Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a $152 million funding plan for Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County Wednesday, securing the historic base's future and keeping its fighter missions intact.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Community excited for opportunities presented by investment in Selfridge

The investment preserves two flying missions at the base, one of which was at risk of being eliminated.

"It means everything, and I literally mean everything," said Daniel Kramer, Brigadier General Commander of the Michigan National Guard.

Kramer said losing one of those missions would have had a direct impact on the surrounding community.

"When you think about Selfridge today, you have two flying missions in the international guard alone, we were in jeopardy of losing one of those missions, that cuts out a whole unit out of the organization, which the local population, they rely on those people to go to lunch, to live in the communities," Kramer said.

Local business owners near the base welcomed the news. Trenton Milne, owner of Deer Camp Coffee in Harrison Township, said the investment signals a strong future for the region.

"It seems everyone is super excited for what this can lead to in the future," Milne said.

Milne, who bought the shop last year, said Selfridge's presence was a key factor in his decision.

"I was really excited for all the traffic in the community, Selfridge offered," Milne said.

He added the funding is a win beyond just the base itself.

"It's gonna be a super good thing for the community, for the base, for really anyone involved, all of Macomb County," Milne said.

Army veteran Larry Biringer, who lives near Selfridge, said he appreciates the state's commitment to keeping the mission alive.

"To see your tax dollars flying up there, it's pretty rewarding," Biringer said.

Biringer said watching military aircraft over the base is a source of pride.

"You see America at work, it is exciting to see a jet go over, a tanker, or the A-10 warhog, it's something to see or be appreciated," Biringer said.

Major Amy Padesky, a KC-135 pilot at Selfridge, said she is looking forward to what the investment means for the base's fleet.

"It's incredible, it's exciting," Padesky said. "It's amazing just to be here for the first time on the runway, and then the new jets."

Kramer said the funding reflects what can happen when a community unites around a shared goal.

"Proud of being a Michigander, and seeing when people come together after a common goal, and they secure that win, it just makes you feel proud," Kramer said.

As Memorial Day weekend draws boaters to Lake St. Clair, the Macomb County Sheriff's Office Marine Division is ramping up patrols and urging boaters to prioritize safety on the water.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Deputies patrolling Lake St. Clair, targeting reckless boating

Lt. Gary Wiegand, who has been with the marine division for 30 years, said speed in congested areas is one of the most common violations deputies encounter.

"We want boat operators to avoid driving fast through congested boat traffic; that is one of our biggest violations that we see," Wiegand said.

Alcohol is another major concern. Wiegand said deputies are trained to spot the signs.

"It becomes illegal if the operator of the boat is a point .08 or greater, we're always looking for indicators," Wiegand said.

Last year, the Macomb County Sheriff's Office Marine Division issued 70 citations and 300 warnings to boaters on Lake St. Clair.

Memorial Day weekend presents a unique challenge, Wiegand said, because many boaters are taking their vessels out for the first time of the season.

"People are launching their boats for the first time, so we have a lot of minor issues that lead to search and rescues on our end; they're finding out things like 'oh, the gas gauge doesn't work,'" Wiegand said.

Wiegand stressed that boaters need to be equipped to help themselves before deputies can reach them.

"A type of personal flotation device you have to have on board is what they call a type 4 throwable...I always recommend putting some type of rescue line or rope," Wiegand said.

The emphasis on preparation and education has made a difference. Wiegand said the number of fatal boating accidents has dropped significantly over the last decade. The marine division offers at least one free boater safety class per month.

"We teach at least one boater safety class a month, and that's free of cost," Wiegand said.

Boaters on the lake this weekend said they welcome the increased presence. Allen Aidem, who was out on the water, said knowing deputies are nearby brings peace of mind.

"It's nice to know they're out there when there's issues, you hear about stuff happening out here, nice to know they're available when needed," Aidem said.

Eddie Brumley, who has been fishing for 50 years, made the trip from Ohio to Lake St. Clair with his son Jared for the holiday weekend. He said reckless boaters are a real concern.

"Waters dangerous period, so you gotta be real careful of it, plus you put boats and mix it with alcohol, drugs, a lot of stuff can happen," Brumley said.

His advice to fellow boaters is simple.

"Step back, calm down, look at your situation," Brumley said.

Jared Brumley said the lake's reputation keeps drawing them back.

"You guys have one of the best fisheries up here...always fun to drive up for it," Jared said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Two years ago, a Mount Clemens spa owner purchased the city's last operable mineral well on Park Street and is planning a groundbreaking within 30 days.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Mount Clemens mineral well owner plans city's first bathhouse in nearly 100 years

Mount Clemens earned its nickname "Bath City" for a reason and one local business owner is working to bring that history back.

Lois Lombardo, owner of Olympia Salon & Spa in Mount Clemens, purchased the city's last operable mineral well two years ago. She says a groundbreaking for a new bathhouse is expected within 30 days.

What might look like a random, unassuming shed in the middle of Mount Clemens is actually the site of one of the city's most important and unique pieces of history.

Lombardo says the mineral-rich water beneath the city has ancient origins.

"There was an ocean here, and the ocean dissipated."

She says that the ocean left behind something remarkable.

"And it left a reservoir, what they call the Michigan basin; this happened over 400 million years ago."

The result, she says, is a virtually limitless supply of natural minerals.

"There's an unending supply of these rich mineral salts."

The water pumped from the well contains calcium, magnesium, and potassium visible as sediment settled at the bottom of a recently filled container.

Lombardo says the finished bathhouse will feature all glass windows and 8 private soaking rooms a state-of-the-art facility and a nod to the city's rich bath history.

"I'm not reinventing the wheel; this is what was going on here starting in the late 1800s."

Marie McDougal, author of

Mount Clemens Bath City, U.S.A.

, says the city was once a destination for celebrities and presidents alike, home to a dozen mineral bath houses during the 19th and 20th centuries.

"Babe Ruth, Mae West Mae West had her own bathtub."

McDougal says visitors would make extended stays in the city just to take advantage of the baths.

"They would come here, and live in the hotels, and they would take the baths every day, with a massage."

She says the mineral baths have had a personal impact on her own health.

"It has done so much for me, not only for my dry skin, but I also have fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, it has helped with the pain, with the exhaustion."

For Lombardo, the project is about more than business it's about preserving an identity.

"That's why the town still carries the nickname, Bath City."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A call to 9-1-1 doesnt just end when the call is over. Dispatch center supervisors in Macomb County are tasked with sifting through those calls, searching for errors, evaluating for performance and finding ways to improve.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: How Macomb County dispatch will use AI to evaluate call response

But those reviews can be a painstakingly long process.

The calls are nonstop inside central dispatch in Macomb Countyand this summer, the department is launching new technology that will evaluate responses to those calls like never before.

With 12-hour shifts, and just under 1,500 calls per day, dispatchers inside COMTEC, the Macomb County Sheriff's Office Central Dispatch Center, serve as the calm in the storm.

But just like Mother Nature, these calls are unpredictable and these dispatchers are always adapting.

So now with the ability to have 100 percent of those calls evaluated, we have a much greater insight into what those strengths and weaknesses are," said Angela Elsey, dispatch director at the Macomb County Sheriff's Office.

Launching in July, a new AI system, Elsey says, will significantly improve how her dispatchers respond to calls.

We spent quite a bit of time talking with the vendor and learning about the product before presenting it to the board," she said.

Scott MacDonald, a former firefighter, is co-founder for that vendor: Denver-based GovWorx, a 9-1-1 workforce management platform.

For a human to evaluate a 911 call, lets say ... a 7 minute call for a human on average that would take them 1 hour 17 minutes to review, said MacDonald. You have to pull the audio, you have to pull up the event data, you have to put on a headset, pause, rewind

He says that's where CommsCoach comes inthe AI software is already used in dispatch centers across 40-plus states.

It's not some random selection of this call or that call, it's looking over a much larger volume, so we're able to see trends now that are far different that anecdotal random reviews of certain calls, said MacDonald.

In March, the county board of commissioners voted unanimously to approve a 1 year $41-thousand contract with MacDonalds company.

I think there's a potential for good, said Mike Bernier, who has lived in Mount Clemens for nearly 40 years.

We had to call the fire department not too long ago, and it was horrendous; they wanted to ask all sorts of questions before they dispatched the truck...If AI is reviewing it and they're making recommendations, maybe thatll pick up response time," said Bernier.

That's exactly what Elsey says the software should ultimately do.

Better trained dispatchers, dispatchers who receive more consistent feedback, more consistent application of that feedback, leads to better service for the public," said Elsey. I look at AI as a way to enhance our job, help us do things more efficiently, not replacing humans, but helping us make better decisions."

Watch our stories from AI Week in the video players below: How AI is helping people overcome infertility AI scams on the rise: Michigan residents conned by deepfakes and cloned voices AI in the workplace: Detroit workers, businesses adapt to new technological era Students, parents and teachers in metro Detroit weigh AI's benefits and risks

Harrison Township residents say drivers are racing through their streets. The Macomb County Sheriff's Office has responded by adding a dedicated traffic deputy to patrol the community.

Speeding has long been a concern for residents of Harrison Township, and the Macomb County Sheriff's Office is now taking a targeted approach to address it assigning a dedicated traffic deputy to the community.

Watch Evan Sery's report below Harrison Township gets dedicated traffic deputy to address speeding concerns

Sabrina has lived on Townhall Street in Harrison Township for over 30 years. She says the problem has grown worse over time.

"There used to be a mini substation, police station there so other so high schoolers and other people would mind their p's and q's."

She says the absence of that substation changed things.

"Since that went away, the high school people come up and down this street like crazy...there's just so many cars flying through here."

Commander Jason Abro of the Macomb County Sheriff's Office says her frustration is widely shared.

"Throughout Harrison Township, we get a lot of complaints regarding speeding, residential issues, or traffic delays, parents trying to drop their kids off at schools."

Abro said the department recently added a new vehicle to its fleet specifically to address those concerns.

"What this vehicle is gonna do for us is handle those matters; it's gonna be taken to schools where there's a traffic need or where residents are complaining of speeding."

The effort is a partnership between the township and the Sheriff's Office. Harrison Township Supervisor Kenneth Verkest said a dedicated traffic deputy was needed to stay ahead of the problem.

"Because left unchecked people, people take advantage, and maybe speed," Verkest said.

Verkest also said the arrangement benefits the broader department.

"And it takes some of the pressure off the other deputies, so that they can take care of whatever that day-to-day need is for law enforcement," he continued.

Deputy Christopher Czaiczynski is the township's dedicated traffic deputy. He said education is central to his daily work.

"On a day-to-day basis, I stop about 6 to 15 cars, just to educate them on the violations of the law when it comes to speeding," Czaicynski said.

Czaiczynski said the geography of the township makes the issue especially dangerous.

"Speeding is a big problem; there's a lot of curves, which can cause a lot of accidents when people are speeding," Czaicynski said.

Abro said the department's focus is on safety, not citations.

"Our goal is not to write tickets to where we're finding people. When someone goes to work, they deserve to go to work safely and come home safely," Abro said.

Back on Townhall Street, at least one neighbor said the new approach is welcome.

"I think it's a good idea, too many people flying up and down the street," Sabrina said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Chippewa Valley Schools superintendent Ron Roberts is stepping down at the end of this school year. Assistant Superintendent Adam Blanchard will take over on July 1.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Chippewa Valley Superintendent to retire after 50 years in education

Ron Roberts is retiring after nearly 50 years with Chippewa Valley Schools, ending a career that began in 1978 when he started as a first-grade teacher in Clinton Township.

Roberts spent decades in various roles within the district before becoming superintendent, a position he has held for 15 years.

"I started as a first-grade teacher, I became a fifth-grade teacher, I became a middle school assistant principal," Roberts said.

As he packed up his office, Roberts reflected on what he will miss most about the job.

"I think my connections with people are extremely important, and I've always felt I had a responsibility towards them and the students, and I'll miss that," Roberts said.

Those connections appear to be mutual. Students and staff alike spoke to his impact on the district.

"Mr. Roberts is one of the best superintendents in the world, in my opinion," Chippewa Valley High School junior Benjamin Piscopink said.

"Everyone's a little sad, he's been my superintendent since kindergarten," Chippewa Valley High School senior Jack Petroske said.

"I've appreciated him, the support he's given me over the years," Chippewa Valley High School Principal Todd Distelrath said.

Dr. Adam Blanchard, currently the district's Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, will take over as superintendent on July 1, following a unanimous school board vote.

Blanchard credited Roberts with setting the district up for a strong future.

"After 48 years of being here, he has taught generations, and that impact is huge," Blanchard said. "The district is poised for that next chapter, the board of education is going through a thoughtful process of strategic planning, and really evaluating our facilities, looking at enrollment, that work doesn't happen by accident, happens by intentional conversations between the board and Superintendent Roberts."

For Roberts, the legacy he leaves behind is rooted in something bigger than any single role he held.

"The one thing I take away from me is a great sense of pride in being a public school employee. I believe strongly in public schools; I believe they are the glue to our society," Roberts said.

-

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel hosted the annual Macomb 100 Club celebration at the Clinton-Macomb Library on Friday, drawing 26 soon-to-be or current centenarians.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Macomb County hosts largest gathering of 100-year-olds in Michigan

"This will be the largest gathering of one-hundred-year-olds in any one location at one time in Macomb County, the state of Michigan, not too sure on the national level," Hackel said.

Mike Young will officially join the club next June, when he turns 100.

"It's a big milestone, I'm the only one in the family, reached this old," Young said.

Young has lived his entire life at his home on North Avenue in Macomb Township a house he built with his own hands in 1953. He was born on the same property, in a farmhouse that has since been demolished.

"Lived here all my life, only place I know," Young said.

His family once owned 80 acres of farmland on the property before most of it was sold privately. Young still has fond memories of a quieter time.

"I'd go to work, come home, help milk cows," Young said. "I'd rather have the farms, nice and quiet."

"Put a lot of work in this house, a lot of work," Young said.

His son, Charles Young, was on hand to celebrate.

"He's quite remarkable," Charles said. "A lot of hard work, took a lot to do where he's at right now."

As for the secrets to reaching 100, the centenarians at the celebration had plenty of answers olive oil, making your wife laugh, and staying happy among them.

"Be happy, take what's coming to you, try to make the best," one attendee said.

And perhaps the most honest answer of all came from another member of the club.

"I have no idea, I'm surprised I'm here," one attendee said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A group of high school students in metro Detroit used a 3D printer to create a life-changing prosthetic arm for a 10-year-old boy on the other side of the state.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Metro Detroit high school students 3D print prosthetic arm for 10-year-old boy

Kaysen Green, 10, was born without part of his arm. In December, students from Austin Catholic High School in Chesterfield surprised him with his first prosthetic limb.

"Using it, makes everything a little more easier," Green said.

The students collaborated with the e-NABLE project, an NIH 3D open-source community that uses 3D printing to create prosthetics. Laura Hayden, the school's STEAM coordinator, helped guide the students through the printing and assembly process.

"With prosthetics costing tens of thousands of dollars, we were able to help," Hayden said.

The donated arm has given Green new independence. He can now ride bikes, cut food, and pick up drinks.

"He started running around the room, he picked up a Kleenex, then set it down, then he ran and grabbed his mothers hair," Hayden said.

Hayden added that Green was also able to do the "6, 7 thing," which excited the students.

Abigail Glynn, a senior at Austin Catholic High School, was part of the small group that worked on the project.

"By the time we left, within an hour, he was already bouncing the ball and grabbing it with the same arm he had just gotten," Glynn said.

The 3D-printed design allows the students to adapt the prosthetic as Green gets older.

"What we can do with this, as he grows, we can get different measurements and everything," Glynn said.

Green admits he does not wear the prosthetic all the time, but he loves using it when he does. He has already requested a new orange and blue version.

The new arm has also made him popular among his classmates.

"Everybody was like high five me, high five me, so I just started doing it," Green said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Macomb Township celebrated a $2 million renovation of Fire Station 2 on Friday, bringing modernized amenities and expanded spaces to the growing community's oldest functioning station.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Macomb Township unveils a $2 million renovation at Fire Station 2

"This was our oldest functioning station, and it was well in need of some updating," Macomb Township Supervisor Frank Viviano said.

Originally built in 1984, the facility on 21 Mile near Romeo Plank now features a fitness room, a new kitchen, recreation spaces, additional sleeping quarters, and a turnout gear room. The station also added a couple of new state-of-the-art engines.

Macomb Township Fire Chief Bob Phillips showcased the new amenities.

"We have a dedicated drying room, humidity and temperature controlled, so we can dry everything as soon as we bring it in. None of this existed until the remodel; this was just a drive-through bay where we parked trucks," Phillips said, pointing to the new turnout gear room.

"It's something we've been saving up for in our capital improvement plan the last few years. The improvements here are better for the firefighters; it's more efficient, more effective," Viviano said.

I also spoke with 98-year-old Milton Miller, the only original volunteer Macomb Township firefighter still alive. Miller started with the department in 1953.

"It's almost too lush, they've got everything," Miller said.

When Miller was a firefighter, the township's population was under 3,000.

"All farm, pretty much all farm at that time," Miller said.

Today, Macomb Township has ballooned to a community of about 100,000 residents, ranking among the top 10 most populous in the state.

Phillips said the renovations are critical for the mental and physical well-being of the 36 full and part-time firefighters who handle the increasing workload.

"Call volume, last year we did around 7,400, 20 years ago, we were around 2,200 to 2,300, so, certainly, has increased every year. As you can see here, we've added sleeping quarters, additional space so we can continue to grow staffing as the township continues to grow," Phillips said.

During an August township board meeting, some firefighters demanded more staff, citing safety risks. Viviano said those concerns are being addressed.

"Every department across the township is always being evaluated, so it's something we'll continue to look at. We did hire 7 new firefighters last year, we're thrilled to have them, and if circumstances warrant, we'll continue to look at it," Viviano said.

Residents are also happy about the renovations.

"All about taking care of firefighters and police, making sure it's safe here," Macomb Township resident Karly Brow said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The first softball and baseball games are underway at the brand-new Utica Community Schools athletics facilities.

The 15-month project included renovations for fields and courts at three different high schools. This week, the district is cutting the ribbon on three new state-of-the-art athletic facilities, which include Stevenson, Henry Ford II and Eisenhower high schools.

Watch the video report below: Utica Community Schools opens new state-of-the-art athletic fields

Stevenson High School softball is playing on the new field for the first time on Monday night.

"Wow. Oh, my goodness. I got like full body chills right now," Francesca Madonna said as she got her first look at the new home field.

Madonna, the head softball coach for Stevenson High School, also played for the school, but never on a field like this.

"Oh, my gosh. I'm so excited. This is so exciting. I'm envisioning the team now being out there and everything," Madonna said. "They're spoiled."

The field is part of the brand-new Stevenson athletics complex on the corner of Dodge Park and 16 Mile roads.

Robert Monroe, the superintendent of Utica Community Schools, said the concepts of the new turf fields, tennis courts, concessions and beyond began a few years ago.

"Back in 2023 was a $550 million bond issue. That being said, we're the second-largest school district in the state of Michigan, so when you think about over 40 facilities and the amount of miles 66 square miles of real estate that we have it really shows that we had a lot of work to do, and we still have more work to be done," Monroe said.

"Our high school kids, when we've talked to them about this, they have compared it to places where they're going to be playing possibly in college and beyond."

Wyatt Pulliam, a Stevenson High School senior pitcher, also saw his home field for the first time.

"I feel like I'm in a video game right now," Pulliam said.

The senior is entering his final season at Stevenson.

"Seeing it get built for the last year, year and a half and seeing it all come together is crazy," Pulliam said. "I know the senior class, we're all happy that we get to be the first ones on the field, have the opportunity for it. We're just excited."

The next ribbon cutting is set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. for the Eisenhower baseball and softball fields, and Thursday at 4 p.m. at the new Henry Ford II baseball and softball fields.

"The fan experience is gonna be great. They're actually gonna be sitting up looking down on their fields from the bleachers, seeing their kids participate. We can't be more excited about it," Monroe said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The Attorney General's office charged 37-year-old Dr. Faddi Salim with one count of conducting a criminal enterprise and 131 counts of Medicaid fraud.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Utica dentist faces 131 counts of Medicaid fraud

The Utica dentist is accused of cashing in on clients receiving government benefits by billing for dental crowns that were unnecessary or never provided.

Each count of Medicaid fraud is punishable by up to 4 years in prison, while conducting a criminal enterprise is a 20-year felony.

The AG's office says Dr. Salim, "repeatedly billed the taxpayer-funded Medicaid program for a large number of crowns on individual patients that were both unnecessary and never provided

The attorney general's office said the alleged fraud was discovered when patients tried to get needed treatment.

"Patients who allegedly had many crowns billed under their benefits were subsequently told they were not covered for needed treatment because their annual benefits were exhausted," the Attorney General's office said.

The Attorney General's office is asking former patients who believe they may have been billed for crowns or other services that were never provided to contact them.

Salim was arraigned on March 19 in East Lansing and granted a $50,000 personal bond. He is scheduled to be back in court next month.

When I went to Salim's Utica office, a secretary told me they were closed, and he would be back on Monday. Salim later sent a statement regarding the charges.

"I want to be clear: my office operates with strict adherence to all legal and insurance standards. We hold ourselves to a high level of accountability, and our priority has always been delivering exceptional care to our patients, both locally and from out-of-state. Im confident that the full facts will come to light, and I look forward to speaking more openly, and provide more details once this process is resolved," Salim said.

7 News Detroit previously spoke to Salim in 2020 when his office donated thousands of masks to a local hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Since were closed, we felt like there are more people in need of these masks so we donated to them," Salim said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Macomb County leaders are describing the future Central Intake and Assessment Center in Mount Clemens as more than just a jail. The $228 million facility is currently about 50% complete and connects to the already existing jail.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Construction halfway complete for state-of-the-art Macomb County jail expansion

7 News Detroit got a first look inside the massive project with Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, who explained why the state-of-the-art building will serve as a national model for public safety.

The facility spans over 150,000 square feet and will feature 278 cell beds. Dedicated medical, mental health, and detox treatment wings are currently being built.

"The prisoner population portion is over here; this is where your cells will be," Hackel said.

Hackel calls the nearly $250 million project transformative, noting it will address the root causes of crime and recidivism.

"Were not here to build just a jail; we got an issue with mental health and substance use across the country," Hackel said. "So if theyre brought in here, because they need to be detained, we want to address that issue right on the onset. We have the capabilities with this facility to do that."

"24/7 365, any law enforcement agency that arrests somebody and brings them in, they're gonna be looked at for mental health and substance use," Hackel said.

Reginald Emerson owns Emersons on the Grill, located just down the street from the new facility. He was pleasantly surprised to learn the center is much more than a jail and will focus on mental health.

"I thought it was more jail cells didn't know what it really was, thought they were just making a new, bigger jail," Emerson said. "That is probably what's most important, it seems like there's a lot of mental health issues going on a bit more, I don't know what it is, maybe the family system breaking down and people on the street too much."

Also down the street is the 41B District Court. Chief Judge Jacob Femminine, who works in mental health treatment and sobriety courts, shared his thoughts on the project in a statement.

"This center will undoubtedly save lives and redirect individuals toward a supportive, recovery approach, which will, in turn, reduce recidivism through rehabilitation," Femminine said.

"This should be completed by the end of 2027, and that's when we'll start bringing in the prisoner population into the facility," Hackel said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A downtown Mount Clemens restaurant is back open for the first time in nearly a month after the owner and head chef faced multiple health scares.

Buchanans Best Bistro officially reopened on Tuesday. The family said they thought they were in real danger of possibly closing for good.

Watch the video report below: Mount Clemens restaurant reopens after the owner's kidney transplant

"Definitely had days where we were like, don't know if we're gonna keep it open, or we're gonna start selling stuff," Timothy Buchanan said.

The business, led by Timothy's father, Kenard Buchanan, was closed for much of March. Before the closure, Timothy was running the restaurant alone.

"I was working by myself, cooking and taking orders," Timothy Buchanan said.

Two years ago, Kenard Buchanan was diagnosed with kidney failure. A screening process also revealed he had prostate cancer. Despite the diagnosis, the family left their food truck business last April to open their dream restaurant.

"Even on dialysis Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, I still came here. Certain days, kinda real, real hard. Had my chair in the back. Every now and then, I would sit down, let my son do the cooking," Kenard Buchanan said.

In early March, Kenard Buchanan received life-saving news.

"Was getting out of church service and got a phone call, asked me if I was interested in having a kidney. They had one for me," Kenard Buchanan said.

"Two or three times, we went down and it wasn't for him. So when it finally was, we were just overjoyed," Timothy Buchanan said.

The restaurant posted on Facebook that it would need $7,500 to help cover business expenses and medical costs.

"We just said let's see what we can do to help," Donna Isbell said.

Isbell, the treasurer of MIP Michigan, a Mount Clemens-based nonprofit, went straight to a nearby downtown business, Abibo. On Saturday, Abibos hosted a 50/50 raffle for the family, raising nearly $900 in just one night.

"What can we do, what can we do for them 50/50 is... a lot of people support that because they're getting something out of that too," Isbell said.

Dickweeds, a Mount Clemens bar, is hosting another 50/50 raffle this Friday. Kenard Buchanan says he is grateful for the kindness of total strangers.

"Yes, a lot of people that I don't know. I don't even know if they even knew me because I haven't been here not even a year yet," Kenard Buchanan said. "When you treat people right, they treat you back right."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Sterling Heights city leaders say the demolition of Lakeside Mall could happen by the end of the year, making way for a major new redevelopment.

The city council will hold a public tax plan hearing on May 5. City leaders indicate all signs point to approval to move forward with plans that would head to the state for review before moving to site plan procedures.

City leaders say the demolition of Lakeside Mall could happen by the end of the year

For decades, Lakeside Mall was bustling with businesses before closing down in 2024. Now two years later, city officials are providing an update on when it could finally be demolished.

Sterling Heights City Councilman Michael Radtke says the site will be the city's go-to spot again, but on a much larger scale.

"It'll be the downtown we never had. That's why it's Lakeside City Center," Radtke said. "When this is all done, it's gonna be an over billion-dollar project, a totally new development in Macomb County and frankly, one-of-its-kind development in the state of Michigan."

Radtke said the upcoming city council meeting is the next step in the redevelopment process.

"The city will be considering a plan for the Lakeside heart, the center of the district. That's what's up for consideration on May 5th if the Brownfield authority approves the plan," Radtke said.

Radtke said he is hopeful demolition will start sometime this year.

"The entire plan, the four or five phases you see here, that's a 20-year plan to bring to completion. Were gonna approve the plan, send it to the state. Once the state approves, then we can start," Radtke said.

Growing up, Lakeside Mall was the spot for Rashaunah Pernell and his friends.

"Pretzels, the food court, talk with the homies," Pernell said. "There were fairs in the parking lot, that was cool."

Today, the parking lot is an empty, barren lot. Flyers marking the end still hang on several mall windows.

"It's like a piece of my childhood gone a little bit. Definitely miss it being here, the spot to go to," Pernell said.

Mani Warda owns Farhat Sweets, a business located across the street from the future Lakeside City Center.

"We're patient, just patient hoping they finish it as soon as possible," Warda said. "Yeah, it is very depressing. Looking across the street at the lot, it's empty, the mall is crazy employees used to stop by all the time. Now since it closed down, it hurt us."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Construction is underway for a new apartment complex in downtown Mount Clemens that city leaders say will give the population a major boost.

The development, called The One, will be located on North River Road where the old Victory Inn used to be. The project is a $10 million investment secured from grant funding in previous state budgets.

Watch Evan Sery's video report below: New Mount Clemens apartment complex aims to boost downtown population.

Mount Clemens Mayor Laura Kropp told me the timeline looks to be about 18 months. When construction is complete and tenants move in, she said it could possibly double or triple the population of downtown Mount Clemens.

"One-hundred-and-sixteen-unit apartment complex," Kropp said. "It should double or triple our downtown population."

The complex will include affordable housing units and market-rate apartments. Kropp said attracting residents is crucial for the city.

"We have 16,000 residents in Mount Clemens, but in that what we consider to be the downtown footprint, we have less than 100 people," Kropp said. "We have to have more people living in it."

The city just finished Phase 1 of a major multimillion-dollar revitalization project. People currently come to Mount Clemens to explore stores in the downtown area.

"We have a lot of momentum," Kropp said.

"Phase 2 will be moving city hall off of the river and Phase 3 is the main street project that will happen in 2028. It's such a walkable historic downtown. It's a great place, but we have to have more users for it."

Jason Johns, general manager for the city's Champagne Chocolates store, has lived and worked in Mount Clemens all his life.

"My family's actually been in town since the 1870s. They come up from Ohio," Johns said.

"Its always been a big time interest of mine. With the old mineral baths, we used to have all the hotels in town, people would come from as far away as Europe to bathe in the water," Johns continued. "It is exciting. I wish some of my family members that were here back in the day could see whats happened since they've been gone."

I caught up with Jacob Gwizdala while he was eating lunch downtown Monday. He works in Mount Clemens.

"There's so much potential down here," Gwizdala said. "That's what every city should want is more people in the city... they just made the downtown more walkable, so keep the machine rolling."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A Farmington Hills family is moving forward with a long-planned celebration just days after an attack at the synagogue where the event was set to take place.

Sydney Cox, 12, is being bat mitzvahed today in front of 200 guests a milestone her family has been preparing for since third grade.

Watch the video report below: Farmington Hills family's bat mitzvah goes on after Temple Israel attack

"Oh yeah, I mean she's been doing Hebrew tutoring since 4th grade, have had this date since third grade," Lindsay Cox said.

The Cox family had March 13, 2026, circled on their calendar for years. Final touches makeup and all were being made ahead of the ceremony.

"I'm scared but excited," Sydney Cox said.

The celebration was nearly cancelled after Thursday's attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, where the bat mitzvah was originally set to take place. Sydney had rehearsed for her big night three times inside the synagogue.

Related Coverage: Attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township Temple Israel attack coverage: 7 News Detroit at 5 p.m.

"I was with my brother-in-law, and he showed me the video of the fire, or the smoke coming through, and he was like I have a feeling we won't be able to be there," Lindsay Cox said.

After first making sure everyone was safe, the family shifted its focus.

"Not thinking about the bat mitzvah, making sure everyone was OK, no one was hurt," Lindsay Cox said.

Then came the pivot. Sydney messaged more than 20 friends to let them know the location had changed.

"Yeah, I texted all my friends to tell them," Sydney Cox said.

Lindsay Cox worked to keep 200 guests informed while figuring out next steps. She said Temple Israel was involved every step of the way.

"They wanted to make sure I knew they hadn't forgotten about us, they were working with other synagogues in the area, talking with other places in the area. They were able to rent AV equipment, borrowed another Torah from a synagogue down the street," Lindsay Cox said.

In a text, Temple Israel Rabbi Josh Bennett told me he's grateful for community partners that have graciously opened their doors for a variety of religious events.

Lindsay Cox said the Jewish faith helped guide the family's decision to press forward.

"What they talk about in Judaism is, it's OK to celebrate even when something sad is going on. I know the rabbis want to keep going and want to keep making life as normal as possible," Lindsay Cox said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Shelby Township police are targeting drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses along a stretch of 23 Mile Road between Schoenner and Hayes, an area officers say is one of their biggest concerns for school bus safety.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Shelby Township police crack down on drivers who pass school buses

The department launched a new initiative last week called Operation Safe Zone Respect the Red, Protect Our Kids. Officers will be stationed along the corridor at the beginning and end of the school day, making traffic stops on drivers who pass stopped buses.

Sgt. Kevin Bailey, the department's public information officer, said the area has been a persistent problem.

"We have bus stops just right here, and we're having cars disregard the signal," Bailey said.

Bus drivers with Utica Community Schools have been among those raising the alarm, reporting that drivers routinely ignore their stop signs and run their flashing red bus lights.

"We get complaints all the time from bus drivers," Bailey said.

Utica Community Schools transports 15,000 students each day. Brian Laporte, director of safety and management services for the district, said student safety drives every decision the district makes.

"Student safety is at the top of our list, every day," Laporte said.

Laporte noted the scale of the district's transportation operation.

"We have the second largest school district in the state of Michigan, but I have the largest transportation fleet," Laporte said.

He said he is grateful for the new police initiative.

RELATED STORY: These are Michigan school bus laws and safety tips ahead of kids going back to school These are Michigan school bus laws and safety tips ahead of kids going back to school

Under the operation, marked police vehicles will be deployed during morning and afternoon school hours.

"Beginning of school and end of school, you're gonna see marked vehicles out here making traffic stops on someone blowing by the buses and not making a complete stop," Bailey said.

Drivers who fail to stop at least 20 feet from a school bus when its stop sign is extended, and its lights are flashing, face a $290 fine.

John Patouhas, a parent with three children who attend Utica Community Schools all of whom ride the bus said he has witnessed the dangerous behavior firsthand.

"I've seen people going around flashing lights on buses, and it's just unfortunate," Patouhas said.

Patouhas said he welcomes the increased police presence but warned that action is overdue.

"As a parent, I'm happy to hear that, they're our children, we have to protect our children," Patouhas said. "I drive down these streets for work, and I've seen people going around flashing lights on buses, and it's just unfortunate, we're lucky we haven't had any accidents, but I mean it will happen if something doesn't change."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The Village of Romeo's Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting tonight to discuss the possible closure of the village's dispatch center, which has served the community since the late 1800s.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Romeo trustees to vote on closing dispatch center that has served community since 1800s

Romeo Police Chief Kevin Roy says several trustees are pushing for a vote that could outsource the longtime communications center to ComTec, a consolidated dispatch center in Mount Clemens.

Roy said the dispatch center recently received $300,000 in taxpayer-funded equipment and technology.

"In a small community like this, our dispatchers do so much more than dispatch. They are the face the residents see at the front desk, 24/7 365," Roy said.

Roy says he sees no benefit in making the switch.

"I can't think of any positives, I truly can't. We would not see a financial savings significant enough to make a difference in a small town budget, we would lose local control, lose local institutional knowledge about this community, about people and places in this community," Roy said.

After Roy posted a letter about the issue on Facebook Tuesday night, community members responded with overwhelming support for keeping the local dispatch center. Comments included, "having a dispatch center 40 minutes out of your village is not a good idea," and "I think this would be a huge mistake."

Trustee Justin Parker, one of three trustees who called for tonight's special meeting, told me over the phone that outsourcing the dispatch center is not necessarily the priority, but decreasing response times is. Parker says the dispatch center needs some sort of change.

Trustee Nolan Kare, however, believes dismantling the dispatch center would lead to the opposite outcome.

"If we switch our dispatch to Macomb County, I'm sure they do a great job; we get a lesser quality of service just because they're not from Romeo, not a quarter mile away from where the situation is happening," Kare said.

Kare also warned that while the village could save money in the short term, a contract with ComTec could eventually lead to steep prices.

"Once that's a contracted service, it's up to them, if they wanna raise prices, the year after, the year after, we're at their mercy," Kare said.

It is unclear when a final decision will be made.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Take your poop bags home: thats the message from the city of Birmingham intended especially to who they are calling dog bomb bandits.

Watch Evan's story in the video player below: Birmingham officials say 'dog bomb bandits' could face fines for illegal dumping

Stephanie Potts, who walks her dog Teddy daily, does her best to keep their neighborhood by Quarton Lake clean.

We walk locations where we know, therell be trash bins, Potts said.

But the city says many others are not keeping it clean. A Wednesday Facebook post explains the problem.

According to Birmingham officials, code enforcement has received multiple complaints of illegal dumping on construction sites throughout the city recently. Red circles added to the photo posted highlight bag after bag tossed next to a dumpster.

People should try to get the doggy bags in the dumpsters, Brooke Fisher of Birmingham said.

Fisher and her pup live nearby where this picture was taken, but she says Birmingham calling it a violation of city code is excessive.

Am I guilty of putting a doggie bag in an open dumpster? Probably, she said.

In the Facebook post the city said Please dont dump your refuse canine or otherwise on construction sites or in their private dumpsters. Its a violation of city code, which could result in fines and its just plain unsanitary.

We asked residents if they think what was posted was necessary.

Im gonna go with probably not," Fisher said.

A nice fair warning, but fines, probably not the best. Frankly, there should be a few more trash cans scattered around the city, Potts said.