If you grew up in Sterling Heights like I did, I'm sure that some of the following items will strike a chord with you. Those of us that call hail from this community at the base of Michigan's thumb can surely relate.
11. Friday Night Football Games
The rite of passage for all high-school kids.
Ah, the chilly autumn Friday Evenings. Perfect for a bonfire? Nope, while desirable, the tradition of these football games is sacred among this community. As a senior, it is almost mandated that you take any form of leadership of your student section, or supplier of tailgating supplies. That is the year of commanding leadership. Parents, teachers, students and many others pack the stands, getting ready for entertainment. This entertainment can come from the play on the field, or even in the band performing at halftime. Truly a staple of entertainment.
10. The two seasons we've all come to love LOATHE.
Winter and Construction.
And I don't know when the heck there is no construction.
We've all been through it. Reading the various road signs on our daily commutes to and from work or school give us so much pent-up rage and anger that it becomes our longing calling card back for winter, where we aren't subjected to signs of construction workers working when we all see them drinking and smoking on the job. To the commuters between 15-18 mile and Van Dyke, 16 mile road between Dodge Park and Van Dyke, and 16-17 mile and Dodge Park, we truly feel your pain this upcoming summer.
9. That little permission slip from Mother Nature telling us it's okay to stay home from school.
For some of us, we all anxiously awaited on the morning news wondering if/when our school district would appear at the ticker at the bottom of the screen, signaling we had a free day of
8. The Hatchers.
All of my fellow readers who resided in the Oakbrook Elementary sub know this.
Every 4th of July, the subdivision where I lived, former NHL stars Kevin and Derian Hatcher always put together one of the best fireworks displays topping some of the greatest professionally put together shows. Who'd thunk major sports stars could produce a grand fireworks display? No Jason-Pierre Paul jokes, please.
7. Showcase Cinemas.
Thought MJR Theatre was always where it was? Guess again!
The five-screen theater, built in 1974, located at the northeast corner of 15 Mile and Van Dyke, was the main go-to for us 1990's kids. Back when movie theaters did not gouge us at the concession stands, it was a truly a sight to behold. This sight sadly closed down in April 2004.
6. Sunnybrook Golf, Bowl, Hotel, and Restaurant
The ultimate get-away destination for all seasons.
This was one of the mainstays in Sterling Heights for so long. The home of Henry Ford II High School's bowling team. One could spend time at the lanes, get a few rounds of golf, or even gamble at its poker room. This icon, unfortunately, left us last fall and now looks like an unsightly hole.
5. Freedom Hill
A park that really wasn't a "park" in the truest sense of the word.
In my opinion, this has now replaced Sunnybrook as the staple of Sterling Heights. The 16 mile and Schoenherr located park has hosted multiple concerts in its time, featuring some top-flight bands, the Harley-fest, and scores of Italian festivals in it's history. At one point, the park was forbidden from hosting concerts after a number of noise complaints stemming primarily from Kings Arms Apartments and its neighboring condominium complex. Thankfully, a compromise was reached.
4. Sterling Heights High School
Why is a high school named after its city, located in a district outside of its city?
This has been a debate that has stumped many residents. Sterling Heights High School, contrary to popular belief, is not located in Utica Community Schools. It is a part of Warren Consolidated Schools.
3. Lakeside Mall
School shopping? Holidays? We've got you covered!
This quaint, little shopping outlet is always the location for all holidays, and just because. Many parents take children to this location for visiting Santa and the Easter Bunny. Also, the shopping mall features a merry-go-round right in the food court.
2. Sterlingfest
Let's have a ball one last time before summer ends!
Every Sterling Heights resident has experienced the end of summer fair, concert event, and art exhibit in one way or another. Live bands, good food, art, and a party atmosphere take over Dodge Park for one weekend in late July-early August.
1. The Memorial Day Parade
Remember who gave you the freedom to enjoy all things listed.
This parade has been in place, a staple of Sterling Heights, for YEARS. The summer kick-off takes place down Dodge Park Road, beginning at 10 in the morning. The commencement contains a breath-taking flyover. From there, we see all forms of high-school bands, congressional pitches especially during election years, local softball and baseball teams. Ultimately, this parade is meant to honor veterans of previous wars, and to give thanks to them because without them, we wouldn't be able to enjoy all freedoms, such as reading this article. It ends with the firefighters being presented last.
It's Pure Michigan.
Honorable Mentions: 810/586 area code switch, Music in the Park, and Dodge Park
