4/3/24 Madison-Park News

SHOWCASING MADISON’S MUSIC HISTORY

VOTERS TO CONSIDER $150 MILLION

HAZEL PARK PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOND

OFFICIALS SAY 30YEAR BOND WOULDN’T INCREASE TAXES, BUT CRITICS SAY DETAILS ARE SCARCE

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

HAZEL PARK — On May 7, voters in the Hazel Park Public Schools district will decide the fate of a $150 million school improvement bond, to be paid over the next 30 years.

Officials say that if the bond is approved, taxpayers will see no increase in their school taxes and that the total millage rate will decline in time. But critics contend the plan is poorly defined with little community input, and that it asks for a commitment that is too big at a time of high inflation.

If approved, the bond will fund the construction of an elementary school (71,000 square feet) replacing Webster Early Childhood Center. Amy Kruppe, the district’s superintendent, said

According to police, the home at 52 W. Harwood was the site of a murder-suicide and fire in which two Madison Heights residents died March 27. The home is seen here the following morning.

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — Authorities have determined that foul play was involved in a house fire on Harwood Avenue in which two people were found dead.

Paul Biliti, the fire marshal for Madison Heights, said that the 911 call came in shortly

POLICE: MADISON HEIGHTS HOUSE FIRE FOLLOWED MURDER-SUICIDE

before 9:30 a.m. on March 27. The residence is a single-story home at 52 W. Harwood Avenue, near John R and 10 Mile roads.

By the next morning, the bright white home looked relatively unscathed. Biliti said there had been mild smoke coming from the peak of the roof when Madison Heights firefighters arrived alongside mutual aid from Ferndale, Royal Oak and Birmingham.

See FIRE on page 8A

Photo by Jenn Shelton

Photo by Andy Kozlowski

Madison Heights

Mayor Pro Tem Mark Bliss, left, shares a small sample of his eight-track collection while visiting Northern Audio Service on March 26. With him is Mike Sheppard, the store’s president, showcasing an eight-track player. The business specializes in antique audio repair.

Heritage Rooms to showcase city’s music history at reopening

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — When Madison Heights reopens its historical museum, it will do so with the click of an eight-track tape. The Heritage Rooms will once again be open to the public on April 15, following a presentation from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. titled

“The History of Music: In Madison Heights

and Beyond.” Located on the lower level of City Hall at 300 W. 13 Mile Road, the museum has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic amid the construction of the new Civic Center. A flood during that time made renovations necessary, but largely spared the contents of the room.

Along with tracing the evolution of music from the earliest recordings to modern-day

See HERITAGE on page 6A

Lamphere educator named county Teacher of the Year

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — When Shannon Graham noticed her 7-year-old daughter putting on a dress the morning of March 20, the Lamphere High School teacher suspected something was up.

“I’ve seen her dress that way for school maybe, like, once in my life,” Graham said. “So I was a bit skeptical when she put that on.”

It turns out there was indeed a more special occasion: Graham was surprised in her classroom later that morning with the good news that she had been named Oakland County Outstanding High School Teacher of the Year, presented by the Oakland Intermediate Schools.

Officials from the Lamphere district and Oakland Schools — as well as Graham’s own husband and daughter — swept into her room unannounced, briefly interrupting her business management and technology class.

“It was overwhelming to see all that support,” Graham said. “The teachers here are amazing — it would be hard to pick one. So I was surprised, and just overwhelmed.”

While she is a relatively new addition to the Lamphere staff who joined in the fall of 2021, Graham is no stranger to teaching, having been in

See GRAHAM on page 4A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Graham

from page 3A

the profession for more than 20 years.

In addition to business management and technology, she also teaches business law, marketing, web design, and sports and entertainment marketing. But students from outside those classes know her as well, thanks to the DECA chapter she started last year. It’s an after-school leadership program for any students in grades 9-12.

What started with 55 members last year, with eight of them advancing to state championships, has now grown to 76 members, with 14 students qualifying at the state. The program teaches students how to handle different situations in the business world. The competitive activity involves a multiple choice test that accounts for part of the score, and a role-playing scenario before a contest judge that covers the rest.

“We practice role playing, over and over again, during our meetings. We discuss things like how you greet someone, how you close a sales presentation, how you incorporate marketing and business terms, how you create and use visual aids like business cards, ads, or tables and charts. These things are all presented to the judge in the 10 minutes they have, or 15 minutes when students present as a pair. There are all sorts of scenarios, like human resources or business ethics,” Graham said.

She said her approach after teaching for two decades is to treat each kid individually.

“At the beginning of the year, I have a whole spiel about what things I’m into, and then I want to know what they’re into, like any sports or TV shows,” Graham said. “I also try to be very welcoming — we even have the ‘everybody is welcome here’ sign in my classroom. I don’t want anyone to feel uncomfortable in my classroom.

“I’m very welcoming if someone has different pronouns,” she said. “If someone

wants to sit in a certain spot, or not talk that day, I will allow that and not call on them. I know I didn’t like to be put on the spot when I was a kid in school. And I deal with anxiety myself — I’m very upfront about that and can relate to their anxieties. So I say what we’re doing today, but we can always go about things differently if they’re not comfortable about something.”

Graham said that teaching is something she always wanted to do.

“I do it for the students. I’m here for them every day. I feel like I’m making a difference. I like to think there are students I see in front of me every day that may be the next politician or leader. I see beyond what they are in the classroom,” Graham said.

See GRAHAM on page 5A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Shannon Graham founded the DECA chapter at Lamphere High School, a leadership program where students role-play scenarios that could occur in the business world. Students can qualify to compete at the state level by role-playing before a contest judge.

Graham

from page 4A

“What I love about Lamphere is it’s so diverse,” she added. “You can look out and see a student wearing a hijab, students with light skin and dark skin, students speaking Arabic or Spanish. And I learn so much from them — so much about different cultures and ways of life.”

In their nominating letters, a mix of students, staff and parents addressed Graham’s impact.

“Mrs. Graham has made a lasting and significant impact on my educational journey, giving me the opportunities to experience different international cultures, different leadership training and approaches, and a wide variety of educational experiences,” wrote student Anthony Goatley.

“Shannon’s dedication, innovation and commitment to student success make her an ideal candidate for Oakland County High School Teacher of the Year,” wrote Marjorie Alexander, chair of Lamphere High School’s career technology education department. “Her contributions will continue to inspire and shape the future leaders who pass through our classroom.”

Erin Ferris is a parent who said Graham

has had a positive impact on her daughter.

“Children learn certain skills at home, but their teachers expose them to so much more. Teachers are the ones who inspire, cheer and push them to the next level. Shannon Graham has done that, and more, to make my daughter into the young adult I want her to be.”

Prior to Lamphere, the most recent schools where Graham taught were Brother Rice High (2018-2021) and Bradford Acad-

Rodney Thomas, the principal at Lamphere High, right, was among the school officials that surprised Shannon Graham, left, with the Oakland County Outstanding High School Teacher of the Year Award in her classroom March 20. Graham’s family — husband Nicholas and daughter Callista, 7 — were also present, bringing flowers and a balloon.

emy (2010-2018). Graham herself holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Western Michigan University, a post-baccalaureate degree in education from Eastern Michigan University, and a master’s degree in library and information science from Wayne State University.

She also has professional teaching certifications in CTE, with a focus on marketing, sales and service, business education, marketing education for grades 6-12, and library

media for kindergarten through 12th grade.

Her arrival in Lamphere coincided with schools reopening during the pandemic. While she fully believes in COVID and the necessary precautions, she was happy to see school return to in-person learning right as she joined. She feels that in-person learning is best for students.

She is also a big believer in group projects.

“I’ll put down scissors and glue sticks, and my students get so excited, saying, ‘Oh, my God — we’re going to cut today!’ We do a lot of hands-on activities, which I find takes them away from using online programs like ChatGPT,” Graham said. “Project-based learning is what I’d say is the No. 1 thing I do, which is getting hands on, and not just using devices.”

She said she’s so thankful for the award and wants to thank everyone in the community.

“I have a good support system here at Lamphere. I just love being at this particular school with these particular students, and this particular administration and people that I work with,” Graham said. “I can’t imagine going somewhere else where it would be this perfect.”

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

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Heritage

from page 3A

streaming, the program will touch on the “format wars” that occurred in Madison Heights in the late ’60s and early ’70s, when organizers say two companies — one a cassette maker, the other designing eight-tracks — were both in town.

The Historical Commission is behind both the Heritage Rooms and the music history program, which will be co-presented by Mike Sheppard — president of Northern Audio Service, a vintage and antique audio repair shop at 27633 John R Road — and Mark Bliss, the city’s mayor pro tem and a self-described “eight-track enthusiast” who collects and rebuilds the tapes.

“At one point in the late ’60s, early ’70s, the music industry in Detroit would knock out 90 albums in just 30 days, which at the time was considered impossible,” Sheppard said. “What most people don’t realize is Madison Heights was part of that, making the tape portion of it. And many people who worked in the industry lived in Madison Heights and other Detroit suburbs.”

Bliss and Sheppard point to a Detroit Free Press article, published in 1969, which describes two companies that once operated in Madison Heights. Rael Sound worked on eight-track technology and was founded by former Lear engineer and eight-track architect D. Richard Kraus in 1965, just 10 years after Madison Heights was incorporated as a city. Playmate Industries was founded in 1970 by another former Lear engineer, Ted Ritz, and worked on cassettes — then a newcomer to the scene.

Both were in Madison Heights, but Bliss said he is working with the city clerk to try and find records pinpointing exactly where they were located and how long they operated. Another key player was TapeTronics, now closed, which operated at 750 E. Mandoline Ave. starting in 1967. It had a run of nearly 57 years, printing eight-tracks and cassettes for Motown Records and United Sound Studios.

“Many businesses from back then in our city simply don’t have records — there was simply not enough documentation at the time — but we know that these companies were springing up here in parallel to the fall of the eight-track and the rise of the cassette, and the overall dominance of Motown,” Bliss said. “It’s all local here.”

A question-and-answer session will follow the program, and then guests will be free to peruse the contents of the museum, which includes a recreation of a schoolhouse from the early 1900s, complete with furnishings

from the era, as well as myriad photos, yearbooks, and even a new exhibit with memorabilia of the late Jim Myers — a former teacher and coach in the Madison Schools better known nationally by his professional wrestling alias, George “The Animal” Steele.

Those who check out the City Council meeting at 7:30 p.m. the same night can also hear a report from the Historical Commission detailing their recommendations for which community figures should have city parks and facilities named after them next. The recommendations will then have to be reviewed and approved by the City Council.

Last year’s initiative led to TwelveSherry Park being renamed after Oakland County Commissioner Gary McGillivray, who was present at the dedication in August before dying that fall. The new youth room at the Madison Heights Public Library was renamed in honor of Robert Corbett, while the pavilion at Monroe Park was named in honor of Bob Gettings, who both died while still serving on the Madison Heights City Council. Each dedication is accompanied by a plaque describing the person’s contributions to the city.

At press time, officials were staying quiet about which figures will be honored next.

“To me, it’s not about naming at the place or structure. It’s about raising awareness for the people who helped build our community in its nearly 70 years of existence,” said Bliss, who serves on the Historical Commission’s naming subcommittee.

Sheppard said he’s looking forward to the music program, and discussing how cassette tapes overtook eight-tracks as the dominant portable music format of the time.

“Cassettes have made a huge comeback even now. We are servicing more cassettes now than we have in over 30 years (at Northern Audio Service),” Sheppard said. “Part of it is nostalgia, where ’80s and ’90s kids are growing up, but part of it is the recording industry itself. Using cassettes is a

stab at the industry — smaller bands who don’t want to be controlled and make 1%

or less of their fee for the music, they can produce on cassettes and have more control, although that also means less distribution.”

Bliss said that guests will be able to go hands-on with cassettes and eight-tracks, including tapes from his personal collection, getting a feel for a mechanical quality that is increasingly lost to time.

“We’ll talk about how they work, and even what to do and where to look if you’re trying to maintain them,” Bliss said. “We’ll go over how music formats evolved, how that factors into local Madison Heights lore and even Motown and the general area, and we’ll go hands-on with them, too. Overall, I think the program will be very well-rounded for such a short session.”

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

CRIME WATCH

License plates lifted

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, between 9 p.m. March 23 and midnight March 24, an unknown suspect stole the license plate off a Kia Telluride while it was parked in the 32000 block of Concord Drive. The victim is a Madison Heights resident, age 50.

In a separate incident, sometime between 1 p.m. Feb. 22 and 1 p.m. March 11 at a business in the 26000 block of John R Road, an unknown person stole a license plate off a vehicle.

Police were investigating.

Drug overdose

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, around 8 p.m. March 23, a 22-year-old Madison Heights resident in the 1000 block of West 13 Mile Road overdosed on unknown pills.

Police did not specify the current state of the victim. An investigation was ongoing.

Fire

“The doors of the home were locked, and there was a car in the driveway, so we treated the situation as possibly having people inside,” Biliti said. “We did a quick search, and that’s when we found two people inside and removed them. They were already deceased.”

In a statement the following day by Madison Heights Police Lt. David Koehler, it was revealed that the victims were Christopher Spicer, 40, who lived at the home, and Candace Hawkins, 42, who is also a Madison Heights resident but at a different address.

“Our current investigation shows Spicer and Hawkins were in a previous dating relationship,” Koehler stated.

The Michigan State Police Crime Lab set up at the scene. An autopsy by the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death. Spicer committed suicide, the report said, having died of self-inflicted stab wounds. Hawkins also died of stab wounds, but her wounds were not self-inflicted.

“Based on the current information, the Madison Heights Police Department believes this is a ‘murder-suicide,’ and there is

Stolen vehicle recovered

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, a 2008 Dodge Durango that had been reported stolen out of Detroit was located around 3 p.m. March 23 in a parking lot in the 27000 block of Dequindre Road. The vehicle belongs to a 56-year-old Roseville resident.

Police were investigating.

Frauds committed

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, an unknown suspect fraudulently used a state benefits card belonging to a 25-year-old Madison Heights resident. The fraud occurred between 10:30 a.m. March 18 and 7:30 p.m. March 21 in the 31000 block of Concord Drive.

In a separate incident, a 43-year-old Madison Heights resident at an unlisted location was the target of fraud when they received three counterfeit checks in the mail around 1:30 p.m. March 20, along with a letter instructing them on how to cash the checks.

Investigations were ongoing.

Wallet missing

MADISON HEIGHTS — According

to a police report, a 51-year-old Troy resident lost a brown wallet in the 30000 block of Stephenson Highway sometime between 2:45 p.m. March 16 and 3:30 p.m. March 16. Police were investigating.

Vehicle vanishes

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, a 51-year-old Oxford resident had a red 2021 Jeep stolen from a business parking lot in the 32000 block of Industrial Drive sometime between 1:20 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. March 12.

A possible acquaintance of the victim may be involved. An investigation was ongoing.

If you know more about these crimes or others, call Madison Heights Police at (248) 585-2100.

Window broken at store

HAZEL PARK — According to a po-

lice report, an unknown suspect used a brick to break the front window of the Boost Mobile store at 22844 John R Road in Hazel Park, sometime around 6 a.m. March 23.

Police were investigating.

Fraudulent loan

HAZEL PARK — According to a police report, a Hazel Park man began receiving financial information about loans on March 20. Police determined that the man, who lives in the 1700 block of East Woodward Heights Boulevard, was the victim of an unknown suspect trying to secure a loan using personal information.

The victim had not suffered any financial losses at the time of the report. An investigation was ongoing.

If you know more about these crimes or others, call Hazel Park Police at (248) 5426161.

— Andy Kozlowski

no threat to the public,” Koehler stated. He added that the department was continuing to review the evidence.

“Our condolences go out to those affected by this tragedy,” Koehler said.

Biliti said the fire was a deliberate act.

“We believe it was intentionally started in the hallway in the home,” the fire marshal said. “There was a combustible liquid in close proximity.”

He said that fatal structure fires in Madison Heights are exceedingly rare, with the last one having occurred four years ago, and the one prior having been four years before that.

“This is not something that normally happens,” Biliti said.

He thanked everyone who worked together to resolve the situation.

“I commend the joint effort between the fire departments, along with the Michigan State Police and the detective bureau at the MHPD,” Biliti said. “I would also like to remind people to have working smoke detectors inside their homes. They save lives.”

Anyone with more information about the incident is asked to call the Madison Heights Police Department at (248) 5852100.

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

FOOD COLLECTION

HAZEL PARK — The Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, is partnering with Gleaners Community Food Bank from now through April 26 on the Food for Thought campaign.

Residents are asked to drop off nonperishable canned goods at the library, which will then be donated to Gleaners.

The Library Network and the Suburban Library Cooperative are also partners on the initiative. For more information, call the Hazel Park District Library at (248) 546-4095.

Geocaching in the woods

MADISON HEIGHTS — The Red Oaks Nature Center at Suarez Friendship Woods, located at 30300 Hales St. in Madison Heights, will host a geocaching program for kids from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, April 11.

Geocaching is a form of scavenger hunt that uses GPS-enabled devices to locate the treasure. The event will also teach participants about the history of the hobby.

There will be two age groups: 6-9 and 10-13. The cost is $10 per child per session. Preregistration with payment is required by calling (248) 858-0916 during weekdays.

ORIGAMI AT THE LIBRARY

MADISON HEIGHTS — The Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, will host an all-ages program building origami paper crafts in the Breckenridge Room, part of its Social Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 6. For more information, call the library at (248) 588-7763.

FLOOR STRETCH CLASS

HAZEL PARK — The Hazel Park Community Center, 620 W. Woodward Heights Blvd., is hosting floor stretch classes at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays for a $5 drop-in fee.

The program is for those 18 and older, including senior citizens, and is described as a series of gentle stretches that improve flexibility, find balance, and enhance overall well-being through movements suitable to all capabilities. Attendees should bring their own yoga mat.

For more information, contact Hazel Park Recreation at (248) 547-5535.

HABITAT BEGINS HOME REPAIRS

MADISON HEIGHTS — Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County, in partnership with the city of Madison Heights, is launching a program to provide affordable home repairs for eligible homeowners.

Items include furnaces, hot water heaters, roofs, decks, porches, siding, kitchens and bathrooms. Homeowners with low to moderate income can qualify for grant funding, with an emphasis on addressing long-term health and safety concerns. Habitat will review applications with each owner, and also cross-reference other programs that may offer financial assistance.

Each property must be owner-occupied, and the property owner must be current on mortgage, homeowner’s insurance and property taxes, or current on a payment plan for delinquent taxes. Habitat must also deem the home in acceptable condition for the requested work.

The program is focusing on eligible homes in the southern end of the city, located south of Lincoln Avenue and north of Interstate 696 between Dequindre Road and Stephenson Highway.

For more information or to submit an application, visit habitatoakland.org, or contact Habitat’s Partner & Community Programs Team at (248) 338-1843, ext. 200.

Madison Heights City Council supports new state revenue sharing model

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS —

Two proposals in the Michigan Legislature aim to change the way the state supports municipalities. The Madison Heights City Council has issued a resolution in support, with officials saying it would help the city cover essential services without increasing taxes.

The two proposals — House Bill 4274 and House Hill 4275 — would have the state establish a revenue sharing trust fund, which would be funded by 8% of the 4% sales tax. The trust fund would be dedicated specifically for statutory revenue sharing, one of the two types of state revenue sharing in Michigan, the other being constitutional revenue sharing.

Unlike constitutional revenue sharing, statutory revenue sharing is subject to the state government’s annual appropriations process. Since 2001, the actual statutory revenue-sharing payments to cities, villages, townships and counties have been below full funding each year. The city has lost a cumulative $16.1 million in this fashion since 2002.

Last October, the Michigan House of Representatives voted 106-4 to create the revenue sharing trust fund by amending the Michigan Trust Fund Act and the General Sales Tax Act. The idea is it would create a more stable and predictable revenue source that isn’t impacted by politics in Lansing. The Michigan Senate has not yet taken up the proposal.

The Madison Heights City Council unanimously approved its resolution of support in a 6-0 vote at its regular meeting March 11. Mark Bliss, the mayor pro tem, was out of the country that night. When asked afterward how he would have voted, Bliss said that he also would have supported it.

“I think it’s about prioritization at the

state level,” Bliss said. “If the state can prioritize tax dollars going directly to communities, it will make a bigger impact on the average taxpayer’s life here in Madison Heights. That money can go directly to our road projects, our public safety, our local library, things that people use on a frequent basis, things that they rely on in their day-to-day life.

“Similar to the price increase our residents are seeing at the grocery store, nearly all of our city contractors have been increasing their prices, even for things like simple road repair or grass cutting,” Bliss said. “Thankfully, we’ve continued to keep the millage rate we levy the same to ensure there is no increase in taxes to residents outside of normal increases tied to their property values increasing. But if (economic trends) continue, it prompts tougher decisions where we’re either sacrificing some of these repairs and services — maybe not hiring as many police or fire personnel, for example, or waiting on replacing a fire engine — or we’re faced with having to raise taxes.”

Melissa Marsh, the city manager of Madison Heights, thanked state Rep. Amos O’Neal, D-Saginaw, and state Rep. Mark Tisdel, R-Rochester Hills, for helping advance the bills in bipartisan manner. She also thanked state Rep. Mike McFall, D-Hazel Park, for his local support, as well.

Ed Klobucher, the city manager of Hazel Park, has long criticized what he describes as Michigan’s “broken system of municipal finance,” including the interaction between Proposal A and the Headlee Amendment, two policies that together sharply limit what cities can collect from taxable properties to just 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.

Klobucher said that he wants to see the state make the situation more equitable, and one way to do that would be implementing the revenue sharing trust fund.

“We will pass a similar resolution (on the Hazel Park City Council) in April,” Klobucher said. “The state should absolutely step up support for cities. I have fought to restore revenue sharing to cities for my entire career. The state has underfunded cities for over 20 years, balancing its budgets on the backs of local government.”

Roslyn Grafstein, the mayor of Madison Heights, said that action is long overdue.

“This loss of revenue has placed an undue financial strain on the city as we struggle to balance our budget without reducing essential services or increasing our tax rate,” Grafstein said in an email. “If approved … this statewide program will help Madison Heights, Hazel Park and our neighboring communities receive much needed funding.”

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

‘Doe White’ spotted

BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Donald Payne has seen many white-tailed deer pass through his Farmington Hills yard. The lanky ruminants are a common sight around the region, but one recent visitor stands out from the rest with its stark white fur.

“It’s exciting. … It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing,” Payne said of seeing the deer. “You’ve got to appreciate the time you have when you’re blessed with a rarity like that coming into your yard to say hello.”

Payne is not the only one that’s spotted white-furred white-tails in the region. Sightings of deer with the rare fur date back to at least 2022 in Troy with subsequent sightings in Bloomfield Hills and Farmington Hills. According to Rochester Hills naturalist Lance DeVoe, white fur in deer is a symptom of either albinism or piebaldism, which respectively have about a 1/30,000 and 1/1,000 chance of occurring.

“It’s a recessive genetic trait,” DeVoe said. “It’s a thing where (white fur is) selected against because of the fact they lack the camouflage.”

Sightings of deer are common throughout southeastern Michigan. What was once a rare glimpse into nature has become a daily occurrence in some areas as white-tailed deer have made their homes between ever-growing housing developments.

“With everything being so developed and big subdivisions bordering each other and a really small of what would be considered suitable deer habitat, they’re forced to be in neighborhoods and commons areas and every little woodlot,” DeVoe said. “You can see a deer any day of the week anywhere in (Rochester Hills) and pretty much all over southeast Michigan.”

The loss of habitat has led to behavioral changes in deer. DeVoe says fawns will be left in yards and common areas since humans keep predators like coyotes at bay. It has allowed

See DEER on page 16A

ABOVE: A white-tailed deer with a white coat was spotted by Donald Payne in Farmington Hills in early 2024. There is a 1/1000-1/30,000 chance of seeing a deer with this coloration.

Photo provided by Donald Payne

LEFT: A young white-tailed deer with a white coat was spotted by Lindsey Larivee in Troy in 2023.

Photo provided by Lindsey Larivee

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

APRIL 4

History of Pewabic Pottery: Presentation and tile giveaway, 6 p.m., Center Line Public Library, 7345 Weingartz St., (586) 758-8274

Birmingham’s Big Night Out: Fundraiser for Birmingham Next, includes live music by Mark Randisi and The Unforgettables, strolling appetizers and desserts, and more, 7 p.m., Daxton Hotel, 298 S. Old Woodward Ave., birminghamnext.org

APRIL 6-7

Baby shower drive for Selfridge families: Hosted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Menge Post 6756 Auxiliary, drop off items for ages 6 and younger April 6-7, 25500 Sherwood in Center Line, (248) 930-4135

APRIL 8

View solar eclipse: Also activities, “Michigan Sky Tonight” program at planetarium and more, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, science.cranbrook. edu/visit/events

APRIL 11

Geocaching Adventure: Part of Homeschool Series, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Red Oaks Nature Center, 30300 Hales St. in Madison Heights, registration required, (248) 858-0916

Concert: Featuring Birmingham Musicale Choral Ensemble and winners of annual music competition, 1 p.m., Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 1800 W. Maple Road, thebirminghammusicale.org

APRIL 12-14

Coin show: Presented by Michigan State Numismatic Society, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. April 12-13 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. April 14, Sports & Expo Center, Building P on Macomb Community College - South Campus, 14500 E. 12 Mile Road in Warren, michigancoinclub.org

APRIL 18

Senior expo: Meet experts about medicare, assisted and independent living, mobility solutions, veterans

benefits, travel, financial planning and more, plus free admission, health screenings, prizes and giveaways, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Century Banquet Center, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, seniorexpousa.com

APRIL 20

Run for the Health of It: 5K race/ walk, 8 a.m. (check-in at 7:15 a.m.), Red Oaks Nature Center, 30300 Hales St. in Madison Heights, loom.ly/IoTQ0KQ

APRIL 22

DIA in the Garden: Learn meaning behind flowers and plants in select works with representative from Detroit Institute of Arts, 10-11 a.m., Bloomfield Township Senior Services, 4315 Andover Road, registration required, (248) 723-3500, bloomfieldseniors.org

APRIL 25

Hunting Feathered Dinosaurs and Colossal Crocs: Program runs 6-9 p.m., lecture and Q&A with explorer who discovered dinosaurs on five continents 7-8 p.m., Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, science.cranbrook.edu

APRIL 27

Earth Day activities: Recycle paper, scrap metal, electronics, paint and cleaners, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Hazel Park Department of Public Works, 24211 Couzens, also parkcleanups, 9 a.m.-noon, call (248) 547-5535 to choose location, facebook.com/CityofHP

A Walk at the Zoo: Fundraiser for Shades of Pink Foundation, helps with living expenses for local people undergoing breast cancer treatment, 7 a.m.noon, Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, shadesofpinkfoundation.org

APRIL 28

Warren Symphony Orchestra: Hear music by Flagello, Tchaikovsky and Beethoven, 3-5:30 p.m., Warren Woods Community Auditorium, 13400 12 Mile Road, warrensymphonyorchestra.com

MAY 8

Pollinator garden workshop: Also taste honey and lavender lemonade, 6 p.m., Hazel Park Community Center, 620 W. Woodward Heights, registration required, (248) 547-5535, facebook.com/CityofHP

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Book clubs: Novels & Neighbors (focuses on range of viewpoints and life experiences, 6 p.m. every second Tuesday of month), LitWits (general club for avid readers, 7 p.m. every third Monday in March, May, July, September and November) and Golden Bookworms (for ages 50 and older, 1:30 p.m. every fourth Tuesday of month), Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, (248) 588-7763

Social clubs: Ham Radio (7:30-9 p.m. every second Wednesday of month), Stitch & Knit (4-6 p.m. every first Thursday of Month), Lego/Pokémon (6:30-7:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of month) and various book clubs, Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, hazel-park.lib.mi.us

Hazel Park Garden Club: Workshops during spring include Gardening Basics & Raised Bed Building (April 10), Sheet Mulching & Tree Planting (April 24), Trellising (May 8), Beekeeping 101 (May 22) and Organic Weed Management (June 12), noon, Hazel Park Community Center, 620 W. Woodward Heights, (248) 546-7000, facebook.com/HPBeautification

Speaker Series: Hear from bestselling authors and thought leaders, topics are “From Murder to Atonement — Confronting My Son’s Killer” (2 p.m. April 9) and “A Literary Examination of Power, Love, and Art” (8 p.m. April 17), Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, register at libraryc.org/mhlibrary/ upcoming

‘Children of Eden’: Performance by Stagecrafters, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays April 4-21, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in Royal Oak, stagecrafters.org

Bond

from page 1A

this is more cost-effective than making individual repairs at the school.

The bond would also pay for improvements at nine other sites in the district, with upgrades to safety and security, infrastructure and amenities.

By law, none of the funds can be used for employee salaries. The funds can also not be used for maintenance costs, or any other operating expenses. The funds can only be used for the projects described in the proposal.

If approved, the bond will extend the current millage for the entirety of the proposal, resulting in a zero-mill net increase from the current levy. The estimated levy in 2024 would be 5.65 mills, which is $5.65 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation. The estimated simple average millage to retire the bond debt is expected to be 9.42 mills.

Evaluating the need

The proposal was the result of an internal review in 2023, where school administration worked with architectural and construction management specialists to assess the condition of district facilities.

Together, they assembled a project list totaling more than $300 million. This was then cut in half to avoid a millage increase, Kruppe said. The items that made the cut were the ones that best addressed priority needs, such as safety and infrastructure.

One group opposed to the bond calls itself With Students In Mind. Rachel Noth, a former member of the Hazel Park Public Schools Board of Education (2015-22), is among its members.

Noth said that a separate study conducted in 2021 showed a need for only $36 million in maintenance repairs. When asked about this, Kruppe said that the 2021 study

was not as thorough.

“In August 2023, we brought in our architect, and went through all the schools — building by building and room by room — with the school administrators present, reviewing the needs of each, and the features the staff would like to better educate the kids,” Kruppe said.

“Remember, bonds can only be used for infrastructure, and the money for this bond can only be used for that purpose,” Kruppe said. “Having the bond money for infrastructure would keep our general fund fully available for staff, materials and curriculum development.”

New construction

Due to its age, officials believe that renovating Webster Early Childhood Center — located at 431 W. Jarvis Ave. — would be more costly than new construction.

This led to the proposal for an entirely new building, one with a longer life expectancy and lower energy footprint, as well as enhanced security and learning spaces.

As for the early childhood services at Webster, they would be relocated to Hoover Elementary, a site chosen for the size of its classrooms, and the fact that many of them have restrooms attached.

Voters would also have input on the new elementary school. If the bond proposal is approved, the district will form a building planning committee that includes parents and staff representatives.

Noth expressed concerns about this point. She said that during a previous bond in the early 2000s, community members met and clearly defined projects such as rebuilding United Oaks Elementary and building Hazel Park Junior High, all before any votes were cast. By comparison, leaving the feedback process for the new elementary school until after the election feels rushed, she said.

“That’s one thing that gives me pause,” Noth said. “I was on the board that helped

The following is the language for the bond proposal as it will appear on the May 7 ballot:

School District of the City of Hazel Park School Improvement Bonding Proposal County of Oakland State of Michigan

Shall Hazel Park City School District, Oakland County, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed One Hundred Fifty Million Dollars ($150,000,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, in one or more series, for the purpose of: Constructing, equipping and furnishing a new school building, erecting, furnishing and equipping additions to and partially remodeling, furnishing and refurnishing, equipping and re-equipping school facilities; acquiring, installing, and equipping instructional technology for school facilities; constructing, equipping, developing and improving athletic facilities, playgrounds and play fields; and developing and improving sites.

The following is for informational purposes only:

The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2024, is 5.65 mills ($5.65 on each estimated $1,000 of taxable valuation). The maximum number of years the bonds may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is thirty (30) years. The estimated simple average millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 9.42 mills ($9.42 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation).

The School District expects to borrow from the State School Bond Qualification and Loan Program to pay debt service on these bonds. The estimated total principal amount of that borrowing is $3,384,559 and the estimated total interest to be paid thereon is $1,255,255. The estimated duration of the millage levy associated with that borrowing is 11 years and the estimated computed millage rate for such levy is 13 mills ($13 per $1,000 of taxable value). The estimated computed millage rate may change based on changes in certain circumstances.

The total amount of qualified bonds currently outstanding is $31,890,000. The total amount of qualified loans currently outstanding is $0.00.

Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited, and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses.

get the district out of deficit with our deficit elimination plan. We were in a position where the state wasn’t very favorable to us but gave us the opportunity to put together a plan, and we all buckled down to get ourselves out of deficit. And so when you feel there’s a big ask (like this bond) and there’s little collaboration to get things done, and we’re looking at taking on more long-

term debt, it makes you feel like we’re on the wrong track again, and not staying the course for our families and community.”

A focus on security

The other projects include improvements at the former Hoover Elementary,

See BOND on page 15A

from page 14A

Webb Elementary, United Oaks Elementary, Jardon Vocational School, Hazel Park Junior High School, Hazel Park High School, INVEST Roosevelt Alternative High School, the Ford Advantage Alternative School and Administrative Building, and Camp Hazelwood.

New safety and security features would be implemented districtwide, including the construction or remodeling of secure entrances, new exterior and interior doors with door locks, and new systems for public announcements. The high school would also receive a new emergency generator.

Kruppe said this point is particularly important.

“It was a different world in the 1950s when these buildings were first built. They didn’t have the same concern for safety that we do now,” she said. “Unfortunately, the entryways and locks from back then weren’t developed for what we need now. It’s my desire to bring all those infrastructure needs up front, because our kids deserve a safe and secure environment.”

There would also be learning space improvements, including upgrades to lighting, carpeting, furniture, ceilings, and restrooms in select classrooms, and a renovated auditorium at the high school featuring a new sound booth, lighting, and upgrades to audio and video systems.

Heating and cooling systems would be upgraded or replaced at locations across the district, including the replacement of boilers at select schools. Roofs and windows would also be replaced where needed, and there are also plans to replace the turf, track, home bleachers, scoreboard and press box at the high school. Outdoor learning spaces at select locations are also planned.

As for Camp Hazelwood, the restrooms, showers, bunkhouses, lighting and community spaces would all be updated, as would the outdoor learning spaces. Accessibility improvements would also be made, compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Questions remain

Noth said that her group is not opposed to the idea of a bond.

“I think the main concern I’m seeing is people asking, ‘Where is the middle ground with this?’ We want to know what we can do now to keep our buildings maintained in a fiscally responsible way, and without locking the community into a long-term debt of 30 years,” Noth said.

“The other thing that concerns us about the bond is that it’s very vague as to

how the money is going to be controlled and how it’s going to spent,” she said, noting that while the law requires it to be spent on infrastructure projects, the finer details of each project are undecided. “If I’m going to be locked into a debt for 30 years, I want to know exactly how it will be spent and how it will be done.”

Noth also questioned the timing of the bond.

“You’re going to strap our community with a $150 million bond issue when this is the highest inflation in some time? People are already struggling to cover their regular tax bills and their other cost-of-living expenses. It seems a bit irresponsible to not take a more moderate approach here,” Noth said. “Tearing down a school and rebuilding it when our student population is declining doesn’t make sense. We could be focused on growing our programs and strengthening the benefits we have for our students.”

Kruppe said the bond will allow the district to focus on programs and curriculum development, since the district would be spending less of the general fund on infrastructure and would have more available for education. Combine that with facilities that are safer and more modern, and it should make the district more alluring for new enrollment, she said.

“It would have been easier to not bring a bond to the community, because we know taxes are high and people give to the schools and city already,” she said. “However, our kids deserve the best.”

For more about the Hazel Park Public Schools bond proposal, visit hazelpark schools.org/hps-bond.

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

CANDGNEWS.COM

Deer

from page 11A

the deer population to become a regular part of living in the region. The sight of deer is hardly an issue, but homeowners and drivers can have encounters with deer ranging from the inconveniences — deer tend to eat from gardens and planted fruit trees alongside native plants — to dire road hazards.

While living with deer can be challenging at times, DeVoe says the role of influence the four-legged neighbors have on residents tends to align with how important the local environment is for deer.

“If you live in an area where you have a big commons area and there’s a lot of natural food, like oak trees, then they’re not as persistent as they are when those things don’t exist,” DeVoe said.

In areas where deer lack natural food, the animals turn to garden plants. Deer can be deterred from dining in gardens through

the use of physical barriers like nets and fences, applying repellents to plants or by planting flowers that deer do not like, such as hyacinth, sage or coneflower. Hazing deer by making loud noises or using noise-emitting devices to keep deer away also helps.

But no matter the tactics used to keep deer away from lawns and flowers, DeVoe says the white-tailed deer are not leaving their homes anytime soon. Humans, it seems, have come to accept this.

“I get fewer complaints (about deer) now than at any time that I’ve had this job, which is over 30 years,” DeVoe said. “I think people have adjusted to living with them and knowing that they’re going to be around and that sometimes there’s going to be a negative impact from them. But at the same time, there’s a lot of people where that’s why they enjoy living here, seeing the wildlife and having those opportunities. It’s a perspective thing, and I think people are becoming more realistic with living with them.”

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Residential/Commercial Freeestimates!

(586)262-3060

DAVE'S

TREE&SHRUB

20%-SpringDisc.Insured, EmergencyStorm Damage,Large-Tree Removals,Trimming, Stump-Grinding,Gutters, Season-Firewood (100acord)Free-Estimates/10%Senior-Disc. (586)216-0904

davestreeandshrub.com

ELITETREE SERVICE

"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!"

Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757