4/3/24 Sterling Heights Sentry

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

RESIDENTS TO GET NEW CARTS FOR TRASH, RECYCLING

BY ERIC CZARNIK

Sterling Heights officials are wheeling out the latest news about residents’ new rolling waste and recycling carts, as well as etiquette on how to use the receptacles.

During the March 19 Sterling Heights City Council meeting, the council voted unanimously to introduce an ordinance updating regulations for curbside pickup of trash, recyclables and yard waste.

The move comes as the city gets ready to switch waste haulers to Priority Waste and introduce universal curbside recycling services. The city approved a 10-year contract with Priority Waste last September. As part of

the transition, curbside recycling will no longer be an optional subscription program — all homes will be enrolled in the program.

In addition, city officials talked about the upcoming distribution of trash carts and recycling carts to residents.

The city says residents will get a green 95-gallon refuse cart and a blue 65-gallon recycling cart sometime this month. Residents who typically drop off waste at the curb — or in common areas for carts — will start using the new carts when Priority Waste begins its hauling services May 1.

Officials say the carts will keep trash contained so that it doesn’t create messes or blight. As part of the

See TRASH on page 10A

City Council rejects Brougham apartment proposal in split vote

An over three-hour discussion at the March 19 Sterling Heights City Council meeting over a proposal to put apartments along Brougham Drive ended in a 3-4 vote, causing the proposal to be rejected.

Marketplace Cove Apartments was a planned unit development proposal that involved two parcels located east of Van Dyke Avenue and north of 15 Mile Road. Two three-story buildings containing 233 apartment units with a few possible retail spaces were planned on around 6 acres at 8484

Brougham Drive. Directly to the west, a related retention pond and parking area would have sat on around 4.5 acres at 35360 Van Dyke Ave. Both parcels are zoned C-3 gen-

See BROUGHAM on page 12A

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes Sterling Heights Department of Public Works Director Mike Moore stands beside the rolling carts that will be distributed to residents: green for trash and blue for recycling.

County prosecutor declines charges for shooting of 2 women

SELFDEFENSE CITED AS REASON

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

A woman who police say shot two people near Schoenherr and Hall roads will not be charged after the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office concluded that self-defense was involved.

Sterling Heights police said they heard about gunfire outside a restaurant in the 44000 block of Schoenherr Road, south of M-59/Hall Road, at around 4:30 p.m. Feb. 27.

Police said two people were shot — one woman reportedly was wounded in the neck, and the second woman was wounded in the arm. They were taken to the hospital and were listed in stable condition, police said.

One officer reported that the woman shot in the neck said she and the other wounded woman — her mom — were, in the words of the report, “in a road rage with a lady and the lady shot them both.”

Police noted that a red Jeep Compass was stopped behind a white Dodge Durango, and neither was in a parking spot. Both vehicles had open driver doors. Police said they saw a black Smith & Wesson revolver

on the Durango’s dashboard. Police said they arrested the shooter, who had earlier been in the Durango.

During the investigation, police interviewed witnesses. One witness reported that two people got out of their vehicle and were yelling at someone who was seated in the other vehicle, and then the dispute reportedly escalated, followed by a loud “pop” noise. A physical altercation occurred prior to the gunfire, according to another officer’s witness report.

Prosecutor declines charges

Sterling Heights police said they gave

a warrant request packet to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office regarding possible charges. Police said they heard from the Prosecutor’s Office March 11 that there was “insufficient evidence to prove the elements beyond a reasonable doubt” and that “video evidence and 9-1-1 callers support self defense claim made by the Defendant.”

According to police, the Prosecutor’s Office also said evidence confirmed that the defendant “was being assaulted in her car” and that the two women “listed (as) victims in the initial police report were actually the

See SHOOTING on page 13A

LOOKING BACK: Nelson Park dedication

A sign for James C. Nelson Park is unveiled during a dedication ceremony in August 1990.

According to Mitchell Mulroy, a local history librarian for the Sterling Heights Public Library, the park is named after James Nelson, a Sterling Heights firefighter who was injured in February 1983 while on duty and died the following month at age 38.

“He received this head wound after falling out of a fire truck while heading to an arson at Sterling Junior High School,” Mulroy said. “Nelson is notable for being the first Sterling Heights firefighter to fall in the line of duty.”

Learn more about Nelson Park, 2775 15 Mile Road, by visiting myshpr.net.

— Eric Czarnik

Photo provided by the Sterling Heights Public Library and the Suburban Library Cooperative

View the eclipse with the library

The Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, will host a solar eclipse event for all ages at noon April 8. The event will feature trivia, crafts, games and more.

Admission is free. Preregistered attendees will get eclipse glasses in order to watch the eclipse at 1:58 p.m.

Since the eclipse is scheduled to take around two hours and 29 minutes, attendees who can’t stand a long time are encouraged to bring their own chairs. Learn more about registration by visiting shpl.net and clicking on the Programs button, or by calling (586) 446-2665.

MUSIC ACTS ANNOUNCED FOR STERLINGFEST

Sterling Heights officials recently announced some major scheduled entertainment acts for the evenings of the July 25-27 Sterlingfest Art & Music Fair.

On Thursday, Taylor Swift tribute act Taylor’s Story will open for the Spice Girls tribute act Simply Spice. The other headlining acts are country singer John Michael Montgomery on Friday and rock band Night Ranger on Saturday. Opening acts for those last two nights are yet to be announced, according to the city’s website.

Learn more about Sterlingfest by visiting sterlingfest.info or by calling (586) 446-2700.

BOCCE BARN REOPENS

Sterling Heights’ Bocce Barn reopened to city residents and nonresidents April 1 for this year’s season.

General hours are 5-9 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, with the exception of being closed on Thursdays from June 6 to Aug. 29. The facility will also be open noon-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. In addition, the Bocce Barn will host cornhole nights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The Bocce Barn is located behind the Sterling Heights Senior Center, 40200 Utica Road. Admission is free for residents with a valid ID, or $5 for everyone else. Minors must be with an adult parent or guardian. To learn more about the facility or scheduling a private rental, visit sterlingheights.gov/2060/Bocce-Barn or call (586) 446-2700.

TRIBUTE BAND TO PERFORM APRIL 11

The Sterling Coffeehouse concert series will host the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young tribute band Carry On 6-8 p.m. April 11 at the Sterling Heights Community Center, 40250 Dodge Park Road. Advance tickets cost $18 for residents and $22 for nonresidents. Attendees must be at least 14 years old. Learn more about the event and acquiring tickets by visiting sterlingheights.gov and typing “Carry On” in the search bar, or by calling (586) 446-2700.

PARKS DEARTMENT

FINISHES ICE RINK SEASON

According to the Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation Department, the Dodge Park Ice Rink was used by 21,375 skaters during its winter season. The department is currently preparing for the May 25 opening of the Dodge Park Splash Pad, located at 40620 Utica Road. Learn more by visiting myshpr.net or by calling (586) 446-2700.

Photo provided by Ken Bertin

Hands-on displays show life through others’ eyes

ABOVE: Rich Rubba, a Sterling Heights CommUNITY Alliance volunteer, talks about fine motor impairment during a Disability Awareness Workshop March 20 at the Sterling Heights Community Center to promote empathy and understanding for people with disabilities. As part of an exhibit, gloves are worn while trying to use locks or perform tasks associated with getting dressed. Everett Joo, 9, from Shelby Township, and Alexander Demirasi, 9, from Shelby Township, use gloves to experience difficulties with buttoning, tying and zipping clothing with fine motor impairment.

BELOW: An attendee walks with a white cane and masked vision during one of the exhibits at the Disability Awareness Workshop. Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

CRIME WATCH

Pair accused of stealing

Legos from Kohl’s

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

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

Police settle dispute over cutting in line

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

beat up one of the parties.

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

Juveniles throw rocks at cars

Police were alerted that three juveniles allegedly were throwing rocks at vehicles from a bridge at the M-59 and Ryan Road intersection the afternoon of March 16. Police said one of the juveniles reportedly wore gray and black, but they had no other descriptors of the suspects.

Women panhandle at restaurant

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

Customer evicted after argument over birthday party service

Police reportedly investigated a dispute between staff and customers March 16 at a business in the 44000 block of Mound Road.

Spring Clean Up — Inventory Clearance

Police said the customer’s dissatisfaction stemmed from the service reportedly given at her child’s birthday party, though she told police she planned to settle the matter by emailing the manager. Police said the manager explained that the customer and workers had an argument, and the customer was asked to leave.

The business reportedly wanted the customer evicted, so police forwarded the message, and the customer reportedly left without incident.

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

— Eric Czarnik

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.

‘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 natu-

ralist 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

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

Trash

from page 1A

new rules, garbage must be placed in its designated cart and not be left in trash bags at the curb.

Officials said yard waste can be placed curbside in 39-gallon paper waste bags, or residents may buy an additional 95-gallon cart from the city’s waste hauler.

During the March 19 meeting, Community Relations Director Melanie Davis said the city has managed a “We’re on a Roll” public outreach and education campaign via mail, newspaper ads, online ads and social media. She added that the campaign has tried to reach out to English, Spanish and Arabic speakers.

Through that campaign, residents have received information on what types of trash can be recycled, whether it’s paper, cardboard, metal, glass or plastic. Styrofoam, batteries and electronics are among the items that cannot be recycled, officials said.

During public comment, resident Sanaa Elias said she wanted to know why the new system with the large carts is mandatory when she has “one small bag of garbage.”

“I’ve talked to some people. They don’t have no room in their garage, and they don’t have room outside their house. It is going to be a problem,” she said.

She also wanted to know what portion of recyclables received are actually recycled.

“I went on the computer and read the EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, and they said 50% is going in the landfill,” she said. “So why are you making it mandatory?”

Councilman Michael Radtke said the carts are a way to keep trash from attracting raccoons and feral cats. He lamented the calls and complaints that he has heard about

the upcoming changes, adding that “it can work in Sterling Heights. This is not going to be some crazy idea.”

“It’s like they just want to gripe, and it’s frustrating,” Radtke said. “At the end of the day, this is going to be a boon to service. You’re not going to see trash blowing through your neighborhoods. You’re not going to have rats in your neighborhoods.”

Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool said the universal curbside recycling program is mandatory “because it’s a best practice” shared by many other communities in southeastern Michigan.

Vanderpool said all collected recyclables will go to a recycling recovery station, and materials are only not accepted when they’re improperly collected.

“There may be cases where the recycling load is contaminated, where someone doesn’t follow the instructions, and they may bag their recyclable material, and in those cases that contaminates the load,” he said.

“And that’s why public education is so important with this. That’s a rarity — that’s the exception, not the norm.”

Vanderpool said there is no opting out of getting a recycling cart, though he said residents can store them away and not use them. Still, he encouraged people to use them, especially for disposing of cardboard boxes that come from Amazon deliveries or other delivery services.

“(It would) be horrible to be throwing those boxes into the garbage, taking up precious landfill space,” he said. “Now you can recycle it right at your curb. Simply put the cardboard in the cart, wheel it out – you’re good to go.”

Learn more about trash and recycling services by visiting sterlingheights.gov/onaroll or by calling (586) 446-2440.

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

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Brougham from page 1A

eral business district and are within the Van Dyke Mixed Use Overlay District.

When it was time to vote, Mayor Michael Taylor, Mayor Pro Tem Liz Sierawski and Councilman Michael Radtke said yes to the project. Council members Barbara Ziarko, Deanna Koski, Maria Schmidt and Henry Yanez formed the majority to reject the plan.

A dense discussion

When the Sterling Heights Planning Commission earlier heard the Brougham proposal in November, members recommended changes to it that the developer, Tony Gallo, accepted. For instance, the proposed project used to call for 249 units and three buildings, but that was changed to 233 units and two buildings. The stipulation of trying to rent out five potential retail spaces on one building’s first floor was also added, with the possibility of those eventually becoming apartment units if no businesses leased them. In January, the Planning Commission voted 8-1 to recommend the altered proposal.

Many residents at the March 19 City Council meeting spoke out about the apartment plan during public comment, with most showing concerns over density, traffic, property values and more.

Resident Terri Gordon said she lives near the parcels and noted that the plan wouldn’t be on Van Dyke but “on a residential 25 mph street.” She also worried about overcrowding and trash spilling into her backyard.

“It’s highly dense, and there’s just too many people,” she said. “This … monstrosity is going to be the entranceway to our neighborhood. That’s what you are going to see coming into our neighborhood, and I

don’t want to look at it.”

Resident Benjamin Orjada said he thought the development proposal was important because “the city’s own figures have shown that there’s a good 4,000-unit housing deficit in the city,” and he said jobs go to where housing opportunities exist. He also talked about “underhoused” people in their 20s, 30s or early 40s lacking certain economic opportunities.

“Having apartment housing options for them, having additional varieties of options in the housing market, is crucial for folks to get their foot into the door to having their own independent living situations,” he said.

Both residents and city officials continued to bring up Marketplace Cove’s density in comparison to neighboring residential areas.

There are two different ways to measure the project’s density. City officials based their preferred measurement on the estimated 6 acres where the apartments would stand, leading to a figure of over 38 units per acre. An alternative measurement takes the entire estimated 10.5 acres into account, leading to a density figure of around 23 units per acre, officials said.

City officials said that, in comparison, the densities of the surrounding residential neighborhoods are about 3.78, 6 and 10 units per acre.

Gallo said he understands that some neighbors in the area might not want change, but he said the zoned land could actually be much denser if another permitted use, such as a five- or six-story hotel, were to be built there.

“For the record, we truly believe that this is a downzoning,” Gallo said. “This is not an increase in intensity; it’s a decrease in intensity.”

During council members’ comments, Taylor supported the overall plan and point-

See BROUGHAM on page 13A

Cove Apartments, which had been slated for Brougham Drive, near Van Dyke Avenue and 15 Mile Road.

Brougham

from page 12A

ed out the housing shortage in the area.

Taylor said the project is “pretty dense” compared to some developments in the city, but not compared to developments in other comparable metro Detroit cities.

“This is not just a community of singlefamily homes, and you know, going from 34 apartment complexes to 35 is not going to take us from a suburban city to an urban city,” he said.

Taylor also alluded to a recently failed apartment proposal by Sterling Square LLC. The City Council rejected that along the same 3-4 split, but shortly later the developer repurposed the land into an all-commercial plan that’s currently underway following Planning Commission approval.

“Property owners have a right to use their property, and I think a city should try

Shooting

from page 3A

aggressors and assaulted the Defendant inside of her vehicle.”

In a March 12 press release, the Prosecutor’s Office said the Compass containing the mother and daughter followed the Durango to the parking lot near Hall and Schoenherr, and the Durango stopped at a stop sign there. Then the Compass reportedly stopped behind the Durango, and the mother and daughter allegedly exited and approached the Durango’s driver’s side.

“The mother and daughter began physically assaulting the driver of the Durango,” the prosecutors’ press release added. “A third party bystander attempted to approach the driver of the Durango during the physical assault to give aid. The Durango driver, in fear for her life, pulled her handgun and shot one time striking both women. The bystander fled once she heard the gunshot.

“An eyewitness who called 911 stated:

to take a property and get it developed at its highest and best use,” Taylor said.

Sierawski asked Gallo for his response to potentially making the apartment buildings two stories instead of three, but he said it wouldn’t be feasible.

Ziarko said her decision to reject the plan was based on its density and the residents’ concerns.

“If you were telling me you were going to put this near Lakeside, I would say, go for it. North Van Dyke, go for it,” she said. “I’ve listened to what administration thinks is right, and I’ve also listened to what we think is right for you as a developer. But I also have to sit back and listen to what the residents brought forth tonight, that I know are their concerns, and it’s the truth.”

Learn more about Sterling Heights by visiting sterlingheights.gov or by calling (586) 446-2489.

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

‘those two girls tried to attack the shooter … those two girls were beating up on her,’” the press release continued.

“Denying charges on the ground of self defense is a recognition of the inherent right to protect oneself when faced with imminent danger,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said in a statement.

The Prosecutor’s Office said the woman wielding the revolver had a valid concealed pistol license, and the two women who had been shot were “recovering from non-life threatening injuries.”

The Prosecutor’s Office said it had considered at one point pursuing charges against the mother and daughter, but decided not to after investigating and talking to witnesses and the shooter.

Sterling Heights police Lt. Mario Bastianelli declined to comment about the Prosecutor’s Office’s action.

Learn more about the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office by visiting macombgov. org/departments/prosecutors-office.

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

Canteen Golf and Billiards in Clinton Township opened its doors to the public on March 22.

The new business is located at 41601 Garfield Road, in space formerly occupied by ACO Hardware.

ABOVE: Dylan Kolito, of Clinton Township, sets up for a shot at the golf simulator at Canteen Golf and Billiards in Clinton Township during its soft opening on March 21.

LEFT: Owner Bert Copple opened Canteen Golf and Billiards with a focus on camaraderie.

Vet’s vision transforms former ACO Hardware space

BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Canteen Golf and Billiards isn’t just a place to unwind. It’s a place to give back.

The new business, replacing the former ACO Hardware in a strip mall at 41601 Garfield Road, offers golf simulators and pool tables with a variety of games. While the fun center is available to everyone, it puts a special emphasis on veterans.

Canteen features a mural dedicated to those who served. Owner Bert Copple, a U.S. Army veteran, took 75 submissions from those who served to add to the mural. The pictures are arranged on a timeline, spanning the global war on terror.

“It tells the story of the war because there are whole generations that weren’t even alive in 2001,” Copple said. “So, we’re trying to get them to understand why we went to war, what happened, and it tells the good, the bad and the ugly.”

While the wall showcases those who sacrifice, it doesn’t pull punches. It includes things like the torture and abuse at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq.

The “Leatherneck Lounge” at the Canteen caters to those veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. On the first Monday of each month, the business hosts a PTSD support group for veterans. A licensed counselor comes in to assist with the sessions.

“Anyone who just wants to come in to talk and share their story,” said Copple about the event. “The most important thing you can do when you have PTSD is to talk about it. That’s the first step in finding healing.”

Copple said he’s currently in talks with two groups, Helping Paws for Veterans, in Farwell, and Veteran Service Dogs, in Howell, that train emotional support animals for veterans with PTSD. He’s also working to find veterans organizations to donate to. Copple hopes to

See

Waltonwood supports residents’ active and independent lifestyles and removes the stress that seniors — and their family members — often experience when they’re living on their own.

Move to Waltonwood and spend time doing the things you like most. We’ll take care of the rest.

•Chef-prepared dining experiences

• A variety of Life Enrichment programs

•Personal care services available when needed

•Housekeeping services and home maintenance

•Scheduled transportation

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

Henry

Henry Ford II theater students win ‘class act,’ acting and technical honors

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS — Henry Ford II High School theater students won a great deal of recognition for their acting, technical and personal skills at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association One-Act Play State Finals Feb. 18 at Wayne State University.

The Falcon Theatre and Troupe 6785 were honored for the second consecutive year with the Jon Fitzgerald Class Act Award for their staging of “The Diary of Anne Frank.” The Ford II theater students also placed fifth statewide and earned superior honors from the majority of the judges in a variety of acting and technical categories.

Henry Ford II Theater Director Kirstin Carolin said that witnessing her students’ humanity shining through in Wendy Kesselman’s adaptation of “The Diary of Anne Frank” on a competitive stage was rewarding as a director and teacher.

“Not only did they captivate audiences, but their off-stage kindness and empathy earned them the prestigious Fitz Class Act award two years running. This recognition spotlights their well-rounded artistry, excelling in both performance and character,” Carolin said.

The Jon Fitzgerald Class Act Award is named for the longtime Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association executive director and recognizes the student group most frequently seen or overheard during the weekend supporting students and shows from other schools, one another, and the host site, which was Wayne State University’s Hilberry Gateway performing arts complex.

Carolin said they are so proud to have

Ford II awards for excellence:

• Sound Design — Aly Lupo, DeAndre Murray and Salvatore Orlando

• Costume Design/Execution — Miriam Trevino & Company

• Lobby Display — Miriam Trevino & Company

• T-Shirt Design — Abigail Patterson

• Program Design — Ryan Snider

• Acting — DeAndre’ Murray, Piper Gregory

Superior awards:

• Acting Ensemble — Full acting ensemble

• Anne Frank — Bria Loveday

• Mrs. Van Daan — Miriam Trevino

• Mr. Van Daan — Aidan Carolin

• Student Directors — Bria Loveday, DeAndre’ Murray, Abigail Patterson

• Properties Design — Dane Hoppe, Katie Nowak, Company

mounted a beautiful show that shares an important and relevant story.

“We all know Ford II has the best students,” she said.

The one-act play competition challenges students to create, stage and perform a play in 45 minutes.

Senior Bria Loveday, who played Anne Frank, said the accomplishment of winning “The Fitz” and placing at MIFA States is so special to the students because as a troupe they pride themselves on being compassionate and respectful to everyone.

“Anne’s message taught us to appreciate and cherish every moment together. We told this story in hopes that others could learn and follow by our example,” she said.

Call Staff Writer Kara Szymanski at (586) 498-1029.

Ford II High School theater students perform during their production of “The Diary of Anne Frank.”

Photo provided by Tim McAvoy

Canteen

from page 14A

get these donations from the business proceeds set up later this year.

He said Canteen’s name comes from the place soldiers go after a mission.

“That’s the watering hole,” he said. “You go have a drink, play pool, play darts, whatever the case is. We set this up to feel like that atmosphere.”

The Canteen utilizes Trackman golf simulator projection screens and is the second business in North America to use the pool table simulators they have, according to Copple. He estimates that the building has $600,000 in simulators between the golf simulators and the pool tables.

When coming up with the idea, Copple wanted to give golfers a year-round place to come but also wanted to provide something unique for billiards players.

“Billiards is a sneaky popular sport in the United States,” Copple said. “How can I make it more relevant to younger generations?”

The billiards tables feature a number of options other than traditional pool games. Each table is essentially a computer screen with the pool stick functioning like a mouse. There are videos on the table to walk you

Canteen Golf and Billiards owner Bert Copple is a United States Army veteran and wanted the business to put a special focus on honoring those who served. This timeline mural tells the story of the United States’ global war on terrorism.

through how to play each game. A patron could play blackjack, where the table picks up where the cue ball lands to select different cards, and then brush up on their billiards skills in a training mode. Copple highlighted

the line assist game in particular. This feature allows you to work on different shots to learn in real time.

“There’s a system called 100 moves that walks you through the 100 moves of how to

play pool from the easiest to the most difficult,” Copple said.

The food is all-you-can eat hot dogs and pizza. Refreshments offered include Coke products and the business also has a liquor license to offer alcoholic beverages.

Utica resident Mike Ferrans, a billiards player, found out about the Canteen by just peeking in the window before the business was open. Copple gave him a tour.

“He let me in and showed me around,” Ferrans said. “I was very impressed with what I saw.”

Rochester resident Mark Koski, a golfer, said he liked how open it is and that there’s food nearby.

“It’s more of a social interaction than the other simulators I’ve been at,” Koski said.

Brandon Choranziak, who was playing on the same screen as Koski and hails from Clinton Township, agreed.

“I’m coming back on Saturdays,” Choranziak said.

Billiards player Paul Garant, of Clinton Township, was playing a regular game of pool on the table, but had tried out some of the other features like blackjack.

“It’s clean, it’s close by, everything is brand new,” said Garant. “It feels welcoming.”

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

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Be prepared when welcoming new pets to the home

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Pets are a huge commitment. Before a new owner takes the plunge, they should carefully consider their home, how it’s configured, and whether it makes sense for the pet. And once the animal arrives, they will need time to adjust.

“Animals that come from shelters need a decompression period. They cannot just come home and immediately acclimate to their surroundings,” said Paige Wallace, the animal control officer for Madison Heights. “We don’t know how (shelter animals) are with kids, digging through trash cans, separation anxiety, etc. So, learn your pet — if you’re adopting and the animal is an adult, let them show you what they don’t know, what they’ve never been taught. When they first enter your home, they don’t know you and are just as nervous as you, if not more.

“Start with the basics and adjust as the animal adjusts. Give them time to figure out things,” she said. “Maybe your animal was never walked on a leash. Maybe it never had toys, so they chew everything except their toys.”

In teaching them, she said to use positive reinforcement — for example, gently slipping a toy in their mouth when they try to chew furniture. Avoid negative punishment, such as yelling or throwing out your arms. Scolding will make them associate you with fear and can lead to aggression.

“Follow the ‘Three 3s’ — three days for initial decompression, three weeks to learn the routine, and three months to start to feel relaxed and at home,” Wallace said.

When it comes to dogs, their size and energy level should scale to your home and lifestyle, said Sue Wells, president of the Animal Welfare Society of Southeastern Michigan, a rescue located in Madison Heights.

“It’s also imperative that you take your dog or pup to training. They learn everything from socializing with other pets to house training and good manners,” Wells said in an email.

Wallace said smaller homes are best for cats and small or medium-sized dogs. She said only cats are suitable for apartments. Small or medium-sized non-sporting dogs are best for people who don’t exercise outside often.

“Someone who works away from home is OK to have any size dog, but pay attention to the breed classification, and what they were originally bred for,” she said. “A husky or German shepherd should not be locked up for long hours, but a Lab, pit bill or dachshund would be OK.”

She said cats should never be put in a crate unless being transported. For dogs, Wallace said crates can be used for three months to a year depending on the dog’s temperament. They should be used at bedtime, she said, or when you’re not home or unknown visitors are in the house.

“But never use the crate for a punishment or timeout,” she said. “Make the crate your dog’s home where they go to feel safe. Make sure it has their favorite blankets as long as they don’t chew them while you’re gone.”

For cats, the litter box should be scooped daily and changed about every three to four days. Starting out, place it near the food so that the cat can find it.

“It’s not uncommon to have a litter pan on each floor,” Wallace said.

She suggests not using pee pads for dogs if you can help it.

“Pee pads use scent detection to help the dog know they’re able to use it. Some dogs will remember that spot and continue to go to the bathroom there even when you remove the pee pad,” Wallace said.

In terms of environmental hazards, all dogs should avoid all types of mushrooms, fertilizer, salt — even if it’s described as having “pet safe” levels — and gardens. Dogs should never be fed grapes, avocados or onions.

With cats, keep them away from household plants such as aloe vera, lavender, oregano, jade

and easter lilies. Be sure to research the plants in your home and whether they’re toxic to felines.

If other animals are present, boundaries should be established with baby gates or by leashing the animals to keep them separated until they have familiarity.

“Don’t be tense when introducing them for the first time. Animals feed off your body language and energy. Allow them to determine their pecking order without you doing it for them,” Wallace said. “Just make sure no small children are around, and that they’re always separated by a barrier until you see tail wagging, sniffing, playing, licking, and sharing toys. If this is going on, you’re safe to remove the barrier. But look out for eyes locked on the other animal, stiff tails, hair standing up, ears back, snarling, showing teeth, getting territorial over toys, growling, or just overall excitement levels.”

One should never let their new rescue dog outside while unattended, she said.

Shutterstock images

“Just because your yard is fenced does not mean they cannot jump the fence. I’ve even seen them jump privacy fences,” Wallace said. “Your new dog should be leashed when taken outside and then taken right back in when they’re done. You don’t know how they are with neighbors’ dogs and you don’t know if they will jump, dig massive holes, or if something may spook them to feel unsafe.”

Local wildlife is another concern.

“Some dogs go after wildlife and will attack and kill. Some dogs are scared and will run back to the door. It’s best to keep your animal vaccinated and away from all wildlife,” Wallace said. “Remember: Coyotes will go after any-sized dogs. It’s important to remember how your dog reacts to that could be life or death for your pet.”

She cautions against using shock collars.

“The dog is not going to learn the very first time you shock them, so if you become a person that repeats it until they listen, this could do one of two things: It could burn the shock collar to your dog’s neck and leave burnt spots on the neck, or it could desensitize the dog, and they will continue to do

the behavior. Again, positive reinforcement: reward them for listening the first time. … Give the animal something to look forward to.”

As an aside, Wallace said that during the winter, certain dog breeds enjoy being outside — notably, breeds such as huskies, malamutes, St. Bernards, Bernese mountain dogs and German shepherds. Still, check on them often and make sure they’re not limping along, as they may have snow jammed between their paw pads, which could cause frostbite.

One of the best ways to keep your pet safe is to properly identify them so that they can be returned home if they ever slip out of the house.

“A microchip is always the best way to go,” Wallace said. “Make sure to keep the pet’s information as up to date as possible. Your pet should also have the tag that comes with the microchip affixed to the collar, as well as a tag including the name, address and phone number.”

She said that new pet ownership is a thoughtful process.

“Don’t forget patience, and never expect your rescue animal to be perfect. They’re flawed just as we are. We’re going to have to give a bit, and so will they,” Wallace said. “Time and structure.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

20A/ STERLING HEIGHTS SENTRY • APRIL 3, 2024

APRIL 4

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

APRIL 5

Little Saplings: Storytime, sensory activities, crafts and outdoor exploration for ages 3-5, 3:30-4:15 p.m., Nature Center, 42700 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, register at (586) 446-2710

APRIL 7

The Evolution of Baseball and the Detroit Tigers: Presented by members of Rochester Grangers vintage “base ball” team, 1-2:30 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds.org/event/baseball, (586) 739-4800

Prom Closet Tour: Free dresses and accessories for juniors and seniors, hosted by Sparkle Network, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Front Door Housekeeping, 11255 Hall Road in Utica, sign up ASAP at sparklenetwork.org/ prom-closet-project-tour-application

APRIL 11

Morning Movies: Watch “Everything Anywhere All At Once,” 10 a.m., Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, (586) 446-2665

Raising bees in gardens: Learn from apiarist, also honey and beeswax related products for sale, presented by Shelby Gardeners Club, 1 p.m., BurgessShadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, (586) 873-3782, ShelbyTwpGarden Club@gmail.com

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

favorite books, part social hour for adults, 6-7 p.m., Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, (586) 446-2665

Senior expo: Meet experts about medicare, assisted and independent living, mobility solutions, veterans benefits, travel, financial planning and more, plus free admission, health screenings, refreshments, prizes and giveaways, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Century Banquet Center, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, seniorexpousa.com

APRIL 19

Your Breast Friends: A Journey to Wellness and Sisterhood: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Transcendence Family Wellness Center, 42560 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, (586) 785-5894

APRIL 20

Lights! Camera! Auction: Hollywood-themed fundraiser for St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School, includes silent and live auctions, raffles baskets, and dinner and dancing, 6 p.m., Century Banquet Center, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, www.facebook.com/ stisaacjoguescatholic

To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.

2 p.m., Velocity Center, 6633 18 Mile Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 469-5675

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 4

Free Comic Book Day: All Warren Public Library branches, see warrenlibrary.net for times and related activities

ONGOING

Spring clean-up events: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. April 13 (paper shredding), April 20 (household hazardous waste), April 27 (electronics recycling) and May 11 and 18 (household waste drop-off), Sterling Heights Department of Public Works, 7200 18 Mile Road, (586) 446-2440, sterlingheights.gov

APRIL 8

View solar eclipse: Also games, crafts and trivia, noon, Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, , glasses available to those who register, (586) 446-2665

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

APRIL 18

BYO (Bring Your Own) Book Club: Part discussion of

Board Gaming Meet Up: Free event for ages 14 and older, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, (586) 446-2665

Comedy 4 Cancer: Also gift basket raffles, 50-50, cash bar and live classic rock by Black Mountain Sons, 7-10 p.m., UAW Local 228, 39209 Mound Road in Sterling Heights, comedy4cancer.com/uaw

APRIL 25-27

Jukebox Jam: ’50s and ’60s variety show, presented by Heart of the Hills Players, 2 p.m. April 25 and 7 p.m. April 26-27, D.A.V. Building, 47326 Dequindre Road in Shelby Township, hohplayers.org

APRIL 26

Crime survivors assistance: Learn about criminal justice system and support services available, also meet other survivors, hosted by Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Victim Rights Unit, 11 a.m.-

Widowed Friends dancing: Every Tuesday, doors at 6 p.m. and music from 7-10:30 p.m., American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936

Upton House Museum tours: Visit 1860s Michigan Historical Landmark 1-4 p.m. every Wednesday and second Sunday of month, 40433 Dodge Park Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2495

Northern Toastmasters: Meets 6:30 p.m. every second and fourth Monday of month, Leo’s Coney Island, 33577 Van Dyke Ave. in Sterling Heights, (248) 828-7481, samcrowl@comcast.net

Sterling Speakers Toastmasters: Meetings at 6:30 p.m. every second and fourth Thursday of month, virtual and in person, room 102 at Bethesda Christian Church, 14000 Metropolitan Parkway in Sterling Heights, sterlingspeakers.org, (586) 221-0405

Bereaved Parents of Macomb Support Group: Meets 7-9 p.m. every first Thursday of month, Washington Senior Center, 57880 Van Dyke Ave. in Washington Township, neilflyer@yahoo.com, (248) 425-2999

Shelby Township Fine Art Society: Meets 6:30-9 p.m. every second Wednesday of month, Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, facebook.com/ ShelbyTownshipArt

Monthly book clubs: Evening Book Club (meets 6:30 p.m. every second Tuesday), Mystery Book Club (10:30 a.m. every second Saturday) and Afternoon Book Club (1 p.m. every third Thursday), Shelby Township Library, 52610 Van Dyke Ave., shelbytwp.org/government/ departments/library

• Not Your Parents’ Book Club, 7 p.m. every last Tuesday, 22nd Street Steakhouse, 48900 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, shelbytwp.org/government/ departments/library

• 11 a.m.-noon every first Friday of month, Utica Public Library, 7530 Auburn Road, uticalibrary.com

Open mic: Hosted by Shelby Music Society, 7 p.m. every second Saturday of month, doors at 6:30 p.m., Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975 21 Mile Road, shelbymusic society@yahoo.com

Tuscany & the Italian Riviera

9 Days • 11 Meals • $2,399*

• Italian Riviera • Cinque Terre • Lucca • Tuscan Estate

• Florence • Greve in Chianti

Rome & the Amalfi Coast

10 Days • 13 Meals • $2,999*

Highlights: Turin • Langhe Wine Country • Barolo Winery

Highlights: Rome • Trevi Fountain • Pantheon • Piazza

Navona • Colosseum • Montecassino • Amalfi Coast

• Sorrento • Pompeii • Winery Visit and Lunch

10 Days • 12 Meals • $3,099*

Highlights: Rome • Vatican Museums • Assisi • Sistine Chapel • St. Peter’s Basilica • Perugia • Cortona • Florence

• Michelangelo’s David • Chianti Winery & Cooking Class

• Venice • Murano Island • Lake Maggiore

Deer

from page 9A

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 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.”

Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM

2024-2025 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN

2024-2025 Annual Action Plan

A proposed One-Year Action Plan has been developed giving particular attention to activities which beneft low-to-moderate income families, the elderly, and the handicapped. These activities meet the community development objectives set forth in the MHC’s Consolidated Plan. These objectives are designed to improve quality and quantity of community services, safety and the living environment

The budget for the 2024 program year is based on an estimated amount of $765,446 for the 50th year, (July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025) of the CDBG program. In addition, an estimated $300,000 in program income will be generated from and returned to the Home & Property Improvement Program.

The proposed projects of the One-Year Action Plan to be undertaken during the 50th year and their descriptions are stated below:

1. Administrative Activity - These costs are used to pay for the general management and administrative costs associated with the CDBG program. Funding: $149,933

2. Minor Home Repair – This program provides assistance to income eligible seniors, handicapped, and owner occupants of mobile homes to make minor repairs to their home. Funding: $40,000

3. Senior Center Kitchen Renovation – The project will consist of cabinets, countertops, fooring, and appliances. Additionally, after completion the kitchen will be able to qualify for licensing by the health department. Funding: $350,000

4. Senior Center Atrium Lighting – This project will consist of replacing the lighting with more appropriate 30foot candle lighting for better vision. Additionally, acoustic panels will be installed reducing the noise reverberations in this large space. Funding: $60,000

5. Doncaster Drive Reconstruction – This project will entail the removal and replacement of the existing concrete pavement. Funding: $350,696

6. Interfaith Care Givers – The SAFE at HOME program assists seniors and physically challenged adults with indoor and outdoor chores, by using trained local volunteers. Funding: $3,567

7. Macomb County Rotating Emergency Shelter Team (MCREST) - This program provides a safe, caring environment for the homeless at participating churches on a rotating basis for one week each year. Churches provide three meals per day, showers, laundry assistance and transportation. Funding: $10,000

8. The Salvation Army Macomb’s Answer to Temporary Shelter (MATTS) - This program provides a safe, secure environment for men, women, and their families during periods of homelessness. Participants may stay for a maximum of ninety consecutive days in a calendar year. The program provides casework, advocacy, transportation, life-skills, agency referrals, recreation, clothing, rental assistance, and medical services. Funding: $1,500

9. Turning Point - This program provides a safe place for families feeing violent situations. Programs include court advocacy, sexual assault services, PPO assistance, support groups, and education. Funding: $4,380

10. Adaptive Recreation Program - This program offers a variety of age and disability appropriate recreational activities for persons with disabilities that are designed to be appropriate for the age and ability of the individuals. Funding: $18,770

11. MCA Grass and Snow Program - This program affords manpower assistance to very low-income senior homeowners to complete home chore tasks that include lawn-mowing services and snow removal. Funding: $40,000

12. Macomb Community College Student Options for Success Program (SOS) - This program provides a network of support established at Macomb Community College (MCC) to help members of eligible population groups fnd direction for their lives and obtain the job skills necessary to provide fnancial support and independence for themselves. The program pays for tuition, books, childcare, transportation expenses, and vocational costs for qualifed students who are residents of Sterling Heights to attend MCC. Funding: $10,400

13. City Library Book Collection - This program purchases audio and large print library books that are delivered to the homebound and local senior residences. Funding: $3,800

14. City Library Internet Access Outreach – Funds will supply 20 LMI households with a tablet that has access to the internet or Wi-Fi hotspot. Funding: $5,400

15. Care House - This project provides families with a coordinated investigation of child sexual and severe physical abuse to reduce the trauma of the investigation and prosecution for child victims and their families. Crisis counseling, legal advocacy, parent support groups and education, children’s groups, and information and referral will be offered through this activity. Funding: $10,000

16. Wigs 4 Kids – Provides wigs and support services to children ages 3 to 18 throughout the state of Michigan experiencing hair loss for any medical reason at no charge to them. Funding: $2,000

17. Hearts 4 Homes – This program provides rental assistance to homeless/LMI families to end homelessness in children in Macomb County. Assistance is provided by paying one or more of the following: security deposit, frst and last month’s rent, and back or unpaid rent to prevent eviction. Funding: $5,000

The above-stated projects will not displace any person or persons. This Proposed One-Year Action Plan will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for further processing. Furthermore, the complete Proposed OneYear Action Plan is available for public review at Sterling-Heights.net, or by request via email at CDBG@sterling-heights.net

CITIZEN COMMENTS

A citizen’s comment record will be established upon receipt of any and all comments from interested parties.

Grow with Villa Bella ...

Saturday, April 20 th

We invite you to come enjoy Spring refreshments while touring our community.

Plant YOUR roots here at Villa Bella Spring specials available so come GROW with us!

Enter our raffle to WIN a Flat Screen TV and more!