INSIDE>> FOUNTAIN SUMMER NEWSLETTER
Shelby Township police officer shoots suspect who allegedly wouldn’t drop handgun
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — An officer-involved shooting that occurred June 3 left a 41-year-old man dead.
At approximately 3:17 p.m. June 3, Shelby Township police conducted a traffic stop on a white Dodge Caravan in the area of Van Dyke Avenue and 22 Mile Road. According to a press release from the Shelby Township Police Department, the sole occupant of the vehicle was a 41-year-old Troy man.
The man exited the vehicle and fled on foot, and the chase led behind businesses in the area, according to the press release. The officer pursued the suspect, gave commands to
See OFFICER on page 6A
Sewer work closes lanes along Schoenherr Road
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A sanitary sewer expansion project is causing lane closures along Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township.
The project — which began June 4 — runs along the east side of Schoenherr and crosses over to the west side halfway between 22 Mile and 23 Mile roads.
The two northbound right lanes will be used for work access. New pavement will be installed on the easternmost lane, which is expected to reopen to traffic by the end of September.
The sanitary sewer installation is part of the township’s master plan, according to Department of Public Works Director Danielle Allen. The project, she explained,
will improve sanitary service in the area by redirecting flow from Hayes Road and allow for future connections along Schoenherr Road between 22 Mile and 23 Mile.
“As this project is part of our Township Master Plan, it is a critical upgrade to ensure that as we grow, we can continue providing the best possible service to all of our residents,” Shelby Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis said in a prepared statement. “I want to give credit to DPW Director Danielle Allen and the engineers at AEW, our township engineering firm, for being forward-thinking and addressing this issue proactively.”
The project is expected to wrap up in November. Motorists are asked to use caution in the area and plan for possible delays.
For more information, visit shelbytwp.org or call Shelby Township at (586) 731-5990.
The two northbound right lanes of Schoenherr Road, between 22 Mile and 23 Mile roads, are being used for construction work as part of a sanitary sewer expansion project.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Mexican ‘roots’ come to Sterling Heights at Raices Mexican Cantina
“Rooted in tradition. Alive with flavor. Every sip and bite is a tribute to the land — raw, simple, and true. Taste it, feel it, live it.”
Reading those words when you open the website for Raices Mexican Cantina just has to make you hungry.
Restauranteur Maria Aldana, the founder and former owner of Aldana Mexican Grill in Troy, and the owner of three Las Cazuelas Grill locations in the Detroit area, said the feeling is justified when patrons experience what is in store for their palate.
“I wanted to create a little story where people may relate to where we’re coming from, so they know who
the ownership is,” Aldana said. “So they know it’s going to be the same.”
The Las Cazuelas Grill started off in a gas station in 2006 and grew to become famous for its fast-casual dinein Mexican cuisine.
Aldana Mexican Grill opened at Maple Road and Coolidge Highway in 2021 during the pandemic and quickly became a local favorite.
“We sold that one last year,” Aldana said. “I also opened La Niña Churreria right there at Maple and Coolidge last year.”
The tastes and the atmosphere customers have come to know and love at Aldana’s establishments are
taken to even greater heights at Raices Mexican Cantina. The name “Raices” means roots, and that’s exactly the connection she’s trying to create for her customers through a multisensory experience.
“We want to make everybody feel like they’ve come to Mexico,” Aldana said. “We love to present Mexico as they come in the door. The environment, the music, the service, food and drinks, all of the above. It’s an authentic feeling with Mexican roots. We want them to come and experience Mexican roots from the music, arts and history, the food and drink, and our seasonings.”
At Raices Mexican Cantina, everything
is prepared fresh daily using Aldana’s own custom seasonings that take the cuisine to a different level.
“We want to make it as authentic as we possibly can,” she said.
Of course you’ll find fresh tacos, burritos, quesadillas and enchiladas alongside traditional favorites like molcajete offering delicious meats — steak, chicken or chorizo — with queso, mole and homemade salsa, together in a bowl.
Raices Mexican Cantina is now open at 44805 Mound Road in Sterling Heights. To reach the restaurant, call (586) 930-1821. For a menu and online ordering, go to raicesmex.com.
Maria Aldana Owner
SECOND FRONT PAGE
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
See FESTIVAL on page 6A
Opossums: Michigan’s misunderstood marsupial
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — On a cool late morning, one of Shelby Township’s newest residents stumbled his way out of bed.
Murray the opossum, resident of the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center and a local celebrity of note, lives a life unlike that of his peers. He lives in a bespoke enclosure built by a local Eagle Scout for the nature center’s prior resident opossum and sleeps within an artificial tree, receiving artfully crafted meals. Though Murray was born without eyes, the only thing slowing him down from his breakfast of kale — a personal favorite — and vegetables is his own strength to push through the morning grogginess and be on his way.
Despite the relatively lavish living arrangements, not much separates Murray from the possibly hundreds of thousands of other opossums in the metro Detroit region.
LEFT: After a long sleep, Murray the opossum gets his bearings outside of his tree-shaped home in Shelby Township’s Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center.
BELOW: An appreciator of his morning kale, Murray the opossum’s diet at the Shelby Township Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center is an omnivorous mix of greens and meats to mimic the natural diets of Michigan’s opossum population.
Conversely, Murray and all those other opossums have a lot more in common with kangaroos than the rodents some may say opossums resemble.
“Opossums are Michigan’s only marsupial — in fact, the only marsupial found in North America,” said Elizabeth Schultz, nature center coordinator. “Marsupials are any mammals where mom has a pouch where she carries her babies, called ‘joeys.’ They’re kind of like Michigan’s kangaroo.”
Michigan tends to be in the upper range of where opossums are found because they are not particularly suited for cold weather. Opossums have been in North America since prehistoric times and found suitable habitats in the millennia that followed. As ancient forests have given way to farms and urban development, opossums have weathered the changes by focusing on scavenging as their main mode of living.
“They have a really important role in our ecosys-
Photos by Dean Vaglia
NEWS & NOTES
State representative to host town hall on veterans
issues
UTICA — State Rep. Ron Robinson, R-Utica, will host a town hall on veterans issues in Utica from 6 to 7:30 p.m. June 20. He will be discussing topics including updates on Selfridge Air National Guard Base, waiving concealed pistol fees for veterans, and grants for nonprofit veterans organizations.
The meeting will take place at the American Legion Post 351 at 46146 Cass Ave. in Utica.
No appointments are necessary to attend the town hall. Those unable to attend can reach out to Robinson’s office with any questions by calling (517) 373-1794 or emailing ronrobinson@house.mi.gov.
LEARN ABOUT LOCAL BALD EAGLES
SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Joan Bonin, a local author who has been studying the bald eagles at Stony Creek Metropark for more than 10 years, will share her experience and photographs during a program at 7 p.m. June 18 in the Shelby Township Library’s Legacy Room, 52610 Van Dyke Ave.
Hear live music in Utica
UTICA — This free Weekend Unwind concert from 7 to 10 p.m. June 13 at Memorial Park will feature The Geri’s, whose website, bookthegeris. com, says “We’re never too old to rock and roll!” Memorial Park is next to the Utica Public Library at 7530 Auburn Road. The Weekend Unwind free concert series takes place every Friday night with a different band through Sept. 5.
SHELBY TOWNSHIP MEETINGS AT TOWNSHIP HALL
• Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. June 17.
UTICA MEETINGS AT CITY HALL
• Parks and Recreation Commission, 5:30 p.m. June 11.
• Historic District Commission, 5:30 p.m. June 17.
MCLAREN MACOMB HOSPITAL 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.
Festival
from page 3A
Club, Palermino said the festival is a way for it to honor its commitment to its members and the community by promoting Polish heritage.
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 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
Officer
from page 1A
stop and eventually deployed a Taser, the release states.
The suspect continued to flee from the officer and produced a handgun, and after the officer gave several verbal commands to drop the handgun, the officer fired and struck the suspect, the release states.
The man was taken to a local hospital where he died from his injuries, police said.
“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.
He has been identified; however, his name has not yet been released, the press release states.
The officer has been placed on administrative leave according to department policy and the investigation will be handled by the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, the release states.
At press time, no more information was available according to both the Shelby Township Police Department and the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
ABOVE AND RIGHT: The 43rd annual American Polish Festival and Craft Show is being held June 20-22 at the American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane, in Sterling Heights.
Photo provided by Darryl P. Onderik
Pet boarding offers safe, secure option for vacationgoers
BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Vacation season is here, and while you’re packing your bags, don’t forget about your pet’s plans.
Nearly all pet owners at some point are left wondering if they should board their pet, or ask a trusted friend or relative to take care of them?
Sarah Ignash, who owns All American Pet Resorts in Roseville, said one advantage of boarding your dog instead of having a friend or relative check in is that your dog will be with trained professionals who can prevent a dog from getting loose.
“I’ve actually had quite a few people where people who don’t normally take care of dogs, somebody comes to the front door, they just open it wide and the dog goes running out, or they drop the leash when they’re on a walk,” she said. “Boarding is secure.”
Before selecting a boarding facility, Jim Blau, with Mid-Michigan K9 Academy, said it’s important to know who you’re leaving your dog with.
“You want someone that’s going to make sure all the dogs there are vaccinated, including yours,” he said.
Ensuring the dogs are vaccinated can help to prevent health problems, Blau said. He also said owners should choose a facility that does regular health checks, and that allows dogs time to be out of their cages.
Blau stated that because a facility might cost less than others, it doesn’t mean that it might be better for the dog.
“You save 10 bucks a night or 20 bucks a night and went to a cheaper facility and they use bleach
Dogs enjoy play time at All American Pet Resorts in Roseville.
Photos courtesy of Sarah Ignash
Neutrals, low-maintenance features lead 2025 patio trends
BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Warm weather is finally here, meaning outdoor projects are likely well underway. To have a party-ready backyard by the Fourth of July, residents might be updating their patios.
Local experts share what trends they have been noticing this year in terms of patio design.
Colors
Roberto Guzman, co-owner of Leig’s Landscape LLC, said that many of their customers are interested in neutral color schemes for their patios. Specifically, he said charcoal and champagne colors are popular.
“Almost every customer looks into dark charcoal bullnose bricks for the borders,” Guzman said.
He added that many customers have recently been ordering bricks in vintage colors and styles.
Tom Thelen, president at Thelen Land-
scape Inc., said he has seen light beiges and grays trending for patios, which may have more reasoning to it than aesthetics.
“It used to be that patios were really dark; the problem is they get warm,” Thelen said.
Shelters
Thelen said more people are moving toward certain shelter options for their patios.
While some people consider moveable awnings, he said an increasing number of customers are asking for gazebos and pergolas. One option in particular that Thelen said people are showing interest in is a pergola with adjustable slats, also called a louvered pergola.
This option is particularly practical in Michigan due to the varied weather and precipitation that residents see each year.
“You can let the sun in during the wintertime and not pile a big bunch of snow on it,” Thelen said.
ABOVE: Tom Thelen, of Thelen Landscape Inc., said they have been installing many stone steps at residences. RIGHT: Patios with hidden lights are trending locally, according to Tom Thelen, of Thelen Landscape Inc.
Photos provided by Tom Thelen
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Opossums
tem,” Schultz said. “They’re kind of like our trash cleanup crew. They go around and they find the dead animals or rotting foods and they’ll eat them. They’ll catch live food, too, but they’re not the best hunters. They’re not going after people’s chickens or anything. Sometimes, they might get into a coop and go after the eggs, but they’re not very fast (and) not the brightest of animals, so really, they’re just finding dead things to eat.”
The omnivorous diet of opossums means they can virtually eat any organic material they come across. At Burgess-Shadbush, Murray’s meals often include a balance of greens and meats, the latter ranging from cat kibble to whole prey like mice and chicks. In the wild, this means they’ll eat anything they come across that is not too hard to pin down — including residential trash, which is where many Michiganders run into them.
“A lot of times people tell me they open their back door, and they see an opossum, and it opens its mouth wide, and it hissed, and they were so scared, and they ran back inside,” Schultz said. “And I always tell them that is exactly what the opossum wants! They’re all about intimidation; they would never actually come after you. They would open their mouth, they hiss, and they try to just be super scary looking.”
Should an opossum fail to scare predators away, the scavenger turns to the second trick in its acting repertoire — playing dead. When in the throes of danger, the toothy thespians get overwhelmed, faint and begin oozing a foul-smelling liquid from their mouth and butt to dupe predators into
thinking they’re diseased so they move on. The “acting” can last for around 10-15 minutes before the opossum regains consciousness and resumes its scavenging.
Ironically, given the scented ooze trick, opossums are fairly resistant to diseases. They have too high of a body temperature to become infected by rabies, though they can still carry the virus.
Opossums are constantly on the go to scavenge — even joeys begin scavenging as soon as they fall off their mothers, no learning required — and that regularly brings them around to residential areas. While they pose minimal threats to humans and pets, their presence can be unwanted. An opossum will leave an area quickly if they cannot find any food, so the best way to avoid them knocking on your door (or rather getting into your trash bags) is to not give them a reason to bother.
“They’re not trying to be harmful; they’re not trying to attack anything. They’re just trying to find food and move on,” Schultz said. “If you don’t want an opossum in your backyard, make sure you’re covering all food sources, you’re not leaving cat food out (and) the dog food is covered. They’ll eventually move on. Just have patience.”
With human society providing so many good food sources for opossums, it is all too common for interactions between humans and opossums to turn lethal. Drivers striking opossums crossing the road, opossums getting caught or poisoned by rodent traps and pets of humans, like cats and dogs, attacking wandering opossums have all led to many situations where opossums become injured and, if left alone, die. Cynthia Russ, owner of the Motor City Possum Rescue and a Michigan Department of Natural Resources certified
rehabilitator, says she receives about a dozen calls a week during the mating seasons of late winter and early spring.
When injured opossums are brought to her Ferndale-based mammal rehabilitation operation, Russ says opossums are some of the easier to handle animals she treats.
“They’re not as aggressive,” Russ said. “Most of the time they’ll hiss at you and show all their scary teeth, but they don’t lunge or chase you. I’m more nervous about handling squirrels than I am anything, because they’re so quick and they can puncture your hand.
See OPOSSUMS on page 13A
Opossums
(Squirrels) can crack a walnut with their teeth, so they can easily break your finger. But opossums are pretty docile. They look scary, way scarier than they are.”
When a dead opossum mother is brought to her, the goal is to get the joeys out of their pouch and onto bottled milk. Once grown to about a half pound, the joeys are released and returned to the wild. In rare cases when an opossum may be unfit to be returned to the wild, it is possible they may be relocated to wildlife centers such as Burgess-Shadbush, as was the case with Murray.
Ways to avoid needlessly tempting the fates of opossums include not littering so they are not attracted to roads, slowing down to give opossums a chance to flee if one is spotted while driving and covering rodent traps so opossums are less likely to get caught by them.
“I feel like people just have to learn to coexist and understand that (opossums) are not a threat,” Russ said. “They’re not going to hurt your dog. They’re not going to hurt your cat. They’re not going to attack anything because they’re not aggressive and they’re actually beneficial.”
Schultz expects the opossum population of Michigan to remain well all things considered, given their scavenging nature and the wide availability of food sources across the region. However, she notes that opossums are likely to serve as an indicator species regarding problems elsewhere in the ecosystem.
“They eat a lot of amphibians, frogs and toads, so if we’re not being careful and there’s pollution in water that affects the frogs and amphibians and even fish, that could affect the opossums,” Schultz said. “Another thing to consider is that there is a lot of fear in southeast Michigan about coyotes, but coyotes keep the opossum and raccoon populations under control. Areas that have too many opossums and raccoons will actually
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retail
have fewer birds, studies have shown, because both eat bird eggs. As we continue to grow the many suburbs around here and expand our cities, just making sure we’re acknowledging that there are other animals out there. They don’t want to have anything to do with us. They’re just trying to survive.”
Though opossums are not known to be
particularly friendly, Murray and other animals can be visited at the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. More information about the nature center can be found on shelbytwp.org under the “government,” “departments” and “parks and recreation” tabs.
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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.
FRASER HIGH SCHOOL TO HOST MARINE CORPS SPORTS LEADERSHIP
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
ACADEMY WRESTLING CAMP SPORTS
FRASER — Fraser High School will be hosting one of the largest high school wrestling camps in the state on June 14 with an impressive lineup of coaches and leaders running the event.
The camp is completely free to sign up for and will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for a full day of learning from experts in the field.
The event will be run by the United States Marine Corps Sports Leadership Academy and will also teach life and leadership lessons to the participants, along with the day of wrestling.
Fraser High School wrestling coach Kyle Tucker will be in attendance, along with wrestling coaches from all over southeast Michigan. At press time, there were 25 coaches signed up to help run the camp.
Trends
from page 10A
Pavers
Josh Vokal, of Natura Design and Build, said he has noticed more people wanting brick pavers over concrete or aggregate concrete. He said this is partially due to the new bricks that companies have been coming out with, which have a more modern look. He said brick pavers are customizable, which also draws customers.
“They can always change a lot fairly easily compared to prior concrete, and bricks tend to be a little bit less maintenance as well over time,” Vokal said.
Thelen said they are seeing customers who want bricks that come with a coating on them. This can lessen the need for a sealant; therefore, it helps residents cut out a step in their project. However, he said that the patio would still need to be sealed eventually — a
Along with all the coaches, Olympic bronze medalist Myles Amine and threetime Southern Conference champion Taye Ghadiali will be present to guide the wrestlers. Amine went to Detroit Catholic Central High School before a great wrestling career at the University of Michigan, and Ghadiali graduated from Warren Fitzgerald before attending Campbell University. This year, Ghadiali will transfer to the University of Michigan and wrestle as a graduate transfer.
The camp was a success last year and is on track to have more participants this year. The camp is for high schoolers ages 14-19. To register for the free event, visit usmcsports.com/register.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
couple of years later.
This can also be convenient because, according to Thelen, patios are not supposed to be stained in the first year anyway due to efflorescence that needs to be washed out by rain and sun.
Other trends
As for lighting, Thelen said patios with hidden lights are popular. He said residents can have landscape lighting installed in a wall with the wires underneath the brick.
“You get to enjoy the view of the patio, even if you’re not sitting on it,” Thelen said.
Thelen said they have also been doing a lot of stairs lately — stone steps that go from the driveway and into the back patio area.
“Then they can walk down through landscaping instead of across their grass,” Thelen said.
Call Staff Writer Mary Genson at (586) 498-1095.
CANDGNEWS.COM
instead of the more expensive, pet-friendly cleaning agents, and so your dog comes back with rashes, or they don’t check all the immunizations,” he said.
Blau also urged pet owners to visit the facility and do a walkthrough before agreeing to board your pet there.
“(Owners) can use their own eyes, and they can use their own judgment,” he said. “Is this some place where they would want their dog to stay?”
Ignash also said pet owners should look for a boarding facility that is staffed 24 hours. Having staff overnight can help in case of an emergency, she said.
“Most places don’t tell you that they leave at maybe 8 p.m. and don’t come back until 6 a.m.,” she said.
Once a boarding facility has been selected, Ignash said many boarders will want to get to know your dog and its history, which can help the staff know how to keep it happy and relaxed.
“You didn’t tell your dog that you were going on vacation. Your dog has no idea why they’re there,” she said. “So we’re doing the best we can to keep your dog happy and calm and giving them lots of pets, lots of attention.”
Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.
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.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
16A/ SHELBY-UTICA NEWS • JUNE 11, 2025
JUNE 11
Shelby Township Fine Art Society meeting: 6:30-9 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, (586) 243-2056
JUNE 12-14
Community Yard Sale: Inaugural event organized by member of Utica Parks and Recreation Commission, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., includes 100 townhouses in Village Square Cooperative, 45510 Kensington St. in Utica, also look for signs for other sellers at homes throughout city June 13-14
JUNE 13
Summer Splash Bash: Also crafts, music, games and more, noon-2 p.m., Chief Gene Shepherd Park, 2452 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township, (586) 731-0300, shelbytwp.org/our-township/summer
JUNE 14
‘Wow’ daylilies for the garden: Program presented by Southern Michigan Daylily Society, also daylily bargain auction, 10 a.m., Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, free but register to marietta.crabtree@gmail.com, (586) 612-1848
Youth Fishing Derby: For Shelby Township and Utica residents ages 15 and younger (adult supervision required), 10 a.m.-noon, also drawing for fishing equipment, tackle and more at noon, plus prizes for top three largest fish in age groups 3-6, 7-10 and 11-15, Heritage Lake on Shelby Township Civic Center Campus, 52700 Van Dyke Ave., free but register at register.shelbytwp.org or (586) 731-0300
JUNE 16
Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Art & Jake’s
SYNOPSIS OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELD ON TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2025, IN THE BOARD ROOM OF THE MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 52700 VAN DYKE, SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Supervisor Richard Stathakis. The Invocation was led by Pastor Carl Seitz from Shelby Bible Church – Shelby Township, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Richard Stathakis, Stanley Grot, James Carabelli, Lucia Di Cicco, Lisa Casali, John Vermeulen, Vince Viviano Also Present: Rob Huth, Township Attorney APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
A. Minutes: Board Meeting -- March 18, 2025; Board Meeting -- April 1, 2025 (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)
To approve the minutes, as presented.
B. Engineering Standards Guidebook (Requested by DPW)
To approve the Engineering Standards Guidebook as has been presented and subject to adoption of amendments to the Township Ordinances to refect the updated standards.
C. Termination of Utility Easement - 11730 21 Mile (Liber 29011, Page 406) (Requested by DPW)
To concur with the recommendation of Public Works Director Danielle Allen and vacate the existing water main easement located at 11730 21 Mile and found at Liber 29011, on Page 406, as indicated on the attached Termination of Utility Easement document.
D. Organizational Change in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Maintenance (Requested by Human Resources)
To concur with the recommendation of Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and approve changes to the presented organizational structure for the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Maintenance effective immediately with the General Employees’ Civil Service Commission notifed of the change.
E. Catch Basin Repairs (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
To concur with the recommendation of Township Engineer Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, Inc. (AEW) and process for payment Invoice #2665 from DeBuck Construction for emergency catch basin repairs at various Township locations. Funds are to be taken from General Fund line items as follows:
$4,500.00 from line item 101-789-751-000 and $13,500.00 from line item 101-262-930-100, and amend the budget accordingly.
F. SEMCOG Planning Grant Resolution (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
To approve the proposed Resolution of the Charter Township of Shelby Board of Trustees in support of the Township’s Downtown Development Authority’s Application for a SEMCOG Planning Assistance Program Grant.
G. Resolution for Patronicity - DDA (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
To approve the proposed Resolution of the Charter Township of Shelby Board of Trustees in support of the Township’s Downtown Development Authority’s participation in the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Public Spaces Community Places Program.
H. Reappointments to Sidewalk Committee (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
To reappoint Shelby Township Board Liaison Lisa Casali to the Sidewalk Committee to a term ending November 20, 2028, and to reappoint Committee
Members John Kocis and Lloyd Rogers to the Sidewalk Committee for two-year terms ending September 6, 2027.
I. Reappointments Beautifcation Committee (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
To concur with the recommendation of the Beautifcation Committee and reappoint Dawn Jenkins, Mary Dowell, Sylvia Grot and appoint Laura Chidsey for three-year terms expiring on April 1, 2028, as members of the Beautifcation Committee.
J. Credit Card Purchases in the Amount of $34,771.85 (Requested by Treasurer’s Offce)
To approve the Credit Card Purchases in the amount of $34,771.85, as presented.
K. Bill Run in the Amount of $2,184,859.09 (Requested by Financial Management)
To approve the Bill Run in the amount of $2,184,859.09, as presented.
MOTION carried to approve the Consent Agenda, as presented.
Roll Call: Ayes – Grot, Casali, Di Cicco, Stathakis, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli Nays – none APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION carried to approve the agenda, as presented, with the addition of a new item - Daniel Alton FOIA Appeal requested by the Human Resources Department.
PLANNING COMMISSION
1. Site Plan Final Planned Unit Development #25-06 Simone Mauro (Mar Lake Investments, LLC) (Requested by Planning and Zoning)
MOTION carried to concur with the Planning Commission and approve Site Plan and Final Planned Unit Development #25-06 for Simone Mauro (Mar Lake Investments, LLC) for Market Place Apartments (Vacant Parcel No. 23-07-36-400-091, located at the southeast corner of Lakeside Blvd N. and Market Street), based on the following:
1. The proposed plan is consistent with the Shelby Town Center plans approved in 1996.
2. Adequate access is provided to the site from Lakeside Blvd N. and Market Street.
3. The proposed development will complete the development in this area of the township that was originally approved in 1996.
Roll Call: Ayes – Grot, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali, Di Cicco, Stathakis, Vermeulen Nays – none
2. Site Plan Special Land Use #24-06 Michael Yaldo (St. George Property, LLC) (Requested by Planning and Zoning)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Building, Planning & Development Director Julie Misich-Rasawehr to receive and fle the 2024 Planning and Zoning Department Annual Report.
Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Viviano, Carabelli Nays – none
3. 2024 Planning Department Annual Report (Requested by Planning and Zoning)
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
Sports Bar & Grill, 14741 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Loree at (810) 335-2096, widowedfriends.com
JUNE 20-21
Shelby Township Summer Fest: Includes toucha-truck, strolling princesses and superheroes, magicians, “Swiftie” dance party, live music, craft beer tent, food truck rally, rock wall, obstacle course, inflatable slide, drone show and more, 4-11:30 p.m. June 20 and 6:30-10 p.m. June 21, Shelby Township Civic Center Campus, 52700 Van Dyke Ave., full schedule at shelbytwp.org/our-township/summer, (586) 731-0300
JUNE 27
Widowed Friends event: Cards, games and fellowship, bring snack to share and own beverage, also lunch/ dinner TBD, noon-3 p.m., St. Therese of Lisieux, 48115
Schoenherr Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936, widowedfriends.com
ONGOING
Shelby Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays until Oct. 18, Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds. org/farmersmarket, (586) 739-4800, read story at candgnews.com
Splash pad: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily until Aug. 31 (11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 4), also toddler time from 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, for Shelby Township and Utica residents only, Chief Gene Shepherd Park, 2452 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township, shelbyprm@ shelbytwp.org, shelbytwp.org/our-township/summer, (586) 731-0300
Continued on page 18A
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Building, Planning & Development Director Julie Misich-Rasawehr to receive and fle the 2024 Planning and Zoning Department Annual Report.
Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Viviano, Carabelli Nays – none
DEPARTMENTAL & COMMITTEE
4. Asahi Sushi - New Class C Liquor License (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)
MOTION carried to approve the issuance of a new Class C Liquor License to Asahi Sushi, doing business as Nora Grace, Inc., located at 55220 Van Dyke Avenue, having received all necessary approvals from Township departments, including Police, Fire, Building, and Planning & Zoning.
Roll Call: Ayes – Grot, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli, Di Cicco, Casali, Stathakis Nays – none
5. Fieldwork Vehicle Purchase (Requested by Assessing Department)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation from Township Assessor Matthew Schmidt and approve the purchase of a 2025 GMC Terrain AWD SLE Utility model for the MIDeal price of $29,338.00 through Todd Wenzel Buick GMC of Westland, MI. Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund line item 427-257-985-000 and amend the budget accordingly.
6. Purchase of Meters and R-900 Remotes (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of the Public Works Director Danielle Allen and authorize the bulk purchase of water meters and R900 outside remotes from Ferguson Waterworks at a cost not to exceed $400,000.00. Funds for this purchase are accounted for under Water and Sewer Fund line item 592-106-000.
7. Water and Sewer Bill Printing Services (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Public Works Director Danielle Allen and approve the contract with Peregrine Services Inc. for printing and mailing services related to all water and sewer bills not to exceed $10,000.00 monthly. Funds are to be taken from the Water and Sewer Fund as follows: printing services from line item 592-441-755-000 and mailing services from line item 592-441-850-215.
8. 2025 Sidewalk Gap Program - Proposal for Professional Services (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Public Works Director Danielle Allen and accept the Proposal for Professional Services from Township Engineer Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, Inc. (AEW) to provide the necessary engineering services to the Township for the 2025 Sidewalk Gap Program in the amount not to exceed $92,300.00. Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund line item 427-446-967-500.
9. Schoenherr Road Sanitary Sewer (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Public Works Director Danielle Allen and Township Engineer Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, Inc. (AEW) and award the contract for the construction of the Schoenherr Road Sanitary Sewer (22 Mile to 23 Mile) project to Dan’s Excavating, Inc. in the amount of $5,883,738.96 with an additional 10% construction contingency, construction administration, staking, observation, and as built plans at a cost of $470,700.00, and miscellaneous other costs of $542,787.14 for a total As Bid Cost not to exceed $7,485,600.00. Funds for this project are accounted for under Water and Sewer Fund line item 592-154-000.
Roll Call: Ayes – Casali, Viviano, Carabelli, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Vermeulen Nays – none
10. Municipal Water Service Installation and System Repair Contract (Requested by DPW)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Public Works Director Danielle Allen and award the Municipal Water Service Installation and System Repair Contract to Shelby Underground. This contract will begin June 1, 2025 and will expire April 30, 2027.
Roll Call: Ayes – Di Cicco, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali, Grot, Stathakis Nays – none
11. First Due Software Package Renewal (Requested by Fire Department)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Frank Pierce and authorize payment to Locality Media, Inc. dba First Due in the total amount of $45,677.88, covering the renewal subscription for the First Due software modules at $45,177.88 and the new First Due Payments module subscription at $500.00 for the period of April 30, 2025, through April 29, 2026. Funds are to be taken from Fire Fund line item 206-336-810-600.
12. Cost Share Agreements: Subdivision Preservation Program (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)
MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Township Engineer Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, Inc. (AEW) and authorize the Supervisor to execute the cost share agreements between the Charter Township of Shelby and the Macomb County Department of Roads for the subdivision preservation of Rhode Drive, Vineyard Avenue and Independence Avenue at an estimated cost of $59,479.00, $33,973.00 and $38,354.00, respectively, for a total estimated cost of $131,806.00. Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement Fund line item 427-446-967-200.
12.5 Daniel Alton FOIA Appeal (Requested by Human Resources)
MOTION carried to deny the FOIA Appeal regarding FOIA #09apr1112 by Daniel Alton.
Roll Call: Ayes – Carabelli, Viviano, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Vermeulen Nays – none
CLOSED SESSION
13. Investigation of Allegation of Discrimination (Requested by Human Resources)
MOTION carried to adjourn into Closed Session under section 8(h) of the Open Meetings Act, to consult with Township attorney regarding an attorney/ client privilege matter.
Roll Call: Ayes – Grot, Di Cicco, Stathakis, Vermeulen, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali Nays – none
OPEN SESSION
MOTION carried to concur with the attorney and the Human Resources Director’s recommendation regarding an allegation of improper behavior with a Township frefghter.
MOTION carried to adjourn at 8:19 p.m. A COMPLETE SET OF MINUTES IS AVAILABLE IN THE CLERK’S OFFICE FOR REVIEW OR AT WWW.SHELBYTWP.ORG. Stanley Grot
Published: Shelby-Utica News 06/11/2025
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Weekend Unwind: Free concert series runs 7-10 p.m. Fridays until Sept. 5, Memorial Park next to Utica Public Library, 7530 Auburn Road, see band lineup at cityofutica.org, read story at candgnews.com
Weekly car show: 4-8 p.m. Mondays until Sept. 29 (3-6 p.m. Sept. 1), NAPA Auto Parts, 48081 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, funtimecruzers.com, (586) 260-3459
United Shore Professional Baseball League: See Birmingham-Bloomfield Beavers, Eastside Diamond Hoppers, Utica Unicorns and Westside Woolly Mammoths on select Thursdays-Sundays until Sept. 6, Jimmy John’s Field, 7171 Auburn Road in Utica, (248) 601-2400, uspbl.com
Feeding Time: Learn about and see what animals eat, 1-2 p.m. Saturdays, Nature Center at Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Road in Shelby Township, metroparks.com/events
Shelby Writers’ Group meetings: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., (586) 739-7414
Monthly book clubs: Evening Book Club (meets 6:30 p.m. every second Tuesday), Mystery Book Club (10:30 a.m. every second Saturday) and Afternoon Book Club (1 p.m. every third Thursday), Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., also Not Your Parents’ Book Club (7 p.m. every last Tuesday), 22nd Street Steakhouse, 48900 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, shelbytwp.org/government/departments/library
• 11 a.m.-noon every first Friday, Utica Public Library,
7530 Auburn Road, uticalibrary.com
Open mic nights: Hosted by Shelby Music Society, 7 p.m. every second Saturday of month (doors at 6:30 p.m.), Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, shelbymusic society@yahoo.com
Widowed Friends events: Breakfasts at 10:30 a.m. every third Tuesday of month, Pancake Factory, 13693 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township, RSVP to Ellen at (586) 489-2569, widowedfriends.com
• Games from 1:30-3:30 p.m. every first Thursday of month, bring snack to share, Ss. John and Paul Parish, 7777 W. 28 Mile Road in Washington Township, optional dinner after, RSVP to Ellen at (586) 489-2569, widowedfriends.com
Confident Communicators Club meetings: Held virtually from 8-9:30 a.m. every first and third Wednesday of month, confidentcommunicatorsclub.com
Bereaved Parents of Macomb Support Group: Also for grandparents and siblings, meets 7-9 p.m. every first Thursday of month, Washington Senior Center, 57880 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, (248) 953-5970, bpmacombleader@gmail.com
Health workshops: For hypertension, diabetes, pre-diabetes and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
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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