
Dr. Awada’s 24 Hour Urgent Care is open every day. Offering a full-service mini ER treating all medical conditions: Digital X-Rays, EKG, IV Fluids, Casting, Surgery, Lacerations, Dog/Cat bite, Tetanus shot, Ingrown toenails, On-site Drug screenings, Breathalyzer, STI (STD) & HIV testing, IV antibiotics for pneumonia, Blood infections UTI and Cellulitis. Including IMMEDIATE RESULTS for DNA-PCR COVID, FLU A/B, RSV, Strep/Mono and receive any 2 services for $59 or 1 for $39. His clinic has walk-ins, no appointment necessary, LGBTQ+ Friendly and offce visits only $75. Located at 12640 Twelve Mile Road in Warren between Hoover & Schoenherr. Learn more at 24hrurgentcare.com. Call 586-751-2020.
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Photo by Erin Sanchez
Macomb Community College redshirt sophomore Josh Hines drives during a matchup against Owens Community College Dec. 18 at the Macomb Community College Athletic Center on the South Campus in Warren.
“Nobody works harder than Josh (Hines),” Burns said. “He’s hands down the hardest worker that there is. If we’re doing the six-hour days, he’s doing the six-hour days with us but also doing stuff on his own before and after. His dad instilled that in him at an early age, and it’s the reason he puts the work in more than anybody.”
The Monarchs understand the expectations placed on them, and Burns reinforces it through each practice and every drill that pushes his team more and more each day.
Because they’re a junior college, Burns said it gives his team complete freedom to utilize as much time as needed for his guys to get right before the season.
“It’s just the work that we put in the offseason and every day,” Burns said. “Division I and II have compliance officers, where they only get so many hours on and off the court to be with their team. Junior college, there are none of those rules. We push it to the limits. We’re doing long days every day.”
It’s also a chemistry thing — something that can be difficult with different players moving in and out after a year or two.
Guys like Jalen Jenkins, Malachi Irving, Caron Williams, Davion Guity, Lajuan Holloway and Cameron House are trying to find their roles in their first season with MCC.
These are guys who were “the guy” at their respective high schools, and now they’re trying to find out what they can do to make their presence felt on the court.
“It hasn’t been easy,” Malachi Irving, a 2024 Warren Fitzgerald graduate, said. “It’s
kind of been a rocky start, because I’m coming from a team where I was always the leader, and now I have to transition to someone who follows the leader. They’ve been good leaders for me, so it’s becoming easier to follow.”
Jenkins has only flourished from his days at Belleville, asserting himself as a twoway guard who can do just about anything for MCC. The freshman guard currently averages 8.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game while tallying a team-high in assists (42) and second-most in steals (19).
“He’s coming from a winning program at Belleville,” Burns said. “He’s got a lot of experience, and he brought that to the table with us. Even though he’s coming off the bench, he could be a starter. He’s definitely an unsung hero, that’s for sure.”
Then you have your veterans in Marlon
Williams, Jotham Nweke and DaMaryon Fishburn, who all found ways to contribute last year but are stepping into their leadership roles both on and off the court.
Williams and Fishburn went from logging 12-13 minutes a game last season to now being in the starting rotation, especially with Fishburn shooting behind the perimeter at a 66% clip and averaging 13.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game so far this season.
Williams (17.5) and Nweke (15.2) are both averaging double-digits in the pointsper-game column.
The Monarchs offense, averaging just over 93 points per game, isn’t as dominant as last year’s 96 points per game so far, but Hines said it will only improve with the team meshing the way that it is.
“The strength of our team right now,
See MCC on page 15A
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday
January 19, 2025 -
We hope that we can count on you to attend many of the church services in our area on Sunday to pray for our country to once again protect all human life from conception to a natural death. We must continue to pray for the unborn who are being killed by abortion, but now we should also pray for the elderly, the handicapped and the disabled who face legalized assisted suicide in many states. Even though prayer is the single most important thing that we can do to save lives, RTLSE Macomb needs YOU. YOU are important! We need individuals of all ages to volunteer to help with so many activities including mailings (folding, stu ng, sealing newsletters and taking them to the post o ce), phone calls to members, helping with fund raising events such as the Bid for Life Auction. We need people with new ideas and new ways of doing things. Please think it over and try to help.
We are planning a general membership meeting in March. Free admission, free refreshments and an outstanding speaker that you will want to hear- also free. More details in our next newsletter.
We were awestruck by the tremendous victory of President Trump. He won by such a huge landslide! We are hopeful that he will eliminate the FACE Act and pardon the 89 year-old woman and her friends who were unjustly sentenced to 10 years in prison for praying at an abortion clinic. ere are many more individuals imprisoned for similar crimes. ank God for President Trump. At least these persecutions will stop for the next four years.
Let us pray:
God our Father created each of us in HIS image. For this reason, life at every stage has immeasurable value and beauty.
Lord, we pray, help us accept your creation.
As members of the human family, we rely on others to help us see our value. e Bible teaches us that God created each human life for a purpose. Lord, we pray, show us our purpose. Praise and
RIGHT TO LIFE - SOUTHEAST MACOMB MEMBERSHIP COUPON
Be a prolife angel. SAVE A LIFE! Please ll in below and mail to: Right to Life Southeast Macomb, 27417 Harper, St. Clair Shores, MI 48081 or call 586-774-3939 for more information.
optimal skiing conditions for skiers and riders as well as a better winter experience for all of their guests.
“Northwest Lower Michigan’s ski areas have undergone impressive off-season improvements, ensuring an exciting winter season for all,” says Mike Panich, who is executive director of the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association, the trade group for the state’s ski and snowboard industry.
“From advanced snowmaking to exciting new trails and guest-focused upgrades, Michigan’s ski destinations are ready to impress this winter.”
No wonder. After last year’s forgettable winter, ski areas across the region are pumped about this season’s prospects, already benefiting from cooperative temperatues for plenty of snow making as well as frequent lake-effect snow.
“The 2024 season started with a great early blast of cold air and lake effect snow, allowing most ski areas in Michigan and the rest of the Midwest to open earlier and with more terrain than in the recent past,” Panich says.
Despite the recent warm up and rain over the holiday, ski areas “were able to take advantage of the early cold weather and build significant snow reserves and will be able to ride it out until the cold returns with the new year,” he adds.
Here are some highlights of ski area improvements this season (Note: most resorts have upgraded snow-making capabilities so they are not mentioned below):
• In mid-December, the Highlands at Harbor Springs unveiled its newest lift — the Interconnect triple. The new lift cuts the amount of time up the hill by one-third and improves access to the North Peak area. The lift includes RFID gates providing handsfree, direct-to-lift access. This is the second new lift in two years at the 4,000-acre resort. Last year the Highlands introduced the Camelot 6, a six-person bubble chairlift, the fastest in the Midwest. New food options include a Brew Bar at the Day Lodge, serving a selection of craft beer, and a Ramen Bar at the Food Market.
• With more snowmaking power, Boyne Mountain is creating the Victor Glacier, a ski run being designed to offer great snow conditions earlier and later in the season. The signature blue run is reminiscent of Vermont’s legendary King of Spring, lateseason skiing at Killington Ski Resort. Additionally, Boyne has unveiled nearly 18 acres of fresh, glade terrain within its Disciples Ridge area. The new glade terrain is located
between Grice’s Way and Zippie’s and features wide-open, gentle slopes for beginners and more challenging terrain for the more experienced. Other improvements include synchronized music and vibrant LED lighting displays at the resort’s Tubing Hill.
• In Thompsonville, Crystal Mountain has expanded its selection of rental equipment, adding more than 400 new sets of rental skis and 55 snowboards. The 1,500-acre resort has also upped its apres-ski game with new rooftop igloos at the Level4 Lounge. The heated igloos offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests will also find expanded trail loops and new rental gear at the Cross-Country Learning Center. More than half the guest rooms of the Hamlet Hotel have been renovated with new furniture, flooring and accessories.
• Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire offers a new 18 km cross-country trail system through Schuss Village, one of four villages on the 5,500-acre property. Non-skiers looking for something to do can hop aboard the new Alpina Snow Glider, for a free, hourlong ride through the expansive resort. Shanty Creek has also extended private ski and snowboard lessons to include evening sessions.
• Outside Gaylord, Treetops Resort boasts two new trails. Razzle Dazzle promises “a thrilling new experience for those who love gladed slopes,” resort officials say. The other is the Woodsplitter, providing a new route between Kathryn’s Way and Lookout at the 3,300-acre destination.
• Caberfae Peaks, one of the country’s oldest ski areas, outside Cadillac, has renovated guest rooms, which feature custommade furniture.
Back at Forbush Corner, which is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization, the addition of another km of manmade snow coverage extends that trail network to nearly 3.5 km. Overall, Forbush has more than 30 km of trails. This year snowshoe trails also have been expanded, with 8 km now dedicated to snowshoeing paths. By the way, the region’s other popular Nordic ski spot, Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Higgins Lake, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this winter. A 50th Anniversary Ribs and Blues celebration is planned for February 22. The ski center also offers free beginner lessons every Saturday.
In the meantime, don’t let the warmerthan-usual and rainy weather around the holidays deter your skiing plans. Wintry weather is around the corner.
“After the terrible winter of 23-24, we have entered a much more winter-like pattern and meteorologists are predicting a much snowier and cooler January and February than we have experienced over the last
several seasons,” Panich says. “With good weather and regular snowfall, skiers should expect to have great snow covered slopes all season long, with great conditions.”
For more information about what’s new
at Michigan’s ski areas visit Michigan Snowsports Industries Association at goskimichi gan.com.
Greg Tasker is a Traverse City-based freelance writer.
Photo provided by Boyne Mountain Resort
Boyne Mountain’s latest improvements include synchronized music and vibrant LED lighting displays at Tubing Hill.
12A/ EASTSIDER • JANUARY 8, 2025
CONSIDER DE-ICING METHODS AND THEIR IMPACTS DURING THE WINTER SEASON
BY SARAH WRIGHT swright@candgnews.com
As the winter season continues in Michigan, residents will likely have multiple different preferences for removing ice from sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and roads.
During the winter, snow or ice storms and colder temperatures can cause issues to certain driving and walking areas.
“Each year, 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy or icy pavement and 15 percent happen during snowfall or sleet,” an excerpt from the Federal Highway Administration’s ‘Snow & Ice’ page states. “Over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement annually. Every year, nearly 900 people are killed and nearly 76,000 people are injured in vehicle crashes during snowfall or sleet.”
Many people might prefer using salt, as (sodium chloride) is often used to address these issues by melting current ice patches or preventing potential ice issues. According to “Pros & Cons of Road Salt in Winter” from Bridgstone Tire, road salt can lower the freezing temperature of water and sprinkling salt on icy patches can melt them.
“The effectiveness of road salt in winter depends on the amount of salt used. Since road salt crystals are larger than regular table salt, the pressure from vehicles driving over salted roadways can also increase road salt’s effectiveness,” the Bridgestone Tire webpage states. “More salt is needed to manage ice as temperatures drop further below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.”
A lot of residents may prefer salt because it’s a cheaper and effective option, though the environmental impact of salt can be a concern.
“The most common deicing agent used in Michigan is a compound called sodium chloride. Sodium chloride causes severe decline in plant and tree health,” the city of Bloomfield Hills’ “Deicing Alternatives” webpage states. “Salt runoff can wash into the soil, thus increasing salt levels. As a result, the root systems grow (weak), which reduces the ability of foliage to fight disease. Salt that is applied near your home can enter streams directly from the road or from surrounding melting snow (runoff). A sudden or extreme change in salinity (or “saltiness”) can be harmful to aquatic life as well. Aquatic
organisms require a certain amount of salt in the water. If the amount of salt is too great it will affect an organism’s ability to regulate the amount of fluids in and out of its cells.”
it will affect an organism’s ability to regulate the amount of fluids in and out of its cells.”
EGLE, when it was named the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, put out an FAQ on de-icers that described salt having negative effects on roads, plant life and bodies of water.
“Like any deicing substance, use of road salt has some negative consequences such as corrosivity related to both vehicles and building structures (i.e. bridges, overpasses and highway ramps), it is harmful to both ornamental and agricultural vegetation, and in certain areas salt runoff has potential to lead to unacceptable chloride concentrations in lakes and rivers,” the FAQ states.
“The Impact of Salts on Plants and How to Reduce Plant Injury from Winter Salt Applications,” from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, suggests that people carefully spread salt or other de-icing products to avoid plant life; place salt-tolerant plants in areas close to sidewalks and roadways; protect plants with physical barriers like burlap, plastic or wood; and reduce salt use by combining it with sand, sawdust or cinders for traction.
“De-icing materials that use salts other than sodium chloride, including calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) are more expensive but can reduce injury to plants,” the University of Massachusetts Amherst article states.
Ace Hardware has its own calcium magnesium chloride ice melt product that, according to the owner of the Trevarrow Ace Hardware store in Troy, Dennis Garbarz, performs better and doesn’t harm the concrete.
“It works better without a lot of traffic and doesn’t track inside,” Garbarz said. “It won’t damage surfaces and won’t kill the lawn or hurt the environment if used correctly.”
Garbarz also notes that sand can be useful for cars and trucks if they get stuck in other areas.
Jessie Buchholz, a sales associate at the Menards at 32501 Van Dyke Ave. in Warren, said that calcium chloride is better for cement, though a lot of customers prefer salt due to it being more popular and cost effective.
“Typically, people should make sure they store products inside and some products shouldn’t be around pets,” Buchholz said.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
JAN. 12
‘Ford Gliders in WWII’: Presentation about auto company’s production of planes for U.S. War Department, 2 p.m., Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, (586) 872-2581, mimths@mimths.org, mimths.org
JAN. 15
Social Game Club: New table game group for ages 16 and older with special needs, also light snack and drinks, 4-5 p.m., Recreational Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe, 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville, next meetups Feb. 19, March 19 and April 2, register by noon the day before, (586) 445-5480, rare-mi.org
JAN. 21
Check Mates: Chess club for all levels ages 12 and older, 6-7:30 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., next meetups Feb. 18, March 18, April 15 and May 20, free but registration required, (586) 445-5407, rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov, www. rosevillelibrary.org
JAN. 25
Winter Fest: Presented by Eastpointe Community Action Coalition, includes health and wellness station, local resources, crafts, scavenger hunt and lunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Eastpointe Boys & Girls Club, 15320 E. Nine Mile Road, facebook.com/thecityofeastpointe
JAN. 26
Night at the Races: Fundraiser hosted by St. Clair Shores Firefighters Local 1744, bet on horses in virtual races, also 50/50, prizes, hors d’oeuvres and drinks, 7 p.m.-midnight, Blossom Heath Inn, 24800 Jefferson Ave., facebook.com/stclairshoresfirefighters
JAN. 28
Crafty Kids Club: For ages 12 and younger, 6 p.m., Macomb Mall, 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, next meetups Feb. 25 and March 25, (586) 445-5407, rosevillelibrary.org
Neighborhood Watch meeting: Presented by Eastpointe police and fire departments, meet officers and neighbors, get informed and learn how to keep community safe, 6 p.m., Eastpointe City Hall, 23200 Gratiot Ave., (586) 445-5100
ONGOING
Feed the Dream: Event inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., donate nonperishable food items to Live Rite Recovery’s food pantry through Jan. 31, also craft and snack from 4-7 p.m. Jan. 16, all at Recreational Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe, 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville, (586) 445-5480, rare-mi.org
Storytime: 1:30 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, near Dick’s Sporting Goods at Macomb Mall,
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.
32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, facebook.com/ macombmall
Young Modelers Club: For ages 8-16, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays until April 19, Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, contact Jim at (248) 574-3487, (248) 399-2386 or jimandkatie17@att.net
Monthly book clubs: Booked for the Evening (every first Thursday) and Mystery Book Club (every third Thursday), both 6:30 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov, rosevillelibrary.org, (586) 445-5407
Euchre Night + More: 6-8 p.m. every first Saturday of month, Metropolitan Church of the Nazarene, 18945 Frazho Road in Roseville, bring finger foods to share (drinks provided), metronaz.org/adult-ministry-events
Gamblers Anonymous: Meetings7:30 p.m. every Wednesday, Live Rite Structured Recovery Corp., 27700 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, (586) 217-5899
Tunnel of Lights: 5-9 p.m. daily until Jan. 26, Blossom Heath Park, 24800 Jefferson Ave. in St. Clair Shores, facebook.com/st.clairshoresparksand recreation
GIVE BLOOD FOR CHANCE TO SEE SUPER BOWL LIX IN PERSON
Winner gets two tickets, access to pre-game activities, round-trip airfare to New Orleans, hotel accommodations, gift card for expenses and more, donate through Jan. 26, find participating center and make appointment at redcrossblood. org/give.html/find-drive, (800) 733-2767
Tuesdays, and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays until March 2, The Rink at Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave. in Detroit, downtowndetroit.org/ experience-downtown/things-to-do/the-rink
Detroit Auto Show: Public hours run 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 11-14, 1-8 p.m. Jan. 15-16, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 17-19 and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 20, Huntington Place, 1 Washington Blvd. in Detroit, detroitautoshow.com
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
Nov. 12 through Dec. 8 and vote for their favorite tree. The grand prize was $10,000 for the winning tree’s charity. Nearly 70,000 votes were submitted in-store and online.
Melissa Morrow, owner of the online business, Sincerely Creative Mom, won with her “The Timeless Spirit of Christmas.” The tree — featuring red, green and gold ornaments and ribbons — was decorated by Morrow with help from her friend Holihan.
“It has been such a fun journey,” said Morrow, who grew up in St. Clair Shores. “For a lot of people, Christmas is grand and goes back to their childhood. Your mom or your grandma used to decorate. I wanted to make sure our tree would be memorable.”
That’s what inspired Morrow’s “The Timeless Spirit of Christmas” theme. She already had some holiday decorations, but also purchased other items to complete the look. Sincerely Creative Mom, at sincerelycreativemom.com, offers online classes and retreats and in-person classes and events that focus on wreath-making and other craft-related projects. She has students from all over the world, including Australia and Ireland.
When Morrow, of Kimball Township near Port Huron, applied for the Parade of Trees contest, she immediately picked Hot Pink Helpers because of the connection to Holihan. Morrow and Holihan have been friends since the 1990s when they both worked at Great Skate in Roseville. The pair still keep in touch with several of their coworkers
from their days at the skating rink. That group of friends helped Holihan get through her cancer diagnosis.
“There are some really cool ideas,” Morrow said. “All the trees were really awesome.”
“It was such a nice event,” Holihan said. “We did see some great trees there. Melissa’s was so classic and beautiful.”
Married couple Troy Clogg and Linda Sebold Clogg, of Brighton, founded Hot Pink Helpers by way of their company, Troy Clogg Landscape Associates, based in Wixom. In 2010, the company began selling a product called the Hot Pink Deicer with a portion of sales benefiting people with cancer. Because the cause became so successful, Hot Pink Helpers was founded.
To date, the nonprofit organization has raised $775,000 to benefit others. Linda Sebold Clogg said about 80% of recipients are those diagnosed with breast cancer. She also said that with the $10,000 Gardner White grant “at least three families will be helped.”
“When they can’t work, it doesn’t take long to lose everything they’ve worked for. We are so grateful to Gardner White. They’re such an inspiration. They do so much philanthropy in the community,” Linda Sebold Clogg said. “Melissa, she’s so talented and sincerely a dynamic woman. She was so generous to choose us. We’re just so grateful and humbled.”
Along with Hot Pink Helpers, all the remaining charity partners received a donation from Gardner White for their cause.
For more information on Hot Pink Helpers, visit www. hotpinkhelpers.com.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
Photo provided by Gardner White
Melissa Morrow, second from left, won $10,000 for her charity of choice, Hot Pink Helpers, during the third annual Gardner White “Parade of Trees” contest in Warren. Also pictured are Gardner White CEO Rachel Stewart, far left; Bill Wylonis, of Hot Pink Helpers, center; Hot Pink Helpers cofounder Linda Sebold Clogg, far right; and her granddaughter, Caroline Wulf.
MCC
from page 10A
I feel like, is the chemistry with our teammates,” Hines said. “We get along on and off the court, and then we come in here and try to go all-out. We just push our limits and stay together as a team. When we go out to play, hopefully we can put the right pieces together and do the things we’ve been working on in practice.”
Oh, and how about the addition of two 6-foot-8 players to the rotation in Guity and Holloway, who both made their season debuts in a 109-51 win Dec. 18 over Owens Community College as Guity dropped 24 points while Holloway chipped in seven rebounds.
Guity is the most NIL-endorsed junior college player, according to MCC, and was
once ranked the No. 3 player in the state of New Mexico, while Holloway, an Oak Park graduate, is a bully in the paint.
“I think these two guys are going to put us over the top,” Burns said. “It’s just going to put everyone in their natural spots and have someone down there that we can funnel. Right now, we’re funneling all our guys to the rim, but we don’t have a rim protector. We now have two rim protectors where we can split their minutes up so we have one on the court at all times.”
The Monarchs have a long way to go before it’s time to think about bringing home a national championship, but they’re on the right track and only progressing each game.
“We all got one goal, and that’s to get a national championship,” Irving said. “We’re working towards that every day and getting better every day.”
Photo by Erin Sanchez Macomb Community College sophomore Jotham Nweke, a Detroit Loyola graduate, slams home a dunk.
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The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Without power, your everyday modern essentials are rendered useless. Think about it, you’ll have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most. It’s time to get serious about preparing your home.
The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Without power, your everyday modern essentials are rendered useless. Think about it, you’ll have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most. It’s time to get serious about preparing your home.
Trusted Protection During Unpredictable Weather
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The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Without power, your everyday modern essentials are rendered useless. Think about it, you’ll have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most. It’s time to get serious about preparing your home.
Permanent full-time Utility Worker position, $47,528 - $64,230 annually (40 Hours per week) includes benefit package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, November 25, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on Employment. 0305-2446 Help Wanted General
Administrative Positions
ACROSS 1. Half of half-andhalf 6. *Gratuity 9. Remain unsettled 13. Pita, alt. sp. 14. Uncle Sam wants whom? 15. Played violin, e.g. 16. “Encore!” 17. Young canine 18. Amber warning 19. *Entice 21. *Agreement
1 part-time and 1 full-time available in Grosse Pointe, 9-5, M-F. Will train. Duties include answering phones, billing and posting. Proficient with Microsoft Office. Multi-tasker with good customer service skills. Immediate openings. $15 - $25 per hour based on experience. Send inquires and resume to: radarsecurity@comcast.net 0260-2450
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police heard a report of a male individual throwing furniture in the yard outside an address on Sterritt Street, located near M-59/Hall Road and M-53, the night of Nov. 30.
Officers said they talked to the individual, who reportedly said he threw lawn furniture on the grass and was mad that his family didn’t invite him to dinner on Thanksgiving. Police said no one was hurt, and nothing was damaged, so they advised him to restrain his temper and took no further action.
Vehicle reported stolen parked on building’s opposite side
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they heard that a silver Nissan Sentra had been stolen Dec. 1 along 18 Mile Road.
The owner reportedly went inside a building to get a soda and cigarettes and exited to discover that the vehicle was apparently gone. Police said the owner had the vehicle’s keys.
Although the Sentra’s owner reportedly thought she had parked on the south side, a police investigation then discovered the vehicle on the building’s north side. Police took no further action.
Woman at apartment gathering arrested for resisting police
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to an apartment address in the 8000 block of 16 1/2 Mile Road early in the morning of Dec. 1 upon hearing that people were “screaming and throwing stuff.”
Police said they learned that the apartment was an Airbnb used by “five males and five females,” and the males reportedly came from Indiana to meet the women. Police said they also heard that one woman allegedly was mad that the “males were not paying attention to her.”
Police said they noticed a woman who appeared to be intoxicated, stumbling and unsteady. When police told her to talk to them, she allegedly “refused and began running.”
Police said they grabbed her by the arms, and when she allegedly kept flailing and resisting, they reportedly “assisted her to the ground” and handcuffed her.
Police said the woman was taken to jail and cited for misdemeanor resisting and obstructing an officer.
Kia theft attempted
EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, at 10:10 p.m. Dec. 9, officers were dispatched to the
Road and Gratiot Avenue, to investigate a complaint of attempted auto theft. They found that an unknown suspect had broken the rear driver’s side window of a 2011 Kia Sportage to gain entry, and the steering column had been peeled in an attempt to steal the vehicle.
Police were investigating.
Trailblazer taken
EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, at around 6:05 a.m. Dec. 11, officers were called to the 22000 block of Pleasant Avenue, in the area of Toepfer Drive and Gratiot Avenue, to investigate the theft of a 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer that had occurred overnight. The vehicle had been left unlocked. Surveillance footage showed two suspects entering the vehicle at around 11 p.m. Dec. 10. They remained in the car for about two minutes and then drove off.
An investigation was ongoing.
Stolen deer
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Dec. 1 at around 3:30 p.m., a 43-year-old Mount Clemens man reported his stolen Christmas decorations to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
He told deputies that he began setting up decorations the day before, including setting up his light-up deer.
After finishing setting up around 9 p.m. and going to bed, he noticed the deer was gone when he checked at 8 p.m.
Man steals expensive wine bottle
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers from the Shelby Township Police Department were dispatched to 51015 Van Dyke Ave., a BP gas station, for a retail fraud complaint at 7:03 p.m. Dec. 6. An officer was informed that an unknown man stole a $300 bottle of wine and left prior to police arrival. The owner of the BP gas station printed a picture of the suspect and showed it to customers to see if they could recognize the suspect. A customer recognized the suspect and updated the detective working on the case. The detective was able to positively identify the suspect.
Someone cuts wires to lights
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 2:11 p.m. Dec. 4, an officer from the Shelby Township Police Department was called to the 6000 block of 24 Mile Road for a malicious destruction of property report. The location is a business that has lights around the perimeter of the business in the parking lot. The business owner noticed that one of the lights was not working and called an electrician to check it out. The electrician
been cut. The business owner said he had heard rumors that the neighborhood located near the parking lot was upset with the lights.
Many liquor bottles stolen SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A Shelby Township police officer was dispatched to Meijer at 15055 Hall Road for a retail fraud at 2:41 p.m. Dec. 4. Upon the officer’s arrival, he was advised of two people who had walked out of the store without paying for more than $900 worth of liquor. The couple had concealed 17 bottles of liquor before leaving the store, according to the Police Department. The case was turned over to the detective bureau for investigation.
Fraud reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 3:28 on Dec. 3, a case of fraud was reported in the 25000 block of Little Mack Avenue.
An officer spoke with the store manager, a 27-year-old man. He stated a person came into the store and stole sunglasses from the store the previous day at approximately 7:30 p.m. He did not know how many pairs were missing. He stated the same suspect came into the store on Nov. 27 and again on Nov. 28 and stole the same sunglasses. The suspect has been identified as a 60-year-old man. The sunglasses are valued at $19.99 each and are Detroit Lions themed. The suspect reportedly concealed the sunglasses without paying.
Online Lions ticket fraud reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 2:53 p.m. on Dec. 3, a case of fraud was reported in the 23000 block of Euclid Street.
A woman, 33, came into the station and reported that she and her boyfriend, a 50-year-old man, were scammed out of $450. She said her boyfriend spoke with a girl on Facebook who had six Detroit Lions tickets for sale at $150 per ticket. They conducted the transaction over Venmo and in doing so her boyfriend sent a partial payment of $450 to the account.
After the payment went through, the user blocked them and the two were unable to make contact. Venmo froze the woman’s account, and she was attempting to stop the transaction.
Trespasser arrested
GROSSE POINTE PARK — A 41-year-old Hamtramck man was arrested at around 4:16 a.m. Dec. 4 after he reportedly entered a vacant apartment in the 1200 block of Maryland Street without permission. Police were initially called to the area about an
to leave. Police said they found the suspect passed out in an apartment near to the one belonging to the caller.
Police arrest suspected intoxicated driver at school GROSSE POINTE WOODS — Police were called to Grosse Pointe North High School at 3:05 p.m. Dec. 12 about a possibly intoxicated driver in the pickup line. When an officer arrived,
influence of drugs or alcohol, police said he failed several field sobriety tests and refused to take a preliminary breath test. The driver was arrested for operating under the influence of liquor and was issued a citation for refusing to take a PBT.
City police assist nearby department GROSSE POINTE CITY — Grosse Pointe City public safety officers went to Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital at around 7 p.m. Dec. 13 to detain a suspect wanted by St. Clair Shores police for domestic violence. St. Clair Shores officers then headed to the