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COUPLE WINS FREE WEDDING FROM MACRAY HARBOR/6A

Trustees weigh in on court funding

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Trustees gave their approval to the 41B District Court’s 2026 budget at the board’s Nov. 17 meeting, but it was not without comment.

Represented by Chief Judge Sebastian Lucido, the court will operate with about $4.6 million in revenues and expenses with no change to its $1.15 million fund balance. The board had no initial comments on the budget, but a question from Treasurer Mike Aiello led to discussion on how the court’s debts could be paid off.

Aiello brought up the matter of a Clinton Township Police Department traffic division as a way to bring funds in, though implementing such a thing would be easier said than done.

“I think what needs to be recognized here (is that) in our heyday with the police department, we had 113 officers; now we’re down to 94,” Trustee Bruce Wade said. “You have to realize that if you were to take some of those 94 off the road and dedicate them to a specialized unit like traffic — being that we’re down 20 people from our heyday — you’re going to really lose response time. The first priority of the

See FUNDING on page 10A

Santa Parade good as gold for 50th running

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MOUNT CLEMENS — There are not many traditions that have been running for 50 years, but the Mount Clemens Santa Parade is one of them.

Expected to step off on Saturday, Nov. 22, after the Journal

went to press, Parade President Erik Rick says parade planners aimed to bring the same fun and cheer attendees have come to expect from the past half decade of holiday festivities.

“I don’t think anything will (be different this year), and I think that’s the beauty of it,” said Rick, who is a Mount Clemens city commissioner and an experienced volunteer of the parade.

page 12A

See SANTA PARADE on

Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to Mount Clemens

Santa Parade attendees at a recent parade. File photo by Deb Jacques

COMMISSIONERS HONOR LOCAL HERO

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MOUNT CLEMENS — City commissioners took time out of the Nov. 17 meeting to recognize a local hero for her actions.

Kieara Searcy was the talk of the Mount Clemens City Commission meeting, where commissioners honored her with a Citizen Hero Award for her actions to help a resident who was being targeted by a cryptocurrency scam in September.

“(Searcy’s) actions were deeply appreciated by (Seewald’s) family as well as by the residents of the city of Mount Clemens,” Mayor Laura Kropp said. “In recognition of her quick and heroic intervention efforts last September, during which she assisted Fred Seewald and prevented him from becoming a victim of an online Bitcoin scam. We want to thank her for being a citizen hero … It was very important to (Seewald’s family) and to him to recognize Kieara because she went above and beyond what a citizen is probably

Bethlehem Lutheran Church to close as attendance drops

BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — After an over 60-year history, Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Harrison Township is on the brink of closing its doors for good.

The Rev. Robert Brannon said the church was opened in 1958 on Union Lake Road. He went on to say there have been eight pastors since 1958.

As it stands, the church is not in any dire financial posi-

tion. The Lutheran church split in 2009 when they allowed gay and lesbian pastors, Brannon said. The church as a whole has rebuilt since, but they currently have a declining and aging population with only about 15 to 20 people attending weekly services.

“We don’t have young families anymore, and so a lot of our members have passed away and that’s where we’re at,” Brannon said.

Reneé Hilla, building administrator and confidential pastoral secretary, said they also don’t bring in enough mon-

ey from donations to sustain the church.

“We’re not like in bankruptcy or anything like that now, but we see that without there being a change we will not be able to continue paying our bills next year or after unless something changes,” Hilla said.

Hilla said they need a Christmas miracle or someone to come and save them. At this point, the church is expecting to close its doors in the spring with the first service after Easter being its last.

Mount Clemens Mayor Laura Kropp, left, poses with Citizen Hero Award recipient Kieara Searcy at the Nov. 17 City Commission meeting. Searcy was recognized for helping stop a cryptocurrency scam in progress this past September.

Photo by Dean Vaglia

NEWS & NOTES

4A/ JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 24, 2025

NEW FACES, TITLES FOR CLINTONDALE BOARD

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — As of its Oct. 14 meeting, the Clintondale Community Schools Board of Education has been shuffled around.

Trustee Jared Maynard was voted 5-1 to serve as the board’s new president. It is the second time Maynard has served as board president since being elected to the board in November 2022.

“I am committed to moving this Board and the district forward,” Maynard said via press release. “We have a lot of hard work ahead, but we are all committed to making sure that everything we do is for the students of Clintondale to prepare them for their future.”

Ava McDowell was appointed in a 4-2 vote to fill a vacancy created by the September resignation of then-Board President Felicia Kaminski. McDowell was unanimously voted to be board secretary on Oct. 27. McDowell currently serves as academic coordinator for Oakland University’s Project Upward Bound College Prep Academy where she develops curriculum, manages instructional staff and mentors students preparing for college.

Current Trustees Barry Powers and Lisa Valerio-Nowc were respectively elected treasurer and vice president.

CMPL HOSTING DECEMBER EVENTS

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — For a final time in 2025, the Clinton-Macomb Public Library is hosting events across its three branches throughout the month of December.

The month kicks off at the South Branch, located at 35679 South Gratiot Avenue in Clinton Township, with a lesson in using Ancestry Library Edition to make family trees on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. The South Branch will also play host to Santa Claus on Thursday, Dec. 11 at 6:30 p.m.

The North Branch, located at 54100 Broughton Road in Macomb Township, will host family yoga on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 11 a.m.

The Main Library, located at 40900 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township, will host a winter-themed playtime program for toddlers and preschoolers ages 2-5 and their caregivers on Monday, Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. Teens and tweens are also invited to the Main Library for a winter lantern craft project on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. and a retro game night on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. For the full list of events at all CMPL locations, go to cmpl.org.

Clinton Township Kiwanis taking part in ‘Wreaths Across America’

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Clinton Township Kiwanis Club is taking part in Wreaths Across America by laying wreaths on the graves of veterans at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township on Saturday, Dec. 13.

One of the largest Wreaths Across America events in Michigan, the Dec. 13 event will have Brig. Gen. Leah Voelker, base commander of Selfridge Air National Guard Base, serving as the keynote speaker. State Rep. Joe Aragona, R-Clinton Township, will emcee.

Those looking to support the event by funding wreaths can reach out to Kerry Jantz at (586) 610-3511 or Barry Burnham at (586) 703-4435.

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PAC-MAN IS OUT FOR BLOOD

METRO DETROIT — The video icon PAC-MAN is helping the American Red Cross. The nonprofit organization has teamed up with Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc., to recruit blood donors. Anyone who donates blood until Dec. 7 will receive a classic pair of Red Cross x PAC-MAN socks and a one-of-a-kind PAC-MAN Gashapan collectible, both while supplies last.

Donors of all blood types are needed. To make a blood donation, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call (800) RED CROSS. See RedCrossBlood.org/PACMAN for additional details.

PAC-MAN is celebrating its 45-year anniversary this year.

Donating blood takes about an hour, including talking to a health official about your medical history to ensure you are a good candidate. Blood transfusions are given to patients in a wide range of circumstances, including serious injuries such as car crashes, surgeries, child birth, anemia, blood disorders, cancer treatments and more.

Through the end of November, the Red Cross is providing free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes. The test measures an individual’s blood sugar level over the past three months. While no fasting is required for the test, blood donors should eat a nutritious meal ahead of their appointment. To receive A1C results, donors must make a successful blood, platelet or plasma donation and have not received an A1C result with their donation in the past 12 months.

MICHIGAN RESIDENTS TRAVEL FOR TURKEY

DEARBORN — According to AAA, more than 2.6 million Michiganders are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the Thanksgiving holiday period, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 1. This marks a 1.4% increase over last year and sets a new record for Thanksgiving travel in the Great Lakes State.

Applicant: Boat Town Marina & Rentals – Case #32-25-SLU

Purpose of Request: Requesting temporary, seasonal approval for a foating offce for boat rentals, and a port-a-john on the property.

By Reason Of: Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Ordinance Article XI, Section 11.14 Temporary Structures, Tents and Uses

Properties in Question: 30301 South River Road – Property #17-12-16-179-002 Harrison Twp, MI 48045 (WF)

ANY INTERESTED PERSON (S) MAY APPEAR OR BE REPRESENTED AT SAID MEETING.

BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:00 A.M. AND 4:30 P.M., MONDAY - FRIDAY.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the HARRISON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M. in Rosso Memorial Hall, 38255 L’Anse Creuse Road, Harrison Township, to hear and consider comments, both verbal and written, relative to the following:

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND / OR COMMENTS, WRITTEN OR ORAL, WILL BE RECEIVED AT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP OFFICES, 38151 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, HARRISON TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN, 48045, (586-466-1461)

Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email pc-zba@harrison-township.org if auxiliary aids or services are needed.

Published: Journal 11/24/2025

AAA predicts about 2.3 million Michigan residents will travel by car and 224,600 will travel by airplane. Around 80,000 people will reach their destination by other means, including bus, train or a cruise.

According to INRIX, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons will be the most congested travel times before Thanksgiving. Heavy traffic is expected all day Sunday as travelers return home. AAA recommends leaving early and staying alert for construction, crashes, or weather delays. Remember to slow down and move over for emergency responders and stopped vehicles.

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights.

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE HARRISON TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M. IN ROSSO MEMORIAL HALL, 38255 L’ANSE CREUSE ROAD, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING AN APPEAL BY:

CASE #12-25-ZBA: James Sepesi – Riverside Bay Ct. Property #17-12-16-152-007 Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (R1-D)

PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Requesting a 2 ft. height variance.

BY REASON OF: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances Article 5, Section 5.02 (b, 3) – Accessory buildings in single family residential districts

Notice is further given that the Charter Township of Harrison Zoning Board of Appeals may modify or change the variance(s) as requested, including granting of variance(s) for said purpose, which may create another and different variance(s) from the requirements of the above cited Charter Township of Harrison ordinance, all within its discretion and as otherwise permitted by law. Any interested person(s) may appear or be represented at said meeting.

Additional information or comments, written or oral, will be received at the Harrison Township Offces, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd, Harrison Twp., MI, 48045 (586-466-1461) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Published: Journal 11/24/2025 0226-2548

CRIME WATCH

Hospital vandalism

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — While checking the old hospital at 26755 Ballard Street at around 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 30, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies discovered the front doors were pried open.

A second set of doors appeared to have been damaged by a prying attempt with a metal fence post.

No other damage was noticed at the building, but several metal fence posts were missing.

Grocery larceny

MOUNT CLEMENS — On Oct. 29 at around 8:10 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 160 block of Beyne Street for the alleged theft of an online grocery order.

Deputies spoke with a 25-year-old Mount Clemens woman who claimed her neighbors stole her $35 Instacart order. She reached out to the Instacart driver, who told her he gave her order to an unidentified woman who gave him the wrong verification code.

Deputies attempted to contact the neighbors by phone but were unable to get through.

Scrap metal damage

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 27 at around 4 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke with a 31-yearold Harrison Township man who had his car damaged on Interstate 94.

While driving westbound on I-94, the man was behind a box truck hauling a trailer full of scrap metal. An unsecured piece of metal fell off and struck his car, cracking his windshield and damaging body parts. A radiator hose was damaged when the metal piece was driven over.

Stolen chips

MOUNT CLEMENS — On Oct. 24 at around 2:30 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the Shell gas station at 12 Market Street for a theft report.

Deputies arrested a 33-year-old Highland Park man. Prior to the arrest, deputies viewed a vid that allegedly showed the man stealing a bag of tortilla chips and leaving the store.

The man was taken to the Macomb County Jail for third-degree retail fraud.

Lost wallet

MOUNT CLEMENS — On Oct. 23 at around 10:40 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 30 block of Breitmeyer Place for a larceny report.

Deputies spoke with a 55-year-old Mount Clemens man who believed his wallet was stolen from his truck. The truck was left unlocked while he was at work near the border of Harper Woods and St. Clair Shores. The wallet was reportedly left in the vehicle’s center console.

The wallet had nine cards in it, and $131 had been spent on one of the cards since the theft occurred.

The man wished to press charges.

— Dean Vaglia

CONGRATULATIONS!

BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — Through hardship and long distance, this couple has stayed together. The icing on the cake? They won a free wedding at MacRay Harbor in Harrison Township.

Haley Grooms and James Pratt, who goes by Riley, were informed they won the wedding around six months ago and have been planning for their Nov. 21 wedding date ever since.

A press release tells their story.

Grooms worked three jobs while completing a degree at the University of Michigan. The release stated she faced extreme financial and personal hardship when she met Pratt.

“After losing her late partner in a tragic accident, Haley never imagined she would love again — until a chance encounter with James rekindled her hope,” the release stated. “Their relationship has since endured long deployments, time apart, and countless sacrifices, yet their devotion never wavered. When James proposed on their anniversary at the Detroit Riverfront, the couple began planning their dream day — only to be met with the news of another deployment just months later.”

MacRay Harbor partnered with Elite Wedding Co., Viviano Flower Shop, Christine’s Cakes and Pastries, and Ackerman & Co. to give the couple a wedding. Kelli Matthes, MacRay Harbor sales

See WEDDING on page 7A

Haley Grooms and James Pratt won a free wedding from MacRay Harbor in Harrison Township.

Photo provided by MacRay Harbor

Wedding

manager, will officiate the wedding.

Pratt has been in the United States Navy for around seven years. He and Grooms said they met at a bar. Pratt got a ride from Grooms, and she said he was begging for her phone number and told his friend he was going to marry her.

“I didn’t know her name,” Pratt said. “I think I might have said maybe one, two sentences to her the whole night, but when we got in there something in me knew.”

Grooms said she and Pratt are the same person in different genders.

“We do everything together,” Grooms said.

They bowl together and go everywhere together.

“We really are each other’s biggest teammates, biggest supporters,” Grooms said. “If you find me, you find him.”

Pratt said he had a “deer in the headlights” moment when he found out they won the wedding. Grooms said she started crying, stating it’s not something that usually happens to her.

“I’ve never experienced so much joy, and it was really overwhelming,” Grooms said.

Grooms said her dad cried when he found out about the free wedding. It’s a big deal for her whole family as her grandparents are nearly 90 years old. She didn’t think they’d be there for her special day.

Pratt said he’s excited to see Grooms

walk down the aisle while Grooms is excited to dance the night away. Pratt and Grooms also said they’ve taken dance classes for months to surprise their friends and family with a choreographed first dance.

Grooms said their story is one of resilience.

“It really shows that love can find you in some really unpredictable places, and never give up, not just on yourself, but on relationships, and push through because there’s always going to be a light at the end of the tunnel,” Grooms said.

She went on to say even when you think you’re not deserving of love, there will be someone out there who will prove you wrong. Pratt said they’ve been together almost three years.

“We’ve had over long distance, the hard

conversations and the high-stress situations, but we always knew we were each other’s rocks throughout,” Pratt said.

Grooms advised couples to not go to bed angry.

“That’s just a recipe for disaster,” Grooms said. “Trust and communication is huge. I mean, don’t stress over small things because they’re not going to matter in five, 10 years from now.”

Maybe even a week or two, Pratt added.

SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

Groups work to ensure there is ‘No Child Without a Christmas’

BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — The holiday season is upon us, and families all over are preparing for the next few months of fun, food and gifts. But some families are wondering how they are going to pull it off for their children.

To help, local charities and nonprofit organizations come together each year to supply families in need with gifts and food for the holiday season.

For the 31st year, the Troy Police Department is hosting “Operation Blue Sleigh,” a program aimed at helping families in need in the Troy area have the best holiday ever.

Officer Greg Pokley, with the Troy Police Department, said that the team is helping 41 families this year.

Pokley said that 95% of the families selected are identified through the school system and can include kids who are on the free lunch program, or those that teachers know need help the most. The other 15% are chosen by road patrol officers who notice families in need.

“Operation Blue Sleigh encompasses our gift card drive, Shop with a Cop, and then adopt a family,” Pokley said. “This year I have 41 families and that number keeps going up every year.”

During the Shop with a Cop portion of the program, officers take the kids through Walmart and buy the kids a gift with a $100 gift card provided by Walmart.

“We have 41 families and 41 sponsors, generous, generous sponsors, throughout the city of Troy,” he said. “That can include businesses or just residents in Troy that

See GROUPS on page 9A

e Veterans and America First Foundation is committed to standing with those in the military who are serving, have served and those who were left behind after the death of a loved one.

Based in Clinton Township, the nonpro t provides essential support to homeless veterans and everyday Americans in need — from housing, food and clothing to resources and information they can use for self-improvement and an improved quality of life. Many people may be thrown o course nancially, mentally or spiritually by life’s challenges. A lost job may mean they are struggling to put food on the table or a ord housing. e loss of a marriage, relationship or the passing of a loved can have an adverse e ect on veterans and others who have lived a modest life.

e Veterans and America First Foundation was created to make sure no local veterans or struggling families are left without hope or support. It was founded by Paul Dehem, a longtime real estate broker and local resident who relies on the support of small board of dedicated leaders and volunteers.

e foundation provides resources through compassion, community and a commitment to the American spirit. Working mostly with veterans but occasionally with other disadvantaged residents, the Veterans and America First Foundation helps individuals reclaim their dignity, rebuild their lives and move toward a brighter, self-su cient future. Simply put, the nonpro t feels strongly that no hero should be forgotten and that no American

should be left without hope

“We’re small, but we’re growing.”

Veterans and America First Foundation stands with those who served

“We wanted to create something that could provide direct help to individuals,” Deham said.

e foundation’s thrift store in Clinton Township’s warehouse district near Hall Road and Groesbeck Highway helps fund its e orts.

Clothing and furniture donations are sold to raise money, and many items are given directly to veterans and struggling families at no cost. It has become a busy hub for shoppers looking to nd good prices on a variety of things, from clothing to toys to household items.

“We provide essential support to veterans and everyday Americans in need,” Dehem said. “ e store helps to build our brand and raise money for our cause.” One other way that the Veterans and America First Foundation is growing is by providing step-up housing through leased units in Clinton Township. ese housing options are available to quali ed veterans and individuals at signi cantly discounted rates. e temporary residents also can receive support including food and other types of assistance.

“ is housing is for veterans who aren’t homeless but have had some challenges and are moving forward with their lives,” Dehem said. “It’s a group housing setup that gives people hope and opportunity.”

Learn more by calling (586) 230-7322 or by going to vaa .org.

ABOVE: Operation Blue Sleigh organizers pose together for a photo with Santa.

LEFT: Gifts are piled up at the Troy Police Department for Operation Blue Sleigh. Photos provided by Greg Pokley

Groups

from page 8A

want to donate to families in need.”

Sponsors of the program essentially adopt a family in need. The families send Pokley a wish list which he then sends over to the sponsors.

“I recommend (to the sponsors) sending roughly $100 per person that is in the family. I divide the families into small, medium, and large so that way the sponsors can pick what size they want, because it will give them an idea of what their budget will be,” he said.

Once all of the gifts are collected from the sponsors, the Troy Police Department hand delivers the gifts to the families at home on Dec. 22.

“We get a bunch of police cars, and we have some large vehicles that are blue, and we load up the vehicles and deliver them to each house that morning,” he said. “The officers get a kick out of that. They love doing that.”

During this time the Troy Police Department is also accepting donations, including money and gift cards. He said they

recommend grocery store gift cards.

“We know that the kids, sometimes their best meal is when they are at school, and over the holidays, when they are on break, they don’t get that same food,” he said. “So we ask for grocery store gift cards, and we provide those families with gift cards as well as the sponsors providing the gifts.”

‘No Child Without a Christmas’

In St. Clair Shores, the Goodfellows have been providing holiday help for 99 long years, according to president of the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows organization, Mike Cook. The Goodfellows motto is “No Child Without a Christmas.”

Each year, the Goodfellows gather volunteers to sell newspapers on city street corners and collect food donations from the surrounding schools.

The newspaper sale is always on the first Saturday in December, which this year is Dec. 6. Volunteers fill the streets from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. selling newspapers for donations.

With the money collected from the newspaper sale, Goodfellows volunteers purchase food and gift cards.

Schools around St. Clair Shores also

collect nonperishable items to donate, according to Cook. That food is then put into food baskets that are delivered by volunteers to needy families in the St. Clair Shores area.

“We collect nonperishable food through the holidays and then we have a help line that needy families can call and request help, and we interview those families and for every child under the age of 16 we give out a gift card so that parents can go buy Christmas presents for the kids,” he said. “Along with that on Christmas Eve morning, we take the food that was collected by all of the schools and deliver that to the needy families on Christmas Eve morning.”

Cook said that the food baskets even include turkeys to ensure the families have a full Christmas meal.

“We want them to have everything they need for a Christmas dinner so we go out and purchase turkeys so they have turkeys and stuffing and cranberries and all of the good stuff to go along with it, so they can have a nice Christmas dinner,” he said.

Cook said that prospective families that need Christmas help can call the Goodfellows hotline at (586) 980-0400. They start taking calls the day after Thanksgiving.

Being such a big part of these families’

lives is a heartwarming experience according to Cook, who has been with the Goodfellows for around 38 years now.

“Everybody deserves to have a nice Christmas. All children deserve to have a nice Christmas. It’s heartwarming when we can show up at someone’s house on Christmas Eve morning and bring them food and bring them the things they need, you know, maybe for some reason, they are less fortunate that year,” Cook said. “It doesn’t mean they are bad people, or they have had issues. Something has happened in their life that they need help. They may have lost their job, had an injury, they may have been hospitalized for something. So they have had an event in their life that they need assistance. And if we can help them just to brighten their day a little bit, it makes it all worthwhile.”

For more information about the Troy Police Department, go to troymi.gov. For more information about Goodfellows organizations in metro Detroit, go to detroit goodfellows.org.

For Christmas help from the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows, call (586) 980-0400. Donations can be made at any time at the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows, located at 26700 Harper in St. Clair Shores.

Funding

Police Department is to respond to emergency calls. A traffic bureau would be nice. It’s a luxury.”

Wade gave props to Police Chief Preston Susalla for coming up with “innovative things to generate some traffic enforcement,” and Township Clerk Kim Meltzer reminded people that the lack of a dedicated traffic enforcement division did not mean traffic violations would go unenforced in the township.

Lucido, as the court’s representative, was open to the idea of a traffic division.

“We would love a traffic division from the court’s perspective,” Lucido said. “The most efficient thing that we do at the court for our budget is process a traffic ticket. It takes very little clerk time and a big percentage of the revenue goes to our funding units, which is (Clinton Township), Harrison Township and Mount Clemens. Obviously, that’s not our call whether there’s a traffic division or not, but we would support one. We used to have one in the past and it did very well for the court. If that ever came about, we would support that 100%.”

Trustee Julie Matuzak said the solution to issues surrounding the court’s funding should not come from tickets written in Clinton Township, but from decisions made in Lansing.

“The only real solution to this is for the state to step up and fund their responsibility for funding courts,” Matuzak said. “Otherwise, communities are going to be balancing or paying for the courts on the backs of their citizens by writing traffic tickets. There’s lots of places that do that ... I would rather see the state step in, step up for their responsibility and pay for the functioning of their courts, which is their responsibility.”

Lucido mentioned that both the Michigan Legislature and the Michigan Supreme

Court are moving in such a way that will bring state funding to the district courts, though it is believed communities would still have to fund their local district courts.

Southern township recreation discussion

Trustees also authorized a discussion about the creation of a recreational center in the south end of the township. Trustee Shannon King brought the discussion to the board.

“There’s been a number of people, in the south end in particular but across the township, that have interest for us to move forward with more programming and more accessible things in the south end, and I think it would be prudent if we listened to them and took the opportunity to see what opportunities we have to be able to do it,” King said.

King initially brought the matter as staff-led study, then as a work session before having it become something to be discussed by the Budget Ways and Means Committee.

As the board discussed the subject further and went over some of the financial difficulties that would surround the possible creation of a physical center, Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem offered his concerns regarding “false expectations” that community members may have versus whatever the township may end up going through with.

“I don’t think we’re there (to build a center yet) and I think we have to be very, very careful about how we approach this issue so that we do it in a way that’s fiscally responsible, that is open, that is focused in on programming (and) that seeks everyone’s input,” Gieleghem said.

The next Budget Ways and Means Committee meeting for the study will be on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 9:30 a.m. at the board chambers in the Robert Cannon Civic Center located at 40700 Romeo Plank Road.

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

Santa Parade

from page 1A

“It’s not supposed to. It’s supposed to be a continuation of a decades-long tradition. The lineup looks like it will be comparable to prior years … It’s a great milestone to hit, but also (the Santa Parade is) the kind of thing that’s going to keep going for another 50 years no matter what. So we’re just celebrating the milestone and continuing on.”

Santa’s route through the city was expected to go down Main Street starting from Church Street and moving north to Clinton Street. Leading Santa in the procession were a planned 90-plus groups including the Mount Clemens Fire Department, Macomb County government officials and the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, marching bands from around the region and various Scouting troops, civil organizations, veterans groups and more. Those looking to meet with the man in the red hat were asked to head to the municipal Market Street green parking lot, located near Main Street and Clinton Street, after the parade.

Nelson and Diane Jackson were tapped to serve as the grand marshals this year. An educational power couple celebrating their own 50th anniversary this year, both are graduates of Western Michigan University and Wayne State University. Nelson worked across Mount Clemens Community Schools as an ombudsman and held various principal positions, including at Mount Clemens High School. Diane worked as an educational consultant for pre-college programs for the University of Whitewater-Wisconsin from 1997-2007 and was an educator in the city for 37 years with roles at Christian Clemens Elementary School, Washington Junior High School and Mount Clemens Middle School.

Theresa McGarity, a parade volunteer and a city commissioner, said her husband was tutored by Diane after she caught him trying to escape detention.

“They took the time out (to help students),” McGarity said. “It wasn’t just go to school, teach the kids and go home. They spent their summer helping the students excel.”

Parade preparation is a year-long effort for volunteers. Work begins as soon as the parade ends.

“The putting away of one parade is the beginning of the next parade,” Rick said.

And while most of the year involves core volunteers meeting and fundraising, the execution of the parade heavily relies on volunteers. There are a variety of roles for volunteers typically falling either on the operations side or being a character march-

ing in the parade. Rick himself has more experience on the operations side, leaning on experience managing amphibious landings in the Navy to order the parade’s floats and marchers. However, he also has experience as a marcher.

“I’ve only done a costume once and it was an interesting experience,” Rick said. “The kids love it, but just when you get to the end and you think you have a chance to take a break, that’s when kids then surround you and want to play and get pictures and whatnot. For any costume volunteers, it’s worth knowing that marching in the parade is part of it, but at the end of the parade sometimes there’s more fun to be had as well.”

While having a part in making sure a storied local tradition continues on has been rewarding for Rick and others, his favorite part of the volunteering experience is getting to see those personal, magical moments that happen before and after things kick off on parade day.

“I know where Santa gets ready for the parade, and I’m not going to say where,” Rick said. “And I know one little kid knocked on the door to that location … and the door opened, and Santa leaned out and put his lips in a ‘shush’ motion so that little child could keep his secret. If you’re not a volunteer you’re not going to see those moments or hear about them. Knowing that we’re all part of this tradition that makes moments like that for hundreds of Mount Clemens kids is pretty fun.”

Santa first made his way down Mount Clemens’ Main Street in 1975. The man from the North Pole came to Bath City in order to visit Prieh’s Department Store, journeying into town upon a lone float. Mr. Claus returned in 1976 and from then until the 2000s, the parade cemented itself as a core part of the Mount Clemens civic calendar. It was helped along in major part by First National Bank in 1989 and Mount Clemens General Hospital in 1994, both coming in to sponsor and organize the budding tradition.

The parade’s future came into doubt in 2006 when the hospital pulled its sponsorship. A campaign was launched to save the parade, and since then it has been handled by groups of volunteers operating with some kind of charitable partner. This year, the parade is organized with the Downtown Development Committee Foundation — the Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority’s charitable arm — while registering with the state and federal governments to form a nonprofit parade organization. This year’s presenting sponsors are the Mount Clemens Lions Club and JARS Cannabis. Other parade sponsors include local clubs and businesses within the greater Mount

Clemens area.

“We have lots of floats and a lot of the same people who have supported us through the years; the car clubs and the dance studios and the ice arena with their Zamboni and the figure skaters, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus,” DDCF Treasurer and Parade Sponsorship Coordinator Michelle Weiss said. “I’m just grateful that people find value in not just putting it on but supporting it

… The kids look forward to it (over) generations. We have families that came when they were little and now, they’re parents and grandparents, and it means a lot to them to come here.”

For more information about the parade and its history, go to mountclemenssantapa rade.com.

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

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON ADOPTED BUDGET AND ELECTED OFFICIALS COMPENSATION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2026

Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2026

8.7000

Anticipated

Said Budgets for the fscal year ending December 31, 2026 have been fled in the Offce of the Township Clerk, 38151 L’Anse Creuse Rd., Harrison Township, MI 48045, and are available for public examination during regular working hours on regular working days.

TAKE FURTHER NOTICE: that the Harrison Township Board will meet on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., in the Rosso Memorial Hall Meeting Room, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, in the Charter Township of Harrison, for the purpose of conducting a Public Hearing on the above mentioned budgets.

Adam Wit, MMC, MiPMC, Township Clerk Charter Township of Harrison

Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Township Clerk’s Offce at (586) 466-1406 or email awit@harrison-township.org

Published: Journal 11/24/2025

Church

from page 3A

Hilla also mentioned Brannon is also the pastor for Triumphant Cross, a Lutheran church in St. Clair Shores.

Brannon said declining population is not just a problem for the Lutheran church, but for churches across all denominations. He received a letter from the Archdiocese of Detroit, stating the Catholic population has declined from 1.5 million to 900,000 people, with intentions to close five parishes in Southeast Michigan.

“It’s where we are,” Brannon said.

The church falls under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Donald P. Kreiss, bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America’s Southeast Michigan Synod.

Brannon went on to say the Bethlehem Lutheran Church has been a beacon of hope for people. In the past, the church offered a free meal once a month and currently it has a clothing giveaway every second Saturday of the month. Racks and racks of clothing fill the hall with a $1 donation to come look at clothing and take some home.

“If this church does close, the community clothing giveaway will go to the other church,” Brannon said.

Rosy Burd has attended to the clothing drive for around 20 years, and Pat Joseph

ABOVE LEFT: Patricia Joseph, left, and Rosy Burd volunteer at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, organizing racks of clothes for a giveaway outreach. Burd has been a member at the church for 50 years.

ABOVE RIGHT: Churchgoers and leaders at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Harrison Township say their sanctuary is a welcoming place with a tight-knit congregation, but that declining attendance makes meeting financial commitments difficult. LEFT: Rev. Robert Bannon has led the congregation at Bethlehem Lutheran Church for 16 years. The church has had eight pastors since its inception in 1958.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

also helps. Their next clothing drive is on Dec. 13.

Brannon later said he’s seen the slow decline in attendance across all denominations and across all religions. He said since the COVID-19 pandemic, all denominations decreased. Hilla also said a lot of services can be found online.

“It’s not the same though,” Hilla said. “When you get here, you get that companionship with other members. It’s not the same. It’s really not.”

Brannon said it has been a slow decline. They also have two people who are “snowbirds” who tithe at their church in Florida during the winter.

“It’s a wonderful place,” Brannon said. “But it’s been one of those things to just be sad to watch it as people age.”

“It’s very welcoming here,” Hilla said.

Brannon and Hill both agreed it’s a tight-knit congregation with a family feel.

“We all support each other, if somebody’s sick we pray for each other,” Hilla said. “We love each other.”

Brannon has been with the church for 16 years while Hilla has been with the church for three years.

Brannon would like the community to know their church is open to everyone and they are a “non-judgement zone.”

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

meant to do. It’s nice to see that in our community, community spirit and taking care of one another is alive and well.”

In light of the incident — as well as Kropp mentioning the $259 million lost to cryptocurrency scams annually on a national scale — Commissioner Spencer Calhoun floated the idea of an ordinance regulating cryptocurrency ATMs in the city. Grosse Pointe Farms began regulating the ATMs in July. The ordinance requires cryptocurrency ATMs to be registered with the Department of Public Safety, requires operators to have a business license, requires fraud warnings to be placed around the ATM and limits a $1,000 daily purchase limit for new members and a $5,000 limit over a two-week period.

New commission business

Being the first full-scale meeting of the Mount Clemens City Commission following the November elections, the Nov. 17 meeting meant it was Commissioner Roxanne Brown’s first true meeting in her new role. Brown took the seat at the table formerly occupied by Barb Dempsey and, aside from a delayed vote when excusing Commissioner Laura Fournier’s absence, the meeting was smooth sailing. Brown was elected to the commission alongside commissioners Fournier, Erik Rick and Mayor Laura Kropp, all of whom retained the seats they held prior to Nov. 4.

An organizational meeting of the commission was held on Nov. 10 to go over the processes and procedures of the board, but the question of who the mayor pro tempore should be lingered into the Nov. 17 session. No candidate for the role achieved the required four votes at the prior meeting. Cal-

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON

CASE #14-25-ZBA: Nicholas McCready – 38077 Seaway

Property #17-12-21-352-008

Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (R1-C)

Purpose of Request: Requesting a variance for a third accessory building.

By Reason Of: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances

Article 5, Section 5.02 (A, 3) – Accessory buildings in single family residential districts.

Individuals with disabilities or impairments who plan to attend this meeting should contact the Planning / ZBA Department at (586) 466-1461 or email mpicklo@harrisontownshipmi.gov if auxiliary aids or services are needed.

Published: Journal 11/24/2025

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON

0111-2548

houn spoke in support of the absent Fournier continuing in the role prior to votes being cast.

“I think one of the reasons why we’ve been able to work so well on this commission has been our diversity of experience, thought and background,” Calhoun said. “We’ve been able to leverage that and turn that into action with information from our city leaders. We’ve been able to make great decisions based off of that, and in some cases the best decision we can get given the circumstances. I think that as a practice we should, and as a democracy, shouldn’t let tradition rule but should allow the experience, ideas and vision as well as the leadership of our members define our support for them; and that’s what I am proud to be supporting Commissioner Fournier on her merits. She’s earned every vote that she’ll receive, and I think that that’s a testament to her character and the power of our democratic process in

action.”

Commissioners unanimously voted for Fournier to be mayor pro tem. The mayor pro tem leads meetings when the mayor is not present, which Fournier did for this year’s May 19 meeting.

Delinquent property tax

Commissioners voted to place over $131,000 worth of delinquent utility and general billings on the tax roll as special assessments as part of winter 2025 taxes.

Brown mentioned the city should inform people of utility bill assistance available to them.

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

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF HARRISON

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the HARRISON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M. to hear and consider comments, both verbal and written, relative to the following:

ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AND MAP AMENDMENT

Property #17-11-36-253-009

Harrison Twp., MI 48045 (R1-D)

Purpose of Request: Requesting a 2 ft. side yard setback variance.

By Reason Of: Charter Township of Harrison Code of Ordinances

Article 5, Section 5.02 (C) – Accessory buildings in single family residential districts.

Article 16, Section 16.01 (G) – Nonconforming lots, uses, and structures.

Published: Journal 11/24/2025

The proposed zoning text amendments pertain primarily to housing and include the following proposed changes: revisions to Section 3.03 (site plan review qualifcation); revisions to Section 3.05 (site plan review procedures); revisions to Section 3.07 (development impact statement); revisions to Section 6.01 (fences, walls, hedge rows, and protective barriers); revisions to Section 9.03 (minimum number of off-street parking spaces); revisions to Section 11.10 (residential open space developments); revisions to Section 11.14 (temporary structures, tents and uses); new Section 11.22 (short-term rentals); revisions to Section 14.02 (zoning districts); new ROS, Recreation and Open Space Conservation District; deletion of the R1, Single-Family Residential District; revisions to the intent statements, permitted uses, special land uses, lot requirements, building requirements, and setback requirements within the R1-A, R1-B, R1-C, R1-D, MHC, RM-1, RM-2, LC, GC, V-1, RW, WF, and V-1A Districts; revisions to Article XV (use matrix); new Section 17.01A (adult foster care); revisions to Section 17.18 (convalescent, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospices); revisions to Section 17.25 (group day care homes); revisions to Section 17.33 (planned unit development); new Section 17.37A (residential clustering option); and, revisions to Section 21.03 (Defnitions). The proposed zoning map amendments are comprehensive in nature and impact properties throughout the Township.

The public hearing will be held at the Harrison Township Hall, located at 38255 L’Anse Creuse Road, Harrison Township, MI. Any person wishing to comment on the adoption of the zoning ordinance text and map amendments is encouraged to speak during this public hearing. Written comments may be submitted to the Planning Commission at the Planning and Zoning Department.

A copy of the proposed text and map amendments is available to download from the Township website at www.harrisontownshipmi.gov. A copy is also available for inspection during regular business hours at the Township Offces, Planning and Zoning Department, located at 38151 L’Anse Creuse Road, Harrison Township, MI, or call (586) 466-1461.

Published: Journal 11/24/2025

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EASTPOINTE — Police officers were dispatched at around 1:40 p.m. Nov. 4 to DeRonne Hardware in the 18000 block of East Nine Mile Road on a report of retail fraud.

Officers were advised that two men had entered the store and helped themselves to more than $5,000 in merchandise before fleeing the scene.

Video of the suspects was provided to police.

Patrol officers, detectives and members of the Eastpointe Special Investigations Unit were able to locate the suspects the next day, Nov. 5. Both were arrested and a search warrant was conducted at their Detroit residence. Most of the stolen merchandise was also recovered, police said.

Charges were pending following a review by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.

Larceny from auto

EASTPOINTE — At around 9 a.m. Oct. 31, police officers were dispatched to the 16000 block of Sprenger Avenue to investigate a larceny from auto complaint. Their investigation reportedly revealed that an unknown person had stolen a handgun from the center console of a black Ram truck.

Dumping reported

ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 3:09 p.m. on Nov. 4, a complaint was made about alleged dumping in the 3000 block of Country Club Drive.

The officer spoke to a 78-year-old man who is the president of the neighborhood association. The man stated they’ve had residents on several occasions view a 34-year-old man dumping large amounts of garbage in the building’s dumpsters. The suspect is a former resident.

The man had photos of the suspect and was advised to keep them. The officer also advised the man and any tenants to call the police if they see the suspect continuing the behavior.

Check fraud reported

ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 5:43 p.m. on Oct. 24, a report was made about a case of check fraud in the 21000 block of Greater Mack Avenue.

The officer spoke with the victim, a 64-yearold woman, who stated she noticed her checking account was overdrawn. Around $620 was missing. A photocopy of a check showed the same amount was cashed out in a check addressed to an individual she doesn’t know. The signature was reportedly fraudulent, and the check was cashed in July.

The woman needed a police report so the bank could conduct its investigation.

Man caught stealing from store

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer was dispatched to 8200 Van Dyke Ave. for a subject who was caught stealing at 8:51 p.m. Oct. 31. The loss prevention officer said he recognized the subject from a previous theft from a couple of days ago and was now watching him in the store, selecting items and passing all points of sale without offering to pay for the items. Between a couple of days ago and today, police said the man took more than $250 in merchandise and was to be charged with two counts of third-degree retail fraud.

Vehicle strikes home

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers were dispatched to the Shelby West mobile home park, near 22 Mile Road and the Van Dyke Freeway for a vehicle that struck a home on Cranberry Court at 4:38 p.m. Nov. 6. Witnesses said a woman left the area after the crash. The woman was located and admitted to having been drinking alcohol prior to driving, police said. The officers conducted a roadside sobriety test prior to arresting her for operating while intoxicated. The woman had two prior operating while intoxicated arrests, according to police.

Damage to car reported after being egged

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer was dispatched to the area of Ryan and Hamlin roads for a destruction of property report at 9:39 p.m. Nov. 4.

The victim said that while he was driving down the road, he heard a loud bang on his vehicle. When he pulled over, he noticed what appeared to be a raw egg that had been thrown at his vehicle. When the victim washed off the egg, he noticed damage to the left pillar of his vehicle. There were no suspects at the time of the police report.

Stolen car

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 14 at around 5 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 52800 block of Harmony Drive for an auto theft report.

Deputies were told by the caller, a 40-year-old Macomb Township woman, that the car was stolen overnight and last seen parked on the street around 7:30 p.m. the night before. The woman’s 43-year-old husband told deputies he noticed the car was stolen at around 4:30 a.m.

The couple wished to press charges if a suspect was found.

Stolen license plate

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 14 at around

NOTES NEWS

ANTI-BULLYING PROGRAMMING CONTEST UNDERWAY

METRO DETROIT — Detroit-area Planet Fitness franchisees, EPIC Fitness Group and Impact Fitness Group, and the Detroit Red Wings have again teamed up for its third annual Shut Out Bullying contest, offering one school or youth organization $10,000 in funding for anti-bullying programming.

The contest opened Nov. 2 and concludes at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 21. Educational institutions and youth organizations throughout Michigan serving students in grades K-12 are invited to apply by completing a short entry form and answering questions about their current or proposed bullying prevention initiatives.

The 2026 winner will be honored during a special on-ice presentation on Jan. 18, 2026, prior to the Red Wings vs. Ottawa Senators game at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. For full contest details, eligibility requirements, and the application form, visit DetroitRedWings.com under the Fans contest page. A direct link to the contest page can also be found here: DetroitRedWings. com/ShutOutBullyingContest.

Future movie makers sought

METRO DETROIT — Emagine Entertainment and Folktellers Studios have partnered to invite young readers to bring stories to life on the big screen in a storytelling and literacy initiative that blends reading, imagination, and movie magic. The program invites students to dive into Josef Bastian’s award-winning seven-book series, “Excerpts from an Unknown Guidebook.” After reading the books, participants will create their own three-minute movie trailers inspired by the series’ characters, worlds, and themes. Folktellers Studios and Emagine will distribute program kits and connect with classrooms and community groups across the region to make the program accessible to as many young storytellers as possible. The program is open to elementary and middle school aged students and to educators, schools, and community organizations in Michigan. Program registration began Nov. 3 at folktellersforliteracy.com.

were called to the 17900 block of Red Oaks Drive for a larceny report.

Deputies spoke with a 31-year-old Macomb Township man who worked in Shelby Township. At around 4 p.m. the day before, the man noticed his license plate was stolen from his car. He said the theft most likely occurred in Shelby Township.

Damaged decoration

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 20 at around 6 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke with a 49-year-old Macomb Township woman about damaged garden decorations.

At around 5 a.m., the woman discovered the severed head of her Ms. Frankenstein lawn decoration when she had stepped outside of her home in the 23100 block of Inwood Drive for a cigarette. The woman was unsure about who did the damage.

Suspect makes smooth getaway

GROSSE POINTE CITY — Police were looking for an unknown man who is said to have stolen an estimated 12 bottles of EOS lotion — valued at about $160 — from The Village CVS store at around 9:40 p.m. Oct. 27.

Retail fraud suspect sought

GROSSE POINTE CITY — Around closing time at 11 p.m. Oct. 29, an unknown man between 40 and 50 years old is said by police to have run into The Village CVS store, grabbed an estimated $100 worth of merchandise and fled from the store without paying.

Caregiver suspected of stealing from senior GROSSE POINTE PARK — A person described as a trusted 58-year-old female caregiver was suspected of making an estimated $1,700 worth of withdrawals and unauthorized charges against the accounts of a Grosse Pointe Park senior whom the suspect was working for, according to a police report filed Oct. 30. The suspect was facing possible charges including identity theft and unauthorized use of a financial transaction device.

Vehicle broken into GROSSE POINTE WOODS — In what police believe might have been an attempt to steal the infotainment system — a crime that has happened repeatedly to Ram vehicles in metro Detroit in recent weeks — an unknown suspect smashed the rear driver’s side window on a Ram truck while it was parked on the street in the 1700 block of Bournemouth Road between the night of Oct. 28 and 9:29 a.m. Oct. 29,

OFFICER HONORED

FERNDALE

“Andy’s dedication shines through in every case he handles, thanks to his professionalism, patience, and empathy,” the post states. “Beyond his main duties, he leads the health co-responder (CORE) and Face Addiction Now (FAN) Comeback programs, and often steps up to support our schools and community outreach efforts.

“Despite his many responsibilities, Andy approaches each day with enthusiasm and optimism. News of his award sparked congratulations from colleagues and staff across City departments, a testament to the positive impact he has on our entire community,” the post states. “Andy truly makes Ferndale a better place, and we could not be prouder.”