CITIES HOST TREE LIGHTINGS: Eastpointe, 3A Roseville, 6A
Roseville resident named 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 nominee
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
MACOMB COUNTY — Whether Karen Avila is working at her corporate job for Comerica Bank or helping clients at the company she founded, AG Signing Services, the Roseville resident always tries to accomplish two goals: uplifting those around her and making a difference.
Others have noticed Avila’s dedication and work when it comes to financial and legal matters. She was recently named one of the 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 Nominees by the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce. Avila learned of the award through a letter from Kelley Lovati, Macomb County Chamber CEO and president, and Jon Furest, president, NextGen Young Professionals.
“This prestigious award program celebrates the exceptional achievements and contributions of dynamic individuals under the age of 40. These individuals have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and impact within their respective fields and communities,” the letter states. “Through this initiative, we aim to recognize and honor the next generation of leaders, like you, who are shaping the future and making a significant impact in their industries and beyond. By highlighting your accomplishments, we hope to inspire others and foster a culture of excellence, ambition and positive changes.”
Stanley Christmas, of Eastpointe, brought his warm spirit to America’s Thanksgiving Parade
BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com
EASTPOINTE/GROSSE POINTE CITY/DETROIT
—
Entering a hospital can be stressful, but with his warm smile and energetic greeting, Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital security officer Stanley Christmas tries to make it feel welcoming.
“You’re the one who sets the tone for their experience,” Christmas said. “My job is to change that attitude into something positive. It takes their mind away from that anxiety. And, it sets the tone for (their experience with) other (hospital) departments.”
His kind demeanor and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on everyone from patients to employees over the last 18 years — during times when the hospital was still known as Bon Secours and Beaumont — and made such an impression on new Corewell Health East President Lamont Yoder that Yoder invited Christmas to appear on Corewell Health’s float in America’s Thanksgiving Parade in downtown Detroit Nov. 28. The fittingly named Christmas is one of only four people, out of thousands of hospital system employees, who was on the float.
Avila
Photo provided by Stanley Christmas
Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital security officer Stanley Christmas appears on Corewell’s float in America’s Thanksgiving Parade in downtown Detroit Nov. 28.
8A: DETROIT SAILOR KILLED AT PEARL HARBOR LAID TO REST
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
ROSEVILLE — Youths and teenagers interested in joining a volleyball or basketball league this winter, there is a gymnasium waiting for you.
The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe is accepting registration until Dec. 29 for its youth and teen basketball and volleyball leagues.
Programs include coed youth basketball for second through fifth graders, for middle school boys and girls grades 6-8, and three-
on-three at the high school level for boys and girls. Also offered is a girls volleyball league for grades 6-8 and 9-12. The cost is $95 for residents and nonresidents. Beginning and advanced athletes are welcome.
“The recreation league introduces the players to the sport. We foster learning the fundamentals, skill development and making new friends,” RARE Deputy Director Sara Frederick said. “We have various teams in each of these age groups. We have great coaches who take time to develop their skills and learn everything.”
Photos provided by RARE
The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe is accepting registration until Dec. 29 for its youth and teen basketball and volleyball leagues.
Eastpointe police investigate flurry of credit card fraud
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
EASTPOINTE — Multiple cases of credit card fraud have Eastpointe police reminding residents to exercise caution when making transactions.
On Dec. 3, officers were dispatched to speak with a complainant regarding one such case. Police were informed
OChristmas Tree
that at around 9 p.m. Nov. 24, the complainant had used an ATM located at a Michigan First Credit Union in Eastpointe, and that upon completing the transaction, she forgot her card in the machine. A short time later, she was notified that 10 unauthorized transactions had taken place using her card, costing her $1,500.
On Nov. 29, officers were dispatched to investigate another fraud complaint. They were told by the complainant
that at around 5 p.m. Nov. 27, an unknown suspect made three withdrawals from the complainant’s credit card totaling $600. The victim didn’t know the card was compromised, and she had the card in her possession. She immediately canceled the card. She only noticed the irregularity because she was in a habit of carefully monitoring her bank statements.
In yet another case, on Nov. 22, officers were told by a
Roseville City Council OKs DDA’s first action plan in 8 years
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
ROSEVILLE — A vision for Roseville’s downtown has been refreshed for the first time in eight years.
The Roseville City Council unanimously approved the Downtown Development Authority’s action plan at its Nov. 25 meeting. The DDA’s document had not been updated since 2016, which was the first year the DDA made one.
Jim Gammicchia, Roseville administrative services specialist, Community and Economic Development Department, said the COVID-19 pandemic slowed updating the plan. He said the goal is to revise it every five years.
“It was long overdue,” Gammicchia said at the meeting.
Following the meeting, he said one of the largest changes to the downtown area is the available spaces. This includes cityowned properties like the former Tip-Top Bar and American Legion Post 261 space and the Roseville Theatre.
A request for development proposal has been made for the Tip-Top Bar and American Legion space, which will allow a developer to see what the space requires for occupancy. Gammicchia said the last time this was done was in 2018. The city had a developer it was working with at the time, who eventually backed out. The DDA worked with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which granted the city $100,000 for plans to develop the mixed-use
Crescentwood Elementary School student Nahlani Garcia, 7, was chosen by her principal to help Santa Claus turn on the Christmas tree lights. For more photos, visit candgnews.com/galleries.
The Eastpointe Christmas tree lighting is an annual tradition during the holiday season.
BELOW: Residents and city employees get into the holiday spirit at City Hall Dec. 4.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Project Blue Light remembers fallen first responders
Event also supports those still serving
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
HAZEL PARK — Deputy Bradley Reckling, of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, was killed this past summer confronting alleged car thieves he had tracked from Madison Heights to Detroit. He was among the fallen heroes honored at the 2024 Southeast Michigan Project Blue Light ceremony, which recognizes those who died in the line of duty.
Police officers, firefighters and paramedics from across the region descended upon St. Justin Church in Hazel Park Dec. 3 for the somber occasion. The initiative’s name is derived from the practice of placing a blue light in the front window of one’s home to show solidarity with
Fraud
from page 3A
complainant that sometime on Nov. 21, an unknown suspect withdrew $260 from the complainant’s account at an unknown ATM located in an unknown Speedway gas station. This victim also had his credit card in his possession.
Eastpointe Police Lt. Alexander Holish said in an email that those working in retail should verify the names on credit cards when people make purchases without using pin codes, and for those using pin codes, they shouldn’t write them on the card itself.
He also said to be wary when using credit cards at scanners such as those in gas stations.
“Unfortunately, skimmers are very prevalent these days,” Holish said. “Predators put
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police, or a red light to show support for firefighters and paramedics.
David Soltis, a member of the Madison Heights City Council who once worked in an EMT crew, and whose son is a paramedic, said such a gesture means a lot for families of first responders.
“It lets them know that the public are thinking about them and support what they’re doing and appreciate them,” Soltis said. “Because if they didn’t do what they do, then where would we be?”
Debbie Swofford organizes the event, which is now in its 21st year. Each ceremony includes a “Roll Call of Heroes” recounting those who died in the line of duty since the last ceremony.
For 2024, the Roll Call of Heroes includes: • Court officer Robert Silver, with the St. Clair County Court, who died Dec. 28, 2023.
See BLUE LIGHT on page 10A
them on gas pumps or ATM machines. The owners of the machines are not aware. The skimmer then collects credit card information from unsuspecting customers for several days, and the suspect then retrieves the skimmer at a later time, using the information to clone cards, and then using the fraudulent cards for their pleasure.
“My advice is to use the gas pumps that are closest to the gas station building, and to not use ATMS that are located outside of the business,” Holish added. “And try not to use cards where the customer has to hand it to the clerk to complete transactions, like at drive-thrus.”
If you more know more about these crimes or others, call Eastpointe police at (586) 4455100.
Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Avila and the other recipients were recognized during a dinner and ceremony Nov. 21 at the Palazzo Grande in Shelby Township. Avila received a desk plaque award and certificates from U.S. Rep. John James and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
“I was incredibly excited,” Avila, 31, said. “It was unexpected. Having this recognition solidifies the work (I’m doing) each day.”
That includes her position as senior internal auditor with Comerica Bank, where she conducts financial and operational audits across the bank’s footprint. The young professional also serves as the social impact chair for Comerica’s Women’s Forum Employee Resource Group, where she spearheads community outreach initiatives designed to empower women in the workplace and the community. The group has volunteered with Alternatives For Girls, HOPE Shelters and the Red Dot Project.
Avila, too, is the founder of AG Signing Services. Based in Macomb County, the mobile notary business provides services to seniors, homebound individuals and underserved communities. Avila grew up in a bilingual household and speaks English and Spanish, and is an interpreter for Spanish-speaking clients.
“A lot of the clients are seniors in assisted living or hospitals. Oftentimes getting to a bank or credit union is not the most ideal,” Avila said. “As the population is starting to age, they are no longer able to leave their homes. A lot of them depend on caregivers who work 9 to 5.”
Avila started AG Signing Services two years ago when she saw there was “a gap in notary services” for senior citizens and non-English-speaking clients. The company offers assistance with wills, banking, court documents, citizenship paperwork and other legal documents. AG Signing Services collaborates with real estate agencies, hospitals, health care providers, legal aid organizations, nonprofit groups and caregivers.
Avila’s parents, Robert and Veronica, were both born in Mexico and spoke English and Spanish in the family home to Avila and her brother, Alex. She also took courses while in high school and college. Her parents also taught her “the value of education and importance of hard work.”
Avila attended Roseville Community Schools, graduating from Roseville High School in 2012. One teacher who stood out for her was her second grade teacher, Ms. Gammichia.
“She made me feel welcome,” Avila said. “She ignited this passion for reading and learning that I carry to this day.”
While at RHS, another teacher who inspired her was Ms. Welc. In her class Avila learned an appreciation for accounting and business.
“I found her very caring,” Avila said. “The lessons I learned from both teachers academically and personally left an imprint.”
The 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 Nominee has an associate degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Baker College. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in human resources management and finance and is studying for the Certified Internal Auditor exam.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
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PIANIST KEYS IN ON THE HOLIDAY SEASON
ROSEVILLE — Patrons who shop at Macomb Mall Dec. 14 and Dec. 21 can get into the Christmas spirit by listening to Gerald Foster. The pianist is scheduled to perform live holiday music from noon to 4 p.m. on the Saturdays before Christmas Day in Macomb Mall’s center court. The mall is located at 32233 Gratiot Ave.
NORTH POLE — The North American Aerospace Defense Command will again track Santa Claus on Christmas Eve Dec. 24. The program, based at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, is in its 69th year.
launched Dec. 1. It features Santa’s North Pole Village, a holiday countdown, games, a movie theater, holiday music, a web store and more.
Wanted:
optimistic men and women
ROSEVILLE — The Roseville Optimist Club, which has been helping children in the community since 1992, is looking for more volunteers to join the group. The club members participate in various community service projects that benefit youth in the community.
The group is always looking for new members. The Roseville Optimist Club meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month at the Roseville Recreation Center, 18185 Sycamore St. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page or call John Surhigh at (586) 202-1452.
Something sweet
ROSEVILLE — A cookie walk will be held Dec. 14 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 18303 Common Road. The event will operate from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or until all cookies are sold. For more information, contact the church office at (586) 776-8828 or via email at Rosevilletrinity@gmail.com.
Library events center around the Christmas season
EASTPOINTE — The December book club events at the Eastpointe Memorial Library have Christmas themes.
The Mystery Book Club will meet at 2 p.m. Dec. 17 to discuss “Christmas Cupcake Murder,” by Joanne Fluke.
The Book Into Movie event will be held Dec. 19. Patrons will view the movie “Mistletoe Inn” at 4 p.m. A discussion of the book, written by Richard Paul Evans, will begin at 6 p.m.
The books are available at the circulation desk or by calling (586) 445-5096. The library is located at 15875 Oak Ave.
All are welcome. The RHGS presents a program at the library each month. For more information, call (313) 884-3067. Santa
NORAD monitors and defends North American airspace 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. On Dec. 24, NORAD takes on an additional mission of tracking Santa Claus as he makes his way across the globe. The NORAD Tracks Santa website, noradsanta.org,
The website is available in nine languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Chinese and Korean. Children awaiting Santa can count the days on mobile devices with the official NORAD Tracks Santa app, via social media and on Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM and OnStar.
A look at Christmas during WWII
ROSEVILLE — This month’s Roseville Historical and Genealogical Society program will bring patrons back in time to Christmases during World War II.
“How Did Our Grandparents Celebrate Christmas During WWII?” will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Roseville Public Library, located in the City Hall complex at 29777 Gratiot Ave.
Compiled by Maria Allard
Christmas thrift store provides ‘hope’ for the holidays
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at 43584 Van Dyke Ave., between 19 Mile and Hall roads. That’s because the nonprofit organiza-
tion Grace Centers of Hope has opened its annual Christmas Thrift Store for the holiday season.
The shop, located next to GCH’s yearround thrift store, is a festive way to hunt for bargain holiday decorations and Christmas gifts for under the tree.
The store resembles Santa’s workshop with cheerful ceramic snowmen, Santa Bears, dishes, twinkling lights, ornaments, Nativity scenes, Christmas villages and table decorations for sale. Wreaths and Christmas stockings deck the halls, and Santa Claus figurines in all shapes and sizes adorn the store. Shoppers may even find some vintage pieces. The items — both brand new and gently used — are sold at discounted prices and were donated by community members who support
Photo provided by Grace Centers of Hope
Shoppers on a tight budget looking for gifts or decor for the holidays are encouraged to check out Grace Centers of Hope Christmas Thrift Store in Sterling Heights.
Detroit sailor killed at Pearl Harbor laid to rest
John Cuthbert Auld’s remains identified through DNA
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
DETROIT — While growing up, Richard Auld remembers his grandmother, Lillian, and his dad, Edwin, sharing memories about a family member named Jack.
But he wasn’t sure who Jack was, until one day he realized the stories were about his uncle, John Cuthbert Auld, who was nicknamed Jack. The U.S. Navy man, who grew up in Detroit, was killed during the bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.
This year marks the 83rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, which killed approximately 2,400 American service members and civilians.
In time, Auld learned more about his uncle, a 23-year-old seaman 2nd class who was aboard the USS Oklahoma when naval and air forces of the Japanese empire attacked the American base on Hawaii’s island of Oahu. On the following day, Dec. 8, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt addressed Congress and asked for a declaration of war with Japan, which drove the United States into World War II.
See SAILOR on page 14A
While serving in the U.S. Navy, John Cuthbert Auld, of Detroit, was killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. At press time, he was expected to be laid to rest on Dec. 6 with full military honors at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Pearl Harbor artifacts link back to day of infamy 83 years ago
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The belongings, material and personal, of Michiganders who were at Pearl Harbor on and around that infamous day continue to make their way home.
John Lind, director of the Detroit Arsenal of Democracy Museum, has been able to secure several items from the USS Oklahoma and USS Arizona: a prayer book from either ship and four envelopes from the Arizona postdated Dec. 7, 1941.
The Arizona items come from the estate of a Michigan man, who Lind did not name, who was on his way out of the Navy on Dec. 6.
“This person went to the mail section on the ship and got these envelopes in advance,” Lind said. “The story is this gentleman here was transferred on Dec. 6, the Saturday before, because they conducted no business on Sunday. … He was going back stateside. He was done,
his hitch was over, and he reached California and he said, ‘You know what? I’m going back in.’”
The unnamed Arizona sailor joined over 300,000 Americans who showed up to recruitment offices on Dec. 8, 1941. Lind says about 30,000 people volunteered at the Detroit office.
The Oklahoma prayer book, which is in a more fragile state than the Arizona book, was acquired from a separate sailor who reached out to Lind.
“He was on (the USS) Oklahoma,” Lind said. “He came back to the United States, was retrained and then he got on other ships throughout the war.”
Prayer books were commonly taken from ships while the envelopes were postdated sometime before Dec. 7.
The attack on Pearl Harbor is as much a story of what was not lost as it is about what was. While the battleships USS Arizona, USS
See ARTIFACTS on page 13A
Photo provided by Public Affairs Office, Navy Personnel Command
SCHOOL BRIEFS
Student’s artwork chosen to be district’s card design
ROSEVILLE — Roseville Middle School eighth grade student Annabeth Chene is spreading the Christmas spirit in Roseville Community Schools. Her artwork, pictured at right, was chosen as the winning entry to be the official holiday card in the district for 2024.
Chene’s accomplishment was recognized at a recent board meeting. She received 50 blank cards for friends and family, and a small cash prize.
Chill with a live performance of ‘Frozen’
EASTPOINTE — The Pleasantview Performing Arts Club will perform “Frozen” Dec. 19 on the Eastpointe High School auditorium stage. Showtime will be 5 p.m. The high school is located at 15501 Couzens Ave.
The play is open to the public and there is no fee to attend.
— Maria Allard
Blue Light
from page 4A
• Trooper Joel Popp, with the Michigan State Police, who died Jan. 24, 2024.
• Deputy Bradley Reckling, of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, who died June 22, 2024.
• Deputy William Butler Jr., of the Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Office, who died June 27, 2024.
• Cpl. Mohamed Said, with the Melvindale Police Department, who died July 21, 2024.
• Motor carrier officer Daniel Kerstetter, of the Michigan State Police, who died Sept. 15, 2024.
Silver was shot and killed while serving an eviction notice in Clay Township. He was found dead after court staff were unable to reach him for hours. His body was found on the property with gunshot wounds. The tenant at the home had barricaded himself there for a short time before being taken into custody, and he was subsequently charged with murder. Silver’s death marked the end of a 35-year career with the St. Clair County Court.
Popp was struck and killed by a vehicle while investigating an individual who had been driving under the influence on northbound Interstate 75 near Birch Run. He was standing outside his vehicle when another motorist struck him and two patrol cars. He was transported to Hurley Medical Center where he died from his injuries. The 81-year-old driver also sustained serious injuries. Popp had served with the Michigan State Police for four years and was assigned to the Tri-City Post.
Reckling was shot and killed while conducting surveillance on a vehicle in Detroit that had been stolen at the Red Oaks Waterpark in Madison Heights. Reckling reached the car before other members of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Auto Theft Unit and was waiting for backup when the three suspects allegedly ambushed him. He was taken to a local hospital where he died. One of the suspects has since been charged with murder, among other charges, while the other two face charges including accessory after the fact to a felony. Reckling had served with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for nine years and had only recently been assigned to the Auto Theft Unit.
Butler was shot and killed while assisting with a traffic stop in Jefferson Township. The suspect did not cooperate, instead pulling a gun during a struggle with deputies and striking Butler before fleeing on foot. The suspect died in a shootout with police several hours later and 2 miles from the scene
of the original incident. Butler died from his wounds at the hospital.
Said was shot and killed in Melvindale while pursuing a subject who was paroled in June and who fled the scene on a stolen bicycle. A manhunt by local, county and federal agencies led to his arrest the next day, with Said’s handcuffs used to secure the suspect, who has since been charged with murder and other charges. Said had served with the Melvindale Police Department for 14 months.
Kerstetter was struck by a vehicle on I-75 and died from his injuries. He had been conducting a traffic stop at around 8:30 a.m. on northbound I-75 near Dix Road in Lincoln Park. He was sitting in his patrol car when a Ford Explorer crashed into the back of the vehicle, pushing him into the rear of a semi-truck. He was removed from his vehicle using the Jaws of Life and transported to a hospital where he remained on life support until his organs could be donated. The driver of the Explorer was killed in the crash, while the semi-truck driver was uninjured. Kerstetter had served with the Michigan State Police for more than a year.
Eastpointe Police Lt. Alexander Holish said such cases show the risks facing first responders. He also described the other sacrifices they make.
“Unfortunately, many of us have to miss family events because the job is 24/7. It could be Thanksgiving, Christmas, any number of days. That’s a sacrifice in itself, and takes a toll on families. Kids miss their fathers, wives miss their husbands. And there’s the uncertainty that comes with it all. One second, you’re eating lunch, and then two seconds later, you’re responding to a triple shooting,” Holish said.
“We respond to all sorts of horrible things — abuse cases, even sexual assaults on children — and we have to live with those traumas. We all put on a stoic face and investigate crimes without showing emotions, but when we get home and crash, those feelings come up, thinking about the people who got hurt, the tragedies we saw throughout the day. It leads to PTSD, anxiety, depression. It’s the exposure to traumatic experiences, over and over again. Nobody calls us on their good day to say hello; they call because they’re distressed.”
The Project Blue Light ceremony at St. Justin Church was a chance to reflect on that sacrifice. William Hamel, the police chief of Hazel Park, said via email that the venue is especially appropriate given its history of support for the law enforcement community.
The late Rev. Robert Hayes Williams II — also known as “Father Bob” — was once a pastor at St. Justin Church. He died from an illness at age 69 on Oct. 28. He had served with the Hazel Park Police Department as
both a reserve officer and police chaplain.
“Continuing this tradition (of Project Blue Light) at St. Justin also honors Father Bob for his work in supporting first responders,” Hamel said.
Soltis said it’s important to show police and firefighters that their work isn’t thankless and that the community has their backs.
“Without a doubt, these are challenging occasions where police and fire work
long hours away from home, during the holidays and in all kinds of weather. Their work is necessary, but we have to remember they’re still human beings, and they need all the support we can give them. No matter what comes up, no matter how minor or horrendous, they do their job. And we’re so very thankful for them,” Soltis said. Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
The Detroit Police Department Honor Guard presents a wreath in honor of fallen first responders during the Project Blue Light ceremony at St. Justin Church in Hazel Park Dec. 3.
Store
GCH. The Christian-based mission offers programs for individuals recovering from drug addiction, alcoholism, human trafficking, abuse and homelessness.
GCH, located at 35 E. Huron St. in Pontiac, supports men, women and children throughout southeast Michigan. Darin Weiss, who will begin his role as GCH chief operating officer Jan. 1, 2025, said the goal is to raise $10,000 at the Christmas store this season.
“Every dollar that comes through the store will support Grace Centers of Hope,” said Weiss, 49, of Shelby Township. Weiss, who is also lead pastor at the GCH church, added that the charity does not receive any government funding. It is privately funded, and staff also hold ongoing fundraisers.
Men and women at GCH are enrolled in the One-Year Life Skills program. They live at the facility where they attend classes every day, participate in Bible studies, and undergo individual and group counseling. Those who didn’t finish high school are encouraged to get their GEDs, and everyone has a relapse prevention plan.
Residents also utilize the Career and Education Center to work on their resumes, interview skills and financial planning. Parents can
bring their children to live at the facility with them. Weiss said that children attend Clawson Public Schools.
Everyone who comes to the center must do their part to earn their keep. They either assist at the center’s kitchen, landscape the grounds or work at one of the four thrift store locations in Sterling Heights, Warren, Oak Park and Waterford.
“We believe in accountability and responsibility. Their commitment leads to dignity, worth, value and significance. We believe that community is really the answer. We like to say we are restoring lives,” Weiss said.
“Grace Centers of Hope is about being accepted. You meet other people who are kind of in the same place as you’re at. We want to help them prepare for success. It’s life-changing.”
Nick Moran, 32, is one of the hardworking staff members currently employed at the Christmas store. His duties include welcoming customers, helping them find merchandise, stocking shelves and cleaning the store. Moran, who grew up in Port Huron, is still in the OneYear Life Skills program.
“In my late 20s and early 30s I sank deep in alcohol,” said Moran, who learned about GCH through a treatment program. “I was still kind of in denial. I didn’t think I needed a yearlong program. I was very glad to be here. Your first couple weeks are a little bit uneasy.”
“I’ve seen him turn into this guy he
thought he’d never be,” said Erik Overpeck, 36, who is the GCH director of thrift store operations. Overpeck came to the center to beat his opioid addiction, which began several years ago after taking medication for an injury.
“One thing led to another,” said Overpeck, who eventually began shooting heroin. “I was numb to everything so I didn’t have to deal with anything.”
There were times in which he slept in garbage cans or stood at busy intersections asking for handouts.
“People would give me money,” said Overpeck, who grew up in New Baltimore. “I would go get high.”
Life got so unmanageable that he ended up in a hospital for 93 days with a heart issue called endocarditis and sepsis, both of which he overcame. A relative went through GCH, which prompted Overpeck to come to the facility.
“I had been to many other treatment centers before,” Overpeck said. “I don’t feel like I’m alone here. I feel like these are my people. I don’t feel judged.”
He also got in touch with his spiritual side.
“I never had a relationship with God,” he said. “I never went to church growing up. That was a key component.”
Overpeck is now married and has two young children. He’s been drug-free since 2019.
The Christmas Thrift Store is open 10
a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays throughout December.
For more information on Grace Centers of Hope, visit gracecentersofhope.org or call (855) HELP-GCH. Donations to the thrift stores are welcome from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Visit the website to see a list of accepted and unaccepted items.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
12A/ EASTSIDER • DECEMBER 11, 2024
DEC. 11 & 18
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., free but donations accepted, (833) 262-2200, wellnessprograms@ageways.org, tinyurl.com/ageways workshops
DEC. 13
VIP Family Dance: For kids and role model, also buffet dinner, photos, balloon drop, board game free play and gift, 6-8 p.m., Barrister Gardens, 24225 Harper Ave. in St. Clair Shores, registration required, (586) 445-5480, rare-mi.org
Blood drive: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., walk-ins welcome, can also register at redcrossblood.org
DEC. 14
Cookie walk: Presented by United Women in Faith, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (or until sold out), Trinity United Methodist Church, 18303 Common Road in Roseville, (586) 776-8828, rosevilletrinity@gmail.com
DEC. 15
Holiday concert: Performance by Motor City Chorale, 3 p.m., Holy Innocents St. Barnabas, 26000 Ridgemont St. in Roseville, motorcitychorale.com
League
from page 2A
DEC. 16
Deal Me In!: Card games and social night, 6-8 p.m., also learn cribbage at 5 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., free but registration required, (586) 445-5407, rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov, rosevillelibrary.org
DEC. 17
‘How Did Our Grandparents Celebrate Christmas During WWII?’: Presented by Roseville Historical and Genealogical Society, 6-7:30 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., rosevillelibrary.org, (313) 884-3067
DEC. 18
Homeschool Hangout: Share resources, network, make new friends and participate in activities during monthly program, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., rsvlibraryservice@ roseville-mi.gov, (586) 445-5407, rosevillelibrary.org
DEC. 22
Christmas concert: Featuring Kingdom Keys School of Music students and Covenant Missionary Temple music ministry, 6 p.m. (doors at 5:30 p.m.), Covenant Missionary Temple, 19200 Frazho Road in Roseville, kingdomkeysnation.com
Lions Lounge: Detroit v Chicago: Watch game on
That includes teamwork, cheering each other on, and giving adequate time to each student. All games are played at the RARE building, 18185 Sycamore St. Practices will begin after Jan. 6, and the games will begin the weekend of Jan. 24. No games will be held over the weekend of Feb. 14.
Sports and fitness recreation Supervisor Adam Just said that many students return to the league each year, but beginners also join.
“If you’re a beginner, we will teach you everything from the beginning,” said Just, who went through the basketball league many years ago. “There are many talent levels on all the teams. Our goal is to watch the kids improve and make sure they are having fun.”
For Just, his favorite part of the league is seeing the growth and development in the young players.
“I’ve seen kids start in second and third grade that were never taught basketball,” Just said. “Now they’re making the teams at their high schools. Some play in college.”
The skills the athletes develop can be applied off the court.
“They carry on into the future as well,” Just said. “Being on time to practice and games, remembering your plays, remembering your jerseys.”
RARE is looking for volunteer coaches to help with the league. According to Just, most of the past coaches didn’t have children in the league.
“They’re here because they love the sport,” he said. “They love seeing the kids learn and have fun.”
There are no playoffs in the youth league, but the teams with the best seasons will receive an award. The girls volleyball games will be played on Sundays. The basketball league game days are as follows: second to third grade coed, sixth to eighth grade boys and girls on Saturdays; and fourth to fifth grade on Sundays. All the high school basketball games will be held on Fridays.
Anyone interested in being a volunteer coach can email Adam Just at ajust@rare-mi. org. Visit rare-mi.org to register for the youth leagues. For more information, call RARE at (586) 445-5480.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
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.
big screens in Alger House, also food and drinks for purchase, 1 p.m. (doors at 12:15 p.m.), The War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore Drive in Grosse Pointe Farms, free but RSVP encouraged, warmemorial.org/ eventcalendar
ONGOING
Santa photos: Daily until Dec. 24, bring pets after 4 p.m. Mondays, sensory-friendly sessions Dec. 15, South Court at Macomb Mall, 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, see times at shopmacombmall.com, book appointments at vipholidayphotos.com/mall/h-mac
Storytime: 1:30 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, near Dick’s Sporting Goods at Macomb Mall, 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, shopmacombmall. com
Young Modelers Club: For ages 8-16, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays until April 19, Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, contact Jim at (248) 574-3487, (248) 399-2386 or jimandkatie17@att.net
Monthly book clubs: Booked for the Evening (every first Thursday) and Mystery Book Club (every third Thursday), both 6:30 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov, rosevillelibrary.org, (586) 445-5407
Euchre Night + More: 6-8 p.m. every first Saturday of month, Metropolitan Church of the Nazarene, 18945 Frazho Road in Roseville, bring finger foods to share (drinks provided), metronaz.org/adult-ministry-events
Gamblers Anonymous: Meetings7:30 p.m. every Wednesday, Live Rite Structured Recovery Corp., 27700 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, (586) 217-5899
Tunnel of Lights: 5-9 p.m. daily until Jan. 26, also food trucks and entertainment Dec. 13-14 and 19-21, plus cookies and hot cocoa Dec. 12-15 and 19-23, Blossom Heath Park, 24800 Jefferson Ave. in St. Clair Shores, www.facebook.com/st.clairshoresparksand recreation
Home for the Holidays: Take 1-mile lighted walk around property and visit Santa, also explore decorations inside, plus complimentary hot cocoa, entry every half hour from 5:30-8:30 p.m. until Dec. 22, Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, 1100 Lake Shore Road in Grosse Pointe Shores, fordhouse.org/events
Ice skating: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays and 11 a.m.-midnight Fridays-Saturdays until Jan. 5, then new hours until March 2, also holiday hours noon-10 p.m. Dec. 25 and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Jan. 1, The Rink at Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave., downtowndetroit.org/experience-downtown/ things-to-do/the-rink
Christmas
from page 1A
“I was so overjoyed,” Christmas said of being asked to appear in the parade. “I could barely hold the tears back.”
Christmas said afterward by email that being a part of the parade “was an incredible experience for me.”
Christmas, 75, lives in Eastpointe with his wife, a nurse. Like so many metro Detroiters, the parade holds a special place in his heart.
“I had been to the parade on numerous occasions as a child,” Christmas said. “I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be in the parade.”
“It’s pretty perfect for him,” said Betsy Schulte, director of volunteer services for Corewell Health’s Troy and Grosse Pointe City hospitals.
Schulte said Yoder “met Stanley — and you don’t forget Stanley.” But Christmas didn’t know at the time that the man he greeted with his typical welcome was a hospital bigwig — not that it would have mattered if he had.
“This is what I love about Stanley — it doesn’t matter who you are. You could be homeless or you could be the head of this organization — Stanley treats everyone the same,” Schulte said. “I’ve never seen anyone not greeted warmly.”
Christmas, who earned a degree in criminal justice from Wayne State University, had been trained by the Michigan State Police and was a certified law enforcement officer trained to work in settings like hospitals and movie theaters after 9/11. He said he worked for an organization that asked him to run their front desk.
Artifacts
from page 8A
Oklahoma and USS Utah were scrapped and the aircraft carriers assigned to the base were saved by virtue of being out of port, the lightly attacked support facilities — dry docks, maintenance shops and oil yards — allowed for the other damaged ships to be repaired and returned to service. Lind says that Michiganders were sought out to repair and retrofit the fleet.
“The Navy came to Detroit and took as many skilled trades (as possible) to go to Pearl Harbor to get Pearl Harbor back in shape,” Lind said. “If the Japanese would have concentrated on the rebuilding centers, the fuel farms, the maintenance shops, Pearl Harbor would have come back but it would have been years later. Instead, within six weeks basically, all the dry docks and maintenance shops at Pearl Harbor were back online.”
It is hard to determine how many Pearl Har-
“That’s when I first started to get into greeting,” Christmas said.
He retired from that job, but when his wife saw that Christmas was mostly spending his retirement in front of the television, she encouraged him to return to work because she knew it would be better for him to be around people. Christmas said it was his wife who spotted an ad for a security officer position at what was then Bon Secours Hospital.
Christmas has faced everything from expectant moms going into labor to people who’ve collapsed upon entering the hospital doors. He handles it all with calmness and compassion.
“I call it situational service,” Christmas said. “I’m always looking for what people need.”
Those who know him say Christmas has a gift for doing and saying the right thing.
“No matter what, he tries to make them feel good as they make their first step in their (medical) journey, whether they’re happy or sad,” a hospital spokesperson said.
Schulte said many of her volunteers ask specifically to work on the days Christmas is on shift — even ones who live closer to the Troy hospital.
“He’s a great ambassador for the hospital,” Schulte said.
He’s also not afraid to fight for something. Christmas led the battle to save Detroit’s architectural gem and former train station, Michigan Central Station, from the wrecking ball in 2009, suing the city of Detroit under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Now owned by Ford Motor Co., a restored Michigan Central reopened this summer to much excitement and fanfare.
“Look at it now,” Christmas said, beam-
bor veterans are still alive for the 83rd anniversary, though the number is certainly not many. Anyone serving in the U.S. military at the time would be a centenarian by now.
An Associated Press article about the 2023 commemoration mentions five survivors were in attendance with a sixth unable to make it due to health concerns. The Los Angeles Times reported nine Pearl Harbor survivors attended a ceremony at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans in January 2023. Lou Conter, the last surviving sailor from the USS Arizona, died in April 2024 at 102 years old.
According to NBC’s KNHL local news in Hawaii, at least one survivor was expected to attend this year’s commemoration of the 83rd anniversary of the attack at 104 years old.
The National World War II Museum in New Orleans says that of the 16.4 million Americans who served during World War II, around 66,140 were alive as of 2024. Of that number, 2,520 were Michiganders.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
ing. “When I saw all of those people going in there to enjoy (the grand reopening), that was a highlight.”
Christmas said he learned that it was his battle to preserve the train station that led to him being invited to appear on the float. The fact that he’s such a beloved fixture at the hospital was likely a factor as well.
On a recent morning, a hospital visitor told Christmas that the visitor’s aunt remembered him fondly from her visits to the hospital. Hospital officials say these kinds of comments are a regular occurrence. Christmas even maintains a scrapbook with thankyou letters from people he’s encountered over the years. Schulte said some people bring him cookies.
“Stanley’s gift is that he’s a connector,” Schulte said. “He knows how to connect to people.”
CITY OF
Given his enormous heart, it’s probably not surprising that Christmas and his wife — after raising four biological daughters — later adopted three boys from foster care. All seven kids are now adults with their own families, making Christmas the proud grandfather of 14. That large family was glued to the TV on Thanksgiving morning, watching for Christmas in the parade. This marks the second year Corewell’s float — named “Together We Can” — appeared in the parade. The parade has been selected as America’s Number One Parade in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
“It’s truly an honor,” Christmas said. “I am overwhelmed with joy to be a part of this.”
Call Staff Writer K. Michelle Moran at (586) 498-1047.
ROSEVILLE
Public Notice
Winter Parking Restrictions
No person shall park any motor vehicle on any residential street within the City of Roseville between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on any weekday if there is snow or ice on the ground with the following exception:
The parking prohibition on residential streets for motor vehicles shall not apply to the Christmas holiday season from 12:01 a.m., December 24, through 12:01 a.m. January 2.
In the event a Snow Emergency is declared, it is unlawful to park any vehicle upon any public street or private roadway.
For further information, a copy of the entire ordinance is on fle with the City Clerk.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer A. Zelmanski City Clerk
Published: Eastsider 12/11/2024
Photo by Dean Vaglia
An envelope from the USS Arizona postdated for Dec. 7, 1941, leans against prayer books from the Arizona and USS Oklahoma.
“They rescued several sailors that day after the attack,” Auld said. “Everyone else was presumed dead. They didn’t have much hope. They always told me he died on the Oklahoma.”
While the family knew John didn’t survive, his remains were only officially identified after Auld provided a DNA sample in 2017. At press time, John was set to be laid to rest at 10 a.m. Dec. 6 with full military honors at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Auld, who resides in Albuquerque, said the cemetery was chosen because that is where Lillian and Edwin are buried.
“It will be an honor to have him with his mom and his brother,” Auld said.
Family members and friends were expected to attend the burial. John also was expected to receive military honors at the airport when his remains arrived.
For his service, John was awarded the following medals and decorations: Purple Heart medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal with fleet clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with bronze star, World War II Victory Medal, and American Campaign Medal.
‘It’s definitely a huge loss’
John was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, on June 15, 1918. The family moved to the U.S. and settled in Detroit. On Nov. 6, 1940, John enlisted in the Navy and underwent basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes, in Illinois.
John’s seaman duties included painting, cleaning and polishing the vessel’s brightwork, equipment repair, storing and securing items, and assisting with cargo. The young man also stood watches as a lookout, telephone talker
and messenger, and he was a member of a gun crew.
Richard Auld’s dad, Edwin, four years younger than John, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1942-46.
“They were normal kids in a good family. It’s definitely a huge loss. I never got to meet him,” said Auld, who was born in 1960. “Every Dec. 7, we talked about him. I feel like I know him now after the Navy’s recovery efforts.”
Auld’s dad moved the family, including wife, Esther, to New Mexico to work in the grocery business. Auld has some photos of his uncle and has been told there is a family resemblance.
A few years ago, Auld and his wife Karen traveled to Honolulu, Hawaii for a ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific to pay tribute to the 33 unaccounted for sailors from the USS Oklahoma buried with full military honors.
“Very emotional,” Auld said. “It was very moving.”
According to the Navy, since the ceremony, one more sailor, radioman 3rd class Frank Hoag Jr., has been identified.
Project Oklahoma
On Dec. 2, the Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office issued a press release that included information about Project Oklahoma, a disinterment and identification project through the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.
During Project Oklahoma, the Navy’s POW/MIA Office contacted family members to ask for their participation in the Family Reference Sample Program. That is where surviving family members of a veteran killed on duty offer DNA samples that are used to determine if there is a match.
That is exactly what Auld did to confirm his uncle’s remains.
Through the process, 356 of the 388 ser-
vice members from the USS Oklahoma who were originally unaccounted for have now been identified, according to Capt. Jeff Draude, director, Navy Casualty Office.
Scientists with the DPAA, in Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii and Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska, are responsible for identifying unaccounted for service members by matching the DNA reference samples from surviving family members. Other documents, including available medical and dental records, are also used.
The Navy Casualty Office’s policy for notification is to work directly with the primary next of kin with matters involving their loved one’s remains. Once the DPAA makes a positive identification, the Navy’s Casualty Office conducts an official notification to the next of kin.
Once the identification brief has concluded, the family can decide to have the remains interred in a local national or state cemetery, a private cemetery, reinterred in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii,
or Arlington National Cemetery. Families may also choose to have the remains cremated and retained with the family.
“When briefing families, we often hear things like, ‘My family did not believe he was dead,’ or, ‘He probably was not on board the ship,’ or, ‘Maybe one day he would walk through the door,’” Draude said. “Being able to recover and identify the remains of these sailors aids in the closure to these families.
“It is especially important to the Navy to honor our sailors and Marines who paid the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives for our country,” Draude said. “Often the notification and identification briefing can be emotional, overwhelming and relieving for the families. Most families we speak with cannot believe their loved one has actually been recovered and/or identified after so many years.”
The Navy covers all primary mortuary expenses: preparation of the remains, casket of choice, all transportation of remains from the lab to final resting place, and family travel and lodging for up to three family members.
Once I get the right diagnosis for the cause of your heel pain, I will provide you with a tailored treatment plan, which outlines exactly how we can fix your heel pain and keep you free from future foot pain. If you are ready, call me for an appointment to start your journey back to normal life, free from heel pain.
Photo provided by Public Affairs Office, Navy Personnel Command
Sailors aboard the USS Oklahoma pose for a group photo.
Action plan
from page 3A
development on the parcel.
The plans funded by the MEDC, which have received site plan approval, could be used by a new developer for the space or new plans could be made.
“Basically, we’re looking for proposals from qualified companies and developers to develop that parcel,” he said.
The request for development proposal states that the property at 28392 Utica Road is approximately 52,802 square feet with a building that’s about 3,000 square feet. The building on the site, the former American Legion, could be demolished or incorporated into a future development for the space.
“The City is prepared to offer the land for FREE in exchange for a qualified development agreement that will produce a mixed-use project that demonstrates the City’s desire to further develop a vibrant Town Center,” the request for development proposal states.
There are no updates on the theater, but Gammicchia said it has been winterized and a request for development proposal is in the works.
Items on the action plan document’s
by
implementation plan include improved signage; securing a variety of grants; a pocket park; upgrades for recreation facilities; developing a nonmotorized transportation plan; and creating lists of potential upgrades and investments.
Public input for the downtown is derived from surveys. Gammicchia said an effort is being made to streamline this process by combining separate surveys, from the DDA and entities like the Recreation Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe, into one longer survey. He hopes this could happen by 2026.
The DDA has a Facebook account. The city’s X and Instagram accounts post DDA related content.
A survey, where over half of the 42 respondents were residents, showed that 28.6% of those asked visited downtown daily, 9.5% weekly, 21.4% monthly, 28.6% rarely and 11.9% never. Respondents said retail and shopping options were the most important things for a “vibrant downtown” followed by dining options and safety. Upscale bars and restaurants ranked as the No. 1 addition those asked wanted to see
in Roseville’s downtown. In terms of transportation, improving pedestrian crosswalks topped the list of possible upgrades.
“It’s a community effort to beautify the space and make it more walkable to give it a downtown feel,” Gammicchia said.
The action plan can be viewed at roseville-mi.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/ Agenda/_11262024-631 and starts on page 65. Information on the former Tip-Top Bar property can be found at roseville-mi. gov/207/Opportunity-Awaits.
Photo
Nick Powers
Roseville is seeking developers for its property on 28392 Utica Road, which is the former spot of American Legion Post 261.
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THE WEEK • CRIME OF THE WEEK • CRIME OF THE WEEK
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 her porch. The woman told Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies that she believed her 30-year-old neighbor was the culprit and she 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.
Man steals dog food
EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, a suspect entered the Dollar General in the area of Eight Mile Road and Gratiot Avenue at 4:15 p.m. Nov. 17 and loaded a shopping cart with numerous large bags of dog food before fleeing the location on foot without paying. He was last seen in the city of Detroit before the caller lost sight of him. Police were investigating.
Seasonal décor used in vandalism
GROSSE POINTE PARK — Sometime between the hours of 10 p.m. Nov. 1 and 11:50 a.m. Nov. 2, an unknown suspect is said to have shattered the windshield of a 2020 Jeep Compass while it was parked in the 1100 block of Kensington Road. Police said they found chunks of broken pumpkin around the vehicle, leading them to believe that the pumpkin was tossed at the Jeep’s window.
Hacker intimidation
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — In September, a 68-yearold Macomb Township woman purchased a new laptop. She turned the laptop on for the first time on Nov. 8 at her home in the 51000 block Battonwood Drive and quickly encountered a pop-up window.
The pop-up encouraged her to call a “Microsoft Support” phone number, which was answered by a man who claimed the computer contained child porn downloaded onto it. After the woman denied this due to not downloading anything yet, the man ordered her to open her online banking accounts. She refused to do so, and the man began moving her cursor, turned on the computer’s camera and brought up a pornography website, prompting the woman to close the laptop.
Woman finds tracker on vehicle
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer from Shelby Township responded to the 50000 block of Scotland Boulevard, near 26 Mile and Mound roads, for a suspicious situation at 2:30 a.m. Nov. 6. The officer
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met with the caller, who advised that she had found a tracker on her vehicle.
The woman stated that she is in a relationship that is ending and believes it was placed on her vehicle by her soon-to-be ex. The caller stated that this is the second tracking device she has found. This case was turned over to the detective bureau for further investigation.
Fraud reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 12:33 p.m. on Nov. 14, a case of fraud was reported in the 32000 block of Harper Avenue.
A skimming device was found on an ATM at a business. Upon arrival, the officer spoke to the owner, a 59-year-old man, and a machine technician, a 27-year-old man. The technician stated he came to the business and found the device attached to the ATM in the store. The device had two parts: a plate that covered the ATM insert card hole and a “Y” shaped device inserted in the card slot.
Both men had handled the devices prior to the officer’s arrival. Evidence was collected and photos were taken. The officer asked the owner to have employees take notice of suspicious behavior near the machine.
Suspect cited for attempting to steal
STERLING HEIGHTS — 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.
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
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