1/29/26 Macomb Township Chronicle

Trustees receive Medstar update

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — The Macomb Township Board of Trustees met and received an update on emergency medical services from Medstar CEO and President Kolby Miller on Jan. 21.

Miller’s presentation covered Medstar’s work in 2025, going over data specific to both Macomb Township and overall operations.

Medstar had over 6,370 calls to the township in 2025, the majority being for illness-related medical runs, with over 900 calls made. Difficulty breathing and falls were the two next most common calls. The majority of calls elicited

See TRUSTEES on page 21A

Local artists shine in Art Center shows

RIGHT: The painting “When You’re Back” by Aimee Tomlinson is one of the nearly 40 works from local artists featured in the Anton Art Center exhibition “Heartwork.”

BOTTOM LEFT: The painting “Healing Hands” by Ashlee Royster is one of over 50 works from Michigan artists featured in the Anton Art Center’s Michigan Annual LIII exhibition.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The fiber work “Monks at the Beach” by Marge Sumner is also featured in the Michigan Annual LIII exhibition. Images provided by Anton Art Center

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MOUNT CLEMENS — Local talent takes center stage at the Anton Art Center this winter as two exhibits show off top works from the metro area and across the state.

From Saturday, Jan. 31 until Saturday, Feb. 28, the Michigan Annual LIII will run in the First Floor Gallery featuring over 50 works from 35 artists from across the Great Lakes State.

This year’s Michigan Annual, the 53rd edition of the center’s tent pole fine arts exhibition, continues a recent tradition of the show receiving more entrants than the year before. With 390 works having been submitted, the Michigan Annual LIII is the most competitive the exhibition has ever been.

“We’re excited to see this show continue to grow,” said Matt Mathews, Anton Art Center executive director. “It’s a testament to the work that Stephanie (Hazzard, exhibitions manager at the Anton Art Center) is doing and the work that we’re doing to attract new artists and returning artists to the show. It’s a reflection of the work that the team does to curate beautiful exhibitions.”

Jurying the Michigan Annual LIII is Grace Serra, who curates art

See ART on page 25A

CMPL begins new educational program series

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MACOMB TOWNSHIP/CLINTON TOWNSHIP

— Those who regularly scour the Clinton-Macomb Public Library’s events schedule might notice that the library’s 1-2-3 program is missing. But the curious at heart have nothing to fear.

“Get to Know Your Neighbor” is the CMPL’s new “big issue” initiative, delving into the stories and subjects that pop up around holidays, events and other observances of note.

“It is to highlight different events, holidays and traditions that our community might be a part of by providing reading resources, some programs and maybe some materials to help flesh out these lesser known events and holidays that people might want to know more information about,” CMPL Associate Director Jamie Morris said.

For those who see similarities between “Get to Know Your Neighbor” and the CMPL’s old 1-2-3 program, there’s a good reason for that.

“We don’t think of it as a replacement of 1-2-3 as much as we think of it as an evolution,” said Amy Young, head of adult services at the CMPL. “In the 1-2-3 program, we chose very specific topics that we focused on for the first four months of the year and then we moved onto the next year and the next topic. We think ‘Get to Know Your Neighbor’ provides us a way to be more broad in the topics we’re exposing the community to.”

Under the “Neighbor” model, multiple subjects will be covered over the course of a month. In January, the subjects included Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and Braille Literacy Month, with the following months through April set to cover Black History Month, Ramadan/

See LIBRARY on page 22A

M1E3

by Brian Wells

Army unveils Roush-built

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

DETROIT — Automobiles built by top suppliers weren’t the only things on display at the Detroit Auto Show.

In a media event held Jan. 15, the U.S. Army unveiled the M1E3 Abrams battle tank, a prototype of what the Army is calling its next generation of tanks.

The tank features a hybrid diesel drivetrain and a remote-controlled turret created with the ability to be outfitted with a slew of different weaponry, including anti-drone weapons. It is also outfitted with an autoloader for its main 120 mm cannon, which allows all crewmen to remain inside the vehicle as well as reduces the number of crew in the tank from four to three.

tank prototype at auto show

RELATED:

Auto show panels focus on policy, EVs, 5A Racers, organizers talk challenges of Detroit Grand Prix — including potholes, 8A

See an auto show photo gallery at candgnews.com

“(Autoloaders) have been around for a long time. It’s not new. You just want to make sure they’re reliable,” U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Troy Denomy said. “Bringing in an autoloader allows us to take the humans out of the turret, which allows us to make the turret smaller and vehicle more survivable.”

According to U.S. Army Col. Ryan Howell, while

See TANK on page 20A

NEWS & NOTES

MSGCU educational scholarships available

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union is accepting applications for its annual scholarship programs.

The William Cayen Skilled Trades Scholarship will award two $2,500 scholarships for students pursuing certification in various skilled trades.

Fifteen $2,500 Rudolph Heino People Helping People Scholarship awards will be distributed to high school seniors heading to college with a demonstrated commitment to helping others. New this year, one recipient will be designated, “In Memory of Taylor Jade DeRosa.”

MSGCU will offer four Larry Swantek Educational Studies Scholarships in the amount of $2,500 to high school seniors and current college students planning to become teachers.

There will be four $2,500 Milo Perreault Educator Advancement Scholarships to help certified teachers and administrators continue their education. MSGCU will present 18 $2,500 awards through the High School Excellence Scholarship for high school seniors with plans to attend college.

A total of 22 Stephen Thomas First Responder Scholarships will be awarded at $2,000 each to benefit first responders enrolled in police, fire, and/or paramedic academies at local colleges. Nonmembers are welcome to apply for an MSGCU scholarship and must become a member if selected as a scholarship recipient.

The deadline to apply is Feb. 27. Visit msgcu. org/scholarships to apply.

SPARKLE NETWORK HOSTING COMEDY SHOW AT EMERALD THEATRE

MOUNT CLEMENS — The Sparkle Network is hosting its 13th edition of its “Heartbreakers” comedy show at the Emerald Theatre on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.

Comedians performing include Justin Pedick, Justin Divozzo and Sparkle Network President and founder Moe Lietz. Proceeds from the event will support the Paint Creek Center for the Arts, Great Lakes Burn Camp, Meadowbrook Center for Learning, Susie Q’s Kids and the Dream, Believe & Do Scholarship.

For more information go to sparklenetwork.org.

LEFT: Cooper Werden, left, performs as SpongeBob SquarePants and Caden Hollifield performs as Patrick Star in the L’Anse Creuse Public Schools’ production of “The SpongeBob Musical.” The show ran from Jan. 23-24 at the John Armstrong Performing Arts Center in Clinton Township. ABOVE: The cast from L’Anse Creuse High School in Harrison Township performs. The musical marked Brayden Hunter’s debut as the school’s new choir director.

Detroit Auto show panels focus on policy, EVs

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

DETROIT — Federal and state leaders took to the stage at the Detroit Auto Show to talk about policy whiplash creating instability for manufacturers, stalling innovation and risking job losses as debate continues

over how much government should shape the auto market.

In a fireside chat held at the auto show Jan. 14, former Democratic Party presidential candidate and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said rapidly changing federal policy is causing a potential setback to the industry.

“The other thing that I saw and heard speaking to each of the manufacturers who were displaying their incredible products was how much industry has had to contend with this whiplash from the policy side,” he said.

While every administration will have its own priorities, the changes in policy and

how the industry has reacted to it has been a setback, he said, in particular referencing how administrations have handled electric vehicles.

“When you have a technology that is ultimately more advanced, policymakers cannot just put the toothpaste back into the

Racers, organizers talk challenges of Detroit Grand Prix — including potholes

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

DETROIT — Potholes are rarely a selling point, but in Detroit, they’ve become part of what makes the city’s IndyCar race one of the most demanding stops on the circuit.

“(The track) is bumpy. It’s just bumpy, it’s potholes, it’s a lot going on,” said David Malukas, who will be racing in the No. 12 Team Penske car.

Drivers and organizers appeared at the Detroit Auto Show’s Racing Day Jan. 20 to talk about the challenges they face each year during the Detroit Grand Prix, as well as their hopes for this year’s race.

BUSINESS CLIP

Despite the challenge added by potholes, Malukas said the technicality of the course — being a road course, versus the tracks normally raced on — makes the Detroit Grand Prix one of the best events in the series.

“Detroit really does a very good job of having a technical aspect, making it very tough for the drivers, but we’re still having an incredible race,” he said. “There’s a lot of passes going on, a lot of chaos — it’s a good environment for the drivers.”

At the 2025 Detroit Grand Prix, despite qualifying for the second starting position, Malukas finished in 14th place.

Rinus VeeKay, who races with Juncos

Rocko’s Pet Stop celebrates 20 years in business

Rocko’s Pet Stop is a local, family and veteran owned and operated pet supply store in Macomb Township. It has been proudly serving pet parents for the last 20 years, with a focus on customer service and community. The store hosts regular adoption events and a police K-9 fundraiser every August to feed the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office and Shelby Township police K-9 units. The owner, Ray, has been recognized by both departments for his ongoing support of their K-9s, and Ray was honored in September 2024 as Macomb’s Veteran of the Month.

Rocko’s Pet Stop has information about upcoming events as well as resources for pet food education available on its website, rockospetstop. com. It also runs monthly coupons in-store. Find Rocko’s Pet Stop at 47202 Hayes Road in Macomb Township. Call the store at (586) 532-9865.

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Roseville Fire Chief Keith Jacobs donates blood March 28, 2025, during a blood drive at the Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe. Earlier this month, the American Red Cross announced there is a blood shortage as donations are down 35% nationwide.

American Red Cross experiencing severe blood shortage

Blood donors urgently needed

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — There is an urgent need for blood donations.

On Jan. 20, the American Red Cross held a virtual news briefing via Zoom to announce blood supplies are down 35% nationally, which is about 40,000 units.

The distribution of blood products to hospitals has exceeded the blood supply, and Red Cross representatives are working closely with its hospital partners to meet their needs. The medical team members who spoke during the briefing also encouraged the public to consider donating blood. One unit of blood can help up to three people.

“The Red Cross is doing everything we can do to minimize any impact on hospital patients. As a national network, the Red Cross has a unique responsibility to meet the demands for blood,” said Kelly King, regional CEO of the American Red Cross Michigan Region. “There’s an expectation that if you show up at the hospital and there’s an emergency and you need life-saving blood, it’s going to be available.”

Blood transfusions are given to patients for a wide range of reasons, including serious injuries, burns, automobile crashes, surgeries, childbirth, anemia, blood disorders, cancer treatments and heart issues. Plasma transfusions are used for patients with liver failure, severe infections and serious burns.

“The only way that we’re able to prevent

Confused

blood shortages, like the one we are facing now, is for members who are eligible across communities to roll up their sleeves and go to a blood drive and give that life-saving blood,” King said. “Giving blood is a truly selfless act. You walk away feeling a real sense of accomplishment knowing that you helped to save a life. Every donation can be a lifeline for a patient who isn’t able to hold off on critical care.”

The procedure to donate blood takes 45 minutes to one hour. During the process, donors are given a mini physical and provide a health history to Red Cross staff. The actual blood donation only takes eight to 10 minutes.

King said that people not eligible to donate blood can still help by organizing a blood drive within their own community and encouraging eligible individuals to donate. Donated blood has a shelf life of 42 days.

Scot Dinsmor, a blood account manager for the American Red Cross Michigan Region, said there are two key factors that caused the blood shortage.

“The first is extreme weather, which forced the cancellation of about 400 Red Cross blood drives nationally, 12 here in the state of Michigan. As a result, thousands of blood donations went uncollected,” he said. “The second is the worst flu season in nearly 20 years. It might be sidelining our donors and slowing our efforts to rebuild the national blood supply.

“Disruptions in the nation’s blood supply make it difficult to overcome any existing shortfall in donations. More donations are needed now to prevent those delays in medical care,”

See BLOOD on page 26A

Sculpture program aims to bring connection to Gratiot corridor

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

MOUNT CLEMENS — When driving into Mount Clemens from the south, the first thing visitors are greeted by is the oxidizing “Bonior Tree.” Soon later they will find horses galloping around Shadyside Park, a garden of butterflies and hexagonal bookshelves, a giant red flower-shaped windmill and much more the further north one goes.

Is Mount Clemens some place of whimsy and wonder, where nature and development blend in harmony? Not quite, despite the sights along Northbound Gratiot Avenue, but it might sometimes seem that way all thanks to the Macomb Cultural and Economic Partnership’s sculpture initiative.

Free and open to the public, the sculpture initiative has been running for eight year-long seasons since 2018. What originally began as a collection of eight sculptures has grown to over 50 running from the border with Clinton Township up to downtown Mount Clemens and even a few beyond.

The MCEP owns and commissions a number

of the sculptures along Gratiot corridor, such as those that make up its Pollinator Park, though it is through the work of donors and sponsors that the program has been able to grow. Some sponsors provide space for placing the sculptures, while others help the MCEP rent sculptures through the Midwest Sculpture Initiative.

“(The MSI) is a collection of sculptors who you choose (sculptures) from,” MCEP Secretary and Treasurer Ed Bruley said. “They are cataloged and can rent (sculptures) for a one-year period to show off in your community.”

The sheer number of sculptures along Gratiot this year allows for the initiative to better highlight itself as a “sculpture trail,” a path around the city that gives people interesting goals to walk, ride and talk around.

“What we’ve tried to do is create density,” Bruley said. “People don’t want to walk, which, for health reasons, we want to encourage people to walk. But you need to have goals in your walking, and I think now … the trail gives you enough density to

“Fire Bush” by Robert Garcia sits outside of the Macomb Cultural and Economic Partnership’s 92 Northbound Gratiot Ave. office, marking the start of the MCEP’s Sculpture Walk.

Polar plungers take a dive to help Special Olympics Michigan

BY ALYSSA OCHSS aochss@candgnews.com

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — A few minutes of freezing cold will help hundreds through the Macomb County Polar Plunge this winter at Macray Harbor.

Kayla Kubik, Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run coordinator, said the plunge starts with check-in at 10 a.m. on Feb. 21. Eventgoers will start plunging in groups at 11 a.m. A “Frozen 5K” prior to the plunge starts with check-in at 8 a.m. Both events start at Macray Harbor located at 30675 North River Road in Harrison Township.

“At 8:30 (a.m.), walkers will be picked up at Macray, and they will be taken to Freedom Trail for an untimed 5K,” Kubik said. Kubik also said most walkers get done and shuttled back to Macray Harbor at around 10 a.m. According to the Macomb County Polar Plunge website, the Frozen 5K walk begins and ends at 16 Mile Road which is the Crocker Boulevard entrance to Freedom Trail.

Groups and individuals fundraise for the Special Olympics prior to the event. Kubik said plungers who raise $100 will receive a Polar Plunge sweatshirt and a provided lunch after they take the plunge.

Kubik said Macomb raised $74,400 to help pay for transportation, meals, uniforms and more for Special Olympics athletes last year. In 2025, participants raised $70,700,

and in 2024, they raised $88,000. The Macomb County event started in 2019.

Though dressing up in costumes is not required, Kubik said it is encouraged.

“It’s fun to see people get creative,” Kubik said.

She said there is an award for the best costume at the plunge.

“It’s a great community event, it brings everyone together, it creates awareness for Special Olympics, and we love to become a household name,” Kubik said. “Yeah, we love to get the community together.”

Safety personnel from the Michigan State Police Dive team will be in the water to help plungers get in and out of the water safely.

Kubik tells first-time plungers it is a minute of cold for a huge impact for the athletes.

“Dress up, bring your friends with you,” Kubik said. “It becomes a fun tradition to do year after year.”

“(The) Special Olympics is a great organization. I have volunteered in the past as a judge. I admire those who are willing to participate, as well as the rescue divers who keep everyone safe. I would be willing to do a ‘Solar’ Plunge in July, but not the Polar Plunge!” Harrison Township Supervisor Kenneth Verkest said in an email.

Preregistration for both events is open at plungemi.org.

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

USPBL changes ballpark name to UWM Field

BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com

UTICA — The home of the United Shore Professional Baseball League has rebranded its ballpark’s name to UWM Field, the league announced on Jan 13.

The league, which began in 2016, will also be rebranded to USPBL powered by Mortgage Matchup. Previously, the league was branded as USPBL powered by UWM, and its stadium had been called Jimmy John’s Field since the league’s inception.

The changes come after United Wholesale Mortgage and the USPBL agreed on a 10-year naming rights partnership. A new marquee was unveiled on Jan. 13, and the league announced that more branding will be installed throughout the stadium before the 2026 season. USPBL powered by Mortgage Matchup will also replace the league name on all platforms.

“It’s so cool. … UWM has been with us since day one,” said Andy Appleby, owner, commissioner and CEO of the USPBL powered by Mortgage Matchup. “We couldn’t ask for a better partnership. They were literally my first call.”

Along with the name change, the league has put around $2 million into stadium upgrades that will benefit players and fans, according to Appleby.

“We’re also putting in a beautiful new state-of-the-art synthetic turf field,” Appleby said.

The league had played on a grass field since its start in 2016 and will now make the transition to the turf field. This will not only help with maintenance but is expected to lead to fewer rain cancellations for fans.

“It’ll be a godsend for us,” Appleby said. “It’s so much more of a utility for us. We’ll be able to do all kinds of events … that we may not have been able to do before. We’ll be looking to do much more.”

UWM is a long-standing partner with the USPBL and is happy to have its name directly associated with a local venue that is family friendly and integrated with the community.

“We’ve been partners with the USPBL for the last 10 years. … It’s provided some great extension into the community,” said Sarah DeCiantis, UWM’s chief marketing officer. “They’re very much so aligned with

See UWM FIELD on page 24A

SPOTLIGHT ON LEARNING

16A/ MACOMB TOWNSHIP CHRONICLE • JANUARY 29, 2026

Multiple choice:

EDUCATION OPTIONS ABOUND FOR FAMILIES

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

When it comes to educating your children, there are a multitude of options to consider before choosing the right fit.

The key, experts say, is finding a suitable learning environment for your child — whether it be at a traditional public, charter, private, home, virtual or other school.

Schools of Choice

According to a Bridge Michigan analysis of the state’s latest enrollment data, one in four Michigan K-12 students attend school at a charter or in a Schools of Choice district.

Michigan’s Schools of Choice provisions in Section 105 and 105c of the State School Aid Act allow local school districts to enroll nonresident students and count them in membership without having to obtain approval from the district of residence.

While a few dozen public school districts in the state — including Rochester Community Schools and Grosse Pointe — do not accept most students from other districts, the majority of Michigan’s 532 public school districts welcome choice.

The Troy School District, for example, offers a limited School of Choice program, allowing students from specific areas to enroll, with priority for siblings of current Schools of Choice students.

See SCHOOLS on page 17A

Let Your Child’s Learning Begin with Us

Families across St. Claire Shores and Macomb County will soon have a new opportunity to give their youngest children the strongest start possible. Lake Shore Public Schools is preparing to open its new Early Childhood Center, a warm, student-centered space designed to support infants through preschool age learners. The program is open to Lake Shore residents as well as all families from surrounding communities, and enrollment is oficially underway.

The Lake Shore Early Childhood Center will welcome children ages two months to four years old and provide year-round care and learning. Families can choose from infant, toddler, or preschool options, each grounded in age-appropriate experiences that encourage curiosity, independence, and early skill development. The center emphasizes play as the foundation of learning, helping students build confidence, communication, and readiness for kindergarten and beyond.

Conveniently located on Harper Avenue between 11 and 12 Mile, the new center ofers quick access to the I-94 corridor and sits within minutes of nearby communities — a

benefit for busy parents and caregivers. The modern facility features 18 classrooms, flexible indoor spaces, and outdoor areas designed for exploration, movement, and imaginative play.

Lisa Bonett, Director of the Early Childhood Education for Lake Shore Public Schools and Child Care Coordinator Kelly Biondo to lead the opening of an 18-classroom, state-ofthe-art facility later this year. Bonett praised the Lake Shore Early Childhood Center team, saying, “Every day, they bring laughter, energy, and expertise to provide high-quality childcare and exceptional early childhood programs,” and shared her excitement to support creative, play-based learning while partnering with families and the community to prepare Lake Shore’s youngest learners for success.

The Lake Shore Early Childhood Center participates in PreK for All and accepts DHS and other subsidies, ensuring early childhood programs remain accessible and afordable for families.

To learn more or register, contact  Mrs. Lisa Bonett, at 586-285-8570 or visit https://lakeshoreecc.lakeshoreschools.org/ Scan the

Code to learn more, and add your

•Serving all of Macomb County

•Ages 2 mos. to 4 yrs. old

•Open year round!

•Participates in Free PreK for all

•18 Welcoming Classrooms

•Safe, Secure + Dependable Environment

•Certified Early

Schools

“Troy is really known for its strong academics, enrichment, athletics, and performing arts and has always been in the top three in the state for many things. Because of that reputation, that helps Troy immensely,” said Kendra Montante, director of communications and strategic initiatives for the Troy School District. “We also have a very diverse community, which is amazing, so that is a draw as well.”

Schools of Choice, Montante explained, helps maintain district enrollment while providing educational opportunities, with specific seat numbers announced annually.

“Over the years, School of Choice programs have changed based on things like enrollment needs, so for the last eight or nine years, we have not done a significant amount of Schools of Choice. We have done a little bit of it because our goal was to right size the district a little bit and determine where we were at with our student population and our schools. That’s not uncommon. Many districts do that.”

More recently, as many districts across the state face declining student enrollment,

Montante said the Troy School District polled families and received feedback supporting further opening up its Schools of Choice program rather than potentially closing schools with lower student enrollment.

“For the 2026-27 school year, we opened it up a little bit more for grades kindergarten, first grade, sixth, seventh and eighth grade,” Montante said.

The Montessori method

A popular educational approach that differs from traditional public and private schools’ teacher-led, age-segregated, curriculum-focused option is the Montessori method.

Tanya Dallo, who owns Country Hills Montessori in Farmington Hills, said the Montessori method — established by Dr. Maria Montessori in the 1890s — is based on the philosophy that students learn best by self-directed activities and observing the world around them.

Country Hills Montessori, which serves children ages 14 months to 9 years in mixedage classes, offers a more individual approach to education, Dallo says, with different selfdirected experiences for every child.

“A Montessori education is designed to develop the full child, so it’s not just the academics, we focus on their social and emo-

tional growth, too, to set them up to be lifelong learners,” she said.

To foster independence, children can choose the subjects they want to study, depending on their interests — things like art, music, foreign language, gardening, science, math, geography, and reading skills — and they are encouraged to reason, cooperate, negotiate and understand along the way.

Dallo, who has been providing Montessori education for 32 years, says the method works.

“I’ve seen kids graduate, go through med school to become doctors, we have lawyers, we have a student who is a sheriff,” she said. “It’s so rewarding and it’s wonderful to see.”

GATE programs an option for some

The Avondale School District launched its GATE, or Gifted And Talented Education program during the 2017-2018 school year, enrolling approximately 31 students in two multiage third and fourth grade classrooms at Woodland Elementary School.

At that time, Superintendent James Schwarz said the idea was that it would be a self-contained magnet program to service truly gifted students, being that there was not one in this area — a public school that services students to that end, in a program

specific for that ability.

In 2019, the program more than doubled — with 74 students enrolled in four multiage classrooms: two second-and thirdgrade split classes, and two fourth-and fifthgrade split classes.

To meet the increasing demand for enrollment, the GATE program moved into a dedicated building, the Avondale Meadows Learning Center in Rochester Hills, with students in second through eighth grades eligible to be part of the program. Today, the school has grown to serve over 400 students.

Upon reaching eighth grade, Schwarz said GATE students then go to high school, where they can differentiate into a wide variety of honors choices, Advanced Placement, dual enrollment and early college. GATE students can complete their high school requirements in half the time, which allows them to take AP or dual enrollment courses.

The GATE program is open to students in second through eighth grades within the Avondale School District and those outside the district through Schools of Choice, as space allows. Applications for students within the district are typically due in the fall, and Schools of Choice applications are typically due in February.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

Macomb County

Ticket sales begin for Disc Golf World Championships at Kensington Metropark

BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Ticket sales have begun for the Professional Disc Golf Association Professional Disc Golf World Championships presented by 1st Phorm, which will take place at the end of the summer at Kensington Metropark.

The world championship tournaments will be held from Aug 26-30. Last March, the PDGA announced that the historic Kensington Metropark won its bid to host the 2026 games after its 2025 bid was rejected.

Different types of tickets for the event will roll out over the next several months, as general admission passes don’t go on sale until 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on March 24.

Currently, the platinum, gold and bronze VIP passes are on sale. These passes include food, merchandise, autograph and photo opportunities, special seating and much more. More information and pricing can be found at detroit26.com.

Bronze VIP passes go on sale beginning at 6 pm EST on Feb 17, and daily VIP passes will be available starting at 6 p.m. EST March 10. The general admission passes start at $10 and VIP passes start at $295.

“The 2026 PDGA Pro Worlds event is going to be a

landmark event in the history of our sport,” Nate Heinold, CEO of Ledgestone Disc Golf and 2026 World Championships event director, said in a press release. “The Ledgestone team is making unprecedented investments in this event, with expected spending approaching $1.5M.”

The Kensington Metropark course is one of the more historic courses in the sport. Specifically, the Toboggan course was built in 2000 for this event and has now become an iconic figure in the disc golf community. Those planning the event understand the magnitude of this tournament returning to Toboggan for the first time since its installation in 2000.

“We plan on delivering two Worlds class courses, the largest Pro Worlds payout of all time, a $300,000+ infrastructure plan and (the) experience of a lifetime for our players and spectators alike,” Heinold said in the release.

The investment into the park’s infrastructure will help it support the spectators with features such as grandstands, VIP terraces, family zones, viewing platforms and stadium seating.

The World Championship will bring fans from all over the world into the metro Detroit area. The Metroparks are excited to host such a big event.

“We’re proud to team up with Ledgestone, the Detroit Sports Commission, and the Livingston County Conven-

CRIME WATCH

Garage door damage

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 19 at around 1 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 19000 block of Strongford Drive for a property damage report.

Deputies spoke with a 49-year-old Macomb Township man who showed deputies a video of a young man damaging his garage door. The man pulls in front of the home before running down the driveway and out of frame. Two loud bangs are heard before the man runs back to the car and flees.

Deputies noted the garage door had two dents in it.

Struck mailbox

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 16 at around 4:50 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the 45000 block of Heatherwoode Lane for a hit-and-run.

Deputies spoke with a Macomb Township woman who said an Amazon delivery driver struck her mailbox. The woman’s neighbors told deputies that a delivery driver in an SUV hit the woman’s mailbox but that they were unable to record the car’s license plate.

The woman did not want to press charges.

Car fire

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 16 at around 3:20 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 19000 blocks of Glimmer Drive for a car fire.

Deputies arrived at the address and saw a Ford F-250 truck in the driveway engulfed in flames. Deputies helped people get out of the home while the Macomb Township Fire Department put out the fire.

Two other cars and the garage door were damaged by the fire.

Dog poop vandalism

MACOMB TOWNSHIP — On Jan. 12 at around 3:30 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 45000 block of Northport Drive to investigate suspicious circumstances.

Deputies spoke with a 26-year-old Macomb Township woman who found dog feces on her car. The woman believed her exboyfriend may be involved. Deputies spoke with the ex-boyfriend, a 27-year-old Warren man, over the phone. The ex-boyfriend denied putting anything on her car.

— Dean Vaglia

Tank

from page 3A

many aspects of the tank will remain unchanged — such as the armor and location of the weapons — the tank will be built around a digital backbone that will allow systems to be integrated faster as challenges and threats change.

Howell said the tank is based on lessons learned from other conflicts and is designed for a generation of soldiers who haven’t even been recruited yet.

“The advances around optics, and how the crew interacts with it, and then the young generation, what are the tools that they need, because we’re not building the tank for myself. … We’re building it for a younger generation that hasn’t even necessarily been recruited,” he said.

Denomy said the crew compartment of the tank will look like a race car.

The prototype, which was created by Warren-based Roush Defense, is one of four planned to be produced and put into the hands of soldiers, Howell said.

“The tank behind us is the first prototype to get that soldier feedback,” he said. “The challenge that we have going forward is there’s not really any good models, and there’s no other way to do theory and modeling of how do these three tank crew members, with interoperable screens and gaming controls, fight this tank on a battlefield.”

Auto show

from page 5A

tube,” he said. “There is no question about whether this technology will be the future of the sector.”

Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, who appeared via prerecorded responses during a panel Jan. 15, stated that policy uncertainty is creating problems for the industry. Things remained consistent until the Biden administration tried to make a push toward electric vehicles, he said.

“Nobody needs to be pro or against electric vehicles. The consumer is ultimately going to be the judge and jury on that. They make millions of decisions with their pocketbooks that drive car companies to decide what kind of vehicles to make. That was our mantra for a long time,” he said.

John Bozzella, president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, who appeared with Moreno, said the government should support innovation, safety, emissions reduction and mobility, but not dictate consumer choices.

“That’s a very different government ambition and partnership with industry

Howell said the reduced cost of manufacturing the tank — which is expected to be less than it costs to manufacture the current models — will help to drive down the cost of sustaining the tanks as well.

Using the diesel-hybrid drivetrain system will reduce the cost of fuel, as well as the weight of the tank, he said.

Alex Miller, chief technical officer for the U.S. Army, said it took less than a year for the prototype to be built.

“I cannot stress enough that this tank that is here, drove in here. This was not towed. … This is a real tank,” he said. “This is going to go to safety and gunnery. You’re going to put this in the hands of soldiers. They’re going to fight this tank. We did it in a year. So, rather than the 15-year development cycle and maybe somebody sees it within their career, this team actually did the thing.”

Miller said the tank represents the Army’s drive to put robots in front of soldiers.

“This is your Army actually putting steady conditions so that we can make sure that America’s next first battle, as unfortunate as it will be when it gets here, and it will come, that we are putting robots in front of soldiers, that we are trading blood for steel,” he said.

According to a press release from the Army, initial operational capability of the tank is expected in the early 2030s.

The Detroit Auto Show was open to the public Jan. 17-25 at Huntington Place.

than having the government tell customers what they can and cannot buy,” he said.

Bozzella said that a degree of certainty and clarity is also needed.

“One person’s clarity could be another person’s EV mandate,” he said.

Regulations need to be able to outlast changes in presidential administrations, he said. While the president is entitled to appoint cabinet secretaries to make market adjustments, “there’s a difference between making adjustments based on market conditions, the state of technology, the cost of those types of things and tearing the entire playbook up and starting off again,” he said.

These kinds of changes are what create a problem across the industry, he said.

Additionally, Bozzella said regulation around electric vehicles needs to stay at the same pace as the demand for the vehicles to help keep investments from becoming “stranded,” he said. While there is still a demand for EVs, it’s moving at a “more realistic” pace, he said.

“Those policies are important for the development of the market over time, but we are where we are right now,” he said. “So, I think you’ll see continued investment, but it’s going to be a slower pace.”

Trustees

from page 1A

an emergency response from Medstar (3,188 emergency responses versus 3,186 nonemergency responses). Of those calls, most resulted in a nonemergency transport (3,679) while 341 required emergency transport and 2,354 were canceled either by a patient or as a result of related circumstances.

The average emergency response time is 5 minutes and 34 seconds.

One issue noted by Miller were “lift assist” calls from nursing homes and similar facilities, where 911 calls would be made by staff in order to have paramedics and firefighters handle lifting patients that have fallen. The township itself addressed this issue of having the Macomb Township Fire Department’s resources tied up by facilities by passing a 911 cost recovery ordinance in March 2025. Township Supervisor Frank Viviano said that has led to a “dramatic decrease” in calls. However, he said the for-profit care facilities are still managing to request Fire Department resources for lifts by “using different descriptions of the problem.”

Miller said Medstar is working on addressing the issue with its own program.

“We’re trying to build internal struc-

ture within our organization to follow the same,” Miller said. “We never want to discourage somebody from calling 911 because the minute their belly starts hurting and it’s an (abdominal aortic aneurysm) and not an upset tummy, we don’t want to not go on that call. But for the people that say, ‘Come get my husband out of the car and move him onto his scooter so he can drive up to the

house,’ and (the caller) calls 911 for that, we’ll be dispatched … We’re trying to develop internal programs where we can certainly provide a couple of community benefit calls, but if it goes beyond that (we can) generate some billing. Not to be punitive, but we’re using our resources in a way that consumes resources (and) that will certainly be a deterrent.”

Miller highlighted several programs Medstar offers, such as the Knock and Check program where Medstar can have paramedics meet with frequent 911 callers for wellness checks. Community Response Training sees Medstar provide free training to community groups in CPR and using automated external defibrillators; using anti-overdose

See TRUSTEES on page 25A

Grand Prix

page 8A

Hollinger Racing, said racing on an urban track requires more thought to how to set up the car than an oval track.

“It is very urban in a way where a lot of the corners are 90 degrees, just like city corners, and it is pretty bumpy, I have to say, so that’s one of the things you’re always preparing for, just coming to a really bumpy track and setting the car up for that,” he said.

VeeKay said he had seen success at the former track on Belle Isle, but he hasn’t been happy with his performances in Detroit the last few years. Despite showing good pace, last year a mechanical problem early in the race made him finish in 27th after only finishing six laps.

“I’m excited to really (see the track again) this coming season and finally get some redemption around this place,” he said.

Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix President Michael Montri, who was also on-hand during the event, said the bumpiness of the track is great for fans, but not so much for the drivers.

“It’s terrific for fans and sight lines, but for the drivers, it poses a unique challenge, and maybe not all are in love with it,” he said.

Library

from page 3A

Eid al-Fitr, Lunar New Year, Women’s History Month, Holi, International Transgender Day of Visibility, Deaf History Month, Arab American Heritage Month, Autism Acceptance Month, Passover and Earth Day.

Core to the “Neighbor” program are booklists, which for January focus on recommending books to CMPL patrons focusing on characters and people who are blind and about the braille writing system, as well as books centered around Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights Movement and community service. Relevant items other than books in the CMPL’s collections, such as braille printers, are also highlighted during “Get to Know Your Neighbor.”

Eventgoers are also in luck. Tied to “Get to Know Your Neighbor,” the CMPL hosted a screening and discussion of “In Remembrance of Martin” on Jan. 16 at the Main Library in Clinton Township and a Martin

He said that there isn’t a street circuit in the series that’s any smoother or better than Detroit. In addition to city tracks, the series also has ovals and road courses, and to be a champion, a driver needs to be proficient on all three, he said.

Montri said that each year, race organizers get an opportunity to improve things.

“We have a phenomenal venue downtown, where we have a great track and a great section of downtown without really disturbing any businesses. And in addition to that, an international crossing through the tunnel to Windsor, right in the middle of our track that stays open during our whole event,” he said.

Between 150,000 and 155,000 people attend the event each year, Montri said. In addition to having viewing spots available for ticket holders, there will also be viewing platforms set up for people who want to watch the event without spending money, he said. Additionally, this year the event will have more rooftop clubs with enhanced programming, he said, with more details available in the future.

The Detroit Grand Prix will be held May 29-31 in downtown Detroit. For tickets and more information, visit detroitgp. com.

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

Luther King Jr. craft day for kids on Jan. 17 at the North Branch in Macomb Township.

With the program only starting in January 2026, there has not been enough feedback for CMPL staff to truly gauge the community’s response to the new program. But they have high expectations based on early events and interactions with library patrons.

“It’s just been delightful to see people stop at the display (in the Main Library) and look at the materials and take the materials … We are promoting these (materials) all over the place,” Young said. “We have far more extensive lists on the website of materials people can look at or look for. Anyone is always welcome to come up to a librarian and ask for a suggestion on any topic they desire.”

Those looking for more information about “Get to Know Your Neighbor,” go to cmpl.org/gtkyn_home. To provide feedback and recommend future topics for “Get to Know Your Neighbor,” contact the adult services popular materials desk at info@cmpl. org or call (586) 226-5050.

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

Call Today & Save Big!

Sculptures

from page 11A

be able to go out in an afternoon and really engage with a lot of the sculptures in a close proximity to each other. On Main Street, for example, it’s a wonderful street to walk and there’s enough sculptures close to each other that I think you’ll be intrigued to go see the different kinds done by different people with different themes.”

Alongside the trail itself, a lynchpin of the initiative is the Pollinator Park located at 17 Gratiot Avenue, hugging the northbound section between Inches and Kibbie streets. This 2024 addition to the project features several pollinator-shaped sculptures from Battle Creek-based metal artist Kyle Burnett, three concrete planters 3D-printed by Citizen Robotics of Detroit and a honeycombshaped library sculpture by Detroit-based artists and brothers Israel and Erik Nordin. The Nordin sculpture (one of two projects of theirs on the trail) has a rotating selection of books and operates similarly to a Little Free Library. Native plants grow in the park seasonally.

As the sculpture initiative grows, it has begun to move further south into Clinton

Township. The 2025-26 season is bookended by the Bonior Tree and Jonathan Bowling’s “Golf Birds” (both along Welling Crescent at its northbound and southbound Gratiot intersections, respectively), though efforts are being made to move the project into the neighboring community.

“We are looking for people who will sponsor a site to put a sculpture on or to actually sponsor a sculpture,” MCEP President and Clinton Township Trustee Julie Matuzak said. “That involves going business to business, door to door down the Gratiot corridor to try to find places willing to host a sculpture or willing to contribute financially to have a sculpture. We would like to do more of that, but it’s a matter of finding folks willing to participate … It’s slower-going. Some businesses don’t want a sculpture in front of their place. They think it’s somehow distracting. For the last couple of years, we’ve been trying to expand into Clinton Township.”

Ultimately the MCEP’s goal with the sculpture project is to reconnect and build community in an area that has been divided by Gratiot Avenue.

“We are trying to weave together neighborhoods,” Bruley said. “North and Southbound Gratiot was part of the 1960s See SCULPTURES on page 24A

Sculptures

from page 23A

‘urban renewal,’ which I think separated us. It made fast-going streets that separated people rather than bring people together. We’ve tried to take an area of separation and tried to make it an area of coming together. We want to bring neighborhoods, businesses and community more together. Give them a point to meet, to talk, to have an opinion, a way of commonality. We want to increase connectivity. It’s bringing art (and) nature to connect us better as a community.”

With the sculpture project receiving no government funding outside of a few sculptures directly sponsored by the Clinton Township and Mount Clemens downtown development authorities, funding relies on the generosity of sponsors and a series of take-out meal fundraisers. The next such fundraiser will be with Louie’s Ham & Corned Beef in Mount Clemens on Saturday, March 14.

“We do this because we love to build up the community,” Matuzak said. “We think there’s a real economic development portion of this. We’d love to have Mount Clemens and Clinton Township become known for its art.”

For more information about the sculpture walk or for fundraising and volunteering opportunities, call (586) 783-6008 or email mcep99@gmail.com.

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

UWM Field

from page 13A

a lot of the philosophies and things that we value … a focus on family and community.”

Appleby voiced his appreciation for Jimmy John’s and said that the league will still be interested in working with the local Jimmy John’s franchisees going forward, but UWM gives more of a local feel to the park.

“Everyone at UWM comes to Pontiac, Michigan, every single day. We are hyper-local focused,” DeCiantis said. “We do not have another headquarters, we do not have another location and we don’t offshore things. Every person that works here is from the metro Detroit area.”

The 2026 calendar year will mark 10 years since the first season of the USPBL, and those involved with the upcoming season are excited about what it will bring.

“We’re excited for the signage to go up and for the season to kick off,” DeCiantis said. “It’ll be a great year for everyone.”

Utica Mayor Gus Calandrino said in an email that the city congratulates the USPBL on the naming rights agreement.

“Having a long-term arrangement with a large, successful company like UWM, will ensure the continued success of the USPBL,” Calandrino said.

He also referenced the new USPBL headquarters project in downtown Utica.

“In addition to the naming rights announcement, we’re also excited about the progress of the USPBL’s new headquarters. We look forward to welcoming their employees to downtown Utica. The USPBL continues to make important investments and commitments to historic downtown Utica,” Calandrino said.

The 2026 USPBL powered by Mortgage Matchup season will begin on May 15. For more information, visit uspbl.com, mortgagematchup.com or uwmcareers. com.

Staff Writer Sarah Wright contributed to this report.

Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.

Trustees

from page 21A

medication like Narcan; how to stop major bleeding, and more. Miller also took particular pride in describing Medstar’s whole blood program, which allows Medstar to perform blood transfusions outside of hospital settings during trauma and medical calls where heavy bleeding is expected.

DTE agreement

Trustees also approved an updated purchase agreement with DTE Energy for the township’s LED street light conversion project.

Originally approved in September 2024, the project is now completed — but not as expected.

“During that process, DTE’s contractor discovered that there were a number of lights — 300 or more — that were already converted,” Macomb Township Land Development Director Jim Van Tiflin said. “What this amended agreement does is recognize that there weren’t as many lights that needed to be converted, and the township is going

Artfrom page 1A

at Wayne State University and the University of Michigan’s North Campus Research Complex. Serra’s art coordination skills have been utilized by the Detroit People Mover, Detroit Receiving Hospital and Children’s Hospital.

The opening reception and awards ceremony for the Michigan Annual LIII will take place at the Anton Art Center’s 125 Macomb Place location on Saturday, Jan. 31 from 1-3 p.m.

Running alongside the Michigan Annual LIII is “Heartwork,” this year’s themed show featuring nearly 40 works from 30 local artists.

to get some money back that was already programmed back for that purpose.”

The township will receive around $18,000 from DTE. The electric company will also replace 15 light poles in subdivisions for free. The 15 poles did not have LED lights that could be fitted into them, and DTE will switch them out with poles that fit current LED light stock.

26 Mile and Hayes

Trustees also approved an agreement with the Macomb County Department of Roads to share the cost of improvements to be made at the 26 Mile Road and Hayes Road intersection.

The county received a $750,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation to widen the intersection to include a left turn lane and traffic signal, with Macomb Township agreeing to a 16.6% share of the cost at $83,332. Other communities sharing the cost include Shelby and Washington townships. Ray Township was recognized as not having the proper resources to pay for the work at this time.

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

“We let the artists interpret the theme however they like in whatever media that they like for the juror then to review,” Hazzard said. “The artists take the theme and interpret in their own style in their own way … (the show has) a mix of media spanning from two-dimensional to three-dimensional works in ceramics, metal, fiber, photography, oil paint, acrylic and mixed media.”

Jurying “Heartwork” is Darcel Deneau, a 2021 Kresge Arts in Detroit Fellow and a graduate of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. Deneau is a mosaic artist whose work was recently awarded second-place by both the jurors and the public at an international mosaic biennale in Chartres, France. She serves as president of the CCS Alumni Council and is an honorary board member of the Detroit Artists Market.

“Heartwork” runs until Saturday, Feb. 28 in the Second Floor Gallery.

The Anton Art Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

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

“Heartwork” is one of two annual shows the Anton Art Center hosts for the members of five regional artists groups: the Lakeside Palette Club of St. Clair Shores, Mount Clemens Artist Association, Romeo Guild of Art, Shelby Township Fine Art Society and the Warren Tri-County Fine Arts. Artists have taken the theme of “Heartwork” and created an abundance of interpretations upon it.

CALENDAR

JAN. 31

Hear Your Generation In Concert: Eight-piece band plays five decades of pop, rock, dance and R&B hits, 7:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, macombcenter. com, (586) 286-2222

FEB. 6

The Barricade Boys Broadway Party: Features songs and stories from their time on stage in London, also hear quartet perform pop, rock, swing and Motown hits, 7:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 2862222, macombcenter.com

FEB. 7

The Wedding Collective: Meet florists, photographers, caterers, coordinators and other vendors, 2-4 p.m. (VIP at 1 p.m.), Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, (586) 739-4800, packardprovinggrounds.org/weddingcollective

Hear The Lovin’ Spoonful: 1960s Canadian-American folk-rock band and 2000 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees features founding member Steve Boone, 7:30 p.m., Macomb Center for the Performing Arts on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (586) 286-2222, macombcenter.com

Blood

from page 10A

Dinsmor said. “While all blood types are needed, the shortage is especially serious for types O, A-negative and B-negative. The need for blood is constant. In most states, those 17 years or older can give blood. In Michigan, 16-year-olds can give with parental consent.”

During the virtual news briefing, Howell resident Jennifer Douglas shared her story of receiving life-saving blood during two medical emergencies she endured. She received her first blood transfusion in the summer of 2011.

“I was a mom to two little girls, and I was 20 weeks pregnant with our baby boy,” said Douglas, whose husband is Andy.

She suffered a ruptured aneurysm and was rushed into emergency surgery.

“I lost a massive amount of blood. Because strangers had already donated, I was able to receive 13 units of blood,” she said. “People who never knew me, they saved me. That blood saved my life. It also saved the life of my unborn son.”

Seven weeks later while still recovering, she experienced another medical emergency related to her pregnancy and again underwent surgery.

“During that surgery, I received 25 units

FEB. 8

‘Ocean to Ocean in a Model T’: Presentation by Steve Shotwell about 4,000-plus mile trip he made from New York to Seattle in his 1916 Model T, 1-2 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, Historical Speaker Series continues with “The Life of Dr. Bertha Van Hoosen” Feb. 22, “C Harold Wills and the Wills Sainte Claire Story” March 8, “Diego Rivera: The Detroit Industry Murals at the DIA” March 22 and “The Rise and Fall of the DeLorean Motor Company” April 12, (586) 739-4800, packardprovinggrounds.org/all-events/historicalspeaker-series

FEB. 13

Mother-son dance: For ages 4 and older, also includes buffet dinner, crafts, games and more, 6-9 p.m., Fern Hill Golf Club, 17600 Clinton River Road in Clinton Township, presented by Macomb Township Parks and Recreation Department, registration required, facebook.com/macombtwpparksandrec

FEB. 14-15

Macomb Spring Home Improvement Show: Find hundreds of professionals and event-only discounts, also giveaways and chance to win $500 Lowes gift card, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 14 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 15, Lorenzo Cultural Center on Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, (248) 524-4868, yourhomeshows.com

FEB. 20

Daddy-daughter dance: For ages 4 and older, also includes buffet dinner, crafts, games and more, 6-9 p.m., Fern Hill Golf Club, 17600 Clinton River Road

of blood and 31 units of plasma and platelets,” she said. “My family lives every day with overwhelming gratitude for blood donors. To us, you’re heroes.”

Douglas said her mother was a lifelong blood donor with the American Red Cross and taught her to pay it forward.

“So, the summer after I survived, I hosted my first blood drive,” Douglas said. “Now I host two every year with a dear friend who has her own story. My kids and my husband volunteer at every drive. At our most recent drive we collected 30 units of blood, and that means up to 90 lives potentially touched.”

Jensyn Sullivan, M.D., a transfusion medicine and blood bank physician with Michigan Medicine at the University of Michigan’s academic medical center and Lance Wells, M.D., an emergency medicine physician at Hillsdale Hospital, also spoke at the news hearing.

To make a blood donation appointment, use the Red Cross blood donor phone app, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call (800) RED CROSS, which is (800) 733-2767. The website has a list of upcoming blood drives in the tri-county area. All who donate blood between Jan. 26 and Feb. 28 will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice.

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

in Clinton Township, presented by Macomb Township Parks and Recreation Department, registration required, facebook.com/macombtwpparksandrec

FEB. 21

Frozen 5K and Macomb County Polar Plunge: 3.1mile run/walk check-in at 8 a.m., MacRay Harbor, 30675 N. River Road in Harrison Township, shuttle for race at Freedom Trail at 16 Mile and Crocker roads leaves at 8:30 a.m. and returns around 10 a.m., then participate and/or watch others jump into cold water, 11 a.m., lunch and drinks follow, both events benefit Special Olympics Michigan, plungemi.org

FEB. 22

Heartbreakers Comedy Event: Features Moe Lietz, Justin Pedick and Justin Divozzo, presented by Sparkle Network and benefits its Dream, Believe & Do Scholarship, plus Great Lakes Burn Camp, Meadowbrook Center for Learning, Paint Creek Center for the Arts and Susie Q’s Kids, doors at 6 p.m. and show at 7 p.m., Emerald Theatre, 31 N. Walnut St. in Mount Clemens, RSVP at bit.ly/26heartbreakers by Feb. 16

FEB. 25

Widowed Friends lunch: 1:30 p.m., Joe Jo’s Restaurant, 16611 21 Mile Road in Macomb Township, RSVP to Sue at (586) 549-1041 by Feb. 20, widowedfriends.com

ONGOING

Free tax help: For Macomb County residents, services

provided by Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 6, 13, 20 and 27, make appointment and see required documents and locations at macombca. itfrontdesk.com/vita, (586) 463-2537

‘Catch Me If You Can: The Musical’: Show about 1960s con man’s frauds and relationships before eventual capture by FBI, presented by Dakota Productions, 7 p.m. Feb. 5-7 and 12-14, Dakota High School, 21051 21 Mile Road in Macomb Township, payschoolsevents.com/events/details/41442, read story at candgnews.com

Ice skating: Open dawn to dusk, bring own skates, new location across from Macomb Township Recreation Center/Town Square, 20699 Macomb St., facebook.com/macombtwpparksandrec

Widowed Friendslunches: 1:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of month, Moni’s Restaurant, 16600 24 Mile Road in Macomb Township, RSVP to Sue at (586) 549-1041, widowedfriends.com

Lenten fish fries: Dine in, carryout and drive-thru, 4-7 p.m. Fridays Feb. 20-March 27, St. Isidore Church, 18201 23 Mile Road in Macomb Township, stisidore. church/fish-fry

Macomb Motivators Toastmasters Club: Bi-weekly meetups to improve public speaking and leadership skills, 6:30-8 p.m. every second and fourth Thursdays of month, St. Isidore Church, 18201 23 Mile Road in Macomb Township, 6104644.toastmastersclubs.org

Founded in 1981, C & G Newspapers is a family-owned company serving residents in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties. We offer 21 biweekly publications that cover 46 communities and are delivered to 576,000-plus homes via direct mail.

Main: (586) 498-8000 | 13650 E. 11 Mile Road • Warren, MI 48089 | candgnews.com

Chronicle Editor: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 brianlouwers@candgnews.com

Reporter:

Dean Vaglia | (586) 498-1043 dvaglia@candgnews.com

Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 sports@candgnews.com

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Classifieds: (586) 498-8100

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Disc

tion & Visitors Bureau to bring this championship back to Metro Detroit,” Amy McMillan, CEO of the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, said in a press release. “We can’t wait to welcome the world to our courses and to welcome the region to be a part of a world-wide disc golf experience.”

Detroit has hosted the NFL Draft, NCAA March Madness tournament games, multiple playoff games across several sports and in 2027 will host the men’s college basketball Final Four. While the 2026 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships presented by 1st Phorm won’t be in Detroit, the metro area continues to grow its reputation as a legitimate host for major sporting events.

“What’s exciting about this championship is how naturally it fits into Detroit’s broader sports story right now,” Marty Dobek, executive director of the Detroit Sports Commission, said in a press release. “We’re seeing continued growth in non-traditional and emerging sports, and disc golf is a great example of how passionate fan bases and destination-quality venues can come together to create something special. Events like this expand who we reach, how people experience our region, and what Detroit is known for as a sports destination.”

For all information on the 2026 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships presented by 1st Phorm, visit detroit26.com.

Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.

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Wanted man arrested after soliciting

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — A 23-year-old Eastpointe man was arrested after he was spotted knocking on doors in the 400 block of Moran Road, where he was reportedly going door to door with a snow shovel in search of shoveling work at around 10:45 a.m. Jan. 2. The man reportedly admitted to police he was seeking shoveling customers and said he already shoveled snow for someone in the area. Police told the man that soliciting is against city ordinances.

The man was unable to produce any identification and when asked for his name and address, police said, he gave them a fake name and address. When warned that providing false information could lead to his arrest, police said the man gave them his actual name and address. Police said they then discovered that the suspect was wanted on warrants out of St. Clair Shores, Warren, Hazel Park and Detroit, and Detroit police had requested a homicide warrant against the suspect. The man was arrested on the warrants.

Intoxicated driver fails to yield to ambulance

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — Police said they pulled over a 44-year-old Detroit man in the area of Mack and Warren avenues at 9 p.m. Jan. 4 after he failed to pull to the side of the road for an ambulance that was rushing a patient to a nearby hospital with lights and sirens on. Police said the driver — who was in a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus — is said to have stopped in the middle of the intersection at Mack Avenue and Moross Road, nearly causing the ambulance to collide with it. Police said the driver acknowledged his license was revoked, but he was working to have it reinstated. They said the driver smelled strongly of alcohol, although he said he had only consumed a single beer at around 1 p.m. A preliminary breath test showed that the driver had a blood alcohol content of 0.19% — more than twice the legal limit. The driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated. When police inventoried the contents of his vehicle prior to impounding it, they said they found an empty plastic cup in the center console that smelled of alcohol, as well as an empty bottle of Angry Orchard Rose and a large empty bottle of New Amsterdam vodka in a plastic bag on the back seat.

Customer causes disturbance

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — Police were called to a store in the 18000 block of Mack Avenue at 7:58 a.m. Jan. 6 after a customer is said to have started yelling and causing a disturbance. According to a police report, the customer — a 30-year-old Detroit woman — wanted to purchase a single bottle of alcohol from a four-pack container and when the store manager said

became irate. The manager told police the customer grabbed the bottle from her and “was verbally harassing her,” the police report states. Police issued the customer a trespassing warning.

Vehicular vandalism caught on video

GROSSE POINTE WOODS — An unknown person was captured on a surveillance camera throwing a ketchup bottle and eggs at a vehicle parked in the driveway of a home in the 500 block of Perrien Place at around 10 p.m. Dec. 29.

Debit card disappears

GROSSE POINTE CITY — A debit card belonging to a patient at Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital was stolen from his room Dec. 18 and used to make a series of fraudulent charges, a police report states. Police said someone made charges totaling about $1,300 before the patient realized the card was missing.

Scam texts

MOUNT CLEMENS — On Jan. 3 at around 4:20 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke with a 72-year-old Mount Clemens woman about a fraud scheme.

While looking for a residence in the city, the woman received a text asking for $850 in Apple gift cards as the security deposit. She bought the cards and sent their information to the number with the expectation of getting the keys on Jan. 3.

When she did not receive the keys on Jan. 3, she realized it was a scam and contacted police.

Stolen car

MOUNT CLEMENS — On Dec. 26 at around 11:20 a.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the 80 block of Clara Street to speak with a 28-year-old Mount Clemens woman about a stolen car.

The woman told deputies her mom’s Hyundai Sonata was stolen by her ex-boyfriend, a 29-year-old Mount Clemens man. The mom allowed the woman to use the car, and the woman did not know when the car was stolen.

The mom, a 51-year-old Farmington Hills woman, was able to contact the ex-boyfriend and asked for the car to be returned by 4 p.m. When he failed to return the car by that time, she moved to press charges against him.

Gate crasher

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Dec. 23 at around 9:30 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to Selfridge Air National Guard Base after

Deputies noticed heavy damage to the gate upon arrival. They reportedly spoke with a 48-year-old Harrison Township woman who saw a car crash through the gate while driving west on North River Road.

No cameras caught the incident and the suspect remained unknown to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office. Base personnel were given a report number.

Caller impersonating bank employee defrauds resident

EASTPOINTE — At around 1:30 p.m. Jan. 5, Eastpointe police officers were dispatched to Brittany Avenue, in the area of Nine Mile and Kelly roads, to investigate a fraud complaint. The officers were advised that an unknown person had called a resident, pretending to work for her bank. The caller was able to obtain her account information and used it to transfer money from her account.

Con artist poses as probation officer

EASTPOINTE — At around 2:20 p.m. Jan. 5, Eastpointe police officers were dispatched to an address on Nine Mile Road to investigate a fraud complaint. Upon arrival, they learned that the victim had been contacted by someone claiming to be her son’s probation officer.

The con artist told the woman that her son needed a tether to be released from jail, and that the payment had to be made via a bitcoin-based machine using a QR code provided by the suspect.

The woman complied, following the instructions and sending the money. Once the woman arrived at the jail to pick up her son, she was told he was not eligible for release, and she realized that she had been scammed.

Police investigate unruly customer

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A restaurant employee came into the Shelby Township Police Department to report an assault at 9:10 p.m. Dec. 16. While she was working as a host at a restaurant in Shelby Township, she said she was approached by a man who was unhappy with the table that he and his guest were provided. She told police the man yelled in her face and then grabbed her hands. The host explained that it would be difficult to get him and his party a new table and the manager came over, whom the man reportedly grabbed as well. The man was asked to leave. Detectives were investigating.

Men arrested for being in the country illegally

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A police officer patrolling 23 Mile and Hayes roads observed a traffic violation at

on the vehicle and met with the driver and passenger, neither of whom spoke English, according to the report. The driver provided an international driver’s license, and a check on the names that were provided on the document came back with no results. Another officer arrived on the scene and advised that the international license appeared to be fraudulent. The officer was then able to obtain the name of the passenger. The officer contacted the Border Patrol, which arrested the two men and transported them to their facilities.

Man arrested for drunken driving SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Police officers were dispatched to the area of 45537 Mound Road, north of Hall Road, for a private property accident at 9:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Dispatch advised that a Ford F-150 pickup truck had struck another vehicle in the parking lot and left the scene. The vehicle was soon located nearby in the area of Springhill Drive, and officers approached the driver, who reportedly appeared intoxicated. The driver, who admitted to coming from a bar, had urinated on himself, police said. Officers offered the driver a roadside sobriety test,

Sideswipe hit-and-run