Jose Eugenio MedinaHernandez, center, becomes emotional while addressing family members of victims who died in a crash during his sentencing hearing Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, in the 41A District Court in Shelby Township. Medina-Hernandez, 33, was found guilty of two counts of moving violation causing death after a June crash that left two women dead. With Medina-Hernandez is a translator and attorney Mani Khavajian.
Photo by Brian Wells
BY
KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A Macomb County jury in 41A District Court found Westland resident Jose Eugenio Medina-Hernandez guilty of two misde-
meanor charges in relation to a traffic crash that killed two women in June, and on Dec. 30 a judge sentenced him to 270 days in jail with credit for time served, plus probation, community service, a fine and court costs.
On June 6, Medina-Hernandez, age 33, was driv-
See CRASH on page 4A
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — It was a day of state title contenders continuing to add to the trophy room while newcomers are still looking for a place to build one, and it all went down at the Michigan High School Esports League playoffs.
On Dec. 7 at Michigan State University, hundreds of players, coaches and spectators packed the STEM building for an electric day of esports as teams battled it out for a state championship trophy.
Teams went head-to-head with familiar faces in the finals while others were fighting deep into the playoffs for the first time in school history.
Below is a recap of how Utica High School finished the season.
As newcomers to high school esports, competing for the first time ever in the 2024 spring season, the Chieftains are still trying to find their footing as a program.
Utica’s Valorant squad was strong enough to make the playoffs in the spring but was unable to qualify because it didn’t have enough matches.
“I think they thought about it a lot,” Utica head
See ESPORTS on page 10A
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Packard Proving Grounds’ Historical Speaker Series Jan. 5 was scheduled to feature “Mascots in Motion: Images and Stories of Automotive Aesthetics” with Michigan-based multimedia automotive journalist Steve Purdy.
Purdy is the author of a book by the same name published earlier this year. Purdy has a wealth of knowledge and a passion for automotive heritage with over 40 years of experience in the field.
There was a meet and greet with the author, a lecture and a book signing scheduled. The Shelby-Utica News’ deadline occurred before the event.
“Mascots in Motion” refers to the iconic hood ornaments that have adorned classic cars and captured the imagination of car enthusiasts for generations. Purdy is an expert in the artistry and historical significance of the miniature sculptures, and he can trace their evolution and the role they play in automotive
See SPEAKER on page 14A
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA — The Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township partnered with Utica Community Schools for a food drive for the holidays.
In the past this project was handled by the Sterling Heights Kiwanis Club; however, the club dissolved over the past year. Former members of the Sterling Heights club informed the Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township of this opportunity. The Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township didn’t hesitate to take on this project.
In November, the Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township members dropped off empty boxes to 20 schools: Henry Ford II, Stevenson and Utica high schools; The Gene L. Klida Academy for International Studies; Bemis and Davis junior high schools; and Beacon Tree, Beck, Browning, Collins, Duncan, Ebling, Graebner, Harvey, Havel, Messmore, Oakbrook, Plumbrook, Rose Kidd and Schuchard elementary schools. These schools held a canned food drive for several weeks.
Over the course of three days in December, the Kiwanis members picked
See FOOD DRIVE on page 13A
ing a box truck southbound on M-53 in Shelby Township when he rear-ended a Buick Verano, which triggered a chain reaction involving two other vehicles. The Buick occupants, 88-year-old Nancy Richmond and her daughter, 63-year-old Crystal Brunn, were killed in the crash. MedinaHernandez was charged with two counts of moving violation causing death, which are one-year misdemeanors.
According to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, Medina-Hernandez has four previous car accidents, but his attorney, Mani Khavajian, said Medina-Hernandez has two previous car accidents. Judge Douglas P. Shepherd sentenced Medina-Hernandez to 270 days in jail, two years of probation after the jail term and 50 hours of community service.
The victims’ family members were in the courtroom and were satisfied with the judge’s sentence, according to the Prosecutor’s Office. Due to Hernandez being from Mexico, he might be facing deportation, which would separate him from his wife and children. The sentencing is depending on whether or not he is deported, which would not allow him to complete the requirements of the sentencing.
The judge had mentioned that the family had written impact letters, which he had read while taking into consideration his sentencing. He said cases like this are not easy. Hernandez did not have any prior record.
Medina-Hernandez’s attorney, Mani Khavajian, said he thinks this case was horrific and a huge tragedy.
“There were a lot of losses. Both from
the victims’ families and my client’s family. He is being torn apart from his family. He came to this country seeking safety and shelter, seeking asylum. There was a white van in this case that caused this accident. There were witnesses who mention this white van. There was corroborating witness statements about the white van, but the Macomb County police department didn’t want to believe it. The chief of police held a press conference where he vilified my client for being an immigrant rather than asking members of the community to step forward to bring up information about this white van. We could have done a full investigation, but what do we do around Christmas? We vilify the immigrant,” he said.
When then-vice presidential candidate JD Vance held a press conference Aug. 7 outside the Shelby Township Police Department, immigration and recent incidents in Shelby Township were among the topics discussed.
Medina-Hernandez was able to speak to the victims’ family members at court Dec. 30 and apologized.
“I am very sorry. It was not heartless. I also have losses. I have never had issues with immigration. I am very sorry for your loss,” he said through a translator.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said he thanked the Macomb County jury “who delivered justice for the families who lost their loved ones in this tragic and preventable crash” after MedinaHernandez’s conviction Dec. 12.
“Our thoughts continue to be with the victims’ families as they navigate the healing process after this profound loss,” he said in a prepared statement Dec. 30.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
Utica thanks council members for their service
METRO DETROIT — According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, every year from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, Americans generate 25% more trash than the rest of the year.
“It’s a critical time of the year for recycling,” Matt Flechter, recycling market development specialist at the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, said in a press release. “It can be easy to get caught up in the celebrations, but if we can just take a few minutes to recycle, we can give back to the environment and our economy in very significant ways.”
Knowing what holiday items can be recycled and where to take them is key. Recycling rules can vary by community and from one recycling center to another, so Michigan residents should check with their local recycling providers about what is acceptable at each location.
MACOMB COUNTY — Macomb Community College automotive faculty members recently provided the following tips for drivers to help them prepare for winter weather.
Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth, and consider switching to winter tires for better traction on snow and ice. Many tire companies recommend putting your best tires on the rear of the vehicle to prevent oversteering on snow or ice.
UTICA — The Dec. 10 Utica City Council meeting was the final council meeting for Councilmen Michael Ryan and Ron Robinson as they move on to other opportunities as leaders.
UTICA — The Utica Department of Public Works purchased two snow trucks and a used vactor truck from a neighboring municipality at a large discount.
The vehicles will be used to keep the streets plowed and the water and sewer systems maintained.
The new vehicles include a 1993 Ford Jet Vactor, a 2001 Sterling truck and a 2004 International truck.
UTICA — Over the past several months, the city of Utica has been working to develop a new five-year Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. This new plan will guide park development and investments in recreation amenities through 2029.
Under the state of Michigan’s guidelines for the development of community parks, recreation, open space and greenway plans, the city must update its parks and recreation strategy every five years to be eligible for grants from the state.
The new plan includes a community profile, a detailed inventory of parks, new goals and objectives, and an action plan for investments and improvements.
The draft document is available for public review and comment. The plan is available online at cityofutica.org under the “departments” tab through the “parks and recreation” selection. Hardcopies of the draft plan are also available for review at Utica City Hall at 7550 Auburn Road and at the Utica Public Library at 7530 Auburn Road. Comments on the plan should be submitted in writing to: Utica City Hall, PROS Plan Comments, 7550 Auburn Road, Utica, MI 48315 or emailed to the City Clerk at cityclerk@utica.org.
The city of Utica will hold a public hearing at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 14 at a regularly scheduled City Council meeting. The purpose of the public hearing is to provide comments prior to passing a resolution to adopt the plan.
UTICA — Utica High School Advancement Via Individual Determination students got a glimpse of what their futures can bring when they toured Wayne State University and the Detroit Institute of Arts. Students had a question-and-answer session at the DIA and had a walking tour with a current student at Wayne State. The AVID program has been helping provide Utica Community Schools secondary students with a wraparound support system both academically and social-emotionally for over a decade.
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.”
Test your battery. Cold weather can strain a car battery, so make sure it’s in good condition and fully charged. Batteries are typically good for five years. Batteries are under higher loads in the winter because of higher starter draw and thicker engine oil. Ensure your engine oil has the correct winter viscosity.
Install winter wiper blades to prevent snow and ice buildup, ensuring clear visibility. Never turn on windshield wipers if there is snow or ice buildup on the windshield, which can lead to costly repairs of bent or broken wiper arms, blades or even wiper transmission failure. Pull the wiper arms away from the windshield (if applicable) when snow or ice is expected.
Make sure your oil, coolant and windshield washer fluids are at appropriate levels. Coolant should be tested to ensure it can withstand temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit. The most common change interval is typically between 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Always use the owner manual specified coolant. Washer fluid can freeze if it has been diluted or is of poor quality, leading to expensive replacement of washer pumps and lines.
Ensure all lights are working properly. Older vehicles may develop a glaze on headlamps over time. There are inexpensive renewal kits to help restore headlight luminosity.
Prepare an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, blankets, nonperishable snacks, an ice scraper and jumper cables.
Lubricate door locks and weather stripping to prevent doors from freezing shut. Never wash your car when temperatures are below freezing unless you can completely dry weather strips and seals.
Ensure your brakes are in good condition because stopping distances increase on icy roads. Protect your car’s exterior: Apply a wax or sealant to protect against road salt and moisture. Rinse the undercarriage of your vehicle after driving on roads that have been salted. Salt can rust metal very quickly.
A full tank can prevent the gas line from freezing, provide extra weight for better traction and add to your engine run time if you get stuck in a remote area.
—
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
MACOMB COUNTY — The Michigan High School Athletic Association boys and girls bowling season is underway, and there’s plenty of talent to keep an eye on.
Macomb County bowling continues to flex its muscles, especially in the state tournament. Below are some players to watch across the C & G Newspapers coverage area.
This girl is going to be a problem for years to come.
As a freshman, Mazza exploded onto the scene, helping Utica win the MAC White and qualify for the state finals for the first time since 2017.
Mazza, the individual regional champion, was crowned the MAC White MVP, and she earned first team all-State and first team all-County honors while also qualifying for the state finals individually, reaching the semifinals.
Utica brought home the regional title and earned the first seed at the state finals, making it to the semifinals as well.
She’s already made a name for herself outside of
the high school scene, winning tournaments on the Michigan Junior Masters Association and Midwest Scratch Bowling Series, but she’s already within arm’s reach of being a state champion at the high school level.
Utica shocked Division 1 bowling when it burst onto the scene and finished the year ranked as the No. 3 team in Division 1, but now everyone knows what to expect when they step onto the lanes with the Chieftains.
They’re youthful and they’re energized with all the confidence at their fingertips right now, and Mazza is just one of many girls Utica will throw at you on any given night.
Senior Dylan Harnden, Utica Eisenhower
As one of the more decorated bowlers on the high school scene, the returning MHSAA Division 1 singles state champion is looking to solidify a dominant high school career in his final season.
Harnden, looking to defend both his singles state and regional championship, has been a history-making bowler for the Eagles, becoming the first bowler in school history to win a singles state championship.
A mainstay on the varsity squad for four years,
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.
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
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A man allegedly in possession of a 9 mm handgun and a vehicle not registered to him was arrested for alleged gunrelated crimes in Shelby Township.
On Dec. 12, a Shelby Township police officer stopped a vehicle for a moving violation in the area of Auburn and Jamestown roads in Shelby Township.
The officer made contact with the sole occupant of the vehicle, 56-year-old Jerrick Jefferson, of Detroit. Jefferson had a valid warrant for his arrest out of Detroit for a probation violation, according to Shelby Township police.
Jefferson was asked to exit the vehicle. Upon exiting, Jefferson reportedly advised the police officer that he was in possession of a handgun. A 9 mm handgun was removed from Jefferson’s person, and police said that
See JEFFERSON on page 11A
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers from Shelby Township were dispatched to the 40000 block of Van Dyke Avenue for a malicious destruction of property complaint at 12:11 a.m. Dec. 8. Upon officers’ arrival to the parking lot, they met with the caller. The caller advised that she noticed her vehicle had two flat tires. The caller looked around the parking lot and noticed several other vehicles that also had flat tires.
The officers walked through the entire parking lot and found eight vehicles with flat tires. The department had no suspects and the case was turned over to the detective bureau.
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 12:50 a.m.
Dec. 8, police officers from Shelby Township were dispatched to the area of Mound Road and Bonn Court for a rollover crash. Officers met with the at-fault driver, who reportedly was frantic and uncooperative with officers at that time. The at-fault driver was being checked out by Shelby Township fire personnel for injuries when the responding officer reportedly noticed that the driver had slurred
speech and she smelled of intoxicants. The driver refused any field sobriety tests. She was arrested for operating while intoxicated and taken to the hospital for a blood draw. After the blood draw, the woman was lodged at Shelby Township until she was sober.
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — An officer from Shelby Township was dispatched to 5080 River Bends Drive, the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, regarding a possible break-in of a shed on the property at 7:10 a.m. Dec. 8. The caller stated that it appeared the door of the shed had been pried open. The caller advised that after looking inside the shed it appeared that nothing was missing. This case was turned over to the Shelby Township Police Department detective bureau.
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A Shelby Township officer was dispatched to the Police Department’s lobby to meet with a woman whose package had been taken from her porch Dec. 8. The woman said she had purchased Christmas gifts to be delivered to her home. The woman reviewed her doorbell camera surveillance video and observed an unknown male suspect take the items that were sitting on her porch.
— Kara Szymanski
from page 1A
coach Robert Peltier said. “I think the fact that we missed out on the playoffs, they came back with five kids ready to go and spent the time away from school (practicing).”
That lit a fire under the team, and it showed in the MHSEL playoffs as Utica took over the Valorant bracket, defeating Saline 2-1 to win the school its first esports state championship in school history.
Utica’s Valorant squad consisted of Owen Post, Omar Yousef, Marwan Hassan, Joseph Zhong, Aidan Garrison, and Will Bennett.
Novi, the defending state champions in Valorant, had gotten the better of Utica earlier in the regular season, but Peltier said his team was confident heading into the second matchup against the Wildcats.
“I think they weren’t exactly sure what they were doing,” Peltier said. “I don’t think they had their comfortable comps down and what their strategies and maps were going to be. Fortunately, they played them early.”
“I think if we hadn’t played Novi and just met them in the semifinals, who knows how it goes. They definitely had a goal after getting schooled by them.”
The Chieftains then turned their attention to Saline, who was making quick work of just about every team in the bracket, including the other Saline Valorant team in the semifinals.
It was back and forth all match between the two schools with neither team letting up down the stretch.
“It was pretty close,” Peltier said. “It was up and down and it was a give and go. It really could’ve gone either way. I think we got up in the third set, and they came back and we just fought down to the end.”
Utica’s Overwatch 2 squad, ranked No. 2 heading into the playoffs, reached the quarterfinals before being eliminated.
The Overwatch 2 squad consisted of Collins Harris, Logan Spillane, Joseph Zhong, Brendan Silver, Marwan Hassan, Charles Dobson, Yousif Hammadi, Carter Dobson, and Aidan Garrison.
Utica’s Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team also put up a strong fight this season, which was represented by Trent Jones, Gavin Isrow, Brendan Fecteau, Jack Kadrioski, and Glenn Fecteau.
Utica will have to invest in some trophy room space because the Valorant team’s success should only foreshadow what the Utica esports program plans to bring over the next couple of seasons.
All-state honorees for Utica: Logan Spillane (Overwatch 2), Aidan Garrison (Valorant).
For complete coverage of local teams who competed, visit candgnews.com.
“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.”
the weapon was not registered to Jefferson. According to police, Jefferson told officers that the gun belonged to a friend and that the vehicle belonged to another friend.
Police said the investigation showed that the friend had asked him to drop her off and then park the vehicle at her place. When the friend returned, the vehicle was not at her place. The friend made a stolen vehicle report in Detroit. Detroit police reportedly were still investigating the stolen vehicle report at press time.
According to Shelby Township police, Jefferson was in the area to visit a local business, and Jefferson has been investigated in the past for fraud involving businesses and advertising.
Jefferson was arrested and taken to the Shelby Township Police Department where he was processed and lodged until he was arraigned.
On Dec. 12, Jefferson was arraigned at the 41-A District Court in front of Magistrate James VerPloeg for carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person. All are felonies. Jef-
• Drunk Driving
• Divorce, Custody Support & Parenting Time
• Bankruptcy
• Drivers License Restoration
• Personal Injury
• Criminal
ferson was given a $10,000 cash or surety bond.
According to court records, a probable cause conference is scheduled for Feb. 6 and a preliminary examination is scheduled for Feb. 13.
Jefferson’s attorney, Kevin Lynch, could not be reached before press time.
Shelby Township Police Chief Robert J. Shelide said that this incident is an example of Shelby Township police officers being diligent and getting guns off the streets.
“Shelby Township Police are committed to being tough on crime by holding offenders accountable. Our department is working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security to our community,” he said in a prepared statement.
Shelby Township Police Sgt. Kevin Bailey praised the officer who initiated the traffic stop.
“This officer demonstrated exceptional professionalism and quick thinking. The situation quickly escalated when he discovered the driver in possession of a gun that did not belong to him. Thank you to the officer’s dedication and training that allowed him to safely get this gun off the streets. This is just one more example of an officer putting his life on the line to help protect Shelby Township,” Bailey said.
• Wills, Estates, Trusts & Lady Bird Deeds
Lynn was born 1/20/1948, in Battle Creek MI and lived until he was 77, died 12/16/2024, at his home in Shelby Township, MI. He was born/raised in Battle Creek with his older brother John and parents Marion & George DeFrance. In 1977, he graduated from Michigan State with a masters degree in Human Resources. He was a providing, loving, and caring husband to Helene DeFrance and father to son Jefrey / daughter-in-law Samantha DeFrance & daughter Nicole / son-in-law Mike Wenzel. Lynn loved spending time with his 4 grand children Lukas & Sophie Wenzel and Maggie & Hudson DeFrance. Troughout his life, he enjoyed the outdoors, traveling, fshing, movies & being involved in his kids/family activities & interests. His homes have included Ohio, Texas & Florida. He was loved and will be missed, rest in peace.
(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 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, 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.”
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Four County Community Foundation, in Romeo, announced its Spark Grant funding awards for the fourth and final quarter of 2024, including one that went to Eisenhouwer High School’s Science Olympiad team.
In October, the foundation’s board of trustees gave its approval to dozens of grant applications reviewed earlier that month by a committee of volunteers, totaling more than $80,000. The Eisenhower High School Science Olympiad team received $1,000 for program support.
Some of those dollars have already been put to use. Samaritan House used $3,000 in grant funding to purchase coats and boots for its clients before temperatures plunged. Combined with some of its own funds, the Washington Township-based organization was able to provide coldweather gear items to 75 children in the Romeo Community Schools district in November.
Szajna-Carr for the Paws, also based in Macomb County, was granted $20,000 for its police K-9 wish list program, which helps law enforcement agencies with K-9 costs. Currently, Szajna-Carr for the Paws is assisting the Shelby Township Police Department in acquiring a new dog.
Science Olympiad team coach Jennifer Kirsch said her son, Mason Kirsch, has been on the team for several years.
“The Shelby grant is an amazing opportunity for the Eisenhower High School students to foster creativity, team building and science outside of the classroom in a hands-on experience that will challenge them to think dynamically to solve an event. My son competes in several ‘build events’ that require trips to the hardware store to acquire materials to create machines that accomplish event goals,” she said.
She said this grant will enable more kids to compete and allow them the flexibility to try multiple variations to ensure
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up more than 1,200 boxes of food from the schools and delivered the food to local food pantries at St. Ephram Catholic Church, Heritage Church and Trinity Lutheran Church.
Theresa Farmer, from the Kiwanis Club of UticaShelby Township, said they are thankful to the high schoolers who helped load up a truck with the food boxes when they were collecting the donations at the schools.
“Those boxes were heavy. The food pantries were so surprised by the amount of food. Thanks to the generosity of UCS families, there is plenty of food for those facing food insecurity during this time of year,” she said.
competition success.
“Sincere thank you, sincerely, Four County Community Foundation for the financial support of the Ike Science Olympiad team,” she said.
Susan Ogden, from the Eisenhower Science Olympiad team, said that they are so grateful for the grant from the Four County Community Foundation.
“Eisenhower’s Science Olympiad program is an important opportunity for the students for whom science is their passion. The grant has made it practical to be able to manage the expenses that come with having two teams so as to give more students the chance to prepare for a future in STEM fields. It will allow us to focus on learning science rather than on fundraising,” she said.
To learn more about the granting process or to start a grant application, visit 4ccf.org/grantees.
Four County Community Foundation serves the current and emerging needs of the local community. The foundation serves portions of Lapeer, St. Clair, Macomb and Oakland counties. To learn more about Four County Community Foundation, visit 4ccf.org or call (810) 798-0909.
Rob Peterson, Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township 2024 project chair and past president, said it was an incredible experience working with Katherine Beck and the Utica Community Schools on this year’s holiday food collection and distribution project.
“Our club provided manpower and logistical support; however, none of it would’ve been possible without the generosity of the students, teachers and administrators at UCS. This project impacts the lives of hundreds of people within the communities in which we live and work. Hats off to all the volunteers who brought this project to life and to the Sterling Heights Kiwanis Club who started this initiative nearly 40 years ago,” he said.
He said they are honored to carry-on the tradition at the Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township.
UCS Superintendent Robert Monroe said the district is proud of the continuing partnership with the Kiwanis that engages students in the district’s focus of a “culture of caring” and makes a difference for many UCS families.
For more information, visit uticashelbykiwanis. org.
from page 8A
Harnden, a first team all-State honoree, has helped Eisenhower become a perennial Division 1 state threat, winning two Macomb Area Conference Red league titles and finishing state runner-up in 2022. Harnden was also voted MAC Red MVP last season.
His accomplishments aren’t limited to just the high school scene, for Harnden has titles in both the Midwest Scratch Bowling Series and the Michigan Junior Masters Association while making the Developmental Junior Team USA 2024, which holds some of the top bowlers across the nation.
It’s a great milestone toward his Olympic aspirations, but he’s still got one more high school season to show why he’s the top bowler in the state.
As one of the stronger bowlers in the 2026 class, Rogus finds a way to shine in a Dakota team loaded with talented bowlers.
from page 3A
design and culture.
Mary Anne Demo, executive director of the Packard Proving Grounds, said the organization was excited to welcome Purdy for the special event.
“This presentation offers a unique chance to appreciate the artistic elements that symbolize automotive excellence,” she said.
She said Purdy’s expertise in and passion for automotive heritage made him the perfect speaker for the series. The presentation was likely to appeal to those more interested in history and those more interested
Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com
Reporter: Kara Szymanski | (586) 498-1029 | kszymanski@candgnews.com
Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Since his freshman season, Rogus captivated Macomb County bowling’s attention, and not just because he was the younger brother of Dakota star bowler Connor Rogus, but also because he was just that impressive early on.
His game has only elevated since his freshman year, and a first team all-County and first team all-State nod last year proves it.Rogus helped lead Dakota to a team regional title and finished regional runner-up, qualifying him for the individual state finals where he reached the top-16 as the 10th seed.
With two more years of varsity bowling still left in him, the sky is the limit for the Cougars junior sensation based on what he’s already showcased at the varsity level.
Another freshman phenom last season, Zalenski helped pave the way for L’Anse Creuse North to punch its state finals ticket as a team and hold its own in a brutal MAC Red league.
The varsity newcomer earned second
in cars.
Debbie Remer said several cars from the grounds’ Packard collection were to be on display during the event in the repair garage.
The next talk in the series will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. Jan. 19 and feature Remer discussing “The Lost Villages of Macomb County.” The presentation will touch on places such as Belvidere, Fredrick, Red Run and Disco.
The presentation is free for members of the Packard Proving Ground and costs $5 for others. Register for the event at packardprovinggrounds.org or by phone at (586) 739-4800.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com For retail ad rates: Michele Sunday | (586) 498-1073 | msunday@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100 Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099 Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle • Farmington Press • Fraser-Clinton Township Chronicle • Grosse Pointe Times • Macomb Township Chronicle Madison-Park News • Mount Clemens-Clinton-Harrison Township Journal • Novi Note • Rochester Post Roseville-Eastpointe Eastsider Royal Oak Review • Shelby-Utica News • Southfield Sun • St. Clair Shores Sentinel • Sterling Heights Sentry Troy Times • Warren Weekly West Bloomfield Beacon • Woodward Talk • C & G Special Edition (Grosse Pointe/Macomb Co.) • C & G Special Edition (Oakland Co.) C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:
team all-State and all-County honors after winning the individual regional title and reaching the top-16 qualifying block at states as a 10th seed.
Unfortunately, she had to face junior Grace Polega of Utica Ford, a first team allState honoree herself, in the first round, but Zalenski showed more than enough to know she’s one of the top bowlers in Macomb County.
The Macomb County bowling scene is tough enough as a junior or senior bowler, so to flex your muscles, and this goes for Mazza as well, as a freshman, it speaks volumes to how strong of a bowler you really are.
Zalenski’s 191 average led the team last season, but there may be more applied pressure on the young bowler with two senior allCounty bowlers now graduated.
If her freshman year showed anything,
it’s that Zalenski doesn’t seem to be fazed by the spotlight in any capacity.
Other Macomb County bowlers to watch: Boys
Kingston Corpuz, Utica Eisenhower
Josh Ciegotura, St. Clair Shores Lakeview
Brayden Lewis, Warren Cousino
Charles McSwain Jr., Warren Woods Tower
Reece Dyrval, St. Clair Shores Lake Shore
Girls
Hadley Clark, Utica
Sophia Matheson, Utica Eisenhower
Avery Koebke, St. Clair Shores Lake Shore
Sara Augustitus, St. Clair Shores Lake Shore
Grace Polega, Utica Ford
Riley Tafanelli, Warren Woods Tower
Taylor Tafanelli, Warren Woods Tower
Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission for the Charter Township of Shelby, Macomb County, Michigan has received a request for the following rezoning:
APPLICANT: George Lini/Prop. Rental, LLC George Lini 6357 31 Mile Road Washington, MI 48095
PROPOSED ZONING: Rezoning from R-1-B (Single Family Residential) to R-5 (Multiple Family, Low Rise)
LOCATION: 12533 & 12595 22 Mile Road
Located on the north side of 22 Mile Road, west of Schoenherr Road Straight Rezoning #24-42
SIDWELL NO(s): 23-07-23-300-009 & 23-07-23-300-011
LEGAL DESCRIPTION (23-07-23-300-009):
116.16 FT TO PT BEG. 0.944 A. LEGAL DESCRIPTION (23-07-23-300-011): L 441A2A & B1B1 84 ROW SPLIT T3N R12E SEC 23 COMM AT S 1/4 POST SEC
The Planning Commission will meet on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Shelby Township Municipal Building, Board Room, 52700 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan, 48316; (586-726-7243) for the purpose of holding a public hearing on the rezoning application.
The application for the rezoning may be examined at the Planning and Zoning Department in the
Published: Shelby-Utica News 01/08/2025
15A/ SHELBY-UTICA NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2025
JAN. 16
Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Savory Grill, 45288 Van Dyke Ave. in Utica, RSVP to Gerry at (586) 556-9471
JAN. 19
‘The Lost Villages of Macomb County’: Presentation from 1-2 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds. org
JAN. 24
Princess Fantasy Fun Night: For ages 3-10, includes dinner, craft, gift and visit from princess, costumes encouraged, 6-8 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, register.shelbytwp.org
JAN. 31
Superhero Fun Night: For ages 3-10, includes dinner, craft, gift and visit from super hero, costumes encouraged, 6-8 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, register.shelbytwp.org
Ice skating: Open skating Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and drop-in hockey Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Mae Stecker Park, 8600 24 Mile Road in Shelby Township, (586) 731-0300
Feeding Time: Learn about and see what animals eat, 1-2 p.m. Saturdays, Nature Center at Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Road in Shelby Township, metroparks.com/events
Shelby Writers’ Group: Meets 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., (586) 739-7414
Monthly book clubs: Evening Book Club (meets 6:30 p.m. every second Tuesday), Mystery Book Club (10:30 a.m. every second Saturday) and Afternoon Book Club (1 p.m. every third Thursday), Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., also Not Your Parents’ Book Club (7 p.m. every last Tuesday), 22nd Street Steakhouse, 48900 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, shelbytwp.org/government/departments/library
• 11 a.m.-noon every first Friday, Utica Public Library, 7530 Auburn Road, uticalibrary.com
Open mic: Hosted by Shelby Music Society, 7 p.m. every second Saturday of month, doors at 6:30 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, shelbymusic society@yahoo.com
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts at 10:30 a.m. every third Tuesday of month, Pancake Factory, 13693 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township, call/text Ellen at (586) 489-2569
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.
• Cards and games from noon-2:45 p.m. every fourth Friday of month, bring snack to share and own beverage, St. Therese of Lisieux, 48115 Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936
Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS
Confident Communicators Club: Virtual meetings 8-9:30 a.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, confidentcommunicatorsclub.com
‘Sky & Space’: Featuring works by Shelby Township Fine Art Society, Lakeside Palette Club of St. Clair Shores, Mount Clemens Art Association, Romeo Guild of Art and Warren Tri-County Fine Arts, opening reception and awards from 1-3 p.m. Jan. 18, exhibit on display 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays Jan. 18-Feb. 22, Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org
Shelby Township Fine Art Society: Meets 6:30-9 p.m. Jan. 8, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9, May 14 and June
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
11, Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, eallebone254@wowway.com
Bereaved Parents of Macomb Support Group: Also for grandparents and siblings, meets 7-9 p.m. every first Thursday of month, Washington Senior Center, 57880 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, (248) 425-2999, neilflyer@yahoo.com
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
Help Wanted General CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES WATER & SEWER DIVISION UTILITY WORKER
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
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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
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, the officer learned that the driver was also blocking traffic and had to be awoken. Police said in a report that the driver — a 54-year-old Grosse Pointe Shores man — “was very disoriented and showed other signs of intoxication.” Although the driver denied being under the 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
