5/22/24 Shelby-Utica News

SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — U.S. Rep.

ship Activities Center gymnasium.

“I’m back here in my home in Shelby Township with a refund check for our seniors and for our community of $1.5 million. This is a refund check precisely because this isn’t my money; this isn’t the federal government’s money. It’s your money, and we’re returning it right back home where you deserve to spend it right here on our health and our commuU.S.

John James returned home to Shelby Township April 24 with a very hefty grant that will go toward supporting upgrades to the Shelby Township Activities Center gymnasium. James successfully secured $1.5 million in federal funds to enhance the Shelby Town-

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS/SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Utica Community Schools is beginning work using the dollars from the largest bond issue in its history.

Approximately 70% of UCS voters approved the $550 million bond issue on May 2, 2023.

The first phase of the bond issue, which will cost $130

Photo provided by Shelby Township

Image provided by Jennifer Kane

This rendering shows a bird’s-eye view of what the reconstructed DeKeyser Elementary School will look like in Sterling Heights.

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UCS Senior receives NCWIT Aspirations in Computing high school award

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS — Eisenhower High School senior Melanija Ilijevski loves computer science and found a strong interest in making a career out of it.

“I love building things with code and animation. I love the atmosphere of being a software engineer — the critical thinking that goes with it and the group collaboration that occurs when you have a team working together,” she said.

Melanija Ilijevski

Ilijevski’s dedication to computer science has placed her among a handful of Michigan students to receive the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing high school award. The award honors students for their computer science achievements while encouraging them to pursue it as a career.

“I love any task that has to do with critical thinking. I’ve been taking computer science courses ever since the beginning of junior high school, and as the years (passed), the courses increased in difficulty, fueling my curiosity for the subject,” she said.

At Eisenhower, she founded the school’s Hack Club and created an app that is available for a video game that she and her sister created called Brickball.

“I have really been inspired from courses I have taken and the projects we have built. I would say the course rigor here has definitely propelled me into majoring in what I want to do, especially the engineering classes,” she said.

See ILIJEVSKI on page 4A

FRIDAY 5/24

FALLEN GIs REMEMBERED

AN OCEAN AWAY

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Each time Bart van der Sterren visits the Netherlands American Cemetery, he places a bouquet of fresh flowers at the Wall of the Missing.

The heartfelt gesture honors the memory of U.S. soldier Cliffe Hamilton Wolfe, a Detroit native who went missing in November 1944 during World War II. His remains have never been found.

Van der Sterren, a resident of Schinveld, Netherlands, is among many volunteers who have adopted American GIs buried at the cemetery, located in the European town of Margraten, Netherlands.

Approximately 8,300 U.S. military service members killed in combat during Operation Market Garden and the Allied push into Nazi Germany are laid to rest there. Also remembered are the 1,700 soldiers whose names are listed on the Wall of the Missing, including Wolfe’s. The cemetery was built on land where the U.S. Army’s 30th Infantry Division liberated Dutch citizens in September 1944.

Rows of crosses — each etched with a deceased soldier’s name, rank, unit, hometown and date of death — line the cemetery’s open fields. Each headstone, along with displayed flags of America and the Netherlands, pay tribute to the U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Dutch people constructed the cemetery to show their gratitude to the U.S. troops who liberated their country during

DETROIT SOLDIER’S REMAINS STILL MISSING

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TOP: Detroit native Cliffe Hamilton Wolfe, who has been missing in action since November 1944, is among the U.S. soldiers emembered at the Netherlands American Cemetery. ABOVE: Bart van der Sterren, a resident of Schinveld, Netherlands, has adopted two soldiers, including Cliffe Hamilton Wolfe, of Detroit. Pictured here van der Sterren stands below Wolfe’s name at the Wall of the Missing. See SOLDIERS on page 8A

Photo provided by Bart van der Sterren

Photo provided by Susan Miller

Grant

nity. As a recent resident of Shelby Township and as your Representative, I’m so proud to be able to return your money back to Shelby Township,” he said, according to a Shelby Township press release.

The plan involves the construction of an 8,700-square-foot gymnasium, adding a walking track, expanded space for pickleball, and program and activity spaces.

“Our seniors deserve quality care and environments in which they can thrive. I’ll always work to improve conditions for our seniors and deliver for our communities,” James stated.

The Shelby Township Activities Center serves as the community’s senior center from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. After 5 p.m. and on weekends, the facility provides indoor recreation for the entire community.

With the federal grant and $600,000 from the township, the total cost of the project is $2.1 million.

The upgrades and federal grant have been in the works since last summer, when James communicated with the Shelby Township Senior Center leadership and pushed for including the $1.5 million in community project funding in U.S. House of Representatives appropriations bills.

“We are grateful to Representative James for his advocacy and dedication to improving the lives of our residents. These

Ilijevski

from page 3A

Eisenhower chemistry teacher Melissa Minton said Ilijevski is the rarest of students.

“She is curious, enthusiastic, and will work tirelessly to achieve any goal set before her. There is no quit in that mind, and even she said, ‘Senioritis has not hit — I’m on the grind and ready for these AP tests,’” Minton said.

Minton said that Ilijevski was one of only two juniors in AP Chemistry last year, and Minton found Ilijevski’s work to always be at the top of her class.

upgrades will undoubtedly enrich the experiences of our seniors and residents for years to come,” Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis said in the release.

Following a recommendation from Shelby Township Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Director Joe Youngblood, the township included preliminary plans for the expansion of the activities center as part of its capital improvement plan.

Youngblood said that since the day it opened in 2019, the Shelby Township Activities Center and Senior Center has helped seniors’ wellness and social well-being. Membership grows yearly, and the federal grant will help to continue to serve seniors and the community with first-rate amenities, he said.

Brad Bates, Shelby Township community relations director, said the township’s engineering team from AEW is actively engaged in the project’s design phase and will draft the request for proposal documents for the construction phase.

“Once these documents are finalized, we will proceed to publish the RFP. Subsequently, the Board of Trustees will review proposals from construction contractors, and upon approval, we would move forward with the contracting phase. This process will provide clarity regarding the construction start date. While specific timelines are contingent on various factors, preliminary estimates indicate that the project is expected to be completed by the end of summer 2025,” he said.

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

“She has no quit in her and started several clubs during her time at Eisenhower. I was honored to be asked to be an adviser for one club. To see her develop her leadership skills while helping others was a true honor as an educator,” she said.

To earn the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing honor, Ilijevski submitted a biography, four essays about computer science and a portfolio of projects.

Her next step is to attend the University of Michigan, where she will be studying computer science, on her way to a career as a software engineer.

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

CANDGNEWS.COM

NEWS & NOTES

OUR NEXT EDITION WILL DELIVER TO HOMES JUNE 5

Shelby Memorial Day ceremony to take place Sunday, May 26

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Shelby Township will hold its annual Memorial Day ceremony at 1:30 p.m. May 26 at the Shelby Township Veterans Memorial, 52700 Van Dyke Ave.

The solemn event will begin with a welcome from Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis, then Phil Randazzo, Shelby Township veterans event coordinator and a distinguished Vietnam combat veteran, will deliver remarks to those assembled.

“Memorial Day holds a special place in our hearts as we remember the brave souls who have given everything for our freedom,” Randazzo said in a press release. “Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and it’s our duty to honor their memory and ensure that their legacy lives on.”

The ceremony will include the laying of a memorial wreath, musical tributes, the national anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation and honored speaker Judge Stephen Sierawski. Sierawski will reflect on the day’s significance and the legacy of those who served.

Tributes will include the Shelby Township Police Department Honor Guard performing a 21-gun salute, Tim Waage playing taps and the Shelby Township Fire Department and Police Department giving a siren salute.

Utica plans Memorial Day ceremony

UTICA — Utica will hold its Memorial Day ceremony at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 26, at Memorial Park, next to the Utica Public Library at 7530 Auburn Road. The ceremony will honor all who lost their lives in service to the country. The Marine Corps League Honor Guard will perform a gun salute and taps. After the ceremony, refreshments sponsored by Buscemi’s Pizza will be available at American Legion Post 351, 46146 Cass Ave.

Get ready for the Down Home Days Festival

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Shelby Township and the Shelby Township Lions Club will be hosting the Down Home Days Festival at Knights Park and Pavilion, 11541 21 Mile Road, May 24-27.

Down Home Days offers midway attractions and a lineup of bands and DJs to add to the carnival atmosphere. Bands and musicians scheduled to play include Sunset Boulevard from 7 to 10:30 p.m. May 24, Scott Cummins from 2 to 5 p.m. May 25, FiftyAmpFuse from 7 to 10:30 p.m. May 25, Bernadette Kathryn and the Lonely Days Band from 7 to 10 p.m. May 26, and Big B and The Actual Proof from 1 to 4 p.m. May 27.

“We’re excited to see such a diverse array of musical talent in our community this summer,” Township Trustee Lisa Casali said in a press release. “Down Home Days is a fantastic opportunity for residents of all ages to come together, and now the Lions Club has added four days of free, quality entertainment to an event that was already a resounding success.”

The Lions Club Party Pavilion offers refreshments and community at the center of the festival. There is free parking at the park and pavilion lot.

Shelby Township Police Department to hold youth academy

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Shelby Township Police Department Youth Academy applications are out and the 2024 youth academy is scheduled for July 15-26 for students who are in fifth or sixth grade. For any questions, contact Sgt. Kevin Bailey at (586) 731-2121, ext. 358, or kbailey@shelbytwp.org.

Applications are due by June 1. Find the application at crimewatch.net/us/mi/macomb-county/shelbytwp-pd.

by

Soldiers

from page 3A

wartime. The cemetery officially opened July 7, 1960.

“It is important that people around the world, especially America, read that these young heroes did not die in vain, but for our freedom more than over 78 years ago,” van der Sterren, a World War II buff, said via email.

Through the Margraten Adoption Graves Foundation, volunteers can adopt an American soldier. Currently, all the graves and names of the Wall of the Missing have been adopted. Because so many people want to pay tribute to the soldiers, sometimes there is a waiting list to adopt. Volunteers bring flowers to remember the service members and also conduct research on their own to learn more about their lives. Van der Sterren said a visitors center was built recently, which he described as “beautiful” and “worth a visit.”

Van der Sterren, 58, who speaks Dutch, German and English, lives about 40 minutes from the cemetery. He visits it four times a year. Each year, a ceremony in honor of the U.S. Memorial Day is held. This year’s event is scheduled for May 26, one day before the official holiday.

This past winter, van der Sterren contacted C & G Newspapers after an article appeared in the Eastsider about someone with a last name that is similar to a soldier buried at the cemetery. He wanted to know if there was a connection, but there wasn’t.

However, there was a local tie from across the Atlantic Ocean because one of the soldiers van der Sterren adopted — Cliffe Hamilton Wolfe — hailed from Detroit. In an email interview, van der Sterren shared details about the service member and the efforts to find his remains, which so far have been unsuccessful.

Wolfe, born in 1913, was a technical sergeant with the 28th Infantry Division, 109th Infantry Regiment, 1st Battalion Company A. He was last seen Nov. 17, 1944, in a forest near the town of Hürtgen, Germany. He is still listed as missing in action.

Going through the proper procedures, van der Sterren obtained Wolfe’s Individual Deceased Personnel File. Inside the file was a map the captain of Wolfe’s troop drew, indicating his last known whereabouts. It is highly suspected that Wolfe lost his life near the village of Hürtgen, southeast of Aachen, Germany.

Wolfe, 31, “died in his own foxhole during combat. Due to the rapid advance of the Germans, Wolfe and others were buried

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quickly on the spot,” according to van der Sterren’s research. “At the end of the Second World War, there was heavy fighting here, a battle that was given the name ‘death factory.’ The conditions in this period were extremely miserable due to violent enemy artillery fire that sowed death and destruction.”

With the help of various organizations, including the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, van der Sterren tried to find the missing soldier through aerial photographs, metal detectors and groundpenetrating radar.

“After a week of digging in Hürtgen (in 2018) and finding several hidden foxholes containing ammunition, bullets, mortars, hand grenades and personal military items, we were unable to find Cliffe H. Wolfe,” van der Sterren said.

‘I think it’s so nice to have Cliffe’s memory being honored.’

Wolfe’s family members, including nieces Susan (Wolfe) Miller and Nancy (Wolfe) Jordan, found out about the cemetery through van der Sterren. Their dad (Wolfe’s older brother) was Charles Wolfe, who served in the Navy during World War II. After the war, Charles, his wife Margaret and their daughters lived in Detroit for many years. At one time, Charles served as Detroit Public Schools superintendent. He died in 1990.

Nancy was a toddler when Wolfe went

Photo provided by Susan Miller

Brothers Charles Wolfe, left, and Cliffe Hamilton Wolfe both served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Charles served in the Navy and his younger brother served in the Army.

from page 8A

missing and Miller was born in 1947, after the war. When Miller found out about the Netherlands American Cemetery, she put together a book of photos and essays about her uncle for van der Sterren. Although Miller has not visited the cemetery, she stays in touch with van der Sterren.

“I think it’s absolutely wonderful the Dutch people have honored the soldiers all these years. I think it’s so nice to have Cliffe’s memory being honored,” said Miller, who now resides in Rochester, New York. “It was such a lovely thing to know the Dutch country was taking care of our uncle who has never been found, but are honoring his sacrifice.”

Although Miller never knew her uncle, she felt his presence through the many stories her father and grandparents told. He was an educator at the Merrill-Palmer Institute in Detroit when he joined the Army in early 1942.

“Cliffe sounded like a lovely person,” she said. “I had a lot of pictures of my dad and Cliffe growing up. He was tall and lanky and very handsome.”

Before the Wolfe brothers left for combat, their parents — Miller’s grandparents — moved to a cottage in Rondeau Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. At Wolfe’s request, his parents lit a lamp every evening at the cottage in the front window until the boys came home.

Wolfe attended Northwestern High School in Detroit and after graduation enrolled at Wayne State University, when it was called Wayne University. According to information Miller obtained from her sister, who lives in Maryland, Wolfe was in a long-term relationship with a young woman in Detroit when he left for the military.

Miller said her uncle had an interest in

the Appalachian Mountains and its people. He even built a cabin nestled in Berea, Kentucky. Miller, too, sensed the pain his loss brought to the family.

“The sadness of Cliffe’s death really hung over my childhood,” she said.

‘Now it’s war time.’

As a keepsake, Miller still has the letters Wolfe wrote to his parents while overseas.

“He was a beautiful writer,” Miller said. “His expressiveness was beautiful.”

In one written correspondence dated Dec. 7, 1942 — exactly one year after the Pearl Harbor attack — Wolfe wrote to his parents about the memories he had of opening presents on Christmas Day, including the year the family got its first-ever Victrola.

“Playing that grand music, we were so thrilled,” he wrote, according to Miller. “Now it’s war time. It’s hard to look into the immediate future.”

In another letter entrusted to the keeping of his chaplain, Wolfe wrote, “Dear Mother and Pop: This may reach you if anything happens to me. I hope and pray that when all of this horrible war is over, I’ll be coming home to you. But ahead of me lies a great deal of danger and life is not very highly valued.

“We will be going into a tremendous battle soon and we all know that many will not live through it. If this should reach you because I’ll not be home, you’ll know, my dears, that my love for you continues eternally in whatever place in the universal realm our Lord has chosen to lead me. I do love you so, Cliffe. “

After Wolfe went missing, the family connected with a liaison officer in an attempt to locate his remains.

“My grandmother wrote 75 to 100 letters from 1945-52,” Miller said. “The military looked so hard for Cliffe and the other soldiers. We know they searched and searched and searched.”

After speaking with the DPAA, there could be another attempt next year to locate Wolfe.

“Hopefully in 2025 another search for his remains will take place together with the DPAA and he will be found,” van der Sterren said. “In letters to his mother during the war, he wrote that if he died during the war, he would like to be buried in his hometown.”

Along with Wolfe, van der Sterren,

who is married and has two grown sons, adopted another soldier named Hans Bermayr, who was killed in action Feb. 26, 1945. His hometown was Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Van der Sterren does not want the members of the U.S. armed forces at the Netherlands American Cemetery to ever be forgotten. For more information on the Netherlands American Cemetery, visit abmc.gov/ Netherlands.

VB BTS II, LLC would like to place on notice the proposed construction of an installation consisting of a 97’ (100’ including all appurtenances) monopole tower known as Shoemaker Drain located at 42°37’49.64” north latitude and 82°59’6.5” west longitude near Lakeside Blvd N, Shelby Township, Macomb County, Michigan 48315. If you have any concerns regarding historic properties that may be affected by this proposed undertaking, please contact: Abby McKay, Lotis Environmental, LLC, at Legals@TheLotisGroup.com or (509) 387-0700. In your response, please include the proposed undertaking’s location and a list of the historic resources that you believe to be affected along with their respective addresses or approximate locations.

0210-2421

Published: Shelby-Utica News 05/22/2024

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission for the Charter Township of Shelby, Macomb County, Michigan has received a request for fnal approval of the following Planned Unit Development:

Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission for the Charter Township of Shelby, Macomb County, Michigan has received a request for final approval of the following Planned Unit Development:

APPLICANT: Steven Mancini Legacy Village Land Holdings, LLC 41500 Mound Road Sterling Heights, MI 48314

APPLICANT: Steven Mancini Legacy Village Land Holdings, LLC 41500 Mound Road Sterling Heights, MI 48314

PROPOSED USE: Legacy Village Manors Duplex Component (58 Units) Final Planned Unit Development

PROPOSED USE: Legacy Village Manors Duplex Component (58 Units) Final Planned Unit Development

LOCATION: Vacant Property South of 25 Mile Road, west of Van Dyke Avenue Final Site Plan/PUD #24-18

LOCATION: Vacant Property South of 25 Mile Road, west of Van Dyke Avenue Final Site Plan/PUD #24-18

SIDWELL NO.: 23-07-09-200-029

SIDWELL NO.: 23-07-09-200-029

LEGAL DESCRIPTION:

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: T3N, R12E, SEC 9; COMM AT THE NE COR SEC 9; TH S89*08’53” 964.11 FT; TH S00*00’40”W 447.46 FT; TH S18*47’55”E 140.58 FT; TH S02*54’18”W 74.95 FT TO POB; TH S45*29’38”E 467.46 FT; TH S44*30’21”W 1167.73 FT; TH N45*29’38”W 4.00 FT; TH N28*53’42”W 179.57 FT; TH N15*22’24”E 832.70 FT; TH N00*00’40”E 52.70 FT; TH N89*22’50”E 195.20 FT; TH N72*15’41”E 74.60 FT; TH N48*11’30”E 78.20 FT; TH N23*40’24”E 73.39 FT; TH N02*54’18”E 0.67 FT TO POB 10.910 AC; SPLIT/COMBINED ON 10/13/2023 FROM 23-07-09-200-022 (SPL-246).

4.00 FT; TH N28*53’42”W 179. 57 FT; TH N15*22’24”E 832.70 FT; TH N00*00’40”E 52.70 FT; TH N89*22’50”E 195.20 FT; TH N72*15’41”E 74.60 FT; TH N48*11’30”E 78.20 FT; TH N23*40’24”E 73.39 FT; TH N02*54’18”E 0.67 FT TO POB 10.910 AC; SPLIT/COMBINED ON 10/13/2023 FROM 23-07-09-200-022 (SPL-246).

The Planning Commission will meet on Monday, June 10, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. in the Shelby Municipal Building, Board Room, 52700 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan, 48316; (586-726-7243) for the purpose of holding a public hearing on the Final Planned Unit Development application.

The Planning Commission will meet on Monday, June 10, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. in the Shelby Municipal Building, Board Room, 52700 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan, 48316; (586-726-7243) for the purpose of holding a public hearing on the Final Planned Unit Development application.

The Final Planned Unit Development application and site plan may be examined at the Planning and Zoning Department in the Municipal Building, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to the Planning Commission at the above address prior to the hearing. Oral comments will be heard during the public hearing.

The Final Planned Unit Development application and site plan may be examined at the Planning and Zoning Department in the Municipal Building, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to the Planning Commission at the above address prior to the hearing. Oral comments will be heard during the public hearing.

This notice is provided pursuant to the requirements of Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, as amended.

This notice is provided pursuant to the requirements of Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, as amended.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION

Published: Shelby-Utica News 05/22/2024

Publication Date: May 22, 2024 Shelby-Utica News

SHELBY TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION

JEROME MOFFITT, CHAIR RAQUEL MOORE, SECRETARY

JEROME MOFFITT, CHAIR RAQUEL MOORE, SECRETARY

SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

FOSTER CARE MONTH HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR LOVING HOMES, SUPPORT FOR FOSTER CHILDREN

BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — Around 10,000 children in Michigan are currently in foster care, but the need for loving homes remains constant.

Foster mom Michele Austin decided to open up a foster closet in her own home in 2013 to give other foster families access to items that she knew foster kids needed.

“When my very first foster child came to me, he didn’t have anything, so I started talking to family and friends and opened up the closet in my home to help other foster families,” she said.

The closet grew by leaps and bounds, and in 2018 the Oakland County Foster Closet opened as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and expanded into an office building. Today, the Oakland County Foster Closet, a nonprofit based in Farmington Hills, offers supportive services, supplies and aid to children in the foster care system and to those in crisis situations at no cost.

“We offer all of the basic essentials that kids need in life: hygiene items, clothing, socks, underwear, school supplies — everything that they would need, and we do that absolutely for free for our foster kids and for low income,” she said.

The closet is currently in dire need of hygiene items such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion toothbrushes, toothpaste and more.

“We’ve seen a significant amount of need, because people are really struggling right now,” said Austin.

The Oakland County Foster Closet also has many volunteer options available, including one-time, once-in-a-while, and weekly opportunities for individuals and groups. For more information, call the Oakland County Foster Closet (248) 419-4487.

“It’s a really fulfilling type of volunteering because you’re seeing the impact and feeling the impact,” Austin said.

May is Foster Care Month, and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel said she is thankful for the thousands of families across the state who have already opened up their hearts and homes to care for youth in foster care, but she said more foster families are needed to provide temporary care while the state works to reunify kids with their parents.

“There continues to be a need for more foster families to provide stable and safe family homes for children of all ages in the state’s care,” Hertel said in a statement.

Many foster children have been victims of abuse and neglect, and officials say they need a nurturing environment until they can be safely reunified with their parents or — in a smaller number of cases — until they can find adoptive homes if it’s not safe for them to return home.

In Michigan, the first step to becoming a foster parent is contacting a “foster care navigator” — experienced foster parents who can answer questions, help individuals find an agency that’s right for them, assist families with the foster home licensing process and provide guidance along their journey to becoming a foster parent. A foster care navigator can be reached at 855-MICHKIDS or www.Fcnp.org.

Spaulding for Children — a private, nonprofit child welfare agency located in Southfield — was established in 1968 to find permanent and safe families for children.

Spaulding for Children President and CEO Melissa Jenovai said there is an increased awareness of the need to search out relatives for foster children in Michigan.

“If we can’t prevent them from coming in, we know the next best place for them to go would be with a relative,” she said. “We have put a lot more effort into searching for those relatives up front, and the outcomes tend to be much greater for children and youth who are placed with their kinship families — there’s more stability, and there are better mental health outcomes for those kids.”

But, oftentimes, kids who enter the system don’t have a family member available, so the need for nonrelative foster homes remains constant.

“It can take a person, on average, seven years from the time they inquire about

becoming a foster or adoptive parent, all the way up until the point that they decide to take that step and become one,” Jenovai noted.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services provides foster families a daily rate to help with the care of foster children based on the age and needs of the child. Foster families also receive a semi-annual clothing allowance, and many families qualify for reimbursement for the costs of day care, according to state officials. Children in foster care are eligible for Medicaid, which pays for medical, dental and mental health care.

Spaulding for Children offers monthly online orientation classes for those interested in becoming a foster or adoptive family. In June, orientation sessions will be held 6-7:30 p.m. June 12 and 1-2:30 p.m. June 20. Register by contacting Stacey Oakes at (248) 443-0300 or soakes@ spaulding.org, or visit www.spaulding.org.

“Coming to an orientation does not commit you to anything. It really just helps you to learn about the need, and maybe if you decide this isn’t something for you, then you can encourage others to reach out and provide support or learn about it to eventually become an adoptive or foster parent,” Jenovai said.

Those who aren’t ready to become a foster or adoptive parent can still offer support to foster children through monetary donations to organizations dedicated to helping those in the system, volunteering during an event and more.

“We really believe that the more opportunities that we involve the community in and offer our families these positive experiences that in turn helps offset some of the trauma that our kids and families have experienced over the years. The more positive events we can have, the better outcomes we hope to be able to provide with our kids and our families,” Jenovai said.

To learn more about foster care, visit Michigan.gov/HopeforaHome.

Call Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at (586) 498-1060.

ABOVE: Volunteers and staff at Spaulding for Children help make a past holiday party at First Baptist Institutional Church in Detroit a great time for foster children and families.

LEFT: Volunteers assist at the dessert table during a past Spaulding for Children holiday party for foster families at First Baptist Institutional Church. Photos provided by Spaulding for Children

Community Choice Foundation continues to ‘Give Big’ with scholarship awards

A credit union is more than a fnancial institution. It’s a community pillar, a job of which is to add strength to the lives of its individual members and the community as a whole.

Founded in 2008 in the grip of the Great Recession, Community Choice Credit Union’s Community Choice Foundation Scholarship Program has awarded a total of $1.6 million in scholarships to 346 recipients over the 15-year life of the program.

“We are one of the largest credit union scholarship programs nationally,” said Kevin McAlpine, CFRE, the foundation’s executive director.

“Currently, we award scholarships to graduating high school seniors, people going into the skilled trades and those continuing their education.”

Tis year, 25 scholars received awards out of a feld of more than 2,500 applicants. A total of $100,000 is awarded annually.

“Te Community Choice Foundation is committed to supporting local causes and nonproft organizations through volunteerism in communities around Michigan where members and team members live, work and play,” McAlpine said. “Te Foundation supports the ‘Give Big’ philosophy of cre-

ating sustained and lasting impact on people’s lives, including causes and nonproft organizations we care about that make a positive difference. We believe in the power of giving back to our community, and with the endless support of our members and team members, we make a tremendous impact on our community by volunteering thousands of hours each year.”

McAlpine added, “Te ability

ways Community Choice Credit Union gives back through the generosity of its members and team members. Other opportunities to “Give Big” include seven Backto-School Bashes at our Hillsdale, Jackson, Livonia, Muskegon - Harvey Street, Roseville, Warren & Wyandotte member centers, where more than 3,200 backpacks will be provided for local students heading

to continue our tradition of giving means a tremendous amount to the entire Community Choice organization. We’d like to send a huge thank you to our members, team members and business partners whose support has made the program a success.”

Scholarship sponsorship opportunities are available.

Te program is just one of the

back to the classroom. Interested in supporting local children with the tools needed to thrive? Sponsorship opportunities are available, and donations can be made online at communitychoicefoundation.org.

For more information about Community Choice Credit Union, the scholarship program and the Community Choice Foundation, visit CommunityChoice.com

SPORTS Eisenhower continues dominant reign in MAC Red, prepares for districts

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — When you think about Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 girls soccer, a few schools probably come to mind.

Most of them probably reside in Oakland County, such as Troy, Novi or the reigning Division 1 state champions in Rochester Hills Stoney Creek. From there, it spreads out to a number of different counties with Wayne and Livingston County seeing the most representation.

You know what county has a reservation for a party of one each year in Division 1?

That would be Macomb County, and Utica Eisenhower would be the lonesome riders who have appeared in two Division 1 state championship games, which is the most of any Macomb County school since MHSAA girls soccer split into divisions in 1998.

Back on its own soil, Eisenhower has dominated its surrounding competitions, winning 17 Macomb Area Conference Red league titles in the 21 years that head coach Mehrdad Nekoogar has been at the helm.

When the state tournament rolls around, Eisenhower doesn’t get a typical district alignment with predominantly Macomb County teams.

Eisenhower (11-1-1), currently ranked No. 8 in Division 1 according to the MHSAA, is set to open up against Romeo High

School this year for districts, but in order to survive districts, Nekoogar and company will have to make it past Rochester Adams (No. 7 D1); Rochester, an Oakland Activities Association Red team; Rochester Hills Stoney Creek (No. 15 D1), the defending state champions; Utica, or Utica Ford II.

“By the time we get to the district, we have to play the Oakland (County) side, which is very, very strong,” Nekoogar said.

See SOCCER on page 18A

“Many foot problems in people with diabetes occur when injuries and infections go unnoticed and untreated. Healing can be delayed due to decreased feeling in the feet (neuropathy) and poor circulation. I will evaluate your feet regularly to detect any changes early, before they become a problem. Call me for an appointment and I will work with you to keep your feet healthy.”

Photo by Erin Sanchez Utica Eisenhower junior Priti Chahil fights for possession against a Macomb Dakota defender.

Soccer

from page 16A

“We were the only team who took Rochester Hills Stoney Creek, who won the state championship, to a penalty shootout. We were actually beating them and they tied it with one minute left. The frustration for us is we get beat up pretty good because everyone that we play, for some reason, likes to beat Eisenhower. Maybe it goes back to us being so successful.”

To be the best, you have to beat the best, and Eisenhower hasn’t shied away from anyone this season, as the team has tied Rochester Adams and lost a 2-1 match against Troy, currently ranked No. 3 in Division 1.

Oh, and they ran away with the MAC Red again courtesy of a 1-0 win over secondplace Romeo earlier this season and a clean sweep against Macomb Dakota.

Eisenhower faced more injuries than it can count, but the sophomore class and two senior captains in Hadley Farr and Ava Dukaj have kept the team alive and well.

Sophomore Ellera Jakubowski, who led the team in goals last season, has been a onewoman wrecking crew offensively for the Eagles and is arguably the most dominant scorer in the MAC. Jakubowski said she felt

more comfortable coming into this season and has evolved as a scorer because of it.

“Compared to last year, I felt like I was more in a slump towards the end of the year because I expected it to be different,” Jakubowski said. “This year, it was helpful to know what was going to happen.”

The Eagles have also received offensive contributions from freshman Maryn Smith, a dynamic goal scorer who will be one to watch in the coming years, and Dukaj.

Jakubowski headlines a star-studded sophomore class that’s made a name for itself

this year with sophomores Molly Mellott, Olivia Van Dam, Nicole and Emma Von Zittwitz, Sonja Peterson, and Julia Aniel all making contributions.

When twins Nicole and Emma are on the field at the same time, it is like a house of mirrors at the circus for everyone except their parents, and maybe they even trick their parents from time to time.

“The other day I went to yell at Nicole and I yelled at Emma,” Nekoogar said. “She looked at me and said, ‘Coach, that wasn’t me. I said, ‘Oh, OK.’” I kind of differentiate between the two by looking at their shoes — one is red and one is orange. They look exactly the same.”

Mellott has anchored the goalkeeper spot to the tune of eight shutouts with Peterson and Farr both controlling the back line.

With some of the sophomores earning their stripes on varsity as freshmen, such as Peterson, Jakubowski and Aniel, the Eagles know how to work effectively as a group on the field. Peterson said everything seems to mesh when they’re all on the field together.

“We work together better than everyone else,” Peterson said. “We just flow as an entire unit on the field, and everybody is just so cohesive in the way we move the ball and switch the fields so we can get the ball to our forwards to score. It’s just a whole team ef-

fort all the time.”

Eisenhower has all the tools to make a deep run in the state tournament with an explosive offensive unit and stout back line that’s allowed two or more goals only once, against Troy, in 13 games.

Jakubowski said she and the rest of the team know they have a target on their back as the representatives of Macomb County soccer, but said it’s only fuel for the Eagles.

“I feel like everyone always wants to beat us,” Jakubowski said. “It’s motivating. It helps us know that we have to do better.”

Eisenhower will close out its MAC Red schedule with a league matchup against Romeo on May 20, after press time, before facing off against Romeo again just two days later in the opening round of districts at Swinehart Field.

The winner will face off against the winner of Rochester/Rochester Stoney Creek on May 28 at Rochester High School.

The Eagles last played Romeo on May 1 with a 1-0 game decided by a Farr goal, so expect a hard-nosed soccer matchup between the two MAC Red rivals.

“It’s a big rivalry, and there’s always a bunch of people there, and it’s really hyped up,” Aniel said. “I think we’re both pretty similar. They’re a really strong team and so are we, so it’s always a good matchup.”

Photo by Erin Sanchez

Utica Eisenhower senior Ava Dukaj blasts a shot against Macomb Dakota May 15 at Swinehart Stadium.

UCS

from page 1A

million, is now getting underway at sites throughout Michigan’s second-largest school district. Safety improvements are the top priority and will occur at each school.

Some of the safety improvements include door replacements with metal door frames as needed, upgrades to impact and shatter-resistant glass, heavy duty locksets, corridor entryway enhancements, and the continued implementation of the Nightlock system, which barricades doors.

One of the big pieces of this first phase is the reconstruction project at DeKeyser Elementary in Sterling Heights, which is anticipated to cost approximately $24 million. DeKeyser and other schools with open concept layouts from approximately 50 years ago, which were intended to foster collaboration between students, are being upgraded to address their lack of a full set of walls and doors now considered crucial to a safe learning environment. UCS said that in DeKeyser’s case, it requires a complete rebuild.

Stephen Slancik, Schuchard Elementary School principal, said the school community at Schuchard is looking forward to the changes that will be implemented this summer.

“Safety is always our top priority, and the installation of walls throughout our facility will further increase the level of security for our students and staff,” he said.

DeKeyser’s new design will be a template for use in transforming other elementary schools, according to the district. It will

SYNOPSIS OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024, IN THE BOARD ROOM OF THE MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 52700 VAN DYKE, SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN.

The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Supervisor Richard Stathakis.

The Invocation was led by Pastor Kurt Wenzelburger of St. Peter Lutheran Church and School in Macomb, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Veterans Event Coordinator Phil Randazzo.

ROLL CALL

Members Present: Richard Stathakis, Stanley Grot, James Carabelli, Lucia Di Cicco, Lisa Casali, John Vermeulen, Vince Viviano Also Present: Rob Huth, Township Attorney

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

A. Minutes: Board Meeting -- March 19, 2024; Work Session -- March 21, 2024 (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

To approve the minutes, as presented.

B. Packard Motor Car Foundation - Charitable Gaming License Request (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

To concur with the recommendation of Township Clerk Stanley Grot and approve the request from The Packard Motor Car Foundation asking to be recognized as a nonproft organization operating in the community for the purpose of obtaining a charitable gaming license.

C. Rebuy Brewing Company LLC - On-Premises Tasting Room (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

To approve the Local Government Approval for on-premises tasting room for Rebuy Brewing Company LLC to be located at 52023 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan 48317.

D. Renewal of Video Service Local Franchise Agreement for Wide Open West Michigan LLC (Requested by Clerk’s Offce)

To concur with the recommendation of Township Clerk Stanley Grot and approve the renewal of video service local franchise agreement for Wide Open West Michigan LLC.

E. Organizational Change in the Department of Planning, Building, and Development (Requested by Human Resources)

To concur with the recommendation of Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and approve changes to the presented modifcation to the organizational structure of the Department of Planning, Building and Development effective immediately with the General Employees’ Civil Service Commission notifed of the change.

F. Cincar Consulting Group, LLC (Requested by Planning and Zoning)

To concur with the recommendation of Building, Planning, and Development Director Julie Rasawehr and hire Cincar Consulting Group, LLC for ongoing transportation services related to the Section 1 & 2 Traffc Study and other transportation related projects for the Township based on an hourly basis at the direction of the Building, Planning and Development Director not to exceed funding approved by the Township Board in the Planning & Zoning Department’s annual budget.

G. Public Service Recognition Week (Requested by Human Resources)

To authorize the Township Supervisor, Township Clerk, and Township Treasurer to grant appreciation awards for Public Service Recognition Week 2024 to General, Supervisory, and 911 Communication Technician employees classifed as civil service, and to amend the General Fund, Police Fund, Fire Fund, and Water and Sewer Fund budgets accordingly.

include technology and multiple work areas for instruction in which teachers, paraprofessionals and volunteers can work with individuals and small groups.

The district is also choosing to do highly visible improvements important to many school communities as part of the first phase. These include beginning the parking lot improvements and playground enhancements at select sites. During the second summer of the improvements, people will see changes to athletic facilities to improve safety and increase school pride.

Superintendent Robert S. Monroe said that Utica Community Schools is beginning a transformational set of bond issue projects that will reimagine how its facilities can support student achievement.

“Utica Community Schools is fortunate to have a legacy of excellence that has led us to the important work of this bond issue. The work we are doing today is an investment in the future of our community which will help us empower our students to positively transform their future and the world,” he said.

While the work is being completed, DeKeyser Elementary will be relocated to Rose Kidd Elementary School, a former elementary in Sterling Heights that was closed in 2010. Improvements are being made to refurbish Rose Kidd Elementary to house DeKeyser students and staff until their current building is completed in the fall of 2025. Projects to be included in phase one are listed by building at uticak12.org/safetyan dsuccess.

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

H. Credit Card Purchases in the Amount of $30,010.34 (Requested by Treasurer’s Offce)

To approve the Credit Card Purchases in the amount of $30,010.34, as presented.

I. Bill Run in the Amount of $2,146,135.37. (Requested by Financial Management)

To approve the Bill Run in the amount of $2,146,135.37, as presented.

MOTION carried to approve the Consent Agenda, as presented.

Roll Call: Ayes - Grot, Di Cicco, Carabelli, Casali, Stathakis, Vermeulen, Viviano Nays - none

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

MOTION carried to approve the Regular Agenda, as presented, with the addition of Item Number 8 - Resolution In Support of House Bill 5392 –Requested by the Supervisor’s Offce.

PLANNING COMMISSION

1. Site Plan/Planned Unit Development #22-12 Lyle Winn (Lombardo Homes for Legacy Village) Modifcation (Requested by Planning and Zoning)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of the Planning Commission and approve the modifed Site Plan/Planned Unit Development #22-12 Lyle Winn (Lombardo Homes for Legacy Village Villas); Vacant Parcel No. 23-07-09-200-022, located at the southwest corner of 25 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue, based on the applicant addressing the department, engineering, and Planning Commission comments.

Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Grot, Stathakis, Viviano, Carabelli, Casali, Di Cicco Nays - none

2. Brownfeld Redevelopment Plan Resolution of Support - Premier Academy (Requested by Planning and Zoning)

MOTION carried to approve the resolution of concurrence in support of the Brownfeld Development project located at 55748 Van Dyke for Premier Academy.

Roll Call: Ayes – Carabelli, Vermeulen, Viviano, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis Nays - none

DEPARTMENTAL & COMMITTEE

3. Speculative Building Designation: Chesterfeld 5, LLC (Requested by Assessing Department)

MOTION carried to be it resolved, that the Township Board hereby approves the Application to Establish a Speculative Building Designation fled by Chesterfeld 5, LLC on a 70,855 square foot building to be located at 50479 Birch Drive and authorizes the Township Clerk to sign all documents required in conjunction with this approval.

Roll Call: Ayes – Vermeulen, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis, Viviano, Carabelli Nays - none

4. Crossing Guard Compensation (Requested by Human Resources)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Human Resources Director Lisa Suida and amend the compensation for Township crossing guards, as presented, effective April 21, 2024.

5. AFG Grant for Radio Purchase (Requested by Fire Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Fire Chief Frank Pierce and allow the Township Supervisor and Fire Chief to Sign the Assistance to Firefghter Grant Memorandum of Understanding with Harrison Township and other Macomb County Communities and contingent upon the award of the grant, purchase 73 portable and vehicle mounted radios along with their associated equipment for $48,690.28, our 10% matching funds.  Funds are to be taken from Capital Improvement line item 427-336-985-000 and amend the budget accordingly.

6. Commercial Tent Purchase - Nature Center (Requested by Parks, Recreation & Maintenance)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Parks, Recreation, and Maintenance Director Joe Youngblood and purchase a commercial 20’ x 40’ metal frame pole tent, with a 7’ sides kit, for the Nature Center from Party Tents Direct at a cost of $5,309.98. Funds are to be taken from General Fund line item 101-902-984-753.

7. Replacement Production Truck Cooling System Purchase (Requested by Community Relations Department)

MOTION carried to concur with the recommendation of Community Relations Director Brad Bates and approve the purchase of a replacement production truck cooling system at a cost of $15,882.00 from Gerling and Associates. Funds are to be taken from Community Relations Fund line item 101-902-984-757.

8. Resolution In Support of House Bill 5392 (Requested by Supervisor’s Offce)

MOTION carried to adopt the Resolution, as presented, in support of House Bill 5392 regarding assessing costs in criminal cases in District and Circuit Courts.

Roll Call: Ayes – Carabelli, Vermeulen, Viviano, Casali, Di Cicco, Grot, Stathakis Nays - none

MOTION carried to adjourn at 7:46 p.m. A COMPLETE SET OF MINUTES IS AVAILABLE IN THE CLERK’S OFFICE FOR REVIEW OR AT WWW.SHELBYTWP.ORG. Stanley Grot

Image provided by Jennifer Kane

This rendering shows what a classroom might look like at the rebuilt DeKeyser Elementary School.

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY MACOMB, MICHIGAN ORDINANCE NO. 299

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 22, ARTICLE III TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEFINITION OF EMERGENCY INCIDENT AND THE RECOVERY OF COSTS FOR SAME; REPEALER, SEVERABILITY PENALTIES AND EFFECTIVE DATE

IT IS HEREBY ORDAINED BY THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY:

Section 1. Article III, Chapter 22, Section 22-72 of the Code of Ordinances, Charter Township of Shelby, Michigan, is hereby amended to add the following defnitions in alphabetical order: Emergency Incident means any situation or condition where emergency services are needed or requested.

Section 2. Article III, Chapter 22, Section 22-77 of the Code of Ordinances, Charter Township of Shelby, Michigan, is hereby created to read as follows:

The fre department shall have the ability to recover all costs for use of equipment, staffng, and supplies associated with emergency incidents and providing emergency services including, but not limited to, motor vehicle accidents, fre investigations, specialty rescue (i.e. confned space, water rescue, etc.) or any other dangerous situations. Such costs shall include, but are not limited to, those associated with incident abatement, mitigation, cleanup and stand-by, including any related third-party costs necessary to ensure the safety of the township and its populace. Any such cost shall be the responsibility of the owner and/or operator of the property, equipment, vehicle, or individual involved related to the fre department response. All assessments shall be paid within 30 calendar days, unless approved otherwise.

Section 3. Article III, Chapter 22, Section 22-101 of the Code of Ordinances, Charter Township of Shelby, Michigan, is hereby amended to read as follows:

Hazardous or dangerous materials and substances means any substance, including but not limited to alcohol, gunpowder, dynamite, crude petroleum or any of its byproducts, fuel oils, pyroxylin, combustible fnishes, and other commodities of a similar nature or quality and all other substances which constitute a fre hazard or pose a substantial present or potential hazard to the public health, safety or welfare, or endanger, cause or are capable of causing loss, injury or damage to persons, property or the environment

Hazardous Material means any material(s) classifed as hazardous by any federal regulation or legislation, state legislation or regulation, or any Township Ordinance including, but not limited to, the following:

(a) Any substance listed in the list of toxic pollutants in 40 CFR §401.15, as amended.

(b) Any compressed gas, explosive, fammable liquid, fammable solid, oxidizer, poison, or radioactive material. As used in this Ordinance, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

(i) CFR means the Code of Federal Regulations. The numbers immediately preceding and immediately following the initials CFR shall refer to the volumes, divisions and sections used to identify parts of the-Code of Federal Regulations.

(ii) Compressed Gas means any substance regulated as a compressed gas by the United States Department of Transportation.

(iii) Explosive means any substance regulated as a Class A or Class 8 explosive by the United States Department of Transportation.

(iv) Flammable Liquid means any substance regulated as a fammable liquid by the United States Department of Transportation.

(v) Flammable Solid means any substance regulated as a fammable solid by the United States Department of Transportation.

(vi) Oxidizer means any substance regulated as an oxidizer by the United States Department of Transportation.

(vii) Poison means a liquid or gas that is life-threatening when mixed with air in small amounts and shall also include all those substances regulated as poison Class A by the United States Department of Transportation.

(viii) Radioactive Material means any substance required by the United States Department of Transportation to have type A packaging or other special protection or closed transport vehicles.

(c) Any explosive, pyrotechnics, fammable gas, fammable compressed gas, nonfammable compressed gas, fammable liquid, oxidizing material, any fammable material, poisonous gas, poisonous liquid, irritating material, gas under such pressure that an explosion hazard exists, radioactive material, corrosive material or liquifed petroleum gas.

(d) Any substance designated as a pollutant or hazardous substance pursuant to the

Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

(e) Any element, compound, mixture, solution or hazardous substance designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended.

(f) Any hazardous waste having the characteristics identifed under or listed pursuant to the United States Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended.

(g) Any pollutant listed pursuant to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended.

(h) Any hazardous air pollutant listed pursuant to the Federal Clean Air Act, as amended.

(i) Any hazardous air pollutant listed pursuant to the Federal Clean Air Act, as amended. Hazardous Material Incident. Any occurrence, incident, activity or accident where a release of hazardous materials occurs or is reasonably imminent. A release shall be any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, discharging, ejecting, dumping, or disposing of a hazardous substance or material into the environment, including but not limited to the air, soil, groundwater and surface water.

Intentionally caused fre emergency NFPA 921- A fre that is intentionally ignited in an area or under circumstances where and when there should not be a fre. A fre intentionally caused by the owner or occupant of property and/or structure which requires an emergency response by the fre department, police department and/or other emergency support agencies.

Section 4. Article III, Chapter 22, Section 22-103 of the Code of Ordinances, Charter Township of Shelby, Michigan, is hereby amended to read as follows:

SECTION 22-103.

Persons responsible for costs. Determination and Authorization

All costs referred to in section 22-102 shall be charged against and be the responsibility of the owner or operator of the property, equipment, vehicle or container causing, contributing, allowing or the persons failing to manufacture, keep, store, transport or otherwise handle or dispose of hazardous or dangerous materials or substances in a manner and by a method so as not to constitute a fre hazard or pose a substantial present or potential hazard to the public health, safety or welfare, or to endanger or cause loss, injury or damage to persons, property or the environment, and, in the case of an intentionally caused fre emergency, the persons who proximately caused the fre and any other persons who are responsible for the actions of such persons. Any costs that result from a response to a utility line failure shall be the responsibility of the owner and/or operator of the utility line. Such costs shall constitute a debt of the persons responsible and be collectible in the same manner as an obligation under an expressed or implied contract.

The Township Fire Chief, designee or authorized agent acting on behalf of the Township, shall determine the total assessable costs and shall, in consultation with other Township personnel agents involved in the emergency services provided, determine whether to assess any, all or part of such costs against any of the responsible parties. In making such determination, the following shall be considered:

• the extent to which the personnel and equipment of the Township or other assisting public entities were involved,

• the extent to which an act or omission of a responsible party was a proximate cause for the need for Emergency Services,

• and the ability of a responsible party to pay the total assessable costs.

In determining the assessable cost against a party, the Township Fire Chief, designee, or other authorized agent may rely on a report of services and the actual expenses incurred as prepared by Department personnel and/or agents involved in a response to the Emergency Incident and the amounts as set forth in the Macomb County Fire Chief’s Cost Recovery Fee Schedule, as amended.

Assessable cost may be allocated among and between responsible parties, including allocating all or some of such costs, jointly and severally, against more than one responsible party.

If a determination is made not to assess all or a part of assessable costs against a responsible party, such determination shall not in any way limit or alter any liability a responsible party may have to the other responsible parties.

Section 5. Article III, Chapter 22, Section 22-104 of the Code of Ordinances, Charter Township of Shelby, Michigan, is hereby amended to read as follows:

Statement for Services Rendered

The fre department and/or police department shall submit a statement showing the costs associated with emergency services referred to in this division to the responsible person by frst class mail or personal service, and the amount of the fee charged pursuant to the provisions of this division.

Billing and Collection of Assessable Costs.

The Township Treasurer, designee, authorized agent or contracted billing service shall prepare and mail an itemized invoice to each responsible party at his, her or its last

known address, or to an appropriate insurance company or authorized agent acting on behalf of a responsible party or an insurer of a responsible party. The invoice shall demand full payment within thirty (30) days of billing.

The Township may charge any costs assessed pursuant to this Ordinance to the insurer of the responsible part. The submission of an invoice for the assessed costs to an insurer does not in any way limit or extinguish the liability of a responsible party for the costs assessed pursuant to this Ordinance until such time as the assessed costs are paid in full.

The invoice shall be served on a responsible party by frst class mail, registered mail or personal service. A responsible party shall be deemed served by frst class mail on the date of mailing, by registered mail on the date of mailing or by personal service on the date of actual service on the responsible party.

The invoice shall advise the responsible party of the right to appeal and the time limits for doing so as provided in Section 22-106 of this ordinance. If a responsible party shall appeal assessable costs pursuant to Section 22-106 hereof, such costs, if upheld, in whole or in part, shall be due and payable thirty (30) days from the date of determination of the appeal and any late payment fees shall apply thereafter.

Any additional expense that becomes known following the transmittal of the invoice to the responsible party shall be billed in the same manner on a subsequent invoice to the responsible party.

Any failure by a responsible party to pay an invoice within the time limits provided in this section shall be considered a default in payment; in which case the Township may commence a civil suit to recover the costs plus any additional costs or expenses allowed by law. In addition, the Township may pursue any other remedy or may institute an appropriate action or proceeding in a court of competent jurisdiction to collect the charges imposed under this ordinance together with costs and attorney fees.

If the Township Fire Chief or designee or the Township Board decides not to assess all or part of its costs against any responsibility, such decision shall not in any way extinguish or limit a responsible person’s liability to other parties for any costs or damages of any kind arising from the release of the assessment.

Section 5. Article III, Chapter 22, Section 22-106 of the Code of Ordinances, Charter Township of Shelby, Michigan, is hereby created to read as follows:

Appeal Procedure

Any responsible party who receives an invoice for assessable costs shall have an opportunity to request a modifcation of the assessable costs for the following claim: a hardship, a request for lower than minimum monthly payment or to dispute the charges in their entirety. The responsible party shall make such a request to the third-party billing company who shall then forward it to the Fire Chief for review within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of service of the invoice.

Failure to fle a timely written request for a modifcation of costs meeting with the Township shall constitute a waiver of the responsible party’s right to same; and shall further constitute the responsible party’s agreement to pay the assessable costs invoice.

Section 6. SEVERABILITY

If any section, subsection, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct, and independent portion of this Ordinance, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

Section 7. REPEALER

All ordinances or parts of ordinances in confict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed.

Section 8. EFFECTIVE DATE

This Ordinance shall be effective as of July 1, 2024.

CERTIFICATION

I hereby certify the foregoing is a true and complete copy of Ordinance No. _______ duly adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Charter Township of Shelby at a Regular Meeting held on ___________________, 2024, pursuant to and in full compliance with the Open Meetings Act, being Act 267, Public Acts of Michigan, 1976, as amended, and that the minutes of said meeting were kept and will be made available as required by said Act.

STANLEY T. GROT, Clerk

Introduction Date: May 7, 2024

First Publication Date: May 22, 2024

Adoption Date:

Second Publication Date:

Effective Date: July 1, 2024

Published: Shelby-Utica News 05/22/2024

CRIME WATCH

Resident reports stalking case

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 2:12

a.m. April 21, a woman came into the Shelby Township Police Department to make a stalking complaint. The woman reported that she had been receiving unwanted calls and texts from her ex-boyfriend. Police gave the woman information on how to obtain a personal protection order. The ex-boyfriend was contacted and advised to have no further contact with the woman in this case.

Parties drop threats case

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers responded to the lobby of the Shelby Township Police Department for a threats complaint at 8:49 p.m. April 21. The woman reporting this incident advised the reporting officer that she had been receiving threats via social media from another woman. The other woman involved in the case no longer lives in the area and was spoken to by law enforcement regarding this incident. The case was turned over to the Shelby Township Police Department detective bureau for further

investigation. The detective on this case followed up with both parties and they decided to no longer pursue charges.

Resident reports altercation

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — At 8:23 p.m. April 21, officers responded to the Lakeside Park Apartments, off Hayes Road north of Hall Road, for an assault and battery complaint. The caller advised she was having issues with her adult son. The woman stated that she and her son got into a verbal and physical altercation inside the apartment. Officers investigated this incident and arrested the man for domestic assault.

Resident reports assault

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Officers responded to the area of 26 Mile and Mound roads for a 911 hang-up at 11:13 p.m. April 21. Officers went to the address associated with the phone number. Officers met with a woman who was visibly upset when answering the door. The woman advised that her husband physically assaulted her. Officers on scene continued to investigate the incident. The man was arrested for domestic assault and lodged at the Shelby Township Police Department.

— Kara Szymanski

Shelby Township Senior Center’s artist for May and June works in acrylics, watercolors

BY KARA SZYMANSKI kszymanski@candgnews.com

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — George Joudas’ drawing classes began while he was in high school. Cass Technical High School offered a class in automotive design.

“Although most people began drawing at a very early age, I didn’t. As a result, my abilities were not very good. I was interested in learning that skill, so I joined a Saturday morning class at Center for Creative Studies teaching auto design for high schoolers,” he said. Center for Creative Studies is now known as College for Creative Studies.

The person teaching the class inspired him so much that upon finishing high school, he applied for and was accepted into a four-year degree program at CCS in 1971.

See ARTIST on page 26A

George Joudas is the Shelby Township Senior Center’s featured artist for the months of May and June.

Photo provided by Fu-Yuan Ciricola

BEHIND THE WHEEL

Do you own a vehicle with an interesting history?

Contact Staff Writer Maria Allard at allard@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1045, and you could be featured in an upcoming Behind the Wheel. For more stories, visit candgnews.com/news/auto or use the QR code.

Dodge Super Bee 1970 creates a buzZ

BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — If you were to dig into Mike Mazelis’ vehicle history, you’d find someone who, at one time, had an interest in off-road trucks.

“I was always going out into the mud and mud-bogging and things like that,” he said. “I was always breaking the truck. Every time I’d come back, I’d have to fix something new.”

Eventually, the Warren resident switched gears and found a new pastime: muscle cars. In 2008, while perusing Craigslist, Mazelis found out about a 1970 Dodge Super Bee for sale in Hazel Park. He decided to check out the car, but when he did, it didn’t look like much.

“It was just a shell. There’s nothing on it but wheels. There’s no interior, there’s no engine,” he said. “The engine, transmission and all these boxes were just next to the car.”

Even though he “didn’t have any tools or knowledge” of restoring the car, he purchased the vehicle anyway.

“Everybody’s like, ‘How are you going to do this?” Mazelis, 51, said. “‘How are you even going to put this car together?’”

Mazelis learned from friends, watched YouTube videos and did plenty of reading to learn how to build the Super Bee.

“I spent almost every day of two years to get the car on the road, learning as I went, buying tools as I went,” Mazelis said. “A lot of trial and error.”

He made the car his own, including the sublime green paint job and addition of comfortable seats.

“It’s got a five-speed manual transmission in there. It had an automatic before. I

When Warren resident Mike Mazelis found his 1970 Dodge Super Bee in 2008, “It was just a shell.” Mazelis created the Detroit Area Only Twisted Axle Car Club on social media. The club meets at 7 p.m. every Friday at Gratiot Coney Island, 28560 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville.

Photos by Maria Allard

Super Bee

added the wheels that I wanted. I added some suspension upgrades. That’s a custom hood that’s on there. It’s a steel hood with a fiberglass scoop,” he said. “I’m still modifying, adding parts, doing things to the car. People that have classic cars, they always say they’re never done because they’re always fixing things.”

One change Mazelis recently made was the engine.

“The car had a 440 six pack in it. That was getting pretty tiring,” Mazelis said. “I recently put a 512 cubic inch stroker engine in there, so it makes 650 horse (power). At least 600.”

Mazelis’ main goal was to drive the car as much as possible. During the summer, most Sundays are spent cruising Lake Shore Drive with his wife, Stacy; daughter Alaina, 15; and son Evan, 11. They’ll stop for lunch somewhere or grab an ice cream.

“It’s a special thing. It’s just quality time,” Mazelis said. “I like being able to share it with my family, driving around and going places.”

The eye-catching vehicle has been fea-

tured in many shows, including Detroit Autorama. The farthest trip he’s taken in the Super Bee was an 11-hour drive to Wisconsin for a car show.

Looking to connect with other car buffs, Mazelis created the Twisted Axle Car Club on Facebook and Instagram in 2013. At first, 30 people joined the group, and then 70 car enthusiasts came aboard. After a while, the pages went global as they reached car owners in Germany, Australia and Canada.

“Now it’s 50,000 people,” Mazelis said.

From that, Mazelis started the Detroit Area Only Twisted Axle Car Club on social media. He also has a presence on social media with Dynamic Detroit Mopars on Facebook.

“A lot of these people became my best friends. The car community’s just great, always trying to help each other out,” Mazelis said. “Metro Detroit is very diverse. You have all different kinds of cars, all cars that span decades. It’s just a very rich culture that we have here.”

The Detroit Area Only Twisted Axle Car Club meets at 7 p.m. every Friday at Gratiot Coney Island, 28560 Gratiot Ave. in Roseville. All are welcome. Car enthusiasts are also encouraged to check out the website twistedaxlemotorsports.com.

Artist

from page 22A

“While I was there, I earned half-scholarships for my third and fourth year. Upon graduation with a Bachelor of Arts degree in industrial design in hand, finding work in that field was difficult. The American economy during 1973–1974 was very bad and … few auto (positions) were available,” he said.

He decided to attend Macomb Community College to study an engineering program for auto body design.

“I did well at Macomb and was selected

SPORTS SHORT

Ike senior to compete at Olympic swim trials

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Devin Dilger started swimming competitively at age 6, and now the Eisenhower senior is among the less than 1% of all USA student swimming athletes who have qualified for the U.S Olympic Team Trials.

He qualified for the Olympic trials in the 50- and 100-meter freestyle, which further places him among a handful of athletes earning entry at his age.

Dilger has been swimming since he was a young child and competed locally until he was 10, when he began competing at the state level.

In 2016, he took part in the “MEGAZone competition,” where he placed second and third among top national swimmers.

This year, he competed with OLY Swimming at top meets across the country, including several that included professional

by Chevrolet Engineering into a school coop position. My career at General Motors did not involve drawing, but from time to time I would sketch work-related things. The years passed and I retired from GM. So, with lots of time on my hands, I joined a senior center (OPC Social & Activity Center) and began taking acrylic painting classes as one of my hobbies. I have been painting in acrylics and watercolor for 14 years. I still think there is a lot more to learn,” he said.

Joudas’ abilities have made him the artist of the months of May and June at the Shelby Township Senior Center, part of the Shelby Township Activities Center, 14975

and Olympic swimmers.

His Olympic training includes being in the pool almost every day and lifting weights. The U.S Olympic Team Trials will take place in June in Indianapolis.

— Kara Szymanski

21 Mile Road, where some of his work is on display.

Joudas has been a student of Tony Warren, of tonywarrenfineart.com, for the last two years.

“He is one of the most diligent and best students I have ever had. I have been teaching for almost 50 years. Now George is not only a prolific painter, but his technique is exciting and full of life. I am looking forward

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to seeing his maturity in watermedia as the years pass. This is a great step, and I am certain to see many more in the future,” he said.

Peter Snodgrass has been in George Joudas’ class for eight years.

“Excellent, creative combination of watercolor and acrylic. Very good with reflection of light and shadows,” he said.

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

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

AGENDA/PUBLIC HEARING

The Charter Township of Shelby ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS meeting will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., in the Shelby Municipal Building, Board Room, 52700 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan 48316.

CALL MEETING TO ORDER: ROLL CALL:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Zoning Board of Appeals Regular Meeting May 2, 2024

APPLICATIONS:

1. ZBA #24-023 DAVID GORDON; 7624 22 Mile Road, Parcel No. 23-07-28-226-008, located on the south side of 22 Mile Road, west of Van Dyke Avenue. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.129, Section 5.2.A.4.f, to permit an accessory structure to be located less than five feet from the side lot line (0 feet proposed).

2. ZBA #24-028 PATRICK MORGAN; 46442 Coachwood Drive, Parcel No. 23-07-36-180-006, located south of 21 Mile Road, east of Schoenherr Road. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No 212.129, Section 5.2.A.4.e, to permit a gazebo to be located closer than ten feet to a main building (7 feet 4 inches proposed).

3. ZBA #24-029 BRADLEY BAGANS (SCS Global Contracting); 50995 Van Dyke Avenue, Parcel No. 23-07-21-226-041, located on the southwest corner of 23 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.129, Section 5.24.E.3 to permit a monument sign to encroach into the required setback and within the 25-foot clear vision triangle.

4. ZBA #24-033 PAUL DETERS (Metro Signs & Lighting) for Bank of America; 4660 24 Mile Road, Parcel No. 23-07-17-127-012, located on the southeast corner of 24 Mile Road & Shelby Road. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.129, Section 5.24.E.3, to permit a monument sign to encroach into the front yard setback (70 feet required, 53 feet proposed).

5. ZBA #24-037 GARY WALLACE (Intec Automated Controls, Inc.); 6754 Shadydale Drive, Parcel No. 23-07-04-327-009, located north of 25 Mile Road, east of Mound Road. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.129, Section 3.38.F, to permit a generator to be located closer than five feet to the side lot line (4 feet, 10 inches proposed).

6. ZBA #24-039 AMY MOE; 7520 Hartwick Court, Parcel No. 23-07-04-279-012, located south of 26 Mile Road, west of Van Dyke Avenue. Requesting a variance to Zoning Ordinance No. 212.129, Section 3.38.E.3, to permit a deck to exceed 15 feet into the rear yard setback (18 feet proposed).

PLANNING DIRECTOR’S REPORT: ADJOURNMENT:

All interested persons may attend and be heard on any item on the agenda. The Zoning Ordinance and a copy of the application may be examined at the Municipal Building, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or you may call (586) 726-7243. RUSS RICE, CHAIRMAN ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Individuals with disabilities requiring

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Garage/Yard Sale

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MEMORIAL WEEKEND

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PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP

PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP

The JATC for the Pipefitting Industry and Pipefitters, Steamfitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Service Local Union #636 of the United Association will be accepting applications for our Construction Apprenticeship beginning Monday, June 10th, 2024, through June 27th, 2024. Application days and times will be as followed: Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays

The JATC for the Pipefitting Industry and Pipefitters, Steamfitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Service Local Union #636 of the United Association will be accepting applications for our Construction Apprenticeship beginning Monday June 10th, 2024, through June 27th, 2024. Application days and times will be as followed: Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Thursdays from 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 PM. Saturday June 15th, 2024 and June 22nd, 2024 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

– Qualifications necessary for an applicant to be considered are:

1. Must be 18 years of age or older.

2. Complete the application and return to the Pipefitting Industry Training Center with: a. A valid driver’s license.

b. High School diploma or high school equivalency (GED) certificate.

c. There is a $45.00 OR $100.00 testing fee that will be collected when turning in application.

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Noresumesplease. For more information please contact our web site at: www.pipefitters636tc.org.

This is a drug free Program. An individual tentatively selected for entrance into the Program after testing and interview will be required to submit to a drug test, which will include testing for marijuana. ThePipefittingIndustryTrainingCenterislocatedat636ExecutiveDriveinTroy,MIbetween JohnR.andDequindre north of E. 14 mile Road. PH: 248-585-0636 Noresumesplease. For more information please contact our web site at: www.pipefitters636tc.org. DF-GCI1062707-01

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MAY 24-27

Down Home Days: Festival featuring live music by Sunset BLVD

7-10:30 p.m. May 24, Scott Cummins 2-5 p.m. and FiftyAmpFuse

7-10:30 p.m. May 25, Bernadette Kathryn and the Lonely Days Band

7-10 p.m. May 26, and Big B and The Actual Proof 7-10 p.m. May 27, also carnival and midway, Knights Park & Pavilion, 11541 21 Mile Road in Shelby Township, shelbytwp.org/our-township/summer

MAY 26

Memorial Day ceremony: Speeches, placement of memorial wreath, musical tributes and more, 1:30 p.m., Shelby Township Veterans Memorial, 52700 Van Dyke Ave., shelbytwp.org

MAY 28-30

1931 Packard Salon Special Showing: Vehicle photoshoots, site tours, dinner and visits to other local automotive attractions, Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, see times and more details at packardprovinggrounds.org

JUNE 2

Classic Car Show: Also swap meet, plus live music and food trucks, 9 a.m., Knights Park & Pavilion, 11541 21 Mile Road in Shelby Township, (586) 254-3495

JUNE 4

Hybridizing daylily program and auction: 10 a.m., Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive in Shelby Township, free but registration required, marietta.crabtree@gmail.com, midaylilysociety. com, obannonsprings.plantfans.com

JUNE 6

D-Day + 80 Years: Flag ceremony, lectures, activities, learn about Packard Proving Grounds’ role in WWII and more, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.,

of larceny by conversion after he reportedly refused to return overpayment after he was accidentally overpaid by a business in the 600 block of St. Clair Avenue. According to a police report, the suspect was hired to work for $15 an hour at the business, but the payroll company administering the paychecks is said to have paid him $1,500 an hour instead, resulting in him receiving $16,000 for his first paycheck. The business owners called him to fix the error, but they said he stopped returning their calls and didn’t show up for work again. Police said the investigation was ongoing.

Suspects arrested in armed robbery

GROSSE POINTE CITY/PARK — A 22-year-old Detroit man and a 25-year-old Detroit man were arrested in Grosse Pointe Park May 3 after they were reportedly involved in the theft of multiple pieces of lawn equipment from landscaping trailers, including an armed robbery May 1 in Grosse Pointe City that resulted when a worker confronted one of the suspects in the act and the worker said the suspect pulled a gun on him. Police said the suspects committed several larcenies in Grosse Pointe City and Grosse Pointe Park before they were apprehended.

Cat held hostage

GROSSE POINTE PARK — A 62-year-old Grosse Pointe Park man was arrested April 30 after he reportedly found a cat that his neighbor owned and had reported missing, but he refused to return the cat. The suspect reportedly showed the victim that he had the missing feline but wouldn’t give it back. Police went to the suspect’s home but said he wouldn’t turn the cat over to them, either. The suspect was eventually persuaded to turn the cat over to an animal clinic, after which it was reunited with its owner. Police said the suspect was cited for larceny and disorderly conduct.

Sunglasses stolen GROSSE POINTE WOODS — A woman in her late 20s to early 30s is accused of stealing a $405 pair of Prada sunglasses from a business in the 19000 block of Mack Avenue at around noon April 26. Employees told police the suspect has stolen from the store on three previous occasions.

Fraud reported ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 3:22 p.m. on April 26, a report was made about an alleged case of fraud that occurred on April 23 in the 22000 block of Revere Street. The victim, a 69-year-old woman, came into the

police station and stated she was defrauded out of $4,000 dollars. She contacted a number on her TV screen who she thought was Hulu. She was reportedly instructed to buy gift cards worth approximately $4,000.

Once the woman had the gift cards, the suspect stated they needed to prove who she was and the woman allowed them to access her phone via an app they told her to download. They helped the woman to create an Apple Pay account where more money was transferred through Zelle.

Police subdue blade wielder outside Fuddruckers

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police said they went to Fuddruckers, 40955 Van Dyke Ave., April 19 after hearing that someone with a hatchet or ax was acting disorderly.

Police said they found the man outside and confronted him, but he allegedly did not follow multiple orders to drop his weapon. The suspect also threatened to harm others and himself, police said.

Police said they subdued the man with a “lessthan-lethal weapon” and then apprehended him.

The Sterling Heights Police Department praised the officers’ performance in a Facebook post.

“The individual who was clearly suffering from mental illness was transported to the hospital for a mental petition,” the department said.

Man evicted from market for insulting, swearing at woman

STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to a supermarket in the 43000 block of Schoenherr Road April 19 upon hearing that a man allegedly swore at a woman without cause. The man then reportedly followed the woman down an aisle and insulted her and called her an evil woman.

Police said they found the man after he left the store, and he allegedly confirmed that he had used bad language and had a temper. Police said they told the man he couldn’t come back to the store, upon the manager’s request.

Assault reported

STERLING HEIGHTS — A witness told police that a “grown man” punched a female victim and grabbed her by her hair April 20 at a gas station in the 36000 block of Van Dyke Avenue, near Metropolitan Parkway.

Police said the witness thought the female victim didn’t appear to need medical treatment, and she left in a vehicle onto Van Dyke Avenue. The witness reportedly added that she didn’t know whether the suspect had entered a vehicle.

Police said they couldn’t find the suspect when they arrived.