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MAY 24, 2023 Vol. 42, No. 11

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‘We are strong enough that we can weather a storm’ MADISON HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL ADOPTS BUDGET FOR FY 2024

Starting this July, residents will see an increase on their quarterly bill for water and wastewater services. Officials say the change is necessary due to rising cost of operations and infrastructure.

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

See BUDGET on page 15A

Water and wastewater rates set to increase ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS AVAILABLE TO HELP PAY THE BILL

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — Starting July 1, Madison Heights taxpayers will be charged more for water and wastewater services on their quarterly bills.

The change was approved 6-0 by the Madison Heights City Council on May 8. Madison Heights City Councilmember David Soltis was absent. When asked May 10 how he would have voted, he said he would have approved it, too.

The measure will increase the water rate from $3.27

per unit to $4.26 per unit, and the sewer rate from $3.69 per unit to $6.30 per unit. One unit is equal to 748 gallons of water. There will no longer be a stormwater rate.

In total, the combined rate will now be $10.56 per unit, or 1.4 cents per gallon.

“We haven’t had a water rate increase in some years, yet our expenses have been going up,” said Roslyn Grafstein, the mayor of Madison Heights. “Like any quality infrastructure, our system needs regular maintenance to keep it working properly, to keep it safe.

“The city has been subsidizing the increase in expense See WATER on page 11A

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MADISON HEIGHTS — The city millage rate will drop by half a mill for the new fiscal year, beginning July 1, now that the Madison Heights City Council has adopted its budget.

The council approved the package, 6-0, at its regular meeting May 8. The only member absent was David Soltis, but he said after the meeting that he also would have approved it.

Mark Bliss, the mayor pro tem, described the budget as uneventful.

“The last place in our job where we want there to be any drama is the budget, and this budget was the least dramatic in some time,” he said. “In many ways, this is just an extension of what we’ve been doing the last four years, with increased revenue from our focus on economic development, increased investments in our parks and recreation, and continued investment into public safety.”

Weighing in at $61.9 million, the overall budget is a de-

MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

2A

CRIME

WATCH Laser light jeopardizes helicopter

MADISON HEIGHTS — Trooper 2, a Michigan State Police helicopter, was in flight at 9 p.m. May 16 when it was struck by a green-colored laser, which was reportedly later traced back to an address in Madison Heights. A male suspect in the 26700 block of Osmun Avenue was arrested and a laser device was located on his person.

“It is a crime, both federal and state, to point a laser at an aircraft,” said Michigan State Police Lt. Michael Shaw, in a statement. “We are fortunate that no one was hurt (and that) the aircraft didn’t crash in this incident.”

He added that the suspect, 44, was transported to the Metro North Post, processed and released pending prosecutor review.

Tires slashed

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, an unknown suspect slashed three tires on a 2017 Honda Accord while the vehicle was parked in the 27000 block of Barrington Avenue between 8 p.m.

April 22 and 8 a.m. April 23.

The vehicle belongs to a 66-year-old Madison Heights man.

An investigation was ongoing.

Catalytic converters stolen

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, catalytic converters were taken from two trucks while they were parked in the 300 block of East 11 Mile Road between 7 p.m. April 11 and 11 a.m.

April 18.

The work trucks belonged to a local business.

Police were investigating.

Package taken from Jeep

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, an unknown suspect broke the sunroof on a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee while it was parked in the 32000 block of Concord Drive between 5 p.m. April 21 and 3 p.m. April 24.

Packages belonging to a 30-year-old Madison Heights woman were stolen.

An investigation was ongoing.

Catalytic converters stolen

MADISON HEIGHTS — According to a police report, two unknown suspects removed the catalytic converter from a 2002

Ford pickup truck while it was parked in the 500 block of Rowland Avenue sometime between 1:45 a.m. and 1:50 a.m. May 8.

The truck belonged to a 33-year-old Madison Heights man. A similar incident happened several days earlier, between 5:30 p.m. May 5 and 7:30 a.m. May 8, when an unknown suspect stole the catalytic converter from a 2012 Chevrolet pickup truck, while the vehicle was parked at a business in the 10000 block of East 10 Mile Road.

Police are investigating.

Tire taken

MADISON HEIGHTS — An unknown suspect stole the front left tire from a 2018 Ford Flex while the vehicle was parked in the 1500 block of Elliott Avenue between 9 p.m. April 30 and 7:20 a.m. May 1. According to a police report, the vehicle belongs to a 52-year-old Madison Heights man.

An investigation was ongoing.

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

Shoplifter arrested

HAZEL PARK — According to a police report, a 32-year-old Detroit man stole more than $340 in groceries from a Kroger

store in Hazel Park around 8:50 p.m. May 1.

He was arrested and the stolen goods were recovered roughly a half-mile away.

Police were investigating.

Windows broken on vehicle

HAZEL PARK — According to a police report, officers located a black 2016 Kia Soul on Hughes Avenue south of Nine Mile around 5:30 a.m. May 3, with a side window broken and no one inside. The vehicle was allegedly stolen by an unknown suspect from the 1600 block of East Goulson Avenue.

An investigation was ongoing.

Drunken driver arrested

HAZEL PARK — According to a police report, an officer made a traffic stop for speeding in the area of 10 Mile and John R roads around 12:30 a.m. May 3. The driver was a 33-year-old Auburn Hills woman, and the vehicle was a white 2019 Nissan Rogue.

The driver reportedly failed sobriety tests with a blood alcohol content of 0.20.

She was arrested and charged with operating while intoxicated.

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

— Andy Kozlowski

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@candgnews facebook.com/candgnews candgnews.com • (586) 498-8000

3A/ MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Library reopens in Madison Heights following renovations NEW YOUTH ROOM DEDICATED TO THE LATE ROBERT CORBETT

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — Robert Corbett, who died in March 2022, was known for many things.

Those who worked with him during his 20-plus years on the Madison Heights City Council remember his kindness, his humor and his thoughtful approach to public service, dispensing wisdom as the group’s elder statesman. He was also known for his deep love of words, and often used his gift of gab to promote causes such as accessible parks and a strong library.

Now, thanks to renovations Corbett helped plan years ago, the Madison Heights Public Library is stronger than ever. It reopened May 8, with new facilities including a makerspace and exhibit room, as well as a reworked floorplan featuring an expanded teen section, and shorter shelving units that free up windows for more natural light.

On the same day, officials also paid tribute to Corbett with a new space named in his honor: The Robert J. Corbett Youth Room.

See LIBRARY on page 4A

Photos by Patricia O’Blenes

New DPS director reflects on career: ‘A dream job’

Sean Ballantine, a resident of Madison Heights, has been with the Department of Public Services for around 20 years, and recently became the DPS director.

The DPS maintains the city’s roads, sidewalks, water lines, sewers, parks, and facilities.

BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — Sean Ballantine was just a kid in elementary school when he first dreamt of a career in public works.

“I used to watch the city garbage trucks, back when the city did its own garbage. And in the fall, I would watch the ‘leaf-suck trucks,’ as I called them as a kid. I thought that must be such a cool job, but it never occurred to me that you could really do that,” he said. “I thought that I would do something more traditional, like teaching.”

Fast-forward to today, and Ballantine, who grew up in Madison Heights and now lives there with his wife, is the new director of the city’s Department of Public Services.

He has been with the DPS for around 20 years, beginning as a part-time seasonal laborer doing landscaping for

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

TO

Madison Heights

the city in the early 2000s, not long after he graduated from Lamphere High School.

“I fell in love with it, like a duck taking to water, working seasonal three or four years,” he said. “Then I applied for a full-time job when the opportunity arose. I didn’t get it the first time, but then I got the next one. It’s been full speed ever since.”

Over the years, he also served as an analyst/planner and supervisor for the department, leading up to his roles as deputy director, acting director, and now, director.

For the 2023-24 fiscal year, the DPS budget has been set at $28 million across all department funds. Ballantine will manage this budget and directly oversee staff working in such divisions as utilities, streets and facilities, and the motor pool, overseeing the city’s vehicle fleet.

DPS workers are in many ways the unsung heroes of a See BALLANTINE on page 14A

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WELCOME

LEFT: Guests tour the newly renovated Madison Heights Public Library May 8. The library now features a reworked floorplan with more natural lighting, an expanded teen section, a new exhibit room, a new makerspace and a new youth room named in honor of the late Madison Heights City Councilman Robert Corbett. RIGHT: Linda Corbett, front left, widow of Robert Corbett, is embraced by Madison Heights Mayor Roslyn Grafstein at a dedication ceremony May 8 for the new Robert J. Corbett Youth Room. Behind them is Mayor Pro Tem Mark Bliss, left, and City Councilman Sean Fleming.

MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

4A

Library from page 3A

When one passes through the library’s main entrance, the new room is on the left, with peekaboo windows allowing people to see what’s happening before entering.

The room includes a “concept corner” with books for teaching toddlers about letters, numbers, shapes and colors. That corner will also be used for story time, and as a play space for children.

Next to it is an area for “imaginative play,” with learning toys suitable for students in preschool through elementary school. The new room is already popular with kids using log builders to create houses or forts big enough for them to fit inside.

“Bob Corbett thought libraries are important. He believed in the importance of reading to kids,” said Madison Heights Mayor Roslyn Grafstein. “The library, really, is the connector in a community. Back during the Great Recession, the city was looking at cuts, and the library was one of the places considered, since it’s not a profit center — it costs the city money. But Bob said that you need to see all the people at the library, including those who were using the computers there to look for jobs. Bob saw all of this, and understood how important the library is. He fought

to keep it open.

“He was a voice of wisdom and clarity, a real straight shooter,” she added. “I would talk to him, and there were times where I didn’t like what he had to say. But he would acknowledge that, and then be honest with me and tell me what I needed to hear. He always had the city’s best interests at heart.”

Mark Bliss, the mayor pro tem, is on the Historical Commission’s subcommittee dedicated to naming parks and facilities in honor of community members.

“It’s an interesting scenario to me because I’ve known Bob since I was a kid. I sat on a mock City Council as a freshman in high school, and Bob Corbett was one of the few members who took me under his wing that evening, teaching me more about the city than I wanted to know at that time of my life — he went very, very deep,” Bliss said with a laugh.

He recalled how Corbett pushed for the library renovations as the council representative on the library board. One feature that Corbett wanted to see was a makerspace.

Now, it’s a reality. Officially named the Creative Techspace, the room features nine stations focused on different crafts. Categories include 3D printing, sewing and embroidery, media conversion, design and engineering, vinyl cutting and paper arts, sublimation, heat press, office and document, and tinker-

ing and crafts.

The equipment is sorted into different skills levels. Green-level equipment is usable by anyone, yellow-level equipment requires training with a staff member first, and redlevel equipment can only be operated by a trained staff member. Most stations are green level.

“I distinctly remember the first time our library advisory board discussed a makerspace room in the library, some five or six years ago, and how Bob was a huge advocate for that.

To now realize it’s in this library, well, it’s sad and a shame he isn’t there to see it,” Bliss said.

“But I’m incredibly thankful to my colleagues for allowing us to name that room after him, since it allowed him to be a part of this.

“He spent the last five years of his life making sure that this got done, and before that, he spent decades of his life making sure that the library itself was as strong as can be.

He was the driving force to save the library during the Great Recession,” Bliss said. “I would call Bob Corbett the single most influential member of the council for this project.

I truly appreciate that he will be a part of it forever.”

Madison Heights City Councilman Quinn Wright said he’s thankful to everyone who made the library project a reality.

“It’s the culmination of things that have been in the making for years, but with the

cost of materials and everything going on, I was very excited for us to be able to bring it over the finish line, putting together something that the community can enjoy for years to come,” Wright said.

“Bob Corbett was very passionate about the city, and I think it shows with his commitment to see this project through,” he added. “I admire the legacy that he’s left behind for future generations, with both the library project and also parks and recreation. And we should also recognize all the hard work that the city staff did carrying out that vision, managing the material and working with the contractors and such. They did the heavy lifting.”

Bliss said the project was a long time coming, with a dozen individual councilmembers across three different councils advising on it, as well as two mayors and two library directors.

“The baton kept being passed, and while we got to stand out there to cut the ribbon, we were merely the last people holding the baton,” Bliss said. “It’s been such a long journey, all those years — and Bob Corbett was a significant part of that journey.”

The Madison Heights Public Library is located at 240 W. 13 Mile Road, west of John R Road. It is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (248) 588-7763 or visit madison-heights.org.

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COMMUNITY

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

CALENDAR

5A/ MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Hazel Park Citywide Garage Sale

HAZEL PARK — Hazel Park Neighborhood Enrichment’s last event before disbanding will be the 2023 Hazel Park Citywide Garage Sale, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday through Sunday, June 2-4.

Visit facebook.com and search “Hazel Park Citywide Garage Sale” to obtain a map showing which home addresses will be holding sales that day.

HPNE will also hold a trunk sale that Saturday, at First United Methodist Church, located at 315 E. Nine Mile Road, across from the Hazel Park District Library, east of John R Road. To secure a spot in the trunk sale, call (248) 542-1247.

MAY 25

360 W. 13 Mile Road in Madison Heights

Madison Science Night: All-you-can-eat buffet, science lab exhibits, rock wall, petting zoo, pony rides, exotic animal show, raffles and more, 5-8:30 p.m., Wilkinson Middle School, 26524 John R Road in Madison Heights, (248) 399-0455

MAY 27

Memorial Day Parade: 10 a.m., from Wilkinson Middle School, 26524 John R Road in Madison Heights, to Madison High School, 915 E. 11 Mile Road, service on football field to follow, facebook. com/MadisonParade

Self-defense classes offered

MADISON HEIGHTS — Classes teaching children and women how to defend themselves against aggressors will be held at separate times and locations on Wednesday, June 28.

The course for children, ages 6-11, will take place at the Red Oaks Youth Soccer Complex, 29601 John R Road in Madison Heights, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The cost is $20 for residents, and $25 for nonresidents.

The course for women will take place inside Fire Station No. 1, located at 31313 Brush St. in Madison Heights, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $35 for residents, and $40 for non-residents.

Visit madison-heights.org for more information.

Family-friendly evenings

MADISON HEIGHTS — The city of Madison Heights will host a free community event as part of its School’s Out Celebration at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 21 at Civic Center Park, 360 W. 13 Mile Road.

There will be face paintings, bounce houses, giveaways and more. Live music begins at 6:30 p.m. A family-friendly movie screening starts at 8:15 p.m.

Attendees are invited to bring blankets for a night under the stars. The event is sponsored by Rickey Busler, with RE/MAX First.

LATIN DANCE PARTY FOR BEGINNERS

MADISON HEIGHTS — Mambo Marci, an award-winning dance instructor and contest judge, will hold a Latin dance party for beginners at the Red Oaks Youth Soccer Complex, located at 29601 John R Road, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 15. She will share her love of salsa dancing and what she has learned in her decades-long career.

Marci also serves as the co-director of YA Salsa, the largest salsa dance organization in Michigan.

The cost is $30 for residents, and $35 for nonresidents. For more information, visit madison-heights.org.

JUNE 28

Self-defense classes: For ages 6-11, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Red Oaks Youth Soccer Complex, 29601 John R Road in Madison Heights, bit.ly/MHChildrensSelfDefense, for females 12 and older, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Fire Station #1, 31313 Brush St. in Madison Heights, bit.ly/ JuneSelfDefense

JUNE 30-JULY 4

JUNE 1 & 15

Ukelele Club: Meets 3-4:30 p.m., Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, hazel-park.lib.mi.us

Royal Oak Taco Fest: Featuring more than 50 taquerias and eateries, four stages of live entertainment, kids zone, lucha libre wrestling and more, 4-11 p.m.

June 30, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. July 1-3 and 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

July 4, east side of Main Street between 11 Mile Road and Fourth Street, royaloaktacofest.com

JUNE 10

ONGOING

Walk for Miracles: Benefit for Corewell Health’s Beaumont Children’s, includes refreshments and snacks, cape and medal, access to exhibits and more, participants encouraged to dress as superheroes, 8-11 a.m., Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, register at beaumont.org/walkformiracles

JUNE 13

Read with Cosmo: Children can tell stories to therapy dog, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Madison Heights Active Adult Center, 29448 John R St., registration required, (248) 588-7763, patron.mylibro.com

JUNE 17

Madison Heights Juneteenth Celebration: Live music

by Smoke Jones Detroit Band, food trucks, vendors, educational exhibits, kids’ activities and more, noon-6 p.m., Civic Center Park, 360 W. 13 Mile Road, free admission and parking but donations welcome, madisonheightsjuneteenth.com

JUNE 21

School’s Out Celebration: Face painting, bounce houses and giveaways starting at 6 p.m, live music at 6:30 p.m. and movie at 8:15 p.m., Civic Center Park,

Hazel Park Beautification Commission: Meets 6 p.m. every third Wednesday of month, City Hall, 111 E. Nine Mile Road, (248) 546-4064 Family game day: 1-6 p.m. every fourth Saturday of month, Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, hazel-park.lib.mi.us LEGO/Pokémon Club: Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of month, Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, hazel-park.lib.mi.us Between the Covers Book Club: Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. every last Wednesday of month through November, Hazel Park District Library, 123 E. Nine Mile Road, hazel-park.lib.mi.us LitWits Books Club: Meets every fourth Monday of month, locations and times vary, madison-heights. org/library, (248) 588-7763 Author Talks: June 7, 15 and 28, July 15, 20 and 25, and Aug. 23, Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W. 13 Mile Road, register and see speakers/times at libraryc.org/mhlibrary/upcoming

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SPORTS

Senior Jamison Ross smacks a home run against Sterling Heights on May 12 at Lamphere High School.

6A/ MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Photo by Patricia O’Blenes

Photo provided by Steve Dobek

Madison Heights Bishop Foley took both games in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Greenhills on May 10 at Greenhills High School to claim a share of the CHSL Intersectional league title.

Bishop Foley claims share of league title

LAMPHERE BASEBALL’S SENIOR-LED GROUP READIES FOR DISTRICTS

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

TEAM QUALIFIES FOR CHSL SEMIFINAL MATCHUP AT COMERICA PARK

BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com

MADISON HEIGHTS — It all came down to a May 10 doubleheader against Ann Arbor Greenhills, as Madison Heights Bishop Foley made its last leap for a share of the Catholic High School League Intersectional title.

Sitting at 8-2 in the division and two games behind Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes, a team that Foley split a series with earlier in the season, Foley needed a clean sweep on the road to become co-champions.

Behind junior Sante Valdez and sophomore Mason Kanar’s impressive performances on the mound in games one and two respectively, the Ventures See FOLEY on page 7A

MADISON HEIGHTS — It wasn’t the start the boys expected for the season, but it was exactly what they needed.

After an impressive run through the Michigan High School Athletic Association state tournament in 2022, edging Detroit Country Day and Macomb Lutheran North, Madison Heights Lamphere’s regional semifinalist baseball team looked to build off that momentum heading into the 2023 season.

That was until a 1-5 start to the year had the team doing a little self-reflection. But having gone 13-5 since their opening six games, it’s safe to say that the Rams knew what it took to overcome the early-season obstacle.

“I’d say we started out rough just trying

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to get into a groove, but then we just meshed together and started swinging the bats and got more confident,” senior shortstop Noah Atherholt said.

Atherholt, one of nine seniors on the squad, is currently committed to play baseball at Macomb Community College. He leads a dynamic senior group alongside center fielder Amare Curran, outfielder Jamison Ross, third baseman Blake Holt and left fielder Joshua VanDoorn.

While the lineup includes a substantial number of veteran players who all carry their weight, Lamphere’s pitching staff of Holt, Atherholt, junior Koltin Krstich, and senior Teagan Barndollar has been dominant this season.

All multiyear varsity players, Lamphere’s core of arms helped lead the squad to a 14-10 record so far this season, including a second-place

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7A

MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Foley from page 6A

did just that, punching their ticket for a May 19 matchup against Dearborn Divine Child at Comerica Park in the CHSL semifinals.

Valdez fanned eight batters and allowed only three hits as Foley dominated game one, winning 11-0. Valdez and senior Simon Zainea both got it done at the plate, combining for seven RBIs in the win.

It was all up to Kanar as he controlled the mound for the finale, and he delivered with an impressive seven-inning outing that included nine strikeouts.

Notched up at 7-7 in the bottom of the ninth, sophomore Tad Dobek stepped up to the plate with runners on second and third, and the game and league title on the line.

On just the first pitch of the at-bat, Dobek brought it home.

“They had been pitching me away all day on the first pitch, so I sat on a fastball away and when I got it, I just tried to put a good swing on it and drive it up the middle,” Dobek said.

Dobek’s shot up the middle would score senior Drew Mleczko to walk it off for Foley in the 8-7 victory.

Lamphere from page 6A

10-2 league record in the Macomb Area Conference Gold Division.

Lamphere coach Keith Lelli said the staff ’s command has been key to its success so far this season.

“I would say we have a lot more Greg Maddux than power,” Lelli said. “Blake Holt is crafty with three or four pitches that he can usually throw for strikes. Nothing overpowering, but good velocity when he needs it. Same with Noah Atherholt; two pitches on command whenever he wants to throw them, and he can sneak fastballs by guys just by being able to locate a lot. When the time comes, he can dial it up. Koltin Krstich, he is a three-pitch (pitcher) with a lot of sink to his baseballs, so he doesn’t get hit very hard, and there’s a lot more Greg Maddux in him, too, where he’s just a strike thrower.”

Offensively, it all starts with sophomore second baseman Aidan Grzesikowski, whose combination of speed and contact ability makes him an ideal leadoff hitter.

A freshman on varsity last season, Grzesikowski was finding his footing towards the bottom of the lineup, but now has exploded during his sophomore campaign.

Lelli said his impact extends far beyond what he can do on the field.

“He not only belongs with his skill level, but his maturity level, too,” Lelli said. “He’s the varsity quarterback, too, so he has that leadership quality, and that’s the big thing.”

Atherholt, Curran and Ross have all been consistent contributors offensively this season as well.

Now heading towards the final stretch of the season, the Rams’ senior core will look to end their high school careers with another

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ABOVE: Senior pitcher Teagan Barndollar controls the mound during Lamphere’s matchup with Sterling Heights. TOP: Ross celebrates his home run with teammates. deep run into the state tournament.

Lamphere is slated to open up district play against Warren Fitzgerald on June 3 at Hazel Park High School, and will potentially face district opponents Center Line High, Eastpointe High, or Hazel Park if they move on.

Regardless of the opponent, Lelli said his guys are only focusing on one game at a time until the state tournament.

“They’re in a great headspace right now,” Lelli said. “We’re still not playing the cleanest baseball, but we’re finding ways to win. (Even if ) we make an error that costs us two or three runs, we find a way to get two or three back.”

Lelli expanded on his thoughts.

“With these kids, some of them can’t even drive yet,” he said. “They’re going to make some errors, so it’s all about how you refocus and how you respond to that.”

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SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITIES & NONPROFITS

8A/ MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Hannah Tizedes is the founder of The Cleanup Club and will hold several cleanup events throughout the Metro Detroit area this summer.

Photo provided by The Cleanup Club

NONPROFITS COULD USE SOME HELP CLEANING UP COMMUNITY EFFORTS CAN GET ENTIRE FAMILY INVOLVED

BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — When school is out and the weather is nice, families can benefit from volunteering together to support local nonprofits and improve the communities they live in.

There are several different ways to volunteer throughout the local area. For families who like to spend time together outdoors, local cleanups can be a fun way to enjoy nature and impact the environment.

Environmental activist and artist Hannah Tizedes began the Michigan-based nonprofit The Cleanup Club to help create a more plastic-free environment.

The Cleanup Club is primarily based in Metro Detroit, but they also do programs in northern Michigan and along Lake Erie.

“I think it is so important to just talk about Great Lakes plastic pollution, because we hear about ocean pollution all the time, but no one ever hears about Great Lakes plastic pollution,” Tizedes said.

While they are still planning summer programming, Tizedes said there will be

several exciting opportunities for Metro Detroit families to get involved. Once summer events are finalized, they can be found at thecleanupclub.org.

“I’m super passionate about involving kids and just having more youth education around plastic pollution and what we can do as individuals,” Tizedes said. “I think it’s super important to just show kids that this is part of (their) future, (they) can help out and get creative, and it doesn’t have to be like this.’”

The Clinton River Watershed Council also offers opportunities for families to help clean up their community through the Keeping-It-Clean program.

Several different Clinton River Watershed Council programs fall under the Keeping-It-Clean umbrella, including weekly cleanups, the Clinton Cleanup and Trash Runs.

The community is encouraged to join the Weekly Clean 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays April-November. Each week, the Clinton River Watershed Council holds a Weekly Clean at a different park within the Clinton See CLEANUPS on page 9A

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MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Cleanups from page 8A

River watershed. The locations of this summer’s Weekly Cleans has yet to be released.

“We try to make sure that we have cleanup initiatives that hit almost all of the parks within the watershed that we can over the course of the summer,” said Cole Pachucki, the development and communication specialist for the Clinton River Watershed Council.

Volunteers are provided with the tools

they need to conduct a simple cleanup. If they find anything big in the river that needs to be removed, the council coordinates with local municipalities to take care of it.

Clinton Cleanup is a larger event where they gather volunteers to clean up multiple parks on the same day. The next Clinton Cleanup will be Sept. 9.

Pachucki said some people get the most excited about the Trash Runs, which involve riding in a canoe or kayak to do a water cleanup.

Trash Runs will be held 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

June 9, July 14, Aug. 18 and Sept. 8.

While the Weekly Clean and the Clinton Cleanup are appropriate for all ages, Trash Run participants should be 14 or older.

“I think it is really important for young people to get involved in any kind of youth programming that gives back to really cement the idea that being good stewards of

our environment is something important,” Pachucki said. “If that kind of outdoor education and stewardship practices are instilled younger, it tends to grow lifelong stewards of the outdoors.”

To learn more about the programs offered by the Clinton River Watershed Council, visit crwc.org.

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BEHIND THE WHEEL 10A/ MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

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.

FROM THE GARAGE TO THE CRUISE LANE METRO DETROIT — Dave Renke purchased his first car before he even had a driver’s license.

Two weeks before his 16th birthday, in the spring of 1976, Renke and a few friends were riding their 10-speed bicycles in St. Clair Shores. When biking through a random parking lot, the group spotted a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. Renke couldn’t take his eyes off the seafoam green beauty. The teenager left a written note on the windshield with his phone number, asking the owner to contact him if interested in selling the vehicle.

“It was a 210 model, two-door post with a six-cylinder engine and an automatic Powerglide transmission,” Renke remembered.

When he got home, the phone rang and on the other end of the line was the Bel Air owner, who made an offer to sell the car for $800. An excited Renke told his dad, who wasn’t so sure it was a good deal.

“Why do you want to buy an old car like that?” he said.

But Dad gave the OK for Renke to use the money he earned from his paper route to buy his first-ever set of wheels. Renke has always been a fan of the Tri-Five Chevy models, which refers to the 1955, 1956 and 1957 Chevrolet automobiles, including the Bel Air and Nomad.

“I always thought they were very cool and was glad I bought it,” he said. “If you look at the ’54 Chevy, it was more rounded.

In ’55, they made a big change to the body style. In ’55, you could get more color options.”

For many years, Renke’s teenage purchase sat in his parents’ Warren garage.

“I didn’t start enjoying it until the late ’80s and early ’90s,” he said. “I was always saving up enough money so I could buy the next part.”

Prior to that, Renke and his friends spent many nights in the garage restoring the Bel Air. “It originally had a six-cylinder, and then we put a V-8 engine in it,” Renke said. “There was more power. I found an original 265 V-8 Engine and had it rebuilt.”

In the late 1980s, the Bel Air got a new look when Renke’s cousin painted it India Ivory and Gypsy Red, which remain its current colors. While many maintenance upgrades have been completed over the years, “I tried to keep the car with the original look,” he said.

Renke took the Bel Air with him when he and his wife, Rosemary, moved to Sterling Heights, and it’s still with the couple, who now reside in Macomb Township. Renke’s interest in cars dates way back to the days when he and his friends would take apart their biSee CHEVY BEL AIR on page 11A

ABOVE: Macomb Township resident Dave Renke likes to take his 1955 Chevy Bel Air to various spots, including Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township.

Photo provided by Dave Renke

LEFT: Dave and Rosemary Renke have made plenty of family memories cruising in the ’55 Chevy Bel Air. Photo by Maria Allard

ABOVE AND RIGHT: Three of Dave and Rosemary Renke’s daughters had wedding photos taken with the Bel Air. Photos provided by Dave Renke

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BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com

11A

MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

for years, but at some point, we had to pass on the increase to end users,” she said. “Even with the rate change, we still have among the lowest water bills in the area. This change will help us continue to maintain things.”

Madison Heights City Manager Melissa Marsh said the average water and wastewater bill will be $126.72 for three months, comparing it favorably to the regional average of $172.44.

She said the increase is necessary to fund both basic operations and capital improvements for the city’s water and wastewater distribution systems. Marsh also said that the city has been absorbing cost increases in recent years, and only modestly increased rates twice during that time.

According to Sean Ballantine, director of the Madison Heights Department of Public Services, the fees from water and sewer bills pay not only for water access, but also

Chevy Bel Air from page 10A

cycles. Renke eventually moved on to cars by buying and selling several different models, including a 1975 Fiat Spider, a 1969 AMC Javelin, a 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass and a 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix over the years.

“He always had a different car in high school,” Rosemary recalled.

According to Renke, because of his love for restoring older cars, Rosemary has “graciously” given up a parking spot in their garage for the past 30-plus years for the Bel Air. “It’s too nostalgic. It’s a part of who he is,” Rosemary said. “Cars are a part of your life.”

In time, Renke’s dad had a change of heart and made Renke promise to never sell the Bel Air. “Seems he became very fond of it over the years, just as I have,” Renke said. “And I plan to keep the car and hope to pass it to someone in my family down the road.”

The Renkes’ four daughters also are big fans of the Bel Air. Three of their daughters are married, and the car was on-site and photographed with each couple at all three weddings.

“They have fun memories of it,” Renke said.

Renke often takes his ’55 Chevy to many of the local car cruises and shows, including the Woodward Dream Cruise and the Lakeside Mall Circle Cruise-In on Monday nights in Sterling Heights. One fun event

is the Berkley car parade the Friday evening before the Dream Cruise on Saturday.

“You can park your car at the cemetery, get out and can talk to people. You drive down 12 Mile. The crowd is cheering. You feel like a celebrity,” Renke said. “You usually get a thumbs-up or a wave. People come to you and say, ‘My dad had a car like that.’ Everyone is very friendly.”

The most mileage the Bel Air gets are the drives to Port Austin for its annual Carfest. As he prepares to retire soon, Renke hopes to enjoy his vintage vehicle “even more with family and friends.”

To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!

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“I was furious when the proposal first came across my desk. But we had multiple meetings about it, and there really weren’t any other options. This is, unfortunately, a pass-through cost for us — the costs aren’t necessarily dictated by the city. We don’t have our own water supply, obviously. And with costs increasing, it becomes a challenge for us to find ways to deliver safe and treated water to our residents,” Bliss said.

“Still, I was really unhappy this involved a rate increase, especially in these economic times where our seniors — and anyone on a fixed income — are struggling through inflation,” he said. “Hopefully the slight decrease in our (city millage) will help offset it.

But this is ultimately one of those scenarios that we sometimes see in government, and in life, where we have to accept there are some things we can’t necessarily change.”

Quinn Wright, a member of the Madison Heights City Council, said in a text message that safe drinking water remains a top priority for the city.

“I believe that, with carefully considered

rate increases, it is vital to continue maintaining the (water and wastewater distribution) system,” Wright said. “Even though we are not immune to the impacts of inflation and rising costs, we still have the lowest rate in the region at 1.4 cents per gallon, which is a benefit to our residents.”

Bliss said he sees water as a human right, and he encourages people to take advantage of options like WRAP and LIHWAP, as well as monthly billing, if they need it.

“Nobody in Madison Heights is going to go without clean, safe, drinkable water,” he promised. “We have safeguards to avoid shutoffs, and we will work with you to get this done, connecting you with the appropriate resources if you can’t afford your water bill. After all, if someone falls behind on their bills, do you think it’s easier for them to catch up if you cut their water? Of course not. It’s a tax on the poor, and not a good business practice. But hopefully the resources we’re providing will alleviate some of the pain that our residents will undoubtedly feel.”

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from page 1A

testing and treatment to improve water quality, and repairs and improvements to pipes and other infrastructure.

Officials noted that financial assistance is available for residents struggling to pay the bill.

One option is the Water Residential Assistance Program, or WRAP, available through the Great Lakes Water Authority.

To apply, visit glwater.org/assistance.

Another option is the Low-Income Households Water Assistance Program by the state of Michigan. For more on that program, visit michigan.gov and search “LIHWAP.” The city of Madison Heights will also now offer residents the option of paying their bill monthly instead of every three months, which can help with budgeting.

Those with questions about billing, the new rates or other utility matters can call the city at (248) 583-0845, or visit madisonheights.org.

Mark Bliss, the mayor pro tem, said he strongly opposed the rate increase at first.

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12A/ MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

BRING YOUR GARDEN TO LIFE WITH THESE TIPS FROM A GARDENING PRO

BY K. MICHELLE MORAN kmoran@candgnews.com

GROSSE POINTE FARMS — Whether someone is a newbie or a veteran, master gardener Mil Hurley — owner of the Grosse Pointe Farms-based business, A Southern Gardener — believes anyone can create a garden of which they’re proud.

“She says, ‘Yes, you can,’” said Grosse Pointe Farms City Councilwoman Sierra Donaven, chair of the Farms’ Beautification Advisory Commission.

To help gardeners of all skill levels, Hurley outlined “The Principals of Garden Design and Maintenance” during a Farms Beautification Advisory Commission program May 10 at Pier Park.

Hurley has a lifetime of experience working with plants.

“Her love for gardening started as a child,” Donaven said of Hurley, who grew up on a farm in the South.

Hurley said principals of garden design include unity, proportion and balance — whether the garden is formal or informal, symmetrical or asymmetrical. Proportion extends not only to elements within the garden, but to whether the garden is in alignment with the home and the lot. Unity refers to everything working together to create an overall design, Hurley explained.

Every garden should have a focal point or focal points.

“It can be something fun,” said Hurley, noting that one person used painted dowels to add interest.

The focal point can be a plant, but it can also be an object like a bench. It just needs to be something eye-catching.

“The focal point doesn’t necessarily have to be in the center,” Hurley said.

Simplicity can make for an effective garden.

“Simplicity doesn’t mean it’s boring,” said Hurley.

If gardeners put in the right plant or plants, the garden won’t require a lot of work, she said.

Rhythm can be created in a garden through repetition or something like a curved hedge, Hurley said.

Small gardens can make a big impact. Hurley said consider putting a small garden in the middle of a large yard.

One of the most important things gardeners can do is to read the tags on the plants before buying them. Hurley said gardeners need to pay close attention to the amount of sun each plant requires, because putting a plant in the wrong spot means it won’t thrive or bloom.

If you’re not sure how much sun a portion of your yard gets, Hurley said to put a timer on at 8 a.m. one day and check that area every hour during the day. Plants that require full sun need a spot that’s sunny six hours or more a day; plants that need partial sun/partial

ABOVE: Gardeners can create interest by using plants of differing heights, shades and textures. The size of the home and the lot is one consideration when determining the size of the garden. BELOW: Compost — which people can make at home or purchase — is vital to putting needed plant nutrients back in the soil.

Photos provided by Mil Hurley

See GARDEN on page 13A

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MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

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shade should get roughly four to six hours of sun daily; and plants that need to be in shade should be in a location that gets four hours or less of full sun. This can change from year to year as trees grow or are removed, a homeowner or neighbor adds an addition, or other aspects of the surroundings change.

Soil is the foundation on which every garden grows. Hurley said there are three types: clay, which doesn’t drain well; sand, which does drain well but lacks nutrients; and loam, which is nutrient-dense. Compost be used to create soil that will give plants the nutrients necessary for healthy growth.

Gardeners also have another natural and nutritious, free resource to improve their soil: leaves. Hurley said gardeners should leave the leaves in their garden beds in the spring, rather than having them blown out.

“You are doing a disservice to yourself by having those leaves taken out of your gardening beds,” Hurley said.

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from page 12A

of them. Hurley said the leaves will still break down underneath the mulch, and gardeners don’t need to put as much mulch in their garden beds when there’s a layer of leaves below.

Because mulch breaks down, Hurley recommends that homeowners consider avoiding dyed mulch, because the chemicals used in those dyes will end up in the soil and water.

Hurley said homeowners don’t need to tear up their entire yard for a garden — a container with interesting plants can also work well. She said the same principles of good garden design apply to containers.

When planting trees, shrubs or other plants, Hurley said, mulch should be placed at the base of the plant in a doughnut shape, not a volcano, because mulch piled up at the base will make the plant or bark wet and weak, as well as create an environment that can harbor bacteria or pests.

Whether a garden is formal or informal is up to the homeowner. The same is true of how it’s designed. As Hurley observed, “There are no garden police.”

“I encourage you to be yourself with your garden,” Hurley said. “Let it speak to who you are.”

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Ballantine from page 3A

community, he said. Their contributions to a town are indispensable — from drivable roads and walkable sidewalks, to drinkable water and parks that are safe and clean.

When a firefighter pumps water from a hydrant, they rely on infrastructure serviced by DPS. When an ambulance races to someone in need, they depend on wellmaintained roads to get there. And when the worst of Michigan weather hits, DPS leads the charge, clearing snow and ice from streets and parking lots.

“Our work is stuff you take completely for granted,” Ballantine said. “It’s only when things go wrong that you start thinking about it.”

The department also includes the city’s recreation division, as well as the Active Adult Center. Ballantine oversees their operations, too. Ultimately, each department in the city benefits from DPS, since the department maintains the buildings, grounds and vehicles for them all, including City Hall, the court, library, police station and both fire stations.

That may sound like a lot to manage, but Ballantine is no stranger to staying busy.

Years ago, when he was first promoted to analyst/planner, it was contingent upon obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a set amount of time. So, after graduating from Lamphere High, he obtained as many credits as he could from Oakland Community College in Royal Oak, with additional classes in Southfield and Auburn Hills, and then transferred to Baker College for an accelerated track earning a degree in business administration.

His time at OCC was in person, working during the day and attending class on nights and over weekends, all while remaining on call for after-hours overtime. Meanwhile, he was also settling into a new home, planning a wedding and navigating married life.

Now, as the DPS director, he is focused on finishing up the Civic Center project that includes a renovated City Hall and library, and the construction of a new Active Adult Center. He is also planning water main and road reconstruction projects, with an eye toward mitigating the local road impacts from the ongoing work at Interstate 75.

“Every day is a new challenge — you never know what it will bring,” Ballantine said. “We fly under the radar getting our work done, but each day presents its own unique challenges, and that’s one of the

great things about it; there’s routine, but also curveballs thrown every step of the way.

“And I’m intrinsically motivated since this is my hometown,” he said. “When I’m mowing a park, I get there and it’s overgrowing and full of garbage, but when I leave, it’s perfectly manicured. I loved growing up here in Madison Heights, and I love taking care of it now. I do it for everyone, including for my own kids when my wife and I have them someday.”

He said that he feels comfortable with the huge responsibility because of the city’s support.

“I can’t reiterate that point enough,” Ballantine said. “Our staff is incredible — tremendous — and when you have that kind of a support network, from them and City Council and all the others, well, you can’t go wrong.”

A collaborative approach is best, he added.

“I’ve done literally every job at the DPS from the ground up — the water, the sewer, the signs, the buildings. So I have the knowledge and experience, but I also know that I don’t know everything. So I’m able to ask questions, but I also know the reasonable expectations since I’ve done the work,” Ballantine said. “It’s that ground-up sort of training.”

Mark Bliss, the mayor of Madison Heights, said he has full faith in Ballantine.

“Sean approaches everything with a level of kindness and empathy that is so critical when dealing with our residents’ needs,” Bliss said. “It’s not just his skills and demeanor and 20 years of working for the city of Madison Heights that makes him so special.

Sean also has such a heart for this community that comes through so much deeper.”

Bliss recalled how, during the flood of 2014, Ballantine was among the first people down in the waterlogged basement of City Hall, trying to save the collection of artifacts in the Heritage Rooms, a museum chronicling the history of Madison Heights. Many of the items are irreplaceable.

“It’s hard to not care when you grow up here, get married, and live here as an adult — I can speak from experience that it gives you a completely different perspective,” Bliss said. “And that perspective is so valuable at the table, where Sean is both a millennial and young forward-thinking professional ready to take the reins, but also, having grown up here and attended Lamphere and worked at the city for two decades, he has a historical perspective that I think will help take our city to the next level.”

Mayor Roslyn Grafstein agreed.

See BALLANTINE on page 15A

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MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

Budget from page 1A

crease from the amended FY 2023 total of $81.4 million. City Manager Melissa Marsh attributes the difference to changes in retiree benefits, as well as the fact that FY 2023 bore the brunt of construction costs for the new Civic Center Plaza, which included a renovated City Hall and library, along with a new Active Adult Center between them. The city also renovated Fire Station No. 2.

The millage rate is 25.5288 mills — one-half mill less than FY 2023. The city collects $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, multiplied by the millage rate.

The millage rate includes the general fund ($38.8 million), which supports police, fire and EMS, the court, general administration, parks, library, recreation, the city clerk and elections. The rate also includes special millages such as neighborhood road improvements, solid waste, senior citizens, police and retiree benefits, and the drain debt.

The fire station bond debt will no longer be levied.

While the overall millage rate is decreasing, taxpayers will see an increase in their water and sewer rates. Water rates will increase from $3.27 per unit to $4.26 per unit, while the sewer rate will increase from $3.69 per unit to $6.30 per unit.

In terms of fund balance, Marsh said that in fiscal years 2019-23, the city kept it higher than usual ($14.1 million) to cover prepaid expenditures and planned infrastructure maintenance related to the projects at Civic Center Plaza and Fire Station No. 2.

Now, the city anticipates the assigned fund balance will be reduced to $5.6 million by the end of FY 2024, which meets the required minimum fund balance of 16% plus one year of debt payments. Marsh said her staff was mindful of this policy, which the city established in its citywide strategic plan.

The budget for FY 2024 was also balanced with an additional planned use of $10,000.

The new budget includes $9.5 million for capital improvements, with $4.1 million for work on major and local streets, $220,000 to install streetlights on the west side of Dequindre Road where none currently exist, and $1.4 million for water and sewer service line replacements.

Staffing levels will be maintained in the police and fire departments, and a new parttime code enforcement officer will supplement the two full-time officers. Nine police vehicles will be replaced, along with the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system at the Police Department. In addition, the Fire Department will receive a new quint — a combination fire engine and ladder truck.

The city anticipates general fund revenues of $39 million in FY 2024, including a $2.1 million transfer from the retiree benefits trust. Overall, this represents an 8.7% increase from the amended budget revenues for FY 2023.

Marsh said the city’s public services remain strong, due in part to Proposal MH, which voters narrowly approved in 2019.

While that proposal was approved for 14.3 mills, the city has only levied the amount deemed necessary, which has been 12.8 mills.

Those funds have been invested in city assets such as the capital improvement projects at Civic Center Plaza and Fire Station No. 2, as well as staffing and equipment.

The city also continues to invest heavily in the parks. In March 2021, the city finalized its master plan for parks and recreation, and in FY 2022, the general fund budgeted park improvements at nearly $551,000, with another $792,000 for FY 2023. For the new fiscal year, that commitment continues with $675,000 budgeted. The plan is to maximize its value with grants, when possible.

More specifically, the funds include $200,000 for phase-funded ballfield light

replacements, which may be bolstered by a $550,000 grant that the city has requested.

They also include $230,000 for improvements at Rosie’s Park, another $88,000 for refurbishing basketball courts, $27,000 for sustainability projects to restore the tree canopy, and $50,000 for “special projects.”

The special projects fund was proposed

by Bliss several years ago. The money set aside there can carry over into future budget cycles, where it can be used to match grants, or even to buy new major amenities for the city outright.

“Should the economic climate turn into a recession, having those funds set aside will still allow us to bring new things to our parks for our residents to enjoy,” Bliss said. “It’s that kind of planning and forward thinking that helps set us apart from other communities.”

The budget for FY 2024 also includes $11,000 for the library’s new makerspace and $5,000 for other library equipment; gateway entrance signage that will be partially subsidized by private donors; and the creation of a neighborhood improvement program offering eligible residents home repairs and code enforcement education, covered by a $1.1 million grant.

“But my No. 1 priority, and I think council agrees, is public safety,” said Roslyn Grafstein, mayor of Madison Heights. “That includes our police, fire, and our (Department of Public Services), who make sure our roads are safe so that police and fire can reach us when needed.”

But she also sounded a note of caution.

“Inflation is just hurting everyone, the city included. Our expenses are going up.

I also think we’re going to see a recession,” Grafstein said. “While property values are stable now, there are rising interest rates and many unknowns. So, there’s an expecta-

tion that we may see a decrease in property values over the next few years. It could be a similar situation to 2008, but not as bad. So, we just want to be cognizant of that, and be prepared.

“The big thing is we’re not looking to add many new staff right now; we don’t want to be in a position where we hired someone and then have to cut them. And like everyone else, we’re struggling to find workers anyways,” Grafstein said. “So again, inflation has increased our expenses and we’re keeping an eye on our staffing levels, but public safety remains most important.”

Madison Heights City Councilmember Quinn Wright said that he appreciates the “hard work and dedication” of the city manager and staff who prepared the budget.

“It’s clear that a lot of thought went into developing a plan that balances our expenses and revenue while focusing on our key priorities for the next fiscal year and beyond,” Wright said in a text message. “In an inflationary market, it’s important that we are prudent with our spending while still finding ways to move the city forward. I believe this budget achieves that balance and demonstrates our commitment to fiscal responsibility.”

Bliss said he also feels optimistic about the city’s financial prospects.

“When we go through our budget and planning processes, we are looking several years into the future. I think it’s a huge testament to our city manager, our staff, and our council from the last six years that we’ve been able to achieve so much,” Bliss said. “We are strong enough that we can weather a storm, if needed, and I think that should provide a lot of confidence to our residents.”

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the City Council for the City of Madison Heights will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building at 300 W. 13 Mile Road, Madison Heights, Michigan 48071 to consider the following special approval requests: Case # PSP 23-01

Ballantine from page 14A

“Sean is great,” she said. “I remember some years ago, when we had just rebooted the city’s Environmental Citizens Committee, I said to him I’d like to do something for Earth Day, and he got a small crew together to plant a new tree at Wildwood Park. That was wonderful. He grew up here and lives here, so he has the history, and his passion is genuine.

“I really consider DPS the third leg of

public safety,” the mayor added. “It doesn’t matter how great our parks or library are if you’re not safe getting there. The roads need to be in good condition for our police and fire to reach you. That’s so important. And DPS is a huge part of that.”

It’s work that Ballantine continues to cherish.

“Every kid loves to play with trucks in the sandbox,” Ballantine said. “We get to do it for real, and get paid for it. It’s a dream job.”

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

The applicant, Frank Martin on behalf of Golling KIA, requests Special Approval from City Council under Section 10.329(6) of the Madison Heights Zoning Ordinance, “motor vehicle heavy and light repair facilities and/or motor vehicle maintenance service facilities.” The applicant requests approval for an expanded motor vehicle repair facility associated with the existing Golling Kia dealership. The subject property is located at 700 E. 14 Mile Road, PIN 44-25-01-126-026, and is zoned M-1, Light Industrial.

Case # PSP 23-02 The applicant, Michael Kozan on behalf of Detroit Chiavari Event Rentals, requests Special Approval from City Council under Section 10.329(4) of the Madison Heights Zoning Ordinance, “other uses of a similar and no more objectionable character.” The applicant requests approval to utilize an existing event rental warehouse space for hosting small events and banquets. The subject property is located at 201 W. Girard Avenue, PIN 44-25-11-283002, and is zoned M-1, Light Industrial.

The applications and any supporting documents can be viewed during regular business hours at the Community and Economic Development Department. In addition, the agenda item can be viewed online after 4:00 p.m. on the Friday prior to the meeting at www.madison-heights.org in the Agenda Center.

For further information, please contact the Community and Economic Development Department at (248) 583-0831.

Cheryl Rottmann, CMC City Clerk (248) 583-0826 Publish: Madison Park News 05/24/2023

0398-2321

MADISON-PARK NEWS • MAY 24, 2023

16A

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE WITH COUPON • EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

EXTRA CHEESE EXTRA CHARGE • WITH COUPON • EXPIRES 6-28-23 • ZINO’S

NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. LIMIT 1 PER ORDER PER CUSTOMER. EXP. 6-28-23

0283-2321

May 24, 2023

New 2023 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4

New 2023 Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab 4x4

STK# ORD MSRP $51,020 EMPLOYEE BUY

STK# ORD MSRP $61,025 EMPLOYEE BUY

37,910

$

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

39,727

$

LEASE FOR

29650*

$

LEASE FOR

35526*

$

44,970

$

359

$

36 MO.

36 MO.

LEASE FOR

95*

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

46,999

$

LEASE FOR

42995*

$

36 MO.

36 MO. DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

New 2022 Jeep Renegade Limited 4x4

New 2023 Jeep Compass Limited 4x4

STK# R22010 MSRP $33,135

STK# Z23045 MSRP $37,090

DEMO

EMPLOYEE BUY

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

LEASE FOR

LEASE FOR

24,868

$

25,959

20995* $24995*

$

24 MO.

36 MO.

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

New 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4xe 2-Row FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

LEASE FOR

LEASE FOR

36 MO.

369

24 MO.

LEASE FOR

LEASE FOR

35,968

29995* $37995*

$

24 MO.

STK# ORD MSRP $63,995 EMPLOYEE BUY

58,510

$

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

44,729

$

LEASE FOR

45995*

$

LEASE FOR

568

$

24 MO.

43*

DEMO

IN-STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

LEASE FOR

299

$

95* 24 MO.

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

LEASE FOR

64140*

$

36 MO.

STK# G23024 MSRP $51,290

32,961

$

LEASE FOR

367

$

60,883

$

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

New 2023 Dodge Charger Scat Pack

30,989

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

24 MO.

New 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Touring L

$

24 MO.

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

STK# U23012 MSRP $42,230 EMPLOYEE BUY

37,718

$

Hurricane twin turbo I6 motor

LEASE FOR

95*

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

New 2023

STK# ORD MSRP $53,650

$

EMPLOYEE BUY

$

36 MO.

New 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L-Limited 4x4 3 Row

42,755

36 MO.

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

59,453

36 MO.

$

31,752

31995* $35995*

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

EMPLOYEE BUY

LEASE FOR

$

$

37995* $49327*

$

LEASE FOR

$

STK# ORD MSRP $44,830

EMPLOYEE BUY

56,966

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

$

New 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 2-Row

STK# Q23194 MSRP $63,655

$

EMPLOYEE BUY

30,411

$

48* 24 MO.

EMPLOYEE BUY

46,673

$

FRIENDS & FAMILY BUY

48,572

$

DUE AT SIGNING $3,980

HUGE CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP & RAM SELECTION! • HUGE CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP & RAM SELECTION!

HUGE CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP & RAM SELECTION! • HUGE CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP & RAM SELECTION!

Madison-Park News

SALES HOURS: MONDAY & THURSDAY 8:30AM–9PM • TUES/WED/FRI 9AM–6PM • SERVICE HOURS: MONDAY & THURSDAY 7AM–9PM • TUES/WED/FRI 7AM–6PM

855.336.4595 Van Dyke & 171⁄2 Mile • www.sterlingheightsdodge.net Lease payments add tax, that’s it. Due at signing includes first payment, destination, taxes on down payment (including rebates) documentary, title, and license transfer fee (new plate is additional). Lease mileage allowance is 10,000 miles per year. Overmileage is .25 cents per mile. Purchase and lease prices include Stellantis consumer rebates including returning leasee rebates and Chrysler Capital finance rebates where applicable. Purchase prices, add for tax, title, doc, plates, and destination. Pictures may not represent actual vehicle, prices and payments are accurate at time of printing and subject to change,Residency and lender restrictions apply, see dealer for details. Exp May 31st 2023 0043-2321

2B - MADISON-PARK NEWS, May 24, 2023

www.candgnews.com

Autos Wanted

Auctions

Garage/Yard Sale

OFFERINGS AROUND MICHIGAN

Vacation Property & Time Shares VACATION RENTAL OR CRASH PAD TAMPA, FL Cozy, Private Guesthouse For Rent Including Kitchenette w/Essentials, Furnished Bedroom, Bathroom, Patio, Private Entrance, Free Parking on Premises and Wi-Fi. *No Parties/Pets Please* Call/Text 313-461-8485

AUCTION

MISCELLANEOUS

Vehicle’s, Woodworking, Machinery, Machinists tools, Zero turns, ATV’s, Guns, Ammo, Guitars, Antiques, Lawn, Garden. Multiple auctions statewide. Bid anywhere/anytime at johnpeckauctions.com Interested in having an auction? Call John Peck 989-426-8061

AMISH BUILT storage sheds and mini cabins delivered to your site anywhere in Michigan! Starting at $2,500.00 mynextbarn.com 989-832-1866

Bid your price! Live and online auctions! Multiple auctions available now and several beginning soon! Details at: https://bid. sherwoodauctionservicellc.com For all your auction needs, contact auctioneer Joe Sherwood at: 1-800-835-0495 joe@sherwoodauctionservicellc.com

POLE BARNS

BUSINESS SERVICES METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime asphalt shingles. Steel and vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders. Pole Buildings. Quality work for 40 years! AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695.

MATTRESSES Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made is U.S.A., in plastic, with warranty. Retail cost $3,995.00, sacrifice for $875.00.

Call for showing or delivery: DanDanTheMa ttressMan.com 989-615-2951 MEDICAL VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00!

100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-835-7273 Hablamos Espano Published: May 24, 2023

BUYING

Coins, Sport Cards & Stamps Collections

500 & up Also Now Buying Running or Repairable Vehicles 586.381.5046 $1,000 & up

BUILT RITE POLE BUILDINGS Statewide, 24x40x10 = $17,700.00, 30x40x10 = $19,900.00. Erected on your site. Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www.builtritepolebuildings.net 989-259-2015 Days 989-600-1010 Evenings.

We Build All Year Long! Built Best Barns Best Quality, Best Service, Now in our 25TH Year! Over 4,000 Buildings in Mid Michigan Call for Quotes License/Insured 989-205-2534 POND/LAKE Pond/Lake Weed Removal Tools (The #1 alternative to chemicals.) Performs C.P.R. Cuts-Pulls-Rakes. Michigan Veteran Made. Still $150.00, no price increase!

989-529-3992. WeedgatorProducts.com

Troy

Friday-Saturday June 2 & 3 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

(North of Long Lake, East of Livernois) Large resident participation!!!

Confirmed for Sale: Antiques, Furniture, Games, Tools, Books, Clothing, Household Items, Sporting Goods, Kid’s Stuff and Loads of other Treasures!

0143-2319

VACATION RENTALS Attention Cottage, Condo, Vacation Homeowners. Advertise your Vacation Rental Properties with Community Papers of Michigan’s MegaMarket Classified Network. Reach over 1.2 Million households with your in-state or out-of-state vacation rental ad. Call 1-800-783-0267 Ext. 1 for details.

0247-2321

Top $$$ Call 248-471-4451

WARREN, 28754 Newport 12-Mile Between Hoover/Schoenherr.

June-1st-3rd, 9-6pm, Clothes/Furniture, Great Buys!

0444-2314

586.600.1108

AKC REG. COCKER SPANIEL PUPS NEW Big Litters! 50% OFF!!! shots & wormed 920-563-3410 mornings (#268588)

Garage Sale

Garage/Yard Sale

Antiques & Collectibles

$

PETS

Sylvan Glen Subdivision

Help Wanted General

Help Wanted General

PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP

ENGINEERING POSITION

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 Wednesday, May 31,2023, through July 20, 2023. Application dates and times will be as followed: Monday, Wednesday & Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 10 & Saturday June 24, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

1. Qualifications necessary for an applicant to be considered are: A. Must be 18 years or older.

B. A valid driver’s license C. High School diploma or high school equivalency (GED) certificate.

D. Have an 85% or better combined score of these 3 tests WORK KEYS MATHMATICS WORK KEYS GRAPHIC LITERACY AND WIESEN MECHANICAL APPTITUDE TEST within one year of August 1st, 2023.

2. For details of the application process see our web page at www.pipefitters636tc.org 3. Applications may be downloaded and filled out or picked up at the training center but MUST be turned in in person at the Training Center. a. There is a $45.00 testing fee if you schedule your tests with us at Schoolcraft Community College. That will be collected when turning in the application. b. You may also schedule the testing on your own at participating Community Colleges.

Worksite location - Bingham Farms, Michigan or client sites throughout. Send resume to: seethat@satven.com 0192-2321

Help Wanted General

UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX

SUBWAY NOW HIRING

WORK FROM HOME NEEDED! APPLY FOR LOAN/ MORTGAGE REMOTE OFFICER, NO FEES REQUIRED AGE: 18+

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED CONTACT US.@ job@phoenix-edu.io or 888-556-7439 SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFO. YOUR FULL NAME, ADDRESS, AGE & PHONE NUMBER. 0425-2321

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. SO THERE IS NO MISUNDERSTANDING AS TO MARIJUANA/CANNABIS (MARIJUANA), TESTING POSITIVE FOR MARIJUANA IN ANY FORM FOR ANY REASON WILL BE CONSIDERED A FAILED TEST AND YOU WILL NOT BE ADMITTED TO THE PROGRAM. THIS APPLIES EVEN IF YOU WERE INSTRUCTED BY A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL TO USE MARIJUANA (WITH OR WITHOUT A PRESCRIPTION), USED IT TOPICALLY OR IN ANY OTHER MANNER (FOR EXAMPLE, CBD LOTIONS, INHALED OIL CONCENTRATES, ETC), OR WERE NEAR OTHERS LEGALLY USING MARIJUANA.

0270-2321

The Pipefitting Industry Training Center is located at 636 Executive Drive in Troy, MI between John R. and Dequindre, north of E. 14 Mile Road. PH: 248-585-0636.

No resumes please.

For more information, please visit our website at: www.pipefitters636tc.org.

PRODUCT ENGINEER: Design automotive features, GD&T, DVP&R, DFMEA, and APQ

Help Wanted General

Crew Members, Managers & Assistant Managers.

Restaurant & Management Experience Preferred.

•Sign on Bonus •Competitive Pay •Advancement Opportunities •Flexible Scheduling •Friendly Work Environment

CALL TODAY!

586-216-2124 Help Wanted Manufacturing

EXPERIENCED CNC MACHINISTS Quantum Manufacturing in Auburn Hills is hiring experienced CNC machinists.

Climate controlled, full benefit package, paid vacations, competitive wages.

Contact quantumrfq@gmail. com or call 248-690-9412 to set up an interview.

0354-2321

MADISON-PARK NEWS, May 24, 2023 - 3B

www.candgnews.com

Driveway Experts FREE ESTIMATES • SENIOR DISCOUNTS CALL TODAY

586-604-5393 Licensed & Insured

0025-2242

BATHROOM REMODELING

Basic Bathrooms Starting at: $10,995.00 Experience of over 500-bathrooms across Metro-Detroit, Look at our work at: andyscarpentryllc.com

248-376-0988 Licensed/Insured References

Brick Work AA4DABLE MASONRY

586-822-5100

Chimneys, Porches, Steps, Flat-Work, Residential/Commercial/ Tuck-Pointing, Cultured-Stone, Brick-and-Any-Masonry Repairs/Needs.

Accept all major credit cards.

SPRING SPECIALS up-to-30%-off!

Senior-Discounts Free-Estimates!

30yrs-Experience

ABOVE & BEYOND CONTRACTING LLC. -Masonry Specialist-

SPRING SPECIALS ON Brick Pavers, Roof Repairs & Complete Roof Installs.

All-Brick-Repairs/&-Stone, Chimneys/Porches, Tuck-Pointing, Fully-Insured 10%-Senior/Veteran-Disc.

VETERAN OWNED

Cement

586-979-2396 CEMENT-IT

Residential/Commercial Concrete Specialist Decorative Stamped •Driveways •Patios •Parking Lots •Foundations •Stamped Concrete •Exposed Aggregate •Demolition •Excavating •Insured

GOLDEN BUILT CONSTRUCTION CONCRETE WORK

Porches, Driveways Sidewalks, Patios, Garage Floors, Foundations, Rat-Walls, Licensed/Insured

586-948-4764

WE RAISE SETTLED OR SUNKEN CONCRETE PATIOS • DRIVEWAYS SIDEWALKS • FLOORS CURBS • PORCHES Commercial • Industrial Residential 1/3 TO 1/2 THE COST OF REPLACEMENT FREE ESTIMATES

586-443-3362 Give us a Call!

586-241-9541

(248) 481-6919 (586) 731-7226

LOVELL MASONRY

Affordable/Professional Specializes in Brick-Work, Custom-Brick-Steps, Concrete, Brick-Mailboxes, Porch/ChimneyRepairs, Tuck-pointing, Paver Maintenance, Basement-Waterproofing, Free-Written-Estimates, Senior/Military-Discounts.

20yrs-Experience

Carpet Cleaning

CARPET

WAVY-n-LOOSE?

We Power Re-stretch and Steam-clean For One Low Price Next-Day-Service Multiple Room Discount

Call Now

586-754-9222

ccarpetrepair.com Cement ELITE RENOVATIONS, LLC. 500-sqft. or more of installed concrete15% off before June 8th Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped-Concrete, Patio's, Aggregate Cement, All-Brick-Work, Porch & Chimney Rebuilds, Tuck-pointing, Military/Senior-Disc.

586-843-8543

ALLEN CEMENT

a.k.a "The Driveway Guy"

Established 1999 Driveways/Garage Floors/Patios, etc.

Licensed/Insured Check out Allen Cement on Facebook!

Vern Allen

586-457-1300

2 BROTHERS PAINTING

POBLETE CEMENT Brick Pavers, LLC. •Driveways •Patios •Porches •Steps •Stamp •Color •Exposed •Floors •Walks •Licensed/Insured 30+years! Troy, MI

248-743-1220 248-496-4964(Cell) ROZE CEMENT LLC

CONCRETE, MASONRY & LANDSCAPING

10% Off Pre-Spring!

•Driveways •Patios •Brick/Stone •Pavers •Sidewalks Free-Estimates Requests: roze cementllc@gmail.com

Andre-586-354-7791

Cleaning Service

586-747-2354

AAA Susie Q's Cleaning & Restoration

The Only Master-Certified!

Multi-Service-House Cleaning-Specialist!

28th-year/experience more services offered.

Wall/washing/windows/up holstery/carpets/strip wax/grout.

Clean/Trustworthy Registered/Insured NOW HIRING!!!

586-751-5384 NATURAL CLEANING

***** Make the Right choice with organic cleaning!

Residential/Commercial Licensed & Insured Wall & Window Washing & More A+ BBB NOW HIRING!

CLEANING LADY

with 10-yr experience is looking for work. Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly Excellent references.

Flexible hours.

Bonded & insured.

248-890-8830 Decks/Patios

2023 SPECIALS

Custom Deck Building/Repair, Power-Washing, Decks Removed, Composite, Treated & Cedar Materials, Custom Railing Materials, Custom Fence Installation.

586-260-5218

Motor City Plumbing & Drain

• Wood Repair • Power Wash • Free-Estimates

REFERENCES AVAILABLE

Call Frank 248-303-5897

Financing Available

*

Gutters

Free-Estimates, Great Prices, Senior Discounts!

Lic./Insured Master Electrician Specializing in All Residential Services.

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!

Lic#-6113148

GUTTERS & WINDOW CLEANING

Hauling & Waste Removal

Brickpaving, Patio, Walkways, Driveways, Porches, Repairs, Powerwash, Rock Installation, Mulch, Sod, Complete Landscape Design.

BEST-Price-Period

***AAA HAULING*** JUNK REMOVAL

Lawn Maintenance

Licensed/Insured.

30-yrs.-experience.

Call for free-estimates.

Open 7-days a week 24/hrs-day.

10%-Off For Cash Now Accepting All Major Credit Cards.

Hotchkiss Electric

586-291-3143 Lic.#6211028

INSURED TOM MICOLI

313-656-9402

Professional- We Wear Masks! We haul it all!

Demolition Big & Small Residential/Commercial Rubber Wheel Dumpsters10, 15, 20-Yards, Clean-outs, Construction Material, Small-Moving, Appliances, Furniture & More! Lowest Rates!!!

Free-Estimates Senior/Military Discounts

586-360-0681

586-755-3636

ucallwehauljunk.com

Master Electricians

**CLUTTER GUY'S**

Dr. Electric

Same-Day-Service!

All-Residential-Wiring, Change Fuse Box to Circuit Breaker Panel, Troubleshooting, Electric Vehicle Chargers, Backup Generator Transfer Switch, License# 6109094 Senior/Discounts!

Visa/MC /Lic./Insured

Removal-Experts Residential/Commercial Houses/Offices Garage/Storage-Areas Efficient Courteous Workers Reasonable-Rates Free-Estimates NEED CLUTTER REMOVED? LET US DO THE WORK!

586-258-6672

CASTLE ELECTRIC

586-634-1152

(direct cell phone #) Panel upgrades, generators, hot tubs, 220 lines.

ALL SERVICE Licensed & Insured Dependable, quality work!

License#-6111359

Fence Service ELEGANT FENCE & SUPPLY

248-254-2027

Serving Macomb/Oakland Residential/Commercial All Types of Fence Insured-Free Estimates Senior/Veterans Discount

Gutters *”STEVE'S SEAMLESS GUTTERS”. Made & installed on the spot.

5”&6” Gutter Cleaning.

Tree trimming, exterior painting, power washing.

586-778-3393 586-531-2111

Home Repairs A#1 REPAIR SERVICES: GUTTERS Clean/Repair Install Guards SIDING Vinyl-Siding/Alum-Trim Gable/SoffitVents/Shutters ROOF Leaks/Shingles Vents/Caps

248-892-1927 Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops

MR. BACKSPLASH ·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES ·CUSTOM KITCHENS ·COUNTERTOPS *Granite*Quartz* ·LVT FLOORING ·FIREPLACE TILE *FREE ESTIMATES*

586-552-5416

A1 GUTTER PROTECTION

Since 1999 TOP QUALITY mesh guards.

GUTTER INSTALLATION NO BIG BOX PRICES! CONTRACTOR DIRECT TO CUSTOMER !! WARRANTY!!

FREE-ESTIMATES

248.242.1511

ELIMINATE gutter cleaning forever!

LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection.

Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today.

15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts.

Call 1-866-495-1709

GB GOLDEN BUILT Seamless Gutters and Downspouts Remove/Replace Gutter Guards Free Estimates Licensed/Insured Over 30 Years in Business

586-948-4764

mrbacksplash.com

Landscaping & Water Gardens DOLL'S LANDSCAPING

SPRING CLEAN-UPS! Shrub & Tree-Trimming, Planting, Removal.

Mulch, Sod Installation, Pavers, Garden/ Retainer Walls, Porch Steps, Raise Backyards/Drain Tiles, Powerwashing/ Sealing, Power rake, Aeration, Seeding, Debris Removal

586-634-0033 ALLTIMATE OUTDOOR SERVICES

Drainage System Professionals Beat The Spring Rush, SIGN-UP-EARLY! New-Construction, Yard-Drainage, Grading, Sod/Seed, Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted

Free-Estimates

586-719-1202

*

FREE Camera with Drain Cleaning Restriction May Apply

*

$50 OFF Sump Pump Installation * $30 OFF Any Plumbing Service

*

Landscaping & Water Gardens

*ACCU ELECTRIC*

586-925-8764

888.572.0928 586.585.1862 www.MotorCityPlumber.com

TOTAL BRICKPAVING LANDSCAPING PROS

Tree Service

586-420-3531

BERG BROS. LLC. “Fully insured, highly referred.”

Senior discounts.

Tree-removal, stump grinding, tree-trimming, hedging, shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free estimates!

2023 SPRING 586-260-5218

Commercial/Residential *Landscaping *Decks *Spring Clean-Ups *Lawn Cutting *Licensed Fertilization *Aerating & Thatching

Visit Facebook:

Bright Horizon Services Inc.

SUPREME OUTDOOR SPECIALISTS Lawn Maintenance, Landscaping, Hardscaping, Cement Work, Shrub/Tree Trimming & Removal, Mulching, 35 Years in Business Free-Estimates

586-727-3924

Painting

586-792-3117

PETE'S PAINTING SPRING SPECIAL! 10% OFF Specializing in Great Rooms, Special Pricing For Decks, Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial.

Special pricing for vacant homes.

Senior discount, Free-Estimates, Insured.

PAINTING by-GPC

MASTER-PAINTER DRYWALL/PLASTER •Restoration/Repairs •Painting! •Painting!

•Interior/Exterior •Wallpaper Hanging •Wallpaper Removal Senior-Rates We-Do-It-All! B.B.B/A+Rating 30-yrs, Licensed/Insured Free-Estimates Owner-Robert

586.899.3555 (Direct) 248.566.6460 (Office)

(586)229-4267 American Painting

•Residential •Commercial.

•Interior & Exterior •Power Washing •Insurance, •Drywall, •Plaster Repair, •Senior-discounts.

•Guaranteed-work.

•25-yrs experience.

PEAK PAINTING Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, interior/exterior.

Drywall-repair, paper removal, carpentry.

30-yr.-exp. Free estimates, senior discounts, insured.

Credit-cards accepted.

586-722-8381 Now Hiring!!!

WOW PAINTING Residential/Commercial

Interior/Exterior Quality Painting Drywall Repairs, Remove Wallpaper, Exterior Wood Replacement, Epoxy Flooring, Insured Free-Estimates

248-990-5388

Family Owned & Operated

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EE W E H T F O E CRIM • K E E W E H OF T E M I R C • K NEWSWORTHY E WE INCIDENTS REPORTED TO LOCAL POLICE, AS COMPILED BY C & G REPORTERS

Man committed after making threats to harm himself, his place of employment

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to a business in the 1000 block of Rochester Road to conduct a welfare check on an employee making suicidal statements at 4:20 p.m. April 19.

Deputies contacted the caller, who stated his son had made threats to harm himself and possibly “shoot up” his work location.

Deputies located the caller’s son, a 30-year-old man, at his place of employment. The investigation revealed that there was no credible threat to the work location and that the son was suffering from a mental crisis. Police said the suspect has no access to weapons.

Deputies transported the suspect to the hospital for an involuntary committal and psychological examination. The suspect was served with trespass warning papers and was advised to not return to the business.

The business was following up with termination paperwork via mail.

Teens caught trespassing, drinking alcohol at church bus yard

ROCHESTER HILLS — Deputies were dispatched to a church in the 3000 block of South Livernois Road for a suspicious circumstance complaint at 1:51 a.m. April 15.

The caller said he observed subjects in a school bus located in the south end of the parking lot and could see lights on within the bus and that the rear door was open.

When deputies arrived at the scene, five teens fled on foot. After a short foot pursuit in the parking lot, three of the subjects — two females and one male — were apprehended. The two remaining men continued running eastbound across Livernois Road into a wooded area and were later apprehended with the assistance of a drone.

The investigation revealed that all suspects were staying at a friend’s house near the church. Police said the suspects chose to hide their consumption of alcohol by doing it in the neighboring school bus yard.

All the suspects’ parents were contacted and responded to the area to retrieve their children, which included a 19-year-old male from Farmington Hills, an 18-year-old male from Farmington Hills, a 17-year-old male from Clawson, an 18-year-old female from Royal Oak and a 17-year-old female from Rochester Hills.

All suspects were cited and released to their parents.

Deputies said there did not appear to be any signs of damage to the school bus or the surrounding area.

Boy Scouts trailer and gear stolen

NOVI — When the members of Novi Boy Scout Troop 54 arrived for their regular meeting May 8 at Novi Methodist Church, 41671 W. 10 Mile Road, they discovered that their trailer containing their camping supplies, tents, cookware and essentials had been stolen from the parking lot. The troop is asking the public for assistance in locating the trailer and its contents.

$1 stolen from SUV’s console

NOVI — A woman contacted police after she discovered that her 2023 Chevrolet Traverse had been broken into between 4 p.m. May 1 and 2 p.m.

May 2 at Novi Ridge Apartments and Townhomes, 23640 Chipmunk Trail, near 10 Mile and Meadowbrook roads.

The vehicle sustained damage to the rear passenger-side window. According to the report, the estimated damage to the vehicle is $1,000, but the only thing the woman reported missing from the vehicle was $1 that had been in the center console.

She said the culprit moved the contents in her center console as well.

According to the report, the responding police officer observed glass strewn on the rear passenger-side seat. Doorbell camera footage from the resident’s building showed that at 3:01 a.m. May 2, an unknown dark-colored SUV passed in front of her residence. A minute later, there was a loud noise. The officer reviewed the footage and logged it as evidence. However, as no further evidence was discovered, the case was closed.

Street sign spray painted — again

WEST BLOOMFIELD — The Road Commission for Oakland County reported that a street sign at Harris Lane and Doherty Drive was spray-painted between midnight April 23 and 10 a.m. April 24.

The cost to repair the sign was reported to be $629.

It was reportedly the third time in two months that the sign has been damaged.

No suspects were reported.

The case was listed as documentation only.

Attempted home invasion caught on surveillance cameras

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Police were dispatched to the 2000 block of Bedford Street for an attempted home invasion at approximately 9:30 p.m.

April 27.

According to reports, an unidentified man had attempted to enter through the front door, but was unable to gain entry and left the area moments later.

The incident was captured by the resident’s home security system cameras.

Officers canvassed the area, and a K-9 track was conducted, with negative results. Evidence technicians processed the front door for fingerprints.

This case is currently under investigation.

Man suspected of driving drunk urinates on police car

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP — Officers stopped a silver Jeep Cherokee with an expired registration for speeding on Square Lake Road April 29.

After contacting the driver, officers suspected that he was driving under the influence of alcohol.

The driver was also driving on a suspended license and had several warrants for his arrest due to traffic offenses.

The driver refused all standard sobriety tests and was subsequently handcuffed and arrested for operating while intoxicated.

After the driver was handcuffed, police said, he was able to manipulate his pants and urinate on the patrol car. He then initially refused to get into the police car, but eventually complied and took a seat.

Once in the car, the driver became extremely agitated, according to reports. Officers obtained a search warrant for a blood draw, and he was transported to a local hospital for medical staff to obtain a blood sample.

The driver was held for several hours at the hospital “due to his intoxicated state.” The driver was later released from custody while the Bloomfield Township Police Department awaited the blood sample results. Charges were pending.

Intoxicated driver requires medical evaluation

BIRMINGHAM — On April 25 at approximately 10:42 p.m., an officer was dispatched to 333 N. Old Woodward on a report of an intoxicated male attempting to leave the parking lot.

Witnesses reported that a male driver was attempting to exit the parking lot at the gate when he reversed into their vehicle. Upon making contact with the driver, the witnesses reported that the driver appeared highly intoxicated and in no condition to drive, so the witness called 911.

An officer arrived and made contact with the driver, a 63-year-old Clawson man, who appeared highly intoxicated and reported consuming too much alcohol. During the field sobriety evaluation, the man fell, at which point officers contacted the Birmingham Fire Department for a medical evaluation.

The Fire Department cleaned the wounds sustained in the fall and medically cleared the man. He

was then arrested and issued a citation for operating while intoxicated.

Possible extortion case involves nude photos

BIRMINGHAM — At approximately 10:32 p.m.

April 26, officers were dispatched to an address on Woodward Avenue for a report of a possible extortion.

The victim, a 22-year-old man, reported that he had sent nude photos to an unknown female he met online. After that, the unknown female began threatening to share the nude photos of the victim if he did not send her money. The victim received several calls from an unknown man with a heavy foreign accent from the female’s online account, requesting money.

An investigation was ongoing.

Tax check stolen from mail, altered and cashed

FARMINGTON — At 1:30 p.m. April 15, a Farmington resident went to the police station to report that they had been a victim of mail theft.

The resident had sent a check to the state of Michigan for income taxes in the amount of $1,021; however, they were notified by their bank that the check had been altered by an unknown suspect and cashed in the amount of $6,024. The investigation was turned over to the Detective Bureau for further investigation.

Arrest made at fast food location for embezzlement, CCW violation

SOUTHFIELD — Officers responded to a fast-food restaurant in the 22000 block of Greenfield Road for an embezzlement investigation at 7:41 p.m. April 21.

An undisclosed amount of cash allegedly had been taken by an employee still on the scene when the officers arrived.

The manager and witnesses explained to the officers that the money was being counted in the back office to be deposited later that day.

The person who was responsible for counting the money was called to the front of the store, and while they were gone, the suspect employee allegedly went to the office and stole some of the cash. The incident was observed on store surveillance, and the employee was correctly identified.

The officers took the employee into custody for embezzlement of less than $1,000. While searching the suspect’s backpack, police discovered a handgun, though the suspect did not have a concealed pistol license, so they were charged for the weapon violation.