11/24/25 Warren Weekly

Warren police: Program to curb domestic violence showing results

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

WARREN — Four months after first announcing it, the Warren Police Department is seeing success in an initiative aimed at combating domestic violence in the city.

The initiative, called Operation Cycle Break, aims to reduce the number of domestic violence calls by enhancing victim safety, streamlining the justice process and ensuring greater offender accountability.

Officials said the initiative is built on four key pillars: victim protection and empowerment, swift justice and deterrence through understanding consequences, making resources accessible and creating pathways for change, and holding offenders accountable and preventing further harm.

In a Nov. 18 press conference, Warren Police Commissioner Eric Hawkins said the department has seen progress thus far.

“Four months into this program, we are already seeing significant and positive changes that reflect our dedication to protecting victims, holding offenders accountable and making this community safer,” Hawkins said.

Fitzgerald school programs benefit from grant money

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

WARREN — Fitzgerald Public Schools is getting a boost for two of its programs through grant money the district recently received.

On Nov. 11, it was announced the district received a $2,500 grant from the Detroit Lions Foundation to support its Fitzgerald High School girls flag football

team, and a $48,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation to support the high school’s auto technology program.

Flag football is a noncontact version of American football. Players wear belts with detachable flags. The game is played by pulling off a ball carrier’s flag to end a play instead of tacking the opponent.

The district’s Athletic Director JuWan Shakespear

See FITZGERALD on page 10A

Warren man recalls his first Thanksgiving in 1971

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

WARREN — C.V. Samuel’s first full day of school in the U.S. was November 22, 1971.

“That morning, as I walked toward the administration building I saw and felt snow for the first time in my life, tiny flakes falling silently, transforming the world around me into something both magical and strange,” he wrote in an essay submitted by email to C & G Newspapers.

Samuel, who immigrated from Kerala, India, to study theology at the Eastern Mennonite College and Seminary in Harrisonburg, Virginia., arrived four days before Thanksgiving — a holiday he had never heard of.

“I was living in a dormitory, cafeteria to eat, no relatives, no one I know personally here, then four days later is Thanksgiving,” he said. “I didn’t know what Thanksgiving even means. For us back home, there is no particular day set for Thanksgiving.”

Every day, he said, is considered to be a day to be thankful for. He said in India, Christmas was the closest they had to Thanksgiving.

“It shows the community spirit and feeling,” he said.

Through the college’s host family program, Samuel was assigned to Bishop Lloy Kniss and his wife, Elizabeth Kniss, who had spent 14 years as missionaries in Mohadi, near Dhamtari, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.

IT’S CHRISTMASTIME IN THE CITY

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

DETROIT — An art project that College for Creative Studies student Brandi Witek helped design made the cut just in time for the holiday window shopping season.

Witek, of Warren, is among several CCS students making spirits bright with “Windows on Woodward” along a section of Woodward Avenue, between Grand River Avenue and Clifford Street in Detroit.

Windows on Woodward was done through a collaboration between CCS and Bedrock, a real estate developer focused on city building initiatives in Detroit and Cleveland. According to the company, Bedrock’s work includes creating iconic cityscapes, rehabilitating historic properties and making space for the community.

Witek and CCS classmate Miracle Hubbard Wray, of Detroit, created custom Christmas decor for 6 Salon, a full-service hair and makeup salon located at 1441 Woodward Ave. The idea was to create a holiday scene to celebrate the season while also bringing shoppers inside the retailer. The artistic students kept in mind their client as they got to work on their display.

“It’s a luxury hair studio. Their brand is elegant,” said Witek, a 2020 Cousino High School graduate. “We had to create without covering up what they were doing

NEWS & NOTES

Case against former Fitzgerald superintendent comes to a close

WARREN — In December 2024, Fitzgerald Public Schools Superintendent Hollie Stange and Food Services Director Amanda Carroll were both charged with possession of marijuana on school grounds and operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

After several court hearings held this year before 37th District Court Judge John M. Chmura, the charges were dropped against both defendants.

Stange, however, still faced a possession of a weapon in a weapon-free zone charge after a .22-caliber hunting rifle that belonged to a third party was discovered inside of her vehicle. It was found by police during her arrest. She was back in court Nov. 20 with her attorney William Barnwell to plead guilty to the charge.

In exchange for the plea, Judge Chumra sentenced Stange to $150 fines and cost, and an 11-month under advisement period. At the end of the 11 months, the remaining count will be dismissed, and no conviction will remain on her record upon the successful completion of the advisement period. Macomb County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Christopher Urban agreed to the terms.

“This is a tremendous victory for Miss Stange,” Barnwell said. “I had argued from the beginning of this case that she absolutely did not drive intoxicated, that she did not break any marijuana laws, and that eventually her record would be clear.”

In a prepared statement, Stange said she is

“looking forward to putting this very difficult chapter behind me and building towards a brighter future.”

“This incident has cost me my career that I deeply loved,” she said. “I am proud of the years I spent serving the community and the students and educators that I had the privilege of working with.”

Stange and Carroll are no longer employed with the district. In August, the school board appointed Elizabeth Jensen to the superintendent position.

Olgert “Gary” Nazarko has been appointed director of food services.

— Maria Allard

GIVING THANKS THROUGH FOOD AND PERFORMANCE

WARREN — On Nov. 6, about 100 residents attended the annual senior citizen luncheon put on by Fitzgerald Public Schools. Held inside the district’s Neigebaur Administration Building, the seniors enjoyed an early Thanksgiving luncheon, camaraderie and pies. A group of Fitzgerald High School students performed two scenes from their fall play “Beetlejuice” and high school band members performed for the crowd. The guests were invited free of charge.

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT

WARREN — The annual Warren toy drive to support the Salvation Army will be held at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at Metro Bar and Grill, 30860 Ryan Road. Support the cause by bringing at least one new unwrapped toy. The Salvation Army Red Kettle will be on-site for direct cash or check donations. The event is hosted by Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, Warren Treasurer Lorie Barnwell and Women of Warren President Christina Hines.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT SHOW WILL FEATURE SANTA CLAUS

WARREN — The Macomb Elks Lodge No. 2292 will hold its Christmas craft and vendor show

Schoenherr Road. Admission is free. Santa Claus will be on site from noon to 2 p.m.

Warren sets date for annual tree lighting

The city of Warren will host its 2025 Christmas tree lighting ceremony from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. Festivities include ice skating and a parade stepping off at 5 p.m. At 6 p.m., the Warren Civic Theater, the Santa Band and the Crown Life Church Children’s Choir will perform holiday songs, and at 8 p.m., a drone show will take place over City Square. There will also be free skate rentals, wagon rides, hot chocolate and an ornament giveaway. The event will be held at Warren’s City Square on the east side of Van Dyke Avenue, north of 12 Mile Road. The festivities are free and open to the public.

FREE-THROW PARTICIPANTS WANTED

WARREN — The Father Kramer Knights of Columbus will hold its third annual kids free throw contest from noon to 3 p.m. Jan. 3 at the Owen Jax Recreational Center, located at 8207 E. Nine Mile Road. The event is open to boys and girls ages 9-14. The winners advance to the district championship with the dates and times to be determined. For more information or to register, call Greg Childs at (586) 822-6567 or email gchildsnixon@ gmail.com.

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.

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.

VETERANS DAY CEREMONY HONORS LOCAL MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — Veterans Day “means everything” to David LeDuc.

LeDuc was living in a Vietnamese orphanage in the mid-1970s when he was rescued by American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

“I would not be here without the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to rescue as many children as they could from orphanages,” he said. “They are the ones that got me here and allowed me to start living the American dream. Without them, I know my chances of survival in Vietnam were very low.”

LeDuc shared his story during the Veterans Day celebration held Nov. 13 at the

Warren Consolidated Schools Career Prep Center. Staff, students and veterans gathered outside the flagpole for a ceremony led by the members of the Polish Legion of American Veterans Post No. 169 in Sterling Heights. The event was held two days after Veterans Day, which is observed annually on Nov. 11 as a federal holiday. This year marked the 20th annual Veterans Day celebration at the Career Prep Center.

LeDuc is a computer science teacher at the school. He was born in 1973 with the birth name of Le Dinh Tuan. He was placed in the orphanage when he was an infant and has never known his real birthdate.

“My biological mom was probably a young woman who could not keep me safe during wartime. Most surrounding villages

Samuel

“This family called me and said, ‘Nobody should be alone on Thanksgiving. You can come and stay with us and have Thanksgiving,’” he said.

The Kniss family, Samuel wrote, welcomed him with open arms.

The day was spent visiting with his host family and their kids, two of which were born in India. Their extended family was there, he said, and they spent the day having dinner and praying.

“I felt very comfortable, and one amongst them that day,” he said.

In his essay, Samuel recalled going to bed at the end of the night.

“That night, I went to bed feeling full, not only from the meal but from the warmth of belonging,” he wrote. “In that home, among people I had only just met, I felt truly at home in America for the first time.”

Since that first Thanksgiving, Samuel said he has remained in touch with the Kniss family. In 2008, he accompanied their daughter and her husband to a convention in Kerala, he said.

Shortly after, Samuel, who remained involved in the church while working as a real estate broker, bought a house in Hamtramck, and moved to Warren in 1976. Samuel and his wife raised their two kids in Warren and have continued to celebrate the holidays together since.

“Now, we celebrate Thanksgiving every year in my family,” he said.

Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.

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Fitzgerald

from page 3A

said the grant money will be used to provide various workout tools. The grant money is much appreciated.

“Anything we can do to give the kids more opportunities,” he said.

The Fitzgerald girls flag football team consists of 18 players in grades nine through 12, and they play against other schools, including South Lake and L’Anse Creuse North. Flag football is played in the spring. Shakespear hopes the athletes learn discipline and perseverance, develop a competitive edge and “they should be having a little fun.”

Richie Sackett is the Fitzgerald High School auto teacher and Jeff Bruni is the auto service coordinator. Gary Stevens is the school’s principal. With the auto grant, staff will purchase a new 14,000-pound hoist and a coolant exchanger for the program. The current hoist at the school is 25 years old.

The auto technology program is part of the Southwest Macomb Technical Education Consortium SMTEC, which welcomes students from Fitzgerald, Warren Woods Tower, Lincoln and Center Line high schools. Five classes are offered, including automotive technology I, II and III. Next semester the district will offer a new course, intro to auto.

The auto class is set up to resemble a service station inside the school’s auto tech building on the Fitzgerald campus. Students learn how to perform a number of services, including basic maintenance, oil changes, electrical, engine repairs, brakes, alignments

and suspension. Students use hand tools, jacks, wiring and study preventative maintenance, basic electricity, and cooling system service.

Engine performance, electrical systems practical experience in the diagnosis and repair also are covered. The students study online about 50% of the time and 50% of the time is spent performing hands-on work when servicing cars in class. In class, students have the opportunity to become certified in the area of automotive.

“With support from the Margaret Dunning Foundation, Fitzgerald continues to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, giving our students practical experience that leads to certifications, apprenticeships, and successful automotive careers,” Fitzgerald Public Schools Superintendent Elizabeth Jensen said in a prepared statement.” We believe in our mission: ‘inspiring, empowering and preparing today’s learner to become tomorrow’s leader,’ and we are excited to help students today get ready for tomorrow’s careers.”

According to a district press release, the Margaret Dunning Foundation was founded by Dunning in 1997. She was born in 1910 in Redford Township and moved with her mother to Plymouth in the 1920s. Dunning was a successful businesswoman, philanthropist and civic booster. She supported many Plymouth nonprofit organizations and was a classic car enthusiast who owned a 1930 Packard 740 Roadster. Dunning died in 2015 at the age of 104. For more information, go to margaretdunningfdn.org.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

Warren man facing charges for threatening police, judge

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

WARREN — A man is facing charges for allegedly making threats against Warren police and a district court judge.

Andrew Roberts, 42, of Warren, was arrested after a local Facebook scanner page contacted the Warren Police Department about private messages it had received.

According to a press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, one message read, “Death to Warren PD.” Another read, “When this starts to happen you’ll know why.”

The second message was accompanied by an image of an armed subject shooting a handgun near the driver’s seat of a marked police vehicle.

Additional messages called for “death to Judge Faunce” and “death to Chris Wells with Warren PD,” the release states.

In a post dated Nov. 12, the administrator of the “Scanner of Warren” made a post sharing some of the messages.

“He’s been sending messages to my

page threatening a judge and Warren Police officers,” the post said.

Another message shared by the page read, “Death to Warren PD kill all cops end cops life’s tonight.”

Judge Suzanne Faunce serves as a judge of the 37th District Court in Warren.

Roberts was arraigned in the 39th District Court in Roseville. He’s facing one charge of false report or threat of terrorism and one charge of using a computer to commit a crime, both 20-year felonies.

He is also facing a habitual offenderfourth offense notice, an aggravating sentencing factor that could result in life imprisonment. He was separately charged with resisting and obstructing arrest related to his alleged conduct during his arrest, according to the press release.

Esther Wolfe, communications director for the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, said the habitual fourth-offender of-

fense comes from prior charges of attempted breaking and entering and entering a building with intent, which he was charged with in the 46th Circuit Court in Otsego in Oct. 2002: second-degree child abuse in February 2006, also in the 46th Circuit Court; and breaking and entering a building with intent in August 2023, in the 26th Circuit Court in Montmorency.

At his arraignment, Roberts was given a $500,000 cash or surety bond by Judge

Kathleen Tocco. He was scheduled for a probable cause hearing and a preliminary exam hearing after press time.

The Warren Police Department declined to comment due to the nature of the charges.

Roberts’ attorney, Robert Ihrie, also declined to comment.

Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.

Veterans

were decimated and destroyed,” he said. “After taking a heredity test, I discovered that I’m 50% Chinese on my biological dad’s side and 50% Southeast Asian on my biological mom’s side. That probably made my biological dad a Chinese soldier helping North Vietnam.”

LeDuc was among the babies and toddlers brought to the U.S. in 1975 through the rescue mission Operation Babylift. With just a sweater and a diaper, LeDuc arrived in the U.S. on April 28, 1975, two days before South Vietnam fell to communist forces. LeDuc was eventually adopted by his American mom and his dad, who waited for him at Metro Airport in Romulus. They also have three biological children and adopted a daughter from Guatemala.

LeDuc’s parents were always there for him. He majored in education at Oakland University and earned a master’s degree in instructional technology from Wayne State University. He and his wife have seven children. He didn’t know when he was born, so the date Sept. 15, 1973, was chosen for him. He also became an American citizen.

“To say that I’ve lived the American dream is an understatement. I have my dream job here at CPC. I get to teach students computer programming and help them make plans for further education, training and professions. Again, I’ve lived the American dream several times over,” he said. “Veterans Day is a day to thank the military men and women who served America. Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the many blessings and opportunities that America has afforded us. Students, I ask you never to pass up the chance to say, ‘thank you’ to those who serve.”

During the ceremony, Career Prep Center Principal Carlie McClenathan mentioned that the school’s graphic art students made the luncheon invitations and that the marketing students raised money for Mission 22, a national nonprofit organization that offers no-cost programs to veterans living with post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury and military sexual trauma.

‘We appreciate the people’s respect to the vets.’

After the ceremony, everyone went inside the school, where the culinary art students made a lunch buffet of bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwiches, fried eggs, opened-faced turkey sandwiches with gravy and mashed potatoes, croissants, guacamole,

pumpkin bread, and various desserts. The meal was prepared under the direction of instructor Jennifer Dulecki and paraprofessional Samantha Richards.

“They do get excited about it,” Dulecki said. “I like for them to go out and talk to the vets. It helps their skills. We want them to have eye contact and conversations.”

Cass Miciuda, a member of Post No. 169, attends the brunch every year for the “camaraderie.”

“We appreciate the people’s respect to the vets,” the 84-year-old Sterling Heights resident said. “It makes us feel good when we see young folks supporting us. We want to teach the young people that veterans are important. They wouldn’t enjoy the freedoms they have today.”

Miciuda served in the U.S. Army from 1962-64.

“I went in after the Cuban Missile Crisis,” he said.

The young soldier was stationed in the Kelley Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany, when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated Nov. 22, 1963.

“I was a duty driver on a 24-hour (shift.) A guy walked into our room and said, ‘Did you hear Kennedy got shot?” said Miciuda, who initially didn’t believe it. “That was a big shocker. The Germans felt so bad they started closing everything down. They were really upset and appreciated what Kennedy did for them.”

The Career Prep Center offers various courses, including culinary arts, engineering and graphic arts. The classes are in two-hour blocks and students return to their home school for their other classes.

On Nov. 11, students from Grissom Middle School in the Warren Consolidated Schools district showed their appreciation with “A Salute to our Veterans” from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Veterans were invited to drive through the schools’ bus lane where students gave them small gifts of gratitude. Students also wore red, white and blue to show their patriotism, and held up signs they made with messages that included, “We appreciate your service,” and, “We salute our heroes.”

According to the school’s Facebook page, the students were encouraged to wear hats on Nov. 13 to honor the military and to wear purple on Nov. 14 for all the Purple Heart veterans. The leadership students also sold beads during the week to raise money for Vets Returning Home, a nonprofit organization in Roseville that assists veterans in crisis.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

(inside.) It’s really cool.”

Using a window cling, bow and other materials, the pair made the salon’s front window resemble a Christmas present being unwrapped. They also decked the halls inside by creating a large wreath made of wooden scissors. They used epoxy glue to achieve a festive look.

“Behind the wreath is a large piece of form core that looks like wrapping paper being torn open,” Witek said. “There’s fairy lights to add an interesting visual effect to it. It’s very exciting. I like the city down here. I’m very proud my work is being seen by so

many people. It was so unexpected.”

Witek’s major at CCS is communication design and strategy. She first became interested in art when attending Carter Middle School in Warren.

The idea behind Windows on Woodward was to create a facade that is not only eye-catching but brings potential shoppers inside the stores.

“We like to do various initiatives throughout the year especially during the holidays,” said Rhonda Rouse, senior tenant experience manager, Bedrock. “The Windows on Woodward is really special downtown. It gets people down here shopping and dining. We are excited to bring the students and businesses together.”

There is a total of five businesses high-

lighted in Windows on Woodward with about 10 students involved. The other tenants are Born in Detroit, Bonobos, The Lip Bar, and Woodhouse Day Spa.

“The festive, walkable window showcase amplifies Detroit’s next generation of talent as they shape the city’s future,” Rouse said. “The project gave the students realworld experience.”

The student designers and the retail-

ers collaborated on the decorations and met periodically for several weeks during the project. Bedrock provided the students with a budget, and they also were encouraged to find donated items.

An unveiling with the media was held Nov. 13. The College for Creative Studies is located at 201 E. Kirby St. in Detroit.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

CANDGNEWS.COM

BLACK FRIDAY

Warren retains outside firm to represent city in MMHA lawsuit

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

WARREN — At a special meeting on Nov. 5, Warren City Council members voted to bring in outside firm Plunkett-Cooney to defend the city against a lawsuit filed by the Michigan Manufactured Homes Association.

The complaint was filed by Jason Hanselmann and Kyle Asher of the Lansingbased Dykema Gossett PLLC on behalf of the association in October.

The complaint, which names the city, Building Director Kirk Rehn and Building Inspector John Impellizzeri as defendants, is challenging city procedures with regard to code enforcement at manufactured home parks.

“It’s a very lengthy lawsuit, it’s multifaceted, extremely complicated because of all the loaded legal issues, our permitting process, which code should be enforced, grandfathering issues, not-performing-status issues,” City Council Secretary Mindy Moore said.

The complaint names three manufactured home communities in the city — Twin Pines on 11 Mile Road, Landmark Estates on Dequindre Road and Motor City Mobile Home Park on Lawrence Avenue. However,

Moore said at the meeting that their main contact has been with Twin Pines and Landmark, which she said has a new owner.

“I think there’s a new owner who is trying to develop who claims he’s trying to redevelop, but not according to city procedures,” she said.

Moore said city inspectors have found multiple violations and issued stop-work orders.

At its special meeting, the City Council voted to retain Plunkett-Cooney and stated they had attorneys who were experienced in this type of litigation.

The firm has represented the city in matters involving the American Civil Liberties Union, and in a case involving former Mayor Jim Fouts that almost went to the U.S. Supreme Court, according to Mary Michaels, who is serving as Warren’s interim city attorney.

According to attorney Schroder, a Plunkett-Cooney partner who also serves as legal counsel to the Warren City Council, the firm has handled matters against the Michigan Manufactured Housing Association previously.

Schroder said the firm would charge the city its normal rates for its service.

Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.

November 28th 7am-9pm

Stores with Exterior Entrances may have hours that vary

Live Music with Gerald Foster | 12pm-4pm Visit Santa Now – Dec. 24

MACOMB MALL

Gratiot Ave. & Masonic Blvd. in Roseville • www.ShopMacombMall.com

Free Family Fun Night

Wednesday, December 3 4:30pm-6:30pm

Santa Parade

Featuring Roseville High School Marching Band

Meet & Greet –

5:15pm-6:30pm (in center court)

• Face painting

• Cookies with Mrs. Claus provided by Roseville High School Culinary Students

• Goody bags while supplies last

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 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

See GROUPS on page 21A

Program

from page 1A

According to research conducted by Wayne State University, which has partnered with the department in the program, domestic violence has dropped by nearly 7% compared to previous years, Hawkins said.

Hawkins said 259 domestic violence offenders have been through the program since its inception, of which 64% were taken into custody the same day as the incident. He added that less than 5% of offenders have offended again, marking a 57% decline in recidivism.

“What that means is that the rate of retraumatization has dropped dramatically,” Hawkins said.

As part of the program, following an arrest, offenders are being arraigned sooner — usually within one day of arrest — according to 37th District Court Judge John Chmura.

Additionally, as part of their bond, defendants are required to undergo counseling.

“I think it’s having an effect,” Chmura said. “I’m noticing at the pretrial that it’s changed the demeanor of a lot of the defendants. It’s often the case, the defendants would have a defiant attitude. Their attitude was, ‘I didn’t do anything wrong. The problem is with the complaining witness, not with me. Back off. Leave me alone.’”

That attitude, Chmura said, seems to have softened.

“They’re starting to understand that the problem is with them. The counseling is starting much earlier and it’s having an effect on plea negotiations,” he said.

Sharma Davenport, president and CEO of Turning Point Macomb, a nonprofit that supports victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking, said the program was a long-overdue initiative. Since the beginning of the program, she said, survivors are treated with “dignity.”

“Survivors are protected every step of the way, which is why you are now seeing more survivors that are willing to come forward and press charges. Survivors tell us they feel safer, they feel seen, they feel supported,” she said.

Hawkins said the idea for the program came out of the department’s desire to do something transformative.

“We wanted to have a program that went beyond the reactive and went beyond the symbolism, which are very important, and it’s very important that departments continue to do that. But we wanted a program that could yield some substantive benefits, some tangible benefits, some things where we can actually make an impact in

actually breaking the cycle,” he said.

While officials touted the program’s success, a report compiled by Wayne State University’s Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice showed areas that needed improvement, particularly in the number of cases dismissed.

According to the report, of the 259 offenders that went through the program in the four months, 28% of the cases were dismissed.

“The high dismissal rate among DV cases points to a need for strong victim-prosecutor coordination to support cooperation through the court process,” the report states.

The report also states that 44% of offenders had prior arrests for violent behaviors, and 30% had access to weapons.

Hawkins said the data is not leading to any changes in the program yet, but that it is allowing the department to refine its approach.

“We’re not making any changes to our program at this point, but what it has done is raise our awareness, particularly with our lethality assessments,” he said.

While the report showed areas that needed improvement, Hawkins said he hopes the program can serve as a model for other communities.

“I’m hoping that others are watching. I’m hoping that other police departments, both within the state of Michigan and outside of the state of Michigan, are watching what’s happening here and seeing how we’re saving lives and breaking this generational cycle of violence in families,” he said. “I truly believe that once they see what we’re doing, that this will become a model for other police departments.”

Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 291-7637.

NEIGHBORS IN THE NEWS

WARREN/SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Thanksgiving won’t be the only celebration this week.

Jean Moeller, who was born on the holiday in 1925, will turn 100 years old Nov. 26. A party is being planned in Shelby Township, the same city where she and late husband Herbert raised their eight children. Originally from Pasadena, California, Jean later moved to Warren, where she was named valedictorian of the Warren High School Class of 1943. She and Herbert met as neighbors and were married for 63 years.

Jean now resides in Lewiston during the summer and Auburn Hills in the winter. She has 17 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

Garre Rae Croswell, her second-oldest daughter, said her mom is a great cook and baker, an accomplished piano player, and an avid reader. She has a passion for gardening and is a longtime member

of the Michigan Nature Association. She enjoys word puzzles and has a good sense of humor. And “if you play cards with her, she wants to win,” she said.

“She says she is really 18 with 82 years of experience,” Garre Rae said. “(She) says age does not matter unless you are cheese or wine.”

— JASON CLANCY

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Main Office: 13650 E. 11 Mile Road • Warren, MI 48089 (586) 498-8000 facebook.com/warrenweekly @candgnews candgnews.com

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from page 18A

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 good fellows.org. For Christmas help from the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows, call (586) 9800400. Donations can be made at any time at the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows, located at 26700 Harper in St. Clair Shores.

Same Day Crowns and Bridges

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

22A/ WARREN WEEKLY • NOVEMBER 24, 2025

NOV. 29

Craft and vendor show: Also food and drinks, 50-50, bake sale and raffle, free admission, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Santa visit from noon-2 p.m.), Macomb Elks Lodge #2292, 25950 Schoenherr Road in Warren, (586) 873-7188, ksanti01@yahoo.com

DEC. 2

Toy drive: Bring at least one new unwrapped toy to support Salvation Army, also donations for red kettle campaign, appetizers and cash bar available, 5:30 p.m., Metro Bar & Grill, 30860 Ryan Road in Warren

DEC. 6

Tree lighting: Free event also includes ice skating and skate rental, parade, Santa photos, holiday songs with Warren Civic Theatre, performances by Crown of Life Church’s children’s choir and The Santa Band

featuring members of Warren Concert Band, drone show, wagon rides, hot cocoa and ornament giveaway, 5-8 p.m., Warren City Square outside City Hall, 1 City Square, facebook.com/cityofwarren

DEC. 7

‘A Holiday Frenzy’ concert: Performance by Warren Concert Band and Motor City Chorale, 3 p.m., Warren Woods Middle School, 13400 12 Mile Road, season continues with winter concert March 15 and spring concert May 17, warrenconcertband.com

DEC. 10

Senior health care seminar: Free event presented by City of Warren Senior Health Care Commission and Henry Ford Health System, visit vendors from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., eat light lunch at noon, hear Dr. Thomas P. Davis speak about coronary artery disease from 12:30-1:30 p.m. and door prizes given from

ORDINANCE NO. 80-838

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 2 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES RELATING TO PUBLIC CONTRACTS AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDERS

THE CITY OF WARREN ORDAINS:

SECTION 1. Chapter 2, Article IX of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Warren, Michigan is repealed.

SECTION 2. Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 4 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Warren, Michigan, is amended to:

ADD THE FOLLOWING DEFINITIONS:

Construction contract is a contract or subcontract to demolish, build, or improve real property. Construction contracts do not include the furnishing of materials, or servicing and maintenance work.

Construction project is a project to demolish, build, or improve real property. Construction projects do not include the manufacturing, furnishing of materials, or servicing and maintenance work.

Major city projects are construction projects involving: (1) city road construction and utility projects; and (2) demolition, construction, or renovations to city-owned land, buildings, or facilities, where the City is the lead in the bidding process and the project is anticipated to cost more than $250,000. Major city projects do not include projects funded by federal or state grants, sole source, consulting, or emergency services.

Responsible contractor is a contractor that has been approved and in good standing, pursuant to Section 2-340 of this Division.

Responsible Contracting Committee is a committee made up of the Purchasing Agent, or his or her designee, the City Engineer, or his or her designee, and the Public Service Director, or his or her designee.

CHANGE THE MONETARY THRESHOLDS FOR THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING CATEGORIES:

Living wage, prevailing wage, small purchase quotations, requests for quotations, sealed/electronic bidding, sole source procurement, spot market purchases, mandatory Council approval, and award waiting periods.

ADD A RESPONSIBLE CONTRACTOR SECTION READING AS FOLLOWS: 2-335 – Responsible Contractors.

(a) Applicability. This subsection applies to construction contracts involving a major city project

(b) Purpose. In enacting this Section, the City is acting in a proprietary role as a market participant. The City has determined that hiring responsible contractors ensures effcient use of taxpayer dollars by promoting worker safety, productivity, quality workmanship, minimizing waste, and reducing anticipated shortfalls in a trained workforce required to perform necessary City services.

(c) Prequalifcation form.

(1) A potential bid applicant for a major city project contract shall submit a Responsible Contractor Prequalifcation form as developed by the City.

(2) If not currently on the City’s responsible contractor list as described in subsection (e) below, a potential contractor for a major city project shall submit the prequalifcation form by the date listed by the City in the bid advertisement.

(3) The Prequalifcation form shall include the contractor’s or their agent’s signature swearing to the accuracy of the responses.

(4) A responsible contractor has a duty to update its responses to the Prequalifcation form if there is a signifcant change to its answers during the bidding process or the term of the contract.

(5) Failure to respond or suffciently answer a question on the form shall give rise to a presumption that the potential contractor is not a responsible contractor as related to the unanswered question or incomplete answer.

(6) An applicant or an applicant’s agent who provides false or misleading answers on a Prequalifcation form or fails to update a prequalifcation form with a material change that may affect his/her status as responsible contractor is:

i. guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by incarceration for not more than ninety (90) days, a fne of not more than fve hundred dollars ($500.00), or both;

To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own event, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.

1:30-2 p.m., Warren City Hall Atrium, 1 City Square, (586) 758-1310, cityofwarren.org/events

ONGOING

Warren Tri-County Fine Arts meetings: 5:30-7:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of month September-June, Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden Ave., (586) 484-5035 or 586-795-5471, warrenartgroup@gmail. com, warrenfinearts.net

Historical Society of Center Line meetings: 10 a.m. every first Friday of month, Center Line Public Library, 7345 Weingartz St., (586) 758-8274, centerline. events.mylibrary.digital

La Leche League of Warren meetings: For pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, 6:30-7:30 p.m. every third Wednesday of month, Warren Public Library - Civic Center inside Warren City Hall, 1 City Square,

lllofwarren.weebly.com

Pageturners Book Club: Meets 2-3 p.m. every third Tuesday of month, Center Line Public Library, 7345 Weingartz St., centerline.gov/436/pageturners-book-club

Senior activities: Cards, chair exercising, puzzles and more, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Fitzgerald Recreation Center, 4355 E. Nine Mile Road in Warren, (586) 759-0920

PAWS to Read: All ages can tell stories to therapy dog, 5-6 p.m. Wednesdays, Warren Public LibraryCivic Center inside Warren City Hall, 1 City Square, (586) 751-0770, warrenlibrary.net

Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan

ii. not eligible to be awarded future City contracts; and

iii. a material breach of any contract between the City and the applicant.

(d) Prequalifcation factors and determination.

(1) The Responsible Contracting Committee shall determine if each potential bid applicant is a responsible contractor by evaluating the following factors:

i. Federal, State, or local labor, workplace safety, employment, environmental, license, or tax, civil or criminal violations;

ii. Past contract delays, overages, breaches, cancellations, suspensions, and work history;

iii. Outstanding judgments or pending legal disputes relevant to the bid applicant’s ability to perform the contract;

iv. Manager’s, member’s, offcer’s, owner’s, or other similar person’s criminal history;

v. Participation in labor force development including, but not limited to apprenticeship and continuing education programs; and

vi. Proper classifcation of workers as employees.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) below, the Responsible Contracting Committee has general discretion to determine responsible contractor status. The determination is fact-specifc and is conducted on a case-by-case basis.

(3) The Responsible Contracting Committee shall deny responsible contractor status to a potential bid applicant if any person or entity involved in the contract or performing the work has had signifcant violations involving criminal, licensing, labor and employment, tax, workplace safety, environmental law or regulations; or does not offer employees a prevailing wage

(e) Responsible Contractor List

(1) The City shall keep a list of contractors that have been determined to be responsible contractors under this section.

(2) Except if removed from the responsible contractor list, the contractor is eligible to enter into major city contracts

(3 Unless exempted as provided below, all contractors performing work on a major city project are required to be listed on the responsible contractor list.

(4) Unless exempted as provided below , if work is performed on a major city project by any contractor who is not listed on the responsible contractor list, all contractors involved may be subject to revocation as provided below.

(f) Exemption. Contractors with less than ten employees are exempt from the responsible contractor prequalifcation.

(g) Revocation. If the Responsible Contracting Committee determines that an applicant on the responsible contractor list: (1) has misrepresented or failed to report information relevant to its responsible contractor status on the prequalifcation form; (2) has taken an action after submitting the prequalifcation form that affects its status as a responsible contractor; or (3) for any other reason, should not be included on the list, the Responsible Contracting Committee may remove the applicant from the responsible contractor list.

(h) Notice of determination

(1) If the Responsible Contracting Committee determines that an applicant is not a responsible contractor within the defnition of this Section, it will send written notice of the determination and its reason for denying its application or revoking its status.

(2) The applicant may appeal this determination as provided in this Section.

(3) The applicant may reapply to be a responsible contractor upon instituting the necessary changes listed in the relevant city department’s denial letter.

(i) Appeal

(1) An applicant may appeal the relevant city department’s license revocation or determination that an applicant is not a responsible contractor to City Council.

(2) The appeal must be submitted to City Council within 10 days of the receipt of the notice of determination, be in writing, and state the reasons why the applicant is a responsible contractor

(3) City Council shall hold a public meeting to hear the applicant’s appeal.

(4) City Council’s standard of appellate review is to determine if the Responsible Contracting Committee acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner.

(5) Within 10 days of the appeal hearing, City Council shall provide a written decision to the Responsible Contracting Committee and applicant stating the reasons for its decision.

(6) The applicant may appeal City Council’s appellate decision or license revocation as provided by law and court rule.

(j) Violations. A person may fle a sworn complaint with the Responsible Contracting Committee about a contractor on the City’s pre-qualifed contractor list. The Responsible Contracting Committee will investigate any credible complaint to determine if the contractor is in violation of the requirements of this Chapter.

SECTION 3. This Ordinance shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance No. 80-838 was adopted by the Council of the City of Warren at its meeting held on October 28, 2025.

(40 Hours per week) includes benefit

Successful completion of Civil Service Examination is required and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Applications will be accepted until there are sufficient applicants to meet the Township’s recruitment needs. As such, interested applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download an employment application, please refer to www.clintontownship.com click on civil service, employment. 0412-2548

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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

AREAS

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

“Despite