Fire leaves townhouses uninhabitable with families displaced and two injured
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
SOUTHFIELD — On Christmas morning at 6:26 a.m., the Southfield Fire Department responded to 24000 Walden Road to find the five-unit townhouse complex on fire.
“It had a pretty good head start on us,” Southfield Fire Department Chief Johnny Menifee said. “I think the men and women of the Southfield Fire Department, as well as our mutual aid partners, did an incredible job to try to save as much of the building as they could, and make sure that there’s no loss of life, so that’s what I’m thankful for,” Southfield Fire Chief Johnny Menifee said. Five additional fire departments part of
Southfield Library hosts ‘Conversations on Race’ series
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
SOUTHFIELD — On Jan. 22, the Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road, will kick off the series “Conversations on Race” with three segments of guided conversations to build awareness and a skillset for talking about race and racism.
Irene Lietz, the executive director of Conversations on Race, explained that the series was first held in February 2020 after she and Louis Forsyth, who is the reverend of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Detroit, connected at a different group that met to discuss racial issues.
“We had met at another group at one point, and that group dissolved, in part because they struggled to talk about race, and it’s a hard thing,” Lietz said. “So he and I were trying to do things on our own, and we decided to have a church picnic.”
According to Lietz, the churches planned a “unity picnic.” See RACE on page 6A See FIRE on page 9A
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Families living in the five-unit townhouses in the 24000 block of Walden Road awake to a fire on Christmas morning.
Experts urge caution about home fire hazards as temps drop
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Michigan winters bring freezing cold and long nights, and residents respond by raising the thermostat and stringing up lights. But officials say all that power and heat leads to more home fires this time of year.
Many of those fires can be avoided with a bit of care.
“So many people are using electric space heaters, and then they’re running them off an extension cord drawing too many amps, which then short circuits their panel and starts a fire. Or their pipes freeze, and they try to thaw them out themselves, starting a fire in the crawlspace. So we do get more fires in the winter months,” Hazel Park Fire Chief Thomas Walker said. “And every few years, it seems, we’ll get a case where someone heats their home with a kerosene heater and tries to refill it while it’s still running, and the fluid hits part of the device that’s red hot, starting a fire.”
Space heaters, in particular, are responsible for one in every five residential fire deaths. Thomas said that you should keep any space heaters at least 3 feet away from any combustibles.
Electrical heaters should never be left unattended, and they should be turned off when leaving a room or going to bed. As for gas heaters, they shouldn’t be used in enclosed spaces and aren’t recommended in-
doors, as they can produce carbon monoxide that can be harmful and even deadly.
One should also minimize their use of extension cords, never linking together multiple cords. It’s crucial to avoid overloading circuits, Thomas said, especially in older homes that may not have been designed to handle many electrical devices. Cords also shouldn’t run under carpets, rugs or other paths of egress, since walking on them can cause them to arc and start a fire.
Residents with fireplaces should make sure the hearth is cleaned and inspected annually. There should also be a screen in place to prevent embers from escaping. Exposed pipes should also be examined and insulated to avoid freezing and bursting during cold temperatures.
Properly insulating and sealing windows and doors is also worth the time and effort, he said, since it can prevent drafts indoors, and reduce the need to heat the home through other means.
On that note, a range or oven should never be used as a source of heat for a home. Also be wary of any unusual smells around your furnace or gas heater — it could be natural gas or propane. Don’t try to light the appliance — instead, leave the home immediately and call for help.
Paul Biliti, the fire marshal with the Madison Heights Fire Department, said in an email that many cooking fires occur around the holidays and New Year’s, as well
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Lt. Brett Thompson with the Hazel Park Fire Department sits behind the wheel of a fire engine. Fire officials are reminding residents to be vigilant this winter about possible home hazards, such as improper use of space heaters and extension cords.
Our next issue will come to homes Jan. 23. Stay current by visiting candgnews.com.
15 EV recycling trucks to hit the streets in 2025
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — A fleet of 15 electric recycling trucks will take to the streets of Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties to replace some of the older diesel-fueled vehicles.
This transition will begin this month and is expected to be completed by December, 2026, with the new EV trucks on the road by this summer, according to Phil Roos, who is the director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.
“In the early part of 2025, we’re going to release a competitive RFP (request for proposal) for applicants in those three county areas, and we’ll be reviewing those, scoring them, and then announcing the awards, which should be early summer,” Roos said. “And then we can start putting these in place.”
According to Roos, EGLE was awarded $4.4 million by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program, which is made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act.
He said that aging diesel-fueled vehicles
See RECYCLING on page 11A
Wayne Counties will see new electric recycling trucks in 2025.
DETROIT AUTO SHOW SET TO RETURN THIS WEEKEND
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 up-
coming luxury cars in “The Gallery” section.
“Through this blended automaker and dealer participation, we’re able to give attendees a totally immersive experience in some of the most exciting products available on the market today — whether that’s comparing a variety of propulsion systems on one of four
tracks, to seeing hundreds of brand-defining vehicles, up-close-and-personal and all in one place,” Detroit Auto Show Chairman Karl Zimmermann said in a press release.
Attendees will be able to interact with some cars through ride-alongs. Rugged expe-
See AUTO SHOW on page 8A
File photo by Sarah Wright
Thanks to a $4.4 million grant from the EPA’s Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program, streets in Macomb, Oakland and
NEWS & NOTES
4A/ SOUTHFIELD SUN • JANUARY 9, 2025
Southfield to host 40th annual MLK Peace Walk
SOUTHFIELD — For its 40th year, the city of Southfield and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Task Force will host the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Walk Celebration at 9 a.m. on Jan. 20 at Hope United Methodist Church, located at 26275 Northwestern Highway.
The first Peace Walk in the state of Michigan was held in Southfield in 1986 and since then, residents and visitors from neighboring cities have joined together to celebrate and remember the mission of the late MLK.
This year’s theme will be “Social Justice Through Inclusion ,Equity and Diversity.”
The peace walk will depart from Hope United Methodist Church at 9 a.m., which will be followed by an 11 a.m. program at the Southfield Pavilion, located at 26000 Evergreen Road.
In addition to the Peace Walk, the MLK Task Force of Southfield, in collaboration with Forgotten Harvest, will host a food giveaway from 2-4 p.m. on Jan. 17 in the Southfield Parks and Recreation parking lot, located at 26000 Evergreen Road.
Food will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
For general information, call (248) 629-0656 or visit www.mlktaskforcemi.org.
For more information about the walk, contact Dorothy Dean, who is the chair of the opening ceremony, at (248) 790-0531.
For more information about the program, contact Kyle Van Lopes at (248) 331-3113.
OPTIMIST CLUB OF SOUTHFIELD-LATHRUP VILLAGE TO SPONSOR ESSAY CONTEST FOR STUDENTS
SOUTHFIELD — The Optimist Club of Southfield-Lathrup Village invites students who live, attend school or are in a youth mentoring program in Southfield or Lathrup Village to contemplate the phrase, “How Optimism Has Paved My Road to Success,” as part of the Optimist International Essay Contest for the 2024-2025 school year.
The contest is open to youth under the age of 19.
The Optimist Club will judge the students’ essays based on the theme and determine the top winners.
The winners will receive awards, and the winning essays will be sent to the district level, where college scholarships are available for top winners. First place will be awarded $200; second place will win $100; and third place will win $50.
The first-place winning essay will enter the Michigan District Contest and compete for a $2,500 college scholarship in the spring, with the second-place winner receiving a $1,500 Scholarship, and the third-place winner receiving a $1,000 Scholarship.
The deadline to enter is Jan. 31. Students interested in participating in the essay contest can find out more about the contest by visiting www.southfield-lathrupvillageoptimists.org, or contacting the club at slvoptimist@gmail.com.
President of the Southfield Historical Society honored with the Greg Kennedy Community Service Award
SOUTHFIELD — At the Dec. 16 Southfield City Council meeting, Darla Van Hoey was honored with the 2024 Greg Kennedy Community Service Award.
The Greg Kennedy Community Service Award was established in 1999 to honor the legacy of Southfield resident and community activist Greg Kennedy by encouraging other residents to engage in public service.
Kennedy established the city’s first Southfield Homeowners Coalition and annually sent numerous low-income children to attend the Shriner’s Circus.
Kennedy is remembered as an outspoken advocate for seniors and young people, known for standing up for the rights of others.
The Southfield Total Living Commission unanimously voted to approve the 2024 nomination of Van Hoey, who is the 10th recipient of this award.
She has been active in the Southfield community for years and has served as the president of the Southfield Historical Society, the treasurer of the Friends of the Southfield Public Library, and as the vice president of the Southfield Parks and Garden Club.
Currently, Van Hoey is working on archiving the documents and files of the late Mayor Donald Fracassi.
She has already volunteered over 200 hours of her time over the past year, sorting through boxes of records, documents and mementos that belonged to the former mayor of Southfield.
She has spearheaded the preservation of these important documents of historical value to the city, which were turned over to the Southfield Public Library.
Southfield recently received the President’s Award from Keep Michigan Beautiful for the Edgeriver Farm Barn, a historical landmark in the city, thanks to Van Hoey.
She is also a recipient of the 2024 Extra Mile Award from Southfield Mayor Kenson Siver because of her extraordinary volunteer work in the community and dedication to the city of Southfield.
Compiled by Kathryn Pentiuk
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Officers advise on protecting pets, helping strays this winter
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Cold weather can injure and kill pets, and no breed is entirely safe. Animal control officers are reminding residents to be vigilant, protecting their furry friends from frostbite, falls on ice, hypothermia and other winter woes.
“Anything under 32 degrees, I’d say you definitely need to have booties on your dogs’ paws, and don’t let them outside for more than five to 10 minutes,” said Paige Wallace, the animal control officer for Madison Heights. “Even if the snow and ice isn’t getting on their paws, they could still be getting frostbitten. Yes, their bodies are covered in fur, but the paws aren’t. And if they’re limping, they could be numb or frozen, and starting to get frostbitten.
“Also pay attention to anything that’s warmed up throughout the day, like slush or puddles of standing water,” she said. “I don’t think dogs should walk through that, because now the paws will be wet and can become frozen later. The webbing between the toes can accumulate water, freeze up and cause freezer burn. Even with winter dogs, like huskies, you have to pay attention, because the ones here weren’t raised outside like the ones in, say, Alaska, so they’re not used to this weather.”
If a dog is pawing at the door or lifting their paws while walking, it’s possible their feet are hurt and should be inspected for any
snow and ice, and cleaned accordingly.
In an email, Jennifer Thomas, the animal control officer for Hazel Park, said pet owners should take a moment to clean their pets once they come back inside, regardless of whether their paws appear fine.
“Wipe down your animal’s belly, legs and feet once they’re inside to make sure they have not picked up any chemicals — like antifreeze or other deicing products — while outside,” Thomas said. “You do not want your animal to lick these off themselves.”
Despite walking on four legs, pets are also at risk of slipping and falling down on frozen terrain. While deicers are available for reducing snow and ice buildup on driveways and sidewalks, they can be toxic to pets, causing upset stomachs, vomiting, diarrhea and skin irritation.
As such, Wallace suggests considering sand or kitty litter instead. While using these on pathways won’t melt ice, it can improve traction to reduce falls when walking on slippery surfaces.
Cold weather carries other dangers for pets, which are prone to hypothermia, just like humans. Symptoms of hypothermia are sometimes subtle and hard to observe, and include delayed reflexes, sluggishness and paleness. Loss of consciousness can occur in the most severe cases. Get the pet into a warm environment and seek veterinary help.
“Check for signs of discomfort such as whining, shivering, excessive tiredness,
Choo Choo and Inkie await new homes at the Madison Heights Animal Shelter. They are attached to each other and will only go to someone willing to adopt them together.
Race
page 1A
She explained that the picnic brought together her Catholic congregation and Forsyth’s Baptist congregation.
Forsyth, who has taught at Pleasant Grove for 22 years, joked, “You have a Catholic and Baptist come together, and so that’s very unique in and of itself.”
The unity picnics became a hit, and they hosted multiple events before the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
Lietz shared that she and Forsyth wanted to do more to focus on educating others on race and creating a safe place for everyone to discuss racial issues happening in the country.
When Lietz was teaching at the University of Detroit Mercy on a temporary contract in early 2020, she connected with some librarians, and they decided to collaborate to bring the first “Conversations on Race” event to life.
“We designed it, in part, from things I had learned as part of a workshop, sort of a seminar kind-of-thing at University of Michigan’s Intergroup resources, and then also I had done my Ph.D. work related to teaching writing and race, and written a book about it. And so I’ve been talking about race for a long time, and Louis and I decided we just needed to do this, that that’s what needed to happen,” Lietz said.
She added that community interest in the series increased in the spring of 2020 after George Floyd’s death.
After the series took off, a member of the group connected with local libraries in The Library Network to bring the series to libraries in Genesee, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
Paul Stunkel, who is the treasurer of the board of directors of Conversations on Race, shared that the series has been transformational for him, especially as a white person who grew up in a rural area.
“I grew up in central Illinois on a small farm, and the only time I encountered persons of color would be when I would go to (the) Chicago area to visit my grandparents, so it wasn’t like a constant,” Stunkel said. “When it slips out of the visual, then you don’t even think about it.”
Stunkel said that now, even looking at the words in the Constitution, it is a reminder of bias.
Aside from being a safe place for people to ask questions and learn from one another, Stunkel believes that there are conversations that should take place “so that the Declaration of Independence would in fact be telling the truth about us that all people are created equal.”
Lietz shared challenges that can come from having candid conversations about race.
“Louis is an African American man. His church is all African American, and my church was largely white, so when we came together, we knew there were things that would come up that we needed to anticipate and help people learn how to negotiate because, as I said, these other groups tend to fall apart because they don’t want to talk about race,” she said. “It’s too taboo in our society, even after all these years.”
Growing up on the northwest side of Detroit in the 1970s, Forsyth shared that he had a lot of white, Jewish neighbors, and one day, it transitioned to a Black neighborhood.
“I never saw moving trucks, never knew what happened to my friends, but you saw that kind of transition happens very slowly and (intentionally),” Forsyth said.
He emphasized the importance of people of color sharing their perspectives.
“One thing that I think is very powerful is our stories, and that’s really been the whole emphasis behind conversations, always, because having the conversation with somebody, being able to sit down, and just being able to listen to somebody’s story can be very impactful,” Forsyth said. “And that for me, I think, is very transformative.”
Lietz emphasized that these conversations are going to be uncomfortable, and some might not know how to proceed, but the group will work through it together.
She added that those interested in continuing the conversation are welcome to attend their monthly meetings, which are held at 6 p.m. every third Monday of the month via Zoom or in person at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, located at 13651 Dequindre St. in Detroit.
As a Southfield resident himself, For-
syth recalled visiting Southfield decades ago to go on dates with his now wife at the Northland Theatre.
“We could go to the movies in Southfield, but we couldn’t live in Southfield,” he said. “But Southfield now has become such a rich, diverse community, and I love the fact that we have people from diverse religions, ethnicities and backgrounds, and it is one of the most diverse communities in Michigan. I just love that we can be neighbors to each other and just enjoy that rich diversity that we bring in. So that’s why I’m so excited to bring this series to Southfield, and I’m hop-
Getting it right
ing that many people will show up for the library series,” Forsyth said.
The series is set to include the threepart documentary series, “Race: The Power of an Illusion” on Jan. 22, Jan. 29 and Feb. 5.
For more information on the series at the Southfield Public Library, visit www. southfieldlibrary.org and click on the library’s calendar to register.
To learn more about Conversations on Race, visit conversationsonrace.org or via Facebook at facebook.com/ConversationsonRace.
Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.
C & G Newspapers strives for accuracy and fairness to its readers. If you think we got it wrong, please let us know. Call Gregg Demers at (586) 498-1042, email gdemers@candgnews.com or write us at 13650 11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089.
Beautiful Veneers/Crowns
Teeth Whitening
Implants:
Attractive Partials/Dentures
Removable/Fixed Implant Dentures Single/multiple teeth (Day of extraction in most cases)
Photo provided by Irene Lietz
Since 2020, there has been “Conversations on Race” at workshops and local libraries to educate and spread awareness on race and racism. Pictured, from left, is Peggy Bocks, Rev. Louis Forsythe, Rev. Patricia Coleman-Burns, Kirsten Suer and Irene Lietz.
CRIME WATCH
Individual arrested after waving a gun in local business
SOUTHFIELD — A business called Southfield Police after an altercation ensued at 5:06 p.m. on Dec. 16 in the 24000 block of Northwestern Highway, with one individual reportedly waving a gun in the air.
The individual responsible was located a short time later and taken into custody.
Ex-boyfriend steals victim’s phone
SOUTHFIELD — At 2:53 a.m. Dec. 18, a resident’s ex-boyfriend showed up at a home in the 25000 block of W. 12 Mile Road and demanded to be let in.
After being refused entry, the ex kicked in the front door and took the victim’s phone.
No further information was provided.
Child’s room broken into
SOUTHFIELD — Southfield Police were notified at 12:58 a.m. Dec. 18 that a child’s bedroom window was found to be open and that items were taken from the home, which is located in the 17000 block of Wiltshire Boulevard.
Home ransacked, jewelry stolen
SOUTHFIELD — At 5:07 p.m. on Dec. 18, a resident left her home in the 30000 block of Southfield Road, and after returning, she noticed that it had been ransacked.
Two rings and cash were reportedly taken from the home.
Anyone who has information about these incidents or others can call the Southfield Police Department at (248) 796-5500.
— Kathryn Pentiuk
Pets
slowing down or stopping movement, weakness, or a reluctance to go outside,” Thomas said. “Also, most cities and counties have ordinances regarding cold weather, just like hot weather. In Hazel Park, animal owners are not allowed to leave their animal out for extended periods of time when the temperature has dropped below 43 degrees. Know your city and county ordinance.”
Thomas also recommends a waterproof coat for dogs with shorter fur, such as chihuahuas, pugs, pit bulls and boxers, in addition to paw protectors. However, some dogs won’t tolerate these. Either way, when the weather is cold, consider taking shorter walks more often, instead of long walks.
Of course, many animal lovers feel equal concern for strays trying to survive out in the cold. Here, there are some things residents can do to help, but also precautions they should take.
For starters, in providing food for strays, be sure to only bring out the bowl when the animal is around to avoid attracting others that could spread disease. Always clean the bowl between uses. With water dishes, use a heated dish to prevent the water from freezing, and change the water often, cleaning the bowl as well.
As far as constructing shelters, some
cities prohibit them, as they could lead to cat colonies. A shelter for an outdoor animal should be lined with straw, which wicks away moisture to keep it from freezing. Blankets or hay are a bad idea — both become saturated with water and freeze upon exposure to cold air. Flaps over the door and facing the entrance away from the wind can keep out cold air.
TNR groups — TNR stands for “trap,
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Mr. Moo is a new arrival at the Madison Heights shelter. He is a boxer mix, less than a year old, and was found abandoned. He is good with both children and cats.
Auto Show
from page 3A
riences include the “Ford Bronco Built Wild Track” and “Camp Jeep” course, while the “Powering Michigan EV Experience” gives attendees the ability to ride in the passenger seat of electric vehicle offerings by BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC and Rivian. A sportier experience will be held on Friday, Jan. 17 with a course designed in collaboration with the Detroit Grand Prix, where two Chevrolet Corvette E-Rays will be on track and 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, includ-
ing two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden, are slated to appear.
“The Detroit Grand Prix embodies innovation and the spirit of Detroit,” Sam Klemet, co-executive director of the Detroit Auto Show, said in a press release. “We are thrilled to have a partnership with the Detroit Grand Prix and bring this amazing experience of Racing Day to the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.”
Other notable events during the show include the Driven by Service Day on Saturday, Jan. 18, Industry Days, AutoMobili-D and the Mobility Global Forum on Wednesday, Jan. 15 and Thursday, Jan. 16.
Tickets, speaker lineups and other information about the 2025 Detroit Auto Show can be found at detroitautoshow.com.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
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Photo provided by Detroit Auto Show
Detroit Auto Show attendees peruse the show floor at Huntington Place in Detroit.
Hazards
from page 2A
as fires associated with circuits overloaded with decorations and lights that are sometimes left up through the winter.
“We urge our citizens to have working smoke detectors, create an escape plan and close your doors before sleeping,” Biliti said. “Most fire deaths happen overnight, and a closed bedroom door can slow the spread of flames, reduce smoke inhalation and save your life.
“Modern homes can burn rapidly, leaving very little time to evacuate once a fire starts,” he said. “You may only have two minutes to escape a house fire once the smoke alarm sounds. You should get out and stay out.”
Thomas agreed. He said his department gives out free smoke detectors to residents of the city. A smoke detector should be installed on every level of the home, including the basement, and in each sleeping area. A carbon monoxide detector is also essential, he said. Sleeping with a closed door, meanwhile, will buy you extra time during an emergency.
“I’ve seen cases where people don’t have smoke detectors and they’re killed in their sleep, inhaling smoke without realizing it,” Thomas said. “I’ve been in homes where there’s a kitchen fire and their bedroom door was shut, and you can see the difference that it makes — how the flow path and soot stains on the wall go down the hall to the door, and when you open the door, you see a bit of smoke, but the room is otherwise preserved. So we 110% recommend you sleep with your door shut.”
Both Thomas and Biliti said that families should have a well-rehearsed escape plan with multiple ways in and out of every room. The plan should include a place to meet outside, like by the curb or at a neighbor’s house.
“It’s also good for accountability when we show up, making sure everyone is out of the home,” Thomas said. “Some people also have stickers around their home saying they have pets. I love my own like human beings. We always try to rescue them, and those stickers saying there are dogs or cats in the home help us find them.”
Thomas and Biliti also recommend taking precautions with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which are now common in everything from phones, laptops and handheld game devices to power tools and even exercise bikes. They can degrade over time, swelling and leaking. Leaving them in direct sunlight or a hot car can be dangerous. They should also not be charged if there are any signs that the battery is compromised, and in general, they shouldn’t be left unattended while charging.
“Lithium-ion batteries are some of the hottest, hardest fires to put out,” Thomas said. “You want to store them in a cool, dry place. Say it’s a battery for a drill. We tell people to pull out the battery and then place nonconductive electrical tape over the metal prongs where the power goes, just in case something were to fall on it.
“And if you have a fire-protective blanket … maybe place those old electronics in there,” he said. “But the biggest thing is to store them in a cool, dry place. And if you’re using them, say in your media center, make sure the space is open and well-ventilated. And be sure to buy quality surge protectors, as well.”
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Fire
from page 1A
OAKWAY Mutual Aid responded to the two-alarm fire to assist Southfield firefighters, including Ferndale, Bloomfield Township, Royal Oak, West Bloomfield and Madison Heights.
“We did have two injuries that resulted in people getting hospitalized, but I think it could have been a lot worse on Christmas, and it’s always heightened when it’s on Christmas,” Menifee said. “Extra feelings go out for the families and the neighbors and the firefighters, but I think they did an amazing job (with) what they were faced with to help mitigate this incident.”
The Southfield Fire Department made an immediate offensive attack, including fire suppression and search and rescue.
One of the two people that was injured was treated at the scene, with the other was transported to a local hospital for further treatment.
Menifee shared that the fire took around three hours to put out.
“We had some challenges,” he said. “There was some fire that was trapped between the brick wall, behind the brick wall of one of the residents, so it took a while to try to maneuver it and make sure that everything was put out.”
According to Menifee, the structure is deemed uninhabitable, and work continues to place families in temporary housing.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
For more information on fire safety, visit www.cityofsouthfield.com/fire-safety.
Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
10A/ SOUTHFIELD SUN • JANUARY 9, 2025
JAN. 14
Uniform Power of Attorney Act: Caregivers can learn about new state law, free Zoom program hosted by Brown Program (has two adult centers in Southfield and West Bloomfield), register to Joanna at (248) 6390 (ext. 1) or jdorfman@jslmi.org
JAN. 15
Hear jazz quartet: Performance by Ralph Koziarski’s Expedition, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road, (248) 796-4200, southfieldlibrary.org
JAN. 20
MLK Day Celebration: Peace walk at 9 a.m., Hope United Methodist Church, 26275 Northwestern Highway in Southfield, and commemorative program at 11 a.m., Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, (248) 796-5000
JAN. 26
Winterfest 2025: Featuring free horse-and-carriage rides, reindeer petting, ice carving, skating, crafts, face painting, and chili, hot cocoa and s’mores, 1-4 p.m., Oak Park Community Center, 14300 Oak Park Blvd., (248) 691-7555, oakparkmi.gov
FEB. 1
Black History Month Celebration: Kick-off event from
4-8 p.m., Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, cityofsouthfield.com/residents/events
ONGOING
‘Knock the Ball Loose’: Presented by Rosedale Community Players, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Jan. 24-Feb. 7, and 2 and 8 p.m. Feb. 8, Peace Lutheran Church, 17029 W. 13 Mile Road in Southfield, (313) 532-4010, rcptickets@gmail.com, rosedalecommunityplayers.com
‘Indulgence: Inspired Images:’ Exhibit featuring 11 Michigan artists, on display until Jan. 31, Southfield City Hall, 26000 Evergreen Road, cityofsouthfield.com
Optimist Club of Southfield-Lathrup Village: Meets 6:30 p.m. every second Tuesday (Mars Corporate Center, 2500 Telegraph Road in Southfield) and every fourth Tuesday (virtually), slvoptimist@gmail.com, southfield-lathrupvillageoptimists.org
Real estate exam study group: Free classes 6-8 p.m. Thursdays, Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road, (734) 644-3947
‘Black Innovation, Invention, and Leadership in the Automotive Industry’: Traveling exhibit, 1-5 p.m. Sundays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays until Jan. 30, discussion at 6:30
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.
p.m. Jan. 28, Oak Park Public Library, 14200 Oak Park Blvd., (248) 691-7480
‘The Underground Railroad in Oakland County’: Traveling exhibit on display January-February, hear discussion with Birmingham Museum Director Leslie Pielack at 7 p.m. Jan. 10, also separate exhibit “A Tangled Web: Stories About African Americans in 19th Century Royal Oak,” grand opening from 2-4 p.m. Jan. 12 and runs through May, Royal Oak Historical Society and Museum, 1411 W. Webster Road, (248) 439-1501, curator@royaloakhistoricalsociety.org, royaloakhistoricalsociety.org
Winter Park: Glow tubing, bonfires, animal experiences and more, 4-10 p.m. Fridays, noon-10 p.m. Saturdays and noon-9 p.m. Sundays until Feb. 23, Bowers School Farm, 1219 E. Square Lake Road in Bloomfield Township, (248) 341-6475, bowersfarm@ bloomfield.org, schoolfarm.org/winter-activities
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
Ice skating: Noon-8 p.m. Sundays, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays, and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
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
until March 2, The Rink at Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave. in Detroit, downtowndetroit.org/ experience-downtown/things-to-do/the-rink
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
ADHD meetings: Hosted by CHADD of Eastern Oakland County, for adults and parents, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Zoom, see schedule on chadd.net/chapterevents/527
will be replaced, which has a lot of publichealth benefits, including reducing air pollution and noise.
“But also cutting costs, which is important so more dollars can be put into the operation and making proper use and recycling some of our waste,” Roos said. “That really ties into our state’s MI Healthy Climate Plan and its goals, and importantly, these are going to be operating in historically disadvantaged communities that are more vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change and air quality challenges. So it’s a win, win all around.”
According to Roos, the MI Healthy Climate Plan serves as Michigan’s “roadmap” for decarbonization and making the economy 100% clean energy by 2050 to provide public health benefits as well as lower residents’ utility costs, make renewable energy more accessible and aid in job creation.
According to Roos, the recycling rate has gone up, and he would like to increase it even more.
He said that it was 14% as recently as 2018, and that it is now close to 25%.
Roos shared that he would like for the rate to increase to 45% at some point.
“Recycling trucks and recycling efforts
are a key part of that,” he said.
Roos emphasized the importance of implementing the change in order to improve air quality.
“We know that diesel as an emission can cause scent, respiratory issues, (and) asthma,” he said. “It also, of course, emits carbon into the air. This will make a big difference on all of those fronts.”
According to EGLE, replacing the dieselfueled trucks with electric trucks is expected to cut 1.19 metric tons of nitrogen oxides and 1,545 metric tons of carbon dioxide per vehicle over their 15-year lifespan.
In addition to the environmental benefits of implementing EV recycling trucks, there are also more career opportunities in Southeast Michigan for drivers to operate the vehicles. The $4.4 million funding includes training for 30 drivers and mechanics through partnerships with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Electric Vehicle Jobs Academy.
LEO Director Susan Corbin explained the impact that this transition will have on job creation. “There will be an investment of nearly $400,000 to support training efforts for up to 30 people who will be using this equipment,” Corbin said. “So we know that as a state, by making investments in our workforce like this, we are putting people on really terrific career pathways that are going to put more
people into the middle class. So that’s what I’m really excited about with this activity.”
Corbin shared that around three years ago, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer created the EV Jobs Academy to champion the effort across the state.
According to Corbin, $5 million has been invested to prepare the state’s workforce to make the transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles.
“We’ve had nearly 100 stakeholders working on the EV Jobs Academy,” she said. “It’s not just preparing our workforce, it’s preparing all of our partners. Our community colleges have been strong partners in this.”
Corbin also shared that unions have been supportive of the effort. According to her, training will be provided to 30 people under the grant.
“Michigan has demonstrated time and again that it is a leader in clean energy advanced manufacturing, and part of what is required to maintain that edge is deploying technologies that haven’t been widely used before in new contexts and demonstrating that they work,” said Zachary Kolodin, who is the director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office.
According to the state’s website, Michigan’s EV infrastructure is growing faster than the national average.
In 2023, the state increased the number of public direct current fast charging stations
by 52%, and is now home to 3,900 charging ports.
With the implementation of the 15 new EV recycling trucks, 15 fast-charging stations will be installed.
Kolodin explained that in order to deploy the EV recycling trucks, they have to have a large enough battery to complete a circuit of a neighborhood or multiple circuits.
“We need an EV charging station that can replenish their batteries quickly enough so that they can be reused on an appropriate schedule,” Kolodin said. “This is one reason why you see EV school buses being such a success, because EV school buses have two defined routes that they have to run every day. So you’ll get the morning route that charges up overnight, and then an additional charge to run the afternoon route, and then the school buses are done. So that’s a really great-use case.”
Kolodin also added that, “I think demonstrating that this technology works in this new context is useful in part because refuse collection is also fairly predictable, and so you can fairly easily deploy electrified vehicles in that context.”
For more information on the new EV recycling trucks, visit www.michigan.gov/egle and search “Electric Recycling Trucks.” Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.
Pets
from page 7A
neuter, release” — specialize in capturing feral cats, spaying or neutering them, and then releasing them back into the wild, at which point they will no longer wander in search of mates or reproduce. They’re often marked with a tipped ear, where an ear is cropped — an indication you may be looking at a stray who has already been fixed.
There is also always a possibility that the stray you see is a lost pet that belongs to someone. They may have a microchip that identifies the owner. If they’re pawing at your door to come inside, they’re more likely they have a home. It’s
CITY OF LATHRUP VILLAGE OAKLAND COUNTY, MICHIGAN
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
recommended to photograph them and post the pictures on social media platforms to try and find the owner. Your local animal control division can try to capture the animal and get it checked as well.
“Usually, nine times out of 10, the pet goes home that way,” Wallace said.
In general, she recommends reporting any stray animals within 24 hours of seeing them.
In the meantime, “If you’re willing to confine it, there’s always a chance that you can get attacked or bit. But if you’re going to try, get them someplace safe and secure, like a spare room or small bathroom you don’t use often, to tide them over until (animal control) arrives the next day,” Wallace said. “And you can give them a bit of water, but be careful,
DELINQUENT WATER & SEWER BILLING SPECIAL ASSESSMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN:
1. The City Council of the City of Lathrup Village, Oakland County, Michigan has adopted a resolution directing the City Administrator to prepare a tentative special assessment roll including all delinquent water/ sewer billings, and to schedule a public hearing on the advisability of proceeding.
2. That January 27, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building at 27400 Southfeld Road, Lathrup Village, Michigan be set as the time and place of a Public Hearing for the purposes of reviewing the Tentative Roll and to afford a hearing to all interested persons all matters bearing upon any needful correction or revision to the Roll and the propriety of its confrmation.
DESCRIPTION OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL
The Special Assessment Roll consists of the following properties located in the City of Lathrup Village having the following water & sewer utility identifcation sidwell numbers:
ALHA-018810-0000-011,388.47
AVIL-017401-0000-012,048.72
AVIL-017415-0000-031,156.92
AVIL-017641-0000-01559.33
BLAC-028672-0000-031,000.00
BLAC-028678-0000-022,008.83
BLAC-028728-0000-02843.16
BLAC-028750-0000-02427.96
BL00-026779-0000-02921.41
BL00-026861-0000-03583.44
BL00-027375-0000-011,000.00
BL00-028560-0000-031,210.50
BL00-028725-0000-024,950.56
BL00-028761-0000-03465.42
BUNG-018570-0000-02753.73
BUNG-018586-0000-021,257.95
BUNG-018625-0000-011,122.95
BUNG-018800-0000-01587.06
BUNG-018830-0000-031,975.75
BUNG-018851-0000-01596.98
BUNG-019041-0000-021,133.11
CALE-027500-0000-01869.87
CALE-027561-0000-03501.16
CALE-027620-0000-03244.38
CALE-027705-0000-03965.23
CALE-027725-0000-03891.80
CALE-027734-0000-01222.92
CALE-027735-0000-022,578.67
CALE-027934-0000-06405.27
CALW-027430-0000-01272.65
CALW-027610-0000-04475.15
CALW-027628-0000-02671.60
CALW-027644-0000-011,163.27
CALW-027645-0000-031,158.92
CALW-027660-0000-02891.80
CALW-027714-0000-01498.46
CALW-027817-0000-05897.59
CAMB-017554-0000-02455.09
CAMB-017631-0000-011,612.54
CAMB-018635-0000-021,321.00
CAMB-018659-0000-01898.55
CAMB-018736-0000-01859.08
CAMB-018750-0000-01770.19
CAMB-018755-0000-01652.78
CORA-017350-0000-01327.37
CORA-017535-0000-01209.57
CORA-017578-0000-011,804.15
CORA-017594-0000-02895.46
CORA-018131-0000-01268.96
CORA-018153-0000-021,976.00
CORA-018444-0000-01312.42
CORA-018475-0000-02297.24
CORA-018480-0000-01358.02
DOLO-018724-0000-01282.25
ELDO-018921-0000-021,936.17
ELDO-018941-0000-022,812.53
ELDO-018970-0000-01311.55
ELDO-018971-0000-01706.41
ELDO-027027-0000-021,278.70
ELDO-027361-0000-02455.28
because if it appears injured or old or sick, feeding it could lead to problems. Say it has a broken leg, and you feed it, and then we bring it to the vet to get it fixed — if that happens and the dog goes under anesthesia, they could choke to death on their own vomit, same as a person. It’s why the doctor tells you no food or drink the night before an operation.” Thomas says it’s best to play it safe and leave the handling of strays to animal control officers. She added that when warming up any animal that appears cold, it’s important to apply a slow, gentle heat to avoid shocking the system. And with your own pets, it’s best to just spend more time indoors.
“If you can,” Thomas said, “just bring your animals inside.”
3. If the City Council confrms the tentative roll, a special assessment will be levied against the properties contained in the roll. Act 186 of the Public Acts of Michigan 1973, as amended, provides that the special assessment must be protested at the hearing held for the purpose of confrming the Special Assessment Roll before the Michigan Tax Tribunal may acquire jurisdiction of any dispute involving the Special Assessment Roll will be heard, if at all, at some time in the future pursuant to notice given as required by law. Appearance and protest at such a hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. An owner of, or party in interest, in the property to be assessed, or his or her agent, may appear in person to protest the special assessment or may protest the special assessment by letter fled with the City Clerk at or prior to the time of the hearing, in which case appearance in person is not required.
This notice is given by the City Council.
ELDO-027420-0000-02311.15
ELDO-027450-0000-02308.35
ELDO-028025-0000-01324 03
ELDO-028265-0000-03208.48
ELDO-028408-0000-011,131.00
ELDO-028466-0000-01262.19
ELDO-028530-0000-042,785.44
ELDO-028650-0000-011,819.74
ELDO-028700-0000-041,497.10
ELDO-028720-0000-04951.77
ELDO-028735-0000-021,318.73
ELEV-018220-0000-03243.33
ELEV-018230-0000-01574.45
ELEV-019110-0000-01929.02
ELEV-019130-0000-03952.40
ELEV-019284-0000-02302.29
GLEN-017591-0000-01511.09
GLEN-018455-0000-02677.27
GLEN-018519-0000-02521.62
GLEN-018535-0000-02589.16
GLEN-018771-0000-024,970.48
GLEN-018804-0000-01399.71
GOLD-027215-0000-011,051.00
GOLD-027246-0000-011,682.17
GOLD-027451-0000-03471.88
GOLD-027535-0000-02920.20
GOLD-027551-0000-01278.53
GOLD-028245-0000-021,264.06
HAMP-018841-0000-021,131.61
HAMP-018867-0000-02623.50
City Administrator
HAMP-018918-0000-012,258.92
HAMP-018980-0000-02925.28
HAMP-018991-0000-01910.10
KlLB-018150-0000-011,396.33
LACR-019015-0000-03570.17
LATH-026011-0000-01582.48
LATH-026040-0000-02966.47
LATH-026061-0000-01500.63
LATH-026225-0000-04895.46
LATH-026646-0000-021,209.92
LATH-026676-0000-011,160.54
LATH-026715-0000-02968.66
LATH-026725-0000-021,467.91
LATH-026740-0000-01522.36
LATH-027216-0000-05321.98
LATH-027219-0000-02589.70
LATH-027341-0000-03681.90
LATH-027731-0000-02632.80
LATH-028452-0000-02832.86
LATH-028511-0000-021,762.55
LATH-028538-0000-021,586.23
LATH-028558-0000-02218.44
LATH-028910-0000-02545.77
LATH-028929-0000-01960.81
LATH-028950-0000-02891.80
LINC-017580-0000-01300.00
LINC-017590-0000-02910.10
LINC-017610-0000-02512.28
LINC-018180-0000-021,106.86
LINC-018450-0000-01280.50
LINC-018830-0000-01294.55
LINC-018900-0000-021,508.72
MARG-017311-0000-03328.60
MARG-017501-0000-02520.27
MARG-017534-0000-01223.88
MARG-017546-0000-021,046.98
MARG-017555-0000-021,449.82
MARG-017600-0000-011,378.21
MARG-018131-0000-03493.22
MEAB-026215-0000-01356.20
MEAB-026216-0000-011,587.15
MEAB-026230-0000-01429.75
MEAB-026231-0000-032,489.57
MEAB-026242-0000-01889.51
MEAB-026272-0000-01877.17
MEAB-026335-0000-02679.49
MEAB-026660-0000-021,263.95
MEAB-026751-0000-01219.17
MEAB-027035-0000-046,309.19
MEAD-018130-0000-01403.11
MEAD-018241-0000-01865.39
MEAD-018254-0000-011,599.06
MEAD-018271-0000-021,790.00
MIDD-018421-0000-022,495.94
MIDD-018458-0000-01223.88
MIDD-018459-0000-011,380.69
Mike Greene – Lathrup Village
27400 Southfeld Road, Lathrup Village, MI 48076 (248) 557-2600
AUCTION
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e Moulden Agency Expands Making Fi h Allstate Agency Acquisition in 10 Years
By: Brandon Cleaver
SOUTHFIELD – Most entrepreneurs relate the signi cance of acquisitions to the growth of their business capital. But South eld Allstate owner Ray Moulden views acquisitions as primarily an opportunity for more relational capital.
On Sept. 1, 2024, Moulden completed his h Allstate clientele acquisition in 10 years. Although this opportunity is only a orded to the top 3% of Allstate owners who have achieved elite status within the company, his principled focus is less on business growth and more on relational growth.
“I nd great pleasure in (growing my business), but also in helping other people,” Moulden said. “I don’t know if it’s my age, but that’s what’s so satisfying.
South eld Area of Chamber Executive Director
Jasmine Patton said she has personally witnessed Moulden, a chamber member, aiding others on many occasions. However, Patton speci cally mentioned one time when a Lathrup Village owner of a new event space was looking to acquire a second building and needed assistance.
“As soon as he heard the word acquire, he wanted to help her,” said Patton.
Moulden has played a signi cant mentorship role to other entrepreneurs inside and outside the chamber. But Patton said part of the reason why he is an ideal chamber member is because of his transparency.
“His personal stories have helped break the ice for other entrepreneurs to ask questions,” said Patton. “He will cut through the u and share that being an entrepreneur is not easy but shares resources with them.”
Some of those stories entail business setbacks and struggles. Although Moulden has completed ve acquisitions, he has attempted eight. A er Allstate
changed its focus from maintaining customers to a stronger focus on customer growth, Moulden had to shi his strategy accordingly.
“If you don’t have a system and process that you’re constantly tweaking, then you die,” said Moulden, who was named a top producer for business and personal insurance sales for ve consecutive years.
Independent agency owner Robert Brown II has
known Moulden nearly 8 years. Brown was familiar with Allstate being a previous owner himself and has collaborated with Moulden on numbers and strategy many times over the years.
“Rays plays chess not checkers, so everything has
to be strategic when it comes to purchasing an agency,” said Brown, whose agency is in Columbus, OH.
While a considerable part of Moulden’s time is directed toward growing his business, he also donates 50% of business time to various community causes, including providing nancial support as well as counsel to several local organizations.
In Sept., Moulden sponsored the Urban Unity’s rst annual A Night of the Arts fundraiser at the Norwest Gallery of Arts in Detroit. Urban Unity is a non-pro t that provides support for children and families within the foster care system.
He donated $1,000 to Father Chris Yaw’s annual gun buyback program, which encourages people to exchange their unwanted guns for various store gi cards. Yaw serves as the rector of St. David’s Episcopal Church across the street from the Moulden Agency.
Also, Moulden has sponsored the South eld Area State of the City Address, which features the South eld mayor and special guests. It brings together residents, business, and government leaders to network and build partnerships.
Patton said it’s in these environments that she has seen Moulden’s relational posture thrive.
“I just appreciate the fact that his approach to building relationships is just that it doesn’t matter who you are,” she said. “He’s shown up to events where we’ve hosted 200 plus guests, and he’s shown up to events when we’ve hosted a table of 10. We need more Ray Moulden’s within our ecosystem.”
Contact Ray Moulden at (248) 691-5530 and rmoulden@allstate.com.
e Moulden Agency is a Nationally certi ed Minority company by Michigan at the Minority Supplier Development Council.
e Moulden Agency Team