County road projects announced for 2025/16A
Odor relief to come ‘home’ to Sterling neighborhood
NEW BIOFILTER SETUP TO RESEMBLE A HOUSE
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — A new-and-improved biofilter facility will soon make itself home in Sterling Heights to help take the stink out of sewer gas.
According to the Macomb County Public Works Office, the area of Dodge Park Road and Sorrento Boulevard, which is south of 17 Mile Road, has had problems with sewer odors.
In a Public Works Office YouTube video, Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller explained that the area has existing underground-related infrastructure, such as pumps. She explained how odor complaints are still happening, especially during the summer.
See BIOFILTER on page 14A
High school girls basketball players to watch in metro Detroit SPORTS
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The high school girls basketball season is right around the corner, and there’s a lot of talent coming out of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County.
The first games of the season are scheduled to take place after Dec. 2, and there’s plenty of high-level talent expected to make a name for themselves this season.
Below are players to watch in the C & G Newspapers coverage area.
Senior Guard Maddy Benard, Grosse Pointe South
If she isn’t already, Benard should easily be on everyone’s watchlist for Miss Basketball honors.
The 5-foot-9, ball-dominant guard was nearly untouchable last season, averaging 18.2 points and 4.6 steals per game en route to all-League and first team all-State honors as a junior.
Every opposing defense knew the game plan going into a matchup against South was to stop Benard, but they quickly found out it’s a lot easier said than done.
Benard is an elite-level shot creator, gaining separation from her defenders with an array of dynamic dribble moves.
Even when a defender or two is in her face, Benard’s quick release on her jump shot makes her nearly impossible to guard.
She embraces contact and displays that level of physicality on the defensive end, making her one of the better two-way guards
See BASKETBALL on page 6A
Existing underground-related infrastructure sits at the corner of Dodge Park Road and Sorrento Boulevard in Sterling Heights, where there have been complaints about sewer odors.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Utica Ford senior Anayya Davis puts up a shot during a team practice last season.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
VELOCITY CELEBRATES PITCH CONTEST WINNERS, BUSINESS BOOT CAMP GRADS
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — Velocity, the Sterling Heightsbased business incubator, recently sent kudos to local businesspeople who got involved in two programs that promote entrepreneurship.
On Oct. 28, Velocity announced the top three winners of its first-ever 3X3 Pitch Competition. Small businesses who entered the contest shared their success stories within three minutes on how they successfully overcame business hardships posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Velocity Executive Director Paula Macpherson praised the
contest’s winners.
“Their stories of determination and innovation are not only inspiring but also energize our entire entrepreneurial community,” she said in a statement.
“At Velocity, we remain dedicated to nurturing small businesses and providing the essential resources and programming needed for local entrepreneurs to thrive.”
The first-place winner was Sherman’s Tennessee Hot Crackers, from St. Clair Shores, which won $5,000. The company sells spicy snacks.
In a statement, company co-owner and marketing director
Roseville woman dies after Utica Road crash
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — Sterling Heights police are alerting the public about a fatal accident that reportedly occurred along Utica Road, by Forester Street, not far from Hayes Road, Nov. 9.
According to police, two vehicles collided in that area at approximately 4:15 p.m. Upon further investigation, police concluded that a “light blue hatchback style vehicle” had been headed westward along Utica Road when it allegedly crossed over the center line into oncoming traffic, hitting an eastbound black SUV head-on.
Police and fire rescuers were called to help the vehicles’ occupants. The people inside the SUV suffered minor injuries but were able to be released, police said. However, the sole person in the hatchback – a 75-year-old Roseville woman – was fatally injured, officers added.
“Alcohol and/or drugs do not seem to be a contributing factor at this time,” a statement from the Sterling Heights Police Department said.
According to SHPD Lt. Aaron Susalla, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. He said that, based on what officers are seeing, they aren’t suspecting that any speeding issues were involved in the crash. Susalla described the accident as “an anomaly,” and he said police haven’t seen any rise in accidents in that area.
“The driver of the hatchback, she was 75, so a medical issue is not out of the question at this point,” Susalla said. “But we won’t know all of this and more until an autopsy is completed.”
Anyone who has further relevant information pertaining to this crash is encouraged to contact the SHPD’s Traffic Safety Bureau by calling (586) 446-2920.
Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.
Winners of the 3X3 Pitch Competition, held by the Velocity business incubator in Sterling Heights, hold up their awards. Photo provided by Velocity
NEWS & NOTES
ANIMALS GOTTA EAT TOO
Just in time for Thanksgiving, the Sterling Heights Nature Center, 42700 Utica Road, is inviting kids ages 6-15 to an 11 a.m. Nov. 27 Animal Feast event. The event will give attendees a chance to better understand food chains, and they can witness a snake chow down.
Admission costs $5 per resident or $8 per nonresident – a nonregistered adult must accompany children. Learn how to RSVP by visiting bit. ly/4emeqDV or by visiting registration.sterlingheights.gov and clicking on the “Nature Center” button, followed by the “Nature Activities” tab.
Offices to close for Thanksgiving
Multiple Sterling Heights municipal buildings will close Nov. 28-29 for Thanksgiving, with reopenings scheduled for Dec. 2. Those buildings include City Hall, the library, the Department of Public Works building, the 41-A District Court, and the community, nature, senior and recycling centers. In addition, trash pickup will face a one-day delay: normal Thursday pickup will happen Friday, and normal Friday pickup will happen Saturday. See the city calendar at sterlingheights.gov, or learn more by calling (586) 446-2489.
Correction:
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.
SHPD to get chance to renew accreditation
Representatives of the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission were expected to visit the Sterling Heights Police Department Nov. 19 to conduct interviews and review the Police Department’s protocols.
The SHPD got that organization’s accreditation in 2021, and if the group still likes what it sees, the police will be freshly reaccredited for three more years. In a statement, SHPD Chief Dale Dwojakowski said reaccreditation is “a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence.”
“Accreditation results in greater accountability, within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs,” Dwojakowski said.
Learn more about the SHPD by visiting sterlingheights.gov and typing “Police Department” in the search bar, or by calling (586) 446-2800.
CITY TO HOST TENNIS TOURNAMENT
The Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation Department is inviting youth ages 5-18 to participate in a “fun low-pressure, community-based” tennis tournament Nov. 30 at the Sterling Heights Community Center, 40250 Dodge Park Road. Doubles teams will play between three and five nonelimination matches versus other similarly skilled players.
While online registration was scheduled to end Nov. 21, the event description says late registration in person might be possible with the coach’s OK. Learn more about admission fees and registration by visiting bit. ly/3LsQovs, or by visiting registration. sterlingheights.gov and clicking on the “Special Events” button followed by the “Thanksgiving Tennis Tournament” tab. Send further questions via email to the coach at chipfazio@gmail.com.
City to hold baking event for teens
Youth ages 12-17 are invited to learn “Baking Basics” to make goodies at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Teen Room in the Sterling Heights Community Center, 40250 Dodge Park Road.
Admission costs $10 per resident or $14 per nonresident. Participants must register in advance. RSVP by visiting registration.sterlingheights.gov and clicking on the “Teen Recreation” button and then the “Instructional Classes” tab, or call (586) 446-2700.
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UCS DIRECTOR
WINS 2024 GERRI ALLEN SCHOOL COMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Tim McA-
voy, Utica Community Schools director of school and community relations, has added another award of recognition during his 14 years with Utica Community Schools.
The Michigan School Public Relations Association has awarded McAvoy with the 2024 Gerri Allen School Communicator of the Year Award.
McAvoy said this award wouldn’t happen without the district, and he said it’s a privilege to tell the story of UCS every day.
“Receiving this recognition from an organization such as MSPRA is a true honor,” he said.
Robert S. Monroe, Utica Community Schools Superintendent, said the district has
Basketball
in the state.
Benard recently announced her commitment to playing collegiate basketball for Wayne State University.
The Blue Devils will hope to get things back on track this season after finishing 1212 and fourth in the Macomb Area Conference Red.
Senior Guard Anayya Davis, Utica Ford
A true leader on the court for the Falcons, Davis is a do-it-all kind of player.
Standing at 5-foot-11, Davis is a matchup nightmare for the majority of the MAC, dominating the boards while averaging nearly a double-double last season.
The Grand Valley State University commit averaged 18.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the perimeter.
Davis earned first team all-State honors, MAC White MVP, and all-County Player of the Year honors after leading Ford to a 16-7 record and a MAC White league title.
When you watch her on the floor, she’s a guard that almost resembles a stretch forward with the way she can take over the interior, spread the floor, and shoot.
Ford has plenty of playmakers returning alongside Davis, which they will need since they’re ascending to the MAC Red this season.
Davis could be another local player that may easily find herself in the Miss Basketball watchlist.
Junior Guard Gabby Brooks-Foster, Macomb Dakota
When you look at the talent Dakota had on their squad last season, it speaks volumes that Brooks-Foster was able to have such an impact as a sophomore.
The returning all-League and second team all-County guard formed one of the top backcourts in the league alongside first team all-Stater Samone Andrews, a 2024 graduate.
Brooks-Foster would score when needed, but she made a living being the guard who could create opportunities for her teammates and be strong on the defensive end.
Now with an array of seniors now graduated, the Cougars will rely on her to display more of her offensive game as well.
That won’t be a problem for the sophomore standout. If anything, showcasing her full offensive talent will only make her an allState candidate this season to go along with her defense and playmaking ability.
Dakota is coming off a MAC Red title and trip to the regional championship, and with Brooks-Foster at the helm, the expectation should be the same.
Senior Guard Tamerah Peterson, Sterling Heights Parkway Christian
She was one of the most dynamic players in the state last year, and people are starting to notice.
Leading Parkway Christian to a 15-6 record and its first district championship since 2017, Peterson earned all-County and all-State honors last season after putting on a clinic from both sides of the court.
Peterson is an elite-level defender with a skill for swiping the ball away from an opposing guard or reading a pass and taking it away for an easy transition layup.
At one point in the season, Peterson was averaging nine steals a game for the Eagles.
On the offensive end, Peterson can score from every level as an efficient perimeter shooter and someone who is quick on the drive.
Expect Parkway Christian to make another run at a district championship with Peterson back on the floor.
Junior Guard Sheridan Beal, West Bloomfield
There’s nothing more important for an incoming underclassman at the varsity level than guidance, and Beal has had plenty of that during her two seasons.
West Bloomfield head coach Darrin McAllister described Beal last season as a “sponge,” soaking up all the knowledge and lessons from watching a loaded senior group consisting of Division 1 basketball players last season.
With Indya and Summer Davis (University of Georgia), Destiny Washington, and Kendall Hendrix (Loyola University Chicago) all graduated, the Lakers will lean on Beal to continue West Bloomfield’s success.
In her two seasons, Beal has been a part of two state finals trips, starting in last season’s state championship win over Grand Blanc.
Beal played 22 minutes and contributed 3 points, three rebounds, and an assist as West Bloomfield dominated in a 60-30 win, but Beal was undoubtedly one of the core reasons the Lakers made it in the first place.
Throughout the season, Beal made big shot after big shot, helping West Bloomfield hold a 27-1 record on the season.
She’s a physical guard that can score from anywhere on the court and isn’t afraid to draw contact.
Basketball
from page 6A
Do not be surprised if West Bloomfield continues to be successful on the shoulders of Beal, who has all-State caliber talent.
Sophomore Guard Cecelia Arico, Detroit Country Day
It was just last season when Arico was helping the Yellowjackets earn a 19-6 record and a district championship, but now a year later she’s regarded as one of the top players not just in the class of 2027 but in the state.
A dynamic scorer from all three levels, Arico has a smooth jump shot that is deadly from the perimeter, but just when you go to defend it, she gets you on the pump fake and blows right past you for a layup.
She’s quick on her feet and embraces contact on the drive, making her one of the tougher scorers to guard.
varsity, and she’s only going to become more dominant as her high school career continues.
An all-State honoree last season, the 5-foot-11 guard is already drawing Division 1 basketball interest from the University of South Carolina, Southern Methodist University, and Marquette University,
Other players to watch:
Sr. Aizlyn Albanese, Farmington Hills Mercy
Soph. Allie Crighton, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s
Soph. Layla Stewart, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s
Soph. Gracyn Carrier, Chippewa Valley
Sr. Alice Max, Rochester
Sr. Molly McLeod, Bloomfield Hills Marian
Jr. Diamond Prince, Troy
Jr. Eva Borowski, Grosse Pointe North
Sr. CaSaundra Smith, Warren Fitzgerald
Sr. Kaylynn Millander, Warren Fiztgerald
Jr. Brynn Norbeck, Fraser
Arico averaged 16 points and nine rebounds in her first year on
Jr. Alaynah Quinn, Fraser
File photo by Erin Sanchez
Macomb Dakota junior Gabby Brooks-Foster fights for the ball during a game last season.
Shelby Township man facing charges for alleged attack of elderly man
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — A 31-year-old man from Shelby Township is facing charges for allegedly attacking an elderly man.
On Tuesday, Nov. 12, Defrim Lazaj, 31, of Shelby Township, allegedly followed a 76-year-old man who was on his daily walk on Riverland Drive in Sterling Heights. Lazaj allegedly followed the man for several miles before attacking him from behind, punching him in the head and face multiple times, according to a press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
According to the press release, “several good Samaritans intervened, causing Lazaj to flee.”
Dawn Fraylick, communications director for the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, said in an email that the attack is believed to have been random. She said the victim was taken to the hospital, but she did not know his current condition.
Lazaj was reportedly apprehended by Sterling Heights police. He is facing charges of assault with intent to murder, a lifelong felony, and assault with a dangerous weapon, a fouryear felony. He was arraigned Nov. 13 by Magistrate Michael Piatek in the 41-A District Court.
Piatek gave Lazaj a $500,000 cash/surety bond. If released, he is required to wear a GPS tether and have no contact with the victim, the Prosecutor’s Office said.
“Our senior citizens deserve to feel safe and secure in their communities, and attacks like this are absolutely intolerable,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said in a statement.
“This was a brutal, senseless act targeting one of our elderly residents. Protecting seniors is a top priority for my office, and we are committed to seeking justice for this victim and ensuring that those who harm our elders face the full consequences of the law.”
Lazaj is currently scheduled for a probable cause hearing at 9 a.m. Nov. 25 in front of Judge Stephen Sierawski. His attorney, Joshua Van Laan, declined to comment.
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
much to celebrate in the work of its students and staff.
“Mr. McAvoy is continuously championing the successes of our school district and the people who make up our strong community,” he said.
The Gerri Allen School Communicator of the Year Award was designed to recognize the outstanding leadership and contributions of the recipient and reflects the highest award a school communicator can receive at the state level.
Monroe said McAvoy is an example of the district’s vision to empower students to positively transform their futures and the world.
“The impact of his work can be felt dis-
trictwide by all stakeholders, cementing his legacy with UCS. McAvoy is a champion for positive stories that celebrate students and staff,” he said.
He said transparency in communications is a priority for the school district, and McAvoy is critical to that work.
Kelly Allen, Michigan School Public Relations Association president-elect, said McAvoy has served as a mentor to others in his district and to school communicators in his region and across the state.
“He is a leader who embodies communication excellence,” she said.
McAvoy will be honored by MSPRA at its annual conference in the spring and will be Michigan’s nominee for the National School Public Relations Association’s School Communicator of the Year Award.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
Lazaj
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Velocity
from page 3A
Pam Lenning said the winnings will go toward building out a new facility.
“Working with the Velocity team has been an absolute pleasure, and we are truly grateful for this opportunity,” Lenning said.
Defense manufacturer Ares Technology, from Shelby Township, won second place and a $3,000 prize.
Romeo-based Fundraiser Blankets took third place, winning $2,000. Founders Joanna Serra and Barbara Kent help schools, sports teams and other groups fundraise by making bespoke logo blankets for them.
Besides the contest, Velocity recently congratulated 13 female entrepreneurs who graduated from a Women’s Business Builder Bootcamp, where they learned about business planning and entrepreneurship.
Sterling Heights graduates from the program were Kathy Bolio, Erica Crawley, Twanda Lane, Danielle Tedesco and Carmen Williams.
The boot camp’s other graduates were Sirena Higgins, Kelli Kalso, Kinza Llyas, Jenna Neumann, Adeline Paul, Shonta Ruffin, Alejandra Walters and Tamika Ware.
Tedesco, who owns International People Development, said in an email that her business’s concept involves helping families and entrepreneurs “resolve crises with emotional intelligence.” She said the boot camp helped her see her business, its structure and its services in a clearer light.
“Working in the service industry and providing highly personalized services to unique individuals, it’s common to lose sight of objectivity and processes,” Tedesco said.
“The bootcamp at Velocity, with (Velocity small business entrepreneurin-residence Dusty Welsh’s) guidance, was wonderful for reconstructing these essential pillars in a tangible, visual, and practically applicable way. This has been great for optimizing my work.”
Macpherson wished the grads well.
“We celebrate each graduate’s unique journey and are excited to see how they will shape the future of business in Macomb County,” Macpherson said.
Learn more about Velocity, 6633 18 Mile Road in Sterling Heights, by visiting mivelocity. com or by calling (586) 816-9737. Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 4981058.
Photo provided by Velocity
Female entrepreneurs who graduated from a Women’s Business Builder Bootcamp present their certificates of completion.
CRIME WATCH
Teens yell at neighbor on Rosebush
Police heard a complaint Nov. 6 about a group of male teenagers, around 13 to 14 years old, who came by bike or motor scooter to allegedly harass a neighbor along Rosebush Street, located near Ryan Road and Metropolitan Parkway.
According to police, an individual whose name was redacted had confronted the teens about how they were reportedly using the street to ride their vehicles, prompting an exchange of yelling. Police said they urged that individual to call them if the incident continued.
Suspect cited for attempt to steal Walmart groceries
On the night of Nov. 7, a man allegedly tried to steal a “large amount of groceries” collectively valued at $188.76 from Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave.
Police said store staff witnessed the suspect not scanning multiple items before trying to leave with the unpaid merchandise. The report added that the suspect had multiple carts filled with over 100-150 grocery items, and while many items reportedly had been paid for using an EBT card, other items were reportedly unpaid.
Police said they cited the suspect for third-degree retail fraud.
Midnight screaming heard on Bordeaux
Police got a tip around midnight Nov. 8 that two males were apparently screaming outside along Bordeaux Avenue, located
between Merrill and Utica roads to the west and east, and between 19 Mile and 19 1/2 Mile roads to the south and north.
Police said the complainant couldn’t see the source of the noise. Police said they then investigated the area but saw no indication of any crimes or disturbances taking place.
Police investigate report of woman causing disturbance
Police said they received a complaint about an elderly woman allegedly yelling and urinating on trash the night of Nov. 7 along Orleans Avenue, located near Van Dyke Avenue and 19 Mile Road. The woman was also accused of twice trying to enter the complainant’s vehicle.
Police said they found the woman, who seemed to be “mildly intoxicated but able to care for herself.” The woman reportedly told police she would return home. Police said the complainant’s car was undamaged.
Challenger stolen from Sumpter
A burgundy 2018 Dodge Challenger was reportedly stolen at around 12:55 a.m. Nov. 7 from Sumpter Drive, located east of Dequindre Road and south of 17 Mile Road. The vehicle’s owner said he noticed that it had been stolen later that morning, and surveillance footage reportedly captured the theft.
Police said they entered the vehicle into the Law Enforcement Information Network system and told nearby police departments to be on the lookout for it.
Anyone who has more information about these events or general suspicious happenings is encouraged to call the Sterling Heights Police Department at (586) 446-2800.
— Eric Czarnik
Biofilter
“We have worked very closely with the neighbors in the city,” Miller said in the video. “We do understand that what we do with our sewers does have some impact on the neighbors, and our goal is to not have any impact.
“We want you never to really think about what’s happening underground, that our sewers are fixed properly, that they’re maintained, that we’re inspecting them properly, and that you don’t have — we don’t have — any residual odor.”
According to Public Works Office Communications Manager Norb Franz, neighborhoods sometimes smell sewer odors if they’re near a drop shaft, where a local sewer system’s sewage flows into a much larger pipe or system. That can cause turbulence to the sewage flow, which can release stronger smells, he explained.
“Systems are not completely air tight, so air may escape and gets into the surrounding area,” Franz said in an email.
Public works officials say the proposed facility near Dodge Park Road and Sorrento, which will be at the intersection’s northeast corner, is designed to extract and filter sewer gas from underground concrete pipes in the area. Not only should that make the area smell better, but it will keep sewer gases from corroding the pipes, thus lengthening those pipes’ lifespans.
The biofilter system infrastructure — including ductwork, a fan and a carbon-activated filter — will literally be housed in a roughly 2,000-square-foot brick colonial-style structure that will look similar to residences in the area. While no one will be dwelling there, it will obscure the infrastructure.
In the video, Miller commented how the neighborhood and its landscaping are beautiful, so the county wants to be a part of that too.
“We wanted to make sure that we — whatever we did here — that would really blend in aesthetically with the neighborhood,” Miller said.
The estimated $5.3 million project is expected to start this upcoming spring, officials said.
In a statement, Miller said Sterling Heights has been “very helpful” while the city and her department have been communicating on the project.
“We’ve kept the neighbors informed, and we’ve kept the city informed of what we’re doing,” Miller said. “We want to be good neighbors, good partners.”
Besides the Dodge Park Road and Sorrento facility, Franz said, the county also
wants to eventually build an additional odor control facility by Dodge Park and Utica roads, though he added that no timetable has been set.
Other odors in the city explained
During the Oct. 15 Sterling Heights City Council meeting, Councilwoman Maria Schmidt asked City Manager Mark Vanderpool to get an update from Miller about the 15 Mile sewer project in the city. The county has been doing sewer work along 15 Mile, west of Schoenherr Road, in the vicinity of the ITC corridor.
“The residents and the schools over there for far longer than 15 years have had to put up with the stench, and you know, it seems to just be taking forever to get done,” Schmidt said.
“So if we could get some sort of end, you know, date — not in the next 20 years — would be really nice.
“I can’t even imagine someone buying a $400,000 home next to that, although they’re all sold out. But, you know, enough is enough. Over 15 years that smell has been there, and … now it’s been open for two years at least, and it’s just horrible.”
In an email, Schmidt told the Sentry there has been an odor along 15 Mile Road across from Sterling Heights High School in the ITC corridor “for years,” and she hopes the infrastructure project will be finished soon.
“The smell has been there well before Candice Miller was in office,” Schmidt said. “I understand with the work going on at that (site) there really is nothing that can be done to mitigate the smell at this point, but am hoping once complete there will be relief for the residents, and schools in that area.”
Miller has been the Macomb County public works commissioner since 2017.
Schmidt said she thinks the Sorrento biofilter project and how it camouflages the equipment is “awesome,” adding that she is confident that the upgrade will resolve any odor issue there.
Franz offered more details on the 15 Mile Road project’s status.
“(We) are working diligently to complete all the rehabilitation work needed to prevent another sinkhole infrastructure disaster like the one that opened up on 15 Mile Road in Fraser, between Utica Road and Hayes Road, (on) Christmas Eve 2016 — along this major sewer interceptor serving 600,000 people in 11 of Macomb County’s communities,” he said.
Franz explained that the 15 Mile Road project began “a few years ago” when work crews dug a 70-foot-deep shaft in the ITC corridor west of Schoenherr Road to access and work on the major sewer interceptor
over there. He said the project is about 95% done.
Franz said that during the project’s lining and rehabilitation, the sewage flow can be temporarily held up on a daily basis, as needed, to allow the contractor to work inside the pipe, though he added that the flow is later released after the day’s work is done.
“And, that giant shaft is open at the top during the construction project, which allows air to escape,” he said.
Franz said the Public Works Office empathizes with residents and others who may smell an “unpleasant nuisance odor” in that area, though he said those smells haven’t reached a “harmful level.”
“While that odor is more prevalent on
some days than others and is indeed a nuisance, the alternative — another major sewer collapse and sinkhole — would eventually occur and would be much more costly and disruptive,” he said.
Franz said the county is planning to put a permanent odor and corrosion control facility in the vicinity of that corridor too, though he had no timetable for that plan at this time. He added that the county recently finished a similar setup on 15 Mile, between Hayes and Garfield roads.
Learn more about the Macomb County Public Works Office by visiting macombgov. org/departments/public-works.
Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.
Officials like Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller say the county plans to install infrastructure at Dodge Park Road and Sorrento to properly filter the air while putting the infrastructure inside a building that resembles a house.
Photo provided by the Macomb County Public Works Office
Union boss charged with sexual assault of subordinate
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
MOUNT CLEMENS — A UAW supervisor was arraigned in 41-A District Court in Sterling Heights Nov. 14 for the alleged sexual assault of a female employee under his authority at the Ford Sterling Axle Plant, located at 39000 Mound Road in Sterling Heights.
The incident reportedly happened Aug. 26. Angelo Joseph Lupo, 48, is accused of luring the woman into his office, confining her and sexually assaulting her.
According to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, Magistrate Michael Piatek charged Lupo with two counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and one count of unlawful imprisonment. Each charge is a felony that carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison per charge.
The magistrate set bond at $50,000, in which Lupo was able to pay 10% and was released the same day. He is required to have no contact with the victim and surrender his passport, the Prosecutor’s Office said. Lupo’s attorney of record is Peter Torrice, who has been contacted but has yet to return the call.
“Our hearts go out to the victim, who showed immense courage in coming forward. Using a position of authority to exploit and harm another individual is a serious offense, and our office is committed to seeking justice on her behalf,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido.
A probable cause hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, in Sterling Heights 41-A District Court in Judge Stephen Sierawski’s courtroom.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
COUNTY ROAD PROJECTS ANNOUNCED FOR 2025
EXECUTIVE AND DEPUTIES
CALL FOR FUNDING CHANGES
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 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
Project
10 Mile Road
10 Mile Road
14 Mile Road
14 Mile Road
18 Mile Road
Garfield Road
North River Road
Romeo Plank Road
Utica Road
Asphalt Pavement Preservation Program
Concrete Pavement Preservation Program
14 Mile Road
18 Mile Road
Hayes Road
South River Road
Utica 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
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 implement-
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 Replacement
Bridge Rehabilitation
Subdivision Reconstruction
Subdivision Reconstruction
Subdivision Reconstruction
Subdivision Reconstruction
Non-Motorized Pathway Improvements
Non-Motorized Pathway Improvements
Pedestrian Bridge
Pedestrian Bridge
City of Sterling Heights Public Notice
Community
Center Line
Warren
Sterling Heights and Warren
Clinton Twp. and Roseville
Sterling Heights
Fraser
Harrison Twp.
Macomb Twp.
Clinton Twp.
Macomb County
Macomb County
Sterling Heights and Warren
Sterling Heights
Clinton Twp. and Sterling Heights
Harrison Twp.
Clinton Twp.
Shelby Twp.
Shelby Twp.
Clinton Twp.
Shelby Twp.
Clinton Twp.
Clinton Twp.
Harrison Twp.
Sterling Heights
** 2024 December Board of Review **
The DECEMBER BOARD OF REVIEW of the City of Sterling Heights, County of Macomb, State of Michigan, will be held at CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS CITY HALL, CONFERENCE ROOMS 106 and 028, 40555 UTICA ROAD, STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN and will commence at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, DECEMBER 9, 2024, only for the following purposes:
1) Qualifed Errors: The correction of clerical errors relative to the correct assessment fgures, the rate of taxation, or the mathematical computation relating to the assessing of taxes or the correction of mutual mistakes of fact or erroneous uncapping of taxable value.
2) Poverty Exemptions: Those persons requesting exemption from taxes on their homestead under Section 211.7u (the poverty exemption) who meet the requirements of the City of Sterling Heights Offcial Hardship Exemption Guidelines, may make application to be heard by the Board of Review. (If already heard in March or July of 2024, you may not appeal at this time.)
WRITTEN APPEALS WILL BE HEARD ON FILE. PETITIONERS MAY CALL THE ASSESSING OFFICE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR AN APPEARANCE BEFORE THE BOARD.
For further information, please contact: CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS OFFICE OF ASSESSING, 40555 UTICA ROAD, PO BOX 8009, STERLING HEIGHTS, MI 48311-8009, (586) 446-2340, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M., MONDAY – FRIDAY.
Published: Sterling Heights Sentry 11/25/2024
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.
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.
Roadwork
from page 16A
ing 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.
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 Sports, 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.”
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 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.
Photo provided by The Mall at Partridge Creek
The Mall at Partridge Creek has brought in several new tenants in 2024, including Andiamo Pasta & Chops and HopCat.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
19A/ STERLING HEIGHTS SENTRY • NOVEMBER 25, 2024
NOV. 30-DEC. 1
Saint Nick’s Warehouse: Juried craft show with 250-plus booths, no strollers allowed, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 30 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 1, Henry Ford II High School, 11911 Clinton River Road in Sterling Heights, facebook.com/saintnickswarehouse
Model Train Show: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, contact Mike at mikelj318@gmail.com or (248) 5094537, packardprovinggrounds.org/trainshow
NOV. 30
Christmas Craft and Vendor Show: Also food and drinks, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., plus visit with Santa, noon-2 p.m., Macomb Elks Lodge, 25950 Schoenherr Road in Warren, (586) 771-8550, cityofwarren.org/events
DEC. 4
Free medicare help: Hosted by Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and AgeWays, meet with trained counselor by appointment, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sterling Heights Senior Center, 40200 Utica Road, (800) 803-7174
DEC. 7
A Sterling Christmas: Tree lighting, holiday music with caroling, Santa visit, petting farm and pony rides, horse-drawn wagon and train rides, ice skating
(weather permitting), warming fires, refreshments and more, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Dodge Park, 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, sterlingheights.gov/1654/ sterling-christmas
DEC. 8
Christmas concert: Featuring The Gosbells Handbell Choir, 3-6 p.m., Utica United Methodist Church, 8650 Canal Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 731-7667
‘Holiday Favorites’: Performance by Warren Concert Band and Motor City Chorale, 3 p.m., Warren Woods Middle School, 13400 12 Mile Road, tickets (cash and check only) at door, warrenconcertband.com, motorcitychorale.com
DEC. 12
Dinner & Dancing with Santa: 6 p.m., Cherry Creek Golf Club and Banquet Center, 52000 Cherry Creek Drive in Shelby Township, (586) 731-0300
DEC. 14
Cookie walk: Also quilt raffle, 9:30-10:30 a.m., King of kings Lutheran Church, 47500 Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township, (586) 566-8660
ONGOING
Upton House Museum tours: Visit 1860s Michigan Historical Landmark, 1-4 p.m. every Wednesday and
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
second Sunday of month, 40433 Dodge Park Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2495, sterlingheights. gov/789/upton-house-museum
Dodge Park Ice Rink: Noon-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, noon-10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays starting Dec. 1, Dodge Park Farmers Market Pavilion, 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2711 (weather hotline), sterlingheights.gov/1650/dodge-park-ice-rink
Book clubs: Meetups for teens, early birds, those who want to snack and chat, others who want to discuss books they own, and new book/movie discussions, Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, (586) 446-2665, sterlingheights.gov/2136/library
Widowed Friends dancing: Doors at 6 p.m. and music from 7-10:30 p.m. Tuesdays, American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936
Northern Toastmasters: Meets 6:30 p.m. every second and fourth Monday of month, Leo’s Coney Island, 33577 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, (248) 828-7481, samcrowl@comcast.net
Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line danc-
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSITspecials
ing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/octds
Powerful Tools for Caregivers: Virtual workshop hosted by AgeWays, learn to communicate with family and healthcare providers, reduce stress, guilt, anger and depression, and make difficult decisions, 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays until Dec. 18, free but donations accepted, (833) 262-2200, wellnessprograms@ ageways.org, tinyurl.com/agewaysworkshops
Health workshops: For ovarian cancer support, diabetes prevention, nutrition education and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth. digitalsignup.com
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
‘Miracle on 34th Street’: Performance by Warren Civic Theatre, 7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays Dec. 13-15 and 20-22, Owen Jax Community Center, 8207 E. Nine Mile Road in Warren, warrencivic. org
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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
AND NOTES NEWS
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
