County news briefs

WARREN: Grievance filed in firefighter case

The Warren Professional Fire Fighters Union filed a grievance Tuesday on behalf of a firefighter who was fired last week after he had to register as a sex offender.

Local Union 1383 filed the grievance on behalf of Thomas J. Maluchnik, who pleaded no contest in May to a charge of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. Maluchnik, 35, had sexual conduct with a 15-year-old girl in December, according to police and prosecutors. He was sentenced to five years' probation and ordered to register as a sex offender. The grievance contends that Maluchnik was denied his due process and should be reinstated to his job and given any lost wages. In a letter sent to Maluchnik last week informing him of his dismissal, Fire Commissioner Robert Vought said his department cannot employ registered sex offenders who might have to go into schools or rescue families with children.

Maluchnik had worked for the department for seven years.

COUNTY-WIDE: Money still sought for grandparent-child camp

Macomb County has raised more than half of the money it needs to send grandparents and the grandchildren they raise to a summer camp after the state cut funding.

Donations reached more than $6,000, less than two weeks after county officials began seeking money. The county needs $10,000 by July 13 for at least 150 children who want to attend Camp Copneconic in Fenton.

The largest donation -- $1,000 -- came from the employees at the Macomb County Community Services Agency.

To donate, make a check out to Macomb Together-GRG and send to Macomb Together, Mt. Clemens 48043. Or go to www.macombcountymi.gov/DonationsPoint.htm for information. Residents soon will be able to donate at www.macombcountymi.g ov.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP: Get pets blessed at church service July 15

King of Kings Lutheran Church will hold pet blessing services July 15 for those who want to have their pets blessed.

The services will be held outdoors at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

All leashed, caged or otherwise safely restrained pets are welcome. Pet owners are asked to bring food or treats and water for pets, as well as bags for cleanup.

The church is at 47500 Schoenherr, north of 21 Mile.

Compiled by Steve Neavling, Dan Cortez and other Free Press staff.

source: www.freep.com