Volunteers help provide care, therapy TRANSPORTATION CONVERSATION
Township board discusses roadwork projects
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — Transportation was the talk of the township on Jan. 22, as the Macomb Township Board of Trustees tackled several road-related subjects.
The first of the road matters was an authorization for professional services to begin surveying and performing right of way services for the extension of Broughton Road between 25 Mile and 23 1/2 Mile roads. Professional services firm OHM Advisors was authorized to perform $64,000 in work.
“There is an additional phase to the project for design, and we’ll be coming back to you — probably at the next meeting but it might be the last meeting of February — with the remainder of the design, but we wanted to get our consultant started so we can get this moving,” Assistant Township Engineer Crystal Kozak said.
Legislators work to alter wage and sick leave changes
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Drastic changes to Michigan’s paid sick leave and minimum wage will go into effect Feb. 21. Both of Michigan’s major political parties are currently trying to rein in these efforts in the
Legislature.
Republicans hold a majority in the state House of Representatives, and Democrats hold a majority in the state Senate. This month Republicans passed a pair of bills in the House, and Democrats in the Senate have an alternate plan in its early stages.
The whole issue began in 2018, when
two petitions for increased wages and paid sick time received enough signatures to get on the ballot. To block this, the petitions were adopted and amended by Republicans in the state Legislature, dramatically changing what would’ve appeared on the ballot.
In the Michigan Court of Claims, it was determined on July 19, 2022, that the ad-
opted and altered acts were unconstitutional. This was reversed by the Michigan Court of Appeals but was ultimately upheld by a 4-3 Michigan Supreme Court ruling July 31, 2024.
The current minimum wage is $10.33, or $3.93 for tipped workers.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes Macomb Township Supervisor Frank Viviano and Clerk Kristi Pozzi listen to a speaker during the Jan. 22 Macomb Township Board of Trustees meeting.
Teen arraigned following alleged drunken driving that caused a man’s death Justice for Austin Southwell
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office has arraigned a 17-year-old on a second-degree murder charge in connection with an alleged drunken driving incident that caused a man’s death in Shelby Township Jan. 7.
It is alleged that after 2 a.m. Jan. 7, the 17-yearold was driving under the influence of alcohol at speeds near 90 mph when he struck a vehicle and killed 26-year-old Austin Southwell, of Shelby Township.
It was at approximately 2:13 a.m. Jan. 7 when police were dispatched to the two-vehicle traffic crash near the intersection of 21 Mile and Hayes roads. Upon arrival, officers located Southwell, who was deceased.
The other driver, the 17-yearold, showed signs of impairment and was taken into custody. After receiving medical treatment for his injuries sustained in the traffic crash, he was lodged at the Macomb County Juvenile Justice Center pending a review of evidence and charges by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
police officers knocking at our door at 4:00 in the morning. They had come to tell us our son had been killed in a car crash. In shock and not wanting to believe them, my wife pleaded with them to see her son, to see his car. Austin had just told her hours before, as he was heading out the door, that he would be home to open his birthday card and watch a late-night movie together with her. Sadly, Austin never returned home that night. As much as we wanted to believe otherwise, this was not a nightmare, but this nightmare was to become our life.
A word from the family of the deceased
My wife, Joyce, and I want to take a moment to tell you about Austin and how much he is missed by his friends and family.
It was just over 1 year ago that my son’s life came to a sudden and tragic end as he was driving home from playing cards on the night of his birthday. His death was not from disease, nor was it from any fault of his own. Like something from a movie, my wife and I were awakened by
As little boy, Austin was voted most polite at his 6th grade graduation ceremony at Switzer Elementary. As he got older, Austin hung out with a close group of guys. It was these guys and Austin’s co-workers who kindly shared stories about Austin. One of Austin’s coworkers told us when he was down on his luck and was sleeping in his car on a winter night, Austin, with very little money of his own, offered to pay for a hotel room for the coworker. Another junior employee said Austin was the kind of boss who reaffirmed his faith in people. And, on the night of Austin’s death, just before leaving from playing a round of “Magic the Gathering” at a card club, Austin went around the room, fist pumped each of the guys there and said, “love you, brother”.
Austin spent his last birthday, his last night alive, celebrating life by playing cards with friends, having cake and ice cream with his family, and sharing the love. Those things had been great, but they ended that night. No more listening to his jokes. Birthdays, weddings, kids and grandkids, Austin was robbed of ever being able experience these things and his family was robbed of being able to share in the joys and
comfort of Austin’s company. Instead, there was a funeral, tears and hugs, and grief counseling to counter the many dark days of depression, hurt and anger.
Our plight has not ended. It continues in the courts. And, after the case is done in the courts, our family will be without our son, our brother, our uncle, and there will be those others without a trusted friend and a compassionate coworker.
Lastly, to the reader and to those in the community, friends, neighbors, police and EMT’s and the numerous others who have given us so much love and support at the time of the accident and in the months that followed, we are sincerely grateful. You are the light in the darkness.
A word from Michigan MADD
We are so thankful for the opportunity to support the Southwell family in honoring and remembering Austin Southwell.
In the State of Michigan in 2023 there were 8,817 alcohol involved crashes and 2,250 drug involved crashes. That same year, 297 people died in alcohol involved crashes and 256 people died in drug involved crashes in Michigan. This means that 41% of fatalities on Michigan roadways involved alcohol or drugs.
We help survivors survive. Long after the crash, survivors, family and friends continue to feel the impact. MADD Michigan has trained victim advocates to provide services across the state. Sometimes that begins by finding someone who can listen, someone whose shoulder they can lean on or whose hand they can hold. Our team of compassionate, victim-focused staff and volunteers are available at no cost, and can help the victim’s family and friends recover.
If you, or someone you love, has been the victim of a violent crime, you can contact a MADD Victim Advocate, 24 hours a day, at 1-877-MADD-HELP (1-877-623-3435) or call our Michigan state office at 248-528-1745.
Austin holding his newborn nephew in April 2023.
Wilson Marine will be at the Progressive Detroit Boat Show this February. The show itself offers a wide array of boats for eventgoers to browse and buy.
Presses to stop at printing plant in August
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — The printing plant on the corner Mound Road and Metro Parkway, which has been cranking out papers since the early 1970s, is set to shutter in August.
A Jan. 21 Detroit Free Press announcement states that the Sterling Heights Operation Facility runs 250 press jobs on a weekly basis, ranging from regional dailies to national publications like the New York Times. The approximately 700,000-square-foot building sits on about 40 acres of land. Shuttering the plant eliminates 115 jobs. On Aug. 3, the last papers will roll off the presses.
Boat Show sails into Detroit
BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — This year, the Progressive Detroit Boat Show is back with magnificent boats and activities for the whole family.
Ron Wilson, the owner of Wilson Marine, which has multiple locations, including Harrison Township, said he’s been going to the boat show since 1975.
“And we’ve grown from a pretty small little display to the largest exhibitor in Cobo Hall,” Wilson said.
Wilson Marine will have around 75 boats down at the show, which runs Feb. 1-8. It will be open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday and Monday, and 2-8 p.m. TuesdayFriday. Wilson said it used to go nine days, but it was shortened because of the Super Bowl on that Sunday.
A press release from the Progressive Detroit Boat Show stated hundreds of boats will be available for viewing and purchasing.
“Like the Auto Show, new models and features debut making the show a must-see for current and new boaters alike,” the release states. “Unlike the Auto Show, the boat show is one stop shopping with financing and purchasing happening right on the show floor. Many dealers attribute up to half of their annual sales from sales and leads gained from this show.”
Other activities and events that will be available are a tiki bar, Twiggy the Waterskiing Squirrel, a kids zone, free boater safety courses and more.
Rob Kotowski, owner of Lake Shore Boat Top Company in St. Clair Shores, said they’ve been participating in the boat show for the last 25 years. He said the show is fun to do and helps kick
off the boating season.
“It’s a good opportunity for people if they need any type of maintenance,” Kotowski said. “You know, if they’re looking to keep what they currently have and kind of refresh it. It’s a good spot to find different types of services that are available.”
Kotowski said eventgoers should bring photos of what they have.
“You’d be surprised how many people come by and they don’t even know the year of their boat and you’re trying to help them out as much as you can,” Kotowski said. “But, you know, simple things like that, just having the knowledge of what they have.”
He said they should also bring a good pair of walking shoes and recommended that his customers come during the week because it gives them time to talk about what they need and what they’re looking for.
“During the weekends, there’s a lot of traffic coming through, so we try to do our best to help and cater to everybody,” Kotowski said.
Wilson said it’s the best place to buy a boat.
“Because it’s so well attended by dealers, and of course, the more dealers, the more competition,” Wilson said.
He said consumers benefit from the show because they don’t have to travel everywhere to find a boat.
“They come here and they can see everything that’s manufactured,” Wilson said. “But there is one thing that’s not well represented anymore, and that’s sail boats.”
He said patrons can find jet skis, cruisers, pontoons and much more at the show this year.
Wilson said the show is fun and that the entire family can
A photo in the Sterling Heights Public Library’s digital collection shows construction being done on the plant in 1971. The Evening News Association, which owned the Detroit News at the time, constructed the facility for $42 million. The description mentions that the facility, then called the Detroit News North Plant, was up and running by 1976.
Both The Free Press and The Detroit News are printed at the Sterling Heights facility. Gannett has controlled the business side of The Free Press and The Detroit News through a Joint Operating Agreement since 1987. The JOA is set to expire this December. The two papers have separate ownership: MediaNews Group owns The Detroit News and Gannett owns The Free Press. Other Michigan newspapers owned by MediaNews Group, including the Macomb Daily, are also printed at the plant.
Gannett sold the property to Ohio-based Industrial Commercial Properties in March 2023, according to an ICP press release. The amount of the sale was not disclosed. Gannett leased the property from ICP to continue printing operations until early this year, when that agreement fell
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Photo provided by Suburban Library Cooperative and the Sterling Heights Library
This photo shows the Sterling Heights Operation Facility when it was first being constructed in 1971. The plant is set to close in August.
TOP LEFT: A snowy owl, spotted in St. Clair County, is a raptor that migrates to Michigan during the winter.
Photo by Barb Baldinger
BOTTOM LEFT: Female, left, and male redhead ducks are one species of waterfowl that migrates to Michigan during the winter.
ABOVE RIGHT: A dark-eyed junco, spotted around 26 Mile Road, is a songbird that migrates to Michigan during the winter.
Winter weather brings unique birds — if you can find them
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — As the air chills and days get shorter, it’s common for snowbirds to take their flights south.
But while our senior set heads for the Florida coast, some of nature’s feathered fellows find their way to Michigan from the Arctic.
These seasonal guests from the high north, along with being interesting company, make the winter a fascinating time for dedicated birders.
“A lot of people don’t necessarily think of a lot of birds being around in the winter,” said Stephanie Beilke, senior manager of conservation science at Audubon Great Lakes. “You hear more birds singing in the spring and summer and there’s more obviously around, but in the winter there’s still a lot of bird activity in Michigan.”
Winter birders keep their eyes out for a number of unique birds. Raptors, notably the snowy owl and various hawks, are some of the most famous winter birds. Another unique winter sight is the arrival of “weird ducks” with striking feather and beak patterns. Notable winter ducks include the bufflehead, northern pintail, common gold-
eneye and the ruddy duck.
“They’re looking for anywhere that just has open water because that’s all they need to find food,” Beilke said. “They’re looking for fish or plants that are underwater.”
Small birds, too, make southerly journeys for the warmer weather of frigid Michigan. Those birds, like the dark-eyed junco, can be best spotted at properly-equipped bird feeders — one of the least chilly ways of winter birding. Finches also may make an irruptive migration south due to what kind of seed crops have grown over the year.
“True sparrows … like the dark-eyed junco like to feed on platforms, so getting a tray feeder or a larger hopper feeder where you’ve got an edge to it that they feel comfortable sitting on,” said Rosann Kovalcik, owner of the Wild Birds Unlimited in Grosse Pointe Woods.
Some bird feeders are enjoyed by being directly watched, while others use technology to catch visiting birds with camera feeders.
“What’s good about them is that you can be in your house, you can have the camera set to be transmitting to your laptop or your phone and you can take pictures from that to help identify (birds),” Kovalcik said. “The camera feeder that we sell actually has
Photo by Lynette Spence, provided by Audubon Great Lakes
Photo by Barb Baldinger
NEWS & NOTES
7A/ MACOMB TOWNSHIP CHRONICLE • FEBRUARY 6, 2025
Anchor Bay High School students and Macomb County officials pose for a photo with the snowplow “Blizzard Wizard.”
MACOMB HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOW FEB. 15-16
MACOMB COUNTY STUDENTS PAINT PLOW
ANCHOR BAY — The handiwork of students from Anchor Bay High School will be seen throughout the county.
On Jan. 17, Macomb County officials and Anchor Bay students unveiled “Blizzard Wizard,” a snowplow painted by the students that will enter the Macomb County Department of Roads’ fleet this winter.
“Thanks to the talented students at Anchor Bay High School, we’ll be putting ‘Blizzard Wizard’ to work this winter to help keep the roads clear,” Macomb County Department of Roads Director Bryan Santo said in a press release. “The paint the plow program serves as a friendly reminder to the motoring public to drive safely and steer clear of snowplows during winter weather operations.”
The plow is the most recent entry in the Paint the Plow program. Prior plows have been painted by students from Switzer Elementary School and Collins Elementary School.
“This was such a cool opportunity for our students to see their work come to life in a real-world project,” Liz VanNuck, Anchor Bay High School graphic design teacher, said via press release. “They started with designs in Photoshop and Illustrator, which were voted on by the Department of Roads and their maintenance service center personnel. Watching Mr. Stump’s traditional art students bring the design to life was amazing. This is an experience our students will never forget. We enjoyed the opportunity to be part of this!”
Schools and teachers that are interested in participating in the county’s annual paint the plow program can contact the Department of Roads at (586) 463-8671 or geninfo@rcmcweb.org for additional information.
WARREN — Homeowners thinking about updating their kitchens, redecorating their bathrooms or adding new landscaping should check out the Macomb Home Improvement Show. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 15 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Macomb Community College Sports & Expo Center, located at 14500 12 Mile Road. Homeowners can take advantage of incredible “show only” discounts and enjoy savings on everything for their home. Local home improvement professionals will be on site to discuss the latest in kitchen and bath designs, room additions, roofing options, swimming pools, spas, siding, decks, landscaping, pavers and patio furniture. Attendees also can look at floor coverings, windows, doors and more. There will be a number of artisans offering unique handmade items for the home as well. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit yourhomeshows.com.
Township supervisor becomes SEMCOG vice chair
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — Macomb Township Supervisor Frank Viviano was appointed as a vice chair of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments at a meeting of the SEMCOG Nominating Committee on Jan. 14.
SEMCOG governance includes a chair, a first vice chair, an immediate past chair and four vice chairs. SEMCOG bylaws require that officers be balanced between the blocs (counties, cities and villages, townships and education) of the organization. Prior to this appointment, Viviano served as chair of SEMCOG’s Legislative Policy Platform Task Force. According to SEMCOG’s website, the platform recommends reforms and enhancements to a broad range of federal and state policies aimed at furthering Southeast Michigan’s health and economic prosperity.
Former judge promoted to convention committee
MOUNT CLEMENS — David Viviano, former justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, was appointed to the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority on Jan. 21.
Viviano fills the seat previously held by Marilyn Lane, who served as vice chair of the DRCFA.
“Dave has a proven track record of leadership and public service, making him an exceptional addition for the DRCFA board,” Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said in a press release. “His deep understanding of the law and commitment to our community will strengthen the Authority’s mission to drive economic growth and collaboration across the region.”
A lifelong Macomb County resident, Viviano served as a justice on the Michigan Supreme Court from 2014-2024, first being appointed by then-governor Rick Snyder before winning election in 2016. Prior to his tenure on the Supreme Court, Viviano served as chief judge of the Macomb County Circuit Court and Probate Court as well as a lawyer in private legal practice.
The DRCFA oversees management and operations at Huntington Place.
Friends of Macomb Township open scholarship applications
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — The Friends of Macomb Township group is seeking applications for its annual scholarship program.
“We are very excited about again offering financial help to some of our finest Macomb Township students to attend a post-secondary or career/technical institute or an apprenticeship program of their choice,” Kerry Jantz, FofMT president, said via press release. “We hope this scholarship effort will be a successful FofMT event once again to help us meet our mission of enhancing the educational, recreational, and cultural activities in Macomb Township.”
Scholarships are open to high school seniors living in Macomb Township with a 3.0 GPA and plans to attend a community college, a four-year college or university, or a post-high school vocational, technical or creative arts institution, or an apprenticeship program during the 2025-2026 school year. Up to 10 students will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
For a copy of the scholarship application form, contact local high school counseling offices, visit the Friends of Macomb Township website or reach out to FofMT Scholarship Committee Chair Gary Cynowa by phone at (586) 291-0399 or by email at gcynowa@comcast.net. Scholarships are due by March 14.
Entries open for State of the State program design contest
LANSING — Michigan K-12 students are called upon to submit entries for a State of the State Address program design contest.
Set to take place on Wednesday, Feb. 26, students are asked to develop a design around the concept of “Think Michigan” using crayons, markers, paint or any other material. Submissions are accepted through the website somgovweb.state. mi.us/ArtContest and are due by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14.
Advancing Macomb opens accelerator applications
MOUNT CLEMENS — Small to medium-sized nonprofits seeking to improve their performance are encouraged to apply for Advancing Macomb’s Nonprofit Accelerator.
Open to 501(c)(3) organizations based in or serving Macomb County, the accelerator is a four-month program that will teach 10 nonprofits about subjects including financial planning, communications, grant seeking, strategic planning and more.
Applications are accepted at advancingmacomb.com and are due by Saturday, Feb. 15.
Photo provided by Macomb County Department of Roads
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
8A/ MACOMB TOWNSHIP CHRONICLE • FEBRUARY 6, 2025
FEB. 6-8
Disney’s ‘Newsies The Broadway Musical’: Show about New York City newsboys strike of 1899 based on 1992 movie, presented by Dakota High School, 7 p.m. Feb. 6-7 and 1 and 7 p.m. Feb. 8, 21051 21 Mile Road in Macomb Township, dakotachoirs.com, read story at candgnews.com
FEB. 14
Widowed Friends Valentine’s Day lunch: 1:30 p.m., Joe Jo’s Restaurant, 16611 21 Mile Road in Macomb Township, RSVP to Gerry at (586) 556-9471 by Feb 11, widowedfriends.com
FEB. 15
After-hours Nerf night: For students in grades 6-12, 6-8 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - North Branch, 54100 Broughton Road in Macomb Township, register at (586) 226-5083, cmpl.libnet.info/events
FEB. 21
After-hours family fort night: Bring blankets/sheets and book to read, snack provided and story told by librarian, 6-7:30 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - North Branch, 54100 Broughton Road in Macomb Township, register at (586) 226-5083, cmpl.libnet. info/events
Mother-son dance: Inaugural event presented by Ma-
comb Township Parks & Recreation, also includes buffet dinner, DJ, crafts and photos, for ages 4 and older, 6-9 p.m., Fern Hill Golf Club, 17600 Clinton River Road in Clinton Township, macombtwp.org/3BSjnHv
Back to the Prom: 1980s-themed dinner-dance for ages 21 and older, also open bar, DJ, raffles, award for best dressed and more, 7 p.m.-midnight, Zuccaro’s Banquets & Catering, 46601 Gratiot Ave. in Chesterfield Township, lcpsfoundation.com
FEB. 25
Trace Your Roots: Learn about tools used by Macomb County Vital Records Department and books, records and other resources available at Macomb County Clerk’s Office, 1-2 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - North Branch, 54100 Broughton Road in Macomb Township, register at (586) 226-5083, cmpl. libnet.info/events
MARCH 9
Widowed Friends ‘Winner, Winner Chicken Dinner!’: Also dessert, door prizes, raffles and more, bring own game, 1-5 p.m. (food at 3 p.m.), St. Isidore Church, 18201 23 Mile Road in Macomb Township, RSVP to Dolores at (586) 749-5972 by March 1
ONGOING
Macomb Motivators Toastmasters Club: Meets from
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.
6:30-8 p.m. every second and fourth Thursday of month, St. Isidore Church, 18201 23 Mile Road in Macomb Township, 6104644.toastmastersclubs.org
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts at 10 a.m. every third Friday of month, Dimitri’s Opa! Restaurant, 50875 Gratiot Ave. in Chesterfield Township, RSVP to Liz at (586) 801-4536, widowedfriends.com
• Games from 1:30-3:30 p.m. every first Thursday of month, bring snack to share, SS. John and Paul Parish, 7777 W. 28 Mile Road in Washington Township, optional dinner afterward, Romeo Family Restaurant, 66020 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, RSVP to Ellen at (586) 489-2569, widowedfriends.com
• Breakfasts at 10 a.m. every fourth Monday of month, Amore’s Grill, 53100 Gratiot Ave. in Chesterfield Township, RSVP to Liz at (586) 801-4536, widowedfriends.com
• Lunches at 1:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of month, Moni’s Restaurant, 16600 24 Mile Road in Macomb Township, RSVP to Sue at (586) 549-1041, widowedfriends.com
Bereaved Parents of Macomb Support Group: Also for grandparents and siblings, meets 7-9 p.m. every first Thursday of month, Washington Senior Center,
57880 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, (248) 425-2999, neilflyer@yahoo.com
Washington Art Guild: Meets 6:30-9 p.m. every first Monday of month, Romeo Community Center, 361 Morton St. in Washington Township, (586) 752-3721, bonwrite1@att.net, find group on Facebook
Ice skating: Unstaffed but open dawn to dusk, north end of Macomb Township Recreation Center, 20699 Macomb St., facebook.com/macombtwpparksandrec
Free tax preparation: For Macomb County residents with annual family income of $67,000 or less, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 7 and 21, March 7 and 21, and April 4 and 11, see locations and documents needed at macombca.itfrontdesk.com/vita, appointments required, (586) 463-2537
Ostomy peer support group: Meets 2-3 p.m. every third Sunday of month, Northside Church, 25600 23 Mile Road in Chesterfield Township, (586) 765-8976, ostomyinfo@yahoo.com, ostomysupport-macomb.org
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
SUNSHINE, EXERCISE HELP
MELT AWAY THE WINTER BLUES
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Sunlight brightens our day in more ways than one. It not only has the power to warm the air and melt the snow, but it also can warm your heart and melt the winter blues away.
Dr. Ibrahim Sablaban, a psychiatrist with Beaumont Behavioral Health in Dearborn, a part of Corewell Health, said that around 40% of people experience a mild but functional depression in the winter that is commonly called the “winter blues,” which does not require clinical treatment.
“It’s definitely a common phenomenon,” he said.
He said that with more daylight hours in the spring and summer, people can be more social and feel that their time after work is more productive.
“In the winter, it’s 20, 10 degrees and you’re limited on daylight hours. It’s just life really thrives on warmer days,” Sablaban said.
However, a small percentage of people, around 5%, develop a form of clinical depression called seasonal affective disorder. This is where someone may experience a persistent “grumpy” mood and a constant state of depression. He said those with seasonal affective disorder may get more irritable with family, friends and loved ones, or have suicidal thoughts. Sablaban said that anyone who experiences those kinds of things should seek help from a mental health professional. Seasonal affective disorder is treated via therapy and, if need be, anti-depressant medication.
“Seasonal affective disorder happens when we don’t expose ourselves to the sunlight and daylight,” said Dr. Jill Skurnowicz, a licensed naturopathic doctor and a certified registered nurse anesthetist, of the Natural Care Institute in Birmingham.
According to Sablaban, many Michiganders have a vitamin D deficiency and a lack of vitamin D is associated with feelings of depression. He said that it is something people can be
See HOMES on page 16A
Confused by Medicare or Health Insurance?
Workers
If nothing happens
If the revisions by Republicans or Democrats are not made, the court’s ruling will go into effect as planned in February.
All workers will receive a pay bump to $12.48 an hour this year, with tipped workers gradually reaching $12 in 2029. The final amounts will be determined by the state’s treasurer.
All employees, including part-time and temporary workers, are entitled to paid sick leave. Every 30 hours an employee works generates one hour of paid sick leave. Employees get 72 hours paid sick time per year at larger companies. However, employers with fewer
than 10 employees need to only pay for 40 hours of sick leave a year.
Proposed Republican changes
Two Republican-led bills have passed through the Michigan House of Representatives that would augment the court’s ruling.
“These bills are now bound for the Senate where they will face another vote,” Rep. Ron Robinson, R-Utica, said in a press release. “I urge each senator to consider the needs of the small business in their communities and vote yes. It would be a massive win for Michigan if the Senate followed the example of the House and sent these bills to (the) governor’s desk.”
House Bill 4001, introduced by Rep. John Roth, R-Interlochen, would tweak the minimum wage changes. It was passed Jan. 23 with a 63-41 vote. Six House members sat out
from page 1A See WORKERS on page 19A
Boat show
from page 3A
enjoy it. A boat based on the Disney movie “Moana” and a “Barbie” boat are going to be available for viewing.
“It’ll get kids out of their bedroom and
off the video games (to) just see really, really cool stuff,” Wilson said.
The boat show will take place at the Huntington Place, formerly known as Cobo Hall, at 1 Washington Blvd., on the riverfront in Detroit.
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.
Tom Kallas and his dog, Kevin, provide pet therapy for hospice patients through Hospice of Michigan.
VOLUNTEERS PROVIDE CARE, THERAPY FOR HOSPICE PATIENTS
BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — A loved one’s decision to enter hospice care can begin a daunting and scary time for families, but volunteers providing supporting care for their loved ones can make it a little bit easier.
Ruth Moore-Lilly, Hospice of Michigan’s volunteer program coordinator, said volunteers give additional support to patients and families during hospice care.
“Providing companionship, caregiver relief — just a more personal side where the patient doesn’t really feel like a patient,” MooreLilly said.
Hospice is end-of-life care, or palliative care. The volunteers provide a wide range of services, including caregiver relief, pet therapy, music therapy and much more.
“It’s really just providing that extra special support at a very sacred time,” Moore-Lilly said.
Hospice patients range in age from infants to the elderly. Their diagnoses range as
well, but all are terminal.
Families can request hospice through referrals by the patient or through a doctor.
“Once a patient’s on our service, the clinical team — the nurses, the social workers, the spiritual care advisors — they’re always assessing patients to see if they would desire something from a volunteer,” Moore-Lilly said.
“And they make those referrals to the volunteer coordinator, who then starts the process to match a volunteer with a patient.”
Volunteers can meet a patient at their care facility or at their home. Usually, only one volunteer visits at a time, but Moore-Lilly said they may have more than one volunteer visit each week.
Crystal Hickerson, the volunteer coordinator at Brighton Hospice, said it’s the job of the volunteer to provide companionship for the patient.
“It’s a nonclinical way to bring support to the hospice patient and to provide for the caregiver a little bit of relief,” Hickerson said.
Photo provided by Hospice of Michigan
Open House
February 22nd 11:30am - 2:30pm
We invite you to come enjoy our hot chocolate bar and tour our community. Learn more about our specials that are so HOT you’ll forget it’s cold outside. While you’re here, don’t forget to enter our raffle.
WUJEK-CALCATERRA & SONS: Round-the-Clock Compassion since 1913
With 15 licensed funeral directors, totaling 350 years of combined experience, Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is uniquely qualifed to bring peace and comfort to grieving families in their time of need. And these aren’t ordinary funeral directors. Each one was specifcally sought out by the Wujek and Calcaterra families based on their individual talents and expertise.
Licensed funeral director Dominick Astorino, managing director at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, is honored to be a part of this exceptional team. “My colleagues and I are career professionals,” stated Astorino. “Most of us have been with Wujek-Calcaterra for over 20 years. We are dedicated to our career in a long-standing way.
“We also have an excellent collection of younger funeral directors. As the embalming professor at Wayne State University School of Mortuary Science, I have taught many of them. I see their potential from the frst day I meet them and watch them develop.”
Tese devoted individuals represent a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds. Tey have formed enduring relationships with local families and the community. Tey are familiar with the neighborhood churches and have worked alongside their pastors. Tis allows them to connect with all types of families, putting them at
ease at a most difcult and overwhelming time.
Furthermore, their compassion isn’t strictly confned to business hours. Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is one of the few funeral homes in the area where there is someone present 24/7.
According to Astorino, “We have never taken a day of since opening our original location in Detroit back in 1913. Christmas, holidays, brownouts, the worst snow storms – there has always been someone here to pick up the phone. We treat our families the way we would like to be treated. Tey never have to talk to an answering machine, and they know their loved one is never lef unattended.”
In addition to the 15 funeral directors, there is a support staf of 35 capable and compassionate individuals to complete the team at Wujek-Cacaterra & Sons. “We can serve all of our families, giving them everything they need – much like a personalized concierge.”
From preplanning to afercare services, Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is available seven days a week, 365 days a year. Tey ofer two welcoming locations: 36900 Schoenherr Road in Sterling Heights, phone (586) 588-9117; and 54880 Van Dyke Avenue in Shelby Township, phone (586) 217-3316. For more information, visit wujekcalcaterra.com or follow Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons on Facebook.
CRIME WATCH
Reckless road rage investigated
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 20, a 24-year-old New Baltimore woman was driving west on 22 Mile Road when she said she noticed a white BMW X5 tailgating her. As she attempted to turn onto Fairchild Road, the BMW reportedly crossed into oncoming lanes to pass her and drove at a slow pace.
The woman followed the BMW to track the license plate number until it stopped in a turning lane at the 21 Mile Road and North Avenue intersection. The BMW driver, a 54-year-old Macomb Township man, reportedly exited the X5 and approached the woman’s car screaming. He allegedly kicked her door, smashed a window and fled when the woman said she was calling the police.
When Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the man’s house in the 22000 block of Case Court, he admitted to everything and was arrested.
Deposits scam
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 10, a 77-year-old Macomb Township man received an email about a charge on his PayPal account. He called a phone number included in the email that reportedly connected him with someone named “Dominic” who said he would send $90 to verify the man’s account. “Dominic” allegedly claimed he accidentally sent $9,000.
Without checking his PayPal account, the Macomb Township man spent the next few days sending “Dominic” $12,890 under the impression the money had yet to be returned to “Dominic” before banks flagged the activity as fraudulent.
Man bought stolen Jeep
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 17, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office depu-
ties were called to the home of a 28-year-old Macomb Township man to investigate his Jeep Cherokee.
The man purchased the Jeep in November 2024 through an online auction out of the Chicago area. When he attempted registering the Jeep with the Michigan Secretary of State’s office, he was told the car was reported stolen in Illinois. Macomb County deputies ran the Jeep’s vehicle identification number and found it was indeed registered as stolen, and the Chicago Police Department confirmed the vehicle’s status.
The Jeep was towed away from the Macomb Township home.
Gift card scammer
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 13 at around 7:20 p.m., the Hall Road Jimmy John’s sandwich shop received a call from someone claiming to be the from FBI demanding around $800 in gift cards.
The manager on duty reportedly used store funds to purchase the cards and read their codes to the caller over the phone.
Phishing scam reported
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 12, a 64-year-old Macomb Township man was trying to buy candles online when he stumbled upon a shopping website with a site domain and an address that misspelled Bath and Body Works.
The candles on the misspelled website were much cheaper than the official retailer’s website, though two of the man’s cards were declined after entering in payment details.
On Jan. 13, he received a notification that his debit card was used to buy an Apple Watch in Dearborn.
On Jan. 14, his credit card was used to make a small online purchase. The man canceled both cards and disputed the charges.
— Dean Vaglia
Homes
screened for. and possibly treated with supplements. Although many are available over the counter, he said people should consult their doctors first.
Sunlight provides vitamin D naturally. So, in order to combat the winter blues, he recommends taking in as much sunlight as possible during the day.
“We might not have as many hours as we do during the summertime, but we do have sunlight, so try to get out there into the sun on lunchbreaks and stuff,” Sablaban said. “Bundle up and try to stand in the sun for just a little bit. Especially on the weekend, there’s a tendency to try to sleep in and not really partake in a whole lot, especially if the weather is not fairing too well, but try to take advantage of daylight hours. It’s super important.”
Skurnowicz said that people should strive to maintain a proper circadian rhythm and get sunlight within one hour of waking up.
Those who are unable to take advantage of the sunlight can purchase what is known as “happy lights.” Happy lights come in many different forms and are available all over.
Sablaban said it is also important to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. He said lack of exercise, sleep and poor diet also contribute to the winter blues.
“Regular physical activity, whether that’s exercise at a gym or going for a walk can really reduce the stress and anxiety that can build up with the limited socialization that happens in winter months,” he said.
“Exercise is one of the best ways to help with mental health as well as physical health,” Skurnowicz said.
Lissa Pietrykowski, a personal trainer and owner of Peak Physique and its offshoot, Peak Women, in Troy, said they see a lot of people in the winter months who are battling the winter blues or some form of depression. She said many say they didn’t want to come in but are glad they did, as they feel better after exercise.
“When I opened Peak Women, the main reason of doing so was to help people that suffer from anxiety and depression and to allow them to have the benefit of exercising and getting personal training, because exercising releases endorphins and it helps with depression, but so often people aren’t going to just come to a gym because they are intimidated,” Pietrykowski said. “So in a roundabout way, that was the purpose of why we opened it, was so that everybody could benefit from exercise.”
Pietrykowski said she is partial to strength training, especially for women, as it is good for not just mood but bone strength, especially as you get older. However, she said it is important to just get your body moving, even for a short period of time. She recommends exercising three days a week for at least a half hour.
“Small goals. Make sure you do 10 min-
utes a day at first and then do 15 minutes a day,” she said. “If you can do that three days a week, it’s a great start.”
Pietrykowski said people could do body weight exercises at home such as push-ups or squats, or possibly take a yoga class on YouTube. She recommends Tabata as a great way to get one’s heart rate up and bring it back down, which can be done at home. She said it is a type of exercise routine where a person does an exercise for 30 seconds, breaks for 15 seconds, and then repeats with different 30-second exercises, followed by a 15-second break. She said that there are several free apps for Tabata.
“It’s a very fast way to get your body moving and it’s very effective,” Piertrykowski said.
According to Skurnowicz, people should also optimize blood sugar levels as they have a lot to do with cognitive function and maintain proper gut health. She said that if your gut isn’t healthy, your brain isn’t healthy. In order to do that, she said people need to monitor their diet and eat healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.
“Eat organic, whole foods and a wellrounded diet,” she said.
Sablaban also emphasized the importance of socialization. He said many people don’t see friends and family as often during the cold winter months. He suggests making a “purposeful effort” to socialize and see friends and family members.
“A lot of times we don’t realize how much the minimization of daylight does,” Sablaban said. “So you know you haven’t seen a buddy or you haven’t seen a friend or colleague outside of the work environment for two months, I mean, that’s going to have an impact, especially if you are regularly used to getting together.”
Pietrykowski said that it is always beneficial to exercise with someone else. She said that it goes quicker because you are talking to someone and it is more fun. She said it also provides accountability and motivation and something for someone to look forward to seeing. For those who aren’t able to get out of the house, she suggests working out with a friend on the phone or via Zoom.
“Having that other person doing something with you could be motivating,” she said. “Even for me as a trainer, it is so much easier doing the workout to have someone there with me.”
She said that having another person there allows her to focus on her workout rather than taking time to check emails or text messages.
“Drink lots of water and set realistic goals,” Pietrykowski said. “With exercise, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Little bits add up. Just make the goal of getting yourself to move.”
Pietrykowski said she sees people’s moods improve the same day they begin to exercise and it heightens over time.
Northern Flicker
Board
from page 1A
The Broughton Road extension is part of the township’s town center plan and is being funded in part by a $5 million state grant awarded in 2023. The extended Broughton Road is planned to be a departure from the rest of the township’s north-south road projects, focusing on a boulevard-style design similar to Auburn Road in the “Brooklands” neighborhood of eastern Rochester Hills.
“We have been in discussions with the Macomb County road department about the design of this for about eight months,” Township Supervisor Frank Viviano said. “We are nearing an agreement with the road department on what this stretch of road is going to look like and in order to proceed, these are the next steps.”
Viviano said he expected that acquiring the right of way would occur in the next few months.
On the subject of the town center, trustees awarded a $17,124 contract to professional services firm Carlisle Wortman Associates to develop the town center overlay district. In addition to the zoning code for the town center, the overlay district will control the development style and pattern intended for the district.
Radar signs
Trustees approved a policy to install radar speed-monitoring signs along streets in the township. The signs serve as traffic-calming devices by flashing messages like “YOUR SPEED (in miles per hour)” or “SLOW DOWN.” Viviano said the signs will also collect data, access to which will be given to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
“These units that we intend to purchase also have data collection, and we intend to collect the data and have it available to the Macomb County sheriffs who patrol our streets,” Viviano said. “They’ll use that data over time to know when and where to deploy the patrols that service our area.”
Data collected includes the speed and number of passing vehicles. Viviano said the signs will not be used for taking photos to issue speeding tickets.
“They’re going to take an average number of vehicles and how fast they’re going,” Viviano said. “Presumably, if they determine that, let’s say, at 10 o’clock they see a spike in people speeding, they’ll send a car over that way to sit on the street for that period of time and try and encourage our residents to adhere to the speed limit.”
At least six signs to be placed along three township streets are expected to be purchased and installed within the year. The initial six signs will serve as a pilot, testing the effectiveness of the signs before deciding whether to expand the program.
Hayes Road response
Trustees unanimously supported a resolution from Viviano objecting to changing to the speed limit on Hayes Road from 45 mph to an “unposted” speed limit of 55 mph following the widening of the road. Speed studies are a regular part of road expansion projects and are conducted by the Michigan State Police.
“The Macomb Township Board of Trustees is concerned that increasing the speed limit will jeopardize the health, safety and welfare of our residents,” Viviano said. “At a time when municipalities across the region are investing in ways to encourage pedestrian activity and alternative means of transportations, it seems counterproductive to be raising speed limits that have been in place for years. Additionally, removing speed limit signs and leaving the road as ‘unposted’ will only serve to confuse many drivers who regularly travel Hayes Road.”
Viviano called the methodology used in the speed study “flawed and outdated” and said that the letter sent to the township notifying it of the change did not include data or studies used to determine the change.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
from page 3A
apart.
“Where our newspaper is printed does not impact our ability to deliver outstanding journalism,” reads a statement from Gannett. “The Detroit Free Press will continue to provide readers with quality, local content that matters most to them, and to connect our valued advertising partners with the customers they want to reach. We deeply
appreciate the years of service our valued colleagues have dedicated to our Detroit facility and the local community.”
At the time of the 2023 sale, ICP CEO Christopher Semarjian said the facility would continue producing papers, though the release stated a 4-acre spot may be repurposed.
“We are very bullish on Detroit and the suburban markets,” Semarjian is quoted as saying in the release. “We own millions of square feet in the region and think it’s a great place to own long term.”
Workers
for the vote.
The bill would set the new minimum wage to $12, which is 48 cents less than what would go into effect automatically Feb. 21. The wage would increase by 50 cents in 2026, and then increase by $1 each Jan. 1 until 2029. Starting in 2030, the state treasurer would calculate the annual increase.
Tipped workers would receive 38% of whatever the minimum wage is for all other workers.
House Bill 4002, introduced by Rep. Jay DeBoyer, R-Clay Township, would alter the paid sick time changes. It passed the same day as HB 4001 with a 67-38 vote. Five members abstained from the vote.
The bill excises the earned sick time for businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Workers at larger companies would earn one hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked, not including hours used as paid leave. Sick leave accrued can carry over from year to year, or an employer can pay the employee the value of the time. Employers do not have to allow more than 72 hours of accrued sick time in a year. They also don’t have to carry over more than 72 hours from one year to the next.
“We have heard again and again from thousands and thousands of restaurant workers whose jobs are at risk,” Sen. Michael Webber, R-Rochester Hills, said in a press release. “The Legislature has both the duty and ability to protect this vital industry and its employees. But the clock is ticking; we need Senate Democrats to do the right thing and join us in the fight to save Michigan’s threatened hospitality industry.”
The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association supported the changes in HB 4001.
“The House has acted to protect 1,000 independent restaurants from closing permanently,” Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association, said in a press release. “Now it’s critical for the Senate to follow suit and pass House Bill 4001 immediately. Every day of inaction puts more Michigan restaurant jobs and businesses at risk.”
While some Democrats joined GOP members in approving the votes, some cast a vote against them. Rep. Joe Tate, D-Detroit, said in a release following the vote that the bills could have been better.
“We need to support workers receiving wages and benefits they deserve — along with creating a positive climate for employers to thrive,” Tate said in a press release.
Senate Democrats weigh in Michigan Democratic senators have their
own proposed legislation to counter Republican efforts. Sens. Kevin Hertel, D-St. Clair Shores, and Sam Singh, D-East Lansing, have introduced bills that would adjust the changes set to take effect in February. The bills are currently being discussed in their respective committees.
Senate Bill 8, introduced by Hertel, changes the schedule of the wage increases. The initial change in February would remain at $12.48. Each subsequent increase would happen Jan. 1. Next year it would be $13.73, and in 2027 it would rise to $15. After that, the treasurer would update the rate each year.
Unlike the Republican legislation, SB 8 would increase the wages of tipped workers. The first year tipped workers would receive 38% of the $12.48 minimum wage. The wage would rise in 2%-3% increments each Jan. 1 until hitting 60% in 2035.
SB 15, introduced by Singh, deals with paid sick time. This bill attempts to keep some of the court ruling’s original intent, while sanding down some of its edges.
Earned sick time would stay relatively the same as the Supreme Court ruling, though the threshold for a small business would change from fewer than 10 employees to fewer than 25.
Too much meddling?
The passage of the two Republican bills wasn’t met with enthusiasm everywhere.
“Today, in a bipartisan fashion, the Michigan House of Representatives caved to corporate lobbyists and betrayed Michigan workers by voting to gut the state’s minimum wage and paid sick leave laws,” Sam Inglot, the executive director of Progress Michigan, said in a press release.
He said that the majority of Michigan residents supported the original changes as laid out by the Michigan Supreme Court’s decision. He urged the Senate to not make the two pieces of legislation into law.
“HB 4001 and HB 4002 strips workers of a well-deserved and overdue raise and strips too many workers of paid sick leave they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones,” Inglot said.
Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber accused the GOP of “unconstitutional tricks” when adopting and amending the original petition. Bieber advocated for keeping the court’s decision in place.
“Now, less than a month before workers are about to finally get the pay and benefits they deserve, the new Republican majority is trying to pull the rug out from under working families,” he said in a press release. “Every legislator, regardless of their party, should be held accountable for their vote to cut the pay and benefits for workers most in need.”
Hospice
“Just knowing someone else is visiting with their loved one without it not necessarily being just someone coming to do a test or something like that.”
Hickerson said that hospice started as a volunteer service. Around the 1980s, regulations were put in place in the United States to require hospice organizations to provide volunteer support and services.
She said Medicare makes sure volunteers are utilized and requires that 5% of the organization’s staff hours are volunteered across its teams, including administration.
Some volunteers are students in pre-med or other medical-related fields of study. Hickerson said these students get firsthand experience in the end-of-life process.
“We want them as they go in their role as a physician to know about what the end-oflife services are and that hospice is available and what it’s really about,” Hickerson said.
She said that even though they might not go into a field dealing with the end of life, it gives them knowledge about the process and when to refer someone to hospice.
“And that’s crucial, because again, like I said, in America, it’s only been here since the ‘80s, so it takes a while for some physicians to understand, even though they’re in the medical field,” Hickerson said.
She said she always asks any volunteer why they chose hospice, because it is so specific.
“There’s so many regulations around it; it’s almost like a job,” Hickerson said.
She said volunteers stay because they learn a lot from their patients.
humanity of it all,” Hickerson said. “It’s really great when we have younger volunteers who go out and see our patients.”
Tom Kallas and his dog, a Newfoundland named Kevin, provide pet therapy to the patients they visit.
He started volunteering two years ago, after his wife found an article about pet volunteering.
“And she showed it to me. I was recently retired, and I contacted them, and I’ve been involved with them now for the last couple years,” Kallas said.
Kallas volunteers at other places with Kevin in addition to Hospice of Michigan. He said that after 40 years of working, he was in a place mentally to want to give back.
“I spent 40 years trying to accumulate enough wealth to be able to retire, and after I retired, I just had an inner urge to do some volunteering, to do some giveback,” Kallas said.
Kallas’ training prepared him for patient deaths. He said that over long periods of time, he’s created relationships with them and their families.
“When you lose that person that you’ve seen every single week for a year, you know, it’s tough. It’s really, really tough,” Kallas said. “At the same time, you have to have in your mind the fact that you know what you were doing is doing good for that patient, and you knew going into it what the outcome was most likely going to be.”
Kallas said visits are memorable when families get together with the patient and take part in the services. He said families are very appreciative of his company.
“You’ve never seen anybody appreciate something like the families that have hospice involved,” Kallas said.
He said some of the work his fellow vol-
from page 12A See HOSPICE on page 22A
“Just being there for someone and the
Photo provided by Hospice of Michigan
Kevin the Newfoundland is a therapy dog who provides comfort for hospice patients. Kevin volunteers with his handler, Tom Kallas.
Birds
from page 5A
identification built in it. There’s a huge surge of that going on. There’s still probably a much larger group of people that go out and they just want to look with their binoculars and they’re just getting into the hobby.”
For those looking to get more outdoors but still close to heat, car caravans organized by Audubon and Bird Alliance groups are a great way to seek birds out.
“What’s fun is just the discovery,” Kovalcik said. “What could I possibly see as I’m driving through this area of Macomb County near Algonac, and that day (Dec. 20, 2024) my partner and I had a screech owl, we had a bald eagle, we had a red-shouldered hawk, red-tailed hawk, northern harrier. We had so many raptors that we could see that were out during the day or you could play tapes of and they’d call back. It’s such a treat to come across that and to see it and to know that I’m only going to get this (experience) this time of year.”
Locations close to water — such as Lake St. Clair Metropark, Belle Isle and almost anywhere along the Detroit River/ Lake St. Clair coast — offer a wide variety of bird-sighting opportunities due to optimal plants and prey. Wooded areas like the noncoastal Metroparks offer great opportunities to view birds. Kovalcik says not to discount open fields, such as in northern Macomb County, when planning your winter bird watch; songbirds like snow buntings will take to open fields to scour about for seeds
Hospice
from page 20A
unteers do is incredible.
“It’s selfless,” Kallas said.
Moore-Lilly said she thinks volunteers provide their time and companionship unconditionally.
“Volunteers aren’t expecting anything in return. They just have a heart to be with somebody,” Moore-Lilly said.
While she has worked in health care all her life, Moore-Lilly said it was not always with hospice. She started volunteering before she was employed by the organization. Hospice of Michigan and Brighton Hospice are just two of many hospice care providers in the state offering an array of services.
She reiterated that at the end of a person’s life, everything revolves around a patient’s diagnosis, and the volunteers allow them to be a regular person outside of their diagnosis.
“Volunteers always say that they take
and insects.
“And flying over them would be shortreared owls, which are also out because they are looking for voles and mice in the same fields,” Kovalcik said.
Those with technology on their side can stay up to date on the latest bird sightings throughout the region.
“(The website) eBird is a great resource for finding birding locations called eBird Hotspots, which provide up-to-the-minute information on the very best locations and what has been seen there,” Barb Baldinger, long-time birder and former vice-president of the Macomb Audubon Society, said via email. “Another place to check is the St. Clair-Macomb Birding Trail website, which has information about 38 bird viewing sites in St. Clair and Macomb counties.”
While coming across an exotic bird can be a cool experience, it is best for the birds to keep your distance.
“One of the best things to remember is to use good birding ethics to keep your distance from any owl or other sensitive species,” Baldinger said via email. “Using your vehicle as a photo blind, if possible, is much less intrusive than walking too close to an owl and perhaps causing it to fly, when it needs to conserve energy.”
The largest birding event of the winter is the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, which runs from Dec. 14-Jan. 5 every year. Groups like the Detroit Bird Alliance, the Oakland Bird Alliance and the Macomb Audubon Society organize field trips throughout the season.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
a piece of every person that they have visited with them in their own life,” Moore-Lilly said.
“And it really, you know, for me, and I do speak for other staff members and volunteers, it changes our lives.”
She said it gives her a new appreciation for what she has.
Moore-Lilly said the whole experience has been rewarding.
“I can’t imagine doing anything else,” Moore-Lilly said. “This is where I’ll stay for the rest of my career.”
Volunteers must be 18 to participate, and training is provided. Future volunteers also must go through a background check, fingerprinting and a tuberculosis test. They can visit the Hospice of Michigan website at hom.org or Brighton Hospice at brightonhospice.com.
“If you have a heart for other people, then you can be a hospice volunteer,” Moore-Lilly said. “You don’t have to have any special talents.”
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 4981103.
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Suspects threaten delivery person
GROSSE POINTE FARMS — Two unknown male suspects are facing possible strong-armed robbery charges after stealing a package from a Federal Express delivery person when the victim was trying to deliver said package to a home in the 200 block of McKinley Road at around 12:12 p.m. Jan. 7.
The victim told police that one of the suspects claimed to be the homeowner as he stepped out of the passenger side of a vehicle. When the delivery person asked the suspect for identification before handing him the package, he said the suspect wouldn’t provide any. The victim said the suspect tried to rip the package out of his hands.
The driver of the suspect then yelled, “Just give us the package and walk away.” When the victim didn’t comply, he said both suspects became enraged. The suspect who had emerged from the passenger side of the vehicle is said by the victim to have gone back to his vehicle and started rummaging through the back seat, asking the victim, “Is that package worth your life?”
The victim, fearing that the passenger was looking for a gun, finally left the package on the porch so that the suspect could take it.
Thefts reported at senior facility
GROSSE POINTE FARMS — An unknown suspect is said to be getting into American House apartments and stealing valuables from the senior residents there. In the most recent incident, a 90-year-old woman reported that between Jan. 8 and Jan. 10, someone had apparently entered her unit and stole $16 from her purse. Other residents on the same floor have reported similar thefts. In other recent incidents, $40 was taken from a resident’s purse between Jan. 8 and Jan. 10, and an iPad was stolen around Jan. 3 from someone else’s apartment.
The thefts are being classified as home invasions by police because they involve someone entering the apartments rented by the victims.
Prowler arrested
GROSSE POINTE CITY — A 28-year-old Toledo man was arrested after he was seen on surveillance cameras peering into vehicles and trying door handles in the area of University Place and Maumee Avenue at 9:35 a.m. Jan. 19. The suspect was facing a possible charge for prowling.
Retail fraud suspects hit Lululemon again
GROSSE POINTE CITY — Two unknown female suspects are said to have stolen an estimated $10,000 worth of merchandise from The Village Lulu-
one of the suspects tried to distract store employees while the second suspect pulled out a trash bag and filled it with items. The suspects were last seen heading westbound on Kercheval Avenue. Police said the case was under investigation.
Package thief steals resident’s identity
GROSSE POINTE PARK — A resident in the 700 block of Westchester Road learned that an unknown suspect was using her credit card to rack up unauthorized purchases and collect those purchases from her front porch. The victim, who filed a report with police Jan. 14, discovered the criminal activity by watching her Ring doorbell camera footage, which showed the suspect going up to her porch and taking the packages at around 4:16 p.m. Jan. 14. The victim then found unauthorized charges on her credit card. The suspect is said to have driven away from the scene in a gray Ford Escape. The case was under investigation.
Larceny suspects arrested
GROSSE POINTE PARK — Two 22-year-old Detroit men were arrested after they were reportedly seen on the surveillance cameras of several Grosse Pointe Park homes entering vehicles and removing valuables at around 5 a.m. Jan. 12. The suspects are said to have targeted vehicles on Pemberton, Berkshire and Balfour roads and Beaconsfield Avenue. According to a police report, after they were arrested, the suspects confessed to the larcenies. Police said they recovered stolen property from the suspects.
Fox trapped
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 12, a resident in the 21000 block of John Drive called the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office about a fox caught in a fence. Upon arrival, deputies saw several residents assisting the fox and noticed a trap around one of the fox’s legs. Deputies called the Detroit Animal Wildlife Group to free the fox for treatment and rehabilitation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources was contacted about a possible poaching operation due to the trap.
Hit-and-run
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — At around 8 a.m. on Jan. 6, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the corner of Garfield and 22 Mile roads for a hit-and-run collision.
At a red light, a 63-year-old Macomb Township woman apparently reversed her Ford Fusion into a Ram pickup truck. After stepping out of the car and interacting with the Ram’s occupants but not giving them any information, the woman drove off.
reportedly claimed that she did not see any damage on her car and assumed there was no damage to the Ram.
Gas station disturbance
MOUNT CLEMENS — At around 11:15 a.m. on Jan. 8, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the Marathon gas station on West Gratiot to deal with a disturbance.
According to a clerk, a 49-year-old Detroit man was asking people at the station for money and yelling at them. While the man was no longer at the station when deputies arrived, they were able to locate him on Park Street and informed him he was no longer welcome at the station.
Confused driver
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Jan. 6 at around 2:40 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the corner of South Gratiot and Church Street to perform a welfare check on the driver of a Chevy Equinox parked in the area.
The driver, later identified as a 66-year-old Westland man, was confused upon waking up and did not know where he was. He initially identified himself with a credit card and refused a field sobriety test. He agreed to a breath test and registered a 0.168 blood alcohol content, leading to his arrest.
Larceny reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 4:47 p.m. on Jan. 6, an
act of larceny was reported in the 22000 block of Harper Avenue.
Dispatch told officers a purse had been stolen by a suspect who returned to a restaurant after going to their car. Officers arrived at the scene and spoke to an employee of the restaurant, a 49-year-old woman. The employee saw the silver vehicle the suspect drove and stated the purse on the driver’s seat was hers. She stated she placed it on the hostess stand as she was getting ready to leave when the suspect came in and asked her to seat her children while she went back to her car to get something. The employee and her coworker sat the kids and when they returned, the purse was missing.
Video surveillance shows the suspect leaving the restaurant with the purse and going to her vehicle before returning to the restaurant without it. Officers spoke to the suspect, and she claimed she thought it was left behind by someone and intended to take it to the police department. The woman denied taking anything from the purse and a search only showed personal items. The victim and fellow employees stated the suspect tried to flee out the back door when
physically saw a verbal confrontation break out while the suspect tried to leave out the back door. The victim got her purse back and found $250 missing out of the front pouch. The suspect denied taking it when asked by officers. The suspect was placed under arrest, handcuffed and placed in the back of a scout car. She was then transported to the police station. Two other officers tried to question the adult children, but they fled out the back door before officers could question them.
Fraud reported
Dispatch informed the officer a suspect
