SC-8.29.12 by Kingsett

WEST OAKLAND’S NEWSWEEKLY www.spinalcolumnonline.com

8/29/12

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GIVING IT ANOTHER TRY Wixom going to voters in November for 3.5-mill tax increase for 4 years - pg. 3

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Waterford doctor joins staff at Botsford Hospital – page 21

Fisk Farm Festival fund-raiser brings fun for all ages By Angela Niemi staff writer

Highland HeyDays event slated for Sept. 8-9 – page 7 Walled Lake's annual Pet Awareness Day just around corner – page 10

That’s what SHE said: "Do you know someone with a million dollars?" — Former Republican state Sen. Nancy Cassis on whether she would consider mounting a write-in general election campaign in November after her Aug. 7 write-in bid for the 11th Congressional District seat failed.

INSIDE Lakes Area News . . . . . .7-15 Special Report . . . . . . . . .8-9 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . 25 Transportation . . . . . . . . .26 Update . . . . . . . . . . . .29-30 Editorials . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Community Calendar . .34-35 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-39

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Food, fun, and games for everyone — that’s what the White Lake Township Historical Society has to offer as it gears up to host the annual KelleyFisk Farm Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8 and Sunday, Sept. 9. The gates will open at 10 a.m. for those wishing to peruse the many offerings from a plethora of crafters who will be present. “This is our 27th annual festival, which began in 1986 as part of the Sesquicentennial Celebration of the township,” said Marge Sawruk, secretary of the Historical Society. “It’s the one major fund-raiser of the year for the White Lake Historical Society, which allows us to maintain the historic 1855 buildings.” There will be plenty to keep everyone entertained — from the Oakland County Storytellers to apple pie-making; from children’s crafts to antique cars and trailers; from live entertainment to live alpacas; and from a rummage sale to an Adopt-A-Pet event. There will also be several forms of live entertainment, including Spoonful Blues; magician David Schwaninger; Ronald McDonald; String Theory; and Steward Bendow on Sept. 8. Banjo player Doug Scriberras; barbershop

Wixom going for 3.5-mill levy on November ballot By Leslie Shepard staff writer

The Wixom City Council voted Tuesday, Aug. 21 to place a new millage ballot question for municipal operations before voters during the Nov. 6 general election. Voters will be asked whether the Wixom City Charter should be amended to allow a new dedicated levy beginning July 2013 of 3.5 mills (equal to $3.50

There will be plenty to keep everyone entertained — from the Oakland County Storytellers to apple pie making; from children’s crafts to antique cars and trailers; from live entertainment to live alpacas; from a rummage sale to an Adopt-A-Pet event — at the 27th annual Kelley-Fisk Farm Festival on Saturday, Sept. 8 and Sunday, Sept. 9 in White Lake Township. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

quartet Limited Edition; dance group Motor City Cloggers; and Modern Messages, another dance group, will be performing on Sept. 9. Visitors will be able to tour the Kelley-Fisk Farm site’s historic 1855 farmhouse, the 1876 one-room school at the site, the barn, and other outbuildings as part of the festival. There will also be several Civil War-themed areas around the farm, including a Gen. George Custer presentation and a Civil War battlefield miniature. There will be a bake sale, ice cream

cones, sundaes, pie, fresh plants and produce, along with other food and beverages to purchase. “We are always grateful to the many businesses who supply door prizes and monetary or in-kind donations, such as Home Depot, Walmart, Flagstar Bank, Genisys Credit Union, and many of our smaller local businesses,” Sawruk said. The Kelley-Fisk Farm is located at 9180 Highland Road, at Fisk Road. For more information about the festival, call 248-360-0188. ❏

on each $1,000 of taxable value) for four years to provide funds for city operating purposes, including police and fire, public works, and parks and recreation services. The owner of a city property with a taxable value of $100,000 ($200,000 market value) would pay $350 in the first year of the new millage collection. “In the event the ballot proposal passes, we will still continue to change how we operate and reduce costs, there’s no question about that,” said City Manager Mike Dornan. “The goal is to maintain services and reduce costs.” A resolution calling for ballot question was adopted by the majority

of the council in 6-1 vote, with only Councilwoman Lori Rich opposing the initiative. “I don’t think we’ve adequately listened to the community’s concerns and fully developed a plan, which takes time, so I think something on the February ballot would be best,” Rich said. However, a special election in February would cost the city between $5,000 and $6,000. “If we wait until February, we would have to pay and we’re trying save money so that doesn’t make sense,” said Deputy Mayor Jim Cutright. “We

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51st YEAR OF PUBLICATION Waterford • White Lake • Highland • Milford Commerce • Wolverine • Walled Lake • Wixom West Bloomfield • Orchard Lake • Union Lake PUBLISHER / PRESIDENT: Susan Fancy BUSINESS MANAGER: Dennis Boggs EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Carol Barr EDITOR: ASSISTANT EDITOR: Tim Dmoch Kirk Pinho Staff Writers: Angela Niemi, Leslie Shepard, Michael Shelton Contributing Writers: Mike Scott, Mark Stowers Staff Photographer: Amy K. Lockard Photography Intern: Damon Tang ADVERTISING SALES: Account Representatives: Cindie Audia, Denise Engelberts, Linda Stickney, Laurie Wasker Sales Assistant/Proofing: Justina Vargas PHONE SALES MANAGER: Lori Snyder Account Representatives: Rhonda Libkuman, Cindy Stawick, Leslie Timko GRAPHICS: Denise Jungjohan, Marcia Reimer, Rob Robar IT MANAGER: Joel Stickney CIRCULATION: Dan Griffin ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE MANAGER: Carolyn Petherbridge Assistant: Mable McCullough PRESS RELEASES: Deadline 10 a.m. Thursday. Mail to P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014. Fax 248.360.1220 or bring to office. After-hours drop box. NEWS TIPS: Post at our website MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS: 52 issues - $45 per year.

www.spinalcolumnonline.com OFFICES AT: 7196 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford, MI 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday 248.360.SELL (7355) / 248.360.NEWS (6397) FAX 24/7: 248.360.1220 MAIL ADDRESS: P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387 SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY OAKLAND LAKEFRONT OAKLAND HOMES MONTHLYADVERTISER WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY Member of National Newspaper Association Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce Waterford Chamber of Commerce

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Former Lions kicker Murray now works sidelines for Knights

ne of the greatest kickers in National Football League (NFL) history is now sharing his expertise with the Walled Lake Northern High School football program. Eddie Murray, 56, is entering his second year as a volunteer coach with the Knights’ varsity team at the same school his daughter, Nicole, attends. Murray, a Waterford Township resident with his wife, Cynthia, also works full time in business development with Great Lakes Wire and Cable in Warren, which supplies wire to companies such as AT&T. But beginning in 1980, Murray’s workplace was the Pontiac Silverdome after the Detroit Lions drafted him out of Tulane University. He played with the Lions for 12 seasons, with his last season on the 1991 NFC Central Division championship team. When he left Detroit, he was the Lions’ all-time leading scorer with 1,113 points, a mark that would later be broken by the Lions’ current placekicker, Jason Hanson. Murray would then play for seven different teams over nine seasons, including winning a Super Bowl title with the 1993 Dallas Cowboys, before retiring in 2000 with 1,594 points scored, placing him 11th on the NFL’s all-time scoring list. After a 19-year career in the NFL, including 12 seasons with the Detroit Lions, you are now an assistant coach at Walled Lake Northern. Tell us how you became involved with the Northern football program and what your coaching duties entail. With your professional football background, how do you feel that the players respond to you as a coach? EM: I became involved when my daughter, Nicole, wanted to go to the Walled Lake (Consolidated Schools) system, so we did school of choice. She’s a dancer at Pixie Dance in Wixom and a lot of the kids that attend that dance studio go to the Walled Lake school system. We were in the West Bloomfield school system and we chose to switch her high school years into Walled Lake and we went to Northern because it was closer to where we live in Waterford. I just approached the coaching staff and said I’ll volunteer any services I can to help with the football program. My primary coaching duties are really to help the kicking game, working with the kickers and the punters and to add some insight to their kicking game for their return and protection for their kickoff and punt return units that they have. It’s fun that I can just be engaged on a volunteer basis, to help them out. I’m

15 guys over 300 pounds and you might have five guys that are over 350 (pounds), and they run faster than we did back in 1980. So the athlete has gotten so much bigger and stronger and consequently, the collisions have gotten a lot more violent, too. We know the risks. We’ve taken it on. I just think that the attention to the concussion issues was not there in the early years and it’s really been thrown to the forefront now. What is your current relationship with the Lions organization? What are your impressions of this year’s team as the season is upon us? EM: My current relationship (with the Lions)... is I have been connected through Pepsi, which has hired me to be the face of a contest they have called “Kick For Cash.” They run the contest before the game starts and do the contest when the players finish their warm-ups and they go into the locker room before they get introduced. The contest is a kickoff. It’s not kicking a field goal, and wherever the ball stops rolling, the contestant wins $100 per yard up to 50 yards. Part of my deal is I get tickets to go to the game also, so it’s been fun to watch what’s been going on the past five years... The sponsor of the Kick For Cash is Meijer and you can go through Meijer to get entry into the contest and hopefully get your name pulled. That’s been extremely enjoyable for me to see how they’ve been doing. And yes, I think the expectations are extremely high. Maybe last year was a little bit of an aberration for them to do as well as they did last year, making the playoffs like they did. But I think it warrants the expectations this year. I think they’re going to be a very competitive football team again this year. I still think the key for them is they need to stay healthy in the key positions. They still lack some backup, so if they lose some key players and (have) some key issues along the way, they could have some drop off that way, but if they stay healthy I think they should be a wild-card team again. The (NFC North) Division is going to be tough to win with Green Bay and Chicago playing as strongly as they have, but they are more than capable of making the playoffs again this year, to be a strong wild-card team. ❏

at the games, both home and away, on the sidelines to help them and it was very enjoyable doing it last year. I’m looking forward to the season. My daughter is going to be a sophomore this year. She’s on the varsity poms and it’s been enjoyable for us to see her on the sidelines doing her pom dance and me there helping coaching. The players are extremely respectful, as well as the coaching staff. (Head Coach) Brett Moore and his staff have been very receptive to any advice and things that I see that maybe will be able to help the kids. I purely keep it on the special teams aspect of things; I don’t give any advice on the offense or

•

NE MINUTE

INTERVIEW

the defense. Football is now bigger than ever, but at the same time it is also under more scrutiny because of the focus on concussions and lawsuits by former players against the NFL regarding treatment of concussions. If you had a young son and he expressed an interest to you in playing football, what would you say to him? EM: Well, I would have reservations about it. I think really the focus has gotten more intense over these years purely because of the size of the guys and the speed has greatly become more of an impact when these guys are playing. When I was a rookie in 1980, Bubba Baker was the biggest guy we had on our team at that time. Bubba was 6foot-6, maybe 280 to 290 (pounds). Nowadays in football, you have 12,

By Michael Shelton

Read more of this interview at www.spinalcolumnonline.com.

AUGUST 29, 2012

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Eat. Learn. Live. EXPERIENCE HEALTHY COOKING IN A WORLD-CLASS DEMONSTRATION KITCHEN – ONLY AT HENRY FORD WEST BLOOMFIELD HOSPITAL. Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital is proud to feature cooking classes in our 90-seat demonstration kitchen. Learn to prepare ﬂavorful, nutritious meals from our renowned culinary team, including registered dietitians, physicians and chefs. Whether you have special medical needs or are just interested in healthy, everyday living, we have the class for you. Recipes for cancer treatment and prevention, gluten-free dishes, options for healthy senior living, solutions for diabetics and heart patients, and simple sushi ideas are just some of the topics we discuss. We even offer a DK KIDS program designed to educate children on making healthy food choices.

To view a full listing of classes or for more information, call (248) 325-3890 or visit HenryFordWestBloomﬁeld.com.

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LAKES AREA NEWS

Ballot language ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 3

do have a plan — a three-year budget that’s ongoing and changes every year, but it’s a plan in effect. We will still be looking at other measures to be financially responsible. Everything is open for discussion.” The council had already voted to cut five items from the budget in the wake of the Aug. 7 primary election defeat of a millage cap increase, including the elimination of the finance clerk position, cutting overtime leaf collection, capital outlay, and capital improvements, as well as leaving vacant police sergeant positions unfilled. Those cuts will remain in place if the millage passes. The city is facing an estimated deficit of over $1.7 million in 2013, $2.1 million in 2014, $2.5 million in 2015, and $2.6 million in 2016, for a total deficit over four years of $8.98 million. The millage would generate over $2.2 million per year or $8.85 million over a four-year period. “The four-year deficit does not include the potential for the loss of personal property taxes if the state were to eliminate and not replace them,” Dornan said. “That would be an additional loss of 19 percent in revenue.” “I support it (the millage proposal) 100 percent,” Cutright said. “Four years at 3.5 mills is the best way to go and will give us a presidential election (voter turnout level) and is the best representation of the city voting for it.” According to Dornan, out of 31 Oakland County communities studied, Wixom currently has the 10th lowest tax rate and would be ranked 15th lowest should the millage pass. City officials intend to hold several town hall meetings to answer questions about the ballot proposal. ❏

Vallina retiring after 27 years of township service By Leslie Shepard staff writer

After 27 years of service, Waterford Township Community Planning and Development Director Bob Vallina has another large scale project planned — to retire at the end of the year. His decision comes on the heels of consolidating the Community Planning and Development Department with the

Matthew and Valerie (Tison) Thompson were married on Saturday, Aug. 25, in the Oakland County International Airport terminal building in Waterford Township. The Commerce Township couple chose the airport as their wedding venue because they met each other there during an open house air show two years ago. In addition, Valerie’s grandfather, Jack C. Hays, an aviator and former Oakland County corporation counsel, played a key role in transitioning the airport into an international hub. (Photo submitted by David Yarnall of David Yarnall Photography)

Building and Engineering Department. The transition has been in the works for several years. “We started down this road about four years ago when our departmental aide left and then last year one of our two remaining clerical staff transferred to the Clerk’s Office,” Vallina said. “Every community is looking to save money and consolidate. General fund and block grant revenues are pretty low and in line with that, the planning side is pretty soft, so this is an opportune time to consolidate departments and streamline.” The department will now fall under the leadership of Doug Bradley, the Building and Engineering Department director. “There is no name for the consolidated department, but it will be under his (Bradley’s) direction,” Vallina said. All part-time code enforcement officials and Community Planning and Development Division Head Larry Lockwood will report to Bradley. “I approached Supervisor Carl Solden with the idea and got it OK’d to talk with Bradley,” Vallina said. “We mapped it out at budget time.” Vallina’s last day will be Dec. 31. “I don’t know yet what I will do once I retire,” Vallina said. “I’ve got an opportunity to look around and not rush it. I want to pass the baton and ensure a smooth transition.”

Housing Rehabilitation Coordinator Norma Okonski, who has been with the township for 33 years, will be retiring at the same time. The Building and Engineering Department that oversees Community Development Block Grants through the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department will use a portion of that funding mechanism for salaries. The township stands to save between $150,000 to $200,000 between Vallina’s and Okonski’s compensation and benefits and through the consolidation. “We won’t be adding a position and the plan is to delegate duties to others,” Vallina said. ❏

Highland HeyDays trots into town on Saturday, Sept. 8 By Angela Niemi staff writer

Highland HeyDays is just around the corner and will feature plenty of good times for all family members — including the four-legged kind. Highland HeyDays is a two-day family festival held in downtown Highland Township geared toward bringing families, friends, neighbors,

and pets together to celebrate the Highland community. This will be the second year of the two-day festival after local organizations decided to combine what was an annual square dance with a pet awareness day: The Highland Downtown Development Authority’s (DDA) Horsin’ Around in Highland had been a staple in the community for the past several years as a time for residents to cut loose with a square dance. HeyDays will kick off on Saturday, Sept. 8 at 11 a.m. with the Mutt Strut hosted by Huron Valley Recreation and Community Education. The Mutt Strut is a one-mile walk beginning at the corner of Harvey Lake Road and Livingston Road at the Spring Mills dam. Children’s activities, face painting, pony rides, and a petting zoo will all be available. Meanwhile, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, there will be vendors lining the streets featuring local businesses, rescue groups, pet groups, food, and more. The Huron Valley Milford High School baseball team will be hosting a euchre tournament from 5 to 7 p.m. with registration beginning at 4:30 p.m.

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 10

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By Angela Niemi staff writer

SPECIAL REPORT

lammable tap water and water contamination are thoughts that come to mind when hydraulic fracturing — more commonly known as “fracking” — is mentioned, yet claims suggesting such negative consequences of the process have yet to be substantiated. In reality, when it comes to fracking, there are facts and misinformation, risks and benefits — all of which lead to a very controversial issue that has taken the national stage among academics, environmentalists, the energy industry, and politicians. Here in Oakland County, hydraulic fracturing became a hot topic due to fear of it happening along lakefront properties after state gas and mineral leases in west Oakland County were recently auctioned off. It has even prompted Oakland County Commissioner Jim Nash (DFarmington Hills) to hold a seminar on the topic featuring four different speakers from four different backgrounds to address the issue from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Auditorium. Yet Hal Fitch, the chief of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Office of Oil, Gas, and Minerals said he doesn’t believe fracking is what’s in mind for the county’s lakefront areas. But it still begs the questions: What is hydraulic fracturing? And is it safe? Fracking is a well stimulation process used by gas producers to stimulate wells and recover natural gas from sources such as coal beds and shale gas formations, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Shale gas is the oldest source of natural gas in the United States, but until recently it has not been economically feasible to access these resources. Technology advancements have now made horizontal drilling and fracking useful ways of accessing these resources. “With horizontal drilling, you get more natural gas than by going vertically,” said Dr. Steven Wright, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Michigan. “The advent of horizontal drilling made fracking a viable alternative to extract natural gas.” Horizontal wellbores allow a greater exposure to a shale formation than a vertical wellbore, which is why they are ideal for shales that lacked

Hydraulic fracturing Is the controversial fracking process safe? sufficient permeability using vertical wells. “One horizontal well will drain a large area, which is the whole point of exposing the formation to the wellbore,” Fitch said. “If you drill vertical holes, you have to drill a lot more — perhaps 10 to 20 vertical wells as opposed to one horizontal well — to get the same amount of gas.” During fracking, millions of gallons of water mixed with chemicals and sand are injected under high pressure into shale formations to create fissures, which release oil and natural gas in the rock and allow them to flow back into the well. “One of the advantages is that a lot of natural gas and oil that could never be produced is now available because of hydraulic fracturing,” Fitch said. “Projections by the federal government show that a great majority of natural gas in the next 20 to 30 years will come from reservoirs that are hydraulically fractured.” According to a report by the Energy Institute at the University of Texas, “Fact-Based Regulation for Environmental Protection in Shale Gas Development,” the current estimate

of the country’s shale gas resources stands at 862 trillion cubic feet (tcf) — an estimate that doubled from 2010 to 2011. The percentage of that contribution to the total natural gas supply grew to 23 percent in 2010 and is expected to increase by 46 percent by 2035. The extraction of natural gas from these shale formations has had a “fairly significant effect economically,” according to Wright. “One thing that has happened is that the price of natural gas has not gone up. In fact, in some instances it has even dropped in the last few years,” he said. “That’s due almost entirely to fracking due to the availability to the natural gas resources. Economically, it has been a positive thing, and from the standpoint of green gases, using natural gases is better than burning coal.” Yet, he said some people are concerned that the availability of more domestic natural gas is diverting attention away from the development of cleaner, renewable resources such as wind and solar energy. Rita Chapman of the Michigan Sierra Club’s Clean Water Program

agrees. “We are investing so much money into this process and so much enthusiasm that it takes away the finances and enthusiasm to go after renewables,” she said. “Wind and solar energy resources, they never spill.” Despite the apparent advantages and benefits of fracking, the process itself has remained controversial across the nation. “People are raising concerns because a lot of the wells that were previously hydro-fracked were shallow and at low volume,” Fitch said. “Now using horizontal wells they are using deep shales with a higher volume of fracturing fluids.” He added that this has made the practice “safer as the wells were isolated from aquifers by thousands of feet of rock.” A study conducted by the EPA in 2004 concluded that there was little-tono risk of fracturing fluid contaminating underground sources of drinking water. In 2005, Congress exempted hydraulic fracturing from the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Since then, however, there have been complaints of water contamination fol-

AUGUST 29, 2012

that require the wastewater to be contained in steel tanks before being transported to deep disposal wells, which are licensed by the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the EPA for that type of waste. The water can stay there “indefinitely,” according to Fitch. However, Clean Water Action’s Clark said that “forever is a long time.” “The storage of wastewater is a huge concern,” he said. “There has been no long-term study.” While no water well contamination has occurred as a direct result of fracking, spills at the surface can be a problem, according to Fitch. But he noted that is a concern with any type of drilling or the transportation of chemicals — and not just in the oil and gas industry. However, it’s precisely the inevitability of human error that causes concern for the Sierra Club’s Chapman. “Humans don’t do things perfectly,” she said. “If we could guarantee everyone was doing it perfectly, we would, but they don’t. People make mistakes all the time. And people take shortcuts all the time.” But accidents aside, is the process

itself safe? Yes, according to various experts — provided that the proper procedures and regulations are followed. “The process should be safe if people take the proper level of precaution,” U-M’s Wright said. No major problems from fracking have been reported in Michigan, which DEQ Spokesman Brad Wurfel attributed to the state’s stringent regulatory measures. “It’s been used on more than 12,000 wells in Michigan since the 1960s without any of the environmental incidents publicized in a handful of other states, largely because it’s tightly regulated here,” he said. “Our No. 1 goal is environmental stewardship,” Wurfel added. “We regulate processes that interface with Michigan’s natural resources. We’ve done it successfully with this process for decades. If the process was truly posing a real threat to the natural resources, we’d further regulate it or shut it down. Instead, it’s been done safely and regularly in Michigan for a long time.” Yet some remain dissatisfied with the state’s regulatory practices, leading to the introduction of five bills known as the “Frack Pack,” accord-

PAGE 9

ing to Clean Water Action’s Clark. Three of these bills — House Bills (HBs) 5149, 5150 and 5151 — were introduced by state Reps. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor), Mark Meadows (DEast Lansing), and Brandon Dillon (DGrand Rapids) last November. State Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield) is also a co-sponsor of the bills. According to Irwin, the bill he is sponsoring — HB 5149 — requires oil and gas companies to follow the same rules as all other citizens with respect to water use. “The law says that if you use more than a certain threshold of water, then you need a permit for use and to make sure that you’re not negatively affecting your neighbors or the surrounding waters,” Irwin said. The other two bills in the package go together. One requires a one-year study to be conducted in order to look at the best practices of fracking in other states. The other requires a one-year moratorium on fracking while that study is being conducted. “The Michigan Sierra Club, Clean Water Action, and other groups have worked with legislators to introduce a group of bills,” Chapman said. “We want a study done by the DNR and DEQ and state agency scientists who would look at risks and problems and all the data and find what risks exist to water supplies before allowing fracking to continue.” Two other bills, HBs 4736 and 5565, are also a part of the “Frack Pack” and would require companies to assume liability for any spills or mishaps and to disclose what chemical additives they are using in their fracking fluid concoction. “When people hear about fracking, they immediately think this causes the water in the sink to turn on fire,” Clark said. “We’re not saying that. We just think we need proper regulations in place in Michigan in order to ensure this process is carried out in the best possible way.” Yet, Fitch said DEQ officials feel that they have “a thorough comprehensive regulatory structure” that addresses the issues and protects environmental and public health. Meanwhile, Wright said there is a lot of work being done at various levels to study and address the concerns people have expressed, which will make it easier to make a good assessment of the fracking process after those studies are completed. “I really believe it has the potential to be a safe process as long as we make sure people aren’t cutting corners — which has happened in the past,” he said. ❏

SPECIAL REPORT

lowing the use of fracking in several states, including Wyoming and Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, a man was shown being able to light his tap water on fire — which some feared was due to fracking — in the Oscar-nominated documentary “Gasland.” However, the first peer-reviewed study on hydraulic fracturing conducted by Duke University’s Robert Jackson concluded that, while those who live closer to a gas well are more likely to have their water contaminated with gas, such contamination doesn’t come directly from fracking. Sometimes methane can seep naturally from a shale formation into the groundwater supply — a natural occurrence which has been happening for millennia, according to Fitch. And in Pennsylvania, where methane was found in the water, it was decided that the most likely culprit was gas well coverings that were leaking — a problem that is easily fixed, according to Jackson’s study — and not hydraulic fracturing itself. Furthermore, the study showed that no fracturing fluid was found to have leaked or contaminated the adjacent water sources. Nevertheless, public concern over the process has grown due to other reasons, including the chemical additives in the fracking fluid, the amount of water necessary for the process, flow back and wastewater disposal, air emissions, spill management, and blow outs. “One of the major concerns in Michigan is that this new type of hydro-fracturing goes deeper and uses more water — around 5 million gallons per well — and contains known carcinogens and neurotoxins in the fracking fluid,” said Nic Clark, the Michigan campaigns director for Clean Water Action. “There’s no way to clean the water that’s used once it’s contaminated with all the toxins. The water cannot re-enter the hydrologic cycle.” “There are two main issues,” U-M’s Wright added. “One is associated with making sure the fluids cannot come back up around the drill casing, and the bigger issue is how to handle the fluids that come back up after you develop the well. I don’t think that has been dealt with from a long-term perspective yet.” The DNR’s Fitch said that fracking wastewater hasn’t been treated properly in other states, including storing the water in pits, disposing it improperly, or having it treated at a municipal wastewater treatment plant — which cannot be done due to the chemicals, salt and minerals that are present in the wastewater. Michigan, however, has regulations

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Highland HeyDays ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 7

A beer tent will also be a highlight of the weekend. Sponsored by Miller Lite, the Comeback Inn, and the Highland-White Lake Business Association, it will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 9. Comcast will also be broadcasting college football games in the beer tent. The barn dance will be held on the east side of Livingston Road from 7 to 9 p.m. Sponsored by Highland Feed and the Highland Equestrian Conservancy, the annual dance will benefit the Aicardi Foundation and feature special guest caller Glen Morningstar. There will also be food, raffles, and a DJ. The pet awareness portion of the event will take place Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature vendors, pet demonstrations, pet rescue groups, displays, and information. Rock ‘N Roll K-9s will be performing again, and the Huron Valley Council for the Arts will have its outdoor art exhibit on display all weekend. Admission to Highland HeyDays is free. ❏

Fun for all at Pet Awareness Day on Sunday, Sept. 16 By Leslie Shepard staff writer

Man’s best friend and other family pets will take the lead on Sept. 16 during Walled Lake’s annual Pet Awareness Day. The event, put on by the Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority (DDA), will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will again be held at the Walled Lake Historic Lakefront District at East Walled Lake Drive between Ferland and Witherall streets. “It’s a wonderful event we wanted to sponsor,” said Pat Wlodarczyk, cochair of the DDA Promotions Committee. “Pets are an important part of a family and this makes for a nice family day to enjoy.” All animals must either be leashed or in a cage during the event. Registration begins at 10:45 a.m. Pet owners will walk their pets at the site to open the event at 11 a.m. Proceeds from each $5 donation will benefit Paws with a Cause, a charity that helps people with disabilities by

The Battle of the Brits, an annual vintage British motorcycle competition, will feature about 200 British, European and some American motorcycles in 22 different classes. American motorcycles must be built prior to 1984 to enter. The bikes entered in each class are judged for first-, second-, and third-place prizes. (Photo submitted by Peter Gareffa)

Battle of the Brits on Sept. 9 Annual motorcycle extravaganza will be held at St. Mary’s rchard Lake St. Mary’s is hosting its annual Battle of the Brits motorcycle extravaganza at the school’s fairgrounds, located at 3535 Indian Trail in Orchard Lake, on Sunday, Sept. 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. The entry fee is $5 per person, but children 10-years-old and under are admitted free of charge. A $10 entry fee will be charged per motorcycle. The Battle of the Brits, a vintage

British motorcycle competition, will feature about 200 British, European and some American motorcycles in 22 different classes. American motorcycles must be built prior to 1984 to enter. “Our largest single motorcycle class is the class Triumph from the 1960s and 1970s,” said Peter Gareffa, the event’s coordinator. “We also get a lot of Nortons and less common British makes like BSAs and Vincents.” In the European class, Gareffa expects a wealth of Ducatis and BMWs.

training assistance dogs and providing lifetime team support, which encourages independence. The event will be jam-packed with entertainment and promises to be a treat throughout the day. Ultimate Air Dogs — one of the nation’s premier dock jumping organizations that has been featured on “Good Morning America” and ESPN and is owned by former Detroit Tigers pitcher Milt Wilcox — will be performing all day long.

“They are awesome and what I like about it is that they let the pet dogs participate,” Wlodarczyk said. “Last year everyone had a lot of fun watching this part of the show.” Several pet contests will be held during the event, including Ugliest Pet, Cutest Pet, Animals Got Talent, and Pet Lookalike. According to Walled Lake Deputy Treasurer Jennifer Stuart, some planned features and attractions have yet to be confirmed for the event. She

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

Each competition will be judged by their peers for first-, second- and third-place prizes, except for the master class, which will be judged by a panel of experts. Vintage motorcycle parts, accessories and memorabilia will also be for sale at the one-day event on the Orchard Lake St. Mary’s campus. Hot dogs, hamburgers, beverages and other fare will be sold throughout the day. There will be free parking on the fairgrounds. Visit metrotriumphriders.com for more details. ❏ said there may be an exotic animal handler exhibiting alligators, parrots, ferrets and larger species of snakes, and a clown may be on hand creating balloon animals, as well as a DJ to entertain the crowd. Bargains can be found on pet food, PAGE 15 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 13

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LAKES AREA NEWS

County Commissioner Chris Long (left) and Commerce Township Trustee Robert J. Long address the crowd at their Long Family Orchard, Farm and Cider Mill before appearances by Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

From left to right, presumptive Republican Party Vice Presidential Candidate Paul Ryan, Ann Romney, and presumptive Republican Party Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney traveled to Commerce Township Friday, Aug. 24 for a rally at the Long Family Orchard, Farm and Cider Mill, where over 9,000 people came to see and hear the candidates. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Supporters of presumptive Republican Party Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney hold up enlarged likenesses of the Michigan native during a Friday, Aug. 24 rally at the Long Family Orchard, Farm and Cider Mill in Commerce Township, which included a corn roast. Co-owner Chris Long said husband Robert J. Long has always wanted to host a political corn roast. “Who would have thought it would be for Romney and (Paul) Ryan,” she said. “We always say at the Long Farm the corn we sell is picked that day, and I picked that corn this morning.” (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan’s appearance in Commerce also attracted protesters, who voiced dissatisfaction with the candidates’ policies. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

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LAKES AREA NEWS

Pet Awareness Day ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 10

toys, clothing, collars, day care and grooming services. Several veterinarians will on site answering questions, while rescue groups and pet adoption organizations will take part by handing out information. Food vendors will also be at the event so attendees can purchase hot dogs, ice cream, snow cones, popcorn, and beverages. ❏

Organizers hope Walk 4 Friendship will raise $600K By Michael Shelton staff writer

The 2012 West Bloomfield Walk 4 Friendship will be held on Sunday, Sept. 2 beginning at 12:30 p.m. at the Meer Family Friendship Center, located at 6892 W. Maple Road. The event consists of a 5-kilometer walk and 1-mile family walk to raise funds and community awareness for

The Friendship Circle, a non-profit organization for individuals with special needs. “These are funds that cover onethird of our operating budget and they all support 25 weekly and seasonal programs hosted here for children with special needs,” said Lauren Todaro, assistant to the director at The Friendship Circle. “We have an inclusional sports league, martial arts, as well as Friends at Home, where teens visit a home with a special needs child.” She added that $501,772 was raised at last year’s event and the goal for this year is $600,000. Registration for the event will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony at the Friendship Center at 12:30 p.m. and the beginning of the 5K and 1-mile walks at 12:45 p.m. The routes will be separate for the 5K and 1-mile walks, but both routes will take participants to the Jewish Community Center at 6600 W. Maple Road for the finish. Following the walk, participants will be greeted with food and plenty of activities, including giant hamster balls, inflatables, laser tag, life-size

“Angry Birds,” a dunk tank, and crafts at the Home Depot Kids Workshop. The post-walk festivities will also include a performance by the acrobat group Cirque Zuma Zuma, which previously performed on “America’s Got Talent.” Those interested in participating in the walks can register online at walk4friendship.com. Click on “register to walk” to register as an individual, start a team, or join an existing team. Visitors to the website can also click on “Donations” for general donations or to donate on behalf of a participant in the event. ❏

Milford accepts 3 streets to receive state road money The Milford Village Council at its Monday, Aug. 20 meeting approved a resolution accepting Riverside Street, Riverbend Street and Whitewater

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Street in the village’s local street inventory. This move will allow the streets to benefit from state transportation funding for maintenance after the village submits the required legal description and necessary forms to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). “There’s a new development behind the (Milford Civic Center) and these streets are completed. We will now take them over and we will let the state know that we can get Public Act 51 money,” said Interim Village Manager Deborah Frazer. The resolution states that the three streets are now public streets. This comes after Milford Village voters approved a new millage earlier this month that increases the village’s charter tax rate over a 20-year period for the purpose of defraying the cost of major and local road maintenance. With the approval, 3.5 mills will be collected during the first 10 years before dipping down to 1 mill to be collected during the last 10 years of the levy. The first collection will take place in the July 2013 village tax bill. ❏

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EDUCATION

Obituaries

COULTER, JACK H.; of Waterford, died August 20, 2012 at 86 years of age. CURTIS, SUSAN C.; of Novi was born on October 30, 1953. She died August 13, 2012 at her home at age 58. She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Roger. KELLEY, CAROL; age 71 of Wixom was born on September 3, 1940. She died August 16, 2012 at age 71. Carol is the beloved wife of Frank Kelley. KILLEBREW, AUSTIN LEE; age 19, of Commerce Twp., died on August 18, 2012. KUDER, DELLA M.; of Florida, formerly of Waterford, died August 17, 2012 at 96 years of age. LARSEN, NORMAN R.; of Waterford; died August 20, 2012 at 73 years of age. Beloved husband of Janet Larsen. LAUINGER, DANIEL; of Waterford. August 17, 2012 at 67 years of age. From left to right, Rachel Wologo, Lauren Baltazar, Breanna Scott, Kristin Miller, and Kasey McElreath of Burt Elementary School show off iPads that will be used during the 2012-13 school year in each of the classrooms at Burt, part of the Waterford School District. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Damon Tang)

MUIRHEAD, ROBERT HARLAN "RED"; a longtime resident of Milford, died August 15, 2012, after a brief illness. He was 82 yrs. old.

Students will say ‘iCan learn’

SANDERSON, ARCHIE H.; age 76, born on May 10, 1936 and passed away on August 16, 2012 in Novi, Michigan. Beloved husband of Joyce J. Sanderson for 48 years.

Burt Elementary classrooms get 14 iPads for instruction

THOMPSON, JERRY "JW"; Former Michigan resident, 68, died August 18, 2012 in Massachusetts. JW was known to family and friends as a lover of everything West Virginia. The retired Commerce Township fire fighter and inspector at Moellar Manufacturing could often be found in his garage working to restore classic cars or playing the guitar and singing with friends. He is survived by his sister, Lola Watson (Johnny) of Oklahoma, his two sons, Chris Thompson (Amy) of North Carolina and Mark Thompson (Maria) of Massachusetts and his two grandchildren. No memorial arrangements have been made. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Michigan State Firemen's Association, c/o Cliff Messing- Firefighters Memorial, 8826 E. Huron Line Road, Ruth MI 47470 or the the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements are under the direction of the Eugene J. McCarthy and Sons Funeral Home, 11 Lincoln Street, Framingham, MA

By Michael Shelton staff writer

hen classes for the 2012-13 school year officially begin at Burt Elementary School in the Waterford School District on Tuesday, Sept. 4, each of its 14 classrooms will have an iPad waiting for teachers and students to use. All the iPads were purchased with privately-raised funds. “Teachers at Burt and I had a dream to have at least one iPad in every classroom for teacher and student use on a daily basis,” said Mary Barghahn, the principal of Burt Elementary. “The Burt (ParentTeacher Organization) and the Burt Student Council raised a lot of money

Study advocates closure of Ealy Elementary The West Bloomfield Schools Board of Education was presented this week the results of a school enrollment and facilities study by Shannon Bingham of Western Demographics — and with it recommendations for closing or converting district schools.

to purchase nine iPads.” Burt also recently received a $1,000 grant from the Waterford Optimist Club to go toward the purchase of additional iPads. Barghahn said that every iPad purchase includes a projector for images to be shown on a screen in a classroom. The cost was about $1,000 each. “The camera then becomes an overhead projector where videos can be taken, such as showing students’ awesome behavior,” she said. “We’re just getting into the full swing. With the iPads, teachers can download an app and everyone can learn, be it handwriting, spelling, math or biographies.” Some Burt classrooms utilized iPads in the previous school year and According to Dr. Gerard Hill, superintendent for the West Bloomfield School District, the report recommended the closure of Ealy Elementary School in next fall and the district’s Administrative and Community Services Building next june. The report also recommended converting Doherty Elementary into a facility for students in kindergarten through second-grade and Sheiko Elementary into a building for students in third- through fifth-grade, with one

Barghahn said that other iPads were purchased over the spring. She added that the school also holds a special “Appy Hour” prior to the start of the school year in which Burt teachers can demonstrate the apps that they have downloaded and will utilize with their students. The addition of iPads at Burt coincides with the Waterford Schools Board of Education approving the purchase and installation of SMART boards in every district kindergarten classroom through a $75,009 contract with SMART Ed Services for 33 wide profile, dual touch SMART boards; and a $65,277 contract with Dell for SMART boards with a S500 projector, boom mount and bulb. ❏ set of attendance boundaries for both schools, in the fall of 2013. The report also asked the board to consider studying a potential closure of Roosevelt Elementary in a two- to fiveyear period, in addition to the possible conversion of Abbott and Orchard Lake middle schools into buildings for students in fifth- through eighth-grade. The board will hold a public study session on the report on Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. in the West Bloomfield High School Media Center. ❏

WILCOX, PATRICIA "PATI"; of Walled Lake was born September 30, 1933. She died August 18, 2012 at age 78. To place an obituary in the Spinal Column Newsweekly please call the Classified Department at 248-360-7355 or email: lorisnyder@thescngroup.com

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PAGE 19

COMMUNITY LIFE

In honor of long-time member Steve White of Waterford, Dublin Community Senior Center Director Kathy Gordinear and Program Developer Carol Kehoe secretly planned a surprise 100th birthday party for him. Steve was born in Detroit before moving with his family to Birmingham. He then moved to Pontiac before settling in Waterford. He has lived his entire life in Michigan. He has two daughters, three grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. The surprise party was held on Friday, Aug. 17. In attendance were over 50 people. Some were his Bingo buddies and others were friends he made coming and going to several programs at the Dublin Community Senior Center. Special guests were his daughter, Kathy LaDouceur, and daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Jerry Bradow, White Lake Township Supervisor Greg Baroni, state Sen. Mike Kowall and county Commissioner Jim Runestad. Mr. White received so many warm and funny cards from those present at the party. His favorite was the huge group card signed from his Dublin family, which included a $100 bill. The card was hidden in front office for two months for people to sign. Mr. White was presented a special tribute from Baroni, which was signed by him, township Clerk Terry Lilley and township Treasurer Jay Brendle. He was presented a special proclamation from Kowall, which was signed by him, state Rep. Eileen Kowall, state Rep. Gail Haines and Gov. Rick Snyder. Sen. Kowall also presented him a framed copy of the front page of The Pontiac Press from Aug. 16, 1911, a flag flown over the state capital and a flag flown in Washington D.C. Mr. White was presented with a special proclamation from Runestad, which was signed him and all other Oakland County commissioners. (Photo submitted by Kathy Gordinear)

Ralph Vert of White Lake Township, with his 2008 Honda VTX1300, was the winner of the first-ever Hog Days at the White Lake Farmer’s Market. Congratulations, Ralph. (Photo submitted by Kevin Lawrence)

50 YEARS AGO Aug. 30, 1962 What's the latest in water sports? They call it "power swimming." Here's how it works: You skim along the water on top of a 22-horsepower engine. Is it dangerous? That's what three men from the Oakland County Sheriff's Department were trying to determine through a special safety test last week. Robert Newman, Medward Tessier, and Ronald Breur spent over two hours on Union Lake Aug. 21 putting the Aqua-Skimmer through a thorough and rigorous round of tests, and had fun doing it. They turned the boat over, raced full speed toward each other, ran over a test tube and into sandbars, carried passengers on their backs, and tried to sink the boat. From all those tests, they concluded that the Aqua-Skimmer is perfectly safe. 40 YEARS AGO Aug. 30, 1972 Although West Bloomfield's request for a writ of prohibition asking to be removed from Judge Stephen J. Roth's busing orders was denied by the Sixth Circuit Court in Cincinnati, there is now no chance that any cross-district busing will take place in the area this fall. The court on Thursday, Aug. 25 continued a stay on Roth's orders until it makes a final decision on the case. "It must by now be obvious to everyone that a decision is not going to be handed down before the opening of school," said Chief Judge Harry Phillips of Nashville. West Bloomfield and three other districts requesting to be removed from Roth's orders have 90 days to appeal the denial of their request.

against the placement of the amendment on the ballot after a sample drawn from the petitions showed that, statistically, the petitions should be 23,000 signatures short of the minimum number requested. 20 YEARS AGO Sept. 2, 1992 Approximately 800 seventh- and eighth-grade students began the 199293 school year Monday, Aug. 31, in the new Walled Lake Middle School. Chuck Kissaw, director of operations for the school district, said the new 120,000-square-foot middle school is located on 25 acres off Pontiac Trail, a half-mile east of Beck Road. Unique features of the new building include a state-of-the-art lighting system, and a completely integrated audio/visual communications system, including computers, televisions, and telephones. Kissaw said the new middle school is also fully air conditioned.

10 YEARS AGO Aug. 28, 2002 The Oakland County International Airport hosted the unveiling of a memorial for the state's victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C. on Sunday, Aug. 25. The local chapter of Women in Aviation will sponsor the memorial for the 15 Michigan residents who died in the attacks, including two from Oakland County. Rayna Handleman Pyle, president of the Motor City Wings Chapter and chairwoman of Women in Aviation who was on hand for the airport's annual open house, said the group intends to construct a 7-foot monument in a 50-foot square area that will include an observation deck where 30 YEARS AGO takeoffs and landings can be observed Sept. 1, 1982 A suit will be filed this week in the at the airport. state Court of Appeals to stop the state Board of Canvassers from denying a ballot position to a constitutional Headlines amendment restoring the death penalty in Michigan, Oakland County of the Prosecutor L. Brooks Patterson Past announced last week. The announcement was made after the Board of Canvassers decided Thursday, Aug. 26 the amendment could not be placed on the November ballot because of an insufficient number of petition signatures. The Board of Canvassers voted – A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly –

PAGE 20

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

CHIROPRACTIC CONSULTATION & ADJUSTMENTS Boost your health with a visit to Hicks Chiropractic P.C.. You will get a chiropractic exam, muscle testing evaluation, X-rays, a report of findings and one adjustment for $37 (reg. $299) or opt for the same services with three adjustments for $77 (reg. $419). Dr. Hicks and the Spinal Wellness Staff are ready to help you improve, repair and prepare your body for what ever your life demands. You’ll get a detailed account of your nervous system’s function with the exam, X-rays and report - then you can potentially enhance your natural healing ability and level of wellness. Chiropractic adjustments can help you feel limber and able to fully relax. Schedule your appointment at our family wellness FROM $37 center for Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or EXPIRES 9/21/12 Saturday - We think you’ll be very happy with your results.

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AUGUST 29, 2012

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PAGE 21

LOCAL MATTERS business notes movers / shakers changes ❐ Carla Oska-Gerak, D.O., of Waterford, has joined the medical staff at Botsford Hospital in Farmington Hills. Oska-Gerak, a mother of two children, sees patients at Botsford Pediatric Associates at 23133 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 100, in Farmington, 248-477-0100. She earned a bachelor’s degree in dietetics at Wayne State University in Detroit. After receiving her medical education at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Penn., Dr. OskaGerak did her first year of post-graduate clinical training at DMC Huron Oska-Gerak Valley-Sinai Hospital in Commerce Township. She completed the pediatrics residency at Beaumont Health System in Royal Oak, where she also served as chief resident during her final year. Dr. Oska-Gerak is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Osteopathic Association. ❐ The law firm of Spindler, Nausieda & Associates is now in the Milford area. A full-service law firm, Spindler, Nausieda & Associates specialize in areas of Michigan divorce and family law, Michigan adoption services, and Michigan estate planning and probate law. At their firm, clients won’t get a one-size-fits-all solution to their legal problems. They tailor solutions to meet specific needs by listening carefully and combining your imput with their attorneys’ years of legal experience. Spindler, Nausieda & Associates is located at 425 W. Huron, Suite 120, and may be reached by calling 248-676-1000 or e-mailing spindlerlaw@comcast.net.

benefits ❐ Shades Above Salon and Spa of Waterford is having a fashion show to raise funds for the Michigan Animal Rescue League in Auburn Hills. Fashion to the Rescue will be held from noon to 4 on Sunday, Sept. 9 at 3549 Airport Road. This huge parking lot event will feature pet adoption, vendors, a psychic, great foods and a bake sale, live entertainment with local artists, a raffle drawing, children’s activities, and more. The fashion show itself will have the girls walking down

The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce held one of its Coffee Club events Friday, Aug. 17, at MediLodge of Milford (above), a rehabilitation/nursing home located at 555 Highland Ave. in Milford. A leading orthopedic and neuro rehabilitation center since its opening in early 2009, MediLodge of Milford is a newly renovated facility that includes a fully-equipped Nautilus gym to provide customized physical, occupational and speech therapy. The chamber’s Coffee Club events are monthly morning mixers held at member businesses for little or no fee. To learn more, contact the chamber at 248-685-7129 or visit www.huronvcc.com. (Photo submitted by Jennifer Barrett/Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce)

the aisle with the dogs to be adopted. The entrance fee is $2 per person, and seniors and children under 7 are $1. For more information call Shades Above Salon and Spa at 248-6237965 or visit www. shadesabovesalon.com. ❐ Kevin Lawrence, manager of the White Lake Farmer’s Market, would like to thank the local businesses and vendors of the White Lake Farmer’s Market that contributed to the market basket that was valued at over $200 on Hog Days at the market, as they work together on the economic growth and development of their community: The Root Restaurant and Bar, Waterfalls Jewelry, White Lake Supermarket, Huron Valley Recreation and Community Education, Stone Cold Statuary (White Lake Farmer’s Market), Dairy Queen of White Lake, Flowers on the Lakes, Wine Basket, Classic Coney, White Lake Township Parks and Recreation, Pomodoro, Judy Rose (White Lake Farmer’s Market), and Bonnie George (White Lake Farmer’s Market).

chamber notes ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of Chamber events, visit www.huronvcc.com: • Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Milford 5th annual Crazy Putt-Putt, Wednesday, Sept. 12 (rain date, Wednesday, Sept. 19), Kensington Mills Falls behind Holden’s Party Store, 2055 S. Milford Road, Milford. Check-in at 5:30 p.m. Starts promptly at 6:15 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Western Oakland Meals on Wheels. Cost: $30 per person, or Early Bird Special if paid before Saturday, Sept. 1 only $25 per person. Includes: 18 holes of Crazy Putt-Putt, drinks (beer, wine and pop) and appetizers during putt-putt. After putt-putt, chicken and potato wedge buffet dinner, awards and mingling. Sponsorship opportunities still available: Hole Sponsor only $75; Appetizer Sponsor $300; Dinner Sponsor $300; and Beverage Sponsor $300. Reservations required — 21years-old and over only! Presenting

sponsors currently include Hines Park Ford and Milford House Bar & Grill. • Brewed in Michigan, 7 to 10 p.m., Sept. 28, Bakers of Milford, 2025 S. Milford Road, Milford. Cost, $25 advance purchase or $35 the week of event. Ticket price includes 12 pours of great local beer, six food taste tickets, and a souvenir mug. Additional pours available for purchase. After Party from 9 p.m. to midnight in the Baker’s bar. Wheelhouse will be rocking the crowd along with great Michigan beer specials. The event sold out last year. Get your ticket today at the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce, Bakers of Milford or Pine Ridge Market. Presenting sponsors: LaFontaine Automotive Group, thefamilydeal.com, Pine Ridge Winery (home of over 800 beers in stock), and Baker’s of Milford. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more information or to purchase your tickets, contact 248-685-7129. • Chamber Challenge Networking Mixer, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Oct. 9, Fiesta Fajitas, 4835 Carroll Lake Road, Commerce (at the corner of Commerce and Carroll Lake roads). Appetizers PAGE 23 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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AUGUST 29, 2012

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PAGE 23

LOCAL MATTERS

WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL

You have a choice! Spend it here. Keep it here.

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 21

provided. Cash bar. Reservations required. Contact 248-685-7129. Join the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce for this multi-Chamber mixer with a twist. At the last mixer, the Huron Valley Chamber took home the Challenge Cup by having more members in attendance than the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Help them keep the cup. ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced that the following businesses have joined its membership ranks: • Hoot Gallery & Art Market, Sarah Barnett, 417 N. Main Street, Milford, hootgiftgallery@gmail.com. Phone: 248-714-9633. Art market. • Sanctuary at White Lake, A Trinity Senior Living Community, 10770 Elizabeth Lake Road, White Lake, julie@nemethmarketing.com, www.trinityseniorsanctuary.org. Phone: 248-618-4100 and 248-459-1664. Senior living community/nursing care/ rehabilitation services. • Verizon of Milford, Ross Sheleh, 525 N. Main Street, Milford, newhudson103@gmail.com. Phone: 586-8084000. Cellular phones. ❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call

248-624-2826 or visit www.lakesareachamber.com. • 1st Friday at Planet Fitness, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 7, 31124 Beck Road, Novi. Complementary early morning networking opportunity. • Government Affairs meeting, 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 7, chamber offices, 305 N. Pontiac Trail, Suite A, Walled Lake, 248-624-2826. ❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce has announced that the following businesses have joined its membership ranks: • Lipten Company, 28054 Center Oaks Court, Wixom, Caryn Robinson. 248-374-8910, construction. • Accelerated Rehab, 3050 Union Lake Road, Suite 3C, Commerce, Kathy Pepper. 248-363-8267, physical/occupational therapy. • Fifth Third Bank, 4747 Haggerty Road, West Bloomfield, Bryan Reedy. 248-624-8999, banking. • Kaye Financial, 8115 Licklin Lane, Commerce, Christopher Platt. 248538-3248, financial services. • Wal-Mart, Ingersol Drive, Novi, Tracy Irons. 248-476-4391, retail store. • Home Depot No. 2729, 9078 Highland Road, White Lake, Bill Moran. 248-698-4801, retail/department store. • Insight Business Coaching, 28345 Beck Road, Suite 402, Wixom, Kassy Voorheis. 248-449-5100, consulting. • Synergetic Marketing, 4305 Pineview Drive, Commerce, Tom Bellar. 800-796-3743, marketing. ❐ The Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-666-8600 or visit www.waterfordchamber.org. • The USS Constitution in the War of 1812 with Larry Hathcock, 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9, 405 Cesar E. Chavez Ave, Waterford. Larry Hathcock, a U.S. Navy veteran, will describe the construction of USS Constitution and its role in the War of 1812. Admission $5. Refreshments provided. ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-626-3636 or visit www.westbloomfieldchamber.com. • Grub Crawl 2012, 5 to 10 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 13. The chamber is looking to secure sponsors for our 8th annual Grub Crawl. Sponsorship levels range from $100 to $1,000. Contact the office for additional information on how your company can participate.

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PAGE 24

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL

Support yourself and your community – shop locally! The choices that you make about where to shop are powerful statements to your community. By choosing locally owned & operated businesses, you support: Schools • Police and Fire • Libraries • Parks & Recreation • Roads If you purchase from non-locally owned and operated businesses or the internet, tax dollars are going to someone else’s community - possibly in a completely different state. Invest in our future – buy local, live local, and volunteer local too.

You have a choice! Spend it here. Keep it here.

AUGUST 29, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 25

PUBLIC SAFETY Milford police detain two illegal immigrants A Toyota stopped by the Milford Police Department on Tuesday, Aug. 21 reportedly contained two illegal immigrants. The incident started when an officer noticed an unoccupied black Toyota at the terminus of Garden Road. The officer had been parked across the street and saw the Toyota fail to stop while turning at an intersection. The driver had an expired license from Guatemala and an unofficial state identification card, each with different names, as well as an international license. The car’s passenger had an expired state license and reportedly admitted that both occupants were in the country illegally. According to a Milford Police Department report, the passenger also said the driver paid money with a friend to be transported to the U.S. by a human “coyote.” The driver was arrested for driving while never acquiring a license and was jailed. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Immigration’s Chicago Field Office issued a detainer to take custody of the driver. The passenger was released, according to Police Lieutenant Matthew Brumm. ❏

No one injured in gas leak in W. Bloomfield West Bloomfield Fire Department officials responded to a reported gas leak outside of a nursing home at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 24. Crews from four fire stations were dispatched to the Heartland of West Bloomfield nursing home on Farmington Road after contractors accidentally struck and ruptured a gas line. Consumers Energy was immediately called and firefighters relocated approximately 20 residents to an isolated location inside the building while fire crews monitored oxygen and gas levels. The Bloomfield Township Fire Department was also requested for mutual aid services and several ambulances were on stand-by near the nursing home in case of a full evacuation. Consumers Energy stopped the leak at 11:25 a.m. and no injuries were reported. Repairs have been made and the facility is operating normally. ❏

‘Suspicious’ apartment fire in Wixom probed Wixom firefighters extinguished a fire at the Stoneridge apartment com-

There was still fire burning beneath the rubble of Lakewood Lanes (above) over 12 hours after a blaze on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 23 destroyed the Waterford Township bowling alley that had been in business for over 80 years. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Kirk Pinho)

Bowling alley a total loss Blaze destroys Lakewood Lanes in Waterford Township By Tim Dmoch editor

ll that remains of Lakewood Lanes in Waterford Township is rubble and debris several feet high. Waterford firefighters battled a blaze that erupted on Thursday, Aug. 23 and destroyed Lakewood Lanes, located on M-59 east of Elizabeth Lake Road. According to Waterford Fire Captain John Lyman, there was still fire beneath the rubble over 12 hours after the fire started at the bowling alley built in 1930, and bulldozers were expected be brought in during the morning of Friday, Aug. 24 to help firefighters get at the remaining hot spots. Firefighters were called to the scene between 8:30 and 8:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23. They attempted an interior attack upon arrival, but determined there was a danger of collapse and quickly exited the building. plex on Wednesday, Aug. 23. The fire was contained to an apartment unit in the 30000 block of Stoneridge. According to Fire Chief Jeff Roberts, a burning odor was reported to the maintenance staff and was subsequently investigated. The staff identified smoke and immediately contacted 911. Wixom firefighters responded within 5 minutes. “We engaged in extinguishing the fire and called in Wixom police and the Oakland County fire investigators to determine the cause,” Roberts said.

Lyman said the bowling alley’s roof and western wall both collapsed. Eastbound M-59 traffic was reduced to one lane between Elizabeth Lake Road and just west of Voorheis, after all lanes of M-59 in both directions along that span had been closed through much of the overnight period between Aug. 23 and Aug. 24. One firefighter suffered a minor shoulder injury while fighting the blaze and has been released from an area hospital following treatment, according to Lyman. He said firefighters from West Bloomfield and Bloomfield townships assisted in the response, while Waterford Township police handled traffic control in the area. Lyman said the bowling alley was unoccupied at the time the fire began. The Lakewood Lanes website states that the bowling alley had been closed for the summer and was scheduled to reopen on Wednesday, Aug. 15. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. ❏

The fire was extinguished within 10 minutes. There were no injuries reported, and the apartment sustained moderate fire damage. No one other than the tenant was displaced. The fire is being called “suspicious” and is still under investigation. ❏

Fight over how to fix car yields arrest for assault West Bloomfield police officers responded to two male subjects fighting in the front yard of the residence

they share on Lafay Drive on Wednesday, Aug. 22. According to a West Bloomfield Police Department report, a 39-yearold man and a 45-year-old man were working on a car and had a disagreement on how it should be fixed. The two men had been living together at the residence for 15 years, according to the report. The 39-year-old was arrested for domestic assault after he allegedly pushed the other man to the ground, causing him to hit his head on the porch. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

TRANSPORTATION

Unused Tri-party funds available to OC communities By Leslie Shepard staff writer

The Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), in conjunction with the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, has put out a one-time call to county communities seeking road improvement projects that could be constructed this year or next with $2.9 million in unused Tri-party Program funds. “The county Board of Commissioners wants to make sure these dollars are used to improve our roads, and do not languish in a bank account,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Mike Gingell (R-Lake Orion). “I am very pleased that we are ensuring that these dollars will be put to good use as quickly as possible.” The Tri-party Program involves onethird funding from Oakland County, onethird from the RCOC and one-third from the community. Projects are selected by the communities on RCOC roads with the approval of the road commission. In recent years, the program has had an annual budget of $3 million, based on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners’ budgeting of $1 million toward it. However, due to the economy, over the last several years some communities have not been able to utilize their share of Tri-party dollars because they could not provide the local match, resulting in the one-time

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availability of the $2.9 million in unused funds. “Many communities used their funds previously, but we have unused dollars of $2.9 million,” said RCOC Spokesperson Craig Bryson. “If a particular community doesn’t use their money, we will make it available to others who need it.” Board of Road Commissioners Chairman Eric Wilson said that, given the worsening condition of Oakland

County roads resulting from years of declining state road funding, it’s important to make sure every available dollar is invested in the system. “This effort lets those communities who have available matching funds move ahead with badly needed projects,” Wilson said. Communities interested in applying for some of the available funds are asked to submit a request identifying the project and amount of funding

needed to the road commission by Wednesday, Sept. 5. All Oakland County communities have been notified of this opportunity. The communities must be willing to proceed with the projects this year or next and the projects must address either the surface condition of a county road or improve the safety of the county road network. The RCOC will select the projects that receive the available funding. ❏

New road closure on Maple

PONTIAC TRAIL (Walled Lake) • Notes: The Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) is continuing its reconstruction efforts on Pontiac Trail between West Maple Road and South Commerce Road. • Closures: During the project, Pontiac Trail will remain open, but will be reduced to one lane in each direction. West Maple is expected to close at the east side of Pontiac Trail on Tuesday, Sept. 4 and remain closed until approximately Sept. 19. During the closure, the detour route for West Maple traffic is Decker Road to Pontiac Trail, and vice versa. • Completion date: November. • Cost: $2.6 million. JOHN STREET (Highland Township) • Notes: The project calls for pulverizing the pavement and applying a hot mix asphalt overlay. There will also be drainage improvements. • Closure: The roadway will be closed for the duration of the project. • Detour: Livingston Road to Milford Road to M-59, and vice versa. • Completion date: Sept. 19. • Cost: $228,000. ORCHARD LAKE ROAD (Farmington Hills/West Bloomfield Township border) • Notes: The RCOC has begun work on this resurfacing project on Orchard Lake Road between 13 Mile Road and 14 Mile Road. • Closure: The five-lane road will be reduced to one lane open in each direction, which is expected to cause traffic delays. The road will remain reduced to one open lane in each direction for the duration of the project. • Completion date: Oct. 3. • Cost: $1.4 million. COMMERCE ROAD (Commerce Township) • Notes: The project involves reconstruction of the

roadway, as well as traffic signal upgrades and drainage improvements. Motorists should expect delays. Commerce Road between Carroll Lake and Union Lake roads is now open to traffic. • Detour: Union Lake Road to Wise Road to Carroll Lake Road, and vice versa. • Completion date: Sept. 15. • Cost: $2.6 million. COOLEY LAKE ROAD (Milford, Highland, White Lake, and Commerce townships) • Closure: Cooley Lake Road, east of Duck Lake to Mystic Valley. • Notes: A gravel road paving project is underway on Cooley Lake Road, east of Duck Lake to Mystic Valley, in Milford, Highland, White Lake, and Commerce townships. • Detour: Duck Lake Road to Commerce Road to Carey Road, and vice versa. • Completion date: November. • Cost: $4.4 million. BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: I-96 EAST OF MILFORD ROAD, WEST OF KENT LAKE ROAD (Milford) • Notes: A series of bridge reconstruction projects are being facilitated in the area and carried out in phases. Crews are currently constructing the inside of the Milford Road bridge and continuing efforts on the Kent Lake bridge (I-96 over Kent Lake Road) as well as the Huron River Trail bridge (I-96 over Huron River Trail). By Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 3, the I-96 driving surface of these bridges on the eastbound side will be completed; however, the westbound side will not be finished until midSeptember. Crews must also remove all temporary measures in place to retain three traffic lanes, including restoring shoulders and building barrier walls. Therefore, lane restrictions will remain in place until mid- to late-October. Each bridge project is being reconstructed in phases so three lanes are maintained on I-96 at all times. • Completion date: October. • Cost: $15.5 million.

AUGUST 29, 2012

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ENVIRONMENT

EHD deer deaths confirmed in eight Michigan counties By Angela Niemi staff writer

Officials in Orchard Lake are concerned about the timing of a reconstruction of the state Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) boat launch on the city’s namesake given that they feel the DNR didn’t give them ample notice of the closure that takes effect after the Monday, Sept. 3 Labor Day holiday. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Access site work Boat launch to temporarily close By Leslie Shepard staff writer

he state Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) public launch site on Orchard Lake is slated for major renovation after Labor Day, and the timing couldn’t be worse, according to Orchard Lake city officials. The access site off of Orchard Lake Road just north of Pontiac Trail will be temporarily closed from Tuesday, Sept. 4 through mid-October. “It’s not that we don’t understand the need, but we’ve had very little notice,” said Mayor Bruce McIntyre. “The real problem is that most residents have boats removed (from the water from) late September to early October. Especially (with) pontoons, they may need to be hauled out and may have difficulty scheduling (to have them removed from the lake).” A letter by DNR Regional Field Planner Kristen Bennett says that the site is in dire need of immediate repairs. The project includes redesigning the launch area for increased maneuverability, paving the driveway and parking lot, increasing accessibility, and adding landscaping consisting of native species and an eco-friendly rain garden that will absorb run-off before it reaches the lake. Bio-logs will help ensure shoreline stabilization. Bennett stated that the DNR intends to make some weekends available for retrieval of boats off of Orchard Lake during the project. Jodi Nieschulz, supervisor at Dodge Park No. 4, said that “While the site will be closed during construction, every attempt will be made to keep it open on the weekends when feasible.” However, McIntyre has asked the DNR to delay construction until Oct. 1 so riparians are given ample time to remove their boats from the lake. “We just want it delayed a month and the DNR is saying they can’t do that, but people need notice to take their boats out,” he said. Bennett said that due to the amount of construction that needs to occur before the site can be paved and the unpredictability of weather, the DNR can’t push the project any later into the fall and guarantee that the access site will be ready in the spring. In the meantime, McIntyre has called on the help of state Rep. Chuck Moss (R-Orchard Lake) to convene a meeting between the city and the DNR to address the issue, possibly on Friday, Aug. 31. The DNR plans to post signs at the site, and keep Orchard Lake municipal offices apprised of what weekends following Labor Day boaters will be permitted to remove boats via the access site. The city is also in the process of notifying riparians of the reconstruction project at the site. ❏

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been determined as the cause of recent deer deaths in Ionia and Branch counties, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health. Since then, both confirmed EHD in six other counties: Barry, Calhoun, Cass, Clinton, Eaton, and Montcalm. EHD is an infectious, often fatal viral disease transmitted through biting flies and gnats. Outbreaks in Michigan have occurred in 1955, 1974, and 2006. According to the DNR, isolated outbreaks have occurred almost every year since 2006, including in 2008 in the Rochester Hills area along the Clinton River. Between 50 and 1,000 deer die per year in affected areas. The DNR says there has been an increase nationwide in EHD outbreaks due to extended hot and dry conditions

this year. “We are seeing a large die-off of deer in local areas. To date we have over 900 reports of dead deer across all counties,” said Tom Cooley, a DNR wildlife biologist and pathologist. “Although it is difficult to see so many dead deer, this is still a localized issue and the regional deer population should not be impacted.” EHD causes extensive internal bleeding within deer and typically has a sudden onset. Deer lose their appetite and fear of humans, grow progressively weaker, salivate excessively and finally become unconscious. Due to a high fever, infected deer often are found sick or dead along or in bodies of water. There is no evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus, and there is no known effective treatment. Losses from EHD may be severe, causing a noticeable dip in the deer population in the affected area, but the population rebounds with time. If you find dead deer, contact your local DNR office, which can be found at michigan.gov/wildlifedisease. For more information on the disease, go to michigan.gov/wildlifedisease. ❏

lake levels LAKE LEVELS Following are the lake level readings for lakes and rivers across the western Oakland lakes area, as compiled by Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch’s office. Legal levels are denoted by elevation in feet from sea level; current levels are denoted as plus or minus the legal in hundredths of feet. River depths are measures from the river bottom, at point of measurement. WATERWAYS Cass Cedar Island Commerce Dawson Mill Pond Duck Fox Huron River Long Loon* Maceday-Lotus Middle & Lower Straits Mohawk Oakland-Woodhull Orchard Oxbow Pontiac Shawood-Walled Lake Schoolhouse Scott Sylvan-Otter Union Upper Straits Watkins White Williams

LEGAL LEVEL 929.22 934.00 906.80 928.60 1016.63 930.00 1.08 933.00 949.30 966.70 930.70 949.30 957.50 930.50 942.75 962.83 932.80 949.30 951.00 928.60 927.07 930.80 950.00 1019.10 965.42

8/10/12 –.01 +.30 +.17 Legal –.11 –.02 –.18 +.15 –.37 –.09 –.52 –.30 +.08 –.62 –.50 –.58 –.68 –.30 –1.70 Legal –1.70 –.46 –.07 –.10 –.59

8/17/12 +.39 +.46 +.51 +.37 +.12 +.15 +.14 +.30 +.42 +.08 –.35 +.48 +.32 –.30 +.37 –.03 –.60 +.48 –1.47 +.39 +.35 –.32 +.12 +.15 –.30

*Reading for Loon Lake, in Waterford Township, also applies to Mohawk–Wormer Schoolhouse, Silver and Upper Silver Lakes.

8/24/12 +.29 +.39 +.23 +.30 +.07 +.08 Legal +.10 +.37 –.09 –.28 +.48 +.18 –.33 +.15 –.12 –.70 +.47 –1.59 +.29 +.21 –.41 Legal +.05 –.30

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UPDATE

Board torpedoes effort to rescind lobbyist contract By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

Oakland County’s contract with a lobbying firm that has drawn the ire of some on the Board of Commissioners is safe for now. Commissioner Marcia Gershenson (D-West Bloomfield) and other Democrats sponsored a resolution to rescind the county’s two-year pact with Public Affairs Associates, a Lansing-based lobbying firm, but it was quashed in a 16-8 party-line vote by the full Board of Commissioners on Thursday, Aug. 23. Gershenson said last week that she was disappointed in the board’s decision after the General Government Committee earlier this month voted to rescind the contract by a 6-1 vote. “We were able to get enough votes (in committee) to rescind the contract because it did not go through the proper procedure,” she said. “It was not vetted, we didn’t vote on it, and it was a highly inappropriate decision.” Board of Commissioners Chairman Mike Gingell (R-Lake Orion) “administratively” extended the board’s contract with Public Affairs Associates — which took effect on June 30 and runs through June 30, 2014 — without a vote of the county board in June. The firm is paid $60,000 per year. Commissioner John Scott (RWaterford, West Bloomfield) said he was in favor of doing away with the board lobbyist contract but voted against rescinding it because he viewed the Democrats’ resolution as a political maneuver directed at Gingell. “It was erroneous attack on our chairman and challenging his authority to extend the contract, which he does have,” Scott said. Commissioner Jim Runestad (RWaterford, White Lake) agreed. “The legal counsel came in, the Purchasing Division came in, basically the entire administration came in to rebut that to say that he absolutely did have the authority to sign that (extension),” Runestad said. Scott has said in the past that the county belongs to the Michigan Association for Counties, which does lobbying work for Oakland County. In addition, the county Executive’s Office and county Water Resources Commissioner’s Office contracts for PAGE 30 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Sixty-eight percent of the inmates scheduled for sentence reductions due to an overcrowding emergency at the Oakland County Jail had been convicted of misdemeanor offenses, while the remaining 32 percent were convicted of felonies. Nearly 230 inmates are slated for early releases. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Inmates’ sentences reduced Over 200 offenders to be set free due to jail overcrowding By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

ver 200 inmates at the Oakland County Jail have received sentence reductions after a jail overcrowding emergency forced county officials to reduce the inmates’ sentences, the second time in five months such an emergency prompted the early release of jail inmates. According to Oakland County Circuit Court Administrator Kevin Oeffner, the formal jail overcrowding emergency was declared on Aug. 8. After that, Chief Circuit Court Judge Nancy J. Grant put together a list of 228 inmates who did not pose a high threat risk to the public and who would be eligible for sentence reductions of between 40 and 45 percent. Of those inmates, 115 (68 percent) had been convicted of misdemeanor offenses, while 73 (32 percent) had been convicted of felony offenses, Oeffner said. Under state law, the jail has to be brought to 25 inmates below its maximum inmate capacity of 1,520 inmates following a jail overcrowding emergency declaration. Just shy of half of those 228 inmates’ sentences were reduced by a high enough percentage on Wednesday, Aug. 22 that their release was immediate. It was unclear how

long it would take to get the remaining 115 of the inmates released from the Oakland County Jail. Under state law, a formal jail overcrowding emergency is declared when the jail’s inmate population exceeds capacity for seven consecutive days. Within two weeks of such an emergency being declared, the county is required to do whatever it can within legal means to reduce the jail population to below its maximum capacity. Until March, the county had for several years kept the jail’s inmate population under its maximum capacity following a spate of nine jail overcrowding emergencies between 2005 and 2007. Thousands of non-violent inmates lodged at the Oakland County Jail had their sentences reduced because of such emergencies during that time period. Oeffner said a number of factors could have contributed to the second jail overcrowding emergency this year, including a budget cut of over $16 million that prompted a work release program that averaged about 150 participating inmates to be reconfigured into a virtual work release program. The jail overcrowding emergency in March prompted the early release of 227 inmates who did not pose a high risk to the public. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

UPDATE

Lobbyist pact ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 29

lobbying services, according to Scott. In addition, some have argued in the past that, because the county commission has members who are former state legislators and many former commissioners are now lawmakers serving in Lansing, having a lobbyist specifically for the county’s governing body provides no added benefits. ❏

Driver, 31, faces jail time for crash injuring Patterson By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

The driver who allegedly caused a crash that resulted in serious injuries to Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson could face up to three months in jail. The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office last week announced three misdemeanor charges of committing a moving violation resulting in serious impairment of a bodily function against 31year-old Royal Oak resident Anthony Prainito, the driver of a Volkswagen Passat that collided with the Chrysler 300 Patterson, 73, Patterson was riding in during the Aug. 10 crash at the intersection of Walton Boulevard and Opdyke Road in Auburn Hills. Patterson, who Auburn Hills police said was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, suffered a broken femur, broken hip, two broken wrists and a laceration

to his forehead. Patterson’s driver, 60-year-old Jim Cram, also suffered serious injuries. “The driver of the other vehicle has been charged with negligent driving causing serious injury to Brooks, Jim, and the passenger of the other car,” said Deputy County Executive Gerald Poisson in a statement. “The Executive Office thanks Auburn Hills police for their professionalism in conducting a thorough investigation. This matter is now in the hands of the courts.” Prainito and his passenger, identified last week as 51-year-old Raymond Recchia — who was the only person wearing a seatbelt in the accident — were also injured in the crash. The Prosecutor’s Office stated that under the circumstances of the case, it cannot issue a civil infraction citation to any of the three who were unrestrained in the crash because under state law, most civil infractions are initiated by the law enforcement officials writing the citation. Patterson, first elected as Oakland County executive in 1992 after serving 16 years as the county prosecutor, remains in McLaren Oakland Hospital in Pontiac recovering from the injuries that required three surgeries to repair, according to Bill Mullan, the county’s media and communications officer. Police said it appears that the Volkswagen failed to yield the rightof-way, causing the crash. Police also said they did not suspect alcohol or drugs to be a factor in the accident. Patterson’s vehicle, driven by Cram, was traveling eastbound on Walton when it entered the road’s intersection with Opdyke on a green green traffic signal. It struck the Passat driven by Prainito. ❏

CITY OF WALLED LAKE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. C-304-12 An amendment to the ordinance of the City of Walled Lake Code of Ordinances, Chapter 26 sections 26-26, 26-27 and 26-29 regarding the Downtown Development Authority of the City of Walled Lake. A copy of these amendments in their entirety is availabe for public use and inspection at the office of the City Clerk, 1499 E. West Maple Road, Walled Lake, MI, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday.

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We’ve Gone

DIGITAL!

11th District GOP nominee to be picked Sept. 5 By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

Voters in several west Oakland County communities will head to the polls on Wednesday, Sept. 5 to decide who should be the Republican nominee in a special primary election held in the wake of former U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter’s resignation from Congress. Squaring off in the special GOP primary election are Milford Republican Kerry Bentivolio; former state Sen. Nancy Cassis of Novi; and Kenneth Crider, Carolyn Kavanagh, and Steve King, all of Livonia. David A. Curson of Belleville is the lone Democrat who filed to run for the current 11th Congressional District seat that McCotter vacated in July following a petition signature scandal that earlier this month resulted in felony and misdemeanor charges being filed against four former members of his Livonia office staff. The five Republicans are running for the right to take on Curson in the Nov. 6 special general election — held in conjunction with the regular general election — that will determine who serves the remaining weeks of McCotter’s unexpired two-year term. In the Aug. 7 primary election, Bentivolio — the only Republican whose name appeared on the ballot in that contest — handily dismissed a write-in challenge by Cassis, the former chairwoman of the state Senate Republican Caucus tapped by GOP kingmakers in Oakland and Wayne counties to run against Bentivolio, a former teacher and war veteran whose policy stances in some areas left bad tastes in the mouths of the Republican establishment. Cassis last week said she would not actively campaign for the GOP nomination to be decided during the special primary election. “The voters will go to the polls, see the names that are on the ballot, and our democratic process will work itself out as it has done for over 200 years in our great nation,” Cassis stated in an e-mail. “It’s time to lay our differences aside and work to get our Republican ticket elected in November starting with Mitt Romney.” Bentivolio, three weeks removed from a convincing primary election victory, has been trumpeting the support he’s received since then from

GOP leadership after many had publicly supported Cassis. Among the endorsements Bentivolio has notched in recent weeks include Gov. Rick Snyder, Lieutenant Gov. Brian Calley, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, U.S. Rep. Ron Paul, state Rep. Chuck Moss (R-Orchard Lake), and Oakland County Commissioners John Scott (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield) and Bob Hoffman (RHighland), among others. Next week’s special primary election, which is expected to cost the state and local units of government $650,000, was necessitated after McCotter abruptly stepped down following a campaign petition signature scandal that resulted in charges against Don Yowchuang, his former deputy district director; Paul Seewald, his former district director; Mary Melissa Turnbull, his former district representative; and Lorainne O’Brady, his former scheduler. It was revealed that of the approximately 1,800 petition signatures submitted earlier this year to the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office as part of McCotter’s candidate paperwork filing process, only a few hundred were legitimate. The investigator’s report into the petition signature scandal that effectively destroyed McCotter’s political career states that “evidence indicates similar fraudulent petition schemes were used in prior elections,” not just in 2012. Members of Congress serve twoyear terms and are paid $174,000 annually. The current 11th Congressional District represents White Lake, Highland, Milford, Commerce, Wolverine Lake, Walled Lake, Wixom, and the northwestern corner of Waterford, plus others in Wayne and Oakland counties. ❏

CLOSED DOORS The West Bloomfield Schools Board of Education held a closed session on Monday, Aug. 27 regarding employee evaluations. No action was taken on the matter after the school board returned to public session. ❏

AUGUST 29, 2012

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PAGE 31

MAIL BAG

Debunking criticisms From White Lake Township Clerk Terry Lilley: I would like to thank all of you that have both supported and voted for me in the past primary election. I will continue to work with our current and future Board of Trustees members in meeting the future needs and expectations of our residents to continue making White Lake Township the best place to live, work and play. I am surprised that this election cycle has produced so many inaccurate, unfounded and unsubstantiated accusations regarding the election process that have been directed at the township Clerk’s Office. As your clerk before this election and now your reelected clerk, I must say that I have no problem facing unfair criticism about myself; however, I will not tolerate the outright lies and unfounded innuendoes and accusations about our election process. During the past year there have been many legislative changes concerning elections; most of them had to be implemented this election cycle. My staff has spent many hours preparing election materials and training over 80 local volunteers who actually conduct

NextCat

the election process. They have all taken the oath of office to support the constitution of the United Sates, and the constitution of this state, to faithfully discharge the duties of election inspector. Each precinct is manned with both Republican and Democratic representatives validating the completeness of their responsibility and they must all sign the appropriate paperwork to finish their work. While my staff is here at 5:30 a.m. on election morning, our poll workers start at 6 a.m. in order to have the polls open at 7 a.m. Polls close at 8 p.m. and the paperwork begins. Many do not return back to the township offices until 9:30 p.m. or so. After our precinct captains return, each precinct goes through and processes their precinct information at the receiving board: One process to make sure all paperwork is complete, the other process is to separate the paperwork for the township clerk, Oakland County clerk and Oakland County canvassing board. At this point our 80-plus workers have been on the job for at least 16 hours, and most are tired and exhausted but have done an excellent job for the clerk. As election night went on, people in the township hall were provided printed results of each of the 12

precincts as they came in. They were told specifically that those results did not include absentee votes. The paperwork never changed. There was a computer problem getting the absentee ballot votes to merge with the precinct votes, but only a computer problem. Our paperwork had to be complete and accurate before any further results could be given to the public and the candidates. When we were sure of the results, they were reported and those results have never changed. After finally delivering the results to the Oakland County Clerk’s Office, I arrived home at 3 a.m. While I can stand the whining and sniffling of a few candidates, and/or their supporters, I will not tolerate the unfair criticism of any of my staff or our poll workers who depend on the White Lake Township Clerk’s Office to be fair, considerate, accountable and responsible for all elections. All of the candidate winners and nonwinners spend a lot of time and money to represent their constituents; however, now the people have made their choices and it is time to move forward. It is time to continue making white Lake Township a great place to live, work and play. ❏

‘A moral imperative’ From Denise “Chip” Black, Ed.D, Milford: Although not a conservative, recently I visited a Tea Party meeting, looking to discover kindred beliefs. As expected, I did find some connections. Both Tea Party members and myself share a love of God, family, and country. The difference, however, is how we think this love should be translated into public policy. Loving one another is the most basic commandment in the Bible. I believe that this can easily be translated into public policy leading to social justice, economic fairness, environmental stewardship, and animal welfare. From this perspective, taxes are not evil; they are a moral imperative. Individual rights and liberty must be balanced with the needs of the community. Therefore, I urge people to listen to each other, to try to find a common base, and to connect with one another. If we fail to reach out to one another, our country will continue to be divided. Our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren deserve better.

By Colin Bartlett

Hey, Professor Pounce! What’s going on, making mud?

No ... well ... yes, but I’m actually fracking for natural gas, but instead of a hydraulic fracturer, I’m using my garden hose.

Natural gas, you say? Cha-Ching!

You idiots! Don’t you know fracking is bad for the environment?!

AROUND THE LAKES AREA

WE’RE ASKING… "I have three kids, so I'll spend just as much this year as I have in the past.”

— Debrah Zimmerman, Milford

Uh... since when?

A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly

Do you plan on spending more or less on school supplies this year?

"I'll spend less because in the higher grades, they require less and most everything is online."

— Lisa Kelley, Milford

Since ... uh ... you know ... potentially!

"(I'll spend more) because of the demand to get the right stuff. You want the right paper, the right crayons. It's important." — John Wojik, Highland

"I would say it would be less. We planned ahead and got it over the summer."

— David Onofrio, Milford

PAGE 32

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Cassis

Dean

A collection of gossip, scuttlebutt, and odds and ends from our reporters’ notebooks. HERE COMES MONEY BOO BOO? Nope. At least not according to Nancy Cassis, the former state senator who as a write-in candidate attacked Republican Congressional nominee Kerry Bentivolio — remember the foreboding “Krazy Kerry” literature and TV spots that peppered your mailboxes and flat-screens? — during her write-in campaign for the 11th U.S. House District seat. The Novi Republican who ponied up $200,000 of her own moolah during the campaign indicated last week that she’s not eying yet another write-in shot at the, ahem, esteemed U.S. House of Representatives. “Do you know someone with a million dollars” to fund a write-in general election campaign, she rhetorically asked an Oakland Confidential scribe. Sure we do, Nancy, but not personally (Mitt Romney might have a little bit of pocket change, we hear). If we had the ear of a bajillionaire or two, we’d probably be hitting them up for some cash, too (the dolla makes us holla). And with the special 11th Congressional District primary election for the Elephants coming up a week from today — as made necessary by former U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter’s resignation — Cassis said she doesn’t plan on actively campaigning for the GOP nod — she’s just letting the election run its course and letting the chips fall where they may. DIDN’T THINK WE’D SEE THAT: Remember a few months ago when 51st District Court candidate Andrea Dean — not to mention a spate of Republican local and state lawmakers — vowed to keep their political signage safely stowed in a cubby somewhere until 30 days before the election? Well, last time we checked, the Nov. 6 general election Dean is running in against Judge Jodi Debbrecht is over two months away, yet there were “Dean for Judge” signs on Elizabeth Lake Road in

Scott

Meisner

Waterford, and elsewhere in the community. Was there a change of heart? Absolutely not, Dean said. “This is why I have to do things by myself,” she chuckled, adding that she would “absolutely” remove the signs by the end of the day yesterday, Tuesday, Aug. 28. JOHN SCOTT VS. JOHN SCOTT: No, the Republican county commissioner representing Waterford and West Bloomfield didn’t clone himself — it might just seem that way on the Nov. 6 general election ballot. Here’s the 4-11. John Scott, the incumbent commissioner, has an independent challenger in — you guessed it — John Scott, who filed to run for county commissioner in July. Because of what could pretty easily be seen as a confusing choice for 5th District voters, Scott — the one who is already serving on the county commission — asked for a clarifying designation to appear next to his name on the November ballot. He said county poobahs ruled unanimously that he could have one, so it doesn’t seem like there will be too much bewilderment on behalf of his supporters. That is, unless a third John Scott decides to run as a write-in candidate. CROSSING THE AISLE: We know, we know, Oakland Confidential has been on a bit of a bipartisanship bender lately, but we genuinely enjoy it. So here’s the latest on the getting-along-acrossparty-lines front: County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, a Republican; county Treasurer Andy Meisner, a Democrat; county Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch, a Republican; and county Clerk/Register of Deeds Bill Bullard, Jr. have all endorsed the five incumbent Circuit Court judges running against a pair of challengers in the Nov. 6 general election. The five jurists — Michael Warren, Denise LangfordMorris, Leo Bowman, Phyllis McMillen and Wendy Potts — are diverse politically, but they seem to have rounded up a solid backing behind what their proponents are calling the Unity Slate. More on that later. ❏

AUGUST 29, 2012

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PAGE 33

IN OUR OPINION

Islamic cultural center in WB Keep approval process dispassionate, even-handed

est Bloomfield Township has become just the latest in a string of communities across the country grappling with issues surrounding the arrival of a proposed Islamic cultural center, and as in other locales, it has not been without its share of controversy, particularly following the reported line of questioning posited by some on the township Planning Commission. Asking questions is all well and good, but it’s incumbent upon township officials — not to mention residents — to keep their eyes on the ball and evaluate the proposal fairly, not letting religious or political issues taint the process by which the proposed cultural center is evaluated and ultimately approved or scuttled. Members of the West Bloomfield Planning Commission and Wetland Review Board are expected on Sunday, Sept. 9 to visit the former Farmington Public Schools Eagle Elementary School site in West Bloomfield, a visit that was requested earlier this month before voting on approval of a site plan and a special land use permit for the cultural center, which would be located on the northwest corner of Middlebelt and 14 Mile roads. In addition, a floodplain review for a stormwater management system is under consideration. Those issues are expected to be revisited at the Planning Commission’s Oct. 23 meeting. At play is the repurposing of a shuttered school on a site that encompasses 9.55 acres and would include a 13,102-square-foot addition — consisting of a mosque, lobby and multi-purpose room — to the existing 38,860-square-foot structure, bringing the building’s size to nearly 52,000 square feet. If the commission approves the matters before it,

its recommendation for the cultural center would then be sent before the township Board of Trustees for final approval. The Islamic Cultural Association, now located in Franklin, purchased the former Eagle Elementary School from the Farmington Public School District for $1.1 million, but some took umbrage with the sale and filed a lawsuit, which was subsequently quashed in Oakland County Circuit Court, claiming that the Farmington district’s Board of Education had already approved and accepted bids on the school’s demolition rather than a sale; and that the January 2011 purchase by the cultural association didn’t follow an approved bidding process before the sale of the school, located at 29410 W. 14 Mile Road in West Bloomfield. An appeal is currently pending. Some of the roughly 125 people attending the Aug. 14 Planning Commission meeting expressed opposition to the cultural center because of concerns over vehicular traffic and the proposed height of the building, which would be 38 feet. Some attendees, as well as one planning commissioner, also questioned an Islamic Cultural Association member about additional funding for the proposed cultural center from outside groups and organizations, sparking the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) to contact the U.S. Department of Justice regarding what CAIR believes to be inappropriate questioning. That member of the cultural association said at the meeting the total cost of the project would be between $5 million and $6 million when completed over a 3- to 5-year period. We’ve seen stories much like this one play out in

other states in ways that have left us cringing, with people opposed to Islamic institutions coming to their communities resorting to vitriol and thinly-veiled antiMuslim sentiments that have no place in west Oakland County, and should have no place in any other portion of the country. The proposed Islamic cultural centers in New York City, Murfreesboro, Tenn., and elsewhere were met in those areas — and indeed, areas throughout the United States — with reprehensible Islamophobia, doing nothing to enhance intercultural and interfaith ties between Muslims and non-Muslims that have been, at best, somewhat strained since 9/11. And it’s not the job of the Planning Commission, Wetland Review Board, or virtually any other township entity to fix that. It is, instead, the job of township officials to evaluate the proposal dispassionately and fairly, weighing the cultural center on its merits, adherence to the master plan and zoning regulations, and other such governing documents — not on fears of a group of people maligned and, yes, persecuted because 19 men who happened to have the same faith committed a barbaric act of terrorism almost 11 years ago. If the proposed cultural center meets the demands of township rules for development, approve it and welcome the newest members of an increasingly diverse West Bloomfield community with open arms; if it fails to meet those specifications, it doesn’t warrant approval. At this point, we’re not aware of bigotry tainting the approval process for the Islamic cultural center. Township officials and residents need to keep it that way. ❏

Council shows some restraint W

ver since Wixom voters shot down a proposed hike in the city’s charter millage cap during the Aug. 7 primary election, city officials have been taking action to cut expenditures for the current fiscal year by about $ 1 million and discussing what to do next. Although some in the community will certainly cry foul — those who believe the City Council and administration need to bite the budgetary bullet and slash away at expenditures so the city lives within its current means — we were relieved that the council voted last week to seek approval of a more modest millage increase on the Nov. 6 general election ballot, rather than during a special February election. Voters will be asked in November whether the City Charter should be amended to allow a new, four-year levy of 3.5 mills to provide funds for city operating purposes, including police and fire, public works, and

parks and recreation services. If backed by voters, the millage would be collected for the first time in July 2013. A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which is generally equal to half the property’s market value. The owner of a city property with a taxable value of $100,000 ($200,000 market value) would pay $350 in the first year of the new millage collection. The levy would generate over $2.2 million per year. It had also been suggested that the council forego the general election, instead taking additional time to evaluate the situation and then seek voter approval of a new millage during a February special election. However, a special election in February would cost the city between $5,000 and $6,000. The notion of having to spend as much as $6,000

in taxpayer money on a special election is ludicrous, especially since the reason for seeking authorization of a new millage is a revenue stream that doesn’t cover planned expenditures. It would make no sense to spend that money — however modest it may seem in the grand scheme of things — on a special election while city officials lament a lack of funding that’s contributed to a budget deficit of about $2 million. None of this is to say we support or don’t support the new 3.5-mill levy, or the general notion of a subsequent millage proposal of any size — that will be mulled and addressed over the next few weeks. However, we are pleased that the council exercised some restraint and decided to come before voters in November, when an election must be held, thereby costing nothing than what would have to be spent anyway. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ Huron Valley Council of the Arts: Call for Artists, 9th annual Arts & Greens Holiday Market, Nov. 17 to 18, Bogie Lake Green Houses, White Lake. Artist/crafter submission deadline, Saturday, Sept. 1. 248-889-8660. ■ Cancer Thrivers* Network for Jewish Women: New gentle healing yoga series for any woman who has been diagnosed with cancer with Barbara Swab, 6 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 5, Jewish Community Center, Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Additional sessions Oct. 3, Nov. 7, and Dec 5. Five-dollar admission, payable at the door. Comfortable clothing suggested; chairs will be available for those who do not want to do floor exercises. Registration is appreciated. For information call or email Sandy Schwartz 248-225-6322 or sandyrschwartz@gmail.com.

and Sunday, Sept. 9, 9180 Highland Road, White Lake. Admission $1. 248-887-3344. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Trunk & Tail Gate Art Sale, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 9, Huron Valley Council for the Arts, 205 W. Livingston, Highland. Participants/vendors needed. 248-8898660. ■ North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA): The Art of Nature Photography, a one-day seminar presented by professional nature photographer Steve Gettle, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9, Environmental Discovery Center at Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Admission is $129 per person; $99 for NANPA members. For more information and to register, go to http://nanpa.siteym.com/?page=2012detroit.

■ Sierra Club: Meeting, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 6, Birmingham Unitarian Church, 38651 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills. www.facebook.com/clubSEMG.

■ Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene:Mom 2 Mom Sale event, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sept. 15, 2840 Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-5911.

■ White Lake Historical Society: 27th annual Fisk Farm Festival, craft fair, Civil War battlefield in miniature, storytellers, bake sale, musical entertainment, activities, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 8

■ Walk for Melanoma: 7th annual KDB Melanoma 5K Run/Walk, Oct. 7, east boat launch, Kensington Metropark, Milford. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the walk/run will begin at 11 a.m. Register

online at www.aimatmelanoma.org, then click on “Participate in a Fund-raiser.” Registering before Sept. 15 will ensure a free T-shirt. All proceeds go to the AIM at Melanoma. ■ Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Oxbow Post No. 4156: Crafters/vendors wanted for Holiday Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 29, 321 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Donations for food drive also being accepted. 810-227-2091. ■ Wixom Farmers Market: Open 3 to 7 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 4, Sibley Park off Pontiac Trail, across from City Hall. wixomparksandrec.com. ■ White Lake Farmers Market: Open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday now through Oct. 6, Huron Valley Lakeland High School, 1500 Bogie Lake Road, White Lake. whitelakefarmersmarket.weebly.com or 248755-1195. ■ Milford Farmers’ Market: Open 3 to 8 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 18, E. Liberty Street between S. Main and Union streets in Milford. milfordfarmersmarket.org. ■ Walled Lake Farmers Market: Open 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays now through Oct. 31, Walled Lake City Event Field on E. West Maple Road between Decker Road and Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake. 248-6244847. ■ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Crafters wanted for 5th annual craft show, Nov. 10, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. Table rental $25. Apply online at www.lutheransonline/sllc or call 248-682-0770. ■ Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit: Shalom Street Museum, new exhibit, “Be Kind to Our World: Shomrei Adamah,” with butterfly garden, a display about wind energy, and a hydroponic garden, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays, now through the end of November, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. 248-661-1000. ■ Oakland County Market: Open 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, May through Christmas, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. oakgov.com/cmarket. ■ Big Chief Chorus: Rehearsals, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Waterford Oaks Activity Center, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford. 248698-9133 or 248-563-2109. ■ (Breakfast) Optimist Club of Waterford: Meeting, 7:15 a.m. Thursdays,

Big Boy Restaurant, M-59 and Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-3493. ■ Catholic Social Services of Oakland County: Senior companion volunteers needed to support adults with developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic mental illness, as well as the physically frail and homebound. 248-5591147, ext. 3434. ■ Dads of Foreign Service: Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Sundays, VFW Post No. 4156, 321 Union Lake Road, White Lake. www.vfw4156.org or 248-698-8302. ■ Friends of Byers: Byers’ Antique Barn now open noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Volunteers are needed at 213 Commerce Road, Commerce. For more information, visit byershomestead.org or call 248-3632592. ■ Grace Hospice: Volunteers with reliable transportation needed to visit terminally-ill patients and family members in our communities. Free training and classes are now forming. 1-888-937-4390. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Thoughts and Colors of Nature, a group exhibit by members of the Michigan Association of Calligraphers, now on display at 205 W. Livingston Road, Highland. ■ Milford Police Department: Now taking back unwanted prescription drugs on a continuous basis at 1100 Atlantic Street in Milford. These unwanted prescription drugs may be placed into the secure drop box located in the Police Department lobby. All drugs turned in will ultimately be sent to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for destruction. The service is free and anonymous with no questions asked. For more information, visit www.milfordpolice.com or call 248-6762089. ■ Mobile Knit Shop: Knit-Togethers, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Jewish Community Center, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Sessions are $5 each. 248-421-2566. ■ Mothers & More: Book club meeting, 7 p.m., first Monday of the month, Caribou Coffee, Union Lake Road, Commerce. 248360-7702. ■ Multi-Lakes Conservation Association: All-you-can-eat fish fry, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, 3860 Newton Road, Commerce. 248-363-9109. ■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, PAGE 35 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 34

7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248-5200095. ■ Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene: Airport Road Childhood Learning Center is now enrolling for its new Young Fives prekindergarten programs for fall at 2840 Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-6161. ■ Waterford Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, The Shark Club on M-59, Waterford. 248-625-4897.

SUPPORT GROUPS

❐ Age with Grace: Caregiver support group meeting, 6 p.m. the first Monday of every month at 2230 E. Highland Road, Highland. Space is limited, so please call to reserve your place. 248-529-6431. ❐ AA Meetings: 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Four Towns United Methodist Church, 6451 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford. 248-6820211. ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addiction, for life’s hurts, habits or hang-ups, meetings, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Woodside Bible Church, 9000 Highland Road, White Lake. 248698-1300. ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addiction, for life’s hurts, habits or hang-ups, meetings, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Life Point Christian Church, 501 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. 248-682-1747. ❐ C.A.S.A.: Kleptomaniacs and Shoplifters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Wesley Room, Commerce United Methodist Church, 1155 N. Commerce Road, Commerce. 248-358-8508 or kleptomaniacsanonymous.org. ❐ Families Anonymous, West Bloomfield Chapter: Twelve-step support group for recovery for relatives and friends concerned about the use of drugs, alcohol or related behavioral problems, 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, West Bloomfield area. 1-800-736-9805 or www.familiesanonymous.org. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 866-914-3663 or foodaddicts.org.

❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 9 a.m. Saturdays, Central United Methodist Church, 3882 Highland Road, Waterford. 866-914-3663 or foodaddicts.org. ❐ MOMS Club of Waterford South: Support group for mothers at home, weekly activities, monthly meetings, third Friday of the month, Waterford area. momswaterfordsouth.webs.com. ❐ Over-Eaters Anonymous: Recovery from compulsive eating, 12-step program, meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Hatchery Road, Waterford.

Waterford Senior Center cost. 248-6839450. ❐ West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Senior Programs: Line dancing, 11 a.m. Fridays at the Corners, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration. 248451-1900. ❐ Wixom Senior Center: “Come As You Are Chorus,” Wednesdays, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. 248-624-0870.

PARKS

❐ Postpartum Depression Support Group: Meeting, 6:45 p.m. Thursdays, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Commerce. 248-937-5220.

❐ Indian Springs Environmental Discovery Center: “Bug Hunt,” ages 5 and up, nets will be provided, 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1; “Homeschool Series: Entomology – The Study of Insects,” 12:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Registration. 248625-6640.

❐ TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): 5:30 p.m. weigh-in, 6 p.m. meeting, Tuesdays, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Conference Room 1-C, 1 William Carls Drive, Commerce. 248-363-6369 or e-mail jr.h@att.net.

❐ Kensington Farm Center: “Fun on the Farm: Hens,” 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 6; Horse-drawn hayrides, noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Kensington Metropark, Milford. 248-684-8632 or 1800-477-3178.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES ❐ Dublin Senior Center: Personal Action Toward Health (PATH) class, 1:30 p.m. Thursdays beginning Sept. 18, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-698-2394. ❐ Highland Adult Activity Center: Blood pressure checks, exercise class, Bingo, Wii Sports, computer class by appointment, Wednesdays, 209 N. John Street, Highland. 248-887-1707. ❐ Richardson Community Senior Center: Soup, Sandwich and Movie Day, noon to 3 p.m. Thursdays, 1485 E. Oakley Park, Commerce. 248-926-0063. ❐ R.S.V.P: Retired and Senior Volunteer Program needs volunteers, age 55 and up to work at hospitals, cultural institutions food pantries, schools and more. For more information, contact Carol Heckman at 248-559-1147, ext. 3435. ❐ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Senior Stretch and Tone, 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. 248-682-0770. ❐ Waterford Senior Center: Art Expression, 9 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, Room No. 2, 3621 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. Five-dollar donation toward class supplies; $1 per day to help offset

❐ Kensington Metropark: “Beasts on the Beach,” 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1 and Monday, Sept. 3; “Tot Time: A Bounty of Butterflies,” ages 2-5, 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, Kensington Metropark, Milford. Registration, 810-227-8917. ❐ Waterford Oaks County Park: Waterpark Dog Swim, Saturday, Sept. 8, 1702 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. Dogsonly swims are from noon to 4:55 p.m. divided into five time slots by dog size. Contests for Best Wet Look and Best Swimsuit are featured. The $10 pre-registration fee includes a waterpark parking pass and entry for one 55-minute dog swim session, contest entry and souvenir. A $15 registration is available on-site on the day of the dog swims subject to space availability and souvenir availability. Registration forms for the dog swims may be downloaded online at DestinationOakland.com. Mailed registration forms must be postmarked by Friday, Aug. 31. Faxed or e-mailed registration forms must be received by Thursday, Sept. 6. Fax registration to 248-424-7078 or email stasiakl@oakgov.com.

LIBRARY EVENTS ❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Michigan Reads — “Moose on the Loose,” stories, songs, activities, grades K and up, 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 7, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. Registration,

248-669-8108 or commercelibrary.info. ❐ Highland Township Public Library: National Literacy Day, “Michigan Reads” Program based on the book “Moose on the Loose” by Kathy-jo Wargin, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland. Registration. 248-8872218. ❐ Milford Public Library: Adult book discussion, Jane Austen’s “Northanger Abbey,” 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 10, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Registration. 248-684-0845. ❐ Walled Lake City Library: Classical Music with “Fabs” Kaldobsky, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake. Registration. 248-6243772. ❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Tuesday Evening Book Discussion Group, Barbara Kingsolver’s “Small Wonder,” 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. Registration. 248-674-4831. ❐ West Bloomfield Township Public Library: “Counting the Days ‘till Kindergarten,” storytime, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11; Book review- Alice Hoffman’s “The Dovekeepers,” 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12 and Friday, Sept. 14, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Free admission. 248-6822120. ❐ White Lake Township Library: Computer Club meeting, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 6, 7527 E. Highland Road, White Lake. Registration. 248698-4942. ❐ Wixom Public Library: Between the Lines Book Club: “The Expats” by Chris Pavone, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. Registration, 248-624-2512.

RELIGIOUS ❐ Jewish Community Center: Sherrill Berman Shofar Factory and Pre-High Holiday Family Fun program with bee keeper, a petting zoo, snacks, moon bounces, apple dipping and shofar making, 2 to 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 9, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Free admission. Ten dollars plus reservations to make a shofar. 248-865-1541 or www.baischabad.com.

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Walled Lake Northern senior quarterback Collin O’Donnell (No. 6) finished with 24 carries for 118 yards rushing and four touchdowns in the Knights’ season opener at home against Livonia Churchill on Friday, Aug. 24. However, O’Donnell was stopped short of the end zone on a game-tying two point conversion attempt late in the fourth quarter as Northern suffered heartbreak against the Chargers for the second straight season. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

‘We have to get back to work’ Knights look to regroup after 56-54 loss in barnburner By Michael Shelton staff writer

For Walled Lake Northern, it was a case of deja vu in its season opener against Livonia Churchill. The Knights fell at home to the Chargers in a barnburner, 56-54, on Friday, Aug. 24. The result was eerily similar to Northern’s 2011 season opener at Churchill in which it lost, 56-55, when Northern came up short on a two-

point conversion that would have given the Knights the lead after scoring a touchdown with just over a minute to play. Last Friday, Northern found itself in a somewhat familiar scenario, except for the fact that it was trying for two points to tie the game instead of win it after quarterback Collin O’Donnell scored on a 4-yard touchdown run with just over a minute left. But, O’Donnell was tackled short of

the goal line on the conversion attempt. Despite the Knights coming up two points short — even though they scored

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55 points — Head Coach Brett Moore said he thought they should have scored more. “We made mistakes offensively. We

had a couple turnovers, missed some play-action passes and we could have been faster,” he said. “We also have to tackle better and play better on the edge. Our scheme was sound, but we have to get better.” Northern finished with 612 yards of total offense, with 556 of those coming on the ground, compared to Churchill’s 517 yards of total offense. Matt Kosmalski led Northern with PAGE 37 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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BASEBALL FOOTBALL

Lakers’ balanced offense blisters Jackson in rout By Michael Shelton staff writer

When Jackson’s Caleb Moss returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown on Friday, Aug. 24, no one would have blamed West Bloomfield fans for thinking it would be a long night and a long season. In the end, it was a long night — for Jackson. The Lakers would not allow Jackson into the end zone for the rest of the night, as they cruised to a 42-7 victory at home. “It felt great, especially having a young team because the win gave them confidence,” said West Bloomfield Head Coach Ron Bellamy. West Bloomfield responded to its opening kick gaffe by scoring 14 points in the first quarter and 7 points in the second quarter for a 21-7 halftime lead. The Lakers then followed up with 14 points in the third quarter and 7 in the fourth. Sophomore Michael King had six carries for 104 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run on the Lakers’ first play from scrimmage in the third quarter. Matthew Farrow had 108 yards rushing and 1 touchdown on 18 carries and Chris Watkins had 87 yards rushing on 15 carries. Freshman quarterback Trishen Jackson completed 6-of-15 passes for 215 yards and one touchdown in his varsity debut. Evan Boyer and Obbie Jackson each also had a touchdown. “We scored six touchdowns and had five different guys score. We were able to spread the ball around,” Bellamy said. “I just think the kids played fast. We had a good game plan and we were able to capitalize on some mistakes.” Just as impressive as the Lakers’ offense was their defense, which forced four fumbles and one interception led by the strong play of Chance Monarch, Norm Burns, and Eddy Wilson. West Bloomfield will be tested Friday, Aug. 31 when traveling to face Clarkston to start its Oakland Activities Association (OAA) Red Division schedule. The Lakers fell to the initial OAA Red co-champion Wolves, 34-7, in Week 2 last season before West Bloomfield was awarded a victory by forfeit due to Clarkston using an ineligible player. If not for the awarded victory, the Lakers’ losing streak to Clarkston

Walled Lake Northern senior Matt Kosmalski had 17 carries for 252 yards and two touchdowns in the Knights’ 5654 defeat to Livonia Churchill on Friday, Aug. 24. The Knights will look to recover tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30 when they host Plymouth Salem. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Northern Knights ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 36

17 carries for 252 yards and two touchdowns. O’Donnell finished with 24 carries for 118 yards rushing and 4 touchdowns. PJ Kern also had 14 carries for 99 yards and two touchdowns. would have stretched to 15 games, dating back to 1982. Now, West Bloomfield is looking to prove to the Wolves it can officially defeat them on the scoreboard. “Clarkston won’t beat themselves, so we have to play turnover- and mistake-free football,” Bellamy said.

Corsairs euphoric after 36-14 win to open new season By Michael Shelton staff writer

Waterford Mott’s first game under Head Coach Chris Fahr resulted in a celebration by its players that touched the coach’s heart. The Corsairs defeated Wayne Memorial on the road, 36-14, on Thursday, Aug. 23, marking the first time Mott has won a season opener since 2008. Mott’s last three openers consisted of a 19-5 loss to Westland John Glenn

However, Northern fumbled the ball on its second drive, which Churchill returned 43 yards for a touchdown. The Knights also turned the ball over on downs. Churchill’s Romello Brown rushed for 190 yards and 5 touchdowns to lead the Chargers. “We have to watch film and bury it,”

Moore said. “We knew they were a good football team. We hung with them and we have to go back to work.” The Knights will next host Plymouth Salem tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30. Salem is coming off a 41-17 victory over Ann Arbor Huron in its opening game.

in 2009 and two blowout losses to Huron Valley Milford the following two seasons — 55-0 in 2010 and 55-3 in 2011. “It meant the world to me and the kids were happy,” Fahr said. “We crammed six months (of work) into two months and worked them hard. To see them celebrate and enjoy winning meant a lot to me.” It was euphoria for the Mott players who had endured three years of misery that included only three wins, a winless 2010 season and a 21-game losing streak that was finally snapped last season against rival Waterford Kettering. And on Thursday, Mott was on top of the world. “I preach playing hard and our big key is to play hard and disciplined,” Fahr said. Senior running back Alex Moorer said during training camp that those who doubted Mott would be in for a surprise. Last Friday he had 30 carries for 165 yards and 3 touchdowns, along with catching a touchdown pass from

Dakota Cupp, who completed 8-of-13 passes. Jalen Wade had 12 rushes for 65 yards and a touchdown, while Justice Bolling had two catches for 35 yards. On defense, Brennan Schneider had 13 tackles and Jack Aleman had two sacks. “Moorer and the offensive line were unbelievable,” Fahr said. “I’ve never called the same play 13 straight times until Thursday with our zone run. I think our defense played exceptionally well, except for (allowing) a couple long runs.” The only downside to Mott’s win was that its kicker, Ricky Smith, was not available to play because he was playing for Mott’s soccer team that same night, so the Corsairs went for a 2-point conversion after every touchdown. Mott will next play its home opener tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30 against the defending Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) Central Division champion, Northville, which is coming off a 39-14 loss to Huron Valley PAGE 38 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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FOOTBALL

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Lakeland in its opener. For now, Fahr said he is determined that his team takes the advice of Casey Kasem by keeping their feet on the ground and reaching for the stars. “(The coaching staff and I) are still here after 9 a.m. (Saturday) morning because I didn’t come here to win one game,” Fahr said. “We’ve got to keep them working and disciplined. There’s a saying, ‘No grind, no shine.’”

Warriors stung in home opener loss to Hornets, 27-14 By Michael Shelton staff writer

Last year, Walled Lake Western trounced Saline to open the 2011 season en route to a 7-0 start, a division title and a trip to the Division 2 state final four. But on Friday, Aug. 24, the Hornets returned the favor and stung the host Warriors, 27-14, exacting a measure of revenge for last season’s embarrassing loss. “We made a lot of inexperienced mistakes on turnovers. We had dropped balls offensively and had trouble being detailed on assignments,” said Western Head Coach Mike Zdebski. Saline jumped out to a 14-0 lead at the end of the first quarter on Tyler Palka’s 14-yard touchdown pass to Caleb Luckett and Palka’s 70-yard touchdown run. The Hornets’ first touchdown was set up by a Western fumble. The Warriors bounced back with 14 points on rushing touchdowns by junior quarterback Kyle Bambard and senior Josh Jones to go into the locker room at halftime tied with the Hornets. But Western would be shut out in the second half, as Palka threw a 25yard touchdown pass to Gage Hammond in the third quarter, followed by Palka’s 25-yard touchdown run in the fourth after Western muffed a punt. It was an impressive win for a Hornets’ team that debuted their firstyear head coach, Joe Palka, last Friday. Bambard led Western with 90 yards rushing on 23 carries, while Jones was held to 12 yards rushing on six carries and three receptions for 44 yards. However, Bambard also had two lost fumbles and was also 0-for-4 on fieldgoal attempts, a disappointing start after a strong kicking performance during the entire 2011 season.

Balanced attack

Mavericks force Raiders to walk plank By Michael Shelton staff writer

Huron Valley Milford welcomed the Flushing Raiders for its season opener and proceeded to make them walk the plank. The Mavericks scored a 42-21 win on Friday, Aug. 24 on a night in which they built up a 35-0 lead thanks in part to impressive performances from senior tailback Daniel Wallace and senior quarterback Alex Larson. When time expired, Wallace finished with 76 yards rushing and three touchdowns, along with three tackles on defense. Meanwhile, Larson had 104 yards rushing and completed 8-of11 passes for 194 yards and a touchdown. “Larson was pretty good and Daniel is a fine football player and I’m glad he’s ours,” said Milford Head Coach Pat Fox after starting his 10th season with Milford victorious. “I thought the game was a little sluggish early, but we had a balanced offense and we played well defensively.” The Mavs scored first in the first quarter on a 1-yard touchdown run by Wallace after Larson completed a 14-yard pass to Thomas Woodrow into the red zone to set up the score. On Flushing’s next drive that extended into the second quarter, punter Turner Endicott mishandled a snap, giving Milford the ball at the Raiders’ 30-yard line. Larson then threw a 30-yard touchdown strike to John Bartoluzzi Jake Neracher was Western’s leading receiver with 70 yards on five receptions. On defense, Zach Prokes had two sacks and seven total tackles. “(Saline) was a tough team, and they ran every formation,” Zdebski said. Western will look to get Friday’s loss out of its system as it prepares to host South Lyon East tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30. The Cougars are coming off a 25-22 victory over Waterford Kettering on Aug. 24. “The faster we can correct these things, the better we’re going to be,” Zdebski said.

on the very next play. A 4-yard touchdown run by Wallace with just under 2 minutes left gave the Mavs a 21-0 halftime advantage. In the third quarter, Wallace’s third touchdown run from 4 yards out put Milford up 28-0. On the following drive, Flushing quarterback George Hyde fumbled the ball, which Darrion Spencer recovered and returned 35 yards for a touchdown, giving Fox had some breathing room to bring in players off the bench to gain some experience. Milford’s fifth touchdown came on a 5-yard run by Cameron Bell in the fourth quarter. Hyde had two touchdown passes from 60 and 35 yards out and a 1yard touchdown run for the Raiders out of the Saginaw Valley Association. The Mavs now face the task of traveling to Plymouth tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30 to face the Wildcats, the defending champions of the Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) Kensington Conference who defeated Lansing Sexton, 42-12, in their opening game. Then Milford will begin its tough KLAA West Division schedule the following week when it hosts the defending division and Lakes Conference champion, Grand Blanc. “Our schedule is pretty competitive with Plymouth, Grand Blanc, Hartland and Brighton,” Fox said. “Plymouth did a great job in the offseason.”

Muskegon ‘D’ too much for Eaglets in 21-14 defeat By Michael Shelton staff writer

Orchard Lake St. Mary’s looked to start its 100th anniversary season with a big win on road, but Muskegon had other plans. The Eaglets fell to the Big Reds, 2114, on Friday, Aug. 24 in a game in which the St. Mary’s offense was shut down by Muskegon’s suffocating defense. “I thought in the trenches, their

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

defensive seven controlled our offensive line,” said St. Mary’s Head Coach George Porritt. “We couldn’t move the ball. Both of their lines looked very good on film.” The Eaglets trailed 7-0 after Muskegon fullback John King scored on a 2-yard touchdown run to cap an 80yard drive on the Big Reds’ first possession. Matt Linehan responded for St. Mary’s by throwing an 11-yard touchdown pass to Spencer McInnis on the Eaglets’ first drive of the game to tie the score at 7-7 in the first quarter. St. Mary’s also appeared to take the lead after Austin Johnson intercepted a Muskegon quarterback Jalen Smith pass and returned it for a touchdown, but it was called back due to a clipping penalty, keeping the score tied at 7-7 at halftime. On the Big Reds’ first drive of the second half, King scored again on a 2yard touchdown run to put Muskegon up 14-7. Muskegon sealed the win late in the fourth quarter when Javontae Langston recovered an Eaglets’ fumble in the end zone for the Big Reds’ third touchdown, as he finished with 88 yards rushing on the evening. Linehan threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Tyson Smith as time expired, making the score a little more respectable as the defending Division 3 state champions would head home after suffering their first loss since its Prep Bowl defeat at the hands of Novi Detroit Catholic Central in the 2011 regular season finale. Linehan completed 9-of-25 passes for 149 yards and 2 touchdowns, as the Eaglets were held to 223 yards of total offense. Marcus Smith led Muskegon with 103 yards rushing on 11 carries. “I thought our defense played well in the second half and I thought we played a good team on the road,” Porritt said. St. Mary’s will next head south to Toledo, Ohio on Friday, Aug. 31 to face St. John’s Jesuit before coming home to play its home opener on its new red field on Friday, Sept. 7.

Central, Our Lady open season with wins; Captains fall By Michael Shelton staff writer

Walled Lake Central opened its 2012 campaign with a 27-14 victory at home over Saginaw Heritage on Thursday, Aug. 23. After Zac Goor scored for Central on PAGE 39 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

AUGUST 29, 2012

FOOTBALL

Football recaps ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 38

a 22-yard touchdown run, Saginaw Heritage’s Brian Cole tied the game on a 47-yard touchdown run. But Nick Krumm responded for the Vikings with an 85-yard touchdown run to give Central a 14-7 halftime advantage. Goor scored his second touchdown in the third quarter on an 8-yard run before Blake Carmichael rushed 80 yards for a touchdown to pull Heritage back to within 7. But a 1-yard touchdown run by Eric Rostek in the fourth quarter put the game away for the Vikings, who will next host Livonia Stevenson tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30. Stevenson is coming off a 26-20 victory over Livonia Franklin in its opening game. • Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes traveled to Cleveland, Ohio on Saturday, Aug. 25 and came home with a 42-6 victory over Villa Angela-St. Joseph. Mitch Lasceski scored two touchdowns from 15 yards and 2 yards out for Our Lady, while Jake Doestch had a 4-yard touchdown run. Sal Mastromatteo threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to Lucas Neme while Riche Cross had a 40-yard punt return for a touchdown. Dillon Sabo also threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Zack Zednick for the Lakers, who forced four St. Joseph turnovers and notched seven sacks. Our Lady lost its two previous meetings against St. Joseph to open the 2010 and 2011 seasons. The Lakers will next play their home opener on Saturday, Sept. 1 against Britton Deerfield. • Waterford Kettering fell at South Lyon East, 25-22, on Friday, Aug. 24 in the first game for the Captains under Head Coach Kyle Schultz. “I think we made some mistakes. We were deep in their end in the second half and never punted,” Schultz said. “But we didn’t score on drives and we had three turnovers on downs.” Alec Spurlock led Kettering with 140 yards rushing. Danny Hubbell completed 12 -of-24 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for two touchdowns. Danotiss Smith also had 53 yards receiving and a touchdown, while Kakuan Williams had 76 yards receiving The Captains finished with 400 yards of total offense. Matt Okaiye led Kettering’s defense with two sacks.

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Eagles top ‘Stangs Ground game, ‘D’ shine for Lakeland By Michael Shelton staff writer

Huron Valley Lakeland served notice to the rest of the lakes area that it’s a force to be reckoned with on Friday, Aug. 24 with a dominant showing on the road against a defending division champion. The Eagles slammed the Northville Mustangs, 39-14, in what Lakeland Head Coach John Maltese called “a proverbial team victory.” “Our kids played with a great deal of emotion, they executed well, and earned that victory,” he said. Lakeland had played against Northville in its past two season openers, with the Mustangs winning handily both times by scores of 35-0 in 2010 and 69-28 last season. But on Friday, the roles were reversed, as the Eagles led 22-0 at the end of the first quarter and 29-6 at halftime in the home stadium of the defending Kensington Lakes

The Captains will next play their home opener tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30 against South Lyon, which defeated Pinckney, 30-20, in its opening game.

Vikings, Lakers fare well at local volleyball tourneys By Michael Shelton staff writer

Walled Lake Central hosted its annual Viking Varsity Invitational volleyball tournament on Saturday, Aug. 25, with the host Vikings coming in third-place. Central completed pool play with victories over Livonia Franklin (25-23, 25-16) and Berkley (25-17, 25-12) and a split with Rochester (15-25, 2514). The Vikings (7-2-1) advanced to the Gold Bracket, where they then defeated Farmington Hills Harrison in three games (25-23, 31-29, 15-6) in the quarter-finals before falling to Fenton (16-25, 18-25) in the semi-finals. Fenton would then fall to North Farmington in the invitational’s championship match. “I’m very pleased with our results. We played against some very tough opponents and worked on the new offense and defense that we have been

Activities Association (KLAA) Central Division champions. Senior Anthony Waite had 17 carries for 217 yards and 3 touchdowns from 12 yards, 72 yards, and 5 yards out. Dalton Christie also had 22 carries for 139 yards and 2 touchdown runs from 2 yards and 22 yards out. John Victor kicked a 29-yard field goal and the Eagles’ defense also earned a safety. “We held up Northville’s offense. The defensive line and the secondary performed well,” Maltese said. “Our assistant coach James Loisel deserves some credit.” The Eagles will now look to keep their momentum rolling into their home opener tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 30 against Novi, which is coming off a 45-7 loss to Brighton in its opening game on Thursday, Aug. 23. “We have a good positive attitude and we have to keep building on it.” implementing during practice the last week,” said Central Head Coach Cathy Johnson. “All of our players are adjusting to these changes very well. We have some areas that we are still changing and I’m looking forward to a few weeks of practice prior to the start of our league play so that everyone has more time to make these adjustments.” Brittany Guldan had 35 assists, 21 kills, 9 aces, 21 digs and a block, while Catelyn Girard had 24 assists, 16 kills and 10 digs. Alex Picardal had 49 digs and six aces, while Mikaela Beck had 21 kills, five aces and nine blocks. The Vikings were coming off a strong performance in the Traverse City Invitational the previous weekend, in which they advanced to the tournament’s semi-finals where they fell to Traverse City St. Francis in three games. Walled Lake Northern went 1-1-1 in pool play at the Viking Invitational, as it lost to Fenton (15-25, 19-25) and split with Farmington Hills Harrison (25-20, 14-25) before defeating Brighton (25-19, 25-21). The Knights advanced to the Silver Bracket, where they defeated Wayne Memorial (25-16, 25-16) in the quarter-finals before defeating Auburn Hills

PAGE 39

Avondale (25-16, 25-22) in the semifinals. Northern then defeated Brighton in the Silver Bracket finals, 25-18, 2516, to finish with four straight wins for new Head Coach Gus Dumlao. Courtney Sullivan led the Knights with 34 kills and eight total blocks while Katie Simon had 47 assists and Melissa Griffiths had 63 digs. Northern will next host Huron Valley Lakeland to begin Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division play on Thursday, Sept. 6, while Central will play at Waterford Mott that same night. • Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes was the runner-up at the Auburn Hills Oakland Christian Tournament on Aug. 25 after falling to the host school in the final, 25-27, 25-21, 1315. The Lakers (6-3-1) were led by Haley Howell with 19 assists, three kills, an ace and three digs, while Courtney Wightman had 4 aces, 6 kills, a pair of blocks and 4 digs. Allison Samulon had 2 aces and 7 kills, while Kristina Krupiak had 4 aces, 5 kills and 4 digs.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

LEGAL NOTICE

The West Bloomfield Township Woodland Review Board will hold a public hearing at the Township Board Room, 4550 Walnut Lake Road on Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. to consider the following Woodland Permit Applications: CASE #PWD12-0276 COLEY Parcel: Lot 8, North Woods Forest Sidwell #18-21-103-008 Location: 4558 Forest Edge Lane Request: An after-the-fact request for tree cutting, maintained lawn/playscape and disturbances within a recorded woodland preservation area. Applicant: Ricky and Deniece Coley CASE #PWD12-0279 QARANA Parcel: Lot 151, Wyndham Pointe No. 4 Sidwell #18-30-276-008 Location: 5598 Hampshire Request: An after-the-fact request for the removal of woodland vegetation and soil disturbance to install a permanent maintained lawn with trampoline. Applicant: Amal Qarana CASE#PWD12-0280 GLAZER Parcel: Lot 93, Wyndham Pointe No. 4 Sidwell #18-30-228-039 Location: 5555 Hampshire Request: An after-the-fact request for the removal of a tree within a recorded woodland preservation area. Applicant: Shelby R. Glazer Detailed plans are available for inspection at the West Bloomfield Township Environmental Department, 4550 Walnut Lake Road, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A staff report, as prepared for the Woodland Review Board, will be available for review the Friday prior to the meeting. If you have any questions on this matter, contact the Environmental Department at (248) 451-4818. John Roda, Environmental Manager S.C. 8-29-12 The Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at a public meeting upon two weeks notice in writing or by calling the Township Clerk or Environmental Director at (248) 451-4800.

CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE

ORCHARD LAKE WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT NOTICE OF REVIEW OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL IN THE CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special assessment district has been designated which special assessment district includes properties fronting on or with access to Orchard Lake in the City of Orchard Lake Village and a special assessment roll has been prepared and is on file in the office of the City Clerk for public examination. The special assessment is for the purpose of assessing the cost of Orchard Lake Water Quality Improvements including weed harvesting, marine safety and goose removal. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the City Council will meet on Monday, September 17, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI for the purpose of reviewing said special assessment roll, hearing any objections thereto, and confirming to same. All are welcome to attend.

Rhonda McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com S.C. 8-29-12

SUMMARY OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING August 20, 2012 At the August 20, 2012 Regular Council Meeting Council took the following action: • Approved a front yard setback variance for an accessory building at 5000 West Shore Drive; • Approved a lakeside setback variance for an addition at 4200 Commerce Road; • Held a public hearing on the Orchard Lake Special Assessment District; • Adopted the Orchard Lake Special Assessment District Resolution; • Held the first reading of the zoning ordinance amendment on permanent barbecues & outdoor kitchens; • Approved business licenses for the St. Mary’s British Bike Show and the Dollar Tree; • Accept all department reports. Bruce H. McIntyre, Mayor Rhonda R. McClellan, City Clerk

Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for Rainbow Lake, in the Township of Waterford, County of Oakland, held public Hearing on August 15, 2012 and subsequently confirmed a three-year special assessment roll for general lake maintenance, which includes weed and water level control and geese deterrents for the Years 2013, 2014, and 2015. This Notice of Confirmation of the Special assessment Roll is published pursuant to the provisions of Section 30910 of Part 309 of Public Act No. 59 of 1995. LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR RAINBOW LAKE S.C. 8-29-12

Notice of Posting For Charter Township of Commerce Township Board 1. Synopsis of the August 14, 2012 Regular Township Board Meeting. The above synopsis shall be posted (in its entirety) at the following locations: (1)

Office of the Township Clerk 2009 Township Drive

(2)

Main Township Library 2869 North Pontiac Trail

(3)

Township’s website www.commercetwp.com Daniel P. Munro Township Clerk

Activity Description Minor Home Repair Planning Total Activity Description Remove Architectural Barriers

SC: 8-29-12

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR WHITE LAKE SCHEDULED HEARING OF PRACTICABILITY

Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for White Lake, Township of Highland and Township of White Lake, County of Oakland, has been scheduled to meet at the Highland Township Hall (205 North Johns Rd) in Highland Township, Michigan at 7:00 p.m. on Monday evening, September 24, 2012 to determine the practicability of a 5-year Lake management, Chemical Weed Control, Maintenance Dredging Program, and Oakland County Marine Patrols and all associated cost for the years 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. This Hearing is called pursuant to the provisions of Part 309 of Act No. 451 of 1994, as amended.

COMMUNITY LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF HEARING

HEARING OF PRACTICABILITY LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR HUNTOON LAKE Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for Huntoon Lake in the Township of Waterford, County of Oakland, will meet at the Water Resources Commissioner’s Office Lunchroom, One Public Works Drive, Waterford, Michigan at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September 5, 2012, to determine the practicability of a three-year special assessment roll for augmentation well operation and maintenance, weed control program, and beach improvement which will improve the general quality of the lake. This hearing is call pursuant to the provisions of Section 30910 of Part 309 of Public Act No. 50 of 1995. LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR HUNTOON LAKE SC: 8-22 & 8-29-2012

NOTICE Charter Township of Commerce NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Charter Township of Commerce Clerk’s Office, 2009 Township Dr. Commerce Twp, MI will be open on Saturday, September 1, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for the purpose of receiving Absentee Ballot Applications and issuing Absentee Ballots for the September 5, 2012 Special Primary Election. Electors who wish to receive an absent voter ballot for the August Primary Election by mail must submit absent voter application by Saturday, September 1, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. is the deadline for qualified Electors to obtain an absent voter ballot for the August Primary Election and it must be voted in person in the Clerk’s office. For additional information, contact the Clerk’s Office at (248) 960-7020. Daniel P. Munro Clerk, Charter Township of Commerce

S.C. 8-29 & 9-12-12

SC: 8-29-2012

CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Orchard Lake Village Council will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, September 17, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive written and verbal comments regarding the reprogramming of Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds as follows:

Rhonda R. McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com

NOTICE OF CONFIRMATION OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL

LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR WHITE LAKE

S.C. 8-29-12

CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE

Proposed – 2012 Account Number 731619 All are welcome to attend.

LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR RAINBOW LAKE

CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Existing – 2010 & 2011 Account Number 731227 731360

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Amount $8,000.00 $3,200.00 $11,200.00 Amount $11,200.00

S.C. 8-29-12

NOTICE OF ZONING BOARD PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended, the City of Orchard Lake Village Zoning Board of Appeals will consider the following appeals at their Regular Meeting on Monday, September 17, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan: Tursi Appeal – 5300 Elmgate Drive (Building Grade Variance for a New Home) Balbes Appeal – 5790 Lakeview Avenue (Lot Coverage Variance for an Addition) Complete copies of the request are available for review at the Office of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written Comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Office, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing. Rhonda McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com

S.C. 8.29.12

AUGUST 29, 2012

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Internet Directory

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR WHITE LAKE NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT AND RIGHT TO APPEAL Amount of Special Assessment: 2013 – 2017 Lake Front Lot Owners: $210 2013 – 2017 Lake Access Lot Owners: $25 2013 – 2017 Commercial Lot Owners: $515

Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for White Lake, Township of Highland and Township of White Lake, County of Oakland, has been scheduled to meet at the Highland Township Hall (205 North Johns Rd) at 7:00 p.m. on Monday evening, September 24, 2012 to review, to hear objections to, and to confirm a 5-year Special Assessment Roll with respect to the White Lake Special Assessment District for Chemical Weed Control, Maintenance Dredging Program, Oakland County Marine Patrols and all associated cost for the years 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. The total assessment is estimated at $1,050 for Lake Front Lot Owners, $125 for Lake Access Lot Owners, and $2,575 for Commercial Lot Owners. Pursuant to the Special Assessment Roll, a Special Assessment of $210 or $25 or $515 will be levied in 2013 – 2017 against your property. Such assessments shall be due and payable on the first day of December 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017as part of your winter tax bill. The Special Assessment Roll will be on file at the Highland and White Lake Township Offices for public examination. Any person may appear and be heard at the Assessment Hearing, which is called pursuant to the provisions of Part 309 of Act 451 of Public Acts of 1994, as amended. Act 186 of Public Acts of Michigan, 1973, as amended, provides that the special assessment must be protested at the hearing held for the purpose of confirming the Special Assessment Roll before the Michigan Tax Tribunal may acquire jurisdiction of any special assessment dispute. Appearance and protest of the special assessment at the time and place of review is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. An owner of or party in interest in property to be assessed, or his or her agent, may appear in person to protest the special assessment, or may protest the special assessment in writing, submitted to Mr. Ricky A. DeVisch, Secretary, Lake Improvement Board for White Lake, One Public Work Drive, Waterford, Michigan 483281907, at or prior to the time of review, in which case personal appearance is not required. If the special assessment is protested as provided above, the owner or any party having an interest in the real property may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the confirmation of the Special Assessment Roll.

S.C. 8-29 & 9-12-12

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR HUNTOON LAKE Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for Huntoon Lake, in the Township of Waterford, County of Oakland, will meet at the Water Resources Commissioner’s Office Lunchroom, One Public Works Drive, Waterford, Michigan at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September 5, 2012, to review, to hear any objections to, and to confirm a three-year special assessment roll for augmentation well operation and maintenance, weed control program, and beach improvement. The total assessment is estimated at $65,526; with individual assessments to be presented at the hearing. The special assessment roll will be on file at the Water Resources Commissioner’s Office for public examination. Any person may appeal and be heard at the said Hearing, which is called pursuant to the provisions of Section 30913 of Part 309 of Public Act No. 59 of 1995. Act 186 of the Public Acts of Michigan, 1973, as amended, provides that the Special Assessment Roll before the Michigan Tax Tribunal may acquire jurisdiction of any Special Assessment dispute. Appearance and protest to the Special Assessment at the time and place of review is required in order to appeal the amount of the Special Assessment, or may protest the Special Assessment by letter filed with the Lake Improvement Board for Huntoon Lake, c/o Water Resources Commissioner, One Public Works Drive, Waterford, Michigan 48328-1907, at or prior to the time of review, in which case the owner or any party having an interest in the real property may file a written appeal of the Special Assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the confirmation of the Special Assessment Roll. LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR HUNTOON LAKE SC: 8-22 & 8-29-2012

RICKY A. DeVISCH, SECRETARY LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR WHITE LAKE

Include your firm’s website in this weekly feature at very favorable rates. Phone 248.360.SELL (7355). AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY Aerial Graphics www.aerialgraphics.com BEACH RESTORATION TT&C Beaches www.ttcbeaches.com BOAT COVERS Bev’s Canvas Covers www.bevscanvascovers.com BOAT REPAIRS/FURNITURE American Soft Trim www.americansofttrim.com BOATS/NEW & USED Lake Ponemah Marina www.lakeponemahmarina.com BOATING SUPPLIES Boating Supply Center www.boatsupplies.com

1. Synopsis of the meeting held on: Monday, August 20, 2012 2. Introduced: Ordinance No. C-767, Traffic Control Order for Knollwood Plaza, L.L.C. (7300-7490 Haggerty Road) 3. Adopted: Ordinance No. C-765, Traffic Control Order in Cloisters on the Lakes Condominiums Ordinance No. C- 766 to extend a previously established moratorium marijuana facilities The above ordinance and synopsis shall be posted (in their entirety) at the following locations: (1) Office of the Township Clerk 4550 Walnut Lake Road (2) Main Township Library 4600 Walnut Lake Road (3) Township’s website www.wbtwp.com Catherine Shaughnessy Township Clerk S.C. 8-29-12

REAL ESTATE Cyndi Robinson - Real Estate One www.cyndirobinson.com Tom Buchanan - Real Estate One www.lakesareahomesearch.com TRAILERS American Trailer Mart www.americantrailermart.com VISITING NURSES & THERAPISTS Affinity Home Care Agency, Inc. www.affinityhomecareagency.com

NOTICE OF ELECTION PRIMARY ELECTION

Notice of Posting for Charter Township of West Bloomfield Township Board

DOCKS & LIFTS American Marine www.americanmarinesc.com LAKE MANAGEMENT SERVICES Aqua Weed Control www.aquaweed.com

SEPTEMBER 5, 2012 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF COMMERCE To the Qualified Electors: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Primary Election will be held in: CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF COMMERCE County of Oakland, State of Michigan

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2012 THE POLLS will be open 7 o’clock a.m. until 8 o’clock p.m. ALL POLLING PLACES ARE HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE BRAILLE AND AUDIO VERSIONS OF VOTING INSTRUCTIONS ARE AVAILABLE

AT THE POLLING PLACES LISTED BELOW: Precinct 1: Precinct 2: Precinct 3: Precinct 4: Precinct 5: Precinct 6: Precinct 7: Precinct 8: Precinct 9: Precinct 10: Precinct 11: Precinct 12: Precinct 13: Precinct 14: Precinct 15:

Commerce Elementary School Wolverine Lake Village Offices Crossroads Presbyterian Church Union Lake Baptist Church Oakley Park Elementary School Clifford Smart Middle School Country Oaks Elementary Oak Valley Middle School W.L. Northern High School Glengary Elementary Walled Lake Elementary Fire Station #4 Richardson Center Commerce Meadows United Methodist Church

520 Farr Street 425 Glengary 1445 Welch Road 8390 Commerce Road 2015 Oakley Park Road 8500 Commerce Road 5070 S. Duck Lake Road 4200 White Oak Trail 6000 Bogie Lake Road 3070 Woodbury 1055 West Maple Road 2401 Glengary Road 1485 Oakley Park Road 2400 Meadows Circle 1155 N. Commerce Road

_____________________________________________________________________

FOR THE PURPOSE OF NOMINATING CANDIDATES OF ALL PARTICIPATING POLITICAL PARTIES FOR THE FOLLOWING OFFICES: CONGRESSIONAL

REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS Daniel P. Munro, Clerk Charter Township of Commerce 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Twp., MI 48390 (248) 960-7020 S.C. 8-29-12

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FOUND YOUNG gray cat. Teggerdine area, very sweet but mom says no. 248-7870680 LOST CAT August 7th, small black and white, area of Union Lake and Elizabeth Lake Roads, reward, answers to momma. 248-894-7308

Reunions

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BOATS 162-179

CARS, TRUCKS CYCLES 181-196

West Oakland area school reunions. FREE for 4 weeks within a 13 week period (27 word limit). Other Reunions Published 4 weeks for a total cost of $20 for 15 words; each additional 4 words $2. PONTIAC ST. Frederick All Class Reunion is planned for Sept. 9th, 2012. Mass at 11am, lunch will follow at Santia Hall. Tickets: 248-3634209

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE Advertising published is subject to rate card or contract conditions, copies of which are available from the publishing group. Ads are subject to approval before publication, only publication constitutes acceptance. We reserve the right to edit, reject, cancel or reclassify any ad. If an error by the newspaper should occur, the newspaper’s responsibility for that portion of the advertisement in error is limited to cancellation of the charge or publication in the following issue. The publishing group shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from publication or omission of an advertisement.

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Spacious home w/2776 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms & 4 full baths. Living room, family room with fireplace, formal dining, breakfast area with doorwall to deck. Finished walk-out lower level leads to extensive decking with 2nd kitchen, recreation room and 2 additional bedrooms. Oversized 2 car garage. $242,000.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736 PEACE & QUIET! 9.5 acres of heaven. Beautifully updated farm house with 4 bedrooms & 2 full baths, kitchen with cherry cabinets, formal dining, living room w/gas fireplace. Master suite has private bath & sitting room. Enjoy the views from the 24x24 deck or covered porch. 30x50 pole barn & property may be splittable. $174,900.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

Mobile Homes for Sale

Fawn Lake

ALL SPORTS MOORE LAKE! Enjoy lakefront living in this newer 1800 sq. ft. home. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, lake views from living room, family room in walk-out lower level. Next to park & walk to downtown Milford. $219,900.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736 Vacant Land/ Acreage

Pontiac Trail at Maple Pre-Owned Homes: $6,000 - $25,000 Rent: $385 - $400 PLUS MOVE-IN DISCOUNTS On Select Homes

(248) 624-0709 Mobile Homes for Rent

Brand NEW homes for rent. Appliances. Lake access.

HARTLAND

MOVE IN SPECIALS!! Beautiful multi section homes, 13 month lease $775/month Cranberry Lake- White Lake

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

248-698-1120

RENTALS Commercial/ Industrial

WATERFORD Warehouse or Industrial space with office for lease. Loading dock, 3 phase. 14 X 14 overhead door. 1,800 sq. ft & 7,000 sq.ft. Immediate occupancy

MOBILE HOMES 42

CRANBERRY LAKE A beautiful 55+ community located in White Lake Twp. is looking for people who would like to

RELOCATE Their single or double wide home to a lot in our beautiful community. We will pay up to $8,500 for a double and $5,500 for a single. Give us a call for all the details 248-698-1120

Fawn Lake Pontiac Trail at Maple Pre-Owned Homes: $6,000 - $25,000 Rent: $385 - $400 PLUS MOVE-IN DISCOUNTS On Select Homes

(248) 624-0709

FAX YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

248-496-7652 or 248-496-7648 Houses/ Condos

HELP WANTED General/ Help Wanted

General/ Help Wanted

248-669-1350

General/ Help Wanted

SALES Experienced, counter sales person needed to sell plumbing supplies.

Advance Plumbing Supply Company

LANDSCAPE & LAWN MAINTENANCE COMPANY HIRING FULL TIME. PLEASE CALL

NOVI AREA

BEAUTIFUL 55+ COMMUNITY

Dunham Rd., E. of Bullard Road. Partially wooded 3.2 acre parcel with 24x40 pole barn. Nat. gas at road. Great location. $44,000.

Mobile Homes for Sale

Walled Lake, MI 48390 Fax resume to 248-669-7471

CHILD CARE CENTER Seeking Child Care Provider. Early childhood or child related field degree preferred. 35-40 hours a week. Must be able to work until 6 p.m. Commerce Twp area. Call 10a.m.-3p.m.

248-669-6880

Reporter Independent publishing group seeks reporter to cover municipal, school, and community beats for weekly and monthly publications. Experience preferred. Send resume, cover letter, and writing samples to: Editor P.O. Box 14 Union Lake, Mich. 48387-0014

DELIVERY PERSONNEL Needed. Duties include driving, loading, and set up of equipment. Chauffeur's license and good driving record required. Immediate availability. Call Perry's Tents & Events

248-338-8810 Cashier Full or part time or students. Steve's Deli 6646 Telegragh at Maple Bloomfield Plaza 248-932-0800 Ask for Bob stevesdeli@comcast.net

$189,900 55

Looking to rent a house or condo? Call Arlene Keller Williams Realty mihome4u.com

248-912-4628 Sales/Purchase/ Leasing and Relocation Apartments

WALLED LAKE Mother-in-Law Apt. Modern 840 sq.ft. 1 bdm, Direct TV & Wifi inc., A/C, non smoker, pets negotiable.

$645 per month Olivermich@mac.com 248-755-5073

Pontiac Lake 1 bdrm for $459 2 bdrm for $499 Includes all utilities except electric. Security Deposit. For more information & availability call

248-626-7857

24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to the Spinal Column Newsweekly

Rooms/Share Quarters

248-360-5308 248-360-5309

FURNISHED SLEEPING room for rent. Waterford area, $100 /week. 810-355-8097

COMMERCIAL VACANT LAND ZONED C-1 LOCAL BUSINESS • 1.58 acres, main road frontage •High traffic area, great visibility • #212037033 Highland, MI CALL ROBYN LEWIS

248-342-6792

direct

Re/Max Classic Novi 248-348-3000 x 241

OAK TREE APARTMENTS Condo Style 2 Bedroom Apartments

Country Setting in the Commerce Area •Private Entry •Patio •Carport •Washer/Dryer •Cathedral Ceilings •Cable •Large Dogs Welcome •Senior Friendly Including Shuttle Services Ask r t Ou Abou ER M SUM LS IA SPEC

Professionally Managed By Senior Village Management

(248) 360-7235

AUGUST 29, 2012 General/ Help Wanted

www.spinalcolumnonline.com 65

KEEP AN EYE ON US! We will keep you informed of local jobs that are available weekly in Spinal Column’s classifieds

TOW TRUCK DRIVER Needed full or par t time, would prefer live in Waterford area. Must be reliable.

248-623-1010

General/ Help Wanted

TAXI & AIRPORT DRIVERS WANTED Full or Part time Day or Night

248-666-2110 LET US LET YOU FIND that perfect employee to fill that spot on your staff. Give us a call at 248-360-7355 or fax to 248360-5308 or 219-360-5309.

Medical/ Dental

Absolutely Free 67

DIRECT CARE Up to $9.03 per hour to start, with Benefits. Small group home setting. Must be Patient & Reliable. Part time: Highland & South Lyon areas. Full time: Oxford, Rochester Hills, & Novi areas.

248-486-5368

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE Used/Wanted

DEPUTY FINANCE OFFICER

he Village of Holly is advertising for the open position of Deputy Finance Director. A cover letter, resume, three professional references and a complete Village of Holly job application must be submitted by Thursday, September 13, 2012 before 5:30 p.m. For a copy of the the complete job description visit our website at www.hollyvillage.org. Employment applications are available to download from our website. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Municipal experience is preferred but not mandatory. Submit the complete information above to: The Village Clerk at the Village of Holly

202 W. Saginaw Holly, MI 48442 or email cbehrens@hollyvillage.org

SCRAP METAL Aluminum .30-.60¢/lb. Copper $2.00-$2.60/lb. Brass .80¢- 1.50/lb. Auto Rads. .80¢-1.10/lb. 1011 Decker, Walled Lk

Mann Metals Corp. (248)960-1200

PAGE 43

Items must be FREE to respondents, ad free to you. Restricted to residential. The publishing group accepts no responsibility for actions between individuals. Sorry, we do not accept ads for free dogs. ABUSED BY Tomcat, girl cat needs safe home. Details 248-459-3319 FREE FUEL Oil - 30 gallons. You pick up. 248-669-2922 LADIES 26" bike. 248-6244439 KITTENS, CATS Fixed rescues. Need loving homes. 248-738-4901 or 248-2149898 WATER TRAMPOLINE has slow leak but still lots of fun to be had. 248-875-1790 LET US HELP clear the garage. Give us a call at 248-360-7355 or fax to 248-360-5308 or 219360-5309.

HELP WANTED

Duties include: Clerical, Billing, Data Entry and Administrative. Benefits, Health Insurance, 401K Plan Retirement Plan. Apply in person & ask for JJ Weekdays from 9-4 4527 Old Plank Rd. Milford, MI 48381

(248) 685-0961 ext. 233

Appliances Collectibles

BOBBLEHEAD, RED Wings Johan Franzen, in box, $20 248-425 1004

Garage Sales

103

MICROWAVE OVEN, clean, "Emerson", 12x12, 2007, $20. 248-360-8485

Art/Crafts

128

CARS/TRUCKS MOTORCYCLES Wanted Parts/ Salvage

AUGUST 30th, 31st. 10-4. Toys, Star Wars, new Webkinzs, games, books, dolls, and more. Girls clothes.White twin bed with mattress, one nightstand. 131 Annison off Carroll Lake Road, near Cooley. 8777 EDGEWOOD Park Drive, off Commerce Rd. Friday & Saturday, 9am-4pm. Kids & adult clothes, household items, furniture.

Household Items

129

WOODEN PLANT stand w/ graduated shelving. 18" wide x 28" long x 28" high. $10 248623-2661 MEN'S ROBE, Velour, medlarge, nice, gently used. Navy blue with 2 stripes on cuffs. $7.50. 248-623-2661

Odds N Ends

WEST BLOOMFIELD ESTATE/ Moving: Furniture/ antiques, art, men's clothing, electronics, leather goods, glasswear, jewelry, miscellaneous. Thursday through Sunday, 10a.m.-dusk, 7538 Greenway Lane, 48324. Birchwood Park Subdivision off Commerce/ Keith. Everything must go! WHITE LAKE SATURDAY ONLY: 9a.m.3p.m. 8679 Morro, Union Lake/ Elizabeth Lake Roads WOLVERINE LAKE FRIDAY & SATURDAY 10am-5pm. No dealers. 1660 Lauder Lane. Antiques, yard items, household items.

Lawn/Garden/Sod 110 BLACK DECKER Electric lawn edge, 1.25hp, 7.25" blade $23.00 248-360-2911

119

BRAND NEW Nike shocks, size 7. $24.99. (Retail $120) 248-960-7285 REAL MINK Cape, excellent condition, $25. 248-553-4967 LIKE NEW - L.A. Gear High top basketball shoes, size 12, white. $10. 248-875-1790.

138

BATHROOM CABINET, light oak. White toilet. Asking $25, both. 248-698-9283 WESTINGHOUSE AUTOMATIC white can opener, brand new in box. $5. 248623-2661

BOATS/ OUTDOOR Boats/Motors/ Trailers

164

DAVE'S MOBILE MARINE •Pontoon Hauling •Inboard & Outboard Repair "We Come To You" •Buy & Sell Motors

(248)666-9248 PONTOON HAULING Local & Long Distance Winter Storage-$199.99 Snowmobiles, Trailers, RV's Fenced, Gated & Lighted Yard

Let us sell your pontoon.

Tom 248-681-4250 www.tomspontoonservice.com

HIGHLAND’S NEWEST AUTO DEALER

Guaranteed Credit Approval

Low Miles

2006 BUICK RENDEZVOUS 37,0000 miles, clean, leather sunroof, loaded. $13,500

WE BUY CARS! Paying more for your trade

3365 W. Highland Rd. (M-59) at Hickory Ridge Rd.

248-714-6125

woodwardauto.com

181

UNWANTED AUTOS LLC

FABRIC, YARDAGE, fat Q's, panels, thread. Cheap. By appointment. 248-494-1738

COMMERCE

Clothing/Apparel

122

TOP $ Paid For Any: • Junk • Non Running • Wrecked Cars $275 & Up

(248)467-0396 Motorcycles

183

MOTORCYCLEGUARANTEE See First Want Ad Page FULL REPAIR SERVICES Motorcycle parts/ Access. Mention ad for up to 20% off! MX • ATV• P.W.C

Cars

187

FIREBIRD 1979 make offer father/ son project 248-6139354

Classic/ Antique Cars

188

CHEVY BELAIR, 1964. Manual, runs, needs work. $3,000 OBO. 248-240-9438

SERVICE DIRECTORY PERSONAL/ SERVICES Home/ Office Cleaning

368

COLLEEN'S CLEANING SERVICE is coming to your neighborhood. Residential / Commercial

4713 Dixie Highway, Waterford, MI 48329

20 Years Experience • Insured • Local References upon request. Call for FREE Quote or questions 9am-5pm

248-674-0663

248-974-5104

Lakes MotorSports

www.lakesmotorsports.com

Trucks/Trailers

185

2002 F-150, V-6, 2wd, 208K miles. $3500. OBO. 248-8673054

Cars

187

TURBO NEW Yorker 1984, 4 door, A1 inside and out, like new $2,600 248-698-0917 CHEVY CAVALIER 1998 convertible $2,800 OBO 586303-6500

SALES GUARANTEE Autos, Vans, Trucks See First Want Ad Page FORD ESCAPE 2009, White, new tires/ shocks, regular oil change, great conditon, $11,995. 248-520-1740.

REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT Appliance Repair

502

TONY'S APPLIANCE SERVICE Servicing all Major Appliances. •Hot water tank

(248)360-0213 (248)698-8819 Asphalt/Pavement 503

KEITH'S SEALCOATING • NO SPRAY • ASPHALT REPAIR & GRAVEL FILL

SINCE 1983

(248)-623-7282

PAGE 44

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA SERVICES (248) 360-7355

www.SpinalColumnOnline.com IN PRINT and ON-LINE 24/7

Fax (248) 360-5308

Personal • Business • Maintenance • Improvements • Repair Carpet Installation

Cement/Concrete 513

BOB'S CARPET Mohawk Carpet Great buys! Remnants Living room & Bedroom sized $4 per yd. Low prices on restretching, repairs, pad, & installation.

35 years experience Bob (248)681-5771 Cabinetry

515

Elegant Woodworking •Mantels •Fireplace Surrounds •Furniture •Entertainment Center •Custom Cabinets •Crown Molding •Kitchen Cabinets •Custom Bars Harold Canfield

(248)363-3804 elegant-woodworking.com

Cement/Concrete

517

C & G CEMENT Quality Workmanship Residential-Commercial Over 30 years Experience STAMPED CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS FOOTINGS GARAGE FLOORS BLOCK WORK FREE ESTIMATES Michael (248)363-4783 MILFORD LOCATION

(248)684-5928 ARROW CONCRETE •Driveway Replacements Free Tear outs •Regular & Stamped •Home Owner Friendly •Residential - Commerical Fully Lic. & Ins. 20 Yr. Exp.

517

MARCUCCI CONCRETE As Seen on ABC TV "Extreme Home Makeovers" Satisfying Customers for Over 30 Years •DRIVEWAY •PORCHES •FOUNDATIONS •BRICK •BLOCK •STAMPED/ COLORED Lic/Ins Visa/ MC Wixom www.marcuccicement.com

248-486-5900 Doors

524

THE DOOR STOP Since 1980 Garage door springs and door openers repaired and/or replaced.

Call Anytime 248-624-4042 (cell) 248-640-6298 CERTIFIED OVERHEAD DOOR SERVICE •Garage Doors •Repaired/ Services •New Doors/ Openers •Installed at Factory Pricing •Emergency Service Available

248-624-3161 Drywall

526

R & D DRYWALL & PAINTING •Hang & Finished •Small Repair •Texture Repair •Plaster Repair •Wet Sand

Ron (248)673-7665 Electricians

528

MASTER ELECTRICIAN

Insured & State Licensed, 25 years experience. Prompt, courteous service. FREE ESTIMATES. ALL TYPES OF WORK. Competitive Prices

248-758-4346

(248)683-7985

ARROWCONCRETE.NET

Excavating

529

J.J.M BACKHOE SERVICE LLC Backhoe service & landscaping. 38 Years Experience. Small or Large Jobs. Fully insured. Free estimates.

(248)624-6458 Handy Person

545

DU-IT-ALL HOME CARE IMPROVEMENTS Specials: •Ceramic Tile •Formica Tops & Kitchens •Exterior/Interior Painting Also, we do complete basements and all other interior work, including electric, plumbing, etc. Call today. Cell #

(248)891-7072 Licensed and Insured

TOTAL HOME SERVICE 35 Years Licensed PLUMBING • HEATING CARPENTRY • DRYWALL ELECTRICAL NEW SERVICE KITCHENS BATHS CERAMIC TILE

"The job your husband will do tomorrow." (248)887-2366 **HONEY-DO** HANDYMAN Honey- Do Lists •Electrical •Plumbing •Drywall •Painting •Carpentry •Tile •Finished Basements •Bathrooms

Office: 248-4747270 Cell: 248-320-5360 Over 20 yrs exp. LICENSED & INSURED

Handy Person

545

D & S HOME REPAIRS REMODELING •Additions •Garages •Drywall •Painting •Plumbing •Electrical •Tile •Marble •Kitchens •Baths •Basements •Decks 33 Years ... Licensed

248-684-4175 810-714-3058 Heating/Duct Work 546

THOMASON HEATING & COOLING

• Furnaces • Boilers • Air Cleaners •Air Conditioners •Humidifiers Service & Replacements

FREE ESTIMATES ON INSTALLATION

248-363-1615 CHRISTIAN MECHANICAL CONTRACTING LLC Commercial & Residential "Your one stop shop for all your heating & cooling needs." Mechanical License & EPA Certified

248-660-7685 Home Improvement 547

D&D Construction Roofing• Siding•Windows • Insulation • Gutters • LeafGuards • Soffits •Trimwork• Decks

Doug Dible 248-431-6243 Lawn/Garden Services

Lawn/Garden Services

Plumbing 553

A R T

Outdoor Services, LLC Lawn Service •Spring clean-up •Gutter cleaning •Landscape •Brick pavers •Mulch & weeding •Insured •Res. & Com. www.artoutdoorservices.com (248)625-5719

College Student Looking for Lawn care, mulch/ stone & odd jobs Shawn Larkins 248-931-0295 Painting/ Decorating

562

FARR'S PAINTING Exterior & Interior Wood Repairs • Caulking Staining • Wallpaper Removal Drywall repairs • Water repairs Free Power Washing w/paint. farrshomeimprovements.com

(248) 477-7764 (248) 345-3308 VS PAINTING SUMMER SPECIAL Save 20% this season on exterior/ interior painting, drywall repair, & wallpaper removal on small or big jobs. 25 years experience. licensed and insured. Same day free estimates.

248-894-3239 553

LADY LIBERTY ENTERPRISES Land Dec-

SUMMER SPECIALS

Lakes Painting

orating & Maintenance, LLC. Flower bed weeding, Mulching, Brick Pavers/Repairs, Boulder Walls, Lawn Maintenance, Clean-ups, Tree & Shrub Pruning. Insured.

All types of Painting Drywall Repairs • Wallpaper Removal & Installation . References • Lakes Area Owner Operated Since 1980

248-634-7041

248-762-1534

567

Premier Plumbing Licensed & Insured Complete Plumbing Service New Construction & Remodel Commercial & Residential

248-363-5864 Power Washing

569

FARR'S POWER WASHING •Deck Cleaning / Staining & Sealing •Brick Cleaning •Rust & Mold Removal •Housewashing. •Painting •Deck Repairs. farrshomeimprovements.com

(248) 477-7764 (248) 345-3308 Roofing

571

ROOF REPAIRS Missing shingles replaced, Chimney flashing resealed, Leaks stopped, Vent stack flashing replaced, Complete roof inspection service, Guaranteed work. 30 yrs exp.

Call Doug Miller 248-360-0344 Siding

577

I.D.C.

Home Service Siding, Trim & Soffitt Guaranteed Professional Installation. Lic./ Ins. References available.

Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com Tile

585

J.M. TILE & MARBLE CUSTOM WORK •Remodeling •Quality Service •New Construction • Repairs •Grout Sealing • Licensed and Insured

John Miller (248)505-8865 jmtileandmarble.com

Trash/Debris Removal

Waterproofing 586

Progressive Transportation Specializing in: •Appliances •Furniture •Debris Removal

Call anytime for estimates & great service

248-887-4892 Tree Service

587

J ROMO TREE SERVICE •Tree Trimming •Lot Clearing •Tree Removal •Experienced •Quality Work •Affordable •Free Estimates •Insured

(248)939-7420 (248)978-1096 jromotreeservice@yahoo.com

MAXON'S TREE SERVICE

•Trimming •Tree Removal •Stump Grinding •Lot Clearing •Firewood & Woodchips "We now have wood fencing & deliver sand, gravel, top soil."

Licensed & Insured Free Estimates

599

Dry Basements, LLC We Repair: •Poured Walls/ Concrete Block •Waterproofing •Cracked or Bowed Walls •Foundation Repaired Replaced •Underpinning •Crawl Space and Encapsulation •Licensed & Insured •Ron Heck, Builder (248)420-0116

Wells

603

McPherson WELL SERVICE PUMPS •TANKS WELL REPAIR 2, 4, & 5 INCH

Emergency Service 7 days a week 248-

363-6464

aquawells.com All credit cards accepted

BOB WYCKOFF WELL SERVICE "If you have questions, we have answers!" •PUMPS •TANKS • WELL REPAIR

(248)310-0917

(248)887-2190

Emergency Service

KODIAK AERIAL TREE SERVICE

Window Cleaning

Tree Trim Removal and Stumps •Free estimates •Insured 30 years experience

248-921-9097

Visa & MasterCard 605

LYONS WINDOW CLEANING • Commercial & Residential • Screen Cleaning •Screen Replacement •Free Estimates •Major credit cards accepted Travis Lyons

248-818-4910

AUGUST 29, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 45

featured properties:

– HIGHLAND – RIGHT ON MAIN LAKE! PAVER PATIO, OUTDOOR KITCHEN & FIREPIT W/ BUILT IN GAS GRILL! 212086175 $479,900

– HARTLAND – CATHEDRAL MST BDRM W/FULL BATH. LANDSCAPED YARD W/STAMPED CONCRETE PATIO 212084495 $165,000

– HIGHLAND – BEAUTIFUL COLONIAL, GOURMET ISLAND KITCHEN, 2 FIREPLACES-NATURAL AND GAS, FINISHED BASEMENT 212083211 $279,900

– WHITE LAKE – ALL SPORTS OXBOW LAKEFRONT, NEWLY REMODELED KITCHEN, UN-FINISHED WALKOUT 212083114 $199,000

PAGE 46

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Commerce Market Center David Botsford - Team Leader Call about our new agent and veteran’s scholarship programs. 248-360-2900

866.784.0917 2900 Union Lake Rd., Ste 210 Commerce Township, MI 48382

DEBRA LENZEN dwlenzen@comcast.net MichiganHomesPro.com

Residential & Lakefront Expert Award Winning, Top Producing Realtor

LOVELY 4 BEDROOM HOME

HARTLAND Beautiful custom home located on the 13th fairway of Dunham Hills Golf Course with privileges on Dunham Lake. 4 bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half baths. First floor master, great room, large family kitchen with hearth room and formal dining. $370,000

GREAT RANCH HOME With 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and finished walkout lower level complete with bath and wet bar. Patio and deck with fire pit overlooks canal to Huff Lake.

JUST LISTED - 2375 Canyon Ridge, White Lake. Huron Valley Schools.

Whether Buying or Selling a Home…

Christine Atkinson I Specialize in Referrals and I Appreciate Your Help!

Office 248-406-2909 Cell 248-310-8572

Email: christineatkinsonrealtor@yahoo.com Visit my website

2900 Union Lake Rd., Suite 210 Commerce Township, MI 48382

CHRISTINEATKINSON.COM KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

Jennifer Wrobleski

2900 Union Lake Rd. Ste. 210, Commerce, MI 48382

www.JenniferWrobleski.net

UNION LAKE REDUCED PRICE! Move right into this charming allsports Union Lake front home. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 4,210 sq. ft. Wonderful family neighborhood. Family dining and formal living room - all with spectacular views of gorgeous Union Lake! $499,900

BETTER THAN NEW! 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths and 2,134 sq. ft. 2-story foyer, formal dining, great room with fireplace, master bath with jetted tub and huge walk-in closet. Spacious kitchen with island, doorwall leading to outside patio, finished lower level with full bath! $199,900

ESTATE SIZE LOT WITH IN-GROUND POOL And fenced in backyard. 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths. White Euro-style kitchen, finished basement with sauna. 3,044 sq. ft. Located in awesome neighborhood close to expressways! $344,900

CEDAR ISLAND LAKE 135 SQ. FT. WATER P FRONTAGE Spectacular custom multi-level floor plan located on allsports Cedar Island Lake. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths. 2,831 sq. ft. complete with heated ceramic floors, granite counter tops, outdoor hot tub and much more!!! $449,900 ED UC ED R E RIC

With 4 car garage on 1.3 acre serene lot with gorgeous tiered landscaping. This sub is beautiful at every turn! First floor master suite with tray ceiling, finished lower level walkout could be in-law quarters with bedroom and full bath, extensive crown molding throughout, stainless steel appliances, double convection ovens, Electrolux cooktop, custom island and copper pot rack, new Marvin windows in kitchen/nook offer beautiful views.

COMMERCE MARKET CENTER

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

(248) 854-3100 • OFFICE (248) 360-2900 FAX (248) 406-2901 EMAIL jwrobleski@kw.com www.MichiganHomeMarketPlace.com

CELL

REALTOR®

Keller Williams - Commerce “#1 Top Producing Agent” and “Lakes Area’s Specialist”

Michigan’s Home Marketplace Home of the Week Mickelson lakefront that has it all!! Entertainer’s dream! 2-story entry. Hardwood floors. Great room with brick fireplace and doorwall to one of 3 decks. Second bedroom/office with views. Large kitchen with built-in buffet, desk area and doorwall to deck. Master suite with balcony, walk-in closet, jacuzzi, separate shower, soaring ceilings and private balcony. Finished lower level walkout with bedroom, full bath, family room, bar and rec room. Paver patio with hot tub. Sandy Beach area with spectacular landscaping.

Inventory is low. It’s a great time to sell. Call today for a free market analysis.

AUGUST 29, 2012

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$79,900 BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED CONDOMINIUM TOWNHOUSE •2 bed, 1.5 ba + fin bsmt, granite kitch •Ceramic & hdwd, LC terms, clubhouse, pool #212009441 • EXT. #259

$389,900

$239,900 BRENDEL LAKEFRONT RANCH WITH FINISHED WALKOUT •1.7 wooded acres, 2,000 sq ft & fin walkout •3 bed, 2 ba, 2 fps, patio, green house, 2 car #212079780 • EXT. #236

ST WE

BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED RANCH QUIET, WOODED SETTING •1,796 sq. ft., 2/3 bed, 2 ba, kitch/nook, appl •GR/DR, fp, deck, fam rm, ff laundry, attch gar #212085907 • EXT. #233

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$149,900

$199,900

. WP ET AK L ITE WH

P. TW KE A L

BIRKDALE BEAUTY LARGE, NICELY LANDSCAPED LOT! •3,627 sq ft, 4-5 bed, 2.5 ba, LR, DR, jet tub ba •2-story GR, ff laundry, w/o bsmt, 3 car #212073978 • EXT. #237

. WP

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$499,900 GORGEOUS LAKEFRONT HOME ON WOLVERINE LAKE •2,514 sq ft + fin walkout, 4 bed, 2.5 ba, GR, fp •Mstr-jet tub bath, patios, dock, seawall, ff laundry #NEW • EXT. #255

P. TW KE A L

NICELY UPDATED RANCH HOME WALKOUT BASEMENT •1,673 sq ft, 4 bed, 2 bat, kitchen-newer appl •GR-fp, DR-hwf, ff laundry, 3 car side entry gar #212088505 • EXT. #227

M CO

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$495,000 UNION LAKEFRONT PRICES ARE RISING BUY NOW! •75’ sandy shoreline, 200’ deep lot, seawall •Possible walkout site, existing 2 br, 2 ba home #212088077 • EXT. #205

. WP

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•2 buildable lots, newer 2 car detached gar •Existing 3 bed, 2 ba, GR, fp, Florida rm, FR #212084822 • EXT. #279

. WP DT N A HL HIG

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$174,900

$349,900 BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME ON ALL-SPORTS DUCK LAKE! •2,962 sq ft, 4 bed, 2 ba, vaulted dining, library •Fp, granite kitchen, 1st flr laundry, bsmt #212060746 • EXT. #246

RTL

. WP DT N A

$109,900

•Meeting Client’s Needs Since 1977 •Dedicated Listing & Buyer’s Agents •160+ Negotiated/Closed “Short Sales”

$378,800 ALL-SPORTS UNION LAKEFRONT SPECIAL •2-3 bedroom brick ranch, fin w/o, brick fp •2 car attached gar, elevated deck, patio #212034479 • EXT. #215

P. TW KE A L

$199,900

$249,900 127 FT. OF BULLARD WATERFRONT GORGEOUS TREED .43 ACRE LOT •2,116 sq. ft., walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 ba, wet bar •Part fin. w/o, ff laundry, elevated deck #212051318 • EXT. #234

We are full time professional Realtors...

R ME OM

$319,900 INCREDIBLE RETREAT ON PRIVATE, WOODED 5 ACRES! •3,049 sq ft + fin w/o, 3 bed, 3 ba, granite kitch •2-sty rms, post/beam construction, patio, 3 car #212064550 • EXT. #211

ITE WH

SPACIOUS TRI-LEVEL BEAUTIFUL .62 ACRE, TREED LOT •1,990 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2 ba, Florida rm, jet tub •Vaulted DR, snackbar kitch, FR, fp, deck, 2 car #212074633 • EXT. #253

P. TW KE A L

$299,900

P. TW

TER WA

SPACIOUS TRI-LEVEL BEAUTIFUL 1.38 ACRE LOT •1,804 sq ft, 3 bed, 2 ba, Florida rm, living rm •Family rm - fp, kitchen appl., shed, 2 car #212056167 • EXT. #262

NEW CONSTRUCTION SEPTEMBER 1ST OCCUPANCY •1,650 sq ft, 3 bed, 2.5 ba, master jet tub bath •Kitch & dining w/hdwd, doorwall, bsmt, 2 car #212075065 • EXT. #263

ITE WH

LAKEFRONT RANCH HOME SPACIOUS COLONIAL ON ON ALL-SPORTS LONG LAKE LARGE, PRIVACY FENCED LOT •3 bed, 1.5 ba, Florida rm, GR, new snackbar kitch •2,164 sq ft + fin bsmt, 3 bed, 2.5 ba, GR-fp •New flooring, covered deck, dock, seawall, 2 car •Library/den, 2nd flr laundry, 3 car, deck #212075900 • EXT. #241 #212082375 • EXT. #230

RD FO

$169,900

$514,000 BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED LOT 327’ LAKE FRONTAGE •4 bed, 3.5 ba, DR, granite kitch, GR, FR •Fireplace, 2nd kitch, 3 car, beach, dock #212070498 • EXT. #287

$224,900

$539,900

P. TW

TER WA

. WP

D IEL MF O BLO ST WE

80 FT. OF SANDY SHORELINE ON ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE!

RD FO

Our performance speaks for itself! Call today for a private consultation.

SPACIOUS COLONIAL ON LARGE, FENCED LOT •2,080 sq ft & fin bsmt, 3 bed, 2.5 ba, GR-fp •FR, 1st flr laundry, 3 car, 2nd story storage #212079251 • EXT. #228 P. TW RD O F

TER WA

$89,900 GORGEOUS TRI-LEVEL ON BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED LOT •1,484 sq. ft., 3 bed, 1.5 ba, updated kitch •Large family room, 2.5 car, .31 acre lot #212080761 • EXT. #294

With property inventory down, mortgage rates remain low and home pricing on the rise...

There’s No Better Time To Sell! 800-396-5204 + Ext. # for recorded message 2900 Union Lake, Suite 210, Commerce, MI 48382

248-366-7200

Lakes Area’s #1 Team! Zillow - Preferred Agent

Janet Direct: Steve Direct: 248-755-7600 248-755-7500

janet@TheStocktonTeam.com

steve@TheStocktonTeam.com

www.TheStocktonTeam.com

PAGE 48

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Sunshine Plants The Right Plant, The Right Price, Right Now!

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