April 4th Issue by Kingsett

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4/4/12

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APRIL 4, 2012

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Lindberg named new Milford police chief after search By Michael Shelton staff writer

The Milford Police Department has found its new chief, and had to look no farther than Novi. Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger announced that Novi Deputy Chief of Police Thomas C. Lindberg accepted an offer to become Milford’s new police chief. He officially took office on Monday, April 2, following a swearing-in ceremony. Lindberg is a Michigan State University graduate with a degree in criminal justice who also earned a master’s degree from Walsh College, in addition to graduating from the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy. According to Shufflebarger, Lindberg began his career in the Novi Police Department in 1986 as a patrol officer before climbing the ladder and rising to the position of deputy chief in 2006. Lindberg replaces Thomas Callahan, who retired from his post at the end of January after 33 years with the Milford Police Department. Callahan took over as the interim police chief in August 2010 after the retirement of former

Effort to reinstate township’s NO-HAZ participation fails By Angela Niemi staff writer

A motion to approve participation in the 2012 North Oakland Household Hazardous Waste (NO-HAZ) consortium was recently defeated in a 3-3 vote by the White Lake Township Board of Trustees. NO-HAZ is made up of communities in Oakland County that have come together to provide residents a safe and environmentally-responsible way to dispose of household hazardous hastes, such as leftover household

Thomas C. Lindberg (center), who previously served as deputy chief of the Novi Police Department, was sworn in as the new Milford Police Department chief on Monday, April 3. His wife, Jackie (left), and daughter, Samantha (right), attended the swearing in ceremony held in the Milford Civic Center. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

chief Wayne Walli, and was soon awarded the position outright. Lieutenant Michael Lauridsen has been serving as the interim police chief during the search for a new chief. Shufflebarger previously said that Lindberg went through two screening steps, including a professional oral board exam and an interview by a local panel, and that he was the No. 1 candidate with both parties.

“I’m very pleased with Chief Lindberg,” Shufflebarger said. “He comes highly-qualified and he has the temperament and the personality to maintain a good working relationship with the community at large and the village’s relationship with the township.” The Milford Police Department serves both Milford Township and the village of Milford. ❏

cleaners, paint, pesticides, batteries and prescription medicines. White Lake first started participating in the program in 2003 before discontinuing participation in 2009. “When we stopped, we did get a lot of phone calls,” said the township Community Development Department’s Craig Burnside, who added the township opted to discontinue participation in the program three years ago due to the cost. According to Burnside, NO-HAZ participation in 2009 cost approximately $27,000. The recently defeated board motion called for participation in the NO-HAZ consortium provided that $7,000 in corporate sponsorships could be obtained by the end of this month.

Treasurer Jay Brendel and Trustees David Lewsley and Todd Birkle voted in favor of the measure. “It’s important, if you want people to recycle those types of things, to make it as easy as possible,” Birkle said. “I just thought it would be a good idea to offer (NO-HAZ) to residents if it came at no extra cost to the township.” He added that between the corporate donations and a $10 per car dropoff fee, participation in NO-HAZ wouldn’t bring any additional cost to the township except for the one or two staff members needed to man a waste collection event. Meanwhile, Supervisor Greg Baroni and Trustees Mike Powell and Carol Burkard voted against the motion. PAGE 7 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

APRIL 4-10, 2012

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WALLED LAKE NORTHERN SOFTBALL April 14 at Chelsea Invitational, 8 a.m. April 18 vs. Howell, 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 at Hartland, 4 p.m. April 25 at Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. April 30 vs. Brighton, 4 p.m. May 2 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 7 vs. Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. May 9 vs. Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. May 12-13 at Fred Pieper Tournament, TBA. May 14 at Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 19-20 at Madonna Classic, TBA. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 25 at Farmington, 4 p.m. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Brighton, TBA.

WEST BLOOMFIELD SOFTBALL April 11 at Troy, 6:30 p.m. April 18 vs. Rochester Adams (DH), 4:30 p.m. April 23 vs. Bloomfield Hills Lahser (DH), 4 p.m. April 27 vs. Redford Union (DH), 4:30 p.m. April 30 vs. Farmington (DH), 4:30 p.m. May 9 at Rochester (DH), 4:30 p.m. May 12 at Shaieb Memorial Tournament, 9 a.m. May 14 at Bloomfield Hills Lahser, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Birmingham Groves (DH), 4 p.m. May 23 at North Farmington, 6 p.m. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at SouthfieldLathrup, TBA.

PAGE 3B

HURON VALLEY LAKELAND SOFTBALL WALLED LAKE CENTRAL SOFTBALL April 18 vs. Hartland, 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 at Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. April 25 at Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. April 27 at Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. April 30 vs. Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 5 at Michigan Stars Tournament, TBA. May 6 at Michigan Stars Tournament, TBA. May 7 vs. Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. May 9 at Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 at Fred Pieper Tournament, TBA. May 13 at Fred Pieper Tournament, TBA. May 14 at Howell, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Brighton, TBA.

WALLED LAKE WESTERN SOFTBALL April 16 vs. Livonia Churchill, 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. April 20 at Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 at Howell, 4 p.m. April 25 vs. Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. April 30 vs. Hartland, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. May 7 vs. Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 9 at Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 at North Farmington Invitational, TBA. May 14 at Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. May 16 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. May 19-20 at Madonna Classic, TBA. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Brighton, TBA.

April 14 at Dowagiac Invitational, 10:30 a.m. April 18 vs. Brighton, 4 p.m. April 20 at Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 at Pinckney, 4 p.m. April 25 vs. Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 at Swartz Creek Invitational, TBA. April 30 vs. Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. May 2 at Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Huron Valley Milford (DH), 4 p.m. May 5 at Alma Invitational, TBA. May 7 vs. Howell, 4 p.m. May 9 vs. Waterford Kettering (DH) May 12 at Fred Pieper Tournament, TBA. May 13 at Fred Pieper Tournament, TBA. May 14 at Hartland, 4 p.m. May 16 at Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 vs. Varsity Softball Invitational, 9 a.m. May 21 vs. KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, 4 p.m. May 23 vs. KLAA Association crossover, 4 p.m. May 29-June 2 vs. MHSAA Districts, TBA.

HURON VALLEY MILFORD SOFTBALL April 14 vs. Holly (DH), 11 a.m. April 18 at Walled Lake Western, 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Grand Blanc (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 vs. Waterford Kettering, 4 p.m. April 25 at Hartland (DH), 4 p.m. April 30 at Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Pinckney (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland, 4 p.m. May 5 at Michigan Stars Tournament, 9 a.m. May 6 at Michigan Starts Touranment, 9 a.m. May 7 at Walled Lake Central, 4 p.m. May 9 at Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. May 14 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Howell (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 at Madonna Tournament, 9 a.m. May 20 at Madonna Tournament, 9 a.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Lakeland, TBA.

PAGE 4

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WEST

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Ex-chief Storrs talks bonds, changes in township fire service

ormer Waterford Township Fire Chief Dennis Storrs hung up his boots in December after serving the community for 35 years, and his tenure with the fire department brought in a bevy of changes that left a mark on the township. Over the past three decades, he has seen fire fighting service transform, due in part to the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and the availability of new technology. Now that he is retired, Storrs reflected on his years with the township and its future given the initiative that merged the Waterford and Pontiac fire departments, an effort he was involved in prior to his departure. Storrs resides in Goodrich, Mich., is the father of 3, but lost a son in 1999. He is also a proud grandfather of four. How has fire service evolved over the last three decades? DS: When I first came on, the guys before me and I first started in fire service did not wear self-contained breathing apparatus and they went into fires with nothing. A lot of those guys, unfortunately, have succumbed to a lot of medical conditions because we didn’t realize at the time the dangers of plastics burning and things that went along with it. A lot of it has to do with the safety of the firefighters, but the spectrum of what the fire service is now expected to take care of (has broadened to include things) like weapons of mass destruction, trench rescue, high angle rescue, medical emergencies, fires, terrorism and everything that goes along with it. We have to have experts in all of those different categories. That has increased exponentially over the last three decades. Can you talk about one or two memorable fire events that impacted you? DS: I think the first big fire I remember was (when) I was off duty and all of us were called in because it was a small department at the time. It was at the corner of Andersonville Road and Dixie, the Old Mill Tavern, which was an iconic building in Waterford’s history, right where the stage coaches came through. We lost that building. It was in the middle of the night. I got a call at 4 a.m. to come in. By that time, the building was pretty much lost. That was a tough one. We’ve had a number of fires, but we had a fire once when I was on for a few years. When we got there, there was a woman and a boy left inside. The young man had some handicaps. He was in the basement. When we went down we did get him out, but we had to hold him up

to a window to get air. We found him after a search. Both of them made it. That’s a good day. Fortunately we had paramedics on the scene and treated them for smoke inhalation and got them to the hospital. What did you learn from these experiences? DS: Everyone of them is different and you can’t take anything for granted. That’s the thing about firefighters. They have to be able to change in a moment’s notice because the situation may change in a moment’s notice and you can’t hesitate. The department has undergone significant change over the last few months, particularly with the deal

•

NE MINUTE

INTERVIEW

struck with the city of Pontiac. Please talk about your role in that effort. What will this do for Waterford, and can you share any insight into how the morale is among firefighters now that it has been implemented? DS: Being retired, I still talk to a lot of the guys. Everything points to that it’s being very well accepted. They are working well together. We really are happy with the quality of guys from Pontiac and how they’re meshing with the people in Waterford. We knew they had an outstanding group of people down there all along. We knew there would be some growing pains. I’ve always said that for some people, change is uncomfortable; for others, it’s downright painful. But the one thing that we have to look at is everything is going to change. We knew something like this was inevitable. We

knew this was coming, maybe not with Pontiac, but with a consortium of departments for up to 10 years. That was in my opinion. There’s a lot of people that would fight that to the day they die. The salvation of fire service and the protection we have, people are going to continue to form mutual working relationships. This was the first of many. My role in it was working with my township Supervisor, Carl Solden, who did an outstanding job, and the (Pontiac) Emergency Financial Manager (Lou Schimmel). My aim was that it was evident that it was going to happen. My main aim was, No. 1, to best serve all the residents of Waterford and Pontiac; and No. 2, make sure every person from Waterford and Pontiac had a job, if possible, at the end of the day. I was looking at the families of those guys that are out there doing their job everyday to the best of their ability. Working in such a high-risk job, there must be a trust among fellow firefighters. Please explain the type of bond that develops among them. DS: It’s a brotherhood/sisterhood. We now have a female firefighter that’s outstanding and that’s something that’s coming — there’s going to be more and more of them. I refer to (it) as a brotherhood because that’s been my career. When you’re in a fire and you’re on the nozzle of that hose, and you’re going in to put that fire out, there may be fire all around you, you need somebody behind you that you know, if something happens, they are going to grab you by the nape of the neck and do everything they can in their power to take you out of there and take you home to your family. That’s the bond that it grows from. When you’re on a rescue rig with a couple of paramedics, you almost know without saying what that person’s going to do from working with them and knowing them. You live with them 24 hours a day. You know when their kids are sick, when they and their spouses have a row, when their moms and dads are aging and they have to take care of them — you know all that stuff. It’s a family. It really is. I always stress that and try to treat the department as a family because they are my extended family because they always have been and always will be. ❏

By Leslie Shepard

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

PAGE 4B

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HURON VALLEY LAKELAND BASEBALL April 10 vs. Brother Rice (DH), 4 p.m. April 12 at South Lyon (DH), 4 p.m. April 14 vs. Ypsilanti (DH), 11 a.m. April 16 at Fenton (DH), 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Brighton, 4 p.m. April 20 at Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 at Pinckney 4 p.m. April 25 vs. Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 vs. North Farmington (DH), 11 a.m. April 30 vs. Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. May 2 at Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Huron Valley Milford (DH), 4 p.m. May 5 at Farmington Invitational, 9 a.m. May 7 vs. Howell, 4 p.m. May 9 vs. Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 vs. Lakes Area Invitational, 10 a.m. May 14 at Hartland, 4 p.m. May 16 at Walled Lake Central, 4 p.m. May 19 at Northville (Armed Forces Day DH), 11 a.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, 4 p.m. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, 4 p.m. May 29-June 2 vs. MHSAA Districts, TBA.

HURON VALLEY MILFORD BASEBALL April 11 vs. South Lyon East, 4 p.m. April 12 at Ann Arbor Huron, 4 p.m. April 14 vs. Holly (DH), 11 a.m. April 18 at Walled Lake Western, 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Grand Blanc (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 vs. Waterford Kettering, 4 p.m. April 25 at Hartland (DH), 4 p.m. April 30 at Waterford Mott, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Pinckney (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland, 4 p.m. May 5 at Jackson Tournament, 8 a.m. May 7 at Walled Lake Central, 4 p.m. May 9 at Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 at Novi (DH), 11 a.m. May 14 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Howell (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 vs. Livonia Stevenson (DH), 11 a.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Lakeland, TBA.

PAGE 5B

WALLED LAKE CENTRAL BASEBALL

WALLED LAKE WESTERN BASEBALL April 7 at Novi (DH), 11 a.m. April 12 vs. Oxford (DH), 4 p.m. April 13 at South Lyon East, 4 p.m. April 14 vs. Farmington Hills Harrison (DH), 11 a.m. April 16 vs. Livonia Churchill, 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. April 20 at Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. April 21 vs. North Farmington (DH), 11 a.m. April 23 at Howell, 4 p.m. April 25 vs. Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 vs. Edsel Ford (DH), 11 a.m. April 30 vs. Hartland, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Brighton, 4 p.m. May 5 at Farmington Tournament, TBA. May 7 vs. Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 9 at Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 11 at West Bloomfield, 4 p.m. May 14 at Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. May 16 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Brighton, TBA.

April 14 at Oxford (DH), 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Hartland (DH), 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. April 21 at Farmington Hills Harrison (DH), 11 a.m. April 23 at Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. April 25 at Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. April 27 at Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. April 28 at Livonia Churchill (DH), 11 a.m. April 30 vs. Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 1 vs. West Bloomfield, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 5 at Farmington Tournament, TBA. May 7 vs. Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. May 9 at Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 vs. Lakes Area Invitational, 11 a.m. May 14 at Howell, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. May 18 at Birmingham Seaholm, 4:30 p.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 26 vs. Sterling Heights Stevenson (DH), 11 a.m. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Brighton, TBA.

WALLED LAKE NORTHERN BASEBALL April 12 at Troy, 4:30 p.m. April 14 vs. Jackson, 10 a.m. and Bay City John Glenn, 2 p.m. April 18 vs. Howell, 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Walled Lake Western (DH), 6 p.m. April 23 at Hartland, 4 p.m. April 25 at Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 vs. Anchor Bay (DH), 10 a.m. April 30 vs. Brighton, 4 p.m. May 2 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 5 at Farmington Tournament, TBA. May 7 vs. Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. May 9 vs. Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. May 14 at Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 at Clarkston Tournament, TBA. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Brighton, TBA.

PAGE 6

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WATERFORD MOTT SOFTBALL April 10 vs. Birmingham Groves (DH), 4 p.m. April 13 at Lake Orion, 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Pinckney (DH), 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. April 21 at Anchor Bay Invitational, TBA. April 23 at Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. April 25 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 at Lake Orion Tournament (DH), 9 a.m. April 30 vs. Huron Valley Milford (DH), 4 p.m. May 2 at Walled Lake Central (DH), 4p .m. May 4 at Howell (DH), 4 p.m. May 7 vs. Hartland, 4 p.m. May 9 vs. Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. May 12-13 at Fred Pieper Tournament, TBA. May 14 at Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. May 16 at Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Lake Orion, TBA.

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WATERFORD KETTERING SOFTBALL April 10 at Auburn Hills Avondale, 4:30 p.m. April 12 vs. Brandon (DH), 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. April 20 at Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. April 23 at Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. April 25 vs. Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. April 30 vs. Howell, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 vs. Hartland, 4 p.m. May 5-6 at Michigan Stars Tournament, TBA. May 7 vs. Brighton (DH), 4 p.m. May 9 at Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 at North Farmington Invitational, TBA. May 14 at Pinckney (DH), 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. May 18-19 at Ann Arbor Tournament, TBA. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Lake Orion, TBA.

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Check the sports pages of the Spinal Column Newsweekly every week for all the local sports news. Visit us online at spinalcolumnonline.com where you will find weekly game videos and more.

APRIL 4-10, 2012

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PAGE 7

LAKES AREA NEWS

NO-HAZ ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 3

Clerk Terry Lilley was absent. “Although I believe it’s a very good program, White Lake Township, with all of its commercial development in the last 10 years, has many corporations ... that already accept a lot of the recycled items six to seven days a week,” Burkard said. “At this time, I just thought we should try out our own businesses that people can go to six or seven days a week.” NO-HAZ has four collection events scheduled for 2012. Each event is held on a different day in a different location. This year’s collection events are located in Oxford, Rochester, Waterford, and Orion. “We have all these different recycling facilities right here in White Lake,” Baroni said. “I thought it would be an advantage to us to use our own home base companies.” Among those companies in White Lake accepting items are Royal Oak Recycling, Batteries Plus, PennZoil 10 Minute Oil Change, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Highland Tire and Auto Repair, and Five Star ACE Hardware. “We have all these different companies involved in recycling — let’s try this,” Burkard said. ❏

Waterford will get new clerk in 2012 general election

Bishop Andrew Merritt (above) of the Straight Gate International Church in Detroit, which he said has over 6,000 members, said “several pieces had to come into play” in order for his church to expand to West Bloomfield Township as Straight Gate West. Its first service will be the Resurrection Sunday Celebration on Sunday, April 8, at Orchard Lake Middle School in West Bloomfield, located at 6000 Orchard Lake Road. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. and services begin at 8 a.m. (Photo submitted by Peggy Blue/Blue Horizon Media)

Mega church coming to WB First service to be Resurrection Sunday Celebration April 8

By Leslie Shepard

By Kirk Pinho

staff writer

assistant editor

After contemplating whether to run for election this year after being appointed to her position in 2011, Waterford Township Clerk Kari Vlaeminck has decided her family commitments must come first — especially since she is pregnant and due to give birth on April 9. “I am not running because it’s just not the right time for my family,” Vlaeminck said. “I love being here and couldn’t have undertaken such a position if not for the staff, but it would be too great of a challenge given my circumstances at this time.” Vlaeminck has been with the township since May 1999. She became deputy clerk in 2010 and was appointed to serve the remainder of former clerk Betty Fortino’s term after Fortino died last year. While Vlaeminck has opted not to run, she said she would be interesting in a deputy clerk position. PAGE 13 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

fter more than three decades — a period during which his church has gone from just a handful of parishioners to thousands — of preaching to the faithful, Bishop Andrew Merritt has his sights on a new goal: West Bloomfield Township. Merritt, whose Detroit-based mega church Straight Gate International Church has a congregation of over 6,000, said prayer and patience brought him and his Straight Gate West to West Bloomfield. “Several pieces had to come into play,” he said. With Easter just around the corner on Sunday, April 8, Straight Gate West will hold a Resurrection Sunday Celebration — the first service of the West Bloomfield off-shoot of Straight Gate — at Orchard Lake Middle School in West Bloomfield. Doors

open at 7:30 a.m. and services begin at 8 a.m. Merritt said he expects the service in West Bloomfield to be akin to what is offered at his 165,000square-foot church in Detroit, which is located at 10100 Grand River Ave. Attendance is also expected to be similar. “No more than what we would expect wherever we go,” he said. “It will be a worship service that will praise in worship and adoration to our Lord, Jesus Christ. “It’s a kick-off celebration that we are inviting the general public to, those that would love to come and be part,” he added Merritt said the church had been in discussions with the West Bloomfield Schools Board of Education “for a couple months” about holding services at Orchard Lake Middle School. He said he expects to erect a new church in the township, although the location for

that “is up in the air.” An author of a best-selling book, “My Faith is Taking Me Someplace,” Merritt said his church is nondenominational. Straight Gate boasts of a congregation — which is international and inter-racial — that includes members from Detroit, Canada, and Ohio, as well as Macomb and Oakland counties. “We didn’t build our church,” said Merritt, a Bloomfield Township resident, in a press release. “The Lord did and He will build this one. I believe there are many living in the area who have been waiting for a ministry like ours, people who want to be born again.” Orchard Lake Middle School is located at 6000 Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield. ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 13

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APRIL 4-10, 2012

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WATERFORD OUR LADY OF THE LAKES BASEBALL April 12 at Holly, 4 p.m. April 14 at Royal Oak Shrine, 4:30 p.m. April 17 at Cardinal Mooney, 4:30 p.m. April 19 vs. Frankel Jewish Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 21 vs. Franklin Road, 11 a.m. April 24 vs. Cranbrook-Kingswood, 4:30 p.m. April 25 at Frankel Jewish Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 28 at Waterford Kettering, 1 p.m. April 30 at Oakland Christian, 4:30 p.m. May 1 vs. Royal Oak Shrine, 4:30 p.m. May 5 at Clarkston Tournament, TBA. May 8 at Cransbrook-Kingswood, 4:30 p.m. May 10 vs. Cardinal Mooney, 4:30 p.m. May 15 at CHSL Quarterfinals, TBA. May 18 vs. Allen Park Cabrini, 4:30 p.m May 19 at CHSL Semifinals, TBA. May 24 at CHSL Finals, TBA. May 29-June 2 vs. MHSAA Districts, TBA.

WATERFORD KETTERING BASEBALL April 11 vs. West Bloomfield (DH), 4 p.m. April 18 vs. Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. April 20 at Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. April 21 at Troy (DH), 10 a.m. April 23 at Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. April 25 vs. Waterford Mott (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 vs. Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes (DH), 1 p.m. April 30 vs. Howell, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Hartland, 4 p.m. May 5 at Clarkston Tournament, 10 a.m. May 7 vs. Brighton, 4 p.m. May 9 at Huron Valley Lakeland (DH), 4 p.m. May 11 vs. Clarkston (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 vs. Utica (DH), 11 a.m. May 14 at Pinckney, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 at Chuck Jones Tournament, 9 a.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Lake Orion, TBA.

PAGE 7B

WEST BLOOMFIELD BASEBALL

ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BASEBALL April 4 at Detroit Catholic Central (DH), 4 p.m. April 10 at Canton (DH), 11 a.m. April 11 at East Grand Rapids (DH), 4 p.m. April 14 at Dearborn Divine Child (DH), 2 p.m. April 18 vs. Detroit Jesuit (DH), 4 p.m. April 21 at Brother Rice (DH), 11 a.m. April 24 at West Bloomfield, 4:30 p.m. April 25 at Warren De La Salle (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 vs. Detroit Catholic Central (DH), 11 a.m. May 2 vs. Dearborn Divine Child (DH), 4 p.m. May 5 at Detroit Jesuit (DH), 2 p.m. May 9 vs. Brother Rice (DH), 4 p.m. May 12 vs. Warren De La Salle (DH), 11 a.m. May 14 vs. Bay City John Glenn, 4 p.m. May 15 at Oxford (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 at CHSL Semifinals at Madonna U, TBA May 24 at CHSL Championship at Comerica Park, TBA. May 26 at Rochester Adams (DH), 11 a.m. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Pontiac Notre Dame, TBA.

April 10 at Farmington, 4 p.m. April 11 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. April 13 at North Farmington, 4 p.m. April 16 vs. Birmingham Seaholm, 4:30 p.m. April 17 at Livonia Franklin, 4:30 p.m. April 20 at Farmington Hills Harrison, 4 p.m. April 23 vs. Birmingham Groves, 4:30 p.m. April 27 vs. Farmington (DH), 4 p.m. May 1 at Walled Lake Central, 4 p.m. May 2 vs. North Farmington (DH), 4 p.m. May 5 at John Lefevre Classic, 10 a.m. May 7 at Rochester, 4:30 p.m. May 9 at Birmingham Seaholm (DH), 4 p.m. May 11 vs. Walled Lake Western, 4 p.m. May 16 vs. Farmington Hills Harrison, 4 p.m. May 23 at Birmingham Groves (DH), 4 p.m. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at SouthfieldLathrup, TBA.

WATERFORD MOTT BASEBALL April 12 at Troy Athens, 4:30 p.m. April 14 at Royal Oak (DH), 11 a.m. April 18 vs. Pinckney, 4 p.m. April 20 vs. Huron Valley Lakeland, 4 p.m. April 23 at Grand Blanc, 4 p.m. April 25 at Waterford Kettering (DH), 4 p.m. April 28 at Lake Orion Invitational, 9 a.m. April 30 vs. Huron Valley Milford, 4 p.m. May 2 at Walled Lake Central (DH), 4 p.m. May 4 at Howell, 4 p.m. May 7 vs. Hartland, 4 p.m. May 9 vs. Walled Lake Western (DH), 4 p.m. May 13 at Eastern Michigan Tournament, 9 a.m. May 14 at Brighton, 4 p.m. May 16 at Walled Lake Northern (DH), 4 p.m. May 19 vs. L'Anse Creuse, (DH), 10 a.m. May 21 at KLAA Lakes Conference crossover, TBA. May 23 at KLAA Association crossover, TBA. May 25-26 at Blue Water Classic, TBA. May 29-June 2 at MHSAA Districts at Lake Orion, TBA.

PAGE 8

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

By Michael Shelton

SPECIAL REPORT

staff writer

ith the economy still struggling to rebound from the Great Recession, many west Oakland County residents continue to turn to their local public libraries, whether it’s for entertainment, education, or personal purposes. Some lakes area public libraries have reported increases in their collections in all formats — including books, CDs, DVDs, and other materials — in order to accommodate a rising number of visitors. In tandem, those two trends are resulting in more items being checked out of some area libraries. “In tough economic times, people tend to rediscover their public library,” said West Bloomfield Public Library Director Clara Bohrer. “Sometimes it’s for entertainment purposes or reasons related to education, sometimes it’s related to job-seeking and sometimes it’s for life issues that arise because of a bad economy.” Area libraries are also reporting increases in patrons using their computers and Wi-Fi networks for Internet browsing, job hunting, research and material preparation. “I remain a person who believes that public libraries must have a balance in what’s refer to as ‘old and new’ at this point in time to truly address the overall needs in a community,” Bohrer said. But, public library funding continues to struggle because of declining property values and property tax revenues, the public libraries’ chief source of operational funding. Millages make up the majority of local library revenues — around 80 to 90 percent at each area library. Fines, state aid, donations and interest add small contributions to the revenue stream, but declining millage revenues are forcing area libraries to do what they can to contain costs. 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. Here’s a look at public library use, collections, and revenue trends in the lakes area. WATERFORD TOWNSHIP Like most communities, the Waterford Township Public Library, located at 5168 Civic Center Drive, has been trying to keep afloat by implementing a series of cutbacks, including last year’s closure of the Leggett branch and modifying hours of operations at the main library. In December, Friday hours were

Use statistics mixed Libraries coping with sputtering economy

Use of the West Bloomfield Township Library (above) has increased in recent years. In 2011, the library had 1,003,084 visits to its facilities, is up from 997,101 in 2010. The library’s current collection size is 318,502 items, about a 3.6-percent increase over last year’s figure of 307,182. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

eliminated. “We’re down 30 percent in staff hours from five years ago and are now closed on Fridays because there’s just not enough staff,” said Library Director Joan Rogers. The library’s 2012 budget calls for an anticipated $1.976 million in revenues. The bulk of revenues, at 91 percent, come from the library’s operating millage. Other sources of revenue include a $31,000 contribution in state aid; fines and fees, estimated at $33,000; and penal fines, at roughly $87,000. “Our state Constitution designates fines for motor vehicle infractions to libraries after court costs, but they vary year to year,” Rogers said, explaining penal fines. The library’s fiscal year runs from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. The majority of expenditures, $1.5 million, are for staff salaries and benefits, while materials cost around $47,550. “The materials budget was $220,000 in 2007 compared to the $47,550 we’re spending now,” Rogers said. “We’ve been gradually decreasing that amount because it’s the most elastic part of the budget. We’re managing thanks to us belonging to a cooperative and borrowing to supplement (materials).”

The library’s operating millage rate is currently at 0.9118 mills and is slated to expire in August. Voters will decide whether to authorize a 10year renewal during the Aug. 7 primary election. “We’re asking for another renewal at the rate we’re currently collecting,” Rogers said. “We don’t have the ballot language yet until the assessor is done with Board of Review hearings.” Rogers said approval of the millage renewal will be crucial in order to keep the library up and running. Even with the millage renewal, the library’s revenues have been falling steadily since 2007. “Over the last five years they have been down between $2.6 and $1.9 million of what we originally were collecting, or 26.3 percent, since 2007.” Volumes of materials such as books, newspapers, magazines, CDs, and DVDs on hand amounted to 165,989 in 2011. The library has purchased 686 items so far this year for a total of 166,675. There are now 56 computer work stations throughout the library, and of those, 44 provide Internet access. “We participated in a statewide grant that doled out stimulus money to use, so we upgraded all our computers,” Rogers said. Library foot traffic, pegged at

259,000 patrons in 2011, dropped from 2010’s 269,000, mainly due to the closing of the Leggett branch library. Circulation numbers may also appear skewed for the same reason. In 2010, circulation for the branch and the main library was estimated at 401,000, while in 2011, it was about 372,000. “We closed the Leggett branch in 2010, so we lost that whole operation,” Rogers said. “We have pretty broad use, whether that be Internet searches or sending e-mails, book circulation, patrons reading the newspaper regularly, educational software or programs like Story Time.” Overall, Rogers said library patronage is up and will continue to climb because the institution offers a wide range of services. “Use is up and quite diverse,” she said. “We serve as a community center of sorts and offer programs and work stations with no user fee. It has helped folks over the last several years who have lost their jobs by providing resources.” She said she foresees electronic resources as a continuing trend. “Throughout this century, this has been the trend and with the advent of e-books and others, such as professional journals and even newspapers going electronic, they will be publishing more and more in an electronic format,”

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APRIL 4-10, 2012

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Rogers said.

The White Lake Township Library (above) had approximately 70,000 physical items — books, DVDs, magazines, and CDs — as part of its collection as of last December. The library typically receives over 90,000 visits a year. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

pared to 221,423 in 2010. “Patrons use the library for a variety of purposes, including checking out books, movies and music, and reading newspapers and magazines,” Mack said. “Patrons also visit the library to use our quiet study and meeting rooms, and to attend library programs.” Mack added that there is a definite trend toward patrons wanting to use electronic resources. “Patron access to information has always been the main role of libraries, but as technologies continue evolving and changing, libraries have had to adapt to patron needs and expectations to adequately facilitate access to information in a new era. These needs include an ever-increasing demand for online resources and services,” she said. WALLED LAKE For its fiscal year running from July 1 through June 30, the Walled Lake City Library has a current operating budget of $334,500. According to Library Director Donna Rickabaugh, the library’s budget has declined by one-third due to dropping property values. “Our budget has been reduced by a third,” she said. “Anybody who has left, such as our part-time people, have not been replaced. The full-time

people have taken a 15-percent pay cut for the past two years. Hopefully, someday it will be restored, but we don’t know.” However, she said the library hasn’t cut any of its services, despite the decline in revenue. “We just don’t have as much staff available to help residents with computers or to help them find the information they need,” Rickabaugh said. “(There’s) just not enough people.” The main sources of revenue include the library’s two millages ($316,000 per fiscal year), state penal fines ($8,500), and state aid ($2,500). While one of the millages is levied in perpetuity, the other is up for renewal in a couple years. The library’s top three expenditures include employee salaries and benefits, computer maintenance, and the purchase of books, non-print materials, and subscriptions for downloadable books. The library has 13 computers for patrons, with 10 of those providing Internet access, two used for children’s programs, and one for browsing the library’s catalog. The library also offers free Wi-Fi Internet access to those with their own laptops and other electronic devices. Although the library does not compile their collection statistics until

their annual report in July, Rickabaugh said the library’s materials are decreasing overall. “We are still weeding out some materials, but we can’t buy as many to replace them,” she explained. Approximately 2,694 visitors came to the library in February and checked out approximately 3,110 materials. “We still have a good circulation. People want to read books,” she said. “I think the library is pretty well used. We have a quite a few programs geared toward these hard economic times, such as ‘How to Invest Money’ and programs of that kind. And people have gotten a lot of use out of those.” HIGHLAND TOWNSHIP The budget of the Highland Township Public Library is $983,555 for the current fiscal year, running from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31. Top expenditures include salaries, repair/maintenance, contractual services, and collections and collection maintenance. Highland has a millage to help fund the library, a collection that was partially renewed in 2010. The current millage rate stands at 1.2667 mills, which was rolled back from the original 1.6 mills. The millage will bring in roughly $833,000 for 2012 operations. However, library millage revenues have been declining for the past five years, according to Library Director jude halloran. “Since 2007, the revenue from the voted millage has dropped over $480,700,” she said. The library receives additional revenue through state penal fines (about $21,000 a year) and around $17,700 in fines and fees, as well as charges for lost books. Additional revenue comes from investment interest. But these sources have seen declines as well, halloran said. Nevertheless, this shouldn’t prevent the library from meeting township residents’ needs. “The library has always been costconscious, and libraries have always been models of collaboration and cooperation with each other in sharing resources and obtaining volume discounts,” halloran said. “We are continually reviewing our internal procedures to eliminate what is not necessary.” Adjustments to compensate for declining revenues have included parttime staff hours replacing a full-time position lost through attrition, changes to full-time employee health care benefits, and cuts to the budgeted collection expenditures, supplies, and continuing education for staff. According to halloran, the library is PAGE 10 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

SPECIAL REPORT

WIXOM The Wixom Public Library, located at 49015 Pontiac Trail, is bustling with patrons who choose to utilize the institution’s free services and programs. However, declining property values continue to take a toll on the library’s budget. The library’s fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30. The 2011-12 fiscal year budget is pegged at $785,436, with the three main sources of revenue coming from millage revenues ($739,000), circulation fines and fees ($24,000), and penal fines ($17,000). The current millage rate is 1.08 mills. The millage is set to expire in 2016. Other revenue streams come by way of donations and other miscellaneous income ($3,000); state grants, ($2,600); and federal grants, ($4,000). Expenditures consist of personnel costs, operating expenses, and library materials. “Over the last few years, our revenues have been steadily declining and (that) has severely impacted library services,” said Library Director Cindy Mack. “This will continue to impact us over the next year, but the goal of the library board is to still provide strong, quality services and enough staff and hours of operation to ensure this.” To mitigate costs, the library implemented a wage freeze four years ago and staff has been reduced through attrition. As of last month, the number of books, newspapers, magazines, CDS, DVDS and other items at the library totaled 67,963, compared to 63,608 in January 2011. Currently the library provides 25 computers for public use, of which eight have Internet access. Three computers are used for children’s games and four computers only provide access to the library’s online catalog. There have been no purchases of new computers in recent years. Patronage has dropped since 2010. Last year, 124,513 visited the library, compared to 134,635 in 2010. “Library usage has increased over the last few years because the library offers a wide variety of resources and services at no cost,” Mack said. “This includes special library programs, DVDs, music, magazines and books. There was a slight decline in 2011 as compared to 2010 for a variety of reasons. The library had to reduce its materials and programming budgets because of declining funding and the numbers have stabilized after many years of significant growth.” Fewer items were checked out in 2011 compared to 2010. Last year, 218,695 items were checked out, com-

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

SPECIAL REPORT

Library stats ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 9

Multi-Lakes Conservation Club Announces:

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A special thank you to Hungry Howies for their generous donation of a FREE Large Pizza to all of the winners!

more reliant upon donations and grants, such as those provided by the Friends of the Library group. As for the library’s collection, it has increased by almost 1,000 items to 93,065 over the past year. “The collection is always being refreshed as new items are added regularly, and lost, worn or outdated items are withdrawn,” halloran said. Meanwhile, the downloadable collection has more than doubled in size with 7,000 titles available in 2011. The library also has 22 computers with public Internet access, three children’s games computers, three Microsoft Office workstations, and recently purchased laptops for residents’ in-library use. The laptops were obtained with a grant to serve patrons. The library recorded over 111,450 patron visits in 2011. WHITE LAKE TOWNSHIP The White Lake Township Library has an operating budget of $1.1 million for the current fiscal year, which runs from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. Top sources of revenues include property taxes ($1.03 million), state penal fines ($34,000), and fines and fees ($13,000). The main expenditures of the library include salaries and benefits, technology, and materials, such as books, audio and downloadable books, DVD’s and music. The library has three separate millages: The original 0.3-mill library establishment millage which is levied in perpetuity and has since decreased to 0.21 mills; an 8-year operating millage at 0.5 mills which originally passed in 1998 and was renewed in 2006 at 0.45 mills and is set to expire in 2014; and an 8-year operating millage at 0.4 mills that was passed in August 2010 and is set to expire in 2018. However, due to declining property values, Library Director Lawrence Ostrowski said the library would’ve been forced to make many cuts without the 2010 library millage. “Without the new 0.4 mills, we would have had to make serious cuts in services, personnel and materials to operate with a loss of almost one-third of our income,” he said. “Failure of the millage would have meant the closing of the library on Wednesdays, the elimination of programming personnel, and significant cuts regarding the purchase of new materials.” Nevertheless, the library has had to make adjustments to compensate for the rough economic times. “We made cuts early in the recession, starting in the summer of 2009 with personnel, and made further cuts in January of 2010 in personnel and

hours of operation to the public, and a 20-percent cut in materials,” Ostrowski said. “The success of the new millage allowed us to restore the cuts to the materials budget but not to restore previous hours of operation.” There are 24 public computers, 18 of which provide Internet access. The library also had approximately 70,000 physical items — books, DVDs, magazines, and CDs — as part of its collection as of last December. “The fact that, in spite of all you hear that libraries are less important in this day of digital access to supposedly everything, our circulation of materials keeps rising, more people are coming or more frequently coming to the library, and we continue to have waiting lists for attendance to story times and computer instruction programs,” Ostrowski said. The library typically receives over 90,000 visits a year. COMMERCE TOWNSHIP The Commerce Township Community Library’s operating budget for 2011 was $1.2 million, of which the library spent $1.08 million. Top expenditures included salaries and benefits, as well as collection costs ($107,685 for books and $78,950 for electronic databases, downloadable books, audio books, and music). Approximately $252,000 was spent from the building fund, which is separate from the operating fund, on the 2011 portion of the library renovation project. The total revenue for 2011 was $1.71 million, which came from the library millages ($1.58 million), penal fines ($49,071), interest and dividends ($29,226), and fines and fees ($27,726). This year, the library’s budget is set at $1.3 million, with revenue anticipated at $1.65 million. The library has a permanent millage of 0.3 mills and another millage levied at 0.7 mills which expires in 2014. Declining property values have impacted the revenues, with the 2011 millage originally projected to bring in $1.68 million. However, the Commerce library has been prepared for these declines. “We have kept expenditures below revenue, even with declining revenue,” said Library Director Connie Jo Ozinga. “A portion of unspent revenue is moved to the building fund for future construction. We have not had to cut hours or expenditures.” Commerce has a collection of about 118,000 physical materials. Ozinga said that with the recent library renovation, they continued to update their collection. PAGE 11 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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SPECIAL REPORT

Library stats ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 10

“Between some of the shelves being completely filled and the shelving moving and rebuilding that went on with construction, we did focus this year on weeding the collection, particularly in children’s fiction and adult biography,” Ozinga said. The library has 18 adult, seven teen, and eight kids computers, all of which have Internet access. “There are also a zillion people here every day with laptops using our Wi-Fi Internet service,” Ozinga said. “This is a very well-used and busy library. Our average last year was 423 people entering the building each day.” Last year, the Commerce library saw over 146,000 visits, which resulted in approximately 319,000 materials being checked out. In addition, 12,000 materials were downloaded. WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP According to West Bloomfield Township Public Library Director Clara Bohrer, the library’s revenue for the for the current fiscal year is $4.92 million. The projected operating expenditures for its two facilities, the main library and the West Acres Branch, is $4.77 million. The library’s fiscal year is April 1 through March 31. “Our library has been fortunate that our bond payment, which averaged $900,000 a year, ended in 2011,” Bohrer said. In 2011, West Bloomfield had 1,003,084 visits to its facilities, which is up from 997,101 visits in 2010. The library’s authorized operating millage is 1.7 mills and, in the current fiscal year, the millage is projected to bring in $4.38 million in property tax revenue, according to Bohrer. In August 2010, West Bloomfield Township voters overwhelmingly approved a 15-year millage renewal at 0.6586 mills to fund library operations. That renewal scheduled to take effect this year. Township voters previously approved a library millage of 0.7 mills in 1997 that was rolled back to 0.6586 by provisions of the Headlee Amendment to Michigan’s 1963 Constitution. That millage expired last December. “Our millage revenue has been in decline for the past several years due to declining property taxes and is expected to continue to decline for at least one or two more years,” Bohrer said. She added that since 2009, the library has lost about $1.52 million in property tax revenue. “So the loss in property tax (rev-

The Commerce Township Library (above) documented over 146,000 visits last year, which resulted in approximately 319,000 materials being checked out. In addition, 12,000 materials were downloaded. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

enue) was somewhat alleviated by the absence of a bond payment, which came out of our operating millage,” she said. Property tax accounts for about 89 percent of the library’s revenues, while other sources include state aid to public libraries, penal fines, and contract for services, which have all been in steady decline since 2009. Bohrer said that the only revenue source to show an increase is fines and fees, which has increased from $191,388 in the 2009 fiscal year to a projected $213,000 in the current fiscal year. She added that the library has had to reduce operating costs by over $600,000 to date and that it has also had to reduce personnel costs by eliminating positions, primarily through attrition. The library has eliminated three fulltime positions and five part-time positions, and has not given personnel any wage increases in the past two years, and will not for the coming fiscal year. Bohrer said that the library’s current collection size is 318,502 items, which is about a 3.6-percent increase over last year’s figure of 307,182. “Our library has been fortunate in that our Friends of the Library group has provided a sizable donation each year of $25,000 to supplement our materials budget so we can continue to meet usage demands,” Bohrer said. The library currently has 174 public workstations set up for different purposes between the two facilities. “We have not had to reduce the number of our computers, but we haven’t increased them, either,” Bohrer said. However, the library has seen increased use of its Wi-Fi network,

with a total 17,773 unique laptop users and 51,305 connections in the 2011 fiscal year, which represented a 23 percent increase in users and a 22 percent increase in connections over the previous fiscal year. Bohrer said that library material budgets are being strained by the proliferation of different formats through which it is published. “Our library tries to meet needs at both ends of the ‘old and new’ spectrum.” MILFORD According to Milford Public Library Director Tina Hatch, the library’s operating budget is a balanced at $1.03 million for the current fiscal year, which runs from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. “Library use is up, probably because of the economy,” she said, adding that there was a slight decline in the circulation of materials in spite of an increase in library visits. “If we look back to 2009, library usage increased significantly and continued to increase, but at a more normal rate, in 2010. Certainly, this coincides with the tough economic times.” She added that the library levies two millages, including a perpetual 1mill levy, which has been reduced to .7611 via the Headlee Amendment, and a 0.38-mill levy that will expire in December 2019. The library’s budget estimates that 92 percent of its revenues will come from the millages, bringing in approximately $909,000 in property tax revenue, and an additional $20,800 in industrial facilities taxes (IFT). Hatch said that declining property values have impacted the library’s millage revenues. The library has also been affected by the agreement Milford

Township recently struck with the General Motors (GM) Proving Ground. “Five years ago, our current millage rate would have brought in approximately $1.12 million in property taxes, plus about $21,000 in IFTs,” she said. “That’s almost a 19-percent decrease over the five-year period.” Hatch added that other income sources account for about 8 percent of the budget, with sources including fines and fees, state penal fines, state aid, donations, and interest income. “The Friends of the Library have contributed $7,000 for programming activities for the current year. State aid and penal fines have been in decline almost every year,” she said. Hatch also said that a wage freeze has been in effect for the last three years and about 43 hours were cut from staffing, resulting in the library going to a 6-day schedule year-round after previously being open 7 days per week during the school year. “The materials budget has been reduced significantly, meaning that customers might have to wait a bit longer for popular items,” she said, adding that a week-long unpaid furlough for staff had been planned for this year but has since been cancelled due to the resolved GM tax issue. The library has 28 public access computers, with 21 of them providing Internet access and productivity software to the public, in addition to 10 classroom notebooks purchased with a grant. “Ten years ago, we were in the midst of planning for a new library building. Our residents knew that technology would be a huge part of the services we provide, but they indicated strongly that new technology should be balanced with traditions of library service,” Hatch said. “Planning involved more space for collections, of course, but also more space for computers and more space for studying or just relaxing with a book, newspaper or magazine.” Hatch said that the library had 80,903 items at the beginning of 2011, a number that shrunk to 78,466 at the end of the year. There were 200,269 patron visits at the library in 2011, up from 198,586 in 2010. Nearly 271,000 items were checked out of the library in 2011, down from 276,907 in 2010. “Are our customers asking for more DVDs, online books? Yes, some of them are, but others continue to want print materials,” Hatch said. ❏ Staff writers Angela Niemi and Leslie Shepard contributed to this report.

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COMMERCE TOWNSHIP ANNUAL COMMUNITY AWARDS Nominations for the Twenty Eighth Annual “COMMUNITY AWARDS” are now being accepted. Presentations of these awards will take place at the annual MICHIGAN WEEK COMMERCE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY BREAKFAST Tuesday, May 15, 2012 Edgewood Country Club, Commerce Township Doors Open 7:00 A.M. • Breakfast 7:30 A.M. DEADLINE for nominations is FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012 Please return to Commerce Township “Community Awards” 2009 Township Drive Commerce Township, MI 48390 Please submit the name of the person who you feel deserves special recognition for their personal efforts, dedication and contributions towards the betterment of Commerce Township and its citizens. Please give specific reasons and information for the nomination.

“OUTSTANDING CITIZEN”

“BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR”

Must be a resident of Commerce Township, including Wolverine Lake Village •Active supporter of community activities over and above those that may be a normal part of their job duties •Currently serving elected officials are not eligible.

•Must own or operate a business in Commerce Township, including Wolverine Lake Village •Should have no current violations on record with the Township and/or Sheriff’s Department •Must be an active supporter of community activities over and above those that may be a normal part of their job duties. Currently serving elected officials are not eligible.

NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Obituaries CONNOR, JEROME PAUL “JERRY”, age 83, and a resident of the Northville-Novi area since 1982, died on March 21, 2012. EDWINS, ARTHUR E., age 69; of Waterford; passed away March 16, 2012. FALLSCHEER, MARY LOU, of Waterford died suddenly March 13, 2012 at 82 years of age. GARRISON, JAMIE LYLE of Clarkston passed away on March 22, 2012 at 32 years of age. HURST JEAN M, was born on March 26, 1933 and passed away on March 13, 2012. KRUCHKO, LEONARD T., of Waterford passed away on March 13, 2012 at 78 years of age. MURPHREE, SHARI ANNE, of Commerce Township was born on February 6, 1959. She died March 21, 2012 at the age of 53. Beloved wife of 22 years to Warren M. Murphree. PULLIS, JAMES EARL, of Waterford March 13, 2012 at 73 years of age. Loving husband of Sharon for 56 years age.

NOMINATOR’S NAME & PHONE (optional)

“OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION AWARD”

“PARKS AND RECREATION OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD”

•Need not be a resident of Commerce Township •Must be an active supporter of community activities over and above those that may be a normal part of their job duties. Currently serving elected officials are not eligible.

•Need not be a resident of Commerce Township • Must be an active supporter of programs or activities related to Parks and Recreation that primarily service the residents of Commerce Township including Wolverine Lake Village

NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

RICE, BETTY JEAN, age 91, died peacefully at home in Milford on March 20, 2012. ROLLISON, ELIZABETH ANN, of Waterford; died March 14, 2012. She was 85. SCHWAB, LEONARD ELGIN, went to be with the Lord March 20, 2012 at 94 years of age. SMITH, CAMPBELL C., was born on January 29, 1947 and passed away on March 9, 2012. SQUIRES, JANET D., was born June 9, 1933 and died March 20, 2012 in Pontiac, Michigan at age 78.

NOMINATOR’S NAME & PHONE (optional)

PLEASE ATTACH ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO THIS FORM

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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LAKES AREA NEWS

Clerk race ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 7

“I would hope that whoever the voters select as the new clerk, that person would tap me as deputy again,” she said. During her time as clerk, Vlaeminck has nearly completed digitizing township Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 1971 onward so residents and board members have easier access to the meeting records. “I’m just waiting for the software, but these should be done this summer,” she said. “I’m also working on electronic board packets so residents and board members get the information off the website. It’s easier for them and will be easier for the office.” Republican Sue Camilleri and Democrat Rita Holloway-Irwin have both filed to run for the clerk position. The primary election is set for Aug. 7 and the general election is Nov. 6. The township clerk serves a fouryear term and is paid between $72,696 and $94,507 annually, depending on the person’s background and experience. The candidate filing deadline is May 15. ❏

Field of hopefuls for Highland chief exec. post grows Donna Gundle-Krieg is joining Rick Hamill and Lynn O’Brien in the race for Highland Township supervisor. As a political journalist and former human resources manager and consultant for the University of Michigan Health Systems, Gundle-Krieg, a Republican, said she has acquired a “strong background in communications, human resource management, and politics,” which she believes make her a “perfect fit” for the position. “I have a passion for Highland after raising my two children here, and have a real interest in local government issues. As a writer, I have been an advocate for the people. I believe in the transparency and accountability of government, and my articles over the years have challenged governments at all levels. I decided that it’s my turn to take the hot seat and lead my hometown, and believe that my neighbors and friends will support me by voting or volunteering for my campaign. ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 14

➥

Boy Scout Jake Dudek of White Lake spearheaded a canned and non-perishable food drive to benefit the Open Door Outreach Center, netting over 2,500 pounds of food — enough to help feed over 50 households. Most of the food was donated last weekend, but donations continue to come in.

Scout helping the needy

Dudek collects over 2,500 pounds of food for Open Door By Tim Dmoch editor

he Open Door Outreach Center has received a donation of approximately 2,500 pounds of canned and non-perishable food through the efforts of a White Lake Township Eagle Scout candidate. Boy Scout Jake Dudek of Troop No. 326 worked throughout last weekend to collect and deliver the food contributed by White Lake and Commerce residents As a requirement to earning the rank of Eagle, a Boy Scout must organize, lead and conduct a community service project approved by a scouting council. Dudek said he chose to organize the food drive to benefit Open Door after reading a November 2011 article in the Spinal Column Newsweekly about local food pantries struggling to provide food assistance to local households in need. After receiving project approval, Dudek contacted Open Door Executive Director Sharon Josephson and began working out the project details. With the help of fellow scouts, Dudek prepared and distributed

1,200 shopping bags to facilitate food donations from the public. Then, on Saturday, March 31, Dudek and a cadre of volunteers went back into the community to collect the bags. “My goal was to collect 2,000 pounds of food,” he said. “We actually collected 2,500 pounds. I have a few more donations coming in, and plan to deliver those later in the week and follow up with Open Door.” According to Dudek, about 30 volunteers helped collect and deliver the donated food last weekend, while a total of 45 volunteers pitched in during the overall project, which started in January. “Most of the volunteers are fellow scouts, but we also had kids from school who needed community service hours for the National Honor Society,” he said. “I want to thank all the volunteers who helped, and all the houses and families who donated the food. I couldn’t do something like this on my own.” Open Door’s Josephson said Dudek’s project represented a significant donation to the outreach center, which works to provide emer-

gency relief to area residents in the form of food, clothing and referral information. “That’s a big donation,” she said. “On average we will provide a household with 50 pounds of food, so he brought in enough to help feed 52 families. That’s significant, especially since he’s going to bring in more food this week.” Josephson said in addition to the food Dudek collected for Open Door, his Eagle Scout project provided much needed publicity for the outreach center and its mission. “We’ve been here over 30 years, and some people still don’t know about us,” she said. “So, his project provided PR (public relations) for us, letting a lot of households know where we are and what we do. PR is very valuable and very expensive. This was a double good job on his part.” To donate food, cash, or other materials to Open Door, or to volunteer, call 248-360-2930. For more information, visit opendooroutreachcenter.com. The center is located at 7170 Cooley Lake Road in Waterford. ❏

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LAKES AREA NEWS

Nagy appointed to council; will be sworn in April 11 An active volunteer in the community has been tapped as the new Wolverine Lake Village Council member following Linda Champagne’s resignation last month. The council unanimously voted to appoint Patrick Nagy to the open council seat at a meeting held Wednesday, March 28. Nagy currently serves on the village’s Planning Commission, a position to which he was appointed in 2008. He also serves on the Water Management Board and Zoning Board of Appeals as the Planning Commission’s liaison. “I feel pretty good about being appointed to Council,” Nagy said. “I’ve been here in the village since 2005, when I moved from Pennsylvania. I wanted to get involved and see what I could do to help my community.” Nagy previously applied for a council vacancy in May 2008, after former councilman John Coxeter died. “Council felt I needed more experi-

ence at that time,” Nagy said. “Now I’ve accrued experience on boards, writing ordinances, and working with people. I also attend council meetings to get a pulse of what village residents are looking for.” Nagy will fill Champagne’s council seat until November 2012. He will have to run for one of five open council seats in November if he hopes to continue on council beyond that. The three candidates receiving the highest vote totals in November will earn fouryear terms on the council, while the fourth- and fifth-place candidates will serve two-year terms. Champagne submitted her resignation to the village’s governing body on March 14. According to the village’s charter, the council had 60 days to appoint a replacement. Two candidates applied for the position — Nagy and Jacob Pattenaude. Village Council President John Magee said that, while Pattenaude offered a fresh perspective and interviewed well, Nagy’s experience couldn’t be overlooked. “Jacob had a lot of good things to say during the interview, but Pat has developed a lot of experience with the village and its governance over the

past few years and that was a decisive point for Council,” Magee said. Nagy will be sworn in during the Wednesday, April 11 council meeting. ❏

Milford Village seeking 20-year road millage The Milford Village Council voted Monday, April 2 to direct the village attorney to put together August primary election ballot language seeking voter authorization of a road millage. The proposal calls for a 20-year collection period, with 3.5 mills collected during the first 10 years and 1 mill collected during the last 10 years. “This is not just about repairing the roads in worse condition, but also maintaining our roads in good condition and therefore getting the best value for what you’re spending,” said Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger. 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. A 3.5-mill levy would cost the owner of a village property with a tax-

able value of $100,000 ($200,000 market value) $350 a year. A 1-mill collection would cost the same property $100 in each of the last 10 years of the 20-year levy. The council voted 4-2 to approve the direction, with James Kovach and Elizabeth Heer each casting “no” votes. Councilwoman Jennifer Frankford was absent on Monday. Kovach and Heer were not available for comment prior to press time, but Village Clerk Deborah Frazer said they disagreed with the proposed rates. The village previously put a fiveyear, 0.5-mill levy for the maintenance of major and local roads in the village before voters in the September 2009 election, which resulted in a tie of 427 “yes” and 427 “no” votes, and ultimately defeat of the ballot question. While he said he was concerned about asking residents for the millage in a down economy, he added “the village has a multi-million dollar asset in the roads and if we don’t do something, it will be more expensive (to fix and maintain roads in the future).” ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 15

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APRIL 4-10, 2012

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PAGE 15

LAKES AREA NEWS

Welcome to WB

Board gives green light on gateways By Michael Shelton staff writer

The Passion for Life charity event was held March 24 to benefit the Shulls of Canton (pictured above in the center, flanked by event founder Ned Stojkovic and marketing director Shannon M. Waybrant). At right is Ryan Mattsen, who won the 5K race (18:04.6).

Above, a young, jubilant runner crosses the finish line. At left is Ryan Johns of White Lake (No. 397), who finished first in the 5 Mile race (28:19.1). Below, participants warm up with Jazzercise before the run and walk events. Proceeds from the event will help cover cancer treatment costs for Lilli Shull. (Photos by David Mexicotte)

The West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees has approved a gateway signage program, giving sponsors a chance to have their names posted on a number of signs welcoming motorists into the township. It was approved Monday, March 26 by a 6-1 vote, with Trustee Larry Brown voting “no.” Through the program, a sponsor can pay from $1,000 to $5,000 to

Gateway signs similar to the one seen above are expected to begin cropping up in West Bloomfield Township now that the Board of Trustees has approved a program to install up to 30 of them, including at key intersections throughout the community. Three sponsorship levels were approved — Platinum, Gold, and Silver — in the board’s 6-1 vote on Monday, March 26. Trustee Larry Brown voted against the gateway sign program.

have a name placed on one of several gateway signs that are proposed for welcoming people into the township. Sponsors can include any business, local and/or non-profit organization, or neighborhood group that is lawfully located in or serving the township. The program will include three lev-

els of sponsorship, with the top level being Platinum, which will require a minimum donation of $5,000 for the life of the sign or sponsor, or a minimum of five years if road improvements shift locations or more permanent gateways replace the signs. Gold sponsorship will require a minimum donation of $2,500 for a two-year sponsorship at the more prominent gateway locations. Silver sponsorship will require a minimum $1,000 donation for two years. Currently, the township has a total of 30 proposed gateway locations, including five Gold sponsorship locations: Orchard Lake Road north of 14 Mile Road/Northwestern Highway; Orchard Lake Road south of Pontiac Trail; Maple Road east of Haggerty; Pontiac Trail east of Haggerty Road; and Haggerty Road north of Pontiac Trail. Sponsorship will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis by the Community Development Department. Prior to the sponsorship’s expiration, the sponsor will be offered the right of first refusal before the sign becomes available to other sponsors. Brown said he cast the only vote against the program because he and other residents felt that metal welcome signs with business names would be beneath the dignity of the community. “It’s not so much an objection, it’s just ... the type of signage. It’s similar to a mini-billboard. I would like to see nicer signs where people could donate and not have their names on them.” Brown added that he also didn’t like the possibility of different businesses appearing on signs over the years if an existing sponsor doesn’t renew sponsorship. Trustee Steve Kaplan said that the “Welcome to West Bloomfield” portion of the signs would be 10 times bigger than the portion with a sponsor’s name. “It’s not a walking billboard. A typical motorist probably wouldn’t notice it until the second or third time they pass it.” He added that sponsorships could provide a profit beyond what was needed for construction and maintenance of the signs, and that the funds could go toward other future gateway signs that wouldn’t feature sponsor names. ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 16

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PAGE 16

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA NEWS Instant

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Milford OK’s RCOC dust control pact for gravel roads By Michael Shelton staff writer

The Milford Township Board of Trustees has approved a pair of contracts related to the Road Commission for Oakland County’s (RCOC) Dust Control program, as well as Environmental Recycling Group for its services in Milford’s upcoming hazardous waste collection day. Supervisor Don Green said that the township’s participation in the RCOC’s 2012 dust control program will cover 41.5 miles of gravel roadway in the township. Green added that he budgeted $72,000 for the program. Treasurer Cynthia Dagenhardt said that the township doesn’t bill residents directly for the program, but it pays for the dust-fighting road chloride mixture through residents’ property taxes. The program involves RCOC

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crews spraying calcium chloride brine on gravel roads. RCOC Public Information Officer Craig Bryson said that mineral well brine is a naturally occurring salt water that is pumped from the ground. When applied to gravel roads, the brine draws moisture from the air and ground, and the moisture helps to bind the materials in the road surface, reducing the amount of dust that becomes airborne and providing a better driving surface. Also, the township board has approved an agreement with Environmental Recycling Group to provide services, labor, equipment, supplies and document preparation for Milford’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day that is scheduled for May 19 at the Milford Department of Public Services office, located at 1100 Atlantic Street, behind the Milford Civic Center site. The public is encouraged to bring in items such as household cleaners, insecticides, and waste oil from motor vehicles that needs to be disposed of properly. The final cost for the services won’t be known until after the event, but Dagenhardt said that the annual cost for the hazardous waste collection services is usually between $25,000 and $28,000. ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 17

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PAGE 17

LAKES AREA NEWS Second- and third-grade students from Adams Elementary School in the Waterford School District held a Living Wax Museum on Wednesday, March 28 during which they dressed as notable Michigan natives and residents. From right, going clockwise: Students as “The Polar Express” author Chris Van Allsburg and Boeing Corporation founder William E. Boeing; musicians Kid Rock, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and others; comedian and actor Tim Allen; Michigan State University men’s basketball coach Tom Izzo; Nobel Prize winner Ralph Bunche; tennis great Serena Williams; late Detroit Pistons owner Bill Davidson; and Wonder. A total of 56 students participated in the event during which they acted as museum “docents” leading tour groups of parents through the halls of the school. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photos/Amy K. Lockard)

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✞

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

aster E Worship St. Patrick’s Catholic Church 9086 HUTCHINS, WHITE LAKE

✞

(248) 698-3100

HOLY THURSDAY, APRIL 5

7:00 p.m. – Holy Thursday Mass (Church) 8:30 - Midnight – Adoration ending with Night Prayer at midnight

GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 6 Noon - 3 p.m. – Good Friday Services Noon - 12:15 p.m. – Private Prayer 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. – Stations of the Cross 1:00 - 3:00 – Liturgy of the Word, Adoration of the Cross, Communion Service 8:00 p.m. – Tenebrae

HOLY SATURDAY, APRIL 7 12:00 Noon – Food Basket Blessing 8:00 p.m. – Easter Vigil

EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 8 Masses: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 Noon

CEDAR CREST LUTHERAN Founded in 1934

485 FARNSWORTH, WHITE LAKE (248) 698-3820

APRIL 5 MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE 2 p.m. with Communion Light Pot Luck Lunch at 1 p.m. APRIL 6 GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE - 2 p.m. Light Pot Luck Lunch at 1 p.m. APRIL 8 EASTER SUNDAY Sonrise Devotion 8:00 a.m. Easter Breakfast 9 a.m. Easter Festival Service 10:30 a.m.

Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church 9101 Highland Road White Lake, MI 48383 (Across from Walmart/Home Depot Plaza)

EASTER SUNDAY April 8th, 9:30 a.m.

Call for info - also located in Clarkston, 248-625-3288 One church - Two locations

St. William Parish Finding us is easy… 531 Common Street Walled Lake, MI 48390-3417 Phone: 248-624-1421

www.stwilliam.com

EASTER SCHEDULE

• Stations of the Cross with Night Prayer - Fridays at 7:30 p.m. • Reconciliation: Monday, April 2, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.,Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday April 4, 2012 at Noon • Holy Thursday (April 5) Mass of the Lord’s Supper: 7:30 p.m. • Good Friday Liturgy (April 6) at 12:30 p.m. • Holy Saturday (April 7) Blessing of Food at 12:00 noon • Easter Vigil: Saturday, April 7, 2012 at 8:30 p.m. • Easter Sunday Masses: April 8 at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 noon

aster E Worship

APRIL 4-10, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

Commerce United Methodist Church

1155 North Commerce Road Commerce Township, MI 48382

(248) 363-3935

www.commerceumc.org Rev. Dr. Deane B. Wyllys

Maundy Thursday 7:00 p.m. Communion

Easter Worship 7:30 a.m. Sunrise Service 8 a.m. Breakfast 9:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Coffee Hour 10-11 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Nursery and Kids Worship 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.

PAGE 19

Walled Lake United Methodist

313 NORTHPORT Walled Lake, MI 48390 (behind Lynch & Sons Funeral Home)

(248) 624-2405

APRIL 8th EASTER SERVICE 9:30 a.m.

Walled Lake Church of Christ 1403 N. PONTIAC TRAIL, Walled Lake, MI 48390 Located between Decker & S. Commerce Road

(248) 624-4600 Bible Classes (all ages) 10:00 a.m. Easter Service 11:00 a.m. by Roger Woods, Minister Attended Nursery Youth Program for ages 3 through grade 4 held during sermon

Union Lake Baptist Church 8390 Commerce Road Commerce, MI 48382

248-363-9600

unionlakebaptist@sbcglobal.net

Good Friday April 6, 2012 - 1 p.m. Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012 9:15 a.m. - Bible Study for all ages 10:30 a.m. - Worship Service 6 p.m. - Worship Service Child Care Is Available For All Services

Crossroads Presbyterian Church

Maundy Thursday, April 5

7:00 P.M. – Tenebrae – Communion

CELEBRATING THE RESURRECTION

EASTER - APRIL 8 10:30 A.M.

– Nursery Services Provided –

1445 WELCH ROAD (between Maple Road and Pontiac Trail)

(248) 624-3821

www.crossroadspc.org

New Hope

Christian Fellowship

Good Friday Service April 6th – 7:00 p.m. Kid’s Good Friday Service April 6th – Noon to 1:00 p.m. EASTER SERVICES April 8th – 9 & 11 a.m. 6020 Pontiac Lake Rd. Waterford, 248-886-1500

First Congretional Church

ORCHARD LAKE COMMUNITY CHURCH, PRESBYTERIAN

5449 Clarkston Rd. Clarkston Just East of Sashabaw

5171 Commerce Road (248) 682-0730 www.olccp.org

248-394-0200 firstcongretionalchurch.org

“The Little White Church on the Lake”

Easter Sunday

Holy Week Schedule

Worship Service 10:00 AM Childcare available! Come join us! We would love to celebrate with you!

Maundy Thursday, April 5th, 7:30 p.m. Last Supper Reenactment and Communion Service ~~~

EASTER SUNDAY WORSHIP April 8

Celebration of the Resurrection 6:45 a.m. Sunrise Service & Continental Breakfast 9:00 & 10:30 a.m. Worship with Sunday School

Paul H. Thwaite, Pastor Mary Bahr-Jones, Assoc. Pastor

PAGE 20

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

EDUCATION

50 YEARS AGO April 5, 1962 On the evening of March 24, 13 lovely mink stoles were given away at IGA stores in the Pontiac area, including DeFlorios Quality Food Store, 420 Commerce Road, Commerce, and Giroux Union Lake Grocery, 1535 Union Lake Road, Union Lake. At Giroux, Gregg Payton, age 7, of Union Lake drew the winning entry, submitted by Isabel Barrie of Walled Lake. Another happy mink stole owner was Mrs. Harold Capien, when her husband’s entry was drawn by DeFlorios employee Jerry Moore. 40 YEARS AGO April 5, 1972 No disciplinary action will be taken against a West Bloomfield Township patrolman who accidentally shot another police officer Tuesday, March 23. Police Chief Alfred McGee gold the Spinal Column that Patrolman Harold Prince, 24, mistook Patrolman John Wheeler, also 24, for a burglary suspect whom Wheeler was attempting to apprehend. Wheeler is in fair condition at Pontiac General Hospital. Three one-man patrol cars were dispatched to a doctor’s office at 4256 Orchard Lake Road at 11:04 p.m. Prince was the first officer to arrive at the scene and checked the front of the building, which he found secured. At the rear of the building he found a broken window. About this time, Wheeler arrived and began checking the building. When he encountered Prince behind the building, Prince informed him of the broken window. Wheeler told his partner to watch the back of the building while he went to the front. Moments later Prince heard two shots and called Wheeler. Getting no response, he thought Wheeler may be in trouble. Prince moved to the front of the building where he saw someone running through the field across the street. Prince called “halt” twice, then fire one shot ... at what he though to be the suspect. The shot struck Wheeler in the back. McGee explained that the original shots had been fired by Wheeler as warning shots to the suspected burglar, whom Wheeler encountered when he returned to the front of the building. The suspect escaped. 30 YEARS AGO April 7, 1982 Piccadilly Square is out and the

Flea Market USA is in at least as of Friday, April 20, in the old T-Way department store on Cooley Lake road at Hospital Road in Waterford. Local builder Harold Wine said he has signed a long lease with Union Lake Associates “in excess of five years” to develop his idea. He said Richard Lacey, architect of the Piccadilly-Talley Hall idea, is no longer involved with the property and never signed a lease for the building. Wine ... said he has space for approximately 300 merchants in the present building. 20 YEARS AGO April 8, 1992 When the Ramona Terrace apartment building was constructed in 1921, it was a well-built, solid, substantial building, according to Waterford Township Building Director Ken Delbridge. Now the 28unit housing complex located on Telegraph Road is a public health menace. Delbridge said a lack of preventative maintenance at the building has caused its masonry wall construction to crumble. Since it would cost $1.25 million to renovate the apartments and bring the building into compliance with township codes, township officials will petition the Oakland County Circuit Court to demolish the dilapidated building. Several of the units’ furnaces are not vented into chimneys, interior walls and ceilings are falling apart, exposed electrical wires are hanging from the ceiling, and the entire building’s heating and plumbing systems need replacement. Rats and roaches are common at Ramona Terrace, as is multiple families living in a single unit.

Concert, artifacts now part of 50th anniversary event By Michael Shelton staff writer

Plans are coming together for the 50th anniversary celebration of Waterford Kettering High School, which is scheduled for June 22-23. According to the event’s official Facebook page, the celebration will include an alumni concert with former members of Kettering choirs and bands, as well as a Kettering memorabilia museum with artifacts donated by alumni. There will also be a robotics team demonstration, as well as a time for former teams and clubs to reunite. Tours of the building will also be given and work by current students and their clubs will also be on display. Visitors will have the chance to swim in the school’s pool, as well as purchase Kettering apparel and other memorabilia. Also just added to the festivities is the renaming of the school’s football and baseball fields in honor of long-

time Kettering football coach Jim Larkin and former Kettering baseball coach Tom Bryce. There is also a Kettering alumni book, which is now for sale, featuring stories written by the school’s Advanced Placement language arts and journalism students, who are taught by teacher Brian Wilson. According to the Facebook page, the book tells the story of the school through profiles of some of the school’s alumni, as well as coverage of some current Kettering teachers who are also alumni. The book also includes a DVD that was put together by the video class that is taught by Jesse McLean. The DVD includes a video tour led by celebration organizers Hal Farah and Ken Frenkel. To pick up a copy of the alumni book, patrons should visit room 501 at Kettering or go online to yearbookordercenter.com and use the code 13827. The cost of the book is $20, with an extra $3.50 fee for credit card purchases online. For more information on the celebration, log onto facebook.com/wkhs50th. ❏

Restoring R e l a t i o n s h i p s Rebuilding L i v e s Easter 2012

Sunday, April 8 St. Matthew Lutheran Church Walled Lake Campus

2040 S. Commerce, Walled Lake - 248-624-7676

Festival

8:15* 9:45am & 11:15am

Headlines of the Past

Prayer & Praise 9:30am* & 11:00am

Wixom Campus

48380 Pontiac Trail, Wixom - 248.624.9525

N e w V i n t a ge

9:00am* & 11:30am @stmatthewslcms

*Communion Services Visit st-matthew.org for more info

APRIL 4-10, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 21

EDUCATION

National award ‘nice surprise’ for WBHS senior By Michael Shelton staff writer

West Bloomfield High School senior is receiving national honors for her photography. Hailey Rozenberg was recently awarded a gold medal, the highest level of achievement, through the 2012 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program for her photograph entitled “Alien Abduction.” The awards are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, and Rozenberg will be honored for her work in New York City on June 1 at the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards 2012 National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall. “It’s pretty exciting,” she said, adding that she’s looking forward to the New York trip. “I didn’t expect it. It’s a nice surprise.” Rozenberg said that she has always taken photographs, but that she became serious about photography just over two years ago. “I love candid moments, and I love portraits at the right moment and the right time,” Rozenberg said, adding that she has had “a lot of support from teachers and classmates.” Rozenberg previously received a Gold Key, which is the highest achievement on the regional level, from the Southeastern Michigan

The above photo entitled “Alien Abduction” is the work of West Bloomfield High School senior Hailey Rozenberg and earned a Gold Medal through the 2012 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program. Her work will be on display at New York City’s Carnegie Hall during the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards 2012 National Ceremony on June 1. Husain (photography). Writing Awards program is organRegion of the Scholastic Art Awards. The art teachers at West ized by the Alliance for Young Artists Also previously receiving Gold Keys Bloomfield High School are Alison and Writers, a non-profit organizawere West Bloomfield High School Davis, Molly Marshall, and Margaret tion that has 100 regional affiliates students Erica Noelle Bauer (photogSquires. across the country and invites sturaphy), Krysten Caudie (painting), PAGE 23 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ The National Scholastic Art & Shay Gabbara (painting), and Akbar

‘Reflections’ on diversity garner student honors By Angela Niemi staff writer

The Walled Lake Consolidated School District honored all Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) Reflections participants in a districtwide celebration on Monday, March 26. Reflections is an annual arts program through the PTSA that offers students in preschool through 12thgrade the opportunity to create works of art for fun and recognition following that year’s theme in a number of categories that include film production, dance choreography, musical composition, photography, visual arts, and literature.

On Monday, March 26, the Walled Lake Consolidated School District honored all of the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) Reflections participants who submitted work that incorporated this year’s theme, “Diversity Means...” Pictured are the 10 state award winners. In the back row, from left to right, are: Hayley Tibbenham, Mary Stephens, Jordan Taub, Madeleine Brown, and Sandeep Siva. In the front row, from left to right, are: Abbas Sabir, Sophie Snyders, Kara Scussel, Jayden Baldas, and Lukas Curtil. (Photo submitted by Judy Evola/Walled Lake Consolidated School District)

The theme for 2011-12 was “Diversity means...” “With more than 65 languages and cultures represented in our district, Walled Lake Schools celebrates diversity everyday in our 20 schools,” said Superintendent Kenneth Gutman. “I am duly impressed at the incredible ways in which our students expressed what diversity means to them. I can reflect that their insights are refreshing and show the understanding they have about the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect.” Ten students from the district were honored as state award winners, with one being chosen to represent Michigan as a national entrant. In literature, Madeleine Brown of Hickory Woods Elementary School received an Award of Excellence; while Hayley Tibbenham of Walnut Creek Middle School, Mary Stephens of Sarah

PAGE 23 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 22

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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The initial cost of brick pavers is slightly higher than concrete or asphalt but lasts longer. Pavers are made and installed to last forever with extended warranties. Pavers don’t crumble like asphalt and concrete and do not need to be resealed. If the pavers come loose, rise or sink due to weather they are easily fixed with low cost. When considering what to do in your new home or how to add a little pizzazz to an existing home consider the many options with brick paving!

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APRIL 4-10, 2012

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PAGE 23

EDUCATION

National award ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 21

dents in the seventh- through 12thgrade to submit their art in 28 categories for the chance to earn scholarships and have their works published or exhibited. Rozenberg added that she isn’t sure where she’ll attend college, but that she plans on going into fashion merchandising. Her goal is to live in New York City and work in the fashion industry. ❏

Reflections win ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 21

Banks Middle School, and Sandeep Siva of Walled Lake Central High School were honored with Awards of Merit in the Literature category. Jordan Tabu of Walled Lake Northern High School received an Award of Merit in the Photography category. In the Musical Composition category, Abbas Sabir of Meadowbrook Elementary School received an Award of Excellence and Kara Scussel of Wixom Elementary received an Award of Merit. For the visual arts, Jayden Baldas of Glengary Elementary School was honored with an Award of Excellence, as was Lukas Curtil of Meadowbrook Elementary. Curtil’s “Many Friends Make My World” is a national entrant this year. Sophie Snyder of Hickory Woods Elementary received an Award of Merit in the Visual Arts category, as well. “Every year we are impressed and moved by the creativity and thoughtfulness with which our students examine the prompt for the PTSA Reflections Program,” said Nancy Scott, Walled Lake PTSA Council Reflections Program chairperson. “Walled Lake Consolidated Schools continues to have one of the best participation rates of all the school districts in the state. This year we are honored to have 10 students recognized with State PTA Reflections awards and one student’s work sent to the National PTA Reflections Program. We are in awe of our students’ talent.” ❏

Renovation work to target locker rooms, gym The West Bloomfield Schools Board of Education has approved

Students from Walled Lake Northern High School recently painted a mural to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the high school’s opening. According to Northern art teacher Whisper Andrusiak, who supervised the project, “We wanted as many people who are here as possible to leave their mark on the piece, so we incorporated signatures as a pattern. We wanted the piece to be abstract so that it can represent many people throughout time.” Over 1,100 staff and students signed their name to the mural. (Photo submitted by Whisper Andrusiak/Walled Lake Northern High School)

bond issue construction projects totaling $1.29, including the remodeling of the West Bloomfield High School locker rooms and other interior renovations. Deputy Superintendent for Business and Operations Thomas Goulding stated that the funding for the projects is coming from $15 million in qualified school construction bonds previously issued by the school district. He also said the current balance in the district’s capital projects fund is about $2.95 million. The high school projects involve remodeling the boys and girls locker rooms at the high school, including painting the walls, replacing the lockers, and installing new ceramic tile floors and energy efficient lighting. The varsity boys locker room will also have cleat-compatible rubber flooring and improved ventilation installed, and will be expanded into an adjacent storage room. Improvements will also be made to the school’s gymnasium, where

the gym floor will be refinished to include new lines and graphics with the school’s Laker mascot logo. The school’s auditorium will also have energy-efficient lighting with higher illumination levels installed, and the natatorium will have new lighting placed in its rooms and in the swimming pool. District officials couldn’t be reached prior to press time for comment on project start and completion dates. ❏

College Night on April 18 for HVS students, parents The Huron Valley School District will be hosting its College Night event from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the former gym on Wednesday, April 18 at Huron Valley Lakeland High School, located at 1630 Bogie Lake Road . The Career Centers of Lakeland and Huron Valley Milford high schools are inviting high school students and

their parents to this free-of-charge event that is open to the public. It offers families a chance to learn about college admission requirements, costs, financing options, and scholarship opportunities. Representatives from more than 70 public and private colleges and universities, as well as trade schools and the military, will be available to answer questions and provide information about their programs. Since the countdown for researching opportunities available after graduation starts early in high school, this is an opportunity for students and families to learn the admissions requirements of post-secondary institutions and to help keep students focused on their goals throughout high school. It also serves as a reinforcer so students enroll in appropriate course selections. For more information, contact Julie Ouellette in the Lakeland High School Career Center at 248-676-8337, or Brenda Granroth in the Milford High School Career Center at 248-6848098. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

MY MOM ROCKS! MOTHER’S DAY CONTEST Enter now for a chance to WIN A FEATURE in the Spinal Column Newsweekly. Mom will receive valuable prizes including a $100 gift certificate to the Root Restaurant in White Lake, a ladies’ watch from Ronnie’s Jewelry & Loans in Waterford, $25 gift certificate from Complete Beauty Supply Hair & Nail Spa in West Bloomfield, 3 hour house cleaning provided by Housekeeping Associates of Michigan, hanging basket of flowers from Melvin’s Ace Hardware in Walled Lake, gift basket with a gift certificate for a haircut and wax from Salon Tease in Walled Lake, $10 gas card, free hair cut from Elle Studio in Novi and more in our first annual contest to celebrate Moms. The story will be published in our May 9, Spinal Column Newsweekly’s “West Oakland Women” issue. Deadline for entries is April 20, 2012. Email us a photo of your Mom along with a short essay telling what your Mom has meant to you and any outstanding qualities she may have. Include your mother’s name and the city she lives in and email to: mothersday@thescngroup.com OR you may mail the information to the “MOTHER’S DAY CONTEST” at the Spinal Column Newsweekly, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014. Be sure to include your Name, your address, home phone or cell phone number and (email address if you have one) so we may notify the winner. Sorry photos cannot be returned. STORY ABOUT YOUR MOM

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PAGE 25

LOCAL MATTERS

Business helping cancer patients 1 house at a time By Angela Niemi staff writer

ost people would say being diagnosed with cancer is a life-changing event. It’s a scary and stressful time when most — if not all — of a person’s focus is concentrated on fighting the disease, which leaves no time for the little things, such as housecleaning. That’s where Housekeeping Associates, a partner with the Cleaning for a Reason Foundation, can step in to help. Based out of Ann Arbor, Housekeeping Associates offers residential and commercial cleaning services, as well as window washing and gutter cleaning services. The company serves west Oakland, Livingston, Washtenaw, and Ingham counties. Debra Shankland started the business in 1990, and began servicing the west Oakland area in 1997. Through partnering with Cleaning for a Reason, Housekeeping Associates offers free housecleaning services to cancer patients. “As a partner of the Cleaning for a Reason Foundation, we have the privilege of providing free cleaning for women undergoing treatment for cancer,” Shankland said. “Providing home cleaning for women during one of the most stressful times of their lives is at the very heart and soul of what we do every day.” In May 2006, Debbie Sardone, a veteran of the cleaning industry, formed the foundation, a non-profit organization serving the United States and Canada that partners with maid services to offer free professional housecleaning to help women undergoing treatment for any type of cancer.

chamber notes ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce (HVCC) is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, visit www.huronvcc.com: • Ambassadors Meeting, 10 a.m., Wednesday, April 11, Milford Police Department conference room, 1100

Housekeeping Associates is proud to be a partner with Cleaning For A Reason, a foundation providing free housecleaning services for cancer patients. Pictured above (left to right) are Housekeeping Associates cleaning staff member Kaitlin Cameron, Lansing Branch Manager Ryan Morgan, client Darlene Blinn, and cleaning staff member Sandra Berryhill. (Photo by Emily Caswell/www.cawlm.com)

Shankland’s business became a participant in 2007 after she became friends with Sardone, who was the president of the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International at the time. “We became friends, and she invited me to participate,” Shankland said. “She’s been really putting 100 percent into (Cleaning for a Reason).” So far, Cleaning for a Reason has served 10,548 patients with the $2.66 million that has been donated. It has 945 cleaning partners and has attracted major corporate sponsors such as Hoover, Swiffer, Mr. Clean, and Walmart. The organization has even been featured on Oprah. As a partner with Cleaning for a Reason, Housekeeping Associates has cleaned the homes of 40 cancer

patients in its service area. “They are so grateful,” Shankland said of the people her company has helped. As for the response of the staff, Shankland said she was “overwhelmed” by their positive attitude. “They feel great that they can participate and give,” she said. “Of course, they are still getting paid. But it’s for a good cause. Some of my staff wanted to do even more for the patients. Some even said, ‘You don’t have to pay me to do more.’” As part of the program, the staff of Housekeeping Associates does various household cleaning chores for cancer patients, such as cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, vacuuming and dusting once a month for four months. “That’s typically how long the process of chemotherapy takes,”

Shankland said. “We help them through that transition when they are going through one of the hardest parts of the disease. “As a local independent business, we are grateful for the success we have attained through our loyal customers,” she added. “We are proud of the services we provide and proud to be able to help those in need. We love to clean and are committed to providing the gift of a clean home to women undergoing treatment for cancer through the Cleaning for a Reason Foundation.” For more information or to donate to Cleaning for a Reason, visit www.cleaningforareason.org. To contact Housekeeping Associates, visit www.housekeepingassociates.com or call 810-2200229. ❏

Atlantic Street, Milford. • Off the Clock Connect, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday, April 12, Duke’s of Highland, 1200 S. Milford Road, Highland. • The Coffee Club, 8 to 9 a.m., April 20, Holiday Inn Express Wixom, 48953 Alpha Drive, Wixom. • Chamber Challenge Networking Mixer, 5:30 p.m., April 24, Billy’s Tip

‘N’ Inn, 6707 Highland Road, White Lake. Appetizers provided, cash bar. Join us for this multi-chamber mixer. It’s the Huron Valley Chamber vs. the Lakes Area Chamber. Let’s see what chamber has the most enthusiastic members. Reservations required. 248685-7129. • Administrative Professionals Luncheon, noon to 2 p.m., April 25,

at Cinco Lagos, 424 N. Main Street, Milford. Fashion Show by The Clothing Cove & Up Town Threads. Cost: $20/person. Reservations required. Contact the HVCC at 248-685-7129. Menu: chips and salsa; Cuban black bean soup; green chicken enchiladas; rice and beans; and tres leches cake with fresh raspberries.

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LOCAL MATTERS

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 25

❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (LACC) 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: • Edgewood Biz Connectors (LABAT), 8:15 a.m. Tuesdays, April 10 and 24, Edgewood Country Club, 8399 Commerce Road, Commerce. • Professional Networking Group (LABAT), 8:15 a.m. Wednesdays, April 11 and 25, Managing Change, 2655 Oakley Park Road, Commerce. • Spotlight Lunch, 11:30 a.m. April 19, Ronnie’s Jewelers, 7716 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford. Join us for an informal networking lunch. • Ambassadors Meeting, 9:15 a.m. April 27, chamber offices, 305 N. Pontiac Trail, Suite A, Walled Lake. ❐ The Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce (WACC) 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: • Business After Hours Mixer, 5 p.m. April 19, Irish Tavern, 4703 Elizabeth Lake Road, Waterford. Join us for appetizers, cash bar, and lots of networking! Ten-dollar advanced member reservations; $15 at the door and for non-members. Register at www.waterfordchamber.org or call 248-666-8600 • Luncheon at Outback, 11:30 a.m. April 26, 6435 Dixie, Clarkston. Katrina Campau with Dynamsis will present “Top 10 things to do in 12. “ Register at www.waterfordchamber.org or call 248-666-8600. • Perking Up Networking, 8 a.m. May 1, Poor Boy Choppers, 4763 Dixie Highway in Waterford. Networking and continental breakfast. Ten-dollar advance registration for members; $15 at the door and for non-members. Register at http://bit.ly/dDg0p0 ❐ 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 westbloomfieldchamber.com. • April 24 is the date to save for the annual Chamber Awards Dinner. Please join us as we honor four businesses in the categories of Business Person of the Year, New Business of the Year, HIP Business of the Year, and Young Entrepreneur of the Year. More information on the event will be available soon.

APRIL 4-10, 2012

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PAGE 27

PUBLIC SAFETY Ex-boyfriend suspected of vandalizing home Walled Lake police are investigating a breaking and entering incident in which a man allegedly destroyed the interior of his ex-girlfriend’s home located in the 800 block of N. Pontiac Trail on Saturday, March 24. According to police reports, the exboyfriend allegedly left text messages on the woman’s phone stating he planned to break into the home and ruin her belongings. Police observed clothes strewn along the ground outside; a small patio grill overturned; handrails for the steps leading to the main door broken; the screen door damaged; and the main front door kicked in, causing damage to the door jam and frame. Inside, a fire extinguisher was used to spray counter tops, carpeting, flooring, clothes, and a television. The kitchen cabinet underneath the sink was also broken. In addition, a chemical was used to damage the bath tub and more clothing. Holes had been made in the master bedroom drywall, and feces had been placed on pillow cases. The woman stated that although her ex-boyfriend stayed in the home periodically, he did not have his own key. ❏

Ingram lawyer calls for dismissal of charges The attorney representing a man suspected in the Dec. 23 Rolladium roller skating rink shooting spree in Waterford Township that wounded five is asking for a dismissal of all charges against his client. Cheyenne Benjamin Ingram, 18, is charged with 14 counts, including six counts of assault with intent to commit murder; six felony firearm charges; one count of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder; and one count of carrying a concealed weapon. Attorney Jonathan Jones has filed a motion to quash the charges against his client, citing there isn’t probable cause as required by law indicating his client committed a crime, and therefore the case must be dismissed. Ingram reportedly wasn’t recorded by multiple security cameras holding a gun or committing any crimes at the time of the incident, according to Jones. Ingram is facing the charges for his alleged role in the early-morning shooting that occurred at the Rolladium

Fatal blaze probed Sen. Kowall’s brother dies in house fire

By Angela Niemi staff writer

residential structure fire in the 5300 block of Wayne Road in White Lake Township at approximately 4:55 p.m. on Sunday, April 1, claimed the life of Joseph Kowall, the younger brother of state Sen. Mike Kowall (RCommerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield). Joseph Kowall had serious medical issues and was recovering from cancer treatments. According to White Lake Fire Chief Anthony Maltese, Kowall’s caregiver had left him in bed at around 2:30 p.m. Sunday and returned shortly before 5 p.m. to find the house filled with smoke. When firefighters responded, they found heavy smoke coming from a side entry door. The caregiver told firefighters that Joseph Kowall was probably in the home’s first-floor bedroom. Firefighters entered the home, extinguished the blaze, and found Joseph Kowall on the floor alongside his bed. They reported finding thick smoke in the room. After evacuating the home through a door wall in the bedroom, firefighters reportedly noticed “obvious signs of death.” Paramedics pronounced Joseph Kowall dead at the scene. The fire had been confined to the first-floor bedroom and had been quickly extinguished. According to the fire department, foul play is not suspected and the cause of the fire is still under investigation by White Lake Township Police Department detectives and Fire Department investigators, along with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department investigators. Meanwhile, the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office is determining the exact cause of death. Joseph Kowall was part owner of Accurate Woodworking, the Kowall family business located on Highland Road in Waterford Township. According to Sen. Kowall, his brother was a “jokester” with a mischievous sense of humor. “He was the anti-me,” Sen. Kowall stated on his Facebook page. “And I don’t know if Joe had a Facebook page, but if he did, you probably wouldn’t want to visit it,” he said with a laugh, according to Mike Murray, Sen. Kowall’s Chief of Staff. Sen. Kowall’s Facebook page states funeral arrangements are pending. ❏

skating rink, located at 4475 Highland Road, on Dec. 23. At the time, the rink was being used for a private preChristmas skating party scheduled from 9:30 p.m. until 2 a.m. Three suspects entered the building following a fight and fired handguns from the snack bar area out onto the skating floor area. Five patrons were struck. No one sustained fatal injuries. During the investigation, police discovered that the shooting stemmed from two rival gangs out of Pontiac, the “Goon Squad” and “1st Enfantry.” One of the victims shot was an intended target and rival to the shooters, and was previously shot by rivals in a similar incident at a nightclub in Pontiac in December 2010, according to police. Two alleged accomplices, 18-year-

old Robert Lee German and 21-yearold Tre-Andis Marquan-Jose Jamison, both of Pontiac, are still at large and have charges against them similar to Ingram’s. A Wednesday, April 18 pre-trial date is set for Ingram, with a trial date scheduled for April 23. Oakland County Circuit Court Judge James Alexander will be presiding. ❏

Guns, marijuana found in Milford traffic stop Two men were arrested in Milford on concealed weapons charges after a traffic stop. The incident took place on Saturday, March 3 at 10:09 p.m. when an officer pulled over a pickup truck driving 65 mph in a 50 mph zone at

General Motors Road and Dansin Drive. The officer reported that could smell marijuana coming from the vehicle. The driver, a 56-year-old Waterford Township man, said he was acting as a designated driver for his friend, a 44year-old Commerce Township man, because he had drank 10 beers. When asked by the officer if he had guns, knifes, or drugs in his vehicle, the driver said no. The officer then called for backup and when asked again, the driver said he had a firearm and a concealed pistol license (CPL) as well as a small amount of marijuana. Officers found the alleged marijuana in a plastic bag inside a prescription bottle along with a marijuana pipe. The driver’s pistol, a KEL-TEC 380 six-shot that had a round chambered and a full magazine, was reportedly found tucked under the back of his pants. Officers then found a Kahr .40 -caliber semi-automatic gun under the front passenger seat. A Breathalyzer test reportedly revealed that the man had a 0.16 percent blood-alcohol content (BAC), two times the legal limit, and he was cited for carrying a firearm under the influence and failure to advise of a firearm. The driver was cited for a carrying concealed weapons (CCW) violation and possession of marijuana, which weighed .05 grams. Both men’s concealed pistol licenses, which were also expired, were confiscated as well as their weapons. ❏

Cash, jewels valued at $150K stolen in WB An elderly West Bloomfield Township couple recently had at least $150,000 worth of property stolen from their home, and they suspect a family member may be the culprit. One of the couple’s relatives was reportedly staying at their house while they were out of town. When they came home, they noticed that some property was missing from their safe, including $5,000 in cash and numerous pieces of jewelry valued at $146,000. The couple also received a call from a credit card company stating that somebody tried to fraudulently use their card. The couple suspects their relative may have stolen the property because they haven’t heard from that person since they returned, according to the West Bloomfield Police Department. The case has been turned over to the Detective Bureau for further investigation. ❏

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PAGE 29

UPDATE

Public comment welcome on draft AIS plan from DEQ By Angela Niemi staff writer

The state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has released an updated draft of a proposed Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Management Plan and is seeking public comment on the proposal. Over 180 AIS from around the world have made their home in the Great Lakes Basin, ranging from fish to invertebrates, from microscopic organisms to aquatic plants. Some of the more commonly known AIS in Michigan waters include Eurasian watermilfoil; purple loosestrife; round goby; sea lamprey; spiny water fleas; and zebra mussels. But these are just a few of the state’s 180 AIS. Many of them are posing a threat to the Great Lakes and Michigan’s inland waters by competing with native species for food and habitat; preying on native species; disrupting ecosystem stability; impacting water quality, as well as commercial and recreational activities; and costing millions of dollars in prevention and control measures. Michigan’s original AIS State Management Plan was completed in 1996 and was last updated in 2002. Since knowledge of AIS prevention and management issues has evolved, DEQ officials decided it’s time to update the plan to improve the state’s efforts battle against AIS. “Program collaboration is critical to the success in accomplishing the goals of the AIS State Management Plan: Preventing new invaders, limiting the spread of AIS, early detection and rapid response, and management and control,” said DEQ Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator Sarah LeSage. “To be successful, we need to have collaboration between not only our state agencies but with our partners, including other states and the general public. Recreational boaters and anglers are our eyes. They’re going to be the ones to see something first.” Using funds from a Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grant, the updated AIS management plan draft was written over the past year with input from DEQ staff and managers, state Department of Natural Resources (DNR), state Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) personnel.

“It’s something we want to have our partners and the public look over to make it better and to fill in the gaps of things we might have missed,” LeSage said. “We are looking forward to getting responses from the public on how we can strengthen the plan.” A public meeting on the plan is scheduled from 12:45 to 4:45 p.m. Thursday, April 12 at the Best Western Plus in Lansing. This meeting will provide more background on the AIS State Management Plan and give interested parties an opportunity to provide feedback and comments. The meeting is open to the public and intended for anyone with a vested interest in and/or concern about AIS issues in Michigan. Breakout sessions will provide participants the opportunity to share comments on AIS issues associated with boating and ballast water, organisms in trade and habitat alteration, AIS management and control, and early detection and rapid response. While there is no fee to attend the public meeting, advance registration is requested. The draft AIS State Management Plan is available for review at

www.michigan.gov/deqaquaticinvasives. Comments can be submitted through May 1. For more information, contact LeSage at lesages@michigan.gov. LeSage said state officials hope to have a final updated plan completed by the end of the year. ❏

KHV yields more minnow harvest regs. for Kent Lake Every year, the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) updates and tweaks the state’s fishing regulations to make sure that Michigan’s fisheries resources are managed properly and are providing the best benefits to both anglers and the public. This year is no exception as the new regulations for the 2012-13 seasons went into effect on Sunday, April 1. As koi herpes virus (KHV) has been found in common carp in Kent Lake in Livingston and Oakland counties and Silver Lake in Oceana County, resulting in minnow harvest restric-

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 927.87 933.50 906.30 927.25 1016.13 929.50 1.08 932.50 948.80 966.20 930.40 948.80 957.00 930.20 942.00 962.83 932.10 948.80 951.00 927.25 926.66 930.80 949.50 1018.60 964.92

3/9/12 +.99 +.64 +1.07 +.26 +.38 +.95 +.84 +.27 +.82 +.08 –.08 +1.00 +.48 +.26 +.79 –.12 +.78 +.92 –.98 +.45 –.02 +.41 +.06 +.50 –.01

3/16/12 +.96 +.48 +1.05 +.24 +.30 +.98 +.82 +.18 +.78 +.26 –.02 +.88 +.42 +.21 +.81 –.08 +.95 +.80 –.94 +.41 +.04 +.42 +.10 +.52 +.03

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

3/23/12 +.89 +.30 +.85 +.65 –.03 +.89 +.64 +.22 +.48 +.20 –.02 +.85 +.46 +.22 +.66 –.05 +1.00 +.83 –1.00 +.75 +.32 +.38 +.05 +.50 +.09

tions for both systems. Back in June 2011, an estimated 300 to 500 common carp died in Kent Lake. Samples showed the presence of KHV, a highly contagious viral disease that can cause significant morbidity and mortality in common carp, which are sometimes selectively bred for the ornamental fish industry where the carp is known as koi. A herpes-type virus, KHV can produce 80 to 100 percent mortality in diseased populations. Infections are transmitted via the presence of the virus in the water, in fecal material, and in sediments. It can also be transmitted from one fish to another. According to the DNR, simplified statewide bow and spear fishing regulations have resulted in several new and expanded opportunities, including the addition of three more species to the allowed list: Gizzard shad, goldfish, and grass carp. There are restrictions on using cisco for bait because it has now been added to the viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) Susceptible Species List. More information on this year’s fishing regulation changes can be found in the 2012 Michigan Fishing Guide, which can be found on the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/fishing and at all major sporting goods retailers. ❏

I-96 bridge rehab work in Milford to end in November The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has resumed work on a series of bridge reconstruction projects along I-96 east of Milford Road, just west of Kent Lake Road. The project, part of a $15.5 million effort to improve the highway’s bridges, will impact the I-96 bridge over Milford Road. Over 100,000 vehicles each day travel the corridor. By carrying out the project in phases, motorists won’t need to seek an alternative route. “With that volume of traffic, there is not another viable route,” MDOT Spokesman Rob Morosi said. Half of the I-96 bridge over Milford Road was demolished last weekend. A traffic shift at both Milford and Kent Lake roads is in place. One lane in each direction will stay open. By the fall, MDOT expects that I-96 over the Huron River Trail, over Milford Road, and over Kent Lake Road will be rehabilitated. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

COUNTY

Victory in Fannie, Freddie suit nets millions for OC Oakland County officials are cheering a ruling by a federal judge that will allow the county to recoup at least $1.5 million following what the county and, ultimately the court, determined was the shirking of tax liabilities by mortgage behemoths Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. U.S. District Court Judge Victoria A. Roberts’ decision on Friday, March 23 sets the stage for the county to get back millions of dollars in unpaid real estate transfer taxes — which is levied for the state at $7.50 per $1,000 in value on the property sold, and $1.10 for the county per $1,000 in value on the property sold — that Fannie and Freddie didn’t pay between 2006-11. “Some suggested that Oakland County suing mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac was a David vs. Goliath match up, and that we had no chance at recovering millions of dollars for Oakland County taxpayers,” said Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner in a press release. “Today, we have proven them wrong, achieving a major victory and taking one step toward helping our county recover the property values we’ve lost as a result of the foreclosure crisis.” Roberts granted the county’s motion for summary judgment in her 16-page ruling, but that doesn’t mean that the legal wrangling is over. Meisner, who spearheaded the lawsuit that was announced last summer, said earlier this week that he “wouldn’t be surprised” if the defendants appeal the ruling. However, Roberts’ decision serves as a good indication that the mortgage giants may not have good legal ground, Meisner said. “The fact that we won on a motion for summary judgment suggests that our case is very strong,” he said. While Meisner said officials are still “drilling down” on how much money the state and county are expected to receive as a result of the ruling (Patterson’s release said the county stands to gain as much as $1.5 million), he said the “most accurate” estimate is between $3 million and $5 million for the county and $15 million and $20 million for the state. Meisner has all along said he is requesting that the state earmark the money it receives as a result of the lawsuit because, as Meisner says, the state would not come into the funds without the efforts of Oakland County. He said he has made that request to

River has DUI rap

Commissioner busted in ‘92, ‘96, ‘99 By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

he newest member of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners has a drunk driving record dating back to the early 1990s. Angela River, 43, an Auburn Hills Republican who was appointed to the county board in a party-line vote on Tuesday, March 27, said she was arrested for drunk driving three times: Once in 1992, once in 1996, and once in 1999, all of which occurred in Oakland County. She was in her early- to late-20s at the times of her arrests. She said she “followed all the guidelines” of her sentencing, which included performing community service, attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, as well as participation in a victims outreach program. “It’s something I’m not proud of, but I have turned my life around,” said River, who up until her appointment to the county board had been vicechairwoman of the Oakland County Republican Party. “I haven’t had anything for 13 years.” A mother of two children, she said she was the only person in the vehicle each time she was arrested for impaired driving. None of those incidents resulted in accidents, she said. A member of the Michigan Board of Cosmetology, she said she was vetted by Gov. Rick Snyder’s office before her appointment to that nine-member body. During that process, she said, if someone inquired about her driving record, she “disclosed (that information) when asked.” She also said she told Oakland County commissioners about her arrests if she was asked about them. Nine GOP commissioners cast their votes in favor of appointing River, while three — Commissioners Bob Hoffman (R-Highland), David Potts (RBirmingham), and Jim Runestad (R-Waterford, White Lake) — supported Theresa Mungioli, and Commissioner Beth Nuccio (R-Ortonville) supported Major Guy during a Republican Caucus session. All four of those commissioners who supported other candidates in caucus eventually cast their final votes in favor of River’s appointment to the county board. River will fill the seat left vacant by former Commissioner Tim Greimel (D-Auburn Hills), who won election to the state House of Representatives 28th District seat in February following the departure of former state Rep. Tim Melton (D-Auburn Hills) for a job in California. The 11th County Commission District represents Auburn Hills, Pontiac, and Rochester Hills. River has served on the Auburn Hills library board, the Auburn Hills Boys and Girls Club Advisory Board, and the steering committee for the Auburn Hills Senior Home Assistance Repair Program, among others. She said last week that, among her goals, she wants to help the county maintain its AAA bond rating. “I look forward to hearing from the constituents and representing them to the best of my ability,” she said last week. River said she does not plan to seek election to the seat if she would have to run against any current Republican commissioners. Commissioner Marcia Gershenson (D-West Bloomfield) said she was “disappointed” by the appointment of a Republican to the seat formerly held by a Democrat, as well as the selection process. “(The Republicans) chose not to do any interviews,” she said, adding that River was the only candidate whose resume she requested, but she never received it. “She was not vetted.” River’s term expires Dec. 31. County commissioners serve two-year terms and are currently paid $32,093 annually. ❏ state Treasurer Andy Dillon and expects further discussions on that request in the near future.

Data expected on Friday, March 30 will allow officials to better grasp exactly how much the county and

state are expected to net. “We originally had done a $1.7 million estimate (for the county), but that was based on an estimated average transaction of $100,000, but the actual average was about $220,000,” he said. Fannie and Freddie, which received billions of dollars in federal support during the mortgage meltdown four years ago, claimed an exemption from the transfer tax because, they say, as government agencies they don’t have to pay the tax that is added whenever a property changes hands. Meisner and the county’s lawyers disagreed. This isn’t the only effort the county expects to embark on to recover money from agencies and businesses that some say helped propel the county toward economic calamity in the run-up to the 2008 general election. Meisner said he met with county attorneys to discuss what he called the “next steps” in his efforts. “We do have other actions,” Meisner said, though he declined to elaborate on what those are or when they will be made public. ❏

Patterson facing GOP primary challenge Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson will be facing a challenger in the August Republican primary election. E. Wadsworth Sherrod III, a West Bloomfield Township Republican, filed candidate paperwork to run for the county executive position late last month. Sherrod said he is a college student who believes change is needed. He said the county needs “someone who really cares about the people of the county.” There are “several struggling communities that need the county’s help and they aren’t getting it,” Sherrod said. “They are hurting and they are not getting the county’s help.” Patterson was first elected Oakland County executive in 1992 after serving as Oakland County prosecutor. Kevin Howley has filed to run for county executive as a Democrat. Patterson and his team declined to comment for this report, and it is unclear when he last faced a primary challenge. The county executive serves fouryear terms and currently earns $173,500 annually. ❏

APRIL 4-10, 2012

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STATE

Republicans call for more flexibility in grad. standards By Kirk PInho assistant editor

If you have a child who prefers sports — or woodworking, for that matter — to advanced mathematics, relief may be on the way. A coalition of state lawmakers, including some Oakland County Republicans, have proposed revamping Michigan’s high school graduation requirements to, among other things, decrease the number of math courses a student has to take from four to two — geometry and algebra II. However, under the proposed changes, the student would be required to complete seven additional credits, which could be fulfilled by successfully completing at least two math credits, at least two social science credits, at least one science credit, or no more than two foreign language credits or one performing or visual arts credit. Under Senate Bill (SB) 997, those seven credits could also be filled either through the current educational road map or through career and technical courses and training, including internships or apprenticeships, according to the bill’s sponsors. “This is about expanding choices for Michigan students and parents by allowing more flexibility in the curriculum required to graduate high school,” said state Sen. John Proos (R-St. Joseph) in a press release. “I co-sponsored this reform to give southwest Michigan stu-

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dents the ability to choose the educational path that best fits their skills and desires. I support a rigorous education that prepares our children for success in college and beyond, but that guideline must acknowledge that college is not for everyone.” In addition, SB 997 would require a half-credit — instead of the current one credit — in health education and a half-credit in physical education, which could be fulfilled by participating in a school sport. State Sen. Mike Kowall (RCommerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) declined comment on the legislation, which is awaiting consideration by the Senate Education Committee. Companion legislation, House Bill 5451, has also been introduced in the lower chamber. That measure has been referred to the House Education Committee and features state Rep. Bill Rogers (R-Milford) as a co-sponsor. ❏

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NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR

OUTSTANDING STUDENTS OF WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

The Spinal Column Newsweekly is looking for West Oakland County students deserving special recognition. Do you know of a student age Kindergarten through High School, who has done something special for their community? For instance: • Do they donate their time and effort to help someone else? • Do they work hard to excel at something? (School, music, sports, etc.) • Do they go above and beyond to reach out to another, or extend themselves in some other way? If you think that a student deserves special recognition, tell us why. The winners will be featured in the first annual edition of “The Yearbook,” a special section of the Spinal Column Newsweekly being published and distributed on Wednesday, June 6, 2012. The Spinal Column Newsweekly is locally owned and operated with the largest distribution of any newspaper in the Lakes area. In addition to being featured in a story, the first place prize winner will receive: A limousine ride (compliments of Blue Diamond Limousine of Wixom) to a fabulous dinner, compliments of The Root Restaurant in White Lake for the student and 4 guests of their choice. The six top runners up will receive $20.00 gift certificates donated by Papa Romanos of Richardson Rd., Commerce, Happy’s Pizza at Pontiac Trail & Welch in Commerce, Marco’s Pizza of Highland and Windmill Market. Winners will be chosen by a panel of local senior citizens.

Sunday, May 27th, 2012 Student’s Name: ________________________________________________________ Age:____________ Name of School: _________________________________________________________ Grade:_________ (Can be public school, private school or homeschooled student)

Your Name: ______________________________________________________________________________ Your Phone: ____________________________ Your Email: ______________________________________ Please attach 1 or 2 paragraphs to explain why this student deserves to be recognized.

RUNNER AND SPONSOR APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE

Fax to: Attention Outstanding Students of West Oakland Fax: 248-360-5308

www.DowntownWalledLake.org

Mail to: Outstanding Students of West Oakland P.O. Box 14 Union Lake, MI 48387-0014

Deadline for submission is May 1, 2012

Contact: Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority

248.926.9004 Fax: 248.926.9029 Email: Events@DowntownWalledLake.org

Email to: students@thescngroup.com

W E S T

O A K L A N D ’ S

N E W S W E E K LY

www.spinalcolumnonline.com 248.360.SELL (7355) • 7196 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48327-4113 • 248.360.NEWS (6397)

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

MAIL BAG

Dangers of Spice From Cheryl Tobel and Rebecca Dentai, Milford: (From reading) the well-written and informative article in the Spinal Column Newsweekly (“Lethal... and legal: Concerns about Spice raised in W. Oakland,” March 14, 2012), I and some of my family attended a town hall meeting on March 22 that was held at the Waterford Township Auditorium. This was to educate and inform the community on the dangers of the legal synthetic cannabinoid, Spice.

We were very impressed with the huge turnout. We had actually never heard of this drug until someone close to us became addicted to it. Now, we want to make our community aware of this very dangerous drug. Obviously, it’s been a well-kept secret. The forum featured top-notch keynote speakers: 51st District Court Judge Jodi Debbrecht; Elizabeth Reader, Program Director for Milford Counseling; Heather Halls, Executive Director for Waterford Coalition for Youth; Dr. Adam Apfelblat of Michigan Chiropractic Specialists of Waterford;

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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 DOCKS & LIFTS American Marine www.americanmarinesc.com LAKE MANAGEMENT SERVICES Aqua Weed Control www.aquaweed.com REAL ESTATE Cyndi Robinson - Real Estate One www.cyndirobinson.com Tom Buchanan - Real Estate One www.lakesareahomesearch.com VISITING NURSES & THERAPISTS Affinity Home Care Agency, Inc. www.affinityhomecareagency.com

and (Waterford) Police Chief Dan McCaw. Another poignant speaker was a mother telling her story of her son’s use of Spice, and the effects it’s had on him and their family. Another speaker, a young man, formerly a user, who had been in trouble with the law, told his story: He is now clean. This meeting was wonderful! We heard heart-wrenching, sad, and horrible stories of how young people have had horrible (and permanent) side effects from using the drug. Many have ended up in the hospital, on life support, and even died (including suicide). “The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) banned five synthetic cannabinoids in 2010, but there are over 150 more compounds (and counting) that can be used to create new ‘fake pot’ blends. Manufacturers create new generations of Spice and K2 knockoffs by using chemicals that are not yet restricted, banned, or outlawed in the U.S. and abroad. This means that brand names change constantly.” It has 100 times more THC than marijuana and is addictive instantly. It’s as bad, if not worse, than PCP, heroin, and crystal meth. It is sold as a “natural air freshener” or “natural incense.” The scary part is that anyone at any age can purchase these drugs at any gas station, party store, dollar store! This can easily be purchased, and does not show up on a drug test (unless the test is specifically for that drug). We wanted to speak out on this very important issue. Parents, be aware of any personality changes or actions of your child, and the people they associate with. Kids, if you know of anyone using this drug, please let an adult know. We will continue to do what we can to spread the word to the community, our local officials, our state officials, and also the schools.

AROUND THE LAKES AREA

Parents and children alike need to be aware and educated about this horrible drug. This is not only being used by teens; even parents and grand-parents are using it! Also, those who are on parole (are using it), as it’s not detected in routine drug testing. See for yourself how easy it is to just walk in to a local store or gas station and ask for Spice. In fact, there is a local establishment right in downtown Milford that sells it in baggies… with no markings on the bag! Don’t be afraid to confront these store owners and let them know that what they are doing is putting people’s lives in danger. You may even consider letting them know that you will not be frequenting their establishment any more, and will pass it on to friends. Our kids are trying this stuff because it’s labeled as “herbal.” They think it’s “safe.” Strangers are making this stuff… taking any vegetation, and spraying it with who knows what, or how much chemicals. It may take only one time for them to try it, to have horrible consequences and irreversible damage. Some side effects are: Panic attacks, elevated heart rate, vomiting, increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, disorientation, convulsions, tremors, altered perception, mood swings, aggression, extreme anxiety, and difficulty breathing. There have even been deaths (including suicides) linked to its usage. As a community, we all need to pull together and contact our state legislators to make these dangerous and deadly uncontrolled drugs illegal. Also, Google “(Michigan) Senate Bill 789.” We are grateful and blessed beyond words that we found out about our loved one’s addiction before it was too late. We have lived in Milford for many, many years. Let’s do what we can to keep it safe, especially for our children. ❏ A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly

WE’RE ASKING… What would you do if you had won $640 million? "I'd make sure I gave a whole lot to Open Door Outreach Center. I'd help as many people as I can, and then I think I would go on a trip and take my best friend with me." — Julie LeBlanc, West Bloomfield

"Give lots of money to family members that need help. Give some to the church. (I'd) help a lot of people, and then do what we want to do. But we would spread the wealth around." — Tom Gernack, Clarkston

"I guess give a big chunk to St. Patrick's Church. I'd probably give half away to charities. I love kids, so I probably would give to St. Jude's." — Dee Patrick, Commerce

"I'd probably give stuff to charity, and then buy a lot of stuff, like furniture. And maybe some mansions." — Joseph Stopcyznski, St. Patrick's student

APRIL 4-10, 2012

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IN OUR OPINION

Graduation requirements

Proposed changes for vocational training long overdue

uch has been made of what many refer to as the knowledge-based economy — the proliferation of jobs requiring special training in mathematics, sciences and computers — in recent years, citing evidence showcasing that competitors in the global market are training their students in those exact fields to be engineers, computer wizards, chemists and other in-demand workers. We don’t begrudge that, and there’s ample data to suggest that our schools will need to continue their efforts to prepare students for such a job market, one replete with requirements in listings that are more and more frequently demanding bachelor’s degrees — or higher — in such fields. Yet we’ve long felt that Michigan’s tougher high school graduation requirements left some students in the dust: Particularly, those who have no aspirations toward such knowledge-based careers, which is why we are urging lawmakers in Lansing to approve a proposal from legislative Republicans to allow more flexibility in graduation requirements. A coalition of state lawmakers, including some Oakland County Republicans, have proposed revamping Michigan’s high school graduation requirements to, among other things, decrease the number of math courses a student has to take from four to two — geometry and algebra II. However, under the proposed changes, the student would be required to complete seven additional credits, which could be fulfilled by successfully completing at least two math credits, at least two social science credits, at least one science credit, or no more than two foreign language credits or one performing or visual arts credit.

According to the proposal, those seven credits could also be filled either through the current educational road map or through career and technical courses and training, including internships or apprenticeships. In addition, Senate Bill 997 (an companion legislation introduced in the House) would require a halfcredit — instead of the current one credit — in health education and a half-credit in physical education, which could be fulfilled by participating in a school sport. Several years ago, when tougher and more stringent high school graduation requirements were put in place by the state Legislature, we applauded the aims of such an effort but lamented the fact that it seemed as though students whose career paths did not include two- or four-year university schooling were left by the wayside. It seemed at the time that, with the trumpeting of the students eying jobs in the knowledge-based economy, those who aspired to be, for example, plumbers, electricians, or chefs got the raw end of the deal. Those students have little to no practical use for thorough or working knowledge of physics or calculus or nuclear chemistry, to name but a few. That fact still remains, and we are pleased that lawmakers are again taking up the cause of graduation requirement reform. This is not because we want to lower the bar for Michigan’s students. Instead, we just want the bar’s height to be calibrated at a reasonable level for everyone — the math and science gurus to those who are more adept at working with their hands, the computer programming wunderkinds to those who work mir-

acles as skilled professionals. The proposals awaiting hearings by the respective Education committees of both the state House and the state Senate appear to accomplish that. Not only do they provide a level of flexibility not currently in place for Michigan’s students, but they also ensure that those students who are shooting for participation in the knowledge-based economy aren’t given the short shrift. What the Republicans are floating seems to accomplish the best of both worlds: Giving both math- and science-oriented students, as well as those whose career paths aren’t likely to require understanding of those subjects beyond a certain level, the opportunity to flourish in the economy as they see fit for themselves. In addition, the legislation would accomplish something we’ve long called for — counting participation in high school athletics toward physical education requirements for high school graduation. Frankly, most students on high school sports teams are likely to get more physically out of participation in daily practices and/or games than an hour or so in gym class each day, so it’s good to see that some in Lansing are recognizing that and calling for that change, as well. The proposals before the Education committees in the two legislative chambers are serious efforts at reform that allow for successful completion of high school as it should be — a stepping stone toward a career, whether that field requires in-depth knowledge of math and science, or whether it’s a skilled profession. We urge lawmakers to give this proposal their support. ❏

On April 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Orchard Lake Middle School, parents of Orchard Lake Middle School and Doherty Elementary School students are invited to meet. On April 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Abbott Middle School, parents and Abbott PTO members will meet. All staff members will meet at West Bloomfield High School on April 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. All parents are welcome to attend any of the sessions designated for elementary or middle school levels. Parents and residents will be shown demographic maps of the district, broken down into enrollment by schools, and enrollment of resident and Schools of Choice students. Attendees will also have the chance to cast anonymous votes on issues regarding school enrollment, consolidation, and district priorities. So far district officials aren’t commenting on the potential for closing one or more school buildings based on enrollment trends. It’s conceivable no build-

ings will be closed as a result of the ongoing study. On the other hand, buildings were closed in the last couple years in a pair of other west Oakland districts that embarked on similar endeavors, so we’re encouraging all families in the district to attend at least one of these sessions. There are few issues as emotional and tumultuous as a school building closing and consolidating the impacted students into one or more different schools. Scheduling of the public meetings on facilities and enrollment is akin to an open invitation to come and hear how the district is evolving and to play a role in deciding how, if at all, changes are made to maximize use of existing facilities in delivering education to current and future students. This is the public’s opportunity to chime in and participate in some crucial decision-making: Accept the invitation and let your questions, ideas, and concerns be heard. ❏

School facilities, enrollment

he West Bloomfield School District is mid-way through a series of meetings for parents and residents to give their opinions on the district’s school enrollment and facilities project. Those with schoolage children should make a point of attending one of the remaining meetings to listen, learn, and provide input as the district considers how to best serve the current and future student enrollment. In February, the district’s Board of Education approved a contract with Western Demographics, Inc. to conduct a facility utilization and enrollment trend study for $70,000. Last week, the parents of elementary school students living in the northern end of the district and PTO members from Gretchko, Roosevelt and Scotch elementary schools met at Scotch. Later in the week, the parents of students living in the district’s south end and PTO members from Ealy and Sheiko elementary schools met.

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ Sierra Club: “World Without Ice,” speaker Dr. Henry Pollack, author, climate scientist and 2007 Nobel Peace Prize winner, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 5, Birmingham Unitarian Church, 38651 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills. www.facebook.com/clubSEMG or 248360-9694.

Wednesday, April 18, Uptown Grille Restaurant, 3100 E. West Maple, Commerce. Beta Chi Chapter’s scholarship fundraiser and silent auction for Walled Lake and Novi students entering the field of education. Advance purchase tickets $35; $40 at the door. 248-9603344 or info@uptowngrille.com.

■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts:Fiber artists Lynn Krawcyzk and Lacqueline Lams of Plymouth, “Ragged Layers: Mixed Media Fiber Art,” displayed Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 6-28, 206 W. Livingston, Highland. Opening reception 4 p.m. Friday, April 6. huronvalleyarts.org or 248-889-8660.

■ Commerce Parks & Recreation: Looking for local entertainers who are skilled in family fun, such as magic tricks, juggling, puppetry, balloon shaping, and clown acts for its outdoor summer concerts on June 22, July 20, and Aug. 10. Interested local entertainers should contact Emily England at the Richardson Center, 248-926-0063.

■ Elizabeth Lake Animal Rescue: Bake sale fundraiser/cat adoption, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, April 7, Pet Supplies Plus Store, 8036 Cooley Lake Road, Union Lake. 248-683-8794 or visit elizabethlakeanimalrescue.petfinder.com

■ (Breakfast) Optimist Club of Waterford: Meeting, 7:15 a.m. Thursdays, Big Boy Restaurant, M-59 and Airport Road, Waterford. 248-6733493.

■ City of Walled Lake: Free Easter Egg Hunt with Easter Bunny and special prize winning egg in each age category for ages 12 and under, noon, Saturday, April 7, Sims Parks located off Quinif Street near the intersection of Quinif and South Commerce, Walled Lake. Bring your own basket or bag. 248-624-4847. ■ Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene: Mom to Mom Sale, Saturday, April 14, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., gently-used children’s clothing, toys, furniture, accessories, 2840 Airport Road, Waterford. For more information, call Diane at 248-886-0685. ■ Friends of Byers: Spaghetti dinner, music, raffles, cash bar, 3 to 8 p.m., April 14, Walled Lake Eagles Lodge 3492, 1721 Glengary, east of Benstein, Walled Lake. Admission $10 adults, $4 for ages 5 to 10, free for ages 4 and under. 248363-4354 or 248-884-3144. ■ Jewish Ensemble Theatre: Now accepting donations of items or services for its Spring Auction, April 16, Birmingham-Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 S. Cranbrook Road, Birmingham. 248-788-2900. ■ Delta Kappa Gamma Michigan: Flavors of Michigan, Michigan wines and food tasting party, scholarship fundraiser and silent auction, 6:30 p.m.

■ 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. 248-559-1147, ext. 3434. ■ Dads of Foreign Service: Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Sundays, VFW Post 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 248-363-2592.

■ Waterford Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, The Shark Club on M59, Waterford. 248-625-4897.

SUPPORT GROUPS ❐ 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. 248-698-1300. ❐ 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: Cleptomaniacs and Shoplifters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Wesley Room, Commerce United Methodist Church, 1155 N. Commerce Road, Commerce. 248-3588508 or kleptomaniacsanonymous.org. ❐ Divorce Care: Support group meeting for adults and children, 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile, Novi. 248-7559533. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 248-807-8667 or foodaddicts.org.

■ 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. 1-888-9374390.

❐ 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.

■ Mothers & More: Book club meeting, 7 p.m., first Monday of the month, Caribou Coffee, Union Lake Road, Commerce. 248-360-7702.

❐ Over-Eaters Anonymous: Recovery from compulsive eating, 12-step program, meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Hatchery Road, Waterford.

■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248-520-0095.

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

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

SENIOR ACTIVITIES ❐ Calvary Lutheran Church: In conjunction with St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, “Senior Fit,” free exercise program for ages 55 and up, 11 a.m. to noon, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 9101 Highland Road, White Lake. Registration. 1-800-372-6094 or 248-625-3288. ❐ Dublin Senior Center: Drums Alive! 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays (no class on Tuesday, March 27); Zumba Gold, 2 p.m. Tuesdays, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-6982394. ❐ Foster Grandparent Program of Oakland County: Volunteers needed age 55 and older to provide tutoring, mentoring and nurturing youth with special needs. Volunteers receive a non-taxable stipend, mileage reimbursement, a meal or meal reimbursement, training. 248-559-1147, ext. 3424. ❐ Highland Adult Activity Center: Strengthening Class, 11 a.m. Thursdays, 209 N. John Street, Highland. 248-887-1707. ❐ Richardson Community Senior Center: Knitting and crochet group, 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, 1485 E. Oakley Park, Commerce. Registration. 248926-0063 or commercetwp.com. ❐ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Senior Stretch and Tone, 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Ave., West Bloomfield. 248-682-0770. ❐ 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.

PAGE 35 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Continued

clean up with free lunch, 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, April 21, Kensington Metropark, Milford. Register by Saturday, April 14. 248-685-1561.

❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 34

PARKS ❐ Indian Springs Environmental Discovery Center: Easter egg hunt with Rosco the Clown, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, April 7; Keep it Clean for Earth Day, volunteer park clean up for ages 4 and up, 2-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 21-22, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Registration. 810-494-6026.

❐ Oakland County Parks and Recreation: Volunteers needed for its five golf courses — Glen Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Red Oaks, Springfield Oaks and White Lake Oaks — for the 2012 golf season. Volunteers receive the opportunity for free golf in exchange for service. Volunteers are required to attend a training session and commit to a regular schedule, one day/week, in exchange for golf. Shifts vary from four to eight hours. Candidates ages 18 and older should have good customer service skills. Volunteer duties include staging carts for patrons, washing carts, cleaning, promoting hospitality with guests and the community. Submit an application to Volunteer Program Supervisor Rachel Boyd at boydr@oakgov.com. Applications are available online at DestinationOakland.com, click Volunteers. For additional information, contact Boyd at 248-975-9717.

❐ Kensington Farm Center: Fun on the Farm: Toddler Egg Hunt, stories, egg hunt, Easter Bunny, 10 a.m. Thursday, April 5; The Great Egg Hunt with Easter Bunny Farmer John and Barnyard Express animal show, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 7, Kensington Metropark, Milford. 248-684-8632 or 1-800-477-3178. ❐ Kensington Nature Center: “Leave No Trace Camping for Scouts,” Learn how to camp without scarring the landscape, 1 p.m. Saturday, April 14; “Keep Kensington Clean,” volunteer park

O PICASSo f

❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Spring break, movie matinee, children’s special event, 11 a.m. Friday, April 6, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. Registration required. 248669-8108 or commercelibrary.info.

❐ West Bloomfield Township Public Library: Palamazoo Music, puppets, ages 3 and up, Thursday, April 5; Adult Book Discussion, Jeffrey Lent’s “A Peculiar Grace,” 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration. 248-6822120 or www.wblib.org.

❐ Highland Township Public Library: Count Your Census, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland. Registration. 248-8872218.

❐ Wixom Public Library: Cupcake Creations, teen program, 6 p.m. Monday, April 9, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. Registration. 248-624-2512.

❐ Milford Public Library: Legos @ the Library, 10 a.m. Thursday, April 5; Adult Book Discussion, Tony Horwitz’s “Confederates in the Attic,” 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 9, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Registration. 248-684-0845.

RELIGIOUS

❐ Walled Lake City Library: All About E-Books, 3 p.m. and Evening Book Discussion Group 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 5, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake. Registration. 248-624-3772.

❐ Lakes Area Ministries Association: Rev Vance Walker of To All Nations Ministries will speak on Psalm 133, noon, Friday, April 6, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Walled Lake. No luncheon will be served. 248-624-3821.

❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Matinee Movie, children’s program, 2

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

West Bloomfield’s Kaitlin Pyles (No. 19) fights for the ball against North Farmington on Thursday, March 29. The Lakers suffered two consecutive shutouts this week to Oxford (8-0) and to North Farmington (4-0) after winning their season opener against Walled Lake Central the previous week. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Lakers blanked on the pitch Losses move W. Bloomfield to 2-1 after win over Central

By Michael Shelton staff writer

It was a rough week for West Bloomfield’s soccer team, as it suffered two shutouts, one on the road and one at home. The Lakers began the week with an 8-0 loss at Oxford on Tuesday, March 27. Chelsea Johnson and Paige Brinker each scored two goals for Oxford in the victory.

The Lakers then followed up with a 40 defeat at home against North Farmington on Thursday, March 29. The losses were a far cry from the Lakers’ season opener when they defeated Walled Lake Central back on March 21. West Bloomfield is off for spring break and will look to rebound on Tuesday, April 10, when the Lakers are scheduled to host Royal Oak.

• Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes picked up two wins last week to improve to 2-0-1 on the season.

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The Lakers began the week with a 52 victory over Royal Oak Shrine on the

road on Tuesday, March 27. Ava Doetsch, fresh off of winning a Class D state basketball championship, scored four goals, including three in the first half; while her basketball and soccer teammate, Anna Robb, also scored a goal and had an assist. Our Lady then followed up with a convincing 8-0 victory over the West

PAGE 37 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

APRIL 4-10, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 37

SOCCER

West Bloomfield ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 36

Bloomfield Frankel Jewish Academy at Orchard Lake Middle School on Thursday, March 29. Jessica Parry, another Class D state basketball champion, and Doetsch each scored two goals for the Lakers, who are off until Monday, April 16, when they host Marine City Cardinal Mooney at Clarkston Everest. • Huron Valley Milford and Walled Lake Western fought to a 3-3 tie on Tuesday, March 27 in a Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) crossover game. Ellie Bothwell scored two goals for Milford in the first half, with one coming off an assist from Brenna Lovera, to give the Mavericks an early 2-0 lead. However, Shelby Schutz scored for the Warriors off an assist from Rachel Good before Good scored unassisted to tie the match at 2-2 at halftime. In the second half, Angela Catadalo scored off an assist from Good to give Western its first lead of the game before Paige Smith tied the match for Milford with an unassisted goal that would prove to be the last of the game.

SOFTBALL

Lakers routed in first two games of rebuilding season By Michael Shelton staff writer

Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes saw its season get off to a rough start as it dropped a double-header to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep on the road on Wednesday, March 28. The Lakers fell 10-0 in the opener before falling 11-1 in the nightcap. Our Lady is coming off a season in which it won a Catholic League C-D Division title before earning a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) regional championship. But, Our Lady has lost 12 seniors from that time and faces an uphill climb to return to the top this season. “It could be a very interesting year because of the lack of experience we have this year compared to last year. So it could be a rebuilding year,” said Our Lady Head Coach Steve Troy. “However, we will be expecting a lot out of senior Julia Mastromatteo (C/SS) and junior pitcher Abby Kline to carry the load. “The infield will be anchored by sec-

Walled Lake Western’s Niklas Heglin slides into second base against Novi Detroit Catholic Central on Wednesday, March 28. Heglin hit 3-for-4 with 3 RBIs and two stolen bases as the Warriors won their season opener at home, 10-8, over the Shamrocks. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Western rallies for victory Warriors fend off CC comeback to win 2012 opener

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Walled Lake Western opened its 2012 season at home with a 10-8 victory over Novi Detroit Catholic Central on Wednesday, March 28. The win kicks off the second season for the Warriors under Head Coach Mike Larges, who isn’t backing down from his team’s goals. “Our goal this year is to win the division, the league, and make a deep run in the playoffs,” he said. “We have a lot of talent and can compete with the best teams around.” Western fell behind early last Wednesday as the Shamrocks scored 3 runs in the first inning. However, the Warriors bounced back and took a 6-3 lead in the third inning before increasing it to 10-4 in the sixth. ond-year starters Angie Mastromatteo at third base, and second baseman Sarah Kowalczyk.” Troy, who is entering his fourth season as Our Lady’s head coach, added

The Shamrocks tried to mount a comeback, scoring 4 runs over the seventh and eighth innings, but Western held on for its first victory of the sea-

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son. Cam Vieaux pitched five innings, striking out 9 batters and giving up 3 runs. Vieaux also hit 3-for-5 at the plate. Niklas Heglin hit 3-for-4 with 3 RBIs and stole two bases; while Erich Harris hit 2-for-5, with a solo home run in the third. Western returns seven starters this year, including its top four pitchers from last season. This year’s seniors include Jason that freshman Shannon McDonald has been a pleasant surprise and will most likely play at first base. He also said that the Lakers are expecting more out of two returning seniors, Amy Wolanin

Gamble (P/1B), Chris Douglas (P/1B), Michael Schmidt (2B/P), Ty Sickler (P/OF), Chris Stepek (3B/P), Blake Amhowitz (C), and Vieaux (P/1B/OF). Gamble had a 2.40 ERA last season with a 5-1 record and 47 strikeouts while also hitting 15 RBIs and scoring 7 runs. Heglin, a junior, is also back after hitting .472 with 2 home runs, 9 doubles, 5 triples, 29 runs scored and 24 RBIs in his breakout sophomore season. Other juniors on the roster include Ryan Bone (SS/OF), Michael Camilleri (3B/2B), Alec Furstenberg (2B/SS), Alec Hamilton (1B/OF), Eric Harris (OF), Spencer Lingeman (P/2B/SS), and Nick McCarthy (OF/1B). David Walczyk is the lone sophomore on the roster.

and Jessica Ebel, both outfielders. Another player to watch will be junior Abbigayle Kline (P/OF) who earned All-district honors last season. PAGE 39 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 38

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Bicknell

Hung

Davis

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Robak

Cottrell

All-area girls basketball team Spinal Column Newsweekly honors best players in 2011-12 By Michael Shelton staff writer

The Spinal Column Newsweekly is proud to present its 2012 All-area Girls Basketball Team, made up of the best lakes area varsity basketball players during the 2012 season. Selections were not only based upon players’ statistics, but also nominations from area coaches; other honors a player received, such as conference awards; and overall contributions to their team throughout the season. Due to the abundance of talent in the lakes area, the selection process is always arduous, and this season was no exception. Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes officially solidified itself as a dynasty by becoming only the fifth team in Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) history — in any class — to win three girls basketball state titles in a row, and only the 12th team to reach three straight state finals. The Lakers are represented by two All-area First Team selections, including a transfer student who made her senior year count and a junior who stepped up in her role and took charge. Not to be outdone, Waterford Kettering rebounded from an early exit from last year’s district tournament to win the team’s first regional title since 2000, along with the Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) Lakes Conference title and its second straight KLAA North Division title, which it captured with a perfect division record of 10-0 thanks in part to its All-area First Team selection. Also included is West Bloomfield’s

junior point guard who led the Lakers to a district title, along with Waterford Mott’s breakout star who will be one to watch in her upcoming junior and senior seasons. FIRST TEAM Allison Bicknell Senior Guard Waterford Kettering Having played four years on the varsity squad, Bicknell averaged 11 points, 2.5 assists and 3 steals a game this year in helping the Captains get to the state quarter-finals for the first time in over a decade. Bicknell was described by the Kettering coaching staff as “an excellent defender with great anticipation who works extremely hard in and out of the season to develop her game.” Bicknell earned All-KLAA Lakes Conference honors for her efforts this season and became the very first women’s basketball recruit to sign with Lawrence Tech University in Southfield, where she will attend beginning this fall. Lauren Hung Sophomore Guard Waterford Mott Hung broke out in a big way in 2012 as she showcased the ability to take over a game at a moment’s notice. Averaging 18.3 points, 3.3 steals, 2.4 assists and 4.2 rebounds a game, Hung earned All-KLAA Lakes Conference honors in addition to an All-state Class A Honorable Mention from the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan (BCAM). Hung also had a 77.3 percent freethrow percentage this season and won the BCAM Top-Shooters Freethrow Challenge at the MHSAA State Finals at the Breslin Center.

Sydni Davis Junior Guard West Bloomfield A three-year starter for the Lakers, Davis led her team by averaging 19.4 points, 4.3 steals and 3.5 assists per game in helping West Bloomfield win its first district title since 2005 after surviving a tough Oakland Activities Association (OAA) Red Division schedule. Passing the 1,000-point mark for her career this season, Davis is gearing up to have a big senior season in 2013. Lexie Robak Junior Guard/Forward Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes While her older sister, Lauren Robak, may be the school’s all-time leading scorer, Lexie, a three-year varsity starter, carved out her own spot in school history as she earned Class D All-state honors from the Associated Press and the BCAM, in addition to her third state championship. Lexie Robak averaged 11.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2.5 steals a game this season and is regarded by her head coach and father, Steve, as a floor leader who gets her teammates to the right spots on the floor. “Lexie has a great basketball IQ and has played more minutes than any other player for our team this season. She has been our most consistent player and is very competitive,” he said. Carlee Cottrell Senior Guard/Forward Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes A transfer from Auburn Hills Oakland Christian in her junior season, Cottrell showed that the move

was worth it as she averaged 11.9 points, 4 rebounds and 3.2 assists a game. She started in every game for the second straight season. “She has good size and athleticism and is a good passer. She was a strong contributor in last year’s state championship and contributed significantly to this year’s championship run, as well,” Coach Robak said. A Class D All-state selection by the Associated Press and the BCAM, Cottrell will take her talents to Indiana Wesleyan this fall. SECOND TEAM • Caitlin Crowley, guard, Walled Lake Northern; • Ava Doetsch, guard, Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes; • Tori Duffey, guard, Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes; • Arjanai Washington, guard/forward, Waterford Kettering; and • Shelby Watts, forward/center, Waterford Kettering HONORABLE MENTION Caitlin Wojichowski, Huron Valley Lakeland; Dominique Zigo, Huron Valley Lakeland; Claire Slaughter, Huron Valley Milford; Paige Smith, Huron Valley Milford; Lane Andrews, Kara Birrell, Walled Lake Central; Brianna Krus, Walled Lake Central; Caitlin Starrs, Walled Lake Central; Maria Ropek, Walled Lake Northern; Jayla Nichols, Walled Lake Western; Madison Schram, Walled Lake Western; Erickah Woods, Walled Lake Western; Anna Robb, Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes; Jessica Parry, Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes; Hannah Huff, Waterford Kettering; Claudia Crake, Waterford Mott; Kheri Motley, West Bloomfield; and Ashley Zeigler, West Bloomfield.

APRIL 4-10, 2012

SOFTBALL

Our Lady ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 37

• Huron Valley Lakeland doesn’t open its season until Saturday, April 14 when it plays in the Dowagiac Invitational, but the Eagles are looking forward to competing for their fourth consecutive Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division title. The Eagles lost five seniors to graduation, including All-state catcher Kelsey Johnson and All-state outfielder Kelsey Cleary. But, that doesn’t mean that Lakeland won’t be loaded again this season, as it has 11 starters returning, including first baseman and 3-year starter Morgan Craft. Rounding out the infield will be second baseman and twoyear starter Jessica McNabb and third baseman Kelly Merkl. The Eagles’ starting catcher will be Sierra Burke, who hit 6 home runs last season and has what Head Coach Joe Alsup says is “one of the best arms I have ever coached.” Leading off in the batting lineup will be outfielder Madison Burgess. Hanna Szajner is the Eagles’ jack-ofall-trades as Alsup says she will start in the outfield but also play shortstop, second base and third base. Mary Armstrong is expected to be strong in the outfield and as a designated hitter. Pitcher Selena Hicks will be the lead ace in the circle this season after picking up 25 wins last year. Alsup said that anything less than 30 wins, finishing at the top of the KLAA, and a deep run in the state tournament will be disappointing.

Notice of Posting for Charter Township of West Bloomfield Township Board

1. Synopsis of the meeting held on: Monday, March 26, 2012 2. Adopted: Ordinance No. ZR-11-01, Zoning Map Amendment for the properties that make up the existing and proposed West Bloomfield Trail from Right of Way to REC Recreation District Ordinance No. ZR-11-02, Zoning Map Amendment for 2000 Haggerty Road (18-30-101002 & 003) from I-OP Industrial Office Park to B-3 General Business District The above ordinances 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 SC: 4-4-12

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BASEBALL

Lakers sweep Mott; Northern 3-0 after pair of wins West Bloomfield swept a doubleheader with Waterford Mott at home on Thursday, March 29. West Bloomfield won the opening game, 9-8, with a game-winning run in the bottom of the seventh inning. Orlando Herrera hit 2-for-4 with an RBI for West Bloomfield. The Lakers then won the nightcap, 21, to move to 2-1 on the season after suffering a defeat to Walled Lake Northern in their season opener back on March 23. West Bloomfield is off for spring break, but will be back on the diamond on Tuesday, April 10 at Farmington. • Walled Lake Northern moved to 3-0 on the season with two wins last week. Northern began its week with an 112 victory over Birmingham Groves on the road on Wednesday, March 28. Brennan Williams hit 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs for the Knights, while Jake Ginster hit 3-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs. Brett Davis picked up the win on the mound for Northern. The Knights then defeated Farmington Hills Harrison in their home opener, 8-4, on Thursday, March 29. Northern trailed 4-2 after the third inning before scoring six straight runs. Dillon DuBois hit 2-for-3 with 3 RBIs and a run scored for Northern while Dalton Cozart picked up the win on the mound. CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WHITE LAKE

WATER DEPARTMENT

NOTICE

The White Lake Township Water Department will be conducting the Spring Fire Hydrant flushing during daytime hours Monday through Friday from April 1, 2012 through May 15, 2012. Fire hydrant flushing signs will be posted one day in advance and the day of flushing at the entrance to each subdivision/development. Caution should be observed around any hydrant discharge. Minimizing water usage is recommended during the day of flushing in your area. Customers may experience some discolored water. Please run cold water to clear your lines and avoid doing laundry until the water is clear. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your cooperation. Any questions should be directed to White Lake Township Water Department at 248-698-3300 ext. 8 or www.whitelaketwp.com. S.C.: 3-28, 4-4, 4-11, 4-18, 4-25, 5-2 & 5-9-12

PAGE 39

VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE 425 Glengary Road Wolverine Lake, MI 48390-1404 (248) 624-3536 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2012 LAKES AREA #2 SANITARY SEWER INDIVIDUAL HOOK-UP SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NOTICE is hereby given that the Village Council of the Village of Wolverine Lake, Oakland County, Michigan, will meet at a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Room of the Village Hall, located at 425 Glengary Road, Wolverine Lake, MI 48390-1404, to receive public comment, if any, regarding the creation of a Special Assessment District for Sanitary Sewer Improvements. Plans and estimates of costs are on file with the Village Clerk for public examination. The proposed Special Assessment District involves the following properties: EW-17-21-426-047 EW-17-22-377-005 EW-17-22-404-013 EW-17-22-405-025 EW-17-22-432-003 EW-17-22-436-005 EW-17-22-451-007 EW-17-22-451-024 EW-17-22-451-030

EW-17-22-476-022 EW-17-22-477-001 EW-17-22-479-003 EW-17-23-301-001 EW-17-23-301-002 EW-17-23-301-007 EW-17-23-301-020 EW-17-23-301-027 EW-17-23-351-010

EW-17-23-301-032 EW-17-23-351-006 EW-17-23-351-007 EW-17-23-351-009 EW-17-23-351-019 EW-17-23-352-006 EW-17-27-102-001 EW-17-27-126-021

EW-17-27-126-024 EW-17-27-126-029 EW-17-27-155-001 EW-17-27-176-006 EW-17-27-201-004 EW-17-27-201-008 EW-17-27-201-021 EW-17-27-226-003

EW-17-27-226-012 EW-17-27-276-022 EW-17-27-276-023 EW-17-27-276-024 EW-17-28-231-011 EW-17-28-233-015 EW-17-28-233-017 EW-17-28-235-015

In order to appeal the amount of any special assessment, affected owners or parties with an interest must protest the proposed assessment. This may be done by appearing in person at the hearing, having an agent appear at the hearing on behalf of an owner or party in interest or by filing a protest by the hearing date, by letter addressed to the Village Clerk at the above address. An owner or party having an interest in the real property affected by the special assessment may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the state tax tribunal within 30 days after the confirmation of the special assessment roll if that special assessment is protested at the hearing held for the purpose of confirming the special assessment roll. Sharon A. Miller, Village Clerk Village of Wolverine Lake, Michigan S.C.: 03-21-12 & 04-04-12

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WHITE LAKE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF A NEW ZONING ORDINANCE The White Lake Charter Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on April 19, 2012 beginning at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda will permit. The hearing will conducted at the White Lake Charter Township Hall, located at 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, Michigan 48383. The purpose of the hearing is to receive comments from the public on the adoption of a new zoning ordinance that will replace the existing zoning ordinance in its entirety. The proposed zoning ordinance employs a more logical organizational structure and contains additional graphic representations of zoning regulations, designed to make the zoning ordinance easier to understand and more user-friendly. A draft copy of the zoning ordinance is available for review in the Community Development Department at the White Lake Township Hall during regular business hours 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The draft copy may also be viewed at the White Lake Township Website, http://www.whitelaketwp.com, anytime prior to the hearing. Written comments may be submitted in person at the Community Development Department or mailed to the White Lake Charter Township Planning Commission, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, Michigan 48383-2900 prior to the April 19, 2012 meeting. Oral comments will be taken during the public hearing. This notice is published pursuant to the requirements of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, Public Act 110 of 2006, as amended. Terry Lilley, Clerk White Lake Township Clerk

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WHITE LAKE

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Accuracy Test of the M-100 Optical Scan Equipment used for the Special Election to be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2012, will be conducted on Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the White Lake Township Hall, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, MI 48383. The public Accuracy Test is conducted to determine that the program and the computer being used to tabulate the results of the election counts the votes in the manner as prescribed by law. Terry Lilley, CMC White Lake Township Clerk S.C. 4-4-12

S.C. 4-4-12

REQUEST FOR BIDS SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SERVICES INCLUDING THE COLLECTION AND PROCESSING OF RECYCLABLES AND YARD WASTE Sealed bids will be received in care of the City Clerk, City of Orchard Lake Village; 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan 48323 until 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 4, 2012. Bids will be unsealed and publicly read at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 4, 2012 at the City of Orchard Lake Village City Hall; 3955 Orchard Lake Rd. Specifications may be obtained at the City of Orchard Lake Village City Hall. SC: 4-4-12

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APRIL 4-10, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

CONVENIENT CATEGORY LISTINGS NOTICES 1 2 3 4 5 6 8

Bulletin Board Happy Ads Lost and Found Reunions Legal Notices Pathways Obituary

REAL ESTATE 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Lakefront Homes/ Property New Houses Open Houses Condos/Flats/Co-ops Vacation Homes/ Cottages Commercial/Industrial Michigan/Other Areas Other States Vacation Land/Acreage Investment/ Income Properties Business Opportunities

MOBILE HOMES 42 43

Mobile Homes for Sale Mobile Home for Rent

RENTALS 45 46 47 49 50 52 55 56 57

Banquet/Party Facilities Vacation Homes/ Cottages/ Time Shares Commercial/Industrial Shopping Center Units Office Space Storage Houses/Condos Apartments Rooms/Share Quarters

HELP WANTED 60 61 62 63 65 66 67 69 71 72 74 75

Job Fairs/Seminars Technical Fields Alternative Energy Employment Agencies Full Time/General Accounting/Financial Medical/Dental Office/Clerical Sales Positions Construction Part Time/Temporary Baby, Pet, House Sitting

JOB WANTED 77 82 83 84 85 86

Full Time Part Time/Temporary Student/Teen Babysitting Senior/Child Care Housekeeper/ House Cleaning

MERCHANDISE 89 90 91 93 95 96 100 101 102 103 105 106 107 109 110 111 112 114 115 116 117 119 121 122 125 127 128 129 130 132 133 134 137 138

Used/Wanted 100% Free Antiques Collectibles Coins/Stamps Diamonds/Jewelry/Gold Cemetery Plots Auction/Estate Sales Moving Sale Garage Sales Building Materials Tools Snowblowers Lawn Tractors/Mowers Lawn/Garden/Sod Gravel/Sand/Dirt Firewood Business Pet Supplies Horses Food/Produce Clothing/Apparel Cellular Appliances Furniture/Rugs Rent To Own Art/Crafts Household Items Home Care Equipment Stuff - Infant Stuff - Kid Stuff - Teen Bargain Bin Odds N Ends

And Lots of Others!

Phone Rhonda, Leslie or Cindy for Affordable Rates

248-360-7355

PAGE 41

NOTICES

Vacant Land/ Acreage

Bulletin Board

SUPPORT WOMEN POLICE Paid for by Gerald Plas

Reunions

NOVI Maudlin, S. of S. Lake Road. Walk-out site possible with this nice neighborhood lot. Lake privileges to Walled Lake w/dock & swim privileges. $35,000.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

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.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Houses For Sale

Looking to purchase or sell your home? Contact

Arlene at Keller Williams 248-912-4628

MOBILE HOMES Mobile Homes for Sale

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

Mobile Homes for Rent

248-698-1120

LAKEFRONT OPPORTUNITY! Private hilltop setting & scenic views of all sports Maxfield Lake. Comfortable 1500 sq. ft. home w/3 bedrooms. Living room, family room & Florida room. Many updates! $149,900.

BEAUTIFUL 55+ COMMUNITY Brand NEW homes for rent. Appliances. Lake access. MOVE IN SPECIALS!! 15 month lease for $600/mo Cranberry Lake- White Lake 248-698-1120 888-306-2483

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

RENTALS

Vacant Land/ Acreage

HARTLAND Bairwood Ct., E. of Hartland Rd. Wooded 2 acre parcel on paved private road. Natural gas at street. Convenient location. $45,000.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

HARTLAND SCHOOLS Linden Rd., S. of Faussett Road. Desirable 2 acre setting w/great location on paved road. Scenic views of Ore Creek across the street. Nat. gas at road. $44,000.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

General/ Help Wanted

1 bdrm for $459 (newly renovated). Includes all utilities except electric. Security Deposit. For more information & availability call

248-335-7368

Houses/ Condos

Looking to rent a house or condo?

call Arlene Keller Williams Realty mihome4u.com 248-912-4628 COMMERCE 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, totally updated house, Commerce Lake privileges, Walled Lake Schools, $1,000 per month

248-318-4305

Newly renovated, small complex in quiet area. Separate entrances. 2 bedroom, available April 8th. Duck Lake and Warlow, No pets. 3434 Oakridge $525/ mo.

248-514-5858

Milford Road/ 96 Area Newly renovated deluxe 2 bed apartment available in quiet country setting. $700 per month plus security. No pets

Rooms/Share Quarters

SALES POSITION: Base salary $15,000 PLUS 10% commissions, vehicle allowance & phone reimb. Sales exp nec (janitorial a plus).Send resume to:

PO Box 930071 Wixom, MI 48393 attn: HR SOLO DRIVERS needed for a round trip dedicated runs. $1,500 SIGN-ON BONUS! ·Great Home Time ·Health Benefits Available Recent Driving Experience & A CDL-A License is Required.

Call Now: (866) 380-6820

FALCON TRANSPORT

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

OFFICE CLEANING EVENING HOURS

HELP WANTED General/ Help Wanted

☺

Pontiac Lake

248-553-4466

Beautiful 55+ community! We'll pay up to $5,500 for a single section home & $8,500 for a multi section home. Relocate your manufactured home to beautiful Cranberry Lake. Call for special pricing!

Hartland

Highland

RELOCATE TODAY!!

mihome4u.com

Apartments

MONDAY- FRIDAY

NOVI AREA/ WEST BLOOMFIELD CORPORATE CLEANING GROUP

248-313-9880

Sales Account Rep. Novi/ Wixom area. Paid training, base plus commissions.

Email resume to: mjragency@gmail.com

Experience Pizza Cook Wanted. Inquire with in: Village Pizza and BBQ 134 West Huron Milford 248-684-0171

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 ING SPR LS IA SPEC

Professionally Managed By Senior Village Management

(248) 360-7235

PAGE 42

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$487,500 1+ ACRE BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED LOT AND INGROUND POOL •3,828 sq ft, fin w/o, 4/5 bed, 3.5 ba, library •Consortium, fps, master jet tub bath #212018825 EXT. #204•KEY #248379

$495,000

RARE BUILDING OPPORTUNITY ALL-SPORTS UNION LAKEFRONT •75’ sandy shoreline, 200’ deep lot, seawall •Possible walkout site, existing 2br, 2ba home #212017000 EXT. #205 •KEY #248367 P. TW RD FO R E T WA

. WP DT OR F L MI

P. TW CE ER M M CO

. WP ET AK L ITE WH

248-366-7200

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

P. TW CE ER M M CO

P. TW ND LA H HIG

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME PRIVATE, FENCED YARD! •1,836 sq ft, 4 bed, 2.5 ba, fin bsmt, LR/DR •Cath mstr w/ba, granite kitchen, FR w/fp #NEW EXT. #298 •KEY #261788

$374,900

$334,900

CUSTOM QUALITY BUILT 1.14 PRIVATE ACRE ESTATE •1st flr mstr, 4 bed, 4 full baths, 2,900+ sq. ft. •Fin. daylight basement, 3 car + workshop #211110916 EXT. #241•KEY #248360

HILLS OF BOGIE LAKE SUB CLUBHOUSE, POOL, PLAYGROUND •2,463 sq ft + fin daylight bsmt, 4 bed, 3.5 ba •Fp, Grt rm, DR, granite kitchen, ff laundry #212031690 EXT. #294•KEY #268869

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

P. TW RD FO R TE WA

$139,000 $99,900 SHARP RANCH - LARGE BEAUTIFULLY PRIVATE BEACH AND PARK LANDSCAPED LOT ON ALL-SPORTS SYLVAN LAKE •1,408 sq ft, 3 bed, 2 ba, oversized 2 car gar •1,446 sq ft, fin bsmt, 3 bed, 1.5 ba, fp •1st flr laundry, lg shed, patio, Walled Lk schools •DR, kitch w/appl., Flor. rm, 2 car, deck #212011148 EXT. #285 •KEY #fm256j #212031794 EXT. #208 •KEY #278040

$450,000

janet@TheStocktonTeam.com

800-396-5204 + Ext. # for recorded message Text Key # to 90210 for text message Call today for a private consultation.

$995/MO.

AFFORDABLE RENTAL ON QUIET DEAD-END STREET •1,300 sq ft ranch with 3 bed, 1.5 ba, fp •2 car , patio, fenced, immed occup., 1 yr min. #212008860 EXT. #275•KEY #268870 P. TW CE ER M M CO

$219,900 GORGEOUS GERUNDEGUT BAY ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •Remodeled ranch, stone fp, dining rm •Corian counter kitch, tile, crown molding #211103417 EXT. #280•KEY #24373 . WP ET AK L ITE WH

. WP ET RC E MM CO

steve@TheStocktonTeam.com

STUNNING CUSTOM BUILT PRESTWICK GOLF FRONT •3,765 sq ft + 1,450 lower level, 5 bed, 3.5 ba •Dramatic open floor plan w/all the extras #212005328. #264 •KEY #256951 P. TW RD FO R TE WA

. WP ET RC E MM CO

UPPER STRAITS LAKEFRONT INVESTMENT SPECIAL •4 bed, 3.5 ba, 2,746 sq ft + f-bmt, 1st fl mstr •Wet bar, deck, 2nd buildable lot + 4 other lots #211104723 EXT. #245 •KEY #260513

$219,900

CUSTOM BUILT ALL SPORTS MACEDAY LAKEFRONT •4 bed, 4 ba, all brick, fin w/o, 5,200 sq ft •1st & 2nd flr master, volume rooms, 3 car #211017553 EXT. #296 •KEY #248341

$224,900 $199,900 PRIVACY - QUIET .9 ACRE WALKOUT RANCH ON ALL-SPORTS CUL-DE-SAC LOT BACKS TO WOODS CLARK & CARROLL LAKES •2,557 sq ft + fin. bsmt, 4 bed, 2.5 ba. ff laundry •1,353 sq ft + 950 sq ft in fin. w/o, 3 bed, 2 ba •Side entry gar, in-ground pool, patio, workshop •Florida rm, 2 fireplaces, mstr w/ba, shed #212021371 EXT. #270•KEY #263460 #21207022 EXT. #243•KEY #264094

VI NO

2900 Union Lake, Suite 210, Commerce, MI 48382

E L AG VIL RD O F MIL

$399,900 HILLS OF BOGIE LAKE SUB CLUBHOUSE & POOL!! •3,303 sq ft + fin daylight bsmt, ff laundry •5 bed, 4.5 ba, 3 car gar, large raised deck #211116381 EXT. #255•KEY #267493

$574,900

$499,900

STUNNING 90 FT. OF MAIN LAKEFRONT ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •2,778 sq ft, 3 bed, 2.5 ba, 2 fp, jet tub mstr. •2+ gar, 3 decks, dock, shed, W. B. schools #211105126 EXT. #231 • KEY #248358

$759,900

$725,000

STONE HOLLOW SUB - CUSTOM BUILT 2.62 ACRE LOT •5 bed, 3.5 ba, 3,671 sq ft + 1,627 sq ft w/o •Att 3 car gar + 2.5 car carriage house gar #211127827 EXT. #265 •KEY #248347

LD FIE OM O L B ST WE

FO MIL

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

$164,900 SPACIOUS COLONIAL WITH LARGE DECK ON NICELY TREED LOT •1,933 sq ft, 3 bed, 1.5 ba, basement •1st flr laundry, gorgeous granite kitchen, brick fp #212026605 EXT. #279 •KEY #256965 LD FIE OM LO B ST WE

$79,900 $40,000 BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD CONDOMINIUM TOWNHOUSE YOUR DREAM HOME •2 bed, 1.5 ba + fin-bsmt, granite kitch •Lot includes three parcels (90x101) •Ceramic/hdwd, LC terms, clubhouse, pool •Sub beach and boating on Upper Straits Lake #212009441 EXT. #259 •KEY #262565 #211032130 EXT. #221 •KEY #248395

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

There’s No Better Time To Sell!

We are full time professionals... •Meeting Client’s Needs Since 1977 •Dedicated Listing & Buyer’s Agents •150+ Negotiated/Closed “Short Sales”

Our performance speaks for itself!

www.TheStocktonTeam.com

APRIL 4-10, 2012

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211131493 - $149,900

211101478 - $149,900

212021785 - $154,900

212029220 - $197,000

212011824 - $125,000

SPACIOUS, UPDATED HOME 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, lakes privileges, finished basement

OLD WORLD CHARM 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, coved ceilings, lake privileges

LOVELY COLONIAL 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, first floor laundry, 3 season sunroom

NEW CONSTRUCTION 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, island kitchen, great room with fireplace

WELCOME HOME - SPLIT RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, open floor plan, master suite, beautifully finished basement

RD FO TER WA

LLY

M XO WI

EL RIN LVE O W

E AK

212000049 - $124,900

211068047 - $189,900

211091695 - $124,500

212027755 - $199,000

212014288 - $160,000

GORGEOUS SETTING 2.2 ACRES 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room with fireplace, master 2 closets, barn/shed

FAIRWAY ESTATES STUNNING 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, granite, new carpet, tile, overlooking 16th hole

WILLIAMS LAKE DEEDED CANAL FRONT 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, spacious kitchen, open floor plan

DESIRABLE WEXFORD MEWS 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, formal dining, hardwood floors, loft/library, fenced backyard

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED CONDO 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, hardwood floors, granite counter tops, spacious floor plan & fin. basement

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FEATURED HOME

D FOR TER WA

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OF THE WEEK

212027510 - $128,600

212030039 - $114,900

PONTIAC LAKEFRONT CONDO 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths great room with fireplace gourmet kitchen

METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, gas fireplace in living room, kitchen with pantry

F MIL

212010376 - $95,000

MILFORD VILLAGE HIDDEN GEM 4 bedrooms, 1.1 bath, lots of cabinets, hardwood floors, natural fireplace LEY RK BE

ST WE

LD FIE OM BLO

F MIL

212030979 - $719,500

L ITE WH

212028681 - $166,000 COME ON OUT TO THE COUNTRY!! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, woodstove, almost 2 acres, 3 car garage CE ER MM O C

212022464 - $264,900 CE ER MM O C

212010105 - $89,999

SPECTACULAR MIDDLE STRAITS WATERFRONT 4 bedrooms, 3.2 baths, kitchen newly remodeled, master suite, theatre room E AK

BRICK RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large lot, central air D IEL MF LOO B ST WE

212021370 - $319,000

211112421 - $170,000

NEW ENGLAND CHARM 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 1.5 acres with pond, walkout finished basement

WELL MAINTAINED RANCH 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, kitchen and dining open to family room, deck, patio and large yard

L ITE WH

R BO AR OH G E KE

E AK

211108336 - $59,900

212026882 - $314,900

212020077 - $276,900

212025628 - $104,900

211048408 - $100,000

CHARMING BUNGALOW/RANCH 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, updated kitchen and bath, fenced private yard

CRANBERRY LAKE COLONIAL 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, gourmet kitchen, master suite fireplace, beautiful lot

BOATING/SWIMMING/LAKE SHERWOOD 3 bedroom, 3.1 bath, comtemporary, vault ceilings, wood and ceramic, gazebo w/hot tub

MANDON LAKEFRONT 2 bedrooms, 1 bath remodeled in 2009, large deck, shed

ADDITIONAL LOT 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, brick, vinyl, ranch, 2 car garage

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D FOR TER WA

L ITE WH

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EL RIN LVE O W

E AK

212022600 - $159,900

212030086 - $59,000

211099179 - $222,000

211128969 - $180,000

211124998 - $235,000

ELEGANT CONDO 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, two story foyer, hardwood floors

UPDATED RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, property consists of 3 lots, 2 car garage and separate workshop

TRANQUIL SETTING ON CROSS LAKE 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, up North feeling, beautiful clean interior

CENTENNIAL FARMHOUSE 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, family/parlor with fireplace, over an acre

EXPANSIVE LAKEFRONT! 3 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, remodeled and updated, new furnace, Florida room, fireplace

Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

Lakes Area (248) 363-8300 • www.RealEstateOne.com

PAGE 44

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Last year we helped 18,010 Michiganders find their perfect home.

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $649,000 Up/lowr case description,all caps 5 bedroom home, hard to read,symbolizes yelling completely remodeled and gorgeous! MLS 248.851.4100 212029488 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD NOVI $200,000 $369,000 Up/lowrBeautiful case description,all caps home with hard read,symbolizes yelling opentofloor plan and large foyer! MLS 248.851.4100 212017151 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD HUNTINGTON WOODS $200,000 $350,000 Up/lowr case description,all caps Old world charm hardwith to read,symbolizes yelling modern conveniences MLS 248.851.4100 210099446 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPSTWP BOLD BLOOMFIELD . $200,000 $349,000 Up/lowr Great case condition description,all with caps hard to read,symbolizes 2nd story foyer and granite yelling kitchen! MLS 248.851.4100 211102030 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $330,000 Up/lowr case description,all Sprawling ranch home on caps hard to read,symbolizes almost 1/2 acre. yelling MLS 248.851.4100 211128658 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $325,000 Up/lowr case description,all Lakefront contemporary caps hard tohome read,symbolizes over 1/2 acre!yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212030612 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $325,000 Up/lowr case 4,400+ sq.description,all ft. ranch home.caps hard to read,symbolizes Fully furnished! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 29147684 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD COMMERCE $200,000 $289,900 Up/lowr case description,all Colonial with open floor plancaps hard to and read,symbolizes 2 story foyer! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212022335 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD FARMINGTON HILLS $200,000 $275,000 Up/lowr description,all caps Beautifulcase 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath ranch hard to read,symbolizes Great location yelling MLS 248.851.4100 211054994 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $225,000 Up/lowrExceptional case description,all home with caps hard to read,symbolizes yelling pool and brick fireplace! MLS 248.851.4100 212019690 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD COMMERCE $200,000 $209,900 Up/lowr caps Customcase builtdescription,all 2 bedroom, 2 bath hard toend read,symbolizes unit ranch condoyelling MLS 248.851.4100 211033381 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $179,900 Up/lowr case description,all caps Beautiful Colonial hard tonewer read,symbolizes yelling with kitchen and patio! MLS 248.851.4100 212023873 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD FARMINGTON HILLS $200,000 $175,000 Up/lowr caseranch description,all Sprawling with updatedcaps hard to kitchen read,symbolizes on .5 acre yelling MLS 248.851.4100 211093882 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD COMMERCE $200,000 $140,000 Up/lowr case 3description,all caps Wonderful bedroom colonial hard to read,symbolizes yelling with finished basement! MLS 248.851.4100 212019751 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPSHILLS BOLD FARMINGTON $200,000 $128,000 Up/lowr caseremodeled description,all caps Completely 4 bedroom, hard tohome read,symbolizes 2 bath with hardwoodyelling floors MLS 248.851.4100 29141083 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD NOVI $200,000 $120,000 Up/lowr casecondo description,all Fantastic with finishedcaps hard basement to read,symbolizes yelling and nice deck! MLS 248.851.4100 212017362 248-851-4100

CITY WALLED IN ALL CAPS LAKEBOLD $200,000 $39,900 Up/lowr case1.5 description,all caps 2 bedroom, bath townhouse hard to with read,symbolizes private entry! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212030590 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD SOUTHFIELD $200,000 $39,900 Up/lowr case description,all Updated, bright and clean caps hard to read,symbolizes 3 bedroom home. yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212025159 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $1,199,000 Up/lowr case description,all caps Updated 5 bedroom home on hard to read,symbolizes yelling cul-de-sac with finished basement MLS 248.851.4100 212019093 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD BIRMINGHAM $200,000 $450,000 Up/lowr case description,all Remodeled home shows caps hard to read,symbolizes attention to detail! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212001864 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD WEST BLOOMFIELD $200,000 $189,000 Up/lowr description,all Greatcase 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath caps hard to read,symbolizes yelling colonial with large yard MLS 248.851.4100 212017122 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD COMMERCE $200,000 $125,000 Up/lowr case description,all 2 bedroom ranch condo caps hard to read,symbolizes in great location! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 211129354 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD FARMINGTON HILLS $200,000 $75,000 Up/lowr case description,all caps Beautiful 3 bedroom bungalow hard to read,symbolizes with upgrades! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212030089 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPS BOLD FARMINGTON HILLS $200,000 $60,000 Up/lowr case description,all Remodeled in 2002 and caps hard to read,symbolizes in great location! yelling MLS 248.851.4100 212029874 248-851-4100

CITY IN ALL CAPSHILLS BOLD FARMINGTON $200,000 $52,500 Up/lowr case caps Greatdescription,all colonial on hard to read,symbolizes yelling large lot with hardwood floors MLS 248.851.4100 212029577 248-851-4100

6960 ORCHARD LAKE ROAD | WEST BLOOMFIELD | 248.851.1900

ÂŠReal Estate One, Inc., 2012

RealEstateOne.com

MaxBroock.com

APRIL 4-10, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

– COMMERCE – 4 BEDROOMS, 3.1 BATHS ON ALL SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD! 211110654 $443,500

– HIGHLAND – ENDLESS, CAPTIVATING VIEWS OF WHITE LAKE! 211111348

PAGE 45

$379,500

– HIGHLAND. – BEAUTIFUL BRICK 4 BEDROOMS, 5.1 BATHS LAKEFRONT HOME! 211115821 $589,212

– COMMERCE TOWNSHIP – BUILDERS OWN HOME ON ALL SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD, PENINSULA LOT 212031905 $649,000

– HIGHLAND – ALL UPDATED SUPER COTTAGE WITH 125 SQ. FT. FRONTAGE ON DUCK LAKE CANAL! 212007826 $120,000

– HIGHLAND – PRISTINE! BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED! 4 BEDROOMS, 2.1 BATHS - MOVE IN READY! 212009879 $290,000

– HIGHLAND – A HIDDEN JEWEL ON LOW TRAFFIC ALL SPORTS HIGHLAND LAKE! 212012906 $224,900

– COMMERCE – OVER 5,000 SF OF LUXURY WATERFRONT LIVING ON ALL SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD! 212019292 $629,000

– HIGHLAND – WATERFRONT HOME ON ALL SPORTS, PRIVATE HIGHLAND LAKE 212020231 $195,000

– HIGHLAND – WELL PLANNED DESIGN, ATTENTION TO DETAIL, MAPLE & GRANITE KITCHEN 212032857 $301,900

– MILFORD – SPACIOUS HOME, CLOSE TO THE VILLAGE OF MILFORD 212025808 $239,000

– HIGHLAND – STUNNING HOME ON 540 ACRE ALL SPORTS WHITE LAKE! 212026900 $299,900

– HIGHLAND – UPDATED HISTORIC FARMHOUSE JUST A BLOCK FROM DOWNTOWN! 212032612 $105,000

– GRAND BLANC – LOVELY 3 BEDROOM RANCH, OPEN FLOOR PLAN. MOVE IN CONDITION. 212027671 $89,900

– HIGHLAND – .41 ACRE FENCED DOUBLE LOT. DOCK PRIVILEGES ON ALL SPORTS WHITE LAKE 212032747 $124,900

– HIGHLAND – ADORABLE & CHARMING 3 BEDROOM CAPE COD. NEW KITCHEN WITH ALL APPLIANCES. 212028986 $115,000

– HIGHLAND – BENCHMARK HOMES PRESENTS 4 BEDROOM, 2.1 BATH, COLONIAL ON +/- ACRE. 212029431 $274,000

– HIGHLAND – BENCHMARK HOMES PRESENTS 4 BEDROOM, 2.1 BATH COLONIAL ON 1 ACRE IN PINE BLUFFS. 212029437 $275,000

– HOWELL – BEAUTIFUL RANCH WITH LAKE PRIVILEGES ON ALL SPORTS CROOKED LAKE. 212030060 $210,000

– HARTLAND – SPACIOUS & SUPERBLY MAINTAINED LAKE PRIVILEGES ON DUNHAM LAKE. 212030064 $210,000

560 N. Milford Rd., Milford • 248.684.1065 ~ Serving Milford & Surrounding Areas

PAGE 46

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General/ Help Wanted

" Experienced Prep Cook

person, 8am to 2pm daily.

Part time, $10 per hour

Union Lake Golf Course.

Counter Cashier

8295 Wise Rd. Com-

$8.50 per hour

merce,48382

unionlakegolfcourse.com

248-363-4666

Detroit Gun Club Call Scott at 248-789-1034

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WEST BLOOMFIELD WATER & SEWER SEASONAL/ PART-TIME MAINTENANCE WORKER The Charter Township of West Bloomfield is seeking a Seasonal Water & Sewer Maintenance Worker to perform tasks associated with the operation and maintenance of water and sewer systems, fire hydrants, and cleaning and maintenance of sanitary sewer mains and manholes. This position works no more than 30 hours each week and no more than 19 weeks annually. The hourly rate of pay is $14.78. This position is not eligible for Township benefits. Applicant requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid state of Michigan driver’s license. Experience in public works, construction, mechanical or water and sewer, and mechanical ability preferred. Applications may be obtained from our website: http://www.twp.west-bloomfield.mi.us/ employment/ApplicationForm.pdf OR at the Personnel Department located at 4550 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, OR by calling (248) 451-4803.

THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS: THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2012 AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

EXPERIENCED LABORERS, Gardener, Lawn, & Landscape

MAINTENANCE Flexible hours. Apply in

General/ Help Wanted

Laborers needed. Please email resume to info@lawnworldinc.com or fax to 248-684-5272

for appointment call 248-684-5225

! Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info:

1-985-646-1700 DEPT. MI-2319

IN HOME CARE Looking for experienced , mature, responsible, compassionate, In-Home Caregiver, part time or full time- Lakes

Helping Hand Elder Assistance

area.

248-669-4446

DIRECT CARE Both full time and part time. Up to $9.03 per hour to start, with Benefits. Small group home setting. Must be Patient & Reliable. Holly Area

248-486-5368

Used/Wanted

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

NOW HIRING:

Medical/ Dental

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

SEA-DOO JET Skis wanted dead or dying. 1995 on ups. $200- $1400. Top $ for XP's & 947/951 or larger motors. Call Steve at 231-943-4152

Absolutely Free

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 CATS, FIXED bathed, dewormed, rescues. 248-7384901, 248-214-9898 FREE 10X10 shed needs floor and roof, barn style, you remove, leave message at 248499-8543

DAVE'S MOBILE MARINE

FREE HORSE manure, great for your gardens. White Lake area. 248-363-8840

•Pontoon Hauling •Inboard & Outboard Repair "We Come To You" •Buy & Sell Motors

Garage Sales

103

WATERFORD 6462 Elmwood off Landsdown, North of Hatchery, Wednesday thru Saturday, 9-6.

Furniture/Rugs

125

NEW 9 west rain coat small women $20 248-960-7285

128

ST. MARK'S OUTDOOR SPRING FESTIVAL Saturday, May 19th 7979 Commerce Road Crafts, Food Tent, Kids Games, Bake Sale, Raffle Seeking Crafters

Household Items

129

BEAUTIFUL Travertine marble dining room table $175, designer ceiling fan, all brass Islander special, $150. Exercise equipment, padded workbench with dumb bells $95. 248-8812031

LEISURE TIME TV/VCR/DVD Players156

April Classes Available $ Class only

With a prepaid voucher Contact Mary Nicole 248-684-1065 MaryNicole@RealEstateOne.com •Are you looking for a new career? •Would you like to own your own business? We’re Michigan’s largest real estate broker and last year we sold over 17,000 properties. We expect to surpass that in the coming year.

Join us as we grow Michigan.

(248)666-9248 Boat Hoists Docks

BOATS/ OUTDOOR Wanted Boats/Jet Skis/ Parts 162 SEA-DOO JET SKIS WANTED DEAD OR DYING. 1995 on ups. $200$1400. Top $ for XP's & 947/951 or larger motors. Call Steve 231-943-4152 1983 FOUR Winds boat with trailer, open bow, 4 cylinders, runs and looks great. Only $3,195 call Jim 248-8773309

166

36 POUND Shore Station boat hoist. Only $1,200 call Jim 248-877-3309

Campers

ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS COMPLETE HOME REMODELING Licensed & Insured • Free Estimate

877-361-7705

www.ljhomerepair.com Financing Available • Senior Discount

FREE GUTTERS

(100 ft. max)

with Roof Replacement over 10 sq.

176

21FT POP UP Camper for rent, sleeps up to eight people, three day weekends/ full week available. 248-920-3793.

CARS/TRUCKS MOTORCYCLES Wanted Parts/ Salvage

Info 248-363-6316

14" SHARP TV, $25. 248881-2031

Pre-Licensing Class

Boats/Motors/Trailers 164

FREE DIMENSION One 6 person hot tub, needs work, you haul away. 248-9601337

Art/Crafts Absolutely Free

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

181

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

(248)467-0396

Motorcycles

183

MOTORCYCLEGUARANTEE See First Want Ad Page Cars

187

SALES GUARANTEE Autos, Vans, Trucks See First Want Ad Page Cars

187

FORD MUSTANG LX 1993, auto, V8, convertible, runs great. Only $3,500 Call Jim 248-877-3309

Cars

187

HONDA ELEMENT EX 2005 4wd., bright red, 122K, 248881-0900 Private. MAZDA 626 LX 2001, 136K, gold, clean- must sell. 248884-7200

Buying a Home? Let us

Look Before You Leap!

Afford

able Home Inspections

Up to 170 components inspected in a typical three bedroom home. Computer-generated, comprehensive, easy-tounderstand report summary. High resolution, color pictures provide a visual reference of problem areas. Reports are emailed to you and your Real Estate Agent. After inspection questions are always answered, even after you move into your home.

248-881-3478 Licensed Insured

4075 Echo Drive West Bloomfield

APRIL 4-10, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 47

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 PERSONAL/ SERVICES Home/Office Cleaning 368

A & M Home Cleaning Service We clean like its ours. Weekly, biweekly, monthly available. Call Maureen 248-520-8374 Anna 248-881-3389

Appliance Repair

502

! (248)360-0213 (248)698-8819

513

BOB'S CARPET Great prices on plush & berber carpet. Low prices on pad & installation. Living room & bedroom sized remnants $4 per yd. Restretching &repairs. 35 years experience.

Bob (248)681-5771 Cabinetry

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

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

Doors

524

CERTIFIED OVERHEAD DOOR SERVICE

•Driveway Specials •Free Removal •Regular & Stamped •Home Owner Friendly •Residential - Commerical Fully Lic. & Ins. - 20 Yr. Exp.

248-758-4346

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

248-486-5900 AFFORDABLE

CONCRETE SERVICES Driveways, Patios, Sidewalks, Tear-outs, Replacements, Footings, Block work. Over 30 years experience.

Call Bob

248-579-3979 Doors

524

•Garage Doors •Repaired/ Services •New Doors/ Openers •Installed at Factory Pricing •Emergency Service Available

248-624-3161

☺ •Linoleum •Ceramic Tile •Hardwood Floors •Laminate Wood 27 Years Exp. Free Est.

(248)684-5983

Handy Person 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)683-7985

Excavating

529

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

Backhoe service & landscaping. 38 Years Experience. Small or Large Jobs. Fully insured. Free estimates.

Call Anytime 248-624-4042 (cell) 248-640-6298

536

FLOOR COVERING

J.J.M BACKHOE SERVICE LLC

Since 1980

Flooring

EDWARD'S

ARROW CONCRETE

ARROWCONCRETE.NET

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

Carpet Installation

Cement/Concrete

(248)624-6458

545

DU-IT-ALL HOME CARE IMPROVEMENTS Specials:

Heating/Duct Work 546

THOMASON HEATING & COOLING • Furnaces • Boilers • Air Cleaners •Air Conditioners •Humidifiers Service & Replacements

FREE ESTIMATES ON INSTALLATION

248-363-1615

Lawn/Garden Services

553

A R T

•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 #

Outdoor Services, LLC Lawn Service •Spring clean up •Gutter cleaning •Landscape •Brick pavers •Mulch & weeding •Insured •Res. & Com.

Licensed and Insured

www.artoutdoorservices.com (248)625-5719

(248)891-7072

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

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

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

Painting/ Decorating

562

VS PAINTING SPRING 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

Plumbing

567

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

248-363-5864 Roofing

571

ROOF LEAKS & WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS MAHER RESTORATION www.goMaher.com "Maher Makes It Happen"

248-926-6631

PRICE IS RIGHT ROOFING •Repairs •Re-Roofs •Chimney Repair •Metal Work •Flat Roofs •Complete Roof Packages. •Siding •Gutters

FREE Estimates

30 Years Experience

248-459-7894 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

D&D ROOFING

•Siding •Gutters & Leaf Guards •Soffits & Trimwork •Decks •Windows

Doug Dible 248-431-6243 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

Tree Service

BONE CUTTERS

I.D.C.

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

Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com

Tile

585

587

30 years experience Tree Trim ,Removal and Land clear (Stumps) •Free estimates •Insured

248-921-9097

J.M. TILE & MARBLE CUSTOM WORK

Waterproofing

•Remodeling •Quality Service •New Construction • Repairs •Grout Sealing • Licensed and Insured

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

John Miller (248)505-8865

jmtileandmarble.com

Trash/Debris Removal

Wells 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

(248)887-2190

599

Dry Basements, LLC

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

Emergency Service Visa & MasterCard

PAGE 48

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Yo u r Tr u s t e d D e a l e r s h i p A l t e r n a t i v e els rvice - All Makes and Mod Complete Auto Repair Se

2199 Haggerty Road @ Pontiac Trail Walled Lake • www.morrismotorsmi.com

Service Special

Any Service Over $175.00

Fully Equipped Collision Shop with FREE Estimates!

Hole Special ★ ★ Pot Front End Alignment

Fuel Injection Service

★ WILD CARD SPECIAL ★

25 Off $ 15 Off

+tax & dep. fee with coupon

*Includes up to 5 quarts of oil and oil filter. Excludes synthetic oil and diesel engines. Most vehicles–see service advisor for exceptions. With this coupon. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 4/18/12. SC

All certified Auto Technicians

248-624-4500

OIOTOR L

~ COUPON ~ ou Y e c i v r e The S es OIL CHANGE c i r P t a * ! Expect e s $ 95 n Se e k a M That

Balance and Rotate Tires

HELP IMPROVE YOUR GAS MILEAGE!

INCLUDES:

Our factory-trained technicians will perform the following: •Pressurized cleaning of fuel injectors •Remove combustion chamber deposits •Clean air intake system •Three Part Fuel System

Any Service Over $90.00

Any Make or Model

10% OFF

One coupon per customer. Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Expires 4/18/12. Excludes oil changes, brake promotion, tires and SRTA’S. Valid only in our service department. Must present coupon when order is written. SC

Fuel filter Replacement

• Check tire pressure

• Rotate tires

• Computer balance 4 wheels

SAVE $30.00

Plus tax. Most GM cars and trucks. All coupons must be presented at time of write up. Offers cannot be applied with any other offers. Expires 4/18/12.

• FREE brake inspection

95 +tax

• Set toe-in on applicable vehicles

• Caster or camber adjustments are extra Must present coupon when order is written. Most GM vehicles. Cannot be combined with other coupons or discounts. Expires 4/18/12.

SERVICE HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tues., Wed. & Fri. 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

PRE-OWNED CARS & TRUCKS - THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS 4/4 thru 4/11/12 2007 CHEVROLET CUBE VAN

2010 CHEVROLET IMPALA #P2016

13,999

2008 CHEVROLET IMPALA LTZ #P2023

15,996

#P2044

18,888

2005 GMC YUKON DENALI #P2046

17,995**

Find us on

2008 Land Rover LR3

P1955

27,995

2007 SATURN OUTLOOK XR #P1956A

17,895**

Morris Complete Inventory At: www.morrismotorsmi.com Motors Michigan For Peace of Mind: most of our vehicles have warranty or service contracts available.

**For purchase with qualified credit approval. Prices are plus tax, title, license & doc fee. Call dealer for more details. Subject to prior sale. Expires 4/11/12.

SALES HOURS: Mon. & Thurs.: 8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Tues., Wed., Fri.: 8:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.

~CHILD FRIENDLY CUSTOMER LOUNGE~