Fun at the Warren Civic Center Library
WARREN — The Warren Civic Center Library will host “PAWS to Read,” with Desmond, the library’s newest certified therapy dog, every Wednesday in April from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The program gives new or struggling readers an opportunity to read to Desmond. According to Branch Librarian Lisa Martin, “The goal is to provide a nonjudgmental atmosphere in which kids can read without correction or interruption and learn not just to read, but to love reading as well.”
Children of all ages are welcome to read to Desmond, the 130-pound Newfypoo, who joined the library in the fall of 2022. His resume includes working with patients at Beaumont Hospital and students at various elementary schools.
Newfypoos are described as gentle giants, sweet, patient, lovable and great with kids by the American Kennel Club.
This program will be held in the storytime room at the Civic Center Library inside Warren City Hall, located two blocks east of Van Dyke Avenue and one-quarter mile north of 12 Mile Road. No registration is required.
Hot off the presses
WARREN — News flash: The Warren Civic Theatre will perform Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” in April.
Performances are set for 7 p.m. April 21, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. April 22, and 3 p.m. April 23.
Cast members are between the ages of 7 and 18. The show will go on at the Warren Community Center Auditorium, 5460 Arden Ave.
The musical, based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city.
Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. To purchase tickets or for more information on the show, visit warrencivic.org.
Boike appeals Judge Gatti’s opinion
WARREN — Gary Boike, who sued Warren City Council President Patrick Green claiming Green had exceeded his term limits on City Council and that Boike should fill the remainder of the term, filed a claim of appeal on April 11.
The appeal is to review Judge Julie Gatti’s opinion and order of Mar. 28. Gatti ruled Green was not in violation of the term limits and could continue his service on the Warren City Council.
Boike was the third highest at-large vote-getter in the previous election. According to the Warren city charter, this means if either of the two at-large seats are vacated more than 40 days prior to a regular election, Boike would fill the seat.
“Boike has started an appeal to review Judge Gatti’s opinion,” said Lawrence Garcia, attorney for Boike. “I don’t know when the transcript will be ready, but we hope to fast track this appeal. As you know, the partial term that Mr. Boike is fighting for is shrinking every day.”
Hookah lounge closes after three shootings
WARREN — The Phoenix Hookah Lounge, located in a strip mall on East Eight Mile Road near Dequindre Road, will reportedly close for good and become an urgent care facility after the club’s third nonfatal shooting.
The latest shooting happened on April 9. According to Warren Police Commissioner William Dwyer, the owner is a businessman who lives in Oakland County and is not there for the day-to-day operations. He reportedly owns other urgent care establishments, and this would be a better fit for the community.
“I met with the owner this morning and we had a very good conversation,” said Dwyer. “He was very understanding and said he is closing it down; he is not going to reopen.”
Mayor James Fouts proclaims April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month
WARREN — According to Mayor James Fouts’ proclamation, autism is a pervasive developmental disorder affecting the social, communication and behavioral skills of those affected by it. Early treatment is key to leading an improved and productive life.
The mayor encourages all employees, residents and members of the business community to raise autism awareness and acceptance.
Earth Day at the Library
WARREN — Celebrate Earth Day with fun, hands-on STEM activities on Saturday, April 22, at 2 p.m. at the Warren Civic Center Library.
Activities are suitable for kids grades K-5. Register by calling (586) 751-0770 or online at warrenlibrary.net.
Free books: ‘Owl+Otter and the Big Yard Sale’
WARREN — While supplies last, children ages 3-9 can pick up a free “Owl+Otter and the Big Yard Sale” book at the children’s desk of the Civic Center Library during the month of April. At 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, they can hear the story and make otter crafts. Register by calling (586) 751-0770 or online at warrenlibrary.net.
Motor City Rockers going to playoffs
FRASER — Following an inaugural season with 30 wins and 18 losses and a $2-off fan appreciation night on April 15, the Motor City Rockers are going to the Federal Prospects Hockey League playoffs. Tickets to the Rockers’ first playoff match at the Big Boy Arena at 7 p.m. on April 19 are $10. Season tickets for 2024 are open, and the team is accepting $25 deposits. Anyone who puts a deposit down on tickets before April 19 will receive a free playoff ticket. For more information about the team visit mcrockershockey.com.