3/20/24 Eastsider

Brand-new firetruck arrives in Eastpointe

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — With its emergency lights flashing and a crowd of people gathering, Eastpointe’s brand-new firetruck arrived at the station the morning of March 8.

The state-of-the-art vehicle was purchased for $1.3 million from contractor Payette Fire Truck Sales and Service in Grosse Ile. The new truck was made by Kovatch Mobile Equipment, better known as KME, headquartered in Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania.

The new mid-mount platform truck was built from scratch, and money from the city’s general fund was used to purchase the vehicle. The new truck will replace the city’s 1998 ladder truck.

The onlookers, many of them firefighters and city administrators, took videos of the new truck as it made its way to the station, 16370 Nine Mile Road. Mayor Pro Tem Cardi DeMonaco Jr. and City Council member Harvey Curley attended the unveiling.

New esports lounge opens at Boys & Girls Club in Eastpointe

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — The popularity of esports has come to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan’s Eastpointe Club.

On Feb. 29, the BGCSM and the Detroit Red Wings opened the latest Esports

& Gaming Lounge at the Eastpointe Club, 15320 E. Nine Mile Road.

Detroit Red Wings players Michael Rasmussen and Christian Fischer attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, where local children had the opportunity to play video games, enjoy a pizza party and learn hockey skills from the two NHL team members.

Through a $300,000 investment from the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and the Children’s Foundation, the esports program is designed to strengthen the career and entrepreneur opportunities for youth in the sports and esports industries. BGCSM’s Eastpointe Club is home to the fourth and

Photo provided by Antonice Strickland Detroit Red Wings teammates Christian Fischer, far left, and Michael Rasmussen, far right, help officially open the new Esports & Gaming Lounge at the Boys & Girls Club in Eastpointe Feb. 29.

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SECOND FRONT PAGE

Resident input sought for Joint Parks and Recreation Master Plan

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE/ROSEVILLE — Officials are in the process of updating the Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe’s Joint Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

The joint plan helps upgrade the cities’ parks, recreation amenities, programs and services. Officials from both cities are seeking input from the residents on the five-year master plan. RARE currently has a master plan on file from 2020.

“This is just updating it,” RARE Executive Director Tony Lipinski said. Lipinski is working with officials from Roseville and Eastpointe on the project, and community input is an important part of the process. The feed-

These ‘Outstanding Teachers’ have class

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE/ROSEVILLE — Several local teachers dedicated to educating their students are being recognized next month for the lifelong impact they are leaving.

The educators have been named as their district’s 2023-24 “Outstanding Teachers of the Year.” Every year, the Macomb Intermediate School District holds an Outstanding Teacher of the Year program in which a teacher is chosen at the elementary, middle and high school levels in each district in the county.

The teachers were nominated by their peers, parents and students. Nominated teachers were evaluated in 10 categories, including teaching style, motivational expertise, lifelong learner, passion and community focus. They will be recognized at a dinner April 11 at the Italian American Cultural Society Banquet Center in Clinton Township.

Eastpointe Community Schools announced its three outstanding teachers of the year back in the fall. They are: Forest Park kindergarten teacher Lisa James, Eighth Grade Academy social studies teacher Suzanne Booth, and Matthew Ostrowski,

See TEACHERS on page 11A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Rachel Walls, of Eastpointe, visits the Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe in Roseville March 7 and writes down her suggestions for ways to improve local parks as the cities and authority create a five-year recreation master plan. Walls suggested a splash pad for Kennedy Park in Eastpointe.

James Booth Ostrowski

Sharpe Forsythe Drouin

Hoppy Easter

EASTPOINTE/ROSEVILLE

for more information.

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meet-and-greet in the mall’s South Court near K&G Fashion Superstore. Coco Baby will be there March 26, Troll Princess is scheduled to arrive March 27, and Princess Peach and King Koopa will be there March 28. The times are 1-3 p.m. each day.

Glitter tattoos, arts and crafts, a balloon artist, and goodie bags will be provided on behalf of the mall while supplies last. Macomb Mall is located at 32233 Gratiot Ave.

PRESENTATION WILL HIGHLIGHT THE PACKARD PROVING GROUNDS

EASTPOINTE — Roger Luksik will present “The History of the Packard Proving Grounds” at 2 p.m. March 24 at the Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society, located at 16600 Stephens Road.

The Packard Proving Grounds, located in Shelby Township, is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Luksik will explain the history of the proving grounds from opening day in June 1928 until its closing in 1956. He also will discuss what the Packard Motor Car Foundation is doing to preserve its legacy for future generations.

Luksik began volunteering at the Packard Proving Grounds in 2001 and currently is vice president and committee chair for finance, grant writing and accreditations. He is a life member of the Packard Automobile Club and a member of the Classic Car Club of America. He owns two 1941 Packards, one a convertible sedan and a business coupe.

Admission to the event will be a donation to the museum. For more information, visit mimths.org or call (586) 872-2581.

March Madness, Lego Day at Roseville Public Library

ROSEVILLE — Two different events are scheduled this March at the Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave.

At 2 p.m. March 25, library staff will hold a Lego day. Patrons can stop by to build with Legos. The event is an all-ages event, and all are encouraged to bring friends and family.

Now through March 28, the library will hold its own version of NCAA March Madness. Kids can vote for their favorite books in an NCAA-style bracket reading challenge. Call (586) 445-5407 for more information or visit rosevillelibrary.org/wordpress.

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Missing Pontiac woman found safe

OAKLAND COUNTY — Highland Park police contacted the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office March 12 to inform the detectives there that they located Briana Marie Hall, 23, who had went missing from Common Ground in Pontiac in January when she left on her own. At one point, investigators had said that Hall might be in Eastpointe. Hall’s legal guardian had been unable to reach her. At press time, it was unclear whether the two would be reunited. Hall was said to be unharmed.

Eastpointe woman goes missing

EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, Lisa Marie Wright, 59, of Eastpointe, has been missing since leaving her home on foot March 4. She is described as a Black woman, about 5 feet, 7 inches tall and 215 pounds, last seen wearing brown boots, gray pants, a black shirt and a black coat. Her last known location was in the area of Seven Mile and Schoenherr roads. Anyone with more information is asked to call the Eastpointe detective on the case at (586) 445-8957.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Vendors sought for craft show

The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe is located at 18185 Sycamore St.

Board of Commissioners

seeking volunteer nominations

Hall Wright

— Andy Kozlowski

ROSEVILLE — Vendors are needed for the Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe’s spring craft and vendor show to be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 20.

Admission to the show is $1 per person, and shoppers ages 12 and younger will be admitted for free. If interested in becoming a vendor or crafter participant, contact the RARE office at (586) 4455480 or email sfrederick@rare-mi.org to receive an application.

The deadline for applicants is April 7.

MACOMB COUNTY — In honor of “National Volunteer Recognition Month” in April, the Macomb County Board of Commissioners is accepting nominations of volunteers that make valuable contributions to the community.

Volunteer nominations can be submitted online macombgov.az1.qualtrics. com. Two volunteers will be chosen per district, as well as a “Senior Volunteer of the Year.” Nominations are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 5.

— Maria Allard and Dean Vaglia

Healing Choices offers hope, healing and help

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

WARREN — As a child, Cindy Kupinski was physically, sexually and mentally abused by adults around her who she said were involved in a satanic cult.

“It was so traumatizing,” Kupinski said. “I suppressed the abuse. It was the only way I could survive.”

However, when she was in her 30s, she started remembering the brutality she had been through as a child, the bruises and the broken bones, the hospital stays, time spent in foster care so she could get away from her abusers. Knowing she needed help due to all she endured, Kupinski went into therapy and has used faith, counseling and a desire to get healthy to heal.

“The only way to heal from it is to relive it,” she said. “I had to feel it. I had to know that it was real. Your childhood impacts your adulthood. It’s been 20 years, and I’m still going to counseling.”

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Cindy Kupinski, 57, wrote the book “The Light Through My Eyes” to share her story about abuse and to help others heal.

SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Jumping into a pool or lake for a swim isn’t only fun, it offers many health benefits and is great for people of all ages.

With so many opportunities for water recreation in Michigan, the most important step is learning how to swim.

“Swim and water safety are really important topics because we all live in Michigan, so we all live really close to water recreation opportunities — whether that be pools or lakes or rivers. There’s lots of opportunities for residents to get in the water and recreate, but for a lot of people, if they don’t know how to swim, that can be a dangerous situation,” said Danielle Mauter, the chief of marketing and communications for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks.

Although formal swim lessons may reduce the likelihood of drowning by 88%, studies show one of the biggest barriers to more people in the region learning to swim is the fees.

The Huron-Clinton Metroparks is working with partners to save lives by increasing access to free swim lessons and lifesaving water skills in underserved communities through the expansion of its Everyone in

JUST KEEP SWIMMING: A SPORT FOR ALL AGES

the Pool swim initiative. Through this fiveyear plan, the metroparks have committed to providing 6,000 free swim lessons each year for adults and children with support from existing and future partners and expand opportunities for lifeguard certification and staffing infrastructure. A fundraising goal of $1.5 million has been set to make this expansion possible.

Over the past three years, the metroparks have partnered with public and nonprofit organizations in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Livingston counties to collaborate on free water safety and swim lessons for more than 4,600 students at various recreation centers and facilities. Most lessons start in early June, and registration is already open for some, with additional registration opportunities continuing to open over the next few weeks on the metroparks website, www.metroparks.com.

After learning how to swim, it’s important to keep practicing your skills in the water as you grow.

Michigan is known for its Great Lakes, but our state is also home to over 11,000 small inland lakes — and a host of private and public pools.

The Troy Community Center provides many opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy the water year round — with both in-

See SWIMMING on page 9A

Huron-Clinton Metroparks is working with multiple partners throughout the year to offer free swim lessons at locations throughout southeast Michigan.

Photo provided by the Huron-Clinton Metroparks

Swimming

from page 8A

door and seasonal outdoor pools — including parent and tot classes, kiddie swim, swim lessons, open swim for all ages, water slides, lap swimming, water aerobics, a therapy pool and more.

From boosted heart health to muscle toning, experts say swimming and other water workouts offer many health benefits for children and adults.

“Research shows that swimming is good for your lungs,” said Troy Community Center Recreation Supervisor Morgan Thrasher. “You can swim, you can walk, you can move — there’s a bunch of different things that the water provides that you wouldn’t necessarily get on land.”

Swimming requires you to control your breathing, so it can strengthen your respiratory muscles, improve lung capacity and help build breath endurance. In fact, it’s often recommended that people with asthma pursue swimming to build their lung strength.

Swimming can also alleviate stress, boost your mood, improve flexibility, and even improve coordination, balance and posture.

The low-impact exercise offers resistance, providing muscle strengthening and

toning to keep you strong and fit as you age.

The OPC Social and Activity Center in Rochester allows its members, ages 50 and older, to use a therapy pool for water exercise classes, relaxing and massaging achy muscles and joints, and a lap pool for water exercise and lap swimming.

Mandy Mullins, the fitness and aquatics manager at the OPC Social and Activity Center, said a wide range of seniors use the aquatic facility, including the center’s oldest active swimmer, age 92.

“Some are just coming out of a therapy or a surgery and they are using the therapy pool to continue their rehab, all the way up to our folks who are still practicing for swim competitions,” she said.

Competitive senior swimmers — including one who is 79 year old — use the OPC’s lap pool to train for Michigan Senior Olympics and U.S. Masters swim meets.

“Some have been swimming all their lives and have continued on with all their competitions, and some of them are just getting into it now as seniors — they found swimming and found a group of people who were athletes in some capacity before, and this has been a way for them to compete that’s not as hard on their bodies,” said Mullins.

“For the competitive swimmers, it’s kind of like having a club,” added Delaney

The real estate market is always changing but it’s still a good time to be a seller, especially if you’re looking for a cash offer.

“We cater to people in any situation. It can be a property with tenants, probate issues, title issues, hoarder situations, or people who are behind on their payments. We are a unique real estate office, providing cash offers to people who need to sell their homes,” said Giovan, a Real Estate Broker with GSA Elite Realty.

With offices in Shelby Township and Warren, GSA is a full-service brokerage with more than 25 years of experience, born and raised in Macomb County.

“We know the market and work to deploy the innovative and often creative solutions necessary to get cash deals to the closing table on an expedited schedule,” Giovan said. “I believe there is no deal that can’t be done. The typical turnaround time for a cash sale is less than 10 days. We’ve done this in as little as three days before.”

Zaloga, a fitness and aquatics supervisor. “They all like swimming, and they all like pushing each other at their swim practice and getting better and better at all the meets.”

But not everybody has to swim to get the benefits of the water, Mullins explained.

“There are some doctors that will recommend the therapy and warm water pool type of class to just get started, especially if

there are any balance issues involved. It’s a lot harder to fall over in the pool, so it’s a really great starting point,” she said. “We also have Aqua Zumba or other types of cardio classes that are in the pool where they aren’t necessarily swimming, but they are using that water resistance and the buoyancy and really getting their heart rate going in there without really having to do traditional swimming.”

GSA has brokered thousands of transactions and has purchased thousands of properties. They’re licensed agents who offer sellers peace of mind and take the stress out of the process.

They start with a fair cash offer. If this offer is not acceptable, they can work with

Parks

from page 3A

back is used to help guide decisions and to better understand residents’ needs and desires. From there, city employees apply to the state for various grants to fund the updates.

To help with the process, city officials have displayed large maps of the cities’ parks and asked residents to write what they like about that particular park, what they don’t like, and what they would like to see in the future.

The maps are up in the lobbies of the RARE building, located at 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville; Roseville City Hall, located at 29777 Gratiot Ave.; and Eastpointe City Hall, located at 23200 Gratiot Ave.

Residents are encouraged to write down their ideas in the spaces provided. The completion of the plan will allow both cities and RARE to remain eligible for state and federal agency grant funding. The maps will remain up until April 28.

In January, officials from both cities met to begin discussion on the five-year joint master plan. At that time, the consulting firm Spalding DeDecker — based in Detroit — was contracted to provide professional planning services for the five-year joint recreation master plan.

“We responded to the Request for Proposals released in December 2023, excited to work with the administration, staff, and citizens of RARE, Eastpointe and Roseville to create a long-term and sustainable vision for their parks,” Spalding DeDecker Planning Manager Cassi Meitl said via email. “We are urban, community, and recreation planners, landscape architects, and civil engineers passionate about helping communities succeed.”

Once all the feedback from residents is collected, Spalding DeDecker will combine and summarize the input, and then the firm will review the suggestions with RARE, Eastpointe and Roseville representatives.

“We might use the ideas as a basis for public input sessions held later this year and they will be considered as each organization develops goals, objectives, and the action plan for the next five years and beyond,” Meitl said. “The suggestions will also be included in the report as part of the community input summary.”

There are eight parks in Eastpointe: Spindler, Kennedy, Goetz, Shamrock, Roxana, Fairlane, Rein and Memorial; and eight in Roseville: Huron, Veterans Memorial, Dooley, Rotary, Macomb Gardens, Packard, Kiwanis and Lions.

A handful of residents have already made several recommendations. Splash pads, walking paths and pools seem to be the most

popular suggestions thus far. Other requests include restrooms, additional parking spots, pickleball courts, new playground equipment, basketball courts and new pavilions.

At Kennedy Park, for instance, someone recommended that the hockey rink be removed. Another resident would like to see the preschool program return to Spindler Park.

Public hearings on the master plan will be held at RARE board meetings and city council meetings later in the year. Notices will be posted for these public hearings. Residents should also look for notifications about a public opinion survey, accessible via QR code, in June, July and August.

Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe Executive Director Tony Lipinski encourages residents to stop by the RARE building or the lobbies of the Eastpointe and Roseville city halls to offer their suggestions for the cities’ five-year Joint Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

“Once the plan is done and submitted to the state, then we’re eligible to apply for grants,” Lipinski said. “We’re hopeful (to receive grants), and that’s why we have to prioritize the projects.”

RARE does not maintain the parks in either city, so each city will have to apply for its own grants. To be eligible for various state grants, a community must either have an approved five-year plan on file with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in the MiGrants online system by Feb. 1 of the year it intends to apply, or submit a capital improvement plan with its application.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Teachers

from page 3A

who works in the math resource room at Eastpointe High School.

Eastpointe Community Schools Superintendent Christina Gibson gave the news in person to each educator by visiting their classrooms as they were teaching. She brought flowers for James and Booth and balloons for Ostrowski.

Because Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was at Forest Park on the first day of school for the 2023-24 school year, she congratulated James in person. According to school officials, James is known for being a positive light in the district.

Booth, who also goes by the name “Mama Booth,” let out a “whoo” when Gibson delivered her good news. A colleague nominated Booth for the award. Booth is a graduate of the district and has dedicated her entire career to teaching children.

Ostrowski was nominated by two different co-workers, who remarked on the nomination form about “the way he treats students with love and compassion, as well as his willingness to always lend a hand when needed.” Ostrowski’s mom accompanied Gibson to his classroom when she shared the news of his accomplishment.

This year’s Roseville Community Schools Outstanding Teachers of the Year are Green Elementary second grade teacher Lynn Sharpe, Roseville Middle School teacher Danielle Forsythe, and Roseville High School teacher Sarah Drouin.

“Ms. Sharpe is always researching and trying to find new and creative ways to reach her students. She is consistent and fair with all her students,” Green Elementary Principal Donna Ambrose said in a prepared statement. “Students are allowed to make mistakes without being made to feel inferior. She keeps her students engaged by making up games to get them excited for phonics, reading, and math.”

Forsythe has taught at Roseville Middle School for seven years, teaching algebra, seventh grade math, and seventh grade Math Attack. She started her career at Kment Elementary as an interventionist and also taught for several years during the district’s elementary summer extended learning program.

Drouin has been impacting students at Roseville High School for 24 years, where she has taught a variety of English language arts courses. She currently teaches Journalism I (yearbook/online newspaper), Journalism II, speech/debate and English 11. She has served as newspaper adviser her entire career, and in 2019, she also took over as yearbook adviser.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

from page 7A

Kupinski, now 57, has become an advocate to help other domestic violence survivors. One way she is doing that is through her book, “The Light Through My Eyes,” which was published in 2019. The book, which chronicles her painful journey, is available at amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.

“Fear controlled my life. I know there are many women and men who need to hear my story,” she wrote. “I need to tell it because I believe that, with the help of God, with God in me, I can help make a difference.”

Kupinski grew up in Detroit and now resides in Clinton Township with her husband, Dave. Many community members already know the Kupinskis. They own D & P Auto, located in Warren, which relocated from Roseville and has served countless customers over the years.

On the path to getting healthy, Kupinski has started her own charity, Healing Choices, on her own. Her goal is to speak to people about how childhood trauma impacts people as adults and the choices they make. Healing Choices is not a shelter, but it provides resources for men, women and children who have suffered abuse.

“Healing Choices is giving them inspiration. I want to hold their hands. By sharing my story and sharing my experience, I do understand what they’re going through,” Kupinski said. “It’s me not wanting other people to hurt as much as I was hurting. If I can hug them, if I can help them, even if it’s just one person, then it’s all worth it. I want them to feel safe that somebody does care. There is a tomorrow.”

Kupinski is working on organizing support groups “even for spouses trying to help their spouses that have been abused.” Kupinski said she endured two abusive marriages. She has one child from her first marriage and two from her second marriage. She suffered from anxiety and panic attacks and said there were times in which she wanted to take her life but then thought, “What’s going to happen to my kids?”

“If it wasn’t for God, there’s no way I would survive,” Kupinski said.

Dave is Kupinski’s third husband. Between the two of them, they have seven grandchildren, and Kupinski has three stepdaughters.

Healing Choices received a financial boost recently when members of Elks Lodge Macomb No. 2292, located at 25950 Schoenherr Road in Warren, donated $4,000 to Kupinski’s cause. When the Elks members learned of Healing Choices, they wanted to lend a hand.

“Our purpose is to help those in need,” Elks Lodge Macomb No. 2292 Exalted Ruler/President Bill Harris said. “We applied for a grant through the Elks National Foundation to help a charity in need in our community.”

The club members received a $4,000 grant, which they gave to Kupinski. She can

use it for supplies, clothing and anything else needed.

“It couldn’t be for ourselves. It’s a good way to help a neighbor,” Harris said. “Cindy is selfless, kind and friendly and wants to give back. She just wants to help people in need.”

To reach Healing Choices, call (586) 899-0236. Monetary donations are always

welcome, as are gift cards to help families that are healing.

New Elks Lodge Macomb No. 2292 members are always welcome. For more information, call (586) 771-8550 or send an email to warrensterling2292@mielks.org. Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

Esports

from page 1A

final esports lounge in metro Detroit.

“This is amazing to see our fourth Club unveil a world-class esports lounge. Thank you to the commitment from the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and The Children’s Foundation for helping us to invest in the development of youth through sports and technology which will have a long-term benefit, potentially contributing to a more vibrant and skilled workforce,” BGCSM President and CEO Shawn H. Wilson said in a prepared statement. “This partnership will absolutely bring about positive changes, creating new opportunities and pathways for the youth not only in sports and technology, but with any career path they decide to take.”

The Boys & Girls Club is open from 2 to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Youth must have a membership to participate. Eastpointe’s esports lounge will be a hub for upcoming esports tournaments and leagues that also take place across the BGCSM Esports + Hockey network.

“We are excited about the gaming lounge,” BGCSM Club Director Chris Kyles said. “We’ve partnered with professionals in

the field of esports. We have what is called EliteGamingLIVE. The youth are learning how to run tournaments and how to be creators and consumers.”

EGL is a competitive gaming league for grades 3-12 that uses esports as a way to cultivate students’ interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, also known as STEM.

Esports, short for electronic sports, is a form of competition using video games. The games are played in an organized competitive environment in amateur and professional formats. The esports available at Eastpointe’s The Boys & Girls Club operate on a block schedule so everyone has a chance to play.

“They’re learning strategies, healthy competition,” said Kyles, an Eastpointe resident. “They’re learning how to play in a positive culture. Their engagement is awesome.”

Through its after-school programs, the BGCSM serves 21,000 youth, families and entrepreneurs annually in neighborhoods throughout southeastern Michigan. For more information on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, visit bgcsm.org.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

Firetruck

from page 1A

“Isn’t it beautiful? I’m just thrilled. I am excited for the city,” Curley said. “The whole staff has been waiting three years for this. The city should be proud of the firehouse and all the guys that work there.”

During the morning, fire chaplain Kevin

Lancaster offered a blessing.

“In Jesus’ name, I ask that you grant your grace to our firefighters who will drive and operate this new engine and protect them from harm,” Lancaster said. “We ask to accept this engine so that it may serve our community.”

Securing the new 102-foot ladder truck took almost four years. A committee that consisted of Battalion Chief Joe Zangara,

INVITATION TO BID

EASTPOINTE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids for the following work will be received by Eastpoint Community Schools via Building Connected or in person at the Eastpointe Community Schools Administration Building at no later than 2:00 PM local time on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024. Bids will be read publicly via a Teams Live Event at the same time. Eastpointe Community Schools - BP #6 – Forest Park Elementary School-Site Improvements Biding documents may be obtained here after March 19th, 2024: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/55a1292ff1a96708004a19dc

Please contact Michael.Ales@bartonmalow.com with any questions.

The School Board will not accept any bid submitted after the indicated due time and date. Bidders will be required to submit with their Bid Proposals a Bid Security by a qualifed surety authorized to do business in the state where the Projects is located. All Bid Proposals shall be accompanied by the following two forms: Familial Disclosure Form (in accordance with MCL 380.1267) and an Iran Economic Sanctions Act Form (in compliance with Michigan Public Act No. 517 of 2012). Bid Proposals that do not include these two sworn and notarized forms shall not be accepted.

Published: Eastsider 03/20/2024

Sgt. Mike Szczesniak and firefighter James Heinzman researched various companies to select the right vehicle for the city.

“We started the process in August 2020,” Fire Chief Brian Marquardt said. “The guys said, ‘Let’s figure out what we want and what we need.’ They did an outstanding job.”

The firefighters looked for several features, including a truck that had greater drivability, the ability to navigate narrow areas, and a quicker setup capacity. The bucket attached to the ladder is much larger than the department’s previous model. Ladder trucks

See FIRETRUCK on page 15A

CITY OF ROSEVILLE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Notice is hereby given that the City of Roseville Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at 6:30 PM, or thereafter, at the City of Roseville, Council Chambers, 29777 Gratiot, Roseville MI 48066. The Public Hearing will consider:

Variance #0324 -30083 Quinkert, PP# 08-14-08-276-048

Request permission to install a privacy fence in excess of 6 ft.

Variance #0424 – 19305 Connecticut, PP# 08-14-09-376-019 Request permission to split the property into lots less than 55” wide.

Variance #0524 – 28231 Gratiot, PP#08-14-17-253-059 Request permission to permanently keep a food truck/trailer on the premises.

Variance applications can be reviewed and written comments received prior to the meeting at the City of Roseville, Building Department, 29777 Gratiot Roseville MI 48066, Attention: James Osterhout. The public may appear at the Public Hearing in person or by Counsel.

Respectfully submitted,

Jennifer A. Zelmanski

Roseville City Clerk

Published: Eastsider 03/20/2024

City of Roseville

Roseville Regulation, Control and Elimination of Noxious Weeds and Other Growths

CITY OF ROSEVILLE CODE CHAPTER 364

0464-2412

On or before April 1st of each year, the City Clerk shall cause to be published in a newspaper of general circulation within the city a notice to all owners and occupants of land that all noxious weeds on any property located within the city must be destroyed on or before the 15th day of April and for the remainder of any such year; that at all times all grass and non-noxious weeds higher than six (6) inches in height must be cut; that the uncontrolled growth of all shrubs, hedges, bushes, plants and trees must be trimmed, sheared or cut; that at all times vacant property shall be kept free of dense, wild growth of trees, shrubs, bushes, plants and debris; and that at all times trees on vacant property shall be kept trimmed, where reasonable, to maintain a clearance of at least eight (8) feet from the ground to the lowest limbs thereof.

Such notice shall further provide that upon failure to comply with any of the aforesaid provisions the Department of Public Works or a designated contractor may enter upon such premises as many times as is necessary and destroy any and all noxious weeds, cut any grass or non-noxious weeds higher than six (6) inches in height, trim the uncontrolled growth of any shrub, hedge, bush, plant or tree and remove such waste along with any other accumulated debris on such property. Such notice shall further provide that any costs incurred by said Department of Public Works or a designated contractor shall be a lien upon the premises and shall be assessed against the premises and, if not paid within forty-fve (45) days of billing, shall be added on the next tax statement for said premises; provided, however, that such notice gives the owners or occupants of premises situated within the city thirty (30) days from such publication to comply with the provisions of this chapter.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jennifer A. Zelmanski

Roseville City Clerk

Published: Eastsider 03/20/2024

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0306-2406

Photo by Donna Dalziel

The Eastpointe Fire Department’s brand-new ladder truck was delivered March 8.

Firetruck

from page 14A

are used for fighting fires, high rescue operations and aerial suppression.

Not only does the ladder rise up into the air, but it also can be lowered to the ground if necessary. The new ladder truck has several technological updates not available on the old truck. One such feature is the remote control that will maneuver the water nozzles.

In January 2021, the City Council approved the purchase of the new truck. The vehicle is red in color with a black stripe in the middle and a green shamrock in honor of Eastpointe detailed on the back. Alongside the ladder apparatus reads “Eastpointe” and “Proudly serving our community since 1921.”

As the vehicle was being built, Marquardt

traveled to Pennsylvania on two occasions to check on its progress. The new truck was built to last for 25 years. Prior to its delivery, the truck underwent a detailed inspection.

“I think it’s great. I’m glad to be able to be a part of it,” Marquardt said. “We were happy the council approved the purchase.”

Before using the new truck, all the department’s firefighters will be trained on it, which should take one month. Staff also will transfer tools, radios and other equipment from the 1998 vehicle into the new vehicle.

“Then we’ll be ready to go,” Marquardt said.

The Fire Department has two fire engine trucks in use: one purchased in 2004 and the other in 2006. The 1998 model will most likely be sold at auction or possibly donated to a college or a city.

Call Staff Writer Maria Allard at (586) 498-1045.

Dr. Sonia Kaur Singh, DMD, and her sta are passionate about improving patients’ smiles and oral health with the most advanced care. Giving back to the community is also a great mission of Dr. Sonia and team through the good work of God.

“When a patient is self-conscious about their smile and we x that, they become a di erent person,” said Dr. Sonia, who was recognized as a Woman of Distinction by the state of Michigan in 2018. “When a patient is nally able to eat better, taste better, feel better and look better, it boosts their self esteem.”

e practice o ers a wide selection of dental care, from simple cleanings, llings and exams to more complex services such as root canals, bone grafting or full mouth reconstruction, as well as the latest in cosmetic dentistry, including dental implants and Invisalign. Intravenous sedation is an option for those anxious about receiving dental care. New technology is also a signi cant part of Dr. Sonia's practice. She o ers 3D printing models of the patients teeth of what a nal look will be without drilling on the teeth.

Dr. Sonia started doing implant dentistry nearly two decades ago and holds accreditations with the International Congress of Oral Implantology and the American Academy of lmplant Dentistry, where she is a Fellow. She is a speaker for professional Implant manufacturing companies and teaches other dentists how to place implants.

e female-led, family-owned organization has a diverse team that includes Dr. Sherin John and Dr. Amit Shah- each of whom shares Dr. Sonia’s high standards and commitment to providing the best possible patient experience. Dr. Sonia's daughter, Dr. Sharon Singh, DMD has joined the practice. She graduated from university of Pennsylvania in May 2023.

“All of our associates spend a lot of time with our patients to get to know them personally,” said regional manager Courtney McPhillips. “Dr. Sonia’s gentle touch and attention to detail together with our really advanced technology- from 3D scanners to heated massage chairs - really sets us apart and makes the patient experience smooth and comfortable.”

Your Neighborhood Dentist o ers a ordability without compromising the patient experience.

“We have a wide variety of nancing options - some with no interest - as well as in-house insurance for the uninsured at a 25% discount,” McPhillips added, do it once and do it right!

Help Wanted General

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES

PARK MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL

Permanent part-time Park Maintenance Personnel position, $17.66 - $22.92 hourly (32 hours per week) includes benefit package. Successful completion of Civil Service Examination(s) is required, and applicants must meet all requirements set forth in the Employees Civil Service Ordinance, as well as possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record. Pre-employment background investigation and substance abuse testing is required. Interested, applicants must submit application to the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Monday, April 1, 2024. The Charter Township of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer, applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or disability. For further information pertaining to this position or to download employment application please refer to www.clintontownship.com, click on employment. 0295-2412

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MARCH 22 & 29

Fish fries: 5-7:30 p.m. March 22 and 4:30-7 p.m. March 29, dine

and carryout, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 23000 Gratiot Ave. in Eastpointe, (586) 777-6300, facebook.com/StPetersEastpointe

• 3:30-7 p.m. March 22, also following liturgy until 7 p.m. March 29, St. Pio of Pietrelcina Church, 18720 E. 13 Mile Road in Roseville, stpioparish.org, (586) 777-9116

MARCH 23

Brush and Beyond: New program featuring free interactive projects developed with Anton Art Center, first theme is Vincent Van Gogh, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., facebook. com/RosevillePublicLibraryMI

MARCH 24

History of Packard Proving Grounds: 2 p.m., Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, mimths.org

MARCH 25

Gin rummy: Learn from 4-6 p.m. and play from 6-8 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., free but registration required, (586) 445-5407, rosevillelibrary.org, rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.

SCAN FOR STORY

at Fraser Lions Club, 34540 Utica Road, call Randy at (586) 202-7858

APRIL 23

Financial Literacy Storytime: Also money-themed snack during crafts and activities, for ages 5-10, 6-7 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., free but registration required, rosevillelibrary.org, rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov, (586) 445-5407

APRIL 29

Hearts: Learn from 4-6 p.m. and play from 6-8 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., free but registration required, (586) 4455407, rosevillelibrary.org, rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov

ONGOING Character meet-and-greets: 1-3 p.m. March 26 (Coco Baby), March 27 (Troll Princess) and March 28 (Princess Peach and King Koopa), South Court at Macomb Mall, 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, shopmacombmall.com

Storytime: 1:30 every second Wednesday of month, near Dick’s Sporting Goods at Macomb Mall, 32233 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, shopmacombmall.com

Young Modelers Club: For ages 8-16, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays until April 20, Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, (248) 399-2386, mimths.org

Monthly book clubs: Booked for the Evening (every first Thursday) and Mystery Book Club (every third Thursday), both 6:30 p.m., Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., (586) 445-5407, rosevillelibrary. org, rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov

Euchre Night + More: 6-8 p.m. every first Saturday of month, Metropolitan Church of the Nazarene, 18945 Frazho Road in Roseville, bring finger foods to share (drinks provided), www.metronaz.org/ adult-ministry-events

Gamblers Anonymous meetings: 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday, Live Rite Structured Recovery Corp., 27700 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville, (586) 217-5899

Health workshops: For chronic pain, high blood pressure and more, hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, beaumonthealth. digitalsignup.com

EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, at around 8:45 p.m. Feb. 16, police were dispatched to the area of Nine Mile and Kelly roads on a report of shots fired.

Further investigation revealed that a black Chevrolet Malibu had stopped at a red light, northbound on Nine Mile Road, when a white Dodge Durango was seen pulling up in the area.

An unknown suspect exited the rear seat of the Malibu, and the Durango started driving eastbound through an adjacent parking lot.

That’s when the suspect reportedly reentered the rear seat of the Malibu, and a short time later began shooting at the Durango, the occupants of which returned fire. Both vehicles then fled the scene and were last seen driving toward Interstate 94.

An innocent victim was in the area and was shot in the hand. She was not involved in the incident but got caught in the crossfire.

Puppy rescued from abusive situation

EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, sometime on Feb. 20, the animal control officer for the city of Eastpointe was contacted by a resident who wished to remain anonymous.

The resident shared three videos of a small gray pit bull puppy being violently dragged on its leash across cement by a male suspect. The man also yanked the puppy upward, launching the dog 4-5 feet in the air while pulling on its neck, slamming it back down into the cement. In addition, he reportedly slapped the puppy so hard on its back that both the impact and the dog yelping could be heard on the video.

Two animal control officers conducted a follow-up investigation, locating both the suspect and the puppy and taking the latter into protective custody. The city attorney was reviewing the case and might press charges against the suspect. Investigations were ongoing.

Bullets hit house EASTPOINTE — According to a police report, at around 9:30 p.m. Feb. 16 in the area of Cushing Avenue, near Oak Avenue, a homeowner noticed three bullet holes in his windows. The bullets had entered the home and lodged in the wall. The homeowner had recently moved into the house and said he did not have any problems with anyone, and no suspects in mind, nor did he witness any suspicious behavior. Police were investigating.

Road rage incident reported

ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 6:57 p.m. on Feb. 15,

Avenue and 13 Mile Road.

Upon arrival, the officer met with the victim, a 21-year-old man. The man stated he was exiting a business during a heavy traffic time and tried to turn south onto Harper. Other vehicles were reportedly allowing him through, but a black vehicle traveling north on Harper nearly collided with him. Gestures were exchanged between both drivers, and they pulled over into another business’s parking lot. The man stated the unknown suspect punched his passenger window shattering it but leaving it intact and proceeded to yell profanities at him. The victim stated he got scared and drove away.

The other driver chased him in the parking lot of a strip mall. The two vehicles began doing donuts where they collided with each other, and the second vehicle left the scene. The victim was not injured but still shaken. He did not get any identifying details of the other vehicle.

Burglary reported

ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 3:58 a.m. on Feb. 14, a report was made about a burglary at a business in the 20000 block of 10 Mile Road.

Several officers and a sergeant arrived on the scene. Officers observed pry marks to the front doors of the business and an alarm was going off inside. The keyholders and owners, a 68-year-old man and a 30-year-old man, arrived at the scene and turned off the alarm. The surveillance footage reportedly showed a white vehicle coming east on 10 Mile. Three people exited the vehicle once in the parking lot and they wore dark outfits, medical masks and gloves. The pry bar was used to gain entry to the front door.

The suspects took multiple reels of lottery tickets, vape pens and vape cartridges. A person was seen walking outside of the building west to east on 10 Mile and they were observed running to the vehicle. The vehicle then exited the parking lot and traveled west on 10 Mile toward Interstate 94.

The owners were given incident numbers and said they would inventory to see what they were missing.

Police arrest 3 shoplifters at Kohl’s

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police were called to Kohl’s, 44200 Schoenherr Road, Feb. 17 for a shoplifting report that five suspects were on the premises.

Police said they waited for three suspects — a woman and two men — to leave the store and approached them when they went to a Jeep Patriot with allegedly stolen items, including a “large amount of clothing items.” Police handcuffed and arrested the suspects for second-degree retail fraud.

Police said an officer also went inside the store

women reportedly denied knowing the three arrested suspects. The store reportedly asked police to evict the two women, so police did.

Vehicles stolen from Metro Parkway lot

STERLING HEIGHTS — Multiple Dodge vehicles were reported stolen Feb. 16 in the 7500 block of Metropolitan Parkway, near Van Dyke Avenue. According to police, a security guard said that after one vehicle was let through, some male motorists quickly rushed the gate and drove through around 8:30 p.m. Surveillance footage reportedly shows a truck dropping off the suspects, who then entered the stolen vehicles and drove off with them.

Intoxicated woman tries to buy booze at market

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to a supermarket Feb. 16 in the 2000 block of 18 Mile Road, near Dequindre Road, after hearing that an intoxicated woman allegedly had entered the store and attempted to purchase alcohol. Store staff reportedly declined and alerted police.

Police said they spoke to the woman and noted that she had slurred speech and difficulty moving without holding onto a shopping cart. Police reportedly couldn’t successfully do a preliminary breath test, so they took the woman to the hospital.

Stolen vehicle recovered

GROSSE POINTE WOODS — A Chevy Tahoe that was stolen from a driveway in the 1000 block of South Renaud Road Feb. 28 was recovered by police undamaged in Detroit. According to a report, the victim had left his jacket in the vehicle and a key fob for the vehicle was in the jacket pocket.

Armed robbery suspect arrested GROSSE POINTE FARMS — A 22-year-old Highland Park man was arrested in the area of Moross Road and Chalfonte Avenue at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 21 after he was reportedly involved in an armed robbery and vehicle theft in Highland Park. The Detroit Police Department said the suspect was fleeing in a black Chevrolet Equinox— he was said to have been driving more than 60 mph on Moross — when police tried to pull him over. After the suspect continued to speed away from police, officers deployed stop sticks on Lake Shore Road when the suspect headed west. The stop sticks failed to halt the suspect, but turning onto Dodge Place in Grosse Pointe City — which is a dead-end — seemed to do the trick.

Police said the suspect hopped out of the Equinox on Dodge Place and fled on foot, and he was

residence. The suspect was turned over to the Highland Park Police Department. Police said no use of force was required, no property was damaged and there were no injuries resulting from this incident.

Detergent thieves make clean getaways

GROSSE POINTE WOODS/CITY — An unknown suspect is said to have stolen at least four containers of Tide Pods —

store at around 4:22 p.m. Feb. 29.

Senior is victim of fraud

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — A 74-year-old Grosse

Farms man filed a report with police March 1 after he received an email Feb. 29 from his bank that an unknown suspect had tried to transfer or withdraw $5,000 from his account. The bank denied the transaction and closed the account, so the victim went to a local bank branch the following day to open a new account. However, while going through his transactions with a teller, the victim discovered 62 unauthorized transactions for $100 and