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Today β€” 21 November 2024Main stream

Family of Orion Township explosion victim: 'He is doing exceptionally well'

21 November 2024 at 04:48

One day after the Tuesday explosion that rocked the Orion Township community, we're learning that a man who was hospitalized is recovering well and is expected to be OK.

The explosion happened at the Keatington New Town Condominiums near Baldwin and Waldon roads.

Related video: Amazon driver ran toward danger, saving victims of the Orion Township explosion Amazon driver ran toward danger, saving victims of the Orion Twp explosion

Multiple buildings were affected. Eighteen units were completely destroyed across the complex and 12 others are being questioned for their stability. Miraculously, everyone is alive.

It is an absolute miracle, an absolute miracle if you have seen that scene that we are currently talking about no fatalities," Orion Township Supervisor Chris Barnett said.

A man and a woman were sent to the hospital with serious injuries, including Ann Oddens 80-year-old brother who she wants to keep anonymous.

Odden says her brother was working in his office and about to make a pot of coffee when he heard a loud boom. Everyday heroes stepped in to help guide him and others to safety.

The gentleman was standing in the middle of the house with his clothes got blown off and he was coherent. He talked and he said he wanted a chair, so we got him a chair and moved him from here to the street until the medics got here," neighbor Paul Kastran said.

Odden's brother was transported to a burn unit in Detroit where he is recovering. She said her brother lost everything in the explosion but is just grateful that he's alive.

He is doing exceptionally well. I mean, everybodys just shocked at how well hes doing because he shouldnt be here," she said.

Related video: Community steps in to help those impacted by condo explosion 'A lot of devastation.' Community steps in to help those impacted by explosion

The investigation into the exact cause is officially underway. The Orion Township Fire Department believes the cause could be a gas explosion, but it will take weeks to get clear answers.

"Our team is very slow and methodical to make sure that they dont miss anything. Theyre very thorough in their investigation. At the earliest, I say it will take a week for the initial, it may take three to four week for the full investigation," Orion Township Fire Chief Ryan Allen said.

Before yesterdayMain stream

'A sense of hope': Howell Nature Center rehab clinic to reopen after support pours in

19 November 2024 at 03:58

Last week, we brought you the story of the financial struggles that plagued the Howell Nature Center after donations drastically decreased. After our story aired, the nonprofit says they have raised $90,000 of their $100,000 end-of-year goal.

On Thursday, we shared the story of how the perfect storm of rising costs, decreasing donations and less schools and groups taking field trips to the nature center left the organization struggling to retain staff and keep programs open.

They closed their Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic that takes in 2,000 injured animals a year in October due to the strain. By Friday, the nonprofit saw a significant increase in donations.

Watch our previous report about the Howell Nature Center's financial strain below: Howell Nature Center laying off staff, closing rehab clinic due to financial strain

Friday alone brought in $48,000... I still get chills just saying that right now," Howell Nature Center CEO Tina Bruce said. And it took 824 people to get us there.

Hundreds of donations later, the nonprofit is now just $10,000 shy of their end-of-year goal.

"I left with like a sense of hope," Bruce said. In this case, its a perfect example of every little bit makes a huge difference."

Bruce says this gets them out of their financial hole, but they still have a long way to go to make sure they are never in this type of situation again. The Howell community says they are not surprised that everyone came together to support the nonprofit.

That it happened that quickly, that just shows how important community is and how powerful community is," Howell business owner Lauren Deaven said.

As a thank you, the nature center is opening to the public Saturday with no admission fees. They are now looking at rehiring staff and getting critical operations back up and running. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic will reopen by the end of this week.

You can continue supporting the Howell Nature Center by donating on their website or checking out some of their events like their annual Christmas tree sale that runs daily starting Nov. 29.

85-year-old Lapeer County man scammed out of 25K, miraculously gets it all back

16 November 2024 at 03:19

An 85-year-old Lapeer County man lost nearly $25,000 that he took out in cash involving a Bitcoin scam. With his daughter's quick thinking and help from a bank teller, he got it all back.

Andrew Robinson has lived a full life and is enjoying retirement after working over three decades at General Motors in Flint. However, some of that enjoyment got taken away from him Oct. 17. Robinson of Oregon Township received an email congratulating him about his Bitcoin purchase. Robinson didn't even know what Bitcoin was.

Im not all that great with all these modern things," Robinson said.

In confusion, he called the number in the email to inform them he hadn't made the purchase. The man on the phone said if he didnt want the Bitcoin, he was going to have to give all $24,500 worth of the Bitcoin back.

The scammer got aggressive over the phone and remained on the line with him as he took out the cash at a ChoiceOne Bank.

The same day he took out the money, a man stopped by his home to collect it. Just as that was happening, Robinson's daughter, Lynne Markiewicz stopped by for a visit.

"While the scammer was in the driveway, Andrew's daughter happened to pull up in the driveway behind him and sensing something was amiss with the situation, she memorized this guy's license plate," Lapeer County Sheriffs OfficeΒ Lt. Robert Wells said.

Robinson did not want to report the incident, but the bank teller felt something about the withdrawal was suspicious and reached out to the sheriff's office the next day. Deputies then visited Robinson and received additional information from Markiewicz.

With the license plate information, they were able to track down the suspect to the border of Detroit and Hamtramck near Joseph Campau Avenue and Carpenter Avenue.

The Lapeer County Sheriff's Office coordinated with the Detroit Police Department and got a search warrant for the suspect's home.

"Met them down there at the house and executed the search warrant and recovered the $24,500," Wells said. "All of it."

Wells says in his entire career, he has only been involved in one case where a scammed victim got all of their money back and this was it.

"Once that money's gone, it's gone. Generally, this was sort of a needle in a haystack type case," Wells said.

Now, Robinson wants to share his story to help others protect themselves from these types of scams.

Maybe somebody will take notice and be a little more careful. I know I am," he said.

Wells says the man in his 20s that was tracked down could be related to multiple scams across the state and part of a much larger operation. The sheriff's office is continuing to investigate the came.

Wells says to protect yourself, don't give out any personal information to people you do not know, watch out for unsolicited phone calls or emails and call police if anything feels suspicious.

Howell Nature Center laying off staff, closing rehab clinic due to financial strain

15 November 2024 at 04:24

The Howell Nature Center has been a staple of the community for decades, however, they've now had to close their esteemed Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic and have already begun to let go staff due to dire financial strain.

Howell Nature Center Senior Director of Wildlife and Education Laura Butler says that the center heavily relies on donations to operate and donations have significantly decreased. Because they are a nonprofit, they do not receive financial assistance from the city or state.

I think as a place that relies heavily on donations, when the economy is difficult for people, were affected. But in my time here, this is the most dire the situation has been," Butler said.

The Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic has had to stop taking in new animals due to the high cost of operations.

Its very heartbreaking because there are many animals that need our help," Butler said.

Chris Waters from Brighton has brought in multiple animals to the rehabilitation clinic throughout the years and felt so strongly about the work they do that she now volunteers there a few days a week.

She says the staff and volunteers are heartbroken that the center has had to cut back operations.

Im terribly worried about it. Its a great facility," Waters said.

Last September, a 12-year-old from Northville died after a tree fell on him during a school trip at the center. Butler says the incident has caused schools and families to pull out of planned trips, leaving a major revenue hole in the center's budget.

Related video: Northville mayor shares heartfelt letter after 6th grader killed by tree at nature center Northville mayor shares heartfelt letter after boy killed by falling tree

Most of our revenue comes from our camp programs that happen over the summer and then we also get some revenue from school groups that come out. We have seen less school groups come out this fall, so that has affected us," she said. Its been devastating for the entire community, our hearts are broken and they go out to the family and everyone affected of course. Its just a horrible tragedy.

The nature center hopes that people find it in their hearts to continue attending and donating, so they can hit their $100,000 goal by the end of the year to restart programs and reopen the rehabilitation center.

Theres a small admission fee. That helps if people come," Waters said. "I would be shocked if we cant save this place, if we cant come together as a community and save this place.

The nature center is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for children and free for children 2 years old and younger. There are also membership packages.

You can help the center by donating or by attending their community events like Breakfast with Santa or Winter at Hogwarts.

Eastern Michigan University student-athlete hit by truck while cycling in Webster Township

13 November 2024 at 04:28

An Eastern Michigan University student-athlete was riding her bike in the middle of the day, taking every precaution she could when she was hit by a truck and seriously injured in Webster Township.

Twenty-three-year-old Ruby Wyles is from England. She came to the U.S. in 2020 on an athletic scholarship, joining Eastern Michigan University this fall.

Not only is she a cross-country and track and field athlete, Wyles is also an avid cyclist, traveling dozens of miles a day. Wyles has several paths she takes from campus around Washtenaw County.

On Oct. 25 around 4:30 p.m., she was traveling in the rural area of North Territorial Road near Huron River Drive when she was hit. All Wyles remembers is feeling that a vehicle was too close to her.

She was wearing a helmet, which she credits to helping save her life, and bright colored clothing, making her easy to spot.

"This could have been avoided," Wyles said. "There is a chance he... might not have known he hit me, but I don't see how he didn't see me."

The Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office says the driver sped away.

The student-athlete, who also makes a living off coaching other athletes, is now struggling to do mundane tasks. She suffered a concussion, brain bleed, broken clavicle an 10 broken ribs.

"I'm a student and I'm unfortunately probably not going to be going back to classes for a while because I can't really focus. I'm spending my maybe like 20 of 24 hours a day asleep," Wyles said. "I'm a student-athlete and the student side is kind of on hold indefinitely, and kind of is the athlete side."

Wyles hopes her experience can be a learning lesson for both drivers and cyclists: for cyclists to be vigilant on the roads and for drivers to make room for cyclists.

The Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office reports the suspect's vehicle to be a black large Ford F350 or Chevy 3500 dual pickup truck pulling a five-wheel camper, possible a Wolf Pack. If you have any information, call 734-971-8400.

If you'd like to help Wyles in her healing journey, you can do so here.

VIDEO: Man assaults and robs another man in broad daylight in downtown Monroe

12 November 2024 at 03:17

Police are investigating an assault and robbery that happened in the middle of the day in a busy area of downtown Monroe.

On Nov. 5 around 9:30 a.m., a man can be seen on surveillance video following another man around Jack's Bicycles on South Monroe Street. The suspect then jumps on the man, assaults and chokes him before taking off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The owner of Jack's Bicycles, Scott Goocher, wasn't in the shop yet when this took place but cannot believe something like this could happen in broad daylight.

You can watch surveillance video of the incident below. It may be hard for some to watch. Surveillance video shows suspect assault and rob man in downtown Monroe

Were on the corner of Monroe and 2nd, so theres a lot of traffic, people out walking their dogs early in the morning too, so pretty crazy for something like that to happen," Goocher said. "That just doesnt happen here at all."

Businesses in the surrounding area say it's an uneasy feeling knowing something like this could happen two blocks from the police station and have started taking extra precautions.

"We have cash here and we take sales here. Our customers are coming in and out. It makes us kind of want to up the security around the place," owner of Hidden Intuition Sidney Stanley said. Everyone knows everyone. It feels like a Hallmark movie all the time when youre downtown, so for this to happen is jarring."

Monroe police say the incident appears to be random and they are actively investigating. Residents say they've also noticed an increase in police presence since the incident.

"I have noticed the past few days... police are coming in with that slow roll right by you, like I know you see me seeing you. There is a noticeable presence," Monroe resident Benjamin Smith said.

Police warn residents, especially around the holidays, to not carry large sums of cash and to be aware of your surroundings when walking alone.

If you have any information on this incident, call the Monroe Police Department at 734-243-7500 and ask for the detective bureau.

Monopoly: Detroit Edition officially launches, how to get your hands on it

9 November 2024 at 03:40

Hasbro, the company behind Monopoly, has been rolling out community-special editions of the game since 2020, featuring cities like New York, Las Vegas and now Detroit. Monopoly: Detroit Edition launched Friday.

At a grand reveal at the Detroit Historical Museum on Friday, the iconic spaces and business that were chosen to be on the board were revealed.

Spaces include the Ambassador Bridge, Belle Isle, Eastern Market, Book Tower, the Detroit Zoo and more.

"We thought oh great, how fun to be part of such an iconic thing that brings so many community staples together," Detroit Zoo Chief Experience Officer Randi Hamilton said.

The gaming company Top Trumps has a partnership with Hasbro to create official versions of the Monopoly game and chose Detroit earlier this year for the coveted spot.

"We've always got something in the works, but we always select so many cities each year. So thats why its very special to come to Detroit. I'm just surprised it actually took us this long to get here," Top Trumps game manager Tim Barney said.

Top Trumps received thousands of submissions from Detroiters about what absolutely had to make the board before coming up with the final list.

When you can only fit around 20 or 30 organizations, landmarks, all those things, youre gonna leave out a bunch of stuff. But we tried to find the most significant things that people brought up the most," Barney said.

You can pick up the Monopoly: Detroit Edition game at Barnes & Noble, the Detroit Historical Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts or online for around $45.

Men in ski masks attempt to rob college student in Oakland University dorm building

7 November 2024 at 03:55

Oakland University police are investigating an attempted robbery that occurred inside a student dorm building Wednesday.

Five men in ski masks approached a female college student and attempted to steal her car keys. Students who live in the building say they're on edge.

Im still thinking about if it was like students or if it was random people who came into the building and how they got in there," OU freshman Noelle said.

The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday inside Oakview Hall. University officials say the suspects approached the student in one of the halls and asked is she wanted company. They then asked if they could take her car for a ride.

One suspect attempted to forcibly take her car keys out of her hand. The female student yelled for help and her roommate opened the door. That's when all five men fled down the stairwell.

Kelly Jackson also lives in the building and woke up to a notification from the school about the incident. She says she's shaken up and plans on taking extra precautions including not sleeping in the building for at least a night.

Its really bizarre. You dont expect it to happen here," Jackson said. "I have protection on me at all times. I naturally do 'cause Im a girl in college, but its definitely more on me now than it was before because I would never want that to happen to me.

Jackson said signs were posted around the building Wednesday after the incident reminding everyone of key card rules. University police are reviewing surveillance footage to see how the suspects got in and if they were let in by someone else.

OUPD is investigating and do have some leads. Meanwhile, students just hope the masked men are caught soon.

I hope the victim is alright. I hope they catch the five guys that theyre trying to find and hopefully, OUPD brings justice," student Josh Norman said.

If you know anything about the incident, call the Oakland University Police Department at 248-370333.

The department recommends that campus community members remember and utilize the following robbery prevention tips:

Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave. Show confidenceΒ  Walk at a steady pace, keep your head up, and show that you are ready to respond to a threat. Be observantΒ of your surroundings. Do not wear headphones or look at your cell phone when walking. Stick to well-lighted streetsΒ and well-populated areas. Walk with friendsΒ or in a group. Never reveal large amounts of moneyΒ or other valuables. Do not use ATM machines at night. If confronted by a robber,Β stay calmΒ and do as instructed. Get a look at the robber, but dont stare. Do your best to identify something distinctive about the suspect(s). Dont chaseΒ or follow the robber. Let the police do so.

Nearly one-fourth of people at Lambeau Field expected to be Lions fans on Sunday

2 November 2024 at 02:32

Detroit Lions fans are fired up for the big rivalry game this weekend in Green Bay against the Packers and are heading to Wisconsin by the thousands.

The in-demand game is expected to have nearly one-fourth of the crowd in Honolulu Blue.

Jenna Mabie and Evan Messing from Macomb Township are ready to head to Wisconsin Saturday. The couple tries to head to one Lions away game per year and knew this game would be the one to watch.

"Its going to be a very season-setting game," Mabie said.

Matt and Carrie Albin from South Branch have been season ticket holders for six years and have been to dozens of games in their lifetime. However, theyve never been to Lambeau Field in Green Bay and jumped on the opportunity as soon as they could.

"Part of it is seeing how well Detroit fans turn out at the other games and when you watch, it's so amazing. We'll be watching the away games with friends and be like, listen, it sounds like a home field," Matt said. "We need to do that and be a part of that.

According to Vivid Seats proprietary data, nearly one-fourth, or 24%, of the crowd is projected to be Lions fans against the Packers. Vivid Seats ticket marketplace data also found this week's hottest NFL ticket is the Packers game against the Lions.

The average ticket price is $378. Compared to their last matchup that took place in Detroit in November 2023, this weekends game is coming in as 20% more in demand.

"I'm sure the Green Bay fans will be like, where are all these people coming from?" Matt Albin said.

Kickoff is Sunday at 4:25 p.m. in Green Bay.

From Detroit to Northville, trick-or-treaters enjoy warmer temps on Halloween

1 November 2024 at 03:41

It was another successful Halloween in metro Detroit. Cities put on their best for kids, and abnormally warm temperatures made the holiday a hit.

In years past, the little ones had to bundle up with coats over their costumes. This year, all the amazing costumes were out as temperatures reached the 70s. The wind and light drizzle couldn't ruin anyone's mood.

"This year is really good for the kids," Detroit parent Victoria Williamson said.

In Detroit, 1 million pieces of candy were passed out for Halloween in the D for the seventh year in a row. The city and police initiative involves each police precinct, fire stations and recreation centers.

Lines were wrapped around the block and children and families treated to candy and snacks.

Detroit resident Eric Stewart even missed work, so he could enjoy the festivities with his daughter at the 12th Precinct.

I think theyre doing an excellent job. You know, growing up, I didnt have all these things going on, so its nice to see that I can actually enjoy this with my daughter," Stewart said.

Over in Northville street closures filled the downtown area, so families could walk through safely and trick-or-treat at the fire station and decorated homes. The Carvalhos moved from Brasil last year and were a bit worried about the weather but were happy the coats stayed away for the festivities.

"No snow, and I just hold (my son's) coat all the time because he didnt need that today," dad Reinaldo Carvalho said.

Macomb Township home brings in people from hours away during Halloween season

31 October 2024 at 03:36

A Macomb Township man spends days and tens of thousands of dollars decorating his home with animatronics replicating a professional haunted house to bring the community together for Halloween.

In the area of Chesterbrook Drive and Tecumseh Drive, Paul Buonbrisco has been decorating his home for Halloween for 18 years.

Take a look inside Nightmare on Chesterbrook in the video below: Video: See inside popular haunted house in Macomb Township

People come from hour, two and a half hours away unbelievable," he said.

Buonbrisco puts up the decor and animantronics with the help of neighbors in September, so the entire community has a few weeks to enjoy the spooks and screams. And at 7 p.m. every night until 10:30 p.m., people from all over come to enjoy show.

The kids make me keep it going. When I hear them love it and their little scares and parents say we love what you do, thats what keeps me going forward," Buonbrisco said.

While the electricity bill can add up and each animatronic can go from a few thousand dollars to $10,000, his home has become a community tradition unlike any other.

I love seeing the smiles and everything. It just brings happiness to everyone," neighbor Brody Wesley said.

Buonbrisco continues to do this despite his own personal health struggles. He lost his leg in 2021 due to complications with rectal cancer. Now, neighbors like John Tomlinson and Wesley put the entire show on.

I work on all the cylinders, the controllers, valves, everything else," Tomlinson said.

You can check out the home on Halloween starting at 5:30 p.m.

Detroit looks to connect downtown to midtown with caps over parts of I-75

30 October 2024 at 03:23

At a public meeting at MSU Detroit Center Tuesday, the city of Detroit, Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) and MDOT discussed future plans for I-75 in downtown Detroit. The city is moving steadfast in its efforts to put caps over I-75 to better connect parts of downtown to midtown.

Right now the downtown is sort of an island. We have 375 on one side, I-75, the Lodge and so now can we reconnect the downtown back to the neighborhoods, back to the communities," Downtown Detroit Partnership Urban Evolution Strategist James Fidler said.

The goal is to restore city connections between neighborhoods and increase safety for pedestrians.

I-75 was built through the downtown area in the 1950s and replaced active, thriving communities. The city, MDOT, and DDP are now looking to bring that connectivity back.

The $200 million dollar plan is looking at areas that cross I-75 from 3rd Street to Brush Street, with possibly three large caps considered over parts of Grand River, Woodward, and more. The project is being planned in coordination with the I-375 revitalization project.

Businesses like Harry's Bar and Grill are excited about what this could mean for them and the city.

"I mean it will definitely help business exponentially, having people walk around more and more foot traffic, its just gonna bring more business," Harry's Service Manager Cesar Ramirez said.

Other residents, like Shannon Cason, say theyre a bit worried about such a large project and construction in the downtown area over a number of years, and hope the project takes the historical significance of what the interstate split up into mind.

Some of those forgotten stories and seeing if we can resurface them. People who had businesses, who had thriving communities, who had to leave Detroit because of it," Cason said.

Design of the caps was the main topic of conversation Tuesday. Each cap could be different, depending on what the surrounding communities want and need: Retail space, parks, restaurants, trails, spaces for art and events. Ramirez says theyd love to drown out some of the freeway noise with a little peaceful greenery.

Either way, residents are just excited about the continuous revitalization of Detroit.

Future phases include securing funding, design and environmental studies (2025), completing design and initiating construction (2025/26), and completing construction with added amenities (2027/28).

Input is encouraged from the community, project plans and ideas can be viewed here.

Detroit Police Chief White addresses city for first time since announcement of new role

17 October 2024 at 03:43

It was a night of goodbyes and new beginnings at the District 6 Charter-Mandated meeting at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries in Detroit Wednesday. Police Chief James White addressed the city for the first time since the announcement of his new role as CEO of Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network.

On Wednesday, the DWIHN Board of Directors voted unanimously to name White their next CEO.

Watch our report from earlier in the day about the announcement in the video player below: Detroit Police Chief James White named new CEO of DWIHN

White received a standing ovation by Detroit residents and city leaders at the Charter-Mandated meeting as he gears up for the new role.

"To this community, thank you for allowing me to be your chief for three and a half years. It has been one of the highlights of my professional career. It is something I will always remember," the chief said.

At the meeting, Mayor Mike Duggan discussed the first conversation he had with White when he first expressed interest in the CEO position.

When there was a vacancy in the position and Chief James White came to me and said 'my dream in life is to run that clinic health agency,' I had mixed feelings because hes been an outstanding police chief," Duggan said.

Detroiters like Brian Cosley were satisfied with White's leadership and hope the next chief picks up where he left off.

He came out every week doing his walks with the community. I think the officers need to get more involved in their area, in their precinct, in their patrol. I think that would help out a lot," Cosley said.

White leaves behind a legacy of prioritizing mental health within the department, but hes not going anywhere quite yet.

"I'm going to be here with the transition. It's not going to be when I leave, I'm just done. I'm only a phone call away," he said.

Hear more from White when we spoke with him earlier in the day in the video player below: DPD Chief James White speaks after being appointed new DWIHN CEO

Duggan says hell be speaking to each member of the Board of Police Commissioners over the next few days and will name an interim chief by the end of next week.

A national search for the new chief of police will follow.

Clinton Township treasurer candidate has campaign signs vandalized, one with racial slurs

16 October 2024 at 02:58

A Clinton Township woman running for treasurer has had her campaign signs vandalized for weeks and most recently, the vandalism has gotten worse, with one sign left covered in racial slurs.

Tammy T. Patton currently serves as a Clinton Township trustee. She is the first African American to ever be elected to Clinton Townships Board of Trustees. Shes proudly served her township for over 20 years.

Before that, she proudly served her country in the U.S. Army.

This year, she looks to take up a new role: Clinton Township Treasurer. However, right around the primary election, she says 35% of her political signs were stolen or vandalized and the last few weeks, the problem has gotten worse.

"Our signs are still being cut down, still being vandalized and still being found in big dumpsters, and I dont think this is where we need to be in 2024," she said.

Recently, she found one sign with the N-word written across her name, and "Go back to Africa" written under.

Its petty. Its ignorant. But I know its not everyone," she said.

Clinton Township police are actively investigating and Patton says she drives around at the end of her work day only to find more signs destroyed.

She says its been difficult to deal with the vandalism and having to explain to her young daughter why someone is using derogatory terms toward her. However, Patton says she is not deterred.

I've been through a lot in the military, I've been through more and this is only going to grow me as a person," Patton said. I want to focus on the community, I want to continue my job as trustee and continue to run my race for treasurer.

The Macomb County NAACP Branch president has released a statement regarding the recent events:

"The Macomb County Branch NAACP has been made aware of and is concerned about the alleged racial vandalism to the campaign signs of Ms. Tammy Patton, candidate for Clinton Township Treasurer. Our Branch calls on Clinton Township law enforcement to conduct a full investigation into this matter. All candidates for office must be treated with dignity and respect. Ms. Patton, who is also a veteran of the U.S. Army, deserves respect and gratitude for her service. We stand firm in our fight for justice, equality, and freedom for all, and the right of all Americans to participate in the political process." -London Bell, President of the Macomb County Branch NAACP

Call Clinton Township police if you know anything about the vandalism.

Jamo could've celebrated MNF win anywhere, he spent time with staff at Detroit diner

5 October 2024 at 01:59

Lions wide receiver Jameson "Jamo" Williams decided to celebrate his big 70-yard touchdown and Monday Night Football win against the Seattle Seahawks at a small, local diner in Detroit, spending time with staff.

Williams could have gone anywhere to celebrate the win but decided to get food, sign a jersey and take photos with the staff at L. George's Coney Island on 6 Mile and Schaefer Highway.

On video staff can be heard saying, "you're the man!" The hard working Detroiters were busy taking orders during the game but say seeing Jamo in person made it all worthwhile.

It meant a lot because were huge fans of the Lions, especially him. Weve been watching Jameson Williams since Alabama," L. Georges manager Nue Marku said.

Marku says theyve had Jamos jersey hanging at the diner ever since he stopped by last year, hoping he would come back.

At first, we didnt recognize him until he came in and pointed at the jersey and the rest is history from there," employee Donovan Marshall said. Hes a good person. He's got a bright future ahead of him."

Staff at L. Goerges says theyll continue supporting their team and their favorite player all season long. Lions have a bye week, but are playing the Cowboys in Dallas next week.

Family of Dearborn resident killed in Lebanon speaks as conflict escalates

3 October 2024 at 03:48

U.S. citizen and Dearborn businessman Kamel Jawad was killed in Lebanon this week while helping civilians evacuate.

On Wednesday evening, the Dearborn community rallied together to honor his life and the other lives lost in the conflict in the Middle East.

The rally took place in front of the Dearborn Police Department, and the outrage and heartbreak over the violence in Lebanon was echoed by speakers who took the stage.

Those at the rally say they are frustrated by the federal government's response to the growing conflict.

"This has to stop. And the way we can stop this is by coming together, by staying united, by pulling our resources together and doing this by peaceful means at the ballot box," 19th District Court Chief Judge Sam Salamey said to the audience full of Lebanese flags.

Those in attendance prayed for the lives lost, including Jawad, who was known as a community leader.

Family says Kamel was killed while trying to help civilians seek shelter.

He was helping people locate shelter. He would take them down to Beirut or to the north, He was helping transport people down," Kamel's cousin Wessam Jawad said.

At the rally, Dearborn resident Hayatt Jaafar held a photo of her daughter who also was killed in Lebanon.

"She had actually left the village to go to somewhere else to find safety. She came back to get some clothes and when she got back to her village, she was a victim and killed by a strike, Jaafar said through a translator.

Despite the pleas locally, the conflict only seems to be escalating. Israel has begun its targeted ground invasion into Lebanon against Hezbollah, and Iran launched nearly 200 missiles into Israel Tuesday.

Most of the missiles were intercepted and no deaths were reported.

Benjamin Levin owns a travel company that hosts Americans in Israel, with many of them from Michigan. He says he had to hide in a bomb shelter and like many, he hopes for peace in the region.

"I have good Muslim friends. I just don't understand why we need to have that type of a battle. We need to reach out and look for peace," Levin said.

Meanwhile, the local Arab American community says they will continue to rally for as long as they need to until peace and a ceasefire is spread throughout the region.

RELATED VIDEO: Dearborn Heights City Council member heartbroken after family killed in Lebanon strikes Dearborn Heights City Council member heartbroken after family killed in Lebanon strikes

Its really sad that us as Americans have to put up with this and we have to see innocent lives being taken and we have no voice," Dearborn resident Amer Jaafer said.

Eastern Market adjusts to no tailgating in sheds for Monday Night Football

1 October 2024 at 04:11

Tailgating continued in parts of Eastern Market for Monday Night Football but remained closed at the sheds, where two men tragically lost their lives last home game.

Business owners and fans navigated the different atmosphere, adjusting and moving forward to support their favorite team.

VIDEO: Detroit Lions fans flood the city in a sea of Honolulu Blue for Monday Night Football Detroit Lions fans flood the city in a sea of Honolulu Blue for Monday Night Football

Friends and family gathered along Gratiot Avenue at private parking lots and businesses to tailgate the big game. Some typically tailgate at Shed 6, however after last home games shooting that left two dead, Eastern Market closed down tailgating to fans except for private VIP tailgating in Shed 5.

Its very sad that that had to happen and that the Eastern Market is closed for right now. Hopefully, they will reopen," 1550 Gratiot owner Keith Morman said. Detroit is still moving forward despite tragedy.

VIDEO: 'I miss my son.' Family of victim speaks out after deadly Eastern Market shooting on Sunday Family of Eastern Market Lions gameday shooting victim speaks out

Without the Eastern Market tailgate, some businesses in the area like Cutters Bar & Grill, decided to extend their hours to let fans still enjoy the game.

"We stayed open for the Lions game. Go Lions," general manager Chimika Harris said.

A few members from Strictly Gods Business Ministry even gathered at the spot of the shooting before the game Monday, calling for an end to the violence.

We have to come together, we have to do away with the foolishness, we got to go in peace and we have to love one another and support one another," Pastor Gregory Kirby said. Were losing too many good people."

Eastern Market officials say tailgating in the sheds is expected to resume the next home game on Oct. 27.

Birmingham tables decision to ban gas-powered leaf blowers, discussions will continue

24 September 2024 at 03:52

Monday evening, the Birmingham City Commission decided to delay a decision regarding an ordinance to amend their city code and phase out gas-powered leaf blowers by 2026 for environmental, public health and noise reasons.

The commission says more discussions are needed with their new healthy climate group that looks to mold the city into an environmental sustainability leader called Birmingham Green.

The city cites Ann Arbor as an example, which partially banned gas-powered leaf blowers at the start of this year.

Related video: Landscapers share concerns about Ann Arbor leaf blower ban Landscapers share concerns about Ann Arbor leaf blower ban

Jason Gross has owned his landscaping company, Jasons Outdoor Services, since 2006. He relies on gas-powered leaf blowers for big and small jobs in Birmingham and all across Oakland County.

The technologys not there to make these ordinances right now. Maybe 10 years from now," he said about electric and battery-powered leaf blowers.

Gross says the amount of batteries and money required to run electric leaf blowers for a business like his own would be too much of a hassle and he would have to consider ending services in Birmingham.

Birmingham resident Andrew Kwietniwski has used an electric leaf blower for a few years now and doesnt mind it in fact, he prefers it.

"For me, its just easier overall. I just charge the battery, I dont have to maintain it or get it serviced at the start of each year," Kwietniwski said. "Just really convenient and easy.

However, Jeff Jarvey with Triple J's Landscaping says its a lot different for landscaping companies compared to residents.

"For residential its fine because a homeowner uses it maybe an hour and then they can plug it back in. But a commercial business, theyll probably be using it from 7 a.m. 'til 5 at night or longer," Jarvey said.

Though Birmingham is looking at Ann Arbor as a blueprint, just last week, Ann Arbor had to amend the ordinance to allow city workers to use gas-powered leaf blowers in certain circumstances like preparing natural areas for prescribed fires.

Its kind of ironic how they made the exception for city employees but not the residents that live within the community," Gross said.

At Monday's meeting, commissioners addressed the conflict some have with the ban.

"The pushback on this was hard," Birmingham City Commissioner Andrew Haig said.

Commissioners highlighting that the city wants to lead the area in environmental sustainability, but says they just can't make the decision at this time and will continue discussions at later meetings.

The next city commission meeting is Oct. 7.

Surveillance video shows suspect lighting fire that destroyed prominent Oak Park streetwear business

13 September 2024 at 16:50

A Thursday early morning fire in Oak Park took out prominent streetwear business the Wealthy Brand. The cause remains under investigation and the businesses in the area say the damage is widespread.

According to the Oak Park Public Safety Department, at around 2:40 a.m., officers were dispatched to the Wealthy Clothing Store on W. Nine Mile Road near Pinecrest Drive on the report of a fire. The response time was an estimated three minutes.

See the surveillance video in the player below Surveillance video shows suspect lighting fire that destroyed prominent Oak Park streetwear business

Upon arriving on scene, officers observed the business to be fully engulfed in flames extending out the front entrance. No injuries were sustained.

The owner, Rashad Hosea, woke up in the middle of the night to the devastating news.

It was like a death, like getting a call about a death in the family 'cause this is definitely my baby," Hosea said.

Hosea started the Wealthy Brand in 2016. After seeing success, he opened up his Oak Park space in 2018.

Edward Sertage owns the business next door, Woodshed Studios, a studio and music space that has served local artists for three decades now. He says having the Wealthy Brand in the community has been a great addition to the area.

Ive seen this area get developed a lot in the last just 10 years and its really a shame that (the fire) had to happen," Sertage said. It was good to see them successful and, you know, I really feel for them, for us Im not gonna say its an easy road... but for them, thats a total loss.

Woodshed Studios has water and smoke damage and will remain closed for the time being, setting them back financially.

Meanwhile, Hosea has to consider completely rebuilding his location or finding a new space. His website will remain open with the inventory he has left.

Anyone with any additional information regarding this incident can contact Sgt. Green of the Investigations Bureau at 248-691-7512.

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