SUMMER READING IS BACK AT THE LIBRARY/12A
Trustees vote against ITC, hospital power lines
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — After a long, hot night in council chambers at the Robert J. Cannon Civic Center, Clinton Township trustees voted to deny a power
line project along 19 Mile Road on June 2. First brought to the board in 2024 with the purpose of connecting the Henry Ford Macomb Hospital expansion to the power grid, the project became embroiled in controversy after residents of the Westchester Village Condominiums took issue with
the expected route as it would suspend the lines roughly 50 feet away from their homes. What followed were months of outreach, experiments, Freedom of Information Act requests and lobbying from the township to back an alternative route that would send the lines along Dalcoma Drive on land
Students raise money for at-risk
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
CHESTERFIELD TOWNSHIP
— In a dimly lit gymnasium inside Francis A. Higgins Elementary School on May 30, fifth grade students fueled by orange juice and sugar cookies celebrated the end of their school year in only the most exciting way possible: simulating the real estate market.
Equipped with slideshows and miniature homes of their own design, the students of Brooke Niskar’s class in the L’Anse Creuse Public Schools district are upselling their peers’ parents on the opportunity to take home their final elementary school project. Yet this is not some elaborate lesson in business studies or anything of the sort, but the final step in a months-long STEM edu-
See STARBASE on page 14A
owned by Macomb Community College — an alternative that was handedly rejected by the college’s trustees on May 21.
“I started this process looking at the issue knowing we need power to the hospital,” Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem
STARBASE program
Photo provided by STARBASE
LEFT: Higgins Elementary fifth grade students Bryce Sampier, left, Christian Mortinger and Kate Luplow pose with their solar home project. The students’ class auctioned off their solar home projects to raise money for the Selfridge-based STARBASE STEM education program. ABOVE: A student at STARBASE has a turn at a flight simulator.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
SECOND FRONT PAGE
Commissioners back parking permit amendment
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
MOUNT CLEMENS — Following months of complaints about nonresidents parking along residential streets, the Mount Clemens City Commission voted on June 2 to move forward with an amendment that would allow for stricter parking restrictions.
The amendment to Ordinance No. 20.200, approved unanimously on its first reading and set to be back before the board for a second reading as early as Monday, June 16, would allow the city to establish what it calls “restricted residential parking permit zone(s).”
“This ordinance amendment proposes the designation of such zones in order to reduce and alleviate parking congestion and hazardous conditions resulting from the use of streets within residential areas for the parking of vehicles by nonresidents,” City Manager Gregg Shipman said. “The ordinance prohibits the parking of vehicles in such zones without a residential parking permit and prescribes the penalties for fraudulently obtaining any residential parking permit or parking sticker issued by the city as a misdemeanor.”
Drafted by Robert Huth, attorney for the city of Mount Clemens, the amendment gives the city the authority to establish such zones but does not establish any zones upon its passing. New zones would have to be approved by the City Commission.
The amendment comes after residents in the neighborhood to the east of the post office on Gratiot Avenue and South Main Street complained for months about postal workers parking along residential streets during the day. While the city attempted to work with the post office to resolve the issue, the effort was unsuccessful.
Commissioner Theresa McGarity made it clear that without resi-
See PARKING on page 8A
Weekend shuttles again rolling in Harrison Township
BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — With summer rolling in, Harrison Township has started up its shuttle bus program on weekends for residents and guests to use.
Jessica Savage, Harrison Township’s senior program coordinator, said people who want to use the shuttle service should call (586) 612-4454. The shuttle bus runs only in Harrison Township and makes stops at marinas, grocery stores and more. Though the service is free, shuttle drivers appreciate tips.
Shuttle bus driver Bob Williams said it gets pretty busy on the weekends. He said the weekend
he worked, he had four to eight riders per stop. There are two bus driver shifts throughout the day.
“Mainly I was picking people up at the marinas,” Williams said.
“Yeah, the marinas love it,” Savage said.
The shuttle runs from 5 p.m. to midnight on Fridays, 9 a.m. to midnight on Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on holidays. The last pickup is a half hour before the scheduled end of operation for the day. The services are for those 18 and older. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian if they wish to use the shuttle buses. Buses only drive around Harrison Township, but on Sundays they can go to local churches for
The shuttle bus will again be available for those who live in Harrison Township this summer.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
OUR NEXT EDITION WILL DELIVER TO HOMES JUNE 25
ABOVE: Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickerham awards and shakes hands with Meritorious Award recipients Deputies Aaron Schmittler, Morgan Cooney, Corey Babbitt and Michael Valken at the 2025 Sheriff’s Recognition Awards.
LEFT: Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham and his executive staff shake hands with new hires and promoted members of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office during the 2025 Sheriff’s Recognition Awards on May 22.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Sheriff recognizes deputies, community members with awards
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — On May 22 at the John R. Armstrong Performing Arts Center, Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham honored members of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office and select members of the community at the 2025 Sheriff’s Recognition Awards. Honors were awarded based on exceptional performance and nominations from coworkers. Categories included lifesaving, professional excellence, various “of the year” awards and the Sheriff’s Star Award. The awards were emceed by Simon Shaykhet of WXYZ.
THOSE HONORED INCLUDED:
Sheriff’s Star Award: Project Manager Crystal Montagne
Command Officer of the Year: Sgt. Eric Holmes Deputy of the Year: Deputy Bret Sypniewski
Corrections Deputy of the Year: Corrections Deputy Philip Camus
Dispatcher of the Year: Dispatcher Cidnee Schramm Employee of the Year: Fiscal analyst Julie Patterson
MCLAREN MACOMB NURSES, STAFF HOLD PICKET
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 22 from noon to about 1:30 p.m., nurses and support staff held an informational picket outside of McLaren Macomb Hospital.
Organized by the Office and Professional Employees International Union Local 40, the picket aimed to raise awareness of the union’s desire for higher staffing levels and “highlight the hospital’s union-busting tactics, stalled negotiations, inadequate proposals and abusive regressive language, along with retaliation on our members’ rights,” according to an email from OPEIU Local 40.
“McLaren Macomb has always been a community hospital,” Dina Carlisle, OPEIU Local 40 president, said via press release. “This is our reputation. These are our family members, our patients and our friends. We’re trying to do what’s best for our community, not just McLaren’s pocketbook. The ongoing unfair labor practices—such as direct dealing, regressive bargaining, refusing to bargain in good faith and targeting our members—must stop. We are fighting for our rights and for the safety of everyone who comes through our doors.”
McLaren Macomb president and CEO Tracey Franovich stated that McLaren hopes to reach a contract with the union.
“Our goal is to establish a contract for each group that is beneficial to both parties, and we are committed to that outcome,” Franovich said via press release. “As negotiations continue, our hospital leadership and physicians remain focused on patient safety, and the bargaining process has not compromised that focus. However, the union has chosen to conduct an informational picket, which is within their rights.
“McLaren Macomb has earned recognition for quality patient care and remains committed to providing the highest quality care to the community we serve. Our team members work diligently every day to improve clinical outcomes and maintain a safe environment for care. The current union activities will not distract our team from this dedication to our patients. We are hopeful that we will reach mutually agreeable contracts in the very near future. Until that time, our focus will continue to be serving the patients who come to our hospital and entrust us with their care,” Franovich said.
Once I get the right diagnosis for the cause of your heel pain, I will provide you with a tailored treatment plan, which outlines exactly how we can fix your heel pain and keep you free from future foot pain. If you are ready, call me for an appointment to start your journey back to normal life, free from heel pain.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Nurses and support staff hold an informational picket outside of McLaren Macomb Hospital on May 22.
COMMUNITY BRIEF
Downtown Mount Clemens events
MOUNT
CLEMENS
— Despite the construction on Macomb Place, plenty of events are planned to take place in Mount Clemens this month.
The Uptown Friday Night Concert Series returns for its 15th season, taking place every Friday between June 6 and Aug. 8. The first six concerts will take place on the Main Stage located on North Walnut between Macomb Place and New Street, while the remaining six concerts will take place on the Main Stage on Macomb Place between Pine Street and southbound Gratiot across from the Anton Art Center.
June 14 will be a packed day of events with the Anton Art Center’s Super SatART-
Shuttles
from page 3A
those who attend services.
Operators said the shuttle allows residents to make safe decisions if they become too inebriated to drive. Williams said the people he picked up on his first weekend night should not have been on the road, but they were smart enough to know not to drive.
Williams hasn’t had any bad experiences with rowdy passengers and Savage said she hasn’t had any complaints from the drivers yet.
Savage said people love the shuttle service.
“It’s useful, especially because a lot of
day taking place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; the Bohemian Goat’s Urban Street Fair will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and the Natural Health & Wellness Fair, organized by the Urban Naturopath, will take place from noon to 4 p.m.
Juneteenth celebrations will commemorate the end of slavery across Mount Clemens on June 17. One celebration is set to take place at the Cairns Community Center at 11 a.m., and the Mount Clemens Public Library will host its own celebration with trivia and traditional Black American foods from 6-7 p.m.
For more information about events in Mount Clemens go to downtownmountcle mens.org/events.
people around here do like to have a good time at the bars,” Savage said.
The service started in 2006. Savage said guests who come from out of state to Harrison Township often don’t have a car.
“When they’re here for the weekends, they can use the shuttle instead of having a car here to go get their groceries or go out, whatever they want to do,” Savage said.
Savage would like to remind passengers to always be courteous to the drivers.
Riders should also let drivers know in advance if they change their minds and are no longer in need of transport by calling the booking number.
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.
Trustees
said. “The approach and the tactics were not above board, were not straightforward, were not presented fairly. I would not want power lines that close to my doorstep; no one from ITC, no one from any organization that’s here, would want power lines placed that close to their door and an easement that extends into the bedrooms (where) they lay their head at night.”
The 6-1 decision to deny the ITC project — Treasurer Mike Aiello providing the lone vote in favor of it — came with cheers and claps from attendees that packed the board’s chambers, where they put up with unbearable heat as the building’s air conditioning was broken. Many stayed throughout the three-hour meeting to see the final and almost inevitable vote be made.
Few defenders of the project took to the floor, limited mostly to representatives from ITC and the hospital. ITC released a statement on June 3 condemning the board’s decision.
“ITC is disappointed that the Clinton Township Board of Trustees voted to deny a Special Use permit to construct an electric transmission line on 19 Mile Road,” the statement sent by ITC Lead Communications Specialist Andrew Johnson said. “Henry Ford Macomb Hospital continues to operate with an electrical deficiency and is relying on backup generators. This decision significantly delays our ability to provide the hospital with the reliable power it urgently needs. If approved, ITC could have completed the project 6-8 weeks from
the start of construction. The proposed 19 Mile Road route is the result of a thorough engineering process — and it remains the only feasible route. ITC remains committed to supporting Henry Ford Macomb Hospital. Our next steps are to review all options to complete the project, despite the significant delay due to the Board’s application denial.”
Marc Corriveau, Henry Ford Health System’s vice president of government affairs, shared with the board some insight into what those next steps may be.
“I’ll let the lawyers talk to (consequences of not approving the project) but as described to me, there would be litigation,” Corriveau said. “There would be an application that would have to go through the (Michigan) Public Service Commission. And I’m being told, worst case scenario, it could be another two years.”
Recreational restructuring?
Prior to the vote against the power line project, trustees voted unanimously to contract with consulting firm Plante Moran for up to $28,000 to study a possible merger of the Senior Center and Recreation Department. The study would consider the possibility of combining the two departments, which respectively cost $1.4 and $1.5 million to run annually, into a new “Senior and Family Recreation” department. The decision to consider this merger was brought forth by Plante Moran in light of the Senior Center director’s retirement.
Plante Moran expects to present its findings to the board in the fall, and a potential second study phase could be approved later at a cost of up to $15,000.
Bus: 586-263-7500 courtneyseibold.com
Parking
from page 3A
dents continuing to bring the issue to the commission and the city, progress on dealing with the parking would not be where it is today. She and fellow Commissioner Erik Rick stressed that getting this work done does not happen overnight.
“The ship of state turns slowly. It takes time,” Rick said. “Just because you’re not seeing an answer now, or you’re seeing what looks like it’s not a full answer yet, there’s a whole team of people trying to make things better here.”
Pride Month
With the meeting being the commis-
sion’s first in June, Mayor Laura Kropp read a proclamation declaring the month of June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the city. Later in the meeting, commissioners shared their thoughts about the declaration.
“Almost everyone knows someone in their life who is a member of the community,” Commissioner Spencer Calhoun said. “You might be related to them, they might be a friend, it might be someone you work with. And especially now it is (important). Pride started off as a protest. It didn’t start as a party. It was a protest. People got together because they were being harassed and they stood up, and that’s still happening today. There are a lot of movements that are still going on that started off as a protest and kept the flame going. While there is time for everyone to celebrate and that’s what a lot of
people see, there’s still a fight going on.”
According to a 2023 Pride Source article, Calhoun came to Mount Clemens after being kicked out of his home for being gay.
Kropp spoke about harassment she received on social media for her support of Pride Month and the city’s LGBTQ+ residents.
“As long as I am the mayor of the city, I just will not stand for any member of our community to not be welcomed and not be part of our community, to not feel part of our community,” Kropp said. “You can continue to throw insults my way, you can continue to throw whatever you want, but as long as I’m the mayor I will make sure we
continue to recognize people who are marginalized.”
Budget approved
Commissioners approved the city’s fiscal year 2025-26 budget unanimously. It was last brought before the commission as its May 19 meeting where a public hearing was held.
More information about the budget can be found in the meeting’s agenda packet under the “Government” tab at mountclemens. gov.
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
Polish festival returning to Sterling Heights for 43rd year
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — A celebration of Polish food and culture is returning to Sterling Heights later this month.
Now in its 43rd year, the American Polish Festival will bring a mix of Polish bands, local music, folk dancers, arts and crafts, and Polish/American cuisine to the grounds of the American Polish Century Club June 20-22.
“We’re very excited to be hosting our 43rd annual Polish festival,” Festival Chair Arnie Beller said in a statement. “We’ve had second- and third-generation families coming every year for all of the music, fun, food and crafts.”
According to a press release, this year’s craft show will feature over 50 different
crafters displaying their works. Additionally, each day will feature a number of performances from different artists as well as different activities, including traditional Polish dance performances throughout each day, a Pierogi eating contest and a Polka Mass at noon Sunday.
This year’s festival will also feature three Polish beers, including one that was brewed specifically for the festival, as well as domestic beers and Polish and premium spirits, according to the press release. There will also be American food available.
“Our trademarked Polish nacho and Polish egg rolls are the best anywhere, and this year we will have new comfort food items on the menu at the Kielbasa Kafe,” Beller said.
Leonard
Palermino, general manager of
SCHOOL BRIEF
Dakota teacher named Educator of the Year
LANSING — On July 3, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Dakota High School teacher Kelly Heberholz as the 2025 winner of the Michigan Lottery’s 2025 Educator of the Year award, which comes with a $10,000 prize.
“Congratulations to Kelly Heberholz for her well-deserved recognition as the Michigan Lottery’s Educator of the Year,” Whitmer said via press release. “For over a decade, Kelly has brought her A-game to the classroom, teaching students at Dakota High how to love science and work together to solve problems. She is an exceptional campus leader, helping to pull together school-wide events that connect students to the community. I’m so grateful for educators like Kelly who not only prepare the next generation for the rest of their lives but also embody values every day that we should all aspire to live up to.”
Herberholz teaches science and is currently an administrative team intern at Dakota High School in Macomb Township, part of the Chippewa Valley Schools district. Herberholz earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Michigan State University and has taught at Dakota for the past 12 years.
Century Banquet Center, which hosts the event, said the festival is an important way for the Polish community to reminisce about its culture while also being able to share it with newer generations.
“We like to keep our newer generation informed, to share the upbringing that we had and the culture that we had by passing that to the next generation,” he said. “One way to pass that is to show, by example.”
For the American Polish Century Club, Palermino said the festival is a way for it to honor its commitment to its members and the community by promoting Polish heritage.
“It’s nice to know that we’re part of the succession of traditions and culture that we’re passing on,” he said.
The 43rd annual American Polish Festival and Craft Show is being held June 2022 at the American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane, in Sterling Heights. Admission costs $5 per person and anyone under 17 is free. Free parking and shuttles can be found at the Career Prep Center and Sterling Heights High School.
For a complete schedule of events, visit americanpolishfestival.com.
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
Photo provided
Michigan Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli, left, poses with Dakota High School teacher Kelly Heberholz during a ceremony honoring Heberholz as the 2025 Michigan Lottery Educator of the Year.
CRIME WATCH
Body in river
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 29 at around 2:30 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the Clinton River for a possible body in the water beneath the southbound Gratiot Avenue bridge.
Deputies recovered the body, which was determined to belong to a 59-year-old Eastpointe man. The Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that nothing was suspicious with the body and determined that the cause of death was drowning.
Dog trouble
MOUNT CLEMENS — One May 26 at around 5 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were sent to the 190 block of N. Christine Circle for an animal complaint.
A 48-year-old woman who resided in the block told deputies her neighbor’s dog was chasing her kids in the common space between their homes. The chasing reportedly led to the kids tripping and falling.
Deputies spoke with the neighbor, an 81-year-old man, who said the kids taunt the dog and that the dog thinks they are playing with it.
Phone tag
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 24 at around 2 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke with a 52-year-old
Fraser woman about a hit-and-run incident.
The woman told deputies that she wished to keep the incident a private matter, but that her attempts to call the phone number left at her car went to voicemail. Deputies called the number and managed to reach the 23-year-old Macomb Township man, who confirmed the details of the incident and also wished to handle the matter privately.
Catalytic converter theft
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On May 21 at around 11:20 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the 25000 block of Joy Boulevard for a larceny report.
The caller, a 71-year-old Clinton Township man, told deputies the catalytic converter to the mobile home he kept on the property was stolen. After last using the mobile home in April, he attempted to start the vehicle earlier that day and discovered the issue.
Missing remote
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — One May 19 at around 8:30 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the 37000 block of Hazel Street for a larceny from an automobile report.
Deputies spoke with a 51-year-old Harrison Township woman who said her garage door opener was stolen from her unlocked Audi SUV. She discovered the theft when she entered the Audi around 3:30 p.m., where she also found storage consoles opened and papers strewn about the interior.
The woman valued the garage door opener at $25.
Summer reading is back at the library
BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Summer reading is back at the Harrison Township Public Library with a new theme and new activities patrons young and old can enjoy.
The program kicks off with activities and fun from noon to 2 p.m. on June 21 at the library. Tina Rossow, a youth services librarian, said the kickoff is for everyone. She said they were hosting something called a foam party with goggles and much more. The library will also have refreshments like lemonade and hot dogs as well as other activities such as crafts.
The theme this year for the summer reading program is “Color Our World.”
The program starts on June 21 and lasts until Aug. 16. Haley Rogers, an adult services librarian, said all age groups will have to register for it at the library or online.
“For the adults, we’ll have a table at summer reading where they can register and if they register, they get a free tumbler,” Rogers said.
She went on to say adults have a set of tasks they can complete in order to earn raffle tickets to try to win a set of three different prize baskets.
Rossow said young people have a bingo card with separate tasks such as a reading time limit and other fun activities. Once they complete a bingo, they can bring it to the library to pick a prize from the treasure chest.
HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
Delivered to Your Door (or Express Pick-Up)
“And they also get to pick a coupon that we’ve gotten from local businesses,” Rossow said.
Coupons can include things like free ice cream, a free cookie and more. Rossow said at the end of the program there are big grand prize baskets that children can put tickets in each week they turn in their bingo card. Tickets to places like LEGOLAND and more can be won in these raffles as well.
“It’s kind of cool,” Rossow said. “It’s just little incentives to encourage them to read over the summer and to keep up on the reading skills.”
Teens have two baskets geared toward their age group to try to win. They will receive punch cards to complete.
Both youth and teens can pick out a free book at the end of the program.
Brittany Ploep, an adult services librarian, said adults can also use the Michigan Activity Pass, online databases and more to complete their pamphlet.
“It’s not just reading on the adult side but interacting and using kind of like what we can offer them, too,” Ploep said.
Starting Aug. 1, patrons 18 and up can pick up paint sets and easels for a mini art show at the end of the summer.
Rossow said she’s excited about the sponsors and to see their hard work pay off.
For more information, patrons can visit the website at htlibrary.org. The library is located at 38255 L’Anse Creuse Street.
Call Staff Writer Alyssa Ochss at (586) 498-1103.
Taking Summer Party Orders
Mon-Sat 10am-6pm
OUR COMMUNITY - You are Invited to SASS* ‘If
(1
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.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Pictured from left, Adult Services Librarian Brittany Ploep, Youth Services Librarian Tina Rossow and Adult Services Librarian Haley Rogers will welcome patrons for the summer reading program at the Harrison Township Public Library.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
13A/ JOURNAL • JUNE 11, 2025
JUNE 11-14
Art exhibits: See “Members Exhibitions 2025” and “Emerging Women Artists of Metro Detroit,” presented by Detroit Society of Women Painters and Sculptors, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place in Mount Clemens, free admission, (586) 469-8666, theartcenter.org, read story at candgnews.com
JUNE 17
‘What Does the Habitat Need?’: Learn about different species of insects and observe them in new home, presented by Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 2 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at (586) 226-5073, cmpl.libnet.info/events
Bid for Life auction and dinner: Presented by Right to Life of Michigan, items include Treetops Resort golf package, one-week stay at condo in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and Detroit Pistons and Michigan State University football tickets, guest auctioneer George Blaha scheduled, 5:30 p.m., Vintage House, 31816 Utica Road in Fraser, (586) 774-6050, macombrlm@rtl.org, rtl.org/event/bid-for-life-auction-dinner
JUNE 19
Trivia night: Compete in teams of eight or be placed with group, includes unlimited pizza, salad and pop, 6:30-8 p.m., Total Sports, 40501 Production Drive in Harrison Township, presented by Harrison Township Public Library, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
JUNE 21
Run Drugs Out of Town 5K Run/Walk: Presented by nonprofit Face Addiction Now (aims to educate, dispel stigma, and support and assist those affected by disease), 2,000 participants expected, 10 a.m., Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, free food, refreshments and activities follow, (586) 438-8500, faceaddictionnow. org/events/run-drugs-out-of-town
Summer Reading Kickoff Party: Includes foam party, food trucks and Kona Ice truck, lemonade, hot dogs, popcorn and cotton candy, face painting, bracelet making, and special guests, noon-2 p.m., Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse (Suite A), (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
Learn about reptiles: For ages 3-11, presented by The Reptarium, 2:30 p.m., Clinton-Macomb Public Library - South Branch, 35679 S. Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township, register at (586) 226-5073, cmpl.libnet. info/events
JUNE 25
Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Aurelio’s Italian Grill, 43080 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Esther at (586) 264-1939
JUNE 26
Rock N Read in the Park: Stories, songs and games, bring blanket and lunch, 10 a.m., George George Memorial Park, 40500 Moravian Drive in Clinton Township, (586) 226-5073, cmpl.libnet.info/events
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, also held July 17 and Aug. 14, registration required, (586) 465-0588
ONGOING
Summer Concert Series: Hear Mob Opera (classic rock) June 15, Karen Flynn & Step Aside (rock, country and blues) June 22, Mainstream Drive (high-energy dance cover band) June 29, The Yacht Seas (yacht rock) July 6, Stone Blossoms (classic rock) July 13, Brad Stuart (country) July 20, Gridiron & Friends (party) July 27, The Best of Billy & Elton (Billy Joel and Elton John tributes) Aug. 3, Velvet Steel (top 40 rock and pop) Aug. 10, Vinyl Rockit (party) Aug. 17, Taylor Tucky (country) Aug. 24, and Larry Lee & the Back in the Day Band (funk, R&B and soul) Sept. 1, 6:30-9 p.m., Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metropolitan Parkway in Harrison Township, metroparks.com/lakest-clair-metropark
Summer Sounds: Free concerts from 5-8 p.m. FridaysSaturdays and 3-6 p.m. Sundays until Aug. 31 (3-6 p.m. July 4), also 3-6 p.m. Sept. 1 (Labor Day), Center Court at The Mall at Partridge Creek, 17420 Hall Road in Clinton Township, see lineup at shoppartridgecreek. com/events
Book Break at the Beach: Stories, songs, experiments and activities, 11 a.m. Mondays June 16-Aug. 11, playground pavilion at Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metropolitan Parkway in Harrison Township, presented by Harrison Township Public Library and Nature Center, (586) 329-1261, htlibrary.org/events
Wellness Wednesdays: Free fitness classes sponsored by Henry Ford Health, includes zumba through July 9 and yoga July 16-Aug. 27, 9-10 a.m., Center Court at The Mall at Partridge Creek, 17420 Hall Road in Clinton Township, shoppartridgecreek.com/events
Cars & Coffee: See classics and more in parking lot, java provided by Eastside Roasterz, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 28, July 26 and Aug. 23, Pleasantrees (former Gibraltar Trade Center), 237 North River Road in Mount Clemens, more on eventbrite.com
Monthly car show: 5-8 p.m. June 19, July 17, Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, Sanders Chocolate and Ice Cream Shoppe, 23770 Hall Road in Clinton Township, (586) 464-5372
Live music: 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Great Baraboo Brewing Co., 35905 Utica Road in Clinton Township, (586) 792-7397, greatbaraboo.com
Social groups: Find meetups for yoga, knitting and crocheting, babies, kids and teens, book clubs and storytime, Lego and more, Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse St. (Suite A), (586) 329-
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.
1261, htlibrary.org/events
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 10:30 a.m. every second Monday of month, Big Boy, 16880 Hall Road in Clinton Township, RSVP to Gerry at (586) 556-9471, widowedfriends.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
Take Off Pounds Sensibly: Weight-loss group for ages 7 and older, includes education, ideas, recipes, accountability, support and prizes, confidential weigh-ins at 5:30 p.m. and meetings at 6 p.m. every Tuesday, Tucker Senior Center, 26980 Ballard St. in
Harrison Township, contact Barb at (586) 549-2925 or tbreardon@comcast.net
Farmers markets: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays through November, City Park & Ride Lot, 141 N. River Road, mcfarmersmarket@gmail.com, (586) 493-7600, mountclemensfarmersmarket.com
• 9 a.m.-2 p.m. June 14, July 12, Aug. 9, Sept. 13 and Oct. 11, John F. Kennedy Knights of Columbus Council #5460, 33320 Kelly Road in Clinton Township, (586) 610-2990
Health workshops: For hypertension, diabetes, pre-diabetes and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
STARBASE
from page 1A
cation project turned fundraiser for one of Macomb County’s most notable educational institutions — STARBASE One, located on the premises of Selfridge Air National Guard Base.
“I really like it,” Kate Luplow, a fifth grade student in Niskar’s class, said of the auction fundraiser. “I was nervous for it, but it turned out really well.”
For those lucky enough to have attended it, STARBASE One is the field trip to end all field trips. The first-in-the-country nonprofit education center has combined science, technology, engineering and mathematics education with a hands-on, fun experience for grade schoolers since 1991.
As the name suggests, STARBASE One takes its theme after space exploration. Students get to explore a full-scale recreation of the International Space Station’s Destiny lab module, learn how to program robots by trying to get a rover across a simulated Martian landscape, dine under a re-creation of Alan Shepard’s Freedom 7 capsule at the Milky Way Cafe and try their hand at technologies like 3D printing and computer-aided design software.
A common highlight of a STARBASE One excursion is a chance to take a seat in the facility’s space shuttle nose simulator. Students and teachers alike rave about getting to experience a takeoff from the retired space plane’s cockpit, as well as getting a front-row view of docking with a space station and trying their luck at gliding the shuttle back down to Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Even with all the space paraphernalia and simulators, STARBASE Director Rick Simms says it is the nonprofit’s team of educators that make the experience as unforgettable as it is.
“They are so dynamic, and they really engage the students,” Simms said. “They’re very attentive to the students because we have all different kinds of kids that come through here. Everybody learns at a different level, and our teaching staff is very adaptable at working with all these different students. To me, that’s really what makes (STARBASE) memorable; that human connection that they’re having with our teaching staff.”
STARBASE funding at risk
Free for schools to visit so long as they provide transportation to and from Selfridge, Simms says a typical STARBASE One engagement takes place over 25 hours, spread across five weeks. But when Niskar’s class
visited this winter, the Higgins Elementary fifth graders had their STARBASE adventure cut short after the fourth week. STARBASE One lost its funding.
Though starting at Selfridge with a W. K. Kellogg Foundation grant and volunteer help from base personnel, STARBASE has since become a Department of Defensefunded program with over 80 programs located across the United States and the territories of Puerto Rico and Guam. Despite its nationwide reach and a broad mission to teach more students about STEM-related subjects, Simms says the STARBASE program has fallen off the nonbinding presidential budget recommendations since the Obama administration and has required legislators, namely Michigan’s U.S. Senate delegation of Sen. Gary Peters and the retired Sen. Debbie Stabenow, to get STARBASE back onto the federal budget.
But as Higgins Elementary students were visiting STARBASE One in the early spring, Congress was failing to pass a budget. The budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year had been delayed since fall 2024 and while stopgap funding was made available through continuing resolutions, the nature of the resolutions means only so much funding is made available. STARBASE was seeking $60 million in the 2025 budget, but the Senate was only willing to give the program $20 million, and the Department of Defense comptroller ran with the $20 million budget number.
“What that meant was, as they kept extending the continuing resolution, for our sites here in Michigan, funding ran out on Feb. 7,” Simms said.
Michigan’s three STARBASE programs ran out of federal funds on Feb. 7, leading to educational staff being furloughed and the indefinite closure of the programs — the first-ever such closure in STARBASE One’s 34 years.
The closing and the loss of the STARBASE One trip struck Niskar’s students hard, but not just because they lost out on their year-defining field trip.
“STARBASE was a great experience for us, and we wanted other kids to have that same experience,” Luplow said. “We really just wanted the future fifth graders to have the same experiences.”
As Niskar recalls, the progression of some curriculum items was not going as quickly as she expected, which meant the big project of building a solar-powered home was at risk of being dropped due to time constraints. However, the 27-year veteran teacher made the decision to adjust the lesson plans to bring the home project, which was originally part of the math curriculum, in as a catch-all STEM project to close out the school year.
“I knew we weren’t going to get to (the solar home math unit) because the end of the school year was coming up, but it looked and sounded so cool that I didn’t want to pass it up,” Niskar said. “I decided to squeeze it in … it really did capture all of the science, technology, engineering, mathematics. My boyfriend actually is an engineer, and I had to ask him for some help at some points.”
The project, which was “extremely involved” in Niskar’s words, saw students group up and try building a scale-sized home that would retain the most energy when exposed to sunlight. Work for the project included testing the heat-absorption of different materials and paints, becoming adept at reading thermometers, developing different kinds of solar collectors, trying out different insulation materials and performing other experiments in order to build the toastiest home possible. Size of the homes mattered
as the area of windows was tied to how big the homes were.
“We actually did the measurements of the windows,” fifth grader Sam Sherrill said. “The total dimensions of the windows had to be exactly 1/8th of our house’s total dimensions.”
Students were given leeway in how they chose to design and build their homes. Sherrill said his group built a sunroof into their design.
Niskar planned to have the students present the homes to their fellow students at the end of the year, but then students in the class had an idea. Luplow presented the idea of auctioning the projects off to parents like they were real homes, while peer Noah Kodra jumped in with the idea of donating the raised funds to STARBASE One. The ideas
See STARBASE on page 15A
ABOVE: STARBASE’s High Bay includes a space shuttle flight simulator and a replica of an International Space Station module.
Photo provided by STARBASE
LEFT: STARBASE educator Sarah “Phoenix” Stevenson, left, and Higgins Elementary fifth grade teacher Brooke Niskar pose with cash and a check donated by Higgins Elementary parents during a fundraiser for STARBASE. A total of $1,170 was raised on May 30.
Photo by Dean Vaglia
CLINTONDALE SENDS OFF SENIORS
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Clintondale High School Class of 2025 has graduated, but seniors had one final tradition to go through on May 23 before they were officially sent into the world.
All 72 graduates boarded buses and toured the district for the annual senior Clap Out, where students and teachers across Clintondale Community Schools cheer the class on for their future endeavors.
STARBASE
from page 14A
won the support of the students, and Niskar got the word out to parents that an “open house” was scheduled for Friday, May 30. Before the day would arrive, students would also write letters to legislators asking them to support restoring funding to the STARBASE program.
“It was attempting to free STARBASE and try to get other children to experience it,” Kodra said.
And by the time the homes were sold, the parents came through by raising $1,170 for STARBASE.
Along with anticipating how excited the students would be once they found out the final raised amount, Niskar was proud to know the students had taken the initiative to develop and put on the fundraiser.
“For me, that’s more important than anything else,” Niskar said. “I teach the kids the curriculum, but for me it’s more important that they leave my classroom as good human beings. They came in as good human beings, but they got even better with their empathy and their kindness, so for me that was the most important (thing) of all, that they could help others.”
Niskar believes the students’ experiences visiting and fundraising for STARBASE will follow them throughout their educational careers.
“I think that they’re going to remember this more than anything else, quite honestly,”
Niskar said. “I think it already has inspired kids to possibly one day become involved with a STEM profession of some sort.”
By the time the fundraiser was held, STARBASE One was already back in operation. Funding for the program was restored in April after Congress passed another continuing resolution, leading to students across the region once again making memories at the Selfridge-based nonprofit.
But Simms has not ceased finding funds to support STARBASE’s survival.
Simms says the goal of STARBASE is to operate as though it is going to continue forever — the program is already booked full for the 2025-26 school year.
“We always look ahead that we’re going to be in full operation, because we do not want to make an assumption … and not schedule people right now,” Simms said. “We want to hit the ground running come the start of the school year and get the classes out here first thing in September.”
Along with running as though there’s no end in sight, Simms and the STARBASE team are working to add more funding streams. A fundraiser at a Buffalo Wild Wings was held in Chesterfield, a golf outing is planned to take place this summer on the SANGB golf course, and the program is working with a grant writer to apply for funding. Several state legislators toured STARBASE One earlier in the year, and Simms said the program is in conversation with state and federal legislators about future support.
“This is a community asset that has been here for 34 years,” Simms said. “To lose
that I think would be a shame because all of the knowledge that we have guarded over these years and the delivery of a very highquality STEM program would go away, and
that wouldn’t be something that’s available to the community anymore.”
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043
ABOVE: McGlinnen Elementary School students high five and cheer for the Clintondale High School class of 2025 during the graduation Clap Out on May 23.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
RIGHT: Clintondale High School graduates
Jayshawn Blue and Jayla Foy tearfully say goodbye to their high school.
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Clinton Township man sentenced to 40 years for sex crimes
DETROIT — On May 16, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan announced Stephen Gentry, of Clinton Township, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for creating images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children.
Gentry, already a registered sex offender, pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of children on Feb. 12. His recent crimes came to light after the FBI learned that he was distributing images of child sexually abusive material that he created. An FBI search of Gentry’s home found evidence supporting the alleged offenses.
United States District Court Judge Terrence Berg’s sentence for Gentry includes a lifetime of supervised release upon leaving prison. The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Alsaden, Tara Hindelang and Christopher Rawsthorne.
Scheming mail
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On May 13 at around 5 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke to a 32-year-old Macomb Township woman about a suspicious person in her neighborhood.
The witness reportedly saw a woman placing envelopes in mailboxes in the 16000 block of Via Montella. Inside the envelopes were a “$500 gift card” and a QR code that linked to the website of a known pyramid scheme.
Deputies recommended that the woman contact the Federal Trade Commission.
Retail fraud
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On May 13 at around 3 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to Meijer at 24 Mile Road and Hayes Road for a retail fraud report.
The store’s loss prevention staff and management informed deputies that a 33-year-old Detroit man left the store without paying for over $360 worth of alcohol and other items.
A records search of the man showed he had three prior retail fraud convictions.
A state warrant authorization for retail fraud was completed and the store representatives indicated they wished to press charges.
Drunk driver in denial
MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On May 11 at around 4:40 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the intersection of Wellington Valley and 24 Mile Road for a car crash.
wide turn at the intersection and T-boned another car.
Deputies noted the odor of intoxicants on the man and that he appeared to have trouble with his motor functions. The man told deputies he was returning from a golf outing and denied drinking any alcohol. He refused to take field sobriety tests and, before taking a breath test, told deputies he “knew he was going to fail.”
The man reportedly registered a 0.36 blood alcohol content level and was taken to jail.
Stolen motorcycle
HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On May 6 at around 3:10 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were sent to the 37000 block of Willowood Court for a stolen vehicle report.
Deputies spoke with a 25-year-old Harrison Township man who said his KTM motorcycle was stolen. He first noticed the motorcycle was gone when he returned from work.
The man did not have any suspects in mind and no cameras were in the area to document the theft.
Cycle swiper
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 4 at around 4:17 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to an apartment in the 20 block of Dickinson Avenue to speak with a 28-year-old Mount Clemens man about his stolen bike.
The man rode his bike to Fast Eddie’s Bar & Grill on Crocker Boulevard the night before, placing it by the rear door with a fake lock before going inside. He saw the bike from the bar during the night, but discovered it was missing around 2 a.m.
He did not see anyone steal the bike and had no suspects in mind.
Parking lot arrest
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 2 at around 4:10 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the 300 block of Cass Avenue for a report of property damage in the parking lot.
At the scene, deputies discovered a 65-year-old Macomb Township man had struck four cars while attempting to leave the lot. The Macomb Township man was observed to be uneasy on his feet. He reportedly agreed to take field sobriety tests.
Following the tests, the man reportedly submitted a breath test with a 0.153 blood alcohol content result. The man was arrested.
Pepper spray assault
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 2 at around 12:40 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were
Deputies spoke with a 42-year-old Warren man, who said he was pepper sprayed by a 46-year-old Mount Clemens man in the park after telling him to shut up.
Deputies located the Mount Clemens man behind 170 Northbound Gratiot Ave., where he admitted to pepper spraying the man because he believed the man was going to assault a woman he was with.
Deputies arrested the Mount Clemens man.
Welfare check
MOUNT CLEMENS — On May 1 at around 4:30 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to Park Place Towers for a welfare check on a resident.
A neighbor told deputies that the resident in question, an 85-year-old woman, had not been answering her door. Deputies entered the apartment and discovered the woman on the floor in her kitchen, next to a chair she appeared to fall out of.
The woman was transported to a hospital by Medstar.
Man defrauded of $101
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 8:10 p.m. May 7, a police officer from Shelby Township was dispatched to the lobby of the Police Department regarding a fraud report. The victim stated that he had been attempting to contact Amazon in an attempt to return some purchased items. The victim stated he searched online for the number for Amazon and thought he was speaking to a representative. The representative advised the victim to download an app on his phone that gave the representative full access to his phone. Once the representative had access to the phone, he asked the victim to send him pictures of his credit card and driver’s license. At the time of the police report, the victim was out $101. The victim later found out that the number he had was not the correct number that went to Amazon. The case was turned over to the detective bureau for follow-up.
Property damage reported on Pleasant Street
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 10:03 a.m. on May 16, a report was made about property damage in the 22000 block of Pleasant Street. The victim, a 59-year-old woman, stated she got home at around 2 p.m. on May 15 and didn’t see any damage to her vehicle. When she went out the next morning, she noticed damage to her vehicle as well as a broken cinderblock on her lawn. The residence next to her had a brick wall divider between the plaza and the victim’s residence and it was possible the
found in the area.
Retail fraud reported on Harper Avenue
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 11:09 a.m. on May 17, a report was made about a case of retail fraud that occurred in the 22000 block of Harper Avenue. The officer spoke to the manager of a business, a 49-year-old woman, who stated two women paid for some items, but not all of the items in their overflowing cart. Among the items stolen were ribeye steaks and bags of shrimp. What they did pay for totaled out to $19.49. The vehicle the women drove was found in Harper Woods.
Larceny reported on Shore Club