Sterling Heights Sentry

Published June 7, 2017

A familiar face to the Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently reunited with his former colleagues to earn a prestigious achievement award.

Wayne Oehmke, 75, received the 2017 Lil Adams Award May 17 at the annual Michigan Week Luncheon and Sterling Edge Business Awards, which were held at the Wyndham Garden Sterling Heights hotel. Oehmke was the Sterling Heights chamber’s president and CEO for around eight years.

Published June 7, 2017

Sterling officials promise to enforce fireworks law

Those who want to celebrate with flair — and flare — this summer season should remember the laws and city codes that govern the use of consumer fireworks, according to Sterling Heights officials.

During a May 16 Sterling Heights City Council meeting, City Manager Mark Vanderpool presented some reminders about the state fireworks law and some of the city’s related ordinances. He explained that the timing was right given that some holidays are coming up.

Published June 7, 2017

Summer events return to Dodge Park

The start of June marks the beginning of some of the city of Sterling Heights’ weekly summertime events in Dodge Park, according to city officials.

At a May 16 Sterling Heights City Council meeting, City Manager Mark Vanderpool invited the public to check out activities including the third annual Dodge Park Farmers Market, as well as the return of the Music in the Park summer concert series. In addition, visitors may check out the park’s new pedestrian bridge.

Published June 6, 2017

Discover Michigan: Go online before casting your line this summer

METRO DETROIT — Michigan is home to more than 11,000 inland lakes and 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, making it an angler’s paradise. But with all that water, how do you choose the perfect fishing spot?

With the fishing season officially underway, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has plenty of tips to guide anglers to optimal fishing locations. One helpful tool is the DNR’s Trout Trails app at michigan.gov/trouttrails.

Published May 31, 2017

Ike seniors honor name of classmate fighting cancer

The bustle of graduation is just days away, but Zach Saunders’ name has been on the minds of high school seniors at Eisenhower High School.

On the morning of May 17, Eisenhower seniors wore blue and assembled to form the name of their fellow senior classmate, Zach Saunders, 17, who is currently fighting cancer. According to student organizers, the action was designed to show that they miss Saunders while he is absent from school.

Published May 31, 2017

Sterling reacts to court decision over drain repair costs

Sterling Heights officials and residents are responding to a judicial decision over the city’s legal complaint involving who will pay for drain-related repairs for the 15 Mile Road interceptor in Fraser.

Published May 31, 2017

Pickups for Paws campaign to offer creature comforts

METRO DETROIT — A group of Chevy dealerships is offering visitors a chance to help some four-legged friends while looking at the various four-wheeled models on the showroom floor.

Throughout June, more than 30 metro Detroit Chevrolet dealerships will participate in a campaign called Pickups for Paws. The effort aims to collect donated pet-related items, such as toys and food, for local pet rescue groups, animal shelters and similar nonprofit animal charities.

Published May 31, 2017

MCC’s Most Distinguished Graduate looks toward a bright future

MACOMB COUNTY — Anna Krolewski, a Clinton Township resident, was recently named as Macomb Community College’s Most Distinguished Graduate for the 2017 winter semester.

The 19-year-old, who has set her sights on working at Walt Disney Co., was the guest speaker during the school’s 97th commencement ceremony May 12 at the college’s Sports & Expo Center at South Campus. More than 1,500 associate degrees were awarded.

Published May 30, 2017

Police warn to keep on lookout after Manchester attack

Following a deadly attack at concert in Manchester, England, May 22, local law enforcement officials are asking residents to stay alert during summer celebrations.

Police recently identified British-born suicide bomber Salman Abedi, 22, as the person responsible for killing at least 22 people and injuring 59 during an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena. Those among the killed and injured are children, police said.

Published May 29, 2017

Vets lend a helping hand in Detroit

METRO DETROIT — Forged in the chaotic crucible of the 2010 Haitian earthquake relief effort and tempered through military discipline, the veteran-led Team Rubicon stands ready to respond with an army of specialists in rapid deployment, damage assessment and debris management.

The team mustered about 100 workers from a 450-mile radius and put them into action in Detroit near the intersection of Clairmount and Rosa Parks May 12, supporting the Motor City Makeover campaign by evaluating and addressing residential properties around the Herman Kiefer Complex.

Published May 24, 2017

Memorial Day ceremony, parade to remember fallen troops

The city’s annual remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives while in the U.S. armed forces is returning to Sterling Heights May 29, Memorial Day.

Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool said at a May 3 City Council meeting that the public is invited to the city’s 38th annual Memorial Day activities. The morning will begin with a 9 a.m. ceremony near City Hall, followed by a parade that starts at Dodge Park.

“The theme this year is ‘Honoring Service and Sacrifice,’” Vanderpool said.

Published May 24, 2017

D.C. trip paves way for Mound funding support

The path to funding repairs to a long stretch of Mound Road recently took a turn toward the nation’s capital, according to a progress report from Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool.

During a May 3 City Council meeting, Vanderpool said Sterling Heights officials and other regional representatives took a trip to Washington, D.C., May 2 to have some meetings with federal officials, including those from the White House, over funding Mound reconstruction and related infrastructure.

Published May 24, 2017

Volunteer program gives seniors new life

METRO DETROIT — In the journey of life, fulfillment tends to arrive at different stages.

For some, that expedition may result in a grinding halt — especially for those in their older age who are in post-retirement and are seeking something new in the realm of personal joy.

Volunteerism may be the answer, or just one answer. Through organizations such as Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, the rewarding experience of volunteering — whether it’s with kids or other seniors — can brighten numerous lives.

Published May 24, 2017

Sterling Heights’ sinkhole lawsuit could shift costs to non-MIDD communities

MACOMB COUNTY — On May 18, officials from the Macomb County Office of Public Works said that financial costs attributed to Sterling Heights’ lawsuit against the Macomb Interceptor Drainage District, of MIDD, could actually shift costs to communities located outside of the MIDD.

On May 15, Macomb County Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Faunce rejected Sterling Heights’ motion to not to be held financially liable for its $22.2 million assessment in association with fees incurred from the damaged interceptor on 15 Mile Road.

Published May 23, 2017

‘Every day you’ll be doing important work’

MACOMB COUNTY — As National Police Week was observed May 14-20, a group of 41 Macomb Community College police cadets officially graduated during a commencement ceremony May 16 at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts in Clinton Township.

The students completed a 17 1/2-week course as Class 101 at the college’s police academy. Several guest speakers, including Academy Director Raymund Macksoud, were on hand to honor the cadets as they move toward their next step in patrolling the streets.

Published May 22, 2017

Pack along preparedness when trailers hit the trails

METRO DETROIT — With the summer season approaching, more Michigan drivers will be hitching trailers, boats and more behind them while on the road. And due to the challenges that come with towing such loads, both trailer owners and surrounding drivers are advised to take precautions.

Published May 22, 2017

Sheriff’s Office launches seat belt enforcement

MACOMB COUNTY — The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office will be keeping an extra close lookout for seat belts during the annual Click It or Ticket campaign May 22-June 4. Deputies will be strictly enforcing seat belt violations every day during the campaign.

“The Click It or Ticket campaign is run a couple times a year, and the purpose is to educate drivers and passengers on the benefits of using seat belts,” Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said.

Published May 18, 2017

Nighttime fire causes death, injuries at Sterling apartments

Sterling Heights police officers and firefighters are investigating why flames damaged two Sterling Heights apartment buildings the night of May 17, leading to one death and three injuries.

According to police, the blaze began around 11:11 p.m. May 17 at the Sterling Knolls apartments, located in the 11000 block of 15 Mile Road.
Police said a woman was found in an apartment building’s second floor. According to Fire Chief Chris Martin, the deceased victim was identified as Laura Ann Phillips, 33, from Sterling Heights.

Published May 17, 2017

Put classic car events on your calendar

METRO DETROIT — As soon as it’s warm enough to stay outdoors, it quickly becomes classic car show season in metro Detroit. And this year promises another series of shows for people who like to drive or showcase their hot rods, convertibles and more where they can be seen and admired by the public.

As usual, the Woodward Dream Cruise will be coming back, this year Aug. 19. The event’s president, Greg Rassel, said last year’s cruise drew about 750,000 people.

Published May 17, 2017

League of leisure

METRO DETROIT — With the frost finally gone and the return of mild temperatures, many Michiganders participate in the annual ritual of “spring cleaning.” Heavy snow boots and jackets are stashed away, while items like pool toys, lawn furniture and golf clubs see the light of day for the first time in months.

With drivers, irons and putters in tow, many will head to their favorite local links. While some will play a weekend round with friends, others will enter leagues, an offering featured at many local courses.