SKI SEASON IS UNDERWAY IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN
‘Newsies’ presents new challenge for Dakota players
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — Broadway is back on the corner of 21 Mile and Heydenreich roads.
After working through years of eclectic musicals, Dakota High School theatre is staging the Tony Award-winning musical “Newsies” this January and February.
Based on the New York City newsboys strike of 1899, “Newsies” tells the tale of newsboy Jack Kelly as he rallies the urchins of the five boroughs to strike
against newspaper magnate Joseph Pulitzer’s attacks on the newsies’ profit margins and livelihood. “Newsies” made its Broadway debut in 2012 and won Tony Awards for Best Choreography and Best Original Score. The show is based on a 1992 movie musical of the same name.
“With the cast that we have and the kids that we have, I trust them to tackle a very, very challenging show,” said the show’s director, Christian Boni. “Being that this is my fourth year and having had our current seniors as our first freshmen, seeing them grow and
See ‘NEWSIES’ on page 10A
Trustees end 2024 by honoring firefighter
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — Before its last meeting of 2024 got into stride, the Macomb Township Board of Trustees gave time to honor outgoing part-time firefighter Michael Wiedbusch at its meeting on Dec. 18, 2024.
Wiedbusch served the department for 26 years and officially retired on Dec. 26.
“Firefighter Wiedbusch started on Nov. 2, 1998, as a paid-on-call firefighter,” Macomb Township Fire Chief Robert Phillips said. “In July of this year, he transitioned to a new part-time firefighter position … He served the township and the Fire Department for the past 26 years, missing countless hours of family holidays and responding to thousands upon thousands of calls throughout his time, helping residents in their time of need.”
The cast of Dakota High School’s “Newsies” strikes a pose during the number “Seize the Day.”
Photo by Dean Vaglia
Macomb Township Fire Chief Robert Phillips shakes hands with Michael Wiedbusch, who served 26 years with the Macomb Township Fire Department.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
SECOND FRONT PAGE
3A/ MACOMB TOWNSHIP CHRONICLE • JANUARY 9, 2025
Detroit Auto Show set to return for 2025
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
DETROIT — The world’s automotive industry will descend again upon Huntington Place for the Detroit Auto Show Jan. 10-20.
A roster of 22 different automakers and brands — including Alfa Romeo, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Jeep, Kia, Lincoln, Ram, Toyota and Volkswagen — will have cars on display with support from dealers and manufacturers, along with a showcase of upcoming luxury cars in “The Gallery” section.
“Through this blended automaker and dealer participation, we’re able to give attendees a totally immersive experience in some of the most exciting products available on the market today — whether that’s comparing a variety of propulsion systems on one of four tracks, to seeing hundreds of brand-defining vehicles, up-close-and-personal and all in one place,” Detroit Auto Show Chairman Karl Zimmermann said in a press release.
Attendees will be able to interact with some cars through ride-alongs. Rugged 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, Cadil-
lac, 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 ERays 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 De-
EXPLORE Feature Series
THE FOLLOWING IS PART OF C & G NEWSPAPERS’ FEATURE SERIES ABOUT NORTHERN MICHIGAN DESTINATIONS TO EXPLORE.
SKI SEASON IS UNDERWAY IN MICHIGAN
BY GREG TASKER
NORTHERN MICHIGAN — Nearly a year ago, despite the scarcity of snowfall in northern Michigan, I found myself gliding along a powdery, groomed trail in the woods at Forbush Corner Nordic, a cross-country ski destination outside Grayling. And I wasn’t alone. With its state-of-the-
art snowmaking system, Forbush had created a snowglobe amid an otherwise dreary, barren landscape, drawing amateurs and polished skiers alike. As long as temperatures cooperate, Forbush can pump out enough snow to create a figure-eight-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.
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 snowmaking 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 ar-
LEFT: The Highlands at Harbor Springs unveiled its newest lift — the Interconnect triple.
Photo provided by The Highlands at Harbor Springs
ABOVE: Skiers of all ages enjoy the slopes at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire.
Photo provided by Shanty Creek Resort
NEWS & NOTES
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.
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
MCC receives workforce training grant
WARREN — On Dec. 30, the U.S. The Department of Labor announced the award of $65 million in Strengthening Community Colleges grants to 18 colleges, including Macomb Community College, in 14 states.
Macomb received a $1.5 million grant designed to help with affordable, high-quality workforce training to meet employers’ needs in critical industry sectors, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, semiconductors and biotechnology.
Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, the fifth round of grants will use proven strategies to enhance career pathway programs and support more equitable outcomes for marginalized and underrepresented populations.
Grantees will provide training across multiple sectors, many of which align with the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, such as advanced manufacturing, health care, information technology agriculture and infrastructure-related sectors. Through five rounds of grants to date, the department has invested $265 million in 207 colleges in 35 states.
Get a slice of this
METRO DETROIT — Michigan has good taste when it comes to pizza.
Recently, the McNair Center at Northwood University partnered with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce to conduct an analysis of who serves the best pizza. According to their report released Dec. 16, Michigan is the pizza capital of the United States and maybe even the world.
The study, “Michigan: The Unlikely Pizza Capital of the United States (and the World?),” analyzed the size and scope of the U.S. and global pizza industry and the economic role Michigan plays. The study also looked at the history and economic role in growing the U.S. and global pizza markets, and what role eight entrepreneurs from Michigan had in influencing the size, scope, and quality of the growth.
“We found that across the U.S. and around the world, millions of people speaking different languages were brought together by the common pleasure of consuming pizza, whose origins emanated from entrepreneurial activity within a 60-mile radius of downtown Detroit, Michigan,” stated Dr. Timothy G. Nash, one of the study’s authors who led the McNair Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at Northwood.
The study determined Michigan is home to four of the top 10 U.S. pizza chains by sales in 2023: Domino’s Pizza at No. 1; Little Caesars Pizza at No. 3; Hungry Howie’s Pizza at No. 8; and Jet’s Pizza at No. 9. Those four institutions accounted for 30.5% of the U.S. pizza sales in 2023, recording a combined $14.36 billion of the $46.98 billion industry total.
According to the results, the four Michigan pizzerias recorded nearly 15% of global pizza sales with $23.6 billion of the $159 billion total. The headquarters for the “Michigan Four” are all located within less than 60 miles of each other in southeast Michigan in Madison Heights, Detroit, Sterling Heights and Ann Arbor.
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 MDAInfo@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
CRIME WATCH
Abandoned trailer
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — At around 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 17, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 54000 block of Chickasaw Drive to handle a 20-25foot trailer left in the middle of the road.
The owner of the trailer, a 42-year-old Macomb Township woman, was identified by the license plate but unable to be contacted. The trailer was impounded, and an ordinance citation was issued for the owner.
Porch pirate
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Dec. 17, a 27-year-old Macomb Township man had a box containing a “Verizon signal booster” placed on the porch of his home in the 51000 block of Maple Leaf Drive. At around 1:45 p.m., security footage caught an unidentified man taking the box from the porch.
Login scam
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Dec. 17, a 22-year-old man living in Macomb Township received a text from his friend asking for help logging into his Apple account.
The man reportedly sent his friend his
Board
from page 1A
Phillips presented Wiedbusch with his helmet as a token of appreciation for his service.
Phillips later returned to the podium to discuss the nearly $12,700 emergency repairs being performed on fire engine No. 1. The work includes the engine’s radiator and hydraulic pump.
Water project
Trustees awarded Paymar Enterprises, Inc. a $4.2 million contract for work on the MA-01 water main, which connects the township to the Great Lakes Water Authority. Work on the main includes bringing the meter for the main above ground.
Paymar’s $4.2 million proposal was higher than the nearly $4 million proposal by L. D’Agostini and Sons, Inc. Kevin Johnson, director of the department of public works, explained the decision to go with the more expensive bidder due to time constraints on the project.
“One of the biggest components of this
own Apple login information. He was then locked out of his account and received a message from his friend’s apparently compromised number demanding money. The scammer allegedly threatened to release explicit photos through his accounts.
The man was unable to log back into his account at time of the report.
Purse pilfered
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — While grocery shopping at the Hall Road Target on Dec. 17, a 54-year-old Macomb Township woman lost her purse.
She kept the purse in her cart but only noticed while she was driving away that the purse was no longer with her. She returned to Target and found the purse at loss prevention, though $500 in cash and a $20 in lottery ticket were stolen.
Glove box rummaged
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Dec. 15 around 8 p.m., a 38-year-old Macomb Township man parked his car outside of his home in the 45000 block of Warwick Drive. On Dec. 16 around 12:30 p.m., the man discovered the glove box’s contents strewn about the car’s interior.
The man told Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies he believed the car was left unlocked, but did not believe anything was stolen.
— Dean Vaglia
project is the timeline,” Johnson said. “(The date of) Feb. 1, 2025, is a key date because we need to make sure this connection (is restored by this date) to make sure we have adequate pressure to the township residents for springtime when we start irrigating in early April. We really can’t deviate from this time because it could potentially negatively affect residents, mainly residents north of 24 Mile Road.”
Johnson says Paymar beat out L. D’Agostini and Sons due to its team’s experience on similar projects, successful and timely recent work being completed in Shelby Township, experience with GLWA, a comprehensive plan and schedule for the project, and a good working history with the township.
Basement buildout
Trustees also awarded contracts for the second phase of its buildout of the Township Hall’s basement to Orlins Construction and Office Express for about $200,300 and $50,000, respectively.
Orlins is constructing the basement offices while Office Express is supplying furniture.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
Happy New Year!
MCC MEN’S BASKETBALL PUSHING LIMITS FOR NATIONAL TITLE RUN
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 (Youngstown State University), leading rebounder Tymias Williams (Rochester
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Macomb Community College redshirt sophomore Josh Hines drives during a matchup against Owens Community College Dec. 18 at the Macomb Community College Athletic Center on the South Campus in Warren.
from page 3A
eas 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 sixperson 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 Disciples Ridge area. The new glade terrain is located between Grice’s Way and Zippie’s and features wide-open, gentle slopes for beginners and more challenging terrain for the more experienced. Other improvements include synchronized music and vibrant LED lighting displays at the resort’s Tubing Hill.
• In Thompsonville, Crystal Mountain
has expanded its selection of rental equipment, adding more than 400 new sets of rental skis and 55 snowboards. The 1,500-acre resort has also upped its apres-ski game with new rooftop igloos at the Level4 Lounge. The heated igloos offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests will also find expanded trail loops and new rental gear at the Cross-Country Learning Center. More than half the guest rooms of the Hamlet Hotel have been renovated with new furniture, flooring and accessories.
• Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire offers a new 18 km cross-country trail system through Schuss Village, one of four villages on the 5,500-acre property. Non-skiers looking for something to do can hop aboard the new Alpina Snow Glider, for a free, hour-long ride through the expansive resort. Shanty Creek has also extended private ski and snowboard lessons to include evening sessions.
• Outside Gaylord, Treetops Resort boasts two new trails. Razzle Dazzle promises “a thrilling new experience for those who love gladed slopes,” resort officials say. The other is the Woodsplitter, providing a new route between Kathryn’s Way and Lookout at the 3,300-acre destination.
• Caberfae Peaks, one of the country’s oldest ski areas, outside Cadillac, has renovated guest rooms, which feature 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.
Confused by Medicare or Health Insurance?
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
9A/ MACOMB TOWNSHIP CHRONICLE • JANUARY 9, 2025
JAN. 11
OpenSpot Theatre: Inclusive arts experience and live performance for ages 5-12, 2 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - North Branch, 54100 Broughton Road in Macomb Township, registration required, (586) 226-5083, cmpl.org
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. 20
MLK Day event: Story and craft for ages 5-12, 2 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - North Branch, 54100 Broughton Road in Macomb Township, register at 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
JAN. 30
2025 Winter Princess Daddy-Daughter Dance: Pre-
sented 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
ONGOING
Macomb Motivators Toastmasters Club: Meets 6:308 p.m. every second and fourth Thursday of month, St. Isidore Church, 18201 23 Mile Road in Macomb Township, www.6104644.toastmastersclubs.org
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts at 10 a.m. every third Friday of month, Dimitri’s Opa! Restaurant, 50875 Gratiot Ave. in Chesterfield Township, RSVP to Liz at (586) 801-4536
• Breakfasts at 10 a.m. every fourth Monday of month, Amore’s Grill, 53100 Gratiot Ave. in Chesterfield Township, RSVP to Liz at (586) 801-4536
• Lunches at 1:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of month, Moni’s Restaurant, 16600 24 Mile Road in Macomb Township, RSVP to Sue at (586) 549-1041
• Games from 1:30-3:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of month, bring snack to share, SS. John and Paul Parish, 7777 W. 28 Mile Road in Washington Township,
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.
optional dinner afterward, Romeo Family Restaurant, 66020 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, RSVP to Ellen at (586) 489-2569
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
Washington Art Guild: Meets 6:30-9 p.m. every first Monday of month, Romeo Community Center, 361 Morton St. in Washington Township, (586) 752-3721, bonwrite1@att.net, find group on Facebook
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
• 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 Market Pavilion, 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 4462711 (weather hotline), sterlingheights.gov/1650/ dodge-park-ice-rink
Ostomy peer support group: Meets 2-3 p.m. every
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
third Sunday of month, Northside Church, 25600 23 Mile Road in Chesterfield Township, (586) 765-8976, ostomyinfo@yahoo.com, ostomysupport-macomb.org
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: For hypertension, diabetes, pre-diabetes and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
‘Newsies’
seeing this group of people grow as a community, I figured a show like this that has a message of community was the right pick for these group of kids. They’re very dedicated and hard-working, and this is by far the most challenging show that we’ve had to put on in our last four years.”
The challenge of “Newsies” comes from staging and performing a proper, “true blue” made-for-Broadway musical. This is not to say the students have not performed in legitimate works over the past four years — 2023’s “Shrek the Musical” was a Tonywinning production, while 2024’s ABBAinfused “Mama Mia!” has built a life of its own on stage and screen — but “Newsies” turns everything they have done under Boni’s direction up to 11.
“‘Newsies’ is straightforward musical theater in all of its Broadway glory,” Boni said. “Big songs. Large, large cast — very many characters. A lot of big choreography. A lot of big, hard-hitting emotional moments. In a lot of ways, the show is very big in all aspects, and it requires a little bit more hard work, dedication and effort from everyone involved just to make it work.”
Senior Lauren Singer, 17, found getting into the show easier than some of the prior productions because many of the characters in the cast are kids of similar age.
“It’s just a really good message, and it
feels more special because we are teenagers playing teenagers,” said Singer, who plays Kathrine Plumber. “It has more character work than any other show that we’ve done, and I think that it’s cool how we can dive so deep into the show compared to some of the ones we’ve done in the past.”
One way students have been able to get into their characters is through a larger focus on solo numbers. For 16-year-old junior Salvatore Vitale, analyzing the lyrics to the song “Santa Fe” has helped turn Jack Kelly from an abstract idea into a character to embody.
“Each character represents something or wants something,” Vitale said. “My character is put under a ton of pressure and he’s really wanting a feeling of freedom, and he needs to get away … Solo songs or songs where you’re prominently singing give you a really deep connection with your character. For my song, “Santa Fe,” it’s a big turning point in the show and I’ve spent tons of time analyzing the lyrics to that song and getting really emotionally connected to it. After really looking at the lyrics and music and some of the things in the script, all of the emotions and answers are there. You just have to dig deeper.”
“Newsies” runs from the intimacy of solo numbers to the full bombast of its 70-person cast, the numbers making full use of the packed roster with choreography that fills the entire stage. None stand out quite so much as the opener “Carrying the
See ‘NEWSIES’ on page 15A
troit Auto Show, said in a press release. “We are
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.
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.
Volunteers needed to sew ‘Memory Bears’
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Hospice of Michigan is looking for compassionate volunteers in Macomb and Oakland counties to create “Memory Bears” to comfort bereaved family members coping with the loss of a loved one.
Memory Bears are teddy bears about 8-inches tall made from clothing, blankets, or other special items from those who have died. According to Hospice of Michigan, the Memory Bears allow grieving families to capture and preserve aspects of their loved ones within one-of-a-kind stuffed animals as a personal memento.
Pattie Huttenga, a sewing volunteer, started sharing her sewing skills with Hospice of Michigan in 2014 after her son was in hospice. The Memory Bear program was started the same year.
“For my son, Hospice (of Michigan) was here for the last two weeks of his life, and they were so helpful. You just don’t know what to expect,” Huttenga said. “They were just there for whatever we needed. They were there and so when I saw they needed help, I had to give back.”
Huttenga has been sewing since she was 9 years old; however, volunteers of all skill levels are welcomed as long as they can make the bears. Interested volunteers will need to provide their own sewing machine to participate.
Tracey Pierce, associate vice president of communications at Hospice of Michigan, said before she donated the clothes of her loved ones, she remembered some items could be used to make a Memory Bear as a
special keepsake.
“2021 was not the best (year). We lost three parents in my family within the year,” Pierce said. “As we were cleaning out their clothing, I was getting ready to donate them and I went into the office one day and saw an email that reminded me of Memory Bears. It was a revelation.”
Each Hospice of Michigan patient’s family is eligible to receive one uniquely designed Memory Bear as a memento.
“In times of loss, having a physical reminder of a loved one can be profoundly comforting,” said Ruth Moore-Lilly, volun-
teer program manager for Hospice of Michigan. “By volunteering as a Memory Bear sewer, you can make a lasting impact on grieving families by creating a cherished treasure that offers a source of peace through your craftsmanship.”
Hospice of Michigan’s Memory Bear program was launched in June 2014 by the not-for-profit’s grief support services department to help bereaved families capture and preserve aspects of their loved ones through one-of-a-kind stuffed animals.
As the initiative continues to gain popularity among grieving families, additional vol-
unteers are needed to meet sewing demands. For those who have experienced a loss, Hospice of Michigan encourages a waiting period of one year before becoming a hospice volunteer to allow for the processing of grief. Those in Oakland County who are interested in donating time to the Memory Bear program should contact Cynthia Palmer at cpalmer@hom.org or (248) 334-1323. For Macomb County residents, contact Amanda Layne at alayne@hom.org or (248) 5687564.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
“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.”
Photo provided by Hospice of Michigan
Having memories of a favorite vacation spot, the Memory Bear and pillow can bring smiles.
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 off-
season 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 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 pesticide-free 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.
‘Newsies’
from page 10A
Banner” and the climatic “Seize the Day,” which sees newsies clash with strikebreakers and Pulitzer thugs. Where the cast as a whole cannot fill the stage, a touring-grade set has been brought in to finish the illusion of Gilded Age Manhattan.
Rehearsals began before the holiday break and were scheduled to resume alongside classes. Speaking before school let out for several weeks, actors were certain the time away would not be a setback.
“I feel like it’s one of those things where it doesn’t just completely go away, but I think so much time away can draw you back a little bit,” said junior AJ Denomme, 16, playing Davey Jacobs. “Once we get into January, that’s our biggest rehearsal month and we get thrown into so many different (challenges.) This is when it all comes together. This is when the set comes in, the lights come in (and) you hear the band. Honestly, when all of the big outside components come together, it’s a lot easier to jump back into your character.”
From their first show in 2021 — the COVID-comeback and Boni’s directorial
debut of “High School Musical” — to the towering challenge of “Newsies,” seniors and the director alike are preparing to cap off an era of Dakota stage productions. It comes with the special experience of being in this kind of a program.
“Looking at it from (having done) other community theaters, it’s a special thing to have school theaters,” said senior Luke Klochack, 17, playing the part of “Crutchie.”
“It’s a time in kids’ life where responsibilities are not really prevalent, and you can
Junior Salvatore Vitale, 16, prepares and swings a punch at a Pulitzer thug during the number “Seize the Day” in Dakota High School’s production of “Newsies.”
gression in show difficulty coupled with a class moving on, the future is a day waiting to be seized.
get a group of kids to come together and spend a lot of time going in depth and putting a lot of effort into a production. You also get this better sense of connection with the people around you since we’re around each other so much and we’re also castmates and classmates. I really feel that it’s not like a cast; it’s like a family and we’re all friends since we spend so much time together and we’re really all working toward the same thing,” Klochack said.
What comes next for the Dakota theater has yet to be determined. After a pro-
“With it being the fourth year and seeing our first freshman now as seniors going to graduation, it really feels in a lot of ways like the closing of a book and the opening of a new one … Our story still continues with (students that have entered the program after 2021) but being that it is a high school there is a four-year cycle,” Boni said. “In a lot of ways for a lot of us it feels like the opening of a new story. There are a lot of question marks that come with that — a lot of scary ones but also a lot of good ones — because in a way with ‘Newsies’ it has come full circle and now a new circle is going to be created, so what’s going to come of that? I don’t have any solid answers as to my thoughts for the following year, but it’s definitely very exciting to see what’s to come next.”
“Newsies” runs at Dakota High School with 7 p.m. shows on Tuesdays Jan. 30 and Feb. 6, Fridays Jan. 31 and Feb. 7 and Saturdays Feb. 1 and Feb. 8. Matinee performances will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturdays Feb. 1 and Feb. 8. Tickets can be purchased at dakotachoirs.com.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
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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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 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
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
