Hackel looks back on new charter’s impact
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MACOMB COUNTY — 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 Macomb 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 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
See ADDRESS on page 18A
‘You served our city well’
WARREN’S RICHARD ‘DICK’ PALMER REMEMBERED AS WARM, SELFLESS
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
WARREN — A longtime Warren resi dent whose decades of service to the city is being remembered as a humble, steady pres ence.
Richard “Dick” Palmer, who served on a number of Warren’s boards and com missions, died on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27. He was 92.
According to his obituary, Palmer graduated from the University of Detroit before serving in the U.S. Army. He spent 32 years working as a tax analyst for Ford Motor Co.
Palmer, who lived in Warren for 67 years, served 16 years as a PTA officer and six years on the PTA’s area council. He spent 16 years on the Warren Consolidated Schools Board of Education, where he chaired two successful millage campaigns.
Additionally, according to his obituary,
See PALMER on page 8A
Richard “Dick” Palmer, who served on a number of Warren’s boards and commissions, died on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27. He was 92.
Photo provided by Robert Bonkowski
Center Line educators make the grade
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
CENTER LINE — The Center Line Public Schools fall staff appreciation ceremony — held during the district’s Nov. 24 Board of Education meeting — brought tears, laughter, words of encouragement and stories from the heart.
The event gave families, students and employees the opportunity to acknowledge several educators for their hard work and dedication inside the classroom.
The fall staff appreciation ceremony is held every year with a number of employees honored for their relationships and innovation. They each received a certificate and congratulations from Superintendent Joseph Haynes and the school board.
The ceremony began when Center Line High School Assistant Principal Klaressa Howery honored teacher Kim Smale for “her remarkable ability to build strong, genuine relationships with students.”
“She’s incredibly organized and she works to pass that skill to her students. She is thoughtful, proactive and always working to solve problems before they grow,” Howery said. “Kim earns her students and colleague’s trust by leading with honesty, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility. Kim, thank you for your dedication to our school, our students and our district. We are truly fortunate to have you here.”
Center Line High School Principal John Kelley nominated the school’s Athletic Director Ajani Ali for relationships and innovation. Kelley said Ali created a brother-
See APPRECIATION on page 13A
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 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 really important all people have the opportunity to be included in their communities.”
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.
During the Nov. 24 Board of Education meeting, Peck Elementary School student Nabiha Ahmed gets a hug from teacher Judy Chapman as Peck Principal Meghan Evoy looks on.
Photo by Maria Allard
National search for Macomb Community College 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, 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 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.
‘LITTLE WOMEN’ TAKES CENTER STAGE
WARREN — The Warren Civic Theatre will perform “Little Women” at 7 p.m. Dec. 12-13, at 2 p.m.
Dec. 14, at 7 p.m. Dec. 19-20 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Owen Jax Recreation Center, located at 8207 E. Nine Mile Road. “Little Women,” based on Louisa May Alcott’s novel, tells the story of the four March sisters as they grow up in Massachusetts during the Civil War. Tickets are $19 each at warrencivic.org. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for The Bottomless Toy Chest, which supports children receiving cancer treatment.
WARREN POLICE SEE SUCCESS IN FIRST THANKSGIVING MEAL OUTREACH
WARREN — The Warren Police Department said in a press release they saw “overwhelming success and positive feedback” from the department’s first-ever Thanksgiving meal community outreach.
Through the program, employees of the Warren Police Department and its Community Policing Unit, as well as several elected officials, delivered turkeys and essential fixings to 60 families in need across the city.
The initiative was made possible through a fundraiser hosted in October.
Warren police officer Bryce Moon spearheaded the event.
“Through my daily interactions with the community, I saw firsthand the growing need for support, especially during the holidays,” he said in a statement. “Seeing the genuine surprise and thankfulness on the families’ faces made all the hard work worthwhile.”
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/adopt-a-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.
Mark
State of Macomb County address on Dec. 3, the county’s jurists gathered for a selfie of sorts at the
for
ALL IS BRIGHT
WARREN — Fans of decked out Christmas houses will be happy to know one of Warren’s most festive displays is back this year.
For more than 40 years, Gina and Ron Jenkins have decorated their home on Frazho Road, just west of Ryan Road, like the North Pole. Last year, however, they didn’t put up their annual arrangement of 850 blow mold lawn decorations on their corner lot. This year the tradition returned, ready to put visitors into the Christmas spirit.
Gina said the best way to view the display is to park and walk along the sidewalk to see all the different themes. Just follow the glowing lights to Snowman Junction, Candy Cane Lane, Santa Claus and his reindeer, jolly penguins, nutcrackers and Nativity scenes. You’ll spot smiling wooden toy soldiers, Disney favorites, a 76-piece choir and more.
There are a few new pieces in the collection, including the “Peanuts” gang ice skating, a large gingerbread boy and girl and an Advent wreath. The Jenkinses will begin dismantling the winter wonderland a few days after Christmas.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
MACOMB COUNTY —
Ahead of Macomb County
Executive
Hackel’s
Macomb Center
the Performing Arts. The photo was later shared on Facebook.
Photo provided by Steven Bieda
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
7A/ WARREN WEEKLY • DECEMBER 10, 2025
DEC. 10
Senior health care seminar: Free event presented by City of Warren Senior Health Care Commission and Henry Ford Health System, visit vendors from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., eat light lunch at noon, hear Dr. Thomas P. Davis speak about coronary artery disease from 12:30-1:30 p.m. and door prizes given from 1:30-2 p.m., Warren City Hall Atrium, 1 City Square, (586) 758-1310, cityofwarren.org/events
DEC. 13
Wreaths Across America: Join Clinton Township Kiwanis Club in laying 3,000-plus wreaths on graves of veterans, also hear from Selfridge Air National Guard Base Brig. Gen. Leah Voelker, noon, Resurrection Cemetery, 18201 Clinton River Road in Clinton Township, facebook.com/clintontownshipkiwanis, annual event held at 5,200-plus locations in United States, wreathsacrossamerica.org
DEC. 14
Christmas Big Give: Free gifts for Macomb County families in need, noon, Lakeside Assembly of God, 46155 Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township, register or volunter at lakesideag.org/biggive, (586) 7261120
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
Ice skating: Regular hours run 5-8 p.m. Fridays, noon-8 p.m. Saturdays and noon-7 p.m. Sundays, plus holiday hours added/extended from noon-8 p.m. Dec. 22, 23, 26, 29 and 30 and Jan. 2, Warren City Square outside City Hall, 1 City Square, facebook. com/warrenparks
Warren Tri-County Fine Arts meetings: 5:30-7:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of month from SeptemberJune, Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden Ave., (586) 484-5035 or 586-795-5471, warrenartgroup@ gmail.com, warrenfinearts.net
Historical Society of Center Line meetings: 10 a.m. every first Friday of month, Center Line Public Library,
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To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own event, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
7345 Weingartz St., (586) 758-8274, centerline. events.mylibrary.digital
La Leche League of Warren meetings: For pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, 6:30-7:30 p.m. every third Wednesday of month, Warren Public Library - Civic Center inside Warren City Hall, 1 City Square, lllofwarren.weebly.com
Pageturners Book Club: Meets 2-3 p.m. every third Tuesday of month, Center Line Public Library, 7345 Weingartz St., centerline.gov/436/pageturners-bookclub
Senior activities: Cards, chair exercising, puzzles and more, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Fitzgerald Recreation Center, 4355 E. Nine Mile Road in Warren, (586) 759-0920
PAWS to Read: All ages can tell stories to therapy dog, 5-6 p.m. Wednesdays, Warren Public LibraryCivic Center inside Warren City Hall, 1 City Square, (586) 751-0770, warrenlibrary.net
Holiday Art Market: Find handmade gifts and seasonal decor (including some by young entrepreneurs), also see solo exhibit “Mary’s Garden” with 40-plus floral watercolors by Mary R. Hartman, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays
until Dec. 21, Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org, read story at candgnews.com
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
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
Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less: Virtual 15-week program presented by AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services and led by registered dietitian nutritionist, free for first-time participants ages 60 and older, register at (833) 262-2200 or wellnessprograms@ageways. org, tinyurl.com/agewaysworkshops
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
he served 10 years on the Warren Library Commission, three years on the Warren Cultural Commission, and 30 years on the board for the Friends of the Warren Library. He was also on the Warren Symphony Orchestra’s board of directors for 19 years.
In addition to many relatives, he is survived by his wife, Genie Palmer, who referred to her husband as a “professional volunteer.”
“He was happiest when he was around his family and people, that’s why he was so involved in everything in the city and the schools,” she said. “He was a professional volunteer, because he just loved to help wherever he could.”
He was a loving dad and grandpa, she said, who loved playing golf and reading books.
“His favorite vacation was just sitting and reading,” she said.
Warren Treasurer Lorie Barnwell said Dick and Genie Palmer were both committed to serving the city.
“Him and his wife just really have servant hearts, and they just really have gone above and beyond for Warren, always,” she said.
Barnwell said she met Palmer at one of the first events she ever went to when she was running for office in 2015.
“I just remember he had a great sense of humor. He was so funny, had a great wit about him, extremely friendly,” she said. “And he was just extremely encouraging of young people growing and developing in their leadership.”
Barnwell, who served with Palmer on the Library Commission, said he never got caught up in the “political back and forth” and always said what he meant.
“And he always said it with a little wit, a little humor. He never took himself or anything too seriously,” she said. “And I mean that in the best possible way. He just really tried to lead with honor and with intention and with humility.”
She added that he was a great example to her when she was beginning in a leadership position in the city. He was never quick to anger, and he always tried to find the best in other people and the best solutions, she said.
“He just really wanted to bring people together to move forward,” Barnwell said.
Warren City Council Secretary Mindy Moore remembered Palmer as being committed to service, community, faith and family, which made Warren a better place, she said in a Facebook post.
Moore served with Palmer on the Warren Symphony Orchestra’s board of directors. His love of music, steady leadership and kind heart were evident in everything he did, she said.
“He was the type of board member you could always count on, prepared, thoughtful, devoted and endlessly supportive of our mission,” she said. “Dick believed in the power of music to bring people together, and he worked tirelessly for nearly two decades to help ensure the symphony’s future.”
What she admired most about Palmer, Moore said, was his genuine warmth.
“Dick always had a smile, a word of encouragement and a deep sense of purpose,” she said. “His service extended far beyond the arts. He gave so much of himself to our schools, our library system, his church communities and to countless organizations that make Warren stronger.”
Former Warren Mayor Jim Fouts said Palmer represented what may be a bygone era of people who are concerned about public service over self service.
“He was always putting the interest of, whether it be the school or the city, above his own,” he said. “He was just a nice, selfless, self-effacing guy.”
Fouts said Palmer was never concerned about himself, only about getting things done.
“He was always about putting the interests of the school district and the city above his own. He had a very familiar, winning smile. He was low-key but very dedicated to helping others,” he said.
He said Palmer and his wife were both focused on public service.
“They were a key part of our community, and they helped to make things go the right way without putting themselves in front,” Fouts said.
In a tribute posted on his Facebook page, Fouts said there was hardly a board or commission on which Palmer wasn’t willing to serve.
“Yet to me, he will always be remembered as a nice guy who put you at ease with his humble winning ways,” he said. “Thanks Dick, you served our city well.”
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
Wrapping
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 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.
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12A/DECEMBER 10, 2025
2026 colors of the year celebrate warm, sophisticated tones
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
Trend forecasters from major paint brands have announced their colors of the year for 2026.
From versatile neutrals to rich browns to earthy greens, these hues are expected to dominate interiors for at least the next year.
Benjamin Moore’s color of the year is “silhouette,” a mix of “rich espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal,” according to the company’s website.
Andrea Magno, director of color marketing and design at Benjamin Moore, said the connection between fashion and interiors has always been a source of inspiration, but this year in particular she’s noticed a renewed interest in suiting and classic silhouettes, the resurgence of timeless pieces, and the growing interest in the brown color family.
“Silhouette embodies these qualities with its depth and luxurious blend of burnt umber and delicate charcoal undertones. Like a perfectly tailored suit, this hue has the versatility and softness to bring a space from expected to exceptional,” Magno said in a statement.
Every year, the Benjamin Moore PaintOutlets.com locations in Rochester, Shelby Township and Macomb Township have a Color of the Year wall on display for patrons to see the color in person.
“Every year, we repaint the wall and we use different sheens on the wall so people can see what sheen does to color also,” said Merlin Bush, president of PaintOutlets. com, which sells Benjamin Moore products.
Bush said he really likes this year’s color.
“They wove some luxurious burnt umber into the gray, which creates a nice hue that’s chic and looks great on the walls that people are doing,” he said. “It looks great with almost anything.”
Behr announced “hidden gem,” a smoky jade, as its 2026 color of the year. The color, Behr officials said, is a dynamic blend of blue and green that creates environments that feel both grounded and energizing.
“Now more than ever, there’s a growing appetite for colors that challenge convention and bring an unexpected sense of wonder to everyday spaces,” Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr Paint Co., said in a prepared statement. “Hidden Gem captures that spirit in both name and color — its depth and refinement meets the desire for colors that are eternally stunning and stylish.”
The Sherwin-Williams 2026 color of the year, “universal khaki,” was selected by the company’s global “trendsight” team to be an ultra-usable hue, tailored for classic sophistication, according to Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams.
“Khaki is more than just a neutral — it’s a timeless, go-anywhere shade that brings a sense of grounded elegance to any space,” Wadden said in a prepared statement. “With its warm, earthy undertones, Universal Khaki SW 6150 effortlessly complements a wide range of colors, creating a rich, inviting backdrop that can transform an entire design with quiet confidence.”
Naturally restorative and serene, “warm eucalyptus” is Valspar’s 2026 color of the year. The green hue, according to the company’s website, reflects “a collective desire for calm, grounding design” that adapts to the ever-changing pace of life.
“Warm Eucalyptus is more than just a beautiful shade of green, it’s a reflection of the comfort we crave in our homes,” Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar, said in a statement. “Its warm undertones create a grounded, welcoming mood while drawing inspiration from nature and the familiarity of retro design.”
Kim said the color encourages “restoration and resilience.”
Homeowners can easily add small pops of trending colors to their homes with decor they can swap in and out.
Colleen Lipp, of Huron Carpet and Floor Covering in Wixom, said she often helps clients with home design.
“For the last several years I have been encouraging clients to go mostly monochro-
matic and then to pick up pops of color in the artwork, pillows, throws and things like that,” Lipp said. Or for a bolder look, homeowners can
add a new color with a feature wall, or go all in by color drenching all the walls in a room. Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.
ABOVE: Behr’s color of the year, “hidden gem,” is a great hue for a relaxing bathroom.
Photo provided by Behr
RIGHT: “Universal khaki,” by Sherwin-Williams adds a soft look to kitchen cabinets.
Photo provided by Sherwin-Williams
LEFT: “Silhouette,” Benjamin Moore’s 2026 color of the year, adorns the walls of this home.
Photo provided by Benjamin Moore
BELOW: Valspar’s color of the year, “warm eucalyptus,” is featured on the cabinets of this inviting kitchen area.
Photo provided by Valspar
Appreciation
from page 3A
hood and family atmosphere, which made for “a great season.”
“A lot of it because of the dedication and relationships that coach grew over the year,” Kelley said. “He is way more than just a football coach. He’s the team dad. He’s the school dad for our boys. I’ve seen many conversations he’d had in his office and in my office with our student athletes that have nothing to do about football, that have everything to do about life, academics, behavior, family and relationships.”
District Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Shannon McBrady spoke about Madison Griffin, a social worker at the Academy 21 hybrid program. Academy 21 teacher Dylan Abraham nominated her.
“Although she is a newer member of the Academy 21 family, Madison has already been an indispensable presence to both students and staff. Her kindness is not simply something she displays, it’s something she practices daily in every interaction,” McBrady said. “She brings warmth, respect and genuine empathy to her work offering support that is tailored to each students’ unique needs.”
Olivia Constantine and Natasha Woodruff nominated Crothers Principal Jill Hamilton for relationships. Hamilton was recognized for fostering an environment of calmness, connection and cooperation among the students. According to Constantine and Woodruff, the administrator also demonstrates compassion and dedication in her efforts to establish an inclusive, collaborative community within the building.
The fall staff appreciation awards gave Tanika Rucker, the district’s instructional technology director, the chance to recognize Technology Director Gary Oke.
“He really deserves this. He does such a great job at managing his team, the tech team, and I’m kind of in the middle so he also supports me,” Rucker said. “He is always on call or a message away and is great at including me with the tech team when it matters most. He not only hears all my crazy tech ideas, but he also listens, and he suggests best practices to help me make informed decisions.”
During the meeting, McBrady honored Center Line High School administrative assistant Valencia Garrison, who is always a team player, especially when the school is short-staffed. The students affectionately call her “grandma,” McBrady said.
Roose Elementary School Principal Andrea Kennedy acknowledged teachers Kara Motschall and Ruth Paster Davis for their
Center Line High School teacher Shawna Rembold, shaking hands with Center Line Public Schools Superintendent Joseph Haynes, was among the district’s educators recognized during the fall staff appreciation ceremony Nov. 24.
innovation and their “We’ll figure it out together spirit.”
The following educators were also recognized:
• Wolfe Middle School teachers Diane Peters and Amber Baaso
• Center Line High School teachers
Shawna Rembold, Andrew Merrifield and CJ Gerardy
• Secondary instructional coach Jordan Reeves
• Crothers Elementary teachers Brandy Wright, Olivia Constantine and Ana Pell
• Peck Elementary head cook Nicole Brockman
• Peck Elementary teachers Judy Chapman and Cathie Gresko
• Roose Elementary teacher Alex Pauls
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
Photo by Maria Allard
SPOTLIGHT ON FAMILY BUSINESS
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
ABOVE: Joe Allemon Sr., father of Joe Allemon, on furlough in 1942 during World War II.
LEFT: Fourth- and fifth-generation Allemons at work at Allemon’s Landscape Center on Mack Avenue in Detroit.
Photos provided by Joe Allemon
ABOVE: Matt Klopp, left, and Greg Klopp, right, are the owners of G.A. Fuchs Church Supply.
LEFT: Matt Klopp is pictured in G.A. Fuchs Church Supply,which is located in Troy. Photos provided by Matt Klopp
from page 14A
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 guaranteed 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.
Helping hands
Photos by Erin Sanchez
Man sentenced to prison for arson, animal torture
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
WARREN — A 30-year-old man has been ordered to spend six to 20 years in prison for arson and animal cruelty in a September 2024 case.
Jesse Humphrey started a fire at his then-girlfriend’s home in Warren, destroying the home and killing two cats, according to a press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
The resident was not home at the time, but he knew that her cats were in the building when he started the fire, the release states.
Humphrey was convicted of two counts of seconddegree arson and two counts of first-degree animal torture.
During his sentencing Dec. 4, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Maria Panchenko argued before Circuit Court Judge Joseph Toia that the court should not accept the probation department’s sentencing recommendation of 60-240 months. Instead, she asked the judge to follow the high end of the sentencing guidelines.
Toia sentenced Humphrey to 75 to 240 months in the custody of the Michigan Department of Corrections. In addition, Humphrey was ordered to have no contact with the victim or her family, and he was ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution as a condition of parole.
“This defendant’s deliberate act of setting the fire and killing two innocent animals was both cruel and deeply
destabilizing to the victim and the community,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said in a statement. “Arson is a violent crime, and the intentional harming of pets is an act of profound cruelty.”
Humphrey’s attorney, Grace Crivello, did not return a request for comment.
Court records show Humphrey has an additional open case in the Macomb County Circuit Court, where he is facing one charge of malicious destruction of a building with damage totaling $1,000 to $20,000. According to Esther Wolfe, communications director for the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, Humphrey allegedly clogged a toilet in the Macomb County Jail and continuously flushed it, causing it to overflow. As a result, the cell and a dayroom needed to be sanitized, she said.
Humphrey
Address
from page 1A
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 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 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.
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.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
Season’s Greetings!
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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
AND NOTES NEWS
to launch new radio station
— Audacy will launch 97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network
Dec. 1.
“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
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
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.
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
Dec. 20 unexpired, nonperishable food and toiletry donations at
food pantry, visit berkleycaresfoodpantry.com. People who
opened an account with four lines in her name. Verizon customer service told her to file a police report. Arrests made in vehicle theft GROSSE POINTE PARK — Three suspects —
Fraud reported GROSSE POINTE
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 the van of a
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, when he served as village president in Beverly Hills. Since then, the coat drive has collected over 210,000 coats that have been distributed to agencies that provide them at no cost to their clients and people in need. Some of the agencies that will receive coats include Grace Centers of Hope, Oakland Schools Student Homeless Population, Baldwin Center,
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