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 ten-
ure. 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
Civic Center to be named after Cannon
Trustees table controversial powerline development
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 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
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
Santa Parade makes memories throughout decades
TRIO OF NURSE SISTERS TO RIDE IN THANKSGIVING PARADE
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — They were raised together, they grieved together and they learned together. Now, they’ll float to-
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MOUNT CLEMENS — The holiday season is marked by time-honored traditions. Lights strung all over, donation kettles parked outside storefronts and radio stations switching out modern setlists for the likes of Bing Crosby, Tchaikovsky and carols of all kinds. But in Macomb County for nearly 50 years, the start of the season has always been the Mount Clemens Santa Parade held every November.
According to the Mount Clemens Parade Company, the Santa Parade began in 1975. Initially, a single float brought Santa to Prieh’s Department Store on the Friday after Thanksgiving. It was rolled into bicentennial celebrations for 1976 and the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce’s Merchants in Action division began sponsoring the parade in 1977. Organization and sponsorship of the parade would change over the years with First National Bank taking over in 1989, later joined by Mount Clemens General Hospital in 1994 to run the parade under the banner of Metro Macomb Productions.
However, things began to take a turn for the worse behind the scenes as the 2000s went on and fewer companies and organizations were stepping up to sponsor the parade. This, it turns out, presents a slight problem.
gether for America’s Thanksgiving Parade.
Such is the life of the Sterner sisters: Alicia Sterner, Elizabeth Sterner and Karalyn Truba. The three nurses at Corewell Health’s William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak were selected to ride on the hospital group’s float in the Detroit parade.
The Macomb Township sisters were selected by Lamont Yoder, president of Corewell Health Southeast Michigan, to
“People don’t realize it takes money to run the parade because we have to pay the bands, and a lot of the other people in the parade get paid, which a lot of people didn’t know,” said Mount Clemens City Commissioner Barb Dempsey, a former Mount Clemens mayor. See PARADE on page 16A
Local veteran remembers unique Thanksgiving dinner in Egypt
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — Over three decades after it happened, Manny Gonzales still remembers what he describes as “my best Thanksgiving ever.”
And for the 64-year-old Sterling Heights resident and veteran, that occasion wasn’t a time when he was surrounded by family, a feast or a football game. It was while on assignment overseas as a sergeant first class in the U.S.
Army, and his meal options were far more limited.
At the time, around 31 years ago, Gonzales had been stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia, but was deployed to a training exercise in Egypt.
“Thanksgiving came, and we were supposed to have turkey, but we were waiting on a helicopter that was bringing in the fresh meat, stuffing and all the fixings,” Gonzales said. “But the helicopter had mechanical issues.”
He said this logistical snag greatly
disappointed the troops, who had been looking forward to good grub instead of MREs – meals ready to eat. As dinner time approached, they learned that the helicopter that was supposed to deliver supplies still hadn’t come and was likely going to be too late for Thanksgiving.
Gonzales said the mess sergeant on-site did the best with what he could do, but for the most part, supplies were scarce, and it was “chow time, but no
Thanksgiving while serving in Egypt over 30 years ago.
Manny Gonzales sits while in uniform somewhere in the Middle East during the Gulf War in the early 1990s. Gonzales, a Sterling Heights resident and U.S. Army veteran, shared a story about his
File photo by Deb Jacques Santa and Mrs. Claus are pulled through downtown Mount Clemens during a previous parade.
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.
CMPL HOSTING DECEMBER EVENTS
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — As the year winds down and holiday season kicks off, the ClintonMacomb 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.
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.
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 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 high-speed internet, computers, digital literacy materials, tutoring and mentoring. Human-I-T recycles unwanted computers to divert them from landfills by also providing lowcost computers, low-cost internet access, digital training and technology support.
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.
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 makeand-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.
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.
Photo provided by AT&T
Wendy Witmer, of AT&T, right, presents a laptop to student Chelsea Washington.
City Marine
Photo by: Lori Hannon
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
See PLAYGROUND on page 15A
Photo by Nick Powers
This photo shows the main structure of Clinton Township’s new inclusive playground, which will officially open next spring.
Trustees approve new master plan
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Nearly one year after the planning process began, the Harrison Township Board of Trustees approved and adopted the Resilient Harrison 2040 master plan.
Approved at the board’s Nov. 12 meeting, the final version of the plan came to the board after a public hearing led by the Planning Commission on Oct. 17 and input on several matters from Selfridge Air National Guard Base concerning finer points and future planning opportunities.
Gas station rezoning
On Nov. 12, a potential rezoning for a gas station was sent back to the Planning Commission for further review.
According to Treasurer Lawerance Tomenello, the owner of the 25450 N. River Road wanted to change the rezoning, originally requested from local commercial to general commercial, to a conditional rezoning.
“I would not recommend taking action, that we take action, because we need to un-
derstand what that conditional rezoning is,” Tomenello said.
As for how a conditional rezoning differs from a normal rezoning, township attorney Robert Huth offered a summary for trustees.
“It’s basically a contract with the township where they say, ‘If you give us this rezoning, we promise to do A, B and C,’” Huth said. “They didn’t used to have to make the A, B and C promise. As you look at it, you’ll see there’s more assurances that you’re getting what you pay for, so to speak.”
Sidewalk engineering
Trustees also approved paying engineering firm Wade Trim $9,600 for the engineering work on the township’s 2024 sidewalk replacements.
The overall project, estimated to cost around $112,500 and approved at a prior meeting, is to finish outstanding sidewalk repairs from 2023 and replace existing sidewalks and accessibility ramps. Work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
CRIME WATCH
Angry renter
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Nov. 8, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were contacted by the Valley Drive Apartments management about threats made by a resident.
On Oct. 8, a 42-year-old male resident entered the office and leaned over the desk. Management informed the resident that he owed rent. He disputed this and, according to the report, threatened to beat up the staff for messing with his money.
Management was in the process of evicting the man and wanted the report on file.
Violent driver
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At around 5:20 a.m. on Nov. 11, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the Shook Road area to locate a white 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe that at least two 911 callers said was driving erratically along Interstate 94.
Deputies found the Tahoe on Shook Road and approached the driver, a 42-yearold Detroit woman — who presented them with a fake ID — who reportedly showed signs of intoxication. Deputies had the driver perform field sobriety tests and a breath test came back with a 0.206 blood alcohol content.
The woman was taken to the Macomb County Jail, initially refusing to get out of the patrol car before being brought to a hospital for blood testing. The driver was reportedly violent with deputies at the jail and with hospital personnel, allegedly kicking a nurse and hospital security officer.
Car door inspector
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Nov. 11, a 62-year-old male resident in the 25000 block of South Maritime Circle called Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies
to his home to report a suspicious person caught on his doorbell camera.
The suspicious person was walking around 4:40 a.m. and tried opening the doors of the cars parked outside of the home. No damage was done. The doors were locked, and nothing was stolen from the cars.
Union Lake hot pursuit
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies performing speed enforcement in the early afternoon of Nov. 11 registered two cars — a gray Dodge Charger and a red Chrysler 300 — going over 60 mph in the 35 mph zone on Union Lake Road.
Deputies engaged lights and sirens on their patrol car, prompting the Chrysler to pull over while the Dodge continued speeding away. A chase was engaged onto I-94 and was terminated due to heavy traffic. While a plate number for the Chrysler was not obtained, the Dodge’s plate was connected to a Warren residence. The Dodge was entered as wanted for fleeing and eluding while information regarding the incident was sent to the Warren Police Department.
Gnome thief
MOUNT CLEMENS — Around 2:50 p.m. on Nov. 11, a 52-year-old woman residing in the 4000 block of Riverview Circle received a notification that her yard gnome was being stolen.
Camera footage showed a man taking a garden gnome and antique lantern off of her porch. The woman told Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies that she believed her 30-year-old neighbor was the culprit and was just interested in getting the decor back.
Deputies spoke with the neighbor’s dad, who recovered the items, before summoning the 30-year-old himself to the screen door. He told deputies that the items were found in the garbage but, once confronted with video footage, said he did not remember everything due to the medication he was taking.
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
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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. 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.
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 of
Photo by Nick Powers
See VETERANS on page 13A
County road projects announced for 2025
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MOUNT CLEMENS — As the Macomb County Department of Roads begins to fill its trucks with winter salt, department and county leadership announced a slate of construction projects for the coming year.
Unveiled at the roads department’s Mount Clemens headquarters on Nov. 7 were 34 projects totaling nearly $90 million pending approval by the Macomb County Board of Commissioners.
Projects noted by Macomb County Department of Roads Director Bryan Santo include the over $15 million reconstruction and rehabilitation of 10 Mile Road between Ryan Road and Lorraine Avenue in Center Line and Warren, the $8.3 million reconstruction of Garfield Road between 14 and 15 Mile roads in Fraser and the $16.5 million reconstruction See ROADS on page 14A
Pavement
Road
River Road
Road Dartmoor Drive Kingsway Drive
McKishnie Street
Vanker Avenue
Bonior Trail
Clinton River Spillway Trail
Jefferson Avenue Spillway
Schoenherr Road
Location
Sherwood Avenue to Lorraine Avenue
Ryan Road to Sherwood Avenue
Van Dyke Avenue to Hoover Road
Kelly Road to Gratiot Avenue
Mound Road to Utica Road
14 Mile Road to 15 Mile Road
I-94 to Bridgeview Street
21-1/2 Mile Road to 23 Mile Road
Hayes Road to Metropolitan Parkway
Countywide
Countywide
Over the Red Run Drain
Over the Plumbrook Drain
Over the Clinton River
Over the channel to Lake St. Clair
Over the Red Run Drain
Subdivision Road
Subdivision Road
Subdivision Road
Subdivision Road
Non-Motorized Pathway
Non-Motorized Pathway
Non-Motorized Pathway
Non-Motorized Pathway
Investment
$10,000,000
$5,662,873
$3,789,807
$3,836,057
$2,800,000
$8,300,000
$3,750,101
$16,500,000
$975,759
$3,000,000
$3,000,000
$477,000
$1,216,000
$1,393,000
$2,191,218
$1,909,000
$835,105
$894,754
$727,914
$1,004,011
$2,032,115
$728,635
$2,793,154
$600,000
Type of Work
Reconstruction
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation
Reconstruction
Rehabilitation
Reconstruction
Rehabilitation
Pavement Preservation
Pavement Preservation
Bridge Preventative Maintenance
Bridge Deck Replacement
Bridge Rehabilitation
Bridge
Projects shown are those in the C & G Newspapers coverage area. See the full list with the story
Partridge Creek welcomes new stores, preps for holiday season
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Mall at Partridge Creek has seen an uptick in activity in 2024 and is looking to keep the upward momentum going into 2025.
“It’s an exciting time at Partridge Creek,” said Melissa Morang, general manager of the mall. “We’ve had a flurry of leasing activity. A lot of new stores have opened this year alone, since the beginning of the year. It’s really great for our local community to have such a vibrant shopping center to shop at and bring their family. And we’re dog-friendly so, when I say family-friendly, I mean bring your dog as well.”
Spencer’s and Hollister have recently arrived at the mall. Other 2024 additions include HopCat, Kids Empire and Andiamo’s Pasta & Chops.
Hot Topic is slated to arrive in December and Kiki Café & Brunch will move in by the end of the year, according to Morang.
One significant exit at Partridge Creek was Bobcat Bonnie’s, which came to the mall in 2020 and closed its doors Aug. 25.
Morang said, though she didn’t know the precise number, that only a few available spots remain at the mall.
Partridge Creek has some new tenants outside of the typical retail stores. One of the most significant is Powerhouse Gym, which is moving into the former Carson’s space. Morang said the location will be the largest in the United States.
“It will be state of the art,” Morang said of the gym. “We’re excited for that to open in 2025.”
Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon said the mall has done a lot to attract “quality” tenants.
“They’ve done a great job since they’ve been there,” Cannon said.
House of Sport, an offshoot of Dick’s Sporting Goods, was slated to arrive at the mall in the former Nordstrom space. In July, Cannon commented on the proposed tenant but said the final contracts were not in place.
“There’s no update at this time,” Morang said of the space. “Our leasing team is diligently working on getting that space leased, but there’s no update at this time.”
Powerline
page 1A
the hospital spoke strongly in favor of the proposed line. Shanna Johnson, president of Henry Ford Macomb, said that the hospital 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 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
Photos by Nick Powers
LEFT: 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.
Kiwanis Club takes over Wreaths Across America ceremony
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — This year’s Wreaths Across America ceremony will be held at noon on Dec. 14 at Resurrection Cemetery.
The Kiwanis Club of Clinton Township took the event over from the previous organizers, who helmed it for 12 years. Kerry Jantz, a board member with the Kiwanis Club, said the event is the second largest in the state behind Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.
“This is going to be a rebuilding year for us,” Jantz said. “We didn’t do all of this before, so we don’t know all the ropes. We’ll make it work”
Jantz said the club has been working with the previous organizers to continue the event.
“I knew them, and I had talked to them a few times,” Jantz said. “I said, ‘We can’t let this die. It’s a great event.’”
Jantz said the event involves an approximately 45-minute ceremony with a keynote speaker. Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon is the master of ceremonies for the event. Organizers have reached out to U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, to be this year’s keynote speaker, but haven’t received confirmation yet. Students will lay wreaths on predetermined graves of veterans in the cemetery.
The Kiwanis Club raises funds and receives donations in order to purchase the wreaths for the ceremony, according to Jantz. The wreaths are $17 each. Jantz said Mission BBQ is one of the businesses that raises funds for the event.
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. It started privately in 1992 by Maine-based Worcester Wreath Company and expanded in 2005, according to the organization’s website.
“We remember our veterans for the price they paid,” Jantz said. “We honor them and then we try to teach the younger generation that freedom isn’t free.”
Resurrection Cemetery is located at 18201 Clinton River Road.
Veterans
from page 9A
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
For Christmas, the mall will offer shoppers a few additional options. See’s Candies will open for the holiday season only, according to Morang. The tree lighting will be Nov. 17. Santa will help out with the event and be available the following day for any Christmas requests. Time with Santa can be booked at shoppartridgecreek.com.
“We have a lot going on in November/ December,” Morang said. “Very, very excited to go into the holiday season with so many new stores that have opened and restaurants.”
Nearby Lakeside Mall, which opened in
— Nick Powers
group that wants all Americans dead 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.
1976, closed its doors July 1. According to a C & G Newspapers article, the space will transition into a mixed-use district including multiple neighborhoods.
Cannon said once the Lakeside site takes shape, it’ll only help Partridge Creek with the developments complementing one another.
“The fact that Lakeside closed helped Partridge temporarily,” Cannon said. “Long term, I think when Lakeside and Sterling Heights get their mall back together — I think it’s going to take a long time — it will only help Partridge Creek.”
Morang said Partridge Creek’s open-air mall is unique in the industry.
“It’s so different than anything in the market, so it’s really an exciting space to be in right now,” Moran said.
Roads
and widening of Romeo Plank Road between 21-and-a-half and 23 Mile roads in Macomb Township.
Santo gave special notice to the department’s bridge program, which is planned to tackle 10 projects next year.
“Through strategic investments capitalizing on state funding programs, we’ve made significant progress on our bridges,” Santo said. “As of today, out of the 225 bridges we have, we have 201, or 89%, that are in ‘good’ and ‘fair’ condition. We have 13, or 6%, that are in ‘poor’ condition. We have 11, or 5%, that are in ‘critical’ or ‘serious’ condition. Of the 11 ‘critical’ or ‘serious’ bridges under our jurisdiction, we have secured funding to replace five of those within the next two years. As far as the 13 ‘poor’ rated bridges, we have funding to replace or rehabilitate five of those within the next two years, also.”
Serving as both an update on the state of the township’s roads and an announcement of the 2025 projects, Santo’s remarks highlighted 2024 projects like the completion of the Innovate Mound reconstruction through Sterling Heights and Warren and the Garfield Road extension between 23 and 25 Mile roads in Macomb Township.
Deputy Macomb County Executive John Paul Rea addressed how the county decides which road projects it will take on.
“Our team is programming hundreds of millions of dollars annually in every corner of Macomb County, and this is not done in a bubble,” Rea said. “This is done in a dynamic ecosystem which engages our community leaders, local neighborhood associations, road builders, state transportation experts and what it has yielded is seven-dozen primary local road projects that are currently being facilitated right now.”
Where county officials spent much of their
focus, particularly in the beginning of the conference, was to call upon Michigan legislators to revise the state’s roadway funding mechanisms.
“Right now, the biggest challenge we are having is with funding and it will continue to be the challenge,” Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said. “There isn’t a road or a bridge we can’t fix if we have the funding. I’ve always said this, and I continue to say it: It’s not about fixing the damn roads or fixing the damn bridges, it’s about fixing the damn funding.”
Hackel’s complaints over road funding point at Public Act 51, which established the formula of allocating funds collected by the state through registration fees and fuel taxes to county road departments, as well as the limited funding sources for roads. A list of possible ways to generate more funds — such as creating an electric vehicle-specific tax, establishing toll roads or implementing road usage charges — was included in Hackel’s segment of the presentation, but the county executive noted the issue could only be handled by the Michigan Legislature.
“Until such time where the Legislature picks one of these (funding solutions) or multiple or a combination of them, we’re going to be stuck with this deficiency in funding and we’ll get further and further behind when it comes to our roads,” Hackel said.
The county is pursuing federal funding for projects alongside using its state allocations. Several projects targeted for potential federal funds include Mound Road south of Interstate 696 and the bridge along 16 Mile Road that crosses railways between Van Dyke Avenue and Mound Road.
Rea claimed that with the current funding, it would take 30 years to fix roads in their current state and that there is a $2.5 billion deficiency between what the county is getting and what it would need to address countywide road projects.
For more information about Macomb County roads, visit www.macombgov.org/ departments/department-roads.
chow.” So Gonzales went back to his tent, where he at least had a personal stash of snacks.
But at around 10 p.m. that night, Gonzales heard a helicopter, and shortly after, he heard a knock on his tent. A chaplain came in and announced that he was delivering some food.
“Me and my lieutenant were in the tent, and I was already in my sleeping bag,” Gonzales explained.
“(The chaplain) brings over a little package of roast beef, enough for a sandwich. So when he brought that package of meat and he gave us two slices of Kraft individual sliced cheese that the helicopter brought in, we had, for us, the freshest piece of meat that we’ve had in a while.
“And we were so grateful to have this food, and it was still Thanksgiving night.”
Gonzales said he still remembers the lesson that taught him about gratitude, and he encourages people to think about and pray for the members of the armed forces who are currently serving overseas.
“It was nice that somebody thought of us,” he said.
Gonzales’ wife of 43 years, Maria, said that when she first heard the story of her husband’s Thanksgiving in Egypt, she was happy that it ended well, though she was sad that he had to wait so long for his meal.
Maria explained that when Manny was on active duty, the couple would frequently invite soldiers from Manny’s company to their home on Thanksgiving if they were unable to spend the holiday with their own families.
According to Maria, this too resulted in some memorable stories.
“My first Thanksgiving with the single soldiers, I made a pumpkin pie,” she said. “And I didn’t know at that time that you don’t put a crust on (top of) a pumpkin pie.”
Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.
•
•
Playground
from page 6A
up, were chosen to accommodate children with cochlear implants. 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 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.”
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
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Parade
from page 3A
Around October 2006, the hospital said it no longer had the sponsorship support to run the parade. In the wake of that announcement, then-mayor Dempsey and other community organizations and leaders worked to make sure that something — anything — would be there to usher in St. Nick.
“We launched a big ‘Save the Parade’ (campaign),” Dempsey said. “The papers got involved and the Lions Club and Kiwanis. Everybody chipped in so we could save the parade.”
Over $15,000 was pledged to an adhoc private committee led by Dempsey and a meeting with the hospital was secured.
“They basically took us to their storage unit and said, ‘You can have the sled. We’re going to give you all the paperwork,’ and they just kind of handed it over to us,” Dempsey said. “There was no sitting down and going through how this works. ‘We can’t do it any longer. Here’s everything.’”
By the end of November, the committee had a parade. They were able to raise the funds and found the necessary people to make it happen, eventually running the parade as part of the Mount Clemens Foundation for nearly two more decades. In the late 2010s, the parade date was moved from the day after Thanksgiving to the Saturday after, a change in tradition Dempsey said was done to make it easier to book bands and allow the parade organizers a chance to enjoy Thanksgiving with their families.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to the 2020 parade being canceled, but that coincided with another change in organization.
“At that time the parade committee met we all decided it was time to pass the baton,” Dempsey said. “We were doing it for a number of years. People were getting burnt out … They couldn’t have Thanksgiving with their families because we were working putting the parade together.”
The post-2006 committee was disbanded in March 2020 and a new committee, led by longtime supporter Michelle Weiss and parade emcee Patrick Linabury, was formed. The Mount Clemens Parade Company 501(c)(3) held its first parade in 2021.
Linabury, who has been involved with the parade since 2006, said changes that have come to the parade since the new company took over have been mostly behind the scenes.
“We are doing more online work,” Linabury said. “We are able to organize online through a program called Parade Cloud, which has really cut down the amount of work that we’ve had to do as far as meetings and other things. That’s been a huge burden off of a lot of people’s shoulders. It’s a lot easier to put together now.”
Planning the parade is a yearlong process with monthly meetings and two fundraisers: Christmas in July and the Nightmare Before Christmas Pub Crawl. Meetings begin in January and increase as November draws closer. Sponsorships are secured during this time as well with various funding tiers and other opportunities, such as sponsoring breakfast for volunteers or the main stage. The Mount Clemens Lions Club was the presenting sponsor for 2024.
As important as funding is for making the parade happen, maintaining organizational efficiency is the most important part of managing the parade for Linabury.
“We have really good people who care about what we’re doing,” Linabury said.
“We’re organized now. We’re able to do things faster and more efficiently, really get a hold of our volunteers faster and more efficiently and know what we need as far as that stuff goes. Those are the kind of things that make you nervous, thinking you don’t have enough help, and then you realize we’re 85% there before we even start. We just have to reach out to our folks and make sure everybody is on board.”
Finding volunteers has been a challenge. Numerous roles from costumed characters to backstage personnel are open for volunteers, but the issue comes to finding people willing to fill the roles. Erik Rick, now a Mount Clemens city commissioner, came to the parade committee after having gained relevant experience in the U.S. Navy.
“Part of what I would do is direct amphibious landings,” Rick said. “You’ve got to make sure that the right landing craft reach the beach at the right time in the right order, and you also have to plan all that stuff out in a complicated spreadsheet. While (the parade) is not the same as putting Marines on the beach, it’s getting the right things in the right order in the right place at the right time, and Patrick knew I had the skillset that sort of matched.”
Rick, for his part, finds the parade a lit-
tle more difficult than conducting landings, though herding Marines is not a necessary skill all volunteers must have.
“We’re looking for anyone who is willing to lend a hand,” Rick said. “We’re really going to be able to find a place for people with whatever their skillsets and interests are. We’ve got volunteers that run a full range of ages … There’s no max age. If you’re willing to lend a hand, we’d love to have you help.”
And for all the work that goes into making the Mount Clemens Santa Parade happen, volunteers and organizers find their way to help with the parade because keeping the tradition alive is important to them, as well as to the many people who line Main Street year after year.
“It’s a tradition,” Dempsey said. “Mount Clemens is an older community, and I think we don’t have a lot of continuous traditions in town, and this is one that started back in ’75 and it’s still here today in 2024. I think that says a lot for the community. It’s a joy to go down the street and see all the kids, and for them to see Santa come. It’s so nice to see a tradition continuing and I would hope it would continue.”
More information about the parade and how to volunteer for it can be found at mountclemenssantaparade.com.
from page 1A
along the way he had made mistakes and said public service jobs can be tough.
“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 testament 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.
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Powerline
from page 12A
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 obviously 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 pro-
cess 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 project. 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
PUBLIC NOTICE
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024 AT 7:00 P.M. IN ROSSO MEMORIAL HALL, 38255 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING AN APPEAL BY: CASE #09-24-ZBA: Detroit Architectural Group – Property #17-12-06-100-004
Property #17-12-06-100-005
Property #17-12-06-100-008
Property #17-12-06-100-012
Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (GC)
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Requesting a variance from Article IV, Section 4.01(A)(B), to omit the nautical theme requirement and propose alternative exterior building materials.
BY REASON OF: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances
Article IV, Section 4.01 Exterior facing materials and building design.
Notice is further given that the Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Board of Appeals may modify or change the variance(s) as requested, including granting of variance(s) for said purpose, which may create another and different variance(s) from the requirements of the above cited Charter Township of Harrison ordinance, all within its discretion and as otherwise permitted by law. Any interested person(s) may appear or be represented at said meeting.
Additional information or comments, written or oral, will be received at the Harrison Township Offces, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd, Harrison Twp., MI, 48045 (586-466-1461) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.
Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email pc-zba@harrison-township.org if auxiliary aids or services are needed. Published: Journal 11/25/2024
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.
NOTICE
To the residents of the Charter Township of Harrison, County of Macomb, Michigan. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clerk’s Offce for the Charter Township of Harrison will post, for public inspection, the Agenda for Township Board Meetings and a Synopsis of the approved Meeting Minutes at the Clerk’s Offce located at 38151 L’Anse Creuse Road, and to the Rosso Hall bulletin board located at 38255 L’Anse Creuse Rd. The Agenda and a full text of the Minutes will be available on the Township Website, www.harrisontownshipmi.gov and, upon request from the Clerk’s Offce.
Adam Wit, MMC, MiPMC, Clerk Charter Township of Harrison Published: Journal 11/25/2024
Summary of Proposed Harrison Township Budgets Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2025 Tax Levy: 8.7000 Charter mills operation
join him in the parade after hearing about how the trio became interested in nursing.
“We met with him, and he presented this opportunity to us,” Karalyn said. “He said it would be his first time walking in the parade and he would love for us to walk by him and be by his side during it. He asked us if we would be interested in it, and we were all very ecstatic and said … we would absolutely enjoy doing that.”
The Sterner sisters first became interested in nursing after living through the cancer diagnosis and care of their mother, Kimberly Sterner.
“My mom was a very outgoing person,” Alicia said. “She had a very joyful personality and every room that she walked into she would light up. Everyone enjoyed her presence. She was just so welcoming and so nice to everyone.”
A kindergarten teacher by trade, Kimberly was diagnosed with cancer of the appendix and, despite treatment, died on Sept. 11, 2010. Karalyn was 11 years old while Elizabeth and Alicia were 10 at the time.
Through the trauma of their mother’s
cancer ordeal, the three sisters found a calling in nursing.
“At first I always thought (about becoming a) teacher for sure for me, when I was young,” Karalyn said. “I think looking at my mom and seeing her work with kids, it made me want to do that. After taking care of her and helping her, I think (I decided) there would be no better spot for me than to help people and work as a nurse as my career and I have been that way ever since. I don’t see myself doing anything else. I don’t have a passion for anything else. Nursing is the place where I need to be.”
The Sterner sisters did many things together throughout their lives, and college was no exception. They went through the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine and later found positions at Corewell Health’s Royal Oak hospital. Karalyn works as a psychiatric nurse. Elizabeth works in the ICU with a focus on cardiovascular-specific issues. Alicia is a rehabilitation nurse and may look into pediatric nursing in the future.
Corewell Health has chosen the theme of “Together We Can” for its parade float. Elizabeth believes this theme has a lot to say about her and her sisters’ journey.
“The ‘Together We Can’ motto shows
that even when you are at what you think would be your worst, even finding a small light in someone else or a community, you can do all things,” Elizabeth said. “If you find that one light at the end of the tunnel, you and the other persons can make it out. I think I find that in my sisters. There have been plenty of times, whether it be at my job or my home or anywhere out in the world, I look to my sisters to support me and they
Editor: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 | brianlouwers@candgnews.com
Reporter: Dean Vaglia | (586) 498-1043 | dvaglia@candgnews.com
Nick Powers | (586) 498-1059 | npowers@candgnews.com
Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
say ‘We can do this, you’re not alone’ and it makes me feel that I can do all things when I have them.”
Alicia, Elizabeth and Karalyn will join Yoder on Corewell Health’s America’s Thanksgiving Parade float as it travels down Woodward Avenue in Detroit on Thursday, Nov. 28. The parade will be broadcast on WDIV-TV Channel 4 from 10 a.m. to noon.
For retail ad rates: Dave Rubello | (586) 489-8117 | drubello@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com
Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100 Legals and Obits:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024 AT 7:00 P.M. IN ROSSO MEMORIAL HALL, 38255 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING AN APPEAL BY: CASE #08-24-ZBA: Rhonda Bell-Malnar – 38008 Huron Pointe Property #17-12-22-352-016 Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (R1-C)
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Requesting an allowable rear yard setback determination. BY REASON OF: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances Article 5, Section 5.04 (D, 5) – Decks and patios Article 16, Section 16.01 (N, 2, B) – Nonconforming lots, uses, and structures
Notice is further given that the Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Board of Appeals may modify or change the variance(s) as requested, including granting of variance(s) for said purpose, which may create another and different variance(s) from the requirements of the above cited Charter Township of Harrison ordinance, all within its discretion and as otherwise permitted by law. Any interested person(s) may appear or be represented at said meeting.
Additional information or comments, written or oral, will be received at the Harrison Township Offces, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd, Harrison Twp., MI, 48045 (586-466-1461) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email pc-zba@harrison-township.org if auxiliary aids or services are needed.
Published: Journal 11/25/2024
PUBLIC NOTICE
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024 AT 7:00 P.M. IN ROSSO MEMORIAL HALL, 38255 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING AN APPEAL BY: CASE #07-24-ZBA: David Drozdowski – 39430 Venetian Property #17-12-15-351-013 Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (R1-C)
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Requesting a .52’ side yard setback variance from Article 16, Section 16.01, and a 5.6% impervious surface variance from Article 14, Section 14.09, for an addition to the house. BY REASON OF: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances Article 14, Section 14.09 – R1-C Article 16, Section 16.01 – Nonconforming lots, uses, and structures
Notice is further given that the Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Board of Appeals may modify or change the variance(s) as requested, including granting of variance(s) for said purpose, which may create another and different variance(s) from the requirements of the above cited Charter Township of Harrison ordinance, all within its discretion and as otherwise permitted by law. Any interested person(s) may appear or be represented at said meeting.
Additional information or comments, written or oral, will be received at the Harrison Township Offces, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd, Harrison Twp., MI, 48045 (586-466-1461) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.
Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email pc-zba@harrison-township.org if auxiliary aids or services are needed.
Published: Journal 11/25/2024
0109-2448
Photo provided by Corewell Health
Sisters Alicia, Elizabeth and Karalyn Sterner pose for a photo. The trio will be part of Corewell Health’s float in America’s Thanksgiving Parade.
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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
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.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
DEC. 6-8
‘The Nutcracker’: Performance by Macomb Ballet Company, 7 p.m. Dec. 6, 1 and 7 p.m. Dec. 7, and noon and 5 p.m. Dec. 8, Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
DEC. 7
Christmas Aglow: Santa visit, seasonal music, holiday lights trail and refreshments, 6 p.m., Clinton Township Civic Center, 40700 Romeo Plank Road, free but nonperishable food donations appreciated, (586) 286-9336, f.pizzo@clintontownship.com, clintontownship.com/237/christmas-aglow
Cookie walk: Hosted by and benefitting Friends of Harrison Township Public Library, noon-3 p.m., 38255 L’Anse Creuse (Suite A), (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
‘The Nutcracker’ Tea: Treats from Land of Sweets, lunch, storytime, craft, and photos and autographs with Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy and more, 11 a.m., Lorenzo Cultural Center on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, lorenzoculturalcenter.com
Holiday Homes Tour: Presented by Mount Clemens Historical Commission, visit five decorated historic houses in city, 2-hour tours depart every 30 minutes from 1-4:30 p.m., meet at Crocker House Museum & Gardens, 15 Union St., contact Nick at (586) 372-9044 or nick@nickd.realty, search title at eventbrite.com
Learn about portraitist John Singer Sargent: 10 a.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, registration required, (586) 226-5073, cmpl.libnet.info/events
DEC. 12
Trivia Night: Also pizza, salad and pop, sign up as team of six or be paired with other individuals, 6:30 p.m., Total Sports, 40501 Production Drive in Harrison Township, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
DEC. 14
Winter concert: Hear holiday favorites performed by Lakeshore Ukulele Strummers, 3 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse (Suite A), registration encouraged, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
‘Christmas in the Air’: Broadway-style song and dance revue featuring festive storylines and holiday classics, 7:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
DEC. 15
‘Bach to the Holiday Movies’: Performance by Macomb Symphony Orchestra, 3 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
Cookie walk: Also candy available, noon-3 p.m., Grace Episcopal Church, 115 S. Main St. in Mount Clemens, (586) 465-4573
DEC. 21
‘Holiday Hits Then & Now’: Performance by PRISM Chorus, 8 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
DEC. 22
Christmas concert: Performance by Detroit Concert Choir, 3-4:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community CollegeCenter Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
ONGOING
Holiday Market: Featuring nearly 100 Michigan artisans, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursdays until Dec. 22 (except Nov. 27-28), Anton Art Cen-
should appear online within 2 hours, and will appear in print as space permits. There’s no limit as to how many you can submit.
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
a convenience
ter, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org/holiday-market, (586) 469-8666
Santa photos: Select dates and times until Dec. 24, also bring dogs Dec. 2-8, Cabin at the Creek at The Mall at Partridge Creek, 17420 Hall Road in Clinton Township, reservations encouraged for people and required for pets, shoppartridgecreek.com
Medicare open enrollment assistance: Hosted by Macomb County Office of Senior Services, meet with trained counselor by appointment, 9 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays until Dec. 7, Verkuilen Building, 21885 Dunham Road, Suite 6, in Clinton Township, (586) 469-5228
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 10:30 a.m. every second Monday of month, Big Boy, 16880 Hall Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Gerry at (586) 556-9471
• 10 a.m. every third Friday of month, The Pantry, 44945 Morley Drive in Clinton Township, RSVP to Loree at (810) 335-2096
Social groups: Find meetups for yoga, chess, knitting and crocheting, anime, teens, book clubs, Lego and more, Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse St. (Suite A), (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
Men overcoming loss of partner/spouse: Meetings 6-7:30 p.m. every third Tuesday of month, virtual and in person, Hospice of Michigan, 39531 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, wlawton@hom.org, (586) 263-8514
Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS): Weight-loss group for ages 7 and older, includes education, ideas, recipes, accountability, support and prizes, meetings at 6 p.m. (confidential weigh-ins at 5:30 p.m.) every Tuesday,
