12/18/24 Sterling-Heights Sentry by C & G Newspapers

KEY STERLING CITY OFFICIALS GET NEW MANAGEMENT ROLES

DWOJAKOWSKI NAMED CITY’S SECOND ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER, BALDWIN NAMED HR DIRECTOR

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — After 28 years in the Sterling Heights Police Department, Dale Dwojakowski is making a new career transition: from top cop to assistant city manager.

At a Dec. 3 meeting, the Sterling Heights City Council voted unanimously to appoint Dwojakowski as the city’s first-ever second assistant city manager.

As a result, Dwojakowski officially entered that new role Dec. 9, thereby departing from his seven-year stint as Sterling Heights’ police chief.

As part of Dwojakowski’s new job, he will “provide admin-

FAR LEFT: The Christmas tree is lit during the event.

NEAR LEFT: Attendees walk under a light display.

Santa Claus gets the key to the city of Sterling Heights during the city’s Dec. 7 “A Sterling Christmas” event at Dodge Park.

Photos by Erin Sanchez

Sterling Heights area faces holiday shopping without Lakeside Mall

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — Santa won’t be visiting the former Lakeside Mall building this year, but many stores along Hall Road and beyond still feel merry about this year’s holiday shopping season, according to a local chamber of commerce.

Stacy Ziarko, president and CEO of the Connect Macomb chamber, noted that while this is technically the first holiday season that the Golden Corridor economic belt along M-59/Hall Road is lacking Lakeside Mall, the mall was already in decline even before that.

Ziarko said Connect Macomb is still “hearing good things” about this shopping

season from its retail members and added that “people still feel optimistic going into the holiday season.”

“We had some that moved out of Lakeside into storefronts throughout the area and are looking forward to that experience,” Ziarko said.

“Folks’ shopping habits have changed, but there are still brick-and-mortar retailers

for our shoppers to visit.”

For instance, DC Sports, a sports memorabilia store, moved from Lakeside across the street to a shopping center along Schoenherr Road. And that meant an expanded facility and signing area, Ziarko said.

DC Sports owner Steve Graus said in an email that this year’s holiday season has

Schools to Tools Mobile Field Trip allows students to experience skilled trades

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS/SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Utica Community Schools took a field trip into the world of skilled trades and all the opportunities it has to offer.

The Schools to Tools Mobile Field Trip featured hands-

on challenges and virtual experiences that let Stevenson High School students experience skilled trades Nov. 21. Stevenson is the 100th school to participate in the mobile field trip, which is a program of the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights.

Geoff Clark, the Utica Community Schools director of career and technical education, said it was important for Stevenson students to experience the Schools to Tools mobile

field trip because it introduces the students to a career path that is best taught through hands-on experiences.

“Students walk away from the experience with a competitive advantage: The student learns what it takes to get into the field of carpentry or millwrights, what the job looks and feels like, potential salary and benefits, and what their next best step might be after graduation,” he said.

LEFT: Utica Community Schools students pose for a picture with the Schools to Tools Mobile Field Trip. RIGHT: Utica Community Schools students receive hands-on experience in the skilled trades through the Schools to Tools Mobile Field Trip. Photos provided by Jennifer Kane

NEWS & NOTES

STUDENT SCORES PERFECTLY ON M-STEP

STERLING HEIGHTS — Schwarzkoff Elementary fourth grader Andrian Popovski has achieved perfect mathematics and English language arts scores on the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress.

He took the test last year as a third grader, which is the first year that the standardized test is administered to Michigan students.

M-STEP is a standardized exam administrated to all Michigan students to measure academic progress. Students are evaluated from third to eighth grade, and again in 11th grade. Andrian said he plans to follow his dad into an engineering career with math as his favorite subject.

“It makes me feel awesome in the way I know I will be successful,” he said in a press release. “I know that I will be good in life.”

Fourth grade teacher Nichole Gorski sees Andrian’s hard work in the classroom.

“M-STEP is a very difficult assessment and Andrian is always willing to stretch his brain to the highest heights,” Gorski said. “I believe that this outstanding achievement is only one of many to come for him.”

ENTER A HOLIDAY DECOR CONTEST

STERLING HEIGHTS — The Sterling Heights Beautification Commission is inviting residents to enter its holiday decor contest by taking a photo of their home. Submit the photo and the home’s address to cityhall@sterlingheights.gov by 5 p.m. Dec. 26. The commission will judge the entries and announce three selected winners Jan. 8. Learn more by calling the city at (586) 446-2489.

NATURE CENTER TO HOST KIDS EVENT

STERLING HEIGHTS — The Sterling Heights Nature Center, 42700 Utica Road, will host an evening event for kids ages 5 to 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 27. The Nature Center will organize activities such as crafts, games and, if weather allows, a nighttime hike. Admission costs $20 per resident child and $30 per nonresident child. While the event will have refreshments, parents should make sure participating kids eat dinner before they arrive. RSVP by visiting bit.ly/4hSdY39, or learn more by calling (586) 446-2710.

Police outreach group hosts ice rink event

STERLING HEIGHTS – The Sterling Heights Police Department’s Community Outreach and Resident Engagement program will greet the public at the Dodge Park Ice Rink, 40620 Utica Road, during a Cocoa with CORE program from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 23. The event will include doughnuts, hot cocoa and more. Learn more about the ice rink by visiting sterlingheights.gov/1650/Dodge-Park-Ice-Rink.

How to watch City Council meetings

STERLING HEIGHTS — The first Sterling Heights City Council meetings for the year 2025 are scheduled for 7 p.m. Jan. 7 and 21 at City Hall, 40555 Utica Road. Meetings may also be viewed live by watching Comcast Channel 5, WOW Channel 10 or AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Meetings can be watched online by visiting cloud.castus.tv/vod/sterling-heights or by visiting the SHTV YouTube channel at youtube.com/@SHTV.

Photo provided by Utica Community Schools

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Skilled trades

from page 3A

Janet Gendelman, Stevenson and Henry Ford II school to work coordinator, said Manufacturing, Automation and Design Engineering program students, Ford II and Stevenson construction trades students and Stevenson advanced automotive students took part. In total, approximately 165 students experienced the field trip.

“The students seemed to really enjoy the field trip and learning about the different career opportunities in the trades. I attended a professional development at their training center in Detroit where I learned about the field trip. I knew that this would be a great opportunity for our students after seeing the incredible training facility. The field trip is also scheduled for Henry Ford II in the spring. It was at Eisenhower last year, and the Eisenhower CTE students are going to the training center this school year,” she said.

She said she was very excited to be able to share a variety of career pathways with the students.

“As a CTE teacher, I am passionate about connecting the classroom to the real world and giving our students the opportunity to see a variety of career paths,” she said.

Schools to Tools aims to provide students, parents, teachers and school counselors with the information, training and hands-on experiences they need to make informed career decisions.

For more information on the Schools to Tools Mobile Field Trip, visit schoolstotools. org/mobile-field-trip.

The Schools to Tools Mobile Field Trip features hands-on challenges and virtual experiences that help expose students to skilled trades as a possible career path.

Photo provided by Jennifer Kane

Management

istrative leadership” over the city’s Police Department, Fire Department, and Department of Public Works, according to City Manager Mark Vanderpool.

During the meeting, Vanderpool said the Michigan Municipal League helped facilitate a nationwide recruitment search for the position. But in the end, he said, “the internal candidate rose to the top.”

Vanderpool credited Dwojakowski for keeping crime low; getting the Police Department through a successful accreditation process; helping form the city’s Visioning 2030 and Visioning 2040 plans; and much more.

When City Council members spoke before the vote, Mayor Michael Taylor told Dwojakowski that “I think that you’re going to excel in this new role.”

When it was Dwojakowski’s turn to speak, he said there is still more that the city can do to improve and implement best practices. And he remarked how he’ll need to start learning the intricacies of sewers, fire engines, rescue rigs and more.

“There’s a lot to be learned,” Dwoja-

kowski said. “I’m so excited.”

According to Sterling Heights Community Relations Director Melanie Davis, the new assistant city manager position has a salary range between $176,000 and $187,000.

Davis also explained that the other current assistant city manager, Jeff Bahorski, plans to vacate that position in January 2025. Davis said the recruiting process for

his replacement is ongoing.

Davis also said, as a result of Dwojakowski’s job switch, the Sterling Heights Police Department’s interim police chief is now Kenneth Pappas, and Lt. Dave Allen has been named as acting deputy chief. A recruiting process is also underway for the police chief position, Davis said.

In addition, at the same Dec. 3 meeting, the City Council voted unanimously to

give Human Resources and Benefits Manager Kate Baldwin a promotion to human resources director, effective Dec. 9.

Baldwin had been the HR and benefits manager since 2017. Vanderpool credited her for, among other things, a successful recruiting process for the police and fire departments, as well as her work on a strategic plan for diversity, equity and inclusion.

According to Davis, Bahorski previously oversaw human resources as part of his job.

“But as part of the recent personnel changes, the HR Director role has been removed as a piece of the ACM position and has become an independent position,” Davis said via an email.

During the meeting, Taylor said he could see Baldwin “taking the department to even greater heights.” When Baldwin spoke, she gave credit to the HR team and thanked the council for supporting HR’s initiatives.

“Truly, thank you for believing in HR and the value that we bring to the organization,” she said.

Davis said the human resources director role has a salary of $160,000.

Learn more about Sterling Heights by visiting sterlingheights.gov or by calling (586) 446-2489.

LEFT: Dale Dwojakowski. RIGHT: Kate Baldwin. Photos provided by the city of Sterling Heights

West Utica Elementary students begin using AI in theater

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS — West Utica

Elementary School students have begun to use artificial intelligence in their theater classes, and they seem to be really enjoying it.

Previously, students performed scripted plays that were given to them. They began feeling that the scripts were getting outdated or losing relevance, so they were looking for an innovative alternative.

Using the tool SchoolAI that Chris Brown, West Utica Media Center teacher, customized for them, they answered a series of questions about the elements of their play.

Brown said that the fourth grade teachers were looking for scripts that the kids could perform.

“The students needed to be comfortable with getting up and talking in front of the class. The teachers had mentioned that the scripts that they had were older and outdated. I thought there must something out there that would help the students to write the script. It is not a requirement for them to write the script; it is a requirement to get out there and perform it,” he said.

He said SchoolAI allows teachers to customize their tools.

“I can go into SchoolAI and create what they call my own space. It allows me to say, ‘I have fourth graders who are creating readers’ scripts. Ask the students to provide their story elements — such as plot, characters and setting.’ As they give their story elements, it will begin to draft them a script,” he said.

He said it allows him full oversight of their work to make sure they are on task with appropriate content.

See AI on page 11A

ABOVE: West Utica Elementary School students used artificial intelligence to write a play for them to perform.

LEFT: A play that students created using artificial intelligence involved robots attacking a city. Photos provided by Tim McAvoy

Pine Ridge of Plumbrook: All-inclusive living for active seniors

Pine Ridge of Plumbrook is a 55+ community o ering residents a lifestyle that balances independence with convenience.

“We take great pride in creating an environment where residents don’t have to worry about home upkeep,” said Dan Marchione, Director of Sales and Marketing at Pine Ridge of Plumbrook. “All of their essential services—like utilities, housekeeping, social activities, and even meals—are included, so they can focus on enjoying life.”

Located in a quiet neighborhood setting, Pine Ridge of Plumbrook provides easy access to outdoor activities with two courtyards and walking paths. Every apartment features a balcony or patio, and residents also enjoy a strong connection to nearby Dodge Park and the local senior center where they can engage in community activities.

Pine Ridge of Plumbrook’s culinary program has earned recognition from A Place for Mom, winning the “Best in Dining” award.

“We o er 12 to 15 di erent options per meal,

with a restaurant-style menu in the dining room,” Marchione added. “ e variety and quality of the food, combined with an active social calendar that includes day trips, clubs and events, sets Pine Ridge of Plumbrook apart from other communities.”

In addition to independent living, residents have access to third-party services that can assist with activities of daily living.

“While we maintain a very active, independent community, there are healthcare conveniences that allow residents to take care of wellness without having to leave home,” Marchione explained. “ e community does o er a complimentary shuttle service for trips to doctor’s appointments.”

e apartments at Pine Ridge of Plumbrook range from 600 to 900 square feet, and each unit features a full kitchen, ensuite bathroom, ample closet space and additional storage units. All utilities, including high-speed internet, are included. “Our apartments are newly renovated with luxury vinyl tile and other features designed

for ease of use, such as raised outlets for easier access,” Marchione noted.

With a team that feels more like family, Pine Ridge of Plumbrook’s sta enjoys fostering true connections among residents. “Our employees genuinely care about our residents, and many of our sta members have been with us for years,” Marchione said.

Community engagement is a core value, and residents are frequently involved in events at nearby Plumbrook Elementary. “We’ve hosted students for Grandparent’s Day, and the students are invited to come here for trick-or-treating during Halloween,” Marchione said, adding that these intergenerational connections help create a welcoming atmosphere.

Pine Ridge of Plumbrook is located at 8350 Plumbrook Rd. in Sterling Heights. For more information, call (586) 333-3070 or visit https://www.trueconnectioncommunities.com/ senior-living-communities-michigan/pineridgeplumbrook-senior-living/

from page 8A

“This project involved all four fourth grade classrooms. Every student individually did this work, and then they met with their group to decide which skit that (they) want to perform. That way every student can be creative and use the tool,” he said.

He said there are a lot of tools out there, but SchoolAI is impressive when it comes to creating custom work and giving teachers full oversight.

With the addition of props, students have a fully formed play tailor made to perform in front of their classmates.

One of the students, Lucas Khammo, created a scenario in which robots battle a city for control.

“I want it to be interesting. Something that someone can’t imagine that is very creative. We ended up with a city being attacked by robots,” he said.

He said he really liked this project.

“I feel it is amazing; it’s better than fun. It’s really creative,” he said.

For many students, the assignment was their first exposure to using an AI tool and something that will only grow in use over the course of their lives. Fourth grade teacher Becky Jonkman said the students are excited to present the finished product.

“Our genre for our reading series is drama. We normally use a drama that is part of the reading series, but we thought it would be fun to create their own drama, and so with Mr. Brown’s help, and the AI tool he found, the kids were able to create their own script. They identified the premise of the play, and it created a script for them. They were able to get together with their classmates, where they chose their skit. It is a fun experience for them because it is personalized,” she said.

She said the students love it.

“Some are nervous to perform. They are excited to make the props, especially. It is more of a fun experience for them because it is more personalized as opposed to just finding a skit,” she said.

Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.

Enjoy a carefree lifestyle with Waltonwood!

We support residents’ active and independent lifestyles and remove the worry and stress that seniors — and their family members — often experience when they’re living on their own.

Move to Waltonwood and spend time doing the things you love most. We’ll take care of the rest this holiday season and all year long.

USPBL TO CONSTRUCT HEADQUARTERS, WITH A RESTAURANT, NEXT TO JIMMY JOHN’S FIELD

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

UTICA — The United Shore Professional Baseball League has announced that it will be constructing a building next to Jimmy John’s Field that will house the league’s headquarters and a restaurant.

General Sports, which founded the USPBL, and the league have intended to develop this property for quite a while now.

“General Sports and the United Shore Professional Baseball League have always intended to develop this property. We purchased the property from the city in 2019, and we were working on partnering with third parties to develop the property for several years before deciding that it really just made more sense for us to develop the property ourselves,” said Dana Schmitt, the president of the United Shore Professional Baseball League. “We will be moving the General Sports/USPBL headquarters offices from downtown Rochester to downtown Utica to be close to the ballpark, making it much more efficient for our staff, who are working in both locations at this time.”

She said they also have decided to include two retail spaces on the front side of the building along Auburn Road, with a retail store for the USPBL and its baseball teams, which the league does not currently have at the ballpark outside of game days. The restaurant will be a gourmet hot dog restaurant named after the league’s bat dog, JJ. It will be called “JJ’s Dog House” and allow patrons and Utica residents to enjoy an adjacent covered patio space along the Clinton River and the

See USPBL on page 18A

Image provided by Dana Schmitt

General Sports and the USPBL plans to construct a building next to Jimmy John’s Field in Utica that will house the league’s headquarters, a restaurant, retail space and office space.

The Wujek and Calcaterra families wish you a peaceful new year flled with happiness and surrounded by loved ones. Thank you to the wonderful families in this community who have chosen us to serve them. We are humbled by your trust, and will continue to care for all families with the same compassion we would want for our own.

CRIME WATCH

Man in orange safety vest arrested for shoplifting

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to Meijer, 36600 Van Dyke Ave., Nov. 29 after hearing that a shoplifting suspect wearing an orange safety vest just left there.

Police said they found a man matching the suspect description in a nearby restaurant parking lot. The suspect was reportedly carrying Meijer grocery bags.

According to police, the suspect told them on his own that he didn’t pay for boots and wanted to go back to pay for them. Further investigation revealed that the suspect stole $172.77 worth of merchandise, police said. Police arrested and cited the suspect for third-degree retail fraud.

Woman steals groceries from Walmart

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police heard Nov. 30 from store staff at Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave., that a woman failed to scan all her items at the self-checkout.

A later investigation of the suspect’s grocery basket revealed $74.01 worth of stolen grocery items, police said. The woman was cited for third-degree retail fraud, the report concluded.

Man throws furniture outdoors for Thanksgiving snub

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police heard a report of a male individual throwing furniture in the yard outside an address on Sterritt Street, located near M-59/Hall Road and M-53, the night of Nov. 30.

Officers said they talked to the individual, who reportedly said he threw lawn furniture on the grass and was mad that his family didn’t invite him to dinner on Thanksgiving. Police said no one was hurt, and nothing was damaged, so they advised him to restrain his temper and took no further action.

Vehicle reported stolen parked on building’s opposite side

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they heard that a silver Nissan Sentra had been stolen Dec. 1 along 18 Mile Road.

The owner reportedly went inside a building to get a soda and cigarettes and exited to discover that the vehicle was ap-

Op. Ed. – Te Next Election

Professor Pearl, in his Nobel Lecture concluded as follows:

“My fnal remark to women and men going into experimental science is that they should pay little attention to the speculative ideas of my generation. After all, if my generation has any really good speculative ideas, we would be carrying these ideas out ourselves.”

I fnd that statement to be remarkably relevant in the election cycle we just went through. Very unlike the national races however, in this community, our frequent complaints aside, we have been well served over time by a group of professionals in most levels of government who take time out of their lives to do thankless and unpaid jobs for the beneft of all. Obviously, almost all who choose to volunteer do so out of a genuine desire to want to help their community. Yet, I fear, seldom do we fnd that the wish to help with the important business of the community is combined with the necessary gravitas required to succeed.

We will soon be entering the next campaign season though we just fnished one in November. It is a great privilege to serve the people of this community despite the concerns and pragmatic difculties with which our ofcials are sometimes presented. I, of course, recognize that this community was here long before us, and it will be here long after we’re gone. Nonetheless, I know that who we select for our local ofces is infnitely more fundamental to our immediate wellbeing than the national ones. So, if you’d like to vote and forget about your local leadership, which is a natural desire, please take the time in advance to look up our current elected ofcials and what they stand for. We owe it to ourselves. Te next election cycle has already begun.

REN NUSHAJ – Attorney / Prosecutor

parently gone. Police said the owner had the vehicle’s keys.

Although the Sentra’s owner reportedly thought she had parked on the south side, a police investigation then discovered the vehicle on the building’s north side. Police took no further action.

Woman at apartment gathering arrested for resisting police

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to an apartment address in the 8000 block of 16 1/2 Mile Road early in the morning of Dec. 1 upon hearing that people were “screaming and throwing stuff.”

Police said they learned that the apartment was an Airbnb used by “five males and five females,” and the males reportedly came from Indiana to meet the women. Police said they also heard that one woman allegedly

was mad that the “males were not paying attention to her.”

Police said they noticed a woman who appeared to be intoxicated, stumbling and unsteady. When police told her to talk to them, she allegedly “refused and began running.”

Police said they grabbed her by the arms, and when she allegedly kept flailing and resisting, they reportedly “assisted her to the ground” and handcuffed her.

Police said the woman was taken to jail and cited for misdemeanor resisting and obstructing an officer.

Anyone who has more information about these events or general suspicious happenings is encouraged to call the Sterling Heights Police Department at (586) 446-2800.

— Eric Czarnik

Shopping

from page 3A

been “great so far.” Graus added that having a winning football team in the Detroit Lions has helped too.

“With the move out of the mall we were all nervous about ‘life after Lakeside’ after being in the Mall for 27 years,” Graus said.

“We were fortunate to have found a space right across the street from the mall with ample parking and great exposure from Schoenherr Road. A benefit for our customers is that they can park right in front of our store and walk right in. I feel we have kept our previous customer base and picked up new customers.”

In a Nov. 22 press release, the Michigan Retailers Association said it surveyed responding retailers and found that 53% believed that their sales will rise

in the period between November and January while 28% expected a dip and 19% expected the situation to stay the same.

MRA president and CEO William Hallan said in the release that holiday spending “is projected to reach a new record this year, and we’re excited to see that Michiganders are choosing to shop locally early in the holiday season.”

Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation predicts on its website that holiday spending over November and December will “reach record levels” in the U.S. and grow 2.5%-3.5%, reaching a level between $979.5 billion and $989 billion.

Learn more about Connect Macomb by visiting connectmacomb.com. Find out more about the Michigan Retailers Association by visiting retailers. com or the National Retail Federation by visiting nrf. com. For more information about DC Sports, 44501 Schoenherr Road, visit Detroitcitysports.com or call (586) 566-8331.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

USPBL

from page 12A

hike and bike trail.

“In addition, the building will have a 1,500-square-foot meeting and event space on the north side of the building along with an executive board room, which will allow us to book corporate meetings and events that we lack the space to accommodate at the ballpark. We receive many requests to hold meetings and events at the ballpark, and our space there isn’t designed to accommodate more than 35 people for a meeting, so this will allow us to accommodate more meetings at the new building, which can be paired with team-building events at the ballpark, such as on-field batting practice, softball or kickball games, or attending a USPBL game,” she said.

The building also will have a 2,450-square-foot office suite that General

Sports and the USPBL will be leasing to a third party tenant.

“We are excited about the possibilities the new building will present, as it will connect the historic downtown Utica to the ballpark,” she said.

Utica Mayor Gus Calandrino is pleased with the USPBL’s commitment to the city.

“We are excited about the new development and the added excitement it will bring to downtown Utica. The new restaurant, retail space, USPBL headquarters, office space and conference center will add to the activity and excitement in downtown Utica. Our existing restaurants will benefit from this new activity,” he said.

He said the planned restaurant will provide a new attraction for the many patrons of the Iron Belle Trail, which runs through Utica along the Clinton River.

“We expect this to become a popular stop for people who enjoy using the trail,” he said.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Reporter: Eric Czarnik | (586) 498-1058 | eczarnik@candgnews.com

Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com

Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com

Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100

Carroll | (586) 498-1024 | dcarroll@candgnews.com

Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099 Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS

Planning Commission

Meeting Date, Time, and Location: Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

City of Sterling Heights – City Council Chambers 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313

Under Consideration: PPCM-1340 – Christian’s Auto Repair

Requesting special approval land use which would allow an automobile service center and automobile repair garage in an M-1 Light Industrial District.

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS

Planning Commission

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., the Planning Commission for the City of Sterling Heights will hold a public hearing, at the City of Sterling Heights – City Council Chambers, 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313, on a proposed text and zoning map amendment to the Zoning Ordinance No. 278 to establish a new Article being the North Van Dyke Avenue District. The proposed amendment would create a new zoning district providing new land use and design standards for properties located within the North Van Dyke Avenue district as established by the North Van Dyke Avenue Master Plan. The boundary of the proposed map amendment is depicted below:

Property Address: 40494 Mound Road

Location: East side of Mound Road, south of Eighteen Mile Road

Current Zoning: M-1 Light Industrial District

PPCM-1341 - Appian, LLC

Requesting special approval land use which would allow storage containers as an accessory use for storage incidental to the primary use in an M-1 Light Industrial District.

Property Address: 6350 Sterling Drive North

Location: East of Mound Road, south of Fifteen Mile Road

Current Zoning: M-1 Light Industrial District

PPCM-1344 - Sterling Eatery

Requesting special approval land use which would allow a sit-down and carryout restaurant use in a C-1 Local Convenience Business District and Mound Road Innovation Support District.

Property Address: 34861 Mound Road

Location: West side of Mound Road, south of Fifteen Mile Road

Current Zoning: C-1 Local Convenience Business District and Mound Road Innovation Support District

PPCM-1343 – My Thai

Requesting special approval land use which would allow a sit down and carry out restaurant in a C-1 Local Convenience Business District and Traditional Mixed Use Development Node Overlay District.

Property Address: 4120 Fifteen Mile Road and 4124 Fifteen Mile Road

Location: South side of Fifteen Mile Road, east of Ryan Road

Current Zoning: C-1 Local Convenience Business District and Traditional Mixed Use Development Node Overlay District

PZ24-0009 – Raising Canes

Request for a conditional rezoning of a parcel from O-3 High-Rise Offce Commercial Service District to C-3 General Business District for the purpose of developing a fast-food restaurant with a drive-through on site.

Property Address: 12800 Hall Road

Location: South side of Hall Road, east of Oleander Drive

Current Zoning: O-3 High-Rise Offce Commercial Service District

PZ24-0008 – Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment and Zoning Map Amendment –North Van Dyke Avenue

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: For complete legal description of parcels, see Sterling Heights Planning Department File.

PROPOSAL: Establish a new Article being the North Van Dyke Avenue District. The proposed amendment would create a new zoning district providing new land use and design standards for properties located within the North Van Dyke Avenue district as established by the North Van Dyke Avenue Master Plan.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that any interested person may appear and comment upon the requests in person, or by agent or attorney during the public hearing to be held on the date and time, and at the location set forth above. Pertinent information related to the application may be reviewed at the Sterling Heights Offce of Planning, during regular business hours. Questions regarding the application can be directed to the Offce of Planning at 586-446-2360. Written comments may be submitted to the Sterling Heights Offce of Planning, 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313, or to the City Planner at shplanning@sterlingheights.gov up to 4:30 p.m. of the meeting date.

Pertinent information related to the application may be reviewed at the Sterling Heights Office of Planning, during regular business hours. Questions regarding the application can be directed to the Office of Planning at 586-4462360. Written comments may be submitted to the Sterling Heights Office of Planning, 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313, or to the City Planner at shplanning@sterlingheights.gov up to 4:30 p.m. of the meeting date. The City of Sterling Heights will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the meeting, upon seven days notice to the Community Relations Office at 586-446-2370.

The City of Sterling Heights will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the meeting, upon seven days notice to the Community Relations Offce at 586-446-2370.

Published: The Sentry, December 18, 2024

Published: Sterling Heights Sentry 12/18/2024

Proposed text and zoning map amendment to Ordinance No. 278 to establish a new Article being the North Van Dyke Avenue District. The proposed amendment would create a new zoning district providing new land use and design standards for properties located within the North Van Dyke Avenue district as established by the North Van Dyke Avenue Master Plan. The ordinance and map can be viewed at the Offce of Planning or in the upcoming meeting packet to be posted at the Agenda Center.

Anyone planning to attend the meeting who has need of special assistance under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) is asked to contact the City’s Community Relations Offce at 586-446-2370, seven days prior to the meeting date. Staff will be pleased to make the necessary arrangements.

Published: Sterling Heights Sentry 12/18/2024

0372-2451

TSeason’s Greetings

hroughout the year, I am reminded of how truly special Warren Consolidated Schools is, and what a privilege it is to serve as Superintendent of this extraordinary school system. I am thankful for our dedicated sta members who give so much of themselves to our students each and every day, the parents and families who provide their love and support for their children, and the community members who support our students, sta , and schools. I am also grateful for our wonderfully supportive Board of Education who are committed to creating dynamic futures for all WCS students through student achievement, high expectations, and strong relationships.

Happy Holidays, and I look forward to the New Year!

John C. Bernia, Jr., Ed.D. - Superintendent of Schools

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Help Wanted General

Director, Automotive Systems Engineering (position in Sterling Heights, MI 48310): Direct software and control systems engineering supporting the production of automotive parts, including gas springs, dampers and electromechanical drives; direct the development and implementation of bespoke software systems and technologies supporting the maintenance and improvement of motion control software for automotive and industrial applications, customized machinery and robotics, computer systems design and implementation, engineering and production, product development, and quality control.

Must have a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering or related field and 3 years of experience (or a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering or related field and 5 years of experience) in automotive software engineering management, including the design, development, and production of electronic modules, control systems and cybersecurity.

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Police mediate refill dispute at convenience store

STERLING HEIGHTS – Police were sent to a convenience store in the 11000 block of 15 Mile Road upon hearing that a man wasn’t leaving the store because he couldn’t get a refund.

Police said they spoke to the man, who reportedly said he bought a bag of chips and a fountain drink, but the latter accidentally spilled after he bought it. He said he sought a refill but was told it would cost $1.50.

An officer offered to pay $1.50 for the refill, and after the store accepted it, no further police action was taken.

Man cited for urinating in public

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said a complainant alerted them to a man who allegedly urinated outdoors Nov. 22 in the area of Robinnest Drive, located north of 16 1/2 Mile Road and west of Dodge Park Road. The complainant reportedly recorded the incident on his phone and was “adamant about pressing charges and following through,” police said. Police said the suspect was “very apologetic and remorseful for his actions” and reportedly had gone into a wooded area to relieve himself. Police said they cited the suspect for urinating in public.

Police investigate Walmart skip-scanning incidents

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave., Nov. 22 after hearing that a woman was allegedly skipping some items while at a checkout scanner. Store staff reportedly detained her at the grocery doors. Police said the suspect paid for $190.44 worth of items but didn’t pay for $85.35 worth of items, which reportedly included clothes, groceries and household goods. Police said the woman was cited for third-degree retail fraud.

In a separate incident on Nov. 22, police heard that staff at the same Walmart reportedly saw a man failing to scan all his items at checkout before going to the pharmacy doors. According to the report, some of the stolen items included electronics, toothbrush items, clothes and car items. Police said the suspect paid for $198.46 worth of merchandise but stole $520.99 worth of items. Police later said a warrant was authorized for second-degree retail fraud.

Humbugs at large

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — At around 1 p.m. on Nov. 13, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to a home in the 24000 block of Orchard Street for a property damage report. The resident, a 50-year-old woman, had been

On Nov. 11, she noticed that several bulbs had been removed and wires were cut. No possible suspect information was relayed to deputies at the time.

Ditch DUI

HARRISON TOWNSHIP — On Nov. 13 at around 10:45 p.m., Macomb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to a single-car property damage incident near the corner of Hazel Street and South River Road.

Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the driver, a 35-year-old Harrison Township woman. She was driving home when, after a wrong turn, she tried making a three-point turn before ending up in a ditch.

Deputies smelled the odor of intoxicants on the woman and asked her to complete field sobriety tests. She completed the tests but when asked to take a breath test, she refused and was arrested. A test performed later registered a 0.300 blood alcohol content level.

Threats report leads to police arresting man for drunken driving

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 12:43 a.m. Nov. 17, officers from the Shelby Township Police Department were called to do a welfare check on a man who allegedly was making threatening statements to damage property. Officers responded to the area of Cherry Tree Lane and Tamarack Drive, which is east of Van Dyke Avenue and south of 23 Mile Road. As officers were approaching the area, the suspect exited the house and left the area in his vehicle.

Officers had reports that prior to making threatening statements, the suspect had been consuming alcohol. The vehicle was stopped, and the man was asked to conduct field sobriety tests. The man reportedly refused any test and was then placed under arrest for operating while intoxicated. A blood draw was completed by the Shelby Township Fire Department. The man was lodged at the Shelby Township Police Department until he was sober.

Woman reports online ticket purchase rip-off

ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 3:55 p.m. on Nov. 20, allegations of larceny and fraud were reported in the 22000 block of Bayview Drive.

The victim, a 57-year-old woman, made contact with the police over the phone and stated she was scammed out of Detroit Lions tickets. She contacted an old high school classmate, who posted about the tickets on their high school Facebook page. In messages, the person stated they would sell the tickets for $1,500.

Apple Pay account and sent $500 to the account since that was the maximum. The woman grew suspicious when she received a separate phone number and account to send another $500. She reached out to the person with the other phone number and found out the Facebook account had been hacked. The woman said she planned to contact her bank to report the transaction.

Another Detroit Lions ticket scam reported

ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 1:01 p.m. on Nov. 25, a case of fraud was reported in the 21000 block of Pleasant Street.

The victim, a 27-year-old woman, stated at the police station that she messaged an acquaintance, a 26-year-old woman, on Facebook. The victim inquired about Detroit Lions tickets the other woman had made a post about. Both women agreed on a price of $1,000 for six tickets to the Dec. 15 game against the Buffalo Bills. The victim sent one payment totaling $800 and another payment totaling $200. The woman then advised the victim to send money to two separate cousins. When the payments went through, the woman blocked the victim, and the victim was disputing the claims with Venmo.

An officer called the woman and left a voice mail. On a returned call, the woman stated her Facebook account was hacked approximately two months ago. She reported the incident to Facebook and thought the account had been taken down. She advised other family and friends who told her about the potential scams to report and block the account.

Porch pirates nabbed

GROSSE POINTE WOODS/CITY — Two male suspects were arrested after police said the pair stole packages delivered to homes in Grosse Pointe City and Grosse Pointe Woods.

In the first incident, the Grosse Pointe City Public Safety Department said that one of the suspects stole an iPhone Max Pro worth $1,200 at 12:50 p.m. Nov. 20, shortly after it had been delivered to the front porch of a home in the 500 block of Washington Road. That suspect was seen leaving the area in a Chevy Blazer.

At around 9 a.m. Nov. 27, a pair of suspects in a Chevy Blazer — who police said matched the description of the driver and passenger in the City incident — are said by the Grosse Pointe Woods Public Safety Department to have stolen a package containing $68 worth of goods from the front porch of a home in the 1100 block of Vernier Road. The same day, a Woods officer spotted the suspects’ vehicle at a

surveillance footage of the porch piracy suspects and were arrested, police said. They’re expected to face charges in the City and Woods.

Packages stolen GROSSE POINTE FARMS — An unknown suspect is said to have stolen two packages from the front porch of a home in the 300 block of Touraine Road sometime around the afternoon of Dec. 3. The pack-

Children’s clothing stolen GROSSE POINTE

Museum hosts candlelight walking tours Dec. 19

ROCHESTER HILLS — The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm is hosting hourlong candlelight walking tours from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 19. Spread across the museum grounds, guests will visit historical vignettes, observe historic campfire cooking, listen to a cappella Christmas carols, and explore the decorated 1840s Van Hoosen Farmhouse. Dress for the weather, as stations are both inside and outside. Tickets cost $8 for museum members and $10 for nonmembers. To register, visit rochesterhills.org/musprograms. The Rochester Hills Museum is located at 1005 Van Hoosen Road, off Tienken Road between Rochester and Dequindre roads.

CRANBROOK WELCOMES NEW FELLOWS

BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Cranbrook Academy of Art recently announced the third and fourth classes of the Gilbert Fellows program. Each year, selected students receive full-tu-

and long-term commitment to support artists, architects, and designers of color,” Interim Academy Director Chris Whittey said in a press release.

“Now in its fourth year, this program has increased the diverse makeup of the student body on campus, and the fellows have brought engaging perspectives into each departmental studio. Their voices are critically important as we navigate the future cultural landscape, and we look forward to watching them make a profound and lasting impact on culture.” Prospective candidates for the Cranbrook Academy of Art Gilbert Fellows program can apply now for the 2025-2026 academic year at cranbrookart.edu/admissions/howto-apply.

Biographies of the fellows and more information on the program can be found at cranbrookart.edu/admissions/financial-aid/scholar ships-fellowships/gilbert-fellows.

Student scores perfectly on M-STEP

with math as his favorite subject.

“It makes me feel awesome in the way I know I will be successful,” he said in a press release. “I know that I will be good in life.” Fourth grade teacher Nichole Gorski sees Andrian’s hard work in the classroom.

Judson Center gala raises more than $500,000

FARMINGTON HILLS — The Judson Center, a human services agency based in Farmington Hills, raised more than $500,000 at its “A Night to Embrace” centennial gala on Nov. 1 at The Henry hotel in Dearborn, according to a press release.

The funds benefit the human service agency’s programs in autism, behavioral and primary healthcare, disability services, foster care, adoption, and mentoring, the release states.

“This was a

centennial awareness campaign were presented at the event. Elizabeth Hertel, director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, received the agency’s Art of Care Award in recognition of her

Photo provided by Cranbrook Academy of Art

former

FOX 2 Detroit, were the emcees for the evening. Judson Center’s Centennial Gala was presented by PNC Bank and chaired by Michael Bickers, who is the executive vice president and regional president for PNC Bank in Detroit and southeast Michigan. For more information about the Judson Center, visit judsoncenter.org.

Photo provided by Utica Community Schools