4/17/24 Eastsider

Eastpointe considering recreational marijuana ordinance

Residents voice concerns at City Council meetings

BY BRIAN WELLS bwells@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — The city of Eastpointe is considering an ordinance that

would allow it to give out a certain number of recreational marijuana licenses. While some residents have shown support, many have attended City Council meetings to voice their opposition to the ordinance.

Adult-use recreational marijuana was legalized in Michigan in 2018. However, Eastpointe initially opted out of recreational marijuana dispensaries.

In 2021, City Council passed an ordinance allowing medical marijuana facilities to open in Eastpointe. In 2022, a committee was formed to review and approve three licenses: Holistic Health Wayne, 21145 Gratiot Ave.; Moses Roses, 17375 E. Eight Mile Road; and Common Citizen, 24545 Gratiot Ave.

Now, City Council has asked City At-

torney Richard Albright to draft an ordinance that would allow recreational marijuana businesses to open in the city.

Councilwoman Margaret Podsiadlik introduced the item at the City Council’s March 19 meeting, citing economic benefits to the city. No action was taken on the item.

“I think it could be beneficial to our

See MARIJUANA on page 12A

Cartier’s Comfort Centers for Autism benefits children, families

WALKING FUNDRAISER SET FOR APRIL 27

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — When Angela and Jeffrey Carter’s son, Cartier, was 3 years old, he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Cartier, now 7, is nonverbal and is currently in a program where he is taking speech class and occupational therapy.

“He has a tablet and points to what he wants,” Angela said. “He knows how to negotiate it pretty well.”

Because there weren’t any facilities near them for Cartier to play, the Carters — who have three other adult children — opened up Cartier’s Comfort Center for Autism, located at 23358 Gratiot Ave. in Eastpointe.

The nonprofit organization provides support, resources and sensoryfriendly activities for children with autism and their families.

“I wanted to open up something for the community. I just want to

Families get together for a painting party April 9 at Cartier’s Comfort Centers for Autism in Eastpointe.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

See CARTIER on page 19A

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District looks at long-term master plan, seeks input from community

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — Eastpointe Community Schools officials are holding two input sessions this week to seek feedback from the community regarding the district’s master plan.

School officials have partnered with the strategic consulting firm Woolpert to provide an assessment of the district’s needs and to develop a comprehensive, long-term facilities plan.

Community members are invited to share their thoughts about the district’s future during an in-person input session from 4 to 6 p.m. April 17 at Eastpointe Middle School, 24701 Kelly Road.

Restaurant’s mural welcomes visitors to Roseville

BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com

ROSEVILLE — Drivers getting off the eastbound Interstate 94 exit at Gratiot Avenue in Roseville will be greeted by a new mural.

Dearborn-based traveling artist Matt Abraham, who did the painting on the side of the restaurant Wing Snob, has been doing murals for more than 20 years. He has been an artist for longer.

“I’ve been painting and drawing ever since I can remember,” he said. “My whole entire life.”

All told, the mural took about six days to complete. Abraham said he likes the challenge of large pieces.

“They don’t scare me; I get excited,” he said. “I love when people see the work. I love that thousands of people daily will see it.”

In the case of the Wing Snob mural, Abraham went off a design provided by the restaurant that the city had approved. Sometimes he’s able to provide more input into the design; it just depends on the job.

“My niche is I can create pretty much whatever you’re looking for,” Abraham said. “I’m not just stuck in one particular style. I have many different styles I can work with.”

The mural, which reads “The city of Roseville welcomes you. Est. 1958,” was approved at the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals meeting March 19.

INDIVIDUAL GAME TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Photo by Nick Powers

Mural artist Matthew Abraham touches up a mural on the side of Wing Snob April 7. The wall on Gratiot points toward Interstate 94 and welcomes drivers to Roseville.

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

The infrastructure of Eastpointe High School is one of the subjects of the facilities master plan.

Change to Board of Review term limits to be on November ballot

ROSEVILLE — The Roseville City Council added an item to the November ballot at its April 9 meeting that will ask voters if they want to make a change to the rules governing the city’s Board of Review.

The proposed amendment to the city’s charter would eliminate term limits for the board. This change addresses the challenge the city faces finding qualified candidates, according to the ballot language.

“This will allow greater efficiency to occur and ensure those who are appointed are competent and experienced in addressing the taxation matters as they may come forward before the Board of Review,” the ballot amendment states.

Three members, appointed by the mayor and confirmed by City Council, make up the board. Currently, the board members can only serve two terms or partial terms consecutively. Regular terms are for three years.

“The purpose of this board is to listen to citizens’ petitions about the assessment of their property and make decisions regarding that assessment,” the city’s website states.

The board has three regular members. Janice Carter is in her second term, David Bommarito is in his first term and Joanne Baker is in her first term. Teresa Huck is an alternate member of the board, and her term limits are the same as the other three board members. Huck is currently in her first term.

— Nick Powers

JOE MANFREDA DREAM DASH TO RUN ON ROSEVILLE STREETS MAY 11

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

ROSEVILLE — Runners, walkers, dogs, and everyone in between will be hitting the streets of Roseville May 11 as the city remembers one of its own in the ninth annual Roseville Community Schools Scholarship Foundation Joe Manfreda Dream Dash.

First taking place in 2014, the event was re-

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes Young runners at the Roseville Community Schools Scholarship Foundation Joe Manfreda Dream Dash last year on May 6 are eager to race from the start line.

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Macomb County Health Department hosting infant safety expo

MACOMB COUNTY — The Macomb County Health Department, along with the Baby Resource Network of Macomb, will host an Infant Safety Expo at the end of this month.

The expo will provide opportunities for attendees to learn information on safe sleep, CPR and choking prevention, breastfeeding, and more. In addition, attendees will receive a free gift and have opportunities to participate in a raffle for additional prizes.

Local vendors will also be on hand to provide more educational opportunities.

age of 1 to take advantage of this no-cost opportunity.”

“This is a great opportunity to get access to valuable information and educational resources that can help reduce some of the uncertainty that comes along with a new baby,” said Cheryl Woods, division director of Family Health Services at the Macomb County Health Department. “We encourage anyone who is pregnant, or a parent or caregiver of an infant under the

The event, which is free for all Macomb County parents and caregivers with a baby under 1 year of age or who are pregnant, will be held 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 27, at Love Life Family Christian Center, 17363 Toepfer Drive, Eastpointe. Lunch will be provided.

To register by April 22, call (586) 469-5520 or visit bit. ly/4awcM10.

Eastpointe has free smoke alarms

EASTPOINTE — The Eastpointe Fire Department is providing smoke alarms free of charge for residents. Anyone who receives a smoke alarm must be a homeowner in the city of Eastpointe. Residents need to schedule an appointment for pickup.

All who apply must have identification with them when they pick up their smoke alarm and must fill out a waiver. To schedule an appointment, call (586) 445-5056 and speak with Fire Marshal Alton Polk to schedule a time for pickup.

Help clean up Eastpointe

EASTPOINTE — The city of Eastpointe Beautification Commission will hold its annual Earth Day spring cleanup from 10 a.m. to noon April 20. The public is welcome to participate.

Volunteers will meet at the Bread Basket Deli parking lot at 20709 Kelly Road. Participants will clean up the medians on Kelly Road between Eight Mile and Nine Mile roads. If there is a large number of volunteers, the group may be able to expand to other areas in Eastpointe.

Scrapbooking date open to public

EASTPOINTE — Residents are welcome to attend a scrapbooking program at 2 p.m. April 18 at the Eastpointe Memorial Library, located at 15875 Oak Ave. Library staff will provide the pages and embellishments, and patrons should bring their photos. For more information, call (586) 445-5096.

CRAFT SHOW THIS WEEKEND

ROSEVILLE — The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe’s spring craft and vendor show will 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. Concessions also will be available for purchase. The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe is located at 18185 Sycamore St.

The commission members will have trash bags, gloves and trash grabbers. Volunteers may bring any supplies they would like. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page at facebook.com/CityofEastpointeBeautificationCommission.

A SWEET TREAT

ROSEVILLE — The Roseville High School Drama Society will perform Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka” at 7 p.m. April 19-20 at the Seraphime Mike Auditorium at Roseville Middle School, 16250 Martin Road. Tickets cost $12 each and can be purchased by scanning the QR Code, pictured.

Bellview students make it count

EASTPOINTE — Bellview Elementary School students recently helped raise money for Forgotten Harvest’s “Coins That Count” campaign. Each class brought in coins for the campaign, raising $731 in two weeks. Their efforts will provide 2,924 meals for local families in need.

File photo by Donna Dalziel

File photo by Donna Dalziel

Music fans tune in to Record Store Day

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — The spirit of independent record stores will make music on Record Store Day, set for April 20 this year.

Record Store Day, held internationally, was launched in 2007 to give employees and customers the chance to gather and celebrate the culture of the indie record store, including those that sell used and new titles.

The event can trigger feelings of nostalgia for anyone who grew up listening to vinyl on their parents’ turntables or met up with friends at the neighborhood shop in their youth.

It’s also a day on which artists release new music or re-release albums and CDs that have been out of print or previously weren’t available. That could include music from current bands and also from groups no longer together. Some titles are limited releases.

From the mainstream to the obscure, Record Store Day will have artists from all genres: classic rock, rap, blues, jazz, punk and country. Each individual record store owner decides what titles to order.

Several metro Detroit stores will participate in Record Store Day. It has become a tradition for record collectors to wait in line before the stores open for the day in hopes of getting that one special title they have been patiently waiting for.

“People make a day of it,” said Todd Fundaro, owner of Flipside Records in Berkley, which will be open from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. on April 20. “It’s the busiest day of the year by far.”

Flipside Records will offer discounts on used merchandise. Customers may even get a chance to see their favorite bands live this year as Fundaro will have ticket giveaways to 14 different upcoming concerts, including Santana, Green Day and Incubus.

The alternative rock group Paramore was crowned as the Record Store Day 2024 ambassadors. The musicians will pay tribute to the Talking Heads with their version of “Burning Down the House” on 12-inch vinyl; on the B-side will be Paramore’s song “Hard Times,” performed by David Byrne.

“That’s been getting some buzz,” Fundaro said.

As Record Store Day approaches, pop music’s biggest star right now — Taylor Swift

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

According to the website recordstoreday. com, the following stores in the C & G Newspapers coverage area are participating in Record Store Day:

• Dearborn Music-Farmington, 33025 Grand River Ave., Farmington.

• Found Sound, 234 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale.

• Ripe Records Detroit, 15212 Charlevoix St., Grosse Pointe Park.

• Weirdsville Records, 61 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens.

• Blast in the Past, 28071 Gratiot Ave., Roseville.

• Solo Records, 30148 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak.

• The Detroit Record Club, 28834 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak.

• UHF Music, 512 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak.

• Media Reload, 13285 Hall Road, Utica. Participating record stores are subject to change.

— will drop her new album the day before. Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department” is set for release April 19, and Fundaro expects “a bunch of Swifties” to go record store shopping to pick up the new release. “Dark Matter” from Pearl Jam is due out April 19, which could prompt fans of the Seattle rockers to hit the stores on Saturday.

Music from many other artists will come out on April 20 including selections from the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, The Doors, Linda Ronstadt, Willie Nelson, Mavis Staples, The Offspring, Public Enemy, Queen Latifah, The Sisters of Mercy and many, many more. There are singles, full albums and picture discs. A list of new releases also can be found on recordstoreday.com.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Eastpointe police investigating drive-by shooting

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — Multiple individuals were caught in a hail of bullets from a drive-by shooting at a home in Eastpointe, and police are trying to identify the suspects and determine their motive.

The incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. April 1. Police were called to the 23000 block of Kelly Road on a report of a shooting there. Upon arrival, police found multiple victims who had sustained gunshot wounds. Police immediately began rendering first aid.

Authorities did not disclose how many victims there were, nor their ages. But police said that the group was fired upon a short time prior at another location in the 19000 block of Dijon Avenue.

According to the victims, they had been parked outside a home on Dijon Avenue when a second vehicle pulled up alongside them. The occupants of the second vehicle began firing at them.

The driver of the victims’ vehicle then drove the vehicle to Kelly Road north of Nine Mile Road where he lost control of the vehicle and crashed. Police said the shooting victims have since been recovering at a local hospital.

In an email, Eastpointe Police Lt. Alexander Holish said police were trying to figure out the connection between the suspects and victims.

“At this time, we do not know the motive of the suspect or his/her identity. All victims were interviewed and indicated that they did not know why they were targeted or by whom,” Holish said.

Corey Haines, the police chief of Eastpointe, noted in

Police arrest juveniles in connection with Eastpointe stolen car case

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

EASTPOINTE — Earlier this month, Eastpointe police responded to an incident where three suspicious individuals were peering into a car parked in a driveway. The situation escalated when police arrived and the suspects fled in a getaway vehicle with three more suspects, leading police on a chase that reached its climax when the suspects crashed. After a chase on foot, all six were caught, and police seized firearms, drugs and stolen goods from them, as well.

Now, two of the six suspects have been charged by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office. All six suspects are juveniles, so their identities will not be released. At least two are facing multiple felony charges. The other four will have pretrial hearings at a later date, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.

The incident

Police were called to a home in the 15000 block of Charles R Avenue at around 1:30 a.m. April 3. When police approached the three individuals looking at the car in the driveway of a home, they ran back to a silver Hyundai with a broken rear window and no plate, which sped off. Police canvassed the area and located the vehicle traveling on North Park Avenue near Grove Avenue. Police tried to pull over the suspect vehicle, but it continued driving.

The chase that followed ended with the Hyundai crashing in the area of 10 Mile Road and Saxony Avenue, which is a little east of Gratiot Avenue. The six suspects, all

between the ages of 14 and 17, fled the damaged car on foot.

After arresting the suspects, police determined that the getaway vehicle had been reported as stolen. Also, police recovered from the suspects and vehicle two semiautomatic handguns, marijuana, multiple ski masks and gloves.

“Luckily, no one that was involved in this incident was injured,” Eastpointe Police Lt. Alexander Holish said in an email.

What’s next

Two of the six juveniles were arraigned the next day, April 4, by Macomb County Chief Referee Linda Harrison, where she granted the request of the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office to detain the two of them. The pretrial hearings for the other four had not been set at press time.

One suspect — a 14-year-old — was charged with receiving and concealing a firearm, which is a 10-year felony; possession of burglar tools, a 10-year felony; receiving and concealing a stolen vehicle, a five-year felony; fleeing a police officer, a five-year felony; carrying a concealed weapon, a fiveyear felony; altering identification marks on a firearm, a two-year felony; assaulting, resisting and obstructing a police officer, a two-year felony; and felony firearm, a twoyear mandatory felony.

In addition to the felony charges, the 14-year-old suspect also faces additional charges including possession of marijuana, a one-year misdemeanor; operating a motor vehicle without a license, a 90-day misde-

See ARRESTS on page 18A

a statement that officers also contacted and interviewed the occupants of the home on Dijon Avenue.

Shell casings were found in the roadway where the shooting occurred, and several bullet holes were found in the front of the home where the victims had been parked. Police said they were looking into leads on the suspect vehicle.

Holish said that Eastpointe police are taking the case very seriously.

“Drive-by shootings are rare, but they are extremely dangerous to innocent bystanders. Suspects discharge their firearms from moving vehicles without any regard for anyone in the immediate area. Suspects do not care where or who the bullets hit,” he said. “But even though the suspects are at large, there is no indication that they pose an immediate threat to the community.”

The investigation was ongoing.

Roseville police department receives re-accreditation

BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com

ROSEVILLE — The Roseville Police Department announced its re-accreditation by the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police at an April 9 City Council meeting.

Chief Mitch Berlin and Deputy Chief Robert Gudenau gave a presentation about the accreditation to the council.

“The accreditation process furthers an agency’s professional development and ensures that their methods, policies and procedures in daily operations form the best practices for standards in the law enforcement arena,” Berlin said at the meeting.

Berlin went on to discuss the importance of training. He said the risks of the job are high and can make or break the department’s relationship with the community.

“Training should be continuously monitored. Combining frequent scenario-based, thought-provoking training with an officer’s experience will go a long way to limiting mistakes,” Berlin said.

He said the accreditation helps build trust with the community, which is one of the greatest challenges policing faces today.

“Law enforcement derives its authority from the communities they police,” Berlin said. “Community engagement and satisfaction are vital to allow agencies to do their job. Departments need to be informed on a community and collaborate and respond to a community’s needs.”

See RE-ACCREDITATION on page 17A

The solar eclipse created plenty of excitement April 8 in Eastpointe Community Schools. With the proper safety glasses, students and staff ventured outside in the afternoon to view the rare celestial event.

Photos provided by Eastpointe Community Schools

Holistic Health Wayne, one of three medical marijuana dispensaries granted a license by the city of Eastpointe, was expected to open at 21145 Gratiot Ave.

Common Citizen, one of three medical marijuana dispensaries granted a license

the city of Eastpointe, was expected to open at 24545 Gratiot Ave.

Marijuana

from page 1A

community and our city,” she said. “I’ve worked in downtown Mount Clemens, and they have facilities down there that are beneficial. I think it’s a good idea to bring in some recreational marijuana facilities for our community.”

Podsiadlik added that while she supports the businesses currently in Eastpointe, it would be beneficial to bring in new businesses to help fill vacant buildings. She said communities like Utica have used the funds gained from recreational marijuana facilities to improve parks.

“I hope no one takes it incorrectly. I’m very supportive of our local businesses, but we need to bring business in,” she said. “There’s a lot of vacancies.”

Councilman Harvey Curley was first to voice his support at the March 19 meeting,

stating that the city would be receiving tax dollars from recreational marijuana that it wouldn’t receive for medical marijuana.

“How do I say this without thinking I’m greedy,” he said. “But I am greedy. Because with the medical marijuana, the city doesn’t get anything except maybe a business tax. But with recreational marijuana, the cities, municipalities, do get money.”

Curley said he found in his own research that about 269 different municipalities were receiving money from recreational marijuana facilities in April.

In a press release dated Feb. 29, the Michigan Department of Treasury stated that 99 cities, 30 villages, 69 townships and 71 counties would be receiving payments from the Marihuana Regulation Fund of more than $59,000 for each licensed retail store and microbusiness within its jurisdiction.

Curley also added that the increase in revenue should be given to the parks.

See MARIJUANA on page 13A

by

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Marijuana

from page 12A

“Also being greedy and interested in the parks, I would tell the council if this passes, I will argue with the administration that I think all the monies should be earmarked for the parks,” he said. “There are some parks that have nothing except grass, and that’s ridiculous. That’s terrible.”

Albright said council would need to determine if it wanted to allow more than three licenses, and if so, if the city would give preferential treatment to the three licenses already awarded for medical marijuana. Podsiadlik said that the three businesses would make more money if they opened as recreational licensees, and Curley said that he would be in favor of offering the three companies the opportunity to have recreational licenses.

“I think we should just stick with three and award recreational licenses to those that have already gotten medical licenses,” he said.

Councilman Rob Baker, who said he has never been in support of marijuana businesses, voiced concern that other businesses might sue the city if it awards recreational licenses to the three businesses instead of having an open application process.

“If we do that, you might as well put a fan in front of the window and watch your money blow right out, because there will be a number of people coming forward saying they did not have a chance to apply for a recreational license,” he said on March 19.

Residents at council meetings voice concerns, support

While the ordinance wasn’t brought up by council at its April 2 meeting, many residents took advantage of the public comment portion of the meeting to voice their support or opposition to the topic.

During the first public comment portion, which lasted about an hour, many residents voiced concerns about having to smell marijuana and how to keep children from having access. Many cited statistics that they said showed a potential for things like increased crime and decreased property value, while others cited statistics that they said showed a different result.

Many residents opposing the ordinance voiced concerns over increased crime, lower property values and the effect that marijuana can have on people.

Lynn Tubben, who said she’s been a resident of Eastpointe for 54 years, was worried about the effect that marijuana can have on youths and young adults. She worried that marijuana could lead to a number of disorders and “having lives of lower income

capabilities, greater welfare dependence, unemployment, criminal behavior and lower life satisfaction.”

“Because of your desire for additional tax revenue, you will be advocating irresponsibility to our citizens just for their profit,” she added. “And in doing so, (you will be) jeopardizing the character and stability of our city. … Our now-called ‘family town’ would soon become a place where families and businesses no longer exist.”

Karen Mouradjian was concerned about the harm that smoking marijuana could have on kids and animals in the same house, as well as concerns over the smell.

“There’s nothing responsible about smoking pot when you have kids and animals in the house,” Mouradjian said. “That puts both in harm’s way.”

“When you go to the store, you’re in the parking lot, you get out of your car, there’s that disgusting stench,” she added.

Eastpointe resident Willie Twymon asked how kids would be kept safe if recreational marijuana facilities were allowed to operate in the city.

“What are we saying to our children. … How are we going to discipline them? How are we going to do it?” she asked council.

Several residents in support of the dispensaries compared marijuana to alcohol. However, Cynthia Davis stated that unlike marijuana, alcohol doesn’t have a smell until you get close to it.

“I hear a lot of people talking about the sale of cannabis and how it relates to alcohol. Alcohol you can’t smell until a person walks past you,” she said.

Eastpointe resident Cathi Schloss said she wasn’t planning to speak at the meeting, but she wanted her voice to be heard. She stated that she wanted to see facts that show recreational marijuana is linked to an increase in crime rates.

Schloss also stated that even without dispensaries, kids can “get it anywhere.”

“If you’re worried about kids, then you have to do a better job parenting,” she said.

Michael Roth, who spoke in support of marijuana, stated that while residents will still smell it, new businesses will help with blight in the city.

“Whether it’s legal or illegal, you’re still going to smell it,” he said. “People are going to use it, abuse it. At least this way we’re going to have nice, clean buildings that are going to be taken care of. You’re going to get a tax base, and they’re also going to give back to the community.”

Council accused of bribery, addresses rumors

At the end of the meeting, Council members Cardi DeMonaco Jr., Podsiadlik and Curley addressed rumors that the council had been bribed for licenses. Council members stated that the allegations were false.

DeMonaco stated that in the first eight years he was on council, he had never been accused of anything such as bribery.

“But these last couple of items, people disagree and are just accusing blatantly the whole City Council, or just anybody involved, of bribery,” he said. “Can we please disagree without accusing each other and things like that?”

Podsiadlik echoed DeMonaco’s sentiment, stating that the allegations were false.

“With respect to bribery or any of that kind of nonsense, it’s simply not true,” she said. “The issue of recreational marijuana was requested at the council table and meeting by myself. If somebody has a problem with it, feel free to contact me. My contact information is all over the city.”

Podsiadlik reiterated her belief that recreational marijuana facilities would be beneficial for the city.

“I have been a lifelong resident, as many of you have as well, and my heart is with the city. I truly do want to see development here,” she said.

Curley took the opportunity to voice his support for the rest of council.

“We’re not on the take,” he said. “The men and women who sit up here love this city, and they are people who are honest and they want to do the best job they can.”

Curley added that council will take its

time to make a decision on the matter.

“If we go the way that you disagree, understand that we didn’t do it nonchalantly. We did it after investigating and trying to figure something out,” he said.

Eastpointe Mayor Michael Klinefelt said that while he knew there was some tax revenue involved with recreational marijuana facilities, he was more concerned about the blighted buildings in the community. He said he was also aware of the concern over what kind of activity these facilities can bring to the community.

“When I was first on council, we did a lot of research on this issue. We’re kind of diving back into it since we’re looking at it again. I also know that blight and vacant buildings bring a lot of unwanted elements to the community. So there’s a lot of things to consider,” he said. “And I appreciate everyone’s comments and concerns and I think I know I’ll continue doing my research and the others up here will as well.”

At press time, council had not yet set a date to revisit the issue, though Klinefelt said it will “probably be a couple meetings from now.

“Ordinances vary greatly from city to city so I’d say we are in the research phase of the issue,” he said in a text message.

Call Staff Writer Brian Wells at (248) 2917637.

Master plan

from page 3A

one 6-12 school.

Option No. 3 includes three PK-5 elementary schools, one 6-8 middle school and one 9-12 high school.

“Just under 100 staff took time to give their initial reactions to the themes and the plans that were presented by Woolpert,” Gibson said.

spite concerns some participants felt this option made the most sense given our financial situation and service model.”

For those who cannot attend Wednesday’s meeting, a virtual meeting is scheduled for 1-2:30 p.m April 19. Many Eastpointe Middle School and Eastpointe High School students have been selected to participate. A link for the virtual meeting will be posted on the district’s website at eastpointeschools.org, as will a QR Code, pictured.

The facilities plan is designed to address underutilized facilities, declining enrollment and annual facility budgets. The district has four elementary schools: Bellview and Pleasantview are grades 3-5 and Crescentwood and Forest Park are grades K-2.

The district’s Early Learning Center is where preschool programs are held. There also is Eastpointe Middle School, Eastpointe High School, the 8th Grade Academy, and Eastpointe Alternative Center & Virtual Academy.

At the March 25 Board of Education meeting, Woolpert presented five potential options for facilities master plans.

Option No. 1 includes three to four prekindergarten through grade 5 elementary schools and one 6-12 grade school.

Option No. 2 includes one early learning center, four K-5 elementary schools and

Dream Dash

from page 4A

named after Roseville High School student Joe Manfreda, who passed away in January of 2015. Manfreda took part in the first-ever dream dash event in 2014.

A three-sport athlete in wrestling, cross country, and track and field for the Panthers, Manfreda was active throughout high school as an athlete and as an honor student.

“Students just said he was that kind of friend, that it just felt good to be around him,” Teresa Tomala, the Roseville Community Schools special education director and president of the scholarship foundation, said. “It was definitely tragic when it had happened. I think it’s cool we’re able to remember him in that way. Hopefully he’s looking down and happy that he’s still a part of the community.”

Family members, friends and former classmates will be a few of the 200 runners

Option No. 4 includes four PK-5 elementary schools, one 6-8 middle school and one 9-12 high school.

Option No. 5 includes one early learning center, four K-5 elementary schools, one 6-8 middle school and one 9-12 high school.

More information about the five options is available on the district’s website at eastpointeschools.org. Just click on the “strategic planning” headline.

Woolpert’s assessment of the district, combined with observations from Eastpointe Community Schools officials, has put an emphasis on addressing the high school’s infrastructure within the next five years. The high school building will turn 100 in 2029.

Representatives, too, will look at a surplus capacity across all the buildings in the district and will focus on maximizing the district’s $36.4 million bond issue that passed in August 2023.

‘Please get involved and have your voice heard.’

At the April 8 Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Christina Gibson encouraged the public to get involved with the input sessions. During her superintendent’s report, she also shared some initial staff feedback that school officials have received on the master plan.

on average who compete in the annual event designed to raise scholarship money for Roseville High School students looking to further their education.

Last year, the scholarship foundation raised $4,300 and was able to provide four scholarships to students.

The event, which has the option for attendees to walk/run in the 5K or the 1-mile, will begin at Roseville High School, weave through the adjacent neighborhoods, complete two laps around Eastland Middle School, and finally finish back at the high school.

Runners of all ages make their way out in support, including World War II veteran Don Clark, who personally knew Manfreda and is a regular in the event each year.

“It’s just amazing at 97 years old and (he’s) still coming out to support us,” Tomala said.

The event organizers have been grateful for its sponsorship support from local businesses such as Jazzercise in Fraser; Freers, Freers, and Freers Law Firm in Fraser, High-

The biggest areas were building renovation, grade consolidation and the status of Eastpointe High School.

“Many participants expressed a desire to see the high school renovated, citing the historical significance and potential. However, there were concerns about the cost of the project (with) some suggesting it would be more cost-efficient to build a new facility,” Gibson said.

“The state of the building was also a point of contention with some participants describing it as unsafe or in disrepair. There was also a suggestion to use parts of the high school for a community center,” Gibson said. “While there is this desire to preserve parts of the high school, there is also a recognition of the large financial and logistical challenge involved. Some participants felt the building was a waste of resources and should be closed, while others argued it’s a vital part of the district and should be kept open.”

Gibson also touched upon the possible grade consolidation as an option. She said the idea of consolidating grades 6 to 12 in one building was met with mixed reactions.

“Some participants saw it as sensible and cost-effective, while others expressed concerns about the age gap between the students and the potential behavior issues that could arise,” the superintendent said. “De-

way Auto Parts in Roseville, Serra Buick GMC in Rochester Hills, Concetti Interior Design Strategy Studio in Detroit, Ray Electric in Sterling Heights, and the EastpointeRoseville Chamber of Commerce.

Participants will receive an event Tshirt, official timing and can enter to win in a prize raffle. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. with the race set to start at 10 a.m.

For more information on pricing and

Another concern was trying to accommodate all the grade 6-12 students on one campus.

“The elementary buildings were well received by staff to move to the K-5 model,” Gibson said. “Participants appreciate the traditional structure and feel a K-5 model will benefit our students.”

The Early Learning Center was “a topic of significant discussion,” Gibson said. “Lots of participants felt strongly that it should stand alone due to licensing, while others questioned the necessity of keeping them separate.”

At the meeting, School Board President Jon Gruenberg encouraged residents to attend the input sessions.

“Please get involved and have your voice heard,” he said. “Show up for the input sessions.”

He also said the district is not unique in having declining enrollment.

“I was talking with another superintendent of another district recently, and they have seven elementaries. All of those elementaries are roughly at half capacity,” Gruenberg said. “Over the last two census cycles, I think the state of Michigan has actually lost students. School of Choice does kind of change it a bit. We’re all suffering from the overall loss of students in the state of Michigan.”

registration, visit www.eastsideracingcompany. com or contact Roseville Community Schools at (586) 445-5505.

Pricing is $30 for adults and $20 for ages 18 and under, but prices increase by $5 if paid on race day. Register by April 26th to receive an event T-shirt. Donations are also welcomed.

Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.

NOTICE CITY OF ROSEVILLE

The charges for water service and sewage disposal service, which, under the provisions of Act 94 of the Public Acts of Michigan 1933, as amended, are made a lien on the premises to which furnished, are hereby recognized to constitute such lien; and the city shall, annually, on May 2nd, certify all unpaid charges for such services furnished to any premises which, on the 30th day of April preceding, have remained unpaid for a period of six months, to the City Assessor, who shall place the same on the next tax roll of the city. Such charges so assessed shall be collected in the same manner as general city taxes.

CITY OF ROSEVILLE

Record

from page 7A

‘There are a lot of good releases this year’

“We always have a great turnout,” said John Lehl, who owns Village Vinyl in Sterling Heights, which will open at 8 a.m. April 20. “There are 300 releases, and we should have most of them.”

For Lehl, the Mudhoney box set “Suck You Dry: The Reprise Years”’ is the title he’s most interested in. Village Vinyl recently moved from its digs on Chicago Road in Warren to its new spot at 34230 Van Dyke Ave., between 14 Mile and 15 Mile roads. Something Lehl always notices about Record Store Day is the camaraderie between customers.

“It’s a lot of people talking music and having a good time,” he said. “I think people are on the move all day bouncing from store to store. Every store has different sales.”

One piece of music people have been asking about is the release from folk-pop performer Noah Kahan.

“There’s a regular release and a split with Olivia Rodrigo, which is going to be pretty big,” Lehl said.

Village Vinyl has been in business for seven years.

“I enjoy everything about music,” Lehl said. “It’s always exciting to see what people will buy and what people will bring in. We see a little bit of everything.”

Melodies & Memories, located at 23013 Gratiot Ave., in Eastpointe, will get into the vibe of the occasion by offering a 20% discount on used merchandise all day. The store will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Village Vinyl owner John Lehl, left, and manager Adam Davey will be on hand to welcome customers on Record Store Day April 20. Pictured with them are posters from past Record Store Day events.

Record

from page 15A

“We do Record Store Day every year. A lot of the people are our regular customers,” said Dan Zieja, who owns the business with his wife, Denise. “There are a lot of good releases this year.”

Over the years, vinyl records have been the biggest seller for the Ziejas. They’ve also witnessed a recent resurgence of 45 RPM sales, and plans are underway to start stocking vintage T-shirts. Melodies & Memories recently celebrated 36 years in business.

“We’re like an old slipper,” Zieja said. “We’ve been here a long time. People know our store from all over the world.”

According to Zieja, past shoppers have included rappers Eminem and Kanye West, and Motown great Martha Reeves.

“Aretha Franklin used to shop here,” he said. “Questlove (from) Jimmy Fallon’s show was just in here.”

Record Store Day is held twice a year, in April and every November on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving.

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

Playful poochies

The Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe held a “doggie spring egg hunt” April 6 at the MiDog Park in Eastpointe. During the event, dogs looked for plastic eggs with treats in them. RARE held its doggie hunt after Easter so the weather would be warmer. BOTTOM

LEFT: Daisy, a 5-year-old shepherd mix, left, and Ray, a 1-year-old mixed breed, search for treats.

BELOW: Bobbie Jo, a 5-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound, gets into the spirit of the event.

Photos by Erin Sanchez

Re-accreditation

from page 8A

The process, according to Berlin, involves 150 standards. He said they cover a broad range of topics that include administration, investigations and arrest procedures. In order to be accredited by MACP, a department needs to meet these standards. The report states there were no noncompliance or performance issues found during the threeyear process.

“I am proud of each and every one of these fine officers,” Berlin said about the department’s re-accreditation.

The MACP concluded its report with some recommendations for the department, including expanding evidence storage, limiting access to the property room to those “with a functional responsibility” and re-

moving riot batons from reach of those entering/exiting the cell area.

The department employs 62 male officers and six female officers. Sixty-five of those officers are white, two are African American and one is Hispanic, according to the re-accreditation report’s demographics section.

“After interviews, it was determined that the agency complied with the established accreditation program standards, with the exceptions and associated waivers noted,” the report states.

“Kudos to Chief Berlin and Deputy Chief Gudenau — it’s a monumental undertaking,” Roseville City Manager Ryan Monroe said following the presentation. “I don’t think there’s enough congratulations that could be given to them.”

Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.

Photo by Nick Powers

Roseville Police Chief Mitch Berlin, left, and Deputy Chief Robert Gudenau pose with the department’s recent re-accreditation from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. The two gave a presentation at the Roseville City Council’s April 9 meeting.

Mural

from page 3A

“We’re trying to draw interest and trying to put the city of Roseville out there and our business, which is Wing Snob,” Virginia Robinson, who represented Wing Snob at the meeting, said.

Roseville Mayor Robert Taylor commended the mural at the meeting.

“I like that,” Taylor said of what would be on the mural. “Has a nice ring to it.”

Abraham, a Wayne State graduate, does murals on the walls of restaurants, schools and children’s rooms. He has his own company, Matt Finish Inc. Murals, and keeps a busy schedule, often working on more than one mural at a time. Some examples of murals he has done for restaurants include Qazzaz Coffee in Allen Park, Mokaccino Cafe in Dearborn and Ricky’s Sub Shop in Dearborn.

There’s no shortage of creativity in Abraham’s household. His two daughters are both interested in art, with one attending College for Creative Studies in Detroit. His wife, May Mokdad, is an author who wrote the children’s book “Are You Okay?”

Abraham said the response to the mural has been positive so far.

“I’ve had nothing but the best comments from the community,” Abraham said.

Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 4981059.

Arrests

from page 8A

meanor; and curfew violation under 16 years old, a 90-day violation.

The other suspect charged so far is a 16-year-old, charged with four felonies: carrying a concealed weapon, a five-year felony; assaulting, resisting and obstructing a police officer, a two-year felony; altering identification marks on a firearm, a two-year felony; and felony firearm, a two-year felony.

In a prepared statement, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said the suspects’ alleged behavior made for a dangerous mix.

“It is deeply concerning when we see young individuals engaging in such reckless and dangerous behavior. The combination

Getting it right

of stolen property, drugs and firearms poses a serious threat not only to themselves, but to the community at large,” Lucido stated. “Our priority is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our neighborhoods, and we will hold those responsible fully accountable for their actions.”

Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.

Photo by Nick Powers

The mural on the side of Wing Snob in Roseville took artist Matthew Abraham about six days to complete.

Cartier

from page 1A

share it with everybody. We try to bring the kids together, because they always want to be alone,” Angela said. “As parents, we get to talk about what we’re going through. We offer a lot of resources to people so they can get the help they need.”

Inside Cartier’s Comfort Center for Autism is an area to read books, a mini trampoline, crafts, puzzles and all kinds of games. One favorite pastime for the kids is blowing bubbles. The Carters often play music for dancing, and the young guests can also take out the portable synthesizers to make their own music. Cartier is always active when he’s at the center.

“He likes to climb and he likes music,” Angela said. “He likes shiny lights.”

The Carters hold occasional paint parties and movie nights at Cartier’s Comfort Center for Autism. One TV program that always draws in the children is “Sesame Street.”

While some activities have been established at the center, the Carters have plans to expand. Construction is underway for a new gymnasium that will include a slide and rock climbing wall. The Carters are talking about opening up respite care to offer families a break for a few hours.

“I want to start a soccer team,” Angela said. “My son, he’s a runner.”

Afrkah Cooper, 28, of Detroit, is grateful to have Cartier’s Comfort Center so close to home. Her brother, Aren Cooper, 16, was

diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at age 2 1/2. She brings her younger brother to the center on a regular basis.

“We go every two weeks or so. He loves it,” Cooper said. “We do different crafts, paint and color. He loves to eat. They always have snacks for him.”

Cooper’s mom, Artrece Cooper, spent a lot of time volunteering at Cartier’s Comfort Center. She helped organize a Christmas caroling event last December and was on hand for the Trunk or Treat Halloween event in October. Making balloon art was another pastime.

“It was a labor of love,” Cooper said. “She had so many ideas.”

Artrece Cooper died in January of this year. She is remembered by her family and also by the students in Detroit Public Schools Community District, where she was a head cook.

The Carter Family will hold its second annual Family Fun Day 5-kilometer Walkn-Talk from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 27 at Eastpointe High School, located at 15501 Couzens Ave. in Eastpointe.

The event will include activities, resources and carnival games. Participants can dress in their favorite superhero costumes. To register, visit the Cartier’s Comfort Center website at www.cartierscomfortcenter.org or call (866) 393-5519.

Cartier’s Comfort Center for Autism is always looking for volunteers and monetary donations. For more information, call (866) 393-5519.

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

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Cartier Carter, 7, enjoys a ride on the swing with his dad, Jeffrey Carter.

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APRIL 20

Craft and vendor show: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Recreational Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe, 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville, rare-mi.org, (586) 445-5480

Walk Through History: See living history display, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, mimths.org

Young Modelers Club: For ages 8-16, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society, 16600 Stephens Road in Eastpointe, mimths.org

APRIL 21

Euchre tournament: Also dinner and desserts, 1 p.m. (doors 12:15 p.m.), hosted by Eastpointe Lions but 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 27

Infant Safety Expo: Hosted by Macomb County Health Department and Baby Resource Network of Macomb, meet vendors and learn about CPR/choking prevention, breastfeeding, sleep safety and more, lunch provided, also free gift and raffles, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Love Life Family Christian Center,

children inside.

Officers said they found a 6-year-old, a 2-yearold and a 3-month-old alone in the vehicle, which was running and had the heater on. An officer found the mother — a 27-year-old Detroit woman — inside the store. She told police she had only been in the store for 10 minutes, but police said she had a cart full of groceries. The mother reportedly told police she had a license to carry a concealed weapon and her gun was under the front passenger seat, which meant the children had access to an unsecured firearm while she was shopping. Police said they ran a check on the woman and found an active felony warrant against her out of Novi for fraud. They said she also had no license plate on her vehicle. The woman was arrested and is facing possible child neglect charges. Her vehicle was impounded and the children were turned over to the woman’s brother.

Bus driver assaulted

GROSSE POINTE PARK — An unknown female assailant is said to have punched a Detroit Department of Transportation bus driver several times in the face when the driver told the suspect that she needed to exit the bus because it was at the last stop on its route in the area of Jefferson Avenue and Lakepointe Street at 9:14 p.m. March 28.

have pried open the front door to the store and stolen a cash register drawer containing $600. Before breaking and entering, police said the suspects pulled up to the stolen Chevrolet in a gray Nissan Sentra.

Package snatched

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — An unknown suspect is said to have stolen a FedEx package containing nearly $90 worth of vitamins and supplements from the front porch of a home in the 400 block of Moross Road between the hours of 5:54 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. March 27. The victim told police she received a notification that her package had been delivered, but when she checked her porch, it wasn’t there.

Intoxicated driver arrested

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — Police pulled over a 24-year-old Grosse Pointe Woods man in the area of Mack Avenue and LaBelle Circle at 11:43 p.m. March 19 after spotting him traveling 50 mph in a 35 mph zone, swerving on the road and nearly hitting a legally parked scout car.

Although the driver smelled of alcohol and had slightly slurred speech, police said he denied having been drinking. The driver was asked to recite the letters of the alphabet from D to Q, and he reportedly said, “D, E, F, G, Q.” According to a police report, the driver then told police he was “never very good at mathematics.”

After failing field sobriety tests and having a blood alcohol content of 0.17% in a preliminary breath test, the driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated. When police inventoried the contents of the driver’s vehicle before it was impounded, they said they found an open bottle of Coastal Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon, which they confiscated.

Juveniles throw rocks at cars

STERLING HEIGHTS

— Police were alerted that three juveniles allegedly were throwing rocks at vehicles from a bridge at the M-59 and Ryan Road intersection the afternoon of March 16.

Pair accused of stealing

Legos from Kohl’s STERLING HEIGHTS

— Police said a male suspect and a female suspect left Kohl’s, 44200 Schoenherr Road, after allegedly stealing a $19.99 Lego set March 17. According to store staff, the suspects have previously stolen from the store.

Lakeside Circle and arrested them on suspicion of third-degree retail fraud, though the suspects reportedly didn’t have the Lego set on them, and they allegedly wouldn’t say what happened to it.

Police settle dispute over cutting in line

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police reportedly went to a business in the 35000 block of Dodge Park Road March 16 upon hearing that someone was being aggressive and causing disorder over their placement in a line. Police said the argument involved an allegation of cutting in line and included a statement about being able to beat up one of the parties.

Police said they separated the parties and advised one of them to leave and refrain from contacting the other side. Once the parties split, police took no further action.

Women panhandle at restaurant

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they heard that two women and two girls were sitting by a restaurant’s front door along 15 Mile Road, allegedly begging for money and disturbing customers March 16. Police said the individuals were gone by the time police arrived.

Vehicle vandalized with spray paint

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 3:52 p.m. March 9, officers were dispatched to a residence in the area of 23 Mile and Ryan roads for a vandalism report. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the caller, who stated that his vehicle had bright spray-painted writing on the windows about being owed a debt. A steering wheel lock had been placed on the steering wheel. The caller stated that he believes a known business associate might have done this to his vehicle, according to the police report. Police were