DECEMBER 11, 2024 • Vol. 43, No. 26
CITIES HOST TREE LIGHTINGS: Eastpointe, 3A Roseville, 6A
8A: DETROIT SAILOR KILLED AT PEARL HARBOR LAID TO REST 0242-2450
Stanley Christmas, of Eastpointe, brought his warm spirit to America’s Thanksgiving Parade BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
MACOMB COUNTY — Whether Karen Avila is working at her corporate job for Comerica Bank or helping clients at the company she founded, AG Signing Services, the Roseville resident always tries to accomplish two goals: uplifting those around her and making a difference. Others have noticed Avila’s dedication and work when it comes to financial and legal matters. She was recently named one of the 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 Nominees by the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce. Avila learned Avila of the award through a letter from Kelley Lovati, Macomb County Chamber CEO and president, and Jon Furest, president, NextGen Young Professionals. “This prestigious award program celebrates the exceptional achievements and contributions of dynamic individuals under the age of 40. These individuals have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and impact within their respective fields and communities,” the letter states. “Through this initiative, we aim to recognize and honor the next generation of leaders, like you, who are shaping the future and making a significant impact in their industries and beyond. By highlighting your accomplishments, we hope to inspire others and foster a culture of excellence, ambition and positive changes.” See 40 UNDER 40 on page 4A
Photo provided by Stanley Christmas
Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital security officer Stanley Christmas appears on Corewell’s float in America’s Thanksgiving Parade in downtown Detroit Nov. 28.
EASTPOINTE/GROSSE POINTE CITY/DETROIT — Entering a hospital can be stressful, but with his warm smile and energetic greeting, Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital security officer Stanley Christmas tries to make it feel welcoming. “You’re the one who sets the tone for their experience,” Christmas said. “My job is to change that attitude into something positive. It takes their mind away from that anxiety. And, it sets the tone for (their experience with) other (hospital) departments.” His kind demeanor and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on everyone from patients to employees over the last 18 years — during times when the hospital was still known as Bon Secours and Beaumont — and made such an impression on new Corewell Health East President Lamont Yoder that Yoder invited Christmas to appear on Corewell Health’s float in America’s Thanksgiving Parade in downtown Detroit Nov. 28. The fittingly named Christmas is one of only four people, out of thousands of hospital system employees, who was on the float. See CHRISTMAS on page 13A
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Roseville resident named 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 nominee