4/24/24 Sterling Heights Sentry

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — In a split 4-3 vote, the Sterling Heights City Council approved deals April 2 that will transfer received grant money to Lakeside Mall’s ownership to resolve real estate negotiations needed to get the Lakeside area’s redevelopment process moving forward.

The council action approved an agreement with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and a subagreement with Lakeside Out of the Box Ventures LLC — Lakeside’s ownership — so that Lakeside can use a $3 million grant toward acquiring property on the site. City officials said the property acquisition is essential to the mall area’s redevelopment.

When the final vote came, Mayor Michael Taylor, Mayor Pro Tem Liz Sierawski, and councilwomen Barbara Ziarko and Maria Schmidt voted yes. Councilwoman Deanna Koski and councilmen Michael Radtke and Henry Yanez voted no.

Sterling Heights officials have long wanted to see Lakeside Mall redeveloped, due in part to the mall’s decline amid changes in shopping trends. In November 2022, the City Council heard the mall ownership’s plans to demolish the main mall complex and at least some of the department stores in order to

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — No matter what sport or what team, a Macomb Area Conference Red game is going to be a dogfight.

A team could be winless in the league, but the op-

posing team will still treat them as if they’re one of the top programs in the state.

For Sterling Heights Stevenson baseball, winning a MAC Red title last year, going 13-1 in the league, for the first time since 2017 meant everything.

Only problem is when conference play is over, the

ABOVE: Sterling Heights Stevenson senior Ty Jenkins makes contact with the ball.

RIGHT: Sterling Heights Stevenson junior Ryan Rumble pitches during a matchup against Macomb L’Anse Creuse North April 6 at Stevenson High School.

by Erin Sanchez

Parkway Christian School in Sterling Heights is celebrating 50 years in education, including the years under its predecessors, Bethesda Christian School and Zoe Christian Academy. Alongside the occasion, it is bringing back its Parkway International Family Fun Festival May 3.

Parkway festival returns this spring

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — After a multiyear hiatus, it’s finally time for a major springtime festival to come back to Parkway Christian School. The school plans to host its Parkway International Family Fun Festival 4-8 p.m. May 3. According to the school’s community liaison, Kerry Jantz, the

See PARKWAY on page 13A

UP TO THE CHALLENGE

On April 11, approximately 110 students from the Warren Consolidated Schools Middle School Mathematics Science Technology Center attended a “Fluid Challenge” at the South Campus of Macomb Community College in Warren. The challenge gave the students the opportunity to build and operate their own tabletop pneumatic machines from kits. After the machines were constructed, the students participated in engineering competitions.

Photos provided by Macomb Community College

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Church to offer prescription drug drop-off

St. Michael Catholic Community, 40501 Hayes Road, will hold a Drug Enforcement Administration National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 27.

The event will have a curbside drop-off area where participants may part with their expired, unused or unwanted medications. According to organizers, the medications will then be safely disposed of.

Learn more about this event by visiting stmichaelcc.org/ events or by calling (586) 566-4487.

is free, and participants are urged to bring cash for buying items. Learn more by visiting sterlingheights.gov and typing “Treasure Hunter’s Market” in the search bar, or by calling (586) 446-2700.

PARK IMPROVEMENTS APPROVED AT COUNCIL MEETING

On April 16, the Sterling Heights City Council unanimously approved park improvements at Mark Sawyers Family Park and Magnolia Park in its consent agenda.

According to city officials, Sawyers Park will get replaced and expanded asphalt pathways, and the city will resurface Magnolia Park’s existing pickleball court and install a second one there.

“We cannot build these quick enough,” City Manager Mark Vanderpool said about the pickleball courts at the April 16 meeting. “They are so popular. It is the rage now with individuals of any age group.”

City documents show that the combined cost of the approved improvements will be $93,917.61, and the bid for the work went to Shelby Township-based Warren Contractors & Development Inc.

Learn more about the Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation Department by visiting myshpr.net or by calling (586) 446-2700.

STREET SWEEPING TO BEGIN SOON

According to city officials, the Sterling Heights Department of Public Works plans to start sweeping all city roads and streets either later this month or in early May. Officials said the goal is to go around the city sweeping major roads first and then neighborhood streets, with the goal of making four trips around by the end of November or early December. Learn more about the DPW by visiting sterlingheights.gov and typing “Public Works” in the search bar or by calling (586) 446-2440.

Chaldean foundation to host job fair

The Chaldean Community Foundation, 3601 15 Mile Road, will host a career fair 3-5 p.m. May 1 featuring employers from various industries, including banking, cosmetology, education, hospitality, law enforcement, manufacturing and retail.

The public is welcome to attend the event for free. Job seekers are encouraged to dress professionally and bring a resume in order to apply for jobs, partake in interviews and network. Learn more about the foundation by visiting chaldeanfoundation.org or by calling (586) 722-7253.

File photo by Erin Sanchez

THURSDAY:

SATURDAY:

Municipal group praises city staffers’ DEI work

ZIARKO, RADTKE GET MML LEADERSHIP AWARDS

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — Two organizations that promote Michigan’s local governments have recently honored Sterling Heights leaders and staff.

At a March 19 Sterling Heights City Council meeting, the council voted unanimously to celebrate City Manager Mark Vanderpool and the city’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employee Council.

Those city workers recently earned a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award from the Michigan Municipal Executives group, an affiliate organization of the Michigan Municipal League.

According to the city, the award honors officials who incorporate DEI into their communities in ways that help people of various races, religions, genders, sexual orientations and more.

The city lists 10 of its staffers on the

DEI council: GIS Specialist Arewa Hussain, Civil Engineer II Nick Holly, Assessing Coordinator Victoria Willis, Parks and Recreation Senior Clerk Bozena Saladiak, Fire Inspector Tracy Davis, Water Service Worker Ron Pickett, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Marissa Russo, Firefighter Ashley Brouwer, Assistant Building Official Rick Thomas and Police Officer Lamar Kashat.

Mark Wollenweber, from Michigan Municipal Executives, congratulated Vanderpool and the DEI council.

“It’s really nice to see the inclusion of police and fire folks,” Wollenweber said.

When it was his turn to make remarks, Vanderpool said he is “super proud” of the city’s DEI programming, particularly its comprehensive DEI strategic plan. He credited that plan for attracting and keeping quality workers in a diverse workforce; providing chances for growth, development and continuous learning; “fostering a fair and equitable workplace”; and more.

“Our DE and I plan is also providing growth and development opportunities for all employees across the organization,” Vander-

pool said. “DE and I is not just about our diverse group — it’s about all of our employees.”

Vanderpool said he wanted to accept his award with the City Council and DEI council.

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“While I’m being recognized this evening, it really is our DE and I and employee council, our HR manager Kate Baldwin, the

7A

Photo provided by the city of Sterling Heights Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool and members of the city’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employee Council receive a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award from the Michigan Municipals Executives group Jan. 31 in Lansing.

See DEI on page

CRIME WATCH

Fighting reported near 15 Mile and Ryan

Two individuals reportedly had been seen fighting without any visible weapons April 7 at a plaza in the 3000 block of 15 Mile Road, near Ryan Road, though a witness reported that they seemed to be in the process of driving off.

Police said they did not see any combatants by the time they arrived, and bystanders reportedly denied witnessing any fighting.

Busker told to leave business

A solicitor was reportedly playing a violin and asking for money at a business in the 43000 block of Schoenherr Road, near Canal Road, April 8. According to police, the business’s property manager said the busker had been asked to leave before, and the complainant wanted him evicted. Police said they contacted the violin player, who then departed.

Juveniles accused of trashing parking lot

Police heard a tip April 7 that some young children had allegedly thrown trash

onto the parking lot near Walmart, 44575 Mound Road, by Dobry Drive, before leaving on foot. Police said they didn’t spot the kids by the time they arrived.

Juveniles suspected of mischief playing with frog

Police said they investigated a potential mischievous juvenile case at around 10:45 p.m. April 8 regarding multiple minors who were at the bridge in Dodge Park, 40620 Utica Road.

Police said the juveniles were “playing with a frog,” though officers did not specify what happened next in the report.

Police investigate report of imminent bar fight

Two men were allegedly preparing to fight at a bar in the 44000 block of Hayes Road, near M-59/Hall Road, March 24. Police said both sides were gone by the time they arrived, and the bar’s management said there were no further issues.

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

— Eric Czarnik

from page 6A

mayor and the City Council who have made our DE and I plan successful,” he said. “The City Council has funded the plan. They’ve been big supporters of the plan.

“And

as we know, DE and I plans can be controversial for organizations and those who really do not understand the impor-

C & G Newspapers

tance of a workforce centered on DE and I principles that have been highlighted this evening. And I’m grateful for everyone’s contribution to this good work.”

Councilwoman Barbara Ziarko praised Vanderpool because “you always make us look good.”

“Thank you so much for all the efforts that you put in, because we all reap the benefits of it,” Ziarko said.

Vanderpool wasn’t the only city official

to recently get recognition from statewide municipal groups. In March, the city announced that two City Council members — Ziarko and Michael Radtke — got Level 2 leadership awards from the MML’s Elected Officials Academy. In order to get their certificates from the program, they had to earn enough credits. According to the MML’s website, the program lets its participants earn credits by, among other things, attending conferences and participating in

leadership activities.

According to its website, the MML represents over 500 municipalities in the state, and the group’s mission is to teach its members and advocate for them.

Learn more about the MME by visiting mme.org. For more information about the MML, visit mml.org.

Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.

Striking a strong note

LIBRARY HOSTS OUTDOOR MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

STERLING HEIGHTS — As the weather continues to warm up, Sterling Heights officials hope a new outdoor feature will be music to the ears of librarygoers and residents.

On April 16, Sterling Heights City Council members and other city officials gathered at a ribbon-cutting ceremony outside the library to celebrate the recent installation of new interactive outdoor musical instruments. The instruments, which include drums and a rainbow-colored xylophone, are located near an outdoor chessboard that the library maintains.

During the event, council members tried their own hand at musical improv, and Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor had words of praise for the new amenity.

“And it’s just a cool thing to do,” Taylor said. “When you’re walking by and you see some colorful musical instruments, kids, adults, teens — you name it — can come out here and enjoy the library and enjoy this space in a unique way.”

City officials say the outdoor instruments underscore the city’s commitment to a key core value from its 2040 Visioning Plan: “Fun!” with an exclamation mark. According to Sterling Heights Community Relations Director Melanie Davis, the instrument installation cost the city around $13,000.

Library Director Tammy Turgeon told the Sentry that the library picked the setup’s xylophone, conga-like drums, sunflower pedal drum and bell-like butterfly instruments for their approachability.

“I definitely wanted the xylophone … with the colors on it and the music book

that corresponds with the colors,” she said. “And then I wanted the big drum set, so we can have multiple people playing the instruments together.”

Besides drawing attention to the instrument display April 16, council members and the Sterling Heights Beautification Commission also celebrated a tree planting by the library to mark Arbor Day and the city once again earning the Tree City USA Award.

Learn more about Sterling Heights by visiting sterlingheights.gov, or find out more about the library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, by visiting shpl.net or by calling (586) 4462665.

Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.

Photo by Erin Sanchez A rainbow-colored xylophone comes with a music book as part of Sterling Heights’ outdoor musical instrument setup, which is located by its public library.

Baseball

from page 1A

state tournament is just another repeat of the Red division all over again.

Stevenson (8-3) cruised to a district championship before falling to league rival Macomb Dakota in the opening round of regionals, and before Dakota it was Utica Ford II playing the villain role the past three state tournaments in districts.

The only thing more difficult than winning the league is defending it, and with a 1-1 record already in the league courtesy of a series split with Dakota, Stevenson is hoping its array of talented arms in the rotation will lead the Titans back to a league title.

“I think the frontline pitchers in all the leagues are good on Tuesday,” said Stevenson head coach Joe Emanuele, entering his 27th year at the helm. “Maybe they’re solid on Wednesday, but the Thursday game is the difference. In our league, you still got a pretty darn good pitcher on that Thursday, so there’s really no breaks. It forces you to have to get ready to play every single day. It’s a mental thing, it’s a toughness thing, and it does get you prepared for, and we always

talk about how you have to win two for a district, maybe three, but you have to win two for sure. Then you gotta win that third game to get to the regional. We expect every time we play those games that they’re going to be a one-run game, and we get used to it by playing in a tough league.”

The Titans’ rotation is led by senior Ty Jenkins, who threw a complete game against Dakota April 15, earning 10 strikeouts and leading his squad to a 3-1 win.

Jenkins, the ace last year for Emanuele with a 8-1 record and a 1.45 ERA, headlines a skillful Titans staff alongside senior Vance Labrake, senior Jacob Turner, junior Ryan Rumble, junior Scott Leonard, junior Brett Leonard, junior Jordan Miller and junior Alex Pierce.

Scott Leonard (2.30), Pierce (2.68) and Rumble (1.87) all carried a sub-three ERA for the Titans staff last year.

On the offensive side, senior Brock Savage is the veteran leader for a stout lineup consisting of Brett Leonard (P/INF), junior Jake Leonard (INF/OF), senior Cameron Simms (OF), junior Carson Sweet (C), Pierce, Scott Leonard (P/INF), Jenkins (P), Labrake (P/OF) and Turner (P/1B).

Emanuele said Jenkins and Savage are

both guys who understand the expectation of the program and what it takes to win.

“Both (Savage and Jenkins) were contributors last year, and then they took a great leadership role,” Emanuele said. “They kind of run the team. I bounce a lot of stuff off those two, who are captains along with Jake Leonard. The two seniors have really taken it and ran with it. They ran our weight training. They were kind of the leadership of our weight training. The senior class has been excellent. We got a bunch of baseballhungry guys.”

Sweet has excelled behind the plate, but was equally as dominant with the bat in 2023, hitting .358, while Savage (.319), Brett Leonard (.309), Jake Leonard (.324), Rumble (.337), Simms (.310) and Labrake (.636 in 15 plate appearances) all hit above .300 last year.

Given their ability to throw a plethora of guys on the mound at any time and their ability to hit from top to bottom, the Titans should be a threat to repeat in the league.

Stevenson has had plenty of success under Emanuele, winning a state title in 2005 and making the state semifinals in 2011 and 2013, and this year should be no different for Stevenson, given their roster.

At the end of the day, Emanuele said, it all boils down to the culture and standard the baseball program has in place.

“The calling card for our program is their work ethic,” Emanuele said. “It’s kind of been something that happens every year. A new group comes in and they follow the same idea of if you’re going to be in this program, you’re going to work hard and come to work every day. You’re going to grind. You’re going to get stronger in the eight room. You’re going to work on your baseball skills. This is a year-round program, and I think just that whole mentality has been developed and instilled for a long time. The good thing is that they embrace it. Each year you get a new group of leaders, and they just follow the guys before them.”

Call C & G Sports Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DETROIT STAGES 1 FINAL SHOW HOUSE

BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com

GROSSE POINTE CITY — Metro Detroiters will have one final chance to see interior designers work their magic on a majestic home when the Junior League of Detroit hosts its 25th — and final — biennial Designers’ Show House in May.

Located at 315 Lakeland Ave. in Grosse Pointe City, the almost 8,500-square-foot Tudor home will be open for tours May 4-19. A ticketed preview party that’s also open to the public will take place from 6:30 to 10 p.m. May 3 and will include cocktails, heavy appetizers, an open bar, a DJ and dancing, a raffle, a silent auction, and valet parking.

Almost 20 designers and artists were chosen to make over the home, which was built in 1929 for Dr. J. Milton Robb and designed by acclaimed architect George D. Mason.

Visitors can get ideas for things they can do in their own homes, from surprising color and pattern mixes to furniture arrangements that are both beautiful and functional.

The living room, as envisioned by Loretta Crenshaw, of Crenshaw & Associates, is an elegant oasis with lots of green and cream, including multiple seating areas, an inviting window seat and an olive green velvet couch.

“Loretta’s specialty really is layering things — textures and colors,” Show House Co-Chair Ann Baxter said.

Although the designers work independently, threads appear each time that tie the whole home together. This year, those threads include tactile fabrics like velvet and boucle; deep, rich colors — especially shades of green — offset by cream and white; gold and bronze accents; and nods to the Scottish and German ancestry of original homeowner Robb and his wife, with plaid in particular popping up repeatedly.

“Every room is going to need some investigation,” Show House Co-Chair Julia Keim said. “There’s so much to see in every room. We’ve got a great roster of designers.”

Laura Zender, of Laura Zender Design, created a sustainable nursery with vintage dressers, organic and sustainable toys, wallpaper using sustainable paper, children’s books from a book recycler, and low chemicals and volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. With its soft colors and whimsical touches, the room is warm and inviting.

“I wanted to show we could do a room that was beautiful and with a lot of personality,” Zender said.

In a nod to Show House history, the hallway leading to the master bedroom includes framed photos — designed by Michelle Boggess, of Posterity Art & Framing Gallery — of rooms designed by Hudson’s for these houses.

A sleek closet showcasing showstopping shoes and apparel was designed by Kelly Osten, Aubrey Crawford and Ashlynn Robinson, of Closet Connections.

“Our inspiration was designing for a modern woman who was working and traveling quite a bit,” Osten said.

Alexandra Decker, of A Decker Design, brought color and life to a small room she made appear larger by hanging the striped wallpaper horizontally instead of vertically and wallpapering the ceiling.

Unexpected details abound, from wallpaper with fringe to a chandelier made of cobalt blue Murano glass to a painting hung in front of a window. Without the strictures imposed by a client, the designers are free to do whatever they feel best suits the space

TOP: Pops of color, like olive green, stand out against the cream and off-white furniture chosen by Loretta Crenshaw, of Crenshaw & Associates, for the elegant, expansive living room. ABOVE: Kelly Osten, of Closet Connections, stands in the closet she designed with Aubrey Crawford and Ashlynn Robinson for the show house. LEFT: A sustainable nursery by Laura Zender, of Laura Zender Design, includes a light fixture made with seashells.

and their artistic aesthetic.

“The designers are designing for themselves,” Keim said. “It’s never happened (with previous Show Houses) to the degree it’s happened in this house. … One of the beauties of the Show House is a designer can step out of what they’re known for and do what’s in their head.”

Held every other year since 1976, the Show House has been the JLD’s biggest fundraiser and has raised more than $4.5 million for programs and projects in Detroit. The JLD, which was founded in 1914, also awards community grants and, since 2014, scholarships to young women.

Keim said this last house is “very bittersweet” because a coming generation of JLD members won’t have this experience, which has fostered lifelong friendships because of the time commitment needed to put on a Show House. The challenge of securing numerous volunteers with lots of time available is one of the reasons the Show House tradition is ending.

“We feel this is going to be one of the top (Show Houses) as far as design,” Baxter said. “We want everyone to see this. The designers are going out on a high note with this one.”

JLD leaders said their mission of raising funds for needed initiatives will continue.

“We look forward to everyone joining us to celebrate this beautiful show house and support our mission of doing good in the community,” JLD President Mary Hollens said in a prepared statement. “We have incredible plans that will allow the Junior League of Detroit to more fully invest in projects and programs that continue to change lives.”

Show House tickets cost $35 before May 4 and $40 afterward. A café and gift shop will be open to Show House ticketholders and non-ticketholders alike. For Show House or preview party tickets or more information, visit jldetroit.org or call (313) 881-0040.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Parkway

festival had been a yearly staple of Parkway’s school calendar – until the COVID-19 pandemic caused the event to be canceled.

But administrators have decided the time has now come to bring back the event.

“Obviously, it was supposed to happen in 2020,” Jantz explained. “We didn’t do it in 2021. We didn’t do it in 2022. With this year being our 50th year in education, our head of schools said, ‘Hey, I want to bring this back.’”

According to school officials, in 2006, Parkway emerged as the result of a merger between Bethesda Christian School and Zoe Christian Academy, and all their combined school years make up the 50 years in education.

Jantz explained how the fun festival is a social event for the school community.

“One of the nice things about this event is it’s one of the first events where we have new students right now – we’re in enrollment mode. When we get a new student that enrolls in Parkway, a lot of times this is the first event they go to to meet other Parkway families,” Jantz explained. “So from that perspective, it’s always a good thing to happen.”

According to Kristen Grau, Parkway’s event coordinator, enrollment for students from 3-year-olds to grade 12 is around 550, and the school hopes to get around 600 students for this upcoming fall.

Grau said the fun festival will feature an international food court that will serve food from local restaurants, including Chick-filA, Buffalo Wild Wings, LongHorn Steakhouse, Olga’s Kitchen, Freddy’s Bar & Grill, Isla Detroit, and Jersey Mike’s Subs.

School officials said the event will also feature plenty of amusements for kids to enjoy, including inflatable bounce houses and carnival activities.

“We’re going to have a bunch of games and competitions and arcade games for kids,” Jantz said.

Grau further elaborated on some of the activities in store for those who go.

“Both of our gyms will have activities,” she said. “We’ll also have games and balloons. We’ll have some presentations going on: a karate studio, dance studio, a reptarium with pet-the-animal type of things.”

Organizers will also hold a silent auction and sell tickets for a chance to win class gift baskets. Grau said that while festival admission is free, people can buy punch cards for food, wristbands for the activities and tickets for gift baskets.

Besides the fun festival, the school is also getting ready to start a capital campaign project so it can build an athletic complex on its campus, Jantz explained.

“We got some bids in 2020. We were ready to launch this, and COVID happened,” Jantz explained. “Our original estimate was a little over $6 million. A little over four years later, it’s $10 million, just because of inflation. We’re going to start a campaign (for) fundraising.”

Jantz said the school has football, soccer and baseball fields but wants improvements such as an eight-lane track, permanent lighting, permanent stands, a concessions area, a training room and a room to get medical care. Amenities such as these will make it better equipped to hold regional and divisional sports events, he explained.

Learn more about Parkway Christian School, 14500 Metropolitan Parkway, by visiting parkwaychristian.org or by calling (586) 446-9900.

Parkway’s Upper School Dean Eric D. VanHouten and Elementary School Principal Sarah Holmgren celebrate 50 years in education.

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Lakeside

from page 1A

create mixed-use neighborhoods with apartments, retail shops, green space, a community center, a hotel and more on an estimated 110 acres.

But during the April 2, 2024, meeting, Sterling Heights Economic Development Adviser Luke Bonner explained that Lakeside’s ownership has reached a roadblock.

According to him, the mall ownership must have control of and have support from all of the real estate on the site before it can submit a planned unit development application and apply for certain state incentives.

Currently, Lakeside’s ownership doesn’t own the vacant Sears and Lord & Taylor properties, and those properties’ owners have reportedly been engaged in unique and prolonged acquisition negotiations, Bonner said.

Bonner said the city asked state Rep. Nate Shannon, D-Sterling Heights, for help to get grant money to create a breakthrough in the acquisition process for Sears and Lord & Taylor. He said Shannon helped secure a $3 million MEDC economic development grant that was narrowly tailored and limited to redeveloping a shopping center in a city of Sterling Heights’ size.

Bonner said he thinks the grant money will be key to progress.

“This $3 million is going to be used to put deposits down on two parcels to allow Lakeside to go through our PUD process and go through the incentive application process to get everything settled and adopted and approved so that they can move forward with closing on those properties and then eventually moving forward with the redevelopment of Lakeside,” he said.

Bonner added that the $3 million is not enough to actually buy those two properties, which he estimated could cost around $20 million. He emphasized that the city is not buying these properties and that the agreement is “essentially transferring risk of property acquisition to Lakeside.”

During public comment, resident Paul Smith criticized the grant transfer proposal and characterized it as “gambling the people’s money on a losing deal.”

Radtke said he opposed the plan, not because he opposes the Lakeside project or thinks it’s a “bad bet,” but because he wishes that the $3 million could’ve been used toward trees, roads or other needs, instead of transferring the funds “to a private corporation.” He also said the city shouldn’t have asked Shannon for the $3 million and should’ve sought it through another method.

“In my opinion, there are so many more needs that are higher priority than giving

Box Ventures LLC could not be reached for comment by press time.

Find out more about Lakeside Mall, 14000 Lakeside Circle in Sterling Heights, by visiting shop-lakesidemall.com. To learn

Lakeside more money,” Radtke said.

Radtke said he was frustrated by Lakeside’s ownership and the delay over having the PUD ready. Bonner confirmed that the redevelopment plan is about a year behind schedule, but he said the city has been frequently talking to Lakeside and credits them for “keeping the nose to the grindstone and continuing to push forward.” Bonner said he believes they will be ready, “conservatively, in the next 60-90 days” to submit the PUD application.

Schmidt said the timeline had been ambitious and that it’s understandable for it to be a year behind. Taylor said he is also frustrated and wishes that the process could’ve moved more quickly. But he said these kinds of business deals are complex, and, “We’re going to get through it.”

Taylor added that while $3 million is big money, he strongly supports Lakeside as a long-term, transformational investment and has “very little doubt” it’ll eventually bear fruit for residents and taxpayers.

“This is going to create a lot of revenue,” Taylor said. “Now the TIF (tax increment financing) is going to take some time to be paid off, but once it is, it’s going to generate millions and millions and millions of dollars in annual revenue to the city of Sterling Heights.”

During the same meeting, the council voted unanimously via the consent agenda to accept consulting firm Plante Moran Realpoint’s $162,000 proposal to do consulting, financial review and analysis for the mall redevelopment project.

A representative for Lakeside Out of the

about Sterling Heights, visit sterlingheights. gov.

Learn more about Lakeside Out of the Box Ventures by visiting ootbventures.com.

Call Staff Writer Eric Czarnik at (586) 498-1058.

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN APPLICATION FOR AN INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE

The City Council of the City of Sterling Heights will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, situated within the City Hall located at 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, Michigan to consider the application by Universal Tool Equipment and Controls, Inc. for an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certifcate at 42540 R Mancini Drive. PROPERTY LEGAL DESCRIPTION

Mancini Holdings 42540 LLC LEDDS ENTERPRISES INDUSTRIAL PARK CONDO UNIT 7 MCCP: 858

Parcel Identifcation No.: 50-10-10-09-251-007

0319-2417

Legal Notice Invasive Species Control Planned

To maintain environmental quality and public health and safety, Macomb County, Oakland Water Resources Commissioner, and various local governments working with the Lake St. Clair Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, will be treating the invasive plants at the Red Run Drain, Sterling Relief Drain, Freedom Hill, Bethesda Church, and Consumers Energy parcels in the cities of Warren and Sterling Heights between May 1, 2024 - October 15, 2024.

Areas for treatments include sections of the Red Run Drain easement between Dequindre Road and Utica Road, sections of Sterling Relief Drain East of Schoenherr Road, areas within Freedom Hill Amphitheater, the southern section of Bethesda Church’s property, and Consumers Energy parcel between Bethesda Church and Freedom Hill. For maps identifying treatment locations, visit https://www.lakestclaircisma.com/menu/learn/invasive-species-management/control/treatment areas

The contractor listed below will be performing the treatments and can be contacted with questions about the chemical products used and method of application:

• PLM Lake & Land Management, 800-382-4434, 10785 Bennett Drive, Morrice, MI 48857, https://www.plmcorp.net/

This notice is being circulated in accordance with Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) procedures. EGLE permitting restrictions, national holidays, and/or weather conditions, may infuence the timing of treatments and is therefore approximate. Below is a list of herbicides that may be applied and the associated use restrictions. On the day of treatment, 8.5x11 inch, yellow signs will be posted periodically, that indicate the date of the treatment, the products used, and any specifc restrictions that apply.

Permit: ANC9430165v1.0

Herbicides Planned for Use:

Clearcast (imazamox), Renovate 3 (triclopyr), Aquaneat (glyphosate), Cygnet Plus as an adjuvant (drift control, surfactant) and PLM Blue Dye (marker of treatment).

Method of Application:

Applications to dense, herbaceous growth will be foliar applied by hydraulic spray equipment. The herbicide will be tank mixed. Individual plants will be carefully treated with a hand wick or cut stump application.

Re-Entry Restrictions:

Do not enter treated areas until the spray has dried.

This advance notifcation is a requirement that a commercial applicator must make before a foliar application of pesticides for community or right-of-way pest management to persons who own or reside on property that is within the target area or to their authorized representatives. Prior notifcation shall be provided by the commercial applicator or his or her agent.

The chemicals used for Aquatic Nuisance Control are registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Michigan Department of Agriculture. The potential for damage to fsh and other non-target organisms is minimal when the product is used as directed on the product label and the permit. To minimize the possible effects on health and the environment, the treated area is restricted as noted above.

For more information, contact the Lake St. Clair Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, 1 South Main, Mount Clemens, MI 48043, CISMA@macombgov.org, 248-504-4315

Published in Sterling Heights Sentry and Warren Weekly 04/24/24

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes City officials say Lakeside’s ownership has faced a challenge in trying to acquire the vacant Sears and Lord & Taylor properties, which has held up progress toward redeveloping the Lakeside area into a mixeduse town center.

The Cousino High School marching band performs at the Twinkle Town debut Nov. 9, 2022, at Gardner White Furniture in Warren. The Warren Consolidated Schools district was recently honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation. The Best Communities for Music Education selection is awarded to school districts that display outstanding achievement to provide music access and education to all students.

WCS recognized nationally for music education programs

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

WARREN/STERLING HEIGHTS/ TROY — The

music education programs in Warren Consolidated Schools are hitting the right notes.

The district was recently honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.

The Best Communities for Music Education selection is awarded to school districts that display outstanding achievement to provide music access and education to all students.

“The benefits of music education for students is immense,” the district’s Chief Academic Officer David Meengs said in a prepared statement. “Warren Consolidated Schools is fortunate to have a team of music educators who work tirelessly to offer music education in our schools.”

Music education is offered at all WCS elementary, middle and high schools. Several music educators filled out the application to apply for NAMM recognition.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, a team of music educators from WCS answered questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities and more. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

“We were excited we got chosen. This reinforces our kids are getting the best qual-

ity in music education,” Cousino High School Band Director Jason Rose said. “It recognizes our district is on the right track and how the teachers each support education. I’m really happy that Warren Consolidated Schools was recognized. Our administration does put a lot of faith and resources in us to make sure we’re successful.”

Music instruction is offered in grades K-5, and each middle school has bands at each grade level. While in high school, students can participate in concert, jazz and marching bands.

“We want our students to learn to love and appreciate music. They start to see music is valued,” Rose said. “I get to see these kids grow and become adults.”

While many of the district’s students don’t pursue music professionally, Rose added, “We want them to develop other skills that will be beneficial.”

That includes leadership, determination, goal setting, social skills and the importance of practicing.

Rose, a saxophonist and clarinet player, has had a small group of students go onto careers in music, including those who have become band directors at local high schools.

WCS was among approximately 1,000 school districts in the country awarded the Best Communities for Music Education designation, including several from Michigan. This year marks the 25th year the NAMM Foundation has celebrated the Best Communities for Music Education.

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

File photo by Patricia O’Blenes

You don’t see many of them around anymore’ DRIVING IN THE ‘CROSSFIRE’

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — When the neighborhood kids want to take a ride around the block in Mel Kubiak’s 2007 Chrysler Crossfire, he’s always available for a spin.

“They love it,” the Sterling Heights resident said.

As does Kubiak.

“I get a great deal of satisfaction out of doing things for people,” he said.

Since the car is a two-seat coupe, everyone patiently waits his or her turn. Now that the weather is warming up, Kubiak, 85, is ready for car cruising season.

With its silver exterior and orangish/rust interior, the sports car always draws a crowd, and Kubiak makes sure to keep the coupe in tiptop shape.

“With some elbow grease, look how clean it is,” he said when lifting the front hood.

Prior to purchasing the Crossfire, Kubiak owned a 1987 Pontiac Fiero. It was the car he and his wife, Joann Kubiak, zipped around in on a regular basis, taking it to car shows and for leisure drives.

“I had that about 10 years,” Kubiak said.

The Kubiaks were married 52 years. When Joann died 11 years ago, Kubiak felt it was time for a change.

“Because I have a lot of memories in it, I got rid of the Fiero,” he said.

The car enthusiast began looking for a new set of wheels.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to buy,” said Kubiak, who went online to search and eventually found the Crossfire for sale in Clio, Michigan. “The moment I spotted it, I liked it.”

According to Kubiak’s research, a total of 76,014 Crossfire models were made in the years that they were manufactured from 2004-2008.

“The car is made by Mercedes-Benz in Germany, and some of them were sold in Europe with right-hand drives,” he said. “The car was only made in a

Sterling Heights resident Mel Kubiak, 85, is ready for cruise season with his 2007 Chrysler Crossfire coupe. The Chrysler Crossfire was only produced from 2004 to 2008.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

See CROSSFIRE on page 17A

Crossfire

from page 16A

coupe and convertible. In 2007, my model, a limited coupe, only 1,063 were manufactured. You don’t see many of them around anymore.”

The Crossfire is also something his daughter, grandson and granddaughter admire. Kubiak is sure Joann would have been a fan as well.

“She would have loved it,” he said. “She was very understanding when it came to me and cars.”

Kubiak has always “been a car guy.”

“I remember when I was 8 or 9 years old getting behind the wheel of my brother’s car and pretending I was driving. He taught me how to drive,” said Kubiak, who grew up in Detroit with five siblings. “I used to sketch cars. I always worked on cars. I love to drive, even at this age.”

The first automobile Kubiak ever owned was a used 1938 Plymouth Coupe.

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“It was green. No radio,” he said. “Nothing on it. I was probably 16 when I bought it.”

He was eventually able to purchase his first new vehicle, a 1956 Plymouth Belvedere. He remembers the details that made the car stand out.

“It had a bubble skirt on it, spinner hubcaps and lights under the front fender wheel,” Kubiak said.

Other cars in his garage over the years included a Chevy Impala, a Ford Fairlane and an “old” Ford Mustang.

“I drove a Camaro for a while,” he said. “It was probably a 1982 Camaro.”

Kubiak also has been the owner of a 1984 Chevrolet Corvette.

“I drove it every day,” he said.

One regret was not keeping a photo selection of each vehicle.

“I wish I had taken pictures of each car I owned,” he said.

One car Kubiak dreams about owning someday is a Cadillac XLR, which is a luxury two-seat hardtop convertible.

Stop in for your personal tour today!

Pan’:

Macomb Community College - Center Campus, 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, macombcenter.com, (586) 286-2222

MAY 2

Stepping Out with the Stars: Fundraiser for Turning Point, features community members performing dance routines after training with professionals, also survivor speaker, dinner, premium open bar, silent auction, raffles and wine pull, emcee by Fox 2 Detroit’s Jessica Dupnack, 5:30-11 p.m., The Palazzo Grande, 54660 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, www.turningpoint macomb.org

MAY 5

Warren Concert Band: Spring concert at 3 p.m., Warren Woods Community Auditorium, 13400 12 Mile Road, warrenconcertband.com/concerts.php

North Oakland Mopar Muscle: Car show and swap meet, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, www.packard provinggrounds.org

MAY 18

Smetanka Spring Craft Show: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sports & Expo Center, Building P on Macomb Community College - South Campus, 14500 E. 12 Mile Road in Warren, smetankacraftshows.com

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