6/7/23 Journal

JUNE 7, 2023 Vol. 17, No. 31

KICK OFF SUMMER IN MOUNT CLEMENS WITH JUNE EVENTS/15A

Group’s mission to save South Channel lights continues

BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com

ST. CLAIR SHORES — The South Channel lights sit in Lake St. Clair, and it’s the mission of the Save Our South Channel Lights organization to preserve their history through restoration for generations to come.

Kathy Brady, the group’s secretary, said Save Our South Channel Lights is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Charles Brockman.

“Him and his wife were avid boaters that used to go out in Lake St. Clair, and often went by the lighthouses and saw how decrepit they were in the ’70s and ’80s,” Brady said. “And he said, ‘Somebody ought to do something about that.’”

This prompted him to found the organization in 1988.

The range lights were built in 1859 to allow sailors safe passage through Lake St. Clair, and they were decommissioned in 1905 when the government no longer had any use for them, Brady said.

“They had actually dredged a new channel, at which point the border between Canada and the U.S.

EXPL

MOST

BY GREG TASKER

Spending a day on Mackinac Island is a rite of summer for many Michiganders.

But most of us, I’m betting, aren’t making the most of that day. We scurry off the ferries right into the heart of downtown Mackinac Island, rent a bicycle for the traditional loop around the island, and then spend a few hours searching for souvenirs and fudge. We might grab a drink or a meal before heading back to the dock.

While it’s always a fun outing, there’s so much more to

this Michigan gem than fudge, bicycles and horses. Most of the car-free island is a state park with miles of trails to hike and bike. It’s steeped in centuries of Native American, European and American history. And while Mackinac evokes images of being lost somewhere in time, there’s always something new to check out.

New this season, for example, are: Patrick Doud’s Irish Pub, named after a contractor of Irish descent who helped build a number of important buildings on the island; the

See MACKINAC on page 10A

MAKE THE

Harrison Township trustees dedicate veterans garden

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At a meeting on May 22, the week before Memorial Day, the Harrison Township Board of Trustees voted to memorialize a township veteran by naming a garden in his honor.

The board approved a motion to rename the veterans garden outside Rosso Hall to the Lt. Col. Donald “Digger” O’Dell Memorial Garden.

A lifelong resident of Harrison Township, O’Dell joined the Air Force in 1952 and became a pilot in 1955. During the Vietnam War, he flew F-105 Thunderchief fighter-bomber jets, in which he was shot down on Oct. 17, 1967. O’Dell was taken as a prisoner and was kept in the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” before being repatriated on March 14, 1973. O’Dell remained involved with the Air Force after retiring in 1978 by serving in

See GARDEN on page 6A

MACOMB SHERIFF ASKS BOATERS TO PRACTICE SAFETY

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MACOMB COUNTY — As the summer heats up and vessels embark into Lake St. Clair, fun in the sun is the first thing on any boater’s mind.

But tragedy can strike at any moment, which is why Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham and the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Marine Division is reminding lakegoers to practice safe and legal boating.

First things first: Make sure your boat works.

“Before you get on your boat, make sure that

BUSINESS CLIP

Counseling center opens for police, EMS and other frontline workers

The state’s first counseling center for police, EMS and other frontline workers opened on May 20.

vessel is operational,” Wickersham said. “Make sure your vessel is in good condition and that you have all the safety features that are needed.”

Everyone on board needs a life vest rated by the U.S. Coast Guard for open water.

“Boat owners, you are responsible for who you take out on your boat,” Lt. Gary Wiegand said. “Be mindful of the alcohol and remember passenger safety is your responsibility.”

Type I and Type II life jackets provide the necessary buoyancy for open water such as Lake St. Clair. Type V jackets — which inflate upon making contact with water — are acceptable but

See BOATERS on page 11A

Cadence Counseling is endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police. They focus on trauma and self-care for police, fire, EMS, military, health care staff, and other frontline workers and their families. Cadence Counseling saw its inauguration on May 20, led by Warren Police Cpl. Kevin Barnhill, a Navy veteran, (also the owner/counselor) with more than 20 years of law enforcement experience. Barnhill was joined by Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, who said, “I am very proud to welcome Cadence Counseling. I know firsthand the stress and pressure many frontline workers face. And now, there is a place right here in our community where mental health can be addressed with someone who uniquely understands what you are going through.” You can contact Cadence Counseling, located at 37976 S. Gratiot, Suite No. 4, in Clinton Township at (586) 697-2324 or cadencecounseling.org.

Photo by Dean Vaglia

Lt. Gary Wiegand, of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Marine Division, shows off a Type II life jacket at a boating safety press conference on May 25. Type I and Type II life jackets must be present on the boat while Type V jackets must be worn at all times on a boat.

Photo by Dean Vaglia

The board of trustees voted to rename Harrison Township’s veterans memorial garden outside of Rosso Hall in honor of Donald “Digger” O’Dell and plans to have a monument commemorating his Air Force and public service installed on the site.

HARRISON FISHING DERBY RETURNS FOR 18TH YEAR

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Nothing says summer quite like going down to the lake to fish, and what’s more fun than seeing who can catch the best hauls of the day?

Coming back for its 18th edition, the Harrison Township Kids Fishing Derby gives children a chance to test their fishing mettle. Taking place at Lake St. Clair Metropark on June 10 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., anglers ages 3-16 can come to compete for fishing glory.

“Every year Harrison Township Parks and Rec sponsors a fishing derby for young boys and girls to fish,” said Brian Batkins, Harrison Township Trustee. “We plan it on the Michigan DNR (Department of Natural Resources) free fishing weekend, so you can always set your calendars to that. All it is, is we give you the area to fish, we feed them hot dogs and snacks and everything and then we give away prizes for the most fish caught and the largest fish caught in three different age groups.”

Competitors are divided into three agebased groups — 3-6, 7-10, 11-16 — and

gather around the park’s marina.

“We try to restrict the kids there for a couple of reasons,” Batkins said. “Our judges are going back and forth looking for people that catch fish, and it is easier for us to keep our eye on and assist their parents if they’ve got a couple kids fishing. We don’t want them running throughout the park. We limit it to

that specific area.”

Once around and ready to fish, competitors have three hours to see who catches the most and/or largest fish per age group. According to Joe Hall, park operations manager of Lake St. Clair Metropark, the park’s waters give competitors plenty of fish to pick from.

“Lake St. Clair itself is one of the best

bass fishing lakes in the world,” Hall said. “People come from all over to fish the lake. On top of the bass out there, we get a lot of people for walleye and muskie and always people along the shoreline for perch and panfish, too. It’s a very good fishing area … just about any game fish people target in Michigan they can find out here.”

Prizes are handed out by the time noon rolls around, which have ranged in prior years from lures for participants to new rods for winners.

“Our grand-prize winner last year received an almost $200 fishing rod and reel,” Batkins said. “A lot of that was donated by the Cabela’s off of Hall Road in Chesterfield Township. We had a really good relationship with the manager over there. They were very good with us, sponsoring that event.”

Sponsorship has become an important part of the event since Harrison Township Parks and Recreation has gone from a taxpayer-funded part of the township government to a volunteer-run and supporterfunded committee. Sponsors provide the funding for prizes with anything not spent on the fishing derby going toward the rest of See FISHING on page 6A

Photo provided by Brian Batkins Volunteers for the 2022 Harrison Township Kids Fishing Derby gather around for a photo. The 18th edition of the derby will take place from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on June 10 at Lake St. Clair Metropark.

Fishing

the committee’s events.

“We set records this year with how much money was donated to us … We’ve received over $11,000 in donations,” Batkins said. “Prior to that, it was right around $9,000. It just helps us out when we’re out buying prizes or if we want to add something special to one of the other events.”

The derby got its start through what was then the taxpayer-funded committee and has been running ever since. In his seven years of being a part of the event, Batkins has seen the number of participants increase every year. The provided grilled refreshments is a recent addition to the event.

“Due to the time of the day, a lot of people are dragging their families around, so

Garden

from page 3A

a civilian capacity as Selfridge Air National Guard Base’s public affairs officer for 12 years. He was involved in Wertz Warriors to support the Michigan Special Olympics and spoke about his wartime experiences. O’Dell died on October 22, 2020.

“I was in this room (Rosso Hall board chambers) one year for the Veterans Day ceremony and to hear him speak,” Harrison Township Supervisor Ken Verkest said. “The things he endured and the stories that he told, it was very, very moving. I’m moved now just thinking about that story.”

Discussion was had about commissioning a monument in O’Dell’s honor for the garden with preliminary ideas including an aeronautical-themed archway with a plaque describing O’Dell’s life, military career and his involvement with the Special Olympics.

“He never stopped giving,” Harrison Township Treasurer Lawrence Tomenello said.

The monument will be paid for with donated funds.

Infrastructure projects

The board also approved a $51,400

we just really thought that would be a thing to do,” Batkins said.

While much goes into making the event happen from the efforts of Metropark workers to the support of the sponsors, Batkins sees the volunteers as the reason this township tradition has been able to go on.

“Quite honestly, I don’t think the volunteers will ever let it go away,” Batkins said. “The volunteers probably enjoy it more than the participants, so I think it is between all of the volunteers just loving the event and the thoughtful people that donate to the parks and rec.”

To register for the fishing derby, call (586) 466-1497 or visit harrisontownshipmi.gov/residents/parks_and_recreation.

All children must be accompanied by an adult and a park pass will be required for vehicle entry into the park. Residency in Harrison Township is not required to participate.

contract to Wade Trim to engineer the relocation of the Catfish Channel Sanitary Sewer pump station.

Rehabilitated over the course of 2021 and 2022, an expansion of the North River Road bridge by the Macomb County Department of Roads requires the station to be relocated. The department will pay for the relocation, while Harrison Township will pay for the engineering.

The board approved another $7,200 payment to Wade Trim in order to develop an application for a Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot grant. The idea to pursue the grant came from discussions with Selfridge Air National Guard Base and would likely cover most of the costs to rehabilitate the Prentiss lift station.

COMFORT AND CARE FOR THE ANXIOUS PET

BY MARY GENSON mgenaon@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Anxiety is something that many people are familiar with as it troubles a large percentage of humans, but it is important to consider how anxiety may be affecting pets at home.

There are multiple different types of anxiety that animals experience. Some of the most common ones include separation anxiety, travel anxiety and thunderstorm anxiety.

Laura Wiltshire has been training dogs for about 20 years and has been with Wolverine Dog Training Club for about five years.

“Training is a good source to help alleviate anxiety, and when you train a dog, it actually builds the confidence in yourself, and the dog and you do form a bond,” Wiltshire said.

For rescue dogs, Wiltshire shared the “3-3-3 rule.”

“It takes three days for the dog to settle down, three weeks for your dog to get comfortable and three months for your dog to open up to you and show what their personality is,” Wiltshire said.

Angela Tolonen is the owner of Tolonen Family Pet Shop at 23320 Farmington Road in Farmington. One of the managers at Tolonen Family Pet Shop, Sofia Solis, is experienced in working with pets with anxiety.

“The COVID dogs were almost like a little mini generation of dogs that lived through a good portion of their life without ever needing anyone who was not within their four walls, and I think for a lot of pet parents, it did not occur to them what that experience would be like once they finally got their pet out and about,” Tolonen said.

Anxiety can be experienced by smaller animals as well. For smaller animals such as cats and rabbits, Solis said enrichment is helpful in reducing their anxiety.

Unlike humans, animals cannot use their words to share that they are anxious. However, there are several signs to look for. For dogs, excessive panting, barking or tail tucks are common signs of anxiety. Other animals may be reactive in their own way to people or other pets when they are anxious.

Solis said the first thing owners should do when they notice their pet is anxious is look at the root of the problem. For instance, owners should reflect on if their animal has been given sufficient enrichment to stimulate them.

A product that can help with enrichment is a snuffle mat, where owners can hide treats that the pet has to find.

“It can just be part of their day that they are doing some sort of job for their food, which is actually incredibly rewarding for them. It not only keeps their

anxiety down but just really helps their relationship with their human as well,” Tolonen said.

One of the ways Solis has helped remedy pet anxiety is through CBD oil.

Mike Palmer, the owner of Premier Pet Supply, which has several local locations, said that oftentimes, one of the best things to do is to supplement with a product like CBD.

“They don’t make it so that they lose their functional motor skills, it actually just triggers receptors in the brain to provide calm and make it easier to manage situations, whether that is traveling, visiting the vet or the groomer, fireworks, thunderstorms and things like that,” Palmer said.

CBD is also one of the first things Solis would recommend. CBD is derived from hemp plants but does not cause a “high.”

“It is one of my top recommendations just because it’s not a sedative; it’s not a medication like you would get at the vet. It’s kind of just a more natural way to bring them down a couple of levels,” Solis said.

While there was not a specific brand she recommended, she said she typically mixes CBD oil in her dog’s food. Other CBD options include CBD peanut butter powder, CBD treats and CBD water.

Dogs with high anxiety can potentially benefit from a daily dose of CBD, with higher doses given on more high-stress days.

If people do not want to go the supplement route, thunder jackets are a product that can be used to help reduce anxiety. They are like a compression shirt that works similarly to a weighted blanket.

Palmer, Wiltshire and Solis all recommended using thunder jackets for anxious pets.

“It provides almost like a swaddling effect that you would do for a newborn baby,” Palmer said. “And what that does is essentially provides them the comfort and calm of feeling almost like a warm hug.”

Wiltshire also recommends owners try using pheromones for dogs. Pheromones are chemicals that animals (and humans) emit to signal to other animals. These can be sprayed in a dog’s bandana or through an air diffuser in the home. By smelling pheromones, some dogs become more relaxed.

For anxiety that is situational, Palmer suggested testing out a product before the stressful scenario and giving it time to become effective.

Solis said it is important to remember that anxiety in pets is very common, and the best thing to do is use different resources and reach out for help.

Keeping an open mind and following research from professionals is a good way to make sure your pet is getting the care they need.

ABOVE: Some pets benefit from products such as PetReleaf Edibites Stress Relief.

BELOW: Tess is a rescue who struggles with being reactive. The ThunderShirt quickly helps her feel more secure and relaxed.

Photo provided by Mike Palmer

Photo provided by Angela Tolonen

USPBL preview: Newcomers fill void for departed veterans SPORTS

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

UTICA — Baseball is back at Jimmy John’s Field.

An icon in the Utica community since opening in 2016, the United Shore Professional Baseball League is back and better than ever in 2023, continuing its tradition of assisting players in reaching their Major League Baseball dreams.

With 48 players signed to MLB organizations and three players making MLB rosters (Randy Dobnak, Logan Gillaspie and Jared Koenig), the USPBL’s growing reputation of elevating players to the next level continues to attract talent from all over the map.

“That was probably one of my main reasons for why I came here,” Utica Unicorns pitcher Conner Tomasic, an Indiana native, said. “It’s been seven seasons going on eight, and there’s already been 50 people drafted here, so you know people are watching and coming to see guys. It was a no-brainer to come here.”

Along with the exposure, it’s also extremely competitive baseball, and the fans are loving every minute of it.

Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers (0-2)

It’s only right to start off with the 2022 USPBL champions, but it’s a newlook squad coming into this season for the Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers, who are three-time champions of the league.

Missing their top-three hitters from 2022 and the majority of their pitching staff, the Beavers will look to rely on returning veteran outfielders Chris Davis and Travious Ford, and returning infielder JD Stubbs to bolster the offensive unit.

Davis is off to a hot start so far in 2023, batting .571 with two home runs in seven atbats while Ford is building off his successful 2022 campaign with a .500 batting average in 10 at-bats.

The Beavers have scored five or more runs in both of their games this season, but are looking for their pitching staff to provide some consistency.

Troy native Nick Gajewski, who played collegiately at Rochester University, is one of the Beavers pitchers hoping to help bolster the staff this season.

A first-year player in the USPBL, Gajewski said that while it has been an adjust-

ment, it feels like a full-circle moment to be playing in the league this season.

“Definitely trying to settle in and find your groove, but I don’t mind it at all,” Gajewski said. “Matter of fact, I like it a lot more than any other type of ball I’ve played prior, so I do enjoy the environment. I used to come to these games when I was younger, and here we are now.”

Pitchers Alex Reinoehl, Zachary Goree and Rhian Mann will look to be consistent contributors for the Beavers as well this season on the mound.

Utica Unicorns (2-1)

The four-time USPBL champions that won three-straight titles from 2019 to 2021 are back and looking to add to the team’s legacy.

The team has an imposing offense led by a mix of veterans and newcomers, with outfielder Alec Brunson and infielder Donovyn Curiel continuing to make their mark with the Unicorns, while newly acquired infielder Josh Baker and catcher Justin Gomez consistently provide at the plate.

“First look at it, I don’t think we’re going to be the same Unicorns that I heard of last year with the big boys, power, and lots of home runs,” Tomasic, a right-handed pitcher, said. “I think we’re going to be more of the gap-to-gap and score guys more efficiently than relying on the long ball.”

Gomez, who was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in 2019, is currently hitting .333 on the season, while Baker’s two home runs are tied for the league lead.

Like the Beavers pitching staff, the Unicorns staff will look to match the offensive firepower as the season progresses.

While the earned run averages may not be there yet for the Unicorns, Tomasic currently leads the league in wins (2) in his first year with the league. A Michigan State University player in 2022, Tomasic will look to lead the pitching staff alongside Tristan Harvin, Jace Baumann, Jake Fiorito, and

FAR LEFT: Eastside Diamond Hoppers catcher Whit Hughes connects with one during batting practice at the United Shore Professional Baseball League media day on May 16 at Jimmy John’s Field. NEAR LEFT: Fan-favorite JJ, the USPBL Field General, patrols the field.

Michigan native Carsie Walker (Saugatuck).

Eastside Diamond Hoppers (3-0)

Currently the only unbeaten team in the league, there’s a reason the Diamond Hoppers are not only the strongest team

See USPBL on page 17A

We would be honored to serve you and your family a good hot lunch (FREE) served with the warmth of Christian Fellowship. We sincerely hope you will allow us to share with you our Blessings and the Love of Jesus.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

High school baseball showcase to be at Comerica Park June 27 SPORTS

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Calling all high school baseball players.

No Doubt Showcase will host their third annual Stadium Series High School Showcase Camp at Comerica Park on June 27 for any interested high school baseball players looking to take their recruiting and networking to the next level.

The all-day camp, which costs $200 per player, will begin at Comerica Park at 9:30 a.m. where players will take part in hitting, fielding and pitching drills in front of scouts from more than 40 regional colleges including the University of Michigan, Central Michigan University and University of Dayton.

The high school showcase will finish off on June 28 with a two-hour event at Auburn Hills Avondale High School, while No Doubt’s Stadium Series Youth Camp, for kids 10-14, will begin on June 27 with a onehour camp at Comerica Park before finishing with a two-hour camp at Avondale.

Founded in 2020 by Josh Simonis, Gregg Sadowski, and Matt Fenech, who all played baseball collegiately at Rochester University, No Doubt Showcase prides itself on providing something ball players in the past weren’t able to access.

“Myself, Matt and Gregg, all three of us didn’t really know how to get recruited,” Simonis said. “We wanted to play at the next level. I would say to an extent all three of us got lucky in a way to play baseball collegiately, and we want to be the resource to help educate and connect people in a way that allows them to make the best decision for their future when it comes to playing college sports.”

Sadowski currently serves as the varsity head baseball coach at Clinton Township Chippewa Valley High School, Simonis coached at Wayne State University in 2019 and 2020, and Fenech has coached at the high school, NAIA, and Division 1 levels.

Launching the company in 2020 brought its own challenges, but what the three men had that few possessed was an extensive network of coaches to get the company off the ground running.

Since holding their first event at Grosse Pointe Woods University Liggett in 2020, No Doubt has become a nationwide showcase company, holding baseball showcases in California and North Carolina this year.

“The advantage that we had going in was we had built relationships with other college coaches just because being in that world and working camps, we had built a network of people we really liked and (who) trusted us,” Simonis said. “It really came

down to just getting the word out to more high school players. We were blessed to have great relationships with travel ball organizations and high school coaches in the area, and that was really essential to getting everything going.”

Aside from on-the-field drills at the showcase, No Doubt offers each attendee their own personal profile for No Doubt’s player database.

Players who do not attend the showcase can create a database, but only players who attend the event will have a profile picture, video from the event, and their stats such as pitching velocity, hitting exit velocity, catcher pop time and 60-yard dash time as well.

“We have a great website that college coaches log into all over the country and look at the players on there, and it’s just a great resource for players,” Simonis said.

“We feel like we want you to be able to come to our camp to learn something, to walk out with some video to follow up with the college coaches who were there and maybe they didn’t see you and want to take a second look, they can look at your stats and your video. If you’re interested in a school somewhere else and they weren’t there that day, they can look at your video and stats and trust that those numbers are accurate.”

Interested players can sign up at nodoubtshowcase.com and click on the events tab to locate the Comerica Park showcase. Attendees will also receive a No Doubt tshirt and hat as well.

SUNDAY: Take 10% OFF Your Food Bill

With a Current Church Bulletin

MONDAY: All-You-Can-Eat Lake Perch $1499*

Served with Coleslaw and Fries

TUESDAY: All-You-Can-Eat Ribs $1499*

Served with Coleslaw and Fries

WEDNESDAY: 20 pc. Shrimp Dinner $1499*

Served with Coleslaw and Fries

THURSDAY: N.Y. Strip Dinner ..................... $1899*

Served with Coleslaw and Fries

FRIDAY: Famous Fish & Chips $1499*

Served with Coleslaw and Fries

SATURDAY: 10 oz. Prime Rib $1999*

Served with Redskins and Vegetable, Available

4pm *Monday-Saturday

Photos provided by No Doubt Showcase

LEFT: No Doubt Showcase will feature batting, fielding and pitching workouts when it begins on June 27 at Comerica Park. RIGHT: No Doubt Showcase will host its third annual Stadium Series at Comerica Park on June 27 with an all-day event.

Mackinac

from page 1A

Mackinac Island Pizza Co., which serves Detroit-style pizza and is among the restaurants operated by the Grand Hotel; and the Cedar Grove Bike Track, a dirt bike trail designed for children 12 and younger. In the last few years, a distillery, a brewery and a whiskey-themed restaurant and bar have opened as well.

So how do you make the most of a day trip to the island, which was recently named Best Summer Travel Destination in the country by USA Today readers. Here’s a loose itinerary to make sure you enjoy the highlights.

9 a.m. — Join a horse-driven tour with Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

This might seem like a no-brainer, but it wasn’t until my third trip to Mackinac that I hopped aboard. What a difference. It’s a leisurely and nearly two-hour excursion that provides a better sense of the island. There are several stops, so you can get off and explore. The company bills itself as the oldest horse and buggy service in the world.

11 a.m. — Explore Fort Mackinac

Perched atop a bluff overlooking the harbor, the limestone fort is a one-of-a-kind attraction in Michigan. Costumed interpreters offer rifle-firing demonstrations and tours, sharing the stories of the Revolutionary War-era fortress. Exhibits share the island’s role in the War of 1812. For a unique experience, make a reservation to shoot an authentic cannon. Cap your visit with refreshments at the Fort Mackinac Tea Room. Run by the Grand Hotel, the Tea Room boasts some of the best views on the island.

Other lunch options: For a more casual break, order a picnic from the Mission Point Picnic Society. Customers select their own fare, everything from crackers and cheese to dips and charcuteries to sandwiches and salads. Lunch sacks also are available. Spread your picnic on Mission Point Resort’s expansive lawn overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. Other options include grabbing prepared foods at Doud’s Market, the island’s only grocer, run by descendants of the aforementioned Patrick Doud. The island is home to a variety of restaurants, most of them can be found along Main Street.

1 p.m.

— Rent that bicycle

Bike rentals can be found along the village’s Main Street and at some hotels. It’s an 8-mile trek around the island and you can pedal at your own pace. If the views of the Straits of Mackinac, Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge aren’t enough to lure you away from the shops, the M-185 loop (it’s an official state highway) passes landmarks like Arch Rock, an unusual rock formation that stands nearly 15 stories high above Lake Huron.

3 p.m. — Grand Hotel

It is well worth the short uphill walk from downtown to the Grand, among the last of the big wood-frame hotels in the country. For $10, you can explore the venerable hotel and the grounds. Take time to secure a white wooden rocking chair on the front porch, the world’s longest, and breathe in the mesmerizing views. The public is welcome to join activities (for a fee) at the Woodlands Activity Center, which includes an 18-hole miniature golf course, and the Cedar Grove Bike Track. Ask about the hotel’s Secret Garden.

5 p.m. — Downtown Mackinac Island

Spend some time shopping. You won’t miss the ferries back to the mainland — they leave later in the evening during the peak of summer. Fudge shops here are almost as plentiful as hotels. There’s even a Sanders (btw, you can still find Sanders ice cream toppings here). If you have children, be sure to check out the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House, where hundreds of butterflies, from around the world, flutter and amuse.

For $10, you can explore the hotel and the grounds.

I passed through recently with a 3-year-old in tow. She was mesmerized. Before leaving, stop by the Pink Pony (inside the Chippewa Hotel), one of the island’s most famous bars, and toast its 75th anniversary. Cheers.

Greg Tasker is a Traverse City-based freelance writer. Greg’s articles focused on northern Michigan travel will appear in C & G Newspapers during the summer.

ABOVE: The Grand Hotel among the last of the big wood-frame hotels in the country.

Photo provided by Grand Hotel

LEFT: The M-185 loop passes landmarks like Arch Rock, an unusual rock formation that stands nearly 15 stories high above Lake Huron.

Photo provided by Steph Castelein, www.mackinacisland.org

Boaters

from page 3A

must be worn at all times to avoid being fined due to the intricate triggering mechanism.

Even if a life vest is worn, having a Type IV throwable device to pull people back into the water is legally required. For those who want to be safety conscious, having a rescue line is a good piece of equipment to add.

“What I always recommend is you have some type of rescue line,” Wiegand said. “Reason being the intended use of this is to throw (it to) somebody in the water so you can help self-rescue that person. The rescue line helps bring that person back.”

If you decide to swim deep in the lake, leaving a Type IV out on a rescue line will let it flow with the current and make it readily available to swimmers.

As for who can be captain, only certain people are legally allowed to operate a boat.

“To operate a personal watercraft, anyone born after Dec. 31, 1978, has to have a boater safety card,” Wiegand said. “Think about that date, think about that age range; basically, if you were born in 1979 or later you have to have (a card) to operate a PWC. It’s just like a driver’s license for a card. You have to have one.”

Youth ages 14 and 15 need parental supervision to operate a boat, and anyone who is 13 or younger is barred by law from operating one.

It is important for the boat to be registered to its

proper owner in case salvage retrieval needs to be done.

“If something happens to that boat — if it drifts off the dock or is in an accident or sinks in the worstcase scenarios — we know who to look for,” Wiegand said.

Having an anchor is another important part of boating, and making sure the anchor works properly is even more important.

“Last year, unfortunately, in the Macomb County portion of Lake St. Clair, we had two drownings,” Wiegand said. “These drownings could’ve been avoided if the person had their boat anchor. In both these situations people decided to go swimming off of a vessel that was not anchored, and they could not swim back to the boat as the current took it away, causing a drowning.”

If you need assistance, make sure you have charged cellphones to call 911. When Macomb County Sheriff’s Office dispatchers receive the call, they will be able to retrieve your coordinates to send a Marine Division boat your way. Their boats are equipped with FLIR heat-seeking cameras, sonar, radar and firefighting equipment. The Marine Division takes on additional help during the summer with around 90 marine safety officers, including volunteers and reserves.

For more information about how to boat safely, visit michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/boating/rules-andregs.

The Department of Natural Resources also holds boater safety classes; www.boat-ed.com to register.

ABOVE: Pictured left to right, Sgt. Jamie Bagos, Sheriff Anthony Wickersham and Lt. Gary Wiegand, of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, showed off a variety of safety equipment at a boating safety press conference on May 25. Bagos and Wiegand hold two versions of a Type IV throwable device. LEFT: Sgt. Bagos, of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, displays an anchor at a boating safety press conference on May 25.

Photos by Dean Vaglia

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was changed with that dredging,” Brady said.

Brady said the need arose for the set of range lights as boats got bigger and bigger and started carrying heavier cargo. Some of that cargo grew to include iron ore used during the Civil War for weapons and munitions.

“The boats used to have to come up the Detroit River from Lake Erie into Lake St. Clair,” Brady said. “The average depth of Lake St. Clair is just over 4 feet, so a lot of times, those big ships would run aground, and they couldn’t drive at night because it was dangerous.”

Range lights, Brady explained, are a pair of lights that work together. A smaller one sat about 1000 feet in front of the other one and sailors lined them up to make sure they were in deeper, safer waters, Brady said.

When there was no dredging and no lights, ships would stop overnight or when the weather turned and anchor in the bay. The town Anchor Bay subsequently earned its name from this, Brady said.

“When the boats used to have to stop at nighttime, they’re losing money and they can’t travel, so it would take longer to get to where they were going, so they would have to anchor,” Brady said.

The range lights used to have a keeper’s dwelling, but Brady said it’s a mystery what happened to it.

“They really don’t know what happened to it,” Brady said. “We do know that the remains of the house are not there around the lighthouse.”

They know the government didn’t burn it down after it no longer served a purpose,

Brady said, because they have documentation of people renting it out after it was decommissioned. There is also documentation about a storm that swept through Harsens Island and Lake St. Clair in the early 1900s that destroyed many buildings.

According to the Save Our South Channel Lights website, one of the lights started to lean heavily to one side in 1875 and was dismantled and rebuilt on the same stone and timber base that it had been built on originally.

Gary Strobel, president of Save Our South Channel Lights, said the front light is currently leaning heavily to one side, prompting the need for fundraising. Brady said it is the third time in history it has leaned heavily to one side.

“We’re trying to raise the funds to do the foundation work that will straighten up

the light,” Strobel said. “It’s estimated to be about $500,000 to $750,000 that we need for that.”

Right now, they currently have $160,000 saved in cash and investments, Strobel said. The group is also involved in events such as art fairs, and there was a golf outing to raise money.

Ways the public can help include coming to the events, donating and applying for a membership.

“We’re doing some incentives to drive memberships,” Strobel said. “It entitles you (to) a newsletter and decals from the organization and we also have some merchandise that is sent to you, depending on the level of membership that you enroll in.”

More repairs are also in the organization’s plans.

“Our goal is to restore the fence on the rear light and to continue to raise funds for the front light,” Strobel said.

He said more restoration work has been done in the last couple years.

“What we’ve seen is a lot of damage caused by mother nature with the high waters and winds,” Strobel said. “We did do some restoration on the shed. We had to totally rebuild that. We spent approximately $10,000 on that to rebuild and restore that.

The group meets quarterly at the Chesterfield Fire Department to plan and resolve issues.

“They’re still standing tall today because of the way they were constructed and the group efforts to restore them and to save our heritage,” Strobel said.

Brady said the group has raised close to $900,000 since its inception and has had two match grants. They also raise money through the sale of merchandise and memberships and through weddings and tours out to the grounds of the lights.

Brady said people are welcome to the events they are at. The group is also asking for any information or photos people have about the lights. She also said with things like the keeper’s dwelling, there are huge gaps they are trying to fill with the provided history.

“If somebody knows something about the South Channel range lights, call us up or send us an email because we really do want to learn as much about this history as we can,” Brady said.

On June 24, they will be at the Algonac Michigan Chapter Antique & Classic Boat Show held at the Algonac Harbour Club. For more information about the lights go to their website at soschannellights.org.

Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.

One of the South Channel Lights stands in Lake St. Clair.

File photo by Deb Jacques

Student success is paramount at Chippewa Valley Schools. From our innovative community preschool for our youngest learners to our thriving Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs for teens, Chippewa Valley provides a safe, high-quality learning environment for our students giving them the skills they need to succeed in college and careers.

• Warm and welcoming schools and caring staff

• CVS received district accreditation by Cognia, the highest assurance of quality schools

• STEAM learning at all grade levels

• Advanced placement courses, early college, and dual enrollment to earn college credit in high school

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• Local, state and national awards for excellence

• Innovative Ninth Grade Centers on the campus of each high school

• Great classrooms featuring state-of-the-art interactive technology and 1:1 laptops

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• Welcoming new students for the 2023-2024 school year

Chippewa Valley Schools ... Inspiring and empowering learners to achieve a lifetime of success

For enrollment information, call 586-723-2240, or visit: choosechippewa.com

HOMES

STAY COOL AND KEEP ENERGY BILLS LOW THIS SUMMER

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — With summer and warmer temperatures just around the corner, many people are turning to their air conditioners to stay comfortable. But in conjunction with the increased use of energy, it isn’t uncommon for residents to see a spike in their utility bills.

So how do you keep your home or apartment cool without breaking the bank this summer?

According to Consumers Energy’s website, an air conditioner is one of the biggest users of electricity. To avoid trading a low utility bill for comfort, the utility recommends running the air conditioner in the morning so it won’t have to work as hard when utility prices are higher in the afternoon.

“Your AC won’t have to work as hard and you can get your home to a comfortable temperature before electricity prices rise in the afternoon,” Consumers Energy states. “Then, from 2 to 7 p.m., simply turn your thermostat up a few degrees. Your house should stay cool, and you’ll save some money.”

Additionally, Consumers Energy recommends using a programmable thermostat to take some of the effort out of controlling your air conditioning, as well as installing an air conditioner in the shade and ensuring that it is clear of any leaves or debris. If using a window-mounted unit, close any open registers to keep cool air from escaping.

“At the end of the day, our priority is ensuring our customers have the energy they need to power their homes and businesses, and we’re more than prepared to provide that this year, even on summer’s hottest days,” Consumers Energy spokesperson Tracy Wimmer said in an email. “But for those customers looking to reduce their energy footprint or simply save money on their bills, there are a number of very easy-to-implement tips that can be utilized in the summer months — from closing doors and registers in unused areas to operating appliances like the stove or dryer in the morning or evening when it is cooler outside — helping to keep costs low without sacrificing comfort.”

DTE Energy also recommends using Energy Star-certified appliances, which are tested and verified for technologies that improve efficiency and performance while being better for the environment.

According to DTE’s website, insufficient insulation can lead to uncomfortable temperatures and increased utility bills.

“Air can leak out of your house around openings that are not in obvious areas,” the website states. “Common household air leaks can be found around the plumbing vents, attic hatch, recessed lights and basement rim joints. To maximize home efficiency, seal all the gaps where air can leak out.”

DTE also suggests ensuring that rugs, drapes or furniture are not blocking airflow from registers and changing the direction of ceiling fans to cool more efficiently.

Cooling without an air conditioner

Lasko, which manufactures electric fans, has some advice for getting the most out of them. The manufacturer points out on its website, lasko.com, that cooler air is heavier than hotter air, so placing a fan lower to the ground may better disperse the cooler air in a room.

Lasko also recommends pointing the fan at a wall that is across from where most of the activity in the room takes place. It says this placement will bounce the air off the wall and mix it with the rest of the air in the space, cooling it.

Lasko states that twin window fans working together can take in cooler air while at the same time exhausting hot air to the outdoors. Opting for this two-way circulation can help cool a room and keep it from feeling stuffy.

“Box fans are versatile in their use due to their ability to operate in windows,” Brian Schaadt, Lasko’s business unit director, said in an email. “When weather and safety permit, using a box fan facing outward in a window and opening another window in the room (or nearby room) can effectively increase fresh air indoors and exhaust polluted indoor air.”

Schaadt also suggested opening windows when it’s cooler outside at night and placing box fans to circulate the fresh air and create a cross flow ventilation system.

Looking for more ways to save?

Many local utility companies — including DTE Energy and Consumers Energy — offer rebate programs and other incentives for switching to energy-efficient appliances.

Consumers Energy also offers inspections to help homeowners find ways to make their homes more energy-efficient, while DTE can help connect homeowners with contractors.

For more information on either program, visit consumersenergy.com or dteenergy.com.

For

Editor: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 | brianlouwers@candgnews.com

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Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100

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KICK OFF SUMMER IN MOUNT CLEMENS WITH JUNE EVENTS

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MOUNT CLEMENS — For those looking for weekend fun this summer, Mount Clemens has you covered in June.

From start to end, there’s more than enough going on in the city to entertain all month long.

On Saturday, June 10, the New Street Urban Fair brings a unique art show and vendor experience to the New Street corridor. Businesses along the street juried the art submissions and vetted the vendor list, all of which is shaping up for what Weiss calls a “fun and funky” event marking a post-COVID flourishing of New Street’s businesses.

“With New Street being full now … they just said, ‘We’d like to do something down by us,’” Michelle Weiss, Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority marketing and events coordinator, said. “Most of my art shows and vendor shows are on Macomb Place.”

The New Street Urban Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Businesses supporting the event include the Bohemian Goat, Yaya’s Plant Shop, TinyTree Gallery, Weirdsville

Records and Paperback Writer Books.

Juneteenth falls on a Monday this year, but the celebration of slavery’s end begins on Friday, June 16, and runs through the holiday on June 19. The city of Mount Clemens is hosting its first-ever official Juneteenth festival running downtown on June 16 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on June 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“We’re trying to make this educational,” Weiss said. “We’re trying to inform the public as to what exactly Juneteenth is and why they celebrate it.

She added, “When I started this journey, I was surprised talking to people, how many people did not know what it was and thought it had something to do with Martin Luther King Jr. I thought this was quite interesting and maybe this is a good thing for people to understand what it is.”

The city’s event will take place along Macomb Place, similar to May’s Made in Michigan show, and entertainers will perform on the Fountain Stage.

Juneteenth celebrations have been hosted in Mount Clemens centered around the Cairns Community Center, and event planners for the Mount Clemens Juneteenth Cel-

ebration have ensured this year’s event will run all weekend long.

“We wanted to focus on embracing unity and togetherness ... something fit for family,” Malea Howard, 2023 Mount Clemens Juneteenth Committee chair, said in a statement. “We have games, great food, music, guest speakers, mental health care resources, arts and crafts for the children, and

so much more.”

Dubbed “A Community Family Reunion,” an evening dinner on June 16 kicks the weekend off. Saturday, June 17, is a “Family Game Day” with activities inside and outside the Cairns Center from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., while Sunday, June 18, is “Desserts with Dad,” allowing for a fun Father’s See EVENTS on page 17A

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Cars and spectators turn out for the 2022 Mount Clemens Car Show and Cruise. At press time, the 2023 event was set to take place June 2-3.

Clinton Township seniors award scholarships

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Clinton Township Friends of the Senior Center awarded three Chippewa Valley High School graduates with $1,000 scholarships and one $500 scholarship.

Madison Stewart is graduating summa cum laude with a 4.042 GPA and memberships in National Honor Society, Key Club, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the school’s Mental Health Committee. Stewart was executive board president of student government in her senior year while completing nearly 100 hours of community service. Stewart plans to attend Grand Valley State University and major in business administration.

Katelyn Kraemer is graduating summa cum laude with a 3.98 GPA and memberships in student government, National Honor Society and Coalition Teen Council. She is on the Youth Advisory Council for Know Resolve, a youth suicide awareness and prevention organization. Kraemer has more than 100 service hours in addition to performing in community theater. Katelyn plans to attend Michigan State University and triple major in psychology, theatre arts and arts & humanities.

Alayna Haag, is graduating summa cum laude with a 4.065 GPA. Haag served on the executive boards of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and National Honor Society. She was a member of class council and Key Club and has more than 100 hours of service. Haag will attend University of Detroit Mercy and plans to major in biology through its fiveyear physician’s assistant program.

Funding for the Friends of the Clinton Township Senior Center College Scholarship Fund comes from donations to the senior center, typically raised during various events throughout the year. The Friends’ goal is to raise at least $1,000 per year for one scholarship, though the program has been able to award scholarships to two students since 2016.

HOOKED ON FISHING

STATEWIDE — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will hold a “Free Fishing Weekend” June 10-11. During the weekend, all fishing license fees will be waived Saturday and Sunday. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations will still apply. A recreation passport will not be required for entry into state parks and boating access sites during the Free Fishing Weekend. Also during the June 10-11 weekend, residents and visitors can legally ride off-road vehicles legally without buying an ORV license or trail permit. All other ORV rules and laws still apply. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/ORVInfo.

Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame seeking nominations

New events at the HTPL

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — With summer coming up quick, the Harrison Township Public Library has a slate of new and returning events to keep the long days busy.

New for 2023 is “The Great Duck Hunt,” where visitors can find eight pictures of rubber duck around the library, record the attached code and report back to the front desk to become a duck hunt winner.

Come see The Soundz of Music Band at the HTPL’s first summer concert of the season on Saturday, June 10. The Soundz of Music Band is a four-piece, all-senior band that plays the hits from the 1920s through the 1970s.

On Saturday, June 17, bring in old and unwanted electronics for a recycling day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hard drives will be shredded.

From left to right: John Ruggirello, Madison Stewart, Joann Ruggirello, Katelyn Kraemer, Don Brasch, and Alayna Haag. Stewart, Kraemer and Haag received scholarships from the Clinton Township Friends of the Senior Center.

Closing out the month is the HTPL Summer Reading Kickoff, from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 24. Sign up for the library’s summer reading program to receive a bag of goods, visit a petting zoo and have some refreshments.

For more information about HTPL events, call (586) 329-1261 or visit htlibrary.org/events.

MSU Extension opens pest, plant diagnostic lab

MACOMB COUNTY — If you find a weird bug or plant, don’t throw it away — bring it to the experts. The Macomb County Michigan State University Extension has opened a plant and pest diagnostic lab at 21885 Dunham Road, Suite 12, in Clinton Township, allowing gardeners and other curious folks to drop off plant and insect samples on Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for testing. The lab is part of the extension’s consumer horticulture program which operates the toll-free lawn and garden hotline at (888) 674-3464 and other programs to help Macomb County residents with green thumbs.

Those with samples they wish to have tested should call the lab before arriving at (586) 469-6440. A drop box is available if the extension is not open. Sample examination costs $7. For more information call (586) 469-6440 or visit canr.msu.edu/outreach.

DETROIT — Michigan Women Forward is accepting nominations for 2023 inductees to the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame. The Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame and Historical Center, also known as HERstory, was established in 1983 to tell the stories of women’s contributions to Michigan’s history and to inspire the women and girls of tomorrow.

Nominations may be made by individuals or by representatives of organizations or groups. A candidate may

also nominate herself. Nominations may be made in either of two categories — historical (deceased candidates) or contemporary (living candidates) — and must follow the nomination criteria of Michigan Women Forward. To nominate someone, visit miwf.org/herstory and click on the “Hall of Fame” page for a nomination form and criteria. The last day for applications is July 15. Those interested in judging the 2023 Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame nominations can email Natalie Hall, chief development and program officer for Michigan Women Forward, at nhall@miwf.org.

Events

from page 15A

Day evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Juneteenth Monday’s theme is “Free at Last” and runs from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Cairns Center will be packed with activities inside and out ranging from bounce houses, to food trucks, to business and resource vendors.

Finally, June ends with a series of bright and loud bangs as the Riversight & Sound Concert & Fireworks lights up the sky on Friday, June 23. Running since the 1980s, the fireworks have always taken place on the fourth Friday in June. Fireworks will be launched from the One Crocker Place parking lot and audiences can watch the show

USPBL

from page 8A

right now, but also the first team to have a player signed by an MLB organization for the 2023 season.

On May 23, the Minnesota Twins continued their USPBL poaching with the signing of 6-foot-8 right-handed pitcher Jake Wosinski, a Michigan native from Ada, who was dominant so far this season with zero earned runs and seven strikeouts in four innings.

Aside from Wosinski, the Diamond Hoppers are the most balanced team in the league right now with veteran infielders Joe Burke, Alex Pup and Saginaw native Noah Marcoux.

“We got a lot of returners, so having guys back that you played with and you know and you’re familiar with helps a lot,” Burke said. “We kind of have the dynamic together and know what to expect from each other, and we’re ready to get it going.”

While the hitting has improved since last season, the Diamond Hoppers pitching staff continues to be strong.

Led by Luke Drummond, Ethan Young, Brett Erwin, Chris Kelly and Grand Rapids native Andrew Verbrugge, the Diamond Hoppers’ slew of arm talent mixed with offensive firepower makes it the team to beat in the league.

“I know we got the pitching, but I hope our lineup is going to be ready to go,” Burke said. “One through nine, I think it’s going to be the best in the league. It should be, but we got to go out there and compete like everyone else.”

Westside

Wooly Mammoths (1-3)

It’s been a mix of emotions for the

from the opposite bank. Northbound Gratiot Avenue will be closed and the open lot next to the Macomb County courthouse will be open for seating. R&B and funk group The Circle of Sound will play the concert prior to the fireworks.

For those looking to dance their nights away, Friday night concerts will happen at the Fountain Stage on Macomb Place on the nights of June 9 and June 16 as well as throughout July and August.

For more information about the Mount Clemens DDA and events in the city, visit mountclemens.gov/dda. For more information about the Mount Clemens Juneteenth Celebration, email mcjuneteenth@gmail.com.

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

Westside Wooly Mammoths since joining the USPBL in 2017.

While holding a pair of runner-up finishes, the past couple of years have been tough as the Mammoths hitting never seemed to truly find its groove last season.

Led by former Kansas City Royals 2019 draft pick Burle Dixon in the outfield and a crop of newly acquired talent, the Mammoths offense has been firing on all cylinders this season.

“I’m trying to be a leader for this squad and bring some wins to the Mammoths,” Dixon said. “They’ve been struggling the past few years, so I’m excited to be here and try and turn things around.”

Alongside Dixon, outfielder Francis Florentino, infielder Nick Webre and outfielder Reese Trahey, a West Bloomfield native, lead the offensive unit this season.

Macomb native and Michigan State University right-handed pitcher Kyle Bischoff headlined the Mammoths pitching staff with a league-high 15 strikeouts this season, and his numbers were strong enough to attract the Minnesota Twins’ attention. On May 31, the Twins signed Bischoff, who is the USPBL’s 48th player to sign with a Major League Baseball organization.

With Bischoff’s departure, the Mammoths will rely on veterans Beau Atkins and Novi native Grant Pytel to be consistent contributors on the mound.

Dixon said there will be one major change with the Mammoths this season.

“Confidence,” Dixon said. “We’re going to come out with confidence every day and be that person who you think you are. We’re going to come out with confidence every night and execute.”

Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

JUNE 9 & 23

Play ‘Dungeons & Dragons’: For ages 14-17, 3:305:30 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, registration required, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org

JUNE 10

Golf fundraiser: Benefit for childhood cancer camp, shotgun start at 8 a.m., Fern Hill Golf Club, 17600 Clinton River Road in Clinton Township, facebook. com/FernHillGolfClub

Kids fishing derby: For ages 16 and younger, 8-11 a.m., Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metropolitan Parkway in Harrison Township, harrisontownshipmi. gov, (586) 855-0110

Urban Street Fair: Live music, art demonstrations, vendors, interactive activities and more, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., New Street in downtown Mount Clemens, facebook.com/DowntownMountClemens

Super SatARTday!: Interactive performances, art activities, demonstrations and more, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org

JUNE 16

Board game night: 5 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, (586) 3291261, htlibrary.org

JUNE 16-17

Juneteenth Festival: Art, craft and vendor show, plus live entertainment, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, downtown Mount Clemens, (586) 469-4168

JUNE 16-19

Juneteenth celebration: Games, food, music, guest speakers, mental health care resources, arts and crafts, and more, Cairns Community Center, 58 Orchard St. in Mount Clemens, see daily schedule and times at facebook.com/MCJUNETEENTH

JUNE 17

Electronics recycling: 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Harrison

Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, registration required, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org

Puzzle competition: Groups of four race to complete 500-piece puzzle for prizes, 2 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, sign up required, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org

JUNE 20

Bid for Life!: Live and silent auction and 50-50 raffle to benefit Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund, doors at 5:30 p.m., family style dinner at 7 p.m., Vintage House Banquets and Catering, 31816 Utica Road in Fraser, (586) 774-6050, rtl.org

JUNE 23

Independence Day Celebration: Featuring The Circle of Sound Band at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks at 10 p.m., Clinton River Park on northbound Gratiot Ave. in Mount Clemens, (586) 469-4168

JUNE 24

‘Bag Childhood Cancer’: Cornhole event hosted by charity 13Forever, local radio and TV personalities scheduled to play, 2-7 p.m., Great Shots Backyard Bar & Games, 36901 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, 13forever.org/events

Summer Reading Kickoff Party: Petting zoo with donkey and alpaca, free refreshments and more, Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org

JUNE 26

Guardians of Michigan: Learn about architectural sculpture in state with historian/photographer, 7 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - Main Branch, 40900 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township, call (586) 226-5040 to register

JUNE 28

Market Days: Featuring vendor fair, food trucks, free youth programming, community resources and more, 4-7 p.m., 22013 Quinn Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-9336

JULY 5

Concert and fireworks: Inflatables, face painting and more from 6-9 p.m., Your Generation in Concert from 8:30-10 p.m. and fireworks around 10:05 p.m., 40700 Romeo Plank Road, myctpr.com/238/ClintonTownship-Fireworks

ONGOING

‘Emergence’: Exhibit featuring 45 selected works by 25 members of Birmingham Society of Women Painters, on display until June 10, Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, theartcenter.org

Concerts on the Lawn: Soundz of Music (1920s1970s hits) June 10, Dolly Falls in Love (Lakeshore Ukelele Strummers) July 15 and All Together Now (featuring blues musician Robert Jones and poet M.L. Liebler), 1-2 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, registration required, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org

‘Let’s Zoom! Traveling Show’: Self-portraits by regional artists, on display until July 5, Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, www. theartcenter.org

Mount Clemens Farmers Market: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday until Nov. 18, City Park & Ride Lot, 141 N. River Road, (586) 493-7600, www.mountclemens farmersmarket.com

Men overcoming loss ofpartner/spouse: Meetings

6-7:30 p.m. every third Tuesday of month, virtual and in person, Hospice of Michigan, 39531 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, wlawton@hom.org, (586) 263-8514

Knitting and crochet circle: 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays, Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Suite A, projects donated to charitable organizations, group in need of yarn, fleece craft store gift cards, (586) 329-1261

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

SUMMER CONCERTS

6:30–9 p.m. at Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metropolitan Parkway in Harrison Township

June 11: Free Beer

June 18: Stone Blossoms

June 25: The Firewalkers

July 2: Persuasion

July 9: Taylor Tucky

July 16: Gridiron & Friends

July 23: 3rd Degree Burns

July 30: Bugs Beddow & The Good Stuff

Aug. 6: Shattered (Rolling Stones tribute)

Aug. 13: Weekend Comeback

Aug. 20: Sax Maniacs

Aug. 27: Dig-A-Phony (Beatles tribute)

Sept. 3: Dave Hamilton Band

7-9 p.m. at Fountain Stage

7-9 p.m. at Fountain Stage on Macomb Place in downtown Mount Clemens

June 9 & Sept. 15: leen Murray

June 16: John P

July 7: Spooky Sterling

July 14: Strictly Fine

July 21: Joe Alan Band

July 28: Dave Hamilton

Aug. 4: Tom Bartlemay

Aug. 11: Whiplash

Aug. 18: Ivory Steel

Aug. 25: Motor City Josh

Sept. 8: Olivia Van Goor

6-8:30 p.m. at Waterfront Park, 34890 Jeffertson Ave. in Harrison Township

June 22: Hung Up

July 27: The Blue Cat Band

Aug. 24: Rock Steady

2023 MOUNT CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

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— SIX SENSATIONAL SENIORS —

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Ukiah Charrette Wyatt Williams

Shionna Patterson (Valedictorian)

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Officers join chase

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Clinton Township police officers were tapped in to help stop suspects on the run from Detroit police on May 9.

After reports of a red Honda Civic driving recklessly came in, officers spotted the car on the shoulder of Village Road with an out-of-state license plate. After officers turned on their lights, suspects drove the car toward 15 Mile Road and Gratiot Avenue, drove onto the grass outside of a gas station, hit curbs, and drove into a pharmacy parking lot before hitting a lamp post and flipping the car. Officers got the suspects out of the car and arrested them as flames were noticed coming from the vehicle, which was later “fully engulfed in flames.”

The car was allegedly connected to a stolen vehicle report out of Detroit, with teen suspects. Police later learned that the two suspects were 11 and 14 years old.

Delivery deception

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — On May 5, a man walked into the FedEx store on Gratiot Avenue, showed identification and picked up packages for Ahee Jewelers.

A manager later called to inquire about the state of the packages. FedEx told the manager the packages were picked up, but the manager said nobody had the permission to pick up the packages.

Man arrested on warrants found with firearm, body armor

EASTPOINTE — An Eastpointe man was found with a firearm and body armor after being arrested on outstanding warrants, according to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.

On Sunday, May 7, Devonta Moore, 19, was arrested on a felony probation violation warrant as well as other warrants in Eastpointe. When he was arrested, he was found with a firearm and body armor, according to a press release from the Prosecutor’s Office.

Moore was charged with felon in possession of a firearm and felon in possession of ammunition, both five-year felonies, and two counts of felony firearm, a mandatory two-year felony.

Magistrate Mark Makowski arraigned Moore May 8 in Eastpointe’s 38th District Court. Makowski set Moore’s bond at $200,000 cash or surety. He was scheduled for a preliminary examination at 1 p.m. June 6 in front of District Court Judge Kathleen Galen.

“Mr. Devonte Moore is a young man with exponential growth opportunity,” his attorney, Jennipher Colthirst, said in a text message. “He has a lot on his plate right now, but he is looking forward to the day it will all be history.”

Moore escaped police custody while being transported after his arraignment at the 38th District Court. Moore was taken into custody during a traffic stop Aug. 4 after Eastpointe police detectives tracked him to Interstate 96 near Brighton.

Roseville man found guilty of 3 counts of criminal sexual conduct with minor

ROSEVILLE — A 59-year-old Roseville man was found guilty on three counts of criminal sexual conduct with a minor.

On Monday, May 15, Mark Boodry was convicted by a jury on two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct (victim under 13, defendant over 17), a felony punishable by up to life in prison; and one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct (victim under 13, defendant over 17), a 15-year felony.

Boodry is scheduled to be sentenced at 8:30 a.m. July 19 in front of Macomb County Circuit Court Judge Joseph Toia.

Vehicle windows smashed

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 2:49 p.m. May 3, officers were dispatched to the 51000 block of Shelby Road for a vandalism report. The caller stated that a known acquaintance of hers had come by her residence and smashed out all the windows of her car.

Officers located the male suspect nearby. The suspect had cuts on his hands, police said. Police found video footage that reportedly showed the suspect holding a brick in his hand and smashing out all the windows of the car. The suspect was placed under arrest for malicious destruction of property and transported to the Police Department.

Robbery reported ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 8:43 a.m. on May 14, a report was made of a robbery that happened the same day in the 21000 block of Harper Avenue.

Six officers and a sergeant responded to the scene. Upon arrival, an officer spoke with one of the clerks, a 64-year-old woman, who said a man wearing a black ski mask and a black coat took over $500. She said the man entered the business with his hand in his coat pointing what she believed to be a gun at a clerk. The suspect did not say he had a gun. The suspect said he needed money and started to open the registers and take all the money. The suspect then went northbound on Harper Avenue.

Officers secured the parking lot with caution tape and waited for a K-9 unit to arrive. The unit was from Warren and the officer called more officers to assist with the track.

suspect was reportedly seen entering the business, opening most of the cash drawers, taking the bills, calmly leaving the premises and heading northbound on Harper. On camera, the officer observed a fourdoor vehicle parked facing the east side of Harper. The vehicle arrived shortly before the robbery and left shortly after. It was unknown if it was involved. Other officers received calls and were approached regarding the incident from multiple people. Another officer was able to collect possible evidence from the scene. Other businesses were also able to provide video.

Suspected counterfeit bill passed ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 6:37 p.m. on May 4, a report was made of alleged fraud on the same day in the 22000 block of Greater Mack Avenue, involving an alleged counterfeit bill.

Upon arrival, an officer made contact with the manager, a 57-year-old woman, who was on a video call with her staff. She said that two male subjects arrived in a black vehicle just before the call. One of them could be seen passing a counterfeit $20 bill to make a $12 purchase for a sweatshirt. The staff said the two suspects have attempted to pass fake bills multiple times at the store, but the staff had stopped them before today.

The staff turned over the two suspected counterfeit bills; the first one was a clear fake, and the second was a more sophisticated bill with a brown mark on it. The first was said to be caught by staff at a previous date and no purchases were made with it. The second was used to buy the sweatshirt.

The vehicle used was registered to a 29-year-old man who matched the description of one of the subjects. The second suspect who passed the counterfeit bill was unknown.

Juveniles run through mall, fight

STERLING HEIGHTS — Juveniles were reported to be running through Lakeside Mall, 14200 Lakeside Circle, the evening of May 6, and at one point, around 12 juveniles were allegedly part of a group that was fighting.

According to a police report, at some point, the fighting parties had broken up. When police got there and checked out the parking lot, the juveniles were apparently gone.

Juveniles pretend to ride bikes from Flint to Sterling

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the way to Sterling Heights. Police later learned that the juveniles were all Sterling Heights residents, and they reportedly were just fooling with the caller and thought the caller was laughing and taking it as a joke. Police took no further action.

Indecent exposure suspect sought GROSSE POINTE CITY — An unknown male suspect was being sought by police after he reportedly exposed himself to a woman in the area of Charlevoix Avenue and Grosse Pointe Court at around 12:05 p.m. May 16.

Prop money used for real purchases

GROSSE POINTE CITY — Police said a pair of unknown suspects made eight purchases of less than $10 each over the course of several hours at Panera in The Village May 16 using $100 bills for each purchase and receiving more than $90 back in change each time. Police said the suspects were using movie prop $100 bills. A report states that the same cashier was responsible for each of these transactions.

Radar detector taken

GROSSE POINTE WOODS — An unknown suspect is said in a police report to have stolen a radar detector from the dashboard of a vehicle while it was parked in the driveway of a home in the 800 block of Woods Lane between 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. May 14. Police said there were no signs of forced entry and the victim said he wasn’t sure whether the vehicle was locked at the time of the larceny.

Leaf blowers stolen

GROSSE POINTE PARK — Unknown suspects are said to have made off with three RedMax backpack leaf blowers worth a total of more than $2,000 while they were in a landscape trailer parked in the 1300 block of Audubon Road at around 3:50 p.m. May 16. The crew was working in the backyard of the home when the larceny occurred, a police report states. A witness told police the suspects had been circling the area before they approached the trailer. While no description of the suspects was available, the witness told police they were driving in a white Jeep Compass and a white Chevy Trailblazer.

Flag swiped GROSSE POINTE PARK — A police report states that an unknown suspect took a “Trump 2024 Make America Great Again” flag from the front porch of a residence in the 1000 block of Beaconsfield Avenue between the hours of 10 p.m. May 18 and 11 a.m. May 19.

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