News & Notes - 10/11/23 Sterling Sentry

New firefighters sworn in
Sterling Heights Fire Chief Kevin Edmond presided over the initiation of five firefighters into the department during a Sept. 19 Sterling Heights City Council meeting. The new firefighters are Ethan Cartwright, Griffin Nicholas, Devonier Ortiz, Kalen Roe and Jon Skrip.

Learn more about the Fire Department by calling (586) 446-2950.

 

Sterling Frights to haunt Dodge Park
Dodge Park, 40620 Utica Road, will host its annual Sterling Frights Halloween celebration 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 21. Kids age 12 or younger are welcome to attend and enjoy cider, doughnuts, crafts, a straw maze, hayrides and more. Admission is free. Find out more by checking out the online calendar at myshpr.net or by calling (586) 446-2700.

 

Strike impact spreads
On Oct. 4, Ford Motor Co. announced it would be laying off workers at two of its Michigan plants due to work stoppages at its Chicago Assembly Plant.

Employees at the Chicago plant walked off the line Sept. 29 as part of the UAW’s targeted strike against Stellantis NV, General Motors Co. and Ford, according to a press release from state Sen. Michael Webber, whose district includes Sterling Heights. Webber “called once again for a fair and swift resolution” last week, the press release said.

UAW President Shawn Fain was expected to host another Facebook Live event at 2 p.m. Oct. 6, after press time.

In an Oct. 5 statement, Webber’s office said Ford planned to lay off workers at its Sterling Axle Plant.

“The real impact of this strike is being felt by families in Macomb and Oakland counties and across the state,” Webber said. “The UAW’s targeted plant strikes are leading to layoffs at other plants and many local businesses are reporting slowing sales as families that depend on the auto industry, whether directly or in-directly, are feeling the pressure of economic uncertainty.”

Webber, R-Rochester Hills, will also hold an office hour meeting and listening session on various topics with constituents 5-6:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Road. Learn more by calling (517) 373-0994 or by sending email to SenMWebber@senate.michigan.gov.