Sterling, Shelby police unite to capture criminals along border
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS/SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Golden Corridor of M-59/Hall Road will not be a golden opportunity for crooks and criminals, if a police partnership between
Sterling Heights and Shelby Township proves itself.
The Sterling Heights and Shelby Township police departments are uniting to carry out Operation Direct Impact, which will assign their respective directed patrol units to collaborate while keeping an eye on the border between the two communi-
See POLICE on page 6A
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — Cranberry Estates’ chances of bearing fruit in Sterling Heights recently grew riper.
During a Sept. 11 meeting, the Sterling Heights Planning Commission heard and voted in favor of a request for a planned unit development for the Cranberry Estates condo project.
The developer wants to build 18 singlefamily condos on a vacant parcel at 39933 Saal Road, north of Clinton River Road. The land is currently zoned R-70 single-family residential district and is surrounded by residential properties.
The proposed condo development would consist of a mix of single-story ranch and two-story colonial-style homes surrounding a street with a cul-de-sac at the end. The campus would also feature a fenced-in detention pond to drain away stormwater, as well as a triangle-shaped green space with trees on the western part of the property. A neighborhood association would reportedly handle landscaping.
Jim Eppink, representing Vanguard Development Group, presented the proposal during the meeting and compared it to an-
Sheriff Anthony Wickersham
The Sterling Heights and Shelby Township police departments are teaming up for Operation Direct Impact, which aims to catch suspected criminals near the shared border along M-59/Hall Road.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
City honors family, volunteer for thwarting child abduction at park
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — Sterling Heights city and police officials recently gave many rounds of applause and more to four people credited with fighting off the kidnapping attempt of a 7-year-old girl at a Sterling Heights park in August.
During a Sept. 17 meeting, the Sterling Heights City Council honored the victim’s aunt, Alecia Swejkoski, her son, and her niece, along
See HONORS on page 18A
MACOMB COUNTY UNCLOGS DRAIN FILLED WITH DECADES OF DEBRIS
BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com
STERLING HEIGHTS — A drain project that is expected to wind up soon should reduce the odds and effects of flooding along Van Dyke Avenue, north of 18 1/2 Mile Road, according to Macomb County officials.
Macomb County Public Works Office officials say the area around the Vokes Relief Drain, along Van Dyke, between 18 1/2 and 19 Mile roads, has been known to flood, especially as a result of heavy rains. The county says it took up the task of checking out and fixing the drain after Sterling Heights city officials heard flooding complaints.
Work on the project reportedly started
See DRAIN on page 30A
Photos provided by the Macomb County Public Works Office
TOP: Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller stands beside the Vokes Relief Drain near Van Dyke Avenue and 18 1/2 Mile Road in Sterling Heights. ABOVE: A worker vacuums the offending material.
Photo provided by the city of Sterling Heights
Scott VanLuven, wearing an orange shirt, gets a hug while being honored for his role in the rescue of a young girl who police say was in the process of being abducted at Clinton River North Park Aug. 13. VanLuven is a member of the Sterling Heights Police Department’s Citizens on Patrol volunteer group.
Condos
other 29-unit condo development, the Reserve of Sterling Heights, along Ryan Road, which he said was built and sold out within 18 months.
Eppink said the proposed homes would have a starting price in today’s market at around the mid-$500,000 range. He said the ranch homes would be around 1,800 square feet, and the colonial homes would be around 2,200 square feet.
“It’s getting harder and harder to find a new home that is appropriately sized and that’s really maintenance-free,” Eppink said, later adding: “We know there is a high demand in your city. We’re anxious to build on that success and develop this neighborhood.”
A majority of public commenters criticized the project. Resident Jim Bauer, who has previously criticized other recent developments in the city, spoke in favor and said this project fits the purpose of a PUD and is a “project that I think is done well.”
But some residents complained about the proposed homes being built on smaller lots – the proposal’s density is 7 units per acre compared to the R-70 average of 5.1. Other residents had concerns about property values, privacy, traffic and more.
“This is going to benefit the seller of the land and the builder, not the people of Sterling Heights — certainly not the people on Pernell (Drive), where that back of that building is going to be 20 feet from their line,” resident Vince D’Epifanio said.
In the end, the Planning Commission recommended approval to the Sterling Heights City Council 6-1, with Commissioner Geoff Gariepy being the lone dissenter.
Commission Vice Chair Nathan Inks said the proposal was a “very appropriate use of the PUD,” with the developer gaining regulatory flexibility while the city gains the preservation of the western area with trees.
Gariepy called the development overbuilt and “crazy expensive” and said he wants
TOP: The development plans to put 18 homes, a street with a cul-de-sac, and a detention pond at the site, which is currently vacant. During a Sept. 11 Sterling Heights Planning Commission meeting, a representative for the development predicted that the homes’ starting prices could be around the mid-$500,000 range.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
ABOVE: This is a rendering of the proposed Cranberry Estates condo development proposed for 39933 Saal Road in Sterling Heights. Image provided by
Sterling Heights to be affordable and accessible.
“Do we want our city to be an enclave of wealthy people … and nobody else can break into the place? Or are we just going to leave the less-well-off people to deal with the 50- and 60-year old housing that’s existing already in the city?” Gariepy said.
“Here we have an opportunity for a developer to come in, build some $250,000$300,000 homes in the same space … have 70-foot-wide lots, and I think that you’d find just as ready of a market. Now it wouldn’t be as profitable, but certainly it could be done.”
Commission Chair Pashko Ujkic said he could see both sides of the argument, but ultimately chose to vote yes. He added that the City Council will have the ultimate say on the proposal during one of its future meetings.
Learn more about the Sterling Heights Planning Commission by visiting sterlingheights.gov and typing “Planning Commission” in the search bar.
Sterling Heights
NEWS & NOTES
Nature Center announces seasonal hours
The Sterling Heights Nature Center, 42700 Utica Road, recently announced its hours of operation from now until Memorial Day.
Regular hours of operation now include longer hours on Wednesdays: 1-8 p.m.
Other days’ hours are noon-5 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; and closure on Sundays and Mondays.
Learn more about the Nature Center by visiting sterlingheights.gov and typing in “Nature Center” in the search bar, or call (586) 446-2710.
Clerk’s office mails ballots, seeks inspectors
The City Clerk’s office is sending out absentee ballots through the mail Sept. 26 in time for the Nov. 5 election. Ballot status can be tracked at mi.gov/vote.
In addition, the Clerk’s Office is seeking election inspectors to help out. Learn more about the opportunity and how to apply by visiting sterlingheights.gov/1450/Election-Inspector-Information.
Ziarko honored for MML service
The Michigan Municipal League recently announced that Sterling Heights Councilwoman Barbara Ziarko won its Jim Sinclair Exceptional Service Award Sept. 10 during a Mackinac Island convention. According to the MML, Ziarko has been active in the MML since 2000 and was its president from 2021 to 2023.
“Being recognized for something you love doing is an unexpected honor,” Ziarko said in a statement. “Serving others brings great personal rewards as you learn and receive more than you ever give. Joining in the company of so many others who have received the Jim Sinclair Award is humbling. My plan for the future is to continue to assist wherever possible to enrich our communities.”
Learn more about the MML by visiting mml.org.
J&M PLAZA FOOD USE PROPOSAL INDEFINITELY POSTPONED
During a Sept. 11 meeting, the Sterling Heights Planning Commission voted 7-0 to indefinitely postpone a request from J&M Plaza, at 36833 Ryan Road, to ease restrictions on food uses at the plaza.
In July, the plaza’s representatives said they wanted the property to be able to sell coffee, ice cream, smoothies or similar items – while insisting that they’re not seeking a sit-down restaurant. However, Planning Commission members said they wanted more detail about the applicant’s intentions in writing, and postponed the matter until September.
When the issue came back up Sept. 11, commissioners said they still did not have adequate clarity about what the applicant was asking for, and thus indefinitely postponed the item. The commission then invited the plaza to contact the Planning Office to learn about next possible steps for proceeding.
Chaldean Foundation to host job fair
The Chaldean Community Foundation, 3601 15 Mile Road, plans to host a career fair 3-5 p.m. Sept. 25. Dozens of employers plan to attend, representing the government; law enforcement; the legal system; or industries such as education, banking, distribution, retail, hospitality and professional services. Job seekers should dress professionally, bring their resume and prepare for networking and interviews. Admission is free. Learn more about the CCF by visiting chaldeanfoundation.org.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Police
from page 1A
ties. Those officers reportedly plan to ticket or arrest people who are violating traffic laws, narcotics laws, weapon laws and more.
In a Sept. 11 statement from the Sterling Heights Police Department, SHPD Chief Dale Dwojakowski said that criminals “don’t stop at city borders, and neither should our efforts to stop them.”
In a Sept. 12 email, SHPD Capt. Mario Bastianelli said discussions over the patrol unit collaboration have been taking place over the past couple of weeks. He said the SHPD is always seeking ways to keep residents safe, and they are also excited to work with Shelby Township’s police.
“Our Directed Patrol Officers are some of our best, most experienced, and motivated officers,” Bastianelli said. “They are very good at finding criminals and taking them to jail.”
Bastianelli explained that between the two departments’ directed patrol units, they will assign six police officers and two sergeants to this operation. He said the plan will focus on common paths that criminals take between the two cities – not just Hall Road, but also Van Dyke Avenue, and Mound, Ryan and Dequindre roads.
“Not only do they travel these roads but (they) enter commercial and residential areas to find and victimize our citizens,” he said.
In the SHPD’s statement, Shelby Township police Chief Robert Shelide called the team effort “long overdue” and a way to share resources and be more efficient.
“Some of our most skilled officers will be assigned to this operation,” Shelide said. “I’m confident that this collaborative effort will have an immediate impact on keeping criminals off the streets and crime out of our communities.”
When asked for further comment, Shelide said in an email that both departments have worked together before to catch felons. He added that one benefit of the collaboration is that the SHPD is almost twice his department’s size and has “tremendous resources.”
“I’ve seen the work product of SHPD’s Directed Patrol Unit and I am extremely impressed,” Shelide said. “They have a select few officers that are highly skilled and determined to keep their streets safe and they are really good at what they do, i.e. arresting criminals carrying illegal handguns, possessing and selling illicit/ hard drugs and driving stolen vehicles.
“I also know the work product of our DPU and am equally impressed. I have no doubt this collaboration will be successful.”
Shelide said the border has been used by “several organized criminal groups” that aim to steal businesses’ high-value items. Thieves also have targeted purses, often from elderly women, to gain access to credit cards, he said.
Shelide added that he hopes to see felony arrests of criminals who illegally possess guns, drugs, stolen vehicles and more. He said the pilot program will be judged based on such arrests and results, and will set the benchmark for future collaborations.
“Obviously as chief, I want and expect results,” he added.
Learn more about the Sterling Heights Police Department by visiting sterling heights.gov. For information about the Shelby Township Police Department, visit shelbytownshippolice.org.
Students must be at least 18 years old (as of July 1)
Students
Stink bugs: The bumbling pest
BY DEAN VAGLIA dvaglia@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — As the days get shorter and the air cooler, the telltale signs of fall emerge: cider and donuts, gourds, pumpkin spiced lattes and, of course, the great stink bug hibernation.
Homes throughout metro Detroit will be breached and besieged by the bumbling but harmless brown marmorated stink bug this fall and winter, seeking safe shelter over the darker months.
“When we get about less than 13 hours daylight, there is a chemical change within
the stink bug that makes it move from reproducing and feeding to searching for a place to spend the winter,” said David Lowenstien, a Michigan State University Extension consumer horticulture educator. “Naturally, stink bugs will spend the winter in leaf litter or tree bark, but where there’s a lot of homes or barns or sheds, that can be a more protective place to spend the wintertime.”
Making their way inside through the smallest of cracks and crevices, brown marmorated stink bugs choose to spend their time doing as little as possible. The daylightinduced chemical change prohibits them
LEFT: Brown marmorated stink bugs arrived in the United States from Asia in 1996, spreading from Pennsylvania into Michigan in 2010.
Photo by Susan Ellis, Bugwood.org
RIGHT: The samurai wasp uses brown marmorated stink bug eggs to lay its own larvae, providing a check on the brown marmorated stink bug population.
Photo by Guido Bohne, Bugwood.org
ON SENIOR LIVING
MOVING INTO THE MULTIGENERATIONAL-LIVING ERA
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Multigenerational housing is making a comeback.
Studies by the Pew Research Center indicate that the concept has grown for the past five decades, and there is no sign of peaking.
According to the Pew Research Center, the number of people living in multigenerational homes quadrupled since 1971, reaching 59.7 million in March 2021.
Shaun Shaya, of Shaya Realty in Birmingham, works closely with the senior community, helping them sell their homes or move into assisted living arrangements. He said moving into a multigenerational household can provide plenty of emotional benefits for the older generation.
Having a senior move into a home with their adult children or grandchildren means more accessibility to caregiving and a sense of social inclusivity. But the change between living on their own and moving in with family can be difficult.
“I think they are in a place where they have a lot of stress in their life. It is stressful because it is change. They have lived in their home for a long time,” he said. “But on the other side, you know that it is easier.”
Shaya has seen first hand the positive impact living with other people has on the senior community while helping seniors move into assisted living homes.
See HOUSING on page 16A
ABOVE: Jennifer Tommajin, of Real Estate One in Troy, designed this home that showcases the amount of space and functionality a multigenerational home could use. The 6,938-square-foot home includes five bedrooms, four full baths, and one half bath.
Photo by Brian Kurtz
LEFT: One of the benefits of extended families living together is strengthening bonds between generations. Shutterstock image
MAKE Moents
TAKE A MOMENT TO SMILE WITH A FRIEND
AT AMERICAN HOUSE, we understand how important it is to build a community filled with lasting friendships. As we celebrate 45 years of making memories, our residents will have opportunities to cherish all the moments of companionship together and look forward to many more years of laughter with friends. You or a loved one can join us and enjoy our affordable and maintenance-free apartment living surrounded by our nurturing staff.*
WUJEK-CALCATERRA & SONS: Round-the-Clock Compassion since 1913
With 15 licensed funeral directors, totaling 350 years of combined experience, Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is uniquely qualifed to bring peace and comfort to grieving families in their time of need. And these aren’t ordinary funeral directors. Each one was specifcally sought out by the Wujek and Calcaterra families based on their individual talents and expertise.
Licensed funeral director Dominick Astorino, managing director at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, is honored to be a part of this exceptional team. “My colleagues and I are career professionals,” stated Astorino. “Most of us have been with Wujek-Calcaterra for over 20 years. We are dedicated to our career in a long-standing way.
“We also have an excellent collection of younger funeral directors. As the embalming professor at Wayne State University School of Mortuary Science, I have taught many of them. I see their potential from the frst day I meet them and watch them develop.”
Tese devoted individuals represent a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds. Tey have formed enduring relationships with local families and the community. Tey are familiar with the neighborhood churches and have worked alongside their pastors. Tis allows them to connect with all types of families, putting them at
ease at a most difcult and overwhelming time.
Furthermore, their compassion isn’t strictly confned to business hours. Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is one of the few funeral homes in the area where there is someone present 24/7.
According to Astorino, “We have never taken a day of since opening our original location in Detroit back in 1913. Christmas, holidays, brownouts, the worst snow storms – there has always been someone here to pick up the phone. We treat our families the way we would like to be treated. Tey never have to talk to an answering machine, and they know their loved one is never lef unattended.”
In addition to the 15 funeral directors, there is a support staf of 35 capable and compassionate individuals to complete the team at Wujek-Cacaterra & Sons. “We can serve all of our families, giving them everything they need – much like a personalized concierge.”
From preplanning to afercare services, Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons is available seven days a week, 365 days a year. Tey ofer two welcoming locations: 36900 Schoenherr Road in Sterling Heights, phone (586) 588-9117; and 54880 Van Dyke Avenue in Shelby Township, phone (586) 217-3316. For more information, visit wujekcalcaterra.com or follow Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons on Facebook.
SENIOR EXPO 2024 – EXPERIENCE SENIOR LIFE TODAY! THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024
Keynote Speaker: Devin Scillian, WDIV-TV Anchor
ST. CLAIR SHORES/GROSSE POINTE WOODS, MI - Gather your neighbors, family and friends because it is time for the annual premiere lifestyle and health expo for active adults. See what is happening from healthcare to finances and fitness. The 2024 Senior Expo is hosted at the Assumption Cultural Center, located in the communities of St. Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe Woods. This wellness event for seniors, which is , provides area adults with an abundance of informative exhibits, educational seminars, interactive experiences, valuable resources for today’s senior lifestyles.
Each year Senior Expo hosts more than 1,500 seniors, their families and caregivers. For 29 years, this eastside community-based committee has dedicated itself to offering a day of health, wellness, recreation and community resource information to help design a happy, healthy and secure lifestyle.
“We are committed to providing a vibrant and informative event that celebrates and supports our senior community,” said Terri Murphy, CSA, Hope Senior Home Care, and Chairperson of the Senior Expo Committee. “We continue providing a platform that empowers seniors to live their lives to the fullest.”
Keynote Speaker recognizing the 29th Anniversary Expo is WDIVTV anchor Devin Scillian. He is happy to return as one of the original guest speakers of Senior Expo. After his keynote address, Devin will join his band, Arizona Son, during a luncheon provided by Henry Ford Health. The band is sponsored by A.H. Peters.
Visitors will enjoy more than 50 exhibitors offering giveaways and information on healthcare, recreation, self-improvement, retail products, managed care, physical training, financial and legal advice to name a few. Popular Workshops include Food is Medicine, Ask the Elder Law Attorney, Medicare Counseling, Ask the Physician, Ask the Nutritionist. On-site Health Screenings include: spine evaluation, blood pressure, knee pain/arthritis/physical therapy screening, and,
mini chair massages, from area health facilities. Also featured is a Community Resource Center including VA information, Medicare information and much more. The Courtyard Senior Super Tent includes Exercise and Fitness Evaluation, Balance and Fall Risk Assessment, BMI Screening, Recumbent Bikes etc. The Courtyard Senior Super Tent is sponsored by The Rivers.
The Resource Guide, a valuable reference book for adults of available services throughout the Metro area, is distributed at Expo and remains a useful tool all year through. The Guide is developed by the Senior Expo Committee and is made available at hospitals, city offices, libraries, and committee facilities.
Senior Expo Committee members who have planned for the event all year long include: Assumption Cultural Center; The Helm at the Boll Life Center; The Macomb County Chamber of Commerce; The Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce; Henry Ford Health; A.H. Peters Funeral Home; Cranberry Park/ShorePointe Village; Hope Senior Home Care; Corewell Health; Harper Chiropractic Center; and American House Lakeshore.
Don’t miss the opportunity to include your company in this worthwhile event. Sponsorship and vendor sites are still available.
If there are unanswered questions about resources for today’s seniors as well as caring for an adult family member or friend, come to the Senior Expo for those answers and the latest information available for a population living longer, more active and healthier lives. A memorable day is guaranteed.
Senior Expo 2024 takes place on Thursday, October 17th. Expo hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free shuttle is provided by Cranberry Park for convenient parking at Grosse Pointe Woods Lakefront Park. For further information, call (586) 779-6111.
Assumption Cultural Center is located at 21800 Marter Rd., in the communities of St. Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe Woods.
0296-2437
Housing
Seniors in assisted living homes experience more social interaction and less stress of taking care of themselves. Shaya said multigenerational housing provides the same effect.
“The key is the emotional well-being of the seniors that choose to live in multigenerational housing,” he said. “As you get older, it becomes very isolating, and socializing becomes more of a challenge.”
Jennifer Toomajian, of Real Estate One in Troy, said she sees a lot of multigenerational living situations in Troy and the surrounding areas of metro Detroit.
“Multigenerational homes are huge in areas that have diverse populations,” she said. “I think our population is different today, so you have people that live in the areas that are culturally used to taking care of their grandparents or their parents.”
To accommodate the current wants or needs for multigenerational homes, Toomajian said that the housing market is beginning to build homes specifically for multigenerational housing.
“Developers have been adjusting new construction floor plans to accommodate
multigenerational families,” she said via email. “Adding first-floor full bathrooms with showers and first-floor flex rooms that have a multi-purpose: guest room, bedroom, playroom, gym, or an office.”
Creating homes that are designed for the purpose of multigenerational family living situations opens up the doors for saving money in other aspects of life, according to Toomajian.
“What ends up happening is today’s home prices are so high that both parents have to work,” she said. “Then if both parents are working, who is home with the kids? Then grandma moves in to help take care of the kids while the parents are working.”
Shaya said that the desire for a single family home and land will never diminish, but multigenerational living is the most attainable option as he believes that housing affordability will not change anytime soon.
“Economics will sort of dictate that a different model will be more efficient and more welcome for a lot of people,” he said. “I think that multigenerational housing is going to be an integral part of that model to help with the housing availability issue that many people face.”
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586)-498-1081.
with Sterling Heights resident Scott VanLu-
They were credited for doing their part to stop the girl from being abducted into a vehicle after a man seized her while she was on a bike.
Police said the suspect tried to abduct the girl at around 2:20 p.m. Aug. 13 at Clinton River North Park and then drive off with her.
But Swejkoski reportedly reached through the vehicle’s open window to grab and hold onto the suspect’s steering wheel –despite the suspect allegedly trying to make her let go by moving the car around.
In addition, her son was hit by the car while trying to block its path, police said. He told the City Council that the car injured his right leg.
At one point, VanLuven, a member of the Police Department’s Citizens on Patrol volunteer group, reportedly witnessed what was going on. He positioned his truck to block the suspect vehicle, got the suspect out of his vehicle and kept him there until police could make the arrest.
The same suspect is also accused of trying to abduct a teen girl in Clinton Township earlier that day, but the teen and a bystander reportedly thwarted that effort too.
During the Sept. 17 meeting, VanLuven and Swejkoski received plaques, and the children received medals. Sterling Heights police Chief Dale Dwojakowski congratulated the honorees and added that Swejkoski was on in-line skates during the rescue.
“She’s on Rollerblades, she’s running at the car and then jumps through the win-
dow and then beats this guy to a pulp and is screaming for (the girl) to run out of the car,” the chief said. “So it’s, yes, it’s awesome.”
In brief remarks, Swejkoski said she is grateful for Citizens on Patrol. VanLuven also briefly addressed the council.
“I’m just glad I was there at the right time, glad everybody’s OK,” he said. “I thank everybody for supporting this volunteer unit that we’re a part of and hope it keeps going on, and I’ll keep doing what I’m doing.”
Councilwoman Barbara Ziarko called the situation “an example of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”
“The other thing is, I always say that, don’t mess with a mom and her kid,” Ziarko said. “And in this case, it was, don’t mess with an aunt and her niece.”
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor called the event a particularly special Nice Neighbor Award presentation during his 15 years on the City Council. Taylor called VanLuven a “humble hero” and said “he deserves recognition, as much as he doesn’t want it.”
Taylor also praised Swejkoski for protecting the kids and called the abduction situation the worst nightmare for any parent, one he doesn’t want to see happen anywhere.
“I’ve thought about this a lot: Is it just a coincidence that Scott was there? Is it divine intervention that Scott was there? Is it that we’ve got dedicated volunteers, and if it wasn’t Scott there, it would have been somebody else?” Taylor said.
“I tend to think it’s the latter – that we just have good people in this community that look out for each other.”
Learn more about Sterling Heights by visiting sterlingheights.gov or by calling (586) 446-2489.
Michigan Supreme Court clarifies decision on wages
BY NICK POWERS npowers@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The Michigan Supreme Court, following a request for clarification by the state of Michigan, provided a more definitive ruling Sept. 18 on the changing minimum wage and earned sick time in Michigan.
The court confirmed that the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act and the Earned Sick Time Act will both go into effect on Feb. 21, 2025. Changes to the wage rates will occur each year on Feb. 21 after this point. Rates for the upcoming year’s increase will be published by the state’s treasurer Nov. 1.
in the Wage Act current to July 31, 2024, through an inflationary catch-up beginning Jan. 1, 2019.
Justice Brian K. Zahra wrote the dissenting opinion Sept. 18 and adhered to his reasoning for initially dissenting to the July 31 opinion. He was joined by Justice David F. Viviano.
https://forms.offce.com/r/dRj5cFa3bC
WORLD
The minimum wage this coming February will be $10 plus the state treasurer’s adjustment for inflation, which according to information in the motion for clarification will bring it to $12.48. The additional adjustment will be made using July 31, 2024, as an endpoint. Tipped workers must make at least 48% of this.
These wages will continue to incrementally rise. In 2028, the minimum wage will be $12 plus the treasurer’s adjustment for inflation, which the motion indicated will be $14.97. The tipped workers minimum hourly wage rate must be at least 80% of minimum wage in 2028. From this point forward, the treasurer will need to determine the wage. By 2030, the minimum wage gap between tipped and nontipped workers should be closed.
The rate of inflation was also questioned by Nessel. The court clarified that the treasurer would bring the minimum wages
“A majority of this Court has no authority to rewrite unambiguous statutory provisions in pursuit of its subjective understanding of ‘equity.’ Such power is vested with the Legislature, not the judicial branch, and no case available to the Court in Michigan or any other jurisdiction in this nation has adopted or condoned the extraordinary remedial actions taken in this case by the Court, both in the initial opinion and in the instant order,” Zahra states.
“I respectfully note that the time to relitigate the opinion’s merits has passed,” Justice Elizabeth M. Welch said in part in her concurring opinion.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel set Sept. 15 as a deadline for the Michigan Supreme Court to clarify aspects of its initial ruling on the Wage Act. This deadline came and went, but the court had the ability to provide clarity prior to the state treasurer publishing the final wage calculations on Nov. 1.
This all comes after the court made a 4-3 bombshell ruling on the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act and the Earned Sick Time Act on July 31, affecting the state’s laws governing minimum wage and sick time.
The ruling was years in the making. It’s the result of wrangling to keep the issue off
See WAGES on page 25A
BEHIND THE WHEEL
End of Watch
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
ROSEVILLE — Car buffs who attend this year’s Jammin’ at the Junction will have the opportunity to pay their respects to four Roseville police officers who died in the line of duty.
The annual car show will be held from 8 a.m. to 5
LEFT: This 1977 Chevrolet
CHEVY CAPRICE CLASSIC PAYS TRIBUTE TO FALLEN ROSEVILLE OFFICERS
p.m. Sept. 28 on Utica Road between Gratiot Avenue and 12 Mile Road in Roseville. The event is open to the public and free to spectators.
During the day, car owners will display their soupedup muscle cars, classic models, coupes, convertibles and more. The festivities also will include live music, food vendors and awards.
One car that will catch the public’s attention is a 1977
Classic is scheduled to be on display at Jammin’ at the Junction from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 28 on Utica Road, between Gratiot Avenue and 12 Mile Road, in Roseville.
Chevrolet Caprice Classic, which Roseville City Manager and Police Commissioner Ryan Monroe owns and maintains. He purchased the vehicle with his own money a few years ago to honor the dedicated Roseville patrolmen who died while serving and protecting the residents of the city.
“I plan to have the car there,” said Monroe, a former police officer. “When you work the road, that is your of-
Caprice
The car pays tribute to four Roseville police officers who died in the line of duty.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
See CAPRICE on page 23A
ABOVE: This display plaque lists the many local businesses and Roseville police officers that helped restore the 1977 Chevrolet Caprice Classic on their own time at no cost to the city.
Photo by Maria Allard
POSES AT THE PARK
NEIGHBORS IN THE NEWS
Yoga instructor James Abney leads a Yoga in the Park group gathered in front of the Dodge Park Amphitheater Sept. 12. The yoga event was held alongside a “Market Fit” theme for the Dodge Park Farmers Market. The last farmers market of the year will take place Sept. 26 at Dodge Park and will also feature a Touch a Truck event.
Birthday — Oliver John Mulawa celebrated his first birthday July 2. Parents are Michael and Ashley Mulawa, of Sterling Heights, and big brother is Brayden. Grandparents are Rick and Chris Evans, of Warren; Cathy Carlone, of St. Clair Shores; and John Methric, of Clinton Township.
Mulawa
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Caprice
fice. It’s a nice thing for the department and community to have the police vehicle at Jammin’ at the Junction. People like it.”
When shopping around for a commemorative car, Monroe “looked at all kinds of vehicles.” While the ’77 model was never a police car, Monroe felt the spacious and comfortable sedan was the best representation for the officers who lost their lives.
The honored patrolmen are: Albert O. DeSmet, Robert Alfred Young, William Oliver and Lawrence Cooney. All four men are remembered on the Officer Down Memorial Page website at odmp.org. The website tells brief stories of the law enforcement officers and the circumstances in which they died.
DeSmet was killed when his patrol car was struck during a high-speed pursuit Nov. 5, 1987. DeSmet, 44, was survived by his wife, son and two daughters.
According to the website, Clinton Township police were pursuing a vehicle traveling into Roseville after the driver had rammed and hit two vehicles. DeSmet and his partner, James Edwards, activated their
emergency lights and pulled onto the southbound lanes of Gratiot Avenue when the vehicle struck them from behind.
DeSmet’s patrol car slid into the median and he was killed while Edwards was reportedly injured. The driver continued on until he crashed at an intersection. As time went on, the driver of the vehicle was found not guilty by reason of insanity. He was committed to a state hospital for four years and released.
Young’s “End of Watch” occurred Feb. 18, 1978, when he suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after pursuing a suspect on foot.
The 51-year-old officer was assisting an ambulance crew that was having trouble restraining a man. The suspect then broke free and ran from the scene.
Young chased after him, tackled and handcuffed him and returned him to the ambulance. After a few minutes, the patrolman collapsed. The married father of three was transported to a local hospital where he died.
The Officer Down Memorial Page states that Oliver and Cooney — on duty together June 15, 1937 — died by gunfire after they apprehended a youth who was under arrest for burglarizing a local gas station.
The suspect and a second juvenile
were handcuffed and being placed into a patrol car when one of them grabbed Oliver’s handgun and shot him. When Cooney heard the gunshots, he rushed to the scene and was shot at by the suspects.
“He began to chase the suspects and as he rounded the corner he was shot several times,” the website states. “Although wounded, he continued to fire at the suspects.”
Cooney drove himself to the police station and collapsed. A milkman passing by took him to a local hospital, but he did not survive his injuries, leaving behind his wife and two sons. Oliver succumbed to his wounds about one month later on July 12. He was survived by his wife and four children.
The 19-year-old suspect in the shootout was arrested and sentenced to life in prison. According to the Officer Down Memorial Page website, he was paroled Jan. 25, 1963.
“I wanted to acknowledge those officers and draw attention to the police and city,” Monroe said. “I think it’s so important to remember their sacrifices.”
Many local organizations have offered their time to help restore the Chevy without any cost to the city of Roseville or the Police
Department, as no city funds were used for the project.
“The Roseville Auto Shop was generous to give it a good tune-up and make it road ready,” Monroe said. “Lafata Auto Body helped with some of the body work.”
Other contributors listed on a display plaque include Automotive Color Supply Inc., in Roseville; Van’s Towing & Transport in Roseville; US Farathane, of Sterling Heights; ABS Storage Products in Detroit; Majik Graphics in Clinton Township; and Roseville officers Brian Dobrzycki, David Lukasavage, Matthew Lesperance and his dad, Dennis Lesperance. The police officers volunteered on their own time.
The Caprice Classic is stored in a city building and taken out on occasion for events, including parades.
“It’s a pet project of mine,” Monroe said. “It’s more for the police and the city of Roseville.”
For more information on Jammin’ at the Junction or to register your car, visit roseville-mi.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=58.
13650 E. Eleven Mile Rd. Warren, MI 48089
Wages
from page 19A
the ballot in Michigan by legislators against the changes.
It started with two petitions in 2018 that received the required number of signatures to potentially appear on the ballot.
One petition would have given workers gradual wage increases until the minimum wage became $12 in 2022. After 2022, the wage would be increased each year, as determined by the state, according to inflation. The minimum-wage gap between tipped workers and all other workers, 38% in 2018, would be eventually closed by 2024.
The other petition required employers to give employees one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked per week.
The Legislature adopted the unaltered initiatives in September 2018. This kept them off the ballot and allowed lawmakers to alter them.
They did this in two bills. One caused the minimum wage increases to not exceed $12 until 2030 and removed the increases for tipped workers. It also removed increases to the wage based on inflation. The second made changes to sick time. It exempted em-
ployers with under 50 employees from providing paid sick time. It reduced the amount of paid sick time hours for larger businesses from 72 hours to 40.
The changes, led by Republicans, were approved along party lines by margins of 6048 in the Michigan House of Representatives and 26-12 in the state Senate in a lame duck session in December 2018. They were signed by then-Gov. Rick Snyder and went into effect March 29, 2019.
In the Michigan Court of Claims, it was determined that the Amended Wage Act and the Amended Earned Sick Time Act were unconstitutional on July 19, 2022. This was reversed by the Michigan Court of Appeals, but was ultimately upheld by the Michigan Supreme Court’s July 31, 2024, ruling.
After the July 31 ruling, Nessel made a motion to clarify the ruling on Aug. 21.
“Respectfully, the Michigan Department of Treasury has read this Court’s opinion in earnest and believes there exist ambiguities as to how to interpret and implement this Court’s directives in accounting for inflation for the graduated wages for the 2025 through 2028 time period,” the motion states.
Call Staff Writer Nick Powers at (586) 498-1059.
from reproducing, and they cannot find food indoors, so they spend the months doing as much as they can to save their energy.
Brown marmorated stink bugs are an invasive species of stink bug. It was first detected in the United States in 1996 in Allentown, Pennsylvania, possibly arriving stateside by hitching a ride in shipping containers from either China or Japan. They then spread across the eastern U.S.
“Around the 2000s was when the midAtlantic fruit growers really became very alarmed by them and had a lot of fruit damage in their orchards,” said Julianna Wilson, a Michigan State assistant professor of tree fruit entomology.
Brown marmorated stink bugs have a long straw-like mouth, which they use to suck the juices of fruits, vegetables and other plants. This leaves a lumpy, brown and corklike plant drained of its juices, potentially ruining whole crop yields. As the bugs made landfall in Michigan in 2010, finding a way to manage the stink bug was a top priority for agricultural scientists.
Ultimately however, the brown marmorated stink bug never became as much of an agricultural threat as it was on the Atlantic coast. For one, there is a large variety of food sources for stink bugs in Michigan, allowing the bugs to spread out and not target only a select few crops. Parasites have also played a role in managing the brown marmorated stink bug. A microsporidian, or parasitic fungus, found to infect native stink bugs has made the jump to the brown marmorated stink bug, reducing the bugs ability to lay eggs when populations grow too large.
Another nonnative insect species from Asia, the samurai wasp, has made its way to the U.S. and preys on brown marmorated stink bug populations. The tiny one-eighth of an inch long black wasp specializes in attacking brown marmorated stink bug eggs, using the eggs to lay their own larvae. The samurai wasp is incapable of stinging humans and has not been observed targeting native stink bug eggs.
“(The samurai wasp) came here (and) we haven’t seen any big effects other than with this particular stink bug, which it does really well on in its native host range,” Wilson said. “It has not become the pest that we thought it would become.”
While research into brown marmorated stink bug management is still ongoing, the species has largely found its place in the environment.
“We have the tools we need when they’re needed to be able to combat this pest,” Wilson said. “We’re not in the, ‘Oh no it’s an invasive species’ stage anymore. It’s here and established and we know how to deal with it, so it’s not an emergency or big concern like it was.”
In the home, the biggest threat brown marmorated stink bugs post to humans is increased irritation. A stink bug sighting is commonly marked by the brown guitar pickshaped creature slowly stumbling out from a windowsill or curtain or some other hiding place. Perhaps once disturbed they will take flight, flapping wings and meandering through the air with all the subtlety of a 747. And should you try squishing one, its namesake cilantro-scented pheromone will stink up the air around where it is struck down.
“They’re a moderate garden pest,” Lowenstien said. “The main issue with brown marmorated stink bugs are nuisance issues in the fall when they might congregate inside or outside of people’s homes … The only risk would be squishing them on fabrics; I
would not recommend squishing them on furniture or squeezing them indoors, because they will release that smell, and they can stain furniture.”
To get rid of stink bugs indoors, Lowenstien recommends drowning them in soapy water or sucking up stink bugs with a vacuum cleaner. Stink bugs can be trapped into drowning by placing a light over a pan of soapy water; the light will attract the bugs, causing them to fall into the pan.
Keeping stink bugs out of the home, however, is a futile effort. Checking for openings and gaps in walls is the most that can be done, as stink bugs will get inside though any little crack they can find. Stink bugs may congregate on the west and south sides on the exterior of homes in the fall, and spraying them with water or vacuuming them up is enough to remove them.
“Having them inside of your house doesn’t mean that you have failed to protect your home in any way,” Lowenstien said. “Insects are very smart at finding small gaps and cracks to make their way indoors, because they know that winter is coming, too.”
Call Staff Writer Dean Vaglia at (586) 498-1043.
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CRIME WATCH
Fighting reported near business
A fight was reported by a vape shop in the 2000 block of 15 Mile Road, near Dequindre Road, the night of Sept. 7.
When police got there, an officer reportedly saw four juveniles walking, and they took off running, but stopped at the officer’s insistence. Police said the juveniles originally said two of them were “play fighting” in the parking lot, but police concluded that that wasn’t the truth.
The vape shop reportedly kicked the juveniles out, and then the juveniles reportedly encountered two “unknown males” in a white pickup truck. The males in the truck allegedly harassed at least some of the juveniles, and one of the truck occupants allegedly got out and grabbed one of the juveniles by the shirt before letting go, the report said.
Police said they arranged the juveniles’ release to one of their adult relatives.
Minivan reports being followed by car
Police were notified that at around 11:15 p.m. Sept. 6, a minivan in a gas station parking lot by the intersection of 14 Mile and Schoenherr roads was being followed by a black Charger, which had pulled into another nearby gas station. Police did not provide further details of what happened next.
Truck reported stolen actually repoed, neighbor’s car window broken
During the morning of Sept. 8, a person told police that their truck had been stolen, and a neighbor’s car window had been broken too. Police said they later learned that the truck was actually repossessed, and they urged the complainant to talk with the finance company.
The report also indicated that the neighbor wanted to report the car window damage too, but police didn’t reveal how that was resolved.
Retail
fraud reported
A retail fraud case was reported in the Lakeside Mall area Sept. 7. Police did not
STERLING HEIGHTS ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024
MEETING TO BE HELD AT
reveal further details about what transpired, including what might have been taken.
Assault
reported
An assault and battery incident was reported by Van Dyke Avenue, near 17 Mile Road, Sept. 8. Police did not provide further
details of what took place. 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
A.PZBA24-0021 – Tim Hortons
Requesting Board approval for a non-use variance, which if granted would, allow for thirty (30) parking spaces where thirty-nine (39) are required in a C-2 Planned Comparison District.
Property Address: 44805 Schoenherr Road
Location: West side of Schoenherr Road, south of Hall Road
Current Zoning: C-2 Planned Comparison District
B. PZBA24-0023 – Amoco Gas Station Sign
Requesting Board approval for three non-use variances, which if granted would, (1) permit a freestanding monument-style sign to be located six (6) feet from the existing public right-of-way where twelve (12) feet is required, (2) permit a freestanding monument-style sign to be located within the required corner clearance at the intersection of Fifteen Mile Road and Ryan Road, and (3) permit a sign that is one-hundred and fty-six (156) square feet in size where a maximum of one-hundred and fty (150) square feet is permitted in a C-3 General Business District and Traditional Mixed Use Development Node Overlay District.
Property Address: 4050 Fifteen Mile Road
Location: East side of Ryan Road, south of Fifteen Mile Road
Current Zoning: C-3 General Business District and Traditional Mixed Use Development Node Overlay District
Drain
from page 3A
in 2023, though heavy rain has been blamed for some delays. Using tools such as shovels, picks and hydraulic hammers, workers have been extracting and vacuuming out around five decades of hardened sediment from the underground stormwater pipe.
County officials say the job has required focusing around 4,000 linear feet of wider piping that’s several feet in diameter, and crews have also been checking and cleaning out an estimated 3,500 feet of narrower piping too.
The county says the sediment is composed of road grit, silt, sand and other debris, including, at one point, an old wheelbarrow. In a statement, Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller said the composite material was “several feet thick,” and she explained that the drain ought to have been properly kept in good shape decades ago — before the problem grew so big.
“We have to correct some problems from the past, but we also have to look to the future so that future generations don’t have the same situation than what we found here,” Miller said. “We’re not just doing this for the immediacy, we’re doing it for our children, for our grandchildren.”
The county says the project has had a price tag of around $500,000, and they expect the job to be done by October. The county, Sterling Heights and the Vokes Relief Drain’s drainage district are splitting the costs.
The county added that it and Sterling
Heights are in the process of putting together the drain’s “long-term maintenance plan.” In addition, the Public Works Office said it is considering a flow study to see whether a weir east of Van Dyke should be improved to further mitigate flooding.
The drain work comes during a time when residents have complained during City Council meetings this summer about flooding in their backyards, especially when near the Clinton River.
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor said in a statement that the Vokes project is a critical one and an investment to protect the northern Van Dyke corridor’s homes and businesses from flooding.
“It demonstrates the commitment we’re making on behalf of companies of all sizes and the residents in the area,” the mayor said.
When asked by the Sentry what further efforts the city is taking to address flooding, especially in people’s backyards, Mayor Pro Tem Liz Sierawski said the city reached out to the residents so it could address their issues.
“We did find that it was mostly due to, of course, the extreme rain conditions. But we did have a couple of them that needed to have some of their own storm drains cleared. We helped them with that, so that did help relieve that issue for them,” Sierawski said.
“We did not find this to be citywide, that there was a lot of flooding. But if we had found that, we would have had to reach out to FEMA. Not the case at this time, but we’re keeping that open as an option.”
Learn more about the Macomb County Public Works Office by visiting macombgov. org/departments/public-works.
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A worker dismantles hardened sediment in the drain.
Photo provided by the Macomb County Public Works Office
Five Things You Need to Know About Pat Sierawski
Pat Sierawski is Experienced
Pat Sierawski has served his entire legal career as an Asst. Prosecuting Attorney for Macomb County as Chief of the Internet Crimes Unit, Chief of the Human Trafcking Unit, Chief of the Environmental Crimes Unit and Deputy Chief of the Juvenile Division. He has handled thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases.
Pat Sierawski is Trusted
Pat Sierawski has already earned the endorsement of Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller, Sherif Anthony Wickersham, Prosecutor Peter Lucido, Treasurer Lary Rocca, Chairman of the County Board Don Brown, Supervisor Rick Stathakis, Mayor Mike Taylor, Mayor Gus Calandrino and Trustee Peter Lucido III. Also endorsed by Justice David Viviano and over 50 Elected Ofcials and Judges.
Pat Sierawski Respects Veterans
Pats’ Grandfather served in World War Two in the Pacifc at the Battle of Okinawa and received a Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars. Father few C-130’s in Operation Desert Shield/Storm and received Air Force Air Medal. Twin brother currently serves as a Major in the Marine Corps and was deployed twice to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pat Sierawski is Highly Trained
1 2 3 4 5
Pat Sierawski is a graduate of Saint Lawrence School, De La Salle Collegiate High School, University of Michigan with a BSA in Political Science and received his Juris Doctor Degree from Wayne State Law School.
Sierawski Equals Service
Pat’s Father, Chief Judge of the 41-A District Court, Stephen Sierawski has served the people of 41-A District Court for over 25 years. Chief Judge Sierawski served over 20 years in the United States Air Force. Pats’ mother, Mayor Pro Tem of Sterling Heights, Liz Sierawski has served as Mayor Pro Tem for the past eight years. Pats’ twin brother, Anthony Sierawski, has served over thirteen years in the United States Marine Corps.
Pat, Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller, Mother and Father.
Pat and Sherif Anthony Wickersham
Pat and Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido
Treasurer Larry Rocca (Navy Veteran) and Pat
Father Chief Judge Sierawski, Pat and Mother Mayor Pro Tem Liz Sierawski
AISHA FAROOQI
3, 2024
From a young age, my parents taught me that the American Dream is made of opportunity, hard work, and determination. As a prosecuting attorney, I understand the importance of listening to people while leading with compassion and a rm sense of justice. I will always put the residents of District 57 rst to make sure Michigan has an economy that works for all of us. As your representative in Lansing, I will:
Support small businesses, create good paying jobs and protect workers’ rights
Lower the cost of living for working families and seniors
Support our local police and re ghters
Invest in public education funding and teacher salaries
Support our veterans and their families
Make healthcare, prescription drugs, mental health, and addiction services affordable
Safeguard reproductive healthcare
Protect our democracy
Keep our water and air clean
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SEPT. 26 Dodge Park Thursdays: Farmers market featuring vendors and food trucks, also touch a truck, 3-8 p.m., 40620 Utica Road in Sterling Heights, (586) 446-2700, sterling-heights.net/1236/Dodge-ParkThursdays
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World of Possibilities: Special Needs Expo: Free event featuring 60-plus vendors and resource tables, hot dog lunch, cider and doughnuts, touch a truck, exotic zoo and petting farm, magician, and goodie bag and book giveaways, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Macomb Intermediate School District, 44001 Garfield Road in Clinton Township, registration required, (586) 228-3458, lmiskelly@misd.net, misd.net/sehome/ expo
SEPT. 29
Walk n’ Roll for ALS: 10 a.m. check-in includes pumpking decorating, photo booth and hot drinks/snacks, then 3-mile walk at 11 a.m., followed by lunch, music and more, Eastside Beach at Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Drive in Shelby Township, alsofmichigan. org
OCT. 5
Nightmare on Auburn Road: Beer tent, vendors, live music, costume contests (for pets too), trick-or-treating, cider and doughnuts, kids crafts, photo booths and creepy character appearances, noon, downtown Utica, facebook.com/CityofUticaMichigan
Brew & Fall Fest: Includes 10 3-ounce pours, also cornhole tournament, 4-9 p.m., Jimmy John’s Field, 7171 Auburn Road in Utica, uspbl.com
OCT. 11-13
Greater Detroit Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show: More than 65 vendors expected, also meet with geologists, paleontologists and gemologists, plus displays from 30-plus museums, kids activities, daily prizes, grab bags and more, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 12 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 13, Sports & Expo Center, Building P on Macomb Community College - South Campus, 14500 E. 12 Mile Road in Warren, michmin.org/show-info
Armed robbery reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 5:03 a.m. on Aug. 30, a report was made about an armed robbery that occurred in the 25000 block of Jefferson Avenue.
The night shift store clerk, a 34-year-old woman, stated she was alone in the building when a man came up to the register and told her to give him the money in the cash register. The woman misunderstood what he said and asked him again. The suspect repeated what he said and reportedly lifted up his shirt revealing a black handgun in his waistband. The clerk then took around $340 out of the cash register and gave it to the man. He stuffed the cash in his pockets and then left in an unknown direction.
The clerk called her manager before she called the police, which she said was a couple minute delay. The clerk stated the man came in before wanting to buy cigarettes earlier in the morning, but then changed his mind. Video surveillance shows similar events to what was described.
A DNA swab was done on the door and the counter.
Larceny from lockers reported
ST. CLAIR SHORES — At 1:54 p.m. on Aug. 8, a report was made about a larceny that occurred at a business in the 20000 block of Eight Mile Road.
The manager, a 23-year-old woman, stated that several patrons had told her a person had stolen money from their lockers. Four men reportedly had money taken from their locker ranging in value from $60 to $200 stolen from each locker. One man said the suspect left him around $15. All victims had locks on their lockers and reported that only their lock and cash were missing. The manager stated that the suspect has hit multiple other locations in the area including Ann Arbor and more.
The suspect was taken into custody by the Plymouth Police Department. He has a history of crimes, is a wanted person in Illinois and is a listed sex offender in Wisconsin. There were no convictions in Michigan on his record. A warrant was requested through the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office after investigators reviewed the evidence and the request was authorized on four counts of larceny.
Shoplifter attempts theft of kids items
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police learned Aug. 25 about a reported shoplifting incident at Walmart, 33201 Van Dyke Ave.
According to store staff, a suspect paid for some but not all merchandise at the self-scan checkout. Upon then allegedly trying to leave with unpaid items, the suspect was caught by staff. The stolen items included kids clothing, kids shoes, a bag and
OCT. 12
Two 4 The Road: Presented by Comedy 4 Cancer, scheduled to perform are Sal Demilio, Dustin Cole, Charles Hill, Nick Pizzuti, Paul Pipitone, Adam House and Darren Lewis, 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.), UAW Local 228, 39209 Mound Road in Sterling Heights, www. comedy4cancer.com/uaw
OCT. 13
Chic & Unique Vintage Market: 100-plus small businesses expected, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Packard Proving Grounds, 49965 Van Dyke Ave. in Shelby Township, packardprovinggrounds.org
OCT. 17
Sterling Heights Fall Senior Expo: Connect with dozens of organizations specializing in assistance and care, also free health screenings, prizes, giveaways and refreshments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Century Banquet Center, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, (248) 524-4868, seniorexpousa.com
OCT. 19
Baby shower: Drop off items to be donated to local pregnancy help centers, stay for refreshments and gift basket drawings, noon-3 p.m., Right to Life of Michigan, 27417 Harper Ave. in St. Clair Shores, (586) 774-6050, macombrlm@rtl.org
OCT. 24
Free medicare help: Hosted by Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and AgeWays, meet with trained counselor by appointment, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., also Nov. 13 and Dec. 4, Sterling Heights Senior Center, 40200 Utica Road, (800) 803-7174
OCT. 25
Frights & Delights Halloween fundraiser: Benefit for Friends of Foster Kids in Macomb County, indoor/outdoor event includes trunk or treat, games, haunted hallway, and concessions with cider, doughnuts and more, costumes encouraged, 7-9 p.m., Sterling Heights High School, 12901 15 Mile Road
OCT. 30
Trunk or treat: Also hayride, cider and doughnuts, cake walk, and prizes, 6-8 p.m., Fellowship Chapel, 12875 E. 14 Mile Road in Sterling
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milk bottles, police said. Police cited the suspect for third-degree retail fraud.
Patrons evicted over hotel swimming pool argument
STERLING HEIGHTS — Police went to a hotel in the 36000 block of Van Dyke Avenue Aug. 24 upon hearing that some patrons had been arguing with a worker.
According to police, guests from two rooms had reportedly been celebrating a birthday party at the swimming pool, and a worker reportedly told them that too many people were in that area.
&
Heights, (586) 264-4692, info@fellowshipchapel.net, facebook.com/ forMacomb
ONGOING
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, sterlingheights.gov/789/Upton-House-Museum
Book clubs: Meetups for teens, early birds, those who want to snack and chat, others who want to discuss books they own, and new book/ movie discussion group, Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road, (586) 446-2665, sterlingheights.gov/2136/Library
Widowed Friends dancing: Doors at 6 p.m. and music from 7-10:30 p.m. Tuesdays, American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane in Sterling Heights, RSVP to Victoria at (586) 566-7936
Concerts at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre: Sept. 25 (The National, The War on Drugs and Lucius), Sept. 26 (Kaytranda, Channel Tres and Lou Phelps), Sept. 30 (Meghan Trainor, Paul Rusell and Ryan Trainor) and Oct. 5 (Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals, Maurice Brown and GAWD), Freedom Hill County Park, 14900 Metropolitan Parkway in Sterling Heights, www.313presents.com
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
Line dancing and contra dancing: Sponsored by Oakland County Traditional Dance Society, line dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday of month and contra dancing from 7:30-10 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, also lessons for beginners at 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Troy, 6363 Livernois Road, (248) 642-3306, info@octds.org, facebook.com/OCTDS
