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3/21/12

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THE BEAT OF THEIR DRUMS Color guards, percussion line take top honors at event in Novi - pg. 17

A CHANGE OF HEART Waterford school board does about-face, renames athletic fields - pg. 18

POPULATION CONTROL Lower Straits Lake group gets OK for destruction of goose nests - pg. 3

pg. 8 Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital staff strive to meet the needs of baby boomers. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

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Huron Valley Community Showcase set for March 25 — page 21 Wixom extends medical marijuana moratorium by a year — page 7 Jail overcrowding prompts new sentence reductions — page 27

That’s what HE said: "The population is in good shape." — Oakland County Undersheriff Mike McCabe commenting on Monday, March 19 on the population of the Oakland County Jail, which experienced its first overcrowding emergency in five years last week that resulted in over 200 inmates receiving sentence reductions to get the jail back under capacity.

INSIDE Lakes Area News . . . . . .7-16 Special Report . . . . . . . .8-10 Education . . . . . . . . . .17-18 Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . .23 Environment . . . . . . . . . . 25 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Editorials . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-38

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Lower Straits Lake goose nest control program gets OK By Angela Niemi staff writer

The Commerce Township Board of Trustees voted Tuesday, March 13 to approve a request to perform annual goose nest destruction activities at Lower Straits Lake until 2016. The request was submitted by members of the Lower Straits Lake Preservation Committee, which serves the subdivisions of Homestead Oaks, North Shores, Homestead Shores, Lakeside, Shore of Baypointe, Edgewood Park, and Pine Cove Villas; and Maple Pointe Combined Association. According to the request submitted by the committee, lake users and property owners have concerns about the health and safety problems related to a large goose population. The goose nest disruption process is sanctioned and permitted by the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The nest destruction program allows property owners to request a permit to destroy nests and eggs, a process which then encourages the geese to migrate north.

Cooper, O’Brien seeking treasurer, supervisor posts By Angela Niemi staff writer

Two more have filed to run for elected positions in Highland Township. Judith Cooper will be running for treasurer, while Lynn O’Brien will be running for supervisor. Both Republicans, they are looking to fill the jobs now held by Treasurer Judy Kiley and Supervisor Triscia Pilchowski, who both are not seeking re-election in 2012. Cooper has been the deputy treasurer in Highland for 10 years and previously was the deputy treasurer in White Lake Township for eight years. “When changes occur, I have the strong ability to explain what changes have occurred and how it affects the

Lake users and property owners have concerns about the health and safety problems related to a large goose population at Lower Straits Lake in Commerce Township, according to a lake committee’s recent request to employ goose nest and egg destruction to control the local goose population. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

However, there are certain requirements that must be completed by the applicant before the DNR grants permit approval, including first using other alternatives to address giant Canada goose conflicts on site before being eligible to participate in the nest destruction program. Although other methods have been used to prevent geese from entering

lakefront property, “nothing works long-term except to try to control the numbers of the goose population,” according to the committee request. The committee prefers to use nest destruction as a means of controlling the goose population because some residents are not supportive of goose roundups due to costs and concerns about animal cruelty. ❏

customer in a way they will understand,” Cooper said. “I also have banking experience. And I think I have a very strong capability to invest the township money in the safest and most profitable way. I really care about the community and have a lot to offer. I think I will be a good representative for the people.” After 20 years of community service, O’Brien decided it was time to take her skills and experience to the next level. “Twenty years of public service cannot be bought — it must be earned. The next logical step in my career is to seek public office.” O’Brien worked for White Lake for 17 years in the Planning and Water/Sewer departments, experience she said taught her about the operations of a municipal office. In addition, O’Brien has been involved with area charities and community service organizations, including the Veterans Day Memorial

Ceremony and the Community Tree Lighting event in White Lake. “When elected supervisor, I will have an open door policy and will listen intently to our citizens,” O’Brien said. “The township can then work collaboratively with the citizens and businesses alike to engage in creative and innovative policies to increase our tax base and raise our property values. We’ve invested a lot in Highland Township. This is where we’ve bought homes and raised our kids. We value our quality of life and have pride in the unique character of our community.” Rick Hamill, a Republican, is also running for supervisor after being involved with the Highland Downtown Development Authority. The Highland Township treasurer serves four-year terms and currently earns $62,902 annually. The Highland Township supervisor serves a four-year term and currently earns $65,691 annually. ❏

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

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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, 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, Andrea Watkins, Marcia Reimer 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.

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Ex-engineer shifts gears, founds her own toy company

heila Ann Wright of Bloomfield Hills went from designing cars to designing toys that are a labor of love. Wright, a Lawrence Technological University graduate, founded the Ann Williams Group in 2007 after working at Chrysler in its Product Management and Product Development department and had dreams of starting her own business. Her inspiration came from her two children, son Owen and daughter Amelia. Wanting to remain close to her children even while they were away at school, Wright came up a recordable device that would play her voice messages to her children. That was the basis for the Talkatoo, the first product the company put out in 2010, which became a best-seller. The friendship bracelet maker, the Loopdedoo, soon followed in 2011 and in May, the company will put out Talkatales, which are blank books where children can draw and create a story and also record their voice. Her products have been featured at expos across the country and are now being sold online and at stores nationwide. To learn more about and purchase these items, visit annwilliamsgroup.com. Tell us about your company, the Ann Williams Group, and how the idea came about. Tell us about the process of starting up your business. SW: Well, the company manufactures children’s products, so we make toys for kids. The name of the company is actually from my kids. My son’s middle name is William and my daughter’s middle name is Ann, so we named the company after them. I have a background in engineering. I worked in the automotive industry for 15 years as a design engineer and that background has come in handy because knowing how to design and manufacture products has been helpful. I would say that I had a window of opportunity to spend time with my kids before they went to school all day, so I quit my job and then they went to school all day and I didn’t want to go back. I was bored, so I had an idea for a product that was passionate about, so I started the company and it took about a year and a half to get the product to market. Among your company’s most popular items is the Talkatoo, which is a recordable charm, and Talkatales, which are recordable books. What was the inspiration behind these products and why are recordable items so important to you?

method and it ended up working out pretty good. What were some of the major obstacles you and your business had to overcome in its early stages? What was the one moment where you can say the company had its first taste of success and that it was heading on the right path? SW: There are a lot of obstacles, I think. First, it was helpful that I had the engineering background, so I knew how to take a product to market. But there’s so much that I don’t know because I was in (the) automotive (industry) and now I’m in toys, so there’s a whole new industry to learn. And of course, the funding problem and sourcing overseas has been a struggle because the products I make, unfortunately, I can’t make here in the (United) States because it’s too cost prohibitive. So finding a reliable source to make them has been a big challenge. We’ve exhibited several times at several trade shows, (and) one of the larger ones is the New York Toy Fair. We exhibited there for the first time three years ago and we had a lot of interest from a lot of people, large companies and small companies. People loved the product and we had a lot of press and PR and that kind of led us to believe that we were on to something. And then, we exhibited again two years ago and then again this year with some new products and the interest from retailers continues to grow. The feedback that we’re hearing from retailers is really what we’re excited about because they love the products and they want to put them in their stores. We’re in a couple stores in Michigan. Most of our distribution is throughout the rest of the country, though. We have sales reps who sell to small- and medium-sized stores and most of our distribution is through specialty retailers throughout the country. What are your company’s goals for the future? Where can anyone interested in purchasing your company’s items find them? SW: To continue to develop new, unique, and innovative products. All the stores that carry our products are listed on our website, annwilliamsgroup.com. Locally, you can find them at The Doll Hospital and Toy Soldier Shop (in Berkley). ❏

SW: Well, my kids were younger, I would take them to day care. The dropoffs were tough. It was hard for both of us sometimes and so I always felt like if I could leave a little piece of myself with them, it would make it easier. So sometimes I would draw a heart on their hand or, as I got older, I put a little note in their lunch box. It always felt like there was a better way. So I came up with this idea to leave them with a little voice message that they could listen to anytime they wanted and that was called Talkatoo. That was the first product that we came out with. Talkatales is a recordable, drawable book, that’s actually coming in May. I thought that was a really cool way to

•

NE MINUTE

INTERVIEW

capture kids drawing and their sweet little voices that disappear as they get older. The friendship bracelet device known as the Loopdedoo is another one of your best-sellers. How were you able to put a new twist on an item that has been around for years? SW: Well, friendship bracelets have been around for years, and this device makes them in minutes. It’s a different way of making them. The traditional method is to tie knots — to weave them, basically — and the Loopdedoo device takes thread and spins it around itself, so it only takes a few minutes to make a friendship bracelet. The idea came from watching my daughter try to make a friendship bracelet. She was struggling and having trouble with it and it was taking a long time, so it came into my head to try a different

By Michael Shelton Read more of this interview at spinalcolumnonline.com.

MARCH 21-27, 2012

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PAGE 5

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LAKES AREA NEWS

Wixom council extends medical pot ban for 1 year

Walled Lake signs new pact for fire, police dispatch

By Leslie Shepard

staff writer

Wixom City Council unanimously extended the city’s medical marijuana moratorium for another year during its March 13 meeting, based on a Planning Commission recommendation and an opinion submitted by the city attorney. This is the city’s fifth move to extend a moratorium related to the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act (MMMA), which was enacted following 2-to-1 voter support for medical marijuana use at the 2008 general election polls. The city’s initial moratorium was first extended in May 2010. Extensions were also approved in November 2010, May 2011, and October 2011. At that time, the consensus was that it would be prudent to postpone drafting a medical marijuana ordinance until cases under litigation came to some conclusion. Unlike each of the former moratoriums that were approved for six month intervals, planning commissioners are now recommending a one-year moratorium. “The city attorney is reviewing court cases and tracking them closely,” said Assistant City Manager Tony Nowicki. “Laws haven’t been passed yet and that needs to be straightened out,” said Mayor Pro Tem Jim Cutright. According to City Attorney Carol Rosati, there are numerous cases working their way through the court system. “Unfortunately, the MMMA is silent with respect to numerous land use (issues) that have been showing up in the state since its adoption,” she said. “These uses include medical marijuana dispensaries, compassion or social clubs, smoke houses, growing operations, and cooperatives, none of which are mentioned or covered by the act. There remains uncertainty about the legality of those uses that are not specifically authorized by the MMMA, and the MMMA makes no reference whatsoever to local land use regulations. Since the MMMA went into effect, various approaches have been taken by municipalities attempting to address the issues. And, the meaning of the MMMA and extent of what is allowed under the act has become the subject of litigation.”

staff writer

Pastor Niklaus Schillack was recently installed as the new pastor of Shepherd of the Lakes Church, located at 2905 S. Commerce Road. The Ann Arbor native earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Eastern Michigan University and his master’s degree in divinity from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio. In addition, he is pursuing a doctorate degree in ministry from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. “The people who worship at and belong to this church do so many good works in the community and for each other,” said Schillack, who is entering his 11th year as a pastor. “I have been delighted to see all the ways the people of this church are giving to others and welcoming so many through these efforts. The husband and father of two daughters who most recently served with Christ the King Lutheran Church in Lapeer replaces Roy Langset, who served Shepherd of the Lakes Church for 20 years before retiring due to health concerns. (Photo submitted by Joan Morehead)

Rosati said at least 10 relevant court cases are in the process of being litigated. Medical marijuana use was authorized for qualified patients by Michigan voters in the November 2008 general election. The state’s medical marijuana law then took effect on April 4, 2009. An ordinance would help to regulate medical marijuana within the city and guide law enforcement efforts in

combating any illegal drug activity. At the end of the one-year moratorium time frame, it’s expected that the Planning Commission will either draft a final zoning ordinance amendment ready for approval that specifically outlines areas within the city where medical marijuana can be legally grown and sold, or it will determine that the issue falls under the current land use zoning ordinance in place. ❏

The Walled Lake Police and Fire departments have inked a contract with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department to continue receiving around-the-clock dispatching services for another three years. “We’ve had no major problems — just minor ones, which is normal, but they were addressed by the (sheriff’s department) and they complied immediately,” said Deputy Police Chief Bruce Kirby. “Overall, our working relationship has been excellent.” The Walled Lake City Council voted unanimously to accept the contract at its March 6 meeting. According to Kirby, the new agreement calls for a 3 percent increase in the city’s payment above the amount required under the initial three-year contract signed in Sept. 2009, when Walled Lake agreed to dole out $6,443.33 per month for dispatching services. The new contract states the city must pay $7,196 per month for the period between April 1, 2012 through March 31, 2013; $7,340 per month for the following year; and $7,487 per month from April 1, 2014 through March 31, 2015. “Despite the increase, the city still saves money compared to when we did it (dispatch) on our own for equipment, personnel and ancillary costs,” Kirby said. According to the contract, the county will provide dispatching services for any emergency or non-emergency telephone call or notice. The city is responsible for insurance costs and coverages incurred. Both the city and the county retain autonomy over their respective employees and their wages. Walk-in service hours at the Walled Lake Police Department will continue from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide standard services for gun permits or registered sex offenders. ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 13

➥

PAGE 8

By Angela Niemi staff writer

SPECIAL REPORT

ecent medical and scientific advances have progressed to the point where people are living longer, healthier, and hopefully happier lives — far longer and far healthier than generations ago. This, of course, also means that the population is aging, especially with the baby boom generation entering the 65-years-old-andover club last year. According to the Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing at New York University’s (NYU) College of Nursing, the senior population is expected to grow from 39 million in 2008 to 72 million in 2030 — nearly double. This explosive growth will place great demands on our health care system, according to the institute’s website. Being aware of the population trend for some time, organizations around the country have been designing programs to serve senior citizens. And even though we are living longer, it doesn’t mean our lives are free of health complications. In fact, many elderly people have several different chronic health problems that need to be addressed concurrently — such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and dementia, just to name a few — in addition to the normal issues that develop with age. One program that is very aware of these concerns is the Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders (NICHE) program, which was developed out of the Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing and is celebrating its 20th year of operation in 2012. “The American Association of Geriatrics recognized 25 years ago that the baby boomers are turning 65 and never before have we had this large volume of folks 65 years and older. Basically, the population is aging and doing so exponentially, so a group of nurses at NYU put together NICHE,” said Diana LaBumbard, who is the coordinator of the NICHE program at three Detroit Medical Center (DMC) hospitals — Huron Valley-Sinai in Commerce Township, Sinai-Grace, and Detroit Receiving. According to the program’s website, the goal of NICHE is “to achieve systematic nursing change that will benefit older hospitalized patients” with a vision “for all patients 65 and over to be given sensitive and exemplary care.” Overall, the mission of NICHE is “to provide the principles and tools necessary to achieve patient-centered care for older adults.”

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Caring for seniors

Providers adapt to serve aging population

From left to right, Dr. Thomas Li, dietitian Liz Bailey, clinical nurse specialist Diana LaBumbard, RN Liz Knoll, and patient mobility technician Paul Roback work together at DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital in Commerce Township to improve the care provided to senior citizens. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

In the lakes area, both DMC Huron Valley-Sinai and Henry Ford West Bloomfield hospitals are a part of the NICHE program. “All three of our (DMC) hospital programs work together as a system to build in quality improvement measures for the geriatric population,” said LaBumbard, whose hospitals have been a part of the program for a decade and continue to get redesignated every year in order to deliver the highest quality care to the aging population. As part of the NICHE program, the nurses at these hospitals are trained to look for signs of health issues that are common in the elderly. “Embedded into our daily assessments that we do for all patients is a special assessment called ‘SPICES,’ which targets areas that geriatric patients are at a higher risk of having problems with. They go through this assessment at admission, and it’s an ongoing assessment while they are admitted,” LaBumbard said. SPICES is an acronym developed at the NYU College of Nursing and stands for the prevalent problems experienced by older adults: sleep dis-

orders; problems with eating or feeding; incontinence; confusion; evidence of falls; and skin breakdown. “We have specially-trained nurses that understand if the patient has some of these issues found in the

All three of our (DMC) hospital programs work together as a system to build in quality improvement measures for the geriatric population.

geriatric assessment, then we need to come up with special interventions for their care,” LaBumbard said. “That’s something the NICHE team comes up with. And all interventions

are evidence-based.” The NICHE team consists of professionals from various disciplines, such as primary care physicians, geriatric nurses, physical therapists, dietitians, pharmacists, and occupational therapists, among many others. This interdisciplinary approach is a key component of the NICHE program to ensure that patients receive the best care. And so far, the program has led to higher patient and family satisfaction, according to LaBumbard. “The program has multiple benefits. One of the biggest, of course, is the improvement in high quality care,” she said. “But the utmost is really in patient safety. I know (recently) they just had this thing on the national news on how patients still aren’t safe in the hospital. We still have all these medical errors. Well, by going that one step further and adding that 6-point assessment, it highlights this patient population’s risk for problems. We can basically prevent problems like falls and pressure ulcers that can increase the length of stay for patients (in the hospital). It’s really about keeping patients safe.” Part of keeping patients safe is mak-

MARCH 21-27, 2012

Diana LaBumbard is coordinator of the Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders (NICHE) program at three Detroit Medical Center (DMC) hospitals — including Huron Valley-Sinai in Commerce Township — which strives “to achieve systematic nursing change that will benefit older hospitalized patients” with a vision “for all patients 65 and over to be given sensitive and exemplary care.” (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Hospital is one of them. According to Ellis, Henry Ford has been in the home health care business for over 30 years and is the largest provider of in-home services in Michigan. “It’s absolutely beneficial for seniors,” Ellis said. “We have some of the highest clinical ratings in patient satisfaction outcomes in the industry with our home care program. I think it’s because of a combination of all the services we offer. It depends on the patient’s conditions and needs, and by offering all services under one location, we are able to meet and customize towards the patient’s needs.” For more information on the Henry Ford at Home program in West Bloomfield, call 248-661-7935. Another person who is familiar with benefits of in-residence care is Dr. Adil Arabbo, the chief of family

medicine at DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital. “I think any time you’re not hospitalizing patients, and they are staying in their own home and a familiar environment, it improves the patient’s quality of life,” Arabbo said. In addition to seeing seniors in his office, he and his Care with Compassion Physician Group make visits a couple days a week to patients in the comfort of their own homes, provided that they live in an assisted living facility or senior apartment complex. “We don’t make house calls to individual residences,” he said. Arabbo and his group work along with Huron Valley-Sinai to coordinate care. “We work closely with Huron Valley to be able to monitor residents as soon as they get in the hospital so that we can discharge and bring

PAGE 9

them back to their place of residence as soon as possible. “When we see residents at their homes, we are looking for things to work on and pay attention to in order to decrease hospitalization, emergency room visits, and to improve the quality of life,” Arabbo said. “The approach is beneficial in that it gets patients back into their own environment quicker. Typically, when you don’t have something in place such as a continuum of community between the hospital and the doctor managing at home, the patient will have continued relapses. The patient will keep going to the emergency room for sometimes unnecessary visits. By visiting patients at their place of residence, we are staying ahead of the curve because we are monitoring and taking care of issues that often result in hospital visits.” These issues include being vigilant about preventing falls, infections, pneumonia, and inappropriate use of medications. According to LaBumbard, some senior citizens average taking between five and 10 different medications a day. “One of the biggest problems in health care is poly-pharmacy,” LaBumbard said. “Patients are seeing so many different doctors and being prescribed different medications for their different ailments. And sometimes those drugs cause other issues or counteract other drugs the patient may be taking.” “Sometimes overlaps in medications can compound certain symptoms. Some can even make patients more drowsy and more prone to falls,” Arabbo added. His group of doctors also works with other health professionals, such as nurses and physical therapists, to alleviate these types of issues and ensure quality care. “We rely on the other team members, such as those in nursing and home health care to come out and educate patients and their families — for example, providing a well-lit environment at night,” Arabbo said. “If the patient is up and walking at night, we should allow the living space to be less invasive. We are customizing care for every patient. Essentially, we are streamlining the care by looking at who the caregivers are, which physicians the patients are seeing, and making sure the medication and regimens are in place while the patient is at home.” The end goal of this approach is to help seniors build and maintain their independence. PAGE 10 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

SPECIAL REPORT

ing sure they have the proper at-home care, which in some cases is preferable to hospital stays. It may be a counterintuitive notion, but rarely is there rest for those patients staying in a hospital. Constant interruptions from doctors and nurses, orderlies and phlebotomists, visitors and other patients all prevent patients from getting the rest they need to heal. Sometimes after getting the necessary treatment, the best place to recuperate is at home. “It’s more relaxing for the patient in a familiar environment, and research shows that patients recover better at home and are less susceptible to infection at their places of residence,” said Mike Ellis with Henry Ford Hospital’s Henry Ford at Home program. Henry Ford at Home is a program designed to offer patients all the products and services they could need in their home from one location. It offers Medicare-certified home health care, which includes nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical social services, home health aides, and dietitians. Health products are offered, as well, and include oxygen and respiratory services, mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs, wound care supplies, and other necessary equipment to take care of someone at home, including hospital beds. Home infusion services are also available. “If a patient needs (intravenous) antibiotics or medications in the home, we can provide that,” Ellis said. “We also have e-home care that is a division which uses technology such as personal emergency response system medical dispensers. We use tele-health equipment in patients at home to keep them safe while they are in their own residence.” The whole point of the program is to keep patients comfortable in their home while still continuing to receive the exemplary care that they would expect at the hospital. “The service you come to expect from Henry Ford hospitals, we want to extend that service into the home and the community,” Ellis said. “We want to keep patients safe and independent in (their) place of residence. Seniors want to stay out of the hospital as much as possible and live as independently and as securely as they can. Independence is a major issue for the senior population. And the expertise of not only our clinical but technical and equipment team can keep them safe and independent in their homes for longer periods of time.” Henry Ford currently has 17 locations that offer Henry Ford at Home, and Henry Ford West Bloomfield

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PAGE 10

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Senior health care ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 9

“We’re trying to make them more independent by being more proactive in their care,” Arabbo said. And it seems to be working.

What will happen with the aging baby boomer population is there will continue to be an overwhelming rise in health care costs.

“We have been getting accolades from our patients and their families. And at the end of the day that is what you want,” Arabbo said. He also sees this form of a care as a way to cope with the exponentially growing senior population. “What will happen with the aging baby boomer population is there will continue to be an overwhelming rise in health care costs,” Arabbo said. “There has to be a way where care is delivered and is more cost-effective and efficient. More importantly, it has to improve the patient’s quality of life. And this model of senior care seems to take care of all these components for us.” DMC’s LaBumbard said she feels well prepared for the challenges of senior care in the future, as well. “It’s not rocket science,” she said. “We just have to recognize that there are differences in this patient population. We need to have heightened awareness as health care providers. And I think the biggest thing is to remain opened to an interdisciplinary approach. And we need to continue to do research and then teach our staff how to translate research into care.” And it’s not just the private sector that offers programs and services catered toward helping senior citizens cope with health-related issues during their golden years. The Oakland County Department of Health and Human Services also offers services geared toward senior citizens and has a page on the county’s website, oakgov.com/seniors. The department provides public health nursing services to older adults, including telephone and home visits for functional and safety assessments.

Oakland County Senior Citizens Services Coordinator Mary Strobe can be reached at 248-858-0213, and the county also provides a nurse on-call service at 248-858-1406. Counseling to senior centers, community groups, and housing sites is also provided by the department, as are outreach flu clinics in the fall. Uninsured and under-insured Oakland County residents can also obtain a free prescription drug discount card that includes benefits such as an average savings of 20 percent, as well as savings on specialty medications. There are also no enrollment fees and no age requirements with the discount card program, which also provides unlimited use for a whole family and is available at over 57,000 participating pharmacies. The division also warns that the discount card does not count as insurance and is made possible through a partnership between the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and the National Association of Counties. For more information on the discount prescription card program, call 1-877-321-2652 or visit naco.advancerx.com. The Health Division also provides seniors with a discount dental program that is accepted by 90,000 dentists across the country and provides savings of 20 to 50 percent.

The Oakland County Department of Health and Human Services also offers services geared toward senior citizens and has a page on the county’s website, oakgov.com/seniors. An application for the dental discount program can be downloaded at oakgov.com/discountdental/enroll. A date to mark on the calendar is May 23, when the 2012 North Oakland Caregiver and Senior Expo will be held at the Orion Center in Lake Orion. There is also a state hotline for seniors seeking assistance with Medicare or Medicaid issues, accessible by calling 1-800-803-7174. ❏ Staff writer Michael Shelton contributed to this report.

MARCH 21-27, 2012

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PAGE 13

LAKES AREA NEWS

Lack of quorum delays discussion on Milford roads By Michael Shelton staff writer

he Milford Village Council meeting scheduled for Monday, March 19 was adjourned due the absence of four out of seven council members, thereby delaying a scheduled discussion on deteriorating roadways in the village and the potential for placing a question on an upcoming ballot seeking a new road millage collection. “I’ve been here 21 years and I think that this has happened only one other time,” said Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger. He added that the meeting will not be rescheduled and that the council will convene again on April 2 for its next regularly scheduled meeting. He also said that the items on the March 19 agenda will be shifted over to the April 2 meeting agenda. The council members who did attend last Monday’s meeting were President Pro-Tem Michael Glagola, along with Jennifer Frankford and Jerry Aubry. Shufflebarger said that he knew ahead of time that Council President Terri Rusas-George and Councilman James Kovach would not be available on March 19, but said that Councilman Kevin Ziegler got called away on business and that Councilwoman Elizabeth Heer was also absent. Among the items on the March 19 meeting agenda was discussion on a potential capital improvement road millage and a request to direct the village attorney to draft ballot language for the proposed millage, following a meeting by the village

Shaughnessy, Rosenberg seek re-election in WB West Bloomfield Township Clerk Cathy Shaughnessy and Township Trustee Howard Rosenberg have both declared that they will run this year for a second term in office. Shaughnessy, a Democrat, was elected to the clerk position in the November 2008 election without facing any Republican competition, after defeating Sheryl Mitchell and Heddie

The Milford Village Council was expected to have a discussion on Monday, March 19 about deteriorating village roadways, like this stretch of Commerce Street (above), and the possibility of a capital improvement road millage to be placed before village voters in an upcoming election, but a lack of a quorum forced that discussion to be delayed until a meeting on April 2. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

capital improvement committee back on March 6. That meeting was held to discuss possible improvements to village roads, with a road millage as a possibility. The village previously put a fiveyear, 0.5-mill levy for the maintenance of major and local roads in the village before voters in the September 2009 election, which resulted in a tie of 427 “yes” and 427 “no” votes, and ultimately defeat of the ballot question. The Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Office Election Division upheld the tie vote after conducting a recount.

At the council meeting held on Feb. 21, Public Works Director Robert Calley and a representative of the OHM engineering firm gave a presentation pointing out the deterioration of the village’s roads. The presentation involved a system called Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating (PASER), which pointed out that 18.2 miles of village roadways are in poor condition. The council was also scheduled on March 19 to vote on approving a contract with Environmental Recycling Group for Milford’s Household

Hazardous Waste Collection Day scheduled for May 19. Also on the March 19 agenda was the potential adoption of an amendment for the village’s ordinance book that would add an article dedicated to special events to the section regarding streets, sidewalks and other places. According to a draft, the intent of the amendment is to “regulate special events within the village and to minimize any disturbance to the public health, safety, or general welfare relating to such events.” ❏

O’Connor in the August 2008 Democratic primary election. Rosenberg, a Democrat, was elected as a township trustee in 2008, along with fellow Democrats Larry Brown, Gene Farber and Steve Kaplan, after they held off Republican John Cyrus Moyhi in the 2008 general election. “So many positive changes have been accomplished over the past few years. I look forward to keep providing residents with the best quality services at the lowest price,” Shaughnessy said. “I’ve implemented cuts by streamlining my own opera-

tion and making it a practice to stop unnecessary expenditures throughout the township. My office reorganization alone has saved over $400,000 during my term of office.” Shaughnessy also said that she worked to modernize the election process by implementing a computer check-in system at the polls. Rosenberg said his business experience has helped the township save over $200,000 in health care costs by cutting commissions to plan agents and uncovering other unnecessary health plan costs. “I want to keep the financial

integrity of township government in place by being a guardian of the taxpayer’s money and will make certain that residents are treated with respect and dignity whenever they have a concern with local government,” he said. The filing deadline for local candidates is May 15. The township clerk serves a fouryear term. Township trustees serve four-year terms and are paid $125 per board meeting. ❏

FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 14

➥

PAGE 14

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA NEWS

Highland using Tri-party funds on John Street paving By Angela Niemi staff writer

The Highland Township Board of Trustees has approved a proposal by Supervisor Triscia Pilchowski to allocate this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tri-party program allotment of $58,693 toward a N. John Street paving project. The Tri-party program allows local communities to decide the nature of annual projects to be funded equally by the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), a participating municipality, and the general county government. The projects usually involve small-scale work, such as widening intersections, adding turn lanes, and widening roads. The N. John Street paving project has an estimated cost of $190,000. In 2011, Highland designated its $19,963 in Tri-party funding toward the project, which combined with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tri-party allocation, brings Highlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tri-party fund total for the project to $39,537. This amount is matched with Tri-party funds from

the RCOC and the county, lowering the townshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s additional contribution for the project to approximately $78,000. Highland also had approximately $15,000 left over in Tri-party funding from prior years. The township board approved Pilchowskiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommendation to put those funds toward a Cooley Lake Road paving project, which will cost an estimated $4.4 million and includes construction, engineering, signage, and pavement marking costs, as well as acquiring the right-of-way to actually pave a currently gravel stretch of the roadway. Cooley Lake Road will be paved from east of Duck Lake Road to Mystic Valley Drive. Federal dollars of up to $3.2 million will fund part of the project, with the remaining local share being split up between the RCOC; White Lake, Commerce, Milford and Highland townships; and Oakland County. According to the RCOC, the breakdown of the local matches amounts to approximately $160,000 each for Commerce and White Lake, and $20,000 each for Milford and Highland townships. â??

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PAGE 15

LAKES AREA NEWS

State of the Lakes Address Sponsored by the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Comme rce Plan ner and Director DDA Kathleen Jackson

nty Executive Oakland Cou erson L. Brooks Patt

Chamber of Commerce Board President Mark Steinberg

White L ake Su perviso r Greg Baroni

ornan r Mike D e g a n a ity M Wixom C

Commerce Supervisor Tom Zoner

ncil Village Cou e k La e n ri Wolve e ohn Mage President J

The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual State of the Lakes Address and Membership Luncheon held Tuesday, March 13, brought county and lakes area municipal executives together to talk about progress made last year. In addition, the speakers (pictured above) offered a forecast of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to come this year for the county and their respective municipalities. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photos/Amy K. Lockard)

Walled Lake Mayor Bil l Roberts

PAGE 16

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA NEWS

New Dublin SMART bus has ‘all the bells and whistles’ By Angela Niemi staff writer

After three years working on getting a new Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) bus for the Dublin Senior Center in White Lake Township, the bus was delivered and began its route yesterday, Tuesday, March 20. “We’re very excited to finally get it,” said Dublin Senior Center Director Kathy Gordinear. The Dublin Senior Center has two buses that service seniors in White Lake, Commerce Township and Wolverine Lake. The new bus will be replacing an older model. “This bus is exciting with all its bells and whistles,” Gordinear said. “This diesel vehicle doesn’t need to be plugged in. Normally, diesel vehicles in the winter have to be plugged in, but this one doesn’t. And the important thing about new diesels is that they are more environmentally-friendly.” Another advantage of the newer model 2012 GM Challenger bus is that there is now more seating available. While the previous bus only had 11 seats, the new bus has 13 seats, which can either accommodate 13 passengers; 12 passengers and a wheelchair; or 10 passengers and two wheelchairs. “The other very, very nice thing about SMART buses is that they have seat belts now,” Gordinear said. “In the past, there wasn’t a law to require the older buses to have them. This is an extra safety bonus for passengers and will make them feel more confident and calm.” ❏

Holloway-Irwin to run as Democrat for Waterford clerk By Leslie Shepard staff writer

A former village of Wolverine Lake clerk with nearly three decades of municipal government experience is running for election as Waterford Township’s top elections official. So far, Rita Holloway-Irwin, a Democrat, and Sue Camilleri, a Republican, have officially tossed

Population control DNR takes over village swan program By Leslie Shepard staff writer

he Wolverine Lake Village Council has approved a resolution that calls for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in conjunction with the state Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, to carry out the village’s mute swan nest and egg destruction efforts this spring on municipal property. Wolverine Lake’s mute swan management program was revised about four years ago to eradicate nests and destroy eggs on public property. The village doesn’t advocate for the culling or euthanization of mute swans. “We do nest destruction and egg collection so we wouldn’t have to do culling or killing,” said Village Council President John Magee. According to Magee, there has been a surge in the mute swan pairings on village property. The Water Management Board conducts a water fowl count once a year. “The nesting pairs have increased from 6 or 7 to 10 or 11,” he said. “As the state population increases significantly, we also get a larger number of nests on the lake.” Magee also noted that he is seeing a number of non-nesting transitory swans around the lake. “Both the mute swans and transitory swans are the two groups the DNR wants to decrease the populations (of),” Magee said. Egg collection and nest destruc-

their names into the race for Waterford clerk, but according to current township Clerk Kari Vlaeminck, others have picked up candidate paperwork. Vlaeminck has not yet submitted candidacy papers to run for the job she was appointed to after the death of former clerk Betty Fortino last year. Holloway-Irwin served as clerk in Wolverine Lake for 12 years, from 1998 to 2010. She also served as Keego Harbor’s deputy clerk and treasurer for 11 years, and has five years of experience in a pair of

tion in the village historically has been conducted by an outside contractor. Now the DNR, at no cost to the village, will be taking over that task. “The only thing that changes is now the DNR has funding to do this service for us,” Magee said. Mute swans are native to Eurasia and deemed an exotic species in North America. They once were protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, but in 2005 they were excluded from the act’s protection. The DNR stepped up its efforts to reduce the mute swan population last year, stating the water fowl demographic has exploded over the last decade. Subsequently, the DNR is encouraging municipalities to adopt resolutions to allow for the removal and destruction of mute swan eggs and nests, as well as the euthanasia of captured mute swans. “There is no change from our policy, so residents should be fine,” said Village Councilman Brian Nedrow. “We haven’t changed our stance. We don’t want to cull or kill, but they should be managed.” According to Village Administrator Sharon Miller, there is no specific date when the DNR will begin the swan control processes, but the village must still go through the regular channels to apply for a permit. “The DNR will begin dependent on weather, and when the swans start laying their eggs,” Miller said. ❏

municipal building departments. “I was born and raised in Waterford and have lived there now for over 30 years,” Holloway-Irwin said. “I love the community and can do a great job as clerk considering I have 28 years working with municipal government.” Holloway-Irwin, who currently works for Flagstar Bank at its Troy headquarters, said her diverse experience sets her apart. “I’ve sat at Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, council meetings, and work sessions taking the minutes

and listening to all the concerns raised by residents,” Holloway-Irwin said. “This experience will work to the betterment of the community as the next Waterford Township clerk. “At this point, I’m the only certified municipal clerk running,” she noted. If elected, Holloway-Irwin said she plans on soliciting input from current staff in the clerk’s office as a first step. “I would start off by working with employees and other departments and go over some of their concerns (and) address them appropriately,” she said. “I want to evaluate things, take suggestions, and go from there.” Holloway-Irwin said her experience makes her the candidate of choice in the race. “I have a lot of support from the community and am confident I will be elected,” she said. “I’m anxious to get started.” The township clerk serves a fouryear term and is compensated between $72,696 and $94,507, depending on experience. The primary election is Aug. 7 and the general election is Nov. 6. Candidates have until May 15 to file paperwork to seek election in the clerk’s race. ❏

Still time to make donation to Passion for Life This Saturday’s (March 24) Passion for Life 5K run held in downtown Walled Lake will help benefit pediatric brain cancer research at Mott Children’s Hospital. This year’s inspirational family is the Shulls, whose 2-year-old daughter, Lillianna, was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive brain tumor last June. The funds raised during the event will go to the Shulls to defray medical expenses. Registration for the race is from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, with the race starting at 10 a.m. at Bayside Sports Grille. Those wishing to make a donation can do so at www.Passion-forLife.org or by making out a check to Passion for Life Organization and sending it to 2380 Bevin Court, Commerce Township, 48382. ❏

MARCH 21-27, 2012

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PAGE 17

EDUCATION

Color guards, percussion line win at Novi event By Angela Niemi staff writer

The Walled Lake Percussion and Walled Lake Color Guard ensembles competed at the Novi Michigan Color Guard Circuit earlier this month, which featured 45 winter color guard ensembles from across the state in eight different levels and 18 percussion ensembles in six different levels. The Walled Lake Percussion World Line, the Walled Lake Central A Guard, and the Walled Lake Central Open Guard each won their levels. The Walled Lake A Guard performed it’s 2012 program “Fix You,” while the Open Guard performed “Amazing Grace,” a program in memory to one of their own, Nate Pernick, who died in a car accident last year. “He was one of the most talented kids to come through our program. He had just graduated. This program is a dedication to him; it’s very symbolic and meaningful,” said Mike Novak, director of the color guard. “I attribute a lot of our success to long rehearsal hours and very strong parent support. This all wouldn’t be possible without their support.” The Percussion World Line earned the highest score of the percussion competition with a 87.75 for its show entitled “Shattered Perspectives,” where ensemble members are trying stuff “that’s never been done before,” according to Percussion Group Director Nick Pourcho. “We’re taking risks, and it’s working well so far. We work hard, and the kids understand that to be one of the best groups in the country they have to work a lot to get to that point.” “Our World Line Percussion team is currently No. 1 in the state, and we have a really good chance to make some noise at the

MHS Boosters to raise money with beer, wine tasting West Oakland County residents will be sipping and sampling during the Huron Valley Milford High School

The Walled Lake Percussion World Line won its level at the recent Michigan Color Guard Circuit competition in Novi with the highest overall event score, 87.75. (Photo courtesy of David Mexicotte)

national level,” said Band Director Dave Rogers. “And both our color guards are No. 1 in the state and they could make noise at nationals, too. I’m proud of how hard the kids are working and grateful for all the support from the schools and parents.” The State Championships are

scheduled for the weekend of March 31 and April 1. Nationals will be held in April in Dayton, Ohio. The Walled Lake Percussion World Line includes students from all three Walled Lake high schools. ❏

Athletic Boosters’ 4th annual Food, Beer and Wine Tasting fund-raiser this week. The benefit will be held Friday, March 23 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Mystic Creek Golf Club & Banquet Center in Milford. This year, the boosters have accommodations for 250 people. Tickets are $35 each,

and must be purchased prior to the event by calling Kelly Yates at 248863-6435 or via the PayPal link at milfordboosters.com. Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Colasanti’s Market, located just north of the border between Highland and Milford townships, is soliciting beer and wine vendors to donate

products for tasting during the event. Participants will be privy to 27 white wines, 45 red wines, and up to 17 specialty beers. “This is a very generous contribution by Colasanti’s that they make on an annual basis,” said Milford High School Boosters member Karen Tollis. At the end of the evening, patrons can purchase their favorites at a 15 percent discount. Some of the finest restaurants in Milford and Highland are donating signature dishes for the buffet table. “It’s an all-you-can-eat event so everyone can leave full and happy,” Tollis said. Local restaurants — including Americus Coney Island, Highland House, Red Dog Saloon, Black Rock Bar & Grill, Hungry Howie’s, as well as Mystic Creek — are lined up to participate. Each patron can allocate $10 of their event ticket fee to the school sport or club of his or her choice. The boosters will also conduct a silent auction of a number of highvalue donated items. “The silent auction committee has been collecting a very impressive assortment of donated items from our generous community — but those are secrets to be revealed during the event,” Tollis said.”One-hundred percent of the profits will create a Hardship Fund to support the needs of students and all teams and/or groups at Milford High School. While last year’s proceeds were marked for a future expansion of MHS stadium seating, this year, with the economy being in such shape as it is, the athletic boosters wanted to help make an immediate effect on the financial needs of MHS students.” Attendees can also purchase $5 raffle tickets, with the prizes been donated by local merchants. Beginning at 9 p.m., attendees can dance the night away to music by a DJ. A cash bar will also be available. Proceeds will be earmarked for hardships as determined by the organization’s board. For example, the football program is short $750 this year, and the club is looking to defray some of the costs for a strength trainer’s salary. “There are other items that we expect will come to our attention and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis,” said Boosters Vice President Debra Zimmerman. Hardship requests can be presented at the monthly meetings, which are held in Room 802 at Milford High School at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

EDUCATION

Board reverses its previous ‘no’ vote on naming fields

and baseball fields renamed to recognize long-time Kettering football coach Jim Larkin and former Kettering baseball coach Tom Bryce. The move comes a couple months after the board’s Jan. 19 meeting, when it voted 4-3 to reject the naming proposal, with Joan Sutherland, John Himmelspach, Heather Halls, and Robin McGregor each casting votes against the proposal. At the time, Sutherland said granting the request would set a precedent for more name change requests.

Thanks to a change of heart by a member of the Waterford Schools Board of Education, two of Waterford Kettering High School’s athletic fields will now be named in honor of two former Kettering coaches. The board voted 4-3 at its March 15 meeting to have Kettering’s football

However, on March 15, McGregor called for another vote. She, along with Bob Piggott, Robert Petrusha, Jr., and Robert Seeterlin voted in favor of the name changes. “After talking to many of the staff that have worked with Mr. Larkin and Mr. Bryce, everyone’s question was ‘why not?’” McGregor said. “I did my research and we have showed our appreciation as a district to many others. If the community wants to name two fields, that’s who elected me to office. We have named a library,

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schools and rooms in the past.” Former Kettering teacher Hal Farah, one of the organizer’s of Kettering’s 50th anniversary celebration this year, recommended renaming of the fields. When the proposal was originally rejected, it touched off a spark of outrage among Kettering alumni and other Waterford residents, who made their voices heard through phone calls, a Facebook page and public comments at the school board’s Feb. 2 meeting. Kettering’s 50th anniversary celebration is scheduled for June 22-23. ❏

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COMMUNITY LIFE community honors ❐ The Erickson Flute & Ensemble — Flutes & Friends Trio, local artists from the lakes area, will be giving a special performance at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, at the Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA), located at 205 W. Livingston Road in Highland Township. Tickets for this con-

cert are $15 per show and are available at the HVCA. Call 248-889-8660 or visit the HVCA website at www.huronvalleyarts.org. Tickets are also available in Milford at Main Street Art, located 432 N. Main Street. Main Street Art can also be reached at 248-684-1004.

academic honors ❐ Calvin College in Grand Rapids has announced that freshman Travis M. Vincent of Novi has been named to the fall 2011 dean’s list. Travis, a graduate of Novi High School, has a dual major of mathematics and music.

50 YEARS AGO March 22, 1962 Mr. D.W. Bush, manager of the W.T. Grant store in Union Lake, presented a Certificate of Merit and the store’s congratulations to Mrs. G. McNeive, who is manager of the store’s credit department. The certificate, signed by Robert W. Ives, W.T. Grant vice president, was awarded for the department’s unusually high credit performance and collection record, one of the best in the company’s central region. Mrs. McNeive voiced her appreciation of the performance which brings this eagerly sought honor to the local store, and pointed out that it was a tribute to the entire credit staff, which includes A. Gibson and S. Colford. 40 YEARS AGO March 22, 1972 Walled Lake police have arraigned Harold Streeter, 59, of the 1500 block of Bolton, Walled Lake, on an open murder charge. He has been remanded to the Oakland County Jail without bond, pending preliminary examination Friday, March 24, by Judge Martin Boyle in the 52nd District Court in Walled Lake. According to Walled Lake Police Chief Wilford Hook, his department received a report of an assault and battery complaint at 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 14. Siama Streeter, 59, wife of the suspect, had been admitted to Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital with multiple bruises to the body and head. She died six hours later from a “subdural hematoma due to a blunt injury to the head,” according to an autopsy report from the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office. The weapon used is unidentified, pending further investigation by the Walled Lake Police Department. 20 YEARS AGO March 25, 1992 White Lake Township police are awaiting official reports from many state law enforcement agencies concerning the death of 26-year-old Kristen McLain-Sutherland, whose Chevy Blazer collided with a semi truck on M-59 in White Lake Township at about 2:25 a.m. on Friday, March 20.

McLain-Sutherland, of Brighton, is the daughter of popular WXYT radio talk show host and former Tiger great Denny McLain. She was heading west on M-59 as an 18-wheeler with a load of steel was backing up into the driveway of American Marine Shore Control and Sports Center. White Lake Police Chief Ronald Stephens said the truck was blocking both sides of the highway when McLain-Sutherland hit the rear wheels of the truck. After impact, her vehicle burst into flames, according to Stephens. Soon after McLain-Sutherland crashed into the truck, two other vehicles struck her Blazer, but those drivers suffered only minor injuries. 10 YEARS AGO March 20, 2002 Appropriately enough, the ceremonial blessing and dedication for the new addition to the St. Patrick Parish Elementary School (in White Lake Township) took place on Saturday, March 17, otherwise known as St. Patrick’s Day. It’s a good time of year for the parish, as the ground breaking for the addition was held one year ago on the same weekend, according to Father Thomas Meagher, pastor of the parish. Historically, the ground breaking for the original eight-room school building was held 45 years ago, on March 24, 1957. The new addition features nine additional classrooms, a media center/library, a computer lab, and expanded administrative office space. Currently there are 302 students enrolled in St. Patrick Parish Elementary School, and Meagher said that more than 500 students could be enrolled by the year 2006.

Headlines of the Past

– A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly –

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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❐ The Huron-Clinton Metroparks honored four employees on March 10 at its 52nd annual Recognition Dinner for providing exemplary service in 2011. Sergeant Randall Batzer and Michael George received Outstanding Full-Time Employee of the Year awards; Chris Becher and April Curry received Outstanding Part-Time Employee of the Year awards. For their outstanding achievements, each received a mantle clock; Batzer and George also received a U.S. savings bond. Sergeant Randall (Randy) Batzer, of Washington Township, was recognized for his dedication, diligence and professionalism in carrying out his law enforcement duties at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks for more than 30 years. A graduate of Romeo High School, Sergeant Batzer holds an associate’s degree in law enforcement from Macomb Community College. He began his career with the Metroparks in 1978 as a park ranger aide at Stony Creek Metropark. He now serves as the sergeant for the Metroparks Eastern District (Stony Creek, Wolcott Mill and Lake St. Clair Metroparks). Through the years, grateful park patrons have honored Sergeant Batzer with letters of commendation for his service. In addition to serving the Metroparks Police Department, Sergeant Batzer has assisted in cases that led to arrests for Oakland County’s Strike Force investigators, the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, and the Macomb County Law Enforcement Team. He is married to Cathleen, and they are the parents of

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Michael (Mike) George, of Tyrone Township, was recognized for his contributions to interpretive services at the Metroparks. George, who is the chief of interpretive services, joined the Metroparks in 1980, accepting a parttime position at Oakwoods Nature Center, where he had served as a volunteer. He was hired full-time in 1983 as a park maintenance worker at Lower Huron Metropark, and then as an interpreter at Indian Springs Metropark Nature Center in 1989. In 1995, he was selected to develop the Mobile Learning Center’s Educational Outreach Program, a 48-foot exhibit trailer filled with natural and cultural history exhibits, staffed by interpreters who conduct themed programs at schools. In 1998, he was promoted to supervising interpreter for the Mobile Learning Center. In 2006, he was promoted to chief of interpretive services. In this capacity, he is responsible for administering 10 interpretive facilities and an extensive offsite education program. In addition to his duties among the parks, George works closely with community, state and national educational and environmental groups. A keen supporter of initiatives that promote the importance of outdoor play for children, he has been an active member of the Michigan No Child Left Inside Coalition. He also helped develop Heavner Nature Connections, which creates opportunities for children and adults to explore the outdoors through educational and leisure experiences. George holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and conservation from Central PAGE 21 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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LOCAL MATTERS

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 20

Michigan University and has done post-graduate work in wildlife biology and management at Northern Michigan University and CMU. Christine Becher, of Dryden, has been an interpreter at Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center for 15 years. Always thinking big on behalf of the Metroparks, she plans and coordinates numerous special events, most notably the park’s annual Bird Migration Festival and Voyageur Encampment. A successful grant writer and volunteer coordinator, she works tirelessly to ensure the success of the interpretive programs at Lake St. Clair Metropark. In 2010, the National Association for Interpretation honored her with the Sandy McBeath Part Time/Seasonal Interpreter Award for her outstanding contributions to the field of interpretation. April Curry, of New Hudson, began working at Kensington Metropark as a tollbooth attendant in 1997. In 2000 she moved into her position as secretary in the park office, where she handles a wide variety of responsibilities. A willing and able team player, Curry has cheerfully provided assistance at the boat rental and in the tollbooths, as well as at numerous special events. Over the years,she has received numerous compliments from park patrons and fellow park employees. She is known for being dependable, courteous, and helpful.

weekly agenda ❐ Paul Rentschler, an aquatic/wetland ecologist of ASTI Environmental, has announced that there will be a public meeting on the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Oakland County at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 22, in the West Oakland Conference Room, Building 41 West, in the Oakland County Executive Office Building Conference Center located at 21 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford Township. ASTI Environmental is a firm which has provided environmental consulting and engineering to the Great Lake Region since 1985. For more information, visit www.ochmp.com or call 1-800-395-ASTI.

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chamber notes ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce (HVCC) is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, visit www.huronvcc.com: • Huron Valley Community Showcase, noon to 3 p.m., Sunday, March 25, Huron Valley Milford High School Field House, 2380 S. Milford Road, Highland Township. Registration is now open for the 2012 Huron Valley Community Showcase (formerly the EXPO). The showcase is a community event designed to provide business owners and local organizations a cost-effective way to personally meet hundreds of potential customers from the Huron Valley area. Hosted by the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce, the show is in its 19th year, consistently offering valuable community exposure for your business. For more information, contact Laura at the chamber office at 248685-7129, ext. 104. • The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce is offering its members a sponsorship opportunity for its 10th annual Huron Valley Egg Hunt. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 31, at Duck Lake Pines Park, located at 1241 N. Duck Lake Rd in Highland.

• Ambassadors Meeting, 10 a.m., April 11, Milford Police Department conference room, 1100 Atlantic Street, Milford. • Off the Clock Connect, 5:30 to 7 p.m., April 12, Duke’s of Highland, 1200 S. Milford Road, Highland. • The Coffee Club, 8 to 9 a.m., April 20, Holiday Inn Express Wixom, 48953 Alpha Drive, Wixom. • Administrative Professionals Luncheon, noon to 2 p.m., April 25, at Cinco Lagos, 424 N. Main Street, Milford; ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce has a Community Showcase announcement geared toward Community Showcase participants and chamber members. It has been brought to our attention that a company is soliciting advertisers for a Huron Valley Exhibitors Directory Fair Guide. The company is Construct Data Publishers out of Slovakia. It states that it is organized by the Huron Valley Chamber but we have no affiliation with this publication. Please disregard this solicitation. It is a scam and has no affiliation with our chamber or our Community Showcase event scheduled for Sunday, March 25. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Laura Bolyard at 248-685-7129, ext. 104. ❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (LACC) is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-624-2826 or visit www.lakesareachamber.com: • The Grand Court-Novi is sponsoring and hosting a new member reception from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, at 45182 West Park Drive in Novi. The event is complimentary, but reservations are needed since space is limited. • The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce’s Spring Golf Scramble will be held on May 14 at Edgewood Country Club, located at 8399 Commerce Road in Commerce Township. Sponsorship reservations ranging in price from $100 to $1,000 for this event are now being taken. For more information, call the chamber at 248-624-2826 or e-mail info@lakesareachamber.com. The deadline is May 11.

❐ 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: • Hammer Time - Work Day is April 28, rain or shine. Join one of our teams led by fellow chamber members to solicit volunteers and raise funds for Work Day April 28. For more information on how you can be a part of Work Day, please call 248-618-7433 or visit www.ciaoaklandcounty.org. The application deadline is Friday, March 30. • Perking Up Networking, 8 to 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 3, Advanced PetCare of Oakland, PC, 6378 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston. Networking & Continental Breakfast. Ten-dollar advance registration for members; $15 at the door & for nonmembers. Register at http://bit.ly/dDg0p0 • CEED Microloan Orientation, 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 4, Oakland County Executive Office Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac Lake Road, west of Telegraph Road in Waterford Township. Many small business owners face obstacles when trying to obtain a business loan. The recognition of the serious need for working capital for existing businesses, start-up or expansion, equipment purchases, and job creation is not the priority it once was. If you have a need for alternative financing, consider the MicroLoan Program. For pre-registration and location specifics, visit our website at oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call 248-858-0783. This workshop is free but pre-registration is required. ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-626-3636 or visit westbloomfieldchamber.com. • April 24 is the date to save for the annual Chamber Awards Dinner. Please join us as we honor four businesses in the categories of Business Person of the Year, New Business of the Year, HIP Business of the Year, and Young Entrepreneur of the Year. More information on the event will be available soon.

PAGE 22

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PAGE 23

PUBLIC SAFETY After searching the Jeep, no weapon was found. Police then showed the victim a photo of the subject, but he said the subject was not the one who reportedly brandished the weapon. ❏

Man: Teen stabbed me after dust-up at 7-11 A 16-year-old Highland Township resident has been lodged in Children’s Village after allegedly stabbing a 20year-old Highland man. According to an Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Highland Substation report, the two had an earlier altercation at a 7-11 in the township. The victim told substation deputies that during that altercation he walked away because the suspect was a minor. However, on Saturday, March 17, around 7 p.m., the suspect was allegedly waiting for the victim in front of his residence in the Highland Greens Estates mobile home park. “He and his little buddy, who lives down the street, were waiting for me,” the victim told deputies. The suspect then allegedly stabbed the man in the chest and stomach. He said he chased the suspect until he lost too much blood. When deputies responded to the scene, the suspect was gone. The victim was taken to McLaren Hospital in Pontiac, where he underwent surgery and needed “20 staples in my stomach.” Meanwhile, the suspect and a parent went to the substation to report the incident. According to the incident report, the juvenile is claiming self-defense. The victim was released from the hospital the morning of Monday, March 19. ❏

Man says gun pointed at him after altercation Walled Lake police are investigating a reported intimidation incident in which a group of young men allegedly pointed a gun at a man after both parties engaged in a verbal altercation on Wednesday, March 14. Police were dispatched to the Bayside Sports Grille, located at 142 E. Walled Lake Drive, after the victim reported that three black males in their early 20s exited the parking lot after allegedly pointing a gun at him. The victim jotted down their vehicle’s license plate number so police could locate the suspects. The silver Jeep was last seen heading east on Walled Lake Drive. The victim explained to police that he was at a Wendy’s restaurant an hour earlier when he had exchanged words with the three men, but left to avoid a fight. As he began walking on Pontiac Trail, the three reportedly came up beside him and threw two

Apartment fire caused by ‘poor judgment’

The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department is looking for information on a man (above) who has been seen at various locations throughout metro Detroit — including at the Eden Revolution boutique on Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield Township last month — wearing revealing sheer pantyhose. The man’s genitals could reportedly be seen during each of the several recent sightings. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. (Photo submitted by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department)

Indecent exposure Suspect seen last month at local store By Michael Shelton staff writer

man who was previously accused of indecent exposure at a West Bloomfield Township boutique is now being sought by authorities around the county after similar incidents have been reported across metro Detroit. The alleged suspect — who the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department describes as a white male, roughly in his 50s, wearing glasses, 6-feet-tall, with a heavy upper-body build, a “pot belly,” and skinny legs — was recorded by security cameras at Salon Bliss in Rochester on Tuesday, March 13, when he entered to store wearing sheer stockings that revealed his genitals. The incident was reported on Friday, March 16. This comes nearly a month after a similar incident was reported at the Eden Revolution boutique on Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield on Feb. 18. That day, the alleged suspect came in wearing black sheer pantyhose, a black leather jacket, a beige hat, beige moccasins and thick black plastic sunglasses. Employees said they could see the man’s genitals through the pantyhose and that he asked for a wax. He was also reported to have been at the salon two weeks prior to that incident. The man later fled the store after employees sought assistance from a man at the business next door. According to the sheriff’s department, similar incidents have been reported three times in Rochester Hills, three times in Canton Township, and once each in Auburn Hills, Bloomfield Township, and Chesterfield Township. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. ❏ cups at him. When the man looked up, the front passenger allegedly pointed what appeared to be a black 9-millimeter gun at him. The victim then ran inside Bayside. When he peered outside, he saw the Jeep circle the parking lot about eight times.

Police later found the two cups on the east side of Pontiac Trail. The Jeep was located in Novi and police questioned one of the subjects, who said the victim had hurled racial slurs at the trio. He denied throwing the cups or pointing a weapon at the victim.

Wixom firefighters and those from neighboring fire departments extinguished a fire at the Village Apartments, located at 30711 Beechwood, on Tuesday, March 13. There were no injuries reported from the fire that started around 4:20 p.m. Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters observed that the blaze had burned through the roof of the building. “The fire started as a result of poor judgment,” said Wixom Fire Chief Jeff Roberts. “It was not intentional, just carelessness.” Apparently a tenant was using alcohol to clean some containers and the residue spilled down a stove, Roberts said. “Those buildings have a standing pilot (light), so it ignited,” he said. Within an hour, the fire was under control. Wixom and Commerce Township firefighters responded immediately, while firefighters from Milford also provided mutual aid. Two apartment units sustained heavy damage. Twelve other units sustained smoke and water damage. Overall, 35 units were impacted. Village Apartments management relocated displaced residents in the interim. ❏

Owner reports dog attacked by pit bull A Wixom resident’s dog was allegedly attacked on March 11 by an unleashed pit bull on Hopkins Drive. The complainant stated that he was walking his dog around 10 a.m. when the attack occurred. He added that the unleashed pit bull was not provoked, and charged his dog before the pit bull’s owner could intervene. The pit bull reportedly bit down on the other dog’s neck and the complainant kicked it away, but the pit bull charged again. The pit bull latched onto the dog’s posterior and began shaking his head side-to-side. The pit bull’s owner was finally able to subdue it. The complainant didn’t want police intervention, just to keep the incident on file in case the pit bull attacks again, according to Wixom police. ❏

PAGE 24

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In lieu of the Road Commission for Oakland County’s (RCOC) grim financial forecast, the RCOC Board of Road Commissioners has unanimously voted to enact a new retirement benefit package for new, non-unionized employees hired after Feb. 29, 2012. The move is expected to save the RCOC over $5 million by 2029. The action was taken to align with proposed changes in state law and to reduce both current and future RCOC costs. One specific change deals with addressing retiree benefit costs, which have been escalating dramatically over the last several years. The program enacted by the road board changes the retirement eligibility age and years of service for new, nonunionized employees while also restructuring the benefit plans. It also reduces the retirement benefit and requires employees to contribute 6 percent of their income toward retirement benefits. “As stewards of taxpayer dollars, we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure those dollars go as far as possible,” said RCOC Board Chairman Eric Wilson. “This panoply of changes will help to make sure more of our tax dollars go directly to maintaining and improving the roads and to ensure we are able to keep the agency going in the future and that we can continue to provide the highest level of service we can.” RCOC Board Vice-Chairman Greg Jamian agreed. “This is the fiscally responsible step to take, both for the agency and for the community,” he stated in a press

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PAGE 25

ENVIRONMENT

Danowski looks to unseat WRC in November race By Angela Niemi staff writer

Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner (WRC) John P. McCulloch, a Republican, and a Democrat looking to unseat him have filed for run in the Aug. 7 primary election for their party’s nomination for the position. McCulloch has been in his job for the past 12 years after he was first elected in 2000, when the office was known as the county drain commissioner. Before that he served for 10 years as an Oakland County commissioner, including spending five of those years as board chairman. McCulloch also served eight years on the Drainage Board. An attorney and certified public accountant, McCulloch also is currently the president of Michigan Association of Counties Service Corporation and a member of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, HuronClinton Metropolitan Authority Board of Commissioners, and the state Office of Regulatory Reinvention’s Environmental Advisory Rules Committee. “While I am proud of my record as water resources commissioner, there is much more I would like to accomplish to ensure that Oakland County’s waterways remain clean and safe for drinking, swimming, fishing and other recreational activities,” he stated in a press release. “I along with my talented team of water management professionals are committed to leaving behind a legacy of improved water quality, efficient and cost-effective water system management and a vibrant, healthy ecology model that will adequately serve the needs of future generations.” Mark Danowski will be seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination in August. Danowski has a degree in earth science from Eastern Michigan University. He has previously worked for federal, state and county government units, including the WRC’s office for five years, which he said he believes gives him “a fairly good understanding of the operations.” “I believe our water resources in Oakland County and throughout southeast Michigan are vital to the region and need a more effective stewardship than the team that is currently running the department,” he said. “I’m a highenergy person that thrives on streamlining operations, reducing waste and inefficiency while utilizing the unique talents of every member of an organization to their fullest.” Danowski said he believes the water

resource commissioner position is an “intricate part of a region water policy that must daily strive to improve water quality.” The county’s water resources commissioner serves four-year terms and is currently paid $138,999 annually. The filing deadline for candidates is May 15. ❏

Reclassification to help with funding of rec. programs The state’s Natural Resources Commission (NRC) and Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director Rodney Stokes have approved a measure classifying state forest campgrounds and non-motorized trails and pathways as state recreation areas, meaning that people using the campgrounds and trails will need to have a valid Michigan Recreation Passport on their vehicles. The Recreation Passport replaced motor vehicle permits in 2010 for entry into state parks, recreation areas, and state boating access sites. Adding state forest campgrounds and non-motorized pathways to the

Recreation Passport program is a change designed to strengthen funding for state recreation programs and to provide better management of all stateadministered campsites and nonmotorized pathways. The DNR hopes to increase sales of the Recreation Passport to provide more funding for state forest-based recreation programs. “We intend to keep all state forest campgrounds open and available for campers,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division. “The days of closing state forest campgrounds are over. During this transition, we will raise awareness of the Recreation Passport requirement for state forest campgrounds and nonmotorized pathway parking areas, and put those funds back into maintenance and operations of state forest recreation programs.” Michigan residents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($10 for motor vehicles; $5 for motorcycles) by checking “YES” on their license plate renewal forms, or at any state park or recreation area. To learn more about the Recreation Passport, visit its website, located at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport, or call 517-241-7275. ❏

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

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

10/14/11 +1.33 +.39 +.42 +.03 +.09 +.32 +.40 +.12 +.23 +.02 –.01 +.28 +.05 +.35 +.35 +.20 +.38 +.20 –1.49 +.08 +.18 +.32 –.16 –.05 +.08

10/21/11 +1.37 +.35 +1.20 Legal +.15 +.47 +.78 +.12 +.20 +.20 +.04 +.31 +.24 +.34 +1.00 +.19 +.40 +.30 –1.36 +.05 +.16 +.40 –.20 +.45 +.56

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

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

Obituaries ABBOTT, ALTA DEE, of Clarkston passed away on March 20, 2012 at 71 years of age. BREWER, EDWIN "TIM", age 54 of Walled Lake died suddenly on February 25th, 2012. Tim was born March 6th, 1957. BUSHRE, TOMMY LEE, of White Lake was born in Saginaw, Michigan on September 22, 1935. He died February 26, 2012 in Commerce Township at the age of 76. DURA, MAGDALENE "MAGGIE" ARALIA, of Waterford, formerly of Pontiac, died March 12, 2012 at 84 years of age. FALLSCHEER, MARY LOU, of Waterford died suddenly March 13, 2012 at 82 years of age. GROSS, GLENN W., of South Lyon was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 13, 1958. He died February 27, 2012 at the age of 54. He is the beloved husband of Linda. HEGE, ROBERT A., of Waterford passed away on March 9, 2012 at 47 years of age. Loving husband of Nancy. Beloved father of Bradford and Ryan. MONTANTE, JOSEPHINE; age 95; was born on February 20, 1917 and died in White Lake Twp., Michigan on February 25, 2012. NEPHEW, LUELLA, of South Lyon was born on March 4, 1914 and died March 2, 2012 a tthe age of 97. PETERSON, WILLIAM H. "BILL", of Walled Lake was born June 21, 1933 and died March 1, 2012 at age 78. PROCTOR, FRANK W., of Walled Lake was born on July 19, 1928. He died March 6, 2012 at the age of 83. SHAW, NELSON B., age 69, of White Lake, passed away Thursday, March 8, 2012. He is survived by his wife Sook J. Oh. To place an obituary in the Spinal Column Newsweekly please call the Classified Department at 248-360-7355 or email: lorisnyder@thescngroup.com

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PAGE 27

COUNTY

It’s back: OC Jail over capacity for first time since ‘07 By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

Officials are pointing to a significant budget casualty as a leading cause of a jail overcrowding emergency — the Oakland County Jail’s first since October 2007 — that is expected to lead to the early release of as many as 227 inmates in the coming weeks and months from the facility that experienced a rash of similar situations between 2005 and 2007. A formal jail overcrowding emergency was declared on March 2. Such an emergency is declared when the jail’s inmate population exceeds capacity for seven consecutive days. By Friday, March 16, the county was required to do “whatever it can within legal means to reduce the jail population to (25 inmates) below capacity,” said Oakland County Circuit Court Administrator Kevin Oeffner. That effort was apparently unsuccessful. On March 16, a 14-day window began during which Oakland County Circuit Court Chief Judge Nanci J. Grant was required to determine, of all sentenced inmates, “which ones do not present a high risk to the public safety.” “She then has to develop that list and the (state) statute says that, in addition to developing that list, determine the sentence reduction percentages, establishing a minimum and maximum percentage by which (those inmates’) sentences can be reduced.” Oeffner said there were nine jail overcrowding emergencies that took place between 2005 and 2007. Thousands of non-violent inmates at the Oakland County Jail had their sentences reduced because of such emergencies. The inmates scheduled to receive sentence reductions this time around include those sentenced for both misdemeanors

Oakland County Circuit Court Chief Judge Nanci J. Grant, as required under state law during overcrowding emergencies, ordered the reduction of 227 non-violent Oakland County Jail inmates’ — both misdemeanants and felons — sentences on Friday, March 16, after the facility had been over its capacity for seven consecutive days. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

and felonies, but not anyone sentenced for assaultive or drunk driving offenses. Undersheriff Mike McCabe said budget cuts prompted a work release program that averaged about 150 participating inmates to be reconfigured into a virtual work release program. “A tether tracks an inmate on a GPS system and a radio frequency system,” McCabe said. “The problem that has occurred is that where we used to have 150 inmates (in the work release program), we only have about 50 now. For whatever reason, the judges don’t like the program (and don’t sentence offenders to it). You’ve got 100 people in the jail now that used to be out working.” He said on Monday, March 19 that the jail’s population levels are doing better. “Our population is down dramatically today,” he said, adding that approximately 80 inmates were released over the week-

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

“OUTSTANDING CITIZEN”

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

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

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STATE

Greenawalt seeks to oust Haines in GOP primary race By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

State Rep. Gail Haines (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield) will not only face a Democratic challenger in the November general election, but also a primary fight now that a Republican has filed to run in the GOP primary election against the two-term state lawmaker. Waterford Township resident Paul J. Greenawalt filed candidacy paperwork with the Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Elections Division earlier this month to run for the new 43rd state Greenawalt House of Representatives District seat, which will represent the bulk of Waterford Township, along with Independence Township, Clarkston, and Lake Angelus. Greenawalt ran for Waterford

Township trustee in 2010 and for the state House in 2008, both as a member of the U.S. Taxpayer Party. His run for a partial township trustee term as a member of the United States Taxpayers Party ended with him receiving less than 5 percent of the vote, with Republican Anthony Bartolotta taking 54 percent and Democrat John Paul Torres taking 41 percent. Greenawalt said he is no longer affiliated with the U.S. Taxpayer Party and his views of the Republican Party have changed. “But looking more at the landHaines scape, to be able to make a difference and to be able to get anything done in this state, you have to be on a major political party ticket,” he said. “I’m completely on the Republican side.” He said he supports increased recycling efforts and giving businesses tax breaks to support those, as well as providing tax incentives to home owners with vegetable gardens to bolster food supplies and create exporting opportunities.

In addition, he said he would support legislation similar to the Utah Sound Money Act, which allows for gold and silver as legal currency alongside the U.S. dollar. He also said he is pro-union and pro-life, as well as a supporter of gun rights and a ban on trans fats in Michigan foods. Greenawalt, who is married and has two children, added that he would be in favor of including financial responsibility courses as part of the mandatory curriculum for high school students. Haines has said she will seek re-

election to the state House for a third and final term. “I respect the democratic process,” Haines said. “He has a right to run, and I respect that.” Waterford Township resident Neil Billington is running for the Democratic Party’s nomination in the 43rd state House District. He ran in 2010 as a Republican against Haines, and launched an unsuccessful recall effort against her last year. State representatives serve two-year terms and are currently paid $71,685 annually. ❏

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We’ve joined Twitter too! Stay connected to the Spinal Column Newsweekly, the premiere lakes area news source for over 50 years, at home or on the go. Follow @scnewsweekly to get breaking news from western Oakland County, as well as updates about stories you’ve read in the Spinal Column Newsweekly.

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

Hospitality House, a 501(c)3 charity, provides food to those in need, operating a food pantry that serves the residents of the Walled Lake school district and city of West Bloomfield and by supporting efforts to fight hunger in the wider southeastern Michigan community by providing advice and aid to pantries in other cities.

MILLION DOLLAR MATCH – The Feinstein Foundation is dividing $1 million among hunger fighting agencies nationwide, using it to help them raise funds this March and April. Please help Hospitality House compete for this money to feed your neighbors in need! The more donations received by April 30th– the more of the Feinstein challenge money we will get! You can donate on line at www.hospitalityhousefoodpantry.org or send checks to: Hospitality House Food Pantry • P.O. Box 284 1600 West Maple, Suite C • Walled Lake, MI 48390

From David Albery, executive director, Greater West Bloomfield Cable Communications Commission: The Greater West Bloomfield Cable Communications Commission applauds the Spinal Column Newsweekly’s support for the live streaming of meetings of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and its committees. We agree with County Commissioner Gary McGillivray that fair and open government is “absolutely essential.” The Cable Commission is proud of its advocacy for the cablecasting of county meetings starting in 2005, resulting in the presentation of four meetings in 2007. We have provided coverage of the County Executive’s “State of the County” address every February for the past several years, and we were happy to take a leadership role in forming a consortium of Oakland County communities which provided high-quality coverage of five County Commission meetings in 2010 and three in 2011, at no cost to taxpayers. That coverage provided clear views and identification of all speakers, including commissioners, presenters, and the public, and was provided to county residents through local cable channels and on-line. In the spirit of Sunshine Week 2012 (March 11–17), and in the belief that open and accessible government is

vital to establishing and maintaining the people’s trust and confidence in their government, we look forward to that same high-quality coverage provided by the County Commission starting in April and believe that the result will be greater transparency and greater public access to government information. ❏

Way over the line From Joanie Ignash, Commerce Township: The attacks coming from certain members of the GOP on women’s health are way over the line. In particular, Rush Limbaugh has weighed in with his insulting and cruel remarks about a Georgetown law student who testified about the importance of women’s access to contraception. Whatever beliefs anyone has about birth control, these insults have gone too far. Let’s give credit to Detroit’s Dan Gilbert from Quicken Loans and the other businesses that pulled their company’s commercials off the Rush Limbaugh show. Leaders from the Republican Party need to condemn Mr. Limbaugh’s offensive language. Even in this divisive political climate, rational and decent people from around the country can agree that Rush Limbaugh’s remarks were a blatant attack against women. ❏

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; fax 24/7 to Editor 248-360-1220 or email to news@thescngroup.com.

AROUND THE LAKES AREA

A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly

WE’RE ASKING… Who are you rooting for in the NCAA Tournament? "Missouri. Completely random."

— Mike Chapman, Pinckney

"(The NBA's) Toronto Raptors because they deserve to win."

— Jeff Pigot, Clarkston

"MSU is going to win the whole thing. That's who I'm going for."

— M. Desmond Ledwidge, Rochester Hills

"Duke University. I had a professor who would put extra credit questions at the end of his tests and the answer was always Duke University." — Jon Biedron, Waterford

MARCH 21-27, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 31

IN OUR OPINION

Jail overcrowding situation Consider all options available to ward off early releases

ith the news last week that the Oakland County Jail was over its inmate capacity for the first time since 2007, prompting the early release through sentence reductions of over 200 inmates serving time for non-violent misdemeanors and felonies, there is again a need for a discussion and thoughtful dialogue on ways to mitigate any future jail overcrowding emergencies that would trigger the early release of individuals serving time at the facility that experienced an overcrowding epidemic between 2005 and 2007. A formal jail overcrowding emergency was declared on March 2. Such an emergency is declared when the jail’s inmate population exceeds capacity for seven consecutive days. By Friday, March 16, the county was required to do “whatever it can within legal means to reduce the jail population to (25 inmates) below capacity,” said Oakland County Circuit Court Administrator Kevin Oeffner. On March 16, a 14-day window began during which Oakland County Circuit Court Chief Judge Nanci J. Grant was required to determine, of all sentenced inmates, “which ones do not present a high risk to the public safety.” The inmates scheduled to receive sentence reductions this time around include those sentenced for both misdemeanors and felonies, but not anyone sentenced for assaultive or drunk driving offenses. In addition, inmates were screened for pending warrants out of other counties, as well as parole violations in other jurisdictions. Those scheduled to receive sentence reductions included inmates incarcerated for crimes such as pos-

session of marijuana, driving with a suspended license, shoplifting, larceny, disorderly conduct, driving without a license, and breaking and entering into a vehicle, among others. Those with minor in possession of alcohol charges as well as writing a forged check were also slated to see a sentence reduction. According to county law enforcement officials, a budget cut of over $16 million prompted a work release program that averaged about 150 participating inmates to be reconfigured into a virtual work release program. That effectively cost the county about 100 jail beds because only about 50 people are currently participating in the revised work release program, according to officials. Two top county officials, including Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Michael Gingell (RLake Orion), have said the inmate overcrowding emergency is unlikely to spur discussion on a new jail facility, something that had taken place during the twoyear window when nine overcrowding situations occurred. Thousands of non-violent inmates received sentence reductions between 2005 and 2007 in order to alleviate the jail overcrowding emergencies. Officials rightly point to budget concerns caused by the lackadaisical economy as the prime reason why a new jail facility — and presumably any expansion or physical modifications to the existing jail — is highly unlikely as a topic of discussion among county powerbrokers in the coming weeks and months. We understand that, and we take no issue with the assertion that the county is navigating choppy fiscal waters to ensure that the budget is balanced and that

necessary services are provided. But any possible discussions on ways to stave off future jail overcrowding emergencies need to examine all available options — including building a new jail facility, though there’s only a fraction of a chance (and perhaps even less than that) that such a massive project is currently in the cards; expanding or reconfiguring the existing jail (also an unlikely prospect); and procedural methods such as additional alternative incarceration programs that may be employed. We suspect that, if this overcrowding emergency is the first in a string of many, similar to the situation a few years ago, a call for closer examination of possible remedies will begin — as it should. In addition to the sheer financial enormity of constructing a new jail, or even expanding the existing facility, also throwing a wrench in that equation is that fact that it’s an election year when all elected county officials — the 25 members of the Board of Commissioners and the six full-time elected executive officials, including county Executive L. Brooks Patterson and county Sheriff Michael Bouchard — face the prospect of losing their jobs. Given the politics involved, it’s far-fetched to think that county officials would mount a successful political campaign backing such a gargantuan expenditure when other critical areas of the county budget have been whacked and, in some cases, eliminated entirely. But regardless, all the options — however feasible or however remote — need to be part of any dialogue addressing jail overcrowding moving forward. Our hope is that every possible angle is explored. ❏

Bluebirds need your help T

he bounty of water and woods that characterize west Oakland County has always fostered a heightened sense of environmental stewardship among many lakes area denizens. This was the first part of the state to enact local wetland and woodland ordinances, for example, and our little corner of the world is often at the forefront of surface water monitoring and protection initiatives. It’s that reverence for the natural environment that we’d now like to call on in drumming up some additional volunteers to help the county Parks and Recreation Department continue one of its many worthwhile environmental programs. The department’s Nestbox Monitoring Program, which puts up and maintains nestboxes for three native species of birds — including the eastern bluebird — could use some help from the public. Oakland County has run its monitoring program

since 2003 with the help of dedicated volunteers. It’s a very labor-intensive program, making the participating volunteers vital components of the endeavor. Trained volunteers follow a code of conduct for monitoring, and report their field observations and results. In addition, they visit assigned nest boxes at least once a week during the nesting season, which is from April through July or August. The Nestbox Monitoring Program is still looking for volunteers for the upcoming monitoring season. Volunteers are especially needed at Lyon Oaks County Park off Pontiac Trail, just west of Wixom and south of Milford Township. According to Kathleen Dougherty, an education resources specialist with Oakland County Parks and Recreation, the area’s bluebird population has plummeted in recent years, due in part to the loss of habitat and competition from non-native birds.

Because bluebirds are cavity nesters that seek out old woodpecker holes in the wild, they are a prime candidate species to use a nestbox. Dougherty said the bluebird population can be easily recovered as long as people erect nestboxes to promote reproduction — which is precisely what the county’s Nestbox Monitoring Program is all about. The program’s need for volunteers provides an excellent opportunity for interested people to make a positive difference in the area’s ecosystem. With volunteers’ help, the nestbox program can move forward and continue to restore a piece of the area’s environment. In doing so, it will promote a more stable, diverse and natural ecosystem that supports the area’s high quality of life. People interested in volunteering for the nestbox program can contact Dougherty at 248-858-0704 or doughertyk@oakgov.com. ❏

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ Waterford Genealogy: Bureau of Land Management and general land office records, 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, Waterford Township Public Library, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. 248-625-7731. ■ West Highland Christian Academy: Open house for K-12th grade, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 22, 1116 S. Hickory Ridge Road, Milford. Tour the school, meet the faculty, current students, and their families. Providing a Christian education with small classroom sizes since 1973. WHCA has programs and testing for dyslexic students. www.whca-k-12.org. ■ Wild Winter Thaw Strolling Appetizer Event: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 23, Bogie Lake Greenhouse, 1525 Bogie Lake Road, White Lake. Charity event for Faith in Action of Oakland County. 248-364-4064 or e-mail jksassoc@mich.com. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Erickson Flute & Ensemble, concert, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 24, Highland House, 205 W. Livingston, Highland. General admission, $15. Tickets are available for purchase online at huronvalleyarts.org or at the HVCA office, 205 W. Livingston Road, Highland. 248-8898660. ■ Detroit Model Railroad Club and Model Railroad Museum: Open House, Michigan’s largest O-scale model trains operating on 5,000 feet of track, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 24 and Sunday, March 25, 104 N. Saginaw, Holly. 248-634-5811 or dmrcc.org. ■ Waterford Genealogy: Mt. Clemens Public Library trip, noon, Wednesday, March 28, car pool from Waterford Township Public Library, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. 248-6257731. ■ City of Wixom: Bunny Hop, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 30, $7 per person. Come hop about and the Easter bunny will hop out to shake his tail, too. Fun family dance with pizza dinner and DJ. Must pre-register by 2 p.m. Friday, March 29. Will also have photo opportunity with the Easter bunny, so wear your Sunday best. To register, call 248-6242850. ■ Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce: Huron Valley Egg Hunt, goody bags for

the first 500 kids, visit with the Easter bunny and free face painting, ages 2 to 10, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 31, Duck Lake Pines Park, 1241 N. Duck Lake Road, Highland. Registration. 248-685-7129 or visit www.huronvcc.com.

■ Friends of Byers: Spaghetti dinner, music, raffles, cash bar, 3 to 8 p.m., April 14, Walled Lake Eagles Lodge 3492, 1721 Glengary, east of Benstein, Walled Lake. Admission $10 adults, $4 for ages 5 to 10, free for ages 4 and under. 248363-4354 or 248-884-3144.

■ Historic Byers Homestead: Easter egg hunt, ages 13 and under, hot cocoa, coffee, and sweet treats, raffle prizes, 1 p.m. Saturday, March 31, 213 Commerce Road, Commerce. Bring your own basket/bag. 248-363-4354 or visit www.byershomestead.org.

■ Jewish Ensemble Theatre:Now accepting donations of items or services for its Spring Auction, April 16, Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 S. Cranbrook Road, Birmingham. 248-788-2900.

■ Village Fine Arts Association of Milford: “Call for Artists, Time to Enter PAN,” (Poetry Art Night), visual arts and poetry competition exhibition and sale, April 21 to May 6, Milford Library, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Deadline is Saturday, March 31. Prospectus available at the library, Main Street Art, Huron Valley Council for the Arts, online at milfordvfaa.org, or by calling 248797-3060. ■ Village of Wolverine Lake: Easter bunny luncheon, pizza, dessert, crafts and egg hunt, 1 to 3 p.m. (egg hunt, 2 p.m.) Saturday, March 31, Richardson Center, 1485 Oakley Park Road, Commerce. $5 in advance or $7 at the door for children; $2 in advance or $3 at the door for adults. Register at Village Hall, 325 Glengary, Wolverine Lake or online at wolverinelake.com. For more information, call 248-624-1710. ■ Lakes Area Rotary Club: Accepting scholarship applications from Walled Lake high school students. A minimum of three $1,250 scholarships will be awarded. Eligible students will have maintained a “B” (3.0) average, be in good standing with the school, and have actively participated in community service during their high school years. Application deadline is April 1. Applications can be obtained at lakesarearotary.org or by contacting Rotarian Lorrie McVey at 248-3908572. ■ Sierra Club: “World Without Ice,” speaker Dr. Henry Pollack, author, climate scientist and 2007 Nobel Peace Prize winner, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 5, Birmingham Unitarian Church, 38651 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills. www.facebook.com/clubSEMG or 248-360-9694.

■ Commerce Parks & Recreation: Looking for local entertainers who are skilled in family fun, such as magic tricks, juggling, puppetry, balloon shaping, and clown acts for its outdoor summer concerts on June 22, July 20, and Aug. 10. Interested local entertainers should contact Emily England at the Richardson Center, 248-926-0063. ■ (Breakfast) Optimist Club of Waterford: Meeting, 7:15 a.m. Thursdays, Big Boy Restaurant, M-59 and Airport Road, Waterford. 248-6733493. ■ 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. 248559-1147, ext. 3434. ■ Dads of Foreign Service: Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Sundays, VFW Post 4156, 321 Union Lake Road, White Lake. www.vfw4156.org or 248-698-8302. ■ Friends of Byers: Byers’ Antique Barn now open noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, volunteers are needed at 213 Commerce Road, Commerce. For more information visit byershomestead.org or call 248363-2592. ■ Grace Hospice: Volunteers with reliable transportation needed to visit terminally-ill patients and family members in our communities. Free training and classes are now forming. 1-888-937-4390. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Knitters circle, 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Highland Station House, Highland. 248685-9015. ■ Mothers & More: Book club meeting, 7 p.m., first Monday of the month,

Caribou Coffee, Union Lake Road, Commerce. 248-360-7702. ■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248-520-0095. ■ Waterford Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, The Shark Club on M59, Waterford. 248-625-4897.

SUPPORT GROUPS ❐ AA Meetings: 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Four Towns United Methodist Church, 6451 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford. 248-682-0211. ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addiction, for life’s hurts, habits or hang-ups, meetings, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Woodside Bible Church, 9000 Highland Road, White Lake. 248-698-1300. ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addiction, for life’s hurts, habits or hang-ups, meetings, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Life Point Christian Church, 501 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. 248-682-1747. ❐ C.A.S.A: Cleptomaniacs and Shoplifters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Wesley Room, Commerce United Methodist Church, 1155 N. Commerce Road, Commerce. 248-3588508 or kleptomaniacsanonymous.org. ❐ Divorce Care: Support group meeting for adults and children, 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile, Novi. 248755-9533. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 248-8078667 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. ❐ MOMS Club of Waterford South: Support group for mothers at home,

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 32

weekly activities, monthly meetings, third Friday of the month, Waterford area. momswaterfordsouth.webs.com. ❐ Over-Eaters Anonymous: Recovery from compulsive eating, 12-step program, meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Hatchery Road, Waterford. ❐ Postpartum Depression Support Group: Meeting, 6:45 p.m. Thursdays, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Commerce. 248-937-5220. p TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): Meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, weigh-in at 5:30 p.m., new meeting site, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital Conference Room 1C, 1 William Carls Drive, Commerce. 248363-6369 or e-mail jr.h@att.net.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES ❐ Calvary Lutheran Church: In conjunction with St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, “Senior Fit,” free exercise program for ages 55 and up, 11 a.m. to noon, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 9101 Highland Road, White Lake. Registration. 1-800-372-6094 or 248-625-3288. ❐ Dublin Senior Center: Drums Alive! 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays (no class on Tuesday, March 27); Zumba Gold, 2 p.m. Tuesdays, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-698-2394. ❐ Foster Grandparent Program of Oakland County: Volunteers needed ages 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. 248559-1147, ext. 3424. ❐ Highland Adult Activity Center: Stengthening Class, 11:00 a.m. Thursdays; “How to Keep a Healthy Smile for a Lifetime,” with Joan March, D.D.S., 10 a.m. Thursday, March 29, 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, 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. 248-6820770. ❐ 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.

PARKS ❐ Indian Springs Environmental Discovery Center: Maple sugaring, demonstrations, tours, hikes, tasting, Saturdays and Sundays in March; Easter egg hunt with Rosco the Clown, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, April 7, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Registration. 810-494-6026. ❐ Kensington Farm Center: “Maple’s Sweet Story,” breakfast, tours, Algonquin winter re-enactment, Saturdays and Sundays in March; Fun on the Farm: Toddler Egg Hunt - stories, egg hunt, Easter bunny, 10 a.m. Thursday, April 5; The Great Egg Hunt with Easter bBunny Farmer John & Barnyard Express animal show, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 7, Kensington Metropark, Milford. 248684-8632 or 1-800-477-3178. ❐ Kensington Nature Center: “Webelos: Naturalist,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, March 24; “Deer Trailing,” ages 8 and up, 2 p.m. Sunday, March 28, Nature Center, Kensington Metropark, Milford. Registration. 248-685-1561.

LIBRARY EVENTS ❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Adult Book Discussion, Suzanne Collins’ “Hunger Games,” 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 23; Visiting Author, Elaine Grohman, Energy Healer & Angel Reader, 7 p.m. Thursday, March 29, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. Registration required. 248-669-8108 or commercelibrary.info. ❐ Highland Township Public Library: Free workshop for adults about Social Security with Rob Reading of America’s IRA Center, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 31, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland. Registration. 248-887-2218. ❐ Milford Public Library: Meet the Author: Mark Rothman (head writer for “Laverne and Shirley” and “The Odd Couple”), 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 29, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Registration. 248-684-0845. ❐ Walled Lake City Library: Will be starting a reading dog program for children, 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake 48390. Register each child for their 20 minute session to read to a dog. Volunteers and their dogs are also needed, must be registered with “Pet A Pet” for insurance purposes. For more information, call Director Donna Rickabaugh at 248-624-3772. ❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Preschool Story and Craft Time, 10 am.

Thursday, March 22, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. Registration. 248-6744831. ❐ West Bloomfield Township Public Library: Adult book discussion: Sandra Brown’s “Lethal,” 2 p.m. Thursday, March 22, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration. 248-682-2120 or www.wblib.org. ❐ White Lake Township Library: “Got Civil Rights?” with attorney Gillian Talwar, adult program, 7 p.m. Monday, March 26, 7527 E. Highland Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-698-4942. ❐ Wixom Public Library: Movie and Pizza Night: “Cowboys & Aliens,” 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 27, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. Registration. 248-624-2512.

RELIGIOUS ❐ Lakes Area Ministries Association: Speaker Rev. Dr. Dean Wylls of Commerce United Methodist Church will speak on Psalm 128 on Friday, March 23 at New Song Community Church, 1800 W. West Maple, Commerce. 248-624-3821.

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes hoists aloft its third consecutive Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class D state championship trophy after a 53-37 victory over Athens inside the Breslin Center at Michigan State University on Saturday, March 17. The Lakers are just the fifth team in MHSAA history to win three straight girls basketball state titles and only the 12th team ever to reach three straight state finals. (Photo submitted by Terry McNamara)

Our Lady, ‘tis of three... Lakers join elite crowd with third consecutive state crown By Michael Shelton staff writer

It may have been St. Patrick’s Day at Michigan State University, but instead of green, the Breslin Center was awash in blue courtesy of Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes’ “three-peat” as state champions. The Lakers triumphed over Athens, 53-37, in the Michigan State High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class D state final in East Lansing on

Saturday, March 17, to claim their third consecutive state championship in girls basketball. “I’m extremely proud of our team because this was the goal they set at the beginning of the year and they put in the work and the preparation that was needed to give them an opportunity. When they got that opportunity, they made the most of it,” said Our Lady Head Coach Steve Robak. “It’s a special accomplishment that they will always be a part of

high school history. I couldn’t be happier for them or the entire Laker community, which has supported this team and our entire program.”

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The Lakers (23-4) now find themselves in elite company as only the fifth

team in MHSAA history — in any class — to win three girls basketball state titles in a row and only the 12th team to reach three straight state finals. Our Lady saved its best effort of the year for the final game of the season as it shot 55.9 percent from the field and 50 percent from behind the 3point line, including shooting 66.7 percent from the field and 75 percent from downtown in the second half. PAGE 35 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

MARCH 21-27, 2011

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Our Lady Lakers ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 34

The score was close early on as the Lakers led 15-13 at the end of the first quarter. Leading 21-19 in the second quarter, Lexie Robak scored 8 straight points, including nailing a pair of 3pointers, to put Our Lady up 29-19 at halftime. In the third quarter, it was senior Tori Duffey who got in on the action as she hit 3 triples to help put the Lakers up 42-26 heading into the fourth quarter. From there, Our Lady closed out Athens (21-6) by shooting 5-for-8 from the free-throw line and converting on a couple of easy baskets before hugging each other on the bench and touching off a spirited celebration on the Michigan State University (MSU) Spartans’ home court. Ava Doetsch led Our Lady with 13 points, 3 steals, 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Duffey had 13 points, 5 steals, 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Lexie Robak had 12 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and a block, while Anna Robb had 7 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and a steal. Carlee Cottrell also chipped in with 7 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists despite getting in foul trouble early. “All of our girls contributed and they all stepped up in different ways,” Coach Robak said. “(Anna) Robb took 3 charges, which were huge for us, and she led the team in rebounding, too. Ava played a great overall game, especially that first quarter. Lexie hit those back-to-back threes in the second quarter and Tori hit four threes for the game, which gave us a huge cushion. (Jessica Parry and Gabrielle Troy) gave us very good minutes off the bench.” To reach the state final, Our Lady had to fight past Portland St. Patrick in a Class D semi-final on Thursday, March 15 at the Breslin Center. After seeing their lead cut from 7

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Captains fall in state Class A quarter-finals By Michael Shelton staff writer

Playing in its first state quarter-final in over a decade proved to be a ‘Devil’ of a time for Waterford Kettering.

Lexie Robak had 8 points and 6 rebounds as Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes defeated Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Seminary, 38-30, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association Class D state quarter-final at Waterford Kettering on Tuesday, March 13. Carlee Cottrell also had 15 points and 4 rebounds as the Lakers advanced to the Class D state final four, where they would go on to win their third consecutive Class D state title. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

at the end of the first quarter to 4 at halftime — and then 3 at the end of the third quarter — the Lakers used a 14-3 run in the fourth to pull ahead for good and defeat the Shamrocks, 54-44. Cottrell led Our Lady with 17 points,

5 assists, 5 rebounds and 2 steals, while Doetsch had 14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Lexie Robak also had 8 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and a block. Duffey scored 7 points and Robb

The Captains fell to Grosse Pointe South, 58-54, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class A state quarter-final on Tuesday, March 13 inside Calihan Hall at the University of Detroit Mercy. “They fought for 32 minutes and did everything they could, it was just a play here and a play there,” said Kettering Head Coach Scott Woodhull. “I’m happy as heck the kids could play in that situation. It was incredible at U-of-D.” The Blue Devils would go on to

advance to the Class A state final, where they fell to Grand Haven, 54-53, on Saturday, March 17. Last Tuesday, Kettering (23-3) trailed 13-10 at the end of the first quarter before rallying to tie the score at 27-27 at halftime. With the score tied at 38-38, South burned the Captains with 11 straight points to take a 49-38 lead entering the fourth quarter. But, Kettering responded with a 132 run, as Allison Bicknell scored off a

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pulled down 6 rebounds. “In the second half, we allowed St. Pat’s to hang around and they continued to execute in their half-court offense,” Coach Robak said. “They didn’t shoot the ball that well (30 percent in the second half) though and that gave us enough time to get to the fourth quarter where we finally were able to go full-court with our press.” The Shamrocks finished 19-7 on the season. Before advancing to the state’s final four, Our Lady defeated Saginaw Lutheran Seminary, 38-30, in a Class D state quarter-final at Waterford Kettering on Tuesday, March 13. The Lakers won despite shooting an abysmal 1-for-18 on 3-point shots. “However, we did continue to play great defense and Lutheran struggled to score, as well,” Coach Robak said. “We tried to get more midrange shots and rebounds for easy baskets, as our transition game was struggling, too.” Seminary finished the season at 18-7. With Lauren Robak, its all-time leading scorer, having departed for Oakland University last year, some may have wondered if Our Lady would take a step back this season. Now, Lauren’s younger sister, Lexie, along with fellow juniors Doetsch and Parry, have three state titles to their credit and still have one season remaining. Meanwhile, seniors Cottrell and Duffey will leave Our Lady as state champions after previously making the decision to transfer to the school. Duffey came from Walled Lake Central before this season, while Doetsch transferred from Auburn Hills Oakland Christian in 2010. Nevertheless, whether their players were there from the beginning or came aboard along the way, the Lakers officially are owners of a dynasty and, with their staff and system in place, they show little signs of slowing down in the near future. steal and assist from Taylor Steinhelper to take a 52-51 lead with just over a minute and a half left to play. However, the Blue Devils (23-4) were able to put the game away with a basket and two free-throws by Cierra Rice and three free-throws by Caitlin Moore. Kettering’s seniors shined in their final game, as Bicknell led the way with 13 points; while seniors Shelby Watts and Arjanai Washington each scored 12 PAGE 36 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Kettering ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 35

points. Senior Hannah Huff also netted 12 points, while Watts also pulled down 12 rebounds. Moore led South with 19 points while Rice scored 12 points. After losing in the first round of districts last season, the Captains responded this season with their second straight Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division title, as well as their first KLAA Lakes Conference championship before winning their first regional title since 2000. “Obviously, these seniors were a big chunk of the last three years and we’ll have to adjust and make changes,” Woodhull said.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Shamrocks end Vikings’ season in regional semi-final By Michael Shelton staff writer

Walled Lake Central found that lady luck wasn’t on its side after it fell to the Novi Detroit Catholic Central Shamrocks, 42-35, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class A regional semi-final at Novi High School on Monday, March 12. The loss ended a season in which the Vikings (17-7) won a district championship after falling just short in bids to win the Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division and Lakes Conference championships. “We gave up too many easy baskets and too many looks to (Catholic Central’s) Kyle Cooper, and we didn’t keep up the pace scoring,” said Central Head Coach Dennis Butcher. Walled Lake Central led 11-10 at the end of the first quarter before Catholic Central took a 21-16 lead at halftime and a 35-23 lead at the end of the third quarter. The Vikings rallied in the fourth with an 11-4 run and soon found themselves down by four points, as the Shamrocks had trouble converting on their free-throws, finishing 10-for-20 from the line on the night. However, the Vikings just couldn’t hit their shots down the stretch. “We had three possessions in a row

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Matt Linehan (with ball) scored 13 points as Orchard Lake St. Mary’s defeated Ann Arbor Huron in a Michigan High School Athletic Association Class A regional semi-final at Novi High School on Monday, March 12. The Eaglets would go on to defeat Novi Detroit Catholic Central in the regional final two nights later, marking the second straight year that St. Mary’s has won a regional crown at the Shamrocks’ expense. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Deja vu for the Eaglets St. Mary’s ousts Catholic Central from ‘A’ state title tourney By Michael Shelton staff writer

For the second straight season, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s defied the odds to claim a regional championship over tough competition. The Eaglets defeated Novi Detroit Catholic Central, 48-46, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class A regional final at Novi High School on Wednesday, March 14 for their second consecutive regional title. The win was eerily similar to last year’s regional final, in which St. Mary’s also defeated Catholic Central, 49-48. “It’s a great tribute to our kids. We came up short numerous times during the regular season, but their record is back to 0-0 when the playoffs start,” said St. Mary’s Head Coach George Porritt. “I think we started to gain confidence after we won the district (title). That is the difference. We also have great senior

leadership, as well.” The Eaglets (14-10) advanced to the Class A state quarter-finals at Davison on Tuesday, March 20, where they faced Saginaw (22-2) after press time. The winner will face either Lake Orion or Macomb L’Anse Creuse North in the Class A state semi-finals inside the Breslin Center at Michigan State University on Friday, March 23 at 2:30 p.m. View VIDEO CLIPS relative to this story at

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

The Class A state final is on Saturday, March 24 at 4 p.m. Last Wednesday, St. Mary’s faced a Catholic Central team that had defeated it twice during the regular season. The Eaglets led the Shamrocks 13-11 at the end of the first quarter

and 23-21 at halftime. St. Mary’s was able to stretch its lead to 41-33 at the end of the third quarter and had a 9-point lead early in the fourth. However, Catholic Central (17-7) pulled to within a point and St. Mary’s only converted on 1-of-5 freethrows down the stretch to cling to a two-point lead. But, Jalen Watts-Jackson came up with a key block with just over two seconds left when Richard Katkic’s last second 3-pointer hit the rim. Kyle Cooper’s potentially game-tying putback also went off the iron as the Eaglets held on to win. Chibunna Ukandu led the Eaglets with 19 points, while Sam McClendon, Watts-Jackson and Ethan Woelke each scored 7 points. Two nights earlier, the Eaglets defeated Ann Arbor Huron, 61-51, in a Class A regional semi-final at Novi on Monday, March 12.

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MARCH 21-27, 2012

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and play tough defense down the stretch to secure the win. Malone finished with 15 points. Reiche scored 14 points, including four triples. DaVonte Daniel also had 14 rebounds and 6 blocks. Last Wednesday marked the final game for seniors Rieche, Daniel, Andrew Hovsepian, Giavanni Magee and Brody Losh. “We are going to miss our five seniors greatly. They were very instrumental in our success this year and they set the bar high for our returning players and our younger players,” Jayson said. “We are going to cherish this season but get back in the gym shortly to prepare for next season.”

BOYS BASKETBALL

Central Vikings ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 36

where we didn’t convert offensively,” Butcher said. Senior Zac Leimbach had 12 points in his final game as a Viking while fellow senior K.J. Schultz scored 11. Seniors Tai Abiola and Chuck Taylor were held to 4 points each. Cooper led the Shamrocks (17-7) with 16 points, while Jack Dillon had 9 and David Racey scored 8. Catholic Central went on to fall to Orchard Lake St. Mary’s in a Class A regional final two nights later. As for Walled Lake Central, all their coach could do was remind the Vikings of how far they came this season. “They were true to their character and they fought back after some tough losses and we’re proud of the way they had fought,” Butcher said. Last Monday marked the final game for seniors Leimbach, Schultz, Abiola, Taylor, James Sullivan and Christian Lumaj. “We were blessed to have these seniors,” Butcher said. “I think we have things in place where guys get better every year.”

Corsairs’ season ends at hands of Lake Orion, 48-42 By Michael Shelton staff writer

Waterford Mott was bidding for a regional championship after winning its first district title in 30 years, but Lake Orion was out to accomplish something it hadn’t done in 87 years. The Corsairs fell to the host Dragons, 48-42, in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Class A regional final on Wednesday, March 14, as Lake Orion won its first regional title since 1925. The loss ended a season in which the Corsairs also won their third Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division title in four seasons. “I told my players that they should be really proud of what they accomplished,” said Mott Head Coach Jeff Jayson after his first season at the helm came to a close. “(I told them) I know that it’s tough right now but this is something will have fond memories about and you will tell your children about it in 20 years. (I also told them) I’m so proud to be your coach. Make sure you hold your heads up high when

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SPORTS NOTES Ethan Woelke (with ball) is one of five Orchard Lake St. Mary’s seniors who now have two Michigan High School Athletic Association Class A regional titles. The Eaglets defeated Ann Arbor Huron and Novi Detroit Catholic Central this past week to advance to the Class A state quarterfinals, where they faced Saginaw on Tuesday, March 20 after press time. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

St. Mary’s ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 36

The score was tied at 49-49 with just over four minutes to go in the fourth quarter before the Eaglets outscored Huron 12-2 for the rest of the game. Ukandu led St. Mary’s with 22 points, while Matt Linehan had 13 points, including 4 straight during the Eaglets’ run in the fourth quarter. McClendon also had 9 points. Danny Furlong was strong on the glass with 15 rebounds. Ann Arbor Huron finished its sea-

you leave the locker room.” Lake Orion went on to face Macomb L’Anse Creuse North in a Class A state quarter-final on Tuesday, March 20 after press time, with the winner advancing to the Class A state semifinals in East Lansing on Friday, March 23. Last Wednesday, Mott (17-7) trailed 8-5 at the end of the first quarter and 18-13 at halftime before Lake Orion jumped out to a 31-20 lead late in the third quarter. Trailing 41-31 in the fourth, Mott put a run together and cut the deficit to 42-39 with just under a minute left. But, it was the Dragons’ time, as they sunk 6 free-throws down the stretch as part of a fourth quarter in which they shot 13-for-16 from the charity stripe. Khalil Malone led the Corsairs with

son at 17-7. St. Mary’s once again finds itself on the verge of the state’s final four after a regular season in which it had to overcome injuries suffered during a long football season, as well as a tough Catholic League schedule. “I always believe you lose nuts and bolts at the beginning of the year,” Porritt said. “But, we rely on multi-sport athletes and if you hang in there, good things will happen.” The Eaglets now hope that — just like their football team did this past November — their basketball team will be celebrating a state title when this weekend is over.

19 points on the night, while Hunter Reiche had 8. Chaz Miller had 15 points for the Dragons (16-9). John McCarty scored 10 points. Two nights earlier, Mott held off the Southfield Blue Jays, 46-41, in a Class A regional semi-final. The game was a defensive struggle, as the Corsairs trailed 15-10 in the first quarter before rallying to tie the score at 20-20 at halftime. Mott then jumped out to a 7-point lead in the third quarter before Southfield cut its deficit to one, 32-31, entering the fourth quarter. The Corsairs stretched their lead to 42-35 in the fourth thanks in part to 3pointers by Justice Bolling and Reiche. Southfield then scored four points to cut Mott’s lead to three, but the Corsairs would sink their free-throws

Sophomore Chad Norton of Walled Lake recently concluded the 2011-12 indoor season with the Guilford College men’s track and field team. Norton, a 6-2 distance runner, ran the 3000 and 5000 meters during indoor competition for the Quakers. He set a school record in the 5000 at the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) Indoor Championships on Feb. 24 with a time of 15:21.04 and a first-place finish. Norton’s best finish in the 3000 came Feb. 4 at the Kent Taylor Invitational where he placed eighth overall in time of 8:52.67, the second-fastest time in school history. Interim coach Danny Cash’s men’s team placed 23rd at the NCAA Division III Indoor Championships. The Quakers’ men finished fifth at the ODAC Indoor Championships while the women’s team tied for seventh. The women and men’s track and field team set a total of eight school records this indoor seaNorton son. Cash said he expects 17 letter winners back for the 2011-2012 outdoor season, including Norton. • North American Youth Sports will be holding its annual youth spring basketball tournament at the Inkster Recreation Complex from April 20 to April 22. The tournament will feature 10 different brackets, including 5th- and 6th-grade boys and girls; 7th-grade PAGE 38 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR

OUTSTANDING STUDENTS OF WEST OAKLAND COUNTY

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

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Inkster.

SPORTS NOTES

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 37

boys and girls; 8th-grade boys and girls; 9th- and 10th-grade boys and girls; and 11th- and 12th-grade boys and girls. All grades are based on the grade in which a student is currently enrolled. The entry fee for the tournament is $100 and guarantees a team a minimum of two games. There will be awards presented in each bracket. The entry deadline is Friday, March 30. For additional information or an entry form, call 1-866-352-5915, Ruth Williams at 734-728-7530, or visit northamericanyouthsports.org. The Inkster Recreation Complex is located at 2025 Middlebelt Road in NOTICE Village of Wolverine Lake

COUNCIL VACANCY APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED Applications are being accepted from Village of Wolverine Lake residents interested in filling the existing vacancy on the Village Council. To be considered, Village residents must be a qualified and registered elector of the Village. Submit a resume to the Village Administrator, 425 Glengary, Wolverine Lake, MI 48390, providing name, address, phone number (s) and any pertinent information as to why you should be considered, no later than 5:00 p.m. Friday, March 23, 2012. Candidates will be interviewed by Council at a Special Meeting on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. in the Village Hall Council Chambers. The person appointed to Council will be eligible to serve until the next Village Election in November 2012. For more information contact the Village Office at (248) 624-1710. SC: 3-21-12

• During a ceremony at Waterford Kettering High School on Tuesday, March 13, Kayla Vanston made her collegiate intentions official by committing to attend Siena Heights University in Adrian, Mich. to play lacrosse. Vanston was an integral part of the Waterford lacrosse community over the last four years playing for the Unified Waterford Lacrosse Team. “Kayla has demonstrated tremendous athletic ability over the last four years and has worked hard to be able to accept this opportunity at Siena Heights. We look forward to following Kayla’s career over the next four years,” said Waterford School District Athletic Supervisor Richard Dorn. • Huron Valley Milford’s athletic programs will be holding two events over March and April. The Girls Basketball Program will be hosting a MOM 2 MOM Sale on Saturday, April 28 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the school’s cafeteria. For more information, contact Jennifer VanGoethem at vangoethemj@huronvalley.k12.mi.us. Then on Friday, March 23, Milford High School Boosters and Colasanti’s proudly present their 4th Annual Food, Wine & Beer Tasting at Mystic Creek, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Entry is $35. Visit milfordboosters.com to purchase tickets via PayPal. To purchase tickets by check, contact Kellie Yates at 248-863-4435, or e-mail MHSBoosterGroup@aol.com.

VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE 425 Glengary Road Wolverine Lake, MI 48390-1404 (248) 624-3536 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2012 LAKES AREA #2 SANITARY SEWER INDIVIDUAL HOOK-UP SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NOTICE is hereby given that the Village Council of the Village of Wolverine Lake, Oakland County, Michigan, will meet at a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Room of the Village Hall, located at 425 Glengary Road, Wolverine Lake, MI 48390-1404, to receive public comment, if any, regarding the creation of a Special Assessment District for Sanitary Sewer Improvements.

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

Your Name: ______________________________________________________________________________ Your Phone: ____________________________ Your Email: ______________________________________ Please attach 1 or 2 paragraphs to explain why this student deserves to be recognized. Fax to: Attention Outstanding Students of West Oakland Fax: 248-360-5308

Email to: students@thescngroup.com

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

Deadline for submission is May 1, 2012 W E S T

O A K L A N D ’ S

Member of the SCN Communications Group SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY • OAKLAND LAKEFRONT OAKLAND HOMES • MONTHLYADVERTISER • WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY FAX: 248.360.5308/248.360.5309

EW-17-21-426-047 EW-17-22-377-005 EW-17-22-404-013 EW-17-22-405-025 EW-17-22-432-003 EW-17-22-436-005 EW-17-22-451-007 EW-17-22-451-024 EW-17-22-451-030

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

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

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

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

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

N E W S W E E K LY

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

www.bluediamondlimomi.com

Plans and estimates of costs are on file with the Village Clerk for public examination. The proposed Special Assessment District involves the following properties:

www.therootrestaurant.com

Sharon A. Miller, Village Clerk Village of Wolverine Lake, Michigan S.C.: 03-21-12 & 04-04-12

MARCH 21-27, 2012

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

HURON VALLEY SCHOOLS HIGHLAND, MI 48357

Huron Valley Schools will be receiving bids for the following bid package:

Paint & Flooring Package

Mechanical Package A pre-bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the Administration Building, 2390 S. Milford Rd., Highland, MI 48357. Bid documents are available online Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at http://webapps.huronvalley.k12.mi.us/bids/ or by going to the District’s web site, www.huronvalley.k12.mi.us and clicking on Quick Links, then selecting Bid & Registration Information.

A pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at the Administration Building, 2390 S. Milford Rd., Highland, MI 48357. Bid documents are available online Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at http://webapps.huronvalley.k12.mi.us/bids/ or by going to the District’s web site, www.huronvalley.k12.mi.us and clicking on Quick Links, then selecting Bid & Registration Information.

Sealed bids should be submitted to Sandra Elka, Supervisor of Purchasing, Huron Valley Schools, 2390 S. Milford Rd., Highland, MI 48357. Bids are to be submitted no later than 10:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, April 4, 2012. Late bids will not be considered. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids. No oral, email, telephonic or telegraphic proposals shall be considered.

Sealed bids should be submitted to Sandra Elka, Supervisor of Purchasing, Huron Valley Schools, 2390 S. Milford Rd., Highland, MI 48357. Bids are to be submitted no later than 10:00 a.m. local time on Tuesday, April 3, 2012. Late bids will not be considered. Bids will be publicly opened immediately following the close of receiving bids. No oral, email, telephonic or telegraphic proposals shall be considered.

In compliance with MCL 380.1267, a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationships that exist between the owner, or any employee of the bidder, and any member of the Huron Valley Schools’ Board or the Superintendent must be included with the bid. Bids without a sworn and notarized disclosure statement will not be accepted.

Certified check or Bid Bond by an approved surety company must accompany each proposal in an amount not less than 5% of the bid amount. Price proposal shall be good for a period of no less than 60 days from the bid date, unless otherwise noted.

The Board reserves the right to waive any irregularities, reject any or all bids, or accept any bid when in the opinion of the Board such action will best serve the District’s interest.

Bonnie Brown Secretary, Board of Education

S.C. 3-21-12

Bonnie Brown Secretary, Board of Education S.C. 3-21-12

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF WIXOM

The West Bloomfield Township Wetland Review Board will hold a public hearing at the Township Board Room, 4550 Walnut Lake Road on Wednesday March 28, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following Wetland/Floodplain Permit Applications: CASE #PWT11-1819 GULATI Parcel: Lot 2 and Part of Lot 3, Green Lake Heights Sidwell #18-08-276-012 Location: 6133 North Shore Request: A request to remove existing wooden staircase and stone seawall, undertake site grading and install new boulder seawall, flagstone staircase, two (2) retaining walls and native plantings at or above the OHWM and within the 25 foot environmental features setback to Green Lake. Applicant: Fairway Engineering, LLC on behalf of Dr. Arvind and Jennifer Gulati CASE #PWT11-1822 DENHA Parcel: Lot 51, Walnut Creek Estates Sidwell #18-30-227-055 Location: 7335 Essex Request: An after-the-fact request to restore 300 square feet of the 25 foot environmental features setback area. Applicant: Cervi Construction on behalf of Mr. & Mrs. Denha Detailed plans are available for inspection at the West Bloomfield Township Environmental Department, 4550 Walnut Lake Road, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A staff report, as prepared for the Wetland Review Board, will be available for review the Friday prior to the meeting. If you have any questions on this matter, contact the Environmental Department at (248) 451-4818. Marshall Labadie, Development Services Director

S.C. 3-21-12

The Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at a public meeting upon two weeks notice in writing or by calling the Township Clerk or Environmental Director at (248) 451-4800.

CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The City of Orchard Lake Village is requesting proposals for the following work at the City Hall grounds, located at 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan to be performed in the 2012 season. Weekly lawn cutting, the same day of the week each week as nearly as possible, including trimming around beds and trees, mowing traffic islands, and cutting adjacent field areas as required (once or twice as needed each month over 6 months.) Bidders must provide evidence of minimum insurance coverage’s detailed in the enclosed. Proposals must be submitted to Rhonda McClellan, City Clerk, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan 48323, no later than 3:00 p.m. on April 9, 2012. Envelopes must be clearly labeled: “SEALED BID - LAWN MAINTENANCE” The City reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and to waive any irregularities in the bidding process. Question may be directed to Gerry McCallum, Director of the City Services at (248) 682-2400. Rhonda R. McClellan City Clerk SC: 3-21-12

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Wixom Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct the following public hearings at their next regular meeting scheduled for Monday, April 9, 2012 for the following topics: ZBA CASE #007-12: JIM COMBS, 486 FILBERT COURT, WIXOM, MI 48393: The applicant is seeking a temporary use permit to sell flowers for a three month period. The Wixom Municipal Code, Section 18.22.060, requires approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals for the request. The property is located at 30303 Beck Road and zoned M-1, Light Industrial. The tax parcel number is 22-05-426-001. ZBA CASE #008-12: COY CONSTRUCTION, 4214 MARTIN ROAD, WALLED LAKE, MI 48390: The applicant is seeking a perimeter wall foundation variance to screen in an existing deck. The Wixom Municipal Code, Section 18.03.030 (C), requires that such additions have a perimeter wall foundation. The property is located at 3163 Maple Road and zoned R-3, Single Family Residential. The tax parcel number is 17-31-151-012. ZBA CASE #009-12: BENINATI POOL & SPA, 8701 HALL ROAD, UTICA, MI 48317: The applicant is seeking variances to construct a 4 ft. fence and an in-ground pool within the front yard of a corner lot. The Wixom Municipal Code, Section 18.13.040 (A) & 18.13.050 (B) (1) states swimming pools shall not be located in any front yard and fences located with in the front yard can not exceed 3 1/2 ft. in height. Section 18.03.050 (G) states there shall be maintained a required front yard setback on each street side of a corner lot, and no accessory structures shall project beyond the front yard line on either street. Each side of the lot, which abuts a public street, will be considered a front yard. The property is located at 1188 Trailside and zoned R-3, Single Family Residential. The parcel number is 17-29-352-021. The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. and will be held in Wixom Council Chambers, 49045 Pontiac Trail. Persons having any questions regarding these matters are urged to attend this meeting or contact the Building Department at (248) 624-0880. Catherine Buck, City Clerk City of Wixom (248) 624-4557 S.C. 3-21-12

VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DUMP TRUCK WITH PLOW & SALT SPREADER AND MISC. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Sealed bids will be accepted at the office of the Village Clerk, 425 Glengary, Wolverine Lake, Michigan 48390 until noon on Thursday, March 29, 2012 for the following; 1988 GMC 1 Ton Dump Truck with plow and salt spreader, 6 Foot Flail Mower, Scag 48” Walk Behind Lawn Mower, 1982 Chevy 350 V-8 Engine (in storage), Generator Briggs & Stratton Motor 8 HP, Homelite 360 Chain Saw 18”. Equipment can be inspected at address listed above or visit our web site www.wolverinelake.com for a complete listing with pictures. Equipment is sold “as is” with no warranty expressed or implied. Written bids must be submitted in sealed envelope with “EQUIPMENT BID” clearly written on the outside. The Village reserves the right to reject any and all bids or to waive any informalities. Sharon A. Miller Village Clerk

SC 3-7-12 & 3-21-12

Notice of Posting for Charter Township of Commerce Township Board 1. Introduction: An Ordinance to Amend Ordinance No. 1.018 - Class C Liquor Licenses. The above Ordinance 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: 3-21-12

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

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REAL ESTATE

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.

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MOBILE HOMES

MERCHANDISE

• 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.

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

For further emphasis add an icon or shade your ad for only $5.

☺ ★

SERVICES

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.

MARCH 21-27, 2012

CONVENIENT CATEGORY LISTINGS NOTICES 1 2 3 4 5 6 8

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

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

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

MOBILE HOMES 42 43

Mobile Homes for Sale Mobile Home for Rent

RENTALS 45 46 47 49 50 52 55 56 57

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

And Lots of Others! Phone Rhonda, Leslie or Cindy for Affordable Rates 248-360-7355

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

NOTICES Reunions

RENTALS

Hartland

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/ Condos

NEWLY LISTED! Wonderful home on 2.4 acre park-like setting. 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, kitchen w/snack bar & breakfast area & wood floors. Formal dining, living room, great room with stone fireplace, 1st floor office, walkout basement. Finished 3 car garage. $320,000.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE 11

Looking o purchase or sell your home? Contact

Custom built 3480 sq. ft. Colonial with hilltop setting in San Marino Glen. 5 bedrooms, 1st floor den w/walk-in closet & 3 full baths. Huge kitchen with island & 3 pantries, formal dining, bonus room, living room w/fireplace, large deck, walkout lower level, 3 car garage, paved drive & large parking area. $298,500.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

Arlene at Keller Williams 248-912-4628

Hartland

ALL SPORTS LAKE! Beautiful custom built 1 1/2 story home on Lake Tyrone. 3 bedrooms, newer sharp kitchen, dining area with cherry cabinets & granite counters, great room with soaring ceilings. Lots of windows. Doorwall leading to deck w/scenic views. Walk-out lower level finished with bedroom, walkin closet & full bath. 2x6 construction. 4 car gar garage w/ finished loft area. Paved road. $254,500.

Mobile Homes for Sale

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

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

(248) 624-0709

OAK TREE APARTMENTS Condo Style 2 Bedroom Apartments

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

Professionally Managed By Senior Village Management

(248) 360-7235

4 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Ranch in Commerce Twp 248-342-4754

3 bedrooms, unfurnished, all appliances. $750 a month plus security.

248-343-1666

Looking to rent a house or condo?

MOBILE HOMES

mihome4u.com

WATERFORD Duplex

NEWLY LISTED! Houses For Sale

PAGE 41

call Arlene Keller Williams Realty mihome4u.com 248-912-4628

Houses/ Condos

WIXOM LOON LAKE 1000 sq.ft. updated 3 bdrm house, granite kitchen, ceramic baths, fenced yard, lake access,a/c,Walled Lake Schools, small pets ok. $875/ month Olvermich@mac.com

248-755-5073 Apartments

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

248-553-4466

☺ WALLED LAKE 1 Bedroom Apartments 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath Town Homes * $400 Moves You In* 1/2 Month FREE on 1 bdr 1/2 month FREE on 2 Bdr

248-624-6606 EHO

Rooms/Share Quarters

FURNISHED SLEEPING room for rent. Waterford area, $100 /week. 810-355-8097 LOOKING FOR mature, older female roommate, rent negotiable. (248)669-5958

HELP WANTED General/ Help Wanted

FACILITY ATTENDANT The City of Wixom Community Center is looking for a responsible, mature person to monitor the facility for evenings & weekends, part time position. Perfect for the retired person. Duties would include- light clerical, answering phones, light cleaning, & supervision of community center. You may pick up an application at 49015 Pontiac Trail Wixom MI 48393 or call for more information

www.cormorantco.com * Call For Details *

248-624-2850

Pontiac Lake

CHILD CARE CENTER

1 bdrm for $459 (newly renovated).

Includes all utilities except electric. Security Deposit. For more information & availability call

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

248-335-7368

248-669-6880

General/ Help Wanted

PLUMBER Experienced service plumber needed for our growing company. Excellent benefits package included: health insurance, vacation/ holiday pay, vehicle with gas card, bonuses, continuing education, and room for advancement.

248-674-7107 Commerce Landscape Company Hiring Grounds Maintenance

Fax or Email 248-685-7969 atoz.lawn@yahoo.com

PART TIME CLEANERS Needed for evenings. Lakes area. Immediate positions available. Call

Mr. Curtis @ 248-778-7237

Landscape Help Wanted $9 to $12 per hour Commerce, Novi area

Craig's Landscape Service 248-766-7691

Pre-Licensing Class April Classes Available $ Class only

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

Join us as we grow Michigan.

PAGE 42

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$759,900 CUSTOM BUILT ALL SPORTS MACEDAY LAKEFRONT •4 br, 4 ba, all brick, fin w/o, 5,200 sq ft •1st & 2nd flr master, volume rooms, 3 car #211017553 EXT. #296 •KEY #248341 P. TW ND LA H HIG

$725,000

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

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$374,900 CUSTOM QUALITY BUILT 1.14 PRIVATE ACRE ESTATE •1st flr mstr, 4 bed, 4 full baths, 2,900+ sq. ft. •Fin. daylight basement, 3 car + workshop #211110916 EXT. #241•KEY #248360 . WP ET RC E MM CO

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

$487,500

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

. WP ET AK

P. TW RD FO R TE WA

$299,900

E AK

. WP ET RC E MM CO

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

. WP ET RC E MM CO

$89,900 $79,900 ALL-SPORTS COMMERCE LAKEFRONT BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED BUILDING LOT CONDOMINIUM TOWNHOUSE •Private gated community - island club •2 br, 1.5 ba + fin-bsmt, granite kitch •Sub park, gazebo, tennis. Build your dream home •Ceramic/hdwd, LC terms, clubhouse, pool #211038619 EXT. #207 •KEY #248965 #211107248 EXT. #259 •KEY #262565

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

$214,900 $219,900 SPRAWLING RANCH ON LARGE LOT GORGEOUS GERUNDEGUT BAY BACKING TO WOODS ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •Remodeled ranch, stone fp, dining rm •2,349 sq. ft. + f-bsmt, 3 br, 3 ba, grt rm w/fp •Corian counter kitch, tile, crown molding •Deck, 1st flr laundry, 2 kitchens, 3 car gar #211103417 EXT. #280 •KEY #248373 #212008128 EXT. #283•KEY #276271

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED CEDAR ISLAND LAKEFRONT •2,302 sq ft, 4 br, 3 ba, LC terms, GR w/fp •Granite kit & ba, new paint, carpet, 2 car gar #211089671 EXT. #246 •KEY #257017

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

MIL

$495,000

$199,900 $199,900 WALKOUT RANCH ON ALL-SPORTS SPRAWLING RANCH ON GORGEOUS CLARK & CARROLL LAKES LAKE NEVA BAY •1,353 sq ft + 950 sq ft in fin. w/o, 3 br, 2 ba •1,642 sq ft + fin. basement, 3 br, 2.5 ba •Florida rm, 2 fireplaces, mstr w/ba, shed •Florida rm, volume rooms, master w/W.I.C. #21207022 EXT. #243•KEY #264094 #21207059 EXT. #275•KEY #248374 . WP ET RC E MM CO

2900 Union Lake, Suite 210, Commerce, MI 48382

STUNNING ALL-SPORTS UNION LAKEFRONT VIEWS •1,800 sq ft, 3 br, 2 ba, 75’ Frontage, Fp •200” deep lot, basement, huge mstr br #212017000 EXT. #205 •KEY #248367

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$499,900

$598,000

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

248-366-7200

LD FIE OM O BL

$450,000

STUNNING CUSTOM BUILT PRESTWICK GOLF FRONT •3,765 sq ft + 1,450 lower level, 5 br, 3.5 ba •Dramatic open floor plan w/all the extras #212005328 EXT. #264 •KEY #256951

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MIL

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

janet@TheStocktonTeam.com

steve@TheStocktonTeam.com

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

$149,900

SHARP RANCH - LARGE BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED LOT •1,408 sq ft, 3 br, 2 ba, oversized 2 car gar •1st flr laundry, lg shed, patio, Walled Lk schools #212011148 EXT. #285 •KEY #fm256j P. TW LD FIE M O BLO ST WE

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$164,900 SPACIOUS COLONIAL WITH LARGE DECK ON NICELY TREED LOT •1,933 sq ft, 3 br, 1.5 ba, basement •1st flr laundry, gorgeous granite kitchen, brick fp #212026605 EXT. #279 •KEY #256965 P. TW CE ER M M CO

$40,000 $1,095/MO. GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD AFFORDABLE RENTAL ON YOUR DREAM HOME QUIET DEAD-END STREET •Lot includes three parcels (90x101) •1,300 sq ft, 3 br, 1.5 ba, appliances, fp, 2 car •Sub beach and boating on Upper Straits Lake •Patio, fenced yard, immed. occupancy, 1 yr. min. #211032130 EXT. #221 •KEY #248395 #212008860 EXT. #275 •KEY #268870

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

There’s No Better Time To Sell! We are full time professionals... •Meeting Client’s Needs Since 1977 •4 Dedicated Listing & Buyer’s Agents •150+ Negotiated/Closed “Short Sales”

Our performance speaks for itself!

www.TheStocktonTeam.com

MARCH 21-27, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

– HIGHLAND – PREMIUM, DOWNEY LAKE FRONT SITE

PAGE 43

$329,900

– HIGHLAND – WATER FRONT HOME ON ALL-SPORTS, PRIVATE HIGHLAND LAKE 212020231 $195,000

211114550

$238,000

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

– COMMERCE – OVER 5,000 SQ. FT. OF LUXURY WATERFRONT LIVING ON ALL-SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD! 212019292 $649,000

– HIGHLAND – LOVELY .38 ACRE RANCH IN DESIRABLE AXFORD ACRES. LAKE PRIVILEGES ON ALL-SPORTS DUCK LAKE 212026766 $129,900

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

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

– MILFORD TWP. – 1.5 ACRE CUL-DE-SAC LOT WITH 300 FT. OF WATERFRONT AND A SOUTHERN EXPOSURE! 212013059 $324,900

– COMMERCE – 4 BEDROOMS, 3.1 BATHS ON ALL-SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD! 211110654 $444,500

– HIGHLAND – ENDLESS, CAPTIVATING VIEWS OF WHITE LAKE! 211111348 $384,500

– COMMERCE – MAIN LAKE WATERFRONT HOME ON ALL-SPORTS, PRIVATE LAKE SHERWOOD! 211116287 $479,000

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

– WIXOM – BRIGHT AND CHARMING RANCH WITH LAKE PRIVILEGES! 210132913 $125,000

– MILFORD – SPACIOUS COLONIAL, CLOSE TO THE VILLAGE OF MILFORD 212025808 $249,000

– TROY – QUALITY BUILT, SPRAWLING RANCH WITH OPEN FLOOR PLAN 212023460 $205,000

– LYON TWP. – LAKEFRONT LIVING IN THIS 55+ SENIOR LIVING CONDO!

– WHITE LAKE TOWNSHIP – GORGEOUS WATERFRONT CONTEMPORARY ON BOGIE LAKE PENINSULA! 211001443 $345,000

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

– MILFORD VILLAGE – CHARMING AND WELL UPDATED HISTORIC HOME 2 BLOCKS FROM DOWNTOWN! 210111484 $249,900

212022371

211083873

$27,000

– NORTHVILLE – SHORT DISTANCE TO QUAINT DOWNTOWN NORTHVILLE!

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

PAGE 44

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211131493 - $154,900

212026304 - $210,000

212022464 - $264,900

212021785 - $159,900

212011824 - $125,000

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

CASS LAKE CANALFRONT 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, finished walkout

ALL-SPORTS LAKEFRONT 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 fireplaces, 1,900 sq. ft. 1st floor laundry

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

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

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212000049 - $124,900

211068047 - $189,900

211091695 - $129,900

212019342 - $119,900

212014288 - $160,000

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

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

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

GORGEOUS RANCH 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, spacious kitchen, finished basement

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

FEATURED HOME

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212010105 - $89,999

212010376 - $95,000

211047575 - $400,000

212021370 - $319,000

BRICK RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large lot, central air

MILFORD VILLAGE HIDDEN GEM 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, lots of cabinets, hardwood flrs, nat. fireplace, part. fin. basement

211114594 - $724,900

COMMERCE LAKEFRONT 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, almost 3/4 acre, finished walkout

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

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211108336 - $59,900

212020077 - $277,900

211048408 - $100,000

212022600 - $170,000

211129544 - $66,000

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

BOATING/SWIMMING LAKE SHERWOOD 3 beds, 3.1 baths, contemporary, vaulted ceilings, wood & ceramic 3 season gazebo with hot tub

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

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

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

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211099179 - $222,000

212018936 - $175,000

211128969 - $185,000

211107874 - $54,900

211124998 - $235,000

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

GORGEOUS COMMERCE HOME 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, possible 4th bedroom, natural fireplace

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

A RARE GEM 3 bedroom condos, 2.5 baths, large master, open floor plan

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

Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

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

MARCH 21-27, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

DOUG HARMALA

248-563-9217

douglasharmala@sbcglobal.net D CE DU RE E IC PR

SUSI GOLLINGER

DEBORAH FALZON

248-345-3492

Associate Broker - A.B.R.

(248) 310-9002

cell

susigollinger@hotmail.com

deborah@realestateone.com E HIT

PAGE 45

Available April Lease $2,200 Milford

WEST BLOOMFIELD, WALLED LAKE SCHOOLS

Well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch with newer Pella windows, family room with fireplace and skylights. Large master suite, lots of closets, master bath, jetted tub and separate shower, deck and patio leading to a fenced pool/deck area. $170,000. MLS#211112421

CENTENNIAL D CE FARM HOUSE DU RE White Lake, E C over an acre, 3 PRI large bedrooms and 2 baths, 1 with jetted tub, newer roof and windows, small barn and 3 car garage, partly covered morning porch (see photo), parlor with fireplace, beautiful interior detailing, good size study/office too. $180,000. MLS#211128969

MOVE IN READY 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath colonial with elegant 2 story entry, grand staircase, library with French doors, large kitchen, vaulted master suite and much more. (DF95B) MLS#212024832

Almost 3,000 sq. ft., contemporary 1 1/2 story home. Gorgeous setting, beautiful sub on 2+ wooded hilly acres. Circle drive, great room with cathedral ceiling, skylights, fireplace with woodstove insert, new windows, dining room with hardwood, Tracklites, kitchen with all appliances, doorwall to deck, 1st floor master and laundry - washer and dryer, 2 bedrooms up, full bath, large bonus room, finished walkout basement, full bath, kitchenette. Renter’s insurance required. Application/credit report. 1 1/2 month security dep., no pets, no smoking. List of improvements and exclusions. (S.G.1365 O.H.)

For All Showings Call Susi

BECKY KATZMAN McCARTHY 248-790-9915

BRUCE CLUTE

CHERYL YEAGER

248-310-8077

248-891-0079

cherylyeager.com cherylyeager@yahoo.com

Lakes Area Specialist

abruceclute21@comcast.net E RIN LVE RONT O W EF K LA

rmccarthy@RealEstateOne.com

AUDREY STOREY 248-363-8300 Ext. 233 248-496-1846 audreystorey@yahoo.com

TIN

LIS

LAKE LIVING RULES! Wolverine Lakefront with breathtaking views and extra large lot. Three bedroom, 1.5 bath with living, dining, Florida rooms and family room with fireplace. Hurry summer’s coming. $235,000. (BC784W) MLS 211124998

CHARMING CAPE COD ACREAGE MILFORD TOWNSHIP - $169,000 Great location - convenient to expressways. Three bedrooms, 2 full baths. Balcony from master bedroom. Dining room with hardwood floors. Three car garage with workshop, circle driveway, plus pole barn. (CY3162EM) Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

ALL-SPORTS LAKEFRONT WITH GORGEOUS VIEWS! Hilltop bungalow with one of the best views of allsports Middle Straits Lake! Privately owned! Home features approximately 1,900 sq. ft. of living space, spacious living and family rooms, two fireplaces, 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, open kitchen with lake views and all appliances, master bedroom with private balcony facing the lake, first floor laundry, extensive decking and landscaping, newer roof, dock included, Award winning Walled Lake schools. $264,900 For all showings call Becky

Lakes Area (248) 363-8300 • 8430 Richardson

LISTED AND SOLD IN 1 DAY!!! Meticulously maintained 4 bedroom home with full basement and attached garage. Great subdivision with sidewalks. Walk to downtown Holly. Kitchen features center island, hardwood floors, breakfast area with doorwall. Great room with lots of windows. Formal dining room. Generous room sizes. All for $154,900 AS842C

PAGE 46

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General/ Help Wanted

TELEMARKETERS Needed part time, Wixom area. $9 per hour plus bonus, 20 hours per week, room for advancement, fast growing "young" environment,

248-295-6000 EXPERIENCED LINE COOKS

General/ Help Wanted

Sales Positions 65

Employment Opportunities • Landscape Foreman • Grounds Maintenance • Mechanical Abilities • CDL class A/B

Mulligan's Landscape & Garden Center, Inc.

Full time available

8215 Elizabeth Lake Rd White Lake

BAR & WAIT STAFF

248-698-4741

Residential cleaning company in Waterford seeking energetic part time employee 15 to 20 hours, Monday through Friday, No evenings or weekends, car required, experience a plus but will train.

248-674-5800 STYLIST Needed for Cut -N- More Beauty Salon located in Hiller's Market Plaza off Union Lake Road in Commerce.

Ask for Elaine 248-420-2605

Bay Pointe Golf Course In West Bloomfield Now hiring grounds crew workers, experience helpful

Please apply in person Monday thru Saturday 9-5 Medical/ Dental

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

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

Apply in person:

CJ's Upper Deck 3270 W. Huron Waterford, MI MAIDS

CARE GIVER AFC Needed full & part time in White Lake for all shifts. Must be experienced with Alzheimers patients. 2-3 positions available. Penny Lane

248-866-3984

Used/Wanted

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

Mann Metals Corp. (248)960-1200 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

Items must be FREE to respondents, ad free to you. Restricted to residential. The publishing group accepts no responsibility for actions between individuals. Sorry, we do not accept ads for free dogs.

Mature people wanted for full time general shop help and machine operator. Wixom or Farmington Hills locations. Overtime, benefits, health and life insurance, Optical, and 401K. Pre-employment Physical required.

CATS, FIXED rescues, need homes and one ferret. 248738-4901 FREE 5' bathtub, iron, dark brown, heavy. 5' X 3' mirror. You pick up. (248)420-7712

Apply in person & ask for JJ

Auction/Estate Sales101

Weekdays from 9-4

PUBLIC AUCTION

4527 Old Plank Rd. Milford, MI 48381

(248) 685-0961 ext. 231

CNC PROGRAMMER AND SET-UP We are an aggressive and growing CNC machine shop. We are looking for people to Program and Set up OKUMA mills and lathes. 3 to 5 years of experience. Overtime, Benefits, Health and Life Insurance, Optical, and 401K. Pre-employment Physical Required. Apply in person & ask for JJ Weekdays from 9-4

4527 Old Plank Rd. Milford, MI 48381

(248) 685-0961 ext. 231

ATVs 103

COMMERCE 4690 COOLEY Lake, between Duck & Bogie, north of Commerce. WHITE LAKE

Building Materials 105 SOLID OAK Large Interior door 84X32, $24.99 248360-8485

"Mini Storage Depot will sell at public auction, contents of Units Numbered (E346, Michael Mack: furniture, suitcases, tools), (D215, Anthony Schwerin: household goods, furniture, boxes, trunks, toys, sporting goods, tools), on Friday, March 30th, 2012 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."

WATERFORD POLICE AUCTIONS can be viewed on the Waterford Website at: http:// twp.waterford.mi.us/

112

SPRING Special Mixed Firewood $45 face cord, 2 face cord minimum plus delivery. 248-795-3424 Furniture/Rugs

125

WICKER PAPASAN chair like new $25 248-363-0506

Home Care Equipment

178

FULL REPAIR SERVICES Snowmobile Parts Sale Mention ad for up to 50% of! MX • ATV• P.W.C

Lakes MotorSports 4713 Dixie Highway, Waterford, MI 48329

248-674-0663

MOVING SALE 1952 Howland Blvd, Friday 10-5, Saturday, Sunday 9-5. Lawn equipment, furniture, clothes, toys, household items and much more.

Firewood

SCRAP METAL

Absolutely Free

Garage Sales

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

130

www.lakesmotorsports.com

CARS/TRUCKS MOTORCYCLES Wanted Parts/ Salvage

181

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

(248)467-0396 Motorcycles

183

MOTORCYCLEGUARANTEE See First Want Ad Page Cars

187

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

ADULT CRUTCHES- adjustable, aluminum, like new $10 248-425-1004

EXPLORER XLT 2002, 4X4, 8- Passenger, 6 cylinder, 115K. 248-420-7500

ASCENSIA BREEZEGlucose monitor, brand new, $25. 248-534-7004

HONDA ELEMENT EX 2005 4wd., bright red, 122K, 248881-0900 Private.

Odds N Ends

138

NIKE Shox size 7 women, $10 retail $105. 248-960-7285

MAZDA 626 LX 2001, 136K, gold, clean- must sell. 248884-7200

SERVICE DIRECTORY Designated Driver

344

ALWAYS FROM THE HEART TRANSPORTATION •airport •doctor •school •shopping •wheel chair accessible "12 years & still growing" Contracted with the City of Wixom. Ask for Nan. Advance notice, please

248-363-6033 Home/Office Cleaning

368

A&M Home Cleaning Service We clean like its ours. Weekly, biweekly, monthly available. Call Maureen 248-520-8374 Anna 248-881-3389 INNOVATIVE CLEANING SERVICES Specializing in a professional way of cleaning to keep your house as a clean & healthy home for you. I'm your friendly, trustworthy, neighbor & able to clean, organize, cook, decorate & also available for light landscaping.

For free estimates, call

Carrie Trowbridge 248-212-2083 RELIABLE EUROPEAN LADIES Will clean your home or office. We work individually or in a group. Family owned since 2000. Insured & References avail. Oakland County Area.

Call Diana @ (586) 615-0042

BOATS/ OUTDOOR Wanted Boats/ Jet Skis/Parts

162

SEA-DOO JET SKIS WANTED DEAD OR DYING. 1995 on ups. $200$1400. Top $ for XP's & 947/951 or larger motors. Call Steve 231-943-4152

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

877-361-7705

www.ljhomerepair.com Financing Available • Senior Discount

FREE GUTTERS

(100 ft. max)

with Roof Replacement over 10 sq.

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

MARCH 21-27, 2012

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 47

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 REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT Appliance Repair

502

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

(248)360-0213 (248)698-8819 Carpet Installation

513

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

Bob (248)681-5771 515

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

(248)363-3804 elegant-woodworking.com

Cement/Concrete

517

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

ARROWCONCRETE.NET

248-758-4346

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

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

248-624-3161 Drywall

Electricians

526

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

Ron (248)673-7665

528

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

(248)683-7985 Excavating

MARCUCCI

BOB'S CARPET

Cabinetry

Cement/Concrete

529

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

(248)624-6458 Flooring

536

EDWARD'S FLOOR COVERING •Linoleum •Ceramic Tile •Hardwood Floors •Laminate Wood 27 Years Exp. Free Est.

(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 #

(248)891-7072 Licensed and Insured

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

248-684-4175 810-714-3058

Handy Person

545

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 SAVOIE CONSTRUCTION Additions, Garages, Decks, Kitchens, Remodeling, Trim, Painting, Repairs, Etc.

Local References Low Rates Lic. Builder- 25 Years exp.

Ph-Fax: 248-625-0319 Cell: 248-505-7715 Heating/Duct Work 546

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

FREE ESTIMATES ON INSTALLATION

248-363-1615 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

Plumbing 553

A R T

Outdoor Services, LLC

567

Premier Plumbing Licensed & Insured Complete Plumbing Service

www.artoutdoorservices.com (248)625-5719

Commercial &

•Full lawn service •Free quotes •Over 10 years experience.

248-535-5662

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

562

FARR'S PAINTING

Siding

PLUMBING •Hot water heater specials •Sump Pump specials •Sewer Cleaning Licensed & insured 248-219-2486 571

Tree Service

Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com

Tile

KODIAK TREE SERVICE

MAHER RESTORATION www.goMaher.com "Maher Makes It Happen"

jmtileandmarble.com

248-926-6631

PRICE IS RIGHT ROOFING

248-459-7894

FREE Estimates 30 Years Experience

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

Doug Dible 248-431-6243

27 years experience •Tree trimming •Tree & stump removal •70ft bucket lift •Free estimates •Insured

248-921-9097 Waterproofing

599

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

585

J.M. TILE & MARBLE CUSTOM WORK

WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS

ROOF LEAKS &

587

Dry Basements, LLC

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

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

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

248-894-3239

577

I.D.C.

248-363-5864

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

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.

Call Doug Miller 248-360-0344

Residential

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

VS PAINTING SPRING SPECIAL

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

New Construction & Remodel

Roofing

571

ROOF REPAIRS

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

KNIGHT'S LANDSCAPE

Roofing

John Miller (248)505-8865 Trash/Debris Removal

586

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

Call anytime for estimates & great service

248-887-4892 Tree Service

587

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

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

Wells

603

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

Emergency Service 7 days a week 248-

363-6464

aquawells.com All credit cards accepted

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

(248)310-0917

Emergency Service Visa & MasterCard

PAGE 48

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Yo u r Tr u s t e d D e a l e r s h i p A l t e r n a t i v e All Makes and Models ice rv Se ir pa Re to Au e Complet

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

MORRIS BONUS BUCKS

10 Off 20 Off 30 Off

~ COUPON ~

OIL CHANGE

95*

+tax & dep. fee with coupon

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

All certified Auto Technicians

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

248-624-4500

Service Special OIOTOR L

ou Y e c i v r The Se ices r P t a Expect se! n e S e ak That M

Any $100 Service Any $200 Service

Any $300 Service ANY MAKE OR MODEL

$ $ $ $ $

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

Fully Equipped Collision Shop with FREE Estimates!

Battery Service

BG’s Cooling System Flush

& Charging System Check

~ COUPON ~

•Service battery and fully charge •Clean cables and connections •Check alternator output

Was 8500

OUR FACTORY-TRAINED TECHNICIANS WILL PERFORM THE FOLLOWING:

•Pressurized system leak test •Check belts and hoses •Check heater output $ Was99 129 •Flush cooling system

WITH COUPON

*Dead battery or draw concerns require added diagnosis Must present coupon when order is written. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Plus tax and shop supplies. Expires 4/4/12

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

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

PRE-OWNED CARS & TRUCKS - THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS 3/14 thru 3/28/12 2008 GMC SIERRA 1500 SLE1

#P2038

21,990**

#P1940A

2,995

8,977**

12,421**

2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE

2002 CHEVROLET ASTRO CONVERSION #P2051

2008 SCION XB

#P2070

2007 MAZDA CX7 #P1951

14,995

Find us on Facebook

***

2009 DODGE CHARGER #P1886

14,995**

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

**For purchase with qualified credit approval. Prices are plus tax, title, license & doc fee. Call dealer for more details. Subject to prior sale. Expires 3/28/12.

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

~CHILD FRIENDLY CUSTOMER LOUNGE~