BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Training for Clinton Township’s Fire Department could get a lot easier to pay for if a federal grant is secured.
Clinton Twp. applies for two grants prior to deadline
Clinton Township’s Board of Trustees unanimously agreed to apply for the 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The grant would provide 90% of the funding for a new training facility and 70 Hexoskin wearable vests to monitor personnel vital signs during training. The total cost of the project is $600,000. If secured, the township would pay for 10% ($60,000) of the total cost of the project. The deadline for applying for the grant was Dec. 20.
Trustee Julie Matuzak called the Hexoskins “really critical.” “Firefighters have a terrible longevity rate,” Matuzak said. “They are affected dramatically by
See GRANTS on page 12A
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP —
If you’re going to play basketball for head coach Corey Smith and the Big Reds, defense has to be part of your game. There’s no other way around it.
For juniors Joshua Johnson and Brandon Bellante, that was an
Clinton Township Chippewa Valley head coach Corey Smith communicates with his team.
Photos by Erin Sanchez
Clinton Township Chippewa Valley junior Joshua Johnson drives to the basket against Warren Woods Tower Dec. 26 at Chippewa Valley High School.
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.
FEATURE SERIES ABOUT NORTHERN MICHIGAN DESTINATIONS TO EXPLORE.
SKI SEASON OPENS IN MICHIGAN
BY GREG TASKER
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.
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.
See SKIING on page 10A
The Highlands at Harbor Springs unveiled its newest lift — the Interconnect triple.
Photo provided by The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Photo provided by Detroit Auto Show
Detroit Auto Show attendees peruse the show floor at Huntington Place in Detroit.
See AUTO SHOW on page 11A
Skiers of all ages enjoy the slopes at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire.
Photo provided by Shanty Creek Resort
NEWS & NOTES
CMPL hosts events in
January
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — As the year begins, the Clinton-Macomb Public Library has scheduled a slate of events to get 2025 started off.
Children ages 5-12 are invited for some fun with OpenSpot Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. at the North Branch. OpenSpot Theatre’s mission is to provide a fun, creative and inclusive arts experience that is accessible to all people. The event concludes with a live performance for friends and family.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Monday, Jan. 20. The CMPL’s North and South branches will host story and craft events celebrating the life of Dr. King at 2 p.m. at the North Branch and 6 p.m. at the South Branch.
Children are invited to the South Branch on Friday, Jan. 24 at 4:30 p.m. for a Detroit Zoo-led program that lets attendees get hands-on with native Michigan wildlife, conservation and mudpuppies. This program is intended for families with children.
Go to cmpl.libnet.info/events for a full list of events or to register.
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.
Photo provided by the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service
U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 127th Wing, Michigan National Guard, wait for the Outstanding Airman of the Year awards ceremony to begin at Selfridge Air National Guard Base on Dec. 8.
127th Wing honors outstanding Airmen, employees
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Air National Guard servicemembers and civilian employees were honored at the annual Outstanding Airmen of the Year ceremony at Selfridge Air National Guard Base on Dec. 8.
“This ceremony is our opportunity to highlight some of our team’s outstanding achievements from the past year and discuss our way forward,” Brig. Gen. Matthew Brancato, commander of the 127th Wing and Selfridge Air National Guard Base, said in a press release. “Each of you has demonstrated commitment, resilience and adaptability and it’s clear that your dedication keeps the 127th Wing running strong and ready to meet every challenge.”
The individual winners representing the 127 Wing’s top performing Airmen were based on superior leadership, job performance and overall achievement. The winners are:
• Airman of the Year: Senior Airman Chloe Morgan, 127th Medical Group
• Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Tech. Sgt Myke Danger, 127th Mission Support Group
• Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Master Sgt. Jeremy Mosley, 127th Maintenance Group
• First Sergeant of the Year: Master Sgt. Chris Partaka, 127th Maintenance Group
• Company Grade Officer of the Year: Capt. Patrick Retzer, 127th Air Refueling Group
• Honor Guard Member of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Eric Kim (posthumously)
• Recruiter of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Justin Nabarrette
• Civilian Employee of the Year: Phillip Olczak, 127th Mission Support Group
• Civilian Manager of the Year: Cody McDonald, 127th Mission Support Group
• State Employee of the Year: Kevan Visnick, 127th Mission Support Group
The Commander’s Trophy was awarded to the 2024 Selfridge Air Show and Open House director, Maj. Kraig Lohse
The 127th Wing Chiefs Council presented the 2024 enlisted education scholarships, awarding two $1,000 scholarships to children of Wing members.
“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.”
Say goodbye to your Christmas tree, the ‘green’ way
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — One of the saddest parts of the holiday season is getting rid of a Christmas tree.
While there’s not much to ease that feeling, unless you get a fake tree and leave it up year-round, there are ways to give your old tree a new purpose. With these options, you’ll need to make sure the tree is pesticidefree by checking with the seller. Be sure there are no lingering ornaments or tinsel as well.
Old trees can be used to improve your garden when cut into small pieces and used as a mulch, according to a press release from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The trees can return nutrients to the soil. Before doing this, check to see if the tree will throw off the balance of your soil. Reusing a tree in this way will depend on what you’re trying to grow.
Tree needles can also be used as an organic weed barrier in a garden bed, said Caitlin Splawski, a consumer horticulture educator for the Michigan State University Extension. Though pine needles, which are longer than typical Christmas trees, make for a more effective barrier.
“If they’ve got acid loving plants, things like blueberries, rhododendrons, azaleas, things like that, they could add a little bit of acidity through soil,” Splawski said. “Typically, with how alkaline our soils are in Michigan, it’s not going to put a dent in changing your soil Ph. But it can help keep it a little more on the acidic side.”
Ultimately, Splawski said keeping light away from a garden bed is the most important thing when creating a weed barrier. She said keeping it 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick will help deter weed growth.
She added that websites like earth911.
com and mcta.org can be good resources for recycling options.
The DNR release states that the trees can also be useful for farmers. Chickens can use them to roost, and goats can chew on them. They can function as a food source or a nesting place for wildlife in your yard.
If all else fails, contact your municipality’s sanitation department for ways to recycle your tree. Some places have sites where trees can be dropped off and turned into mulch.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy has a directory of locations you can drop your tree off to be recycled. Type in “christmas tree” in the search at recyclesearch.com/profile/ michigan-directory for locations near you.
One place trees shouldn’t go
The DNR press release states old Christmas trees should not be used for fish
habitats. This is because typical trees like balsam fir, Douglas fir, and Fraser fir are all softwoods.
“These softwoods break down relatively quickly in aquatic environments,” the release states. “The dense branches on Christmas trees that are perfect for holding ornaments are often too dense for many fish to use as habitat.”
Lingering ornaments and pesticides on the trees could also pose a problem when attempting to reuse them as a habitat.
For state-approved ways to create an aquatic habitat, EGLE at (800) 662-9278 or go to michigan.gov/egle. To navigate to information about approved structures, type in “shoreline woody structure” in the EGLE website’s search and select the “Inland-LakesFact-Sheet-WoodyStructure” result.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
FAIRWAY PACKING MOVES FROM EASTERN MARKET TO FRASER
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
FRASER — Meat distributor Fairway Packing moved operations from Detroit’s Eastern Market to a larger facility in Fraser this fall.
The new facility, which is currently open, is located on 15 Mile Road near the intersection with Kelly Road. The location is near Carmela Foods, which is a distribution partner with Fairway. The building is about 30,000 square feet and cost approximately $9 million, according to a press release from the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development.
The county worked with Fairway to secure a 12year tax abatement on the property in Fraser, resulting in a projected tax savings of $3,266,459 for the company.
The release from the county stated that Fairway would create 100 new jobs while retaining its current 45 employees.
Fraser Mayor Michael Lesich said the land was vacant prior to Fairway moving in.
“Fairway Meat Packing coming to Fraser is a great opportunity,” Lesich said. “We are really starting to see some increase in our food-related businesses in that industrial park.”
See FAIRWAY on page 15A
Photo by Nick Powers
Fairway Packing moved from Detroit’s Eastern Market into a larger facility on 15 Mile Road in Fraser this fall.
Firefighters help Clintondale students shop for the holidays
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Shopping for the holidays is hard enough, especially if you’re working with limited means. That’s where Shop with a Hero comes in.
A group of students from Clintondale Community Schools were provided with a $150 gift card each. Firefighters volunteered for the event, accompanying participants as they picked out gifts and essentials for their households. In addition to the gift card, families received a cart full of groceries from Meijer pre-packed and waiting at the registers. This year, 30 students took part.
The event takes place at Meijer on Groesbeck Highway near the intersection with Cass Road each year.
“It was incredible,” said Clinton Township Fire Department Lt. Adam Simon, who
organizes Shop with a Hero, about the Dec. 14 event.
“Everything went really good, almost perfect I would say,” said Henry Rodd, Meijer’s store director.
Mt. Clemens firefighters also helped out at the event. Clinton Township had 13 firefighters participate and Mt. Clemens chipped in with seven volunteers.
“There have been guys from our department who have canceled vacations for this, who have come home early from things for this,” Simon said. “These guys don’t miss it. It’s something to look forward to every year.”
While the firefighters help the kids budget to maximize their gift cards, it is fun to turn them loose.
“All we really get to do is show up and have fun with kids and be ourselves and laugh and just watch them go crazy,” Simon
The Shop with a Hero event with the Clinton Township Fire Department took place Dec. 14 at the Meijer on Groesbeck Highway near the intersection with Cass Road.
VETERANS HONORED WITH WREATHS AT CEMETERY
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — On a brisk, sunny day, families scattered through Resurrection Cemetery to honor veterans by placing wreaths on their graves.
The Wreaths Across America event took place Dec. 14 and marked the first year that the Clinton Township Kiwanis Club organized it.
“We did a good job. We’ll do better next year and we’ll also raise more money,” said Kerry Jantz, a board member with the Kiwanis Club.
Seaman Apprentice Evan Williams of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps kicked off the event with a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and a short speech.
“It is my generation’s responsibility to honor your service by upholding the values of liberty, justice and unity for all,” Williams said. “To the fallen, to the veterans and those still serving, thank you for giving us a nation worth pledging to.”
Retired Brigadier General Doug “Odie” Slocum, Air Force and Air National Guard, delivered the keynote speech at the event. Though Slocum joked about having a 58-minute speech prepared, he kept it brief.
“We get finite opportunities to meet
amazing people,” Socum said. “In our audience right now, we have amazing people with great stories who have done some fantastic things. My challenge to you is to take some time to ask them questions. Spend that time and use one of the most valuable tools you have: your ears. To hear their stories and just to participate and let them know they’re loved for what they’ve done.”
Slocum mentioned a former girlfriend’s son reaching out on Facebook and telling Slocum that he inspired him to join the Air Force.
“Who would think that something you would say to a four-year-old would inspire decisions that are going to be lifechanging when they turn 18,” Slocum said. “We have an opportunity. The words we use, the things we say, the way we live our lives can inspire these young kids right here, right now.”
Pastor Robert Brannon delivered the invocation at the event.
“We ask your blessing for each and every person here who is going to place a wreath upon a grave,” Brannon said. “They will look and they will see a name on a headstone. They will see a birthdate and a death date. In the middle they will see a dash. Let us remember what that life represented to
Photo by Nick Powers Noah Muckelvaney, 7, of Shelby Township, carries a few wreaths to be placed on the graves of veterans at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township. The veteran tributes were part of Wreaths Across America’s event on Dec. 14.
Simulator shows students dangers of impaired driving
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Words and photos can send a strong message about impaired driving, but an immersive experience can be even more direct.
The International Save a Life Tour put on a demonstration for kids in Clintondale High School’s conference center on Dec. 12. Students were able to experience impaired driving in two different ways: when under the influence of alcohol and while texting. A driver’s seat, pedals and a steering wheel gave a tactile experience, while virtual reality goggles helped make it even more immersive.
Kids attempted to drive down a road while trying to follow posted speed limits all while either distracted or impaired. Obstacles were at every turn for the drivers to navigate.
Clintondale junior Austin Michalec tried out the drunken driving simulator. He said it was harder than anticipated and that it gave him a new perspective.
“It was a very bumpy drive, not very smooth,” Michalec said. “It was also very slow to turn as well.”
Clintondale senior Abrianna Guzman, who did the texting and driving simulator, said multitasking and keeping her eyes on the road were the most difficult parts of the simulator.
“Because I’m constantly distracted by the vibration in my hand and all I want to do is stare at the phone,” Guzman said.
Guzman said she doesn’t text while she drives.
“I can’t imagine how people do it because I crashed like four times,” she said.
Tour Manager Titus Koso, who assisted the students with the simulators, got involved with the program as someone who knows the dangers firsthand. Koso was involved in several vehicle crashes. He also grew up at a time when video games were becoming more prominent and fell in love with them. He’s been with Save A Life for three years.
“Me loving video games and being in multiple accidents, I felt like it was a great place for me to work,” Koso said. “I could share my personal stories with the kids. I have experienced it that way they don’t have to do it as well.”
During the demonstration, he said it
DR. SAM H. AWADA, MD SELECTED FOR INCLUSION IN THE TOP DOCTORS OF AMERICA 2024 HONORS EDITION
Clintondale students were able to use two impaired driving
Dec. 12 event. One showed what it is like to drive drunk and
takes 4.6 seconds, on average, to type a text and 3 seconds to get in an accident. Though both texting and driving under the influence can be deadly, Koso said texting is worse.
“The reason for that is you put your face down and you’re not seeing the road,” he said.
Koso said the demonstrations are done all over the country.
“If you absolutely have to, just wait,” Guzman said about texting and driving. “It’s never worth it.”
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
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.
He specializes in weight loss management with guaranteed results from hundreds of patients. Offering weekly weight loss injections of Ozempic/Wegovy (Semaglutide), 4 week special $299 and Mourjaro (Tirzepatide), 4 week special $399.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
simulators at the International Save a Life Tour’s
the other simulated texting while driving.
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
MACOMB COUNTY — 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.
See MCC on page 14A
Photo by Erin Sanchez Macomb Community College sophomore Jotham Nweke, a Detroit Loyola graduate, slams home a dunk.
Hoops
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unfortunate reality check during their sophomore year on the Clinton Township Chippewa Valley boys basketball team.
Both are elite-level scorers who can make things happen no matter where they release the ball from, but it was about stepping up and playing the type of defense Chippewa Valley embraces that made it the top defensive team in the Macomb Area Conference Red last season.
“That was my main priority in the offseason — get better on defense,” Bellante said. “If I wanted to stay on the court, I had to have a defensive role. It was just picking that up and putting my full effort on the court no matter what.”
“I wanted to guard the best players on the other (team) and be able to shut them down or hold them to a certain amount of points to help our team,” Johnson said. “I
Skiing
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knew I couldn’t just be an offensive threat. I had to be on both sides of the ball.”
Johnson showed just how crucial he could be offensively last season in the state tournament, leading the Big Reds in scoring in a district championship win over Utica Ford and aiding the offense to a regional semifinals win over Macomb L’Anse Creuse North.
Graduating an entire starting five last year, including an all-conference player in Jordan Wright, Smith needed his guys ready and able to step up.
With Bellante and Johnson taking the steps needed defensively and senior Justin Gloster (a Clinton Township Clintondale transfer) and junior Jaden Brown (returning from an ACL tear in his freshman year) both joining the squad, Chippewa Valley’s offense is at its strongest point in quite some time and a key reason the Big Reds sit at 9-1 this season.
“Justin was a huge addition in terms of his ability to create mismatches,” Smith
said. “Brandon (Bellante) and Josh (Johnson) were ready to play offensively last year. Defensively, they both went through their growing pains and that’s why they didn’t play many minutes. They’ve both taken steps to improve their defense. Then we added Jaden Brown, who was injured last year and didn’t play. That was a huge addition as well.”
Other contributors for Chippewa Valley are senior Cassidy Sanders, who Smith calls the “glue of the team”, freshman Izzy Plair, who will be a problem for MAC teams for years to come, senior Jake Clay, and senior Caleb Fowlkes.
Standing at 6 feet, 5 inches tall and an athletic guard/forward, Gloster, an all-conference player last season, can guard from one to five on the court while providing a boost offensively and manning the boards, leading the team in rebounds.
Brown was an ace up the sleeve for Smith and company, returning from the ACL tear he suffered in April of 2023.
The junior guard was sidelined the entirety of his sophomore season, but said he gained a different perspective of the game that translated to the court for him.
“Before, I was just used to playing, playing, playing,” Brown said. “Last year, it allowed me to watch the game and focus on the mental part of it.”
The mental battle was difficult at first with every jump and cut being immediately followed with a concerning thought surrounding the safety of his knee, but Brown’s dominance on the court this season shows he’s playing with a clear mind.
In Chippewa Valley’s season-opening win over Harrison Township L’Anse Creuse,
See HOOPS on page 12A
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 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 hands-free, 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, late-season skiing at Killington Ski Resort. Additionally, Boyne has unveiled nearly 18 acres of fresh, glade terrain within its
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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 1,500acre 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
Auto show
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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 custom-made furniture.
Back at Forbush Corner, which is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization, the addition of another km of man-made 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.
Attendees will be able to interact with some cars through ride-alongs. Rugged experiences 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 ride-alongs 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, including 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.
Hoops
Brown tallied seven points and a team-high eight rebounds. He was just getting his feet back under him, and since then has become one of the primary scorers for the Big Reds.
“He didn’t get cleared until the spring of last year to start playing,” Smith said. “From then until now, it’s been a huge growth in terms of his ability to grow and explode. He’s been such a dynamic player. He’s 6-foot-1 and pushing 200 pounds, and he’s one of the best athletes on the court. He’s such a mismatch for other teams.”
Brown’s pivotal stretch came when he posted 13, 17, and 21 points in threestraight games, all wins for Chippewa Valley.
Chippewa Valley has yet to open league play with its first MAC Red game coming on Jan. 7 as it hosts Macomb Dakota, but jumping out to an impressive start was exactly what Johnson said the team hoped for.
“We felt like we weren’t playing to our potential at the beginning of the season last year, but towards the end of the year we were playing to more where we should’ve been all year,” Johnson said. “This year, we wanted to start from the beginning instead of having to wait.”
Unfortunately, Chippewa Valley at its best wasn’t enough in the regional finals against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice in a 76-44 loss.
Chippewa Valley’s defense held its previous three playoff opponents under 50 points, but Smith said Brother Rice tested Chippewa Valley’s physicality.
“When I walked out of that game, and we obviously got drummed pretty good in that game, my biggest takeaway wasn’t basketball related. It was how they (Brother Rice) were physically stronger and more explosive than us at every position,” Smith said. “They did to us what we did to most other teams last year, which was overwhelming them with athleticism and tenacious defense. I learned last year that it can get us to a certain point, but it has to be even better if we want to compete at the state level.”
Smith said Chippewa Valley’s physicality was the point of emphasis in the offseason.
“We spent most of the summer in the weight room working on explosiveness and conditioning on trying to build,” Smith said. “They got a long way to go to be better than last year’s team defensively. This team is better offensively. From one to eight, this is a more physically ready team to compete.”
Coming off a trip to the regional championship and already looking like a different team than last year, the expectation around Chippewa Valley basketball is shifting to thinking beyond regionals.
The Big Reds have a squad that is ready to compete against anyone in Division 1, and every player on the roster fully believes this team has the opportunity to do something special this season.
“We definitely have a whole new culture now,” Johnson said. “After we got a taste of what winning feels like, I think we all are really hungry for it again. We’re all pushing and working for it more this year.”
Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.
Editor: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 | brianlouwers@candgnews.com
Reporter: Nick Powers | (586) 498-1059 | npowers@candgnews.com
Dean Vaglia | (586) 498-1043 | dvaglia@candgnews.com
Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
Grants
from page 1A
cancer, given all the stuff they breathe in. It is physically very demanding work. We are always trying to make sure that our firefighters are in the best physical and medical shape they can be in.”
Fire Chief John Gallagher, following the meeting, said the vests would be used to gauge a firefighters vital signs during training when a scenario is being replicated.
“The information would be kept with the firefighter, so they can see the progress,” Gallagher said. “We built it into our workout program, and things of that nature, to try to get the best opportunity for firefighter wellness and fitness.”
The new facility would be located near the township’s Public Works Department building. The township owns the property where the building would be constructed, according to the township’s Deputy Supervisor Dan O’Leary.
Trustee Bruce Wade said the department currently does training at Macomb Community College. Gallagher, following the meeting, said the department currently utilizes a “burn box” at the MCC’s east campus. The boxes are shipping containers used for firefighting simulations. They can be added onto in the future to create different scenarios.
“Having our own training facility gives us access anytime we want it as opposed to going to the college facility,” Matuzak said.
Other types of training available would simulate situations involving ladders, forcing doors and detecting heat in the building.
“Say it’s a search and rescue type of environment, there’s zero visibility but we can see where the heat’s at,” Gallagher said. “We can put mannequins in there and kind of practice for any type of structure we might find ourselves in looking for victims.”
Gallagher said the facility could also be used by departments in neighboring communities, like Macomb and Harrison townships, for training.
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“It gives us an opportunity to have faceto-face conversations over techniques and our plan of attack for different situations,” Gallagher said.
He said the new facility could also provide law enforcement with opportunities to train with the department.
Trustee Dan Kress questioned if there would be additional costs to get water and sewer systems for the new facility. Department of Public Works Supervisor Mary Bednar said water shouldn’t be an issue since there is a hydrant near the site. O’Leary said the sewer costs would be in addition to the $600,000. Bednar said those using the new facility could use the DPW’s bathrooms, if necessary.
Grant could assist playground improvements
The township also unanimously approved applying for a $5,000 grant for Prince Drewry Park. The township will not be required to provide matching funds. The deadline for the grant application was Dec. 20.
The park, according to a letter from O’Leary, is already an approved and funded project. The grant, called the Play is Essential for All grant, comes from the mParks Foundation and assists with amenities in the park. To get the grant, the township had to show adaptive or inclusive equipment included in the Prince Drewry Park project. The project has to be done by 2025 to get the grant.
“Not a whole lot of money in this grant, but every little bit adds up,” Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem said.
Gieleghem said that the township’s past work with playground equipment company GameTime helped put it in line for grants like this.
“One thing plays off another and I think this is a big success,” he said.
Following questioning from Trustee Shannon King, Gieleghem said the Parks and Recreation Department found the grant.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 4981059.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
13A/ FRASER-CLINTON CHRONICLE • JANUARY 8, 2025
JAN. 16
2025 Winter Showcase: Acting, dancing, instrumental music, creative writing, vocal music and musical theater performed by Fraser-based Arts Academy in the Woods, 6:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 2862222, macombcenter.com
Make mason jar snowman: Part of monthly Third Thursday Craft Night, 6:30-7:45 p.m., Fraser Public Library, 15260 15 Mile Road, (586) 293-2055, fraserpubliclibrary.org
JAN. 18
‘Gone 2 Paradise’: Jimmy Buffett tribute, 7:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, macombcenter.com, (586) 286-2222
JAN. 20
MLK Day event: Story and craft for ages 5-12, 6 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at cmpl. libnet.info/events
JAN. 22
Widowed Friends lunch: Noon, Copper Kettle, 20658
Shop
from page 6A
said. “They have a blast. Their eyes go so wide.”
Meijer provides the funding for the gift cards and the carts full of groceries, according to Rodd. He said most Meijer stores participate in the event in some way.
“We also give them a Christmas dinner with a ham and all the fixings for that,” Rodd said.
One purchase that stood out to Simon this year was a kid buying a bouquet of flowers for a family member. He said kids are often generous, making purchases for their relatives.
“There are stories that come out of there every year that will bring you to tears,” Simon said.
Linda Brook, a social worker with Clintondale and an organizer for the event, said the event started up in 2009 at the Meijer location. Brook’s nephew, Adam Simon, got involved with the program in 2013 when he was telling her about it at a family holiday party. Brook mentioned getting Clintondale students involved in the program.
“The amazing thing about Linda is she knows the families who need it the most,
Hall Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Vicky at (586) 260-8679 by Jan. 17
‘Sister Pie’: Hear author Lisa Ludwinski discuss her book about Detroit bakery, 6:30-7:45 p.m., Fraser Public Library, 15260 15 Mile Road, (586) 293-2055, fraserpubliclibrary.org
JAN. 23
De-Stress Fest: Crafts, games, snacks and therapy dogs, for teens in grades 6-12, 6 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, (586) 226-5072, cmpl. libnet.info/events
JAN. 24
Detroit Zoo program: Children can learn about Michigan wildlife, conservation and mudpuppies, 4:30 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, registration opens Jan. 10, cmpl.libnet.info/events
JAN. 26
‘Earth After Dark’: Featuring photographer Babak Tafreshi as part of National Geographic Live series, 3 p.m., includes Q&A afterward, Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
could use it the most,” Simon said. “She’s even brought in special circumstances because she heard the story about this family or that family. They should be shopping with her.”
Brook said students are selected for the program based on Clintondale staff recommendations. She said those selected are a mix of those in need and kids in need of some additional recognition. Efforts are made to not select the same students twice.
“We want kids and families to understand the blessing this is,” Brook said.
Brook said students will oftentimes bring their families to join in the shopping experience, splitting off when needed to secretly buy gifts for those present.
“We appreciate the generosity of Meijer so much and the firefighters for giving their time to be able to do this,” Brook said. “I have kids who come back to me years later and remember this day. It’s just a very special day.”
“We’re always seeing us on their bad days, their worst days,” Simon said. “If we’re responding, something is going on. This is our chance to finally spend some time with our community, spend some time with the kids and show them love and generosity.”
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
JAN. 30
2025 Winter Princess Daddy-Daughter Dance: Presented by Five Crown Elite Dance, includes child and adult buffets with desserts, DJ, selfie photo booths, hair braiding station, and appearances by princesses, 6-9 p.m., Italian American Cultural Society and Banquet Center, 43843 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township, more at eventbrite.com
PAWS to Read: Children can tell stories to therapy dog, 5-6 p.m.,Fraser Public Library, 15260 15 Mile Road, register for 15-minute time slot, (586) 2932055, fraserpubliclibrary.org
ONGOING
Book clubs: Find meetups about historic American figures (Presidential Book Club), solving cases (Mysteries & Munchies), quiet reading for adults and kids (Silent Book Club and Silent Book Club Jr), and recipes and sharing dishes (Cookbook Club), Fraser Public Library, 15260 15 Mile Road, (586) 293-2055, fraserpubliclibrary.org
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 10:30 a.m. every second Monday of month, Big Boy, 16880 Hall Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Gerry at (586) 556-9471
Ice skating: Noon-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, noon-10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays, Dodge Park Farmers
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
Market Pavilion, 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2711 (weather hotline), sterlingheights. gov/1650/dodge-park-ice-rink
• 5-8 p.m. Fridays, noon-8 p.m. Saturdays and noon-7 p.m. Sundays, Warren City Square outside City Hall, 1 City Square, facebook.com/warrenparks, (586) 268-8400
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
from page 9A
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.
“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 two-way 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).
See MCC on page 15A
Wreaths
from page 7A
you and me for the freedoms that we have.”
State Rep. Joe Aragona took over as master of ceremonies at this year’s event for former Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon.
“Behind every headstone lies a story of sacrifice, courage and dedication,” Aragona said. “As we lay wreaths on these hallowed grounds, we not only adorn the final resting place of our heroes, but also express our gratitude for their service,” Aragona said.
Jantz said that after the ceremony Aragona, who is also a Kiwanis member, laid a wreath on the headstone of his grandfather.
Janis DeGregory sang the “Star Spangled Banner” at the event. American Legion Post 4 Patriot Team Honor Guard posted the colors. Later in the ceremony, Post 4 did a rifle volley followed by a trumpeter playing “Taps.” A parade of flags, featuring groups like Cub Scout, Boy Scout and American Heritage Girls, followed the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. It started privately in 1992 by Maine-based Worcester Wreath Company and expanded in 2005, according to the organization’s website.
Jantz and Lori Stillwell co-organized the event. Jantz said he thought, despite the cold, there was a good turnout.
“I was very pleased to see so many young people and families,” Jantz said.
Kiwanis tried to keep the ceremony concise.
“The ceremony is important to have, but it’s really the laying of the wreaths that’s the highlight of the day,” Jantz said.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
“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 1213 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 points-per-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, 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.”
Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.
Fairway
from page 5A
The Fraser City Council had a public hearing for Fairway’s abatement at its meeting on Feb. 8, 2024.
Former Fraser Mayor Doug Hagerty spoke in favor of the abatement for the new development at that meeting. Hagerty said awarding abatements helps Fraser attract businesses to the area and keeps the city competitive with its neighbors.
“We offered 12-year abatements for everybody that met the criteria for that and the result was $100 million worth of investments in that park in 36 months and 1,000 new jobs. It’s these kind of guys that you want in our community,” Hagerty said, gesturing to representatives from Fairway.
Gino Baratta, one of Fairway’s owners, said at the meeting that the company was started in 1956 by his family. Gino is one of the third-generation owners of the company.
“It’s been a good run in Detroit, but we saw a good opportunity with Fraser,” Baratta said. “We have a lot of friends who do business here and we’re
excited to be here. I think we’ll bring a lot of nice attention. We deal with the finest restaurants and country clubs not only in the local area, but throughout the state. What we have building down the street here is truly a state-of-the-art meat processing facility.”
Beretta said Fairway’s proximity to Carmela would provide a unique opportunity for events where those interested can see behind the scenes of the dry aging process, the cutting process and the grinding process.
“The whole farm-to-table (process) is going to be available to anyone, to the public, which is really cool to see,” Beretta said. “With Carmela, with that beautiful culinary center, we’ll be able to do chef-inspired dinners. Have some of the top chefs from around the country here in town to do things like that.”
“Thanks for investing a great amount into our community,” Councilman Patrick O’Dell said at the meeting.
The new facility allows for pickups for online orders. Fairway also has a retail location in Grosse Pointe Woods at 20877 Mack Ave.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
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NEWSWORTHY
INCIDENTS REPORTED TO LOCAL POLICE, AS COMPILED BY C & G REPORTERS
for Thanksgiving snub
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
AND NOTES NEWS
NEWS
BRIEFS TAKEN FROM AROUND OUR COVERAGE AREAS
BLOOMFIELD HILLS, BIRMINGHAM
RANK IN NATIONAL HAPPINESS STUDY
BLOOMFIELD HILLS/BIRMINGHAM — Credit card guide
website CardRates conducted a study that surveyed people living in the most expensive areas throughout the United States. By surveying 3,000 people, CardRates compiled a list of the 150 happiest cities among America’s most expensive places to live. The goal was to find out what cities were worth their highend cost. Bloomfield Hills came out on top of the Michigan rankings. Nationally, it was ranked 89th. Taking second place in Michigan was Grosse Pointe Shores, which came in 100th nationally, and third was Birmingham, which was ranked 115th nationally. The top city nationally was Palm Beach, Florida. To see more information on the survey and the full list of rankings, visit cardrates.com/studies/ where-high-cost-of-living-is-worth-it.
PRIDE HANDS OUT $35,000 IN GRANTS
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
Renovated library branch receives award
GROSSE POINTE — Renovations on the Central Branch of the Grosse Pointe Public Library in Grosse Pointe Farms were recognized this fall with the American Institute of Architects Huron Valley Chapter 2025 Honor Award.
The firm of Quinn Evans was hired for renovations at the branch. The award was accepted by Quinn Evans Principal Ann Dilcher, who helmed the Central Branch project.
Renovations included the addition of a drive-up window, an expanded children’s area, an elevator, improved accessibility and a fire suppression system.
The mid-century modern library, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1953 and designed by Bauhaus-trained architect and designer Marcel Breuer, who died in 1981. It’s one of the few libraries designed by Breuer, who also designed the Hunter College
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
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
County Jail for information about his son’s status, only to discover his son was still behind bars.
Library in New York and the Atlanta Central Public Library in Georgia.
“This award is a huge honor,” Library Director Jessica Keyser said in a press release. “The renovation and addition were the final phase of our Library Reimagined strategic plan. We’re forever grateful to Quinn Evans and all those who made the renovation possible.”
STUDENT HONORED AT COUNCIL MEETING FOR HEROISM IN STOPPING FIRE
SOUTHFIELD — At the Nov. 18 City Council Meeting, 10-year-old Southfield resident Eris Carter was awarded the Good Samaritan Award by Southfield Fire Chief Johnny Menifee.
“Eris’s quick thinking and bravery are truly commendable,” commented Menifee. “Her actions not only saved her own home but also protected the lives and properties of her neighbors.”
Eris was recognized for her courage and swift action in averting a potentially devastating fire at her home earlier this year. Around 7 p.m. on Jan. 1, while using her iPad, Eris detected the smell of smoke in their Spring Haven condo. She woke her mother, Lauryne Wheeler, to report the odor.
Upon further investigation, they heard the downstairs smoke detectors sounding, although no visible signs of fire were initially present. They promptly called 911 for assistance and evacuated the premises. Upon leaving, they noticed that the neighboring condo was engulfed in flames.
The attached seven condos posed a significant fire hazard, but thanks to Eris’ alertness and quick thinking, she was able to notify the Fire Department and help residents safely evacuate the premises.
According to the Southfield Fire Department, Carter spared six units from damage, potentially saving many lives. The neighboring condo suffered $200,000 in damages, but thanks to Eris, there was no further destruction.
“Eris Carter’s presence of mind and swift response in the face of danger exemplify the best of our community values,” stated Southfield Mayor Ken Siver.
“It is a privilege to recognize her today and celebrate the difference she made. Her exemplary behavior sets a high standard for all citizens, demonstrating the impact one person can make in ensuring the safety and well-being of their community.”
FERNDALE — Ferndale Pride and the Ferndale Community Foundation announced that they will be distributing $35,113.85 in grants to 18 community organizations.
Organizations that were given grants from Pride were Affirmations, ACCESS, Gender Identity Network, Matrix Human Services, TGDetroit and Transgender Michigan.
“Each year, I get to hand checks to organizations that directly provide services to LGBTQAI folks. Because these funds are unrestricted, organizations have the flexibility to provide funds in the way that serves their clients best. We are thrilled to carry out the founding principles of this event, which includes giving back to the community,” Ferndale Pride Executive Director Julia Music said in a prepared statement.
The Community Foundation handed out 12 grants with funds from Pride and private donations to Ferndale Community Concert Band, Disability Network of Eastern Michigan, Ferndale Housing Commission, FernCare Free Clinic, Ringwald Theatre, Ferndale Middle School Swim Boosters, Renaissance Vineyard Food Pantry, Friends of the Ferndale Library, Ferndale Schools Fine Arts Boosters, Sing Out Detroit, Southeast Oakland Coalition and PlayLab.
“We keep being able to give back! 12 grants this year is more than double the number of groups that we gave to last year,” Community Foundation Chair Anatoly Askanzi said in a prepared statement. “These funds make a huge difference in our community because they improve the lives of a wide range of folks in Ferndale.”
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Photo provided by Grosse Pointe Public Library
Photo provided by the city of Southfield
