4/3/24 Shelby-Utica News

Utica High senior picked as state’s top student journalist /3A

Ken Bertin poses with his telescope he uses to view solar eclipses. He is 77 years old and has loved astronomy since he was 6. Photo provided by Ken Bertin

Safety protection key to viewing solar eclipse

METRO DETROIT — A near total solar eclipse doesn’t occur often, but when it does happen there are safety precautions people must take to prevent eye damage and behold its true beauty.

Bob Trembley, president of the Warren Astronomical Society, said a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes in front of the sun.

“There can be a partial eclipse. You’ll just see a bite taken out of it and it’ll look like a crescent, a crescent moon almost, but crescent sun,” Trembley said. “But if you’re in the right spot at the right time, the moon can cover the entire face of the sun.”

See ECLIPSE on page 26A

Hop on the Bunny Trail

LEFT: Lucy Ratiu, 6, and Everly Ratiu, 3, of Clinton Township, take a photo with the Easter Bunny at the end of the Bunny Trail at Stony Creek Church in Utica March 23. BELOW: Utica Mayor Gus Calandrino passes out treats from Utica Parks and Recreation.

RIGHT: Utica police officers pass out stickers, candy and coloring books to kids traveling the Bunny Trail. Local businesses and community organizations passed out candy and treats as families winded through the church.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

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Families Against Narcotics will hold its 16th annual Run Drugs Out of Town 5K Run/Walk on June 30 at Jimmy John’s Field in Utica. This will be the first time the event is held in Utica. The prior events took place at Fraser High School.

RUN DRUGS OUT OF TOWN 5K RELOCATES TO UTICA

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

UTICA — Families Against Narcotics, a nonprofit based in Macomb County, will hold its 16th annual Run Drugs Out of Town 5K Run/Walk fundraiser at 10 a.m. June 30 at Jimmy John’s Field in Utica.

The Utica City Council approved the event 6-0 March 12. Councilwoman Faith Terenzi was not at the meeting.

This event is expected to draw close to 2,000 people. It aims to increase awareness of

addiction and raise money to fund programs that FAN provides to individuals and families who have been affected by the disease.

The family-friendly event features a 5K run and a noncompetitive walk, vendors, music, teams honoring loved ones, and a ceremony.

FAN had to move this year’s Run Drugs Out of Town from its usual location at Fraser High School because of a road construction project that will be going on around the school this summer.

See 5K on page 6A

The Journalism Education Association named Natalie Garwood, of Utica High School, the 2024 Michigan Journalist of the Year.

Association picks Utica High senior as state’s top student journalist

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS — Utica High School student Natalie Garwood has been named the 2024 Michigan Journalist of the Year by the Journalism Education Association.

There will be a celebration of her achievement at the National High School Journalism Convention in Kansas City this week.

Garwood, who concentrates on photojournal-

See GARWOOD on page 18A

Photo provided by Dean Dauphinais

Photo provided by Jennifer Kane

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ABOVE: Mary Khammo, 5, of Shelby Township, holds up her Easter crafts that she made at the Utica Public Library. BELOW: Nathaniel Saucier, 6, of Utica, colors artificial eggs.

Children make Easter-themed crafts at the Utica Public Library March 27. Photos by Erin Sanchez

5K

from page 3A

FAN Executive Director Linda Davis said that while it’s unfortunate that road construction forced organizers to relocate Run Drugs Out of Town this year, they are excited to have secured Jimmy John’s Field for the event.

“We’re looking forward to this new location and the beautiful race route that comes along with it,” she said.

Run Drugs Out of Town participants will run or walk the 5K either individually or as a team. This year’s race will start inside the stadium, then runners and walkers will head out to a 5K course that will go through the biking/hiking trail off Auburn Road and into River Bends Park. The run/walk will then finish at home plate back inside Jimmy John’s Field.

“Run Drugs Out of Town is such an exciting fundraiser and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone on June 30. This is a fun, uplifting, family-friendly event for the entire community. We hope you’ll come out and join us and bring your family and friends. Together, we can face addiction now and make a difference,” Davis said.

Diane Engardio, the race director, said Run Drugs Out of Town is more than just another 5K run/walk.

“There’s just something special about nearly 2,000 people coming together on a beautiful summer morning to support not only FAN, but also the individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by substance use disorder. This is truly a community event to be enjoyed by all, and we’re excited to be bringing it to the city of Utica,”

she said.

FAN will give recognition to the top fundraising team and top fundraising individual, as well as to the largest team. All runners will receive medals, with the top finishers in multiple age groups earning special medals.

FAN’s programming includes monthly forums; Hope Not Handcuffs; community naloxone training and education; peer and family recovery coaching; the Stronger Together family and friends support group; the Comeback Quick Response Team; the Harm:Less Harm Reduction Support Team; the Redirect addiction-related diversion program; and sober living scholarships.

There were more than 1,800 participants in the event in 2023.

The new early packet pickup location will be at the new FAN office at 43800 Garfield Road, Suite 200, in Clinton Township. Early pickup will take place 1-7 p.m. June 26-28. Walk-up registration only will take place 8:30-9:30 a.m. June 30 at Jimmy John’s Field.

Auburn Road will be closed at 9:30 a.m. due to the race.

Jimmy John’s Field is located at 7171 Auburn Road. To register for Run Drugs Out of Town, go to familiesagainstnarcotics. org/rundrugsoutoftown or call (586) 4388500. Participants who register before May 30 may be eligible to receive a discount.

For more information, visit families againstnarcotics.org/rundrugsoutoftown.

Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.

CRIME WATCH

Vehicle vandalized with spray paint

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 3:52 p.m. March 9, officers were dispatched to a residence in the area of 23 Mile and Ryan roads for a vandalism report. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the caller, who stated that his vehicle had bright spray-painted writing on the windows about being owed a debt. A steering wheel lock had been placed on the steering wheel. The caller stated that he believes a known business associate might have done this to his vehicle, according to the police report. Police were investigating.

Solar lights ripped out of ground

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A resident came into the Police Department to file a vandalism report at 1:15 p.m. March 9. The man stated that he is the vice president of his homeowners association, and he wanted to report that two solar light fixtures had been ripped out of their bases at the entrance to his subdivision. He said there was approximately $400 to $500 worth of damage done to the lights. Police were investigating.

Man tricked into accidentally signing deed

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 3 p.m. March 11, a resident came to the Shelby Township Police Department’s front desk to file a fraud report. The man stated that a family member had him sign a document, which happened to be the deed for his house, without him reading it. The suspect then took the document to be notarized. The man’s lawyer advised him to file a police report. The detective bureau was investigating.

Dirt bike stolen

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A resident came to the front desk of the Police Department to file a stolen vehicle report at 7:29 p.m. March 11. The resident stated that his dirt bike had been stolen from an apartment complex in the area of 23 Mile and Dequindre roads. He stated that he had the dirt bike parked in the parking lot, and when he went out there the next day, the dirt bike was missing. Police notified local law enforcement jurisdictions to be on the lookout for the stolen dirt bike.

— Kara Szymanski

County prosecutor declines charges for shooting of 2 women

SELFDEFENSE CITED AS REASON

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — A woman who police say shot two people near Schoenherr and Hall roads will not be charged after the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office concluded that self-defense was involved.

Sterling Heights police said they heard about gunfire outside a restaurant in the 44000 block of Schoenherr Road, south of M-59/Hall Road, at around 4:30 p.m. Feb. 27.

Police said two people were shot — one woman reportedly was wounded in the neck, and the second woman was wounded in the arm. They were taken to the hospital and were listed in stable condition, police said.

One officer reported that the woman shot in the neck said she and the other wounded woman — her mom — were, in the words of the report, “in a road rage with a lady and the lady shot them both.”

Police noted that a red Jeep Compass was stopped behind a white Dodge Durango, and neither was in a parking spot. Both vehicles had open driver doors. Police said they saw a black Smith & Wesson revolver on the Durango’s dashboard. Police said they arrested the shooter, who had earlier been in the Durango.

During the investigation, police interviewed witnesses. One witness reported that two people got out of their vehicle and were yelling at someone who was seated in the other vehicle, and then the dispute reportedly escalated, followed by a loud “pop” noise. A physical altercation occurred prior to the gunfire, according to another officer’s witness report.

Prosecutor declines charges

Sterling Heights police said they gave a warrant request packet to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office regarding possible charges. Police said they heard from the Prosecutor’s Office March 11 that there was “insufficient evidence to prove the elements beyond a reasonable doubt” and that “video evidence and 9-1-1 callers support self de-

fense claim made by the Defendant.”

According to police, the Prosecutor’s Office also said evidence confirmed that the defendant “was being assaulted in her car” and that the two women “listed (as) victims in the initial police report were actually the aggressors and assaulted the Defendant inside of her vehicle.”

In a March 12 press release, the Prosecutor’s Office said the Compass containing the mother and daughter followed the Durango to the parking lot near Hall and Schoenherr, and the Durango stopped at a stop sign there. Then the Compass reportedly stopped behind the Durango, and the mother and daughter allegedly exited and approached the Durango’s driver’s side.

“The mother and daughter began physically assaulting the driver of the Durango,” the prosecutors’ press release added.

“A third party bystander attempted to approach the driver of the Durango during the physical assault to give aid. The Durango driver, in fear for her life, pulled her handgun and shot one time striking both women. The bystander fled once she heard the gunshot.

“An eyewitness who called 911 stated: ‘those two girls tried to attack the shooter … those two girls were beating up on her,’” the press release continued.

“Denying charges on the ground of self defense is a recognition of the inherent right to protect oneself when faced with imminent danger,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said in a statement.

The Prosecutor’s Office said the woman wielding the revolver had a valid concealed pistol license, and the two women who had been shot were “recovering from non-life threatening injuries.”

The Prosecutor’s Office said it had considered at one point pursuing charges against the mother and daughter, but decided not to after investigating and talking to witnesses and the shooter.

Sterling Heights police Lt. Mario Bastianelli declined to comment about the Prosecutor’s Office’s action.

Learn more about the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office by visiting macombgov. org/departments/prosecutors-office.

Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.

STATE’S PAINT THE PLOW PROGRAM

ACCEPTING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

STATEWIDE — The Michigan Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 Paint the Plow program. MDOT partners with schools to utilize students’ creativity to communicate safe winter driving practices for all Michigan residents.

The Paint the Plow program is open to all Michigan high schools, including technical and vocational programs. Students are invited to submit creative and original designs that represent their schools while promoting a selected safety theme. This year’s safety theme is “Go hands-free. Just drive. It’s the law.”

The safety theme serves as a reminder to motorists that new legislation has made it illegal to hold and use an electronic device while driving in Michigan.

MDOT will accept Paint the Plow design applications through May 17. Selected schools will be notified before the end of the 2024 school year, and arrangements will be made for the delivery of their plow blade in the fall. Dependent on location through the state, schools will have approximately six weeks to complete their design before MDOT staff return for the completed plow blade in time to ready trucks for the winter maintenance season. Painted plow blades will be visible along various state trunklines in Michigan through the winter.

Interested schools can visit michigan.gov/PaintThePlow for more information and to submit their designs.

TOP DOG:

French bulldogs head up popular breeds in Detroit

METRO DETROIT — French bulldogs have secured the crown for the third straight year in the American Kennel Club’s annual rankings of popular dog breeds in Detroit.

Rottweilers came in second followed by German shepherds, golden retrievers and  Labrador retrievers. Make sure not to count beagles out in future years. The breed climbed the rankings from 27th in 2022 to 12 in the new rankings, which looked at 2023.

This is the second year that French bulldogs have taken the crown in the national rankings too.

“Since overtaking the loveable Labrador Retriever as the most popular breed, the French Bulldog’s popularity has continued to surge,” the AKC states in a press release. “The breed is playful, adaptable and has an even temperament. Frenchies are very popular among city dwellers, as they’re also portable and get along with almost anyone.”

French bulldogs also topped AKC lists in Denver and Miami.

“Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States,” the press release states.

Macomb County Annual Secondary Student Show:

Nearly 300 original artworks on display 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesdays-Saturdays until April 13, Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org, (586) 469-8666

Scholarships available

MACOMB/OAKLAND COUNTY — The nonprofit organization Sparkle Network is accepting applications for its “Dream, Believe & Do” scholarships. Applicants must be a Class of 2024 high school senior who resides in Macomb County or Oakland County.

Students also must have completed a minimum of 40 hours of documented community service, have a dream they fully believe in, and know what they will do to make it happen.

For more information and to apply, visit sparklenetwork.org and click on the “programs” link. The deadline to register is 11:59 p.m. April 21.

SCAN FOR STORY

Be prepared when welcoming new pets to the home

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Pets are a huge commitment. Before a new owner takes the plunge, they should carefully consider their home, how it’s configured, and whether it makes sense for the pet. And once the animal arrives, they will need time to adjust.

“Animals that come from shelters need a decompression period. They cannot just come home and immediately acclimate to their surroundings,” said Paige Wallace, the animal control officer for Madison Heights. “We don’t know how (shelter animals) are with kids, digging through trash cans, separation anxiety, etc. So, learn your pet — if you’re adopting and the animal is an adult, let them show you what they don’t know, what they’ve never been taught. When they first enter your home, they don’t know you and are just as nervous as you, if not more.

“Start with the basics and adjust as the animal adjusts. Give them time to figure out things,” she said. “Maybe your animal was never walked on a leash. Maybe it never had toys, so they chew everything except their toys.”

In teaching them, she said to use positive reinforcement — for example, gently slipping a toy in their mouth when they try to chew furniture. Avoid negative punishment, such as yelling or throwing out your arms. Scolding will make them associate you with fear and can lead to aggression.

“Follow the ‘Three 3s’ — three days for initial decompression, three weeks to learn the routine, and three months to start to feel relaxed and at home,” Wallace said.

When it comes to dogs, their size and energy level should scale to your home and lifestyle, said Sue Wells, president of the Animal Welfare Society of Southeastern Michigan, a rescue located in Madison Heights.

“It’s also imperative that you take your dog or pup to training. They learn everything from socializing with other pets to house training and good manners,” Wells said in an email.

Wallace said smaller homes are best for cats and small or medium-sized dogs. She said only cats are suitable for apartments. Small or medium-sized non-sporting dogs are best for people who don’t exercise outside often.

“Someone who works away from home is OK to have any size dog, but pay attention to the breed classification, and what they were originally bred for,” she said. “A husky or German shepherd should not be locked up for long hours, but a Lab, pit bill or dachshund would be OK.”

She said cats should never be put in a crate unless being transported. For dogs, Wallace said crates can be used for three months to a year depending on the dog’s temperament. They should be used at bedtime, she said, or when you’re not home or unknown visitors are in the house.

“But never use the crate for a punishment or timeout,” she said. “Make the crate your dog’s home where they go to feel safe. Make sure it has their favorite blankets as long as they don’t chew them while you’re gone.”

For cats, the litter box should be scooped daily and changed about every three to four days. Starting out, place it near the food so that the cat can find it.

“It’s not uncommon to have a litter pan on each floor,” Wallace said.

She suggests not using pee pads for dogs if you can help it.

“Pee pads use scent detection to help the dog know they’re able to use it. Some dogs will remember that spot and continue to go to the bathroom there even when you remove the pee pad,” Wallace said.

In terms of environmental hazards, all dogs should avoid all types of mushrooms, fertilizer, salt — even if it’s described as having “pet safe” levels — and gardens. Dogs should never be fed grapes, avocados or onions.

With cats, keep them away from household plants such as aloe vera, lavender, oregano, jade and easter lilies. Be sure to research the plants in your home and whether

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ABOVE: A white-tailed deer with a white coat was spotted by Donald Payne in Farmington Hills in early 2024. There is a 1/1000-1/30,000 chance of seeing a deer with this coloration.

‘Doe White’ spotted

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Donald Payne

has seen many white-tailed deer pass through his Farmington Hills yard. The lanky ruminants are a common sight around the region, but one recent visitor stands out from the rest with its stark white fur.

“It’s exciting. … It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing,” Payne said of seeing the deer. “You’ve got to appreciate the time you have when you’re blessed with a rarity like that coming into your yard to say hello.”

Payne is not the only one that’s spotted white-furred white-tails in the region. Sightings of deer with the rare fur date back to at least 2022 in Troy with subsequent sightings in Bloomfield Hills and Farmington Hills. According to Rochester Hills natu-

ralist Lance DeVoe, white fur in deer is a symptom of either albinism or piebaldism, which respectively have about a 1/30,000 and 1/1,000 chance of occurring.

“It’s a recessive genetic trait,” DeVoe said. “It’s a thing where (white fur is) selected against because of the fact they lack the camouflage.”

Sightings of deer are common throughout southeastern Michigan. What was once a rare glimpse into nature has become a daily occurrence in some areas as white-tailed deer have made their homes between ever-growing housing developments.

“With everything being so developed and big subdivisions bordering each other and a really small of what would be considered suitable deer habitat, they’re forced to be in neighborhoods and commons areas

See DEER on page 24A

Photo provided by Donald Payne

LEFT: A young white-tailed deer with a white coat was spotted by Lindsey Larivee in Troy in 2023.

Photo provided by Lindsey Larivee

The Exterior Painters Celebrate 20 Years of Transforming Properties, Neighborhoods

Nothing transforms a property and makes it shine brighter than a fresh coat of paint. It’s simply the best and most cost-effective investment you can make for your home draped in the colors of yesterday.

The Exterior Painters have been revitalizing properties for 20 years.

“We specialize in just exterior painting, and the reason why we do that is we believe that repetition is the mother of all skill,” said owner Brian Scott. “For 20 years, that’s all we’ve been doing is outside work. When it comes to that, we do wood replacement and siding replacement. It makes us the perfect fit for homeowners who don’t want to re-side their whole house.”

The Exterior Painters replace damaged siding and boards as needed, but they’re not looking to push for a full siding replacement.

“It gets people by another 10 years and transforms the look of the house, bringing it to the next color trends of today,” Scott said.

“Another thing we do that makes us unique, we have a full-time color consultant,” Scott added. “For most people, that’s the hardest, most stressful part, choosing what color they want. Our consultant comes out and

meets with the homeowners and gives them an idea of what the new color trends are so they can make a good color choice that complements their landscaping, brickwork and architectural features.”

The Exterior Painters also specialize in brick staining.

“A lot of younger people are buying houses. We’re taking it from grandma’s house of the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s and bringing it to that HGTV look,” Scott said.

you’re getting a bigger bang for your buck.”

It’s a win for everyone, from the crews The Exterior Painters employ and pay well to the homeowners who see their neighborhoods transformed. The company paints 30 houses a week on average in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Livingston counties, and boasts a five-star Google review average.

Power washing the siding — and for an additional charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also make a big difference in terms of curb appeal.

charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also

transformed through fresh paint,

Scott said his crews often see their work spread from house to house in a neighborhood as the properties are transformed through fresh paint, siding repairs and much-needed washing.

“It’s the cheapest home improvement you can do without breaking the bank,” Scott said.

“With us you’re buying certainty. We don’t ask for a large deposit, and you don’t have to worry about anyone running off with your deposit,” Scott said.

“Compared to other home improvements,

“We stand by our work. We provide a warranty and proven results by taking care of everybody in the community. We’re Nextdoor’s No. 1 preferred contractor in Rochester two years in a row. It’s that certainty factor. You know what you’re going

“It’s the cheapest home to get.”

The Exterior Painters are located at 2365 Avon Industrial Drive in Rochester Hills. To request a quote or for more information, call (248) 844-8888.

Spring is full of possibilities, and whether you’re dreaming of a home renovation or looking to consolidate debt, a Home Equity Fixed Loan or FlexChoice Home Equity Line of Credit can get you there quickly.

Plus, our closing speeds are typically less than two weeks, and we have digital notaries so you can close virtually from the comfort of your home or on the go.

Historically low interest rates are a thing of the past, at least for now. But that doesn’t mean using home equity to consolidate debt or fund a project is out of the question, and it doesn’t mean you can’t nd a loan to buy the home of your dreams.

You just need the right loan strategy, and Community Choice Credit Union has options for you.

“Over the last several years, many consumers have renanced their mortgages into really low rates. As a result, there’s more of a desire to do a home improvement project and x your existing home, rather than move into a new home at a signi cantly higher rate and payment,” said Devin Neu, Assistant Vice President of Consumer Lending for Community Choice Credit Union, serving metro Detroit through o ces in Eastpointe, Farmington Hills, Roseville, Warren, and more, as well as virtually wherever and whenever you need our services.

With rates projected to begin declining this summer, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARM) are a good option for some.

Community Choice Credit Union o ers home loan options for a changing market

“In a high-rate environment, those are a bene t to members because they typically have lower interest rates compared to xed rate mortgages, with the added potential for a lower payment as the Federal Reserve begins decreasing their rates,” Neu said. “A member might look to do an ARM, knowing that as the environment changes and rates start decreasing, their payment and rate will also start decreasing, without them having to go through a full re nance process.”

Neu said the motivation to re nance typically starts with a member’s desire to get a lower payment, decrease the length of the payback term or access equity that can be used to consolidate debt and start home improvement projects.

Re nancing is more popular when rates are declining, and when they do stabilize, many consumers look to move from an ARM back to a xed rate to lock in a set payment.

“Because rates are high, home equities have really increased in demand,” Neu said. “Members are locked into a low rate on their primary mortgage. Values have continued to rise, so they choose to take advantage of that

equity available in their home to do improvements or consolidate other debt for a lower payment. at home equity line of credit is the leading product right now because members want to start those projects, stop those projects, and then pick up another project right away. at line of credit allows members to access

“

ey can fund multiple projects at once, using the line of credit as needed,” Neu said. “And once it’s done, they lock that whole balance into one segment, so that they can pay it back at a xed payment and then start another project.”

it any time they need it.”

Neu said Community Choice o ers a FlexChoice Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) that allows members to lock a portion of the loan in at a xed rate for repayment, while the remainder of the balance remains open, available and subject to the original terms of the loan.

At Community Choice, HELOC and mortgage loans are being approved the same day and closed within 17 days. A digital signing option takes the stress and hassle out of closing as well.

For more information, call 877.243.2528 or go to communitychoice.com.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

APRIL 7

Prom Closet Tour: Free dresses and accessories for juniors and seniors, hosted by Sparkle Network, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Front Door Housekeeping, 11255 Hall Road in Utica, sign up ASAP at www.sparklenetwork.org/prom-closet-project-tourapplication

APRIL 11

by Heart of the Hills Players, 2 p.m. April 25 and 7 p.m. April 26-27, D.A.V. Building, 47326 Dequindre Road in Shelby Township, hohplayers.org

APRIL 26

Crime survivors assistance: Learn about criminal justice system and support services available, also meet other survivors, hosted by Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Victim Rights Unit, 11 a.m.2 p.m., Velocity Center, 6633 18 Mile Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 469-5675

Raising bees in gardens: Learn from apiarist, also honey and beeswax related products for sale, presented by Shelby Gardeners Club, 1 p.m., BurgessShadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, ShelbyTwpGardenClub@gmail.com, (586) 873-3782

APRIL 18

Senior expo: Meet experts about medicare, assisted and independent living, mobility solutions, veterans benefits, travel, financial planning and more, plus free admission, health screenings, refreshments, prizes and giveaways, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Century Banquet Center, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, seniorexpousa.com

APRIL 25-27

Jukebox Jam: ’50s and ’60s variety show, presented

ONGOING

Shelby Writers’ Group: Meets 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., (586) 739-7414

Monthly book clubs: Evening Book Club (meets 6:30 p.m. every second Tuesday), Mystery Book Club (10:30 a.m. every second Saturday) and Afternoon Book Club (1 p.m. every third Thursday), Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., shelbytwp.org/government/ departments/library

• Not Your Parents’ Book Club, 7 p.m. every last Tuesday, 22nd Street Steakhouse, 48900 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, shelbytwp.org/government/ departments/library

• 11 a.m.-noon every first Friday of month, Utica

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.

Public Library, 7530 Auburn Road, uticalibrary.com

Shelby Township Fine Art Society: Meets 6:30-9 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, facebook. com/ShelbyTownshipArt

Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts 10:30 a.m. every third Tuesday of month, Pancake Factory, 13693 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Ellen at (586) 489-2569

• Cards, games and friendship, 1-3:45 p.m. every fourth Friday of month, bring snack to share and own beverage, St. Therese of Lisieux, 48115 Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936

Open mic: Hosted by Shelby Music Society, 7 p.m. every second Saturday of month, doors at 6:30 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, shelbymusic society@yahoo.com

Confident Communicators Club: Virtual meetings 8-9:30 a.m. every first and third Wednesdays of month, confidentcommunicatorsclub.com

Health workshops: For chronic pain, high blood pressure and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth.digitalsignup.com

APRIL 7

The Evolution of Baseball and the Detroit Tigers: Presented by members of Rochester Grangers vintage “base ball” team, 1-2:30 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds.org/ event/baseball, (586) 739-4800

Bereaved Parents of Macomb Support Group: Meets 7-9 p.m. every first Thursday of month, Washington Senior Center, 57880 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, (248) 425-2999

Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups

SCAN FOR STORY

Garwood

from page 3A

ism, said being recognized as Michigan’s Journalist of the Year is “just incredible.” She said she dedicated her life to her schools’ publications for five years, going back to Shelby Junior High School’s Pawprint yearbook, and to be recognized at a high level is “unbelievable.”

“I was confident that I would make the Student Journalist Staff, but I thought being named top in the state was pretty much out of the question because none of the previous winners I had seen were focused on photojournalism. I’ve gotten dozens of compliments on my photos and stories by parents, teachers and students, but to be recognized by Michigan’s interscholastic press association is just on an entirely new level,” she said.

She said she spent months putting her portfolio together to include pieces that best represented her as a journalist.

“I remember sitting there working on it all of holiday and midwinter break and thinking, ‘I really hope I win something because doing all of this for nothing would suck.’ To have the chance to compete at the national level is mind-blowing. I’m so excited to be able to compete against fellow student journalists who have put just as much time and effort into their publications as myself. Eighth grade me who joined publications so she wouldn’t have to be in the yearbook would be in complete shock at how far I have come since then,” she said.

Stacy Smale, adviser to the Warrior yearbook and Arrow newspaper, let Garwood know she won while Garwood was covering a basketball game. Smale said she was im-

pressed by Garwood’s initiative and passion for photography and journalism.

“Natalie is one of the most talented student journalists I’ve ever worked with. Of course, photography is her passion, but it’s unusual to have a journalist that can do it all, from writing to design,” Smale said.

She said Garwood is dedicated to everything she does and has shown the diversity in the school community by covering athletics or reporting about new clubs.

“She worked on her online portfolio for over a year, and it’s obvious that she deserves this honor. I’m incredibly proud of everything she’s accomplished and can’t wait to follow her career, which will undoubtedly be filled with more accolades and honors,” she said.

For more information about Garwood’s work, visit nataliegarwood.wixsite.com/port folio.

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY NOXIOUS WEED ORDINANCE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Pursuant to Chapter 74 et seq. of the Code of Ordinances of Shelby Township, property owners, agents and occupants of land within the township are hereby notifed that noxious weeds and any weeds, grass and brush of any species or variety (except trees, ornamental fowers, other ornamental plants, or crops) on property within the township limits shall be cut through the months of May, June, July, August, September and October when exceeding the following limitations:

(1) On any IMPROVED OCCUPIED LAND, a height exceeding six inches (6”)

(2) On any IMPROVED VACANT LAND, a height exceeding ten inches (10”)

(3) On any VACANT LAND, a height exceeding ten inches (10”)

(4) On any VACANT ACREAGE PARCEL, a height exceeding ten inches (10”) within one hundred feet (100) of the edge of the roadway.

(5) On any VACANT LAND or VACANT ACREAGE PARCEL that, as to any portion of such land which comes within 500 feet from the boundary line of any food handling commercial property, a height exceeding ten inches (10”).

Failure to maintain properties as outlined above will result in the township cutting the property and the owner of the property charged with the cost of cutting plus an administrative fee of $100.00. Such expenses shall become a lien against the property until paid pursuant to Section 74-95.

The Township may cut such weeds, grass or brush as many times as is necessary to maintain compliance during the months of May, June, July, August, September and October and charge the cost to the property owner.

Pursuant to Section 74-97, any person who violates the provisions of section 74-92 shall be responsible for a municipal civil infraction and subject to the penalties provided in 1-7 of the Shelby Township Code of Ordinances.

Published:

SYNOPSIS OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELD ON TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2024, IN THE BOARD ROOM OF THE MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 52700 VAN DYKE, SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Supervisor Richard Stathakis. The Invocation was led by Pastor Rich Reinhart from Crossroads Community Church in Shelby Township followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Veterans Event Coordinator Phil Randazzo.

ROLL CALL

Members Present: Richard Stathakis, Stanley Grot, James Carabelli, Lucia Di Cicco, Lisa Casali, John Vermeulen, Vince Viviano Also Present: Rob Huth, Township Attorney

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

A. Minutes: Board Meeting -- February 6, 2024; Work Session -- February 13, 2024 (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

To approve the minutes, as presented.

B. Department of Homeland Security Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)

To concur with the recommendation of Supervisor Richard Stathakis and adopt the Policy and Notice of Nondiscrimination, Civil Rights Compliance Procedure, and response to questions about Reasonable Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities published with this Agenda.

C. Hose Testing Contract (Requested by Fire Department)

To concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Frank Pierce and approve the request to enter a one-year contract with National Hose Testing Specialties, Inc. in Wyoming, MI to test approximately 25,000 feet of hose with a rate of 48 cents per foot for an estimated cost of $12,000.00. Funds are to be taken from Fire Fund line item 206-336-730-300.

D. Forensic Licensing (Requested by Police Department)

To concur with the recommendation of Police Chief Robert J. Shelide and approve the purchase of GrayKey Licensing for one year at a cost of $11,820.00 from Magnet Forensics. Funds are to be taken from Police Fund line item 207-305-730-300.

E. GLWA Sunday Work (Requested by DPW)

To concur with the recommendation of DPW Director David Miller and grant authorization to the Great Lakes Water Authority for work to be conducted on Sundays while completing a water main condition assessment on their 36” main running along 24 Mile Road from Dequindre to Hayes Road. This work will take effect between March 4, 2024 through May 10, 2024.

F. Building, Planning, and Development Department Study (Requested by Human Resources)

To concur with the recommendation of Planning, Building and Development Director Julijana MisichRasawehr, Human Resources Director Lisa Suida, and Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis and contract with PeopleMost to provide professional services at a cost not to exceed $12,000.00. Funds are to be taken equally from General Fund line items 101-371-802-500 and 101-701-802-500 and amend the budget accordingly.

G. Knights of Columbus St. Lawrence Council No. 2950 (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

To grant the request of the Knights of Columbus St. Lawrence Council No. 2950 to conduct their annual Mentally Impaired Drive (MI) on April 5-7, 2024, and to waive all fees and bonds provided all solicitors are properly identifed.

H. Bill Run in the Amount of $1,514,173.10 (Requested by Financial Management)

To approve the Bill Run in the amount of $1,514,173.10, as presented.

MOTION carried to approve the Consent Agenda, as presented.

Roll Call: Ayes - Grot, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali, Di Cicco, Stathakis Nays - none

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

MOTION carried to approve the Regular Agenda with the addition of Item Number 2.5 – External Contract for Professional Services under Departmental & Committee, as presented, including a Closed Session item regarding DiMercurio and Mauro Vs Charter Township of Shelby.

PLANNING COMMISSION

8. Hurst eDraulic 3 Tool Systems (Requested by Fire Department)

1. Site Plan and Final Planned Unit Development #23-36 Damiano DiMercurio for Cherry Blossom (Requested by Planning and Zoning)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation from the Planning Commission and approve Site Plan and Final Planned Unit Development Application #23-36 Damiano DiMercurio (Dilusso Building/ Guycon, LLC) for 56240 Van Dyke Avenue, Parcel No. 23-07-03-151-031, located south of 26 Mile Road, east of Van Dyke Avenue based on the applicant submitting revised plans addressing the Planning Commission, department site plan, and engineer’s comments. The basis for the motion:

1. The Planned Unit Development is consistent with the preliminary plan approved in 2022 as part of Conditional Rezoning Application #01-20.

2. The design provides appropriate land use relationships within the project and to existing development in the vicinity.

3. The proposed development will not adversely impact any surrounding development.

4. The proposed deviations from existing zoning ordinance standards are modest in scope and may be allowed as part of the PUD approval process.

Roll Call: Ayes – Casali, Viviano, Di Cicco, Vermeulen Nays – Carabelli, Grot, Stathakis

2. 2023 Planning and Zoning Department Annual Report (Requested by Planning and Zoning)

MOTION carried to receive and fle the 2023 Planning and Zoning Department Annual Report.

Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelle, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis Nays - none DEPARTMENTAL & COMMITTEE

2.5 External Contract for Professional Services (Requested by Supervisors Offce)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis and enter into an agreement with Davis Kirksey Associates in conjunction with the DDA for consulting services from April 2024 – March 2025 at a cost not to exceed $30,000.00. Funds are to be taken as follows - $15,000.00 from General Fund line item 101-261-802-500 and amend the General Fund budget accordingly.

3. Promotion to Director of Public Works (Requested by Human Resources)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and promote Danielle Allen to the position of Director of Public Works, starting at Step 1 of the pay grade in accordance with the current Department Head Resolution to be effective on the day following the retirement of the current Director of Public Works. The anticipated effective date of promotion is April 20, 2024.

4. Design Services - Schoenherr Sanitary Sewer Relief Main (Requested by DPW)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Department of Public Works Director David Miller and authorize Township Engineers Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, Inc. to perform the necessary design services for the installation of a new sanitary sewer main on Schoenherr Road from 22 Mile to 23 Mile as part of the Master Plan in an amount not to exceed $197,000.00 and geotechnical investigation services in an amount not to exceed $37,000.00. Funds are to be taken from Water and Sewer Fund reserves.

5. Large Meter Purchase (Requested by DPW)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of DPW Operations Manager Danielle Allen and authorize the bulk purchase of 25 - 2” water meters and 40 - 3” UMES from Ferguson Waterworks at a cost not to exceed $115,488.75. This purchase ability will ensure the inventory of meters will be available for future development and everyday needs. Funds are to be taken from Water and Sewer Fund reserves.

6. Vehicle Purchase (Requested by DPW)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of DPW Director David Miller and authorize the purchase of a 2023 Chevrolet Equinox from Berger Chevrolet in the amount of $21,562.00. Funds are to be taken from Water and Sewer Fund reserves.

7. Resolution of Fee Schedules for Ambulance Billing (Requested by Fire Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Frank Pierce and approve the amendment to the Emergency Ambulance Usage Fee Schedules to be effective March 15, 2024.

Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Grot, Stathakis, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali, Di Cicco Nays - none

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Pierce and approve the purchase of three (3) sets of Hurst eDraulic 3 extrication tool systems from MacQueen Emergency at a total cost of $114,000.00. Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund line item 427-336-985-000.

9. Replacement Vehicles - Training Division (Requested by Fire Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Frank Pierce and approve the purchase of two (2) 2024 Ford Explorers from Lunghamer Ford of Owosso, MI for $82,380.00. Funds are to be taken from American Rescue Plan Fund line item 285-336-985-000 and amend the budget accordingly.

10. Vehicle Purchase - Auction (Requested by Police Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Police Chief Robert J. Shelide and approve the purchase of two (2) vehicles from Motor City Auto at a cost not to exceed $75,000.00 and related up-ftting costs from Cynergy Inc. at a cost of $6,400.00, for a total cost of $81,400.00. Funds are to be taken from Police Fund line item 207-301-981-000.

11. Vehicle Equipment (Requested by Police Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Police Chief Robert J. Shelide and approve the purchase of vehicle equipment from various vendors at a cost not to exceed $210,000.00. Funds are to be taken from Police Fund line item 207-301-981-000.

12. Vehicle Replacement Purchase (Requested by Police Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Police Chief Robert J. Shelide and approve the purchase of two (2) 2025 Ford Interceptor Utilities from Lunghamer Ford at a cost of $98,800.00 and the purchase of related equipment from Cynergy Products and Minuteman Press at a cost not to exceed $22,560.00, for a total cost of $121,360.00. Funds are to be taken from Police Fund line item 207-301-981-000 and amend the budget accordingly.

13. Shelby Township Summerfest (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of the Township Supervisor to plan and coordinate the 2024 Shelby Township Independence Day Celebration Summerfest on the municipal campus grounds at a cost not to exceed $194,000.00, with a drone show from Firefy Productions at a cost of $40,000.00, audio rentals from Thunder Audio at a cost of $30,000.00, a stage rental from Sound Efx Productions at a cost of $24,750.00, and a performance from the Macomb Symphony Orchestra at a cost of $13,000.00. Funds are to be taken as follows - $124,000.00 from General Fund line item 101-788-956-700 and $70,000.00 from DDA Fund line item 248-703-801-100 and amend the budgets accordingly.

14. Ricoh Copier Purchase IM C4510 (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Township Clerk Stanley Grot and purchase a Ricoh IM C4510 multifunctional printer, scanner, and copier for the Clerk’s Offce Work Room at a cost of $6,393.00. The cost includes labor, parts, staples and toner for 5 years. Additional yearly costs are $0.0058 per black and white print and $0.0450 per color print copy. Funds are to be taken from General Fund line item 101-902-984-215 and amend the budget accordingly.

CLOSED SESSION

15. DiMercurio and Mauro Vs Charter Township of Shelby (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

MOTION carried to adjourn into Closed Session to discuss matters protected under attorney-client privilege regarding the

LARPers create fantasy stories, community

BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com

Creating characters and acting out stories are just parts of what makes live action role-playing so fun for these players. The sense of community and belonging makes it ten times better.

Live action role-playing, also called LARPing, is a fantasy-based game played by multiple participants in a live action format and together they create a story. Alicia Secord, a LARPer from St. Clair Shores, said it’s kind of like Dungeons & Dragons, a dicebased tabletop fantasy adventure game, but in real life.

“You dress up as a character, your own invented character within the rules of the game and then you dress up as that character,” Secord said. “You go out to wherever the game is being played, and you role-play and participate in mock combat.”

They engage in boffer combat which uses foam weapons such as swords, arrows and lances as well as tennis balls or packets filled with bird feed used to replicate magic.

“We’ll yell an incantation and then throw a packet and that is a spell being thrown at somebody,” Secord said.

Some of the LARPs Secord participates in are called “lightest touch.”

“You’re expecting to not hit as hard as you can,” Secord said. “Explicitly so that you’re not hurting people. You don’t need to wear armor. If you don’t wear armor, you’re not going to get hurt.”

Secord is a part of several different LARPing groups. She said the main character she plays is a part of Knights and Nobles and Rogues, played in Milan, Michigan. She also said each LARPing group has different rule sets.

“Those rules go through revisions every couple of years to update them and make the game balanced between different types of characters,” Secord said.

There are various committees pertaining to safety and other elements of the games. Secord also said there are people who check weapons at every game to make sure they are as safe as possible.

There are four different classes of characters, Secord said, and those are fighter, rogue, mage and cleric.

“The class that you choose and the race or lineage of person that you choose to be determines what skills you can play with as well as, like, how many experience points it costs

to build that character,” Secord said.

Her character in K.A.N.A.R. is a human rogue, and that character gets access to sneaking skills at a lower experience point cost, Secord said. She chose a rogue class so she could utilize a crafting skill at lower experience points. She crafts books, scrolls and other things for the game.

Secord started LARPing in K.A.N.A.R. around her 30th birthday in March of 2019. After that, Secord said, they played every month until the pandemic shifted the LARPs to an online format. They went back in person in June 2021.

“I continued to play nearly every game until November of ’22, and then I started branching out into other games,” Secord said.

Andrew Chipotle, a LARPer from Pon-

Photo provided by Alicia Secord Alicia Secord gets ready to LARP with the Central Action Roleplay Society.

LARP

from page 21A

tiac, said he’s always been interested in fantasy fiction. When he was in high school, he was interested in D&D and as he got older, LARP became more accessible to him. He has been LARPing for 13 to 14 years, and he is also a part of the K.A.N.A.R. LARP.

“When I was still living in my hometown as a high schooler, I encountered it in my local park,” Chipotle said. “And then as I grew up and went to college, there was a group that would meet there and now as a(n) adult with a grown-up job and stuff, I still find the time on weekends to go out and meet with our group and play our game.”

Chipotle makes his own costumes, but he said it’s not a necessity in LARP.

“It’s just something I like to do because it’s how I’m able to convey the character that I want to,” Chipotle said. “It’s easier for me to just make something then it is for me to go looking for something or have somebody else make it for me.”

Costuming for LARP was a relatively small jump due to his past experience making costumes for cosplay.

Both Secord and Chipotle said LARP

characters can be brought to life in other forms of media such as D&D with a few tweaks in skills. Chipotle has been playing one character since he was in high school, but he does know people who have multiple different characters.

“I know people who make different characters when they go to, say, like a travel LARP, like they’re going to one that’s not their usual LARP, and they make a whole new character for it,” Chipotle said. “And that’s cool, too. You are not limited to just one character.”

Chipotle said the people he meets and the community keeps him coming back to LARP.

“It’s sort of this place where there’s a convening of a lot of people who don’t get along great in normal society and they get to go be around a bunch of other people who are like them and that really helps them bring them out of their shell and be who they really are,” Chipotle said.

He added the lifting mentality is good for those who need it.

Chipotle said those who are interested in LARPing should try it to see how well it fits for them.

“There’s a lot of stigma and stuff attached to it,” Chipotle said. “But none of that stuff really matters if you have fun doing it.”

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS — The Utica Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology; Stevenson High School; and the Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies are among 40 Michigan schools to receive AP Computer Science Female Diversity Awards from the College Board for achieving equal gender representation during 2023.

A school that receives the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award has either 50% or more female exam taker representation in one or both AP computer science courses, or a percentage of female computer science exam takers that meets or exceeds that of the school’s female population.

The Utica Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology was one of five schools in Michigan honored for growing female student enrollment in its AP Computer Science A course. Stevenson and the Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies were honored for their AP Computer Science programs.

In the AP Computer Science A course, students learn Java programming. The AP Computer Science Principles course teaches students about computer science in a setting similar to an introductory college course.

The College Board says that female students who take AP Computer Science Principles are more than five times as likely to major in computer science in college when compared to female students who don’t take the course. AP Computer Science Principles students are almost two times as likely to take AP Computer Science A, according to the College Board.

— Kara Szymanski

Pets

from page 10A

they’re toxic to felines.

If other animals are present, boundaries should be established with baby gates or by leashing the animals to keep them separated until they have familiarity.

“Don’t be tense when introducing them for the first time. Animals feed off your body language and energy. Allow them to determine their pecking order without you doing it for them,” Wallace said. “Just make sure no small children are around, and that they’re always separated by a barrier until you see tail wagging, sniffing, playing, licking, and sharing toys. If this is going on, you’re safe to remove the barrier. But look out for eyes locked on the other animal, stiff tails, hair standing up, ears back, snarling, showing teeth, getting territorial over toys, growling, or just overall excitement levels.”

One should never let their new rescue dog outside while unattended, she said.

“Just because your yard is fenced does not mean they cannot jump the fence. I’ve even seen them jump privacy fences,” Wallace said. “Your new dog should be leashed when taken outside and then taken right back in when they’re done. You don’t know how they are with neighbors’ dogs and you

Deer

from page 12A

and every little woodlot,” DeVoe said. “You can see a deer any day of the week anywhere in (Rochester Hills) and pretty much all over southeast Michigan.”

The loss of habitat has led to behavioral changes in deer. DeVoe says fawns will be left in yards and common areas since humans keep predators like coyotes at bay. It has allowed the deer population to become a regular part of living in the region. The sight of deer is hardly an issue, but homeowners and drivers can have encounters with deer ranging from the inconveniences — deer tend to eat from gardens and planted fruit trees alongside native plants — to dire road hazards.

While living with deer can be challenging at times, DeVoe says the role of influence the four-legged neighbors have on residents tends to align with how important the local environment is for deer.

“If you live in an area where you have a big commons area and there’s a lot of natural food, like oak trees, then they’re not as persistent as they are when those things don’t

don’t know if they will jump, dig massive holes, or if something may spook them to feel unsafe.”

Local wildlife is another concern.

“Some dogs go after wildlife and will attack and kill. Some dogs are scared and will run back to the door. It’s best to keep your animal vaccinated and away from all wildlife,” Wallace said. “Remember: Coyotes will go after any-sized dogs. It’s important to remember how your dog reacts to that could be life or death for your pet.”

She cautions against using shock collars.

“The dog is not going to learn the very first time you shock them, so if you become a person that repeats it until they listen, this could do one of two things: It could burn the shock collar to your dog’s neck and leave burnt spots on the neck, or it could desensitize the dog, and they will continue to do the behavior. Again, positive reinforcement: reward them for listening the first time. … Give the animal something to look forward to.”

As an aside, Wallace said that during the winter, certain dog breeds enjoy being outside — notably, breeds such as huskies, malamutes, St. Bernards, Bernese mountain dogs and German shepherds. Still, check on them often and make sure they’re not limping along, as they may have snow jammed

exist,” DeVoe said.

In areas where deer lack natural food, the animals turn to garden plants. Deer can be deterred from dining in gardens through the use of physical barriers like nets and fences, applying repellents to plants or by planting flowers that deer do not like, such as hyacinth, sage or coneflower. Hazing deer by making loud noises or using noise-emitting devices to keep deer away also helps.

But no matter the tactics used to keep deer away from lawns and flowers, DeVoe says the white-tailed deer are not leaving their homes anytime soon. Humans, it seems, have come to accept this.

“I get fewer complaints (about deer) now than at any time that I’ve had this job, which is over 30 years,” DeVoe said. “I think people have adjusted to living with them and knowing that they’re going to be around and that sometimes there’s going to be a negative impact from them. But at the same time, there’s a lot of people where that’s why they enjoy living here, seeing the wildlife and having those opportunities. It’s a perspective thing, and I think people are becoming more realistic with living with them.”

Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.

between their paw pads, which could cause frostbite.

One of the best ways to keep your pet safe is to properly identify them so that they can be returned home if they ever slip out of the house.

“A microchip is always the best way to go,” Wallace said. “Make sure to keep the pet’s information as up to date as possible. Your pet should also have the tag that comes

BUSINESS CLIP

with the microchip affixed to the collar, as well as a tag including the name, address and phone number.”

She said that new pet ownership is a thoughtful process.

“Don’t forget patience, and never expect your rescue animal to be perfect. They’re flawed just as we are. We’re going to have to give a bit, and so will they,” Wallace said. “Time and structure.”

M&M Nails celebrates ribbon-cutting

M&M Nails, of Utica, opened its doors March 12 and celebrated with a ribbon-cutting alongside Connect Macomb. M&M Nails is proud to be a brand-new Utica business and looks forward to serving the community. The M&M staff is composed of skilled and experienced nail technicians who are ready for new customers.

For more information, visit M&M Nails at 11195 Hall Road in Utica or call (586) 837-2078 to schedule an appointment.

Eclipse

from page 1A

A solar eclipse will occur in parts of the continental United States on April 8. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s website, a partial eclipse will start in Cleveland, Ohio at around 1:59 p.m. EDT. Totality will begin at around 3:13 p.m. and totality will end at around 3:16 p.m.

What does that mean for Michigan?

Micheal Narlock, head of astronomy at Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills, said that people here in the metro area of Michigan will experience a 98% solar eclipse.

“If you stay in the metro area, you’re going to be in for quite a treat,” Narlock said. “Because the sun is going to be covered by the moon, not totally, but about as close to total you can get without it actually being total.”

The last total solar eclipse in Michigan was in 1954 and there won’t be another total eclipse in the area until 2099. The last total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. was in 2017.

Jon Blum, a member of the Warren Astronomical Society, said if a person would like to see a full eclipse, they would have to travel to a place along the eclipse path.

“There’s a line that goes across the country from Texas through a couple of other states and goes through Indiana and Ohio out to Maine,” Blum said. “If you Google eclipse path online, you’ll see what the line is.”

Blum said a total eclipse hits the continental U.S. every 10 or 20 years. Blum said there is no set number of years, however, and that when a solar eclipse occurs varies from time to time.

A NASA frequently asked questions post from 2017 states that solar eclipses of all kinds occur two to three times a year with two total eclipses occurring every three years.

During a total solar eclipse, Trembley said people can experience a temperature drop, the sounds of a few night time animals as well as the Belt of Venus, an atmospheric phenomenon visible shortly before sunrise or sunset.

“You’ll see that 360 degrees around you, not just in the direction of the sun,” Trembley said. “It’s very strange.”

Narlock said if you look at the sun unprotected, permanent eye damage can occur. People should use filtered glasses that cut down the intensity of the sun’s rays.

“You’ll still be able to see the sun, it will look like a yellow white disk through your glasses, but you won’t be able to see much of

anything else. That’s how much we have to cut down the light,” Narlock said.

He also said there are special filters for telescopes that can see only one wavelength of light.

During an eclipse people are more likely to stare at the sun, Blum said. It’s also easier to stare at the sun because the moon covers it, making it dimmer.

“On a normal day, on a sunny day, if you try to stare at the sun you’d say, ‘Oh, that’s awful bright,’ and you’d look away,” Blum said. “But on an eclipse the sun is partly covered by the moon so it’s not so bright. So it doesn’t bother you to look at the sun if you think, ‘Well, OK, I can just stare at the sun.’”

Holding a colander up to the sun to see the shadow of the eclipse is a way to indirectly view it, Narlock said.

“The little holes in the colander will create essentially a little projection of the eclipse as it happens,” Narlock said. “People have also gone under a big tree and looked at the sunlight that comes through the leaves.”

Eye damage can still occur even when the sun is 98% covered like it will be in the metro area.

“Even if there is 1% of the sun showing, it’s still as bright as the entire sun, so you can blind yourself, so you have to have either solar glasses or telescopes or binoculars, or whatever, with appropriate solar filtering,” Trembley said.

Regular sunglasses will not do when viewing an eclipse and they will damage the eyes significantly, Narlock said.

Trembley said NASA’s “Solar System Ambassadors” have been shipping out solar glasses. Both Trembley and his wife are ambassadors. Libraries are also good places to check as well. Narlock said Cranbrook is selling the glasses and he also saw his optometrist selling them.

Both Trembley and Narlock warned people to be wary of solar glasses sold online. These glasses could not have the right lenses or the lenses could already have damage such as scratches.

Narlock said solar eclipses are not something to goof around with.

“If you have children that are going to be looking directly at it, make sure that they’re wearing approved solar eclipse glasses that aren’t scratched. Make sure they don’t take them off their face while they’re looking at the sun,” Narlock said. “Because it just takes a moment and they could really damage their eyes.”

Solar eclipse viewing events are occurring all over at local parks and other venues.

Cranbrook is also holding an eclipse viewing event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Trembley said to find an event near you, visit the NASA Night Sky Network at nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov.

“It’s a NASA program where they join up with astronomy clubs across the country and they post information on the clubs and events that the clubs are holding,” Trembley said.

He also said NASA Solar System Ambassadors will be hosting or attending events.

A full directory of ambassadors can be found online by searching NASA Solar System Ambassadors.

You can check your local library’s website as well as city websites for further events.

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