3/7/24 Southfield Sun

Police chief helps spread word on new gun laws

BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com

SOUTHFIELD — Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said he is very happy

with the new gun laws that took effect last month in Michigan.

On Feb. 13, Public Act 17 of 2023 went into effect, requiring secure storage of firearms. The new laws require gun owners

to keep unattended weapons unloaded and unlocked, with a locking device or stored in a locked box or container, if it is reasonably known that a minor is going to be on the premises.

“I have been very passionate about gun violence and gun safety, particularly the safety of our children,” Barren said. “I’m very happy about those laws. Because, again, this

See GUN LAWS on page 13A Southfield shares sustainability goals for 2024

City participates in six-year food waste elimination study

BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com

SOUTHFIELD — The Resource Recovery and Recycling Authority of Southwest Oakland County recently released their communities’ solid waste and recycling metrics for 2023, and Southfield’s recycling rate beat the state average.

“The metrics do fluctuate from year to year in part because the amount of yard waste changes with seasons,” Michael Csapo, the general manager of RRRASOC, said. “You get a rainy season or dry season, you’re going to have different amounts, and sometimes the economic conditions will control how much trash people generate.”

RRRASOC serves Farmington, Farmington Hills, Milford, Milford Township,

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

The Resource Recovery and Recycling Authority of Southwest Oakland County serves Farmington, Farmington Hills, Milford, Milford Township, Novi, South Lyon, Southfield, Walled Lake and Wixom.

Time to get outdoor spaces ready for spring, summer/4A

In search of a ‘Marvelous’ home

New location for Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum yet to be determined

BY MARK VEST

mvest@candgnews.com

FARMINGTON HILLS — For more than four decades, Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum has been synonymous with good times and a place to gather with friends and family for many local residents.

While that isn’t expected to change anytime soon, the location likely will.

Marvin’s is an arcade and museum that is currently located at 31005 Orchard Lake Road in Farmington Hills.

It is located at the Hunter’s Square Shopping Center, at 14 Mile and Orchard Lake roads.

At a Feb. 12 Farmington Hills City Council meeting, consideration of approval for the partial redevelopment of the center was unanimously approved. According to the city, the portion of Hunter’s Square that was approved for redevelopment is 186,634 square feet.

The shopping center property was recently acquired by Kimco Realty, which is North America’s largest publicly traded See MARVELOUS on page 9A

The Southfield Parks and Recreation Department hosted the 2024 Winter Fest 2-4:30 p.m. March 3 at the Southfield Sports Arena. The Southfield Police Department and Southfield Public Library also participated in giveaways and provided information for kids and adults. The family-friendly event featured ice skating, a high ropes course, a climbing wall with bouncers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and marshmallow roasting.

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The Southfield Sun is one of 21 bi-weekly publications produced by C & G Newspapers, a family-owned company serving residents in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties since 1981. We deliver our papers to more than 571,000 homes in 45 communities via direct mail.

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SECOND FRONT PAGE

Kirk Gibson Foundation partners with Yoga Moves for people with Parkinson’s

BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com

SOUTHFIELD — The Kirk Gibson Foundation, in partnership with Yoga Moves MS, launched a new program March 6, “Yoga Moves Parkinson’s,” specially designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Weekly classes are free and open to individuals of all abilities 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Wednesdays at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 27375 Bell Road.

Yoga Moves MS’s mission aligns perfectly with the Kirk Gibson Foundation, said Cameron Gibson, Kirk Gibson’s son.

Cameron Gibson expressed how crucial exercise and eating well have been for his father.

“My dad has always been a go-getter. He’s never been someone to be told to sit and just relax. And even if you did tell him, he wouldn’t listen. He has to cater to his strengths, which are working out and participating in exercises and exercise classes. And what he found was that it helped him feel better in a lot of ways. When he has a workout class, it helps him open up his chest, which helps him be taller, which helps him talk louder, which helps a chain reaction of things.”

Mindy Eisenberg, the founder of Yoga Moves MS, knows the benefits as well.

“It’s not only the yoga that has so many benefits, but it’s also the camaraderie and the support from a small group class,” Eisenberg said. “For instance, someone with Parkinson’s disease has a movement disorder, and

See YOGA MOVES on page 14A

ABOVE: Mindy Eisenberg, the founder of Yoga Moves MS, firmly believes in the healing properties of yoga and the community that comes with the practice.

RIGHT: Yoga Moves Parkinson’s is specially designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Weekly classes are free and open to individuals of all abilities at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 27375 Bell Road.

Photos provided by Dawn Kelley

HOMES

TIME TO GET OUTDOOR SPACES READY FOR SPRING AND SUMMER

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

Outside living spaces have grown in popularity over the years. As spring approaches, this is the time to start preparing lawns and gardens for “backyarding” fun.

“‘Backyarding,’ I think we came up with the term during COVID. It was the first time I heard it,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care of outdoor spaces from yards to parks. “It’s a verb meaning to champion the outdoors and creating the spaces for your particular needs.”

According to Kiser, lawns and backyards are no longer meant just to look pretty and provide curb appeal.

“We’ve worked with Realtors who have said, ‘Young people want outdoor living spaces,’” Kiser said.

These spaces are determined with a purpose in mind and tailored to the owner’s needs and desires: a Zen space, a cooking space or outdoor fun. When planning these spaces, one must factor in kids, dogs, deer and flowering plants.

Matching the right plant to the right place is the mantra of many gardeners and growers. To find the right match, homeowners must know their climate zone, Kiser said.

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently updated their plant hardiness map,” said David Lowenstein, consumer horticulture supervising extension educator at the Michigan State University Macomb County Extension Office. “Now everyone is in zone 6 in the Detroit metro area.”

“What the zone information describes is the average minimum winter temperature. Zone 6A, the average temperature is minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit to minus 5 degrees Fahrenheit,” Lowenstein said. “That means the plants can survive if temperatures get to minus 10 degrees.”

LEGAL NOTICE

CITY OF SOUTHFIELD

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NOTICE REGARDING ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE #23-01

The City of Southfeld Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding:

The appellant, Moshe Goldberg, owner is requesting the following waiver from the Board:

1. To reduce the number of required parking spaces. (24 required, 18 proposed)

The property is located on the west side of Greenfeld Rd. between George Washington Dr. and Addison St. at 24725 Greenfeld Rd. Sidwell Parcel #24-25-229-030, zoned (O-S) Offce, Services.

This appeal is to Section 5.30, Article 4, Chapter 45 of the Southfeld City Code, more commonly known as the Zoning Ordinance.

This is a public hearing. If interested, you are encouraged to appear in person. You may have a representative (attorney or agent) appear in your presence to make the Board aware of your opinion. When appearing before the Board, please speak slowly and distinctly so that your testimony may be accurately recorded.

Documents regarding this appeal are available for review prior to the public hearing. Written comments, questions and requests to review these materials must be received prior to 4:00 p.m. on the date of the hearing and should be directed to the Zoning Board of Appeals, Department of Building & Safety Engineering, 1st Floor Public Works Building, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfeld, Michigan, Telephone 248-796-4100.

The meeting will be held Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfeld.

City of Southfeld Zoning Board of Appeals

Individuals with special needs who plan to attend this meeting should contact the City Clerk’s Offce at 248-796-5150 (voice) or 354-4831 (TDD) if auxiliary aids or services are needed. Reasonable advance notice is required.

Janet Jackson City Clerk

Published: Southfeld Sun 03/07/2024

0437-2410

LEGAL NOTICE

CITY OF SOUTHFIELD ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NOTICE REGARDING ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE #24-03

The City of Southfeld Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding:

The appellant, Simcha Tolwin, representing the owner Aviva Carmen is requesting the following waiver from the Board:

1. To construct a new 2 car attached garage to a legal nonconforming single-family residence with anon-conforming side yard setback (15’ 6” proposed, 25 ft. required). And a non-conforming rearyard setback (10’ proposed, 25’ required)

The property is located on the east side of Ridgecliff Dr. between Hilton St. and Sherfeld Place. at 25120 Ridgecliff Dr., Sidwell Parcel #24-24-455-011, zoned (R-2) Single Family Residential.

This appeal is to Section 5.193, Article 22, Chapter 45 of the Southfeld City Code, more commonly known as the Zoning Ordinance.

This is a public hearing. If interested, you are encouraged to appear in person. You may have a representative (attorney or agent) appear in your

Documents

0436-2410

Outdoor living spaces are growing in popularity. Spending time outdoors can decrease stress and anxiety.

Photo by Rebecca Finneran

CRIME WATCH

Man notices missing items after a visit from pest control

SOUTHFIELD — A man reported that a pest control company was in his apartment in the 25000 block of Greenfield Road between 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Feb. 12. Later that day, he noticed that a ring and a necklace were missing.

Women take off in man’s car

SOUTHFIELD — A man told police that he met two women and invited them back to his place around 1:51 a.m. Feb. 14.

He left the women unattended in his 2019 Ford Escape while he ran back into an establishment in the 20000 block of Sherman Avenue to retrieve his coat.

When he went back outside, the women and the car were gone.

Woman chases attempted car-thief

SOUTHFIELD — A woman discovered someone inside her 2021 Dodge Charger at 2 p.m. Feb. 12 in the 17000 block of West Nine Mile Road.

The suspect attempted to start the vehicle and ran when confronted. The woman chased the suspect on foot until the suspect got into a van and drove away.

Man escapes gunmen by jumping from balcony

SOUTHFIELD — At 10:30 a.m. Feb. 21, a man went back to his apartment in the 23000 block of Riverside Drive after a night out.

When he entered the apartment. he discovered individuals he had met the night before inside his home. The suspects held him at gunpoint and began arguing with one another.

The man was able to escape by running out the back door and jumping from his balcony.

The suspects left and were apprehended soon after with the help of identification through video footage.

Man pepper sprayed while attempting to break up a fight of 50 teens

SOUTHFIELD — At 5:35 p.m. Feb. 25, a man said he discovered 50 teenagers fighting in a parking lot near Nine Mile and Beech Roads.

The man stopped to break up the fight, and was pepper-sprayed for his efforts. He saw that one of the teenagers had a handgun during the incident, but it was never pointed at him.

Hood stolen off vehicle

SOUTHFIELD — Between 12:30 and 2:45 p.m. Feb. 22, a man parked his car in the 23000 block of Northwestern Highway. When he returned, the hood of his vehicle was missing.

— Kathryn Pentiuk

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• Implants: Single/multiple teeth

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6A/ SOUTHFIELD SUN • MARCH 7, 2024

Southfield Chamber of Commerce to host 2024 State of the City address

SOUTHFIELD — The Southfield Chamber of Commerce, in sponsorship with Michigan First Credit Union and Lawrence Technological University, will host the Southfield State of the City address 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. March 25 at the Mint at Michigan First Conference Center, 27000 Evergreen Road.

NEXT EDITION: MARCH 21

The first 30 minutes will be a networking session, followed by Mayor Kenson Siver’s presentation on economic development, housing, the Northland redevelopment, community placemaking and public art.

Lathrup Village Mayor Kelly Garrett will speak on behalf of the Lathrup Village Downtown Development Authority and present awards to long-standing Lathrup Village business members.

Tickets start at $100 for members of the Southfield Chamber of Commerce and $150 for nonmembers. Lunch is included in the ticket price. Tickets will not be available at the door. For more information, visit https://www.southfieldchamber.com/state-of-the-city-address/, call (248) 557-6661 or email info@southfieldchamber.com.

Southfield Police Department accepts applications for Citizen’s Police Academy

SOUTHFIELD — The Southfield Police Department is accepting applications for the Citizen’s Police Academy until March 15.

The academy is an 11-week program running April 16-June 25 at the Southfield Police Department, 26000 Evergreen Road. The program offers insight into how police officers perform their duties and serve the community.

The academy will include presentations on criminal investigations, evidence technicians, drone operators, the SWAT team, firearm safety, defense tactics, community policing, use of force, traffic stops and the hiring process.

The program will also include a tour of the police station and the 46th District Court, a K-9 demonstration and more.

Graduates of the academy will be invited to join the Chief’s Advisory Board, which meets monthly to discuss important issues with the chief of police. Applications can be picked up at the Southfield Police Department front desk.

Nonresidents may apply, but Southfield residents will be given priority.

All applicants are subject to a background investigation. The academy will be limited to 25 participants, and there will be no cost to participate. Applicants must have their own transportation to make it to the scheduled training days.

There are no physical requirements or age requirements. For more information, call Officer Timothy Simon at (248) 796-5441 or email tsimon@cityofsouthfield.com.

Southfield Parks and Recreation hosts 2024 Daddy-Daughter Dance

SOUTHFIELD — The Southfield Parks and Recreation Department will host the 2024 Daddy-Daughter Dance 4-6 p.m. March 23 in the Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road. The event is for girls ages 2-14.

Admission costs $20 for Southfield residents and $25 for nonresidents. Both the chaperone and child must have their own ticket. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Parks and Recreation Information Desk, 26000 Evergreen Road, or online at https://bit.ly/SfldDaddyDaughter24. Payment for this program must be made by cash or charge only. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

SENIOR VENDOR FAIR RETURNS TO SOUTHFIELD

SOUTHFIELD — The Southfield Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a free Senior Vendor Fair 10 a.m.-noon March 8 in the Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road.

The event will allow seniors to discover the services and opportunities available from home health care agencies, city departments, insurance providers, senior housing facilities, and more. Seniors will be able to speak one-on-one with representatives. For more information, call (248) 796-4650

I-696 work continues with bridge work closing a portion of Inkster Road, US-24 ramp to M-10

SOUTHFIELD — The $275 million Interstate 696 Restore the Reuther project continues with bridge work closing Inkster Road, between 11 Mile and 12 Mile, and the southbound US24 (Telegraph Road) ramp to southbound M-10 (the Lodge/Northwestern Highway).

From March 4 to 18, Inkster Road was slated to be closed between 11 Mile and 12 Mile roads, with local traffic allowed to access the I-696 bridge. A shoulder closure will remain through early May. Inkster Road detours include:

Northbound Inkster Road will use westbound 11 Mile Road to northbound Middlebelt Road, then eastbound 12 Mile Road to Inkster Road.

Southbound Inkster Road will use westbound 12 Mile Road to southbound Middlebelt Road, then eastbound 11 Mile Road to Inkster Road.

From March 5 through late March, the southbound US-24 ramp to Southbound M-10 will be closed for bridge work. Southbound US24 ramp traffic will be detoured to northbound M-10, then use the crossover between 12 Mile Road and Franklin Road to southbound M-10.

This year, westbound I-696 is being rebuilt from east of Telegraph Road to Interstate 275, and both directions of traffic are currently sharing the eastbound side. The eastbound lanes were rebuilt in 2023.

For more information, visit DrivingOakland. com and select “I-696 Restore the Reuther.”

Photos by Donna Dalziel

Sustainability

from page 1A

Novi, South Lyon, Southfield, Walled Lake and Wixom.

In 2023, Southfield recycled 2,365 tons of materials, reused 380 pounds of materials, properly managed 31.4 tons of household hazardous waste and composted 5,015 tons of yard waste.

According to RRRASOC, Southfield’s residential recycling rate last year was 30.3%, higher than the Michigan average of 21%.

Additionally, Southfield spent under

half as much per capita to process 24,458 tons of solid waste — $40.91 — as the regional average of $101.51 for southeast Michigan.

In 2022, Southfield recycled 2,327 tons of materials, reused 220 pounds of materials, properly managed 35 tons of household hazardous waste, and composted 5,443 tons of yard waste. For that same year, RRRASOC reported that Southfield had a total residential recycling rate of 30.5%, which was higher than Michigan’s average of 19% that year.

“Southfield is performing higher than in many communities in Michigan and well above the statewide average,” Csapo said.

Southfield’s neighboring RRRASOC community, Farmington, recycled 873 tons of materials, reused 360 pounds of materials, properly managed 9.5 tons of household hazardous waste and composted 1,299 tons of yard waste last year. RRRASOC reported that Farmington had a 54.3% residential recycling rate.

In 2023, Farmington Hills recycled 4,618 tons of materials, reused 760 pounds of materials, properly managed 55 tons of household hazardous waste and composted 5,713 tons of yard waste. Farmington Hills had a 35.2% residential recycling rate. Novi recycled 3,946 tons of materials, reused 600

pounds of materials, properly managed 66 tons of household hazardous waste and composted 3,914 tons of yard waste last year. RRRASOC reported that Novi’s residential recycling rate was 35.9% last year.

Souzan Hanna, Southfield’s sustainability planner, said that Southfield is currently involved in a food waste elimination study with a local nonprofit, Make Food Not Waste, based in Detroit and funded by a state grant. The study officially started in January.

“It’s one of a kind,” Hanna said. “No other municipality, at this point, has published a study on food waste elimination. So

See SUSTAINABILITY on page 12A

Photos provided by Souzan Hanna

LEFT: RRRASOC recently released its communities’ solid waste and recycling metrics for 2023. RIGHT: Last year, the city of Southfield was selected by APT Solar Solutions to participate in a pilot program. The city installed 20 solar-powered bollards along the southeast pathway in Red Pole Park.

Marvelous

from page 2A

real estate investment trust, specializing in grocery-anchored, open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets, according to its website.

At the City Council meeting, a 70,000-square-foot Meijer grocery store was discussed as one of the new tenants that will be moving into that location.

“Meijer is one of the big tenants that are moving in, but I am not being displaced for Meijer’s,” said Jeremy Yagoda, who owns Marvin’s. “Meijer’s is just going to be a small grocery store format — it’s not one of the huge Meijer stores. … What exactly is going to replace me, I am not sure, as of yet. … I don’t know the exact specifics, but from what I have understood, it’s supposed to be a Meijer’s (and) a couple stand-alone buildings for mixed use — be it doctors’ offices, retail — I am not exactly sure.”

At the City Council meeting, an unspecified drive-thru-style type of restaurant was also discussed as a possibility.

Other tenants at Hunter’s Square listed on Kimco’s website include Ulta Beauty, Five Below and DSW Shoe Warehouse.

Yagoda said that there has been very little communication between him and Kimco,

with the communication that has taken place being “very un-definitive and ambiguous.”

“The latest is that I’m going to have to be out of here by the end of the year. At least that is what is presented to me so far,” he said. “I know I am here till the end of the year; whether they’re going to give me any more time beyond that, I don’t know. They’ve been very ambiguous in everything.”

Yagoda said that his reaction to the development was shock and disappointment.

“It was definitely not something that I was expecting to happen and definitely not something I was expecting to happen as quick as it is,” he said.

Yagoda took over the business after his father, Marvin, died in 2017.

He said that the business has been at its current location since 1980.

It was originally a part of Tally Hall, which Yagoda described as “like the first big food court in metro Detroit.”

After Tally Hall closed in 1988, Marvin’s ceased operations until around 1990, according to Yagoda.

He described the Marvin’s experience.

“It’s a sensory overload,” Yagoda said. “It’s one man’s passion gone wild. My father built this, not about a business. Not everything was about, ‘will this pay for itself?’ It was about him buying things that he loved and

sharing them with other people.”

Marvin’s is over 5,000 square feet and has features such as coin-operated machines, model airplanes, movie posters, collector’s items and antique memorabilia.

Farmington Hills Mayor Theresa Rich said that she has had a number of conversations with Yagoda.

“What I’ve made very clear from the get-

go is my hope that this very iconic business chooses to stay in Farmington Hills,” Rich said. “We’ve always thought that it’s a great draw for the city and it helps make Farmington Hills a destination. They’ve been a good partner with us in the city, and we hope they continue to be so.”

Yagoda expressed no ill-will toward the See MARVELOUS on page 10A

from page 9A

city of Farmington Hills for approving the partial redevelopment.

“The city’s been phenomenal to me,” he said. “This is something that the city has no control over. As long as the property owner meets the zoning and the licensing requirements, a city can’t tell a property owner who they can lease to or things like that.”

Yagoda’s hope is to remain in the same shopping center, but in a space that is approximately 10,000 square feet, with the extra space allowing for perks such as dedicated party rooms.

If things don’t work out for Marvin’s to remain in Farmington Hills, Yagoda may not have to worry about having other suitors, as, according to him, multiple municipalities have reached out to him about moving the business to their community.

“It’s really nice to be wanted,” he said. “I’d love to stay in Farmington Hills. They’ve been phenomenal to us for years, but I have to go where I’m going to find the best option for me, and where that is, I do not know right now.”

However things end up playing out, Yagoda has thought about the issue from perspectives other than his own, and he understands the business side of things.

“They say progress is good, and progress is good, but it’s not always good for everyone, and I’m the unfortunate victim here,” he said. “I’m not blaming my landlord. I’m not blaming the city. … Do I agree with it from a business standpoint,

separating myself from the picture? Absolutely. I get it.” Yagoda did say, however, that it hurts. He is not the only one who is dealing with the disappointment of having to relocate the business. He pointed out that more than 50,000 people from all

According to Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum owner Jeremy Yagoda, pictured with his son, Jonathan, more than

people have signed a petition in protest of a development that will likely force the business to move.

over the country and the world have signed a petition in protest of the development.

“It’s unbelievable to see how many people are touched by my father’s passion and what he started,” Yagoda said. “I’m See MARVELOUS on page 15A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

County highlights new park projects, program expansions

BY BRENDAN LOSINSKI blosinski@candgnews.com

OAKLAND COUNTY — The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Department is announcing several projects made possible through its $20 million Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan.

In 2022, the department approved the plan, providing funding for Oakland County to invest in local communities by creating sustainable parks and public spaces.

The Oakland County Board of Commissioners and County Executive Dave Coulter approved $15 million from pandemic relief funds the county received as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. Combined with a $5.2 million match from the parks department, this provided the parks system with funds to revitalize and enhance parks located in or servicing residents of communities most impacted by the pandemic, officials said.

During 2023, the parks department developed agreements with local entities identified in the plan, conducted public engagement sessions to gather feedback from residents, and introduced design and engineering plans. In some cases where needs were already clearly identified, improvements began immediately.

The projects, programs and other developments are highlighted in the department’s

Outdoor

from page 4A

Combining the right plant with the right soil can yield thriving results. Common types of soil are clay, sand and loam, according to Lowenstein.

“We do tend to have a lot of clay soil in our area,” Lowenstein said about the soil in Macomb and Oakland counties.

The soil types can vary in this area depending on how close you are to a body of water, according to Lowenstein.

2023 annual report, which can be viewed at OaklandCountyParks.com.

One highlight from 2023 is Pontiac Oaks County Park, formerly Hawthorne Park in Pontiac, where a new fishing dock was constructed and new programming was launched.

Other community investments in 2023 included the approval of $658,166 in grant funds to 11 communities as part of a grant program. The money assists local municipalities with planning, preliminary engineering, design and construction costs for park improvements and trail projects. It also included an expansion of the Free Entry Day program, providing increased access to health and wellness activities in the parks.

The parks department partnered with the Huron-Clinton Metroparks to offer free swim lessons at the Waterford Oaks wave pool and to remove financial barriers to swim instruction in order to increase safe water recreation.

The parks department said the funds allowed them to expand participation in Welcoming Week, with two events that highlighted immigrant inclusion in the community and provided free recreation opportunities through the Recreation Assistance Partnership Program, which serves 117,983 participants.

Call Staff Writer Brendan Losinski at (586) 498-1068

“Streams have been channeled, and they’re now underground,” Lowenstein said. “Where your house is now could have once been a wetland or had a stream nearby, and that can impact the soil type.”

The right plant for the right place is as simple as a couple of clicks of the mouse, according to Kiser. Homeowners can do research on the internet into the kind of soil they have and what plants are optimal in that environment. The MSU Extension Office also has soil testers that give the nutrient composition of the soil. The testers are available in the office or online for purchase. For

See OUTDOOR on page 14A

NOTICE OF BIDS

The City of Southfeld will receive proposals for the following item(s) until the time and date indicated: Branch and Brush Chipping Services, April 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM Local Time. Specifcations are available on https://link.edgepilot.com/s/daf6ff28/SLRuFtprT0KOIiIyPkfLtA?u=http://www.mitn.info/. NIGP codes are 968-50 and 968-88. Questions contact Purchasing at 248-796-5250.

Janet Jackson, City Clerk

Published: Southfeld Sun 03/07/2024

0457-2410

Sustainability

from page 8A

it’s taking a very drastic step in that sector of sustainability, to not only reduce food waste for the sake of saving food, but also reducing greenhouse gas emissions from wasted food. So it’s really exciting. That’s on the horizon. The study is anticipated to be completed in the fall of this year. We hope to utilize this study to obtain additional grant funding for projects that will be identified in the plan for how we can either salvage food, recycle food or compost food, so there’s going to be a lot of different strategies.”

In phase one of the study, Make Food Not Waste is leading a team to determine the resources needed to eliminate food waste in Southfield. At the end of phase one, a plan will be developed for Southfield to implement and will serve as a guide for other large cities to look to.

“We have all the right people. We’re looking at new technologies as well, to be able to implement in certain projects,” Hanna said. “So it’s definitely too early to tell what we could be doing at this point, but we’re very excited to see what the final product is going to look like and what kind of recommendations are going to come out of the plan.”

She said that in 2024, Southfield is looking to install solar-powered compacting recycling bins at the municipal campus as a pilot project.

Hanna explained that these kinds of bins are solar powered and will compact trash or recyclables when the containers become too full. They monitor in real time to

see how much recycling has been diverted from the landfill. She added that these bins have been installed in many major cities throughout the U.S. such as Philadelphia and New York City and that, currently, there are no recycling bins out in the open on city property.

“We want to raise awareness and customize the four-sided bins with some education or artwork,” she said.

Hanna added that in 2023, the Sustainable Southfield website was launched to provide residents and local businesses with resources on recycling, composting and various sustainability efforts. On the renewable energy side of things, Hanna said that 20 solar light bollards were installed along the southeast pathway at Red Pole Park as part of a pilot study with a new company, APT Solar Solutions, which is dedicated to “improving solar lighting technology by creating off-grid products.” The city is monitoring the bollards, and there is a possibility of more solar-powered bollards being installed in other parts of Southfield.

“Ultimately, sustainability is making something last for the future,” Hanna said. “So, hopefully, if we’re not really excelling in one aspect of sustainability, we’ll gradually build there, or if we are doing something really great, we’ll continue to do it. And if there’s room for improvement, we’ll continue to improve.”

For more information on RRRASOC, visit rrrasoc.org.

For more information on Southfield’s sustainability projects and initiatives, visit cityofsouthfield.com and search “Sustainable Southfield.”

For more information on Make Food Not Waste, visit makefoodnotwaste.org.

PUBLISHED LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS & SITE PLAN REVIEWS PLANNING COMMISSION

CITY OF SOUTHFIELD

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 6:30 P.M., Local Time, in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 26000 Evergreen Road, City of Southfeld, County of Oakland, Michigan, at which time and place the Southfeld Planning Commission will consider the following requests pursuant to Title V, Zoning and Planning, Chapter 45, Zoning, of the Code of the City of Southfeld, to wit:

PSLU24-0001 ( PUBLIC HEARING-SPECIAL USE) is a request of Drifter Vans, to operate a vehicle dealership to sell the custom camper vans they build at 24175 Telegraph Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-29-276-055).

PSLU24-0003 (PUBLIC HEARING-SPECIAL USE) is a request of Cloud Opportunity, IV LLC, to build and operate an adult-use marijuana retailer establishment at 28610 Northwestern Highway, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-18-226-053).

PSP24-0001 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) is a request of Cloud Opportunity, IV LLC, to build an adult-use marijuana retailer establishment at 28610 Northwestern Highway, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-18-226-053).

PSLU24-0004 (PUBLIC HEARING-SPECIAL USE) is a request of Carmita Johnson, Tots Academy Home Day Care to a group child care home at 27090 Berkshire Dr, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-15-480-009).

PSLU24-0005 (PUBLIC HEARING-SPECIAL USE) is a request of Marya Wholesale Corp, to operate a furniture wholesale and warehousing use at 23840 W 8 Mile Road Road, Southfeld, Michigan (Parcel 24-33-301-014).

Written comments may be mailed to the Planning Department, 26000 Evergreen Road, P.O. Box 2055, Southfeld, MI 480372055, prior to the meeting.

Questions regarding this matter should be directed to the Planning Department at (248) 796-4150 or tpaison@cityofsouthfeld.com

JANET JACKSON – CITY CLERK

Individuals with special needs who plan to attend this meeting should contact the City Clerk’s Offce at 248-796-5150 (voice) or 248-354-4831 (TDD). If auxiliary aids or services are needed, reasonable advance notice is

Published: Southfeld Sun 03/07/2024

Gun laws

from page 1A

is common sense. You see it play out across the country, locally and nationally. When children get their hands on unattended weapons, the weapon turns on them as they manipulate the weapon and shoot themselves or shoot their playmate.”

Barren has been involved in multiple gun lock giveaways, and attended community forums aimed at preventing gun violence, suicide and domestic violence. The Southfield Police Department has also held gun buybacks in partnership with St. David’s Episcopal Church. Barren said he is also passionate about preventing domestic violence and has participated in the Walk to Raise Awareness of Domestic Violence and helped create the Domestic Violence High-Risk Response Team, a multi-disciplinary group of public safety officials, court representatives, school officials, elected officials and community advocate organizations dedicated to identifying high-risk domestic violence cases.

He noted a recent gun incident in Michigan.

“In fact, the most recent case just came

out of Flint, where a young child got a hold of a weapon and shot herself in the head. And now that father is the first individual to face these new laws, and the penalties, from my understanding, are severe,” Barren said.

According to a press release from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, if an individual fails to store a firearm as required and a minor gains access to the firearm, then under PA 16 of 2023, they are guilty of a crime.

The law states:

• “If the minor possesses or exhibits the firearm in a public place or possesses or exhibits the firearm in the presence of another person in a careless, reckless or threatening manner: a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to 93 days or a fine of up to $500, or both.

• “If the minor discharges the firearm and injures themselves or another individual: a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to five years or a fine of up to $5,000, or both.

• “If the minor discharges the firearm and inflicts serious impairment of a body function on themselves or another individual: a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to $7,500, or both.

• “If the minor discharges the firearm and inflicts death on themselves or another individual: a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to 15 years or a fine of up to $10,000, or both.”

Charges for other criminal offenses from the incident may also be implemented in addition to those penalties.

Barren encouraged Southfield gun owners to visit the Southfield Police Department for a free gun lock. The state is still exploring gun disposal options, since it came out in a New York Times investigation that the guns collected at buybacks in Flint and Southfield were not destroyed but were instead recycled and resold. Barren said that another gun buyback is tentatively scheduled for sometime in June.

Father Chris Yaw, the rector at St. David’s Episcopal Church, has been an advocate for gun safety and shared that the gun buyback is contingent upon the Southfield Police Department’s ability to store the guns and the state’s ability to find an alternative to GunBusters, the Missouri-based company that Michigan State Police sent firearms to for destruction. It was revealed that the guns sent to GunBusters were recycled rather than destroyed.

“The latest is that there is still no reso-

lution,” Yaw said. “Not only are their coffers full up in Lansing with the state police, but they have asked municipalities to no longer send guns their way.”

Barren stated that the Southfield Police Department will still accept guns that are brought to the Police Department. He explained that people can call the Southfield Police Department and arrange a time to drop off their weapon. They must remain in their vehicle, and an officer will come out to the parking lot to retrieve the unloaded weapon.

Attorney General Dana Nessel stated, in a press release from the MDHHS that she is proud of the “commonsense gun safety measures and am committed to using the resources of my office to educate residents about the new measures and support our communities through implementation.”

For more information, visit michigan. gov/mdhhs and search “New gun safety laws.”

To contact the Southfield Police Department, call (248) 796-5500.

For more information on future gun buybacks, visit stdavidssf.org.

Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.

Yoga Moves

from page 3A

they have challenges with balance and rigidity, the slowness of movements, and posture. Yoga can address all those things, and do it in a fun way, too. We add music in and encourage questions and a little bit of interaction during class to make it fun and not too serious and have a good time.”

Yoga Moves MS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals with neuromuscular conditions — including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries and stroke — through movement and community.

Eisenberg has been teaching adaptive yoga for people with neuromuscular conditions for nearly 20 years.

Her journey with adaptive yoga began shortly after she finished her first teacher training. Eisenberg began volunteering and instructing through the National MS Society, and then her son’s nursery teacher, who has MS, invited her to lead a session at her MS support group at the Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders, or MIND, in Farmington Hills.

“I started to realize after these two

Outdoor

from page 12A

more information, see homesoiltest.msu.edu.

Kiser created an outdoor office during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to enjoy it today as it draws colorful migrating birds, butterflies and a fox.

“The office has turned into a bit of an interaction with nature,” Kiser said. “It’s a disturbance I like.”

“Whatever you have, work with it.” Kiser said. That can include everything from a potted plant on a terrace to sprawling acres with plants, bushes, flowers, fruit trees and vegetables.

A beautiful outdoor garden can attract unwanted visitors. Deer love tender young plants and flowers. According to Lowenstein, it is difficult to keep the deer away completely unless there is a high fence or other barrier.

Deer typically avoid holly and ornamental grasses, according to Lowenstein. Catmint also deters deer with its fragrant scent and fuzzy leaves. Deer usually do not eat plants with hairy leaves like lamb’s ear.

Lowenstein suggests covering new plants and flowers with a cage to keep the deer away, at least until the new plants have been in the ground a month or two.

experiences how beneficial it was — like, people felt better. The group at the MIND asked me if I would continue to teach them on a weekly basis. And here we are, I venture to say it’s, like, 19 years later, and we’re still meeting on Tuesday nights.”

Eisenberg said this is an issue near to her heart, since her mother was diagnosed with a progressive form of MS and used a wheelchair and was bedridden for most of her adult life.

She emphasized that adaptive yoga is tailored to the individual’s goals and ability level. Eisenberg added that the practice doesn’t need to be drawn out each time, and it can be as simple as taking 10-15 minutes each day to work on a few poses.

Yoga Moves MS began their partnership with the Kirk Gibson Foundation when Eisenberg met Kirk Gibson at a fundraiser for the Michigan Parkinson Foundation. She approached him about a grant to help people with chronic conditions to practice yoga. Last year, Eisenberg used the grant to launch a portal on her website with instructional videos addressing flexibility, shoulder mobility, rigidity and tight hamstrings.

This year, Yoga Moves MS received a $15,000 grant from the Kirk Gibson Foundation to provide weekly yoga classes for a year designed especially for those with Par-

A lush green lawn can be a highlight of a beautiful outdoor space.

“Lawns look green when their fertility needs are met,” Lowenstein said. “What I mean by that is, when there is a sufficient amount of nitrogen available to them.”

Fertilizer can add nitrogen to the lawn, but err on the side of caution and do not over-fertilize, Lowenstein said. Slow-release fertilizer can be used less frequently than the fast-release variety, because slow-release continues to release nutrients.

Although metro Detroit had some unseasonably warm days in February, according to Lowenstein, the time to seed and plant will be in April.

“We could still have days that could bring us freezes, frosts or even snow,” Lowenstein said. “You don’t want to be fooled by Mother Nature and plant too early.”

Now the lawn can be mowed and any debris cleared. In a few weeks, the lawn will be ready to aerate, which involves punching holes into the ground, and to scarify, which creates grooves in the soil for grass seed to penetrate, protecting it from birds, according to Kiser. Kiser said to order plants, hardscapes and pools and arrange for labor now, because they may be more difficult to come by later in the season.

Call Staff Writer Gena Johnson at (586) 498-1069.

kinson’s disease.

“We see programs like this, and they mean a lot, because we can offer these things up to the people who don’t really necessarily even know that these programs are out there for them to use,” Cameron Gibson said.

The Kirk Gibson Foundation was created in 1996 with the mission to provide scholarships to both athletes and nonathletes at Waterford Kettering and Clarkston high schools. The mission of the foundation shifted to include funding for Parkinson’s research and raising awareness for Parkinson’s disease in 2015, when Kirk Gibson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

Cameron Gibson emphasized the positive impact that exercise and yoga have on individuals with Parkinson’s, such as improving breathing, balance and flexibility, and calming their nervous system. He said that in the future, the foundation aims to open a judgment-free center for individuals with Parkinson’s to visit for exercise, resources and community.

Eisenberg encouraged anyone nervous about attending their first class to “bring a buddy and dive right in.”

For more information on Yoga Moves Parkinson’s, contact Mindy Eisenberg at (248) 417-5985 or Mindy@YogaMovesMs. org.

For more information on Yoga Moves MS, visit yogamovesms.org.

For more information on the Kirk Gibson Foundation, visit kirkgibsonfoundation. org.

Call Staff Writer Kathryn Pentiuk at (586) 498-1070.

Marvelous

from page 10A

flattered by the response and that the people started that, but at the same time I’m realistic and I understand how business works, and that wasn’t going to, unfortunately, change anything. But still, to see that many people supporting us is unbelievable, and it shows me that I don’t (want to) close. … If they were going to be dislocating a Meijer’s, a Kroger or a McDonald’s, you’re not going to get 50,000 people that sign a petition to try and stop it.”

West Bloomfield resident Emily Meretsky is one of the people who signed a petition.

“I cried out of anger and out of being upset, and I was not very happy about it,” Meretsky said. “And then I looked immediately, ‘What can I do to fix it? What can I do to help?’”

Meretsky attended Marvin’s as a child and continues to now as an adult.

“That is a historic landmark of a sort from when my parents were my age, and even younger,” she said. “They shouldn’t have to move.”

Another resident of West Bloomfield, Miriam Leary, has frequented Marvin’s during various stages of her life.

“I have memories from, basically, all parts of my life — single person, married person; now I take my kids there,” Leary said. “I hope they can stay in the Farmington or West Bloomfield area … but if they move a little farther, we’ll probably still go.”

Leary has taken notice of the community support for Marvin’s.

“I belong to several Facebook groups in the general metropolitan Detroit area, and when they originally announced right before Farmington was going to vote on whether or not to approve the plans for Meijer’s, my groups blew up,” she said. “I would say hun-

dreds of people were commenting about how upsetting it was they were moving, and the petitions were flying around to tell the city how much they didn’t want them to approve the plans.”

Rich said that the council worked together to make sure the development is something that is going to be “very positive for all and very welcoming as a destination.”

“The overall project is a fantastic thing for the city,” she said. “When you think about that intersection where we have 14 Mile, Orchard Lake and Northwestern all coming together, we are seeing some major development coming in very, very soon, and so, starting with the Hunter’s Square development, we’re going to see very much an upgraded … gateway to the city. … So, when I look at what’s coming in that gateway to the city, it will really make the city stand out as looking very modern.”

Rich provided details about what people can expect to see.

“One of the things we’re excited about with the Hunter’s Square development is, it’s going to very much uplift Farmington Hills, and that area in particular, as a destination,” she said. “We’re going to see more common areas for people to get together; we’re going to see some outdoor dining; we’re going to see some outbuildings; we’re going to see more public art. I think our residents will be very happy to see what goes in.”

Although it is still possible that Marvin’s could lease a space within the center, Yagoda said that the building is being demolished, and that there’s no changing that.

However, he also shared some words of encouragement for fans of Marvin’s.

“I am looking at other locations,” Yagoda said. “We are not going to close. That’s not an option at all. … Where we will reopen, I do not know yet.”

A representative from Kimco Realty declined to comment.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum will likely have to move from its current location on Orchard Lake Road.

Seasonal

the Clinton Township Employees Civil Service Commission, 40700 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038 on or before the close of business, Friday, April 12, 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.

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MARCH

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Building

Services, noon, register on the events page at geshermi.org, (248) 233-4299, financialhelp@geshermi.org

MARCH

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PAWS AND LAWS

and photo opportunities with celebrities have individual prices and can be purchased at the convention’s website.

The show will be hosting a live recording of Katee Sackhoff’s podcast, “Blah Blah Blah,” on May 18 and will feature a surprise guest. Sackhoff, who is known for her roles in “Battlestar Galactica” and “The Mandalorian,” as well as voicing characters in “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” and “Star Wars Rebels,” will also be a celebrity guest at the convention. Tickets to attend the podcast cost between $30 and $60, depending on the ticket level, and are in addition to the cost of general show admission.

Registration for the MC3 Adult Cosplay contest is now open. The contest is to be held at 6 p.m. May 18, and advance registration is required to participate. Prizes include MC3 fall show passes, autographed photos, cash prizes, and other exclusive MC3 merchandise. MC3 is seeking people interested in presenting a panel discussion focusing on interesting, creative topics in the world of pop culture. Those interested can apply online at motorcitycomiccon.com.

Tickets for the show are available for purchase online and range in price from $30 to $50 for an adult day pass, depending on which day and how the ticket is purchased. Tickets for children ages 6-12 and older cost $10 online or $20 at the door. Weekend and VIP ticket packages are also available for both age groups. Children 5 and under attend for free all weekend. Children ages 6-12 will be free on Sunday, May 19, for Kids Day. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to motorcitycomicon.com.

St. Clair Shores City Councilman David Rubello, center, with his beagle, Teddy, joined Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in her Lansing office on Feb. 6 for a ceremonial bill signing for “Teddy’s Law.” The package of bills, sponsored by state

Sen. Kevin Hertel, second from left, D-St. Clair Shores, and state Sen. Dayna Polehanki, D-Livonia, to the right of the governor, requires research facilities to offerdogs or cats that would otherwise be euthanized to an animal shelter for adoption, and itestablishes penalties for failing to do that.

Photo provided by Executive Office of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer