‘BRANCHING OUT’ CATALOG
President Donald Trump delivers an announcement before members of the Michigan National Guard at Selfridge Air National Guard Base on April 29. Trump said the base would receive 21 F-15EX fighter jets in the coming years, fulfilling a goal of Michigan officials to maintain a fighter mission after the A-10 Thunderbolt II is retired.
TRUMP ANNOUNCES NEW SELFRIDGE FIGHTER MISSION
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — During a stop in Macomb County on April 29, President Donald Trump announced that Selfridge Air National Guard Base would receive a new mission with 21 “brand new” F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets.
Announced at Selfridge alongside state and federal officials to an audience of Michigan National Guard members and press, the F-15EX jets will replace the aging and outgoing A-10 Thunderbolt II jets as the base’s offensive mission. The planes are expected to arrive at the base in fiscal year 2028, according to the Department of Defense.
“Well, I guess they think we’re going to save this
See TRUMP on page 11A
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Nearly a week removed from the announcement of new fighter jets destined for Selfridge Air National Guard Base, neither state nor county executives have recorked the champagne.
Around noon on May 5, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gave an address to Macomb County business leaders at The Palazzo Grande banquet hall during a luncheon for the Macomb County Chamber and Connect Macomb. The governor’s remarks to the Macomb audience would ultimately revolve around bipartisan cooperation to solve mutual problems, and no example fit the subject and audience better than the idea of factory-fresh F-15EX fighter jets replacing an aging and retiring fleet of A-10s at Selfridge.
“This is a really important moment in our state and our country,” Whitmer said. “We know that there’s a lot of uncertainty for a lot of different reasons, but for us to be able to say we know what the future of Selfridge is a big (deal).”
Whitmer described the fighter mission as not only a lifeline for the base but for the numerous defense manufac-
See WHITMER on page 16A
Photo provided by Michigan National Guard
Utica Academy quiz bowl team places 11th at Small School National Championship
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies joined 153 of the top quiz bowl teams from small public high schools at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago for the 2025 Small School National Championship Tournament to determine who was the best April 26.
The Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies was one of nine Michigan teams competing at the national championship. The team finished in 11th place in the Open Division.
The team was on the brink of elimination when it defeated the Early College at Guilford A from Greensboro, North Carolina, in round 16 to stay alive. Unfortunately, the team lost to University School of Nashville A from Tennessee, ending its shot at the title.
Dwight Kidder, an engineering software tester and member of National Academic Quiz Tournaments, which organizes the tournament, said a lot of people, even some in small schools, make the assumption that a quiz bowl team from a small school can’t compete against a team from a large school.
See QUIZ BOWL on page 12A
Shelby Senior Center’s featured artist incorporates humor into his work
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — John Mordus has been named the Shelby Township Senior Center’s featured artist for the months of May and June, and his art display has been set up at the Shelby Township Activities Center.
He has been receiving positive feedback since he set up at the center last week; more than 12 pieces already have been sold. His art business, known as RoutervilIe USA on Etsy, consists of custom and personal orders involving decorative wood pieces, sometimes with humorous phrases.
“I am honored to be asked back to the Shelby Township Senior Center as their featured artist for May and June. It has
Tomahawk Steak
The Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies finished in 11th place in the Open Division of the 2025 Small School National Championship Tournament April 26.
Photo provided by Dwight Kidder
John Mordus has been named the Shelby Township Senior Center’s featured artist for the months of May and June.
Photo provided by Fu-Yuan Ciricola
ART on page 22A
CRIME WATCH
Police arrest drunken driver
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 9:43 p.m. April 20, police officers from Shelby Township were dispatched to the area of West Utica and Ryan roads for a be-on-the-lookout for a possible drunken driver in the area.
An officer observed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The officer met with the driver who advised that he did not speak English, according to police. The officer was able to translate and explained the reason for the traffic stop. After a series of field sobriety tests, the driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated. The driver was processed and lodged at the Shelby Township Police Department until he was sober and could be released.
Drunken driver arrested
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 6:20 p.m. April 20, police from Shelby Township responded to a rollover crash at Shelby Parkway and 23 Mile Road. An officer met with the driver involved in the crash and could smell an odor of intoxicants on his breath. The driver was put through a series of field sobriety tests and then refused a preliminary breath test. The driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated. The driver was booked and lodged at the Shelby Township Police Department. This was the driver’s second OWI arrest.
Police called for driver sleeping at wheel
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 12:50 p.m. April 20, police were dispatched to the area of Sherwood Park and Cambridge Drive, near 25 Mile and Hayes roads, for a possible driver sleeping at the wheel on the roadway. An officer located the vehicle in
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question and conducted a traffic stop. The officer met with the driver and upon talking with her, he reportedly could smell an odor of intoxicants on her breath. The driver refused to take any test and was arrested for operating while intoxicated. The driver was processed and lodged at the Shelby Township Police Department until she was sober.
RV damaged
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer from Shelby Township was dispatched to the 4600 block of Morel Court, near Ryan and West Utica roads, for a malicious destruction of property complaint at 11:36 a.m. April 27. Upon the officer’s arrival, he met with the complainant. The male caller stated that when he got to that location, he observed damage to his RV. The RV had a dent that was not there before. There were no cameras in the area and the caller just wanted a report for his insurance.
Resident reports credit card fraud
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 6:02 p.m. April 27, a woman came into the lobby of the Shelby Township Police Department to report her credit card information had been stolen. The woman stated that she went to a local car wash in Shelby Township and signed up for the unlimited wash club. The woman stated that soon after signing up, she received a fraud alert on her phone. The woman declined the charge of $33.53 and was able to get the name and phone number of the person attempting to use her credit card.
The case was turned over to the Police Department’s detective bureau. A detective searched the phone number and found a suspect. The suspect was questioned and finally admitted to using the credit card to order food, according to the police report. The case was turned over to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office to be reviewed for charges.
— Kara Szymanski
counties:
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Automotive Advertising: Jeannine Bender | (586) 246-8114 | jbender@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com
Shelby Township police participate in Operation Ghost Rider
BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Michigan law enforcement officials at the end of April, which is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, stressed that staying focused behind the wheel saves lives.
To protect drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians, law enforcement agencies across the state took part in Operation Ghost Rider, which has the goal of reducing injuries and fatalities due to distracted driving.
The campaign is led by the National Transportation Safety Organization and funded by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.
Shelby Township started working on Operation Ghost Rider April 26.
Jim Santilli, CEO of the National Transportation Safety Organization, said that every time drivers choose to look at their phones or engage in distractions, they put lives at risk.
Launched in 2017, Operation Ghost Rider uses officers in unmarked vehicles who spot distracted drivers and alert nearby marked units to make traffic stops.
Other participating agencies included the Michigan State Police, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Auburn Hills Police Department, Chesterfield Township Police Department, Clinton Township Police Department, Sterling Heights Police Department, Taylor Police Department, Troy Police Department and Utica Police Department.
According to the NTSO, Michigan saw 15,136 distracted driving crashes in 2023, which led to 59 deaths and 5,889 injuries. Over a third of the crashes happened at intersections, and nearly 20% involved a lane departure. The five counties with the highest numbers of distracted driving crashes were Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Kent and Washtenaw.
Data from the U.S. Department of
“In 2023 alone, 40,091 people were killed and an estimated 2.44 million injured in traffic crashes across the U.S. It’s time we all commit to making traffic safety a priority again, and that includes bringing back highly visible enforcement,” he said in a press release.
Transportation highlights the risk: drivers using a handheld device are four times more likely to be involved in an injury-causing crash, and texting increases crash risk by 23 times.
“Studies reveal that sending or reading a text diverts your eyes from the road for approximately 4.6 of every 6 seconds. At 55 miles per hour, that’s equivalent to driving the entire length of a football field while blindfolded,” Santilli said.
In 2023, Michigan made it illegal to hold or manually use a cellphone or other mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle on Michigan roads. This includes being stopped at a light or in traffic but does not apply when the vehicle is legally parked. Under the law, drivers cannot hold or support a device with any part of their hands, arms or shoulders. Even if a device is mounted on the dashboard or connected to the vehicle’s built-in system, drivers are prohibited from using their hands to operate it beyond a single touch.
Penalties for violations include a $100 fine and/or 16 hours of community service for a first offense; a $250 fine and/or 24
hours of community service for a second or subsequent violation; and a mandatory driving improvement course for three violations within a three-year period. Additionally, fines are doubled if a traffic crash occurs and the at-fault driver was found to be holding or manually using a mobile device while operating the vehicle.
Sgt. Kevin Bailey, of the Shelby Township Police Department, said the officers were working with several other jurisdictions around Shelby Township to focus on distracted drivers with cellphones in hands.
“This event is done every year to my knowledge, and it is very successful for the law enforcement agencies that participate. First offense ticket is $170. Shelby Township is committed to keeping our community safe from distracted drivers. Distracted driving poses a serious risk to everyone on the road. I want all drivers in and around Shelby Township to put the phone down and focus on being behind the wheel. Let’s minimize distraction and stay alert. Together we can make our roads safer for everyone,” he said.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
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Michigan State High School Clay Target League continues growing at rapid pace
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
UTICA — The Michigan State High School Clay Target League reported that 2,378 students across the state are participating in the league this spring. Those athletes are from 131 different schools in Michigan as more schools are being represented every year.
Created in 2001, the USA Clay Target League has become prominent across the country with branches in nearly every state. The league is a nonprofit and is the largest clay target shooting organization.
“From three teams and 30 students, we’re now at just under 2,000 teams across the nation with about 54,000 participating over the year,” USA Clay Target League marketing manager Drew Tri said. “The league has facilitated growth on all sides of clay target shooting sports.”
One of the biggest reasons why is the outlet that it has created for students who might not be interested in anything else.
“The students that participate in our league … about 40% of them are not part of any other activity in school,” Tri said. “They’re students that wanted to find a place to participate and be a part of their school activities, but the schools had yet to provide that for them.”
In Michigan, the league branch is now 10 years old and has expanded at a rapid pace.
“In 2016, we had seven high schools and 97 students,” Tri said. “It just shows you that the demand for this exists.”
Among the growth that Michigan has seen, the expansion into
See LEAGUE on page 18A
ABOVE: The USA Clay Target League national championship awaits competitors before a round of shooting in 2024. The national championship is hosted in Mason, Michigan.
LEFT: Participants aim down range during a round at the 2024 national championship.
Photos provided by Drew Tri
NEWS & NOTES
DOWN HOME DAYS FESTIVAL MAY 23-26
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Shelby Township Down Home Days Festival has a new home at the northwest corner of 23 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue — 7601 23 Mile Road. Down Home Days features live music, carnival rides, food vendors and family-friendly entertainment as part of a celebration of the community and small-town fun. Carnival hours will be 4-11 p.m. May 23, noon to 11 p.m. May 24-25 and noon to 6 p.m. on Memorial Day, May 26. For more information, visit the calendar at shelbytwp.org.
Shelby Township to observe Memorial Day
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The township will have its Memorial Day ceremony at 1:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 25, at the Veterans Memorial outside Shelby Township Hall, 52700 Van Dyke Ave. Military veterans and families and residents are invited to attend.
Utica to have Memorial Day remembrance
UTICA — At 2 p.m. Sunday, May 25, at Memorial Park, the city of Utica will have a ceremony to honor all who lost their lives in service to our country. There will be a gun salute and the playing of taps from the Marine Corps League Honor Guard. Refreshments will be served at American Legion Post 351 after the ceremony.
UTICA TO HAVE CITYWIDE YARD SALE
UTICA — The city of Utica will be holding a citywide community yard sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 13-14. The city encourages all Utica residents to participate in the event.
TOLLWAY TEXT MESSAGE SCAM ON THE RISE
STATEWIDE — Michiganders are warned to be on the lookout for text messages requesting overdue toll payments. The messages are one of the latest attempts to steal personal information. The scam involves criminals mimicking the Michigan Department of Transportation website and sending text messages soliciting payment for traveling certain roads to unsuspecting drivers. The Michigan Department of Transportation doesn’t operate toll roads, so any messages requesting payment should raise a red flag.
AAA offers safety tips for National Bike Month
METRO DETROIT — In observance of May is National Bike Month, AAA – The Auto Club Group is reminding residents of the importance of safety for cyclists and motorists. In a press release issued May 1, AAA said 1,166 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes and an estimated 49,489 bicyclists were injured, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2023.
AAA’s safety tips for bicyclists:
Wear a helmet. Helmets, when worn properly, are up to 85% effective in protecting the head and brain in the event of a crash.
Follow the rules of the road. Obey traffic signals, signs and lane markings. Ride on the right side of the road, never against traffic.
CHARITY DRIVES
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Members of the John F. Kennedy Knights of Columbus, working with the Lt. Wood-Cpl. Reid Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 6691 in Fraser, will hold their seventh annual “Remember and Honor” car, truck and motorcycle show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 25 at their building, 33320 Kelly Road in Clinton Township.
Registration costs $15 per car; early registration costs $10 by May 17 with a portion of the proceeds benefiting veterans in need. The family-friendly event will include live music from the Geezers, food, prizes and a “wishing well” to benefit the Wreaths Across America program. John and Kim Weston, Mike Hoffman and Teresa Cito are hosting the event. For more information, contact Kim at (586) 610-2990 or Mike at (586) 823-9338.
Be visible. Ride where drivers can see you. Do not ride on the sidewalk. Wear bright colors during the day, reflective gear in low light conditions, and use head and taillights at night.
Make safe choices. Do not wear headphones while riding. Keep both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling. Keep both feet on pedals.
Watch for pedestrians. Pass pedestrians with care by first announcing “on your left” or “passing on your left” or use a bell.
AAA’s safety tips for motorists:
Stay alert. Always scan ahead, center, left, and right for bicyclists, especially at intersections and during turns.
Give space. Allow at least 3 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
Be patient. Avoid honking or aggressive driving near cyclists. Remember, they have the same rights to the road as vehicles.
Be cautious near children on bikes. They are often unsteady and unpredictable.
File photo by Erin Sanchez
Trump
from page 1A
place,” Trump said to begin his speech at the base. “And you know what? They’re right. A hundred percent right. We’re going to save it and make it better, actually.”
Finding a new fighter mission for the base to replace the A-10 mission has been a priority for Michigan officials in recent years. The state switched its focus to securing an F-15EX mission for the base in 2023 after failing to secure an F-35 Lightning II mission.
U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, described the F-15EX as “the airframe (Selfridge officials) saw the highest likelihood of gaining” and worked to get additional funding for F-15EX production into a draft version of the 2024 federal budget. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who was in attendance to greet Trump when he arrived at Selfridge on April 29, pledged to fund a northward expansion of Selfridge’s runway and approved a $13 million allocation to do so in the state’s 2023 budget.
“Since day one, I’ve been laser-focused on securing a new fighter mission at Selfridge and supporting the brave service members
who step up for our communities every day,” Whitmer said via press release. “I appreciate the President’s partnership on this new fighter mission that will protect jobs and show the world that Michigan is the best place to pioneer the next innovations in national defense. Because of our tireless work with partners on the ground in Macomb County and on both sides of the aisle, the future of Selfridge is bright, lasting and secure. I’ll keep working with anyone to get things done on the kitchen-table issues and make a real difference for Michigan families.”
Local officials were quick to applaud the announcement with both Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, a Democrat, and Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller, a Republican from Harrison Township, releasing statements of support.
“This is the best possible outcome, better than either F-16 or F-35,” Miller said via press release. “The F-15EX is a refurbishment of the F-15, a major overhaul/upgrade that just entered the active inventory in 2024, so it will be around for a long time, and it is an extremely important mission. It can be configured for air-to-air or air-toground operation … With the F-15EX, plus the KC-46s that are in the pipeline for us,
the Michigan Air National Guard will be playing a major role in national defense for decades.”
Hackel’s comments in a press release reflected the bipartisan nature of the campaign to bring a new fighter mission to the nearly 110-year-old base.
“It’s fitting that a coalition of this size and scope rallied around Macomb County to help uplift Selfridge,” Hackel said. “This
effort went beyond partisanship, and united us in the mission to protect our hometown airbase. I want to personally thank President Trump, Governor Whitmer, the servicewomen and servicemen at Selfridge and all of our military and civilian partners who were engaged in these conversations.”
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
2025 Memorial Day Weekend Events:
Friday, May 23, through Monday, May 26: White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery invites you and your family to once again honor all those who have served and defended our cherished rights and freedoms. See an inspiring display of over 500 large American fags lining our many causeways.
Starting at 3PM, Sunday, May 25: Enjoy a stirring Patriotic Concert by the renowned Birmingham Concert Band.
Starting at 11AM, Monday, May 26: Memorial Day Service, with a special tribute to the Polar Bear soldiers of WWI. See reenactors in authentic WWI military garb salute “Michigan’s Own Polar Bears.” After WWI, they were the frst Americans to fght Russians on Russian soil.
Quiz bowl
“That’s wrong; there’s differences, but almost all of the differences occur at the beginning when you’re forming the team. You have to cast a wider net. Once you have a team working together to learn and practice, the defining variable is not a school’s size but the team’s experience. The teams that come to the Small School Championships have gained their experience, and play every match with knowledge equal to larger schools. We’re just happy to give them the opportunity to demonstrate that,” he said.
Quiz bowl is a competitive, academic, interscholastic activity for teams of four students. Quiz bowl teams use buzzers to answer questions about science, math, history, literature, mythology, geography, social science, current events, sports and popular culture. The matches feature a blend of individual competition and team collaboration, since no individual player is likely to be an expert in all subject areas.
The team, in the Open Division, was captained by Benjamin Edmunds, who was joined by Daniel Buzdugan, Yousif Hadoo, Leo Koenders and Kiran Nair. The team was
coached by Zach Crossen and William Dobbie.
The Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies began the preliminary rounds with a five-game winning streak, in which it defeated Miami Valley from Dayton, Ohio; University School of Nashville B from Tennessee; Lancaster Mennonite from Pennsylvania; Hebron Academy from Maine; and New Heights Christian B from Joplin, Missouri. The team finished the preliminary rounds with a 9-1 record, which qualified it for the playoffs.
There were some tense moments. The team suffered a heartbreakingly narrow loss to the eventual champions, St. Mark’s School of Texas A from Dallas, 410-400 during round eight.
Benjamin Edmunds was honored as an all-star for correctly answering 132 tossup questions, 46 of them for “power” — so early as to earn extra points in the preliminary rounds.
The Traditional Public Schools Division champion was the A team from West Point High School of Cullman, Alabama. The Open Division champion was the A team from St. Mark’s School of Texas.
The 2025 Small School National Championship Tournament Open Divi-
sion’s field featured 66 teams from 28 states and South Korea.
Jonah Greenthal, vice president for operations, National Academic Quiz Tournaments, said The Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies shone brightly among the 66 teams from across the United States and South Korea, making the playoffs for the third consecutive year, the highest finishes ever by a Michigan team in the Small School National Championship Tournament’s Open Division.
“Captain Benjamin Edmunds was the
second-highest scorer at the whole tournament as he led his team to 11 thrilling victories. We’re looking forward to seeing what they can do at our High School National Championship Tournament in a few weeks in Atlanta, which is for schools of all sizes, and four of their five players are underclass students, so we’re also excited for how well they’ll perform next year. It’s been great to see the growth of the Michigan quiz bowl circuit,” he said.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.
Con-grad-ulations
TOP: On the evening of May 2, Macomb Community College celebrated its 112th commencement ceremony at the Sports and Expo Center on the South Campus in Warren. During graduation, Vinisia Eilo, of Clinton Township, left, and Ryan Bates, of Shelby Township, shared their personal Macomb experiences. Eilo, 20, graduated with an associate of arts degree and will be enrolling at University of Michigan-Dearborn to complete a bachelor’s degree to prepare for a career in criminal justice. Bates, 34, previously earned an associate degree from Macomb in 2019 and graduated with an additional three associate degrees this semester: associate of arts, an associate of science, and an associate of applied science in maintenance technologies. In recent years, he started a heating and cooling business with his father.
CENTER: A graduate wore a cap with the message, “Mom! Dad! Did you see me? Did you see what I did? I graduated!”
BOTTOM: Nearly 630 students were awarded more than 1,200 degrees and 150 certificates for the fall and winter semesters.
Photos by Liz Carnegie
SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH
Build a toOlkit to adDresS stresS
BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — From the contentious political climate to the economy to the rapid pace of modern life, stressors are everywhere and impact people of all ages. A 2022 survey by the American Psychological Association reported that 76% of respondents experienced at least one stress symptom in the past month.
Prolonged periods of stress can put people at risk for many medical conditions, including digestive problems, weight gain, headaches, sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease and problems with memory and concentration, according to the American Heart Association.
All of this means that stress management is vital for overall health and well-being. Fortunately, there are tools people can acquire to reduce stress and improve their quality of life.
Kristina Mansour is a therapist and part owner of Reflective Therapy Center in Troy and Northville. She said anxiety “is a fictional land” the mind creates, so focusing on the senses — what you see, smell and hear around you — can ground a person.
Challenging automatic negative thoughts is another tool.
“We don’t even recognize that it’s happening,” Mansour said of these intrusive thoughts.
She said it can take a lot of effort — and sometimes time — to
do this, but the benefits are worth it.
Mansour said they use the ABC method to counter negative thinking. “A” is for the activating thought, such as being on a plane. “B” is for the belief, such as the fear the plane will crash. “C” stands for the consequence, or the emotion that comes from this thread.
She said patients keep the same “A” — so they’re still that person on the plane — but they’re asked to come up with a different “B” and “C,” such as thinking that they’re going to be seeing loved ones when they land, which would result in a happy emotional outcome. Mansour said she recommends that people journal an ABC once a night for the day to come, coming up with one negative and one positive scenario. It’s all about reframing.
“It’s just about redefining what the ‘A’ leads to,” Mansour said. “You have control (over that).”
Cognitive behavioral therapy is something she said she does with many patients.
“It just allows you to recognize you really have more control than you think you do,” Mansour said.
The ABCs can be recorded in a journal. Mansour said journaling is useful for many people, as they can refer back to previous entries and see the progress they’ve made.
A deep breathing exercise is something Dr. Jayanti Mischra, a psychologist at Mind Empowerment in Troy, recommends for peo-
Spring Into Action: Why Chiropractic Care Matters As Warmer Weather Arrives
As winter fades and temperatures rise, people naturally become more active— whether it’s yard work, outdoor sports or simply spending more time outside.
According to chiropractor Dr. Nick Kepreos of Connect Chiropractic and Wellness, this seasonal shi can take a toll on the body, especially a er months of reduced activity.
“During the winter, we all kind of hibernate a little,” Dr. Nick said. “Then, as spring arrives and people start tackling landscaping projects or working toward their fitness goals, issues tend to arise.”
Dr. Nick recommends easing back into physical activity to minimize the risk of injury. “Walking is a great place to start,” he said. “It gets your heart rate up without overdoing it. The problem is that we o en jump right into things, which can lead to injuries.”
As spring begins, one of the most common complaints he sees in his practice is back pain related to outdoor tasks like raking and gardening. “Raking is probably the biggest culprit,” he noted. “People also spend more time hunched over or bent over, pulling weeds or doing other tasks that put strain on their back.” His advice? Work in moderation, use your
legs rather than your back when li ing, and take breaks to avoid muscle fatigue.
Chiropractic care can play a vital role in staying active and pain-free throughout the warmer months. “Getting adjusted keeps you balanced,” Dr. Nick explained. “If your hips are o , it puts stress on your joints. When you’re balanced, you’re less likely to experience injuries as you increase your activity level.”
For those tackling fitness goals like running or biking, chiropractic care can help the body stay aligned and prevent strain that could lead to setbacks. “If you do have an injury, chiropractic care can help you recover faster because your body already has that muscle memory of being balanced,” he said.
To celebrate three years in business, Connect Chiropractic and Wellness is offering an $89 new patient special that includes a consultation, exam, X-rays and stress response evaluation. Mention this ad to take advantage of this limited-time o er.
Connect Chiropractic and Wellness is located at 48710 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township. For more information, call (586) 799-2010 or visit connectchirocare.com.
League
the metro Detroit area has been the most noteworthy. An area that due to accessibility has historically had limited interest is now adding teams every year. Schools like L’Anse Creuse, Lake Orion, Oxford, Romeo, St. Clair and more are all participating in the league. One of the local schools that’s seen a lot of growth throughout the years is Utica High School.
“About nine years ago me and my dad started it, and I was the very first person on the Utica High School team,” coach Nathan Kosanke said. “I left for college and then came back and this will be my first year officially running it. It’s grown a lot.”
Kosanke said that in his first year, the team, which draws students from Eisenhower High School and Romeo High School as well, had around 45 kids. Last year, the program was 145 kids strong.
“When we started off, there weren’t very many schools doing it; we were kind of one of the first ones to start doing it,” Kosanke said. “And now I feel like every school in Michigan has a team.”
Utica has grown to such a large size because of the team’s mindset on what it wants to accomplish. Ultimately, the program exists to help teach kids firearm safety and to help them learn how to properly handle and shoot.
“Every year we have kids that the first time they even held a gun is when they showed up here for the first time,” Kosanke said. “We’re open to anyone who wants to join and learn. … At least half, if not more, of our students don’t shoot outside (of our season).”
Ultimately, the league has a perfect safety record and has become a way for boys and girls to represent their school when they might not have been interested in any other school activities. The team members get varsity letters, the team gets a place in the yearbook, and they are recognized as athletes, all while learning important lessons along the way.
“This is opening up new horizons for students. … Part of the reason it’s growing so much is anyone can do it,” Kosanke said.
The regular season will conclude on May 25 with state tournaments throughout the month of June. The USA High School Clay Target League National Championship will be held in Mason, Michigan, from July 9 to July 14. Registration for the national championship will begin on May 27.
For more information on the MISHCTL, visit mi.usaclaytarget.com.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
Athletes speak with a USA Clay Target League staff member during competition in 2024.
Photo provided by Drew Tri
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
20A/ SHELBY-UTICA NEWS • MAY 14, 2025
MAY 14
Shelby Township Fine Art Society meeting: 6:30-9 p.m. every second Wednesday of month September-June, Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, (586) 243-2056
MAY 23
Widowed Friendsevent: Cards, games and fellowship, bring snack to share and own beverage, also lunch/ dinner TBD, noon-3 p.m., St. Therese of Lisieux, 48115 Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936, widowedfriends.com
MAY 25
Memorial Day ceremony: Includes gun salute, taps, wreath laying and guest speaker, 2 p.m., Memorial Park next to Utica Public Library, 7530 Auburn Road, refreshments follow at American Legion Post #351, 46146 Cass Ave. in Utica, (586) 739-1600
MAY 28-29
Calling all Twelves: A Salon Special Showing:
View and drive 1932-1939 Packard Twin Six and Twelve automobiles, open to public from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. May 28 and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. May 29, Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, (586) 739-4800, packardprovinggrounds. org/2025salon
MAY 30
‘Broadway Bangers’: Hear PRISM Chorus perform musical theater hits of last 25 years, 8 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com
MAY 30-31
Church yard sale: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Crossroads Community Church, 2690 Auburn Road in Shelby Township,
JUNE 7
Set the PACE 5K: 9 a.m. for runners and 9:15 a.m. for walkers, Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Drive in Shelby Township, all proceeds benefit PACE
SYNOPSIS OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELD ON TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2025, IN THE BOARD ROOM OF THE MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 52700 VAN DYKE, SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN.
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Supervisor Richard Stathakis.The Invocation was led by Pastor Jason Jackson – Brookside Missionary Baptist Church - Shelby Township, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Richard Stathakis, Stanley Grot, James Carabelli, Lucia Di Cicco, Lisa Casali, John Vermeulen, Vince Viviano Also Present: Rob Huth, Township Attorney
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
A. Minutes: Board Meeting -- March 4, 2025 (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)
To approve the minutes, as presented.
B. Township Earned Sick Time Act Policy (Requested by Human Resources)
To concur with the recommendation of the Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and adopt the Earned Sick Time Act Policy, in compliance with PA 338, as presented, and authorize the Human Resources Director to amend the Policy as necessary to maintain compliance with any changes to the Act made by the State of Michigan.
C. Public Works Operations Manager Job Description (Requested by Human Resources)
To concur with the recommendation of Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and approve the modifed job description for the position of Public Works Operations Manager, as presented.
D. Fire Department Seasonal Employee Compensation (Requested by Human Resources)
To concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Franklyn Pierce and Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and approve the pay plan for non-represented seasonal fre hydrant maintenance workers, as presented, to be effective March 19, 2025.
E. Sidewalk Ordinance Resolution – 2025 (Requested by Building Department)
To concur with the recommendation of Building Director Tim Wood and approve the Sidewalk Ordinance Resolution adopting the payment terms and Township contribution to apply to the 2025 calendar year Sidewalk Maintenance Program.
F. Reappointment to Police and Fire Civil Service Commission (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
To reappoint Gary Mayer to the Police and Fire Civil Service Commission effective March 1, 2025 through March 1, 2031.
G. Video Wall Expansion Rigging Motors (Requested by Community Relations Department)
To concur with the recommendation of Community Relations Director Brad Bates and amend the motion from the 3/4/25 Board Meeting for the purchase of rigging motors for Township events and adjust the approved vendor from Amplify Production Services to Applied Electronics; and adjust the approved cost from $38,362.68 to $36,469.88 upon the approval of the Township Attorney. Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund line item 427-757-985-000.
H. Cancellation of April 15, 2025 Regular Board Meeting (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)
To cancel the regular meeting of the Board of Trustees on April 15, 2025.
I. Credit Card Purchases in the Amount of $35,543.18 (Requested by Treasurer’s Offce)
To approve the Credit Card Purchases in the amount of $35,543.18, as presented.
J. Bill Run in the Amount of $2,701,792.68. (Requested by Financial Management)
To approve the Bill Run in the amount of $2,701,792.68, as presented.
MOTION carried to approve the Consent Agenda, with the removal of Item G – Video Wall Expansion Rigging Motors (Request by Community Relations Department), as presented.
Roll Call: Ayes – Grot, Di Cicco, Stathakis, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali Nays – none
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION carried to approve the agenda, with the addition of Item 13 - Township Supervisor Organizational Chart (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce), as amended.
PLANNING COMMISSION
1. Adoption for Conditional Rezoning SLU #24-32 Derick Riba (Skilken Gold) for Sheetz (Requested by Planning and Zoning) MOTION carried to adopt Conditional Rezoning & Site Plan Special Land Use Site Plan #24-32 Derick Riba (Skilken Gold); 48945 Van Dyke Avenue & 7828 22 Mile Road, Parcel No(s). 23-07-28-226-045 and 23-07-28-226-015, located on the southwest corner of 22 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue; Proposed Rezoning O-1 (Professional Offce) & C-1 (Local Retail Business) to C-2 (Linear Retail Business) for Sheetz Gas Station & Convenience Store based on the following:
1. The change would not adversely impact any abutting development.
2. The change in zoning is not out of scale with the needs of the community.
3. Adequate access has been provided by way of an entrance off Van Dyke and 22 Mile Road.
4. The submission of 8 copies of revised site plan is required incorporating applicable review comments from the Planning Commission, Township departments, and engineers.
5. The special land use request affrmatively meets the standards in Section 6.5.
Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Grot, Stathakis, Viviano, Carabelli, Di Cicco Nays – Casali
2. Site Plan Planned Unit Development #24-25 Tony Gallo (Gallo Companies) (Requested by Planning and Zoning)
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
Southeast Michigan (provides all-inclusive health care services to low-income older adults in region), runsignup.com, read story at candgnews.com
Packards & Pints: Beer, wine and cocktail samples, live entertainment, tour historic cars and buildings, food for purchase, and more, 7 p.m. (VIP at 6 p.m.), Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardsandpints.com
JUNE
12-14
Community Yard Sale: Inaugural event includes 100 registered units in townhouse, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Village Square Cooperative, 45510 Kensington St. in Utica, also look for signs for other sellers at homes throughout city June 13-14
ONGOING
Art exhibit and sale: Presented by Shelby Township Fine Art Society, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays through May 27, upper level of Shelby Township Municipal Building, 52700 Van Dyke Ave.,
(586) 243-2056, read story at candgnews.com
Shelby Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays May 17-Oct. 18, Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, (586) 739-4800, packardprovinggrounds.org/farmersmarket
United Shore Professional Baseball League: See Birmingham-Bloomfield Beavers, Eastside Diamond Hoppers, Utica Unicorns and Westside Woolly Mammoths on select Thursdays-Sundays until Sept. 6, Jimmy John’s Field, 7171 Auburn Road in Utica, (248) 601-2400, uspbl.com
Feeding Time: Learn about and see what animals eat, 1-2 p.m. Saturdays, Nature Center at Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Road in Shelby Township, metroparks.com/events
Shelby Writers’ Group meetings: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., (586) 739-7414
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of the Planning Commission and conclude that Site Plan #24-25 Tony Gallo (Gallo Companies) for Town Center Villas III; Vacant/Park land, part of Parcel No. 23-07-36-300-081, located north of Lakeside Boulevard, east of Schoenherr Road; 24-Unit Multiple Family Building the proposal has merit and the potential to meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance if the applicant addresses the comments by the Township’s professional staff regarding the setbacks and green space.
Roll Call: Ayes – Viviano, Vermeulen, Carabelli, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis Nays – none DEPARTMENTAL & COMMITTEE
3. Award of Waste Hauler Contract (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to award Priority Waste a contract to collect waste in Shelby Township for a fve-year term beginning July 1, 2025 pursuant to the terms contained in Priority Waste’s responses to the Shelby Township request for proposals and subject to the fnal terms of contract prepared by the Township Attorney.
Roll Call: Ayes – Di Cicco, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali, Grot, Stathakis Nays – none
4. Extension of Contract for Sidewalk Repair Services (Requested by Building Department)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of the Building Director Tim Wood and modify the current contract with L. Anthony Construction, Inc. to apply to Sidewalk Maintenance Services in 2025. Such services shall be at the unit costs outlined in the bid form for the 2024 Sidewalk Maintenance Program. The total cost of the program is estimated at $366,611.95. The Township portion is estimated at $60,000.00 and the remainder is to be reimbursed by property owners. Funds to cover Township costs are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund Account line item 427-442-967-510. Roll Call: Ayes – Casali, Viviano, Carabelli, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Vermeulen Nays – none
5. Davis Kirksey Associates Inc. Professional Services Agreement (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis and enter into an agreement with Davis Kirksey Associates in conjunction with the DDA for consulting services from March 30, 2025 to March 30, 2026, at a cost not to exceed $30,000.00. Funds are to be taken as follows - $15,000.00 from General Fund line item 101-261-802-500 and $15,000.00 from DDA Fund line item 248-703-802-500 and amend the DDA Fund budget accordingly.
6. 2025 Sewer Cleaning and Televising Program (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of DPW Director Danielle Allen and approve the proposal by Anderson, Eckstein & Westrick, Inc. (AEW) to prepare the plans and specifcations and manage the bidding process for the televising and cleaning of sanitary sewer mains in Sections 31 through 36, for a cost not to exceed $15,000.00. Funds are to be taken from Water and Sewer Fund line item 592-441-935-600.
7. Pump Repair Water Storage Tank (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of DPW Director Danielle Allen and hire Detroit Pump to repair pump #4 at the Water Storage Facility at a cost not to exceed $15,000.00. Funds to be taken from Water and Sewer fund 592-441-930-100.
8. Risk and Resilience Plan Update (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of DPW Director Danielle Allen and hire Hubbell, Roth & Clark to update the Township’s Risk and Resilience Plan at a cost not to exceed $7,200.00. Funds are to be taken from the Water and Sewer Fund line item 592-441-807-000.
9. Ambulance Repairs (Requested by Fire Department)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Frank Pierce and approve the repair cost for Shelby Ambulance Alpha 6 on invoice #C41020 from Russ Milne Ford for $14,737.87. Funds are to be taken from Fire Fund line item 206-336-931-000.
10. Request to Extend Contract - Township Cleaning Services (Requested by Parks, Recreation & Maintenance)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of PRM Director Joe Youngblood and extend the current Township Facilities Cleaning Services contract with Du-All Cleaning, Inc., in accordance with the submitted updated bid specifcations and terms. The total yearly bid price will be $153,060.00, which will cover cleaning services for the Municipal Building, Activities Center, DPW, Court, and Library. The contract will commence on Monday, April 28, 2025, and will be for a term of two years. Charges will be billed monthly and funds are to be taken from the appropriate accounts in the General Fund and Water and Sewer Fund.
Roll Call: Ayes – Casali, Carabelli, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Vermeulen, Viviano Nays – none
11. Purchase - New Truck with Plow (Requested by Parks, Recreation & Maintenance)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of the PRM Director Joe Youngblood and purchase two new replacement vehicles from Todd Wenzel Buick GMC at a total cost of $99,797.50 as follows - a 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Reg Cab 4x4 Pickup Truck with a plow for the price of $58,429.50 and a 2024 GMC Savana 2500STD Length Cargo Van for the price of $41,368.00. Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund line item 427789-985-000.
12. Activities Center Gymnasium Addition - Architectural Schematic Design Services (Requested by Parks, Recreation & Maintenance)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of PRM Director Joe Youngblood and contract with Anderson, Eckstein, & Westrick, Inc. (AEW) for architectural schematic design services for the Activity Center Gymnasium Addition at a cost not to exceed $18,000.00. Funds are to be taken from PD, DC and Campus Infrastructure Fund line item 436-265-985-000 and amend the budget accordingly.
13. Township Supervisor Organizational Chart (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce) MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Human Resources Assistant Director Danielle McCoy and approve the Township Supervisor Organizational Chart for the newly created Department Head position of Assistant Supervisor, as presented. MOTION carried to adjourn at 8:48 p.m. A COMPLETE SET OF MINUTES IS AVAILABLE IN THE CLERK’S OFFICE FOR REVIEW OR AT WWW.SHELBYTWP.ORG. Stanley Grot
Stress
ple of all ages. It involves inhaling for four seconds, holding your breath for four seconds and exhaling for four seconds, which can be done several times in a row.
“It helps a lot with people who are feeling stressed,” Mischra said. “It helps you to focus in that moment on the task that you are doing.”
Getting up from the chair or couch can help, too.
“I also recommend moving around,” Mischra said. “If you are at a workplace and you feel that tension in your back and your head, walk around the building for 10 minutes. If it’s possible to be outside, that’s the best thing to do.”
While walking, she said a person can also practice deep breathing for an additional calming effect.
Mischra said positive affirmations, such as, “I’m going to have a good day,” and having a positive conversation with yourself — speaking to yourself in a positive way, instead of a negative or critical way — can be helpful as well, whether these conversations and affirmations are said aloud or silently.
Mischra advises people to spend at least 10 minutes each day practicing mindfulness and meditation; she said guided meditation is especially good for people who aren’t used to meditating and there are guided meditation videos on YouTube and apps like Headspace and Calm that can assist newcomers.
We are often our own harshest critics, so Mischra said she asks patients to list three positive things from their day.
“It helps to be gentle to yourself and reflect on your day,” she said.
The mind-body connection is powerful. Mischra and Mansour both said they ask patients about their diet and sleep habits.
Sugar, caffeine and water intake, for example, “can contribute to emotional stressors,” Mansour said.
For better sleep, Mischra said people should turn off their TV and avoid looking at devices like their phone or laptop at least 45 minutes to an hour before they go to bed. Limiting stimulants like caffeine and sugar before bed is critical as well.
“Following good sleep hygiene habits helps to combat stress,” Mischra said.
Stress might seem like an insurmountable mountain to climb, but it can be done.
“If you put in the work, you will see that success,” Mansour said.
When
body breaks,
been almost three years since I was last here. Debra and I have now lived in Shelby Township for 43 years and been married for 45. She is also retired, so it has been great having her help me to keep things going and expanding,” he said.
He said their main objective is to make things that are practical, affordable and bring some chuckles along the way.
“You will not be seeing our items on ‘Antiques Roadshow’ 50 years down the road, but our products do generate smiles and interest in the present and may become family heirlooms. We have since branched out a little more with some 3D carvings that lean a little more to the artsy side, as well as our mostly humorous — but sometimes serious — text signs; these are carved, handpainted and finished,” he said
He said the computer work required to keep their computer numerical control machine working is still daunting, but he has forged friendships with others across the country.
“And that allows us to knock heads, solve problems and exchange ideas, as well as troubleshoot challenging machine and computer problems. Being old, set in one’s ways, and computer illiterate can be frustrating. Just last year we went to northern Minnesota and then to Alaska to meet with other CNC operators and artists; some of
them have also become friends. I have found retirement requires one to keep busy, both physically and, most importantly, mentally. I feel strongly that staying active is a key factor to a long life and a happy retirement. I also help Debra with her volunteer work at Friends of Foster Kids,” he said.
He said they will be doing a couple of outside things this summer.
“We will take part in the Polish Festival in Sterling Heights in June, as well the Romeo Peach Festival over Labor Day. The Shelby Art Fair is also a possibility,’” he said.
John Mordus said he gets his “satisfaction” from people’s reactions to his work, whether they buy it or not.
“I’m just a one-man shop working out of my basement doing something I like on my terms during retirement. I like to think that my items bring a stop-andlook-twice that brings a comment, smile or laugh. Sales are secondary,” he said.
He said that with computer technology he can make a digital image for customers to reject, change, or accept before cutting.
Those interested in more information can also email him at honestjohn@comcast.net or call and leave a message at (586) 531-0006. The Shelby Township Activities Center is located at 14975 21 Mile Road in Shelby Township. It serves as the senior center from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 4981029.
ABOVE AND LEFT:
Some of his artwork has humorous text to go with the images. Mordus’ artwork is made with a computer numerical control machine.
Photos provided by Fu-Yuan Ciricola
Pontiac Transportation Museum gears up for its
‘Phase II Fanfare’ event
MUSEUM PAYS TRIBUTE TO PONTIAC’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE AUTO INDUSTRY
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
PONTIAC — Walking into the Pontiac Transportation Museum is like spending time in your grandfather’s pristine garage as a kid.
The museum is a leisurely walk back in time that pays tribute to the car manufacturers and assembly line workers who made everything from 19th century carriages to late ’60s GTOs in Pontiac-based automobile plants. That includes the Oakland Motor Car Co., Pontiac Assembly, the Pontiac Tractor Co. and GMC.
Memorabilia tells the city’s auto history, vehicles from different decades are on display, there’s a section dedicated to 50 years of Pontiac coach buses, visitors can view interactive videos, and much more. Volunteer docents are available to answer questions and take guests on museum tours. There’s also a gift shop that sells T-shirts, baseball caps, glassware and stickers.
“Our scope is basically wheel vehicles in Pontiac, either engineered here or manufactured here and or both. Forty-seven companies were here over time. We live in southeastern Michigan. Everybody is related to somebody that worked in the auto business,” said Pontiac Transportation Museum Board Chair Terry Connolly, a Rochester Hills resident. “The nice thing about opening the museum is people walk up almost every day with a box of stuff. You find some artifacts in there that are just amazing that people kept.”
See MUSEUM on page 25A
ABOVE AND LEFT: The Pontiac Transportation Museum, located at 250 W. Pike St., opened in May 2024. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. The public is welcome to attend.
“Many foot problems in people with diabetes occur when injuries and infections go unnoticed and untreated. Healing can be delayed due to decreased feeling in the feet (neuropathy) and poor circulation. I will evaluate your feet regularly to detect any changes early, before they become a problem. Call me for an appointment and I will work with you to keep your feet healthy.”
LEFT: Pontiac Transportation Museum Board Chair Terry Connolly, of Rochester Hills, reads a map that shows the location of the former Pontiac auto plants.
Photos by Patrica O’Blenes
HOMES
EVERYTHING CAN BE COMING UP ROSES FOR PROACTIVE GARDENERS
BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — They’re beautiful, symbolic and have been immortalized in poems and songs, but even seasoned gardeners can express trepidation when it comes to roses.
As one gardening pro recently observed, “They are fussy.”
Still, that doesn’t mean that gardeners should avoid this legendary bloom.
Monica Sabella is a rosarian, horticulturist and greenhouse specialist who takes care of the roses at the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores. During an April 8 presentation on rose care, she said there are three main categories of roses: old garden roses (sometimes called antique or historical), wild roses and modern garden roses. Sabella said old garden roses — which have been around since before 1867 and only bloom once per year — “are not as disease-resistant and not as hardy” as modern roses; modern roses are the ones most common in stores today.
The Ford House has 16 rose beds, with 30 to 50 roses in each, Sabella said. She said they include wild roses, tea tree roses and climbing roses.
Floribunda roses are the most popular and easiest to grow, and they don’t need to be pruned often, Sabella said. They include
Knock Out roses, which she called “very, very low maintenance” compared to many other varieties.
“Roses are really not as difficult as people make them seem,” Sabella said. “They are just needy.”
George Papadelis, owner of Telly’s Greenhouse and Garden Center in Troy and Shelby Township, knows a lot about roses — the Troy location grows about 4,000 of them in more than 100 varieties, although roses can be purchased from either location.
“First and foremost, they should be planted in full sun, or as much sun as you can get them,” Papadelis said. “The more sun, the better.”
There should be more organic material in the soil than clay, Papadelis said.
Sabella echoed that sentiment, saying gardeners should plant roses in a balanced mix of sand, silt and clay.
“For soil, you want something that’s very loamy,” Sabella said.
Papadelis said roses are hard to grow in containers.
“You should always dig a big, beautiful hole for a big, beautiful plant,” Papadelis said.
Location is important as well. Sabella advised against planting roses beneath large
Bright pink Earth Song hybrid tea roses bloom at the entrance to the Ford House rose garden.
Photo provided by the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House
Roses
from page 26A
trees that might block sunlight, and she also said gardeners should avoid planting roses near anything with a large root system, like a tree or lilac. Because of aphids and other pests, she said roses should be planted away from vegetable gardens as well.
For northern climates like Michigan’s, Papadelis said grafted roses should be planted with the bud union — a knob or knot at the base of the upright canes — 2 to 4 inches below the soil. Own-root roses should be planted 2 inches deeper than that.
To protect grafted roses over the winter, Papadelis said gardeners should put extra soil over the crown of the plant in November or December. This step doesn’t need to be taken with own-root roses, he said.
Fertilization is another critical step to growing healthy roses. Sabella said that around Mother’s Day is a good time for the first session of fertilization.
“It’s important that a rose gets fed and that you protect it from disease and you protect it from insects,” Papadelis said.
He recommends a three-in-one granular product such as Rose-Tone, an organic product which is sprinkled on the ground about three to four times per season, or roughly every six weeks.
Pests like aphids can be blasted off roses with a hose. Japanese beetles, which emerge in June, should be hand-picked off the plants
and dropped in soapy water. Neem oil will take care of destructive thrips, which Sabella said look like lice, although gardeners will likely need to make multiple applications. Diatomaceous earth is an effective tool against flea beetles, which Sabella said tend to emerge in late June and mid-September. Horticultural oil should be sprayed on scale during the “crawler” or nymph stage, Sabella said.
Green lacewings, which can be purchased online, are a beneficial insect that Sabella said will eat pests like aphids.
Fungicide, insecticide and pesticide can be used as needed, but Sabella warns that some of these products also kill beneficial insects.
Sabella said gardeners should start by watering their roses twice a week, preferably in the early morning, before dawn; that gives the leaves time to dry before nightfall. Hand-watering is better than overhead watering because in the latter, the leaves get wet and this can lead to bacteria or fungus growth, she said.
Papadelis said roses can be planted at any time but will need more frequent watering if they’re planted in the hotter part of summer.
Telly’s Greenhouse has a rose care guide on its website. To see more tips and recommendations, visit tellys.com and under the drop-down homepage menu, select Plant Care Guides and then Telly’s Rose Care Guide.
Call Staff Writer K. Michelle Moran at (586) 498-1047.
Photo provided by the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House Border collie Moss, the Ford House director of wildlife, visits the New Garden, which is home to 13 different varieties of hybrid tea roses and the ring of yellow tree roses that surround the original fountain.
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