SC11911

WEST OAKLAND’S NEWSWEEKLY www.spinalcolumnonline.com

11/9/11

WATERFORD • UNION LAKE • WHITE LAKE • HIGHLAND • MILFORD • WIXOM WALLED LAKE • WOLVERINE LAKE • COMMERCE • ORCHARD LAKE • WEST BLOOMFIELD

50¢

We’ve Gone DIGITAL!!

If you’d like to receive our full edition in your e-mail inbox, send your request to: signmeup@thescngroup.com

SERVING THE COMMUNITY Wixom reaps dividends from Scout’s effort to better city parks - pg. 18

A BULLYING BROUHAHA Lawmakers pass bill that some say would allow certain bullying - pg. 30

LIBRARY’S MAKEOVER Commerce improvements expected to cause only minor disruptions - pg. 17

W. OAKLAND COMMUNITIES, RCOC MEET TO DISCUSS ROAD WOES, BUT A DIFFERENT KIND OF WOE — FISCAL — HAMPERS THEM pg. 8 The Pontiac Trail and Maple Road intersection in Walled Lake is in disrepair. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Valid at these locations: nd Graning!

9278 Highland Rd., White Lake Ope 2232 Union Lake Rd., Commerce 6001 Highland Rd., White Lake (Inside Meijer) 5156 Highland Rd., Waterford

$4.99 haircut

offer expires 11/18/11 Not valid with any other offers.

Limit one coupon per customer.

At participating salons.

Janet & Steve Stockton 248-755-7500 Lakes Area’s #1 Team!

2900 Union Lake, Suite 210 • Commerce, MI 48382

TheStocktonTeam.com (See our ad on the back cover)

SALES HOURS; MON. & THURS. 8:30 - 9:00 TUES., WED., FRI. 8:30 - 6:00 SAT.: 10:00 - 3:00

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

2199 Haggerty Road @ Pontiac Trail Walled Lake

www.morrismotorsmi.com

248-624-4500

LAND LAND OF OF THE THE FREE, FREE, BECAUSE BECAUSE OF OF THE THE BRAVE BRAVE

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

“Thank you for honori ng them. Mr. and Mrs. John P. Ha rris” Major Eric Harri s, Stafford, VA U.S. Marines, HM X Washington D.C. Helicopter Pilot

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

“Thanks fo r rem Frank W embering us.” .

U.S. Na Gaca, White Lake vy WWII Subma rine Ve in the Army teran Lake, Mi. I served from Wolverine d Operation sty an a Tru ad ul en Pa Gr is e “My nam g the Invasion of s-in-Arms and their rin du ed rv se I our Comrade for nine years.

God watch over sert Storm. May them back safely.” there were more of this De wish I s. ran vete the for you do bring “This is a wonderful thing Thank you and keep up families. May he Lake t, present and future troops. , Wolverine of the ty en wom us Tr and kind of gratitude for the pas men ul the Pa and nity mu com Storm the ting tion Desert the great job of suppor Army and Opera on si va In .” da services er Grena of Timothy B. Fenn Diane Fenner, wife ip Commerce Townsh U.S. Marines “Thank you for your gen erous offer of a free oil Vietnam change for veterans. My is Larry Caplin and I live ICA!! name in West Bloomfield. I was GOD BLESS AMER with the U.S. Naval Sup Activity and spent a yea port r at Camp Tien Sha in Da nan g, 1970. Our group suppor South Vietnam., 1968ted the Marines and Arm y who were in the fiel During this conflict, we d. lost over 55,000 men and women who gave their in support of our countr lives y. A terrible loss of young Am eric an life“ Larry Caplin

Steven Krastof, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army James Lowe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Joesph Muscat, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Mitchell Malek, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Wallace Boshew, Highland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Robert King Newcombe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam David R. Bush, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Panama Canal Donald O. Quinn, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army M.P., Vietnam, South Korea Roy Borgeson, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Bruno (Bernard A.) Clem, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Jon S. Bond, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Jack (John W.) Miller, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Korea Jerome Guest, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy, Cuban Missile Crisis, Dominican Republic Conflict Michael Kelly O’Brien, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Airborne Jim Pierce, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Matthew J. Zelenak, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Iraq Daniel V. Laporte, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Peacetime Thomas Johnston, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Cuban Missile Crisis Cam West, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Harry L. Bolt, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, World War II Steve Dehnbostel, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Iraq Harry Wagner, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea James Weakland, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Bonnie Murray, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Dennis Drake, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Desert Storm Donald Pipp, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea William Newcombe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Ralph E. Mulvany, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Patricia Loftus, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Walter Mozurkewich, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Frank Krumm, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Michael Maxim, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII James Leo Oberski, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Frank Massaria Jr., Reed City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Korea Ted Kisse, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII Charles De Hart, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Peacetime Sandor Vigh, Belleville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Desert Shield John Carpenter, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam - Seals Seabee Harold Scheerer, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII John Kett, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Nicholas Karaguleff, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Daniel Barden, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Peacetime Dale Lawson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Thomas Morris, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Ed Grabowski, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Desert Storm James C. Morris (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Harvey Morris (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Purple Heart Merle R. Meadows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIA Vietnam, Body Returned Tom Laforge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Beirut Roy Howie, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Korea Donald J. Watson, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII Larry W. Renton, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam James R. Elliot Jr., Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Jon S. Bond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Robert A. Huber, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Okinawa WWII Ward M. Hingst, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea John Bogosian, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Peace Time Bruce Kurth, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Cahide Greenwald, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Craig D. Hancock, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Tommy L. Bushre, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Anthony M. Thiel, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Iraq Lloyd Miller, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Iraq Duane A. McGeachy, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Leo Camardese, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Gregory Nelson, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Michael G. Farrell, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Louise Wyman, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Dan Faber, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Carl Tessier, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Military Service Ronald W. Proulx, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Peace Time Kirk Cooke, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Casper B. Hughes, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Frederick J. Laskos, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Donald Miller, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII Eric Rogers, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Reynolds F. Cattaneo, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, 255th Inf. Reg. Richard E. Kohler, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Harry Martin, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps, Vietnam Fred Belcher, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Gulf War Kerry Hartley, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Thomas Johnston, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Anthony M. Thiel, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Iraq Paul D. Smith, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Wayne Herning, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Medical Corps, Korean War Paul J. Kirkwood, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Corrie Cannon, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Dale Lawson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines John P. Luusua, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Mike Roy, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps Bruce Kurth, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, SeaBee Thomas P. Morris, Flat Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps Robert Espeland, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Thomas F. Jakubiec, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Korea Herb Heavner, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force Kandy Guest, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Roy Bergeson, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy James Lowe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Russell Kubeck, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Ronald Hall, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173rd Airborne Army David A. Shady, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam, 2 Purple Hearts Bob Zang, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII, Korean War

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

red by re. The Red: Made for.

Our flag is still the d s: die de d ra an m com fro len e “To all our fal e states they cam ed. The Stars: Th t still flows over sh tha y e, the ov od ab s blo ud the d clo ite: For the sky an ks’ to Morris Motors of helping The Blue and Wh special ‘Than A le. op pe e fre a land of terans.” acknowledge all ve ke iller, White La M k) ac (J John Army ur for yo Korean War k you n a h T ys! d alwa day an to n a eric an Am wp. to be rce T d u o r P “ mme o ” C .. , t. suppor A. Shady d Davi “Remembering all Army am veterans, for they N accomplished much and have sac Viet rificed so much for their country.”

Francis J. “Fra nk ” Serridge, Milford U.S. Army Ai r Corp.

WWII - E.T.O .

John E. Booth, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII Eric Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines Larry Caplin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Rex Catlaneo, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .WWII Ken Barrott, Oxford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Desert Storm Jon S. Bond, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, 1969-1973 James D. Goff, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, 1961-1964 Ward W. Hingst, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Charles Tober, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Bill Nelson, Wolverine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Francis “Frank” Serridge, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Air Corps, WWII-E.T.O. Jerald Wasker, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Dick Laird Pearson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII John Charles Pearson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Russell Walter Ortwine, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII James Mark Ortwine, Whitmore Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Vietnam Richard William Ortwine, Howell . . . .U.S. Marines, Army, Air Force, Vietman, Gulf War, Desert Storm David Brian Ortwine, South Lyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Gulf War Todd S. Weiller, Wolverine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps., Iraqi War Herb Warwick, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Thomas S. Dmoch, Commerce Township (Deceased) . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps, Korean Vet Bud , Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Air Force, WWII Roland Heaton, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Royal Canadian Navy, WWII William Green, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Vietnam William McKettrick, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Michael C. Bays, Orchard Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army William R. Morfitt, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Raymond F. Gargan, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Jared Nielsen, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Mike Borashko, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Robert Houghton, Highland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Julian Y. Nusbaum, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Army Air Corp Chuck Lovell, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korean War Thomas Lloyd, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps, WWII Robert Van Fleet, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Raymond Ziol, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Army Air Corp William Cartter, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Scott Hungerford, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Wilson Sparks, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Jack Reimer, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII George Boleratz, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII Michael Boleratz, Brighton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam William Ingram, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Leslie A. Morris, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U. S. Army, Vietnam, Purple Heart Thomas P. Morris, Rockwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps Richard G. Morris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps MSG Louis W. Kimble, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Bosnia, OIF Bob Pewitt, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy, Vietnam Pvt. Phillip A. DeConick, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Charles J. Gribbon, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Korea Frederick A. Trott, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force, Vietnam R. Lawrence Caplin, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy, Vietnam Gordon Elliott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Arnold Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Mike Landry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Arbo Lestkines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, South Pacific John P. Luusua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Isla McKenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Brent McMullen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Richard Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Jack Rae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Odell Ratliff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Raymond Ziol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Richard Staron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Charles Lovell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Kimberley Price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Robert Carriveau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Ronald Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Casper B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Eric Rogers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Roger Schmittling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Steven Ulivi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Raymond Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Mac Bonds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Arthur Pearson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Tom Plotinski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Bob Triplett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Donald Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Edward Stockman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Keith Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps Fred Bochheek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps Robert Erdmann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Coast Guard James Simaner Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Air Corp Bill Williams, Wolverine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Anthony Thiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Iraq - 2 tours Kyle Thiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Airborne, Iraq John P. Luusua, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Charles J. Gribbon, Jr., White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army William Green, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Micheal G. Farrell, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam William Higgins, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Jack Rae, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea/Vietnam John F. Bowers, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII/Korean War Conflict Donald Lamb, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korean War Conflict Eric Rogers, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Edmund J. Kurzawa, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Michael A. Cole, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Scott Hungerford, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Gulf War Wilbur V. Huber, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Henry Rowinski, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Isadore B. Averbuch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII Bruce Kurth, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Don Woodworth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps

Veteran’s Day is November 11, 2011

T h a n k Yo u F o r Yo u r S e r v i c e I n P r o t e c t i n g O u r G r e a t N a t i o n .

Honor Roll of Gratitude

PAGE 2 PAGE 55

WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

NOVEMBER 9, 2011

SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL

The Milford Rotary Club, Carls Family YMCA, and the Milford High School Marching Band will kick off the Fourth Annual “Feed a Family … Fill a Truck” food drive on Thursday, Nov. 17 to benefit the Community Sharing Outreach Center.

Non perishable food items can be dropped off at the Milford and Highland branches of Huron Valley State Bank, the Carls Family YMCA, Fifth-Third Bank in downtown Milford, and the Highland, Milford and Hartland Walgreens stores. Sellers GMC IsuzuTruck Center in Farmington Hills is donating the use of a truck, which will be downtown during the Milford Christmas Parade on Nov. 26 and during the Holiday Open House from 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 1 to accept food donations. The drive will run through Dec. 9.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Sharon Peterson at 248-685-3020, ext. 204, or visit the “Feed a Family… Fill a Truck” Facebook page. ❏

That’s what HE said: "We've had a great partnership with RCOC for 28 years now, but they are running with weights on their feet to maintain our roads."

— Wixom City Manager Mike Dornan commenting on the Road Commission for Oakland County's funding woes.

INSIDE Special Report . . . . . . . .8-12 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Public Safety . . . . . . . .23-24 Environment . . . . . . . . . .21 State . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-33 Lakes Area News . . . . . .7-18 Editorials . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Community Calendar . .39-40 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . .43-47

248.360.6397

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

Nearly all of the open space in the 10,000-square-foot building housing the Chi-Town Union Station train exhibit in Commerce Township — the largest O-scale train exhibit in the world — is now covered by rails and scenery plaster after 12 years of planning and growth. President Paul Gribbell said it will be another seven or eight years before the exhibit plan is completed. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Heaven for train enthusiasts All aboard! Chi-Town Union Station opens for a new season

By Angela Niemi staff writer

icture a time when travel was considered luxurious, when people wore suits and dresses, ties and high heels to travel across the country.

Before 1968, when airplanes rendered passenger trains nearly obsolete, it was standard to see people dressed in their finest as they boarded a train from Chicago to New York or Louisiana or California.

“People traveling by trains in the 1950s dressed very nice — dress, suit, tie,” said Seth Lampe, a volunteer at the Chi-Town Union Station in Commerce Township. “Even people just meeting people at the station were dressed up. Things are different today.”

And, of course, he’s right. Today, you are more likely to see people dressed in sweats and Ugg boots as

P

they travel to their various destinations.

However, for those who yearn to relive the luxury of train travel in its hey day, the Chi-Town Union Station and the associated non-profit West Oakland Railroad Museum provide an impressive venue to do so.

The Chi-Town Union Station — located at 8275 Cooley Lake Road in

View VIDEO CLIPS relative to this story at www.spinalcolumnonline.com

Commerce Township — is the world’s largest O-scale model railroad exhibit.

O-scale is classified as 1:48, or an inch representing 48 inches.

“An 88-foot luxury domed observation car scales down to 22 inches on the layout; and a threequarter mile long, 100-car freight train

in O-scale is about 84 feet,” according to Paul Gribbell, president of the Oscale model exhibit at Chi-Town Union Station.

Twelve years ago, after the privately owned 30-year-old collection outgrew its storage space, the exhibit’s current 10,000-square-foot building was purchased and the complex layout planning and construction began.

However, it was five years of construction and planning before the exhibit was far along enough for the public to view it. And yet, while still nowhere near completion, the exhibit has grown exponentially over the years.

“Chi-Town’s show has grown over the years to the point where nearly all the open spaces in the 10,000-squarefoot building are covered by rail five to seven layers deep or scenery plaster,”

PAGE 7 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 4

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WEST

OAKLAND’S

‘Who you are is enough’

NEWSWEEKLY

51st YEAR OF PUBLICATION Waterford • White Lake • Highland • Milford Commerce • Wolverine • Walled Lake • Wixom West Bloomfield • Orchard Lake • Union Lake PUBLISHER / PRESIDENT: Susan Fancy BUSINESS MANAGER: Dennis Boggs EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Carol Barr EDITOR: Tim Dmoch

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Kirk Pinho

Staff Writers: Angela Niemi, Leslie Shepard, Michael Shelton Contributing Writers: Mike Scott, Mark Stowers Staff Photographer: Amy K. Lockard ADVERTISING SALES: Account Representatives: Cindie Audia, Denise Engelberts, Debra Grubb Linda Stickney, Laurie Wasker Sales Assistant/Proofing: Karen Whikehart PHONE SALES MANAGER: Lori Snyder Account Representatives: Rhonda Libkuman, Cindy Stawick, Leslie Timko GRAPHICS: Denise Jungjohan, Marcia Reimer, Stacie Sabady IT MANAGER: Joel Stickney CIRCULATION: Dan Griffin ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE MANAGER: Carolyn Petherbridge Assistant: Mable McCullough PRESS RELEASES: Deadline 10 a.m. Thursday.

Mail to P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014. Fax 248.360.1220 or bring to office. After-hours drop box.

NEWS TIPS: Post at our website MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS: 52 issues - $45 per year.

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

The Spinal Column Newsweekly, all rights are reserved.

No portion, whole or part, may be reproduced without prior permission. The names Spinal Column, Newsweekly, SportsWeekly, and West Oakland are protected property.

The Spinal Column Newsweekly is co-owned by Steven and Susan Fancy, brother and sister; son and daughter of James Fancy, publisher from 1969-2011.

Haglund, former Miss America, discusses present, future irsten Haglund, a Walled Lake Western High School graduate, has accomplished quite a bit in her 23 years of life. She has battled anorexia, raised awareness about eating disorders, and has started her own foundation to help others cope with eating disorders. She won the Miss America Pageant in 2008, lived all over the country, and attended the inaugural ball for President Barack Obama. She has served as a contributor on Sean Hannity’s show on the Fox News Channel and recorded an EP that is available on iTunes. She has been a role model to little girls all over the country. Since her reign as Miss America in 2008, Haglund has been involved in numerous projects and worked with several non-profit organizations. Now, Haglund is working towards adding another accomplishment to her resume — college graduate. She is currently studying political science at Emory University in Atlanta but found time to catch up with the Spinal Column Newsweekly on life after Miss America.

You recently spoke to female students at Waterford Mott High School about eating disorders. What was your message to the students?

KH: (The message) was mostly that, as girl, it’s really, really a tough time to be in high school. You are facing a lot of peer pressure and a lot of people telling you what you have to do, how you have to do it, and that you have to be perfect basically in order to do anything in life.

My basic message to them was that you don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to be the best. You don’t have to be the thinnest or the prettiest in order to be successful in life. That everyone has unique abilities and gifts to offer this world, and that being you, who you are, is enough. And that beauty comes from the inside. That was my main message.

You started the Kirsten Haglund Foundation to raise awareness of, and provide help to, those suffering from eating disorders. You said that it came from your own battle with an eating disorder. Could you please explain what you fought and how you overcame it?

KH: Oh boy, I need a lot longer than a minute to do that. I basically struggled with anorexia. I started struggling when I was about 12-years-old, and it was largely due to my involvement in ballet where I thought I had to be this very, very thin ideal in order to be successful.

I was also highly perfectionistic and had very low self-esteem when I thought

K

Q

Q

because I was very critical of myself.

But now I realize everyone has a story.

Everyone goes through very difficult things in life, but it’s those things that give us strength and make us beautiful.

It’s our flaws that give us strength to go on, and then give us things so that we can help other people. So I’m very grateful for what life has given me.

Tell us about your year of service as Miss America, such as where you lived and what projects you were involved in? What would you say were some of the perks of being Miss America and what was the best moment of your reign?

KH: I lived all over the country and traveled 20,000 miles a month. So I didn’t really live anywhere. I lived in hotel rooms. Eating disorder awareness was a huge part of what I did during the year. I was also National Goodwill Ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network. So I visited a lot of children’s hospitals and helped in a lot of their fund-raisers and media campaigns. Also what was really neat was that I got to work with a lot of with the USO — the United Service Organization — to do a lot with our military. I laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, participated in the inaugural events around the inauguration of Barack Obama. I got to attend the inaugural ball. I mean, just a lot of really amazing things with our soldiers, our troops. I visited a lot of them in the hospital, veterans’ hospitals, and all that which is really important to me, as well.

It’s so hard because there were so many amazing moments because having one-on-one time with a 6- or 7year-old girl, investing in her life, that’s really important. But also speaking at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on eating disorders is also really huge and exciting. So, it’s hard to say one thing. But I will say that probably being at the inauguration of President Obama was pretty cool just because it was a hugely historic event, and I love Washington. I love politics. So to see all that happen and all the people that were there to celebrate that. I mean that was just pretty influential.

Whether you agree with his politics or not, it was just a pretty interesting and monumental time. So I would say that was the highlight. ❏

Q that I wouldn’t be able to dance professionally if I wasn’t thin enough. So I was just very critical of my body and just held myself to very, very high standards. That was basically kind of the set up for what I struggled with, and to me the answer was being thin. So I started to severely diet and restrict my calorie intake and (began to) over-exercise. And three years later, found myself a shell of a person, just in very, very poor health obviously on the point of starvation. And my parents finally realized something was wrong and drove me to the doctor.

Of course, I didn’t want to go. I thought the doctor was just trying to

•

NE MINUTE

INTERVIEW

make me fat, which was not the case at all. I eventually, after deciding to comply with treatment, two years later found myself at a healthy weight and a healthy place emotionally, as well. And I just really had to practice thinking the right way about myself and the gifts I had to offer the world. I had to quit ballet because it was an unhealthy environment for me, and I really just had to own the fact that I was worth so much more than what I looked like or what shape or what size that I was, that as a woman I was worth more than that, and beauty was more than just what you see on the outside. So that was my journey, and I’m actually very thankful for it now because I have much more compassion and empathy for other people. I don’t hold people to as high of standard.

I used to be very critical of others

By Angela Niemi

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

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

A

PAGE 5

VISIT to our SHOWROOM •Doors & Doorwalls •Roofing •Windows •Insulation •Siding •Patio Enclosures

B

Fuel Bonus

RING All of your other FREE ESTIMATES

With a signed contract of $2500 or more you will receive $1 of FREE GAS for every mile driven.

C 10%

OMPARE our PRODUCTS to theirs Then We will BEAT your LOWEST ESTIMATE by...

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

6000 Williams Lk. Rd. • Waterford

258.623.6666 800.875.8437

UP TO

with our Comparable Products

GUARANTEED

w w w.T h e r m a l S h i e l d W i n d o w s . c o m

SC

PAGE 6

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

We’re On Time, You’ll See, Or The Repair is Free™

ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS?

DON’T PANIC! C a l l MISTER SPARKY ELECTRICAL - AMERICA’S ON-TIME ELECTRICIAN™ If you are having any Electrical Problems,

We can help you with:

This Week’s Super Special...

ELECTRICAL SERVICE CALL

19

$

ONLY

95

Normal Service Call Fee $49.00 Offer valid on initial service call and with repair only. One offer per visit. Cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Valid Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Holidays excluded. Please mention this ad, offer valid through 12/7/11.

From MISTER SPARKY

ELECTRICAL SERVICES YOU CAN EXPECT: 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed Electricians are Drug Tested and Receive a Comprehensive Background Check Repair Guaranteed for up to 2 years Fair and Consistent Pricing with No Hidden Cost Fully Equipped Big Red Trucks Technicians Leave Your Home White Glove Clean

SC

Troubleshooting Electrical Problems Surge Protection Lighting Fixtures Circuit Panels Home Re-Wiring Generator Hook-ups/ Emergency Power Home Electrical Safety Inspections Code Violation & Corrections

Updated Smoke Detectors Ceiling Fan Installation GFI Repair Outlet/Plug Installation Fire & Storm Repair

ALL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

PHONES ANSWERED LIVE 24 HOURS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK 1-888-8-SPARKY

248-363-8508

(1-888-877-2759)

248-348-8814

248-684-2888

Licensed & Insured • Locally owned & operated To learn more about our services and save with special offers log on to: www.mistersparky.com

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 7

LAKES AREA NEWS

Chi-Town trains ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 3

Gribbell said. “While still seven or eight years from completion, it’s a lot easier to see where it’s going than where it came from.”

The exhibit is only open to the public for the winter season, from November to March; the summer months are used to maintain and continue construction of the exhibit.

The exhibit opened up for its seventh season on Friday, Nov. 4 and is open Fridays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children 5 to 17. Kids under 5 get in free.

There’s a little bit of something for everyone of every age to enjoy — whether it’s the history, the computer software running the trains, or just the sheer enjoyment of trying to figure out where the trains will head next.

There are about 75 model trains in the exhibit and as many as 25 trains may be operated by computer at any given time, with other trains being operated manually as they traverse “across country” by track and through tunnels.

The layout models five major railroads: the New York Central; Baltimore and Ohio; Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe; Denver and Rio Grande Western; and Southern Pacific.

And it’s a grand site, especially for train enthusiasts.

“When I came into the building in 2003, my chin was on my chest,” said computer software volunteer Don Sutherland. “When I die and go to Heaven, this is what I want it to be like.”

Each train pays exquisite attention to detail. According to Lampe, the model trains were built from blueprints of the original trains as they were in December 1955.

Wixom VFW set to honor veterans in Friday celebration

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

To honor the veterans who have served our country, the Wixom Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) will be hosting its first community veterans celebration and public open house on Friday, Nov. 11 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the VFW Hall located at 2652 Loon

Last year the Chi-Town Union Station exhibit operated a coal train with 1,205 cars, measuring over 1,000 feet and weighing 1,400 pounds. That train was the longest on record in the world and needed 26 locomotives, according to volunteer Seth Lampe. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

And the model trains are authentic as can be — right down to who may have been sitting in a given seat.

“We looked at old photographs of people sitting in the trains in 1955, and we try to be as authentic as possible,” Lampe said. “So, if there is a lady in a red dress in seat 13 in the photo, then you will see a lady in a red dress in seat 13 in the model train.”

The scenery through which the trains travel includes the river known to volunteers as the “Mid-Continent River,” mountains, towns, and Union

Station. A replica model of the station, complete with stone architecture and miniature chalkboards in the building, is being built this winter by one of the exhibit’s volunteers.

There is approximately 9,000 feet of track laid throughout the building — the majority of which remains unseen.

“About 70 percent of the track is out of sight,” Lampe said.

The exhibit is comprised of enough lumber to have built six houses.

And on any given day, guests can look to a scoreboard to see how many

cars the coal train is pulling that day.

Last year, it read 1,205. At over 1,000 feet long and weighing 1,400 pounds, the model train was the longest in the world and needed 26 locomotives.

“We did it just because we could do it,” Lampe said.

To learn more about Chi-Town Union Station and the West Oakland Railroad Museum, call 248-6139471, or visit their website at chi-townunionstation.org. ❏

Lake Road.

“It’s intended to pay tribute to the veterans of our county and to be available to veterans who want to find out more about their benefits or for those who want to learn more about us,” said VFW Commander Norman Mauldin.

The public is invited to attend the event and participate in the ceremony at 3 p.m. followed by the public open house.

“It will be a relatively brief speech informing attendees about how Veterans Day originated,” Maudlin

explained. “Unlike Memorial Day and POW/MIA Day (Prisoner of War/Missing-in-Action Recognition Day), this day really honors all veterans — those who have passed, are living, or were killed in action.”

Hot dogs, chips, and beverages will be served.

The celebration of Veterans Day is held Nov. 11 every year in the United States as a day reserved to honor and remember servicemen and servicewomen who have served America during any war or during peacetime. ❏

Parks budget raids fund balance to the tune of $745K The West Bloomfield Township Parks and Recreation Commission approved its 2012 operating budget at a commission meeting held on Thursday, Oct. 27.

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 14

➥

PAGE 8

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

he Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) recently released its biennial Strategic Planning Report summarizing discussions between RCOC leaders and community officials in every municipality throughout the lakes area.

Though the general consensus is that the RCOC continues to provide satisfactory service, community officials are frustrated with the lack of funding that has delayed many priority projects.

The conclusion reached by virtually all parties involved is that road funding is woefully inadequate due to the combination of declining road revenues, rising costs and a deteriorating road network.

In July, the RCOC completed its latest round of strategic planning meetings with Oakland County communities. It was the 14th time the RCOC has undertaken the process in 26 years. The face-to-face meetings were conducted by RCOC Managing Director Brent Bair and Deputy Managing Director/County Highway Engineer Dennis Kolar.

The meetings not only provide valuable insight to help plot the longterm course for the RCOC, but help it identify ways to improve its services while revealing larger trends related to growth and developments and the impact on county roads. It also helps the road commission glean input regarding improvements the communities deem high priorities.

“These meetings allow the leaders of RCOC to maintain positive relationships with the leaders of the communities of Oakland County,” Bair said.

“Though this process is very time consuming, we consider this to be an incredibly valuable investment of our time.”

The RCOC strategic planning process began in 1985 as an effort to better gauge the needs and concerns of the communities it serves and to foster better communication between the parties. Meetings are held every other year. After each round of strategic planning meetings, the RCOC compiles a list of road projects that the communities have identified as priorities over the next decade.

“To our knowledge, we are the only governmental agency of our size that invests the time and effort to conduct this type of individual meeting with virtually every community we serve (nearly 60 separate meetings),” Bair said. “Each community devotes about 90 minutes to these meetings.

The RCOC devotes that much time to

SPECIAL REPORT

T

Wanted: $2.3 billion RCOC report highlights local roads wish lists each of 60 meetings, plus extensive travel time.”

During the recent round of meetings, community officials underscored that “the current road funding mechanism does not work.”

Road surfaces in the county are becoming severely worn and deteriorated. Decades of underfunding have resulted in pavement cracking, rutting and potholes, all which negatively impact motorists and commercial transportation in the county. Revenues from the Michigan Transportation Fund no longer provide adequately for the increasing cost of preventative road maintenance.

“We have been underfunded for decades,” Bair said. “According to U.S. Census Bureau data, Michigan has been among the bottom nine states in the nation in per-capita state and local road funding for nearly 50 years — and it shows; our roads are in bad shape. Michigan needs to adequately fund its roads.”

Some of the observations by community officials indicate that since the RCOC has been able to address only a fraction of the road needs identified, the list of needs reported by communities this year remains nearly the same as in 2009, the last time the process was completed.

“The feedback we have received is that the communities find these meetings very useful, despite the mutual frustration over lack of ade-

quate funding,” Bair said.

“Most of the major road construction projects we have done over the last 35 years have been projects identified through the Strategic Planning process — that’s hundreds of millions of dollars worth of road improvements,” Bair said. “Over time, we have steadily whittled away at the list of projects identified by the communities. However, we are just as frustrated that we cannot do more projects. There is a tremendous need for additional road improvement projects — which is documented through this process — but very little money available for those projects.

“And, while there is nowhere near enough money available compared to all the road work needed, there is some money available, and this process helps us prioritize projects for which we will apply for funding,” he said.

However, the RCOC does not select the projects that receive federal funding (currently the only real source of road improvement funding available). That is done by the Oakland County Federal Aid Task Force Funding Committee. That committee objectively rates and ranks all projects submitted for consideration, and the projects that receive the most points receive the available funding.

“This process was deemed so fair and objective that the Federal Highway Administration, some years

back, recommended it for use nationwide as an ideal way to select projects to receive federal funding,” Bair said.

Surface conditions of RCOC-maintained roads — especially potholes, joints/cracks and drainage problems — continue to cause concern for communities.

On the positive side, the communities cumulatively ranked the RCOC’s FAST-TRAC system of adaptive traffic signals, and dust control on gravel roads as the most effective RCOC services. Moreover, the RCOC’s snow and ice removal service on main roads was lauded despite cutbacks to the program; however, improvements should be made on subdivision streets, according to local officials.

During the latest planning meetings, local officials identified almost $2.3 billion in road needs over the next decade in Oakland County.

The sluggish economy has impacted local municipalities that continue to cut back on spending and staff, which has compelled them to trim transportation budgets, resulting in projects being postponed, canceled or altered.

According to the RCOC’s 2011 Strategic Planning report, road reconstruction and surfacing projects represent slightly less than 10 percent of the estimated 10-year needs, pegged at $243 million. Traffic capacity improvement — including building new roads, lane extensions, and widening bridges and other structures — equate to

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

Orchard Lake not holding its breath for road improvements RCOC officials met with Orchard Lake City Council members along with Oakland County Commissioner Shelley Taub (R-Orchard Lake), former City Clerk Janet Green, and Gerry McCallum, who is now the director of city services, on May 20.

While a trio of “wish list” projects were delineated, McCallum said he’s not holding onto any hope that they will come to fruition in the foreseeable future.

“We talked about surface conditions, but the RCOC doesn’t have much money and can’t do anything,” he said.

“The meetings keep the lines of communication open, which is important, but if it’s the same message every two years, why have them?

“The big thing is that there are ris-

PAGE 9

these projects in the near future.”

No major changes to Waterford’s list of desired road projects

ing costs of inadequately funded roads,” he added.

The long-range strategic transportation priorities cited by Orchard Lake officials include: examining the possibility of constructing roundabouts at Orchard Lake Road and Pontiac Trail, as well as at Orchard Lake Road and Long Lake Road; widening the “Haggerty Corridor” to M-59 to provide an alternative north/south artery; and evaluating the possibility of assisting the leftturn movement on southbound Orchard Lake Road just south of Pontiac Trail.

The No. 1 project would be a leftturn lane where back-up coming from northbound Orchard Lake Road prevents sufficient gaps for traffic heading to the Esso Square Plaza.

“Business owners bring it up every year — the northbound traffic in the left lane prevents southbound traffic from getting into businesses,” McCallum said.

He also noted that, due to the amount of private property right-ofway needed to construct a roundabout, costs would be prohibitive at this time.

Walled Lake: Widen W. Maple to five lanes — if you can The Walled Lake City Council —

along with former Director of Public Works Loyd Cureton; former City Clerk Cathy Buck; Police Chief Paul Shakinas; Planning Commissioner Karl Ankrom; Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board of Directors members Pat Wlodarczyk and Bennett Lublin; and resident Joie Vawter — met with RCOC officials as part of the strategic planning process on April 19.

“There isn’t a lot of money, but there’s still a benefit to the meetings,” City Councilman Bill Sturgeon said. “It allows our citizens to share their concerns and, in turn, allows the RCOC to explain their restrictions and finances.”

Walled Lake’s road construction desires include a four-prong approach — widening of W. Maple Road to five lanes from Pontiac Trail to the eastern city limits; widening Pontiac Trail to five lanes from the eastern city limits to M-5; paving the shoulder on the north side of 14 Mile Road between Decker Road and Walled Lake Drive; and continuing the left turn lane on Pontiac Trail, from the intersection of Pontiac Trail and West Maple south to Nicolet.

“A first priority project would be to widen West Maple to five lanes up to Pontiac Trail,” Sturgeon said. “But according to the county, the funds are not available to take on any of

Waterford Township Treasurer Margaret Birch and Supervisor Carl Solden — along with Oakland County Commissioners Jim Runestad (RWhite Lake, Waterford) and John Scott (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield); Engineering Superintendent Bill Fritz; Building Director Doug Bradley; Engineer Rob Merinsky; and Planning Director Larry Lockwood — met with RCOC officials on May 12 to discuss long-range transportation strategies.

“It’s very beneficial as we must deal with the RCOC on many aspects of planning and road maintenance and on-going projects,” Lockwood said.

“We have established a strong relationship with RCOC and these meetings are important in the future planning for our region.”

The No. 1 long-range transportation priority levied by township officials was widening Crescent Lake Road to three lanes from M-59 to Hatchery.

“The majority of Crescent Lake is a two-lane road and you must cross the Clinton River — if there’s an ambulance that needs to get onto M-59, it needs clear access, so this project would make it a lot easier for emergency vehicles,” Bradley said.

Other future transportation projects desired by the township include: • Repaving a majority of township subdivision streets; • Widening Williams Lake Road to three lanes from Airport Road to Dixie Highway; • Splitting Warren Drive into two separate dead-end streets; • Widening Scott Lake Road to three lanes; • Widening Pontiac Lake Road to three lanes from M-59 east; • Realigning Airport Road at Williams Lake Road; • Realigning Elizabeth Lake Road at Williams Lake Road; • Realigning Watkins Lake Road at Scott Lake Road; • Widening Cass Lake Road to three lanes from the township border to M-59; • Improving sight distance at the curve on Silver Lake Road; • Widening Sashabaw Road to three lanes from Dixie Highway to Maybee Road; • Widening Airport Road to three lanes from M-59 to Andersonville Road; • Realigning Hiller Road at Cooley Lake Road to create a “T” intersecPAGE 10 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

SPECIAL REPORT

roughly $1.2 billion. The next-largest portion of the needs consists of gravel road improvements, including paving and enhanced maintenance, tagged at nearly $200 million.

Only one resurfacing, restoration or rehabilitation (RRR) project has been delineated for 2012 in the lakes area.

Pontiac Trail, from Maple Road to South Commerce Road in Walled Lake, will be totally reconstructed at a price tag of $2.7 million. Throughout the county, five projects totaling roughly $16.6 million have been selected.

The lack of funding has been a topic of discussion recently. Last month, Gov. Rick Snyder proposed several fixes to address the disparity, such as converting the fixed-rate gas tax to a percentage of the fuel wholesale price, and/or raising vehicle registration fees. Other options up for discussion are establishing a 1-percent sales tax dedicated to transportation funding, or allowing local-option transportation funding, as well as several other proposals that are on the table but have not been enacted.

“As the governor noted, the longer we put off addressing our roads, the more costly it will be to repair them and the more of a negative impact the roads will have on our state’s economy,” Bair said. “While we support the restructuring of the gas tax so that it will rise over time with inflation, this will not provide an immediate increase in road funding, so it would do nothing to immediately address the problem. We support an immediate increase in road funding.

Raising the gas tax would be the simplest and fairest way to do that.”

The following is a synopsis of how the lakes area communities view the RCOC strategic planning process and the individual community project wish lists for road improvements.

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 10

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

Estabrooks Havencrest 9259 Sandyside, White Lake

248-698-3700

• Fax 248-698-1856

We Strive for EXCELLENT CARE for the ELDERLY No Deposit Necessary

$

300 OFF

First Month’s Rent

• Nurse On Call

• State Licensed (20 Bed AFC Home) • Supervised Personal Care

• Regular Visits from House Physician

• Barrier Free (Wheelchairs)

• Hospice Care Provided

• Medication Administration

• Central Air

• 24 Hour Awake Staff

• Beauty and Barber Shop Rates:

$

110 to 120 Per Day (Includes All Care) $

Contact Marie 248-698-3700 Contact: Marie Estabrooks Antos Owner/Administrator

248-698-3700

Basic Care ❙ Alzheimer’s ❙ Dementia ❙ Incontinence

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

SPECIAL REPORT

Road project lists ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 9

tion; • Constructing grade separations of the Canadian National Railroad where it crosses at Frembes, Hatchery, and Scott Lake roads; • Eliminating the two 90-degree curves on Clintonville Road between Walton Boulevard and Lake Angelus Road; • Extending Williams Lake Road along a new alignment from Gale Road to provide a direct connections to Nelsey Road; • Realigning Maceday Drive at Williams Lake Road; • Widening Telegraph Road north of the Oakland County governmental complex to allow for four lanes of traffic with a boulevard median; • Widening Williams Lake Road to three lanes from Gale Road to Airport Road along its existing alignment; • Paving Coomer Road; • Paving the remaining segment of Lochaven Road; • Straightening the curve on Cooley Lake Road at Lake Vista; • Softening the curve at Brookhaven Court and installing a passing lane; and • Flattening curves on Cooley Lake Road between Cass-Elizabeth Road and Elizabeth Lake Road, especially segments adjacent to Elizabeth Lake and between Elizabeth Lake and Crescent Lake.

“Basically it’s the same list we’ve had for a decade,” Bradley said.

“They are really scaling back based on the funding available,” Lockwood noted.

Wixom’s No. 1 priority: Widening Beck from 12 Mile to West Road Wixom city administration, including City Manager Mike Dornan, Assistant City Manager Tony Nowicki and DPW Director Mike Howell, met with RCOC officials on March 2 to discuss longrange transportation needs.

“The discussions are important,” Dornan said. “I appreciate how difficult it is to get out to all the Oakland communities — it’s a large task.”

Dornan added that the discussions cement relationships between the RCOC and municipalities.

“They assist in understanding the problems and the difficulties both the RCOC and municipalities face,” Dornan said. “We’ve had a great partnership with RCOC for 28 years now, but they are running with weights on their feet to maintain our roads. Funds are almost non-existent to keep up with deteriorating roads.”

The priorities listed include widening Beck Road from three to five lanes from 12 Mile Road to West Road; improving the intersection of Napier Road at Grand River Avenue; widening Beck Road from three to five lanes from West Road to Pontiac Trail; and constructing a Landrow Road extension from Pontiac Trail to W. Maple Road.

The city’s main priority is widening Beck from 12 Mile Road to West Road.

“Based on need, this would be the No. 1 project,” Dornan said. “It’s for businesses and motorists going through to the interstate (I-96).”

Widening South Commerce a key improvement in Wolverine Lake The strategic planning meeting with the Village of Wolverine Lake was held on April 11.

Village Administrator Sharon Miller, Department of Public Works Supervisor Andrew Stone and Mike Powell, the village’s engineering consultant, represented the village.

According to Powell, the strategic planning process is still valuable despite the RCOC’s revenue shortfalls.

“I’ve been involved in many of these meetings and they are valuable for both the RCOC and local communities to voice their concerns so there’s no miscommunication,” Powell said.

“RCOC is fairly blunt and they like to hear both the good and bad from the community’s standpoint.”

During discussions, village representatives stressed that the widening of South Commerce Road from Pontiac Trail north through the intersection at Shankin Street is of key importance.

“Village Council has made it clear that the we need to extend the lefthand turn lane on South Commerce north to Wanda because it’s very dangerous,” Powell said. “There’s a lack of sight distance and it holds up traffic traveling south or north on South Commerce.”

Other long-range strategic transportation priorities for the village include instituting a comprehensive program to pave shoulders on county roads; implementing a comprehensive and ongoing program to maintain drainage systems along all county roads in the village; improving visibility at the intersection of Benstein and Glengary roads through sight distance evaluation, tree trimming, and moving local through-traffic from neighborhood streets to arterial county roads.

Priority in Milford Village: New by-pass to west area of village The RCOC met with Milford Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger and PAGE 11 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 11

SPECIAL REPORT believes commission services are quite effective, but Milford would like to see more gravel road grading, more restructuring of paved roads and more paving of primary gravel roads.

The township is also supportive of the Tri-party program, with its funds being used for the Milford/Dawson Road project; and is also interested in the proposed mileage-based user fee to fund future transportation projects.

Road project lists ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 10

Director of Public Services Robert Calley on April 14.

“I think the opportunity to have a periodic communication with the (road) commission is a good idea,” Shufflebarger said.

The village’s long-range strategic transportation priorities include developing alternatives for a true by-pass to the west area of the village.

Other village priorities include having spot capacities installed along North Milford Road, South Milford Road, East Commerce Road and West Commerce Road.

The village is also hoping to have South Hill Road paved from the village limits to Pontiac Trail, as well as paving the section of Weaver Road in Milford Township that approaches the village to eliminate gravel washing onto First Street.

“We’ve given some attention to the by-pass,” Shufflebarger said. “We have spent the most time on it. It is probably the greatest interest to us.

“All of those are RCOC projects,” he added. “We have very little authority over them. I don’t know if the (village) council has established priorities and numbered them one, two, three.”

The RCOC also stated that village officials reported a few residential building permits have been submitted and that things appear to be turning around, adding that most foreclosed properties have been maintained by the lending institution, showing that the village is still a good investment.

The commission also reports that the village would like to see better planning coordination between the two parties and that the village would like to see improved road repairs, tree trimming/removal, and sweeping.

“The commission does a good job, given the state of revenues and increasing costs. There may be parts they can accomplish on a small basis, but the likelihood of all these projects getting done is pretty slim,” Shufflebarger said.

The RCOC also says that the village is hoping to proceed with a Commerce Road construction project in 2016, using a proposed millage as a 50 percent match of federal funds.

Township wants Milford Road paved; project set for 2015 The RCOC met on April 14 with Milford Township officials, including Supervisor Don Green, Clerk Holly Brandt, Treasurer Cynthia Dagenhardt, and Kurtz Elementary School Principal

Orchard Lake Road boulevard high on W. Bloomfield’s list

Dale Phillips.

“This meeting gives you an idea of how much to save for future projects,” Green said.

The road commission reports that the township’s long-range strategic transportation priorities include signalizing Martindale Road at General Motors Road for pedestrian and trail traffic, as well as improving the intersection of Milford Road and Dawson Road.

The township also hopes to have the bridge on Milford Road near Maple Road at Old Milford Farms replaced with a three-lane structure, as well as have Milford Road widened in both directions to three lanes in accordance with the West Oakland Corridor Study.

Other priorities include having Burns Road paved from Wixom Road to Commerce Road and from Commerce to Cooley Lake Road.

The township also looks to improve the intersection of Buno Road at South Milford, possibly as a Triparty project, as well as have shoulder paving on resurface/reconstruction projects and initiating a gravel road paving program.

The RCOC also reports that the township wants to evaluate and study intersections for signalization, have South Hill Road paved, and consider constructing a roundabout at the

Wixom Road and Duck Lake Road intersection.

Milford Township is also looking at having a comprehensive paving program initiated and hopes to see Milford Road widened to five lanes from Pontiac Trail to Maple Road to accommodate commercial traffic.

The road commission reports that the township is optimistic about the state of the economy as housing permits are increasing, foreclosures in the township have not been significant, and decreases in state equalized values (SEVs) have not been as steep as last year.

But there is no sign of commercial development in the township for the near future.

“Every one of our priorities is a priority, but my taxable income has gone down $400,000 in four years, so where do I come up with the money?”

Green asked.

“I’d like to see Milford Road repaved, but that’s not scheduled until 2015 when federal highway dollars are set aside. I’m afraid it won’t last until 2015.”

He added that the widening of the Milford Road and Dawson Road intersection was scheduled to be completed Saturday, Nov. 5, except for the lane painting.

The RCOC states that the township

RCOC officials met with West Bloomfield Township representatives on Feb. 28, including Supervisor Michele Economou Ureste, Clerk Cathy Shaughnessy, and Senior Planner Sara Roediger, who said that the meetings with the road commission are important because it has jurisdiction over township roads.

“It’s important to make sure the county gets what it needs,” Roediger said.

Shaughnessy said the meetings help the community. The township can tell the RCOC what’s important and both parties can disclose priorities to each other, so it’s very useful, she said.

Among the township’s long-range priorities are having West Maple Road widened to a four-lane boulevard with two travel lanes in each direction from Haggerty Road to just east of Orchard Lake Road.

The township also hopes to have Orchard Lake Road widened to a fourlane boulevard between just north of West Maple Road and 14 Mile Road.

Another township priority is resurfacing Green Lake Road from Commerce Road to the Richardson Road intersection.

The township also wants to see modern roundabouts constructed at the intersections of West Maple and Haggerty; West Maple and Halsted; Green Lake Road and Pontiac Trail; and Commerce and Hiller roads.

West Bloomfield would also like to see the flaring of westbound Walnut Lake Road at West Bloomfield Pond for right turns; Walnut Lake Road at High Court for right turns; the eastbound lane on Lone Pine Road at Lone Pine School for a right-turn lane; and the eastbound lane on Lone Pine Road at West Hills School for a right-turn lane.

The township would also like to see the improvement of the Middlebelt and Maple Road intersection, including the possibility of constructing a roundabout.

Other priorities are the installation PAGE 11 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 12

SPECIAL REPORT were: • Widening Commerce Road between Carroll Lake and Union Lake roads; • Widening Haggerty Road from Richardson to 14 Mile Road; • Adding a roundabout at Haggerty Road and Pontiac Trail; and • Paving Commerce Road from Carroll Lake Road to Union Lake Road.

Those projects most likely to be carried out in the relative near future include paving Cooley Lake and widening Commerce Road between Carroll Lake and Union Lake roads.

“Commerce Road is slated for a 2012 RRR project, while there’s already funding for Cooley Lake Road, which was originally slated to be completed in 2011. But there were delays.

The money has already been allocated for the project. We’re just shifting the calendar year.”

Road project lists ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 11

of turn lanes and left-turn signals on Middlebelt Road at Franklin Valley and Corners subdivision, flare lanes southbound at Deerfield and turn lanes northbound at Square Lake Road.

The township would also like to see a passing lane on Commerce Road at Cedarbank and making the traffic signal at Orchard Lake and Lone Pine roads a four-way to accommodate the Knightsbridge subdivision entrance to the west.

Shaughnessy said that the No. 1 priority for the township is the completion of a boulevard on Orchard Lake Road between 14 Mile and Maple.

“We have discussed completion of Maple Road from Orchard Lake Road to Haggerty as a three-lane road as part of the Northwestern Connector project,” she said.

“They are our main connector roads. Orchard Lake Road is the heart of the business district and we have heavy traffic on Maple. We have two roundabouts on Maple, but they have never improved Maple to three lanes.

They overlayed Maple a few years ago, but it was a temporary fix.”

Roediger said the Northwest Connector project was put together in 2001 to find a way to get traffic west to M-5.

According to Shaughnessy, the township continues to fight for dollars that were set aside for the connector project and is in constant negotiations with the RCOC. Roediger said that even though funding is on the decline, there is money for the Orchard Lake boulevard, but it’s hard to tell when it will be done.

Pilchowski hopeful for overlay next year on Hickory Ridge Highland Township Supervisor Triscia Pilchowski said she “absolutely sees the benefit” to the RCOC’s strategic planning process because the road commission and local units of government get to collaborate and communicate.

Of the projects listed, Pilchowski said she hopes the RCOC will follow through with doing a pavement overlay along Hickory Ridge Road north of M-59.

“I’m hoping this will be addressed next year,” she said.

Pilchowski is also hoping that improvements will be made at Harvey Lake Road and Wardlow Road.

“Some immediate action at Harvey Lake and Wardlow helped, but I hope the RCOC will follow through on more

One project down, several more to go in White Lake Township

corrective action in 2012.”

Listed on Highland’s current road project wish list are the following projects: • Extending Duck Lake Road north to intersect with White Lake Road; • Improving sight vision at the intersections of Rowe and Milford, Hickory Ridge and Middle, and Hickory Ridge and Clyde; • Constructing turn lanes at the intersection of Rowe and Milford roads; • Improving safety and capacity of Milford Road in the township in accordance with the West Oakland Safety Corridor Study; • Providing improved delineation and curve improvements on Duck Lake Road north of M-59, Harvey Lake Road north of M-59, and Kingsway east of Harvey Lake Road; • Paving Clyde Road; • Improving maintenance on or paving Eagle Road; • Improving Duck Lake Road as a RRR project to accommodate increased traffic; • Improving the intersection of Wardlow Road at Harvey Lake Road to eliminate the potential of running off the road; and

• Paving Lone Tree Road.

Roundabouts, widenings and paving on Commerce list Officials from Commerce Township provided a list of strategic projects to the RCOC, with several items being marked at priority items. Among them are the following: • Widening Union Lake Road to five lanes from Richardson to Commerce roads; • Constructing roundabouts at M-5 and Pontiac Trail — although that project was recently completed — and at Sleeth and Wixom roads; • Paving Cooley Lake Road; • A culvert is needed due to road sinking on South Commerce Road at Dodge Park No. 5; and • Installing a light at the intersection of Pontiac Trail and Walnut Lake Road.

Supervisor Tom Zoner and Township Planner Kathleen Jackson met with RCOC officials earlier this year to update the township’s road project wish list.

Zoner said he “absolutely” found value in this process.

Other projects included on the list

White Lake Township Supervisor Greg Baroni said he believes meeting with the RCOC during the strategic planning process is beneficial.

“It’s a good time to sit down and communicate,” he said. “I think communication is a great tool.”

The township will be seeing the completion of a project that has been on its road improvement wish list for quite some time now.

“M-59 through White Lake, we are just finishing that stretch as far as a new asphalt covering,” Baroni said. “It has been on the wish list for quite some time and should be completed totally by Nov. 15.”

White Lake Township’s road project wish list includes the following: • Paving Cooley Lake Road from Bogie Lake Road to Carey Road; • Paving Cedar Island Road from Oxbow Lake Road to Ford Road; • Realigning Elizabeth Lake Road at Williams Lake Road; • Paving Pontiac Lake Road from the end of its pavement north of M-59 to Teggerdine Road; • Cutting down a hill along Cedar Island Road at McGrue to improve sight distance; • Signalizing Ormond Road at Jackson Boulevard, or considering construction of a roundabout; and • Improving drainage or installing a flashing signal at Jackson and Ormond roads. ❏ Staff writers Angela Niemi and Michael Shelton contributed to this report.

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 13

MARKETPLACE MEATS & DELI $ 99 $ 49 New York $ 99 Beef 5 Chicken Breast 3 USDA Government Inspected Whole Peeled

Boneless Skinless

Tenderloin Trimmed & Sliced Free.

Whole Boneless

lb.

Expires 11/9/11 Expires 11/16/11

Sold in 10 lb. bags • Lesser quantities $2.19 lb.

With Coupon • Expires 11/16/11

Trimmed & Sliced Free

3

$

49 lb.

Expires Expires 11/16/11 11/9/11

from Chuck

from Round

$

Expires 11/16/11

Trimmed & Sliced Free.

Whole

from Sirloin

$

3

$ 99

Short Loin

2.49 2.99 3.29

$

lb.

Strip Sale

lb.

GROUND BEEF SALE

For Steaks or Roasts 9-13 lb. Avg.

Sirloin Steak

1

Whole Boneless

lb. lb. lb.

Sold in 5 lb. bags Lesser quantities $2.99 lb. Sold in 5 lb. bags Lesser quantities $3.49 lb. Sold in 5 lb. bags Lesser quantities $3.79 lb.

With Coupon. Expires 11/16/11 With Coupon. Expires 11/16/11 With Coupon. Expires 11/16/11 SC SC SC

Trimmed & Sliced Free.

lb.

Expires 11/16/11

BULK BUNDLE SALE • BULK BUNDLE SALE • BULK BUNDLE SALE • BULK BUNDLE SALE

Bundle C

Bundle A 5 lb. Boneless Sirloin Steak 5 lb. Chicken Leg Quarters 5 lb. Ground Beef from Chuck 5 lb. Center Cut Pork Chops 5 lb. Chicken Breast 5 lb. Country Ribs

FREE 2 Lb. Bacon

5 lb. Sirloin Steak 5 lb. Chicken Leg Quarters 5 lb. Ground Chuck 5 lb. Pork Chops

5 lb. Frozen Beef Patties 5 lb. Country Ribs 5 lb. Breakfast Sausage 5 lb. Bacon

FREE 10 Lb. Idaho Potatoes

8490

10990

$

$

Economy Buster Bundle I

5 lb. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast 5 lb. Boneless Pork Chop

5 lb. Ground Beef from Chuck 5 lb. Beef Cube Steaks

69

$

ORDER ONE OF OUR DELICIOUS PIES

5 lb. Chicken Leg Quarters 4 lb. Chicken Nuggets 3 lb. Dearborn Ham Pieces

90

Beef Bundle B

Bundle D

10 lb. Boneless Chicken Breast 10 lb. Chicken Leg Quarters 10 lb. Sirloin Steak

10 lb. Beef Stew 10 lb. Ground Chuck 10 lb. Pork Chops 10 lb. Pork Steak

10 lb. New York Steak 10 lb. Sirloin Steak 10 lb. Chuck Roast 10 lb. Beef Stew

FREE 2 Lb. Bacon

19990

FREE 3 Lb. Hot Dogs

Dearborn All Beef

24990

$

5 lb. Stew Beef 6 lb. Whole or Cut Up Chickens

10 lb. Cube Steak 10 lb. Ground Chuck

$

5 lb. Chuck Roasts 5 lb. Chicken Wings

2 lb. Bacon 5 lb. Ground Beef From Chuck

69

$

90

THE TURKEYS ARE PREPARING FOR THE FLIGHT!

ORDER ONE OF OUR DELICIOUS PIES

• Ultra Fresh Amish Turkeys • Peacock Amish Turkeys • Bell & Evans Fresh Free Range Turkeys Up to 20% More Breast Meat!

Have Marketplace Stuff Your Turkey For You

Whole 7 Bone-In

Prime Rib

Many Great Flavors Available!

3.99

$

lb.

Cut into Rib Steaks or Roasts With Coupon. Lesser Quantities 2-5 bones $4.69 lb.

Expires 11/24/11

Fresh Turduckens Available www.marketplacemeats.com SINCE 1972 Open Monday thru Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-5:30 • Sunday 9:30-3 OPEN THURSDAY ‘TIL 7 P.M.

SC

7714 Cooley Lake Road, Union Lake Near Big Boy & Ronnie’s Jewelry & Loans Phone in your order and we will have it waiting for you:

248-363-2041

Open Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

We gladly accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Michigan EBT

PRICES SUBJECT TO MARKET AVAILABILITY • PRICES GOOD THRU 11/24/11

PAGE 14

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA NEWS

Parks budget ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 7

According to updated ledgers provided by the commission, West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation’s proposed 2012 budget projects total revenues of about $4.7 million, while the total amount of expenditures is projected at $5.41 million, leaving a $745,445 deficit and decreasing the department’s fund balance from $2.87 million to $2.12 million.

Among the biggest revenue sources, the department projects to collect around $1.26 million from a 0.5-mill land acquisition property tax. The second-biggest revenue source is expected to be $772,051 from a 0.25-mill general operating property tax. Rounding out the top three revenue sources is revenue obtained through a 0.25-mill active recreation property tax collection, at approximately $725,443.

The biggest expenditures under the 2012 proposed budget would be park operations totaling $1.403 million, followed by capital projects

at $1.275 million and recreation programs at $1.108 million.

The majority of park operations expenditures would go toward fulltime salaries totaling $398,350.

The first phase of the West Bloomfield Trail extension project comprises the majority of the capital projects expenditures. It’s budgeted at $1.05 million for 2012.

Full-time salaries also make up the majority of recreation expenditures, at an expected cost of $318,800.

The West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees must still approve the 2012 Parks and Recreation budget. ❏

Bloomer Park work in White Lake will begin this spring

By Angela Niemi staff writer

The White Lake Township Board of Trustees recently approved the concept plan for Phase I of

improvements to Bloomer Park and is now in the process of drafting construction plans to be able to put the project out for bidding after the first of the new year.

“We’re hoping to start construction in the spring of 2012,” said Jason Iacoangeli of the White Lake Community Development and Planning Department.

The park consists of 30 acres and is located in the northern part of the township on the west side of McKeatchie Road, between Jackson Boulevard and Grass Lake Road. It boasts of an abundance of oaks and maples with property along Grass Lake.

Phase I of the project consists of constructing the items spelled out in a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF) grant.

In 2010, White Lake received the $350,000 grant from the NRTF to develop Bloomer Park.

The plan called for a parking area, a “scenic overlook on Grass

Lake,” a picnic shelter, and trail system.

“It will remain a natural park, but we are providing amenities so that the people using the park will have something more formal to enjoy,” Iacoangeli said.

One of the biggest projects that will be completed will be a parking area that is slated to accommodate 16 parking spaces.

Currently there is no parking lot.

Those using the park have to pull off of McKeatchie Road and park somewhere along the road. The new parking area will allow people to park and get out to walk within the park.

“It’s going to be of a green design,” Iacoangeli explained.

“We’re going to use grass paver block instead of using an impervious surface. This way, when it rains, the water will filter through. This is a way to deal with stormwater runoff.”

The park is currently open to the public. ❏

ARE YOU PREPARED?

VETERANS BENEFITS: Veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for a well-funded benefit to help with in-home, assisted living and long term care.

MEDICAID BENEFITS: With proper legal advice you don’t have to spend your entire life savings for long term care. Please call to find out if you or a family member qualifies for this benefit.

ELDER & VA ATTORNEY FREE

Steven J. Lebowski

CONSULTATION

VA Benefits • Long Term Care Planning Estate Planning • Medicaid/Nursing Home Benefits WE CAN HELP YOU PROTECT YOUR LIFETIME OF HARD WORK AND SERVICE. Please call today for a free private consultation for yourself or a loved one. We can help!

HELP IS AVAILABLE

LEBOWSKI & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 206 E. Commerce, Milford, MI 48381

248-684-9200

TRULY DEDICATED PROFESSIONALS SPECIALIZING IN THE FIELD OF ELDER LAW

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 15

LAKES AREA NEWS

Murray’s mural a reminder of city’s history and roots

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

urray’s Auto Supply in Walled Lake is giving residents and patrons a glimpse of the city’s history through a new exterior mural that replicates a scene from the old Walled Lake Amusement Park.

The mural is displayed on the north wall of the Murray’s store at the corner of Pontiac Trail and West Maple Road, and will be partially paid for by the Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Facade and Sign Grant program.

Hand-painted in shades of blues and creams, the mural mimics a popular poster from the Walled Lake Amusement Park that closed in the 1950s. Under the caption, “Let’s Go to Walled Lake Park — The Picnic Wonderland,” it pictures a wooden Chris-Craft skimming the water with people waving and enjoying a day on the lake, while a Ferris wheel is visible in the distance.

“My dad remembers coming to Walled Lake as a kid and coming to the amusement park,” said Murray’s owner Steve Blair. “We’re strong believers in giving back to the community.”

The new rendition already has people talking about those days gone by.

“People remember that era,” said Damon Martinez, store manager at Murray’s. “One customer said,

M

Planners OK site plan for senior living community

By Michael Shelton staff writer

The Milford Township Planning Commission recently heard a presentation on a site plan revision regarding the proposed purchase of the Heritage Place at Ridge Valley senior living community and recommended approval of the site plan to the township Board of Trustees.

According to Milford Township Planning Commissioner Richard Mueller, American House, which owns

The mural now displayed at Murray’s Auto Supply in Walled Lake mimics a popular poster from the Walled Lake Amusement Park that closed in the 1950s. “People remember that era,” said Damon Martinez, store manager at Murray’s, which has been a family-run business in the city for over 37 years now. “One customer said, ‘I think I had one of those posters back in the day.’” (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

‘I think I had one of those posters back in the day.’”

A family-run business in the city for over 37 years now, Murray’s was first bought by Karl Blair and passed down to Steve Blair in 1975.

“It was the third store in the chain and (is) the only Murray’s store left — the rest are now O’Reilly stores,” Blair said.

Blair’s sister, Cindy Fagan, also pitches in at the store as the bookkeeper.

“There’s so much history in the city that people don’t know about, so we wanted to give them a little nostal-

gia,” Fagan said, adding that she can still recall when Walled Lake was rife with farmland and cottages dotting the lake’s shoreline.

“There were so many farms here,” she said. “We had one customer, Charlie, who actually rode his horse up and down the aisles here in the 1970s,” Fagan said.

The independent business has managed to stay afloat through the recession due to a loyal customer base.

“I’m not ready to retire,” Blair said.

“I love my customers and have had the same customers for all these

years.”

Despite the sluggish economy over the last several years, Martinez noted that people are actually working on their cars more themselves.

“It’s really starting to pick up and (we) are seeing a lot of people fixing their own cars and making roadworthy improvements due to the economy,” Martinez said.

Through the Facade and Sign Grant program, businesses can be awarded up to $5,000 in matching funds for facades or up to $500 or signs, contingent on DDA approval. ❏

numerous senior living communities across Michigan, is looking at purchasing Heritage Place, which consists of one- and two-bedroom apartments along with other amenities, and wants to provide meal service.

To do that, Mueller said that the facility would need a commercial kitchen constructed in the basement, a dumb waiter to send the food upstairs, as well as an expansion of the dining room to add space for food service and dining.

He said that approval of the plan was recommended to the Board of Trustees with certain stipulations.

Among the properties American House already owns are two facilities in West Bloomfield Township, includ-

ing American House West Bloomfield Senior Living on West Maple Road, as well as Regent Street West Bloomfield Assisted Living on Orchard Lake Road.

The next Milford Township Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 16. ❏

more user-friendly website.

Apparently the former website hosting company terminated their services with the village and village administration was scrambling to find a new resource.

“In this case, necessity was the mother of invention,” Treasurer Mike Kondek said. “Our hosting company unceremoniously dumped us and luckily we made an inquiry to Oakland County. It was a nice debut for the county, which wants to be proactive in website design.”

As a result, the village website is

Village’s website sleeker following county’s redesign

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

The village of Wolverine Lake recently utilized the services of Oakland County to launch a new and

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 17

➥

PAGE 16

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

*

FREE CARPET INSTALLATION! “Investing in Michigan by using local Union Carpet and Hardwood Installers.”

a y, B u y Toadl l Inst ow To m o r r

Congoleum V i nnygl a t Starti

79¢ ft. (in-stoc

12 NTH S A M E MA O S C A SHS *

k o n l y)

*See sto re for d etails

Competitive pricing on Carpet, Tile, Vinyl, Laminate and Hardwood Floors

We are a Mohawk Floorscapes Dealer! *See store for details.

D.E. MCNABB FLOORING CO. HOURS: MON.–SAT. 10 AM TO 8 PM 31250 S. MILFORD RD. SUNDAY 12 NOON TO 5 PM MILFORD, MI 48381 PH. 248.437.8146

www.demcnabb.com

FREE LABOR ON ALL Stainmaster Carpets $100 OFF ANY SALE OVER $1,000 OR $50 OFF ANY SALE OVER $500

15% OFF

Hard Surface Flooring Must present coupon. Cannot combine with any other offer.

See store for details. Expires 12/15/11

U s e d Au t o S h o w C a r p e t a v a i l a b l e e v e r y d a y s t a r t i n g a t j u s t $ 0 . 3 3 ( s q . f t . )

SC

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 17

LAKES AREA NEWS

Walled Lake DDA receives trailer for concessions

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

hanks to the generosity of a Walled Lake resident, the city’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will be passing out ice cream novelties from a concessions trailer at its events in the near future.

“We’d like to use it as much as possible, but at a minimum at city and DDA events,” said DDA Executive Director Charlene Long.

Dr. Kevin Lee, a Walled Lake resident and business owner, donated the use of the concession trailer to the DDA. There will be no cost incurred by the DDA except for any cosmetic improvements to the trailer such as graphics or lettering.

The concession trailer will hold ice cream bars, soft-serve ice cream with a variety of dips and toppings, beverages, and more.

“We haven’t determined the menu quite yet,” Long said.

The trailer is not yet open for business, but it will be shortly.

“It’s been sitting for awhile, so we must clean (it) and check all the kitchen equipment, and go from there,” Long said.

DDA Board of Directors

T

Village website ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 15

vastly improved, according to Kondek.

“The content and usability is improved and it’s been given a fresh approach,” he said. “There is no more of the redundancy we saw on the old website. Information is more accessible and it disseminates information more succinctly.”

While Oakland County is hosting the website, the actual web design was completed by a county contractor.

“It’s a nice, clean look and the navigation is easy,” said Village Council President John Magee. “The downloads are faster and it feels a little more functional.”

An added bonus in working alongside Oakland County is residents’ ability to now pay utility and taxes online, as well as make donations to various causes. A nominal service fee will be assessed to cover processing.

“Not only can residents pay their

Dr. Kevin Lee, a Walled Lake resident and business owner, donated the concession trailer pictured above to the city’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA). Standing in front of the trailer from left to right are DDA board members and volunteers Ed Marshall, Sue Helke and Adam Bliss. Inside the trailer are DDA Executive Director Charlene Long (left) and DDA Board Chairman and City Councilman Casey Ambrose. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Chairman Casey Ambrose, who is also a member of the Walled Lake City Council, cited specific events such as

the annual Beach Party and Market Day events where the concession trailer would be handy.

“We hope to generate funds to support the operation for the DDA and other charities,” Ambrose said. ❏

taxes and utility payments online, but they can make donations to the fireworks fund or Parks and Recreation events,” Kondek said. “We may add more features, depending on the response we get.”

While the village is still waiting for a final cost estimate, officials expect the endeavor to cost less than what it used to for private web design and hosting.

“It’s a lot cheaper than finding someone in the private sector,” Kondek said.

Visit the village’s website at wolverinelake.com. ❏

Ozinga expects disruptions to library patrons will be kept at a minimum.

“They should not see much sign of construction until the bitter end, when we begin cutting through the walls,” she said.

The library is currently housed in the old El Dorado Golf Course clubhouse and banquet facility off Martin Parkway near Pontiac Trail. The building consists of 20,000 square feet, but only 12,000 are currently in use.

That is all changing as the building is undergoing an internal rehabilitation to expand the library’s interior and better utilize the additional 8,000 square feet in the building.

“When we moved into the building, we converted the front 12,000 square feet, which consisted of the old banquet halls, into the library,” Ozinga said. “(In) the back 8,000 (square feet) — which was the pro shop and the bar — we did nothing to it except remove the bar tap. Now, we’ve just

done demolition on the entire back.

Just by taking out the two locker rooms, it gave us a huge amount of floor space.”

The majority of the new floor space will be used for teen services, according to Ozinga.

“All the existing teen shelves and computers will be moved back there,” she said. “We are adding some additional seating, including some restaurant-style booths. We currently have this tiny little corner for teens, so we’re expanding the area.”

Another major improvement will be the construction of a community meeting room that will be able to accommodate 100 people and will have tables and chairs for 60 people.

“To begin with, it will be a library programs space, but we plan to develop a policy so the room can be used for different uses, such as the Walled Lake Schools’ Coffee with the Superintendent event we just hosted,”

Library renovation will cause only minor disruptions Renovations are under way at the Commerce Township Community Library, but Library Director Connie Jo

PAGE 18 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 18

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA NEWS

Wixom parks reap benefits of Scout’s project

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

ixom residents and visitors will find new trail map holders and benches throughout city parks thanks to the efforts of 17-year-old Jordan McMahan, who spearheaded the improvements as part of his Eagle Leadership Service Project.

The four trail map holders have been placed at the Wixom Habitat and Gibson, Gunnar Mettala, and Gilbert Willis parks. They holders will house the Oakland Routes Trail Network Maps. The goal is to encourage more pedestrians to utilize the trail system throughout Oakland County, promote fitness, and provide close-to-home opportunities for exercise.

The two benches have been situated near the community gardens in Gibson Park as a resting area for park visitors and gardeners.

“The Department of Public Works has complemented me on the work and the map holders are used a lot,” McMahan said. “I drove by and they were empty, so I assume people are using them.”

The enhancements were completed last month.

“I started it in June, but the execution took about three weeks,” he said.

A portion of the funding for the projects was derived from a bottle drive fund-raiser, but the city chipped in for the map holders and supplies.

“As for the benches, I paid for those on my own,” McMahan said.

To begin an Eagle Scout project, one must plan, develop and give

W

Library project ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 17

Ozinga said.

Other plans for the additional space include an accessible information technology training area for staff and the public, additional office space, two unisex restrooms, and a new group study room, among other improvements.

The internal renovation costs, including furniture and painting, is expected to remain below $300,000 and will be funded by the library’s improvement revolving fund, a fund

Jordan McMahan, in the foreground at right, gets help on one of four trail map holders he built for the Wixom Habitat and Gibson, Gunnar Mettala, and Gilbert Willis parks. McMahan, 17, built the map holders and two benches near the community gardens in Gibson Park as part of his Eagle Leadership Service Project. (Photo submitted by Linda Hinkley/Wixom Parks and Recreation).

leadership to others in a service project helpful to religious, educational, or community organizations other than the Boy Scouts. The project must be approved by the organization selected, two scout masters, and one scout district council person.

To work up to the Eagle Scout level, a candidate must complete a

leadership project where others assist in the process.

“A few people pitched in from my troop, but the majority who helped were from marching band,” McMahan said.

McMahan began scouting in second-grade and is currently a member of Troop No. 172. His goal is to

receive his Eagle Scout ranking by the end of the year.

McMahan is a senior at Huron Valley Lakeland High School. In addition to scouting, he plays in marching band and jazz band, and takes part in winter drum line.

McMahan’s goal is to attend the University of Michigan next year. ❏

set up for improvements to the library.

“We’re excited about (this renovation),” Ozinga said. “When we opened six years ago, we were hoping it would happen much sooner, and now it is.” ❏

a team of Home Depot volunteers, have been busy this fall as they look to complete a garden and outdoor classroom project before winter.

The garden will be located in a courtyard on the south side of the high school and will consist of a 40foot-by-60-foot space.

It will offer educational opportunities for both scientists and artists. It will provide a place to study various plant species, while also providing Western’s Art Department a natural spot to use as artistic inspiration.

“It seems like it would be a great way to introduce many of our stu-

dents to the outdoors, native plants, native insects, and to enjoy the outdoors,” said Scott Terry, a teacher at Western who sponsors the Environmental Club.

Over the past several years, the club has raised funds for the project and secured a grant from Lowe’s, which has a grant program for funding outdoor study places.

The cost of the project is around $4,000. Home Depot volunteers have been helping build the garden.

“Ms. (Kristin) White, our assistant principal, found the Home Depot Crew to do the building,” Terry said. ❏

WLW garden will help scientists and artists, district says The Walled Lake Western High School Environmental Club, along with

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 19

EDUCATION

Suspended coach gets support at board meeting

By Michael Shelton staff writer

The beginning of a Walled Lake Consolidated School District Board of Education meeting on Thursday, Nov. 3 turned into a rally for a Walled Lake Western High School assistant football coach who was suspended after an alleged hazing incident recently took place inside his home.

Bill Brenner, who has been a teacher in the school district for 18 years and an assistant coach for 16 years, asked the board for reinstatement “so I can get back to doing what I do best, making a difference in young people’s lives. I don’t think a suspension does anybody any good.”

According to a Wixom Police Department report filed by the alleged victim’s mother, the incident took place in an assistant football coach’s house and involved the player being bound to a pole with duct tape and a helmet being placed on him. No other information on what else may have occurred during the incident was provided.

The incident resulted in the district disciplining five Western football players.

Brenner admitted that the incident took place in his home on Oct. 20, but said that based on what he saw and what he was told, he felt like he acted appropriately in response to the incident.

“If I truly acted improperly, then train me, educate me. Be proactive, rather than reactive,” Brenner said, with his wife, Tracy, at his side. I believe the punishment that I received is unjust. I have tried appealing the decision. However, the appeals process has been bungled at all levels.”

A video recording of the incident allegedly made its way to YouTube, where it was posted for a short time before it was eventually taken down.

Brenner added that he has offered to be a spokesman and advocate on the issues of hazing and bullying. He also said he was recently made aware of a fund-raiser at Walnut Creek Middle School involving the school’s principal being duct-taped to a pole, and claimed that mixed messages were being sent.

Other meeting attendees spoke out in support of Brenner, citing his commitment to the community through teaching, coaching and church involve-

Students in the Walnut Creek Middle School Environmental Club participated in an annual clean-up project along Walnut Lake Road on Oct. 17, according to the Walled Lake Consolidated School District. School officials said nearly all of the schools in the district are designed as “green” or “emerald” under provisions of Public Act 301 of 2010, which established the Michigan Green Schools Program. The environmental club is one of the many reasons why Walnut Creek has earned a “green” designation, according to officials. The environmental club is sponsored by Cindy Goris and Ryan Ossenmacher. (Photo submitted by Walnut Creek Middle School Assistant Principal Kyle M. Pipkin)

ment, as well as his strong relationships with parents and present and former students, especially those serving in the military.

Western senior football captain Michael Condon pledged his support not only for Brenner, but also for assistant coach Bob Chiesa, who Condon said was also suspended following the incident.

Carl Westphal, a parent with a son at Western, went so far as to say that the administration had a knee-jerk reaction to the incident and had “taken an unfortunate situation and turned it into a terrible situation.”

Superintendent Kenneth Gutman said that the discipline was based on the information gathered from an investigation by Western administration.

He added that the students have served the disciplinary consequence and that a staff appeal has yet to be completed.

Gutman also apologized to the victim and families impacted by the incident.

Walled Lake School Board President Kathy Lyall said that the board supported the actions and discipline doled out by Western administrators. ❏

Audit: Waterford district’s rainy day fund increased The Waterford Schools Board of Education received the district’s annual audit report from Yeo & Yeo for the 2010-11 school year at its board meeting on Oct. 20.

The report listed the school district’s general fund revenue for 201011 at $109.5 million.

It also stated that 68 percent of the district’s general fund revenue was generated by the state’s public school per-pupil foundation grant allowance ($74.8 million), while 15 percent came from local sources ($16.6 million), 13 percent came from federal sources ($14.1 million) and 4

percent came from interdistrict sources ($4 million).

According to the report, the total general fund revenue translated into around $9,701 per pupil.

The district’s general fund expenditures for the school year totaled $109.1 million.

Fifty-three percent of general fund expenditures, according to the report, went toward salaries ($58 million), while 31 percent went toward employee benefits ($33.6 million), 15 percent went toward supplies and materials ($17.2 million), and 1 percent involved transfers ($265,000).

The total general fund expenditures translated into around $9,668 per pupil, according to the report.

The difference between the district’s revenue and expenditures brought a $368,848 increase to the district’s general fund balance, bringing its total as of June 30, 2011 to approximately $9.3 million, up from $8.95 million on July 1, 2010.

The report also predicted that the

PAGE 20 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 20

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

We Are Proud Of Our

VETERANS OAKLAND SPORTS CENTER KTM 5272 Dixie Highway, Waterford

248-673-3366 Parts • Accessories • MX & Edura Specialists

DAN’S AUTO CLINIC 851 North Pontiac Trail Walled Lake

248-669-3756 THOMASON HEATING & COOLING Service and Replacements Free Estimates on Installation

248-363-1615 MUNRO COLLISION 1955 Haggerty Walled Lake

248-668-1955 HIGHLAND-MILFORD F.O.E. 4076 4450 Duck Lake Road Highland, MI 48356

MANN METALS 1011 Decker Road Walled Lake

248-960-1200 WALLED LAKE CHURCH OF CHRIST 1403 North Pontiac Trail Walled Lake

248-624-4600 HEART OF THE LAKES V.F.W. POST 1008 1690 Airport Road, Waterford

Obituaries BALLARD, FLOYD E. JR., was born August 28, 1948 and died October 23, 2011.

Arrangements under the direction of Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, White Lake, MI. BRINK, JACOB R. "JAKE", age 19, of South Lyon; passed away suddenly on October 23, 2011, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

JOHNSON, PATRICK K., was born February 5, 1943 to Donald and Ruth and died October 28, 2011 at the age of 68.

JOHNSON, WILLIAM ALLEN, was born December 1, 1928 and died October 25, 2011. Arrangements under the direction of Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, White Lake, MI. MAREK, JOSEPH STANLEY, passed away on October 29, 2011. He was 93 years old.

He was preceded in death by his wife Stella, granddaughter Renee Marek and grandson Richard Marek.

POLY, FRANCIS T., age 91, of West Bloomfield formerly of Keego Harbor; passed away peacefully on October 25, 2011.

RICE, WESLEY F., a resident of Milford for forty years, died in the care of his family on October 30, 2011. He was 90 years old.

TRAILER, SUSAN RENE, of Commerce Township, Michigan was born on December 29, 1955 and died in Livonia October 28, 2011. She was 55 years old.

ZEDIKER, JUSTINE MARALEE, was born April 16, 1965 and died October 20, 2011.

Arrangements under the direction of Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, White Lake

248-674-2826 Hall for Rent - Open to the public

HIGHLAND TIRE & AUTO REPAIR

To place an obituary in the Spinal Column Newsweekly please call the Classified Department at 248-360-7355 or email: lorisnyder@thescngroup.com

7421 Highland Road, White Lake

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

248-887-2944

FAX: 248.360.5308/248.360.5309

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

EDUCATION

Waterford audit ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 19

unassigned fund balance will dip to about $5.2 million in 2012. ❏

WBEF grants doled out for variety of school projects The West Bloomfield Educational Foundation (WBEF) awarded $10,000 in grants at the West Bloomfield Board of Education meeting on Oct. 24.

The WBEF reviewed 41 grant applications that were submitted by a deadline of Oct. 7. Out of the 41 application, 16 were awarded funding.

The biggest grant was for $2,500 and was awarded for a project called “E-books for Kids.” The money will be split with Ealy, Scotch and Sheiko elementary schools, and Orchard Lake and Abbott middle schools each receiving $500.

Two $1,000 grants were awarded, with one going to Gretchko Elementary School for a project called “21st Century Learning using E-Readers,” with the funds being split between three teachers.

The other $1,000 grant was awarded to Scotch Elementary School for the project “Engagement, Enjoyment, EReader ... Oh My!” The money will be split between six teachers.

Thirteen grants of $500 each were awarded, with five going to West Bloomfield High School for the projects “Web-Interactive Science Laboratory,” “Mathematics 2016,” “Click for Comprehension,” “Vocal Music and Reading Michigan Objectives Integration,” and “Plagiarism Detection Software Renewal.”

Roosevelt Elementary School received two $500 grants for the projects “eBooks: A Window Into Literacy” and “Making Magnet Memories.”

Doherty Elementary received $500 grants for “eBooks: A Window Into Literacy” and “Board Game Mania.”

Gretchko Elementary received $500 for “Headphones to Support 1:1 Netbook Integration.” Ealy Elementary received $500 for “Fluent Readers through Reader’s Theater.”

Abbot Elementary School was awarded $500 for “Video Editing, Saving and Backup Using Drobo FS,” and the Oakland Early College program will receive $500 to go toward the project entitled “Personal Leadership for College Readiness and Beyond.” ❏

Eliminate Loose Dentures

PERMANENTLY! Our Breakthrough Mini-Implant System Anchors Your Dentures Like Permanent Teeth

Dr. B. Sedki, M.S., D.D.S. •A One-Step, One-Hour Procedure •Minimally Invasive, No Sutures •Immediate Results •Affordable

Eat Anything You Want Speak and Smile with Confidence Again No Need to Replace your Current Dentures No More Sore Gums • No More Messy Denture Adhesive

Call Today 2 4 8 - 3 6 0 - 9 6 2 0 and Schedule a Complimentary Consultation 2900 Union Lake Rd., Suite 220 • Commerce, MI 48382 commercecosmeticdentist.com

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 21

ENVIRONMENT

By Angela Niemi staff writer

hile some people may dread the upcoming winter months, there is at least one aspect most people can be grateful for with the colder temperatures: the lack of mosquitoes.

Many species of mosquitoes either die with the first hard frost or enter into hibernation for the winter.

Of course with the first frost, there is also far less risk of becoming infected with mosquito spread diseases such as West Nile virus (WNV).

“Once that first frost occurs, the risk of contracting West Nile virus is severely reduced. It’s more of a late summer mosquito illness,” said Mark Hansell of the Oakland County Environmental Health Division.

WNV was first discovered in Uganda in 1937 before spreading to birds, horses, and humans throughout Europe and the United States.

In 1999, the virus was discovered in New York City and has since been detected in humans, animals, and mosquitoes in 47 states.

Mosquitoes play an important role in the spread of the disease to humans: The illness is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.

A mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on birds with high levels of WNV in their blood. They then spread the disease by subsequently feeding on other animals.

Thus, birds are an important carrier of the disease, and many succumb to the virus.

WNV is not contagious from person to person, and there has

W

‘Frankenfish’ may make its way to the Great Lakes The Asian carp has been one of the most infamous fish in America.

However, the Asian carp may have to cede its title of most infamous fish to another Asian invader: the northern snakehead, which is considered by some to be a vastly more terrifying fish — quite literally. And it could soon be coming to the Great Lakes, according to Canadian biologists.

It has been the inspiration of several sci-fi horror movies, including 2006’s “Swarm of the Snakehead” and 2004’s “Snakehead Terror” and “Frankenfish.”

Season has passed Frost puts breaks on West Nile virus

An article recently published in the journal “Science” indicates the American robin plays a greater role in the spread of West Nile virus (WNV) than blue jays and crows, which previously had been cited as major contributors to the spread of the illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), WNV is a potentially serious illness.

Severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. (Photo/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

been no evidence that suggests people can become infected by handling live or dead infected birds.

Nevertheless, it’s recommended to avoid direct contact with dead birds.

One of the most common carriers of the disease has been the crow, and a recent article published in the journal “Science” concludes that the American robin plays a major role in transmission.

The study compiled evidence from a decade of research on the ecology and evolution of WNV, which according to the authors will provide a framework for predicting and preventing

the emergence of other foreign vectorborne pathogens.

As part of the study, mosquitoes were caught and the blood in their stomachs was studied. Through DNA sequencing, the blood was identified to largely belong to robins.

“We believe that the robin is very important to the sustainability of the virus from year to year,” Hansell said.

“The robin is able to live longer with the virus in its system than the birds we’re used to reporting about like blue jays and crows. Robins tend to accumulate more of the virus in their bloodstream. So the the chances go

up that the mosquito will pick up the virus from biting the infected bird.”

Nationally, WNV was the worst in 2002 and 2003. However, in the past five years, the cases reported in Oakland County have remained “pretty consistent,” according to Hansell.

“So far this year, we have had two reported (WNV) cases in Oakland County,” he said.

The year before there were five cases, and no cases were reported in 2008 or 2009. Two cases were reported in 2007. ❏

One of the reasons for this is that it can breathe air and move on land.

In addition, it’s able to live out of water for days if it remains moist.

It also has the ability to move on land by wiggling and flopping short distances to other water locales. The snakehead also possesses pointy teeth.

These characteristics make it a candidate to star in a horror film.

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the northern snakehead is banned in all 50 states because of their potential impact on native fish populations. They have the potential to wreck native fish populations through both competition and direct predation.

Northern snakeheads can be identified by their long dorsal and anal

fins, as well as their large mouth that reaches beyond the eye. They can reach about 2.8 feet in length.

A recent report by Canadian biologists concluded that the fish could live throughout the Great Lakes, which is problematic considering that they are known as voracious predators.

It’s believed that the northern snakehead could enter the Great Lakes through the same pathway as Asian carp — the Mississippi River.

Northern snakeheads were originally found in North America in a pond in Crofton, Md. It is believed that these fish came from some of the tens of thousands of northern snakeheads that were imported and sold in the U.S. between 1997 and 2002, at which point they were federally banned.

Nevertheless, an illegal trade has remained alive in the U.S., and breeding northern snakeheads have been found in the Potomac River, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Virginia, and in Arkansas, where it’s believed the dreaded Asian carp escaped from fish farms and into the Mississippi river system.

With the discovery of the “Frankenfish” in Arkansas, “Operation Mongoose,” an attempt to exterminate the fish with rotenone, took place in 2009. Despite the massive poisoning, 50 fish have still been found in the treated waters, which all link to the Mississippi River, a pathway to the Great Lakes.

Consequently, the northern snakehead is considered a threat to the Great Lakes Basin — perhaps an even greater one than Asian carp. ❏

PAGE 22

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Water Softeners Sales & Service

Plumbing Problems?

If you are having any Plumbing Problems,

DON’T PANIC!

C a l l BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PLUMBING - The Punctual Plumber® This Week’s Super Special...

OFF 50%l Service

PLUMBING SERVICE CALL

a Norm all!

C

ONLY

24

$

50

Normal Service Call Fee $49.00 Offer valid on initial service call and with repair only. One offer per visit. Cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Valid Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Holidays excluded. Please mention this ad, offer valid through 12/7/11.

SC

From BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

PLUMBING YOU CAN EXPECT: 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Technicians are Drug Tested and Receive a Comprehensive Background Check Fully-Equipped Big Blue Trucks for Same-Day Service Straight Forward Pricing™

We can help you with: Backflow Prevention Certified Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Copper Re-Piping Disposals Drains Faucets Gas Line Installations Hose Bibs Leaks Pipe Thawing Pressure Tanks Sinks Sump Pumps

Tankless Hot Water Heaters Toilets Video Inspection Water Heaters ALL PLUMBING SERVICES

No Surprises We Charge by the Job not by the Hour

All Repairs are GUARANTEED for up to 2 Full Years If A Repair Fails we will redo ABSOLUTELY FREE!

PHONES ANSWERED LIVE 24 HOURS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK (248) 674-7107 • (248) 855-1707 • (248) 685-7774 Licensed & Insured • Locally owned & operated To learn more about our services and save with special offers log on to: www.benfranklinplumbing.com

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 23

PUBLIC SAFETY Bouncer’s arm slashed in Bayside altercation

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

Walled Lake police are looking for a Howell man who allegedly stabbed a Bayside Sports Grille bouncer and fled the scene on Friday, Oct. 29.

According to a Walled Lake Police Department report, officers were dispatched to 142 E. Walled Lake Drive and approached by a visibly distraught woman. She told police the Bayside bouncer had been stabbed.

The perpetrator reportedly fled in a silver pickup truck and was last seen traveling on East Walled Lake Drive toward 14 Mile Road.

Police were able to identify the suspect and searched for him without success.

Police interviewed the victim, who said he had asked the suspect to step outside to speak with him privately and encourage him not to drink anymore since he was already inebriated, according to a police report.

However, the suspect repeatedly tried to return inside the bar. When the victim told him to refrain from re-entering, the man allegedly became hostile and began hurling profanities and hate speech, the police report states.

The bouncer again escorted the man outside and the suspect threatened to stab him, according to the police report. The suspect then suddenly lunged at the bouncer with a knife. The bouncer, thinking it was a punch, tried to block the blow but was slashed in the right forearm.

The suspect jumped into the pickup truck and allegedly tried to run the victim over with the vehicle, according to police.

The victim was treated at the scene without complications.

A trio of witnesses entering the bar reportedly corroborated the bouncer’s account. ❏

Security officer at WBHS hit during student fight

By Michael Shelton staff writer

A Monday, Nov. 7 fight between a freshman male student and junior male student at West Bloomfield High School resulted in a female school security staff member being taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure.

According to Officer Chuck Mendum, the school’s liaison for West Bloomfield Police, the staff member was apparently inadvertently struck when she tried to intervene. Mendum said when she got in the middle of the fight, she took

a couple blows to the head from one of the students that were meant for the other student involved in the fight.

Mendum said the school handled the situation internally and that the freshman was taken into custody for disorderly conduct after the fight for refusing to cooperate with staff and authorities.

The freshman was released to his parents.

Mendum added that this was an isolated incident and the security staff member is OK, but was taken to the hospital as a follow-up procedure. ❏

Alcohol, speeding not causes of bus accident Huron Valley Schools officials are investigating how an Oak Valley Middle School bus careened into a ditch while traveling on Commerce Road between Duck Lake and Burns roads in Milford yesterday, Tuesday, Nov. 1.

The single-vehicle accident occurred around 4:30 p.m. All children, along with the bus driver, safely exited after the bus rolled into the ditch. However, some children experienced minor injuries and one was transported to DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital for shoulder pain.

The bus driver was a substitute and put on leave while the district conducts its investigation.

“My understanding is that there were minor injuries, but of the 20some children on the bus, most are in school today,” said Huron Valley Director of Community Relations and Fund Development Janet Roberts.

“Principal Scott Lindberg has been trying to reach these families today to make sure there are no serious injuries or problems.”

The parents or guardians of the children were immediately called and the children were either picked up or stayed with Lindberg at the scene. The district also sent out an advisory to parents and all buildings via e-mail.

Police have determined that neither speeding nor alcohol were factors in the crash.

“It’s still being investigated and (we’re) not sure of all the details yet,” Roberts said. “We’re waiting for a final review.”

Police issued the bus driver a citation at the scene. ❏

Condo fire reportedly started in kitchen

By Michael Shelton staff writer

West Bloomfield Township firefighters from four stations responded to a PAGE 24 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

30850 Beck Road (Just South of Pontiac Trail) Inside Breaktime Billiards For Reservations Call

313-694-3236

NEXT HEY r MOM & D Plan yount SHOW Sports are expAD! next eve THIS SATURDAY So plan your ennesive! xt fund-rais using ing even NOV. 12TH p u t d with stan Great for us!

8PM ! n o n-profit & sports Tickets $12 org comedy Earn up to anizations. $2 in one nig ,000 ht.

BILL FLOYD BUSHART The Washboard Named “Funniest Local Comedian” 2010 by the Metro Times.

Comic Coming

Saturday NOV. 12th

8 p.m.

NOV. 12th

Coming Soon

ANDREW O’NEAL AND THE COMEDY GANG

UPCOMING SHOWS: 8 p.m.

Friday, Dec.16

8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec.17

8 p.m.

DEC. 9th

GLENN • THE LAUGH RIOT GIRLS! KYNARD, JR.

~

OPEN MIC COMEDY 8 p.m. EVERY THURSDAY! • $5.00

2 OFF

$ facebook/lafftracks ADD US AS YOUR FRIEND

00

SC

ADMITTANCE

With this coupon. Valid on Friday & Saturday only.

Valid with reservations only. Expires 11-13-11.

Call the Laff Tracks Comedy Hotline for Ticket & Show Information

Check us out at:

~

313-694-3236

www.lafftracksnovi.com

PAGE 24

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

HOLIDAY PREVIEW! Sunday, November 13 • 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

COUPON

•Refreshments •Candles •Craft Items •Interior & •Michigan-made Exterior Décor products •Garden Items •Gift Items

$

5 OFF

a $20 purchase With coupon. One day only.

November 13th. Not to be combined with other discounts.

SC

Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m ~ Extended Holiday Hours Beginning 11/25/11 ~ N Milford Rd.

Highland Rd. (M-59)

home • garden • gifts

to Hartland Milford 3.5 miles

Livingston Rd.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Condo fire ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 23

fire at the Fox Pointe Condominiums at 5:42 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5.

The first group of firefighters arrived to find an elderly woman and her caregiver outside as smoke and flames were in a condo unit’s kitchen.

The caregiver was heating oil to cook chicken on the range in the condo’s kitchen when the oil ignited.

She tried to put out the fire herself, but it spread.

She then evacuated the condo unit with the elderly woman and called 911.

No injuries were reported, but the condo sustained about $75,000 in damage. ❏

Home invasion spree suspects arraigned

By Michael Shelton staff writer

233 s. milford rd., highland

248-887-9392 www.fragmentsstore.com Happy Come in & experience great service in a relaxing environment. Thanksgiving

J e s s i c a Ta m a We l c o m e s Yo u !

n Brazilia ir Ha Keratin ing ten Straigh ent Treatm

Walk-ins always welcome!

FOR 1ST TIME

All Men’s Haircuts $10 00 CLIENTS WITH AD

Call for on ati Consult

Ask for Jessica 248.669.1910

FREE

Haircut & Blow Dry With any Color Service over $40 New Clients Only (Includes High or Low Lights) Offer good at Salon Matisse.

With coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers SC *Expires 11/23/11

1/2 OFF 1/2 OFF Haircut & Blow Dry

Regular price 40 New Clients Only Jessica Only $

Offer good at Salon Matisse.

With coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers SC *Expires 11/23/11

All Facial Waxing New Clients Only Jessica Only Offer good at Salon Matisse.

With coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers SC *Expires 11/23/11

At Bloomfield Avenue Shoppes on Haggerty Rd. 6171 HAGGERTY RD., WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI 48322 (Across from Meijer Gas Station)

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

West Bloomfield Township police officers, along with members of the South Oakland Narcotics/Intelligence Consortium (SONIC), have arrested two suspects that were allegedly responsible for 25 home invasions in West Bloomfield.

The suspects, 30-year-old Jhermack Means of West Bloomfield and 26-year-old Paul Schwartz of Waterford Township, were arrested on Thursday, Nov. 3 Means after allegedly breaking into a home in West Bloomfield and coming out of the house with goods in hand.

Both men were under surveillance

by SONIC after authorities received information from a patrol officer and detective.

The suspects allegedly targeted the homes, most of them vacant, to steal copper piping.

Schwartz Means had his bond set at $50,000 while Schwartz’s bond was set at $5,000.

Both men were charged with breaking and entering, a 10-year felony, and attempting to commit second-degree home invasion, a five-year felony.

The suspects were arraigned by 48th District Court Magistrate Judith Holtz. ❏

Puppies reported stolen from backyard shed

By Michael Shelton staff writer

West Bloomfield Township police are investigating the theft of three puppies from breeders on Sunset.

The incident took place on Oct. 29 in the backyard of the breeder, who had two English bulldogs and the puppies housed in a shed, with the fence bordering the Twin Beach Country Club.

The homeowners woke up in the morning to find the puppies missing.

They were in the process of selling the puppies at $2,500.

A security camera showed two white males near the shed. ❏

Drunk man allegedly combative with police

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

A Wixom man was incarcerated after he allegedly became unruly with police after a noise complaint was lodged.

The man, who resides in the 30700 block of Tamarack Drive, was approached Sunday, Nov. 6 by police at the door of his apartment building. The man was standing next to a female who appeared to be underage, according to a Wixom Police Department report. The girl ducked into the apartment unit once she saw police come into view.

The man told police he was having a party with eight or so friends.

Police stated they wanted to enter the unit to ensure the guests’ welfare, but the man reportedly refused to allow them entry.

Police told the man they received a noise compliant. They also told him that if he did not allow them in, they would place him under arrest for disturbing the peace. The man allegedly would not comply, and instead, became combative with the officers, who placed him under arrest.

Moreover, when police knocked on the door, the subject allegedly yelled to those inside not to open the door.

The subject repeatedly resisted police, but was eventually subdued, according to police.

He was hauled away and given a preliminary breath test that reportedly showed his blood-alcohol content at 0.098 percent, above the legal limit for driving. He was lodged until sober and issued a citation for disturbing the peace. ❏

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 25

TRANSPORTATION

Repeal of helmet law headed to conference panel

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

A bill to repeal the state’s mandatory motorcycle helmet law cleared the Michigan House last week and continues to pit motorcycle safety advocates against proponents of personal choice.

Under a revised version of Senate Bill (SB) 291, motorcyclists 21 and older are given the option of riding helmet-free if they have two years of motorcycle riding experience or have taken a safety course, as long as they purchase at least $20,000 in medical insurance coverage.

“It’s a personal choice issue and the law stresses education, training, and endorsements on their licenses,” said state Rep. Eileen Kowall (R-Highland, White Lake).

“However, just because there is this legislation doesn’t mean riders won’t decide to wear helmets, especially in certain driving conditions.”

The original Senate bill requires $100,000 for first party medical benefits payable in case a helmetless motorcycle rider is involved in an accident, a distinct difference from the House version that calls for $20,000 in medical insurance.

Vince Consiglio, president of the motorcyclist group ABATE of Michigan, which for decades has championed efforts to repeal the helmet law, said he would compromise on additional insurance as long as a bill is enacted.

“We don’t feel it should be a requirement, but it’s what would get it passed,” he said. “We believe $100,000 is excessive and most insurance carriers don’t offer that amount, but $20,000 is not cost-prohibitive — just another $100 or so.”

SB 291 will go before a conference committee that will attempt to iron out the differences between the Senate-approved and Houseapproved versions.

For four decades, Michigan motorcyclists have been mandated by law to wear helmets. Similar legislation was introduced in 2006 and 2008, but was vetoed by then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm.

PAGE 27 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION/I-96 BETWEEN MILFORD ROAD AND KENT LAKE ROAD (Milford Area) • Closure: Single-lane closure on I-96 in each direction between Milford and Kent Lake roads on weekends and weekdays during non-peak hours. North and south ramps from Kent Lake to westbound I-96 will remain closed until end of November.

• Completion date: Winter.

• Cost: $15.5 million.

• Notes: The first bridge reconstruction project to be undertaken will be the bridge over the Huron Valley Trail east of Milford Road.

M-59 MAINTENANCE PROJECT (Highland and White Lake townships) • Completion Date: Approximately Tuesday, Nov. 15.

• Cost: $4 million.

• Notes: Highland Road will not be closed at any time during the project. Single-lane closures will be restricted to weekday and weekend hours between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. Weekend lane closures will be minimized in central business districts.

MILFORD/DAWSON INTERSECTION WORK (Milford Township) • Closure: None planned.

• Completion date: Friday, Nov. 11 • Cost: $700,000, split between Milford Township, the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), and the county government.

• Notes: Both Milford and Dawson roads will remain open in both directions at all times throughout the project, but there will be lane closures on Milford and, at times, the road will be reduced to one lane between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays with traffic directed by flaggers.

PAGE 26

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

707 N. Pontiac Trail Walled Lake Maple at Pontiac Trail

VOTE FOR US

4thebest.clickondetroit.com

A Real Murray’s Store & a Whole Lot More!

Amazing Service Price & Selection!

1-855-4-MURRAY

6

2 for 5

99

$

Rain•X Windshield Washer Fluid RNX 5066517 Gallon 68406 Gallon 68806 Gallon Product may vary by state.

Must purchase 2 for sale price.

Limit 12 units.

2 349 19 Each

Each

Scott Shop Towels SCO 75130

Joe’s Hand Cleaner JOE 105

15 oz.

Includes oil filters up to $4.99, higher priced filters will increase the sale price.

Limit 2 oil and filter specials.

AFZ AF2100 Limit 2 units.

3

BUY ONE GET ONE

99 Each

WD-40 Smart Straw WD-40 con Smart Straw WD 11005 8 oz.

After Mail-In Rebate

Pennzoil Conventional 5+ Qt. Jug and a Fram Filter

Prestone Pre-Mix Universal Antifreeze

used batteries, gear oil, transmission fluid & motor oil

of alternators, batteries, modules & starters

12

99

Gallon After Mail-In Rebate

WE RECYCLE

FREE TESTING

Pennzoil Oil & Filter Special

1/2

OFF

After Mail-In Rebate

Bosch Icon Wiper Blades Limit 2 units

WE RESURFACE brake drums & rotors

• Gasoline or diesel engines

4

Each

Lucas Fuel Injector Cleaner LUC 10020

5.25 oz.

999 Each

Super Start 10-Gauge 12’ Jumper Cables SS 08570

Super Start 4-Gauge 20’ Jumper $ Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3199

LOANER TOOL PROGRAM

Borrow the specialty tool you need to get the job done. Minimum deposit required.

Prices Effective thru November 27, 2011

) '! )% "( $ ## " ' ! % # # % ! $ #$! # ! $ " " ! #

1100 Benstein Rd. Commerce Twp.

"( $ !# "# # ! " &" & #$! " "# " # & ! " !#

"( $ ' & % $" !# # #

! ## # ! " ! $ #

# '

# ! ! % "!&

selfstoragelockup.com

248-624-3277

• Treats one tank up to 25 gallons

99

SS 08574

For All Your Self Storage Needs!

All Covered Indoor Units! •24-hour security •Boat & Car Storage •Household Goods & Furniture •Fenced, Lighted •Easy Access •Resident Manager on site

• Complete fuel treatment

# "

! % ! !$ !' #" % # !

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

TRANSPORTATION ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 25

However, the controversial issue is not merely a case of personal choice, but takes into account higher incidents of catastrophic injuries and escalating medical costs from motorcycle accidents, according to some.

State Rep. Bill Rogers (RMilford) said he voted against the measure so the taxpayers would not be financially burdened.

“If they (helmet-free motorcyclists) want personal rights and cover their own responsibility, I won’t necessarily deny that, but how the system works now, we’re all paying something,” Rogers said.

“They need to fund the catastrophic fund and $20,000 is not enough, so that’s the main reason I voted against it.”

According to a February 2011 data trend study by the Office of Highway Safety Planning, 29 states have repealed their universal helmet laws and some have witnessed alarming statistics. For example, when Florida repealed its law in 2002, 40 percent more motorcyclists were admitted to hospitals for treatment in the 30 months immediately following the repeal.

Deaths also increased by 24 percent above what was expected from the increase in registration after the repeal.

The study also noted that helmet-free riders have higher health care costs as a result of crash injuries, and many lack health insurance, with only slightly more than half of motorcycle crash victims carrying private health insurance coverage.

The report also cites there would be an increase in all Michigan policyholders’ insurance rates because Michigan’s no-fault law pays for “reasonable and necessary” injuries over a lifetime. As more motorcyclists who opt not to wear a helmet are injured, reimbursement for those claims, which have already exceeded $4.4 billion, would increase as such that the $20,000 first-party medical benefit coverage cited in the law would not be enough coverage.

“There are other studies out there that would substantiate the other side of the argument,” Kowall said. “It puts a strain on the catastrophic association and we want to make sure that fund is stable,

but that would need to be taken up separately.”

It appears Michigan voters are not revved up about the helmet repeal, either.

A spring poll of some 600 likely Michigan voters by Marketing Research Group, Inc. of Lansing showed that 81 percent of the state’s residents believe the current helmet law should be maintained.

Only 16 percent said Michigan motorcycle riders should not be required to wear a helmet.

Insurance companies such as AAA are also rankled over the new bill and have been urging legislators to keep Michigan’s mandatory motorcycle helmet law in place.

AAA is encouraging Gov. Rick Snyder to veto the bill if it reaches his desk.

Consiglio, however, said it boils down to leaving the choice up to the rider.

“Most people who aren’t riders think the common sense thing is to wear a helmet, but a helmet is only good for riding 13-17 mph as far as impact, so a helmet may or may not help you — it should be left to an adult choice,” Consiglio said. ❏

Art & Craft Show November 19th 2011 Saturday 10am -4pm 1 Day Only $2 Admission 12 & under Waterford FREE Mott High School 1151 Scott Lake Rd. Waterford, MI 48328

989-781-9165

www.keepsakecollectionshows.com

Waterford Mott Band Boosters

Helmet law

PAGE 27

SPOSITA’S Ristorante F I N E I TA L I A N D I N I N G I N A C A S U A L AT M O S P H E R E COUPON

COME AND HELP US CELEBRATE OUR

COMPLETE PETITE STEAK DINNER

$

19

12

95

ANNIVERSARY!

TH

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

248.538.8954

33210 W. 14 Mile Rd. • West Bloomfield

Nov. 17 – Nov. 23

Please present this coupon to receive discount. SC

(In Simsbury Plaza, Just East of Farmington Rd.)

Mon-Thurs 4 PM-10 PM • Fri 11 AM-11 PM • Sat 4 PM-11 PM • Sun 4 PM-9 PM

New to You Buy & Sell, Consignment, Estates, And Delivery!

3370 Highland Rd. ĪM-59ī 248-738-3734

20 Off

$ Free Delivery

Any Purchase $150 or More

With AnyPurchase Purchaseof $200 or $150 or More More (Limited Delivery Area)

$

With Coupon. Not to be combined with any other offer.

With With Coupon.

Coupon. Not Not to be Combined with any other offer.

SC Expires 12/9/11 Expires 11-14-11.

20 Off

With be combined with withany anyother otheroffer. offer.

Not to to be be Combined Combined with any other offer.

With Coupon.

Coupon. Not Not to SC Expires 11-14-11.

Expires 12/9/11 Expires 11-14-11.

Win One of Two Turkey Certificates ABSOLUTELY FREE for Thanksgiving!

WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL

Because we appreciate our readers, we are giving away a Thanksgiving gift certificate.

Name ___________________________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________ State _________ Zip ______________ Email ____________________________________________________________________________________ Bring your coupon any time between now and NOVEMBER 18 to the Spinal Column Newsweekly. To deposit a coupon, you must be 18 years or older, only one coupon accepted from each family. Each drawing will be held at the close of business on November 18.

Winners will be notified immediately by mail. Employees and family members of the SCN Communications Group are not eligible.

W E S T

O A K L A N D ’ S

N E W S W E E K L Y

www.spinalcolumnonline.com 7196 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford • Phone: 248-360-7355 P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387

We’ve Gone DIGITAL!! If you’d like to receive our full edition in your e-mail inbox, send your request to: signmeup@thescngroup.com

PAGE 28

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Over 6 Feet I Million ns ZERO talled Clo Gutte gged rs!

gan Michi Made ct!

Produ

WN ZERO DOy next da available installatireoprnesentative *See tails for more de

Installs On New Or Existing Gutters Does Not Disturb Your Roof Or Shingles Stainless Steel Micro-Filter Keeps Out ALL Debris Low Profile System - Can’t Be Seen From The Ground Lifetime, Transferable, Money Back Warranty!

Facebook www.facebook.com/leaffiltermi

15% OFF Whole House (100 ft. Minimum) Present at time of purchase.

Not valid with other offers. SC

Limited Time Offer

$150 OFF

Visit Us On Find us on

Your Local Leaffilter Dealer

www.leaffiltermi.com

Any Size Installation

Present at time of purchase.

Not valid with other offers. SC

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 29

COUNTY

Prescription drug card vendor shift moving forward

By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

C

After months of discussion and an informal opinion rendered by legal counsel, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners has officially decided to move forward with a plan that proponents say will provide a greater prescription drug discount to county residents and double the amount of people who will participate in the program.

A resolution authorizing the next step in the process, a request for information (RFI) and perhaps a request for proposals (RFP) received the Board of Commissioners’ support last week, according to Commissioner Jim Runestad (R-White Lake, Waterford), who spearheaded the effort beginning in the summer. “We are going to form kind of an ad hoc committee to decide what we want in the RFP and then look at the RFIs that come back,� Runestad said. “I think it’s going to move through. I think it’s going to be a huge benefit to the people of the county. With Coast2Coast, there’s a proven 50-percent discount over 24 percent from our current provider, CareMark.�

The resolution approved last week goes on to declare that the RFI and RFPs would be evaluated through the regular Oakland County purchasing policy and procedures. The recommended vendor(s) and agreement would be brought back before the Board of Commissioners for approval after a review by Oakland County Corporation Counsel, as well as the board’s General Government and Finance committees. “Unless there’s someone that can match that out there, we will find

out,� Runestad said, adding that shifting from CVS CareMark to Coast2Coast as the discount prescription drug card vendor would be a “huge benefit� for county residents. “Unless CareMark can match that, we’ll see.�

In addition, it appears as though the county would benefit from shifting providers. A per-prescription royalty is built in to agreements with Coast2Coast that would net the county between $150,000 and $200,000 in revenue.

However, that royalty was a concern at the beginning of the process.

Some had questions about whether the revenue the county would receive from Coast2Coast would be in violation of state or federal law concerning kickbacks. In August, legal counsel for the Oakland County Board of Commissioners determined that the county wouldn’t be in violation of state or federal statutes if it switched to Coast2Coast.

Oakland County began offering free prescription drug discount cards available to uninsured and underinsured citizens five years ago. Participants, according to the county, realize average savings on prescription drugs of 20 percent, plus savings on specialty medications. â??

CLOSED DOORS The Milford Village Council at its Monday, Nov. 7 meeting held a closed executive session regarding contract negotiations. No action was taken on the matter when the meeting returned to an open public session.

FT SHOW A RWATERFORD EAGLES

DIA Ticket Give Away ENTER TO WIN 4 TICKETS (Drawings Held Weekly & Winners’ name announced) Congratulatio ns to CINDY from Commerce Last Week’s Winner of 4 Free Tick ets

Name: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________ State: ______ Zip: ____________ Phone: ___________________ Mail your entry to: Spinal Column Newsweekly, DIA Ticket Give Away, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387 One entry per household. A winner for four free tickets will be drawn weekly. Employees and family members of the SCN Communications Group are not eligible. No purchase necessary.

Coming November 23rd

WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL

CHANCE TO WIN $100 OF HOLIDAY CASH! On November 23rd count how many times the words “local� or “locally� appear only in the advertisements of this special pull out section

Watch for an entry form in the November 23rd Spinal Column issue. Drawing to be held December 5, 2011.

NOV. 12-13 • 10 AM - 6 PM

4761 HIGHLAND RD. - WATERFORD Book your Table $20 for Saturday - $15 for Sunday Both Days $30 • Senior Discounts Available

Call Helen to Book Your Table 248.673.9980 248.673.3545

W E S T

O A K L A N D ’ S

N E W S W E E K L Y

www.spinalcolumnonline.com 7196 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford • Phone: 248-360-7355

We’ve Gone DIGITAL!! If you’d like to receive our full edition in your e-mail inbox, send your request to: signmeup@thescngroup.com

PAGE 30

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

STATE

Anti-bullying bill clears Senate over Dems’ objections

By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

Republicans in the state Senate last week shepherded through an anti-bullying measure that Democrats and others are saying gives people — students, school volunteers and employees, and parents — a license to bully pupils under the guise of “sincerely held religious beliefs or moral convictions,” but it appears as though Republican members of the state House of Representatives are uneasy with including that language in any final anti-bullying legislation.

Senate Bill (SB) 137, sponsored by state Sen. Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge), was amended in the Senate Judiciary Committee that Jones chairs on Wednesday, Nov. 2 to include the following language: “This section does not abridge the rights under the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States or under Article I of the state

Constitution of 1963 of a school employee, school volunteer, pupil, or pupil’s parent or guardian. This section does not prohibit a statement of a sincerely held religious belief or moral conviction of a school employee, school volunteer, pupil, or pupil’s parent or guardian.”

“In less than 30 words, Republicans turned anti-bullying legislation into pro-bullying legislation,” said Kowall Senate Democrats on the Caucus’ website, referring to the second sentence of the amendment. “Essentially, instead of protecting Michigan’s students from harassment, it issues a license to bully. It tells our kids that when a bully screams hateful words on a daily basis at a student simply because they perceive them to be gay, that’s OK. It tells them that when prejudiced and even overtly racist slurs are shouted at a student simply because of who they are, that’s OK, too.”

State Sens. Mike Kowall (RCommerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) and David Robertson (RWaterford) both voted in favor of the bill — known as Matt’s Safe School Law, named after a teen who killed himself in 2002 after extended bullying — which would give school districts, intermediate school districts, and boards of directors of public school academies six months to adopt policies prohibiting bullying at schools.

Asked if the inserted language would essentially give license to students — or parents, volunteers, or employees — to say to a gay student that “God hates fags” or “You’re going to Hell because you’re gay,” Robertson said, “I don’t know how to respond to that quesRobertson tion.”

“Clearly, clearly, we don’t want to incite ... that’s a horrible thing to

say under any circumstance,” he said. “I know that the intent of the language is to allow individuals to express sincerely-held religious convictions without being called a bully.

The two phrases that you used would be inappropriate” under any circumstances.

“The characterization by the Democrats of this bill is false and I’m disappointed in them” for making those claims, Robertson said.

When asked the same question, Kowall said that such comments against a gay student would be “unacceptable.”

“If you have real strong religious convictions and moral beliefs, your religion tells you not to say that to somebody,” Kowall said. “That’s just unacceptable social behavior.”

Kowall said that he “didn’t get a real clear definition” on what “a sincerely held religious belief or moral conviction” means from Jones.

Published reports on Monday, Nov. 7 indicated that state House Republicans are expected to strike the language in question from the bill, although the Spinal Column Newsweekly could not independently PAGE 31 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Third Generation Master Craftsmanship

Kitchen Chairs $

SC

Gwiz & Gwiz

Re-Upholstery

starting at

29.95

Not valid with any other offers.

With coupon. Expires 12/9/11.

& Wood Re-Finishing We Do Boat Upholstery!

10%

Senior Discount

248-706-9000 • FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES • FREE PICK-UP & DELIVERY

3380 Highland Rd. • Waterford

All

SC

In-Stock Fabrics

50% OFF Not valid with any other offers.

With coupon. Expires 12/9/11.

Craft Show & Santa’s Secret Shop at

Mary Helen Guest Elementary Sat., Dec. 3rd • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1655 Decker Road • Walled Lake For more info: 248-345-3027

VENDORS STILL BEING ACCEPTED

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 31

STATE

Anti-bullying bill ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 30

confirm that.

Neither Robertson nor Kowall would commit to supporting or opposing the legislation if the controversial language is removed, saying that would have to see the final bill before making a decision.

Some of the things school districts’ anti-bullying policies would have to include under SB 137 are: • A statement prohibiting bullying of a pupil or a false accusation of bullying; • A provision indicating that all pupils are protected under the policy and that bullying is equally prohibited without regard to its subject matter or motivating animus; • A procedure for providing notification to the parent or legal guardian of a reported bullying victim and the parent or legal guardian of an alleged bully.

• A statement that the policy applies on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event, whether or not it is held on school grounds;

• A statement that the policy applies to conduct using telecommunications devices or telecommunications service providers, whether or not the conduct occurs on or off school premises, if the device or service provider is owned by or under the control of the district or public school academy; • A procedure for reporting an act of bullying or a false accusation of bullying; • A requirement that any school employee who has reliable information that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that a pupil is a target of bullying or to suspect a false accusation of bullying shall immediately report it to the principal or the principal’s designee; • A procedure for prompt investigation of the incident; • A procedure for each public school to document any prohibited incident that is reported and a procedure to report all verified incidents of bullying and the resulting consequences; and • A description of possible consequences for an act of bullying or making a false accusation of bullying. ❏

BEING

SICK CAN BE EXPENSIVE...

PONTIAC TRAIL PHARMACY CAN HELP! SELECT ANTIBIOTICS ARE

FREE Select Antibiotics Include: Amoxicillin, Cephalexin, SMZ-TMP, Ciprofloxacin, Ampicillin, and Penicillin VK

New funding plan for public works projects proposed In an effort that has been teed up for action since at least 2008, the state House of Representatives panel is examining legislation that would allow — with board of commissioners’ approval — drain commissioners/water resources commissioners in two counties to effectively become a one-person board of public works, granting them the authority to approve the financing of public works projects using a county’s McCulloch bond rating.

As it stands, there are currently two counties in the state — Oakland County and Bay County — operating as an optional unified form of county government, meaning that certain aspects of government operations, such as public works, were folded into

4 $ 99 11 $

00

One per new customer.

Hundreds of drugs available

Generics 90-Day Supply Hundreds of drugs available

SAFELY and FREE of charge.

(Next to Watkins Flowers)

www.sav-mor.com

Generics 30-Day Supply

Bring us your unwanted/expired medication – let us dispose of them

620 N. Pontiac Trail • Walled Lake

248-669-2776

PAGE 32 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

WE BEAT ALL CASH PRESCRIPTION PRICES

Pontiac Trail Pharmacy Mention CARL’S name and receive a FREE GIFT

the general county government operations rather than being overseen by various boards and commissions, according to Joe Colaianne, attorney and insurance administrator in Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch’s office.

“You always want options when you’re approaching public works projects, so we really fashioned this proposed House bill somewhat after Chapter 20 of the Drain Code, where you have a three-member body,” McCulloch said. “This would allow us to utilize Act 185 (of state law).”

The legislation, House Bill (HB) 5129, would allow local units of government to petition a board of public works for the purposes of construction and financing public works projects. “(Act) 185 is a vehicle that allows local units of government to take advantage of the county’s bonding ability,” Colaianne said. “Like other statutes on the books, it allows us to petition or contract with the county to construct, finance and design public works projects such as water, sewer, lake levels, drains, soil erosion, and

OUT IN 10 MINUTES OR LESS!

Find us on facebook

PAGE 32

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

STATE

Public works bill ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 31

WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL

Support yourself and your community – shop locally!

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

You have a choice!

Spend it here. Keep it here.

solid waste. It’s a vehicle for local units of government. It’s really another tool in the toolbox. There’s nothing in the statute that would allow a county or drain commissioner to unilaterally do anything.”

Essentially it would allow a “public corporation” — the state, counties, cities, villages, townships, metropolitan districts, and authorities created by or pursuant to state law — to petition the one-person board of public works created by a board of county commissioners to allow them to utilize the county’s bond rating to fund public works projects that include water supply systems, sewage disposal systems, refuse systems, lake improvements, systems for erosion control, or any combination of those.

HB 5129 would establish that a governing body of a public corporation other than a county could petition a board of public works to establish a public works district to construct, own, operate and maintain a public works system. After adopting a resolution designating a public works district, that district would be considered a body corporate with the power to sue

and be sued in any court in Michigan; and to hold, manage, and dispose of real and personal property. The board of public works would be responsible for the maintenance and operation of the public works system.

The board of public works would be required, at its first meeting, to determine tentatively the sufficiency of a submitted description and the practicability of a proposed project. The board would also name the project and the public works district, which would be charged for the cost of the project.

“It allows bonding options for two counties,” said state Rep. Hugh Crawford (R-Walled Lake, Wixom), the bill’s chief sponsor. “A county can form a public works board. If they have an elected drain commissioner (or water resources commissioner, in Oakland County’s case), that person is the commission. The issue has been around since 2008.” ❏

Bill seeks to tackle conflict of interest on school boards Joe Hune wants to avoid any appearance of impropriety or conflicts

PAGE 33 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Douglas Water Conditioning “ Service, Our Specialty”

#1 Ecowater Dealer in the USA for 2010

VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS 7234 Cooley Lk. Rd. Waterford 1000 N. Leroy • Fenton

Waterford

248-681-9396 Lakes Area

248-363-8383 Highland/Milford

248-685-9697 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sat. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Qualified Service Professional on Duty Every Day

FREE SERVICE ADVICE OVER THE PHONE Talk To An Actual Service Technician

SINCE 1968

DARE TO COMPARE! All Water Softeners are NOT Created Equal TUNE-UP MAINTENANCE SPECIAL $

35

See store for details. Expires 12/9/11

TRY IT BEFORE YOU BUY IT Rental Program Available Starting at…

19

$

99

BOTTLED WATER DELIVERY AVAILABLE FOR HOME OR OFFICE (Pick-up Available)

WATER CONDITIONER’S STARTING AT

799

$

IT’S THAT GOOD!

per mo.

www.douglaswater.com

PICK UP OR DELIVERY

ECOWATER is the largest and oldest manufacturer of Water Softeners, Conditioners and Refiners in the world.

Setting the standards for over 80 years.

SERVING THE AREA SINCE 1968

ECOWATER REVERSE OSMOSIS

FACTORY PARTS AND SERVICE MOST MAKES INCLUDING:

Pennies a Day for Bottled Water Quality On Tap!

•Artesian •Culligan •Fleck

•G.E. •Kinetico •McClean

•Reynolds •Sears •Sunshine

•Technetic •Whirlpool •Wolverine

We offer expert service on virtually all water conditioning equipment. We are a division of EcoWater Systems, the world’s largest maker of home water treatment systems for over 80 years!

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

STATE

School board seats ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 32

of interest on school districts’ boards of education.

That’s why the state senator representing Livingston County’s Hamburg Township, according to local lawmakers, introduced Senate Bill (SB) 773, which would bar people who have a spouse, child, parent or sibling employed by a school district from seeking election or appointment to that district’s school board.

The bill — which was introduced last month and has been referred to the state Senate Local Government and Elections Committee — would also vacate school board seats of members upon their spouse, child, parent or sibling becoming employed by the district that school board governs.

State Sen. David Robertson (RWaterford) said he’s asked legal counsel for an opinion on whether such a ban would be constitutional.

“I understand the concern Sen. Hune is attempting to address here, but I don’t know if this is an appropriate way to do it,” Robertson said. “We are talking about a person’s right to run for public office.”

State Sen. Mike Kowall (R-

Register Today to Reserve Your Spot!

Commerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) said he was aware of the legislation but hasn’t “had a chance to really delve into it.”

“In today’s day and age, I think everything should be talked about.”

Don Wotruba, deputy director for the Michigan Association of School Boards, said that while the association hasn’t developed a formal stance on the legislation, he believes the general reaction of its board will be that, although conflicts of interest can arise, “to tell somebody that really wants to be a civically-engaged individual ... our general view would be to not prohibit them from office.”

“It just seems like a pretty big step to say you can’t run for or stay on a board if your spouse works there.”

Janet Roberts, the former director of community relations and fund development for Huron Valley Schools, said no current school board members would be affected by the bill, if enacted. She added that Superintendent Jackie Johnston is “aware of it,” but the district hasn’t taken a firm position on what the bill proposes to do.

Repeated messages left with Hune’s office went unreturned. ❏

PAGE 33

Thee Hair Stop in Wixom Welcomes BRITTANY ANN & PEGI (formerly of Fantastic Sam’s/Salon Universal) to their full service salon located at Wainstock.

Now accepting appointments & walk-ins at the same great prices including a “Tuesday Special” for men. Please stop in & meet Brittany Ann or Pegi. ~ Call ~

248.926.1464 MULTI-LAKES CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW - Sunday, December 11 • 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Crafters are needed - if interested call 248-363-9109

EVERY TUESDAY

6:30 p.m.

BINGO Progressive Jackpot

Now Smoke-Free

FISH FRY

Every Friday 5:30 - 8:30 p.m Now Smoke-Free

$8.00 Adults • Senior Discounts ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT Fish • Chicken • Salad Bar

Free Coffee / Food Available

OUTDOOR RANGE SIGHT-IN DAYS November 1-14

COUNTRY BREAKFAST Second Sunday of the month - Next Breakfast November 13th

9 a.m. to 12 p.m. • Adults $700/Senior Discounts HALL RENTALS AVAILABLE For more information call (248) 363-9109 3860 Newton Road • Commerce Township, MI 48382 Call for details 248-363-9109

www.multilakes.com

at www.dmc.org/peoplesmedicalcollege or call 1-888-DMC-2500

Seating is limited.

Registration required.

Join Us Thursday, November 17th!

TO

L E A R N

A BO U T

T H E

LATEST ADVANCES IN COSMETIC PROCEDURES PLUS: FREE PAMPER STATIONS!

Free Seminar! PLASTIC SURGERY & VEIN PROCEDURES

Thursday, November 17th at The Crowne Plaza Detroit in Novi • 6:30pm

Join DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital for a night of fun and pampering, all while educating yourself about the latest in plastic surgery and varicose vein treatments. Listen as our expert physicians discuss injectables, plastic surgery treatment options and non-surgical VenaCureEVLT™ treatment for varicose veins. Before the seminar, enjoy free pamper stations & light refreshments. Crowne Plaza Detroit located at 27000 Sheraton Drive in Novi.

always there.

Pamper Stations Include: • Mini-Back Massage Sessions • Paraffin Wax Hand Treatments • Eyebrow Consultation or Mini-Eyelash Fill-In • Skin Care Information presented by • Biofeedback Demos • Shopping Therapy

PAGE 34

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LOCAL MATTERS chamber notes ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce is hosting a business luncheon featuring Chris Chelios tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 10, from noon to 1:30 p.m. The luncheon will be held at Knollwood Country Club in West Bloomfield. Tickets are available by calling the chamber office at 248-626-3636. The cost is $50 per person and autographs will be available. Seating is limited. Event sponsorships also are available. For more information, contact the Chamber office. ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce announces its newly-formed Huron Valley Referral Network Groups (RNGs) are off and running. RNGs are category-exclusive business referral groups that develop business contacts and share leads with the members of the group. Each group will have 15 to 25 members, and only one person from any profession or business specialty will be eligible to join. Not only will group members be potential customers for each other, but they will be committed to finding referrals for other members of their RNG group.

This is a free perk with chamber membership. Many referral organizations charge from $300 to $600 annually to belong to this type of group; however, the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce is making membership even more valuable with free access to one of these groups to chamber members, with the exception of a $25 start-up fee to cover administrative costs and supplies.

For more information, call the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce at 248685-7129. ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of Chamber events, visit www.huronvcc.com: • Off the Clock Connect, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 10, Skybox Sports Grill, 2825 E. Highland Road, Highland Township. Hosted by the Chamber Ambassadors. This is an after hours networking group that will meet the second Thursday of every month.

• HVRN Wednesday Group, 8 a.m.

Thursday, Nov. 10, Comeback Inn, 1451 S. Milford Road, Highland.

• HVRN Tuesday Group, 8:30 a.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 15, Milford Fire Station, 325 W. Huron, Milford.

• New Member Meet & Greet, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, Huron Valley State Bank, 130 S. Milford Road, Milford. Hosted by Huron Valley State

Genisys Credit Union’s entire senior management team was put to work on Wednesday, Oct. 19, volunteering at an Oakland County Habitat for Humanity Build Day project at 610 S. Winding Drive in Waterford Township. The team provided much-needed renovations, including dry wall, door work, painting, wood work in the kitchen, landscaping, and electrical work. Pictured left to right are Jerry McIlrath, vice president of sales and service; Jerry Strausbaugh, chief information officer; Chris DeWitt, senior vice president of member services; Lon Bone, vice president of public relations and community involvement; Jackie Buchanan, chief executive officer; Jennifer Robert, vice president of information technology; Darren Cameron, vice president of marketing; and Jim Reinhart, vice president of lending. Genisys Credit Union is locally owned, locally controlled, and continues to receive BauerFinancial’s five-star rating for financial safety and soundness. (Photo submitted by Genisys Credit Union)

Bank and the Chamber Ambassadors, members are invited to learn more about the benefits of membership at this free gathering. Find out how to get the most of your membership.

Reservations helpful. Contact the Chamber office at 248-685-7129. ❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of Chamber events, call 248-624-2826 or visit www.lakesareachamber.com: • Spotlight Lunch, 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, Nov. 10, at the Shark Club, 6665 Highland Road, Waterford.

Informal networking over lunch. Bring your business cards. ❐ 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: • Networking, Lunch & Pure Energy, 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, The Root Restaurant & Bar, 340 Town Center Blvd. Ste. E-106, White Lake Township. Cranking Up Your Business

Using Social Media! Featuring Pure Energy Advertising. RSVP Required.

Cost is $20 (non-members pay $35).

Register at http://bit.ly/uXHYK2.

Sponsored by DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital.

• “Properly Diagnosing & Treating Your Back Pain,” Dr. Bruce Henderson MD, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Franco Communications Center, 44405 Woodward. Call 800-372-6094 (map).

• 5th Annual Job Shadowing Day. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16. Be a mentor for this day and ... Provide the valuable opportunity for eighth-grade middle school students to job shadow under your guidance. Teach and demonstrate the value of education, hard work and determination in reaching goals. Be an important and valuable mentor and role model for our community’s youth. Join together for a luncheon and keynote speaker at the Kurzman Administration Building/Covert Center (1150 Scott Lake Road in Waterford Township).

Buses will return students to school following lunch. For more information on how to mentor a student for this day or sponsorship opportunities, con-

tact the Chamber at 248-666-8600.

• Costco Coffee Connect — FREE Multi Chamber Networking Event, 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, Costco in Bloomfield Hills, 2343 S Telegraph Road. Join the Bloomfield Hills Costco for their multi-Chamber networking event. Call Karen Merritt at 248-8363223 for more information. ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days.

For a complete calender of Chamber events call 248-626-3636 or visit www.westbloomfieldchamber.com • November Mingle Mix & Meet, Wednesday, Nov. 16, at the 7 Bar & Grill located on the southeast corner of Maple and Orchard Lake Road in the Old Orchard Plaza. The fun will start at 5:30 p.m. so come on out and mingle.

Appetizers will be served and cash bar will be available. Stay on for dinner and make a great evening of it. Please bring an unwrapped gift for a child to donate to Toys for Tots. Admission is free for chamber members and $5 for nonmembers. Registration is requested by Monday, Nov. 14. Call 248-626-3636.

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 35

MAIL BAG SCN READER NOTE

Look for election coverage online The presses couldn’t wait to publish the results of Tuesday, Nov. 8 contested races for Huron Valley and West Bloomfield school board seats, and the final vote tallies on two West Bloomfield public safety millage proposals and an Orchard Lake Village ballot question on vacating city property. Go to our website at spinalcolumnonline.com for a complete report on the unofficial election results. You can also find basic information on the election results on our Facebook page. ❏

Donations set record From Joann Sullivan, Kristy Nedrow and Denny Dewitt, co-organizers, Wolverine Lake Community “Miracle Box” Packing Party: The generosity of the lakes area community and its compassion and admiration for our military were on full display at the Oct. 15 “Miracle Box” Packing Party for the troops and military working dogs on behalf of Desert Angels, Inc. and Desert K-9s.

Individuals, the business community and local groups donated a variety of items in such quantities that 522 care packages were shipped overseas by 200 volunteers in just over two hours — a Desert Angels packing party record!

Donations also included money toward shipping costs and the purchase of K-9 protective gear packages.

Shipping for all 522 care packages was covered and Desert K-9s will be able to purchase nine K-9 packages.

On behalf of Desert Angels/Desert K9s, our sincere thanks to Multi-Lakes

Mail Bag provides a forum to express your thoughts. Please limit to 275 words or less. Please type and double space. We reserve the right to edit or not publish any letter. Deadline - Friday at 12 noon. Include name, address and phone number for verification, only your name and community will be published. Letters without names will not be considered. Mail to Spinal Column Newsweekly, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387 or fax 24/7 to Editor 248-360-1220.

Conservation Association for allowing the use of their facilities, and to the hundreds of indivuals, businesses and groups whose donations and volunteer time sent necessities and comforts to the men, women and K-9s serving our country so far from our shores. ❏

Europe our future?

From Eric Nagler, Commerce Township: It’s great that Don Donigan likes George Santayana and likes to learn from history (“Letter was ‘right on,’” Spinal Column Newsweekly, Nov. 2, 2011). Even better than history is to learn from today’s events. So to Mr. Donigan and Dan Ruetenik I say this — look at what’s happening in Greece and Europe today with its unsustainable welfare state, high taxes, out-of-control spending, rioting, and the people’s never-ending sense of entitlement, and you will see the future of this country.

And even scarier is that this is (the) model our president has embraced and wishes us to follow. ❏

Let’s work together From John C. Stilley, Auburn Hills: I am a middle-class American. I believe the Occupy Movement has successfully changed the course of the national media conversation. I believe the 99 percent are beginning to wake up and realize that we, all of the varied groups in the 99 percent, need to start working together toward common goals. If we work together we can create increased opportunities. If we work

together we can bring new energy to the middle-class American dream.

Since I believe the Republicans will continue to purposefully work against the 99 percent, I will vote Democratic in the next election. ❏

Passion, no focus From Robert Katz, West Bloomfield Township: The issues are familiar: Greedy bankers, unemployment, college debt, lopsided income distribution, political gridlock, etc. Currently there is passion without focus at the occupations.

To get things done, let’s do what the Tea Party did: Emphasize our numbers and hold the re-elections of our politicians hostage to our votes.

Politicians respond to fear. Scare them with passion, our numbers and our intention to vote. ❏

We welcome the opportunity to PURCHASE your

•COIN COLLECTIONS •COINS We’ve been coin experts for 40 years & are willing to pay top dollar for all your coins.

We invite you to bring your gold jewelry too!

248-863-6760 • 248-875-2064 7629 Highland Rd (M-59) • Waterford Near Williams Lk. Rd. Life members A.N.A., M.S.N.S., P.M.G., N.G.C.

BINGO St. William Church 531 Common St., Walled Lake

AY FRID

Proceeds go to St. Williams parish’s general Funds.

Non-smoking Bingo

Bingo at 6:30 p.m.

Air Conditioning

Call before 5 PM

248-624-1421

Lic.# A00049

AROUND THE LAKES AREA

The White Lake Township Water Department will be conducting the Fall 2011 Fire Hydrant flushing during the hours of 9:00 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday from Tuesday, September 6 through Friday, November 11, 2011. 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.

Any questions should be directed to White Lake Township Water Department at 248-698-3300, ext. 8 SC: 8-31, 9-7, 9-14, 9-21-, 9-28, 10-5, 10-12, 10-19, 10-26, 11-2 & 11-9-11

A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly

WE’RE ASKING… Are you missing NBA basketball during the lockout?

"Absolutely not. We're all sports fans, but it seems like there's always so much drama about the NBA. You start to sour."

"No. I am not interested in basketball unless (the Pistons are) winning. I'm a hockey nut."

— Britt Sommer, Commerce

— John Bair, Waterford

"Yes, because it's a great past time to watch and would generate more business here at work."

— Amanda King, Commerce

"No. I don't like the chest-pounding and the hanging on the baskets. Players have no class anymore. I liked the Bad Boys era, but now it just turns me off."

— Bob Barnett, White Lake

PAGE 36

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

WORSHIP SERVICES Lutheran Lutheran Church of the Ascension 4150 Pontiac Lk. Rd. Waterford, MI 48328 248-674-1212 lutheranchurch.ofthe.ascension@gmail.com Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

We sew quilts every Tuesday at 9 a.m.

ALL ARE WELCOME To Advertise Your Worship Services call the Classified Department at 248-360-7355

VFW Post 4156 321 Union Lake Rd. White Lake, MI 48326 248-698-8302

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ALL YOU CAN EAT

FISH FRY Fridays 5 – 8 p.m. $8 Adults • Senior Discount

BINGO

Thursday & Sunday • 6:15 p.m.

HALL RENTAL AVAILABLE Notice of Posting for Charter Township of Commerce Township Board 1. Synopsis of the October 25, 2011 Quarterly Meeting.

The above synopsis shall be posted (in its entirety) at the following locations: (1) Office of the Township Clerk 2009 Township Drive (2) Main Township Library 2869 North Pontiac Trail (3) Township’s website www.commercetwp.com Daniel P. Munro Township Clerk SC: 11-9-11

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 37

IN OUR OPINION

Bullying is bullying. Period.

Senate GOP should be ashamed of religious exemption t appears as though state House Republicans are coming to the rescue, literally and thankfully, after the state Senate GOP Caucus decided intentionally or unintentionally that it’s hunky-dory to turn a blind eye to bullying without repercussion for the perpetrator if that person — a student, or outrageously, a school employee or volunteer, or even a parent or guardian — has “a sincerely held religious belief or moral conviction.” That should translate to readers as follows: “Psst… Here’s a way to torment gay kids without having to worry about being punished for it.” We’re thrilled that House Republicans seem to have enough wherewithal to fend off the Religious Right — although whether the move is part of a larger political calculus or a genuine moral compass, the jury is still out for us — to scuttle the language in question in Senate Bill (SB) 137, but we’re still incensed that the two state senators representing west Oakland County could cast a “yes” vote on it in the first place.

Rare are the times, as journalists, we are left fuming — but we were irate about this. We don’t believe state Sens. Mike Kowall (R-Commerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) and David Robertson (R-Waterford) are anti-gay or homophobic.

We endorsed them for their current seats last year and don’t regret that decision. By and large, they’ve represented their districts well in the nearly 10 months since they took office in January.

This, however, is an exception — and, in our opinion, a flagrant one. We hope it was merely an oversight on their part.

I

We asked Robertson and Kowall point-blank: “What if someone says ‘God hates fags’ or ‘You’re going to Hell because you’re gay’ to a student. Is that protected under this bill, Senator?” While both rightly and admirably said such anti-gay language has no place in schools — Robertson even seemed shocked by the question — those are precisely the utterances that could feasibly occur without those who said them having to face so much as a raised voice as punishment if SB 137 is enacted in its current form.

And neither lawmaker directly answered the question. That may play well in some Republican voting blocs (we’re not naïve, and it’s likely fait accompli), but it doesn’t with us nor should it with anyone with any semblance of compassion.

Intentionally or not, Kowall, Robertson and their Senate GOP breatheren are, with their vote last week, driving in the northbound lane going south. Suicides among gay teens — and, horrifically, even pre-teens — as a result of bullying are up. According to the It Gets Better Project, 90 percent are bullied or harassed by their peers and an astonishing one-third have attempted to kill themselves. The scorn those students face for their sexuality each and every day is, as it has been called, the last accepted form of bigotry.

And the Michigan Senate wants to codify it into state law — or at least provide a gray area in statute that would give bullies what essentially amounts to a “Get Out of Jail Free” card. That is unacceptable, even if the Senate GOP committed an oversight at best or, at worst, doesn’t care.

Not to mention, all this goes without saying that the following instances of bullying could take place

under the bill as currently drafted without repercussion: • A Christian student could bully a Jewish student for being of the same faith as those who crucified Jesus Christ; • A Muslim student could bully a Christian, Jewish, agnostic, or atheist student for being an “infidel”; or • A pregnant teenage girl could be bullied for having an abortion or, for that matter, choosing not to, based on “deeply held moral convictions.”

But we don’t suspect those possibilities came up during discussion of the substitute bill that received the blessing of Kowall and Robertson, and the unanimous blessing of two dozen of their colleagues.

We suspect the real “animus,” to use language from the legislation itself, is homosexuality. Period. If they had considered those three aforementioned scenarios, we believe it’s likely that the state Senate’s Republican Caucus would have tossed out the language. We suspect it was the Religious Right, eager to maintain a perceived strangle-hold on “virtue” and heteronormativity, that put forth the short-sighted, gay-people-are-destroying-our-social-fabric “solution,” intentionally or unintentionally, to which our elected representatives outrageously acquiesced. Or kowtowed. Or placated. Or didn’t think about enough.

Bullying, of any kind and for any self-justified reason, is reprehensible. Religious or moral justifications for bullying are not justifications at all — they are excuses for closed-mindedness and abusive behavior, not virtue. They are excuses for a sadly accepted hate which should have no place in our society or schools. ❏

Ethics proposal goes too far lthough we almost always appreciate and support proposed reforms targeting unethical situations involving our elected officials, a Michigan Senate Republican’s recent bill addressing potential conflicts of interest is overkill, particularly because it seeks to resolve conflicts before they even exist. We fully suspect the lawmaker had the best of intentions when he sponsored the bill; however, this is one ethics reform proposal that needs to be put on the shelf.

State Sen. Joe Hune (R-Hamburg) wants to avoid any appearance of impropriety or conflicts of interest on school districts’ boards of education. To that end, he’s introduced Senate Bill (SB) 773, which would bar people who have a spouse, child, parent or sibling employed by a school district from seeking election or appointment to that district’s school board.

A

The bill — which was introduced last month and has been referred to the Senate Local Government and Elections Committee — would also vacate school board seats upon a member’s spouse, child, parent or sibling becoming employed by the district that school board governs.

State Sen. David Robertson (R-Waterford), who chairs the state Senate Local Government and Elections Committee, said he’s asked legal counsel for an opinion on whether such a ban would be constitutional.

The constitutional question is legitimate. It’s reasonable to wonder whether the proposal flies in the face of the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, which bars the states from denying “to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”

Hune’s wish to ensure that school board members

and candidates for school board seats avoid any appearance of impropriety is admirable. We have often opined that elected officials must not only evade actual conflicts, but also the mere appearance of impropriety. Yet, his SB 773 goes too far.

Qualified electors have a fundamental right to seek elected office, regardless of family members’ current or potential employment with a school district.

Abridging that right per SB 733 would be unconscionable. Excluding a citizen from serving, or seeking to serve, a school district without cause or a compelling reason puts the cart well before the horse.

Sanctioning, or even seeking to remove an elected school board member when an actual conflict rises to the level of nepotism is another thing altogether. But in the meantime, Hune’s preemptive strike shouldn’t be allowed to be enacted. ❏

PAGE 38

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

WINTER Leonard & Sons Car Care CAR CARE Complete 248-681-7888 HIGHLAND SPECIALS Engine TOWING Don’t Get Left $30OFF Service Light On? 909 North Milford Rd., Highland

Be Car Care Aware!

WINTER CAR CARE CHECK UP

5157 Cass Elizabeth Lk. Rd.

COUPON KICKER

BRAKE SPECIAL

Out In The Cold!

Remember to check: •Antifreeze •Washer Fluid •Engine Oil •Belts & Hoses •Brake Fluid •Wiper Blades •Power Steering Fluid

•Tires •Air Filter •Battery •Exhaust •Lights •Shock Absorbers •Transmission Fluid

Front or rear with FREE 25 point inspection. Includes Wagner Thermo Quiet brake pads or shoes, resurface drums and complete system check.

With coupon. Most Vehicles Expires 12/10/11 SC

FREE DIAGNOSTIC With coupon.

Expires 12/10/11

SC

FREE FREE Complete Oil Change

With Any Tune-up.

Get Ready For The Season!

With coupon.

Expires 12/10/11

SC

Complete Winter Inspection With coupon. Most Vehicles Expires 12/10/11 SC

Includes visual inspection of • Air Filter • Alternator/Starter • Antifreeze/Coolant • Battery • Belts & Hoses • Brake System • Engine Oil • Exhaust System • Power Steering • Shocks & Struts • Tires • Transmission Fluid • Wiper Blades

Available 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. 7 Days a Week

UNWANTED AUTOS Top $ Paid for any Junked • Non Running • Wrecked Car

Free Towing

20% OFF

For Towing Service Call

248-240-2869 For Unwanted Autos Call

248-467-0396

with coupon

Not valid on sale Items.

We Offer Complete Auto Repair Brakes & Exhaust Inspections are always FREE! 784 N. Pontiac Trail (At Maple Road) WALLED LAKE • 248-624-4440

BOB’S COMPLETE AUTO SERVICE COMPLETE AUTO CARE WATERFORD – WHITE LAKE Free Estimates on Collision Repairs

2199 Haggerty Rd. at Pontiac Trail

Across from Walmart • Next to Sonic

1955 Haggerty Rd.

Service, Parts and Body Shop Hours: Monday & Thursday 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

248-668-1955 248-624-4500 Commerce www.morrismotorsmi.com

Fuel Injection • Tune-Ups • Electrical • Driveability Problems

24-Hour Customer Service

Alignments • Shocks / Struts • Brakes Exhaust • Engines • Transmissions

1649 E. West Maple Walled Lake (248) 666-2100

FREE

Battery Testing

248-624-3321

www.abelautorepair.com

TO EXCELLENCE U A DETAIL SHOP Auto, RVs, Boats and Motorcycles •Remote Starters •Window Tinting •Glass Repair •All Paint Repair •All Insurance Work 48875 West Road • Wixom, MI 48393

6497 Highland Road Waterford, MI 48327

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

Allstate Insurance Company

39540 14 Mile Road Walled Lake, MI 48390

Phone 248.960.3000 Email kellyweaver@allstate.com

HONEST QUALITY SERVICE Cars, Trucks, Vans Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

10 N. Williams Lk. Rd. • Waterford 248-698-1494

Kenny Walters

248-668-1200 490 Pontiac Tr. • Walled Lake 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 7 a.m.-7 p.m Wed.

AAA Auto Approved

DATSUN Dan’s Auto Clinic DOCTOR

Van’s Auto Abel Supply Inc. Auto Repair 7575 Highland Road Waterford, MI 48327

Computer Diagnostic Specialists

Kelly B. Weaver

851 N. Pontiac Trail 6357 Highland (M-59) Walled Lake, MI 48390 Waterford, MI 48327

248-666-2612 www.MazzaAutoParts.com

PROMPT TRANSMISSION 3310 New Farm Ct. #1 Walled Lake, MI 48390 FREE COMPUTER DIAGNOSTIC SCAN BEST “NO HASSLE” WARRANTY IN THE BUSINESS!

248-666-3006 (248) 669-8760

(Half block east of Wixom Rd.)

www.TownandCountryAutobodyInc.com

ASK YOUR NEIGHBORS ABOUT US!!!

248-960-3642

E-mail: TandCAutobody@yahoo.com

www.prompttrans.com

1795 Sherwin Ct. Waterford

248-669-3756

We Service All Japanese Models

Serving the Lakes Area for Over 30 Years

(248) 666-1350

Trucks and Cars

Reg# F103029

RADIATOR OUTLET Complete Collision

• Misc. Welding • Glass Work • Radiators 2188 N. Milford Rd. (1-1/2 mi. N. of M-59) Highland, MI 48357

Serving the Lakes Area for Over 30 Years Family Owned & Operated

Towing Available

Highland Tire & Auto Repair COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR TIRE SALES & SERVICE

248-887-2944 • 248-887-3758 7421 Highland Road

(248) 887-2297 (248) 887-3397

White Lake, MI 48383

Fax (248) 887-5004

Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

1/4 mile east of Alpine Valley Ski Lodge

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 39

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ White Lake Township: Helping Hands Food Donation Program for low-income people held now through Wednesday, Nov. 30. Containers for for non-perishable food items located at Township Offices, Police Department, Fire Department, and Dublin Senior Center. For additional information, 248-698-3300, ext. 6.

■ Village Fine Arts Association: “Views & Visions” art show and sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and 10 a.m.5 p.m. Saturday now through Nov. 26, 205 Livingston Road off North Milford Road, Highland. 248-797-3060 or 248-8898660.

■ Zonta Club of Pontiac North Oakland: Meeting, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, Crown Plaza Hotel, Opdyke Road, Auburn Hills.

248-852-6533 or zontapontiacnorthoakland.org.

■ Milford United Methodist Church: Holiday Marketplace, Saturday, Nov. 12, 1200 Atlantic Street, Milford. 248-6842798.

■ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Craft show and bake sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 12, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. Free admission. 248-6820770.

■ St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows: Craft show, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 1955 E. Commerce Road, Milford. 248366-5394 or email ccathys@comcast.net.

■ Detroit Model Railroad Club: And Model Railroad Museum, open house, noon-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 12-13, 104 N. Saginaw, Holly. 248-634-5811 or www.dmrrc.org.

■ St. William Parish: Rosary Altar Society’s Turkey Bingo with luncheon and three-story furnished doll house raffle, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13, St. William Parish off Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake. Doors open at noon. 248-685-2025.

■ Jewish Ensemble Theatre:”Imagining Madoff,” drama, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, 2 and 6:30 p.m.

Sundays now through Nov. 13, Jewish Community Center, 6600 W. Maple, West Bloomfield. 248-788-2900 or www.jettheatre.org.

■ Lakes Area Rotary Club: Speaker Peggy Burkhart on Donate Life Coalition of Michigan, noon Tuesday, Nov. 15, Bayside Grill, 142 E. Walled Lake Drive, Walled Lake. 248-770-2707.

■ Four Towns United Methodist Church:

Spaghetti dinner, carry outs available, 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, 6451 Cooley Lake road, Waterford. 248-682-0211 or 248682-6868.

■ Bethany North Oakland Singles Dance: “Dear” Hunters Ball, 8 p.m.-midnight Saturday, Nov. 19, VFW Post 1008, 1690 Airport Road, Waterford. $12 admission/$2 veteran discount. 248-891-8938.

■ Scott Lake Baptist Church: Holiday Cookie Exchange Party, bring two dozen of your favorite cookies to mix and match with new friends; refreshments will be served; all are welcome; 6:15 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, 811 Scott Lake Road, Waterford.

248-681-1681.

■ Dad’s of Foreign Service: Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Sundays, VFW Post 4156, 321 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Light dinner, snacks available for purchase. www.vfw4156.org or 248-698-8302.

1147, ext. 3434.

SUPPORT GROUPS ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addition recovery meetings, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Life Point Christian Church, 501 Scott Lake Road, Waterford.

248-682-1747. ❐ Divorce Care: Support group meeting for adults and children, 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile, Novi. 248-755-9533. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 248-807-8667 or foodaddicts.org. ❐ Independence Village of White Lake: Volunteers needed part time for bingo, coffee chat, walking group, etc., 935 Union Lake Road, White Lake. 248-360-7235.

■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248-5200095.

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

■ Waterford Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, The Shark Club on M-59, Waterford. 248-625-4897.

❐ 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.

■ Big Chief Chorus: Rehearsals, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, Waterford Oaks Activity Center, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford. 248698-9133 or 248-563-2109.

■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Knitters circle, 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Highland Station House, Highland. 248685-9015.

■ (Breakfast) Optimist Club of Waterford: Meeting, 7:15 a.m. Thursdays, Big Boy Restaurant, M-59 and Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-3493.

■ Multi-Lakes Conservation Association: All-you-can-eat fish fry, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Fridays, 3860 Newton Road Commerce.

248-363-9109.

■ Grace Hospice: Volunteers with reliable transportation needed to visit terminally-ill patients and family members in our communities. Free training and classes are now forming. 1-888-937-4390.

■ 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-

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

248-937-5220.

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: Lunch, Bingo and cards, 11:30 a.m. Mondays and Fridays, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake.

Registration. 248-698-2394. ❐ 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: Bingo,

noon Mondays and Wednesdays; Sit’N’Stitch, 10 a.m., and movie with popcorn, noon, Fridays, 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. 248-926-0063 or commercetwp.com. ❐ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Senior Stretch and Tone, 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. 248-6820770. ❐ Waterford Senior Center: Art Expression, 9 a.m. Thursdays, 3621 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford.

Registration. 248-682-9450. ❐ West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Senior Programs: Line Dancing, 11 a.m.

Fridays at the Corners, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield.

Registration. 248-451-1900. ❐ Wixom Senior Center: Exercise, Mondays and Wednesdays, Coffee Talk, Thursdays, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom.

Registration. 248-624-0870 or wixomgov.org.

PARKS ❐ Huron-Clinton Metroparks: Will waive vehicle entry fees and boat launch fees on Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11; and Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 24 and Friday, Nov. 25 for its “Appreciation Days” Program. For more information, call the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority at 1-800-477-2757 or visit metroparks.com. ❐ Indian Springs Metropark Environmental Discovery Center: Tot Time-Feathered Friends, Brownies — Science Wonders, and Magnificent Moon, Saturday, Nov. 12, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Registration.

1-800-477-3192 or 248-625-7280. ❐ Kensington Farm Center: Farmer for a Day, ages 7-15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, Kensington Metropark, Milford.

Registration. 248-684-8632. ❐ Kensington Nature Center: Nature’s Nutcases, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6; “Webelos-Geologist,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 12; Animal Tracks on Tshirts, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13, Kensington Metropark, Milford. 248685-1561 or 1-800-477-3178.

PAGE 40 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 40

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Continued

program, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Registration. 248684-0845.

❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 39

PARKS 20 YEARS AGO Nov. 6, 1991 Although the Holocaust Memorial Center in West Bloomfield recently lost a major chunk of state funding, local legislators have hopes of replacing the lost money.

The center fell under Gov. John Engler's budget ax recently and was denied about $110,000 in funding along with 12 other museums around the state. According to state Sen. David Honigman (R-Orchard Lake, Walled Lake, Commerce, Highland, Milford, West Bloomfield, White Lake, Wolverine Lake), the governor vetoed every museum grant that came across his desk.

Honigman said he was assured by officials in the Engler administration that the governor would not veto the funds, so the veto came as a surprise.

Honigman said the chances are "very high" that the center will receive funds 40 YEARS AGO through the Our State Equity Program.

Nov. 10, 1971 West Bloomfield Township, he said, Waterford building contractor Leon must apply to the state for the Blachura has been convicted of perjury Holocaust Center. for lying to an Oakland County citizens 10 YEARS AGO grand jury about his ownership in a parNov. 7, 2001 cel of property to be developed for a KWaterford Township police plan to Mart store.

Blachura was found guilty of lying aggressively pursue the punishment of when he said that County Drain two Waterford Kettering High School Commissioner Daniel W. Barry and students whose alleged desire to get out Barry's former chief deputy, James R. of school for a day via an anthrax scare Nichols, had no interest in the parcel has already meant suspension and crim(located at Cass Lake Road and M-59) inal charges.

Police Chief John Dean said two and that he had never told the two that brothers, age 14 and 16, allegedly they had an interest in it.

Both Barry and Nichols are awaiting poured flour into a white envelope left trails on grand grand jury charges rang- in the commons area of the school ing from misuse of public funds to around 7 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30, in order to launch an anthrax scare. bribery.

Police arrested the two juveniles last 30 YEARS AGO week following the incident. They have Nov. 11, 1981 each been charged with one count of The long-empty T-Way department possessing an intimidation biological store in Union Lake is to be the site of a substance, punishable by a maximum of mini-mall, Don Lacey of Union Lake five years in prison and a $25,000 fine.

Developers, Inc., announced last week.

Built around an international theme, Lacey said the store will be divided in half with a 35-foot-wide aisle down the middle of the building and 15-foot-wide secondary aisles.

Within this middle section will be tables and chairs for shoppers to relax and dine.

On both side of the aisles will be approximately two dozen shops, he said.

Complementing the food shops will be at least 12 other merchants, Lacey said, also chosen to fit into the center's international theme.

50 YEARS AGO Nov. 9, 1961 The Jaycee Halloween Party at Atkins' subterranean was a smash.

The affair, billed as the "Fourth Annual Jacee- Jayette PreThanksgiving, Post-Labor Day Halloween Blast was chaired by Art Liss. Co-chairmen included Dean Smith, Dick Murphy, Bruce Enfield, and Chuck Duff. The faithful auxiliary lent a big hand.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Count Dracula and Vampire, Fu Man Chu, Anthony and Cleopatra, Fred and Wilma Flintstone, the Jolly Green Giant, Raggedy Ann and Andy were among the 40 "odd" guests.

The party went down as one of the most successful Jaycee social events of the year.

Headlines of the Past

– A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly –

❐ Oakland County Parks: Free park entry to all guests in honor of Veterans’ Day on Friday, Nov. 11. Guests can hike, bike and enjoy the natural surroundings at Addison Oaks, Highland Oaks, Independence Oaks and Rose Oaks county parks. The dog parks at Lyon Oaks, Orion Oaks and Red Oaks are ideal for dogs and their owners. For more information about Oakland County Parks and Recreation, visit DestinationOakland.com or Facebook.

LIBRARY EVENTS ❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Celebrate National Gaming Day, teen program, 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. 248-6698108 or commercelibrary.info. ❐ Highland Township Public Library: Let’s Melt Things! teen program, 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland.

Registration. 248-887-2218. ❐ Milford Public Library: More with Facebook, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10; Jane Austen Book Club, “Persuasion,” adult

❐ Walled Lake City Library: Afternoon Book Discussion, adult program, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake. Registration. 248-624-3772. ❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Saturday Special I-Spy Fun for ages 608, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. Registration. 248672-4831. ❐ West Bloomfield Public Library: Saturday Morning LIVE, stories, songs, activities, birth to age 5, 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration. 248-851-0463 or www.wblib.org/friends. ❐ White Lake Township Library: Fun with Shrinky Dinks, teen program, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 15, 7527 E. Highland Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-698-4942. ❐ Wixom Public Library:Author visit, Jeremy Brown (“Suckerpunch”), book signing and presentation, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom.

Registration. 248-624-2512.

Internet Directory

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 VISITING NURSES & THERAPISTS Affinity Home Care Agency, Inc. www.affinityhomecareagency.com

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 41

Isn’t it about time… For the time of your life Luxury Living in Milford for Savvy Adults 55+

1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT HOMES Heritage Place is a beautiful independent living apartment community, designed specifically for adults age 55+, at an affordable price. Forget having to pay for meals you do not want to eat, forget about $3,000–$5,000 rents, and say goodbye to worrying about mowing the lawn or shoveling snow. Instead you will have all of the luxuries of your own home, without the stress of daily upkeep.

Enjoy an array of floor plans, scheduled activities, and amenities including movie theatre, billiards room, fitness center, craft room, computer library and beauty salon. Optional in-home washer and dryer and indoor garage parking available.

Farmer’s Market & Craft Show Monday, November 14th 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Public Welcome!

ily Fam d & e n w O rated Ope

248.676.2121

700 NAPA VALLEY DRIVE, MILFORD, MI 48381 www.hp-rv.com

“Come Taste the Freshness”

Call A & H head It Re ave ady!

We make our dough daily from our own recipe. Our sauce recipe was developed by Chris and includes vine-ripened tomatoes and full-flavored herbs that will keep you coming back for more.

Our special blend of the finest cheeses are unsurpassed in the pizza world.

We also feature garden-fresh salads, piled high with delicious veggies and seasonal fruits.

Fresh Artisan Bread from local Bakers with roasted meats from the Village Butcher.

SANDWICHES: Liberty Street Asiago Beef • Corned Beef or Turkey Reuben • Millstone Grinder • Kensington Turkey • Ham & Swiss on Marble Rye • Grilled Cheese • Peanut Butter & Jelly • Create Your Own WRAP SANDWICHES: Spinach & Hummus • Southwest Chicken • Turkey • Roast Beef SALADS: Summer • Greek • Garden • Southwest • Antipasto • Half Sandwich & Half Salad PIZZA: Hand Tossed • Pan Pizza • Thin Crust CALZONE • ITALIAN CHEESE BREAD • WINGS

SALAD SPECIAL PAN PIZZA SPECIAL ONE DAY SPECIAL Purchase One Full Size 15” $ 00 DINNER SALAD & Pepperoni Receive a Second Salad OFF Any Full Salad PAN $ 99 NO CHARGE

1

S. Milford Rd.

rs oto al M ner Ge

Rd.

Panda’s Kitchen

Taco Bell

SC

SC

SC

9

Summer, Greek, Garden, Southwest, Antipasto

PIZZA

With coupon. Not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 11/23/11.

With coupon. Not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 11/23/11.

of the same size value or less at

With coupon.

Not to be combined with any other offer.

Valid Sunday, Nov. 13th only.

145 South Milford Road • Milford, Michigan 48381

www.frescopizzacafe.com Call for carryout or delivery!

248.714.5916

The Spinal Column Newsweekly is looking for west Oakland's longest married couples for recognition in our Seniors Today special section, which will be published on Jan. 18, 2012.

Send us a copy of your wedding or engagement photo, along with information about the wedding, by Wed., Jan. 4, 2012.

We will feature the area's longest married couple in an article and photo layout that tells their story.

Send your photos and information to Editor Tim Dmoch, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014; or via e-mail to timdmoch@thescngroup.com.

PAGE 42

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

pen Now O

Hope Houses

OUTLET MALL 728 N. PONTIAC TRAIL, WALLED LAKE

By Melvin’s Ace Hardware

~SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS WANTED~

Jewelry • Gifts Purses • Clothing FRI & SAT 9-7 • SUN 9-4

248-960-0390 We’ve Gone

DIGITAL! If you’d like to receive our full edition in your email box, send your request to: signmeup@thescngroup.com

Weeds•Reeds Muck•Bugs www.oaklandlakefront.com CITY OF WALLED LAKE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Community Development Block NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Walled Lake will hold a public hearing on the use of Community Development Block Grant Funds. The hearing will be held on Monday, November 14, 2011 at 8:15 p.m. at the Walled Lake City Hall, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake, Michigan 48390 for the purpose of hearing public comments on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Year 2012 application in the approximate amount of $20,000 dollars to fund eligible projects.

All interested citizens are requested to attend the hearing. Comments will also be received in writing or in person at City Hall. Arrangements to reasonably accommodate special needs, including handicap accessibility or interpreter, will be made upon receiving 72-hour advance notice. Contact Jennifer Stuart at 248-624-4847 for special services.

Jennifer Stuart, Deputy Treasurer S.C. 11-9-11

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Walled Lake Central’s Curtis Booth rushes into the end zone for one of his two touchdowns in the Vikings’ 45-26 victory at Clarkston in a Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 district final on Friday, Nov. 4. The Vikings will next take on Utica Eisenhower on the road in a Division 1 regional final on Friday, Nov. 11. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Vikings impale Wolves, 45-26 Central eyeing regional title against Eisenhower on Friday

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Last week, Walled Lake Central faced an opponent from the tough Oakland Activities Association (OAA) Red Division on the road for a second straight game and not only came away with a victory, but also a district playoff championship.

The Vikings defeated the Clarkston Wolves, 45-26, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA)

Division 1 district final on Friday, Nov. 4.

The victory earned Central (8-3) its second-straight district title after it won a Division 2 district crown last season.

View VIDEO CLIPS relative to this story at www.spinalcolumnonline.com

“Our boys came out very focused and played their best football of the season,”

said Central Head Coach Robert Meyer.

“Playing football in November isn’t good enough for us.”

Central will next look to win its second-straight regional championship when it travels to face Utica Eisenhower (10-1) in a Division 1 regional final on Friday, Nov. 11.

Heading into their game against Clarkston (7-4) last Friday, the Vikings were coming off a victory over defending Division 1 state champion Lake Orion in

the pre-district round.

Meyer was absent from most of the team’s practices this past week due to the passing of his mother.

“I told the staff I was going to be relying heavily on the assistant coaches and they said, ‘Don’t worry, we got it,’” Meyer said. “We’re not a football team, we’re a football family.”

The Vikings rallied around their coach, took the field and grabbed a 7-

PAGE 44 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 44

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

FOOTBALL

Central Vikings ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 43

0 lead in the first quarter on a 1-yard touchdown run by K.J. Schultz.

In the second quarter, Curtis Booth scored on a 9-yard touchdown run for Central before quarterback Zac Leimbach added a 1-yard touchdown run for a 21-0 Vikings’ lead.

Mitch Baenzinger then put the Wolves on the board with a 42-yard touchdown pass to Mike Schwartz. The extra point was missed.

But a 35-yard field goal by Bryan Maxwell gave the Vikings a 24-6 halftime lead.

Central’s defense then made its presence felt in the third quarter when Zach Percha forced a fumble by Baenziger, which was then scooped up

by Zach Hill and taken back 20 yards for a touchdown.

Baenziger responded with an 80yard touchdown pass to Schwartz, but the Wolves again missed the extra point and trailed 31-12 at the end of the third quarter.

Schultz scored his second touchdown on a 9-yard run in the fourth PAGE 45 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Walled Lake Central quarterback Zac Leimbach scores on a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter of the Vikings’ district final win over Clarkston on Friday, Nov. 4. Leimbach rushed for 72 yards on 15 carries while completing 6-of-7 passes for 114 yards. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

FOOTBALL

Bambard kick gives Western district crown

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Edgewood Country Club Proudly introduces for a limited time:

“Renaissance Premier Awards Membership Program, It Has Arrived” Experience all of what Edgewood Country Club has to showcase!

“Now is The Time, Edgewood Country Club Is the Place!”

Now thru December 31st, 2011 Only!

Please contact Ruth Muir, Membership Director at (248) 363-7112 for complete information.

Three points was all that was needed to give Walled Lake Western its first district playoff championship in a decade.

The Warriors grinded out a 3-0 victory at home over South Lyon in an MHSAA Division 2 district final on Friday, Nov. 4.

Kyle Bambard kicked a 46-yard field goal just before halftime that would turn out to be the game’s only points.

The win marked Western’s (10-1) first district title since it defeated Canton in a Division 1 district final in 2001.

The Warriors’ previous district final appearance was in 2005, where they fell to Orchard Lake St. Mary’s.

Western will next travel to Port Huron on Friday, Nov. 11 to face the 101 Big Reds in a Division 2 Regional Final. Port Huron is coming off its firstever district championship in a 27-21 victory over Rochester Adams on Friday, Nov. 4.

South Lyon (7-4) was in the midst of its first state playoff appearance in four seasons and first district final since 2006.

Both teams punted on their first two drives before Brent Zdebski rushed from his own 24-yard line to the South Lyon 15 before he fumbled the ball and the Lions recovered deep in their own territory.

Starting at their own 9-yard line, the Lions drove to the Western 18.

Trevor Hilden then attempted a 30yard field goal, but the Warriors blocked it, keeping the game scoreless.

The next six drives resulted in a punt before Western took over at its own 12yard line. Bambard rushed for 44 yards on the drive while Brent Zdebski rushed for 13.

Western also gained 15 yards when South Lyon was assessed a personal foul penalty.

After three incomplete passes, Bambard nailed his 46-yard field goal to put Western up at halftime.

The third quarter was scoreless and Western had a chance to increase its lead on its second-to-last drive of the game in the fourth quarter, but Bambard missed a 47-yard field goal attempt.

The Lions then began at their own 20 and quarterback Derek Talaga completed two passes of 26 and 12 yards for two first downs.

PAGE 45 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 45

FOOTBALL

Central Vikings ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 44

quarter before Baenziger followed with a 25-yard touchdown run.

Booth scored his second touchdown on a 25-yard run before Baenziger concluded the scoring with a 23-yard touchdown pass to Joey Goss.

Schultz finished with 119 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 12 carries as well as 4 receptions for 100 yards.

Booth had 19 carries for 100 yards and 2 touchdowns while Leimbach completed 6-of-7 passes for 114 yards.

Leimbach also rushed for 72 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries.

“I thought we caught Clarkston a little banged-up,” Meyer said. “The tripleoption isn’t something they’ve seen before.”

The Vikings will now prepare for Eisenhower, which posted its fourth consecutive shutout in a 13-0 victory over Romeo last week in a district final.

Last season, the Eagles fell in a Division 1 regional final, 17-10, to Lake Orion.

“The Eisenhower defense is phenomenal,” Meyer said. “They’re very athletic and we’ll have our work cut out for us. But if we have alignment, assignment and execution, we should be OK. We’re looking forward to playing Eisenhower and marching towards gaining more respect.”

Western Warriors ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 44

After an incomplete pass, Talaga was sacked by Brent Zdebski and Zack Mitchell for a loss of 9 yards.

Following completion of a 9-yard pass to Jake Sexton, the Lions faced fourth-down-and-11. Talaga’s ensuing pass was incomplete and the Warriors were able to run out the clock.

Western gained 269 total yards, with 239 coming on the ground, while South Lyon had 150 total yards, with 121 coming through the air.

Brent Zdebski finished with 131 yards rushing on 16 carries while Bambard had 66 yards rushing on 11 carries for the Warriors.

On defense, Brent Zdebski had 5 solo tackles and a sack while Jason Gamble and Ty Sickler each had 4 solo tackles.

Talaga completed 8-of-26 passes for 121 yards for the Lions, while Justin Tolinski had 7 solo tackles.

Western will now face the tough task of a long road trip to Port Huron and taking on an upstart Big Reds team with nothing to lose and riding the

Huron Valley Lakeland earned the 2011 Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) Lakes Conference championship with a straight-set victory at home over Brighton on Tuesday, Oct. 18. Pictured in the front row from left to right are: Carolyn Niehaus, Lindsey Hansard , Lindsay Tanner, Ciara Schultz, and Shanna Gitre. In the middle row from left to right are: Kalie Marantette, Alyssa Alderson, Jordan Bromley, and Caitlin Wojichowski. In the back row from left to right are: Kelly Merkle, Brittany Leonard, Mary Armstrong, and Maddie Harris. (Photo by Lydia Armstrong)

wave of their best season in school history.

The Warriors’ last appearance in a regional final came in 2001, a 50-12 victory over Detroit Pershing.

Eaglets’ ground game thrashes Thurston in rout

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Orchard Lake St. Mary’s won its third consecutive district championship in convincing fashion as it defeated Redford Thurston, 62-20, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 3 district final on Friday, Nov. 4.

With the win, the Eaglets earned a home matchup with Linden (7-4) in a Division 3 regional final on Saturday, Nov. 12.

The Eaglets (9-2) won their sixth district title in eight seasons with a punishing rushing attack that wore the Eagles down.

“(Thurston) did a good job consuming the ball, but we made defensive adjustments and our offensive line did a nice job,” said St. Mary’s Head Coach George Porritt.

Thurston (92) scored first when Devin Riles threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Eric Wilson in the first quarter, but the Eagles Porritt missed the extra point.

Spencer McInnis then put the Eaglets on the board with a 19-yard touchdown run for a 7-6 lead at the end of the first.

St. Mary’s then poured it on as it scored 28 straight points on three touchdown runs by Grant Niemiec and a 38-yard touchdown run by McInnis to lead 35-14 at halftime.

McInnis then took a kickoff back 98 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter before Niemeic scored

on a 31-yard touchdown run and Charles Croone Jr. scored on a 2-yard touchdown run, as the Eaglets led 56-12 at the end of the third.

Jalen Watts-Jackson’s 31-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth concluded the Eaglets’ scoring.

Niemeic finished with 145 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 15 carries, while McInnis had 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries in addition to his kickoff return touchdown.

Last season, St. Mary’s defeated Redford Thurston in a Division 3 regional final, 45-7.

Now the Eaglets will prepare to host Linden in the hopes of winning their third straight regional championship.

“Linden is quick on defense and they have a good passing attack,” Porritt said. “I feel we’re in good physical shape. We’re playing good football and we’re taking no steps back.”

PAGE 46

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

VOLLEYBALL

Lakers prevail for title; other teams’ seasons cut short Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes claimed a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class D district championship on its home floor with a straight-set victory over Clarkston Everest Collegiate on Thursday, Nov. 3.

The Lakers won 25-9, 25-15, 25-20 and played Bloomfield Hills Roeper in a Class D regional semi-final at Westland Huron Valley Lutheran yesterday, Tuesday, Nov. 8, after press time.

The winner will face either Marine City Cardinal Mooney or Allen Park Inter-City Baptist in a regional final at Lutheran tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 10.

Abbigayle Kline had 9 aces and 2 kills for Our Lady. Lindsay Ross had 5 kills and Denise Valent had 10 digs.

The Lakers began the district tournament on Monday, Oct. 31 by defeating the Frankel Jewish Academy, 25-7, 25-13, 25-18.

Valent had 3 kills and a block while Kelly Meehan had 11 digs and 3 kills and Haley Howell had 14 assists, 3 blocks and 2 kills.

• Walled Lake Central (26-19-5) saw its season come to an end with a straight-set loss to Huron Valley Milford, 12-25, 19-25, 17-25, in an MHSAA Class A district semi-final on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at Huron Valley Lakeland.

“We didn’t do a good job of executing our game plan at all in our match against Milford,” said Central Head Coach Cathy Johnson. “They outplayed us and deserved the victory. However, I’m still very proud of our team for winning 26 matches this year. We had a good season despite the many weeks we were without key players due to illnesses.”

Brittany Guldan had 11 assists and 4 kills for the Vikings while Colleen Starrs had 18 digs and Alex Vuichard had 10 digs.

Central began district tournament play on Tuesday, Nov. 1 with a victory over Hartland, 25-23, 21-25, 25-16, 26-24.

“We did a good job of executing our game plan to beat Hartland,” Johnson said. “Our blockers did an outstanding job of closing down the Hartland hitters.”

Guldan had 17 assists and 14 kills while Mikaela Beck had 18 kills, Gia Morianti had 13 kills and Starrs had 22 digs.

“Our JV program led by Zoey PAGE 47 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Huron Valley Lakeland celebrated its third consecutive MHSAA district title on its home floor after a straight set victory over Huron Valley Milford on Friday, Nov. 4. Pictured in the front row from left to right are: Mary Armstrong, Brittany Leonard, Lindsey Hansard, Ciara Schultz and Caitlin Wojichowski. In the middle row from left to right are: Kelly Merkle, Maddie Harris, Blaire Blaszczak, Jordan Bromley, Alyssa Alderson, Shanna Gitre, Carolyn Niehaus, Kalie Marantette, and Assistant Dan Niehaus. In the back row from left to right are: Head Coach Jen Cottrill, Amanda Breitenbach, Lindsay Tanner, and Assistant Coach Ricky Cottrill. (Photo submitted by Lydia Armstrong)

Eagles down Mavs for crown Mental focus, hard work key in Lakeland’s straight-set ‘W’

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Huron Valley Lakeland claimed its third consecutive Michigan High School Athletic Association district title on its home floor at the expense of its rival, Huron Valley Milford.

The Eagles defeated the Mavericks in three straight sets; 32-30, 26-24 and 25-11 in a Class A district final on Friday, Nov. 4.

“This is something that our team set as a goal at the beginning of the season and have been working so hard day in and out to achieve,” said Lakeland Head Coach Jennifer Cottrill.

“I thought the team did an outstanding job of staying mentally focused on the task at hand and not the team on the other side of the net this week.”

Milford Head Coach Jeffrey Stark said the final set was awful and disappointing to his team.

“Lakeland is good, but as seen in the previous two sets we are better then this,” Stark said. “It was a great

night overall, especially the first two sets, but I feel bad, heartbroken really, that this last set is what our seniors will walk away from the game with. This is a really great team with fantastic athletes and I really wanted them to win on the court.”

Mary Armstrong led Lakeland with 13 kills while Brittany Leonard had 11 kills.

Ciara Schultz also had 10 kills, 42 assists and 18 digs for Lakeland while Lindsay Hansard had 30 digs.

“I thought my seniors did an amazing job. Hansard played very consistent all week, which enables Schultz to run a very efficient offense,” Cottrill said. “This allowed Leonard and Armstrong an opportunity to dominate at the net.

“Caitlin Wojichowski is our team’s unsung hero as she never gets the recognition that the other players do but her hard work, leadership and voice on the court allows us to be as successful as we have been,” Cottrill

added.

Lakeland played Canton in a Class A Regional semi-final at Brighton on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

The winner will face either Brighton or Farmington Hills Mercy in the regional final on Thursday, Nov. 10 at Brighton.

Last season, the Eagles fell to Mercy in five sets in the regional semi-final. Mercy went on to finish as the Class A state runner-up to Bloomfield Hills Marian.

Milford’s Rachel Kopf finished the district tournament with a total of 23 kills, while Dagny Stark had 15 kills.

Jonna Villemure was 37-for-37 serving for the tournament with 2 aces and 57 assists, while Erin Winn had zero errors throughout the tournament and was 22-for-22 serving with 7 kills and 23 digs and was 12for-12 in serve receive.

Lakeland began the district tournament on Tuesday, Nov. 1 with a PAGE 47 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

CROSS COUNTRY

VOLLEYBALL

Volleyball updates

Milford takes 1st in XC finals; Zuk, Finn both claim crowns

❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 46

Robinson had an outstanding season this year and we know that we have some very good players coming up through our program for the years to come,” Johnson said.

“Central is an outstanding high school and our volleyball program will keep improving with hard work and dedication from all those involved with our program.”

• West Bloomfield saw its season ended in an MHSAA Class A district semi-final against host Hartland, 1925, 25-15, 25-22, 19-25, 11-15 on Thursday, Nov. 3.

Jackie Pyles had 23 kills and 44 digs for the Lakers (16-18-2), while Missy Christenson added 6 kills and 37 digs.

Tara Heald also had 7 kills while Lauren Merchak had 36 digs.

“We battled hard all night,” said Lakers Head Coach Julian Wargo. “Who knows, a dig here, a hit here and we are celebrating a victory. It was that close tonight.

“I am sad that the season is over, but I am not disappointed in how we played,” Wargo said. “We improved all season long and we were very competitive down the stretch. I am especially proud of my seniors. We really wanted to send them out on a high note.”

West Bloomfield began district play on Tuesday, Nov. 1 with a straight-set victory over Farmington Hills Harrison, 25-22, 25-21, 25-16.

Pyles led the Lakers with 15 kills, 30 digs and 2 blocks while Christenson had 8 kills along with 18 digs. Merchak also had 24 digs.

“I am proud of how tough we played.

We never lost our poise, and that gave us a lot of confidence when we started the third match,” Wargo said.

• Waterford Kettering defeated Waterford Mott in a district semi-final on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at Troy, 25-16, 25-19, 25-18.

However, the Captains would fall to host Troy in the district final, 25-16, 25-22, 26-24, on Friday, Nov. 4.

Kettering started the district tournament with a five-set victory over Troy Athens, 18-25, 25-22, 25-21, 20-25, 16-14, on Monday, Oct. 31.

• Walled Lake Western’s season came to an end with a straight-set loss to Farmington Hills Mercy on Thursday, Nov. 3 at Farmington.

Mercy would go on to defeat host Farmington in the district final on Friday, Nov. 4.

PAGE 47

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Huron Valley Milford’s Dagny Stark (No. 10) had 15 kills in the 2011 Michigan High School Athletic Association district tournament. The Mavericks defeated Walled Lake Central in the district semi-finals, but fell to rival Huron Valley Lakeland in the district final. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Lakeland Eagles ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 46

straight-set victory over Howell, 2516, 25-16, 25-13.

Armstrong had 9 kills. Schultz had 21 assists and 5 kills and Hansard had 18 digs.

Then in the district semi-finals on Wednesday, Nov. 2, Lakeland took down rival Walled Lake Northern at home in straight sets, 25-12, 25-16, 25-17.

Schultz had 11 kills, 4 aces, 30 assists and 19 digs. Wojichowski had 7 kills, 5 assists and 9 digs.

Meanwhile, Milford had a firstround bye and played in the other semi-final on Nov. 2 against Walled Lake Central at Lakeland.

The Mavs trailed 9-4 in the first set and Stark called a time-out.

“I asked the girls if they were done yet so that we could move past the bad play and into the good stuff,” Stark said.

Milford then went on a 21-3 run to close out the first set and then won the next two sets, 25-19, 2517.

The Mavs finished the season at 25-17-3.

West Oakland’s cross country teams shined at the 2011 Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) state finals, with Huron Valley Milford claiming the Division 1 boys’ title, Huron Valley Lakeland’s Garrett Zuk winning the Division 1 boys’ individual crown, and West Bloomfield’s Erin Finn taking the Division 1 girls’ individual title.

Huron Valley Milford claimed the Division 1 boys’ state title at the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Mich., with a team total time of 79:48 (128 points). The Mavericks’ runners included Brian Kettle (15:24.3), Cody Snavely (15:37.1), Paul Ausum (15:51.3), Chris Housel (16:27.2), Matt Graves (16:28.9), Steven Sloboda (16:47.3) and Shawn Welch (17:14.8).

Milford finished ahead of Hartland (172 points), Waterford Mott (177 points), Saline (186 points) and Huron Valley Lakeland (188 points).

However, it was Lakeland’s Zuk who took the Division 1 individual crown with a time of 15:21.2, with Milford’s Kettle, a sophomore, taking the runner-up slot and Snavely coming in fifth-place.

Ausum came in 13th while freshman Sam Albaugh of Waterford Mott finished 25th with a time of 15:58.3.

On the girls’ side, Finn, a West Bloomfield junior, claimed the Division 1 title with a time of 17:22.6, finishing ahead of Rockford’s Taylor Mennett (17:24).

Walled Lake Western senior Julia Valencia finished 13th with a time of 18:25.1, while Milford sophomore Rachel Barrett claimed 15th with a time of 18:30.8 and Lakeland’s Morgan Bridgewater finished 26th with a time of 18:45.

Waterford Mott was the lakes area’s highest-finishing girls’ team, as they came in 25th-place.

PAGE 48

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

WEST OAKLAND SUPER WANT ADS SUPER RATES! SUPER REACH! PHONE 248.360.7355 • Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5 FAX 24/7• 248.360.5308

WANT ADS APPEAR ON www.spinalcolumnonline.com

NOTICES 01-08

REAL ESTATE 12-22

MOBILE HOMES 42-43

RENTALS 45-57

ABSOLUTELY FREE WANT ADS • Absolutely Free (#90): An item must be offered FREE to appear in this category. The want ad is FREE to you. One item per ad, one ad per family on any given week. Column is for non-commercial ads only.

• Items under $25: Advertise an item for $25 or less and a 10-word want ad is FREE. Special rates for items over $25.

• Used Vehicle: Five weeks FREE for private party vehicles. Charge your first week and we schedule it for 5 more weeks. Call to cancel when sold.

• Found: Found a lost item? We will run an ad for FREE (#3/Found) to help you find the owner.

MERCHANDISE 89-138

LEISURE TIME 142-159

RECREATION

BOATS 162-179

CARS, TRUCKS CYCLES 181-196

• Reunions (#4): Published FREE for 4 weeks.

HELP WANTED 60-75

JOBS WANTED 77-86

PERSONAL

HIGHLIGHT YOUR AD

SERVICES

For further emphasis add an icon or shade your ad for only $5.

☺ ★

REPAIR IMPROVEMENT

SERVICES

DEADLINES IN PRINT and On-Line 24/7

MONDAY AT 5 • Word Ads • One-Column Ads

FRIDAY AT 5 • Display Ads • Free Ads • Cancellations/Corrections

CHARGE IT

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

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

CONVENIENT CATEGORY LISTINGS 1 2 3 4 5 6 8

NOTICES

JOB WANTED

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

77 82 83 84 85 86

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

47 49 50 52 55 56 57

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

MERCHANDISE

Lakefront Homes/ Property New Houses Open Houses Condos/Flats/Co-ops Vacation Homes/ Cottages Commercial/Indust.

Michigan/Other Areas Other States Vacation Land/Acre.

Investment/Inc. Prop.

Business Opport.

RENTALS 45 46

Hartland

Banquet/Party Fac. Vacation Homes/ Cottages/T. Shares Commercial/Indust.

Shop. Center Units Office Space Storage Houses/Condos Apartments Rooms/Share Qtrs.

89 90 91 93 95 96 100 101 105 107 112 114 115 117 119 122 125 128 129 130 132 133 134 137 138

Used/Wanted 100% Free Antiques Collectibles Coins/Stamps Dia./Jewelry/Gold Cemetery Plots Auction/Estate Sales Building Materials Snowblowers Firewood Business Pet Supplies Food/Produce Clothing/Apparel Appliances Furniture/Rugs Art/Crafts Household Items Home Care Equip.

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

RICK REID 248-981-8582 2900 Union Lake, Rd. Suite 210 Commerce Twp., MI 48382

Houses/ Condos

SYLVAN LAKE

SPACIOUS! Enjoyable 1420 sq. ft. 3 bedroom home in the Village.

Spacious kitchen, formal dining, office, enclosed porches, breezeway/laundry room, 2 car garage & 16x26 barn. Reduced to $114,000. 3644 Avon St.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

MOBILE HOMES

Bulletin Board

1

SUPPORT WOMEN POLICE Paid for by Gerald Plas

Reunions

4

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.

Houses For Sale

11

Looking to purchase or sell your home?

Contact Arlene at Keller Williams 248-912-4628 Commerce WALLED LAKE SCHOOLS Charming 3 bedroom ranch w/ privileges to Carroll Lake.

Many updates. Partial basement & 24x24 garage. $79,900.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

(cell) 248-802-4748

WHITE LAKE DUPLEX

248-640-7960

Mobile Homes for Sale

42

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

248-318-2752 2 Bedroom house with shed, 1 bath, freshly painted, new carpet, new floor in kitchen, stove & refrigerator, washer/dryer hook up. No pets. Lake privileges. $795 per month

248-624-2503 43

Beautiful 55+ community! We'll pay up to $4,000.00 to relocate your manufactured home to beautiful Cranberry Lake. Rent from $516/month!

Call today!!

888-306-2483

Looking to rent a house or condo? call Arlene Keller Williams Realty 248-912-4628

Houses/ Condos

Apartments

56

55

Condominium For Rent Union Lake, 2 bed, 1.5 baths, basement, 1 car garage.

$850 per month 1 month free rent Security deposit & references needed

COME SEE US NOW WIXOM * MOVE IN SPECIAL* 2 BEDROOM ONLY, $595 Will Move You In !

•Playground/Pool •Free Heat & City Water

248-821-7476 Waterford Condo - close to OCC

Town & Country Apartments •48200 W. Pontiac Trail

2 Bedroom, 2.5 baths, all appliances, nice deck, basement, 1 car garage, no smokers, pets negotiable. $1300.00/mo, 1/2 month security deposit, $100.00 cleaning fee.

248-912-4628 for more details

•Between Beck & Wixom Rd.

CALL US TODAY !

(248)624-3194 WALLED LAKE

56

☺

WALLED LAKE 1 Bedroom Apartments 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath Town Homes * $400 Moves You In* 1st Month FREE on 1 bdr 1/2 month FREE on 2 Bdr

248-624-6606 EHO www.cormorantco.com * Call For Details *

57

Half off Security Dep. 2 Bedrooms$650 per month plus electric 1 Bedroom$500 per month

(248)335-8988 Apartments For Rent SPECIAL 1 or 2 bedroom apartments. Heat and water paid. No pets. In City of Milford.

(248)477-9192

General/ Help Wanted

65

ROOM FOR Rent, kitchen privileges. $90/ week. West Bloomfield. 248-420-4320

BAR & WAIT STAFF

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

Now hiring for full and part time positions. Experience necessary.

APPLY IN PERSON

BUSINESS WOMAN looking to share 2 bedroom apartment in Novi, with female. $400 plus utilities. Call for information.

248-787-2059

HELP WANTED General/ Help Wanted

65

NOVI / FARMINGTON HILLS/ LIVONIA AREAS SUBS ALSO NEEDED 2 TO 3 EVENINGS PER WEEK

CORPORATE CLEANING GROUP 248-313-9880

HAIR STYLISTS New Great Clips salon now open in White Lake needs both part time & full time hair stylists. No clientele needed, hourly wage plus commission. Fun team environment.

248-330-6402

3270 W. Huron

Waterford, MI 48328

Needs experienced bartender and servers, line cooks, pizza makers, salad/ sub person, and counter helper.

OFFICE CLEANING

Ask for Bridgette

CJ's Upper Deck

ALEX'S PIZZA

EVENING HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY

HILLSIDE MANOR APTS 360 ROSEBUD

Special Apartments

Rooms/Share Quarters

Apply in person: 49000 Pontiac Trail Wixom 40 year old company seeking part time janitorial staff for Wixom, Commerce, Fowlerville, Howell areas for evening positions. Must have reliable transportation. Position requires police clearance & possible drug screening. Complete online application at:

www.usservico.com or fax resume to 248-926-9595.

No phone calls please.

MACHINE SHOP HAND / TRAINEE Part to full time. Lathe, milling, grinding. Please contact us via E-mail :

office@ rollamaticinc.com

WATERFORD Duplex

BEAUTIFUL 55+ COMMUNITY Brand NEW homes for rent.

Includes appliances, lake access. Call today and ask about our MOVE IN SPECIALS!!

Cranberry Lake- White Lake

888-306-2483

3 bedrooms, unfurnished, all appliances. $800 a month plus security.

248-343-1666 Lovely Commerce Twp.

RENTALS Houses/ Condos

Charming waterfront on Cedar Island Lake. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, with finished basement and large deck for entertaining.

All appliances included. $1,600 per month plus utilities.

WOLVERINE LAKE

RELOCATE TODAY!!

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

248-559-8120

WHITE LAKE

Mobile Homes for Rent

NOTICES

3 Bedroom colonial, 1.5 baths, basement, gas heat, stove & refrigerator only, small pets negotiable. Sylvan Lake access for park & boating. $875 plus deposit

Across from Cedar Island Lake Clean, 2 bedroom. $695 per month. Walled Lake Schools.

(248) 624-0709

MIDDLE STRAITS LAKE IMPROVED PRICE - $184,900 Charming newly remodeled 3 bedroom ranch with open floor plan, close to association clubhouse and beach.

Lakeside Florida room surrounded by the best panoramic views of Middle Straits Lake. Bloomer Park and Bay Pointe Golf are nearby. Call Rick or email rick_reid@att.net.

55

PAGE 49

55

WEST BLOOMFIELD

1 bedroom, with loft.

Neat, very clean , no pets, all appliances. $800 per month.

248-343-5300

3 bedroom 2 bath, basement, lake privileges, fenced yard appliances, wood floors. New windows. $955 per month lease. Walk to shopping. Near Union Lake & Commerce Rds.

248-568-6119 WIXOM 3 Bedrm house, tri level, 1.5 baths, a/c, appliances, 24 x 32 garage, private fenced -in yard, near high school. Pets negotiable, lawn & snow included. $1,500 plus utilities

Call Bob 248-701-6932

Pre-Licensing Class November Classes Available $ Class only

99

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.

PAGE 50

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

CE ER MM CO

M XO WI

OR RB HA O EG KE

RD FO MIL

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LD FIE OM O L B W.

CE ER MM O C

211079746 - $259,900

211100643 - $169,000

211070398 - $68,000

211092231 - $41,000

211104416 - $449,900

211108317 - $124,900

SUPERB COMMERCE HOME 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, first floor master with bath, close to M-5

GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, fireplace, vaulted ceilings, finished basement

UP NORTH LIVING 1.45 ACRES 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, oak cabinets, newer roof, 3 car detached garage

FIRST FLOOR CONDO 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, new hardwood floors, lake privileges

PRIVATE, CUL-DE-SAC, WOODS 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, spacious, 2-way fireplace, large master suite, walkout basement

GROUND LEVEL UNIT 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, large kitchen and master suite. Private wooded views.

LD FIE OM LO B W.

L ITE WH

E AK

RD FO TER WA

LLY

HO

RD FO TER A W

CE ER MM O C

211104716 - $389,000

211108753 - $168,900

211113169 - $85,000

211056180 - $124,900

211068047 - $189,900

211061876 - $459,000

FABULOUS GREEN LAKEFRONT HOME 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, Pella windows, hardwood flooring, lower level walkout, 2 fireplaces

NEW CONSTRUCTION 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen, recess lighting, 1st floor laundry, daylight basement

STOP THE CAR! 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, gorgeous kitchen, finished basement

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 bath, granite, new carpet, tile overlooking 16th hole

UNION LAKEFRONT 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, kitchen with island, pantry, stone fireplace, den

RD FO TER WA

LD FIE OM O L B W.

C O AT S

RD FO TER WA

K OA YAL RO

FOR THE COLD 211091695 - $185,500

211095071 - $245,000

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

A PIECE OF PARADISE 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, open floor plan, quality decking

DL LLE WA

E AK

211112172 - $59,900

IMPECCABLY CLEAN & MAINTAINED 2 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, oak cabinets, ceramic floors, basement, clean and organized LD FIE ING R P S

L ITE WH

Please drop off COATS Nov 1st thru 30th

E AK

211103967 - $154,500

ARTS & CRAFTS BUNGALOW 4 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, updated, cove ceilings, new roof/furnace/central air

L ITE WH

Real Estate One

210042174 - $178,000

8430 Richardson • Commerce

OXBOW LAKEFRONT 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, fireplace, 2 garages, estate sized lot CE ER MM CO

211105361 - $80,000

CANAL FRONTAGE ON CRESCENT LAKE 2 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, solid stone home, 2 garages, large living room, jetted tub

248.363.8300 LD FIE OM LO B W.

L ITE WH

E AK

E AK

D AN STL WE

211079367 - $39,900

211112861 - $135,000

GREAT INVESTOR HOME 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, newer kitchen, natural fireplace

MOVE IN TOTALLY REMODELED 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, ceramic floors, maple cabinets, detached 2 car garage, finished basement

L ITE WH

E AK

D AN RTL HA

211091693 - $289,000

211078139 - $74,800

211054757 - $299,900

211097738 - $145,000

211097483 - $140,000

211101276 - $250,000

PROFESSIONALLY LANDSCAPED 5 bedrooms, 2.2 baths, master suite with jacuzzi, lower level walkout, brick patio

WELL MAINTAINED RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, .80 acre double lot, fireplace, 2 car garage

SPECTACULAR COLONIAL 4 bedrooms, 2.2 baths, spiral staircase, 2 fireplaces, hardwood

LOVELY RANCH HOME 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, gourmet kitchen, impressive fireplace

CHARMING CAPE COD 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 1.5 acres, finished basement, wrap around deck

IMPECCABLY MAINTAINED HOME 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, great room, island kitchen, finished walkout basement

R BO AR OH G E KE

M XO WI

RD FO OX

D AN STL WE

D IEL MF LOO B W.

ALE ND FER

211048408 - $100,000

211106237 - $149,900

211104235 - $110,000

211110029 - $69,900

211099179 - $233,000

211108984 - $165,000

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

LOTS OF UPGRADES 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, hardwood floors, premium carpet, full basement, den with bay window

PICTURE PERFECT 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, open floor plan, cathedral ceilings

POPULAR BLOOMFIELD VILLAGE 2 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, kitchen with doorwall to balcony, large living room

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

CLASSIC TUDOR 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, new windows, hardwood floors, third floor, finished attic

Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

Lakes Area (248) 363-8300

©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

NE

W

PR

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 51

BECKY KATZMAN McCARTHY 248-790-9915

SUSI GOLLINGER Associate Broker - A.B.R.

Lakes Area Specialist

(248) 310-9002

rmccarthy@RealEstateOne.com

susigollinger@hotmail.com

TOP PRODUCER

G

TIN

ICE W

NE

100 FT. OF LAKE FRONTAGE!!

LIS

PICTURE PERFECT HOUSE NESTLED ON 1 ACRE LOT!!

Lakefront on all-sports Cedar Island Lake!! Cozy ranch on almost half acre, features spacious kitchen and family room, 3 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, 2 fireplaces, located in family room and living room, built-ins and plenty of storage, lakeside brick patio, sandy beach area for swimming, sprinklers, neighborhood park nearby, great opportunity to update all of this space to fit your needs. 40 ft. of dock included. $185,000. Call Becky for details!

House features, approx. 1,800 sq. ft., open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, oak hardwood floors throughout, eat-in kitchen includes all appliances, cozy fireplace in living room, master bed with private bath and jacuzzi tub, 2.5 car garage, pole barn, sprinkler system, fenced backyard, privileges to Stony/Squaw Lakes. $110,000. Call Becky for details!

AUDREY STOREY

CHERYL YEAGER

MEET THE POWER TEAM

248-363-8300 Ext. 233 248-496-1846

248-310-8077

Diane & Mary strive to make your transaction seamless from start to finish.

Let our TEAM guide you through the process.

WEST BLOOMFIELD $424,000 3,570 sq. ft. Colonial backing up to woods.

Spacious floor plan, 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, multi-stairway, 2-way fireplace, tiered decking, walk-out basement. not a short sale! (S.G. 6917 CH. C)

WATERFORD $265,000 All-sports lakefront gem, 83 ft. on Woodhull Lake that connects to Lake Oakland. 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, finished walkout lower level. Beautiful landscaping. Large deck. Western exposure for ultimate sunsets. (S.G. 4395 S.)

FOR ALL SHOWINGS CALL SUSI RESIDENTIAL AND WATERFRONT SPECIALISTS

cherylyeager.com cherylyeager@yahoo.com

audreystorey@yahoo.com T

AC TR ON BLE C ND L A L A AVAI

NE

W

DIANE BUCHANAN

PR

ICE

SELLING REAL ESTATE SINCE 1980

Cell 248-921-8152 www.realestateone.com/dianeb

LA

K

R EF

ON

MARY SHIELDS

Cell 248-245-6090 realestateone.com/mshields

OP EN S

T

AT. 1-4

Vacation at Home!

Acreage, pool, barn, ranch with full basement. Kitchen featuring granite countertops and ceramic floors. Master bedroom featuring hardwood floors and gas fireplace.

Huron Valley Schools AS3170M $234,900

WHITE LAKE RANCH

View of White Lake Lake and boat privileges on White Lake. Old world charm comes with this 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home with coved ceilings. Remodeled kitchen and appliances stay. Full basement, triple lot. AS3761C $149,900 Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

Desirable Whispering Meadows Sub, cul-desac setting, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, hardwood floors, first floor laundry, maple kitchen, vaulted great room with natural fireplace, skylights, Andersen windows, 4 door walls, vaulted master suite, spa tub, awesome finished walkout lower level, huge wet bar, well landscaped, sprinkling system. $259,000 (cy1047T)

MAGNIFICENT LAKEFRONT

4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, 2 full beautiful kitchens with stainless appliances and stainless backsplash. The master bedroom has gorgeous views of the water and amazing walk-in closet. Finished walkout to 100 ft. of all-sports lakefront. New trek deck off of kitchen and master bedroom new seawall and stamped concert patio at lake. Two new docks, auto all house generator, 3 car attached garage. A one of a kind!! $795,000

Lakes Area (248) 363-8300 • 8430 Richardson

©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011

PAGE 52

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Visit us at 560 N. Milford Rd., Milford ER WAT

NT FRO

ER WAT

NT FRO

$350,000 CONTEMPORARY WATERFRONT HOME! •2,780 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage •Remodeled and updated •Granite kitchen and all baths •2nd floor laundry •211001443

41 A

RE 2 AC

PRIVATE 2 ACRE LOT! •2,168 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.2 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Family room with natural fireplace and oak mantle •Andersen windows •Finished lower level •211098339

C O AT S

S C RE

FOR THE COLD Please drop off COATS Nov 1st thru 30th

$674,900

Real Estate One

PRIVACY BY NATURE! •3,683 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, basement, 3 car attached garage •41 beautiful acres •Horse barn with 5 stalls •Wrap around decking •211075949

CE PLA FIRE

248.684.1065

BEAUTIFUL HOME ON 1/4 ACRE! •2,566 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Island kitchen opens to family room with cathedral ceiling •Finished basement with wet bar •211091132

S IEW

NE

HEN I TC WK

$139,900

BAY ET QUI

$79,000 ALL-SPORTS WHITE LAKE! •1,702 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car detached garage •2nd floor master suite with jet tub •1st floor laundry •211064566

E HOM

$239,900

AL CAN AKE L K DUC

$125,000

$132,000

GE

LOT

$129,900 MOVE IN READY! •1,700 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Colonial on large lot •Open kitchen and eating area •All appliances stay •211076905

S URE CT U R 3 ST

67,900

$249,900 UPDATED HISTORIC HOME! •1,980 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, basement, 2 car detached garage •Open entry level floor plan •Granite kitchen •Great back yard •210111484

GREAT INVESTMENT! •Includes 3 structures •Main house: 1,199 sq. ft., 1 bedroom, 2 baths •Guest house: 400 sq. ft., 1 bedroom, 1 bath •2 car garage •211046843

ES CR 24 A

BAY IET QU

DUCK LAKE CANAL FRONTAGE! •856 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 1 bath •Spacious great room with cathedral beamed ceilings •Gas fireplace •Gorgeous maple kitchen •211091508

S LEGE

$27,000 LAKEFRONT CO-OP CONDO LIVING! •780 sq. ft., 1 bedroom, 1 bath, basement •Kitchen and bath updated •Large sunroom •211083873

C ORI HIST

ON LOWER PETTIBONE LAKE! •1,492 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •New kitchen w/cherry & granite •Master bath with dual shower head •1st flr laundry •211077057

VI PRI LAKE

LAR

$224,900

$159,999

WHITE LAKE LAKEVIEW! •2,100 sq. ft., 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, basement, 4 car garage •Hardwood floors on entry level •Large open kitchen with granite and eating area •211091388

S AT E UPD

CRE

$448,500 ALL-SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD! •2,478 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, basement, 3 car attached garage •Finished walkout •First floor master •Large island kitchen •211110654

CHARMING WIXOM RANCH! •1,388 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths •Hardwood floors •Patio with private yard with lake privileges •210132913

560 N. Milford Rd. • Milford

A 1/ 4

GREAT FAMILY SUB! •1,800 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.2 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Open floor plan •Great room with natural fireplace •Walk to downtown •211043331

EV LAK

$239,500

$395,000 ON WHITE LAKE! •2,215 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Drive in boat house •Beautiful hardwood entry •Formal dining room •211111348

RONT ER F T A W

LOT

$309,900 WONDERFUL WHITE LAKE VIEWS! •1,700 sq, ft., 2 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •On quiet bay to main lake •Maple and granite kitchen •211028656

Serving Milford & Surrounding Areas - 248.684.1065

$2,100,000 ON PRIVATE DOWNEY LAKE! •5,552 sq. ft., 5 bedrooms, 4.1 baths, basement, 5 car garage •24 beautiful acres •Mahogany kitchen •Generator, elevator •211088015 ©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011 General/ Help Wanted

65

Seeking Landscaping Professional Must have valid drivers license, 2 year plus experience with grounds maintenance, full tie employment thru winter

Call for interview

248-830-7690

www.spinalcolumnonline.com Part Time/ Temporary

74

COMPUTER PERSON Experienced in teaching an older person to use computer but very patient. West Bloomfield 248-326-1898

JOBS WANTED

Wixom janitorial co. for permanent general labor position.

8am-5pm Mon-Fri. General maintenance; covering day porter shifts; supply deliveries; misc maintenance projects.

Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs & have own vehicle w/valid dr license. $9/hr plus gas reimb. Online app @

Housekeeper/House Cleaning 86

www.usservico.com or fax resume to 248-926-9595.

No calls please.

For FREE Quote call 248-568-6444

Medical/ Dental

67

WHITNEY'S HOUSECLEANING Over 15 years experience small to large homes. Weekly biweekly monthly. Excellent references.

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

PART TIME MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST. Clerical/Computer experience required.

Good phone skills. 3 days per week PART TIME MEDICAL ASSISTANT. Certified, exp. with EKG, V/S injections & immunizations. 3 days per week.

Call Barb @ 248-926-6610

Dental Assistant Part time

248-360-3700

SCRAP METAL

69

For southwest Oakland County manufacturer- full time position with benefits & 401K, experience required through General Ledger including payroll function. Computer skills a must. Email resume to:

permacct@gmail.com 71

Real Estate Career We're doubling our staff!

•Do you like working with new people and new situations?

•Do you have good problem solving skills?

•Do you have a "Sky is the limit mentality"?

If you said, "Yes", call me.

Kathy Solan 248-363-8300 248-348-6430 Real Estate One

Art/Crafts 101

PUBLIC AUCTION "Mini Storage Depot will sell at public auction, contents of Units Numbered (C151, Patricia Grenier: household goods, furniture, boxes, toys, sporting goods, tools, equipment), (D215, Anthony Schwerin: household goods, furniture, boxes, trunks, toys, sporting goods, tools, suitcases), (M1104, Rober t Bassie: household goods, furniture, boxes, suitcases, tools), on Wednesday, November 30th, 2011 at 2pm, for back storage fees owed. The auction will take place at Mini Storage Depot - 46550 Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake, Michigan 48390.

We reserve the right to reject any and all bids."

Garage Sales

103

COMMERCE 519 WOODHAVEN, November, 11th, 12th, 9a.m.-3p.m.

Christmas items. Oakbrooke Pointe Condos, Maple & Welch.

WOLVERINE LAKE

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

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

ASS'T CONTROLLER

Sales Positions

89

Mann Metals Corp.

(248)960-1200

Includes Wednesdays Evenings and Saturday Office/ Clerical

Used/Wanted

Auction/ Estate Sales

90

Items must be FREE to respondents, ad free to you. Restricted to residential. The publishing group accepts no responsibility for actions between individuals.

ESTATE SALE November 10th, 11th, 12th, 10-4. 729 Laguna Drive.

LIONEL "O" Gauge Christmas train set up/ layout, free standing/ 6ftx10ft, animated toy gadgets- ferris wheel, antique trains, etc. $3,500 OBO. 248-366-7044

Contact Margaret Ledford @

248-438-6609

Odds N Ends

Lawn/ Garden/Sod

110

BROADCAST SPREADER, Plastic hopper for salt or fertilizer, $23. 248-360-2911

Clothing/Apparel

119

138

JANE FONDA New aerobic step master, adjustable height $15. 248-363-0693

BOATS/ OUTDOOR

SIZE 8 like new Coach, Ed Hardy tennis shoes $10 248960-7285

Art/Crafts

125

128

CRAFT SHOW & BAKE SALE Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church 2399 Figa, West Bloomfield (sw) of Orchard lake and Middlebelt roads

Sat., Nov. 12 9am-3pm 248-682-0770 Free admission

1995 on ups. $200$1400. Top $ for XP's & 947/951 or larger motors.

Call Steve 231-943-4152 Boats/ Motors/Trailers

Boat Storage

170

PWC & BOAT WINTERIZING Shrink Wrapping & Storage Motorcycle, ATV, Snowmobile Parts & Service

4713 Dixie Highway, Waterford, MI 48329

248-674-0663

164

Boat & Pontoon Hauling Local & long distance Shrink wrap - Winterization

Winter storage $149.99* Tom 248-681-4250 seaway5@comcast.net *with mention of this ad

TRAVEL- TECH

Shrink Wrap 248-980-3453 I / O Winterizing 248-698-3686 Certified Master Mechanic

177

1999 DUTCH Star diesel pusher, model #3884, single slide out, 300hp caterpillar on freight liner chassis, 6686 miles, Tracstar satellite, option to numerous to list $60,000 OBO 248-425-6071

Snowmobiles

179

WANTED: SNOWMOBILES, 71-74 EXT Arctic Cat. 74-76 Mercury Snow-Twister. 248682-6486

CARS/TRUCKS MOTORCYCLES Wanted Parts/ Salvage

Cars 181

Unwanted Autos any year RC Towing 248-770-3333

Lakes MotorSports

Motor Homes

Wanted Parts/ Salvage

$200 to $2,000

www.lakesmotorsports.com

CRAFTERS WANTED Dublin Elementary Craft Show 425 Farnsworth December 3, 2011 9am to 5pm $35 per table Contact Chris Bartel 248-376-6354

SEA-DOO JET SKIS WANTED DEAD OR DYING.

FUTON, NEVER Used. Quality mattress. Make offer. 248820-9467

93

$10 per table, per day

SOLID BLACK Walnut, several board feet, rough and 1/4 sawn, 30 year air dried, various sizes. Price negotiable.

248-363-5321 or 248-5056545

FREE KITTENS born in September, to good home. 248212-8526

Collectibles

Friday Nov. 18, 2011 5pm-8pm Saturday Nov. 19, 2011 10am-5pm

Wanted Boats/Jet Skis/ Parts 162

Furniture/Rugs

LARGE MAGHONY style desk, good condition 248-6724800

CRAFTERS WANTED White Lake VFW 321 Union Lake Road

Building Materials 105

Sorry, we do not accept ads for free dogs.

FREE TO good home 3 kittens, born July 9th. 248-860-2085

128

PAGE 53

181

UNWANTED AUTOS LLC TOP $ Paid For Any: • Junk • Non Running • Wrecked Cars.

Cars

187

1997 GMC Yukon Vin# 1GKEC13R4XJ793034

Auction will be held on November 16th, @ 10am Cash only 2025 E.W. Maple Commerce Twp, MI 48390

SALES GUARANTEE Autos, Vans, Trucks See First Want Ad Page BUICK LESABRE, 2005, 85K, $8,750.Very good condition. 248-363-3457 FORD FUSION 2008, V6, 24,500 miles. Wixom, $16,500. (586) 206-3222 GREAT TRANSPORTATION car 2004 Chevy Malibu Max. All mechanical issues in good working order, 162k. $3,800 firm, call Jenny at 248-8891785 MERCURY GRAND Marquis LS, 2004. Loaded, leather, silver, 36,500K, clean. $11,500.

OBO 248-669-8171

Motorcycles

183

(248)467-0396

CAMPBELL'S TOWING

2004 YAMAHA R1- 1000 motorcycle. Many extras, must see. $4,500. (248)9789246

FREE TOWING. SAME DAY PICK UP

AUTOS, CARS & TRUCKS

$200 AND UP

248-698-1062

MOTORCYCLEGUARANTEE See First Want Ad Page

4

Reasons To Use West Oakland Service Firms • Up-to-date listings allow for seasonal or changing conditions • They are part of the community • They offer a variety of services to meet your needs • They are ready and eager to serve

187

BUICK PARK Avenue 2002, loaded, 76,000 miles, $5,995 248-887-1927

Vans

194

2000 DODGE GRAND Caravan Ramp Van. Low mileage, mint condition. Price negotiable. Call: 248-624-7835 CHEVROLET EXPRESS Van 2005. 3/4 ton, V8, air, cruise, tilt, p.s p.b, power windows, power locks, keyless entry, heavy duty locking differential, Ziebart, tinted windows, original owner, highly maintained. $10,900 OBO 248-622-8910

REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT Appliance Repair

TONY'S APPLIANCE SERVICE Servicing all Major Appliances.

•Hot water tank

(248)360-0213 (248)698-8819 Carpet Installation

Has the best buys on all brand named carpet.

Pad 1/2 8 lb $3 yd.

Installation guaranteed.

Lots of remnants

PERSONAL/ SERVICES 354

Retired Walled Lake School teacher 44 years experience Will tutor Reasonable rates

513

BOB'S CARPET

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Tutoring/Lessons

502

$4 per yard

Call Bob (248)681-5771 Cabinetry

515

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

248-669-1856

(248)363-3804 elegant-woodworking.com

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

PAGE 54

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA SERVICES (248) 360-7355

www.SpinalColumnOnline.com

Fax (248) 360-5308

IN PRINT and ON-LINE 24/7

Personal • Business • Maintenance • Improvements • Repair Carpentry

516

YAM CONTRACTING •Carpentry •Deck Repair •Int. & Ext. Painting •Custom Woodwork •Powerwashing •To Do Lists •Unfinished Projects

(248)709-6631 anthyam@att.net Cement/Concrete

517

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

(248)684-5928 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 Doors

524

THE DOOR STOP Since 1980

Garage door springs and door openers repaired and/or replaced.

Call Anytime 248-624-4042 (cell) 248-640-6298 CERTIFIED OVERHEAD DOOR SERVICE

Drywall

526

R&D DRYWALL •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

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

Fully insured. Free estimates.

(248)624-6458

AFFORDABLE DEMOLITION & SERVICES "Division of Rae Excavating" • BUILDING REMOVAL• • Sewer and Water • Storm Sewers • Trucking & Grading Licensed & Insured

248-624-4473 Flooring

536

EDWARD'S FLOOR COVERING

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

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

248-624-3161

(248)684-5983

Handy Person

545

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

Heating/Duct Work 546 HURON VALLEY HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING •Repair •Replace •Inspections •Humidifiers •Water Heaters •Night service available

(248)887-3666

(248)891-7072

Home Improvement 547

Licensed and Insured

SHERMAN BLDG CO.

D & S HOME REPAIRS REMODELING

•Additions •Garages •Decks •Rough & Trim Carpentry •Wood Siding •Basements •Kitchens •All outside wood repairs

•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 Heating/Duct Work 546

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

248-682-1393 248-802-6554

Michigan Toolbox Remodeling/ Finish bathrooms, kitchens, basements. All your interior/ exterior home improvements need. 30 years experiences fully insured

248-987-6512 Home Inspection

548

Buying A Home?

Let Us Look Before You Leap!

AFFORDABLE HOME INSPECTIONS Licensed • Insured STERLING HOME SERVICES

248-881-3478 Lawn/Garden Services

553

A R T Outdoor Services, LLC Fall Clean-ups • Snow Plowing • Landscaping • Lawn Service • Gutter Cleaning • Insured Residential & Commercial

FREE ESTIMATES ON INSTALLATION

www.artoutdoorservices.com

248-363-1615

(248)625-5719

Lawn/Garden Services

Roofing 553

GRASS GROOMERS INC Your Outdoor Maintenance Company Residential/ Commercial CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FALL CLEAN UP Insured/ free estimates

248-926-9993 Painting/ Decorating

562

FARR'S PAINTING

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

(248) 477-7764 (248) 345-3308 VS PAINTING FALL SPECIAL

248-894-3239 567

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

248-363-5864 Roofing

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 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

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.

Plumbing

571

571

D & D GUTTERS * Snow Plowing* • Roofing • Leaf Guards • Soffits • Trim Work • Siding • Windows We Accept Credit Cards Doug Dible

248-431-6243

Siding

577

I.D.C.

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

Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com

Snow Removal

579

COLLEGE STUDENTS

SNOW PLOWING * Drives *Sidewalks * Insured * Shawn Larkins

248-931-0295

SJ Maintenance Commerical Residental

Snow removal Fully insuured

Fall cleanup Gutter clean outs.

248-634-0878

Tile

585

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

John Miller (248)505-8865 jmtileandmarble.com

Trash/Debris Removal

Waterproofing

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

Welding

Progressive Transportation

Call anytime for estimates & great service

248-887-4892 Tree Service

587

LOUIE'S TREE SERVICE Tree Removal •Stump Grinding Firewood • Free Estimates 20 Yrs. Exp. • Fully Insured "Will Beat All Competitors" Residential • Commercial

248-240-6143 248-240-6142 248-366-1325 KODIAK TREE SERVICE 25 years experience •Tree trimming •Tree & stump removal •70ft bucket lift •Free estimates •Insured

602

Light Steel And Aluminum Welding Fabricating

586

Specializing in: •Appliances •Furniture •Debris Removal

599

248-931-0911 Wells

603

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

Emergency Service 7 days a week 248-

363-6464

aquawells.com All credit cards accepted

BOB WYCKOFF

248-921-9097

WELL DRILLING

MAXON'S TREE SERVICE

"If you have questions, we have answers!"

•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

•PUMPS •TANKS • WELL REPAIR

(248)310-0917

Emergency Service EASY PAYMENT PLANS No Credit Check Visa & MasterCard

SALES HOURS; MON. & THURS. 8:30 - 9:00 TUES., WED., FRI. 8:30 - 6:00 SAT.: 10:00 - 3:00

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

2199 Haggerty Road @ Pontiac Trail Walled Lake

www.morrismotorsmi.com

248-624-4500

LAND LAND OF OF THE THE FREE, FREE, BECAUSE BECAUSE OF OF THE THE BRAVE BRAVE

NOVEMBER 9-15, 2011

“Thank you for honori ng them. Mr. and Mrs. John P. Ha rris” Major Eric Harri s, Stafford, VA U.S. Marines, HM X Washington D.C. Helicopter Pilot

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

“Thanks fo r rem Frank W embering us.” .

U.S. Na Gaca, White Lake vy WWII Subma rine Ve in the Army teran Lake, Mi. I served from Wolverine d Operation sty an a Tru ad ul en Pa Gr is e “My nam g the Invasion of s-in-Arms and their rin du ed rv se I our Comrade for nine years.

God watch over sert Storm. May them back safely.” there were more of this De wish I s. ran vete the for you do bring “This is a wonderful thing Thank you and keep up families. May he Lake t, present and future troops. , Wolverine of the ty en wom us Tr and kind of gratitude for the pas men ul the Pa and nity mu com Storm the ting tion Desert the great job of suppor Army and Opera on si va In .” da services er Grena of Timothy B. Fenn Diane Fenner, wife ip Commerce Townsh U.S. Marines “Thank you for your gen erous offer of a free oil Vietnam change for veterans. My is Larry Caplin and I live ICA!! name in West Bloomfield. I was GOD BLESS AMER with the U.S. Naval Sup Activity and spent a yea port r at Camp Tien Sha in Da nan g, 1970. Our group suppor South Vietnam., 1968ted the Marines and Arm y who were in the fiel During this conflict, we d. lost over 55,000 men and women who gave their in support of our countr lives y. A terrible loss of young Am eric an life“ Larry Caplin

Steven Krastof, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army James Lowe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Joesph Muscat, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Mitchell Malek, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Wallace Boshew, Highland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Robert King Newcombe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam David R. Bush, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Panama Canal Donald O. Quinn, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army M.P., Vietnam, South Korea Roy Borgeson, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Bruno (Bernard A.) Clem, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Jon S. Bond, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Jack (John W.) Miller, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Korea Jerome Guest, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy, Cuban Missile Crisis, Dominican Republic Conflict Michael Kelly O’Brien, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Airborne Jim Pierce, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Matthew J. Zelenak, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Iraq Daniel V. Laporte, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Peacetime Thomas Johnston, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Cuban Missile Crisis Cam West, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Harry L. Bolt, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, World War II Steve Dehnbostel, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Iraq Harry Wagner, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea James Weakland, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Bonnie Murray, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Dennis Drake, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Desert Storm Donald Pipp, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea William Newcombe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Ralph E. Mulvany, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Patricia Loftus, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Walter Mozurkewich, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Frank Krumm, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Michael Maxim, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII James Leo Oberski, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Frank Massaria Jr., Reed City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Korea Ted Kisse, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII Charles De Hart, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Peacetime Sandor Vigh, Belleville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Desert Shield John Carpenter, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam - Seals Seabee Harold Scheerer, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII John Kett, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Nicholas Karaguleff, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Daniel Barden, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Peacetime Dale Lawson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Thomas Morris, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Ed Grabowski, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Desert Storm James C. Morris (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Harvey Morris (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Purple Heart Merle R. Meadows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIA Vietnam, Body Returned Tom Laforge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Beirut Roy Howie, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Korea Donald J. Watson, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII Larry W. Renton, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam James R. Elliot Jr., Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Jon S. Bond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Robert A. Huber, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Okinawa WWII Ward M. Hingst, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea John Bogosian, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Peace Time Bruce Kurth, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Cahide Greenwald, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Craig D. Hancock, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Tommy L. Bushre, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Anthony M. Thiel, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Iraq Lloyd Miller, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Iraq Duane A. McGeachy, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Leo Camardese, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Gregory Nelson, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Michael G. Farrell, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Louise Wyman, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Dan Faber, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Carl Tessier, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Military Service Ronald W. Proulx, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Peace Time Kirk Cooke, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Casper B. Hughes, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Frederick J. Laskos, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Donald Miller, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII Eric Rogers, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Reynolds F. Cattaneo, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, 255th Inf. Reg. Richard E. Kohler, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Harry Martin, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps, Vietnam Fred Belcher, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Gulf War Kerry Hartley, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Vietnam Thomas Johnston, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Anthony M. Thiel, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Iraq Paul D. Smith, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Wayne Herning, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Medical Corps, Korean War Paul J. Kirkwood, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Corrie Cannon, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Dale Lawson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines John P. Luusua, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Mike Roy, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps Bruce Kurth, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, SeaBee Thomas P. Morris, Flat Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps Robert Espeland, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Thomas F. Jakubiec, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Korea Herb Heavner, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force Kandy Guest, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Roy Bergeson, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy James Lowe, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Russell Kubeck, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Ronald Hall, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173rd Airborne Army David A. Shady, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam, 2 Purple Hearts Bob Zang, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII, Korean War

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

red by re. The Red: Made for.

Our flag is still the d s: die de d ra an m com fro len e “To all our fal e states they cam ed. The Stars: Th t still flows over sh tha y e, the ov od ab s blo ud the d clo ite: For the sky an ks’ to Morris Motors of helping The Blue and Wh special ‘Than A le. op pe e fre a land of terans.” acknowledge all ve ke iller, White La M k) ac (J John Army ur for yo Korean War k you n a h T ys! d alwa day an to n a eric an Am wp. to be rce T d u o r P “ mme o ” C .. , t. suppor A. Shady d Davi “Remembering all Army am veterans, for they N accomplished much and have sac Viet rificed so much for their country.”

Francis J. “Fra nk ” Serridge, Milford U.S. Army Ai r Corp.

WWII - E.T.O .

John E. Booth, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII Eric Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines Larry Caplin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Rex Catlaneo, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .WWII Ken Barrott, Oxford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Desert Storm Jon S. Bond, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, 1969-1973 James D. Goff, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, 1961-1964 Ward W. Hingst, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Korea Charles Tober, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Bill Nelson, Wolverine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea Francis “Frank” Serridge, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Air Corps, WWII-E.T.O. Jerald Wasker, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Dick Laird Pearson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII John Charles Pearson, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Russell Walter Ortwine, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII James Mark Ortwine, Whitmore Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Vietnam Richard William Ortwine, Howell . . . .U.S. Marines, Army, Air Force, Vietman, Gulf War, Desert Storm David Brian Ortwine, South Lyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Gulf War Todd S. Weiller, Wolverine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps., Iraqi War Herb Warwick, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Thomas S. Dmoch, Commerce Township (Deceased) . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps, Korean Vet Bud , Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Air Force, WWII Roland Heaton, Novi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Royal Canadian Navy, WWII William Green, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Vietnam William McKettrick, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Michael C. Bays, Orchard Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army William R. Morfitt, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Raymond F. Gargan, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Jared Nielsen, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Mike Borashko, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Robert Houghton, Highland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Julian Y. Nusbaum, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Army Air Corp Chuck Lovell, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korean War Thomas Lloyd, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps, WWII Robert Van Fleet, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Raymond Ziol, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Army Air Corp William Cartter, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Scott Hungerford, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Wilson Sparks, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy Jack Reimer, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII George Boleratz, Walled Lake (Deceased) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, WWII Michael Boleratz, Brighton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam William Ingram, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Leslie A. Morris, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U. S. Army, Vietnam, Purple Heart Thomas P. Morris, Rockwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps Richard G. Morris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps MSG Louis W. Kimble, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Bosnia, OIF Bob Pewitt, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy, Vietnam Pvt. Phillip A. DeConick, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Charles J. Gribbon, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, Korea Frederick A. Trott, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force, Vietnam R. Lawrence Caplin, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy, Vietnam Gordon Elliott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Arnold Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Mike Landry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Arbo Lestkines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army, South Pacific John P. Luusua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Isla McKenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Brent McMullen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Richard Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Jack Rae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Odell Ratliff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Raymond Ziol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Richard Staron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Charles Lovell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Kimberley Price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Robert Carriveau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Army Ronald Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Casper B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Eric Rogers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Roger Schmittling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Steven Ulivi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Air Force Raymond Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Mac Bonds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Arthur Pearson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Tom Plotinski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Bob Triplett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Donald Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Edward Stockman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Navy Keith Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps Fred Bochheek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Marine Corps Robert Erdmann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.S. Coast Guard James Simaner Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Air Corp Bill Williams, Wolverine Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Anthony Thiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marines, Iraq - 2 tours Kyle Thiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Airborne, Iraq John P. Luusua, Walled Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam Charles J. Gribbon, Jr., White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army William Green, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army Micheal G. Farrell, Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Vietnam William Higgins, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII Jack Rae, Wixom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korea/Vietnam John F. Bowers, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, WWII/Korean War Conflict Donald Lamb, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Army, Korean War Conflict Eric Rogers, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Edmund J. Kurzawa, West Bloomfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Michael A. Cole, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Vietnam Scott Hungerford, Waterford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force, Gulf War Wilbur V. Huber, Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Henry Rowinski, White Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Air Force Isadore B. Averbuch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, WWII Bruce Kurth, Commerce Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Navy, Vietnam Don Woodworth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.S. Marine Corps

Veteran’s Day is November 11, 2011

T h a n k Yo u F o r Yo u r S e r v i c e I n P r o t e c t i n g O u r G r e a t N a t i o n .

Honor Roll of Gratitude

PAGE 2 PAGE 55

PAGE 56

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

.

WP ET RC E MM CO

$750,000

$129,900/ LEASE $1,450/MO.

EL RIN LVE O W

STONE HOLLOW SUB – CUSTOM BUILT 2.62 ACRE LOT •5 bed, 3.5 bath, 3,671 sq. ft. + 1,627 walkout •Attached 3 car, 2.5 car carriage house garage #211019535 EXT. #265 •KEY #248347

.

WP ET AK

Lakes Area’s #1 Team!

Zillow - Preferred Agent

$274,900

P. TW

$759,900

.

WP ET AK L ITE WH

P. TW RD FO R TE WA

$189,900

170 FEET OF FRONTAGE TO ALL-SPORTS WILLIAMS LAKE! •3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, fin. daylight basement •Huge mtr., jet tub, deck, garage, shed, dock #211109029 EXT. #214 •KEY #263461

M XO WI

CUSTOM BUILT - ALL-SPORTS MACEDAY LAKEFRONT!!

•4 bed, 4 bath, all brick + fin. walkout •5,200+ sq. ft., 1st & 2nd flr. masters, 3 car #211017553 EXT. #296 • KEY #248341

STUNNING 90 FT. OF MAIN LAKEFRONT ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •2,778 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2 .5 bath, 2 fireplaces •2+ car, 3 decks, dock, seawall, shed #211063900 EXT. #231 •KEY #248358

$364,900 ALL-SPORTS OXBOW LAKEFRONT 1.19 TREED ACRE LOT •3.271 sq. ft. + fin. walkout, contemporary •4 bed, 3.5 bath, multi-decks, 3+ car #211075518 EXT. #271 •KEY #248363

BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED GREEN VALLEY SUB SPECIAL •2,766 sq. ft. + fin walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 bath •2 kitchens, fireplace, cul-de-sac, treed yard #211074305 EXT. #234 • KEY #248366

$329,900

RD FO TER WA

2900 Union Lake, Suite 210 Commerce, MI 48382

P. TW RD FO R TE WA

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED CEDAR ISLAND LAKEFRONT •2,302 sq. ft., 4 bed, 3 bath, land contract •Great room with fireplace, 2 car garage #211089671 EXT. #246 •KEY #257017

.

WP ET RC E MM CO

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

janet@TheStocktonTeam.com

$124,900

HOME BACKS TO SUB PARK & WALKING PATH •1,438 sq. ft. + fin. lower level, 3 bedroom •Great rm, dining w/doorwall to deck, 2 car #211089004 EXT. #247 •KEY #256965

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

steve@TheStocktonTeam.com

800-396-5204 + Ext. # for recorded message Text Key # to 90210 for text message

We are full time professionals...

•Meeting Client’s Needs Since 1977

There’s No Better Time To Sell!

•4 Dedicated Listing & Buyer’s Agents

Call Us and Ask About Our

•121 Closed Sales, January-October 2011 Including 28 Waterfront Properties

FALL LISTING INCENTIVE!

$399,900

$549,900

248-366-7200

LS HIL ON T G MIN FAR

E AK

$249,900 WOLVERINE LAKEFRONT RANCH WITH FINISHED WALKOUT •3 bed, 2.5 bath, 85 ft. of sandy shoreline •Family rm w/fireplace, deck, dock, 2 car, shed #211105596 EXT. #267 •KEY #261788

L ITE WH

P. TW LD FIE M O BLO W.

P. TW RD FO L I M

GOLF MANOR SUB SPECIAL – SALE OR LEASE •1,800+ sq. ft., 4 bed, 2 full bath, appliances •Great & family rm, 2+ attached garage, deck #211115585 EXT. #236 •KEY #267496

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

•150+ Negotiated/Closed “Short Sales”

Our performance speaks for itself!

HILLS OF BOGIE LAKE SUB CLUBHOUSE & POOL!!

•3,308 sq. ft. + finished daylight basement •5 bed, 4.5 bath, ff laundry, 3 car garage, deck #211116381 EXT. #255 •KEY #267493

ST WE

LD FIE OM O BL

$598,000

UPPER STRAITS LAKEFRONT INVESTMENT SPECIAL •4 bed, 3.5 bath, 2,746 sq. ft. + fin. walkout •1st flr. mstr., 2nd buildable lakefront lot #211104723 EXT. #245 •KEY #260513 P. TW RD FO R TE WA

$289,900/ LEASE $1,995/MO.

$209,900/ LEASE $1,495/MO.

GORGEOUS HILLSIDE HOME ON ALL-SPORTS SILVER LAKE •1,718 sq. ft., 3 bed, 3 bath + fin. walkout •2 story great room, loft, family room, patio #211112589 EXT. #266 • KEY #266253

219 FT. FRONTAGE TO ALL-SPORTS WILLIAMS LAKE •3 bedroom, 2 bath, Florida rm, deck •Great rm w/fireplace, deck/dock, shed #211089314 EXT. #248•KEY #256951

CE ER MM CO

GE LA VIL D R FO MIL

$299,900 $374,900 DEEDED BOAT SLIP ON CUSTOM QUALITY BUILT ALL-SPORTS COMMERCE LAKE 1.14 PRIVATE ACRE ESTATE •3,019 sq. ft., 4 bed, 3 bath, 2 fireplaces •4 bedroom, 4 full bath, 2,900+ sq. ft.

•Daylight basement, deck, courtyard garage •Fin. daylight basement, 3 car/workshop, patio #211073119 EXT. #224 •KEY #248364 #211110916 EXT. #241 •KEY #248360

Our Marketing Plan for all listings includes: • Virtual Tour • Home Features Brochure • 24 Hour Recorded Information Hotline • 24 Hour Text Information Hotline • 30+ Real Estate Websites Advertising • All Area Printed Publications • Weekly Email Updates

www.TheStocktonTeam.com