Inclusive playground gets preview before ribbon-cutting 3A
City OKs sale of building to Fraser Public Library
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
FRASER — Eighteen months after a vehicle crashed through one of the walls at the Fraser Public Library, the library is taking a step toward reoccupying the building.
The library has been located in two spaces in a strip mall near the intersection of 15 Mile Road and Hayes Road since the crash on May 21, 2023. The temporary location officially opened its doors July 1, 2023. The city, which owned the building, agreed to sell it to the library for $1 days before the crash occurred. A unanimous vote from the Fraser City Council reaffirmed that purchase agreement at its Nov. 14 meeting. Fraser City Attorney Donald DeNault said no substantive changes were made to the original 2023 agreement.
The building has been around for quite a while. The oldest portion dates back to 1884 and was part of a school related to Saint John Lutheran Church, accord-
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Clinton Township Civic Center was named after Bob Cannon in a surprise agenda item at the Board of Trustees meeting on Nov. 12.
Township Clerk Kim Meltzer read out the resolution, which laid out Cannon’s 40 years of accomplishments as a trustee and later as the township supervisor.
Township employees crowded the podium led by Deputy Supervisor Dan O’Leary who spoke about the changes the township went through during Cannon’s tenure. Cannon seemed genuinely surprised by the gesture
with tears welling up in his eyes during discussion of the item.
The Civic Center will be rebranded the “Robert J. Cannon Civic Center,” according to a rendering provided in the packet for the meeting. Lettering for the civic center will go above the entryway.
“I’m glad I didn’t have to wait until I died,” Cannon said.
Cannon estimated that he had been to approximately 1,200 board meetings in his career. He acknowledged that along the way he had made mistakes and said public service jobs can be tough.
Civic Center to be named after Cannon
ABOVE: Trustee
Tammy Patton tells outgoing Supervisor Bob Cannon that he was a mentor to her at the Nov. 12 Clinton Township Board of Trustees meeting.
Photo by Nick Powers
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Most of the attendees at Clinton Township’s Nov. 12 Board of Trustees meeting were there to voice their opposition to a controversial powerline development by the International Transmission Company.
The proposed development spans more
than 80 acres along 19 Mile Road. At issue is its route, which would cut through the Westchester Village Condominiums near the intersection of 19 Mile and Hayes Road.
ITC Area Manager Gary Kirsh said all routes for the line presented challenges.
“ITC’s proposed route is the most direct route and avoids many of the challenges, but still has residential impacts,” Kirsh said.
“By the numbers, this route has the lowest
Trustees table controversial powerline development
residential impacts. But for those residents along 19 Mile, we acknowledge the impact they are feeling and their position that any impact is too much.”
ITC has pitched the line as being vital to delivering more power to Henry Ford Macomb Hospital. Representatives from the hospital spoke strongly in favor of the proposed line. Shanna Johnson, president of Henry Ford Macomb, said that the hos-
pital provides emergency care that makes it unique in the region and in need of the additional power.
“The completed project is expected to exceed $300 million,” Johnson said. “This will elevate our campus to a level of patient care that we deserve in this Clinton Township and greater Macomb community.”
Representatives for ITC and Henry
Inclusive playground gets preview before ribbon-cutting
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — While Clinton Township’s new inclusive playground will not be officially open until next spring, kids and adults alike got a chance to try out the new equipment Nov. 13.
The playground offers a wide range of activities for all ages and abilities. A nature theme is present throughout with logs, a frog sculpture, a dragonfly teeter-totter and musical flowers. Standing tall at the center of the playground is a 14-foot playscape for kids 5-12 years old. The structure is enclosed to ensure safety and parts of it are accessible by wheelchair.
“The first thing I heard from almost everybody coming through the gate today is, ‘I didn’t think it was so big,’” outgoing Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon said. “I didn’t think it was so big, and I watched it being built. A lot of hard work went into it.”
Department of Public Services Director Mary Bednar and Rich Sinclair from Sinclair Recreation, the contractor that built the equipment, explained each facet of the playground.
The therapeutic fitness area is for teenagers, adults and senior citizens for physical therapy and exercising. There’s also a smaller set of structures for kids ages 2-5 and an imaginative play area. While the equipment may seem traditional, like swings and teeter-totters, each item is designed to be accessible for children with different abilities.
Signs indicating different playground areas include Braille.
Sensory elements were taken into consideration for the equipment as well. The metal slides, shaded by a canopy so they don’t heat up, were chosen to accommodate children with cochlear implants.
Photo by Nick Powers
This photo shows the main structure of Clinton Township’s new inclusive playground, which will officially open next spring.
NEWS & NOTES
4A/
For stories about who to watch in local high school wrestling and boys and girls basketball, visit candgnews.com/news/sports.
Santa will make two stops in Fraser
FRASER — Santa will be taking requests at the Baumgartner House Museum on Dec. 1 from 1-4 p.m. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available at the event. Christmas items will be available for sale. The museum will also have a half-off sale on Dec. 8.
The museum is located at 18577 Masonic Blvd.
Fraser Parks and Recreation will host Christmas in Fraser from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7 at Fraser City Hall. The event will feature an ice sculpture demonstration, fire entertainers, a petting zoo and a chance to meet Santa. Food, hot chocolate and s’mores will also be on hand.
Fraser City Hall is located at 33000 Garfield Road. For more information call 586-293-3100 ext. 205.
The Belgian American Band, seen here in 1938, has performed concert band music in the Detroit area for more than 90 years.
Belgian American Association Band to perform Christmas Concert
ST. CLAIR SHORES — The Belgian American Association Band will perform its 2024 Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Dec. 11.
The BAA was formed in 1927 to serve metro Detroit’s Belgian community, and the band has performed concert band music in the Detroit area for more than 90 years. Its repertoire includes popular
marches, polkas, waltzes and show tunes.
The concert will be held at St. Lucy Church, 23401 E. Jefferson Ave., in St. Clair Shores. Admission is free to all. Donations in the holiday spirit are accepted.
For more information, visit belgianband.org/ home/upcoming-events.
Outgoing officials say goodbye at last meeting
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Bob Cannon’s final meeting as Clinton Township’s Supervisor ran the gamut of emotions. From laughter to anger, the Board of Trustees Nov. 12 meeting was a memorable one.
It was also the final meeting for Trustees Tammy Patton and Mike Keys as well. Neither trustee phoned it in, arguing passionately about multiple agenda items throughout the meeting.
Cannon said he was like Keys when he started out as a young trustee.
“Even though sometimes we didn’t agree, I agreed more with you than I did not,” Cannon said. “Thank you for doing what you did. Whatever you do next, if you get back into politics, remember what you learned here.”
Cannon said he knew it wasn’t easy for Patton to be the first Black woman on the Board of Trustees. He said he’ll always be her friend even though the two don’t agree on everything.
“We want discussion, we want fair discussion,” he said of the board as a whole. “I think for the most part we’ve gotten that.”
Treasurer Paul Gieleghem will become Clinton Township’s new Supervisor on Nov. 20.
The board chambers were packed with attendees and the meeting lasted over three hours.
Shake mailboxes for winter sturdiness
MOUNT CLEMENS — As the winter months loom, the Macomb County Department of Roads urges residents to shake their mailboxes before the snow hits.
Mailboxes can be subject to damage and dislocation by snow tossed by plow trucks, so residents are encouraged to check for any loose points on their mailboxes that, if unchecked, could lead to them being broken.
“While we gear up for winter operations to maintain safe and efficient roads during the winter months, taking a few minutes to ensure your mailbox is properly secured will save you time and hassle later on,” Macomb County Department of Roads Director Bryan Santo said in a press release. “Shake it to ensure the snow won’t break it. If your mailbox moves when shaken, it may not survive standard snow removal operations and should be repaired or replaced before winter.”
Mailbox damage can often be prevented with proper routine maintenance. If you have questions regarding mailbox maintenance, please contact the county at (586) 463-8671 or geninfo@rcmcweb.org.
LOCAL TEACHER RECEIVES GRANT
CLINTON TOWNSHIP/WARREN — Cromie Elementary School educator Ashley Zachwieja, in Warren Consolidated Schools, was among 62 local educators named recipients in the Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union’s Classroom Cash Grants program. The teachers each received a grant worth up to $750 to help implement innovative learning experiences designed to inspire students’ curiosity, critical thinking, and problem solving in the classroom.
Classroom Cash Grants winners are determined based on total votes cast by MSGCU members, students, parents, colleagues, family members, and friends. More than 117,000 votes were cast during the 11-day public online voting period this year. The Classroom Cash Grants initiative has funded over 1,200 unique projects since it launched almost 20 years ago.
Photo provided by the Belgian American Association
TOWNSHIP HONORS VETERANS WITH CEREMONY
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — A crowd turned out on a chilly November day to honor the commitment of the American military.
Clinton Township held its Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 at the American Veterans Memorial at Resurrection Cemetery.
Frank Oldani, director of family services for the cemetery, said this was Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon’s last official act at the cemetery.
“He’s a tremendous partner and we’re going to miss Bob,” Oldani said.
Cannon, whose last day as supervisor is Nov. 20, acted as master of ceremonies for the event. He spoke about the sacrifices veterans have made for their country.
“Our veterans have given us freedom, security from our enemies and the greatest nation to ever exist,” Cannon said.
Cannon said the veterans ask for little in return.
“They don’t want to be considered special and many don’t like to be singled out,” he said. “But special they are and we should give them our support.”
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter
154 Chaplain Leo LaLonde gave the invocation at the event.
“Bless our veterans, these men and women of courage and valor with a deep and binding understanding of our profound gratitude,” LaLonde said. “Grant them life, joy and bounty. May their dedication and honor be remembered as a blessing from generation to generation.”
LaLonde read off the names of veterans Frank J. Orlando, Kenneth J. Swieczkowski and Walter Zaleski Sr. at the dedication portion of the ceremony.
Col. Travis L. Sept, the guest speaker, called the opportunity to offer remarks at the event “an honor and a privilege.” Sept’s current assignment is military deputy director, Integrated Logistics Support Center, U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command. He touched on the sacrifices those in the military and their families have made throughout generations.
“They have fought not for glory, not for recognition, but for something greater than themselves: the preservation of our freedom and the defense of our way of life,” Sept said. “Veterans day is not just about remembering the past. It is about remembering the continuing legacy of service and sacrifice. It is a day to reaffirm our gratitude and show
our respect and to pledge our continued commitment to supporting those who have served and are still serving.”
Sept said this commitment to veterans should continue when they return home.
“We must continue to work to ensure that veterans receive the care, support and
U.S.
opportunities they so richly deserve,” he said.
“This includes not only physical and mental health care, but also education, employment and a community that embraces them as they transition from military to civilian life.” Sept also emphasized the importance
Army veteran John Adams places a bouquet of flowers at the base of one of the tablets at the American Veterans Memorial. The ceremony was part of a Veterans Day event at Resurrection Cemetery on Nov. 11. Adams is part of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154’s color guard.
Photo by Nick Powers
See VETERANS on page 9A
Photos by Nick Powers
Resident Heather Puzan talks about the International Transmission Company’s development along 19 Mile Road at the Nov. 12 Clinton Township Board of Trustees meeting. Puzan lives at the Westchester Village Condominiums, which would be impacted by the project. RIGHT: ITC Area Manager Gary Kirsh explained the importance of ITC’s proposed development.
Powerline
from page 3A
Ford Health recommended a plan that would run the lines above ground. Residents from the condos and township trustees opposed this option. Trustee Dan Kress suggested examining different routes, including running the line underground. Gieleghem advocated for running the lines in a route that would cut through Macomb Community College’s Clinton Township campus.
Trustee Julie Matuzak said she changed her mind about putting the lines underground after she learned about what the process would involve.
Kirsh said, if the lines were buried, the construction area would be approximately 50 feet wide and 20 feet deep. He said all roads the line is crossing would be impacted and, if there’s a future disruption, the process to fix it would be difficult.
“The cost is spread across everybody in the system. It’s not something where ITC makes more money if it’s above ground or below ground,” Kirsh said.
Trustees both for and against the development, ranging from Kress to outgoing Township Supervisor Bob Cannon, emphasized the importance of getting power to the hospital.
The issue had previously come in front of the board at its Sept. 30 meeting and a decision was unanimously postponed until the board’s Oct. 21 meeting. The issue never made the October meeting’s agenda and was again pushed to the Nov. 12 meeting.
Approval of the development was tabled at the Nov. 12 meeting with Kress, Trustee Mike Keys, Matuzak and Township Treasurer Paul Gieleghem all voting in favor of it. Cannon, Trustee Tammy Patton and Township Clerk Kim Meltzer voted against it.
Prior to the vote, Meltzer clarified that if the meeting was tabled there would be no set date for it to appear before the board again. She said she would add it to the agenda for the Nov. 25 board meeting.
According to Kress, who made the motion, tabling the meeting would allow time to review the 171-page document that was put in the board packet prior to the meeting. He said he would like the planning department and residents to weigh in on the development. Representatives from ITC and Henry Ford Heath said they submitted the materials Oct. 30. However, Kress, Matuzak and some in the audience said they did not see the packet attached until the day of the meeting.
Marc Corriveau, Henry Ford vice president and chief government relations officer, said a supplemental document was submitted the night of the meeting discussing why the preferred route was recommended.
Resident Georgia Kontoudis asked if ITC provided an option to bury the lines to the township prior to the meeting. Planning Commission Director Bruce Thompson said they did not.
Patton asked township attorney Jack Dolan about potential costs to the township to install the buried lines. Dolan mentioned two water lines on 19 Mile that could be an obstacle. One is an abandoned line and the second replaces it.
“Those are lines that run in a longitudinal fashion from Hayes Road, where Clinton Township begins, down past the site where they make the turn past the hospital and head further north to the actual substation,” Dolan said.
Therese Lenzini’s daughter lives in the condos that would be impacted by the development and questioned compensation provided by ITC.
“I’d like to know, because this is obvi-
14A
LEFT:
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
CMPL hosting December events
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — As the year winds down and holiday season kicks off, the Clinton-Macomb Public Library has a variety of events in place for December.
Between the demands of holidays and school-year stresses, tweens can find December to be a difficult time. The North Branch is hosting a mindfulness journal workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. open to children 8-12.
Crafty kids are invited to visit the South Branch on Friday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. to learn about printmaking.
Learn more about the life of portraitist John Singer Sargent at the South Branch on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. Karen Imarisio unravels the liberties Sargent took with his sitters to reveal not only Sargent as an artistic director, but also the changing roles of society at the turn of the 20th century.
Children 2-12 are invited to a block party at the North Branch on Thursday, Dec. 26 at 2 p.m. Library staff will bring out a variety of blocks and children should bring their imagination to create.
For more CMPL events, visit cmpl.libnet.info/events.
Free contraceptives through state program
MICHIGAN — Over 300 locations across the state, including in Oakland and Macomb counties, are offering free contraceptives through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and its Take Control of Your Birth Control program. Over-the-counter oral birth control pills, emergency contraception, condoms and family planning educational resources are available on a first-come, first-served basis at participating locations.
For more information and an interactive map of participating locations, visit michigan. gov/takecontrol.
Anton Art Center seasonal market returns
MOUNT CLEMENS — The Anton Art Center is hosting its annual Holiday Market for 2024. The market will open on Nov. 19 and run through Dec. 22. Nearly 100 artists will have works for sale across the galleries at 125 Macomb Place.
Works for sale cover a range of mediums including ceramics, crochet and jewelry.
“Each year, our patrons eagerly await this very special event to “shop small” within our community,” Anton Art Center Executive Director Matt Matthews said in a press release. “Holiday Market is an ideal opportunity to support local artisans and take care of holiday shopping, from before Thanksgiving on, with a myriad of gifts and offerings.”
A number of special events during the market include an ornament make-and-take session on Dec. 1, a service club/industry workers discount day on Dec. 5 and a student discount day and holiday mixer on Dec. 12. For more information visit theartcenter.org.
— Dean Vaglia and Nick Powers
My approach, using advanced treatments, personalized care, and a commitment to saving limbs and lives, offers a new horizon for those afflicted with chronic foot wounds. If you or someone you know is navigating the challenges of foot wound care, the opportunity to transform this struggle into a story of healing and hope is within reach. Call me for an appointment today.
Deputies honored by Mount Clemens commissioners
MOUNT CLEMENS — The Mount Clemens City Commission began its Nov. 18 meeting by honoring two Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies — Nicole Miron and Anthony Gross — for lifesaving actions on Sept. 12.
While patrolling Gratiot Avenue, Gross and Miron were notified of an erratically-driving pickup truck. The driver did not respond to lights and sirens after a traffic stop was initiated. Gross maintained a speed of around 5 mph and allowed for Miron to climb into the truck and bring it to a stop.
Gross and Miron received resolutions from the city honoring their actions, as well as tributes from the state of Michigan signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist.
— Dean Vaglia
Veterans
from page 5A
of listening to veterans and learning from their experiences once they return home.
Later in the ceremony, Cannon touched on more current events. He said members of the military would serve again if required.
“Our nation today is under attack, as we all know, just as it has been in the past,” Cannon said. “We look at the Middle East today and know there is a large and dangerous group that wants all Americans dead
Editor: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 | brianlouwers@candgnews.com
Reporter: Nick Powers | (586) 498-1059 | npowers@candgnews.com
Dean Vaglia | (586) 498-1043 | dvaglia@candgnews.com
Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
and our way of life eliminated. They are just as evil, if not moreso, than Nazi Germany or Imperial Japan and every bit as vile in their intentions.”
Christina England sang the “The StarSpangled Banner” near the start of the ceremony and capped it off with “America the Beautiful.” Bagpiper Kim Johnson played “Amazing Grace.” The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 did a 21-gun salute while taps was played. The Chapter 154 color guard placed flowers at each of the markers at the memorial.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com
and
498-8100
(586) 498-1099
publishes
Photo provided by Macomb County Sheriff’s Office
From left, Michigan 61st District state Rep. Denise Mentzer, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies Anthony Gross and Nicole Miron and Mount Clemens Mayor Laura Kropp pose for a photo on Nov. 18.
Maritime skilled trades program comes to Macomb
WARREN — On Nov. 12, a total of 24 students began an accelerated training program — in either maritime computer numerical control or welding — at Macomb Community College’s Michigan Technical Education Center.
The 17-week program launched the Michigan Maritime Manufacturing Initiative’s accelerated training industry partnership.
Through a $15.4 million Navy investment in the college, MCC created the stateof-the art maritime skilled trades training center. The goal is to fund training for 384 individuals through early 2027.
M3 is designed to address the urgent demand for skilled labor in the submarine industrial base, supporting the Navy’s strategic needs and national security.
— Maria Allard
Photo provided by Macomb Community College
Cannon
“It is not an easy job,” he said. “Most of us gave up jobs that paid a lot more money. That’s not why we came.”
Trustee Tammy Patton thanked Cannon for what he’s done for the community and for being a mentor in her career.
“We haven’t always seen eye to eye, but I’ve learned so much from you,” she said.
Trustee Julie Matuzak wished Cannon well in retirement.
“I have nothing but respect for 40 years of community service to Clinton Township,” she said.
Resident Dana Dugger said he disagreed with Cannon sometimes but appreciated his service to the community.
“Mr. Cannon has always communicated. He never blocked you out,” Duggar said. “He would hear your peace. He would hear what you had to say.”
Township Treasurer Paul Gieleghem, the incoming township supervisor whom Cannon praised earlier, said the community is better off for Cannon’s service. He pointed out how many department leaders, both current and former, came back to see the dedication.
“That says a lot and I think it’s a testa-
ment to your leadership,” he said.
Meltzer said the signage was funded by staff and that no tax dollars were used. Prior to that, she added how much Cannon meant to her and the township.
“You’re a fair person, you’re kind, you’re giving and you’ve been a great mentor to me,” Meltzer said. “I appreciate how you’ve shown me how to lead with those qualities… You don’t have to be a dictator. You were always kind, and you listened.”
The dedication was approved by Meltzer, Cannon, Gieleghem, Patton and Matuzak. Trustees Dan Kress and Mike Keys voted against putting Cannon’s name on the building.
Following the vote, Cannon responded to Kress and Keys.
“I sometimes voted no on good things too,” Cannon said.
Keys did not respond to a request for comment about his no vote at press time.
In a statement following the meeting, Kress said Cannon told him naming township landmarks must go through a committee. Kress also disagreed with how the item was added to the agenda.
“This was framed as a present from the staff, which was obviously done in the shadows without full board input as many, many other decisions have been made during Bob Cannon’s tenure,” Kress stated.
Turn your home’s value into a smart solution for managing debt this fall. A home equity loan from MSGCU can help you with:
Home improvements
Debt consolidation
Education costs
Other major expenses
We make it easy with personalized, step-by-step guidance. Apply today.
Open to all Michiganders.
ing to Library Director Lorena McDowell. When the church moved across the street, they allowed the library to rent the building for about 20 years. Eventually, the city purchased the building to house the library. The newest portion of the library is the annex, which was built in the late 1970s.
The library itself was established as a petition of the people on the 1963 ballot and opened its doors officially in 1964.
The crash itself wasn’t the only obstacle for the library to reoccupy the building. Given its age, other improvements were needed before a move could take place. Fraser Library Board of Trustees President Marlene Hoeft said at the Nov. 14 meeting that approximately $1 million in improvements were needed before the move could take place. The amount was arrived at following an inspection from the city. The library has the funds banked for this to happen, according to Hoeft.
“We have the money to move back in,” Hoeft said. “We collected the millage the last two years, and we have that money invested and ready to go.”
Voters upped the millage for the library from 1 mill, which it had operated on since
its founding, to 2 mills in 2022.
Hoeft said the library may potentially come back to the council for a bond to build a second floor. Adding the second floor would also require making improvements to the first floor.
The Rev. Oscar Saavedra of Fraser’s Our Lady Queen of Martyrs church offered to take over the library building at the Nov. 14 meeting. He said he’s been interested in the library building for a long time. The church, which is next door, purchased its building from the city and took it over in 1998.
“If the library doesn’t take the building, we would like to take the building,” Saavedra said. “You’ve seen the church. We have maintained it very nicely. People are happy with us.”
Saavedra said the church could maintain the building in a similar fashion. He said he was happy to see the library reoccupy the building and said they were a good neighbor. But he said there are sometimes conflicts between the two when it comes to parking.
“They don’t have the space for their programs,” Saavedra said.
He cited examples of a Halloween event where overflow parking made it difficult for him to find a space at his own church. Movie showings at night were another example he mentioned.
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT
“It is not appropriate for them to be there as a library,” Saavedra said.
Saavedra said the library wants to be a state-of-the-art facility, similar to Clinton Township’s, but added that it does not have the space. He said the costs to make the library operate in the building would also be an obstacle.
SAD for industrial park roads gets public hearing
The Fraser City Council will hold a public hearing to establish a special assessment district for funding improvements to the Fraser Industrial Park roads at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12. A motion to set the hearing was approved unanimously at the Nov. 14 meeting.
The special assessment district will help to cover the costs of the project, which also has funding from the city and state. The city has applied for federal funds through U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, but is still waiting for a response.
Fraser Mayor Michael Lesich, when making the motion to set the public hearing, laid out a specific option to be considered. The cost that would be spread across businesses in the park is 25% of the total project cost, not to exceed $4 million. The term for the SAD would be 15 years.
The estimated total cost of the project is $16 million, according to Fraser City Manager Elaine Leven. State Sen. Veronica Klinefelt, D-District 11, was able to secure $4 million in funding for the project during the appropriations process for the 2025 state budget. The City Council tentatively approved $3.5 million for the project at its Sept. 12 meeting, though it was made clear this is subject to change.
Jeff Siciliano, representing the businesses in the industrial park, said there is generally support for the SAD there. Siciliano said the 15-year term was preferable to businesses in the area.
Roads set for repair in the park include Malyn Boulevard, Commerce Road, Riviera Drive, Doreka Drive, James J. Pompo Drive, Cross Drive, Mike C. Court, Vermander Drive and Bennett Drive.
This isn’t the first time the council has tried to find a way to improve the park’s roads. According to previous reporting in the Fraser-Clinton Township Chronicle, business owners went to a June 8 meeting to speak out against taxing residents to fund the project. After a hearing of the public at the City Council meeting on Aug. 10, 2023, the tax funding for the project fell by the wayside.
See FRASER on page 13A
Adjustments to water rates also get public hearing
Adjustments to water and sewer rates will also be on tap for the Dec. 12 meeting. The City Council unanimously approved a motion to hold the public hearing in December at its Nov. 14 meeting.
In September, Municipal Analytics provided City Council with information about necessary increases to the utilities. John Kaczor, the firm’s founder and principal consultant, returned on Nov. 12 to show adjustments following input from the council. He brought several options to consider. Since the September meeting, Kaczor combined the residential rates for 1-inch and 5/8-inch meters.
A hybrid of two of Kaczor’s plans was eventually approved. Councilwoman Patrice Schornak made a motion to consider, for the public hearing, starting the hike next March and for subsequent increases in July. Shornak also included in her motion for a $22 million cash investment over seven years by the city, adding no new debt. By doing this, some capital improvement projects will be deferred.
In March, rates would increase by 8%. In July of 2026 and 2027, rates would increase by a similar amount. In 2028, the in-
crease would go down to 5.5%.
Kaczor said rates for nonresidential customers would be phased in. This ranges from 6-inch and 8-inch meters being phased in two years later to 1-inch nonresidential meters being phased in six years later. He said the adjusted transition to the American Water Works Association’s ratios makes costs to different meter sizes more uniform. Increases to ready-to-serve charges were also slowed.
City OKs car wash moratorium
The Fraser City Council also voted to have a yearlong moratorium on new car wash developments. All members voted in favor of pause except Councilman Kenny Perry.
Lauren Sayre, a planner with McKenna, said that the regulations on car washes have not been updated since the 1990s. She said Roseville and Sterling Heights have similar moratoriums on car washes in place. A moratorium would allow for the study of things like visual, noise and environmental impacts.
Shornak worked in an exception for the proposed Mr. Car Wash location near Meijer on Utica Road since the business is already working with the city. Councilman Patrick O’Dell made sure existing car washes closed for renovations were included.
Pump station on Masonic gets rehabilitated
The $1,767,840 bid L. D’Agostini and
Sons Inc. made to rehabilitate the Masonic stormwater pump station was unanimously approved by the Fraser City Council Nov. 14.
Anderson, Eckstein & Westrick Vice President Michael Vigneron said that L. D’Agostini and Sons had the second lowest offer of the six bidders considered. The lowest bid was not taken because of “irregularities” in their bid, according to Vigneron.
A memorandum in the board packet states that the project will include detention basin clearing, dredging the bottom of the basin and improving the pump station intakes.
“This station is in desperate need of some love and it’s overdue,” Vigneron said.
Lesich said he took a picture of the station when he drove by it prior to the meeting.
“If you want to see what failing infrastructure looks like, you could use that as a poster,” he said.
Council approves demolition of Reindel
Building
The City Council also approved the lowest bid to demolish the Reindel Building from Den-Man Contractors for $11,800. Schornak, O’Dell, Mayor Pro Tem Dana Sutherland, Councilwoman Amy Baranski and Councilwoman Sherry Stein voted yes, while Lesich and Perry voted no.
The roof on the building was leaking and there was damage to the carpet, according to Department of Public Works Superintendent Rob Barrett.
If the roof was repaired, it would’ve cost $28,184. The bid considered for the project was provided by Esko Roofing.
Powerline
ously going to make you a lot of money, what they’re going to do for the residents of Westchester Village, whose condo complex is going to be greatly affected by this,” Lenzini said.
Kirsh said the condo association’s bylaws require them to go through the state’s condemnation process. This process is established by Michigan Public Act 87 of 1980 and requires ITC to go about compensating residents impacted by the development in a particular way. In order to move the condemnation process forward, ITC needed to enter into individual lawsuits with impacted residents.
Attorney Geoffrey Denstaedt, in-house legal counsel for ITC, said the condo association is not permitted to grant easements that are not for the benefit of the association.
“We spent almost a year talking to residents and businesses along this route in an attempt to secure voluntary easements and participation for the transmission line,” Denstaedt said.
Denstaedt said the condemnation process works in two steps. First, residents affected by the project are offered a sum in compensation. Then a lawsuit is filed by the entity that needs the easement for the proj-
ect. Landowners have an opportunity to object to it, which Denstaedt said none of the residents have done. The second part of the process is compensation.
“We have deposited into escrow monies that we deemed to be the estimated just compensation,” Denstaedt said. “However, like many things, the American jurisprudence system is an avenue of conflict resolution. We believe the easement is worth X dollars. Please present evidence to us why you disagree and what you think is the correct compensation.”
Dolan, while agreeing with Denstaedt, discussed the practical difficulties of the condemnation system. Dolan laid the blame on the state’s system itself. He said residents of the condo complex who are less directly impacted by the development would have difficulties getting legal representation in court. This problem stems from a smaller amount paid out to these residents. He said this is the source of dissatisfaction with many who come to the meetings.
“Only a more limited number of the actual participants in the litigation at this point have attorneys and have pending claims on compensation,” Dolan said. “By far, most of the claims have actually resulted in default where the people were pretty much stuck with what was offered because they did not have the ability to obtain representation.”
Heather Puzan, another resident who
lives in the condos, spoke out against the project. She said she was concerned about how long it would take for the landscaping ITC would install to reach its full potential. She also mentioned how the lines would decrease the value of her unit and would make for an eyesore.
“My home is now going to be somewhere I want to leave,” she said.
Recent Clinton Township Trustee candidate Vito Strolis, who was not elected, said how he thought the development put the residents and board in a bad spot.
“I feel sorry for the board because I think you were bullied by a bunch of thugs,” Strolis said. “I thought the attorneys for ITC were rude to the residents and, more importantly, they were rude to the board. They basically threatened everyone here.”
Cannon said he was irritated by how ITC went about getting the project approved. Despite this, he said he saw ITC work through past projects with the community.
“It was always resolved, and ITC always did exactly what they promised the neighbors,” he said.
The process for ITC getting approval is relatively new. The township’s zoning code was updated in 2023 to make essential service projects receive township approval. At the Sept. 30 meeting, Steven Estey, an attorney representing ITC, said if the project was not approved it could be overridden at the
state level. This is made possible through a year-long approval process laid out in Michigan’s Act 30 of 1995.
At one point, Cannon accused Kress of going door-to-door and stirring the pot at the condos for political gain. Audience members shouted back, “He did not.” Cannon, in a heated exchange, threatened to have the audience members removed if they didn’t stop speaking out of turn.
“I went door-to-door. Only a handful of residents were home,” Kress responded. “I went to them because nobody was representing them and their concerns.”
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
Corrections
• The story “Incumbents prevail in top Macomb offices,” published the week of Nov. 13, should have stated that Republican Candice Miller received about 62.1% of the vote, Democrat Kevin Higgins received about 35% of the vote, and Libertarian Jim Fulner received about 2.5% of the vote.
• The article “Familiar faces win Clinton Township races” from the Nov. 13 Fraser-Clinton Township Chronicle should have stated the banner the Clinton Township Democratic Club funded for cider and donuts was for the final weekend of early voting.
True Thanksgiving comes from the heart.”
The Wujek and Calcaterra families wish you a Thanksgiving flled with blessings and surrounded by the ones you love. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful families in this community who have chosen us to serve them. We are humbled by your trust.
SCHOOL BRIEFS
Students receive computers through AT&T’s Connected Learning
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Knowing that not every household in Michigan has a home computer, AT&T and its philanthropic partner Human-I-T recently distributed free laptops to 150 Macomb Community College students.
As part of AT&T’s Connected Learning initiative, the laptop computers were distributed Nov. 15 at the Lorenzo Cultural Center on
Playground
from page 3A
Sinclair said the static electricity from a plastic slide can negatively affect the implant. Musical elements, ranging from drums to chimes in the nature theme, are found in many of the areas.
Incoming Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem said the catalyst for the project was a letter from AnnMarie Ottoy. Ottoy was selected to chair the Inclusive Playground Committee because of her experience as a parent to a disabled child. She said the playscape creates awareness, connection
the college’s Center Campus. The refurbished laptops, funded by an AT&T contribution to Human-I-T, were provided to preselected college students in need of a computer.
AT&T Connected Learning partners with local nonprofits to provide free resources for students and families, including highspeed internet, computers, digital literacy materials, tutoring and mentoring. Human-I-T recycles unwanted computers to divert them from landfills by also providing low-cost computers, low-cost internet access, digital training and technology support.
— Maria Allard
and community for a population that is often “invisible and unheard.”
“At least that’s the way my family felt a lot of the time when my son was growing up, Zachary, who has disabilities,” Ottoy said.
Ottoy said she was “in awe” of the community that’s already emerging from starting the project, ranging from parents and families to government agencies and schools.
“My greatest hope is that this playground helps those seeds of awareness that grow into acceptance, understanding and friendships that last a lifetime,” she said. “That no one feels invisible and when we see one another we recognize the intrinsic value that is in each and every one of us.”
e holiday season is upon us, a busy time for us all. A time for re ection of the year gone by and a time for hope for the coming year. is past year has been a challenge for our country and in Michigan, a struggle for many.
I want to thank all of my patients for the privilege of serv- ing you. e opportunity to make a positive di erence in the lives of others is a gift. Your loyalty, support and friendship allows me to follow my passion in dentistry. Please accept my very special holiday thank you from me and my devoted sta .
Yours for Better Dental Health, Dr. Berman
Howell, MI, Saturday, 11-30-24 at 10 a.m. 2009 Chevy Silverado ½ ton pickup, trailers, commercial mowers, tools, more! Visit NarhiAuctions.com location, information. Call 810-266-6474. Simonson Firearm Estate Auction. Bidding open. 300+ hand selected lots. Firearms, ammunition, accessories. Bid @ JohnPeckAuctions.com. Offices Gladwin & Charlotte. Selling guns? Call John Peck 989-3454866. Michigan's premier firearm auctioneers since 1979. Timmons Online Auction. Bidding
0241-2448
(directcellphone#) Panelupgrades, generators,hottubs, 220lines.ALLSERVICE Licensed&Insured Dependable,quality work! License#-6111359 Fence
DAVISFENCECO. SecureYourProperty WithQualityFencing. ExpertlyInstalled.Call DavisFenceCompany ForaFreeQuoteToday! Alumunium,Chainlink, Wood,Repairs. 586-598-3838
Gutters
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 586-323-0755
GUTTERCLEANING, WINDOW/POWERWASHING Veteran/Firefighter Owned/Operated championwindow cleaning.net 248-914-8781
GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI 313-656-9402
Hauling & Waste Removal
AAHAULING JUNKREMOVAL 40YearsExperience RubberWheelDumpsters AllSizes,EstateClean OutBigandSmall, Available24/7 586-872-0498 586-778-4417
BURLYGUYS JUNKREMOVAL removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
**CLUTTERGUY'S** Removal-Experts Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices Garage/Storage-Areas EfficientCourteous Workers,ReasonableRates,Free-Estimates. NEEDCLUTTER REMOVED? LETUSDOTHEWORK! 586-258-6672
Heating & Cooling AFFORDABLE HEATING&COOLING Family-ownedBusiness Greg'sHeatingLLC Servicecalls89.00 FurnaceTuneup79.00 SeniorandVeteran Discounts 586-422-8528 Home Improvement 586-610-1209
PaintingInterior/Exterior RemodelingKitchens, Bathrooms,Finish Basement,Tiles, Drywall,Repairs, RemoveWallpaper, RepairingandStaining Decks,Powerwashing. FreeEstimates.
ROZE
REMODELINGLLC.
•InteriorRenovations •Kitchens•Bathrooms •TileWork•Basements •Painting•VinylFloors •Fireplaces •CustomDesigns Free-Estimates Andre-586-354-7791 Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 Roofing,Siding, Gutters,LEAFGUARDS andMore!Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops
MR.BACKSPLASH ·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES ·CUSTOMKITCHENS ·COUNTERTOPS *Granite*Quartz* ·CustomBathrooms ·TILEREPAIRS *FREEESTIMATES* 586-552-5416 mrbacksplash.com
Landscaping & Water Gardens
Handyman Services
AA4DABLE HANDYMAN HomeImprovement, Tile,Hardwood-Floors, Kitchen/Bath-Remodeling, Plumbing,Electrical, Painting,Hauling,Cleanouts,AnyHomeRepairs, FreeEst.30%Disc. AllMajorCC'sAccepted. 586-822-5100
Hauling & Waste Removal
***AAA HAULING*** JUNKREMOVAL Wehaulitall!Demolition Big&Small,Residential/ Commercial,Rubber WheelDumpsters-10,15, 20-Yards,Clean-outs, ConstructionMaterial, Small-Moving,Appliances,Furniture&More! Free-Est.Sen/Mil/Disc. 586-360-0681 ucallwehauljunk.com
Lawn Maintenance
586-489-9226
Don s LawnService -Bush&Tree Trimming -LeafClean-up -GutterCleaning -Snow Since1979!
Painting
248-216-3355
NEWPALACE PAINTING PAINTING!PAINTING! PAINTING! FreeEstimates SeniorDiscounts COMPETITIVELY PRICED
586-792-3117
PETE'SPAINTING HOLIDAYSPECIALS! 20%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
PAINTINGby-GPC MASTERPlaster/Drywall CompleteRestoration &InsuranceProjects WallpaperRmvl/Hanging PAINTING!PAINTING! A+BBB-Rating/20yrs 30-yrs,BuilderLicense SeniorDisc/FreeEst. 586.899.3555(Cell) 248.566.6460(Office)
PEAKPAINTING Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry. *WillBeatAnyOther ReasonableEstimate! 35yrsexp.Sen.Disc.Ins. CC-Accepted/References. 586-722-8381
(586)795-8122
ChrisCronin
Painting& StainingInc. Professionalquality. Interior-exterior. Power-washing, decksealing.Insured, References.Free-Est. MC/VI/DC/AXaccepted.
ANDERSON Painting&Carpentry
CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
VKPERFECTPAINTING
Interior/Exterior SpecializesinKitchen &Bathroom CabinetPainting. Drywall/Plaster/Repair Free-Est.26YearsExp. CallBill 313-433-9400 586-746-9846 vkperfectpainting.com
Plumbing
DOLL'S LANDSCAPING FALLCLEAN-UPS! Shrub&Tree-Trimming, Planting,Removal.Mulch, SodInstallation,Pavers, Garden/RetainerWalls, PorchSteps,Raise Backyards/DrainTiles, Powerwashing/Sealing, Powerrake,Aeration, Seeding,DebrisRemoval 586-634-0033
SUPREMEOUTDOOR SPECIALISTS FallClean-ups,Lawncare, Landscaping,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, SprinklerBlow-out, GutterCleaning, 35YearsExp.FreeEst. Christmaslight install/leasing. 586-727-3924 supremeoutdoor@gmail.com
2024Fall 586-260-5218 Commercial/Residential *SnowRemoval *FullSaltingServices *FullLandscaping/Design *FallClean-up &DebrisRemoval *Aerating&Thatching. brighthorizonservices.biz
MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
586.421.5520
586.524.6752 ANDY'SPLUMBING 25-YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
Plumbing 586-757-4715 AABSOLUTE PLUMBING FamilyOwned Since1990 CompletePlumbing Repairs Sewer/DrainCleaning SeniorDiscounts, Licensed/Insured Lic#-8216443
586-210-0903 35-YearsExp.Seniors/ Military/Multi-TaskDisc.
Cough syrup amt.
*____phobia,
DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312 WATERWORK Plumbing.com •DrainCleaning •SewerCamera •WaterHeaters •SumpPumps •BackflowTesting 248-542-8022 SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable Reliable/Experienced License#8003885 Roofing PREFERRED BROTHERSROOFING •FullTear-off•Recover •ShingleRepair •Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
AA4DABLEROOFING Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! FALL-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!! Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted. 586-822-5100
MANIAS AND PHOBIAS
INCIDENTS REPORTED TO LOCAL POLICE, AS COMPILED BY C & G REPORTERS
Suspicious seasoning reported
GROSSE POINTE CITY — An unknown suspect is said to have thrown two small jars of spices through the window of a home in the 800 block of Notre Dame Street sometime between the hours of noon Nov. 5 and 9:45 a.m. Nov. 6. A police report states that a neighbor is suspected in the incident.
Vehicle theft attempted
GROSSE POINTE WOODS — A witness apparently scared off a would-be vehicle thief during an incident in the 19000 block of Linville Street at around 3:30 a.m. Nov. 5. According to a police report, the victim was notified by his outdoor surveillance camera system that someone was approaching his home, at which point he contacted the Public Safety Department.
The victim’s girlfriend went outside to yell at a suspect, who was described as wearing all dark clothing. The suspect, who was trying to steal the victim’s Dodge Durango, is said in the report to have run back to an awaiting Dodge Charger when the victim walked out of his house armed with a handgun. The victim told police the Charger headed south on Linville.
Car damaged by brick
EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, at around 6:50 p.m. Nov. 5, officers were called to the 23000 block of Lambrecht Avenue, in the area of Gratiot Avenue and Nine Mile Road, to investigate a complaint about malicious destruction of property.
Upon arrival, the victim stated that her 2017 Nissan Sentra had been damaged by a brick while it was parked in the street near the house. The victim’s security cameras showed that at around the same time on Nov. 4, two male suspects were walking eastbound on Norton Avenue near Lambrecht. The first reportedly walked past the vehicle while the second carried a large garden brick and approached the Nissan.
The unknown juvenile allegedly pretended to throw the brick at the passenger-side rear window, and then walked to the rear where he threw it onto the trunk lid, causing it to dent. He laughed while walking out of the camera’s view. The victim did not know why her vehicle would be targeted and did not recognize the suspect.
Police were investigating.
Items stolen from shoe store
EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, officers were dispatched to the Foot Locker store on Nine Mile Road on Oct. 30 on report of two men having stolen numerous items there.
Upon reviewing the store’s security footage, the
6 p.m., two men entered the store from the main entrance.
Upon entering the store, the two suspects reportedly split up, each taking clothing items that were for sale and removing their anti-theft devices, and then concealing the stolen goods in their jackets before leaving the store without paying and fleeing the area in a black Lincoln sedan.
An investigation was ongoing.
No-contact conflict
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 27 at around 5:30 p.m., a 60-year-old woman living in the 38000 block of Circolo Road called the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office to report an issue with her 49-year-old male neighbor. The woman is a protected person with a no-contact order against him.
The woman installed a camera on a pole facing her neighbor’s yard due to ongoing issues. Earlier in the day, she noticed a broom handle poking the pole through the fence line. After calling 911, she noticed the camera had been knocked off the pole.
Scam caller
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 25, an 87-yearold Harrison Township man received a call claiming to be from Blue Cross Blue Shield, stating a representative would visit his home in the 25000 block of Carno Circle on an upcoming Monday.
After speaking with his wife about the call, they contacted the company for more information. Blue Cross Blue Shield representatives informed them the representative was a scammer.
Disorderly conduct investigated
MOUNT CLEMENS — On the afternoon of Oct. 27, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 200 block of Shadyside Drive to speak with a 39-year-old Roseville woman who was trying to enter a home that was not hers and was refusing to leave.
Deputies found the woman sitting on a curb. She identified herself and deputies noted she had slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and the odor of liquor. She was described in the report as “unintelligible.” A breath test came back with a 0.264 blood alcohol content.
Larceny reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 11:42 a.m. on Oct. 30, an act of larceny was reported that occurred on Oct. 18 in the 27000 block of Harper Avenue.
A 55-year-old man told officers that two customers were in the store opening up a new account for cellular services. Video surveillance shows one of the
BRIEFS TAKEN FROM AROUND OUR COVERAGE AREAS
PANTRY ACCEPTING DONATIONS
BERKLEY — The city of Berkley is partnering with the Berkley Cares Food Pantry to help those in need. Through Dec. 12, the city is collecting nonperishable food and toiletries to benefit the food pantry. City Hall, the Public Safety Department, the Community Center, the library and the Department of Public Works each have a collection box to drop off donations.
Nonperishable items that can be donated include canned fruits, vegetables and proteins, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, dry and wet pet food, granola bars, pudding, and kids’ lunch snacks like pretzels and chips, canned soups, ravioli, pasta, pasta sauce, and mashed potatoes. Other suggested items include formula, diapers, toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, laundry detergent, feminine products, dish soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. For questions, contact communications@ berkleymi.gov. A monetary donation also can be made at berkleycaresfoodpantry.com/give.
who left it to charge. The video shows the suspect look past an employee who was focused on their computer, and then collect his belongings including the iPhone. The man called the mother of the suspect, the other customer, and she denied that the suspect ever stole the phone and refused to put them on the line. The man advised her that a police report was being filed and they had them on video surveillance.
ATM skimmer found
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 6:52 p.m. Oct 30, suspicious circumstances prompted further investigation in the 21000 block of Harper Avenue. A technician, a 25-year-old man, was working on an ATM that was reported to be malfunctioning when he discovered an electronic card skimmer.
He inspected the rest of the ATM and discovered a fake cover plate attached to the PIN keypad security overhang. A small slit in the cover plate showed a camera seated behind it. There was also a micro-SD card attached to the camera. The man said he only touched the outer edges of the cover plate and skimmer with his bare hands. The man was unable to find any logs showing when the ATM was last serviced.
An officer spoke to the store clerk who said the owner might have logs showing when the ATM was serviced.
Retail fraud reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 1:29 p.m. on Oct. 26, a retail fraud claim was reported in the 23000 block of Marter Road.
An officer spoke with the manager of the store, a 40-year-old man, who stated he saw two men exit the store with approximately 15 bottles of unknown tequila on their person. He heard the bottles making noise in their backpack and clothing. He advised both men to drop the liquor, which they declined to do. Both got into a black vehicle with a Michigan registration.
Officers checked the area but could not locate the vehicle.
Property damage reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 6:55 a.m. on Oct. 30, property damage was reported on Northshore Drive.
The caller stated that his tires had been slashed. Upon arrival, the officer saw the victim’s vehicle backed up by an office with its back tires flat and with holes in them showing it was not accidental.
The victim, a 40-year-old man, stated that at 6:17 a.m. that morning he received an alert telling him that his tires were low. He went outside and saw both back tires were flat. He stated that this was not the first time this occurred. On Oct. 27, he was at an apple orchard when they were slashed and on Oct.
alert went off again. He kept these tires in the trunk for further observation. The man stated he recently moved and not very many people knew that. He did not have any suspects, but the officer advised him to figure out who has the information and a motive. The man has insurance on his vehicle. There were no surveillance cameras observed by officers on the scene.
Woman steals lottery tickets
STERLING HEIGHTS — According to police, a convenience store in the 3000 block of 14 Mile Road reported that a woman — approximately 40 years old – asked a clerk for lottery tickets Oct. 27 and allegedly grabbed them and left without paying after the tickets were placed on the counter. The suspect reportedly escaped in a black SUV. Police requested access to the store’s surveillance footage.
Woman allegedly tries to steal clothing in self-checkout
STERLING HEIGHTS — A third-degree retail fraud case was reported Oct. 25 at Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave., near 14 Mile Road. Police said a woman didn’t scan multiple articles of clothing in the self-checkout — including a Wonder Nation girls shirt – and then allegedly tried to leave without paying for them. Police said they ended up citing the suspect.
Vacuum invader
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — At around 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 24, a man of unknown age or residence entered the home of a 31-year-old Macomb Township woman in the 21000 block of Chevalier Drive. The man forced open a locked screen door and, when confronted by the resident, said he was there to pick up a vacuum cleaner. The woman informed him he was in the wrong home and the man left without taking anything.
Gift card scam
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On the afternoon of Oct. 25, a 75-year-old Macomb Township woman was contacted by someone claiming to be an Amazon worker. The caller said there were “serious charges” on her account and had the call transferred over to an “FBI agent Dan Murphy.”
“Murphy” told the woman her account was being used for money laundering and instructed her to purchase $4,400 in gift cards and ship $14,800 via UPS to a California address.
When the woman was speaking with Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies at her home in the 46000 block of Breckenridge Drive, “Murphy” called her back. Deputies answered the phone, leading to “Murphy” quickly hanging up.
Troy Community Chorus to perform ‘Yuletide Dreams’
TROY — The Troy Community Chorus will present its holiday concert, “Yuletide Dreams,” at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, in the auditorium of Athens High School, 4333 John R Road.
The program, under the direction of Jonathan Lowrie and accompanied by Min Sook Chung, will be a combination of traditional and contemporary songs of the season.
Advance tickets cost $12 for ages 13-62, $10 for seniors and ages 6-12, and they are free for children younger than 5. Tickets will be available at the door for $15 each. To order tickets, contact Gina Sweet at (248) 762-6862 or ginasweet@gmail.com. Will-call tickets will be available for pickup at 7:30 p.m. the night of the concert.
Attendees can win a variety of items by participating in a fundraising basket raffle. The Troy Community Chorus is a non-audition choir consisting of more than 90 members ages 24-85 from across metro Detroit. It was founded in 1978. For more information, visit www.troycommunitychorus.com.
DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER CELEBRATES ANNUAL HOLIDAY WINDOW CONTEST
ROCHESTER — Nearly 20 local businesses will participate in the Holiday Window Contest in downtown Rochester, which has a “Winter Wonderland” theme this year. The community event encourages businesses to showcase their creativity and holiday spirit by transforming their windows into a winter wonderland display. From Nov. 25 to Dec. 4, residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the downtown area and text their vote for their favorite holiday window display. People can cast their votes by following the voting information displayed outside each participating business’s window. A complete list of participating businesses and a map are located at www.downtownrochestermi.com/holiday-win dow-contest. The winner will be announced onstage at the Kris Kringle Market Friday, Dec. 6. For more information, including a complete list of events, visit www.DowntownRochesterMI.com.
Park ice rink to reopen
ADACHI WINS BURGER CONTEST
BIRMINGHAM — The Birmingham Shopping District’s inaugural BirminghamBURGER recently wrapped up. During the month of October, 18 Birmingham restaurants participated in a competition of who can make the best specialty burger. Throughout the contest, there were a total of 2,900 burger ratings. Adachi’s burger, titled “Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover,” received the highest ratings and won the competition.
Executive chef Lloyd Roberts and executive sous chef Eppie Marie created this Japanese-inspired katsu burger. While the burgers for BirminghamBURGER were created for the event, this burger will remain on Adachi’s lunch menu.
“We congratulate Adachi on receiving the people’s choice of Best BirminghamBURGER! We were thrilled to have such incredible participation from our restaurants and the local and regional community for this first-time event! We experienced significant engagement both in-person at many of our restaurants and on our voting platform and social media channels during the event. We look forward to this event returning in October 2025 and cannot wait to see what our local chefs dream up next,” said Erika Bassett, BSD executive director, in a press release.
Photos provided by the Birmingham Shopping District
