4/24/24 Warren Weekly

Students piece together Industrial Revolution 4A

Warren Mayor Lori Stone shares her budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year in the auditorium at the Warren Community Center on April 8.

STONE PRESENTS BUDGET FOR 2024-25 FISCAL YEAR

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

WARREN — Mayor Lori Stone gave her first budget presentation on April 8 at the Warren Community Center’s auditorium before nearly 200 in attendance. Those gathered included one councilman, residents, city department heads and members of the media.

Stone discussed revenue, expenditures, Warren’s workforce, infrastructure and more.

Revenue and expenditures

“With all the revenue sources of the city totaled, the city budget proposed is $351.4 million dollars,” said Stone. “I bring you the fiscally responsible balanced budget for your consideration.”

Stone started the budget presentation by discussing the city’s revenue, which she defined as expected income. According to the mayor, the general fund revenues are expected to total $158,242,078.

See BUDGET on page 10A

Warren police arrest three suspects in drug bust

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

WARREN — Three people arrested during the seizure of cocaine, fentanyl and guns were charged with the possession and manufacturing of narcotics during their arraignments on April 10 in the 37th District Court in Warren.

Thomas Phillip King, 34, of Clinton Township; Brian Allen Mathews, 33, of Detroit; and Lisa Doss Lawrence, 56, of Clinton Township, were under surveillance by the Warren Police Department’s Special Investigations Narcotics Unit and arrested on April 4. Officials said King had been under investigation since March. Officers reportedly observed King and Mathews in a vehicle “loitering” outside area hotels. When Warren police went to make a traffic stop, a pursuit ensued. According to police, during the pursuit, the suspects allegedly discarded narcotics from the vehicle, which police reportedly subsequently recovered, including 100 grams of cocaine and 9 grams of fentanyl. Officers stopped the pursuit after determining the identities of both occu-

pants in the vehicle, police said in a press release.

Officers later conducted surveillance on a Clinton Township residence believed to be associated with one of the suspects and the vehicle that fled from officers. They observed a woman leave the residence with two large duffel bags and assault rifles in hand, according to police. She reportedly entered a vehicle and drove away from the scene. Warren officers then contacted the Clinton Township Police Department for assistance.

After a short pursuit, Warren police stopped the vehicle driven by the woman, later identified as Lawrence, near Eight Mile Road and Groesbeck Highway. Officers conducted a K-9 search of the vehicle and found two assault rifles, 151 grams of crack cocaine, 120 grams of methamphetamine, and 200 grams of fentanyl, according to police.

Investigators searched the Clinton Township home and found bulk quantities of ammunition, narcotics and packing materials, police reported.

See ARREST on page 5A

Photo by Erin Sanchez

THURSDAY | MAY 2, 2024

NOON - 12:45PM

LIFT UP THE WORD, LIGHT UP THE WORLD

For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness. For by You I Can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. This God — his way is perfect: the word of the Lord proves true.

Police fatally shoot 18-yearold man after domestic violence call

BY GENA JOHNSON

WARREN — On April 12, a Warren police officer responding to a domestic violence call on Garbor Drive shot and killed a man who was reportedly armed with a handgun.

Three days later, on April 15, police held a press conference to show body camera video and address the officer-involved shooting that led to the death of the 18-yearold Warren resident.

Police were dispatched to the home near 11 Mile and Ryan roads at around 1:45 p.m. on a report that a man was assaulting family members.

The incident started when police dispatch received a call from a man heard saying, “Our brother is going crazy. He didn’t sleep for four days. He is assaulting everybody.”

When officers arrived, they encountered a man who was reportedly armed with a handgun, police said, and an officer shot the man.

According to the video released by Warren police, an officer knocked on the front door and received no answer. When he heard the garage door open, he went to the front of the garage. The officer then saw a man with a handgun. The officer, along with other officers, ran in the opposite direction, as seen on the video. Another officer arrived at the scene and asked the officer, “Where’s he at?” The officer replied, “Right there, right there.” The arriving officer then shot the man, who fell to the ground, according to the body camera footage.

According to Warren Police Commissioner Charles Rushton, the man took an offensive stance with arms raised and a gun in his hand pointing in the direction of police. Officers shot 11 rounds, three of which struck the man, Rushton said.

“No, once the individual pointed a firearm at officers, our officers took the appropriate level of force to defend themselves,” Rushton said when asked if officers could have disarmed the man without shooting.

As seen on the body camera footage, the officers

Dr. Werner Spitz was for many years the chief medical examiner in both Wayne and Macomb counties. He died April 14 at the age of 97.

‘WHAT AN ICON HE WAS’ COMMUNITY REMEMBERS FORENSIC PATHOLOGIST WERNER SPITZ

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — From testifying at the O.J. Simpson civil case in 1996 to offering his perspective in the Chappaquiddick incident that involved Ted Kennedy and Mary Jo Kopechne in 1969, Werner Spitz was widely known for providing his expertise on the witness stand.

The prominent forensic pathologist was sought after in the court system for his knowledge in forensic evidence and his testimony regarding many high-profile murders that drew public interest and media attention.

The longtime chief medical examiner — who performed or supervised more than 60,000 autopsies during his career — died April 14 at the age of 97. He was a resident of Grosse Pointe Shores. Many in the community are remembering the well-known forensic expert.

Warren City Council member Mindy Moore felt “very sad” when she learned Spitz died. Moore, a freelance court reporter, has known Spitz since the late 1970s when he was the chief Wayne County medical examiner. She was present for many depositions he provided over the years.

“What an icon he was. He was quite brilliant and so effective,” she said. “He had a way about him. His whole career was fascinating. When he spoke, all eyes were on him. You knew what he would say would be impactful and very important. He certainly was one of a kind.”

Sometimes the evidence presented in court could be very technical, and Moore said Spitz was always able to explain it “so any lay person could understand him.” One deposition that stands out was the time the forensics expert testified in a case to determine whether a man committed suicide or was murdered. With the unloaded firearm in his hand, the pathologist laid on the floor to demonstrate that the deceased man could not have killed himself at the particular angle in which he died.

Despite the gruesome work he did, Moore, at times, saw the medical examiner in another light.

“He had a really good sense of humor,” she said.

According to his resume, Spitz practiced forensic pathology for more than 50 years. He was the chief medical examiner in Wayne County from 1972-88 and in Macomb County from 1972-2004. He also served as a deputy chief medical examiner in Maryland.

Photo provided by Walter P. Reuther Library, Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs, Wayne State University

gjohnson@candgnews.com

Spitz

from page 3A

He received his medical training at the Geneva University Medical School in Switzerland and the Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School in Jerusalem. His resume states he was an associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins University, and that he worked for the Department of Legal Medicine at the University School of Medicine in West Berlin.

Throughout his lifetime, Spitz served on various committees investigating the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. He testified at various trials in the U.S. and Canada including the “Preppy Murder” in New York, the talk show host Jenny Jones case, the Crown vs. Truscott in Toronto, music producer Phil Spector’s murder trial and the Casey Anthony murder case. He also consulted with the police in Boulder, Colorado about the death of JonBenét Ramsey.

Steve Bieda, a 37th District Court judge in Warren, recalled how when he was in the Michigan Legislature as a state representative and senator, the elected officials often contacted Spitz for advice regarding criminal justice issues.

“He was highly regarded and would be asked to weigh his opinions based on his expertise,” Bieda said. “He was iconic in the sense of high-profile crime.”

On a personal level, Bieda followed Spitz’s work on the Oakland County child killer case in the 1970s and his work related to President Kennedy’s death.

“He was a fascinating individual and very charismatic,” Bieda said.

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel met Spitz in 1981 when he worked as a dispatcher on the midnight shift for the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office. On his first night, Hackel took a call from a Macomb Township man who reported that his neighbor killed his wife and children. But the caller “was the guy that did it,” Hackel said. “That’s when I first got to know Spitz, who left an impression.”

“He was the guy that could tell you what happened just by looking at the body,” Hackel said. “He tried to put himself in their place. He wanted to know the circumstances of how they died. I don’t know of a time when he wasn’t spot on.”

Hackel said many law enforcement officers he worked with over the years were interested in what Spitz had to offer. Hackel said Spitz was always kind when speaking to families of the victims.

“I am so sad about his loss, but I am fortunate to have known him,” Hackel said. “He

was the forefather of pathology. I don’t know if you will see another like that.”

During his career, Spitz taught at different colleges, including pathology at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit.

“He was a great teacher and a huge contributor to the field of pathology and forensics,” said Dr. Wael Sakr, dean of the Wayne State University School of Medicine. “He had a huge presence and was a consultant on many big profile cases across the country. Before I knew him, I had a lot of admiration toward him.”

Spitz returned to the school on occasion to present seminars to students.

“He was interested in human life and, sadly, was trying to solve death, particularly in trauma, accidents, homicides and burns,” Sakr said. “He had a love for the discipline in what he did and was meticulous in his approach.”

Sakr will definitely feel his loss.

“I enjoyed his friendship and his support for the department,” Sakr said.

Spitz’s legacy includes the nearly 100 scientific publications he authored, the Dean’s Award for service to the Medicolegal Community and Wayne State University of Medicine, awards from Wayne County and the Macomb County Board of Commissioners for outstanding service, and from various police departments and the FBI.

Dr. Werner Spitz testified in many high-profile cases.

Photo provided by Walter P. Reuther Library, Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs, Wayne State University

Arrest

from page 1A

The suspects entered “not guilty” pleas before Judge Michael Chupa in 37th District Court.

All three were charged with delivery or manufacturing of cocaine or heroin (50 to 449 grams), which is a felony punishable up to 20 years in prison.

King and Lawrence were both charged with delivery or manufacturing of cocaine or heroin (450 to 999 grams) and conspiracy to commit controlled substance delivery (450 to 999) grams, both of which are felonies punishable up to 30 years in prison.

In addition, King and Mathews were charged with delivery or manufacturing of methamphetamine, a 20-year felony.

Lawrence also faces a weapons charge and one count of fleeing and eluding.

King’s bond was set at $1 million cash or surety. According to police, King has a criminal history and was on federal probation. His attorney, Malita L. Barrett, declined to comment on the case.

Mathews and Lawrence’s bonds were set at $500,000 and $200,000 cash or surety, respectively. Their attorneys, David A.

Pietroski, representing Mathews, and James Lawrence, who is representing Lawrence, did not respond by press time to messages left for them.

A probable cause conference was set for April 18.

King and Mathews are tentatively scheduled for preliminary examinations on April 25 and May 23, respectively.

According to court records, no examination date has been set for Lawrence.

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

King Mathews Lawrence

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

Serving our community with honor and respect during one of the most difficult times in our life.

We consider it an honor and privilege when you entrust your loved one to us. It is our promise to serve you with professionalism and dignity to help through this time. May God Bless You!

Police

from page 3A

handcuffed the man after he was shot and was on the ground bleeding. One officer ordered the man, “Do not touch that gun.” The same officer began to administer CPR and talked to the man, telling him, “Stay with me.” At one point the officer said, “I got nothing.” He continued CPR compressions and the officer said, “He’s breathing.”

The Warren Fire Department arrived and transported the man to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The man’s name was not released.

No officers were injured.

Warren Police Lt. John Gajewski said every aspect of the incident will be reviewed.

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

0164-2417

American Red Cross blood drive April 25

WARREN — Gardner White has partnered with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. April 25 at the Warren store, located at 6500 E. 14 Mile Road.

While appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are welcome. Donors can go to Gardnerwhite.com and register through the website.

There are eligibility requirements to donate blood. Donors must be at least 17 years old in most states, must be in good health and feeling well, and must weigh at least 110 pounds. Blood can be donated every 56 days.

The donated blood is used in a variety of ways, including for accident and burn victims, and for trauma, heart surgery, organ transplant and cancer patients. Patients with chronic diseases also receive blood when needed.

Cars and coffee on the Concourse

PONTIAC — The public is cordially invited to the Cars and Coffee event at 8 a.m. May 4 at the M1 Concourse.

The event will feature Japanese and Asian manufactured vehicles. It is free to attend, and all ages are welcome. Complimentary coffee will be offered.

The M1 Concourse is an 87-acre property that features a 28,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art event complex, a 1.5-mile closed track, 255 private garages, and a full schedule of signature events.

The M1 Concourse is located at 1 Concourse Drive in Pontiac. For more information, visit m1concourse.com or call (248) 326-9999.

SAFETY GIVEAWAYS AT THE BURNETTE BRANCH LIBRARY

WARREN — City Councilman Henry Newnan is holding a gun lock and backpack giveaway at the Maybelle Burnette Library located at 23345 Van Dyke Ave. in Warren from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, in the community room. A police officer will be there to explain the importance of gun locks and the proper way to use them. Speakers are slated to talk about how gun locks save lives. Coffee and a snack will be served.

Council leaders host business roundtable

WARREN — Several Warren City Council members held a business roundtable March 27 for residents, business leaders, city officials and community stakeholders to chart a path forward for the city’s business landscape.

“Economic development is vital for the city and as a small business owner myself, I know how important it is for growth and prosperity of our community,” said City Council President Angela Rogensues.

The business roundtable was led by Rogensues, Mayor Pro Tem Dave Dwyer and Councilwoman Melody Magee. They were joined by representatives of 35 businesses who lent their voices to the discussion.

The business roundtable was inspired by a longtime business Rogensues patronized that was shut down due to violations by the landlord. According to Rogensues, this was no fault of the business owner, who was left with more questions than answers. Rogensues said attendees praised the city’s services, including effective blight enforcement, accessible engineering support and space availability, which facilitate business operations and development.

She said areas needing improvement, according to attendees, included a need for quicker plan reviews, straightforward site amendment procedures, and improved signage regulations to aid business visibility and operations. Also suggested was inclusive business development reflecting the city’s demographics, enhancing Eight Mile Road, addressing property tax concerns and creating more community spaces for small-business collaboration.

Rogensues said the city of Warren is committed to leveraging the insights and suggestions from the roundtable to implement strategies that support and enhance the local business community.

Selfridge Museum hosting veterans’ weekend

HARRISON TOWNSHIP— The Selfridge Military Air Museum invites guests to honor U.S. military veterans during its 2024 Veterans Weekend May 18-19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Exhibits will offer a look into military service over the years, including historic military impressions and a stop of the Michigan Vietnam Veterans Traveling Memorial Wall, presented by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154. Military vehicles from over the years will be on display in addition to more than 30 planes kept on static display in the Air Park. Food will be provided by National Coney Island, Mission BBQ, Texas Roadhouse, Faygo beverages and Better Made Potato Chips.

Base access and museum admission is required. For more details visit selfridgeairmuseum.org.

‘Addams Family Musical’ is mysterious and spooky

CENTER LINE — The Center Line High School Drama Club will perform “Addams Family Musical” at 7 p.m. April 26-27 and 3 p.m. April 28 inside the school’s auditorium, 26300 Arsenal St. Tickets are $6 for students and senior citizens, and $8 for adults.

Summer career academies at MCC

MACOMB COUNTY — Students in grades 6-11 looking to stay busy this summer may want to attend a summer career academy at Macomb Community College.

Nine hands-on career academies will be offered and are designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore a wide variety of career fields, ranging from health and law enforcement to automotive design and media arts.

There will be camps focused on healthcare, crime scene investigation, media arts, architecture, culinary arts and more. For more information, to see a selection of the camps and to register, visit wce.macomb.edu and select youth programs under personal enrichment, then choose career academies.

Laundries | Pantries | Wall Beds | Wall Units

Budget

“Warren can only spend the money it has and when it’s gone it’s gone,” she said.

Warren property taxes and state shared revenue make up 78.8% of the general fund, according to the mayor. The additional 22.2% is expected to come from building inspection fees, which are expected to generate more than $6 million, and rental inspections generating $1.2 million. Other revenue is generated by fees for licenses, permits, charges for services, fines, forfeitures and interest earned on investments.

The mayor then discussed the other side of a balanced budget — expenditures.

“As mayor, I am committed to being a good steward of tax dollars. I will carefully implement the budget that the City Council adopts to ensure that every dollar spent each year will maintain the same high level of city services that Warren residents deserve,” Stone said.

Warren’s workforce

Warren’s workforce is paid from the general fund. Employee wages make up 41.7%, and benefits comprise 36.7%.

The bulk of the workforce is public safety at 55%. Those are police officers, dispatchers, firefighters, paramedics and animal control officers. General government workers make up 20% of Warren’s workforce. This includes the City Council, the clerk and treasurer’s offices, the 37th District Court, legal staff, the assessing and human resources departments, and others. The libraries, sanitation, rental division, parks and recreation, communications, the Downtown Development Authority, and Tax Increment

Finance Authority staff make up 15%. Public works amounts for 10% of the workforce, which includes engineering, building, the Department of Public Works, building maintenance and planning.

“In tight labor markets, it is important to remember when unemployment has been under 4.2% for more than two years, the city of Warren is competing with other communities for civil service positions, as well as private businesses for workforce capital,” Stone said. “In order to recruit, attract and maintain workforce capital, the city of Warren must offer competitive wages, as well as benefits.

“I’m going to use this opportunity to plug some of the city’s positions in the city of Warren that are still hiring, everything from engineers to inspectors, lifeguards to umpires,” Stone said.

Infrastructure

With climate change, the region is experiencing rainfall more frequently, according to the mayor. As a result, she is seeking infrastructure improvements to hold the water and prevent flooding.

“The detention basin will pump 21.5 million gallons (of water), diverting water from an overburdened system to a holding facility,” she said.

Stone said she plans to bring more state and federal money to Warren.

“I’m committed to seeking additional sources of revenue to help taxpayer dollars go farther, by applying for congressionally directed funding, requesting additional state appropriations, and applying for grant dollars to increase investment in policy priorities,” Stone said.

To balance the budget this year, Stone proposed a water rate increase.

“I must come to you after three years without a rate increase for the water and sewer system, to request a 7.5% increase in order to be a responsible community leader. I am imploring you not to let our water system fall into disrepair from failure to fund,” the mayor said.

Budget now in the hands of the City Council

Stone delivered her presentation about the 2024-25 fiscal year budget from the floor of the auditorium, at the lectern facing the stage where freshman City Councilman Henry Newnan was the only one seated, leaving her back to the rest of the audience.

According to Newnan, residents later wanted to know why more council members were not there.

“It wasn’t a City Council scheduled event. We’re not a City Council unless we schedule an event and post it because of the Open Meetings Act,” Newnan said. “And there are things we can do and there are things we can’t do, and that was one of the things we really couldn’t do.”

The most senior member of the Warren City Council, Council Secretary Mindy Moore, said, “Budget presentations are done during a City Council meeting or the hour before the meeting. That is not a council meeting.”

According to Newnan, if other council members could have made the presentation, they would have.

“Everybody was well intentioned. I don’t believe anybody was boycotting the event. It’s just they had other things they had already planned by the time the mayor had decided to call a meeting,” Newnan said.

According to the mayor, all elected members of the City Council and Deputy

City Council Secretary Mary Kamp were invited to the presentation via email on April 3 for the April 8 presentation. As part of her duties, Kamp schedules events for the City Council.

Warren’s city charter states the administration must present the budget to the council by the second Monday in April, which was April 8. Although some council members thought it would be during business hours, the administration noted the charter makes no such requirement.

The mayor addressed that at the beginning of her presentation.

“The city charter language is clear, concise and prescriptive. It does not specify the time of day,” Stone said. “The city charter simply requires the administration to provide the second Monday in April each year to the City Council with the proposed budget. This year, 2024, the second Monday is April 8.

“My experience with the state legislature, the manner in which the executive, and for our purposes, the mayor, presents the budget is at the discretion of the administration,” Stone added.

According to Newnan, he received a hard copy of the nearly 300-page budget document when he arrived at the meeting. He and the other council members received a digital copy via email that evening after the mayor’s presentation.

“This is just a presentation. After this, we will have a review with (the) council,” Warren Communications Director Clarissa Cayton said. “Each department will actually meet with (the) council to discuss in further detail the ins and outs of the budget.”

The council was scheduled to meet with each city department, division and commission starting on April 13 to discuss their budgets.

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

See SHOW HOUSE on page 13A

LEFT: 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.

BOTTOM LEFT: Alexandra Decker, of A Decker Design, made this small room — which she named The Retreat — look more spacious by hanging the wallpaper so that the lines are horizontal instead of vertical.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Kelly Osten, of Closet Connections, stands in the closet she designed with Aubrey Crawford and Ashlynn Robinson for the show house.

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Show House

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 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.

Xiong wins, Dems take control of state House

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

WARREN — Democratic Macomb County Commissioner Mai Xiong defeated Republican Ronald Singer in the April 16 special election to fill the District 13 seat in the Michigan House of Representatives left vacant when Lori Stone was elected Warren’s mayor in November.

“We worked really hard the past six months and I think the results really speak for themselves. My volunteers, supporters, friends, family, neighbors, everyone was really supportive of me running for state representative,” said Xiong. “And so, I’m just really grateful for this opportunity to represent everyone in the state Capitol.”

District 13 represents parts of Warren, in Macomb County, and Detroit, in Wayne County, which means both jurisdictions had elections and the results were combined.

In Macomb County, Xiong received 4,467 votes, or 60.2% of the total votes cast, and Singer received 2,949 votes, or 39.8%, according to the unofficial results. In Detroit, Xiong received 1,273 votes (95.14%) and Singer received 57 votes (4.26%), according to the city of Detroit’s unofficial election results. The results will not be official until the respective canvassing boards certify the results, leaving time for absentee ballots from military personnel stationed overseas to come in, according to Xiong.

Before the election, the Michigan House of Representatives had 54 Democrats and 54 Republicans, according to Xiong. Once the results are certified, she looks forward to being sworn in and starting work in Lansing sometime next week.

“As part of the Democratic majority, I am looking forward to bringing resources back to Warren and Detroit,” Xiong said.

Xiong expounded on what this means to residents of Warren and Detroit.

“Right now, they’re in the budget process for the state. I certainly want to make sure we have the financial support there for Warren and Detroit,” Xiong said. “And whatever we can do to lower costs for working families, that is something that I’m going to advocate for.”

Xiong said Michigan has been a beacon of hope for her and her family, and it has provided great opportunities. She said she wants the same opportunities for everyone in the state.

“I’ve been extremely grateful, and I’m honored to be able to give back to this commu-

See XIONG on page 18A

CITY OF WARREN

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Warren, Macomb County, Michigan will at its regular meeting on the 20th day of May, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Warren Community Center Auditorium, 5460 Arden, Warren, Michigan, conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the text of the City of Warren Zoning Ordinance No. 30.

Proposed ordinance to repeal and replace Appendix A of the Zoning Ordinance, ARTICLE XXI-A – VILLAGE HISTORIC DISTRICT, DIVISION 1 – GENERALLY, Section 21A.01 – Background and purpose (c), (d), and (f), Section 21A.02 – District Boundaries (a) and (b), Section 21A.03 – Defnitions, Section 21A.04 – Reserved; DIVISION 2 – MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, AND DUTIES, Section 21A.07 – Established; membership; terms; vacancies (b), Section 21A.08 – Powers and duties (h), (l), (m), (n), (q), (r), (s), and the addition of (t); DIVISION 3 – PERMIT APPLICATION, REVIEW, AND APPEAL, Section 21A.12 – Permit (a) (2); Section 21A.14 – Filing fee, Section 21A.16 – Commission action, and standards for review (a) (1) (i); DIVISION 4 – METHODS TO PRESERVE RESOURCES, Section 21A.25 – Plan for preservation of resource, Section 21A.26 – Prevention of demolition by neglect, Section 21A.27 – Demolition; Addition of DIVISION 6 – HISTORIC DISTRICT BOUNDARIES; The amended ordinance of Article XXl-A will bring it into conformity with state law so that the City of Warren may apply for a Certifed Local Government (CLG) designation. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any interested persons may appear or be represented and participate in said public hearing. The proposed text

Macomb County board looks to fill seat

BY GENA JOHNSON gjohnson@candgnews.com

MACOMB COUNTY — On April 16, Macomb County Commissioner Mai Xiong won the race for a partial term of office representing the state’s District 13 in the Michigan House of Representatives.

Xiong’s win means she must vacate her post on the county board before taking office in Lansing. Once election results are certified and Xiong’s letter of resignation is accepted by the Macomb County Board of Commissioners, the seat will need to be filled.

Macomb County’s charter states, “A vacancy shall be filled by appointment of a registered and qualified elector of the district in which he or she is to be appointed within 30 days by a Majority of Commissioners. The appointee shall take office upon filing the oath of office with the County Clerk after the meeting at which the appointment is made.”

The Board of Commissioners is now accepting applications for the seat. Applicants must be at least 18, a United States citizen, and a qualified and registered elector of the board’s District 11. Districts can be verified on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners website.

Applications can be found at boc.macombgov.org and are due back to the county board by 5 p.m. on May 1. No late applications will be accepted. Public interviews will take place at the Macomb County Board of Commissioners Government Oversight Committee meeting scheduled for 3 p.m. on May 8, in the boardroom on the ninth floor of the County Administration Building at 1 South Main Street in downtown Mount Clemens.

The vote for appointment is scheduled to take place at the full board meeting on May 16. For more information, email bocadmin@macombgov.org or call (586) 4695125.

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

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

Xiong

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

CENTER LINE — When studying the Industrial Revolution of the 1700s and 1800s, students in Jaime Bellos’ world history classes at Center Line High School were able to place themselves among the innovators of the time.

Using their creativity, they recently designed a quilt to depict what the Industrial Revolution looked like. Each student created an image of the historic time on paper. Using magic markers, hot glue, iron-on patches, sparkles and glitter, they transferred their drawings onto a square of fabric, which ultimately made the quilt.

The students used two methods of sewing. First, they sewed by hand to experience life before the Industrial Revolution. After a while, they switched to using a sewing machine, invented during and after the Industrial Revolution. The exercise demonstrated the difference between sewing with machinery and sewing by hand.

Hall monitor and guest teacher Cindy Andrews and special education paraprofessional Paulette Nantais showed the students how to sew properly.

Quilt

from page 15A

Two world history classes and one Advanced Placement class participated in the unit. Many students had never sewn before. The quilt, as well as two others made in previous years, hang in Bellos’ classroom.

“Before the Industrial Revolution everything had to be sewn by hand: clothing, drapery, anything. It was a very hands-on unit for the kids,” said Nantais, who sewed together all the squares. “They saw the difference in how long it takes for them to hand sew versus the machine. They saw how tedious and time consuming it was. The kids used their imagination. There were some clever ones they came up with.”

The student’s artwork included factories, trains, families, farms and cities. On April 16, the students in the AP class talked about the project.

“I think it’s really beautiful,” senior Saul Winkler said of the quilt. “It’s a really unique way to learn (about) history. I found it very interesting.”

“It shows the advancements we had in the United States,” sophomore Irene Choudhury said. “It’s cool to see the different ideas people came up with and the different perspectives.”

Choudhury designed a human brain to illustrate the Industrial Revolution “because everyone was a critical thinker.”

“I thought it was pretty fun we learned about this,” sophomore Lindita Fetahu said. “We got to do it in a creative way.”

Sophomore Judah Sibila used his creativity to show how everyone was able to celebrate Christmas during the Industrial

Revolution with the advances that had been made.

“I really liked the creative aspect of getting to use art and integrating it in our core curriculum,” sophomore Tazkia Zaman said. “(The project) showed me how everything advanced and got easier.”

Making the quilt brought back memories of elementary school for sophomore Aleena Ahmed.

“I liked the sewing part with the needles and remembered how thankful I should be with the Industrial Revolution,” she said. “I liked everybody’s perspective on it.”

Senior Patricia Wani shared her thoughts about how she thinks people responded to the Industrial Revolution at the time.

“I think people were afraid of losing their jobs because they didn’t want to move on,” she said.

“People didn’t want to change because they were farmers,” sophomore Farihah Islam said. “It’s pretty fun when we do stuff like this. I first did the hand sewing, and the sewing machine was quick and easy.”

Sophomore Cameron Ballard, whose picture was of a farm, thought about what would have happened without the Industrial Revolution.

“Every aspect of our lives would be different,” said Ballard, who also saw the differences between sewing by hand and with the sewing machine. “It’s really easier to use the machines than it is to do by hand.”

Sophomore Garrett Watters certainly appreciates the cars of the past and the work Henry Ford did to bring about the automobile assembly line.

“I think cars were a big part of the Industrial Revolution,” Watters said.

For sophomore Adia Nawrocki, mak-

ing the quilt “opened my eyes on how thankful I am the Industrial Revolution happened.” And when working on the quilt, “the sewing machine made everything a lot easier.”

The project gave Jaclyn Kupraszewicz some insight into history.

“Before the Industrial Revolution, we had no need for big cities,” said Kupraszewicz, who thought making the quilt “was kind of a bonding experience” between the students.

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

The students sewed by hand and sewing machine to make the classroom quilt to represent the Industrial Revolution. Each student created an image of how they perceived the Industrial Revolution.

Photos by Maria Allard

Xiong

from page 14A

nity. I think there is still some work that we need to do to ensure that every family has the opportunity to advance, as well,” Xiong said.

Xiong joins Democrats Donavan McKinney and Nate Shannon who also represent areas of Warren in the Michigan House of Representatives.

There was also a special election for House District 25, which was vacated in November when Kevin Coleman was elected mayor of Westland. Democrat Peter Herzberg won the open seat. With wins by Xiong and Herzberg, Democrats have a 56-54 lead in the 110-member state House.

How we got here

In November, Michigan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a call for a special election to fill the District 13 seat vacated by Stone and the District 25 seat vacated by Coleman amid objections from Republicans in Lansing.

In January, Whitmer endorsed Xiong for the District 13 seat.

In a letter to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on Nov. 22, the governor cited the Michigan Constitution and Michigan elec-

tion law to support her call for a special primary election on Jan. 30 and a special election on April 16.

“The Michigan Legislature had one of the most productive sessions in Michigan history thanks to Michiganders who elected leaders, like state representatives Coleman and Stone, to get things done on the issues that make a real difference in people’s lives,” said Whitmer in a November press release. “As we look ahead to 2024, these special elections will ensure that Michiganders in the 13th and 25th districts have representation in Lansing working for them as soon as possible. I look forward to working with the next representatives from these districts when voters elect them in the new year.”

Republican state Reps. Ann Bollin of Brighton Township and Mike Harris of Waterford categorized the Democratic governor’s call for a special election as “rushed, not prioritizing the people,” and as not following the same precedent when Republican seats are vacated.

“This move should raise some eyebrows, especially given the precedent of scheduling elections differently based on what way these districts swing along party lines. When three Republican House seats were vacant in late 2021, the governor scheduled those special elections for March and May of 2022. Why

the sudden rush to fill the latest vacancies?” Bollin stated in a press release.

Harris expressed the additional toll it would take on the community.

“Far too often, politicians in Lansing disregard local viewpoints and undermine community needs,” Harris said in a press release. “Scheduling special elections on irregular dates will cost local governments in Metro Detroit, and the chaos of overlapping voting periods will heap burdens on local clerks, the area residents who work the polls, and voters.”

Harris added in the release, “The governor announced the special elections the day before the long Thanksgiving weekend, giving potential candidates only until Monday to file their paperwork.”

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

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Help Wanted General General Motors Company

seeks a(n) Senior Researcher, in Warren, MI to Research and develop computer vision (CV), machine learning (ML), and perception algorithms, to be deployed in future Ultra Cruise algorithm stack on GM personal autonomous vehicles (PAVs).

See full req’s & apply online: https://search-careers.gm.com/en/jobs/

Job Reference: 202408273. 0144-2417

Help Wanted General

General Motors Company

seeks a(n) Software Test Engineer - Bench LeadInfotainment, in Warren, MI to Develop, create, execute and monitor test plans for quality control.

See full req’s & apply online: https://search-careers. gm.com/en/jobs/

Job Reference: 202408275. 0145-2417

Help Wanted General

General Motors Company

seeks a(n) Infotainment Software Defined Vehicle Verification Engineer, in Warren, MI to Develop, create, execute, monitor, optimize, and integrate test plans and test cases for quality control. See full req’s & apply online: https://search-careers. gm.com/en/jobs/

Job Reference: 202408872

General Motors Company seeks a(n) Design Release Engineer - Cold Plates and Thermal Interface, in Warren, MI to Design, integrate, perform tolerance stackups, and release Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) high voltage Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs. See full req’s & apply online: https://search-careers. gm.com/en/jobs/ Job Reference: 202408991 0302-2417 General Motors Company seeks a(n) Researcher, in Warren, MI to Research, develop, and improve battery electric vehicle (BEV) next-generation lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion batteries or LIBs) and alternative sodium and phosphate-based materials, including performance and cycle life of positive and negative electrodes. See full req’s & apply online: https://search-careers. gm.com/en/jobs/ Job Reference: 202408990. 0309-2417

Company

seeks a(n) In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) Feature Integration Engineer, in Warren, MI to Create, execute, and evaluate manual and automated test plans and test cases for Vehicle Software Management Systems (VSMS) applications. See full req’s & apply online: https://searchcareers.gm.com/en/jobs/

Job Reference: 202408873 0211-2417

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

Disorderly suspect arrested at adventure park

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they went to Urban Air Adventure Park, 12050 Hall Road, March 23 and saw a security guard arguing with a man. Police were told that the man had been evicted and was threatening staff. Police said the man showed signs of intoxication, and he reportedly accused the staff of not treating his kids nicely. Officers said they later were told that the kids had been instructed not to jump from a platform due to safety issues, and when this happened, the man allegedly grew angry and started yelling. Police said they ultimately arrested and cited the man for disorderly conduct.

Bras stolen in self-checkout

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police investigated a shoplifting report March 22 at Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave. Police said video footage showed a suspect scanning two bras in a self-checkout but holding four of various colors and tags.

Police arrested the suspect, determined that $23.96 worth of bras had been stolen, and cited the suspect for third-degree retail fraud.

Panera disruptor evicted

STERLING HEIGHTS — During the night of March 22, police went to Panera Bread, in the 36000 block of Van Dyke Avenue, upon hearing that someone was disturbing the restaurant. Police said they learned that a man seated in a booth often visits to yell and ask for free food. Police said the man told them he was leaving and took his stuff with him, and police let him know he could be cited if he ever returns.

Window broken in Durango theft attempt

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to the 43000 block of Burlington Drive, near Canal and 19 Mile roads, upon hearing about an attempted theft of a Dodge Durango that reportedly happened overnight sometime between March 23 and 24. According to the report, a rear passenger-side window was smashed in the attempted theft, but nothing was stolen. Police said they didn’t find fingerprints or other clues that could identify a suspect. Front-door camera footage shows headlights around 1 a.m. but no discernible vehicle or suspect, police added.

Man cited for disorderly conduct at market

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police were summoned

ONGOING ‘Cabaret’: 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays May 10-19, Owen Jax Rec Center, 8207 E. Nine Mile Road in Warren, warrencivic.org

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: Modern view on classic story, presented by St. Clair Shores Players Community Theater, 7:30 p.m. doors and 8 p.m. curtain May 10-11 and 17-18, Anita’s Elite Dance Studio, 37360 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, scsplayers.org

Mad Scientist Club: Meets every last Tuesday of month, Warren Public Library - Miller Branch inside Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden Ave., (586) 751-5377, warrenlibrary.net

Warren Garden Club: Meets 6 p.m. every second Wednesday of month through May, Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden Ave., keffert@wowway.com

La Leche League of Warren: Meetings for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, 6:30-7:30 p.m. every third Wednesday of month, Warren Public Library - Civic Center inside Warren City Hall, 1 City Square, lllofwarren.weebly.com

Historical Society of Center Line: Meets 10 a.m.-noon most first Fridays of month, Center Line Public Library, 7345 Weingartz St. St., (586) 758-8274

Senior activities: Cards, chair exercising, puzzles and more, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Fitzgerald Recreation Center, 4355 E. Nine Mile Road in Warren, (586) 759-0920

Widowed Friends book club: Meets 10:30 a.m. every second Friday of month, National Coney Island, 30140 Van Dyke Ave. in Warren, books announced at previous meetings, RSVP to Elaine at (586) 291-2471

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

March 22 after hearing that a male suspect was angry and yelling after he wasn’t allowed to make a financial transaction.

Police saw the suspect raising his voice and recording another customer. Officers said they took the suspect out of the store while he was still cursing at people.

The man reportedly said he couldn’t cash a check because staff said his alleged prior conduct made him unwelcome there. Police said they saw video footage that allegedly showed the suspect threatening to knock someone out. Store staff also reportedly told police that the man had yelled and cursed at a worker late last year. Police told the suspect he wouldn’t be allowed back in the store and also cited him for disorderly conduct.

Police arrest fleeing domestic violence suspect

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers were dispatched to an apartment in the area of West Utica and Dequindre roads for a domestic violence report at 1:33 p.m. March 20. The caller stated she was watching her Ring doorbell camera and could see her daughter being assaulted in front of the apartment by her daughter’s boyfriend. Officers arrived and spoke to the daughter, who stated that she got into an argument with her boyfriend, who then smashed her phone and threw her to the ground. The boyfriend fled on foot prior to police arrival.

Officers were able to set up a perimeter around the area and located the boyfriend running through backyards of homes on Gable Inn Street. He was taken into custody and arrested for domestic violence.

Cellphone taken, returned later

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers were dispatched to the 2100 block of Crystal Lake Drive, near 23 Mile and Dequindre roads, for a larceny report at 8:10 p.m. March 17. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the caller, who reportedly stated that her ex-boyfriend came to her apartment and stole her cellphone.

Officers followed up with the victim a couple of days later, and she stated that the phone had been returned to her, and she did not wish to press charges.

The case was closed.

Resident reports fraud

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 4:20 p.m. March 20, a woman came into the Shelby Township Police Department to file a fraud report. The woman stated that there were some fraudulent transactions on her Bridge Card. The