VETERANS TO BE HONORED DURING WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA / 3A
Hackel looks back on new charter’s impact
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Though the usual “state of” address focuses on events and achievements within the past year, the 2025 State of Macomb County
speech celebrated 15 years of having a county executive.
Delivered Dec. 3 at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts by Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, the 15th annual speech focused on how the adoption of the county charter in 2010 allowed Ma-
comb County to transform itself over the following decade and a half.
“We are marking a milestone here in Macomb County,” Hackel said. “Fifteen years ago, the residents of Macomb County voted for a new direction. They asked for
See COUNTY on page 12A
Man injured by gunfire at Partridge Creek
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — An investigation remained ongoing at press time Dec. 3, more than a week after a shooting at The Mall at Partridge Creek left one man injured.
Clinton Township police developed a person of interest during the initial investigation into the Nov. 23 shooting. The suspect was described as black, wearing a green hooded sweatshirt with white flowers, jeans and tennis shoes. He was reportedly last seen fleeing the mall to the west.
No other details had been released at press time.
Police were first informed of the incident at around 7:13 p.m. the day of the shooting as gunshots were reported near the MJR movie theater at the mall. Officers at the mall providing security for the tree lighting ceremony responded to the incident. They located a 17-year-old Mount Clemens resident who was shot. That person was taken to a hospital and was originally said to be in stable condition. Police said the incident began as a verbal altercation and was limited to the theater property.
The Mall at Partridge Creek issued a statement that read, “We are currently See SHOOTING on page 10A
Photo by Dean Vaglia
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel discusses the transformation of Freedom Hill at the 2025 State of Macomb County event on Dec. 3. Part of that discussion included a look back to the venue’s first concert, which Hackel said he attended.
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I want to thank all of my patients for the privilege of serving you. e opportunity to make a positive di erence in the lives of others is a
Your loyalty, support and friendship allows me to follow my passion in dentistry.
Please accept my very special holiday thank you from me and my devoted sta
Yours for
Dec. 17. Stay current by visiting
BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
FRASER — The Fraser First Booster Club is hosting its Blue Jean Ball in February with raffles, dinner and more.
The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Feb. 7 at Vintage House, located at 31816 Utica Road. Tickets are $55 per person and can be purchased online at fraserfirst.com.
Vania Apps, president of the Fraser First Booster Club, said the ball started as a Valentine’s Day dance around 15 years ago and was held the Saturday before the holiday.
The event was originally held at Zuccaro’s Banquets & Catering, previously located in Clinton Township
Fraser First Booster Club to host Blue Jean Ball
Veterans to be honored during Wreaths Across America
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — With the holiday season now underway, the sight of evergreen wreaths around town is nigh inescapable. Doors, garages, streetlights and more are adorned with the circular bundles of branches signifying the coming of winter and impending late-December holidays — but what if they could be something more?
On Saturday, Dec. 13, volunteers will lay millions of wreaths upon the graves of veterans as part of the Wreaths Across America outreach.
National search for MCC president begins
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
MACOMB COUNTY — A national search to find the next president of Macomb Community College has begun.
On Dec. 1, college officials issued a press release to announce that current President James O. Sawyer IV will retire June 30, 2026, which marks the conclusion of the college’s fiscal year. Sawyer has been president since July 1, 2017.
Sawyer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Lawrence Technological University, and a master’s degree in administration and a doctorate in education from Central Michigan University.
“I know I speak for the entire board of trustees when I say that it has been gratifying to work with Dr. Sawyer in so many meaningful ways,” Macomb Community College Board of Trustees Chair Katherine Bracey Lorenzo said in a prepared statement. “The board of trustees looks forward to identifying a visionary candidate who will take Dr. Sawyer’s good work to the next level.”
The executive search profile, which outlines qualifications and information about the application process, is available at macomb.edu/presidential-search. The deadline for applications is Jan. 9, 2026, through RH Perry & Associates. The Washington D.C.-based search firm,
MCC on page 10A
Photos provided by Sherry Stein
The Blue Jean Ball was previously a Valentine’s Day dance before it was switched to include more people.
See BLUE JEAN on page 14A
THAT’S A WRAP
Gift wrapping at Macomb Mall will benefit Arc of Macomb County
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
ROSEVILLE — Members from the Arc of Macomb County will be back at Macomb Mall this Christmas season to wrap gifts for shoppers.
For about 35 years, Arc staff — along with several volunteers — have neatly wrapped holiday presents and stocking stuffers of all shapes and sizes. Shoppers pay a suggested donation depending on how many gifts they have and how big or small the presents are.
Money raised from the donations go
back into Arc. The nonprofit Macomb County organization helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and the professionals who support them.
The Macomb Mall wrapping area, which somewhat resembles Santa’s workshop, has several stations. It will be set up by Hobby Lobby near the Santa Claus castle. Cash, credit cards and debit cards are accepted for payment; no Venmo or Cash App.
The crew is ready to get started and will be there Dec. 12-24. Several volunteers are local students, including those in their school’s
See WRAPPING on page 15A
Photo provided by Christy Jane Courtney
Members from the Arc of Macomb County will wrap Christmas presents Dec. 12-24 at Macomb Mall in Roseville. Donations for the gift wrapping will benefit the nonprofit organization.
Family businesses share experience, secrets to longevity
BY MARY GENSON genson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The Detroit area is filled with family-owned businesses that take pride in their work and build meaningful connections within the community.
As such they are crucial to the economy on a local, national and global level. According to the Conway Center for Family Businesses, 59% of the country’s employment is generated by family businesses, defined as those where two or more people from the same family own a majority stake.
Like every business venture, family businesses have their own set of pros and cons when it comes to running operations.
Keeping connection and history within the family
Matt Klopp, store manager at G.A. Fuchs Church Supply in Troy, owns the business with his brother, Greg. They are the third family to own the company since it opened in 1919.
“It’s a long-standing family business,
and I love it. I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Klopp said.
He said owning the business with his brother has made it easier to keep in touch regularly.
“It is nice to have something that we can all do together and have something that bonds us,” Klopp said.
Because G.A. Fuchs Church Supply is run by a family, Klopp said that they highly value the connections they make with customers and employees.
“Even if they’re not part of our blood family, they’re still our family,” Klopp said.
Joe Allemon is in the third generation of Allemon’s at Allemon’s Landscape Center on Mack Avenue in Detroit — a business his grandfather started in 1929. Now, Allemon’s children operate the business, and sometimes, his grandchildren help out as well.
Allemon said the biggest benefit of running a family business is “the privilege of being able to work with family members.” He sees his sons at work every day, and even his grandkids from time to time, which he said he does not take for granted.
See FAMILY on page 11A
Compiled by Alyssa Ochss, Dean Vaglia and Maria Allard
it up
The event featured a petting zoo and horses from Eden Acres, of Almont. Kinsley Slosek, a 9-year-old Fraser resident, left, rides on Remington, an Arabian horse.
Medstar gives Sheriff’s Office defibrillator
MOUNT CLEMENS — On Nov. 26, Clinton Township-based medical transportation agency Medstar gifted an automated external defibrillator to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
The AED will be used by the all-terrain vehicle and bicycle reserve units, which will keep the device on hand while patrolling the Macomb Orchard Trail and other venues in case of any sudden cardiac emergencies. An AED is a portable defibrillator with audio and visual cues to allow nonmedical professionals to operate it effectively.
Medstar donates AEDs through its Shock and Save Community AED Initiative. More information about this program can be found at www.medstar ambulance.org/aed.
Adopt a family at Christmastime
METRO DETROIT — Anyone looking to give to others this Christmas season is encouraged to adopt a family through Volunteers of America Michigan.
The nonprofit organization is seeking residents to help give families, veterans and senior citizens in need a happier holiday season. Through Adopt a Family, participants purchase and deliver gifts to recipients in the program. When you sign up, volunteers can read the family’s stories and view gift wish lists.
For more information, go to voami.org/adopta-family. The adoption period ends Dec. 15, and no more families will be matched after this date. All gifts must be delivered to families by Dec. 19.
On Dec. 6, the city of Fraser kicked off its holiday season with a tree lighting and celebration. The Fraser High School Marching Band, above, played festive tunes.
After getting a ride from the Fire Department, Santa Claus is welcomed by Mayor Michael Lesich.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
LAW AND ORDER
MACOMB COUNTY— Ahead of Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel’s State of Macomb County address on Dec. 3, the county’s jurists gathered for a selfie of sorts at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts.
The photo was later shared on Facebook.
‘Enjoy the Holidays, Not the Debt’ workshop Dec. 12
SOUTHFIELD — Gesher Human Services, a human service agency in metro Detroit, is offering a free Zoom workshop to help people enjoy the holiday season without going into debt.
Participants will learn a number of steps to take to create a realistic holiday budget that includes strategic gift giving to find thoughtful presents without overspending. The workshop also will explore creative, low-cost alternatives for gifts, decorations, celebrations and more.
The “Enjoy the Holidays, Not the Debt” virtual workshop will take place at 1 p.m. Dec. 12. Register at geshermi.org/events. For more information about the workshop, call (248) 233-4422 or email lcunningham@ geshermi.org.
DNR advises caution amid bird flu
LANSING — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is cautioning waterfowl hunters to protect themselves and domestic animals from highly pathogenic bird flu.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development this fall detected increased numbers of highly pathogenic avian influenza cases in commercial and backyard poultry flocks, including new detections in counties with popular waterfowl hunting destinations. MDARD detected that 130 wild birds were positive for HPAI in Michigan as of Nov. 25 with most detections in Canada geese, bald eagles and red-tailed hawks. Wildlife detections and pending cases are posted on the DNR’s HPAI webpage.
“Make sure to take appropriate precautions when field dressing wild birds,” said Dr. Scott Larsen, a DNR wildlife veterinarian. “In order to kill the virus, use a food thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s also important to properly clean and disinfect gear and equipment before coming into contact with domestic birds.”
HPAI is a highly contagious respiratory disease that causes sickness and sometimes death in wild birds and mammals. Wild birds can carry HPAI without appearing sick. Anyone who observes a die-off of six or more wild birds should report it through the DNR Eyes in the Field online tool or a local DNR field office.
SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN
NORTH POLE — The North American Aerospace Defense Command will again track Santa Claus on Christmas Eve Dec. 24. The program, based at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado, is in its 70th year.
NORAD monitors and defends North American airspace 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. On Dec. 24, NORAD takes on an additional mission of tracking Santa Claus as he makes his way across the globe.
The NORAD Tracks Santa website, noradsanta.org, launched Dec. 1. It features Santa’s North Pole Village, a holiday countdown, games, a movie theater, holiday music, a web store and more. The website is available in nine languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Chinese and Korean. Children awaiting Santa can count the days on mobile devices with the official NORAD Tracks Santa app, available on social media and on Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM and OnStar.
Photo provided by Steven Bieda
“What (Wreaths Across America) is supposed to do is honor our veterans — remember, honor and teach,” said Kerry Jantz, a member of the Clinton Township Kiwanis Club and an organizer of the Wreaths Across America event at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township. “You’re supposed to remember the veteran, honor the veteran and then teach our next generation.”
According to the organization’s website, Wreaths Across America got its start when the owner of a wreath company in Maine donated excess wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery in 1992. The distribution of the surplus wreaths continued into the 2000s with quiet support before media coverage in 2005 led to wreaths being sent from Maine across the country. The outreach later branched out to locally-organized ceremonies in 2006. Wreaths Across America was formed into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2007 and shifted to supporting and promoting wreath-laying ceremonies every second Saturday in December.
Jantz says the Clinton Township Wreaths Across America ceremonies at Resurrection Cemetery got their start in the early 2010s thanks to the efforts of Karen and Nick Straffon.
“Nick was a veteran and both of them were very dedicated, and they still do a lot of things,” Jantz said. “They live out in St. Clair. Their work on this thing, it was just the two of them. They had other people that helped them, but it was pretty much a yearround thing. They would get done with it and then they’d start working on next year’s (ceremony).
“They are very committed to honoring our military and honoring our great veterans that paved the road of freedom and the life that we have today,” Jantz said.
Over the course of their involvement,
the Straffons — with the support of former Clinton Township Supervisor Robert Cannon and numerous other community partners — built Clinton Township’s event into one of the largest Wreaths Across America events in Michigan.
“The community involvement has increased every year,” said Frank Oldani, director of family services for the Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association. “I believe last year we were the second-largest cemetery in the state of Michigan behind Fort Custer (National Cemetery) in Battle Creek in our participation and number of wreaths that were distributed.”
The Clinton Township Kiwanis Club took over the event organization from the Straffons in 2024. Along with promoting the event, the club helps by raising funds to purchase wreaths. For the 2025 wreath-laying, a donation of $17 would cover the cost of a single wreath while $500 would cover about 30 wreaths. Donors can receive a banner in exchange for their donation. While donations for 2025 closed on Dec. 1, Jantz says any further donations will be put toward buying wreaths for 2026.
Wreaths, however, cannot lay themselves and numerous civic groups, Scouting groups, service organizations, companies and individuals are set to come out to Resurrection Cemetery in order to ensure as many of the cemetery’s interred veterans as possible are honored. Jantz estimates the cemetery has about 10,000 veterans graves.
Before the wreath-laying occurs, attendees will hear from various speakers during a remembrance ceremony to be emceed by state Rep. Joe Aragona, R-Clinton Township. The keynote speaker for the event is Brig. Gen. Leah Voelker, commander of the Michigan Air National Guard’s 127th Wing and the commanding officer at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The ceremony is to begin at noon on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
minimum to open
MCC
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which specializes in assisting higher education institutions identify and select leadership, is working with the board on the national search.
RH Perry & Associates put together an executive search profile for the new president. According to the profile, the president of Macomb Community College serves as the chief executive officer of the college and oversees the daily administration and operation of the school. The president reports to the Board of Trustees. The RH Perry & Associates profile states the president is responsible for supporting the philosophical tenets
reflected in the institution’s vision statement, mission statement, strategic goals and values.
Per the profile, the college president advances the college’s strategic agenda by providing a strategic focus for every aspect of the operation of the institution, including academic excellence in teaching and learning, student success, program delivery and expansion to meet the needs of the region, accountability, shared governance and collaboration, financial responsibility, continuous improvement and more.
As part of the process to find Sawyer’s successor, the Macomb Community College Board of Trustees appointed a 14-member Presidential Search Advisory Committee. The committee’s role is to review and evaluate applications based on the criteria
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working with local law enforcement to gather details on what occurred during tonight’s tree lighting event. Guest and staff safety is our top priority, and we will continue to collaborate with Clinton Township Police Department as they investigate this situation.”
Other agencies involved in the investigation and response included the Sterling Heights Police Department, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, St. Clair Shores Police Department, Utica Police Department, Chesterfield Township Police Department, the Macomb County Communications and Technology Center, Clinton Township Fire Department, Chesterfield Township Fire Department, Medstar ambulance service and Partridge Creek mall security.
Any information or tips related to the incident can be reported by calling (586) 493-7839.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
outlined in the executive search profile, recommending finalists for consideration by Macomb’s full Board of Trustees.
The committee members are: Lorenzo who is the chair, Presidential Search Advisory Committee; Board of Trustees Vice Chair Shelley Vitale; Mark Jansen, president and chief executive officer, First State Bank; Michael DeVault, Macomb Intermediate School District superintendent; Stacy Ziarko, president and chief executive officer, Connect Macomb; and Macomb Community College student Dillon Hardeman.
The other committee members include
the following faculty staff: John Bowman, Apple support specialist, information technology at Macomb Community College; math professor Lori Chapman; Anthony Green, lieutenant, Macomb Community College Police Department; Lisa Johnston, administrative assistant, marketing; Anthony Hackett, grounds foreman, facilities and maintenance; Leslie Kellogg, provost and vice president, academic and workforce education; Marie Pritchett, dean, arts and science; and Edward Rickard, adjunct instructor, math. Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
493-7839.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
Any information or tips related to the shooting at The Mall at Partridge Creek on Nov. 23 can be reported by calling (586)
File photo
A national search to find the next president of Macomb Community College is underway. The college’s current president, James O. Sawyer IV, will retire June 30, 2026. He has been president since July 1, 2017.
Family
The family business has also provided the opportunity to keep history alive at Allemon’s Landscape Center.
“It gives them a chance to hear the history that I remember and that I retained from my grandfather, who started this business,” Allemon said.
Allemon said the business has gone through several changes in the almost 100 years it has been operating. Passing on stories and history allows for the opportunity to compare and contrast the past and present.
The struggles of a family business
Though both family business owners have many positive things to say about the experience of running things, there are a few obstacles that can come up in a long-standing family business.
Klopp said he wears a lot of hats as a business owner, meaning he is hands on with everything having to do with the business.
“Sometimes it can get overwhelming, trying to play a role in every single aspect of the business,” Klopp said.
G.A. Fuchs Church Supply is closed on Sundays in order to give employees a guaran-
teed break every week to spend quality time with family.
While Klopp said this is a decision that he values, he can see how it could be considered a drawback from both a customer side and the business side.
When running a family business, Allemon said it is important to keep business and work talk at a minimum at home.
“Believe me, it always doesn’t happen that way,” Allemon said. “But it’s a goal that you kind of set to keep work at work.”
The secrets to the longevity of a family business
Allemon said the key to running a family business is communication and the ability to work through the tougher times.
“When times are good, things are easy,” Allemon said. “When the tougher times are there, that’s when it really comes down to brass tacks.”
Klopp said it is important to “love what you do.”
Though that advice can apply to anything, he said, “With a family business in particular, if you don’t love it, it can get really overwhelming,” Klopp said.
Fortunately, Klopp said he loves what he does.
Call Staff Writer Mary Genson at (586) 498-1095.
County
fairer leadership and greater accountability, (a direction) that would provide us with the opportunity to act quickly, think long term and speak with a unified voice. This new structure, our structure, has allowed us to challenge ourselves, seize opportunities and plan for the future. And because of that, I believe Macomb County is stronger today than ever. We’re stronger because we have built this movement with everybody.”
These improvements over the past 15 years were attributed as much to the county’s partners as they were to the county itself with the tagline of “Macomb With Everybody” — a play on the “Vs Everybody” clothing line. The results of these partnerships were discussed in terms of economics, protecting its quality of life, infrastructure investment, promoting the county, and prioritizing issues of public safety, health and education.
On the topic of economics, Hackel began by championing the county’s ability to end the $13.5 million budget deficit and fulfill the $260 million retiree health care funding obligations that were outstanding in 2010.
“Working together with the Board of Commissioners, those deficits were immediately resolved and set the tone for sound fiscal management and transparency here in the county,” Hackel said. “Today, we can proudly say that we have delivered balanced budgets every year since, we have fully funded our retiree health care and pension systems, we continue to add to our healthy
fund balance, and we maintain a strong AA+ credit rating.”
Hackel’s optimism about the 2010 charter’s role in resolving the county’s woes from the start of the last decade was matched by another veteran of the era, Macomb County Board of Commissioners Chair Joe Sabatini.
“Finances (resonated the most) with me just because I’m an accountant at heart,” Sabatini said after the address. “When I was initially elected a commissioner, what Mark was talking about, we were in dire straits. The economy was going in a different direction, our finances were upside down, we didn’t have pensions funded correctly. You name it, we had a problem. Now we’re sitting on $130 million in our fund balance. I’m proud to say that I was part of that solution, and that did not just happen overnight, obviously. It took a lot of strategic actions and planning … I was here and I’ve seen where it’s gone to today, and it’s literally been a 180 whirlwind to where we’re at today.”
Speaking about the county’s economy, Hackel highlighted its strong ties with the defense and manufacturing industries. While much time was given to showcasing the new F-15EX fighter and KC-46 refueling missions at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Hackel drew significant applause by highlighting that the county now had its strongest production level in 200 years at $56.4 billion. The county’s gross production totaled $33 billion when the 2010 charter went into effect.
Hackel’s remarks related to quality of life in the county dealt with managing natural resources and supporting projects
In Loving Memory of
Bernard A. Gucwa
Bernard A. Gucwa, age 90, a resident of Clinton Township, Michigan, passed away on November 26, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan surrounded by his loving family. Bernie was born on October 22, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York.His career began as a high school history teacher and guidance counselor at Fitzgerald Public Schools. Afer 14 years, he took on the position of an Educational Consultant at the Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD), and part-time faculty member in Measurement & Evaluation at Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan, prior to his retirement in 1995.
He attended Michigan State University, where he met his future wife, Olga Ziwinski, and married her in 1961. Bernie graduated from MSU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education. He earned his Master’s Degree from Wayne State University in Guidance and Counseling, and post-graduation work in Evaluation and Measurement. He was a past president of the Michigan Association for Measurement & Evaluation in Guidance.
Bernie’s beloved wife of 62 years, Olga, predeceased him in November 2023. His eldest son, Keith, predeceased him in August 2005. He is survived by his cherished children Bernice, Randy (Kara), Christine, grandchildren Chase (Sarah), Taylor (Alex), Addison, Samantha, great grandchildren, Vivian and Harrison.
A private family viewing will be held at the Mandziuk & Son Funeral Directors, in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Internment will be held at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton Township, Michigan.
0169-2550
Photo by Dean Vaglia Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel highlights the state of defense contractors in the county during the 2025 State of Macomb County event on Dec. 3.
CALENDAR
DEC. 11
Visit Santa: Also crafts and photo opportunites, 6:30 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at (586) 226-5073, cmpl.libnet.info/events
DEC. 11 & 13-14
Boar’s Head & Yule Log Festival: Performance about Christmas during Middle Ages, features cast of 100plus members in medieval costumes and choir and orchestra with 70-plus musicians, 7 p.m. Dec. 11 and 13 and 5 p.m. Dec. 14, Saint John Lutheran Church, 16339 14 Mile Road in Fraser, free but registration required, donations appreciated, www.stjohnfraser boarshead.org
DEC. 14
‘Joy To The World’ concert: Performance by Metropolitan Detroit Chorale and North Oakland Concert Band, also Santa photos, 4 p.m., Fraser High School, 34270 Garfield Road, ticketed event, (586) 792-7464 (ext. 505), metropolitandetroitchorale.org
Finstrom’s Christmas Cancer Classic: Watch Detroit Red Wings alumni vs. Guardians Ice Hockey (comprises local first responders), hosted by former professional player and cancer survivor Jonathan Finstrom, event raises funds for Michigan families facing cancer through New Day Foundation for Families, also
includes raffle baskets, plus player meet-and-greets and dinner for VIPs, 3 p.m., Big Boy Arena, 34400 Utica Road in Fraser, foundationforfamilies.org/events
DEC. 18
Retro game night: For ages 8-12, 6 p.m., ClintonMacomb Public Library - Main Branch, 40700 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township, register at (586) 226-5030, cmpl.libnet.info/events
DEC. 19-21
‘The Nutcracker’: Performance by Macomb Ballet Company, 7 p.m. Dec. 19, 1 and 7 p.m. Dec. 20, and noon and 5 p.m. Dec. 21, also sensory-friendly performance at 1 p.m. Dec. 19, Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community CollegeCenter Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, plus holiday lunch and sweets, story time with Clara, themed craft, meet-and-greet and photos with characters, and keepsake or party favor during “The Nutcracker Tea,” 11 a.m. Dec. 20, Lorenzo Cultural Center on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 445-7348, macombcenter.com
ONGOING
Santa photos: Select times and dates until Dec. 24, The Mall at Partridge Creek, 17420 Hall Road in Clinton Township, (586) 226-0330, shoppartridgecreek. com/events
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 10:30 a.m. every sec-
shopping for a car that gives you more — more features, more safety, and more power. So choose a lender that gives you more. MSGCU gives you personalized guidance, plus a $100 bonus when you apply by December 31!
Anyone in Michigan can bank with us.
ond Monday of month, Big Boy, 16880 Hall Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936, widowedfriends.com
Live entertainment: 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Great Baraboo Brewing Co., 35905 Utica Road in Clinton Township, (586) 792-7397, greatbaraboo.com
Macomb County Quilt Guild meetings: 7 p.m. (fellowship at 6 p.m.) every first Monday of month through
June (second Monday if holiday), Trinity Lutheran Church, 38900 Harper Ave. in Clinton Township, macombcountyquiltguild.org
Book clubs: Find meetups about historic American figures (Presidential Book Club), solving cases (Mysteries & Munchies), quiet reading for adults and kids (Silent Book Club and Silent Book Club Jr), and recipes and sharing dishes (Cookbook Club), Fraser Public Library, 15260 15 Mile Road, (586) 293-2055
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“We always try to do as much of our business in Fraser as possible but at the time we could not turn down that kind of in-kind contribution,” Apps said of the decision to host the event outside of Fraser previously.
Over the years, the club worked with Vintage House after Zuccaro’s moved further away.
“Ever since, they’ve been super generous to us and very kind to work with us and hold the price down as best they can and still put on a great meal for the event,” Apps said.
She said the club noticed a fatigue for dressing up and that some people who wanted to attend felt they couldn’t because they didn’t have a partner, so a decision was made to change the vibe.
“And so, we turned into the Blue Jean
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in its communities. Among the projects highlighted were Mount Clemens’ multifaceted downtown and riverfront overhaul project; Macomb Township’s expansion of Broughton Road into a north-south, mixedused boulevard; Sterling Heights’ ongoing work to convert the Lakeside Mall site into a community; and Utica’s new headquarters for United Shore Professional Baseball League owners General Sports and the LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium. The highlighted environmental projects included the Green Macomb tree canopy campaign responsible for 200,000 new trees since 2015, and various efforts to improve the health and quality of waterways like Lake St. Clair and the Clinton River, which make up a $1.7 billion “blue economy.” Hackel also highlighted the revival of Freedom Hill as an event venue, which hosted 31 shows and 161,000 attendees in the past year.
The final points of the address focused on public safety, public health and education. The COMTEC dispatch center, the year-old Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Marine Division headquarters, the underconstruction Central Intake and Assessment Center of the Macomb County Jail and Macomb County Community Mental Health all received shout-outs from Hackel. Progress at Macomb County Animal Control was given a particular emphasis, with Hackel highlighting the shift from its past as a high-kill-rate facility to one with a 95% “save rate.”
In October, Hackel discussed moving or improving Macomb County Animal
Ball, making (it) more casual and it didn’t evolve around being a pair of people coming. You could just come (alone),” Apps said.
After that decision, they saw younger people attending.
Apps said the ball is their biggest fundraiser of the year and that the money helps support the club’s mission to build better parks.
“We firmly believe that parks really generate a quality of life for a city, and we work hand in hand with the city of Fraser in trying to create better parks for our city,” Apps said.
Their upcoming project is at Stephens Park, and the fundraising will go toward its first phase. They hope to see an amphitheater and places for kids to play, with intentions to make it a public space with many options.
The Blue Jean Ball will also include a bag raffle, a cheer wagon, a silent auction and more.
“And all of that helps us keep raising
Control’s facility. Sabatini said one of the biggest issues facing the county government is the age and maintenance of its buildings.
“Our infrastructure is a challenge for us right now because all of our buildings are 50-plus years old,” Sabatini said. “We have to make investments again into our infrastructure. It’s challenging because when you have a building that’s 50 years old, a lot of the parts don’t exist anymore. The specialists that built that or the boiler operators and specific people (for operations and maintenance), there’s a shortage of those workers … Today when we look at the big picture, what we’re trying to do is work more efficiently and bring that infrastructure closer to our core. It’s a lot easier to manage. We’ve got 2 million square-feet right now of actual real estate that we manage and have to maintain.”
Possible building projects Sabatini discussed included moving the Macomb County Health Department’s southern facilities to the Robert A. Verkulien Building in Clinton Township and consolidating the county’s Mount Clemens footprint, possibly into a single building on the former parking garage site at the 16th Circuit Court. The county has contracted with professional services firm Plante Moran for a space assessment of its facilities.
As far as promoting the county, Hackel praised the “Make Macomb Your Home” brand for bringing outside eyes to the county and showcasing life across its communities.
He also focused on infrastructure investments, including work to improve the county’s roadways and the rehabilitation of the Chapaton Pump Station and canal in St. Clair Shores.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
the money for match grants,” Apps said. “If the city needs a match, we hope to be able to contribute to that match grant and eventually, hopefully, dump all our fundraising into grants and match grants and city proposals and stuff like that.”
The club also contributes to school outdoor activities and other organizations to raise awareness about the effort in the community.
Sherry Stein, a member of the Fraser First Booster Club, said in an email the Blue Jean Ball brings people together for the purpose of building a stronger community and better parks.
Editor: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 | brianlouwers@candgnews.com
Reporters: Dean Vaglia | (586) 498-1043 | dvaglia@candgnews.com
Alyssa Ochss | (586) 498-1103 | aochss@candgnews.com
Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
“It takes so many incredible volunteers and generous sponsors to make it happen, and we’re truly grateful for every one of them and all our guests to this event each year,” Stein said in the email.
She also said she’s been a part of the club for a long time and that it continues because of the support of the community.
The club is still looking for sponsors for the ball. To find out more about the sponsorship levels, go to the Fraser First Booster Club’s website.
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.
For retail ad rates: Paula Stelzer | (586) 498-1076 | pstelzer@candgnews.com Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com
Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099
Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
Automotive Advertising: Jeannine Bender
OCFC TO HOST OPEN TRYOUTS
AUBURN HILLS — Oakland County Football Club will be hosting an open tryout from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 27, at Evolution Sportsplex in Auburn Hills.
The tryout will give players an opportunity to make the OCFC roster in 2026, with the chance to play in the United Soccer League’s USL2 and the Midwest Premier League.
OCFC has established itself as one of the top developmental paths in the state of Michigan by providing a plethora of opportunities to young soccer players looking to take the next step on the pitch.
Most of the players in the USL2 are collegiate athletes who are looking to get playing time in the summer months. There are exceptions, with standout high school players and some older players also getting opportunities. It’s a popular league for professional teams to scout for young talent.
In order to try out, all players must register. Visit oaklandcountyfc.com and click ‘Register’ on the homepage. There are limited spots available.
— SCOTT BENTLEY
Wrapping
National Honor Society. Some gift wrappers really display their artistic flair.
“It is like an art form,” Arc of Macomb County Director of Development Christy Jane Courtney said. “It’s very festive. We have a great variety of wrapping paper of all different colors, bows, ribbons, name tags — lots of variety.”
Courtney said many shoppers are regulars who come back every year. Patrons can drop off their items and pick them up later in the day if that works better with their schedules. People also can make appointments to have their gifts wrapped at the Arc of Macomb County’s office, located at 44050 N. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township. Just call (586) 469-1600.
According to its mission statement, “The Arc is dedicated to securing for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose where and how they learn, live, and work throughout their lifetimes in the community we share.”
“We are an advocacy group that serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” Courtney said. “I think it’s re-
ally important all people have the opportunity to be included in their communities.”
Through various services, the Arc assists children and adults to self-advocate for themselves by increasing their knowledge of personal choice, and advancing their independence. The Arc provides information and referral services, access to community resources, and access to training, as well as one-on-one advocacy in many areas.
That includes assistance applying for Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, food assistance, and adult home help; consultation for alternatives to guardianship, power of attorney, and guardianship support; housing resources; community inclusion and recreational services; community mental health; Medicaid fair hearings and more.
Katie Somers, of Macomb Township, is grateful to Arc of Macomb County for helping her to get her life on track.
“They changed my life,” she said. “When I was 18, I thought I knew the world and nobody could tell me anything.”
But then she began getting depressed, felt suicidal and was placed into a group home.
“I was not in a good state of mind,” Somers, now 37, said.
She was put under guardianship at
Macomb Mall gift wrapping hours to benefit the Arc of Macomb County are listed below. Macomb Mall is located at 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville.
• Noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 12.
• Noon to 7 p.m. Dec. 13.
• Noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 14.
• 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 15-18.
• 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 19-20.
• 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 21.
• 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 22-23.
• 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 24.
Arc of Macomb County. She is forever grateful to the many staff members who helped her, including Mary Scarsella, licensed master social worker, community and advocacy director, now retired; Executive Director Lisa Lepine; Shelly Taras, community work incentives coordinator, representative payee director; and representative payee coordinator Jackie Thomas.
“They were wonderful, phenomenal. It only took me a couple years to realize Mary was not here to harm me, but she’s there to help me,” Somers said. “They made sure everything was done. Anytime I needed them, I could call them. They go above and beyond.”
Somers is no longer under guardianship.
“I’m really good,” she said. “I know how to budget. I know how to handle myself.”
Volunteers are still needed to gift wrap. If interested, sign up at SignUpGenius at signup.com/go/hodSRyp. Macomb Mall is located at 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville.
For more information on the Arc of Macomb County, go to arcservices.org.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
at Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com. Questions? Call Joe at 1-800-835-0495.
Winter Sportsman Auction. Bidding open. 250+ fine firearms, vintage sporting, antique & modern ammunition, militaria, tools. This is a Great sale!
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package. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Applications will be accepted until there are sufficient applicants to meet the Township’s recruitment needs. As such, interested applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038. The Charter Township of
For
pertaining to this position or to download an
application, please refer to www.clintontownship.com click on civil service, employment.
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Girlfriend arrested for allegedly assaulting boyfriend with knife
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers were dispatched to the 14000 block of Lakeside Boulevard, near Schoenherr and Hall roads, for a fight between a boyfriend and a girlfriend at 9:12 a.m. Nov. 10. Upon arrival, the boyfriend reportedly told police that he and his girlfriend got into an argument about their relationship, and the girlfriend threw a bottle of A.1. sauce at him. The officer observed A.1. sauce on the boyfriend’s clothing during the interview. The boyfriend said the girlfriend then picked up a knife that was near the dishwasher and pointed it in his direction. He showed the officer a cut in his jacket that was caused by the knife, according to the police report. Based on observations and interviews, the officers arrested the girlfriend for felonious assault with a knife. She was lodged, and the case was sent for review by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
Property owner reports
renter put holes in wall
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer responded to the 48000 block of Leafdale Court in Dequindre Estates, near Dequindre and Hamlin roads, for a malicious destruction of property report at 8:29 a.m. Nov. 11. Upon arrival, the officer met with the owner of the property who said he rents out a room in his manufactured home. After the renter moved out, the owner said he noticed several holes in the wall that he believed were caused by the renter. The officer documented the damage. The officer planned to make contact with the renter, according to the report.
Police investigate domestic assault
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers investigated a reported domestic dispute that occurred in the 50000 block of Mound Road at 4:03 p.m. Nov. 17. A woman came to the Police Department to report that her boyfriend had made comments to assault her and then picked her up and slammed her to the ground, causing an injury to her head. The boyfriend then allegedly threatened to kill her, according to the police report. The officers went to the address and made contact with the boyfriend. The officers spoke with the boyfriend and later arrested him for domestic assault and interfering with electronic communications, police said. The case was turned over to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
Identity theft reported
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A man came to the Police Department to report that his identity had been stolen at 1:26 p.m. Nov. 17. The man said he had received a voicemail confirming the purchase of a new Apple
number back, he thought he was talking to a representative from Amazon. The man finally realized that he did not have an account with Amazon and felt that it was a scam, according to police. The man never gave any other information and ended the call. The man called Amazon, and they confirmed it was a scam.
Man arrested for drunken driving
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — An officer was dispatched to the area of 22 Mile Road near M-53 for a vehicle in a ditch at 3:37 a.m. Nov. 16. Upon arrival, the officer met with the sole occupant of the vehicle, who reportedly admitted to having a few drinks before driving. The officer put the driver through a series of roadside sobriety tests, and the driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated. He was transported and lodged until he was sober.
Domestic assault reported
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers were dispatched to McDonald’s, 56915 Van Dyke Ave., for a possible domestic assault at 6:35 p.m. Nov. 10. Upon arrival, a woman told police that she and her husband are going through a divorce and, during a child exchange, he became upset and grabbed her hand, squeezing it and causing a scratch. The man, who left prior to police showing up, was contacted by police and said he never touched the woman during the child exchange. Police were investigating.
Man admits to stealing from gas station
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers responded to a gas station in the 54000 block of Mound Road for a man inside the store concealing items in his pocket at 12:56 p.m. Nov. 11. The gas station employee believed the man had stolen from the station in the past. Upon arrival, an officer approached the man at the register and asked if he had taken items without paying. The man admitted to taking several items today and in the past, police said. He was arrested and issued a ticket for retail fraud.
Road rage incident
TROY — Officers were dispatched to the area of John R and Square Lake roads for an assault in progress resulting from a road rage incident around 10:50 a.m. Nov. 2.
The suspect was a Washington Township man, 43, who fled the scene. Officers found the victim — a 48-year-old Macomb Township man — lying unresponsive next to his vehicle. He was transported to the hospital with a head injury.
Witnesses told police that the suspect had exited
victim’s vehicle, hitting him and kicking him multiple times before fleeing.
The suspect was located near Big Beaver and Dequindre roads. He was taken into custody and faces a charge of aggravated assault.
Larceny reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 2:42 p.m. on Nov. 13, an alleged act of larceny that occurred in the 22000 block of Maxine Street was reported.
The victim, a 29-year-old woman, visited the police station and stated that her yellow backpack with a laptop, college books and other items was stolen out of her unlocked vehicle parked in her driveway on Nov. 12. Video footage shows the car light off and then turning on around 12:45 a.m.
Fraud reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 7:02 p.m. on Nov. 12, an act of fraud was reported to have occurred in the 21000 block of Briarcliff Street.
The victim, a 44-year-old woman, visited the police station and said she received a phone call from a person who she thought was the St. Clair County Jail where her sister currently is. The person on the line stated they needed $570 for a tether to be sent by PayPal. The victim sent the money to the stated address but received an error and sent another payment. She realized she had just sent over $1,140. She contacted the jail who informed her this is a well-known scam and that they never ask for money that way. She contacted PayPal who informed her that the money was already transferred and that they couldn’t recover it.
Fraudulent purchase
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Nov. 4 at around 5:45 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke with a 54-year-old Macomb Township woman who believed she was hacked.
The woman was informed by American Express that an $844 order for a tablet computer was made on her account, but she did not make this purchase and believed a store employee was trying to defraud her.
The woman wished to press changes if a culprit was found.
Fraudulent phone bill
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Nov. 2 at around 3:10 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 22300 block of Homestead Drive for a fraud report.
Deputies spoke with a 42-year-old Macomb Township woman who received a $472 bill from Verizon Wireless despite not having an account with the opened an account with four lines in
Zekelman Holocaust Center gets new COO FARMINGTON HILLS — The Zekelman Holocaust Center recently announced the appointment of Ken Zendel as its new chief operating officer. Zendel brings more than 20 years of executive leadership in the nonprofit and corporate sectors.
The Holocaust Center is located at 28123 Orchard Lake Road and is open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday. For more information, visit holocaustcenter.org or call (248) 553-2400.
Audacy to launch new radio station
“The launch of 97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network represents a massive commitment to our listeners and an exciting chapter in our growth,” said Debbie Kenyon, senior vice president and market manager of Audacy Detroit, in a statement.
“We are excited to partner with Townsquare Media and other media companies to expand our footprint across all of Michigan and to deliver great content to the dedicated fan base we serve,” Kenyon said. “We are proud to deliver best-in-class sports coverage to the entire state, solidifying our position as the essential source for Michigan sports audio content now and for years to come.”
At print time, the network’s affiliates are Townsquare Media’s WFGR in Grand Rapids (98.7 FM), WJIM in Lansing (1240 AM), WBCK in Battle Creek (95.3 FM), WKMI in Kalamazoo (1360 AM) and Blarney Stone Broadcasting’s WGRY in Roscommon (101.1 FM).
More affiliates will be announced in the coming months, Audacy
CANDLE LIGHTING TO REMEMBER PASSED CHILDREN
ST. CLAIR SHORES — A Worldwide Candle Lighting will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 14 this year, honoring and remembering children who have died. The event will be held at St. Margaret of Scotland Church located at 21201 13 Mile Road. The event will feature special readings, music, the announcing children’s names and the candle lighting starting at 7 p.m. Contact Kathy Joerin at (586) 293-6176 or kjmac21@aol.com, or Rhonda Esler at (586) 354-8072 or gesler6527@aol.com to have your loved one’s name read during the event and to receive a special ornament. Attendees are invited to bring a picture of their loved one to the event.
Glide on over to the city’s ice rink
STERLING HEIGHTS — The Dodge Park ice rink will open for the season Dec. 1 with weekly skating, themed nights, family events and “Sensory Friendly Sundays.” Standard hours, holiday hours, and fees are listed on the city’s website at sterlingheights.gov. Just click on the Parks and Recreation icon. For up-tothe-minute closure information, call the ice rink hotline at (586) 446-2711.
BERKLEY HOSTS FOOD DRIVE BERKLEY — The city of Berkley is
Arrests made in vehicle theft GROSSE POINTE PARK
but was ultimately thwarted.
Suspects sought in larcenies GROSSE POINTE WOODS — Unknown male suspects were being sought by police after the theft of equipment from vehicles doing work at homes in Grosse Pointe Woods. A suspect wearing a ski mask is said to have stolen equipment from
restroom at Panera in The Village at around 1:50 p.m. Nov. 10. The suspect is said in a police report to have loosened a drainage pipe, causing water to spill onto the floor.
Clinton Township Kiwanis taking part in ‘Wreaths Across America’ CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Clinton Township Kiwanis Club is taking part in Wreaths Across America by laying wreaths on the graves of veterans at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township on Saturday, Dec. 13. One of the largest Wreaths Across America events in Michigan, the Dec. 13 event will have Brig. Gen. Leah Voelker, base commander of Selfridge Air National Guard Base, serving as the keynote speaker. State Rep. Joe Aragona, R-Clinton Township, will emcee. Those looking to support the event by funding wreaths can reach out to Kerry Jantz at (586) 610-3511 or Barry Burnham at (586) 703-4435.
Oakland County Sheriff’s Office organizes coat drive to benefit those in need
OAKLAND COUNTY — The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office hopes to collect thousands of coats this November to provide them for free to individuals in need. The Sheriff’s 38th annual “Coats for the Cold” coat drive is underway, and the public is asked to support this effort by going into their hearts and closets to provide new or gently used clean coats before the end of the month. Agencies like the Oakland Schools Student Homeless Population are looking for approximately 750 coats to provide students in need of a coat. The annual coat drive was created by Sheriff Mike Bouchard 38 years ago,
The
is accepting through Dec. 20 unexpired, nonperishable food and toiletry donations at any municipal
or the
For more information about the food pantry, visit berkleycaresfoodpantry.com. People who seek to donate are
to drop off any items in a plastic or paper bag, not loose cans. Anyone with questions can contact the city at communications@berkleymi.gov or by calling (248) 658-3333.
Zendel