Eric Mack Jr. has lived in a few communities in Macomb County — Roseville, then Warren and now Shelby Township. He says he’s a big fan of Macomb County, especially for what it offers its residents.
We reached out to learn what makes this dad of five children so happy about his choice to settle in Macomb County.
What makes Macomb County great?
“My high school experience in Macomb County began in Roseville, where I, originally from Detroit, was exposed to a range of cultures that I had never before encountered,” says Mack. “Meeting my best friend, who was Hawaiian, was a particularly eye-opening experience that broadened my perspective on the opportunities and diversity that Macomb County has to offer.”
After playing varsity basketball at Roseville High School, Mack has come full circle and is now the head coach for the school’s freshmen boys’ basketball team.
“I witness this diversity daily while coaching in Macomb County,” he says. “It is wonderful to see how, as individuals, parents and coaches, we can come together to improve our community through recreational sports and activities.”
When Mack isn’t coaching basketball, he’s sampling his favorite dishes at his restaurants across Macomb County. He says they make Macomb County a great place to visit, and an even better place to live.
“The multitude of restaurants representing different cultures in Macomb County is impressive,” he says.
Turning his passions into profits
Two of Mack’s passions are coaching and cooking and he has found a way to incorporate both in his daily life.
“For the past 11 years, I have been coaching children ranging from 5 to 18 years old in a variety of sports such as basketball, flag football and soccer,” says Mack. “I have collaborated with community directors to organize successful youth programs in these areas.”
He is also the CEO of his own sports and recreation company, Family Matters Sports and Activities, LLC, where he starts different basketball leagues, trainings and events for all ages.
Mack extends this same passion for sports to sharing his favorite foods with his favorite people.
“Over the past two years, I have delved into the world of cooking, starting with catering small meals such as Italian dishes and Americanized burgers,” he says. “I find joy in preparing delectable meals for others, especially my loved ones, and I’m coming out with my own cookbook soon.”
What do you love to do with your family in Macomb County?
“Over the past two years, my family has cultivated strong relationships with our neighbors, who consistently demonstrate a willingness to lend a helping hand,” says Mack. “Whether it be through clearing snow or coming together for community events such as Halloween, the genuine sense of camaraderie and generosity within our neighborhood is truly touching.”
Living in Shelby Township has its perks. More and more businesses are being built from the ground up or moving to the area.
“My family and I love checking out new dining options like Chick-fil-A, Jollibee, and Shake Shack,” he says. “The variety of choices along Hall Road makes it exciting to stop at these cool places for a delicious meal.”
Another favorite destination in Macomb County is Dodge Park — especially its water park and nature trails.
“My family particularly loves the summer season, especially around the Fourth of July, when we get to see kids come together for fireworks in the community,” says Mack. “We also enjoy attending festivals in places like Sterling Heights, which always put on fantastic events in the summer.”
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
