Sterling Heights, county to split cost of Schoenherr bridge rehab
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — The city of Sterling Heights is looking to the county to split the cost of rehabbing the Schoenherr Road bridge.
At its May 20 meeting, the Sterling Heights City Council voted to approve a cost-sharing agreement between the city and the Macomb County Department of Roads for the rehabilitation of the Schoenherr Road bridge over the Red Run between Moravian Drive and 15 Mile Road.
According to the agenda description, rehabilitation work includes deck replacement — which will provide barrier-protected public sidewalks on both sides of the bridge — as well as vehicle barrier relocation, beam end repair and bearing replacements, substructure patching, end diaphragm replacements, slope repairs and riprap, approach work and guardrail replacement and other miscellaneous repairs.
The estimated cost of the project, including construction costs, administrative charges and preliminary and construction engineering, is $5.439,430, with $4,224,800 coming from federal funds. The remaining cost ($1,214,630) is to be split equally
See BRIDGE on page 13A
BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
Help urgently needed as situation in Haiti worsens
METRO DETROIT — A mission group to Haiti that includes churches in Sterling Heights, Southfield and more is sounding the alarm on the plight of the country — the poorest in the Western Hemisphere — as gangs have captured the town of Mirebalais, once a safe haven.
A letter by Kesner Gracia, an Episcopalian priest in Haiti, described the scene in April.
“Haiti has become a veritable human slaughterhouse,” he wrote. “In Mirebalais, the streets are littered with corpses. … Unspeakable scenes of terror unfold before our very eyes.”
Haiti Outreach Mission, a Troybased nonprofit, has been wiring funds to partners in Haiti since it’s no longer safe to travel there. Projects include med-
See HAITI on page 11A
Photo by Valerie McNeece
Dr. Dominque Monde-Matthews, founder of Haiti Outreach Mission, treats a young patient during a trip to the country in 2012. Many families have been displaced following recent events there.
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SECOND FRONT PAGE
Sterling Heights police officer saves kayaker in distress
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — A Sterling Heights police officer is being commended for saving a kayaker in distress.
At approximately 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 10, officer Nikolas Bruno of the Sterling Heights Police Department responded to reports of a female kayaker in distress in the Clinton River at Riverland Park.
When Bruno arrived, he observed a woman clinging to a downed tree in the middle of the river, according to a press release from the department.
The woman was not wearing a life jacket, according to the press release.
“Without hesitation, Officer Bruno removed his duty gear and entered the water,” the press release states.
According to the release, Bruno navigated over a dam of logs to reach the distressed woman. When he reached her, a bystander offered Bruno her life jacket, which he secured to the woman.
The press release states the woman and her daughter were kayaking for the first time when her kayak capsized after being caught on a downed tree in the river.
“The female advised that she hit her head and was barely holding on before Officer Bruno saved her,” the release states.
The woman’s daughter, who had also lost her kayak, was found safe on a nearby log dam and was later rescued by the Sterling Heights Fire Department.
“Officer Bruno, a U.S. Navy veteran, displayed exceptional bravery and selflessness by risking his own life in the
Sterling Heights man arrested on child porn charges
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
STERLING
HEIGHTS
— A Sterling Heights man was arrested after a search warrant was executed at his home and he was allegedly found to be in possession of child sexually abusive material.
On Tuesday, May 13, Macomb Area Computer Enforcement detectives and members of the Sheriff’s Enforcement Team executed a search warrant in the city of Sterling Heights, according to a press release from the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
The suspect, 30-yearold Nicholas Ibrahim, was allegedly in possession of child sexually abusive material and was taken into custody without incident, according to the press release. Several pieces of evidence were also seized from the home.
The warrant came after MACE detectives were informed by the Michigan Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force that numerous videos and images, allegedly containing child sexually abusive material, were being uploaded by the suspect, the press release states.
Ibrahim was arraigned in the 41-A District Court in Sterling Heights on three counts of child sexually abusive material (aggravated possession) and three counts of using a computer to commit a crime. Both charges are 10-year felonies.
rescue,” the release states. “His heroic actions reflect the highest standards of duty and commitment to the community.”
Bruno shared a statement by email on May 14.
“I’m thankful for my training as a lifeguard, being an avid swimmer and training in the Navy,” Bruno said. “My job is to help people, and I heard someone in distress, so I didn’t think much other than to help this person. I’m also very thankful for the good Samaritan that provided a life jacket and the continued efforts of the Sterling Heights fire department.”
The press release from the Sterling Heights Police Department reminded anyone participating in water-based activities to wear a properly fitted life jacket and carry a cellphone in case of an emergency.
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
He was also arraigned on one additional count of each charge; however, the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office states he only faces four years for these two charges. Jennifer Putney, communications manager for the Sheriff’s Office, said the difference in potential sentences is due to the content of the forensic review.
Ibrahim was given a $2,500 cash or surety bond and was deemed eligible for release upon a guarantee of 10%. Bail was posted and he was reportedly released.
He is scheduled for a probable cause conference at 1 p.m. May 29 and a preliminary exam hearing at 9 a.m. June 5.
His attorney, Mark Kriger, did not return a request for comment.
Contact Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 2917637.
Ibrahim
Bodycam images provided by the Sterling Heights Police Department
A Sterling Heights Police officer rescued a kayaker from the Clinton River on Saturday, May 10, 2025.
NEWS & NOTES
4A/ STERLING HEIGHTS SENTRY • MAY 28, 2025
Dodge Park Thursdays begin June 5
STERLING HEIGHTS — Dodge Park, located at 40620 Utica Road, is the place to be this summer on Dodge Park Thursdays, which begin June 5.
Dodge Park Thursdays include the farmers market from 3-8 p.m. every Thursday until Sept. 25. EBT will be accepted. The farmers market participates in the Double Up Food Bucks and Senior Project FRESH/Market program.
The Music is the Park at the Dodge Park Amphitheatre begins June 5. The weekly concerts are at 7 p.m. and run through August. Connect Macomb serves up craft beers during their Patios ‘n’ Pints from 5-8 p.m. through August at 40433 Dodge Park.
Parking is available at Dodge Park, City Hall, the Community Center, the Sterling Heights Public Library, Metro Church of Christ, the Senior Center, and 41-A District Court. The event hotline is (586) 4462692 and it is updated at 5 p.m. the day of the event.
NEW BOARD MEMBER
APPOINTED TO SCHOOL BOARD
WARREN — Earlier this month, Sharon Nemeth became the newest member of the Warren Consolidated Schools Board of Education.
The school board appointed Nemeth as a trustee at its May 7 special meeting. Nemeth is filling the seat left vacant by member Brian White, who resigned effective April 15. Nemeth’s term expires in November 2026.
“I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members, the superintendent, students, staff, and the community to ensure everyone has access to a quality, safe education,” Nemeth said in a prepared statement. “I am especially excited to help shape policies that promote student wellbeing, academic excellence, and teacher support.”
The Sterling Heights resident has lived in the district for 26 years. Nemeth has been involved in the district for more than 13 years through various volunteer opportunities. The appointed official holds a degree from the University of Michigan and currently works as a senior accounting associate.
Nemeth’s son graduated from Cousino High School in 2024 and is currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Her daughter is a junior at Cousino and Macomb Mathematics Science Technology Center. In her free time, Nemeth enjoys spending time with her family, camping, attending her children’s events, reading, traveling, and her yard sign business.
Mental health champions honored
MACOMB COUNTY — Macomb County Community Mental Health honored nine Macomb County-based mental health champions and organizations at its third annual Mental Health Matters Awards May 15. Honorees were selected from an open call for nominations. Each individual or organization has been involved with MCCMH in some capacity within the past year.
THE 2025 HONOREES WERE:
Advocate Champion – Samia Yousif Caregiver Champion – Shelley Petty Provider Champion – Life Enrichment Academy, New Haven Community Partner Champion – Anita Pillai, pharmacist, Genoa Healthcare
Self-Advocate Champion – Angel Vice Board of Directors Award – City of Sterling Heights
Drita Gjelaj Award – Adam Wright, network operations coordinator, MCCMH
Putting People First Award – Amy Strick, case manager, MCCMH Reducing the Stigma Award – Tati Amare, host, WDIV
Macomb donors honored
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — On April 30, the Macomb Community College Foundation held its “2025 Celebration of Donors and Scholarship Recipients” at the Lorenzo Cultural Center on the college’s Center Campus with about 200 donors, students and college representatives in attendance.
The event gave college officials the opportunity to recognize the donors who fund many scholarships and programs that support students.
During the last fiscal year — July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024 — more than $600,000 in scholarship funding was awarded to approximately 600 Macomb students. Twelve new scholarships were announced at the luncheon. This year’s keynote speakers were Michael Moton and Paul Thacker.
Moton is the recipient of the Barton Malow Scholarship and Internship award and works at General Motors. Thacker, professor emeritus, business administration, is a longtime donor and worked at Macomb for 50 years. Thacker established the Paul B. Thacker Business Administration Endowed Scholarship and the Paul B. Thacker Information and Technology Endowed Scholarship.
Waterlogged
RIGHT: Angela Scupini, Michigan Sea Grant, instructs Messmore Elementary students, from Utica Community Schools on how to fish according to Michigan regulations at the Backyard Bass station. On May 13, fourth and fifth grade students from Roseville Community Schools, Eastpointe Community Schools, L’Anse Creuse Public Schools and Utica Community Schools attended the Lake St. Clair Water Festival at the Center Campus of Macomb Community College in Clinton Township.
LEFT: Dort Elementary students, from the Roseville Community Schools, maneuver obstacles at the Salmon Run station. The station shared information about humanmade obstacles salmon face during their life cycle. Obstacles faced by the salmon included turbines, fishing charter boats and fish ladders.
by Patricia O’Blenes
Nemeth
Photos
Moton
Thacker
Congratulations, Mr. Miller
By Alyssa Ochss
WARREN — With a career spanning about 30 years, Warren Mott High School Band Director Erik Miller — or as I knew him, Mr. Miller — touched the lives of countless students. It’s why around 30 alumni with varying backgrounds, degrees, families and career choices all came together to honor him in an alumni band.
Over the course of a month and a couple of weeks, we practiced three pieces of music all with a connection to Miller, and even a new piece written with Miller in mind. At the first practice, my nerves were on end. Admittedly, I was scared — scared of how we’d all react to seeing each other once again, some of us with a decade or more since we sat as students. But as soon as we got started, it was like we never left in the first place. We made jokes, practiced the music and helped each other out with some of the musical language we may have forgotten.
From a young age, I knew I wanted to follow my sister’s footsteps and participate in band. In fifth grade, I picked up a flute lent to me by my cousin and started my journey. No matter how hard it got in school, I always reminded myself that high school band was the end goal. I stared in awe at the students in their maroon marching uniforms with matching yellow and white capes knowing that someday I, too, would stand there. Most of all, I heard stories from my sister about how great Miller was and all the fun they had while under his direction.
James McLennan, a former student, said he had an older brother who was in the band program and that’s where he met
Miller. McLennan said Miller always gave him the nickname “Eager McBeaver” since he’s always excited to participate in things. McLennan has learned a lot from him.
“He’s very unique. There’s really nobody like him,” McLennan said. “I’ve known a lot of music teachers, and nobody is quite like him.”
McLennan said the idea of an alumni band was thrown around for several years and that two years ago they put the plans into motion. This process included commissioning a song for Miller to commemorate his final year as a teacher at Warren Mott. It proved a challenge since McLennan and a select few others didn’t want Miller to know and the number of alumni participating in
MILLER on page 10A
Alumni of all ages and professions came together to play at a concert to honor Erik Miller, the retiring band director at Warren Mott High School.
Photos by Erin Sanchez
With a career spanning around 30 years, Erik Miller, band director at Warren Mott High School, touched the lives of many students.
aochss@candgnews.com
ABOVE: World 50 is one of 60 teams from across the U.S. selected as winners in the NASA TechRise Student Challenge 2024-2025 “Exploring Forces That Harm the Atmosphere.”
Science experiment will blast off this summer
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
WARREN — A group of eighth grade Middle School Mathematics Science Technology Center students are working on a class project that is out of this world.
Under the direction of earth science teacher Kristy DePolo, the 14 (MS)2TC students have worked since January to build a scientific payload device that will venture on a suborbital flight this summer.
The team, known as World 50, is one of 60 teams from across the U.S. selected as winners in the NASA TechRise Student Challenge (2024-2025), “Exploring Forces That Harm the Atmosphere.” The scientific payload they built will soon launch on a NASAsupported test flight aboard a high-altitude balloon.
World 50’s experiment is designed to investigate pollution in the air. The team’s homebuilt payload will measure the concentration of particles in the air and collect data confirming the levels of ozone, methane and other gases in the atmosphere. A payload — contained within the launch vehicle — is a valuable spacecraft delivered into space.
The NASA TechRise Student Challenge is designed to empower teams of sixth to 12th grade students to design, build and launch experiments on NASA-supported test flights. Winning teams were awarded $1,500 to build their experiment. The students also received support from advisors from Future Engineers, which hosts online challenges for K-12 students.
“I am so proud of my students and honored to be part of TechRise for 2024-25,” DePolo said. “I am grateful for the help from Future Engineers. Without them I could not provide a learning experience like this for the students.”
The class was broken down into small teams of students and each group was responsible for one component of the project. That included wiring, coding, soldering, mounting and presenting the project.
“We put different sensors in it,” Nadir Khalid said. “Air quality, ozone sensor, methane sensor, particulate sensor.”
Khalid said the different sensors will be able to detect the pollutants in the air. Lucas Leeds said the data will be sent to a Metro M4 device.
“The M4 organizes data and sends it to an SD (secure digital) card,” Leeds said.
See SCIENCE on page 9A
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RIGHT: Pat Truong, left, and Alen Pedic had to do a lot of problem-solving to make the project work.
Photos provided
Science
“I’m pretty sure we’ll find more pollution.”
The device is scheduled to be in orbit for a minimum of four hours at 70,000 feet. Travel time is also set aside. The payload will collect data on the way up but not on the way down, DePolo said.
To participate in the program, the students stayed after school every Monday for several weeks to receive virtual lessons from Future Engineers.
“We told them our proposal and our idea, and they told us how to make it possible,” Emma Mize said.
There was a lot of trial and error to see what would and wouldn’t work.
“The mentors would explain to us what needs to happen,” Leeds said. “My team had to do a lot of problem solving.”
“Some of us had to learn to solder,” Nazia Miah said.
“I think this was a good opportunity for us all. Aside from technology, it gave us workable communication skills we wouldn’t get elsewhere as a team,” Alen Pedic said. “Sometimes teammates disagree. Sometimes they have challenges to overcome, especially
if you want to pursue a STEM career.”
Some students thought about what it would be like to go into space. Tina Nguyen pictured a lot of darkness. Other students involved in the project were Easton Bourgeois, Angela Franco, Nuzhat Hussain, Lucas Muscas, Robert Perkowski, Liam Stanley, Daniel Shuten and Pat Truong.
The (MS)2TC was developed in an effort to create an innovative environment to foster excellence and vision in teaching, learning and discovering the relationships of mathematics, science, technology and society. Courses cover several subjects, including geometry, biology, interdisciplinary studies, calculus and physics. The students attend school for a half day at the Butcher Educational Center, in Warren, and then attend the other half of the day at their home school.
Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.
GREEN MICHIGANCLEAN MICHIGAN
Saturday, June 7th 10am to 12pm or anytime in between
18 Mile (From Ryan to Dequindre Road)
Meet at Joseph Delia Park Parking Lot (Located at 3001 18 Mile Road) Saturday, June 7th 1pm
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the concert was still up in the air. The piece was written by Andrew David Perkins, a composer from Michigan who had worked with Miller before.
The alumni band played at the Warren Mott band program’s spring concert on May 14. Our names were listed in the program as well as the year we graduated. It’s scary to think the last time I walked Warren Mott’s halls as a student was 10 years ago. Time certainly seems to speed up once you become an adult with bills and responsibilities my high school brain could barely grasp.
Miller didn’t know about the alumni band until McLennan told him, and Miller called it incredible.
“I think what it tells me is that you and others that have been a part of this program still have that connection and I think that’s what’s special to me,” Miller said. “It’s like you didn’t just leave high school and kind of forget everything you did here.”
McLennan is also a music teacher, and he was inspired by Miller to take that career path. Over the years, McLennan looked to Miller for help in his career and was even allowed to direct some of Miller’s classes when he was still learning.
“I graduated high school eight years ago, so I’ve spent more time with him as a peer and a colleague than I did as a student,” McLennan said. “Whether it was me feeling like I didn’t know how to solve some kind of problem with my students or with something at university he would even just open the door and let me come in and work with his kids so I can kind of work out any problem I was having.”
He said nobody else would be willing to do that. He said he and a lot of others wouldn’t have done the alumni band without him.
“A lot of music teachers retire, and people don’t gather like this,” McLennan said.
Miller said the last year has been bittersweet and quite hard in an emotional aspect. Over the course of his career, he said, he’s learned a lot more from students than he ever thought he would and that he has given more of himself. He also said he learned about the administrative side of things and so much more.
“I don’t know, I just learned a lot about myself, which probably wouldn’t happen if I wasn’t teaching,” Miller said.
When you have siblings who came before you, it’s a given that teachers and even students will compare you to each other. With family members in administration, that’s even more true. I’ve heard it all: “You’re
her sister, aren’t you?” Or “Do you do this the same?” Or any other set of comparisons.
But Miller didn’t do that. He didn’t compare me to my two sisters or vice versa. We were our own individual people, not a trio with the same personalities and set of skills.
Miller said when a new student from a set of siblings joins the program, he has to figure them out first because what works for one sibling may not work for another.
“Even though they may be from the same family, they’re still … they’re different,” Miller said. “I’m always kind of very aware of that. They may be different than the person that was here before them.”
Raven Ross, a former student teacher of Miller’s, said if it weren’t for him, she wouldn’t have her career. She explained that when she was a student teacher around 10 years ago, she didn’t have a placement. A supervisor called Miller for a favor and told her to go meet him.
“I walked into the band room, and I remember seeing everybody and being nervous, but it worked out,” Ross said. “And so, quite literally, if he didn’t say yes, I would have no idea where I would be.”
Since her days as a student teacher, Ross has helped as a trumpet instructor at Mott and has seen her students grow up.
As I sat on that stage, the lights glaring down on us and dressed in our best, all the nerves from the first practice melted away. My heart still leapt in my chest looking at the sea of eyes staring at us, but I was ready for the performance to honor a man who meant so much to me and to all of us sitting on stage. Halfway through the last song, I felt tears coming on, but I held it together.
Miller said he wants his students to keep the music in their lives.
“First of all, it’s good for the mind. Second of all, it helps to let you see things in the world differently having that connection,” Miller said.
He also said to keep in touch with others.
“I think that’s the beauty, too, of music. It’s a family and I just ask students to keep that going even when they leave here,” Miller said.
Miller had a long and storied career filled with inside jokes, pranks, tears and lessons that will last a lifetime. My band experience was unique and unforgettable with him as my teacher. He pushed me to become better every day, and I enjoyed my time under his direction. Over the years, I’ve fallen in love with different Broadway shows with huge musical numbers and heart-wrenching storylines. But my love for music truly started in Mr. Miller’s classroom.
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.
ical and dental clinics, a lab and pharmacy, water purifiers, and funding for food, shelter and supplies.
People can help by donating to HOM, which also urges churches to help.
Five local churches are already involved: St. Blase Catholic Church in Sterling Heights; St. David’s Episcopal Church in Southfield; Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Northville; St. Clare of Assisi Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor; and Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Detroit. A sixth is outside of Michigan: St. Bernard Catholic Church in Billings, Montana.
Dr. Dominique Monde-Matthews, HOM’s founder, said the people of Mirebalais have left their homes.
“The priests know where the camps are and they’re bringing them supplies. They’re also trying to continue schooling so the little ones have some normalcy,” she said. “By helping them stay alive, we hope they can return home someday.”
Another world
John Messina, a parishioner at St. Blase in Sterling Heights, has gone to Haiti with various groups 28 times.
“I remember the first trip in 2000,” he said. “It was like walking into a heatwave — just overwhelming.”
The town of Mirebalais is perched on a plateau in the mountains near the capital of Port-au-Prince, home to an estimated 200,000. Driving there is perilous, with blind switchbacks along sheer cliffs.
Aid workers say that once in town, outsiders are hit with the stench of sweat and garbage mixed with burning charcoal — the primary means of cooking in a place with no power.
Tightly packed houses line the winding streets. The homes are made of cement block with metal roofs. Light flows through small windows with no screens. There are no furnaces or air conditioning.
There is no municipal water supply, either. Potable water is sold in 5-gallon jugs or smaller. A Haiti Outreach Mission store helps filter and disinfect the water.
Even before the gangs grew in strength, electricity was
unreliable, created by hydropower strained by low levels in the river. HOM has tried to offset this with solar panels at the clinics and priest residences.
Yet despite the challenges, the Haitians endured
‘They were still giving’
Aid workers describe the people of Mirebalais as warm and welcoming. Their faith keeps them strong, with many walking miles to church in their bare feet so their shoes won’t be dirty when they arrive.
Messina recalled driving with a priest to a church in the mountains — actually a blue tarp strung over some trees above an altar — and having to park on the road with rocks behind each wheel so it wouldn’t slide back downhill. He noticed a group of young adults following them.
“We found out they just wanted to make sure we got there safely,” Messina said. “After Mass, they clung to us and didn’t want us to leave. One gentleman went out and he brought a bushel of coconuts. He was apologetic about the condition of the roads and opened a coconut for each of us. He said, ‘This is a refreshment for you on your way back down the mountain.’ They don’t have enough food for themselves, but they were still giving to us.”
In Mirebalais, laundry is done in the river with lye soap, laid across bushes to dry, and then smoothed with a metal iron filled with charcoal. Much of their time is dedicated to hygiene.
“We usually have rice, but one day they included drumsticks. And I saw a cleaning lady take one that we’d already eaten, and she started chewing on the gristle,” he said. “That was the first time I realized hunger.”
‘Difficult to walk away’
Monde-Matthews is a Haitian native who still has family there. She and her husband, Roger Matthews, founded HOM in 1998 after their honeymoon in her homeland. Backed by six U.S. churches, the group also works with two in Mirebalais: St. Pierre Episcopal Church and St. Louis Catholic Church.
HOM helped St. Pierre convert a building into a clinic staffed by a doctor, dentist, nurse and others. A lab was added later. When the clinic’s generator needed repairs, HOM
replaced it. HOM also sent a compressor for the dental clinic and paid for provisions to feed kids. When mission trips were still possible, the group would also bring fluoride and medicine.
HOM also supports schools such as Monsignor Remi Augustin School — originally an orphanage built with money from St. Blase. The water purifiers nearby were funded by HOM and maintained by St. Louis.
Recently, HOM paid for solar panels at the St. Pierre clinic and St. Louis rectory. The panels are more reliable than the power company and cheaper than diesel.
But there’s much to be done, Messina said.
“The people line up outside the clinic the day before we arrive and wait all through the night. And the sad thing is when we leave, the line is just as long,” Messina said. “It’s difficult to walk away. I don’t know anyone who’s gone who wouldn’t be willing to go back.”
‘The biggest thing we give them is hope’
Now, much of the city is abandoned. HOM estimates there are about 10,000 people displaced nearby.
“When the gangs started taking over Port-au-Prince, the refugees wound up in Mirebalais, and we helped them. Now, the tables have turned, and the people of Mirebalais are refugees. And one wonders if the gangs will march farther and get them again,” said Monde-Matthews. “It’s so sad.”
In his letter, Gracia, the Episcopalian priest in Mirebalais, said that “misery, for its part, is intensifying.”
“Bellies are empty. Children are crying from hunger. Parents, who left without taking anything with them, are powerless to hear their children’s cries,” he wrote.
He urged Americans to give what time and money they can.
“Every gesture counts,” Gracia said. “Solidarity can save a life.”
Messina agreed.
“The biggest thing we give them is hope,” he said. Donations to HOM are tax deductible. To donate, click the “Donate” button at haitioutreachmission.org, or write a check to “Haiti Outreach Mission,” 5700 Crooks Road, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48098. To learn more, call (248) 3857411 or visit haitioutreachmission.org.
Melvindale man allegedly plotted mass shooting at TACOM
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
WARREN — A former Michigan Army National Guard member from Melvindale is accused of planning a mass shooting, which was set for May 13, at the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command in Warren.
Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, planned to carry out the attack for the terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), according to a May 14 press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
“ISIS is a brutal terrorist organization which seeks to kill Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. in the release. “Helping ISIS or any other terrorist organization
prepare or carry out acts of violence is not only a reprehensible crime — it is a threat to our entire nation and way of life. Our office will not tolerate such crimes or threats, and we will use the full weight of the law against anyone who engages in terrorism.”
Said is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and distributing information related to a destructive device. Each charge carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, according to the release.
The arrest came from the efforts of two undercover FBI agents who Said attempted to recruit for the attack. The court filing details the prep work for the alleged attack planned for May 13.
“…Said provided assistance to the attack plan he origi-
nally devised — one that he believed would result in the death of many American citizens — including operational reconnaissance and surveillance of TACOM, including through the use of an aerial drone; providing ammunition and magazines Said understood would be used during the attack, including ‘armor piercing’ ammunition; training regarding the use of a firearm and construction of Molotov cocktails that Said understood would be used during the course of the attack; and planning, guidance and military expertise with respect to execution of the attack,” the court filing states.
Arrest
from page 12A
Said was caught planning for the attack, according to the court filing. The undercover agents and Said went to a preselected location near TACOM on May 13, dressed in black clothing, to launch a drone that would provide advance surveillance before the attack.
“The FBI in Michigan is unwavering in our mission to safeguard the American people, particularly our brave service members who risk their lives to defend this nation,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, special agent in charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “In strong partnership with the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force will relentlessly identify, disrupt, and bring to justice anyone who attempts to carry out violent attacks against the United States and its territories.”
Said joined the National Guard in 2022, according to the court filing. He did
Bridge
from page 1A
between Sterling Heights and the MCDR, leaving each to pay $607,315.
The goal of the agreement, according to the agenda item, is to save public funds and expedite the project.
“Mobility and making sure our community is accessible through a robust system of paths and trails is a key guiding principle for our city’s vision and the Schoenherr Road pedestrian bridge supports that as a prime component of the Iron-Belle trailway system,” City Engineer Brent Bashaw said in an email.
his basic training at Fort Moore in Georgia and, after completion, reported to the Michigan Army National Guard Taylor Armory. He was discharged around December of last year.
“The arrest of this former Soldier is a sobering reminder of the importance of our counterintelligence efforts to identify and disrupt those who would seek to harm our nation,” Brig. Gen. Rhett R. Cox, the commanding general of Army Counterintelligence Command, said in the release.
“I commend the tireless work of our special agents and FBI partners who worked together to investigate and apprehend this individual. We will continue to collaborate with our partners to prevent similar incidents in the future. We urge all Soldiers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to their chain of command, as the safety and security of our Army and our nation depends on our collective efforts to prevent insider threats.”
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
Bashaw said the bridge was identified as needing rehab as a result of the city’s routine pedestrian bridge inspection program. They also determined the Nature Center bridge over the Clinton River and the Lakeside Island bridge also required rehab, which is currently underway, he said.
Funding for the project in the amount of $500,000 was written into the 2025/2026 major road fund budget, so a budget amendment of $107,315 was proposed. The amendment, as well as the agreement, were both unanimously approved at the meeting.
Bashaw said the project is expected to be completed by the end of May.
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
Food pantries, lunch programs help fill summertime meal gaps
BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — As the school year ends and the second year of the Michigan School Meals program nears completion, C & G Newspapers looked across metro Detroit to see what food programs are available to bridge the food insecurity gap during the summer.
The Michigan School Meals program provides free breakfasts and lunches to all students from pre-K to 12th grade during the school year, according to the Michigan Department of Education’s website. Without this program, what will students do for meals?
Among the programs that fill this void are the United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Meet Up and Eat Up, several programs
at Forgotten Harvest, and local food pantries, including one offered through Heritage Church, in Sterling Heights.
Meet Up and Eat Up
Meet Up and Eat Up is a food program offered throughout the state. It provides free meals for children 18 and younger or anyone with a disability 26 and under, according to Madelyne Wright, assistant director of nutrition services for the Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency, which facilitates the program in Pontiac.
The program does not mandate enrollment, specific documentation, or eligibility requirements.
“This eliminates the burden of administrative paperwork,” said Wright.
The idea is to begin the Meet Up and
The Forgotten Harvest mobility market is fully stocked and ready for guests to select what they want.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Do you own a vehicle with an interesting history?
Contact Staff Writer Maria Allard at allard@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1045, and you could be featured in an upcoming Behind the Wheel. For more stories, visit candgnews.com/news/auto or use the QR code.
RETRO RIDES REV UP LOCAL CAR SHOWS
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — “This is quite a group. I was here last week. There were 374 cars,” Shelby Township resident Tom Konicki said. “There are quality cars here. Cars that are so rare. Beautiful cars.”
Konicki was talking about the Fun Time Cruzers, back on the road for another season of hot rods, muscle cars and vintage vibes. For almost 20 years, the Cruzers met at Lakeside in Sterling Heights. When the mall closed last year, it put the brakes on their weekly car shows.
Start those engines because the group found a new home from 4 to 8 p.m. every Monday until September at NAPA Auto Parts, located on Van Dyke Avenue, north of 21 Mile Road, in Shelby Township. President Ken Savage said it took nine months to find a new location.
It all began in 2005 when Savage’s son worked at Lakeside Mall and a store owner wanted to start a weekly classic car show. He recruited Savage and his son to help, but after a year, he left the group. Savage kept the Cruzers’ motor running.
“When I began, there were just 50 cars. It started going more and more. I have 600 cruise emails now,” said Savage, a Shelby Township resident who owns a Grabber Blue 1970 Ford Mustang convertible.
Fun Time Cruzers posts musical photo slideshows available on YouTube. Every week, Savage — with help from other members including Jerry Benoit, of Chesterfield Township, and Dave Gmerek, of Clinton Township — holds an awards ceremony with local businesses as sponsors. Categories range from “Coolest Cruze 2025” to “Best Original/Restored Cruzer” to “Best Corvette.” At the May 19 event, Madelyn Upleger won “Best Orphan Cruzers” for her 1999 Plymouth Prowler.
“That means they don’t make it anymore,” said Madelyn, who attended the weekly show with husband Dale Upleger.
Dale once owned the Prowler but gave it to Madelyn when he purchased a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette C8.
“She loved it and she didn’t want to sell it,” Dale said. “OK, we’ll keep it.”
“I always wanted a Prowler,” Madelyn said. “We saw them at a car show, and I fell in love with it.”
Both cars garner a lot of attention when
on the road.
“I think it’s because of the color,” Dale said. “It draws the eye to it.”
The Rochester Hills couple, who have three children and two grandchildren, have been married 64 years.
For more details about the Fun Time Cruzers, call (586) 260-3459 or check the website at funtimecruzers.com.
There is at least one classic car show every night in metro Detroit where chrome shines and engines purr. Here is a list of other weekly and monthly car shows that we know of in the C & G Newspapers coverage area.
Mondays
• Jimmy’s Tavern behind the National Coney Island, located on Van Dyke Avenue north of 12 Mile Road, in Warren. It begins at 11 a.m. and it lasts all day.
• Lumberyard Pub and Grub, 26700 Schoenherr Road in Warren, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Tuesdays
• The Ukrainian Cultural Center, 26601 Ryan Road in Warren, from 5 to 8 p.m.
• Cruisers also will spin their wheels at the Ram’s Horn at Garfield and Utica roads from 5-8 p.m.
Wednesdays
• Classic car owners can drive into Sandbaggers Sports Bar and Grill, 25615 Van Dyke Ave. in Center Line, from 5 to 8 p.m. Organizer and Warren resident Paul Gutkowski, owner of a 1968 Mercury Cougar, said the car show brings in anywhere from 25 to 45 car owners each week.
“We just hang out, look at all the other cars and get to know each other,” Gutkowski said.
Gutkowski also runs the Pauly G’s Car Cruis’n Page on Facebook, where he lists various car shows happening in the area. Check the page for more car shows not listed in the C & G Newspapers guide.
Thursdays
• Car enthusiasts will mingle from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Big Boy restaurant located on West Maple Road in Troy.
• Beginning in June, antique automobiles will line the pavement at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church, 21201 E. 13 Mile Road in St. Clair Shores, from 5 to 8 p.m.
• The Stahl’s Automotive Collection at
56516 N. Bay Drive in Chesterfield Township will hold cruise nights from 4 to 7:30 p.m. every Thursday, minus the third Thursday of the month.
• Culver’s, located at 66227 Van Dyke Ave. on the Romeo and Washington Township border, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Fridays
• Weekly car shows at the Walter F. Bruce Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1146, located at 28404 Jefferson Ave. in St Clair Shores, will begin in June. The events will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the back of the facility, between the building and Lake St. Clair.
• Twisted Axles will meet from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Lucky Leprechaun Pub, 32456 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville.
Saturdays
• Gearheads can get an early morning fix from 7 to 10 a.m. at Parking at Pasteiner’s Cruise-In at 33202 Woodward Ave., one block north of 14 Mile Road, in Birmingham.
• The Michigan Military Technical and Historical Society will hold monthly car shows from 9 a.m. until noon on the third Saturday of the month. The museum is located at 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe.
Sundays
• Eddie’s Drive-In, 36111 Jefferson Ave. in Harrison Township, from 4 to 8 p.m.
Charity drive
• For more than 30 years, the nonprofit
host a classic car show from 9 a.m. to noon on the third Saturday of every month through Oct. 18. The event is open to all classic car fans with no fee or preregistration. The museum is located at 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe.
Friends of Mount Clemens has organized the Mount Clemens Cruise in downtown Mount Clemens at the center of Main Street and Market Street. Money raised has provided Kroger gift cards for families in need and helped many charities, including the city of Mount Clemens Santa Parade, Turning Point, the Mount Clemens Lions Club and the Macomb Food Program. This year’s two-day Mount Clemens Cruise is set for June 6-7. This year’s event will feature a car cruise, awards, live entertainment and special attractions. For a complete schedule of events, visit mountclemenscruise.com.
ABOVE: Ken Savage is the president of Fun Time Cruzers, which meets every Monday in the parking lot of NAPA Auto Parts in Shelby Township. Every week, he presents awards in different categories.
Photo by Maria Allard
TOP: The Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum will
Photo by Liz Carnegie
Eat Up program as soon as the kids are out of school.
“So the kids don’t have any gaps in nutritional support,” Wright said.
This year, the Meet Up and Eat Up program through OLHSA is slated to begin June 16. Food trucks will visit apartment complexes, schools and day camps.
The need keeps growing in the community, according to Wright.
“We keep breaking records,” she said. “Last summer, 2024, we served about 50,000 meals between mid-June until lateAugust. The summer before that (2023), we served 40,000 meals.”
“We get a massive turnout for food,” Wright added.
Meet Up and Eat Up works to meet the demands of the community.
“If we go to a mobile site and there are 100 people waiting for food and the vendor only made 50 meals, we’ll come back and serve the rest of the 50 people,” Wright said. “We always make sure to serve everyone.”
Meet Up and Eat Up programs are offered in other communities throughout Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties. For a detailed list of locations go to unitedwaysem.org/resources/meet-up-and-eat-up.
For volunteer opportunities at Meet Up and Eat Up in Pontiac, call (947) 957-4599.
Forgotten Harvest
In 2024, Forgotten Harvest fed 474,637 children, according to Christopher Ivey, marketing and communications director for the nonprofit. As of mid-May, it had fed 358,682 children so far in 2025.
If the trajectory continues, this year’s numbers will surpass last year’s numbers.
The need is increasing, according to Ivey.
“All of the food we rescue is distributed free of charge without any real questions asked,” Ivey said.
They only ask generic questions for the purpose of analytics to determine the organization’s impact on the community, according to Ivey. Those questions include where the persons served live, where they are coming from and the makeup of their household — children, adults and seniors.
The summer programs include a youth snack program distributed through the Detroit Public Library. There are 12-15 summer pantries that still run throughout the
schools and mobile distribution.
“So if the family is in need of food, they can still go back to a location that is familiar to them,” Ivey said.
With 40 pantry partners, Forgotten Harvest runs a subsidized summer lunch program in addition to the Forgotten Harvest Summer Lunch Program where they will do about 100,000 lunches communitywide, according to Ivey. In addition, they are the lunch partners to Metro Youth Day on Belle Isle July 9 where they will do an additional 3,000 lunches.
The lunch programs start June 23 and go through Aug. 29.
Last year there were 29 sites where Forgotten Harvest distributed food throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.
“We’re working to expand that list,” Ivey said. “Or at least working to confirm we have that many pantry partners again.”
Forgotten Harvest has a mobility market, which is a food pantry on wheels. It goes to various neighborhoods throughout Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties. There is also a truck on their Oak Park Forgotten Harvest campus. Guests are allowed to go in and select what they want.
According to their website, the mobility markets are open Monday through Saturday except for holiday weekends.
For more information about their programs and a schedule of their mobility market, go to forgottenharvest.org/find-food/
Heritage Church
While most food pantries are not open on the weekend, the Heritage Church food pantry is only open on Saturdays.
Drivers pull up and are given a shopping list, where they check off items they want. Volunteers bag the groceries and deliver the groceries to the car.
Although anyone in need can come and get food assistance, they have a program for parents with special needs children.
“Because the child is challenged, they (their parents) are pulled out of their work and they can’t make ends meet,” said Candi James, the pantry manager. “We don’t know who they are, but we have it set up. We will bless them with whatever we have.”
Heritage Church is located at 44625 Schoenherr in Sterling Heights. The pantry is open Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The program started more than a decade ago and has grown as the needs of the community have grown.
Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
20A/ STERLING HEIGHTS SENTRY • MAY 28, 2025
MAY 28-29
Calling all Twelves: A Salon Special Showing: View and drive 1932-1939 Packard Twin Six and Twelve automobiles, open to public 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) 7394800, 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
JUNE 3
Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 44695 Schoenherr Road in Sterling Heights, RSVP to Mary Lou at (586) 799-7227, widowedfriends.com
JUNE 6-8
‘Clue: On Stage’: Presented by St. Clair Shores Players, 7:30 p.m. June 6, 2 and 7:30 p.m. June 7, and 4 p.m. June 8, Anita’s Elite Dance Studio, 37360 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, facebook.com/groups/ scsplayers
JUNE 7
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 16
Hear ‘Boogie Woogie Kid’: Pianist and singer Matthew Ball performs music from “Great American Songbook,” 6-7 p.m., held outdoor at Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, register at (586) 446-2665
JUNE 21
‘Five Years, One Night’: See original cast members from RWB Theatre Company reprise roles from favorite shows, 7 p.m., Anita’s Elite Dance Studio, 37360 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, onthestage.tickets/rwbtheatre-company-llc
JUNE 26
Medicare 101 seminar: Presented by Medicare Learning Services, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, registration required, (586) 465-0588
ONGOING
Dodge Park Farmers Market: 3-8 p.m. Thursdays June 5-Sept. 25, Dodge Park, 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, find special events, live music lineup and more at sterlingheights.gov/1236/dodge-parkthursdays
CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE
ORDINANCE NO. 500
AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE FOR THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS OF THE CITY, AND SETTING FORTH THE AMOUNTS APPROPRIATED TO DEFRAY THE EXPENDITURES AND SETTING FORTH A STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REVENUES, BY SOURCE, IN EACH FUND; TO ADOPT THE CITY’S BUDGETS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2025/26; TO ADOPT THE FEE SCHEDULE FOR PUBLIC RECORDS AND SERVICES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2025/26; AND TO ADOPT WATER AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL RATES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2025/26.
A copy of the ordinance can be inspected or obtained from the City Clerk’s Offce in City Hall, 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, Michigan 48313, during normal business hours. BY ORDER OF CITY COUNCIL
ADOPTED: 05/06/2025
PUBLISHED: 05/28/2025
EFFECTIVE: 07/01/2025
Published: Sterling Heights Sentry 05/28/2025
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.
Dodge Park Splash Pad: Noon-8 p.m. Mondays and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays until Sept. 1 (Labor Day), 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2711 (weather hotline), sterling-heights. net/1631/splash-pad
Sterling Heights Skate Park: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily through September, 40111 Dodge Park Road (between 41A District Court and Sterling Heights Public Library), sterlingheights.gov/1607/skate-park
Upton House Museum tours: Visit 1860s Michigan Historical Landmark, 1-4 p.m. every Wednesday and second Sunday of month, 40433 Dodge Park Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2495, sterlingheights. gov/789/upton-house-museum
Widowed Friends dancing: Doors at 6 p.m. and music from 7-10:30 p.m. Tuesdays, American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, RSVP to Liz at (586) 801-4536, widowedfriends.com
Book clubs: Meetups for teens, early birds, those who want to snack and chat, others who want to discuss books they own, and new book and movie discussions, Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, (586) 446-2665, sterlingheights. gov/2136/library
Northern Toastmasters meetings: 6:30 p.m. every second and fourth Monday of month, Leo’s Coney Island, 33577 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, (248) 828-7481, samcrowl@comcast.net
Wellness Wednesdays: Free fitness classes presented by Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, includes Latin dance cardio May 28-July 9 and yoga July 16-Aug. 27, 9-9:45 a.m., center court area at The Mall at Partridge Creek, 17420 Hall Road in Clinton Township, facebook.com/themallatpartridgecreek, (586) 4163849, henryford.com/calendar
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
Health workshops: For hypertension, diabetes, pre-diabetes and more, 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
EXPLORE
Feature Series
ISLAND TIME
BY GREG TASKER
MACKINAC ISLAND — Mackinac Island celebrates a big anniversary this year.
For a couple decades in the late 19th century, about half of the island was a national park, the country’s second, behind Yellowstone National Park.
Mackinac National Park was short-lived, a footnote in national park history. Still, the federal government’s efforts laid the foundation for what hundreds of thousands of tourists enjoy each summer — a well-preserved historic community and state park.
You can learn more about that past at Fort Mackinac this summer (more below), and also explore some of the island’s new additions.
Before you even depart Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, you’ll notice two ferry services are again running to and from the island — Arnold Transit Company and Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry. Visitors can also expect an uptick in the number of daily runs to the island as well as later departures back to the mainland.
Several hotels welcome the summer with renovations
big and small. The Harbour View Inn boasts a renovated lobby, dining room and parlor. The Chippewa Hotel reopens with three remodeled rooms with new showers and fresh paint. And The Inn at Stonecliff welcomes a new chef, who is eager to bring fresh flavors and inspired dishes.
At the Grand Hotel, the expansive parlor famous for its red geranium and classic Grand Hotel green decor has been redesigned to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Dorothy Draper & Company, the legendary designers responsible for a makeover in 1976. Guests should expect to see vibrant red geranium, alongside beloved colors and patterns that define the iconic space.
The iconic hotel also has expanded its island footprint with the new Grand Hotel Mackinac Market in downtown Mackinac Island. The Grand’s first retail location offers a curated selection of Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island merchandise, including apparel, bath and body products, and home decor. The shop also is the second location of the hotel’s Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor.
On the other side of the island, the family-owned Mission Point Resort has continued to make improve-
ABOVE: Arch Rock is a popular spot for visitors to visit on the island.
RIGHT: In spring time, lilac bushes line the streets where visitors can walk and bike along.
Photos provided by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
See MACKINAC on page 23A
Mackinac
from page 22A
ments, this year offering a fresh take on dining at Chianti with a new Lilac Lounge, a reimagined marketplace and immersive experiences.
Chianti, Mission Point’s signature fine dining restaurant, has undergone a thoughtful transformation inspired by the colors and natural beauty of the island. The refreshed ambiance brings the island’s floral landscape indoors and creates a lighter atmosphere. The Lilac Lounge, billed as “a destination for foodies and wine lovers,” offers an aperitif hour where guests can sip on handcrafted cocktails, nibble on seasonal small plates, and listen to live piano music.
“We are always looking for ways to enhance our guest experience while staying true to the spirit of Mackinac,” said Liz Ware, vice president of sales and marketing at Mission Point.
These changes come on the heels of other recent upgrades including a revamped Main Lobby and Round Island Kitchen. The refreshed lobby, “Mackinac Island’s newest living room,” is a welcoming, open space with light colors and panoramic views through the restaurant of the expansive lawn and the Straits of Mackinac.
More than 80 percent of Mackinac Island is a state park, so it should come as no surprise that at least one company has begun offering curated hiking tours.
Great Turtle Kayak Tours, which has long offered water excursions around the island, has branched out to include land adventures. Guided tours include treks to Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf Rock and a focus on fall colors. Customized tours are available, revealing “hidden spots, unknown to most visitors,” according to the company.
“It’s kind of our goal to get people out of the Main Street area,” said Jon “Chappy” Chapman, lead reservation for the outfitter. “People don’t necessarily know their way around the island or know that there are 80 miles of trails. Once people find out, they like getting out there. They’re interested.”
At Fort Mackinac, the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the national park status will include daily and special programs tied to that brief chapter in the island’s history. At the time Mackinac became a national park in 1875, the federal government already owned 50 percent of the island and maintained Fort Mackinac. The aim was to protect Mackinac’s natural beauty and historical significance. For 15 years, Yellowstone and Mackinac were the only two national parks in the country.
In 1895, deeming Fort Mackinac no
IF YOU GO:
Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
7274 Main St., Mackinac Island (906) 847-3783 mackinacisland.org
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry (231) 436-5023 sheplersferry.com
Grand Hotel
(800) 334-7263 grandhotel.com
Mission Point Resort (906) 847-3000 missionpoint.com
Mackinac State Historic Parks (906) 847-3328 mackinacparks.com
Great Turtle Kayak Tours (231) 715-2925 mackinackayak.com
longer necessary and shuttering military operations, the federal government had second thoughts about maintaining a national park there. State officials stepped in to reclaim the land and created Michigan’s first state park.
Creating the national park was a reaction to development pressures as tourism began to grow. By the 1870s, the island had become a retreat and getaway for city dwellers and others. By the last decades of the century, tourism had become the island’s dominant industry.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this anniversary,” said Dominick Miller, who is chief of marketing for Mackinac State Historic Parks. “We’re excited to get people out and into the former national park and explore the things that helped make Mackinac become a national park. We’re also thankful to the state of Michigan for realizing it was a special place.”
Daily programs share the story of Mackinac National Park. Those programs will focus on the rise of tourism on the island and how the island and fort have been preserved.
Special events will explore the creation of the park and all the questions it raised, as well as walking and bike tours focused on other aspects of that history. A guided walking tour, for example, will explore the cottages of Mackinac Island. Looking for money to fund park operations, the federal government granted leaseholds on the East and West Bluffs. The first summer cottages went up on the bluff in 1885.
In addition, the historic park will offer special screenings of an anniversary documentary, limited edition logo and merchandise, and new art exhibits.
“This is a really fascinating story,” Miller said. “It’s right here in our backyard.”
Greg Tasker is a Traverse City-based freelance writer.
Mexican ‘roots’ come to Sterling Heights at Raices Mexican Cantina
“Rooted in tradition. Alive with flavor. Every sip and bite is a tribute to the land — raw, simple, and true. Taste it, feel it, live it.”
Reading those words when you open the website for Raices Mexican Cantina just has to make you hungry.
Restauranteur Maria Aldana, the founder and former owner of Aldana Mexican Grill in Troy, and the owner of three Las Cazuelas Grill locations in the Detroit area, said the feeling is justified when patrons experience what is in store for their palate.
“I wanted to create a little story where people may relate to where we’re coming from, so they know who
the ownership is,” Aldana said. “So they know it’s going to be the same.”
The Las Cazuelas Grill started off in a gas station in 2006 and grew to become famous for its fast-casual dinein Mexican cuisine.
Aldana Mexican Grill opened at Maple Road and Coolidge Highway in 2021 during the pandemic and quickly became a local favorite.
“We sold that one last year,” Aldana said. “I also opened La Niña Churreria right there at Maple and Coolidge last year.”
The tastes and the atmosphere customers have come to know and love at Aldana’s establishments are
taken to even greater heights at Raices Mexican Cantina. The name “Raices” means roots, and that’s exactly the connection she’s trying to create for her customers through a multisensory experience.
“We want to make everybody feel like they’ve come to Mexico,” Aldana said. “We love to present Mexico as they come in the door. The environment, the music, the service, food and drinks, all of the above. It’s an authentic feeling with Mexican roots. We want them to come and experience Mexican roots from the music, arts and history, the food and drink, and our seasonings.”
At Raices Mexican Cantina, everything
is prepared fresh daily using Aldana’s own custom seasonings that take the cuisine to a different level.
“We want to make it as authentic as we possibly can,” she said.
Of course you’ll find fresh tacos, burritos, quesadillas and enchiladas alongside traditional favorites like molcajete offering delicious meats — steak, chicken or chorizo — with queso, mole and homemade salsa, together in a bowl.
Raices Mexican Cantina is now open at 44805 Mound Road in Sterling Heights. To reach the restaurant, call (586) 930-1821. For a menu and online ordering, go to raicesmex.com.
Maria Aldana Owner
is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, as well as possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, June 9, 2025. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on employment.
Help Wanted General
STEELSERVICE CENTER
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Paint plant prowler MOUNT CLEMENS — On April 16 at around 7:50 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the Axalta paint factory at 400 N. Groesbeck Highway to investigate a man pounding on and damaging cars in the parking lot.
Deputies encountered a 23-year-old Hazel Park man who reportedly admitted to it “immediately” when asked if he was the one pounding on cars. He was detained, read his rights and did not speak further with deputies.
Deputies then spoke with a security guard who initially spoke with the 23-year-old near the front of the building. The Hazel Park man was trying to enter the factory and told the guard he was from “homeland security.” He demanded to be let into the factory, said he was looking for dead children and informed the guard, “You are all going to hell.”
The guard then called 911 and returned to his patrol car. The guard observed the man trying to open various cars around the lot. The man then tried to open the guard’s car door, punched and spat on the window, broke the mirror and made threats.
The Hazel Park man was taken to the Macomb County Jail.
Thief takes dessert
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 8:06 p.m. on April 29, a case of retail fraud was reported in the 25000 block of Harper Avenue.
An 18-year-old woman was working the counter at a business when the suspect walked in. He indicated he wanted a full cheesecake, and she grabbed it for him. As soon as the cheesecake was on the counter, the suspect took it without paying and drove away in a silver vehicle.
The employee indicated that she told the suspect he had to pay, but he ignored her and continued through the door. The owner, a 41-year-old man, had video surveillance and he gave the still shots to police.
The cheesecake was valued at $69.96.
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-onthe-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.
Ransacked car
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On April 11, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies met with a 73-year-old Harrison Township woman about a theft at her home. At around 8:45 a.m., the woman walked out to her car and noticed items that were stored in the car were laying on the ground outside of it. All compartments inside the car were opened and the contents were tossed around. The only reported