WEST OAKLAND’S NEWSWEEKLY www.spinalcolumnonline.com
10/31/12
WATERFORD • UNION LAKE • WHITE LAKE • HIGHLAND • MILFORD • WIXOM WALLED LAKE • WOLVERINE LAKE • COMMERCE • ORCHARD LAKE • WEST BLOOMFIELD
QUALITY AND SERVICE Marketplace Meats & Deli celebrates 40 years in Waterford - pg. 31
FUNDING DOUBLES ‘Unprecedented’ outside spending shown for CC hopefuls’ TV ads - pg. 43
SUGGESTIONS FOR NOV. 6 In select local, state and federal races, we offer advice for voters - pg. 47
pg. 8
Inside this week: Candidate interviews for some of the hotly contested local races and our editorial endorsements
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
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Trick-or-treating hours across the lakes area Here’s a listing of designated trickor-treating hours for Halloween, today, Wednesday, Oct. 31 in the lakes area: • Commerce Township: 6-8:30 p.m. • Highland Township: 6-8 p.m. • Milford Township: 6-8 p.m. • Milford Village: 6-8 p.m. • Orchard Lake: 6-8 p.m. • Walled Lake: 6-8 p.m. • Waterford: 6-8 p.m. Candy scanning will be offered at the police station, located at 5150 Civic Center Drive, between 7 and 9 p.m. • West Bloomfield Township: 6-8 p.m. • White Lake Township: 6-7:30 p.m. • Wixom: 6-8 p.m. • Wolverine Lake: 6-8:30 p.m.
Milford hosting ‘The Big Reveal’ on Thursday, Nov. 16 By Michael Shelton staff writer
Christmas will come a little early for visitors to downtown Milford when “The Big Reveal” takes place. On Thursday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m., children from across Milford will be able to rip off the wrapping paper covering storefront windows of shops along Main Street, revealing each store’s new holiday window displays. “On Tuesday, Nov. 13, the merchants will begin to wrap their storefront windows with (wrapping paper) to cover the windows while there are dressing them up for the holidays,” said
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Amended fertilizer rules
That’s what HE said: "It's unprecedented." — Rich Robinson, executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, on the $2 million-plus in outside spending in the Oakland County Circuit Court race. Robinson said he's spoken with judicial observers nationally who have never seen anything like it.
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Downtown Milford merchants will begin on Tuesday, Nov. 13 to “wrap” their storefront windows in holiday wrapping paper in preparation for “The Big Reveal,” which serves as the downtown district’s kickoff for the holiday shopping season. (Photo submitted by Ann Barnette/Milford DDA)
Orchard Lake looks to align ordinance with new state law By Leslie Shepard staff writer
The Orchard Lake City Council will be considering a first reading of an amended fertilizer ordinance on Nov. 19, a proposed change intended to align city fertilizer rules with a new state law. Although Orchard Lake’s existing fertilizer ordinance was grandfathered into compliance under the new state law and allowed to remain in place, some concerned residents felt the ordinance — which was first adopted in 1991 — is in need of revisions. According to Dr. Leon Peddel, who helped to draft the proposed amendment, along with City Services Director Gerry McCallum and the city attorney, the primary goal is to limit pollutants in lakes. “First and foremost, lawn care is a constant source of pollutants to the water supply,” Peddel said. “These include the nitrogen and phosphorous in fertilizers, which get into our lakes and foster the excessive growth of weeds, including invasive, non-native
species that can ruin the lakes for all forms of recreation.” In an effort to maintain healthy lakes, phosphorous-based fertilizers would be banned from use in the city except in certain situations. With those exceptions, only slow-release nitrogen fertilizers would be permitted. “The major thrust of the proposed ordinance is to ban phosphorous from lawn fertilizers and secondly, for environmentally-conscious communities like Orchard Lake, to allow only slowrelease nitrogen,” Peddel said. “West Bloomfield was the real pioneer in drafting an ordinance years ago when it had an environmental director.” There would be additional penalties for failure to comply. These penalties would apply to both commercial applicators and homeowners, adding to the existing penalties applicable to commercial applicators, which can include revocation of a license to work in Orchard Lake. In line with the new state law, the ordinance calls for fertilizer spilled on an impervious surface — such as a
street, sidewalk, or parking lot — to be promptly cleaned up; prohibiting the application of fertilizer to turf when the soil is frozen or saturated with water; and allows local phosphorus fertilizer ordinances to be maintained and enforced if in effect. Peddel added that the easy way to stay within the guidelines is to never allow lawn fertilizer in a liquid form to be sprayed onto a lawn, and make sure the second number on the fertilizer’s three-number rating is always zero (the first number is nitrogen content, the second is phosphorus, and the third number is potassium content). He added that for lakefront homes, fertilizer is never to be applied within 35 feet of the water. If passed on Nov. 19, a second reading of the ordinance and possible final adoption will be considered in December. “We’re very excited because we needed an up-to-date change for Orchard Lake, especially because Orchard Lake cares for the health of all its lakes,” Peddel said. ❏
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51st YEAR OF PUBLICATION Waterford • White Lake • Highland • Milford Commerce • Wolverine • Walled Lake • Wixom West Bloomfield • Orchard Lake • Union Lake PUBLISHER / PRESIDENT: Susan Fancy BUSINESS MANAGER: Dennis Boggs EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Carol Barr EDITOR: ASSISTANT EDITOR: Tim Dmoch Kirk Pinho Staff Writers: Kevin Elliott Leslie Shepard, Michael Shelton Contributing Writers: Mike Scott, Mark Stowers Staff Photographer: Amy K. Lockard Photography Intern: Damon Tang ADVERTISING SALES: Account Representatives: Cindie Audia, Mina Beaumont, Joe Leach, Cheryl Rak Sales Assistant/Proofing: Justina Vargas PHONE SALES MANAGER: Lori Snyder Account Representatives: Rhonda Libkuman, Cindy Stawick, Leslie Timko GRAPHICS: Denise Jungjohan, Marcia Reimer, Rob Robar IT MANAGER: Joel Stickney CIRCULATION: Dan Griffin ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE MANAGER: Carolyn Petherbridge Assistant: Mable McCullough PRESS RELEASES: Deadline 10 a.m. Thursday. Mail to P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014. Fax 248.360.1220 or bring to office. After-hours drop box. NEWS TIPS: Post at our website MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS: 52 issues - $45 per year.
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Simmons made it to semi-finals of Miss Michigan Teen USA
H
aley Simmons, 15, of Milford, just recently participated in her first beauty pageant, which just happened to be the Miss Teen Michigan pageant. Simmons recently advanced to the semi-finals of the pageant held in Port Huron on Sept. 28 and 29. It was quite a first step for the Huron Valley Milford High School sophomore who has spent her entire life in Milford. She is also a former cheerleader for the Mavericks’ cheer team and stays grounded with the support of her mother, father and two brothers. Simmons hopes that her first pageant experience will be the stepping stone to greater things. She recently spoke with the Spinal Column Newsweekly about preparing for the pageant, who she looks up to, and her thoughts on “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.” Congratulations on making it to the semi-finals of the Miss Michigan Teen USA pageant last month. Now that some time has passed, how do you look back on your experience in the pageant? HS: It was a great experience, the best weekend of my life. It was such a wonderful time and I met wonderful people. I’ve looked up to the winners from last year so much and I got to meet them. It was such a good experience and they taught us so much and we got to talk to them for a long time. I was really happy to meet Kristen Daniel. She was in Miss Michigan Teen and she won. Then she was in Miss Michigan and she won. Then she competed in the Miss Teen USA and USA pageant and she was such a good role model and I got to meet her and talk to her and she was just so friendly. She was really nice to talk to and she gave such good advice to. What were the portions of the pageant you participated in and how did you feel while you were out on the stage in front of the audience? HS: We participated in the swimsuit and evening gown (portions) and when we did it, we rehearsed a couple times the day of (the pageant), so we had some experience and they had a coach. So when we went on stage, we were rehearsed and ready. It gives you so much confidence and we were ready. It was really fun. You had to go to a certain part of the stage. You had to go to the left side and then the right side and the middle, different ones for different routines. And you practice the whole day before the night show — there were two nights of
Q
Q
different shows. The first night was for everybody, the second night was just for the semifinalists and finalists. You rehearsed for that the first day and the second day, and I competed the second night with a couple people and it was really fun. I thought I was going to be nervous, but then when I got on stage it was really fun with the music playing. How did you start taking an interest in pageants and what made you want to try out for Miss Michigan Teen USA? HS: I watched the Miss Universe and the Miss Teen USA and Miss USA on TV
Q
•
NE MINUTE
What do you like to do when you have some spare time? HS: We get a packet a couple months before the pageant of the stuff that we need so we can go get all the stuff that we need for the pageant and we can buy our stuff, practice, and work out. Walking in heels is very important. You have to learn how to walk in heels really comfortably and just learn how to have fun on stage. It’s very important. (Answering a question) is also really important. I practice a little with my mom with notecards of previous winners with questions that they answered and just making natural answers, like answering from the heart (with) what you think a good answer. But only the finalists answer on stage and I was a semi-finalist, so I didn’t have the opportunity to answer on stage. When I have spare time, I like to hang out with my friends and have fun. How important is the support of your family and friends, especially when it comes to helping you stay grounded while in the spotlight? HS: It’s really important to me. They’re always there for me. They were there for me throughout the whole pageant, every step of the way, and my mom and dad are always there for me at the pageant. And I have friends that were there for me the whole time. They’re always there. They’re great. Are any of your peers at school aware that you are Miss Milford and if so, do they treat you any differently than they did before? HS: A couple of friends know about it, not all of them, but some of them. (They don’t treat me) any differently, but a couple of my friends want to try out for (Miss Teen Michigan) next year though. I’d just tell them to have fun and have a good experience. It’s a great experience to have. What do you hope to do after graduation from Milford High School? What are your future plans as far as pageants are concerned? HS: I plan to try Miss Teen Michigan again next year and then I want to go to college, of course, after high school and see what happens from there. When I’m old enough, I want to try Miss Michigan. ❏
Q
INTERVIEW Q with my cousin and my mom for a long time since I was younger. So I’ve always wanted to do that and then I got old enough and I tried out and I got in, so it was really fun. This was my very first pageant. Do you feel that with so many different reality shows about children’s pageants, especially now with “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo,” that pageants have lost some of their prestige from years past? HS: Yeah, the children’s pageants like (they’re depicted in) “Honey Boo Boo” and “Toddlers and Tiaras” are definitely more reality (TV) and not as prestigious as we try to have Miss Michigan and Miss Teen USA. Those are more for sport, I guess, and we try to make our pageants more for role models and more of a lifestyle than a sport. How do you go about preparing to compete in a pageant and how much of your time does it consume?
Q
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By Michael Shelton
Read more of this interview at www.spinalcolumnonline.com.
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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PAGE 7
LAKES AREA NEWS
Milford reduces payment to city by 50 percent
electric service would need to be provided out of Township Hall’s basement. However, Kaplan said that after consideration, the location of the charger would probably be moved to somewhere in between Town Hall and the township library so that it can be safely in plain view. Kaplan added that those who use the charger would have to pay a nominal fee that could range between $1 or $4, but that credit cards would be accepted. He also said that the issue was raised about reservations to use the charger, which should be one of several issues discussed at the next board meeting. ❏
By Michael Shelton staff writer
In response to a rate increase for sewer services for residents of the city of Wixom, the Milford Township Board at its Wednesday, Oct. 17 meeting approved a reallocation of a sewer expense to the township. Township Supervisor Don Green said that the township received a new calculation of $54 a month per residential equivalent unit (REU) from Wixom, so he proposed that the operation and maintenance cost that the township is paying the city for the South End Sewer be reduced from 50 percent to 25 percent. Green said that there are more users on the South End system, so the costs are reallocated. “The South End covers the Kensington Metropark border on the west to the Wixom boundary on east, and it includes all of our commercial and industrial property on the south end and one major residential development,” Green said. “We dump our wastewater into the Wixom wastewater plant.” Green added that an REU adds up to about 315 gallons per day. ❏
WB board hopes to OK charger for electric cars By Michael Shelton staff writer
The West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees at its Monday, Oct. 15 meeting discussed the potential installation of an electric vehicle charging station at the Civic Center campus. The board also discussed an associated service contract with the station’s potential provider, Chargepoint. Through an offer from the company, the township would be provided one charging station that could simultaneously charge two vehicles. The station would have two different levels of chargers to accommodate different types of electric vehicles. “All of us spoke in favor, and I believe the program will be implemented,” township Trustee Steve Kaplan said. Trustee Gene Farber concurred, saying he expects a unanimous vote
Lilley to address sewer fund status, history on Nov. 13 By Kevin Elliott staff writer
The Village Fine Arts Association will hold its 17th Annual Views and Visions art show and sale Friday, Nov. 2. The exhibit presents 93 pieces of fine artwork including 19 pieces by artists under 18 years of age. The opening night event, “Art and All That Jazz,” takes place at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2 at the Huron Valley Council for the Arts Gallery, located at 205 W. Livingston Road, in Highland Township. The event includes gourmet finger foods and select refreshments, as well as live, jazzy entertainment by Gary Weisenburg & Co. Admission to this fund-raiser event, payable at the door, is $10 for adults, or $5 for youth (children under 4 are admitted at no charge.) The exhibit will then remain open to the public free of charge until Nov. 21. Pictured above is the 2011 Views and Vision winner, “Girl in Blue Head Wrap,” by Ilona Brunstad. For more information, contact Susan Gollon at 248-797-3060 or suegollon@aol.com, or visit the website at milfordvfaa.org. (Photo submitted by Dianne Deinek/Village Fine Arts Association)
when a contract comes up for consideration. The charging station would be provided free of charge, but the township would then have to sign an annual contract for the service plan software. The contract would be free for the first year, but would then cost the township $200 annually. The estimat-
ed cost for the installation of the station is $5,600. The board is expected to revisit this proposal at its next meeting on Nov. 19. The original proposed location for the charging station was at the rear of West Bloomfield Town Hall and west of a dumpster enclosure because
White Lake Township Clerk Terry Lilley will give a second presentation outlining the history and current status of the township’s sewer fund at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 13. The presentation is the second from Lilley to discuss an estimated $1.5 million shortfall in the township’s sewer fund in 2013. During the presentation, Lilley will discuss the history of the sewer system and the current debt situation, which he said goes back to funding decisions made in the 1990s. In order to understand the current situation, it’s important to go back and look at what former administrations have done and how they deviated from initial funding plans, which have contributed to the current situation, he said. Lilley made his first presentation to the township Board of Trustees and the general public on Sept. 25. At that time, he said the sewer fund has sufficient money to cover planned expenditures through 2012, and that cost overages of about $785,257 incurred in previous years were paid through loans from the township’s Improvement Revolving Fund and Sewer Debt Fund. He said the revolving fund hasn’t been reimbursed for $400,000 that was used to pay debt, and an additional $385,257 from the sewer fund
FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 23
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SPECIAL REPORT/POLITICS
Milford Township Supervisor Independent candidate Jim Crane is challenging incumbent Republican Don Green in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election for the Milford Township supervisor position. The township supervisor serves a four-year term and is currently paid $71,623 annually. The following are questions our staff posed to the candidates, and their responses to those questions. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the township, and how do you propose to address them? WHY YOU? Why should voters choose you over your opponent? JIM CRANE TOP ISSUES: We seem to be coming out of the property value slump, which caused revenue to go down, but there’s still that potential that it will be a very slow growth. Even if the economy comes back or property values start coming back up, there’s the limitation on how property values come back... So the challenge there is that, as the township will grow, hopefully in a rural character, people will also want further services. The nature of our township is that people come out here because they like the rural part of it, but a lot of them come from the city and they’re used to more services. So, the demand is there and the revenue will just not grow fast enough. The challenge will be to watch revenue and be able to translate that to the people who want more services. The second challenge will be to work with the village itself to make sure that the business growth (is there) or that there’s not much vacancies in the village at all. Every property in the village also pays a township tax, but more importantly than that is the fact that we have the village of Milford, (and) Highland would love to have a village. So (it’s important to keep) working with the village to keep that still small-town atmosphere, but a vibrant, active small-town atmosphere that keeps the pressure off any commercial growth in the township. The third issue is roads. There’s always been that pressure of whether or not Milford Road should become wider. That pressure will slowly increase. You also have the side roads that are mostly gravel, the upkeep of those and then the pressure of whether they should be paved and how they
Jim Crane is the owner and operator of The Law Office of James H. Crane in Milford. Crane served on the Milford Village Council from 1992 to 1996, including as the council's Zoning Board of Appeals liaison, a member of the Capital Improvements Committee, the Milford Senior Center Board of Directors, and as a delegate to the South East Michigan Council of Governments.
Don Green was first elected Milford Township supervisor in 2000 after serving a four-year term as township trustee. He has been treasurer of Huron Valley Youth Assistance since 2004, a member of St. Vincent de Paul since 1990 and has served on the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments Executive Committee since 2010. He is a member of St. Mary Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus and the American Legion.
should be funded. Along with that same road topic, there’s many private roads. Those people (on those roads) are looking for assistance from the township to set up special assessment districts. I’m for special assessment districts if the homeowners come forward. WHY YOU? Milford’s my hometown. I grew up here and went to high school here. I’ve lived in other places. I came back because this is my hometown. I seek to serve my hometown. I’m an attorney. If elected, I will set aside litigation. (I have) almost 25 years of business experience in the village, making payroll, paying people, and providing a service. In addition to my five-year service on the Village Council, I’ve been politically active all my life in the village and paying attention to both the village and the township issues. (People should vote for me because of my) combination of understanding the history of Milford and being excited about the future of Milford; my business experience; my formal education; and the education I’ve gotten from living in six different states seeing how other people do things and being able to think out of the box and bring those back to my hometown and make this continue to be a great place to live. I would say my long-term understanding of Milford, my business experience in Milford, my formal edu-
cation, and my political activism qualify me highly for the position. DON GREEN TOP ISSUES: No. 1 right now is the road issue. I’m on the Federal Funding Task Force for that, and they’re not accepting any new projects because they’re booked out 10 years in advance right now. With Pontiac having some difficulties, they’ve dropped projects off and they’re going to be repaving Milford Road in 2014 instead of 2015 or 2016. I’m discussing with the Road Commission about making it wider, a three-lane or at least a couple feet on each side because of the semi (truck) issues that are pretty scary there. They’re all county roads, except for the private subdivision roads and the county is responsible for them. We have to leave it so the people can get to and from their place of business and home safely and efficiently, but then again, there’s the money issue. Where are you going to get the extra money for the extra road gravel? We usually give some money from the road commission every year for gravel along with road chloriding, which maintains the harder surfaces of the road. So we do our part with the county, but they’re mainly the ones that are responsible for the roads. Another one is the zoning issue. We’ve fought developers ... trying to keep our zoning in place. We’ve
always placed the village as the commercial district for the township. They can’t expand too much more unless we start converting houses into commercial or small industrial areas. We’ve been doing the industrial (developments) down on the south end, and I’m working with some developers right now to develop the commercial at Milford Road and Pontiac Trail, telling them that any businesses that you’re going to attract are not to compete with the village businesses. I’m looking for businesses that aren’t anywhere around Milford or Howell or Novi. I’m trying to bring other businesses in. That’s my job as supervisor, to build our economy that way. The last issue is the property values. We took a big hit over the last four years and right now we’re selling houses at more than they’re being marketed for, which means Milford is back to being a very desirable community. The problem there is, you get into the Headlee Amendment. You can’t increase taxes more than 5 percent or the rate of inflation, but if your property values go up a certain amount, then you have the millage reduction fraction, which cuts the amount of money you can collect from the homeowners on your taxes. So basically your income at a certain point is going to be flat. That’s when you have to come up with different funding ideas. We do special assessments in the township for roads and things of that nature. Our waste hauling is a special assessment, so everybody pays the same amount for the services they get. WHY YOU? I have the experience, the history, the knowledge of things that have occurred and what is in the planning stages. I’ve moved the township forward, building a new police station on time and under budget, building a new fire station on time and under budget, and put in a recreational trail that everyone voted for. My job is working for the betterment of the community, and keeping within our zoning ordinances. The developers have a tendency to take us to court and the judge says, “Come up with an agreement because I really don’t want to make this decision for you.” I fight for the township and I’m very cooperative with the village on many things. ❏
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West Bloomfield Supervisor Independent candidate David Flaisher is challenging incumbent Democrat Michele Economou Ureste in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election for the West Bloomfield Township supervisor position. The township supervisor serves a four-year term and is currently paid $109,347 annually. The following are questions our staff recently posed to the candidates, and their responses. POLITICAL DIVISIVENESS: Much as with the previous incarnation of the township Board of Trustees, the township’s governing body has formed into factions, resulting in divisiveness, bickering, and even members suing one another. Do you see the divisiveness of the past several years as cases of personality clashes, or are there other issues at play? Explain how you would work with the township board’s personalities and egos, and what you would do as township supervisor to address the board’s fractured nature to ensure civility amongst its members. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the township, and how do you propose to address them? DAVID FLAISHER POLITICAL DIVISIVENESS: Some of the issues from when I was the supervisor were partisan because we were half Democrats and half Republicans. (The current board) is all Democrats, so I can’t explain if it’s personalities or egos or what it is. I can’t explain it. It’s probably more personality than in the past. It’s not partisanship because they’re all Democrats, or they all say they are. I’ve already been in several discussions with two of my former co-board members who I frequently had differences with before. We’ve had several meetings and we’ve talked about a lot of things that happened and how they wouldn’t happen again. So what I’m saying is I’m going to try to consider more different opinions or just try to reach more of a common ground. Even with some of the issues that happened before, we’d never sue each other. I don’t think that’s appropriate and I wouldn’t do that. I’ve also spoken to some of the current board members who I’ve also had a history with and we’re just going to try as hard as we can. Whatever happened before, that’s the past, and we’re going to try as hard
David Flaisher served as West Bloomfield Township supervisor from 2000 to 2008. He has been a certified public accountant since 1979, and was an auditor for the city of Detroit. He is a past president of the Oakland County chapter of the Michigan Townships Association.
Michele Economou Ureste was elected supervisor of West Bloomfield Township in 2008. A graduate of Oakland University with a master’s degree in public administration and Central Michigan University, she was previously vice president of Simons-White and Associates and served in a leadership role at the Automotive Industry Action Group. She and her husband have three children in elementary school.
as we can to do what’s in the best interest of the township government and the whole community. TOP ISSUES: One would be the finances and the continuing decrease in property values, which are not dropping as fast as they were in 2008 and 2009, but that is still an issue. You need somebody with a very strong finance background, which I have, and I think a lot of knowledge and experience in doing budgets for local governments and for private industry. I have a cost-accounting background. So that’s one of them — maintaining our fund balance and living within our revenue, doing that efficiently and without cutting essential services. I think a second one is just to improve (board relations), because people are tired of it. They thought when they voted the former board out that was going to all stop, and it got worse. So I think just to end that dissension and end that conflict and I’m really committed to try to do that. That improves our image. Another one would probably be infrastructure and roads in particular. I know that what was done with Orchard Lake Road was a very temporary measure that was said would last for five years and we’re in the second or third year. We need to really fix the roads right. I know there’s been some com-
ments from some of the current incumbents very critical of Oakland County in public and it got in the papers. I think as long as we’re a township, our roads will be funded like a township... So as long as we are a township, we need the county. I thought I worked well with them before. We need to improve that relationship and we need to do whatever we have to do to fix not just Orchard Lake Road but a lot of the roads that are pretty bad. MICHELE ECONOMOU URESTE POLITICAL DIVISIVENESS: As far as divisiveness, if I’m out-voted, fine. But if it’s inconsistent with state statutes, that’s where I draw the line. We heard from these judges at the appellate court that the board was in violation, minimally, for two years of the law and you can’t look the other way. People can’t encourage me to look the other way and be part of something that is not legal, not proper. It’s wrong. I’m attacked at every meeting. On occasion I defend myself. I’m advised by my supporters to not get baited. When you’re up there and people attack your character at every single meeting and send their people to attack, it’s hard. It’s abuse that I don’t think I signed up for. If the people I’m supporting all make it through the election, I know they’re strong personalities. I know
they’re not going to agree with me, but I know I’m not going to have to call out the tough stuff. I don’t think it’s personality issues as much as it is (that) I have a tough job to do and I raise the issue of a violation of the car policy and the clerk and two board members called it a witch hunt. It was at the same time that the clerk also wrote a check of $783 for insurance on the vehicle, but it was (called) a witch hunt. I do have to call out the tough stuff and I would hope that the individuals who are elected are professionals and can understand that, when issues have to be raised, we just say okay, cement the policy or let’s give back what we owe: Professionalism. TOP ISSUES: The No. 1 objective is to restore order in the township. Seven bosses isn’t working and the Police Department … there are written reprimands, suspensions and investigations going on in a weekly basis. So restoring order on behalf of the township employees would be the first order of business. Certainly, a lot of improvements have been made with regard to economic developments and structure has been put to it. Now building on top of that is the second goal. Thirdly, the roads. I’ve met with (state) Senator (Mike) Kowall. We have spoke recently about the expandable concrete as possibly a pilot (project) on Maple Road. The Maple Road widening, to me, is the No. 1 priority with regard to our roads. While the overlay is great and the boulevard would be ideal, the Maple Road widening is critical. I’ve met with Henry Ford Hospital and the road commission and road commissioners about the problem of this new hospital that has reached international acclaim being on a two-lane road. The cost estimate associated with the Maple Road widening from Orchard Lake to Haggerty though is $69 million. We’ve had an hour and a half meeting with the road commission, myself and Henry Ford officials, and I think what we centered on was the state’s economic development budget as a possibility right now. But certainly, (the) Maple Road widening and deterioration on Green Lake Road (are priorities). I’ve passed that along to put Green Lake Road in the queue. It’s in very poor condition and it needs to be reconstructed. ❏
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Highland Township Supervisor Democrat Doug Bourgeois and Republican Rick Hamill will face off in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election for the Highland Township supervisor position. The township supervisor serves a four-year term and is currently paid $65,691 annually. The following are questions recently posed to the candidates, and their responses to those questions. LEADERSHIP: The supervisor is the township’s chief executive officer, responsible for oversight of most township departments. Please describe your leadership style and priorities. BUDGET: Highland, like all Michigan communities, is required by law to have a balanced budget — something that’s become increasingly difficult for all municipalities to achieve due to languishing revenue streams. After many years of budget cuts and changes, what additional cutbacks can be made if necessary? What, if anything, should the township do to bolster revenues? ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: The people in the community believe the township should do more to attract new businesses and foster those already operating in Highland. If you believe that should be a top priority, tell us how, specifically, you would achieve that. If you don’t see it as a priority, explain why. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the township at this time, and how do you propose to address them? WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should voters select you over your opponent? DOUG BOURGEOIS LEADERSHIP: I’ve been in business for a long time, and I’ve owned my own business. I think I would be considered someone who tries to get good people around him and give them a direction and let them go with it. I check on them every once in a while to make sure it’s going in that direction. I think you need to have a good working relationship with your personnel, obviously. You also need to be out there in the community finding out what they want and what their needs are. That’s a high priority. BUDGET: I work at the township and
Doug Bourgeois has been a Highland Township firefighter for the past 16 years, and is currently the township Fire Department's fire marshal. He has been the owner and operator of a martial arts business for the past 25 years.
Rick Hamill is the owner of Paradise Designs, a custom landscaping and home design/build firm, as well as Vintage Travel Trailer Restoration Co. He is the current facilities manager for the Highland Township Public Library and serves as the Design Committee chairman for the Highland Downtown Development Authority. He is a graduate of Oakland University and Western Michigan University.
I know they have cut it right down to the bone. Anything cut from now on would be extremely detrimental to the community and to the workers. I don’t see that as a positive thing. There’s a couple of ways we do have to improve our revenue stream. We need to bring positive businesses, positive ideas for businesses into the community. Probably the infrastructure is one of the best ways we can do that. The downtown area needs to definitely get some kind of a sewer system in there, something that would allow us to bring in other businesses such as restaurants and places where people can gather. If we do want to develop our downtown area, which is a logical place because we have most of the infrastructure there already, there are lots of good grants, lots of great ways to get funding for all of that, and I would go after those revenue streams. I would put a positive image out there of Highland, like Milford does with their Milford Memories. They bring a lot of people in, and we need to find ways to work with the community to build different revenue-generating events. I would love to see a flea market or a farmers market. We’ve got M-59, which is a great corridor. We could really work on that and bring some notoriety to Highland,
and in that respect bring people and businesses into Highland. That’s how we are going to generate money. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: I do subscribe to that idea, although I have talked with numerous people that believe Highland should stay a turn-of-the-century kind of bedroom community, where you have no development whatsoever. They seem to be quite the minority. Most people realize that we have business corridors that are already developed with infrastructure, and they just need to be nurtured. The township is a service industry. It really is. They are running the township, but they are running it for the people, so they need to be service-oriented. They need to remember that. We need to remember that. The community needs support from the businesses, and the businesses need support from the township. And I think that’s the way we need to take it. TOP ISSUES: The declining revenue is important. That’s a very important issue and I think we already discussed that we would like to increase the revenue — not decrease spending, but increase revenue through inventive ideas and through marketing, basically, by promoting our businesses. Hopefully, that would help, and promoting people wanting to
move into Highland because it’s a great place and that would help improve our home values, which again increases (tax revenue). No. 2, the way we get there isn’t going to happen without development of sewers within the downtown area, and then maybe into the lakes areas, too. I know Oakland County itself would like to see most of the area around the lakes in some sort of sewer system. It’s very expensive and I don’t know if we should be putting that on our residents right now. Third, we need to promote Highland a little more as a positive place to live. That will come from being positive in the supervisor’s office, and making sure that your employees are positive. We have great employees there. We have a great sheriff’s department deputies and a great fire department. We’ve got the basics, we just need to make sure we understand that it’s service-orientated. WHY YOU? Rick and I have known each other a very long time. We are both very active. I’ve been active in the fire department for 16 years. I’ve been the fire marshal. I have a very active career in dealing with businesses. I go to 330 businesses every year. I talk to them. We figure out what is going on in the business community. That’s part of being the fire marshal, so I really have a good idea of what is going on in that area. I’ve owned my own business for 24 years, so I do know how to run a business. I understand advertising, and I understand marketing. I also worked for (the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Federal Emergency Management Agency), so I have ideas on how the government needs to work in relation with other entities, outside entities being smaller or bigger. I feel that the township supervisor is not only a spot where you are a business administrator, but you have to be out there interacting with the people of the community. I’ve been a karate instructor for 20-some odd years now, and I deal with parents, deal with kids, and I constantly deal with people on a day-to-day basis. I’ve hosted numerous national tournaPAGE 11 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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ments and brought in thousands of people for that, so I understand events. Between the fire department and living in Highland since 1989, I’ve been involved. I’m on the (Downtown Development Authority) board, so I’m pretty in touch with what is going on in the community. I feel that Rick would be a great supervisor. I think that I would be a better supervisor. Either way, I feel the people of Highland have a win-win here. RICK HAMILL LEADERSHIP: My leadership style, I guess if I were to define it, is somewhat on the visionary end of things. I like to give people the opportunity to express themselves and employees put forth ideas and reward them with the types of kudos they need to continue their job and perform at the highest level. I believe you need to work as a team, because you are voted in there and there is basically a team of seven that oversee projects and prospects for the township. I’m a compromiser. I’m a person who believes we do need to compromise when decisions are tough and important. We need to get to a compromise and not turn it into a dictatorship. Our community has some issues with some of the ordinances, and businesses have some issues. I know Doug feels the same way about this. We need to get down to figuring out how we are going to deal with businesses in a more positive format. That’s going to be through my vision. Being the personnel director, I’m going to work with the personnel, which means anybody that gets paid by the township needs to get a better attitude toward the population, which is our paying constituents. We need to have some kind of a marketing program that will put us out there in the public in a positive light. BUDGET: Highland Township has basically whittled their budget to the bone. I mean, you could go in and cut the half-timers down to quarter time, which I believe is the complete wrong direction to go. My basic comment is, I don’t see any budget cuts. What I see is revenue generation. That needs to happen through an aggressive program of going after grants and outside monies. That’s something that can be done by working with the arts community or business community, where you can get projects that you
partner on, so your resource value may not be in dollars, but it’s a reward in property value growth. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: I think economic development is an absolute priority. It’s one of the main reasons I got involved in running for this office. What needs to happen is that you have to have three partners that the community is based on. It’s a government body that is one leg of the tripod, the people, and you’ve got the businesses. If you have all three of them working together, you’ll have a stable economic environment. You’ve got some awesome business people in our community, but they regularly have the thumb put down on them by our township government, which for some reason seems to think it needs to be able to control the ability of businesses to profit. That’s through what I feel are inordinately heavy-duty sign ordinances that make marketing an impossibility. I came from the landscape industry and I can’t for the life of me understand why you would want to plant trees in front of everything so that you can’t see it. I love the idea of having canopies, but we need to expose our businesses so they can profit and grow. We need to shorten the term it takes to get a business started, and that needs to happen through the local planning department. We need to get our government team realizing that every individual coming into the community is a customer, and we need to treat them as No. 1. So, the way to really go about that development is that the township needs to take a proactive role in helping businesses develop profitable centers. We have a Downtown Development Authority, which has the ability to be able to spend its tax dollars toward business and economic development. To this date, for at least the past 10 years, there’s been no support to the DDA from the township. I believe that the township board needs to support the DDA 150 percent. They need to bring it together so it works together as one positive body. We also need to do things like find a local piece of property that would be a good site for sewers in order to develop that downtown district. We have to have some way to get rid of some septic waste. There happens to be some property within the vicinity of the downtown that could probably make some pretty good septic fields.
The township has to be the catalyst to push it along. The township government can use its own internal resources, which are employees and volunteers, to help develop community-style activities that promote the growth of business. For instance, there are festivals, like Milford — they have their park on the river there that gets big gatherings. We don’t have a central one, but there is property there that is available going forward to do that. TOP ISSUES: Highland Township itself has had property value declines, but the first thing that needs to be addressed is how the township organization itself deals with the business population and deals with the customers. So, the very first, most important thing to do as the supervisor, is to go into the township working structure, put together programs that help all of the employees’ jobs be easier in terms of dealing with the public. Our public persona needs to be polished. We need to work on that. I think what’s happened over the years, the employees have been allowed to pretty much handle people that works easiest for them. There has been no manual or program that gives them directives on how to deal with a business partner or community partner when they come in asking for goods or services or permits. We need to really spend time right out of the gate, coming up with a personnel program plan that helps market the community right from the get-go. When you go into the offices, people should notice right away that there is a change in attitude, a change in the help level, a change in the products that go out the door, to help business owners and individuals accomplish their projects without multiple trips. We can improve the process for permitting, which is also processed through the planning and personnel program. That’s the key thing, getting the government organization fine tuned so that it works more like a clock instead of just a bunch of individuals with their own ideas on how to handle the public. The second thing would be garnering community involvement. When someone asks me or anybody in Highland, “Where do you live?” when you say, “Highland,” they say, “Where is that?” and you say, “North of Milford.” We need to get that identity. That’s through community involvement. That means things need to
happen in our community that keeps our members in our town. Highland needs to do some marketing and some development of programs that are for the people to enjoy. The tax dollars that they put in will have added value to them by giving them opportunities through planning and programs, like festivals, where everybody that comes to it profits in some form or another. The business partners that would be part of a festival would profit from there, the township would profit from us marketing and the people coming into the community that normally wouldn’t be there. The third thing is truly generating revenue. We’ve had opportunity to invest in our community through our government in multiple ways, and I’ve seen that investment sit stale because of fear of overdependence on conservatism. I think we need to not necessarily be not conservative, but be aggressive in looking at ways of generating new revenue. The township shouldn’t depend on the taxpayers dollars to do the additional things that we’ve been talking about all along, and that is other activities. WHY YOU? That’s a tough call. I say that because I’ve gotten to know Doug over a few years. Both of us are actively involved in the DDA, the Downtown Development Authority. We have a lot of common ideas, and I know this sounds like a sales job for Doug, but I think it’s a win-win situation if either one of us get in, but it’s more of a win if I get in because I’ve been involved in community design for 30-plus years. I’ve been a local business owner for 30-plus years. I’ve lived in the community for 48 years. I know everybody personally who is in the town hall right now, it’s not like I have to get up and introduce myself to everybody. I’ve been actively involved in all of the aspects of what the government does. I’m a licensed builder. I was a landscape contractor. I deal with contracts and all of the elements that are involved in the township job. In order to make your business survive, you have to be a marketing person. Every job I ever did was a contract. You start with a design, you come up with a plan, you sell the plan, and you go forward. I think those skill sets are something I’ve garnered over the years that I think put me a little bit above Doug, but Doug is a great guy. ❏
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11th Congressional District
Kerry Bentivolio is a former teacher and owner of Old Fashioned Christmas Company. He served in the U.S. Army and Michigan Army National Guard, and was a veteran of the Vietnam War and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
David Curson served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He has served as a UAW representative for the past 39 years.
Dr. Syed Taj, a member of the Canton Township Board of Trustees, is the chief of medicine at Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center in Dearborn. He has served on the boards of directors for the Canton Community Foundation and the Wayne County Senior Alliance.
John Tatar is a retired teacher, a former Lt. Col. in the U.S. Army Reserve, and has owned American Heritage Construction since 1984.
Voters in the current 11th Congressional District will choose between Republican Kerry Bentivolio, Democrat David A. Curson, Libertarian John J. Tatar, and U.S. Taxpayers Party candidate Marc J. Sosnowski in a special Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election to serve the remaining unexpired term of U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter, which expires at the end of the year. At the same time, voters in the new 11th Congressional District will choose between Bentivolio, Democrat Syed Taj, Tatar, Green Party Candidate Steven Paul Duke, and Natural Law Party candidate Daniel Johnson in the regular Nov. 6 general election to serve a full two-year term in Congress. U.S. representatives are currently paid $174,000 annually. The following are questions our staff recently posed to the candidates in both races. Duke, Johnson, and Sosnowski didn’t respond to our candidate questionnaire. TOP ISSUES: what are the three most important issues to the 11th Congressional District at this time and how would you address them? WHY YOU? Why should voters choose you over your opponents. KERRY BENTIVOLIO TOP ISSUES: 1. Jobs and the Economy. We need to create more and better jobs. To do this, we need to encourage businesses to invest by reducing their tax burden and streamlining regulations. Let’s unshackle our job creators to let them innovate and create jobs. 2. Debt and deficit. It’s immoral to kick the can down the road and force
our children and grandchildren to pay for our debt. We are on course for a major catastrophe if we do not fix our debt problem immediately. I propose the adoption of a balanced budget amendment. 3. Repealing ObamaCare, which places too heavy a burden on small businesses during a time in which we should be promoting their growth rather than burdening them with more regulations and replacing it with a system that promotes competition. WHY YOU? Our country is at a crossroads and the stakes couldn’t be any higher. We need more and better jobs and we need them now. I know that to encourage job creators to start new businesses or expand existing businesses, we need to cut taxes and streamline regulations. Syed Taj believes in increasing taxes on small business owners and he wants the government to tell us how to run our businesses and our lives. In addition, Syed Taj wants to double-down on ObamaCare, when the people oppose it. I will fight to repeal ObamaCare. I do not support having a board of bureaucrats telling us what sort of health care we can receive. DAVID A. CURSON TOP ISSUES: Jobs are the major issue. First, we have to establish a vibrant manufacturing base in this country that creates and establishes for the longterm good paying American jobs that can support working families. I would work to eliminate incentives for Companies to outsource jobs, making them competitive only if they manufac-
ture in this country... The next issue is tax fairness. It is unconscionable (major) companies not only pay no U.S. taxes but receive tax dollar rebates. It is unconscionable that the wealthiest Americans ... pay a 14 percent tax rate when most struggling middle class workers pay a 25 percent rate. The protection of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are also among the most important issues not only to the senior residents, but to those of us who will be joining them. The consistent effort to privatize Social Security and hand it off to Wall Street would be a grave mistake. Turning Medicare into a voucher system controlled by profiteers would equally jeopardize our seniors security of affordable health care. WHY YOU? I have held a leadership position in the UAW for 39 years. I have successfully negotiated thousands of major agreements and contracts. Every day I sit down with people who have a different ideology than my own with different reasons for being at the table. I have been there and I can succeed in the process necessary to enjoy good government. My opponent has a troubling past. As a business man he failed and went into bankruptcy which was followed by numerous law suits from those whose money he had taken and didn’t repay. In court he stated that he didn’t know if he was Kerry Bentivolio or Santa Claus. As a school teacher he experienced multiple disciplines for bullying and intimidating children, making inappropriate remarks and
not having lesson plans or recording grades in a proper or consistent manner, violating the basic fundamentals of teaching. He has signed the “no tax” pledge which simply eliminates options to seeking resolve on many issues including the ‘Fiscal Cliff’ looming in the lame-duck session that potentially will raise taxes on all Americans if Congress does not find compromise. SYED TAJ TOP ISSUES: I know our district is a little bit better (off) than other districts, but the job situation is still No. 1. We need to bring jobs back and continue to keep bringing jobs back, although our numbers are improving. The second thing is, although we really don’t play too much of a role in state education programs as a federal (government), what is still there is 10 to 12 percent of the money comes from the federal government. We need to make sure the institutions which are here, they reduce the costs of going to college. We need to work with our senators right now so that we can keep the student loan (interest rate) down to 3.2 percent the way it was, and continue to get more Pell grants. Not too long ago, I was with the President and the President gave (remarks saying) we all have to tighten our belt. The institutions have to do the same thing. There’s still so much wasted. He was at U-of-M and that’s what he was talking about. We have classes here, like one class for the same subject for two people at PAGE 13 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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White Lake Supervisor Incumbent Republican Greg Baroni is being challenged by Democrat Michael D. Smith in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election for the White Lake Township supervisor position. The township supervisor serves a fouryear term and is currently paid $ annually. The following are questions our staff recently posed to the candidates, and their responses to those questions. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the township at this time, and how do you propose to address them? WHY YOU? Why should voters choose you over your opponent? GREG BARONI TOP ISSUES: 1. Balanced bbudget. White Lake Township has had a balanced budget for many years. I am committed to maintaining it. One of the township’s largest revenue streams, property taxes, has declined. Drastic cuts could be made in the quality of life provided to residents if the townships lack funds. Some of these areas are public safety, $6.5 million/year, public works; $2.2 million/year; and municipal administration, $2 million/year. Township employees are cost-conscious with 2013 budget submissions. I have negotiated three new union contracts with no raises in my tenure. Our fund balance has risen from 45 percent in 2007 to 71 percent in 2011 giving us the capability to cope with unexpected issues in either revenue or expenditure streams. 2. Quality of life. It is my responsibility as the supervisor of White Lake Township to provide quality of life for every resident. White Lake Township has maintained its own Police and Fire Departments for over 50 years. Several years ago the residents of White Lake Township voted to main-
11th Congressional ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 12
this hour, and 8 or 10 hours later, you have another two people for the same class. We have to tighten belts. As a health care provider, I want health care for everybody. WHY YOU? I’ve been a grassroots (Democratic Party) member since 2007. I’ve been working. I’m a member of (Democratic) clubs. I’m being supported by everybody in the party. Plus,
Greg Baroni has served as the White Lake Township supervisor for nearly two years, and previously served as a township trustee. He has 34 years of managerial experience at General Motors, was the past president of the White Lake Historical Society and is the current township liaison to that organization. He is also president of the Huron Valley Optimist Club Board of Directors, a board member of Commerce United Methodist Church, and cocreator of White Lake Community Garden.
Michael D. Smith is the deputy city clerk for the city of Clawson. He has served on the Walled Lake Schools Board of Education since 2010, and was elected as a precinct delegate in 2008, 2010, and 2012. Smith is a member of the Oakland County Clerks Association, the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, and the Michigan Association of Michigan Clerks.
tain (them). Our residents and visitors enjoy several recreational opportunities. The township adorns a fabulous array of shopping and dining. I am committed to maintaining our White Lake identity while implementing new technology for a more efficient government. 3. Sewer fund. We are currently facing a $1.5 million dollar shortfall in the sewer fund. We have enough money to cover our expenditures through the end of 2012... We have several options we are currently looking at for a resolution. WHY YOU? I am currently the supervisor of White Lake Township. I have a strong passion to remain serving my community and the residents. Public service and active community participation has always been part of who I am. In the last 21 months of my
appointment, I have provided a balanced budget for 2012, negotiated and ratified three union contracts (police, fire and general township employees), implemented an awardwinning Information Technology contract with Waterford Township, implemented an ordinance to ban K2/Spice from local stores, and created the “Helping Hands Food Drive” supporting the Good Fellows Christmas Basket Program. I have the proper skill set and ability to make the right decisions that balance the services needed for our residents and the experience, serving as both trustee and supervisor, and working with our surrounding townships. MICHAEL D. SMITH TOP ISSUES: Community development. In order to respond to development issues we need to focus on:
• Balancing new development, redevelopment, safe waterways and parks; • Creating incentives to attract new businesses; and • Protecting small business owners and promoting entrepreneurship. Fiscal responsibility. To be fiscally responsible we need to focus on: • Addressing the Sewer Debt Funding issues; • Enforcing better energy initiatives to be more “green;” • Implementing cost-saving policies and forecasting for multi-year budgets; and • Researching grant funding and implementing “best practices” for sharing services. Transparency. In order to be more transparent we need to focus on: • Assessing residents needs and allowing more citizen involvement; • Creating board packets for easier public viewing of all documents; and • Recording meetings and utilizing social media for greater accessibility. WHY YOU? I am a lifelong resident of White Lake and I have dedicated my life to public service. I am a graduate of Walled Lake Schools and currently I am serving as an elected Walled Lake School Board member. I received my bachelors in leadership studies from Grand Valley State University and my master’s in public administration and a post-master certificate in local government management from Oakland University. I have worked for Oakland County and currently I work for the city of Clawson. Through these experiences I have been involved in budgeting, planning, forecasting, website design, legislative mandates, negotiations, human resource functions, creating e-packets and agendas, grant research, and other administrative duties that make me the best candidate. ❏
I bring in what I really believe Democrats want for the people. JOHN J. TATAR TOP ISSUES: The first issue is the wild spending of the government. The deficits are driving America into a third world debtor nation. I would push to return our troops to America. The cost of this war is a half-billion dollars a week. The second problem is the wild expenses of useless departments. The second issue would be to
return the American troops back to America. The definition of “politics” is the ability to get along. Our Politicians have failed here again. Our government has not learned to get along with other countries. The third issue is to end the Federal Reserve. This group of private corrupt bankers has destroyed the financial network of America, creating recessions, and depressions while the bankers steal the wealth of the America people.
WHY YOU? History has shown us that whether Republican or Democratic, the problems in America have never been resolved. We have been at war for well over 100 years, and America’s standard of living has been systematically reduced. The American people have been kicked to the curb by the political system. Industry has been shipped overseas for the benefit of the corporations. Corporations have been given the same rights as the people. ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
SPECIAL REPORT/POLITICS
39th State House District Republican Klint Kesto and Democrat Pam Jackson will face off in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election for the 39th state House District seat. State representatives serve two-year terms and are currently paid $71,685 per year. The following are questions our staff posed to the candidates, and their responses to those questions. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the district at this time, and how do you propose to address them? KLINT KESTO TOP ISSUES:No. 1, home values. This is an issue at the heart of everyone in the district. We need to address the issue by seeking serious lending reform and creating regulations to reduce extreme risk-taking by the lending institutions. We also need to reduce foreclosures by creating legislation to encourage and refinancing and loan modifications. No. 2, create an incentive for small businesses to invest in the district. We need to create an incentive for small businesses to open and ultimately to thrive. The Legislature’s key (goal) is facilitating the environment that allows a business to make a profit and continue to grow. By reducing the tax rate and reforming the business tax, we have seen a surplus in the revenue and a movement toward economic growth. We must continue to reduce regulations and taxes to allow these small businesses to operate successfully. No. 3, public safety increases. Ultimately, high standards of public safety and a sense of security keep residents in a certain location. There has been a significant increase in “crimes of opportunity” — the breakins into homes and cars, and the theft crimes. We can create legislation to significantly increase the police and fire staff and keep the “boots on the ground.” I would use the Michigan State Police in more of a high crime investigation capacity and divert their duties away from simple traffic duties. Also, we can create legislation for preliminary hearings and streamline technology to use video testimony — saving money which can be used in other areas. PAM JACKSON TOP ISSUES: Education. We need to increase funding for Pre-K and K-12 so that all students have access to
Klint Kesto, currently an assistant prosecuting attorney, has previously worked for the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Justice. He is a board member of the Chaldean Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Chaldean American Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the Michigan State Bar, and a member of the Greater West Bloomfield Republicans.
Pam Jackson has worked as a professor of mathematics, construction management and concrete construction management at Oakland Community College for nearly 30 years. She is the former owner of Elite Building & Construction Co. Jackson has held leadership and officer positions with the Lakes Area Rotary Club, Democrats of West Oakland County, and the Oakland County Democratic Party.
quality education, and maintain affordable higher education. Class size is imperative for success. I have taught both in suburban and city school districts. More attention and time are needed to stress ideas and concepts. It is difficult when you have 35-45 students who all need extra help. Public education must be funded from pre-K and K-12 through affordable post-secondary training or college. School funding was changed with Proposal A and it worked for a while. Other alternatives to funding education need to be explored. Along with this, curriculum must be developed to actuate students’ maximum potential whether they are collegebound or want to learn a skill at a training facility to obtain a job. The number of charter schools and cyber schools needs to be capped as it is draining funds from our public schools and sending these much needed dollars to out-of-state for-profit companies. I will work hard at creating or sponsoring bills to fund public education and post-secondary education so that we invest in our most precious resource: our people. Jobs. There are many ways to create jobs, but there must be policies in place for current small businesses to grow. We need to create incentives and policies for entrepreneurs and other businesses to make Michigan their home to “hire Michigan first.”
Most importantly, we must protect our jobs by ensuring that they are not sent out of state. Our state is hurting desperately with many issues, but getting our people back to work is imperative, as it affects the family, local business, and the overall economic future of Michigan. We must diversify our energy portfolio to create jobs and energy in Michigan, rather than sending our energy dollars out of state. With the number of Michigan’s vacant plants and our proud manufacturing history, we can lead the nation in manufacturing solar panels and wind turbines that can be used across America and across the globe. The transformation of the old Ford Wixom Plant into an energy park/development could be an example of this change. We could create a viable, effective and efficient regional mass transit authority that would allow our communities more mobility, save money, create jobs, and build prosperity. A mass transit system would attract businesses and industry to the entire region, therefore creating more jobs. I am glad the bridge has not been built, yet. There is a “green” concrete on the market that does not emit carbon dioxide when it cures, but rather, absorbs it. Solar panels can now be embedded in concrete to create a grid. A grid can be created across the
bridge connecting Michigan and Canada. These panels can be manufactured in Michigan. This will be the start of the revitalization of Detroit; a revitalization of Michigan. This would not only be a “state of the art” bridge, but a global model of how two countries created jobs, and implemented technology for renewable energies. Communities. The most important factor in each community is its people. As of January, retirees had a tax imposed on their pensions. For some, they are deciding between food and their medication. For others, this means less money going into the economy as they have less money to spend on activities outside the home. As your next state representative, I will fight to repeal this pension tax. Viable communities are safe places to live and we must ensure they maintain their fire and police departments to keep our communities safe. Our district has wonderful parks. Many areas in Commerce and West Bloomfield townships, Wixom, and the village of Wolverine Lake have been making strides for pathways for safe walking and bike riding. Policies for responsible development for our future are important so that we may continue to enjoy these wonderful communities so that they will be here for generations to come. The environment plays another important role for our community. We are known for our Great Lakes, wonderful parks, and vacation spots: PURE MICHIGAN. It is imperative that we maintain this for future generations. We have over 150 lakes in Oakland County, not to mention the ponds and rivers that connect these lakes. As your next state representative, protecting the environment is important and we must maintain Michigan’s natural beauty. Policies need to be put in place for responsible development and redevelopment of residential and commercial construction as it affects the groundwaters and surrounding environment. “Fracking” or hydraulic fracturing, is taking place in our state and will have a significant impact on our environment and future economy. I will work across the isles with other legislators creating bills/policies to protect our state from this destructive practice of “fracking.” ❏
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SPECIAL REPORT/POLITICS
Oakland County Prosecutor Republican Mike Bishop is challenging incumbent Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper, a Democrat, in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election. The county prosecutor serves a four-year term and is currently paid $156,129 annually. The following are questions our staff posed to Bishop, and his responses to those questions. Cooper declined to participate in a candidate interview. LEADERSHIP: Describe your management style and what kind of leader you would be for the office. What do you see as an appropriate role for assistant prosecutors in decisionmaking and setting office policies. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the prosecutor’s office, and how do you propose to address them? WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should voters select you over your opponent? MIKE BISHOP LEADERSHIP: (I would be) very hands-on, but I also believe that a leader is responsible for surrounding themselves with qualified support. It’s the responsibility of good leadership to put those people around you and then you step back and let them do their job. The Prosecutor’s Office has a number of very qualified, very experienced attorneys and professionals who have really dedicated their lives to the job. You hire people with the understanding that they are qualified and experienced, and with the expectation that they exercise good judgment. You have to make sure that you monitor their activity and make sure they make good decisions on a daily basis. But you also have to give them the trust and confidence that they deserve in their positions, and the latitude they need to ensure that justice is done. Oftentimes, I think the management style is too heavy-handed. You oftentimes don’t get the results you’re striving to achieve, which in the end, is supposed to be justice. Most of these assistant prosecutors are in the best position to weigh the facts and circumstances and be as subjective as they can on a case-bycase basis to make informed decisions on the way a prosecution should go. TOP ISSUES: I think retaining quality professionals (is one). These individu-
Mike Bishop is the former Republican state Senate majority leader, a position he held for four years. After leaving the state Legislature, he went into private practice as senior counsel with a law firm in Oakland County.
als are dedicated. They are not there to retire and make a lot of money one day. They are there because they believe in the cause. They believe in the office and what it stands for, and that means you’ve got to restore a sense of morale to that office, which does not exist today for many reasons. You have to shore up that office and be sure they are willing to stay, that they have growth potential there, that it’s a family-friendly environment for individuals that don’t have a fear of being persecuted within the employment environment, which exists today. Secondly, I think victims’ rights has got to be addressed. If I had a nickel for everybody who has come up to me and given me a story of what has happened to them and how it’s negatively impacted their life as a result of dealing with the Prosecutor’s Office and the current prosecutor, I would just retire right now. I wouldn’t need to work anymore. You’ve got to develop a process where you work with the outside organizations like Care House, HAVEN, even the Grace Centers of Hope in Pontiac. These organizations exist to support the victims of crimes. Over the last three years, they have slowly kind of disconnected from the Prosecutor’s Office for any number of reasons, but mostly because the Prosecutor’s Office has pulled back. The Prosecutors Association of Michigan — a very important organization that deals with victims’ rights and advocates on behalf of prosecutors around the state — has also lost
touch with Oakland County. Oakland County and the Prosecutor’s Office should be a leader statewide to address these issues, and they have become so insular, so unwilling to deal with outside organizations like the Care Houses of the world, that I think they’ve lost focus on what their main purpose is, which is representing victims and ensuring justice. No. 3 is reinstituting the connection with sobriety courts and some of these alternative sentencing organizations that have done so much for the county and have really made the county a leader in so many different ways, in terms of law enforcement. But with sobriety courts, you go to the 52nd district courts, you go the any number of the circuit court judges, who are using these deferral systems, and they identify people who would be eligible for these kinds of deferrals. They change their lives. I’ve gone to these (sobriety court) graduations and it’s amazing how effective they are. If the goal of law enforcement is not just punitive, but to ensure that the recidivism rate goes down, it seems to me that you can’t be so focused on your conviction rate that you lose sight of how often those convicted come back into the system. We currently have a revolving door at the Oakland County Jail, and that’s true just about statewide and nationwide. We’ve got to find a better way to deal with crime. It has to be punitive, but you cannot forget the rehabilitative side: In the end, it will lower the recidivism rate, it will reduce the cost of law enforcement in the state, and in the end, it will make our streets and communities safer. WHY YOU? I have a unique background. I started practicing criminal law. I’ve got a great, objective position from that side of the law, great experience representing indigent defendants and clients of my own. I also have experience having been a local prosecutor. I’ve tried cases for local units of government for drunk driving, domestic violence, assault and battery, a number of offenses like that. I know my opponent likes to downplay those offenses as though they are not important, but local units, I think they are important and there are a lot of people that don’t
like drunk drivers on the road, that think that’s important to prosecute, as well. I’ve had a lot of great experience there in the law. I also took some time out of my law practice to go to the Legislature and really see what that’s all about. As a legislator, I had a chance to do a lot of things connected to law enforcement, to support law enforcement. I was on the Judiciary Committee. I am the author of the Michigan Identity Theft Protection Act, which makes identity theft a felony in Michigan and, more importantly, provides victims of identity theft with a remedy on how to reverse the trauma of the crime, which is catastrophic on anybody who has ever had the experience of having their identity stolen. I’m also the author of a piece of legislation that is a first-of-its-kind in the nation, the Child Protection Registry. It protects children and vulnerable people from being stalked on the Internet and preyed upon by those that spend a lot of time on the Internet to prey upon children. I’ve done that kind of thing, where I’ve had legislation drafted and been part of that process. I’ve also, in my role as (state) Senate majority leader, had an opportunity to administrate and, at the same time, be responsible for hundreds of people, both on a policy basis and in the Communication Office. I had the entire Senate staff beneath me, all the members and their staff below me. I was responsible for balancing the Senate budget and responsible for a $47-billion state budget, which was difficult at times, but it gave me great insight into the process and how it works. It also gave me great insight on public dollars, and squeaking every bit of a penny out of a budget that we could find. I think it’s just life experiences, job experiences, and management skills. When I came into the Senate majority leader’s (role), I absorbed the previous Senate majority’s staff. My attrition rate was extremely low, nonexistent, and it’s because I know how to run a team. I know how to lead a team, and I do the best I can to inspire the team to follow for a common cause. I really look forward to the opportunity to apply all those skills to the Prosecutor’s Office, because it’s very similar to what I’ve done in my life. ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
SPECIAL REPORT/POLITICS
Oakland County Treasuer Republican Marty Knollenberg is challenging incumbent Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner, a Democrat, in the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election. The county treasurer serves a four-year term and is currently paid $138,999 annually. The following are questions our staff posed to Knollenberg and Meisner, and their responses to those questions. TREASURER’S ROLE: What do you see as the primary responsibilities of a county treasurer? What specific changes, if any, are needed in the way the treasurer conducts business? What are your qualifications for this position? TOP ISSUES: What are the three most important issues for the treasurer’s office, and how do you propose to address them? WHY YOU? Why should voters choose you over your opponent? ANDY MEISNER TREASURER’S ROLE: The primary responsibilities of the county treasurer to act as a banker for the county. All of the money that comes into the county comes in through our office. All of the money that leaves the county is dispersed through my office. In addition, the surplus cash is invested on a daily basis, so I manage a portfolio of about $1 billion at any given time, and in compliance with Public Act (PA) 20, to make those investments. As county treasurer, I administer the deliquent property tax system, and part of the job is to work with deliquent taxpayers on providing the opportunity for payment plans. Right now, we have 2,410 payment plans that have brought in $11.1 million this year, so that is an integral part of the responsibility. Under Public Act 123 of 1999, the county treasurer is directed to collect the deliquent taxes from the taxpayer. In the instance of the taxpayer not being willing to pay, to not even take a $25 per month payment plan, PA 123 requires county treasurers to tax-foreclose on that property, and to offer that property at a series of two auctions. The first is statutorily set in the August timeframe; the second is statutorily set in the October timeframe. In addition, the county treasurer serves as treasurer for a number of county entities. For instance, I serve as treasurer for the Oakland County Retirement Fund, which can also be
Marty Knollenberg is a state Representative first elected in 2006. He owns an insurance company and a laundromat in Hamtramck. He previously served on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners.
Andy Meisner was first elected Oakland County treasurer in 2008. Prior to that, he served in the state House of Representatives. He is also a former staffer to U.S. Rep. Sander Levin and has worked in the private and nonprofit sectors.
called the pension. I also serve as treasurer for the Oakland County Building Authority, the Zoo Authority. I serve as treasurer for the Oakland County Economic Development Corporation, and the Business Finance Corporation. Those are the traditional and core responsibilities of the office. When I ran for county treasurer in 2008, the premise of my campaign was that the Oakland County Treasurer’s Office needed to grow to meet the challenges of the time, to grow beyond those core responsibilites that I outlined and to help Oakland County grow in terms of some of the challenges it was facing relative to the mortgage foreclosure crisis. It was my contention that the county treasurer had the opportunity to take a more active role in mortgage foreclosure prevention. My predecessor, who I consider a friend and a very classy gentleman, Pat Dohany, had a difference of opinion. The changes that I think are needed for the county Treasurer’s Office, and that I have undertaken during my first term, including, No. 1, fighting mortgage foreclosure. Within the first six months of office, I started a free mortgage foreclosure prevention program that any county resident can access at fightmortgageforeclosure.com/oakland. I have created a public/private partnership with the local realtors to work on not only mortgage foreclosure prevention, but also connecting tax-foreclosed properties with families. Forty-eight percent of the properties that were
tax-foreclosed this year, by the way, were bank walk-aways, so we are having a number of properties that we need to get back on the tax roles. In addition, I felt that the county treasurer could do much more to protect property values, so that’s why I started the foreclosure prevention program, and that’s also why I helped secure a $14 million grant for neighborhood stabilization, to demolish dangerous and blighted structures; to build new, energy-efficient housing; and to promote the redevelopment of our areas like Pontiac, that have been hit hard by mortgage foreclosures. Lastly, I have seen the role of the treasurer as protecting property values and fighting foreclosure, but third, to recover a lot of the money that they have lost as a result of the mortgage foreclosure crisis and the drops in property values. That’s why I initiated a first-in-the-nation lawsuit against Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Working with my colleagues at the county, we initiated this lawsuit to go after millions of dollars that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac weren’t paying in real estate transfer taxes, and that lawsuit has now been replicated in 82 other counties in Michigan and in 40 other jurisdictions around the country. There are other legal avenues of recovery that I am pursuing. Those are a few of the things. In final conclusion, customer service and humble public service was something that really needed to be driven home at the Treasurer’s Office, so I was the first to create a mission and vision
statement, as well as a strategic plan, to ensure that all of the members of my staff treat all of the members of the public with courtesy, compassion, and then instead of saying “no,” we try to think of innovative ways we can problem-solve, working with our taxpayers as well as our private sector/public sector stakeholders. I am a certified public finance administrator. Certified public administrator is a certification that’s granted through the Association of Public Treasurers of the United States and Canada. My predecessor, Pat Dohany, was a past president of the Association of Public Treasurers, and in meeting with Pat, and spending many months with him during the transition, Pat strongly encouraged me to pursue this certification. It’s about a 3.5-year program that requires extensive training. You get some credit for some of your educational and professional experience, but this 3.5-year program as a certified public finance administrator, all of the curriculum has been strictly focused on my work as county treasurer. Whether it is exploring innovative methods of collecting delinquent taxes; whether it is exploring the investment world and really drilling down deep on some of the permissable investments under Public Act 120; looking at my role as my treasurer for the pension fund, my role as a certified public finance administrator is an important credential, and specialized. Secondly, much of the work done by the county treasurer is done according to terms of state law. I served as a state representative for six years, served four years on the Tax Policy Committee, which is the committee responsible for writing the Property Tax Act and revisions to that. In addition, I’m an attorney. My role as an attorney not only helps me better understand a lot of the state law mandates that drive my work as treasurer, but it also allows me to observe the gameboard of administering a county treasurer office a little differently, and it allows me to see opportunities others might not see. In addition, as an attorney, and as a former corporate communications director for a real estate firm and somebody that has done some consulting, and somebody who is a former Congressional aide and vice president of a national non-profit organizaPAGE 21 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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tion in D.C., I have the private sector experience that gives me insight into how the private sector operates and how the office of the Oakland County treasurer can be an effective partner for the private sector. As vice president of a national nonprofit organization, I’m also to partner very effectively with non-profit organizations. We have properties that don’t sell at auction, and I work with a lot of non-profit organizations and churches on connecting those charitable organizations with tax-foreclosed properties to put them to productive use. My range of experience in the private sector, in the non-profit sector, and in the public sector have proven to be an excellent blend that has helped me to succeed in our mission of protecting property values, fighting foreclosure, and securing Oakland County’s financial future. TOP ISSUES: The top issue is sacrifice. When I became county treasurer, we were in a time of financial crisis. There were a number of perks that were available to the county treasurer that I felt were inappropriate, so I was the first county official to refuse a taxpayer-funded car for myself and my chief deputy, county taxpayer-funded gas, and cell phone. I have taken a voluntary paycut every year that I’ve been in office, and right now they are trying to office us a $500 bonus, which I am refusing. When people are sacrificing as they have during a tough economic time, I believe that sacrifice is critical. Second, cutting wasteful spending. We need to have our financial house in order. As Brooks Patterson said at his State of the County address last year, he and I don’t agree on everything, but we agree on the need to balance the budget and make sacrifice. To cut waste and cut wasteful spending, I have cut $1.7 million out of the county treasurer budget and made the difficult decisions so that we live within our means. I have cut staff. I have cut the fat, and have got the county Treasurer’s Office operating in a way that is lean and efficient. The third most important is to protect property values by fighting foreclosure and making smart investments in neighborhood stabilization. Within six months of taking office, I started an innovative foreclosure prevention program called the Oakland County Foreclosure Prevention Initiative to prevent both tax- and mortgage foreclosure. We have helped prevent hundreds of mortgage fore-
closures and thousands of tax foreclosures as a result of our effort. When I took office, property values were tanking and mortgage foreclosures were skyrocketing. Today, Oakland County property values are stabilizing. In addition, mortgage foreclosures are down, and although the number of tax foreclosures has increased, under the tax foreclosure system, there is a 3-year lag, so this year, we are experiencing tax foreclosures from tax deliquencies from 2009, which was the eye of the storm and really the peak of the financial crisis, so we would expect there to be a modest uptick in the number of tax foreclosures. Fortunately, through our tax foreclosure prevention efforts, we have been able to hammer out thousands of payment plans, and in the unfortunate instance where the bank walks away from some of these properties and we’re required to sell them, we have been very effective at running our auction like a business, incorporating some of the best practices from commercial and financial real estate, creating a public/private partnership with the local realtors association. For me, the combination of making the sacrifices that are needed, which I have done throughout my career, including voting to eliminate my own lifetime health care benefits as a legislator; cutting government waste; and fighting foreclosure and protecting property values to secure our financial future. WHY YOU? When I ran for county treasurer, I promised to protect values, to fight foreclosure, and to help secure our financial future. Since that time, Oakland County property values are stabilizing, foreclosures are down, thousands of tax foreclosures have been prevented, thousands of properties abandoned have been connected with families who care for them and send their kids to the local schools. We have maintained our AAA bond rating, and for all this business about not working with Brooks Patterson, every year for the last three years, Brooks and I have gone to meet with the rating agencies, and we have sat side by side, defending Oakland County’s AAA bond rating, and we are absolutely on the same page on that, and many other issues. I have operated in a non-partisan way. One of the first things I did when I got elected was to name a conference room in the Treasurer’s Office after my Republican predecessor. Brooks Patterson was at that ceremony — and he was one of the speakers at my swearing-in ceremony. So there’s the time we’re working together, and everyone’s message changes a little bit around election
time, but I have brought the office of the county treasurer out of the shadows. I have made it a force for job creation, economic development, foreclosure prevention, and to secure our financial future, and anybody that comes to our office is greeted in a way that is courteous. We have a culture of humble public service. You might see me out there bringing a taxpayer a cup of coffee or a drink of water. We have, for the first time, a mission and a vision statement that are proudly displayed on a wall, which let my staff know that humble public service is what our office is all about. Whether it’s serving our taxpayers or partnering with the 61 local treasurers from the cities, villages and townships around Oakland County, or working with our private sector partners, we go out of our way to be respectful, courteous and flexible. We do personal property tax collections in our office. My personal property tax collectors have a specific message that I send them to businesses with: “Thank you for being a job provider in Oakland County.” Secondly, “We would like to work with you for a flexible payment plan,” which we’ve done thousands of times over. And third, “Oakland County has some fantastic resources that are available to assist you. As Oakland County treasurer, I serve as treasurer for the Oakland County Economic Development Corporation and the Business Finance Corporation.” People are paying the taxes, so they might as well get the benefit of the services that are offered. We have worked to connect those businesses with the services that we offer, including business loans, whether it be small business loans through our micro-loan program, or larger loans for companies, that’s something that I have been integrally involved with. I have taken the office of the county treasurer out of the shadows and into the biggest fights facing Oakland County today. Working with my colleagues, I initiated the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac lawsuit, which is making them pay. It is taking those responsible for the mortgage foreclosure crisis and making them pay and holding them accountable. In contrast, my opponent has received generous financial support from the same folks that are responsible for the foreclosures, including Trott & Trott, and supported legislation in Lansing that would allow banks to foreclose on families twice as fast, cutting the statutory redemption period from six months to three months. My opponent maybe doesn’t appreciate that
mortgage foreclosures are the cause of why our property values have dropped. Instead of trying to speed foreclosure, I’ve dedicated the office to preventing foreclosure and its negative effects while continuing to maintain the AAA bond rating, working with my partners, fighting foreclosure, and cutting wasteful spending. If I have the privilege of representing Oakland County as treasurer for another term, I will continue to build on the strengths of our first term, and continue to reach out and explore new ways of leveraging technology for greater functionality for taxpayers, working to make tax payment more easy and convenient, and working in a way that is apolitical ... to serve the people of Oakland County with the humble public service they deserve. MARTY KNOLLENBERG TREASURER’S ROLE: I’d like to first start off talking about my qualifications and why I’m running for this office. If you look at my background, I served on the county Board (of Commissioners) for two years. I’ve got countywide experience. I served as a state representative for almost six years now, so I have state experience. I served as chairman of the Banking Committee, so I understand banking issues. One of the things that the county treasurer does is act as the county banker, so I feel my experience on banking — we’ve dealt with a variety of issues. We dealt with the robosigning bill. We dealt with mortgage fraud bills. We dealt with (state Attorney General) Bill Schuette’s mortgage settlement lawsuit that he was involved in. We dealt with the 90day moratorium law. As chairman of the Banking Committee, I dealt with a lot of the issues that I think will be helpful in my role as treasurer. In addition, I think that my experience really primarily has been in the private sector. I’ve got 25 years of experience in the private sector. I’ve been an insurance agency owner for 25 of those years. I also have been a laundromat owner for the last eight years. I’ve been involved in business all my life. I’ve turned around companies. I’ve turned around struggling companies. I know what it takes to create jobs. I’ve hired people. I’ve had to deal with the challenges that the everyday person has to deal with. If my business doesn’t succeed, I have difficulty like everybody else making my mortgage payments, car payments, insurance payments, and whatnot. I take great pride in the fact that I’ve been a small business owner. Fortunately for me, I’ve got some
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great employees that have been running my businesses while I’ve been able to serve as county commissioner, as state representative. Without great employees, I would not be able to serve, and I’m very blessed to have been able to have served, and I obviously want to continue my service, as well. I think if you look at the role of the treasurer, the role primarily is administrative, so I have that executive and administrative experience. I come home every single night as a state representative. I feel like I’m grounded. I’m not part of that Lansing bubble. I’m part of what all small business owner has to go through, what every family has to go through, what every person that has to pay their property taxes has to go through. I know the challenges that are out there. I live it, I see it every single day. Obviously my business interests are diverse. Owning a laundromat in Hamtramck, you see people that suffer. You see that struggle they have to go through. Even though it’s not in Oakland County, you do have some communities in Oakland that have similar demographics and challenges. I think as I’ve been in business for 25 years and I’ve looked at pursuing this particular office, the first question that always comes to my mind is, “Why am I doing this, and who is my customer?” In business, the first thing you do is figure out who your customer is and what they need. I view this position as having two primary customers: The customer is the taxpayer, and then also working with the other local units of government you have to deal with. I see what’s happening with our taxpayers. We are obviously still marred in a foreclosure crisis — a mortgage foreclosure crisis and a tax-foreclosure crisis. How can I best serve those customers? What would I do differently? One of the things that I had done in the private sector is, in my coin laundromat, there are two things we tell our employees. We stress customer service and keeping the place clean. You take care of the customer and treat them the way they want to be treated, they will continue to come back — a business obviously being a profitable one when customers come back. One of the things that I’ve done in my insurance agency — we’ve been doing this for years and years and years — is that we run reports every single week of all of my customers that are late. We kind of reach out to them before their policies lapse, before they get into a problematic situation.
You wait to long with some of these folks, it’s too late. As it relates to the Treasurer’s Office, I’ve been knocking on doors for months and months and months. I’ve talked to thousands of people. If you’re delinquent in your property taxes, you may not know that you’re deliquent for two years. By then, for most people, it’s simply too late. I would run reports much earlier in the process so that, if people are behind, we catch it much sooner, which allows them to remain on track. If you wait too long, you’re not going to be able to get caught up, and obviously the property tax bill is a pretty hefty bill, so it’s difficult to come up with it if you’re not aware of it. So I think we need to do a better job of making these folks aware of it. On top of that, with the excessive interest and penalties that are associated with that, so not only is the bill high, but the penalties can be excruciating. I think a little commonsense, we need to catch these problems earlier in the process. We have a great county that we live in. It’s a great place to work. It’s a great place to live. It’s a great place to play. I think Brooks Patterson has done an outstanding job of running this county, and he wants me as part of his team, and that’s what this is all about. We need a treasurer that will work with Brooks Patterson, and Brooks and I can do that. Brooks wants me to work with him, not against him. We need to have that type of integrity and spirit. It shouldn’t be a political position. This is not really a partisan position, and we need to take politics out of the Treasurer’s Office and get it back to what the job really is all about, taking care of the customer. TOP ISSUES: The most important thing is taking care of the customer. I have 25 years of business experience, and in business it’s important that you understand who your customers are and you take care of them. No. 2, obviously we have a taxforeclosure crisis and we have a property value crisis. I’ve got a plan to kind of stem the tide. What we’ve seen in the last four years is more foreclosures and decreased property values. What’s been happening the last four years hasn’t worked. The third thing is working with the current county executive, not against the county executive. We need someone who can provide integrity to the office of the treasurer. This is not a political position. It should not be run like a political office. The current treasurer is using the position as a political office, and it’s a shame to abuse the privilege of this office in that way.
It’s interesting that Andy mentioned Brooks and Bob Daddow and applauded their work ethic and their leadership. They both oppose the land bank. So the pet project that Andy is a big believer in is opposed by two of our smartest and brightest people in Oakland County, Brooks Patterson and Bob Daddow. The Wayne County executive now recently said they shouldn’t have a land bank. So there’s a difference of opinion on these land banks. It does compete with the private sector, no question. There’s a difference of opinion on that. Andy is a believer in more government involvement. That’s his political background. He’s got a voting record when he was in the Legislature of supporting more government programs. It’s just another government program at taxpayer expense. So if you lived in Commerce, or you lived in Waterford or West Bloomfield or Troy, you’re subsidizing these projects that are going on in Pontiac. It’s a taxpayer subsidy for these projects. WHY YOU? I think the first thing you need to look at is our backgrounds, our experience levels. Andy worked for Congressman (Sander) Levin for six years. He was a state representative for (four) years and treasurer for a little over three years. He has very little private sector experience. He’s never owned a company. He’s never started a company. He’s never had to deal with paying personal property taxes. He’s never had to deal with paying taxes on a commercial building. He’s never had to pay Social Security taxes. He’s never had to hire people in the private sector as I have, and that’s something I’m proud of. I’ve got 25 years of it, and I’m running because I want to give back to the community. I was on the county board for two years and I’ve been a state representative for almost six years. I’m not doing it because I need a job. I’m doing this because I want to give back to the community, and if this election doesn’t turn out the way I hope it does — and I think it will — I’ll just go back to the private sector. I’ve got my businesses I can fall back on or go back into. I don’t need a job. I don’t need a government job. That’s a big difference between myself and my opponent. I’m doing this for the right reasons. I take the privilege of trying to take care of who my customers are in the private sector, and I will do the same in the public sector. It’s all about the people I serve, and I think based on my experience in the private sector, and I have that experience in the private sector. I have had experience in the public sec-
tor and I want to continue that. I think there’s a number of things that we can do. The office is one that I take seriously. It shouldn’t be used as a partisan office, as a political office, and it is. We’ve got a treasurer that’s taking credit for things that he should not be taking credit for, like the AAA bond rating. The AAA bond rating was here long before Andy Meisner lived in Michigan, so he’s trying to take credit for this AAA bond rating when he wasn’t even living in Michigan. He’s taking credit for a lawsuit that wasn’t his lawsuit — it was a taxpayer lawsuit. There were a number of other parties involved, like Brooks Patterson, like Bill Bullard, like Corporation Counsel, like outside counsel. He played a role, one piece of the puzzle, and we need to acknowledge that. So I take exception to somebody using the position to further his name. I’m not going to do that as county treasurer. I’m going to do the job of county treasurer; I’m not going to use this as a political opportunity to run for something else in the future. That’s exactly what my opponent is using his position for, for personal privilege and gain. I’m going to do the job that’s bestowed upon me by the taxpayer. There’s a number of things I think we can do better. We need to prevent this tax foreclosure crisis. We can’t wait until they are into foreclosure and deliquency status; that’s too late. We need to get involved much earlier in the process, and I will do that. I will get involved earlier in the process. I do that in the private sector. We don’t allow people to get into a problem after the fact. We need to provide solutions much earlier in the process. I’ve lead by example. I’m the guy that introduced legislation that got rid of lifetime health care benefits. That was my bill that Andy said he voted for. That was my bill. I introduced that seven years ago. I ran on that platform and we finally got it done. I’ve also reduced my pay 10 percent as a state representative. I’ve reduced our office allotment by about $5,000. I don’t use reimburse myself for cell phone usage. I believe you got to lead by example, and I’ve been doing it a lot longer than my opponent has, and I will continue to lead by example. We need somebody that can be respected, somebody that will bring integrity to the office, somebody that will respect people, somebody that won’t take credit for things one shouldn’t take credit for. I’m going to give credit where credit is due. ❏
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White Lake sewers
mined that they were unbuildable and had no practical use. Therefore, the city has opted to dispose of them via an ordinance. Since the properties are unclassified, they could be used for private economic development purposes. The city is now moving forward with the disposal process by first advertising; soliciting proposals with special notices sent to the abutting homeowners; and scheduling individual public hearings for the proposed sale of each property. The City Council would then act on the sale contract of each property. “The abutting property owners could split the parcel and extend their back yards,” Dornan said. “We think it’s smart business and the goal is to put properties back on the tax rolls by selling them to logical purchasers at a nominal cost.” ❏
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that was collected to pay off the loan for sewer construction. An additional $161,858 that was borrowed from the township’s General Fund to pay interest and principle on a loan from Oakland County to help pay for the first phase of construction also hasn’t been repaid, he said. Lilley will explain the current funding situation in detail, as well as present four options he recommends the board to consider during its upcoming term as ways to address issues involving the sewer fund. The special presentation will come nearly two weeks after a special budget workshop scheduled for the township board at 7 p.m., tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 1.
Wixom to sell 2 small properties near, on Maple
Cell towers get planners’ OK in split Milford vote
By Leslie Shepard
By Michael Shelton
staff writer
staff writer
The city of Wixom will be placing two city-owned properties up for sale that it acquired through the Oakland County Tax Forfeiture Program. One of the properties is located at 2036 Millstream Drive, north of West Maple Road. The 0.20-acre parcel cost the city $1,763. The second property, located at 3870 West Maple, is just east of Millstream Drive. It is approximately 0.12 acres and cost the city $741. The Oakland County Tax Forfeiture Program goes into effect when property taxes are not paid for three years. At that time, Oakland County puts up a notice that the property will be put up for auction. However, the municipality gets the first right of refusal on the property and pays only back taxes on the property to acquire it. If the municipality opts not to acquire the property, it goes up for auction. If there are no buyers, another auction is held 60 days later. If, at that point, there are no parties interested, the deed is handed over to the city and no back taxes must be remitted. The city pays for any property through its land acquisition fund, which has about $900,000 in its coffers. “We use it as a revolving fund and buy and sell property and keep those levels up,” said City Manager Mike Dornan.
After a countdown beginning at 6:25 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15, area children will simultaneously “open” the wrapping paper covering downtown Milford merchants’ storefront windows to reveal their holiday season displays. (Photo submitted by Ann Barnette/Milford DDA)
Ann Barnette, director of the Milford Downtown Development Authority (DDA). “Then, on Thursday, a countdown will begin at 6:25 p.m. and it will be broadcast on the PA system. At precisely 6:30 p.m., all of the storefront windows downtown will be revealed at the same time. “Then, people stroll back and forth to look at the merchant’s creations. It’s a lot of fun.”
The event will serve as the kickoff for downtown Milford’s holiday festivities. On Nov. 24, The Gobbler Gallop walk/run will take place in Milford, followed by the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce holding its Christmas Parade on Main Street. Then on Nov. 29, the Milford Business Association will host its Christmas Open House, which will be followed by the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce hosting its annual Holiday Gala on Dec. 1. ❏
The fund is used to buy property for a variety of reasons. Currently the city owns roughly 599 acres, of which 364 acres belong to the Wixom Habitat.
“We used the funds to purchase the Wixom Habitat to preserve wetlands in perpetuity,” Dornan said. Once city administration reviewed the two vacant parcels, it was deter-
The Big Reveal ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 7
The Milford Township Planning Commission at its Thursday, Oct. 25 meeting approved recommending a wireless overlay zone and special use permit for seven 199-foot radio broadcast towers to be built on the border of Wixom and Milford Township. Both votes were close as the recommendations were each passed by a 5-4 margin. Sima Birach, the owner of Southfield-based Birach Broadcasting Corporation, asked for a rezoning, special use and site plan approval for the towers — proposed to be located off Maple Road, just west of the Wixom Department of Public Works facility on Charms Road — after he purchased two parcels totaling more than 61 acres so he could relocate the towers from Fenton to Milford Township. Birach Broadcasting Corporation owns and operates a network of AM radio stations in the Midwest and on the East Coast. The towers would be visible to residents along the roadway and those in the Wexford Mews subdivision, in addition to residents in Milford Township. Planning Commission Chairman David Kulp voted in favor of the recommendations. “I believe he satisfied the requirements of the ordinance,” Kulp said. “The applicant’s attorney also agreed
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Obituaries
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AUDA, ALEXANDER A.; a resident of Milford, and formerly of Redford Twp., passed away in the care of his family October 21, 2012. He was 86 years old. AZZOLI, RICHARD; a long time resident of Highland Twp., died on October 21, 2012, at the age of 77. He is survived by Louise, his beloved wife of over 52 years. CRAIGIE, GERALDINE FRANCES "GERRY"; of Wixom was born June 22, 1948 and died October 22, 2012 at age 64. Beloved wife 40 years to Dennis. DUBEY, MARYLOU; age 69, of Commerce, died peacefully with her family at her side on October 18, 2012. Loving wife of Pat. FERGUSON, GARY G.; age 67, of Highland, passed away on October 22, 2012. HOOK, NORMA GRACE; of Walled Lake was born on July 2, 1933 and died October 24, 2012 at the age of 79. MECOLI, THOMAS DOMINICK; of Highland Twp., passed away in the care of his family October 17, 2012. He was 58 years old. In addition to Genevieve "Genny" Mecoli, his beloved wife of 32 years and their canine companion Star. THOMPSON, GREGORY MICHAEL; of Walled Lake was born on September 17, 1959 and died October 18, 2012 at age 53. WEST, KATHLEEN "KAY" A. (JANSSEN); age 73, of White Lake, passed away on October 24, 2012. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Richard West; daughter, Lynn (Gerard) Campain; grandchildren, Nathan, Adam, Haley Campain and siblings, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. A Funeral Liturgy was held at Church of the Holy Spirit. For further information phone 248-684-6645 or visit www.LynchFuneralDirectors.com ZACHOS, PHILIP NORMAN; of West Bloomfield was born on November 26, 1929 and died October 14, 2012 at the age of 82. Mr. Zachos is the beloved husband of 56 years to Rose Marie "Chris".
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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Fox Manor on the Lake, the independent living facility at Lourdes Senior Community, hosted Waterford firefighters and emergency medical service personnel for Heroes Breakfasts on Oct. 23, 24 and 25, greeting a different group each day. Enjoying breakfast and conversation with Donna Kadau and Miriam Best are firefighters Steve Bridger and Kevin Fletcher. It was the first such event held by the Lourdes staff and residents as a tribute to those who serve and protect. (Photo submitted by Bill Jamieson/Lourdes Senior Community)
Cell towers ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 23
to take the actions we requested, some of which were not required by the ordinance.” Planning Commission Member Ric Mueller voted against the recommendations on both counts. “I see no benefit for Milford. It doesn’t follow our master land use plan,” Mueller said. “I asked the gentleman if he knew that the area was zoned how it was when he bought the property, and he admitted that there was a risk if the (recommendations) did not go through.” The next township board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 21. ❏
Fund for minor home repairs, HAVEN get CDBG The Wolverine Lake City Council voted to allocate the bulk of 2013 Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) funds toward the village’s minor home repair fund and contribute remaining dollars to HAVEN. The council took action after it held a public hearing on Oct. 10. The CDBG program provides funds to benefit low and moderate income residents to renovate older housing, revitalize neighborhoods, provide human services, and rebuild community infrastructure. Projects beneficial to an individual or family are judge based on income and projects beneficial to the community in general and may only occur in census tracts which meet Housing and Urban Development (HUD) criteria of low and moderate income. Currently HUD identifies only one qualifying census tract in Wolverine Lake — the Heron Hills area located in the panhandle of the village. Of the total $10,195 allocation, $7,695 was devoted for the Minor Home Repair program. “This is for necessary repairs homeowners need, but don’t have the finances to do it,” said Village Council President John Magee.
The Minor Home Repair program assists low-income families. Assistance is based on gross income, which includes the earnings of all adult household members plus the benefits of all household members. Visit www.oakgov.com/chi for more information or contact the village office at 248-624-1710. Low-income homeowners can use funds from the Minor Home Repair program for things like furnace repairs/purchases, water heaters, toilets, repairing defective wiring, roofing, and water/sewer line repairs. Each allocation is capped at $5,000 per household. According to Magee, over the last few years the breakdown of the $15,493 in CDBG funds for the Minor Home Repair program have been used for plumbing and chimney repairs ($3,320); gutters/drain spouts ($1,100); furnace replacement for two homes ($4,701); well pump replacement ($1,540); garage door replacement ($1,157); and septic field replacements ($3,675).
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HAVEN will receive $2,500, the minimum disbursement allowed for public service agencies. The maximum amount allowed is 30 percent, according to 2013 CDBG criteria. ❏
Treats for Troops coming to local Sheriff substations By Kevin Elliott staff writer
Parents or children looking for something to do with extra Halloween candy this week can donate some of it to the nation’s military personnel serving overseas. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department will be holding its third annual Treats for Troops event by collecting Halloween candy tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 1 and Friday, Nov. 2. The event is the department’s way of sending thanks, encouragement and sweets to the troops overseas, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a news release. “Treats for Troops is a great way parents can participate in a community service project with their kids while showing our troops we support them back home,” Bouchard said. Bouchard also encouraged parents and children participating in the candy collection to include thank you or holiday notes to troops with the donation. Halloween candy should be individually wrapped. The department asks that chocolate not be donated. Candy may be dropped at participating locations, where a drop box in the lobby of each location will be located. Operation Care Package Michigan will assist with the shipping portion of the project. Candy collections will be held tomorrow and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sheriff’s Department Commerce Township substation, located at 2401 Glengary Road; and the Highland Township substation, located at 165 N. John Street. Additional collections will be held at: • The Brandon Township substation, 15, South Street, Ortonville; • The Independence Township substation, 6560 Citation Drive, Independence;
The Fourth Annual Tuba Christmas Concert will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17, at Arts & Greens Holiday Artist Market at the Bogie Lake Greenhouse, located at 1525 Bogie Lake Road in White Lake Township. The registration and rehearsal location will be the Huron Valley Lakeland High School Band Room, 1630 Bogie Lake Road in White Lake. Registration will be from 10:30-11 a.m., with rehearsal from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The concert will be at 2 p.m. For more information, contact Concert Coordinator Dianne Deinek of the Huron Valley Council for the Arts at 248-363-8290. (Photo submitted by Huron Valley Council for the Arts)
• The Orion Township substation, 2525 Josyln Road, Lake Orion; • The Oxford Township substation, 2119 N. Lapeer Road, Oxford; • The Pontiac substation, 110 East Pike Street, Pontiac; • The Rochester Hills substation, 750 Barclay Circle, Rochester Hills; and • The Sheriff’s Department headquarters, 1200 N. Telegraph Road, Building 38E, Pontiac. ❏
HEC celebrating 10th anniversary with Nov. 3 event By Kevin Elliott staff writer
The Highland Equestrian Conservancy will celebrate its 10th anniversary as the state’s first and only equestrian land and trail conservation resource on Saturday, Nov.
3 at Camp Wathana in Rose Township. The event will include a special lunch, speaker, and silent auction to help raise funds to continue the conservancy, which was started in 2002 at the urging of the Highland Township Planning Commission. The conservancy started with the mission of conserving and protecting natural resources while preserving the rural character and equestrian heritage of Highland Township. The conservancy promotes open spaces, interconnecting greenways and wildlife corridors that include multi-use trials and equestrian trails around new developments. Sharon Greene, director of public relations for the conservancy, said former township planning director Eugene Beach initially pitched the idea of a conservancy and tasked the organization with a number of “homework assignments.” Among the work was an economic study showing that about $4.5 million could be pumped into the
economy through a conservancy. “We are absolutely thrilled,” Greene said of the 10-year anniversary. “We have accomplished so much.” In 2003, the conservancy partnered with Oakland County Parks and Recreation to create the 260acre Highland Oaks Park, which includes more than two miles of equestrian trials — and more planned for 2013. The conservancy also partnered with local school districts to establish equestrian teams, building programs from about a dozen students in Milford to more than 1,000 across the state today, Greene said. The anniversary event starts at 11:30 a.m. Admission is $10, or $5 with the purchase of a 2013 membership. For more information, visit www.highlandequestrians.org. “I feel our organization is blessed for the community support we receive,” Greene said. “We couldn’t do this without their support.” ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
EDUCATION
WLW teacher gone Adult website name shown to students 50 YEARS AGO Nov. 1, 1962 Buck's Lounge and Indoor Miniature Golf Course, at 8193 Cooley Lake Road in Union Lake, formerly known as Martee's, opened under new management on Oct. 19. Jim and Edith Buchanan, the new owners, stated that the policies which have prevailed in the past will continue to prevail and that Mrs. Mary Henning of Williams Lake Road has remained on the staff of employees. Mr. Buchanan also commented that Kent's Restaurant, which adjoins Buck's, will continue serving delicious meals to the area's residents. Mr. and Mrs. Buchanan are life-long residents of Oakland County. They now reside in Oak Park, but are looking forward to becoming Union Lake residents in the near future.
cate of need for the proposed $44 million, 153-bed acute care hospital. Calling the double-wide modular structure "the tip of the iceberg," Eldridge said the hospital needs the temporary office to conduct a number of on-site tests, as well as launch a public relations/fund-raising effort aimed at promoting the proposed hospital within the community.
20 YEARS AGO Nov. 4, 1992 After being riddled with criticism from the audience, the West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees agreed at at a special meeting Wednesday, Oct. 28, to postpone the hiring of a superintendent and to pay the township supervisor a full-time salary. In addition, the possibility of hiring a superintendent will be examined by a study committee and placed before vot40 YEARS AGO ers on an advisory ballot within the next Nov. 1, 1972 Proposed schematic drawings for a two years, township officials decided. new Huron Valley school district high 10 YEARS AGO school have been rejected by the Huron Oct. 30, 2002 Valley school board. Years of planning, public hearings, The schematics were originally pre- and debate over the Haggerty pared in 1969 for a proposed junior- Connector (M-5) roadway has nearly senior high school and were revised in ended, as the last leg of one of the most 1971 for a senior high. controversial road projects in Oakland "It was decided to develop an overall County will be completed and opened to philosophy for the use of the building the public Friday, Nov. 1. before the architects prepare the A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be schematics," Clifford Scherer, superin- held on Friday, Nov. 1 beginning at 10 tendent of the district told the Spinal a.m. at the intersection of M-5 and 14 Column. Mile Road in Commerce Township. Alice Davies, president of the school The final leg of the roadway, a porboard, indicated this would be accom- tion of the connector spanning the area plished through listening to the ideas of between 14 Mile and Pontiac Trail, was "students, parents, community people, constructed for about $24 million. and staff members. As of Friday, M-5 will connect the I"It will be a total re-evaluation which 96, I-696, I-275, and M-102 interwill also include planners from other changes with Pontiac Trail in Commerce districts and our own architects," she Township. added. 30 YEARS AGO Nov. 3, 1982 Amid applause, the Commerce Township Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) voted unanimously to deny Huron Valley Hospital Incorporated a temporary permit to establish a modular office on its 40-acre Sleeth Road site Thursday, Oct. 28. Playing to a packed house in Commerce's board room, hospital spokesman Jay Eldridge said officials for the temporary building "hit the ground running" after state Department of Public Health approval of a certifi-
the class was owned by the district and not a personal computer owned by the teacher. Walled Lake Western High School An internal investigation was subteacher accused of inadvertently sequently conducted and the teacher displaying the name of an adult webresigned from the district effective site in front of a class has left his job, Wednesday, Oct. 24. the district announced. The district sent the following letStudents at the high school notified ter to parents: administrators on Oct. 16 that a male “As we communicated with Walled teacher in a Spanish class projected his Lake Western parents last week, a web browser history, which included Western High School the name of an teacher inadvertently adult website, from a laptop com- "No adult website was projected onto the classroom screen a puter onto a actually opened on the web browser history screen in front of which contained the the class. Judy Evola, the computer and no inappro- name of an adult We want district’s director priate images were project- website. you to know this of community staff member is no relations and mar- ed onto the screen." longer employed by keting, said the Walled Lake teacher was iniSchools,” tially placed on Superintendent Kenneth Gutman statleave and announced about a week ed in a letter to parents dated Oct. later that he wasn’t employed by the 24. district any longer. Walled Lake Western High School “We hold staff members to high Principal Joseph Bell sent notification standards of accountability. When alleto parents that day informing them of gations surface, we follow our policies the incident: and engage in providing appropriate “I regret to inform you that there due process prior to taking action for was an incident today in which a any individual in question. When situateacher inadvertently projected onto tions like this arise, the district has an the classroom screen a web browser obligation to do a thorough investigahistory which contained the name of tion,” Gutman continued. an adult website. We do not consider “Immediately upon learning about the website to be school appropriate and I am sorry if this was upsetting to this, Walled Lake Schools put the employee on administrative leave. The students in the classroom. district takes these kinds of allega“No adult website was actually tions seriously. opened on the computer and no inap“Our children are our priority in propriate images were projected onto Walled Lake Schools, and we apprecithe screen.” ate your support.” ❏ Evola said the computer used in
By Kevin Elliott staff writer
A
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OCTOBER 31, 2012
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EDUCATION
WLCS saves $14M over 10 years with energy efficiency By Kevin Elliott staff writer
A 33-percent cut in energy expenditures has saved the Walled Lake Consolidated School District more than $14 million over nearly 10 years, the district announced. The savings came from an alliance with Cenergistic, a national energy conservation company, which will present district Superintendent Kenneth Gutman with its Chairman’s Sustainability Award at the Board of Education meeting tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 1. The district claims it saved $14.18 million in energy costs over a 102month period by implementing Cenergistic’s “comprehensive organizational behavior-based approach” to energy conservation at all levels. The energy management program involves working with the company to analyze every energy use point in the district in order to devise a plan to use energy wisely while eliminating waste, according to the district. Energy specialists reviewed energy use, updated plans and programs and seasonal energy usage patterns and performed energy audits to ensure that proper conservation practices were used throughout the system. To measure and verify the program’s success, energy specialist Melinda Miller tracked energy consumption — including electricity, water, sewer, natural gas and fuel oil — by using energy accounting software. She then compared current energy use to a baseline period and calculated the amount of energy that would have been used had conservation and management practices not been implemented. ❏
District students to perform three plays next month Drama students in the Walled Lake Consolidated School District will present three plays in November that will run through the end of the month. The first of the 2012-13 Performing Arts plays will begin at Walled Lake Western High School with a presentation of “A Christmas Carol.” The classic novella penned by PAGE 29 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
The Waterford Kettering High School theater Department cast of “Legally Blonde” rehearses for upcoming performances. The play is based off of the hit novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon which follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who is dumped by her boyfriend before she decides to follow him to Harvard Law School to prove herself. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Elle Woods takes to the stage Kettering students to present ‘Legally Blonde’ in November By Michael Shelton staff writer
W
aterford Kettering High School’s Theater Department will be presenting its version of the hit musical “Legally Blonde” at the Kettering Performing Arts Center for six dates. The show will be performed on Thursday, Nov. 8, Friday, Nov. 9, Saturday, Nov. 10, Friday, Nov. 16 and Saturday, Nov. 17 with all performances starting at 7 p.m. The show’s run will then conclude with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Nov. 18. “Legally Blonde” is based off of the hit novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon which follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who is dumped by her boyfriend before she decides to follow him to Harvard
Law School to prove herself. The role of Elle Woods will be played by Madeline Ike while the role of Elle’s boyfriend, Warner Huntington III, will be played by Alex Hawkins.
Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $8 for senior citizens and students. The role of Emmett Forest will be played by Connor Newton, while Elle’s manicurist, Paulette, will be played by Hannah Guth. Professor Callahan will be played by Bradley Olewinski, while Vivian will be played by Maggie Morgan. Elle’s sorority sisters, Margot,
Pilar and Serena, will be played by Grace Sutherland, La’Jonnaqueece Williams, and Xena Jones. The role of Brooke will be played by Justice Alexander, while Kyle will be played by Ben Boynton and Dewey will be played by Greg Pattillo. This show comes on the heels of Waterford Mott presenting its version of Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple” earlier this month with female lead characters. For ticket and performance information, call 248-673-4205. To purchase tickets, visit waterford.k12.mi.us/pac/tickets.htm. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $8 for senior citizens and students for all shows with the exception of the Nov. 18 matinee in which all tickets are priced at $5. ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Y e E t S o ” V “ For Waterford Parks & Recreation
17 GREAT PARKS Youth Events
VOTE November 6th
Parks and Recreation Millage Increase Shall the Charter Township of Waterford be authorized to increase the levy of taxes by up to .5 mills ($0.50 per $1,000 of taxable value) for a period of 20 years beginning in December 2012? The proposed millage is for the operating costs of the Township Parks and Recreation Department programs, activities and facilities. If this new millage is approved and levied, the estimated amount of revenue that will be collected in the first year is $965,182.69.
Your Your Parks Parks & & Recreation Recreation Serving Serving the the Community Community for for 61 61 Years Years • • • • •
Affordable Recreation Year ‘Round Programming for Ages 1 to 99 Youth Sports and Activities Enhances Quality of Life Community Events: Fall Harvest Happening Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Summer Concerts, etc. • Golden Age Club – 50+ senior • Travel Opportunities • Adult Activities • Adaptive Programs
Nature Center Hess-Hathaway Park Adult Fun
PAID FOR WITH REGULATED FUNDS BY CITIZENS FOR WATERFORD PARKS & RECREATION, P.O. BOX 300981, WATERFORD, MI 48330-0981
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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EDUCATION By Leslie Shepard staff writer
T
he Huron Valley Milford High School Theater Company will be presenting its rendition of the classic “Bye Bye Birdie” on Nov. 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. This year’s instructors include Milford Vocal Music Director Maryann Lambrecht; accompanist Megan Granroth; director Megan Weeks; choreographer Suzanne Jonna of Suzanne’s Main Street Dance; and technical directors of sound and lighting, Tom and Mary Ann O’Brien. The musical takes place in the 1950s in Sweet Apple, Ohio. Rock ‘n’ roll star Conrad Birdie — inspired by Elvis Presley — arrives in town for a farewell performance before his induction into the U.S. Army, and promises to bestow “one last kiss” to a lucky teenage girl live on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” “It’s a tongue-and-cheek type of play and plays off some stereotypes of the time period like screaming girls,” Weeks said. “It’s a wellknown classic and we’re hoping to pull a large audience.” Shaun Richardson, who plays Birdie, is up for the challenge of the lead role. “This is only my second musical, but I love it,” he said. “It’s been fun researching Elvis. He’s a tough act to follow, but I’m having fun trying.” Likewise, Meghan Griesbeck, who plays Doris Macafee, has enjoyed the experience. “It has taught me so much more than performing,” she said. “‘Bye Bye Birdie’ has been a challenge for me. Doris is much older than me and it’s been interesting trying to find her character. She’s quirky but
WLCS performances ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 27
Charles Dickens highlights the holiday spirit by telling the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the visit of Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. “A Christmas Carol” will run from Friday, Nov. 9 to Sunday, Nov. 11 and Nov. 16 to 18 at Walled Lake Western. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. for Saturday matinees. For more information about the show call 248-9564400 or visit www.wlwmusical.com or www.wlcstickets.com online. “A Murder Can Be Habit Forming” will be presented by Walled Lake Northern High School performing arts
Cast members of The Huron Valley Milford High School Theater Company’s production of “Bye Bye Birdie” include (in the front row, left to right) Rachel Carreri, Nancy Boyd, Meghan Griesbeck, (in the back row, left to right) Catie Pietsch, Hannah Hosking, Sarah Reed, Samantha Reed, and Alecia Morris. (Photo/Kickdrum Photography)
Well-known classic ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ at MHS Nov. 16-17 maternal, and it’s a fun mix to portray.” The following is the musical’s cast: • Rosie Alvarez, played by Kaitlyn Weickel; • Albert Peterson, played by Stephen Drake; • Conrad Birdie, played by Shaun Richardson; • Kim Macafee, played by Nancy Boyd; • Harry Macafee, played by Nate King; • Doris Macafee, played by Meghan Griesbeck;
• Randolph Macafee, played by Alexis Zeabari; • Mae Peterson, played by Emma Spadoni; • Ursula Merkle, played by Rachel Carreri; • Hugo Peabody, played by James Richardson; • Margie, played by Hailey Grigereit; • Alice, played by Alecia Morris; • Deborah Sue, played by Kryzia Garza; • Gloria, played by Amelia
students Nov. 15 to 17 at Walled Lake Northern. The play, written by Billy St. John, is a murder mystery set snowy upstate New York, where a busload of passengers find themselves stranded in an old mansion with a serial killer. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $6.95 at the door. The final play in the series — “Flowers for Algernon” — will be presented by Walled lake Central High School performing arts students Nov. 29 and 30, and Dec. 1 at Walled Lake Central High School. The play is based on the science fiction short story written by Daniel Keyes. Algernon is a laboratory mouse who has heightened intelligence due to a special surgery. The story is told
through reports written by Charlie Gordon, the first human subject to undergo the surgery. The story on which the play is based has been challenged for removal from some libraries around the country, but is also taught in many schools. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults or $8 for senior citizens and students. To order tickets, call 248-956-4750 after Wednesday, Nov. 14, or purchase tickets at the door. For more information about upcoming plays, concerts and shows in the Walled Lake Consolidated School District, visit the district’s website at www.wlcsd.org. ❏
Redding; • Mrs. Merkle, played by Zoe Neamos; • Mrs. Johnson, played by Willow Collins; • Mayor’s wife, played by Lane Flowers; • Sad girl, played by Linnea Kynast; • Harvey Johnson, played by Connor Keliikuli; • Mayor/male quartet, played by Zach Dahlmann; • Maude/Male quartet, played by Jon May; • Helen, played by Nic Montgomery; • Nancy, played by Linnea Kynast; • Penelope Ann: Sarah Reed; • Suzie (1-4), played by Katelyn Perrett, Tiffany Boyer, Hannah Hosking, and Megan Waxman; • Reporter 1, played by Katie Thompson; and • Reporter 2, played by Catherine Pietsch. Another 15 students will assist with lighting, costuming, makeup, and painting. It’s taken over 90 people to ensure the fall production’s success. The musical is full of old-fashioned fun for the entire family, and features classic songs such as “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “Put on a Happy Face,” and “The Telephone Hour.” Tickets can be purchased online at mhsperformingarts.com at $10 per adult, or $8 for students, children or senior citizens 62-years-old or older. There is a $1 processing fee. Tickets at the door are $1 more — $12 per adult, and $10 for students, children or senior citizens 62-years-old or older. ❏
Auction to benefit Gretcho health, fitness initiative Orchard Lake Country Club will host an “Auction Cocktail Night” on Saturday, Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m. to support Gretchko Elementary School’s health and fitness initiative, Gretchko Gets Going. Those interested in attending can call 248-892-2255; or send cash or a check payable to the Gretchko PTO at Gretchko Elementary School, 5300 Greer Road, West Bloomfield, Mich., 48324. It is asked that all tickets be purchased by Thursday, Nov. 1. ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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LOCAL MATTERS
A local institution for 40 years Marketplace Meats & Deli offers quality, great service
By Leslie Shepard staff writer
M
att Burnstein, owner of Marketplace Meats & Deli in Waterford Township, stakes his reputation on selling a superior product and delivering it with topnotch customer service. For 40 years, the butcher and specialty market has made its mark in the lakes area as an institution. Burnstein credits its continued success to his loyal patronage. Burnstein bought the business about 20 years ago and it has remained a family-run enterprise ever since. “It’s flipped names and owners about five times, but we’ve been here the longest,” Burnstein said. “It’s grown slowly and has been a challenge.” When Burnstein took over the business, he immediately underscored friendly and attentive customer service. “The former owner was absentee, and (Burnstein is not) and that’s what people liked about Matt,” said Burnstein’s wife, Susan Burnstein. “The employees know people by name and the atmosphere is very friendly. We have a lot of regulars.” About a decade ago, the Baskin Robbins ice cream shop in the Cooley Lake Road plaza where Marketplace Meats is located closed, so the Burnsteins expanded into that space to provide a full-service delicatessen and more counters for fish, poultry, and ready-to-serve items. “We expanded the selections and new dinners-to-go like meatloaf, lasagna, and roasted chicken — a big seller instead of just buying meats — for busy families who know they aren’t feeding their families fast food,” Susan said. Steaks, hamburger and other meat selections are top sellers, but in addition, the store also sells salads and meal complements like sauces, fruits, and veggies. Matt Burnstein’s philosophy is, “Don’t sell anything you wouldn’t put in your mouth yourself.” He stands behind whatever he sells, whether it is specialty meats, cheese, poultry, fish, or deli items. Everything Burnstein sells is fresh and can be bought made-to-order.
Marketplace Meats & Deli owner Matt Burnstein’s business philosophy is, “Don’t sell anything you wouldn’t put in your mouth yourself.” The business, located on Cooley Lake Road in the Union Lake neighborhood, has been in operation for 40 years, about 20 of those years under Burnstein’s ownership. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
“If he gets something in stock and it’s not up to par, he sends it back. Our reputation means too much to us,” Susan said. “Our butchers are willing to cut meats to specification, like a steak for some of our regular guys to 3 inches thick — that’s 3 to 4 pounds. You can’t get that anywhere.” Prior to buying the business, Matt was a meat vendor at Eastern Market. He also held an insurance broker posi-
tion, but when the opportunity arose to buy Marketplace Meats, he took the risk. “I was going to be an insurance agent or stock broker, but I liked the meat business better,” he said. “When I bought the business, I was in the midst of building a house simultaneously, so it was a scary situation.” Matt Burnstein uses numerous vendors to get the best price point, mostly local suppliers. His meat is
imported primarily from out West; his fish is from Superior Fish Co. in Royal Oak. “There are other vendors also, but we can get smaller quantities from Superior and it’s always fresh,” he said. Moreover, Marketplace Meats is one of the largest customers of Dearborn Sausage and the first to sell the brand in west Oakland County. Matt is also able to keep prices low by assuming responsibilities like payroll and purchasing in-house. Deliveries are accepted six days a week, several times a day. “The hardest part of running a business is learning to delegate when you’re used to digging in with both hands,” he said. “Another challenge is that regulations are changing more and becoming complex — some good, some bad, and I have to stay on top of that.” He also ensures superior quality at a fair price. “We don’t gauge. People like that in the lakes area,” he said. While high-quality products are essential, customer service ranks as a top priority. Each patron is welcomed with a smile or kind word. “We know people come out of their way to stop in instead of buying at (big-box/chain) or other convenience stores, so we offer extra service like stuffing a chicken, or turkey at the holidays, and offer five to six different stuffings,” Susan Burnstein said. Waterford resident Maureen Unsworth has been a regular customer of Marketplace Meats for over 20 years. She said personalized service coupled with top quality meats keep her coming back. “It’s like going to the ‘Cheers’ bar. The employees are personable, they recognize you, and make you like you’re at home — and of course, the grades of meat are better,” Unsworth said. “I’d rather buy there than anywhere else.” The staff consists of about 14 to 17 employees a year, usually four or five butchers at a given time. The average employee has been working there for roughly seven years; one has been with Matt since the very first day. “If they aren’t friendly, they won’t PAGE 33 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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Vote on November 6th
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Elect Mike Roman, CPA
White Lake Township Treasurer PASSION FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL, CPA DEVOTED HUSBAND AND FATHER “I believe that White Lake residents deserve a treasurer who understands the need for a more open, transparent government where all residents’ voices are heard and valued.” REPUBLICAN • • • •
14 year resident of White Lake Township. Strong passion for serving our community. Licensed Michigan C.P.A. and financial manager. More than 15 years of financial management experience in private industry, having practiced cash management, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, corporate tax, and human resource management. • Currently a Business Manager for a Rochester Hills manufacturing company. I take great pride in my work, and treat all of my co-workers in a honest, respectful manner. • Having developed operating budgets in private industries, I was glad to help the White Lake Citizens League with its 2010 budget.
• Dedicated volunteer for Huron Valley Schools. • Traveled to Lansing to meet with our State Legislature to advocate for more equitable funding for Huron Valley Schools. • Served as District Parent Council Representative, acting as liaison between parents and the administration. • Participated in school district process improvement planning (Title One), and helped special needs students with reading and math at Brooks Elementary School. • With many Michigan families in financial distress, I created and operated an after-school team sports program for students at Brooks Elementary, which gave many children the opportunity to participate in team athletics at no cost to the families. • Coached youth baseball for Carls Family YMCA.
With a degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University, I have two sons who attend Huron Valley Schools, and have been married to the same wonderful woman for 22 years. Memberships include the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Huron Valley Optimist Club, and Oakland County Republican Party.
“Give me the opportunity to serve you as your White Lake Township Treasurer by voting for me, either by absentee ballot, or at the polls on November 6th and I pledge to you that I will always keep the best interests of White Lake families as my top priority. My door will always be open to you, and your concerns will always be heard.” Paid for by the Com mit
8 I 4 83 tee to Lake, M Elect Mike Roman, 7350 Cedar Creek Dr., White
3
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LOCAL MATTERS
Marketplace Meats
Chiropractic P.C. to our community. We will be doing a joint ribbon-cutting with the Huron Valley Chamber and the South Lyon Chamber. Appetizers and drinks will be served.
❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 31
be working here,” Burnstein said. “We treat everyone nicely and everyone the same. We have to because there is so much competition. We’ve been lucky.” The Burnsteins have seen an uptick in the number of families dining at home in recent years given the constraints of the economy. “With the economy, people are cooking more, so we try to offer items in every price range,” Susan said. Loyal patrons visit from anywhere north of Traverse City and as far south as Indiana. Customers have demonstrated their loyalty to Burnstein time and again. About 11 years ago, a day after the Burnsteins’ youngest daughter was born, a car crashed through the store, forcing them to remodel. What could have been a challenging time turned out well due to faithful customers. “People lined up for four weeks and we took orders. We’re very lucky to have customers like that,” Matt Burnstein said. Superior quality and top notch customer service is appreciated. There is one area couple who moved out of state and asks to have orders shipped to them, so periodically Matt sends shipments using dry ice via UPS. Like most businesses, there have been some lean years, such as when heavy construction was being conducted on Cooley Lake Road or when new competition entered the market, but Marketplace Meats persevered. “We have learned to adjust ourselves,” Matt said. The store is located at 7714 Cooley Lake Road. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. except for Thursdays, when hours are extended until 7 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact Marketplace Meats at 248363-2041, or visit marketplacemeats.com. You can also “like” the business on Facebook at facebook.com/marketplacemeats. ❏
chamber notes ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, visit huronvcc.com: • Coffee Club, 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at Insurance Advisors, located at 525 N. Main, Suite 140, in Milford. Start your day off by joining us at this free morning mixer and enjoy a cup of coffee and network with fellow chamber members. You could meet your next potential customer and build some new
WEST OAKLAND COUNTY
SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL
Support yourself and your community – shop locally! The choices that you make about where to shop are powerful statements to your community. By choosing locally owned & operated businesses, you support: Schools • Police and Fire • Libraries • Parks & Recreation • Roads Invest in our future – buy local, live local, and volunteer local too.
You have a choice! Spend it here. Keep it here. friendships. • Views and Visions Art Show and Sale, 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at the Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA) gallery located at 205 W. Livingston Road in Highland. Art and All That Jazz! Opening Night Celebration and Awards, live music by Gary Weisenburg and Company, delicious food and drink. Tickets at the door are $10 and $5 youth. If you have any questions, call 248-797-3060. • HVRN Wednesday Group, 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, at Comeback Inn, 1451 S. Milford Road, Highland. • Chamber Member Orientation, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, Huron Valley State Bank conference room at 130 S. Milford Road in Milford. Hosted by HVSB and the Chamber Ambassadors, members are invited to learn more about the benefits of membership at this free gathering. Find out how to get the most of your membership. Reservations helpful. Contact the chamber office at 248-685-7129. • HVRN Thursday Group, 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, at Comeback Inn, 1451 S. Milford Road, Highland. • Off the Clock Connect, 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, Tavern 131, 131 S. Milford Road, Milford. Hosted by Chamber Ambassadors. Come and network with your fellow chamber members. • Ribbon-cutting for Senechal Family Chiropractic, P.C., 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 12, 30802 Lyon Center Drive, New Hudson, in Walmart Plaza. Please join us by welcoming Senechal Family
❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-624-2826 or visit lakesareachamber.com. • First Friday Coffee, 8:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, Facial Beauty Dental, 3255 W. Maple Road, Wixom. Complimentary early morning networking opportunity. • Expo, Taste and Fun Fest, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 3, Walled Lake Central High School. Exhibitor registration is now. Expand your customer base. For an information kit, including “Smart Tips that Help Turn Lookers into Buyers,” call 248-6242826 or e-mail info@lakesareachamber.com. ❐ The Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-666-8600 or visit waterfordchamber.org.
We’ve Gone
DIGITAL!
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• Perking Up Networking, 8 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6, Planet Fitness, 5142 Highland Road, Waterford. Networking and continental breakfast. Ten-dollar advance registration for members; $15 at the door and for non-members. Register at http://bit.ly/dDg0p0 • Pontiac Waterford Elks No. 810 110th Anniversary Celebration, 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2100 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. Join us for a buffet dinner and Las Vegas show. Dinner and show are $35 per person and $40 nonmembers. Show only $25 per person and $25 non-members. Call 248-6739860, ext. 1. ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce has announced that it is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-6263636 or visit westbloomfieldchamber.com. • Wine tasting, Sunday, Nov. 4, Plum Market, 6565 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Businesses, community members and the public are welcome to network. Space is limited. Admission is $10 for chamber members and $15 for non-members. RSVP at westbloomfieldchamber.com or call 248-6263636.
BINGO
St. William Church 531 Common St., Walled Lake
AY FRID
Proceeds go to St. Williams parish’s general Funds.
Non-smoking Bingo
Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Air Conditioning
Call before 5 PM
248-624-1421
Lic.# A00049
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OCTOBER 31, 2012
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PUBLIC SAFETY
Shooting suspect still at large Two dozen confirmed incidents in Oakland, other counties By Leslie Shepard staff writer
T
he shooter who has been terrifying motorists across multiple jurisdictions, including Wixom and Commerce Township, took aim at another two vehicles in the Fowlerville area on Saturday, Oct. 27, wounding one man in the process. An 18-year-old man and 18-yearold female passenger from Canton in a green Audi were traveling eastbound on I-96 west of Fowlerville when they reported they had been shot at around 11:50 a.m. No one was injured, however the vehicle’s rear window was shattered during the incident. Less than a half-hour later, at 12:19 p.m., another vehicle was struck, and this time the driver was shot. The victim, a 46-year-old Kalamazoo man, was driving a black Nissan when a bullet traveled through the vehicle’s seat and hit him in the left hip/buttocks area, according to Wixom Public Safety Director Clarence Goodlein. The victim was treated at the scene and then taken to St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. This is the first time the serial shooter has wounded a targets. To date there have been 24 confirmed
Charitable haunted house torched in arson The Nightmares for Hope Haunted House in Wolverine Lake, which donates 100 percent of its proceeds toward the Hope for Autism Foundation, was set ablaze by an unknown arsonist on Saturday, Oct. 27. The haunted attraction, situated at Benstein and Glengary roads within Clara Miller Park in Wolverine Lake, was scheduled to be open from Thursday, Oct. 25 through Sunday, Oct. 28. A Wolverine Lake police officer on routine patrol in the area noticed the fire in the haunted house tent at 2:38 a.m. and contacted dispatch. The fire spread quickly. By the time
shooting incidents throughout Oakland, Livingston, Ingham, and Shiawassee counties. There have been other unconfirmed reports of possible drive-by shootings, such as one on the morning of Oct. 29 when a
Shooting suspect
motorist was traveling along US 23 north of I-96 and thought he may have been shot at; however after conducting an investigation, Goodlein said a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement task force investigating the shooting spree has determined the incident to be Commerce Township firefighters arrived on the scene and extinguished the blaze, the fire had consumed threequarters of the tent, as well as all of its contents for a total loss. There were no injuries. The attraction was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Detective Scott Pasini of the Investigative and Forensic Services Fire Unit is conducting an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings reveal two points of origin where the fire was intentionally set. The case continues to be investigated. Anyone with any information about the case is asked to call the Wolverine Lake Police Department at 248-6241335 or contact Arson Control at 1800-44-ARSON. The Michigan Arson Prevention
unrelated to the serial shooting case. A task force headed by the Wixom Police Department is handling the investigation. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department’s forensic laboratory has determined that ballistic evidence recovered from shootings in the four counties came from the same weapon. The drive-by shootings began on Oct. 16 when a pair of 911 callers reported that they heard gunshots in the area of North Wixom and Loon Lake roads in Wixom around 7:15 p.m. One of the callers said he thought he heard a bullet passing by his head as he was taking out the garbage. The other caller said he was driving north on Wixom Road when a suspect vehicle passed by him traveling southbound. That caller’s vehicle sustained damage to its front driver-side tire as a result of the shooting. It is believed that the suspect was shooting a pistol out of the vehicle’s driver-side window. While the make and model of the car used in the shootings is unknown, one witness described it as a dark sports car with blue-tinted headlamp covers — possibly a Ford Mustang. Then on Thursday, Oct. 18, five vehicles were shot at as they were Committee offers a reward up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of anyone on arson-related charges. ❏
Pair of fires in Waterford cause $45K in damage Waterford Township firefighters were busy on Sunday, Oct. 28 extinguishing a pair of house fires within a two-hour time frame. The first 911 call came in at 9:45 p.m. on Sunday, when a house fire was reported in the 7300 block of North Shaker Drive. Upon arrival, firefighters found a single-story home on fire with heavy smoke coming out of it. Firefighters entered the home and found the fire contained in the basement. They were able to quickly extinguish the blaze.
northbound on Wixom Road toward an area near Charms Road in Wixom around 2:15 p.m. Two other incidents occurred in Commerce Township, one at Best Drive and West Maple Road, and a second at Benstein Road and West Maple. There are no known suspects in the shootings, but a forensic sketch was drawn up to assist in identifying the suspect. The sketch was obtained after speaking with a witness of one of the Ingham County incidents that took place Oct. 18, when six cars were shot in the area of I-96 and M-52, according to Goodlein. That witness described the suspect vehicle as resembling a dark-colored, small four-door such as a 1998 Toyota Camry or 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. Citizens are encouraged to call 1800-SPEAK UP if they have information regarding the suspect in the sketch or the suspect vehicles. Citizens are also encouraged to remain vigilant in reporting further suspicious activity. The investigators from the multijurisdictional task force continue to work on leads. There have been over 400 tips in the case so far. A $102,000 reward is being offered to anyone with information leading to the shooter’s arrest. ❏ The three occupants fled the house and then called the Fire Department. One firefighter sustained a minor hand injury during the incident. Damage to the home is estimated at $30,000. Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the blaze. The second 911 call came in at 11:50 p.m. for a house fire in the 3700 block of Oakview Drive. When firefighters arrived on the scene they saw smoke emanating from the home’s second-floor bathroom. The fire was extinguished quickly. The occupants were home at the time of the fire but escaped unharmed. Fire damage is estimated at $15,000, and no one was injured during the incident. Fire investigators are in the process of determining the origin of the fire. ❏
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TRANSPORTATION
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PONTIAC TRAIL (Walled Lake) • Notes: The Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) is continuing its reconstruction efforts on Pontiac Trail between West Maple Road and South Commerce Road. • Closures: Pontiac Trail will remain open, but will be reduced to one lane in each direction. West Maple is now open at the west side of Pontiac Trail, but is closed at the east side of Pontiac Trail. • Completion date: Nov. 15. • Cost: $2.6 million.
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COMMERCE ROAD (Commerce Township) • Notes: The project involves reconstruction of the roadway, as well as traffic signal upgrades and drainage improvements. Motorists should expect delays. Commerce Road between Carroll Lake and Union Lake roads is now open to traffic, but there may be intermittent delays. • Completion date: End of November • Cost: $2.6 million. COOLEY LAKE ROAD (Milford, Highland, White Lake, and Commerce townships) • Notes: A gravel road paving project is underway on Cooley Lake Road, east of Duck Lake to Mystic Valley, in Milford, Highland, White Lake, and Commerce townships. • Closure: Cooley Lake Road, east of Duck Lake to Mystic Valley. • Detour: Duck Lake Road to Commerce Road to Carey Road, and vice versa. • Completion date: By tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 1, weather depending. • Cost: $4.4 million. BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: I-96 EAST OF MILFORD ROAD, WEST OF KENT LAKE ROAD (Milford) • Notes: Crews are currently constructing the inside of the Milford Road bridge and continuing efforts on the Kent Lake bridge (I-96 over Kent Lake Road). Work on the Huron River Trail bridge (I-96 over Huron River Trail) has been completed although traffic shifts remain in place due to the proximity to Milford Road. The I96 driving surfaces of the remaining two bridges on the eastbound side are complete. The westbound side on Kent Lake Road was expected to be finished by midOctober, but extra repairs are now needed on the median side and therefore will not open until early- to mid-November. Work on the Milford Road bridge is now expected to be completed by Monday, Nov. 5, at the earliest. Kent Lake is tentatively scheduled to open on Monday, Nov. 12. • Cost: $15.5 million.
VETERAN’S DAY IS 11•11•12 and we are celebrating by offering All American pricing to local businesses. In the spirit of the holiday we are offering special Spinal Column Newsweekly discounted advertising rates including full color! Ads will appear in the November 7 edition. CALL YOUR ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE AT 248-360-7355 FOR MORE INFORMATION
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OCTOBER 31, 2012
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PAGE 39
ENVIRONMENT
DNR seeks hunters’ assistance Reports of dead deer requested as EHD claims 10,000
By Kevin Elliott staff writer
D
eer hunters and outdoors enthusiasts are being asked to assist the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) this hunting season by reporting sightings of dead deer in order to monitor the outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in the state this year. The DNR states that deer have died in substantial numbers in at least 30 counties this summer and fall due to EHD. The department says continued reports of EHD deaths are necessary to help answer questions from the public and prepare recommendations for the 2013 hunting season. EHD is caused by a virus that is transmitted by a type of biting fly called a midge. Deer infected with EHD typically suffer extensive inter-
Three stewardship days at Highland Recreation Area By Kevin Elliott staff writer
Volunteers are needed to help clear invasive shrubs and collect seeds from native prairie plants at the Highland Recreation Area, the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced. The work is part of the the state’s volunteer stewardship workdays at southeast Michigan state parks and recreation areas. The goal is to have volunteers help protect and restore unique natural areas in the state parks. Highland Recreation Area, located at 5200 Highland Road in White Lake Township, boasts of 5,900 acres of forest, marshes and lakes, and includes trails to accommodate equestrian riders, mountain bikers, hikers and skiers. Volunteers are advised to wear appropriate clothing for outdoor work, including long pants and sturdy closed-toe shoes. They should also bring gloves and drinking water. Dates, times and volunteer activities at the Highland Recreation Area
Deer infected with EHD typically suffer extensive internal bleeding, loss of appetite and fear of humans. Infected deer are often found sick or dead along or in bodies of water. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
nal bleeding, loss of appetite and fear of humans. Onset of the disease is
fast, with infected deer growing increasingly weak and experiencing
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 927.87 934.00 906.30 928.60 1016.63 930.00 1.08 933.00 949.30 966.70 930.70 949.30 957.50 930.20 942.00 962.83 932.80 949.30 951.00 928.60 927.07 930.80 950.00 1018.60 964.92
10/12/12 +1.33 +.38 +.18 +.01 –.15 +.08 –.08 +.10 +.20 +.02 –.96 +.20 +.13 –.30 +.13 –.55 –1.20 +.22 –1.99 +.10 +.03 –.90 –.06 –.58 –.37
10/19/12 +1.50 +.37 +.88 +.20 –.13 +.12 +.07 +.02 +.29 +.20 –1.00 +.37 +.18 –.27 +.98 –.45 –1.19 +.35 –1.92 +.17 +.13 –.82 –.08 Legal +.22
10/26/12 +1.41 +.22 +.91 +.08 –.03 +.23 +.24 +.03 +.31 +.06 –.55 +.34 +.33 –.15 +.97 –.35 –1.05 +.33 –1.92 +.17 +.25 –.75 –.08 +.04 +.32
*Reading for Loon Lake, in Waterford Township, also applies to Mohawk–Wormer, Schoolhouse, Silver and Upper Silver Lakes.
excessive salivation until they become unconscious. Due to a high fever, infected deer are often found sick or dead along or in bodies of water. More than 10,400 dead deer have been reported to the DNR, with more expected to be found during the hunting season. “Some people may have the perception that, once we have confirmed the presence of EHD in an area, we are no longer interested in additional reports of dead deer in those areas — that isn’t true. We want the reports,” DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason said in a press release. “Any and all reports, whether the deer seem to have died recently or not so recently, will help ensure we have accurate information about the extent of die-offs.” The DNR has confirmed EHD
PAGE 41 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
are as follows: • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 3, at the Barn Field Trail Area, where volunteers will help to restore the area to an open grassland by hauling and piling brush and stacking fire wood. Volunteers will meet at the Barn Field Trail Area parking lot on the north side of Cooley Lake Road, between Duck Lake and Beaumont roads; • 1-4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 4. Volunteers will meet at the Silo Field Trail Area parking lot on Livingston Road, between Pettibone Lake and Beaumont roads, to collect wildflower seeds. • 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 11 to remove shrubs that are encroaching on the fen and wet meadows near Teeple Lake. Volunteers will look for glossy buckthorn and other shrubs crowding out native species. Meet at the sheep barn parking lot, about 5 minutes south of the park entrance on M-59. Volunteers are advised to wear waterproof boots, either knee-high rubber boots or hip waders. Boots will be available to borrow upon request. Registration forms are available online at www.michigan.gov/documents/3145_171017_7.pdf, or by phone or e-mail by contacting Laurel Malvitz-Draper at 248-359-9057 or malvitzl@michigan.gov. ❏
PAGE 40
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ENVIRONMENT
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248-363-1615 The DNR has confirmed EHD deaths in 30 counties, including at least three deer deaths in Oakland County that are likely due to EHD, as well as one in Macomb, seven in Livingston and one in Lapeer counties. Dead deer have also been reported in Wayne, Washtenaw and Genesee counties. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Deer deaths ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 39
deaths in 30 counties, including Wayne, Washtenaw and Genesee counties, all of which border Oakland County. The DNR has heard of at least three deer deaths in Oakland County that are likely due to EHD, as well as one in Macomb, seven in Livingston and one in Lapeer counties. The DNR reports there isn’t any evidence that EHD affects humans, so edibility of venison isn’t affected by the disease. There also isn’t any evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus from either the midge or from handling or eating infected venison. Mason said the current deer hunting season framework remains in place and will go as planned this year. When considering regulations for next year, the DNR will factor in the impact of EHD, along with other influences on the deer population. Meanwhile, Mason said hunters and landowners should assess the deer population in their areas and consider the amount of anterless deer harvest they desire this year. People hunting in areas hardest hit by EHD may want to limit or curtail anterless deer harvest, he said. Losses from the disease may be severe, causing a noticeable dip in the deer population in the affected area, but the population is expected to rebound with time. Outbreaks in Michigan have occurred in 1955, 1974 and 2006. Isolated outbreaks have occurred almost every year since 2006, according to the DNR. It’s estimated between 50 and 1,000 deer die each year due
to EHD. Tom Cooley, a wildlife biologist and pathologist with the DNR, said in August that while the number of dead deer this year is high, the deaths remain a localized issue and the regional deer population shouldn’t be
impacted. To report the presence of dead deer, the DNR recommends people contact their nearest wildlife office, which can be found online at www.michigan.gov/wildlifedisease by clicking on “Wildlife Offices.” ❏
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PAGE 42
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Vote for RANDY STON Ph.D. Oakland Community College Board of Trustees “A Volunteer to Serve the Community” My life has been devoted to Oakland Community College. My two children, wife and I have degrees from OCC. I am running for this position because I can help keep OCC the quality college Oakland County deserves.
Randy’s accomplishments include: I have seen thousands of lives improved • PhD in Community and Economic because of their experiences at OCC Development and want to make sure the college is here to help thousands more. The • Current member of OCC Foundation qualities and skills I bring include a Board of Directors great knowledge base of OCC and Oakland County development. I am • Substantial knowledge of the benefits collaborative, understand the point of view of others and my PhD. from U of M of community colleges and OCC in Community/Economic Development • Former member of the Walled Lake is directly related to understanding the training needs of our Oakland County’s Consolidated School Board emerging economic sectors. • Taught/counseled students on all campuses of OCC • Leadership positions in community projects • Extensive public policy experience The Committee to Elect Randy Stone, 1034 Sherbrooke Street, Commerce Township, MIchigan 48382. randolphston1@gmail.com Endorsements: OCC Faculty Association; The endorsers of both parties believe Randy is the right choice for this nonpartisan education race.
We need Common Sense Solutions! Vote for Michael D. Smith on November 6!
✓Honesty ■ ✓ Integrity ■ ✓Leadership ■ EXPERIENCE • Currently serving as a Walled Lake School Board Member. • Graduate of GVSU with a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies - Leadership/Diversity. • Graduate of Oakland University with a Masters in Public Administration. • Graduate of Oakland University with a Post-Masters Certificate in Local Government Management. • Over 6 years experience working for Oakland County Clerk’s Office. • 3 years experience as the Deputy City Clerk for the City of Clawson.
AS SUPERVISOR I WILL FOCUS ON: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT • Attracting businesses and protecting small business owners and promoting entrepreneurship. • Creating a system that balances development, re-development, and stewardship of our waterways. • Creating a more pedestrian friendly community with sidewalks with funds from the Millage. FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY • Collaborating on a viable solution to the Sewer Debt Funding issue. • Enforcing better energy initiatives to be more “green” to help save taxpayer money. • Implementing cost-saving policies, researching grant funding opportunities and forecasting for multi-year budget cycles similar to the County to be better financially responsible. TRANSPARENCY • Creating Board packets for easier public viewing of all records, including posting of our bills online to show residents where every one of their tax dollars are spent. • Recording all meetings and utilizing social media outlets for greater accessibility for all residents. I would be honored to have your support in being your next Supervisor by being a voice for all of the residents of White Lake Township! For more information check out my Facebook page - Michael D. Smith for White Lake Township Supervisor. PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF MICHAEL D. SMITH, 670 UNION LAKE ROAD, WHITE LAKE, MI 48386
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PAGE 43
COUNTY
‘Unprecedented’ spending Carley, Rollstin benefit from $2M-plus in Circuit Court race By Kirk Pinho assistant editor
T
he U.S. Supreme Court’s controversial decision in the Citizens United case continues to play itself out right here in Oakland County as two candidates for the Oakland County Circuit Court are benefiting from what is now at least $2 million in outside spending on television ads from a pair of conservative Arlington, Va.-based groups. Advertising contracts provided to the Spinal Column Newsweekly show that Americans for Job Security (AJS) and the Judicial Crisis Network (JCN) have upped the ante in Deborah Carley’s and William Rollstin’s quests for Circuit Court bench seats against incumbent Judges Phyllis McMillen, Wendy Potts, Denise Langford Morris, Leo Bowman and Michael Warren — the five judges who are diverse politically but are running as the Unity Slate — in the final days before the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election. Those two non-profit groups, advertising on both cable and network television, don’t have to disclose their donors due to the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Citizens United vs. Federal Elections Commission case in 2010, overturning key provisions of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, commonly known as the McCainFeingold Act. Speculation has been rampant about who is forking over that kind of money in a local non-parCarley tisan Circuit Court race, with sources in the legal and political communities pointing their fingers at one Michigan businessperson upset with a ruling McMillen delivered, but the Spinal Column Newsweekly has not been able to independently confirm that rumor. The previous estimated total, according to air time purchase contracts provided to the Spinal Column Newsweekly, showed that just over $1 million was going toward running a negative ad targeting McMillen — one that the campaign for the Unity Slate calls patently false and misleading — paid for by AJS and the JCN’s positive ads touting Carley’s and Rollstin’s plan for the Circuit Court, which the ad says “needs new leadership.” Since then, an additional $1 million in television ad time has been purchased, including most recently three separate ad buys by the JCN of $134,955, $140,537 and $146,233 — for a total of $421,725 — through the Smart Media Group of Alexandria, Va., which lists as clients the Republican National Committee; the National Republican Congressional Committee; the U.S. departments of Treasury and Homeland Security; the U.S. Coast Guard; and U.S. Sen. and 2008 presidential candidate John McCain. The JCN also placed a $210,600 ad buy with WDIVLocal 4 to run a positive ad about Carley and Rollstin. All told, the four JCN ad buys total $632,325. The purchasing agent for the negative AJS ads —
one costing $312,700 on WDIV running from Oct. 9 through Nov. 6 and a $42,700 radio spot on WWJAM running from Oct. 15 through Nov. 5 — is Strategic Media Placement of Columbus, Ohio. That means a new $988,000 has been injected into television and radio advertising either benefiting Carley and Rollstin or targeting one of their opponents — McMillen — since the Spinal Column Newsweekly reported the more than $1 million going into the race. Between the television advertising, mail pieces, radio advertising, robocalls, and campaign start-up expenses, sources estimate that the spending by outside groups in the race is over $2.5 million. And even with less than a week to go until Tuesday’s general election, that figure could easily climb. “It really stretches the bounds of credibility to expect voters to believe that there is no coordination in this situation,” said Jennifer Murray, the spokeswoman for the Unity Slate. “Somebody other than Carley and Rollstin paid to put their names on the ballot and run a multi-million dollar campaign for their benefit. The lack of disclosure by the CarleyRollstin team is alarming. For candidates or judges, integrity really does matter.” Carley has been quoted in one Lansing publication as saying she doesn’t know anything about Americans for Jobs Security or the Judicial Crisis Network. The money being poured into the Circuit Court race benefiting Carley and Rollstin also shocks campaign finance watchdogs, including Rich Robinson, executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network. “It’s unprecedented,” Robinson said. “Nationally, it’s a true anomaly.” In addition, AJS — which Robinson has categorized as a “rental political assassin” — is also funding a mailer attacking the “liberal” judges on the Oakland County Circuit Court bench, who the mailer accuses of “assaulting our values, promoting abortion, (and) undermining traditional marriage;” Carley and Rollstin in the mailer are called “conservatives” who are “100% pro life.” Circuit courts have little-tono jurisdiction over abortion and gay marriage issues. Rollstin The Carley and Rollstin campaign apparatuses were bankrolled by three out-ofstate donors, who all contributed significant sums to the Citizens Action Fund (CAF), a political action committee (PAC) run by the Republican-leaning political consulting firm, The Sterling Corporation. Both Carley and Rollstin originally used Sterling’s Lansing address in their campaign committee filings with the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office. Andrew J. McKenna of Arlington, Va. ($100,000 contributed to the CAF on July 18); John Bryan of Lake Oswego, Ore. ($10,000 donated on June 6); and John Templeton, Jr. of Conshohocken, Penn.
($10,000 contributed on June 25) were the three donors who ponied up a total of $120,000 to the CAF, which then funneled that money to the Sterling Corporation to pay for things like petition signature collection and website design for the Carley and Rollstin campaigns that benefited from those donations to the tune of about $67,000 total. The Sterling Corporation’s Steve Linder, now listed as the designated treasurer of the CAF, was the national finance director for the campaign promoting Proposition 8 in California in 2008, which banned gay marriage in that state. Templeton, his family, and his Templeton Foundation reportedly supported the Proposition 8 effort with a total $1.6 million in funding. McKenna, Bryan, and Templeton are all heavy supporters of Republican causes and candidates for federal elected office, FEC records show. For their part, the Carley and Rollstin campaign committees reported just $8,926 and $5,050 spent during the most recent campaign finance reporting period, reports for which were submitted on Friday, Oct. 26. The challengers did report $35,555 (Carley) and $8,775 (Rollstin) in direct contributions from supporters. The relatively small amount spent by their campaigns so far is causing some to question how Carley and Rollstin thought they could mount a viable Circuit Court challenge with such little funding if they didn’t know they would have considerable backing from outside sources. By contrast, Potts’ committee spent $57,426; McMillen’s spent $56,566; Bowman’s spent $57,692; Langford Morris’ spent $58,829; and Warren’s spent $56,924. Each incumbent judge raised roughly $95,000 to $100,000 during the reporting period that ended Friday. Nancy Carley contributed $2,485 to her daughter’s campaign on Aug. 15, while Carley’s father, Garry Carley, contributed a total of $1,895. Garry Carley is the owner of The Heathers Club in Bloomfield Hills, the address of which, 900 Scotsborough Way, Deborah Carley uses for her election campaign committee’s. Other contributors to Carley’s campaign committee include Kenneth Way of Naples, Fla. ($2,000); Sean Tracey of Friendswood, Texas ($1,500); John Beneicke of Bloomfield Hills ($1,000); Sally Ann Carrier of Bingham Farms ($1,000); and Michael Kojaian of Bloomfield Hills ($1,000). Rollstin’s campaign’s three largest donors were Linder ($2,500 on Sept. 25); Jeff Timmer ($2,500 on Sept. 25), another partner at The Sterling Corporation; and Garry Carley ($1,190 in three separate donations on Thursday, Oct. 18 and Sept. 20), campaign finance documents show. With both Circuit Court hopefuls, the singlelargest contributor to their election campaign committees was the Citizens Action Fund: $33,470 to Carley and $33,451 to Rollstin. ❏
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STATE
Work-release, fines for former McCotter staffer By Kirk Pinho assistant editor
One former staff member to ex-U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter has been sentenced and two others have been bound over to Wayne County Circuit Court for trial on charges in the petition signature scandal that torpedoed the political career of the former fiveterm Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Lorianne O’Brady, a 52-year-old former McCotter scheduler from Livonia, was ordered on Thursday, Oct. 25 to participate in a work-release program for 20 days after pleading no contest last month to five charges of falsely signing a nominating petition as circulator. O’Brady, was also placed on probation for 18 months and ordered to pay $1,385 in fines and costs, according to staff in the 16th District Court in Livonia. Two others — Don Yowchuang, the 33-year-old former deputy district director from Farmington Hills and Paul Seewald, 47, a former district director for McCotter from Livonia — have been bound over to Wayne County Circuit Court to face trial. A $50,000 personal bond was set for both Yowchuang and Seewald, staff said. They are next scheduled for an arraignment on information on Tuesday, Nov. 6, in the Wayne County
Circuit Court. Yowchuang faces 10 counts of election fraud forgery, a five-year felony; one count of conspiracy to commit a legal act in an illegal manner, a fiveyear felony; and six counts of falsely signing a nominating petition as circulator, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail. Seewald faces one count of conspiracy to commit a legal act in an illegal manner and nine counts of falsely signing a nominating petition. Mary Melissa Turnbull, a 58-year-old former district representative from Howell, was charged with one count of conspiracy to commit a legal act in an illegal manner, and one count of falsely signing a nominating petition as circulator. It was revealed that just a few hundred of the more than 1,000 signatures McCotter’s team turned in to get him on the Aug. 7 primary election ballot were falsified or fraudulent. That triggered a snowball effect which eventually led McCotter, who made an ill-fated run for the presidency last year, to resign from his seat, forcing state officials to call a Sept. 5 special primary election that cost the state and local units of government about $650,000. Milford Republican Kerry Bentivolio won both the Aug. 7 primary election and the Sept. 5 special primary election handily; he now faces Canton Township Democrat Dr. Syed Taj in the Nov. 6 general election and Belleville Democrat David A. Curson in Tuesday’s special general election, held in conjunction with the regular general election. ❏
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OCTOBER 31, 2012
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OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL
MAIL BAG
Poor GOP record
Solden
Fortino
A collection of gossip, scuttlebutt, and odds and ends from our reporters’ notebooks. WHO’S THE BOSS? Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette is, at least to Oakland County Circuit Court challengers Deborah Carley and William Rollstin. Therefore, it wasn’t a stopthe-presses moment when BS ... (nevermind, let’s pick a different fun nickname) ahem, Tooti Schuette, a GOP darling, endorsed the pair over incumbent Oakland County Circuit Court Judges Phyllis McMillen, Denise Langford Morris, Leo Bowman, Wendy Potts, and Michael Warren. No big whoop, sources say — dCarley and Billston have racked up exactly one major endorsement compared to what effectively is a Who’s Who of Oakland County Political Backers notched by the five currently robed ones. Plus, you know, there’s that whole funding issue — yada yada yada, over $2 million flowing into the circuit court race benefiting Carley and Rollstin — which our Spinal Column Newsweekly cohorts detail to great extent in the County section of today’s SCN. RETURN OF THE LBP: He’s baaaaaccckkk ... We’re pretty sure. Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson’s team said LBP would return to his office yesterday, Tuesday, Oct. 30 after sustaining serious injuries — a broken hip, leg, ankle, and five ribs, and broken wrists, not to mention a head laceration — in an Aug. 10 traffic accident in Auburn Hills in which he was an unrestrained passenger. “I’m looking forward to getting back behind my desk where I can work on county business firsthand,” said Patterson, who admitted he is “still on the mend.” Good to hear that you’re back in action, Brooks. Don’t forget the seatbelt! PSST... WATERFORD RESIDENTS: Have you received what is, for all intents and purposes, an unsigned letter recently boo-hooing the township Police Department’s efforts to get a
Carley
Rollstin
1.95-mill special assessment district passed in perpetuity on Nov. 6? And also blasting township Supervisor Carl Solden and Democratic township clerk candidate Teresa Fortino? Any idea who is circulating that missive — which the CAPITALIZATION POLICE say needs to CHILL THE HECK OUT WITH THE ALL-CAPS NON-SENSE — to township residents? It’s signed by a group called Waterford Residents for Accountable Politicians (WRAP), which isn’t a registered political action committee of any sort, a review of records show. It also raises against Fortino allegations brought up in the primary election by her Democratic opponent about residency ... [“(At best she is an OPPORTUNIST”)]. See what we mean about the all-caps malarkey? It also says that Solden is concerned only about himself, which simply ain’t true (“In 3 terms and 12 years he has NOT suffered any cuts — and continues to protect CARL SOLDEN. He claims to be a Democrat, but his true party affiliation is limited to CARL.”) Republican Trustee Anthony Bartolotta, who has been vocally opposed to the SAD, stressed he had nothing to do with sending the letter. “I got it in an anonymous e-mail. I have no idea (who’s behind it) whatsoever.” Not quite sure about that, though, since after we asked Bartolotta about that, OakCon received a call from the purported letter-writer saying that A-Bart asked him to call us. Pants on fire? The caller didn’t want his identity revealed, but did say he plans on blanketing the township with 40,000 such missives in the coming days — much as he had done eight years prior. Solden, on the other hand, has his suspicions about the scribe(s) responsible, but declined to say. “It’s a worthless document, as far as I’m concerned. It’s all lies and garbage. Put your name on it; stand up for it. You can’t even call it hearsay. It’s garbage.” SNAP, er, snap! ❏
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From Mary Jane DuLyn, Novi: When Bill Clinton became president, he inherited a big budget deficit from George H. W. Bush. During the Clinton years, employment was high, people had good paying jobs with benefits and the economy was humming. There was a budget surplus when President Clinton left office. After eight years of Bush-Cheney, there was a huge budget deficit, unemployment was rampant and getting steadily worse, and millions of jobs had been shipped to foreign countries. Also, the nation was paying staggering bills from two wars, from which Halliburton and other mega-corporations were making enormous profits. The Republicans put all the blame on President Obama for the nation’s economic woes. The truth is that there has been slow but steady job growth for the last three years. Obama has not started any new wars, has ended the war in Iraq, and is bringing the disastrous war in Afghanistan to an end. Housing starts are creeping up and the economy is becoming stronger. Republicans have a miserable track record when it comes to policies that provide a decent living for the majority of Americans. Why have George Bush and Dick Cheney been kept out of sight, even at the Republican convention? Because the party is embarrassed by them and fearful that voters will be reminded that it was Bush–Cheney who are responsible for the recession. Think about your future and re-elect President Obama! ❏
Voting for Bushey From Ryan Golem, Commerce Township: I am writing this letter to endorse Janet Bushey as the Commerce Township Clerk. Janet has worked for Commerce Township for over 16 years. She has the experience, heart and dedication that the township needs. She is currently the township’s human resource and finance director but started off as a clerk/receptionist and has worked in the clerk’s, planning and supervisor departments. This has provided her the opportunity to see the township from many different angles. She has worked with the fire department, library, Oakland County sheriff and board members on everything from contract negotiations, budgets, financial statement preparations, and working school, primary and general elections. She is focused on common-sense leadership and making professional, informed decisions after gathering all available information. Her experience with the
township has prepared her for joining the board and working on the task of allocating tax dollars without sacrificing the services that the township provides. Janet’s experience not only qualifies her for this position. Her ability to think independently and her concern for the welfare of all Commerce Township residents are other strong attributes that make her the right person for this position. Janet has lived in Commerce since 1990 and her family loves the township so much that her children have remained in Commerce and have chosen to raise their children in this community. Knowing that Janet’s children and grandchildren all reside in Commerce provides me with the comfort of knowing she will make her decisions based on what is right for the community and its residents, as she has so many people close to her that it effects. Since the current clerk, Dan Munro, is resigning if re-elected, let’s let the voters decide who will be chosen as township clerk and not make it a decision of the board members. The vote is in the residents’ hands and let’s keep it that way. Vote for Janet Bushey. ❏
Let’s be honest From Mark Abbott, Commerce Township: Did anyone watch the debates last week? Two men were lobbying for your vote by telling lies, stretching the truth, and trying to deceive you. It took factcheck.org a good four or five pages to decipher what the actual truth was from this debate. I don’t mind anyone being a conservative or liberal, but what bothers me is the thought that you might actually believe in your candidate. The understanding that “truth, honesty and real concern for people” gets one nowhere in politics just might persuade you of the reality of their true motives. If you look at the four biggest expenditures in our government — social security, defense spending, public assistance, and Medicare — and don’t come up with the conclusion that these have to be drastically cut for things to work, then you’re simply not being honest with yourself. ❏
Beaty deserves vote From Christy Forhan, West Bloomfield Township: Julie Beaty is one of the best qualified West Bloomfield School Board candidates to come along in a long time. Please give her your vote. I’ve gotten to know Julie while PAGE 46 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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MAIL BAG
Continued
Law backs Kesto
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working together on school district projects over the past several years. Julie is a mom with a passion for education and West Bloomfield. She and her husband chose West Bloomfield when they moved back to the Midwest because of our excellent schools and diverse community. Their two children currently attend Abbott Middle School. Julie is motivated to serve the schools, in part, by her own unpleasant memories of high school in Port Huron when all extra-curricular activities and electives were eliminated because funding millages failed. She wants to ensure West Bloomfield never gets to that point. Julie has years of business executive experience that helps her understand the complexities of school finance and budgeting. Julie has taught business classes at community college both here and in Chicago. In West Bloomfield, she has been an active volunteer in the PTOs and at the district-level, and has personally advocated on behalf of West Bloomfield Schools in Lansing. She is co-chair of the recent Family Fun Night, a new tradition that brings together community partners such as the library, police department, fire department, township government with the school district in a shared family event. Julie brings a wonderful breadth of experience to the position of trustee. Julie is also an independent voice for students and property owners. Julie is unencumbered by any personal relationships with district staff. She is accountable only to the students, parents, and property owners. There’s no pay in being on the school board. It’s a long six-year term. And the challenges are great, considering the financial limitations and out-
Klint the clear choice for state House From David Law, Commerce Township trustee: s a former state representative for the 39th state House District — which includes Commerce Township, Wolverine Lake, Wixom and West Bloomfield Township) and as a current Commerce Township trustee, I believe that the clear choice for state representative in this election is Klint Kesto. He has experience as a small business owner and is an assistant prosecuting attorney. He is not afraid to stand up to Lansing special interests and big-spending politicians. Klint believes in providing the best services possible to residents at the lowest cost. He will hold politicians in Lansing accountable when they try to load the state budget with bloated projects and expensive programs that don’t work. He believes that elected officials should work for every citizen of their district, not just Republicans or Democrats. He strives for a government that works for all of us. He is honest and hardworking, and will represent all of us well. I look forward to working with him as our next state representative. Please vote for Klint Kesto for state representative. ❏
A
side mandates that are putting pressure on our public schools. It’s not a job most of us would want to tackle. But Julie does. And she will serve our students and community well. I urge you to vote for Julie Beaty for West Bloomfield School Board. ❏
‘A breath of fresh air’ From Paul Karmo, West Bloomfield: This election’s race for the 39th (state House) District seems like a close one; I do not remember ever seeing so many TV ads for a state House seat. In my opinion, (Republican Klint) is the right man for the job. Besides being an assistant prosecutor and community activist, he stands out because he is not an uncompromising ideologue, (a quality) lacking in today’s political climate. Though a conservative, he is challenging his party on its enactment of the pension tax and has vowed to
repeal it. He favors a new bridge to Canada if it does not hook Michigan taxpayers with the bill, and he is a union attorney who can appreciate the benefits of union membership. At the same time, he maintains a conservative core which serves as his guide. Regardless of your political views, you have to be able to respect that. Klint Kesto is a breath of fresh air in the political landscape and we will need more leaders like him. ❏
Loose with the truth From Allyn Ravitz, Wolverine Lake: How can so many voters be undecided at this point? How can you out there be even considering voting for Romney when you don’t even know what he stands for? Romney has revealed that he is a person that plays loose with the truth. The now historic 47 percent video tape caught and exposed him
AROUND THE LAKES AREA
saying callous, condemning, elitist and ignorant things while writing off 47 percent of Americans when he was relaxed and among his friends and supporters. Now, oddly, he expects us to ignore his remarks and pretend with him that he does care about all 100 percent of us. As a prep school senior, he sat atop a classmate he thought to be gay and with his buddies holding the classmate down, cut the classmate’s long hair. He neither admitted nor denied the occurrence when the event was brought up early in his campaign. He wants us to buy his answer that he “doesn’t remember” the incident. What an insult to our intelligence! He refuses to say from where the revenues will come to pay for the extension of the Bush tax cuts and the continued oil company subsidies. He won’t reveal whose tax loopholes will be closed. The most wealthy or the middle class? And what loopholes does he have in mind. Does his plan eliminate the mortgage interest deduction? Health care premiums and deductions? Who knows? He says our country can’t afford ObamaCare, but it can afford Bush tax cuts and continued oil subsidies? Whose back do you think he has? Romney is consistently changing his mind about what he says he believes, which is his right. However, when he is called out on his inconsistency and denies it is a different position, that is dishonest. Character should count. That he thinks he can get away with revising his history in this day of spell checkers, phone videos and Romney’s own website is, quite frankly, bizarre. It also says something else about his character. That people would even consider entrusting the presidency to this man is irrational, as irrational as racism and blind party loyalty. ❏
A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly
WE’RE ASKING… Who is your favorite Tigers player ever?" "Justin Verlander."
— Claudia Szafranski, Commerce Township
"Miguel Cabrera."
— Carly Nesbitt, Commerce Township
"Bill Freehan. He was a catcher when I was a Little Leaguer."
— Greg Waun, White Lake Township
"Dave Bergman. He played first base on the 1984 Tigers."
— Jamie Singelyn, Commerce Township
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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PAGE 47
IN OUR OPINION
More advice for voters Our endorsements in select contested candidate races
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s we have over the past few weeks in this space, we once again present our advice to lakes area voters — at least those who are looking for advice, as we know not all of them are — this time in several contested candidate races impacting the 11 lakes area communities. If you’ve already determined how you will cast your ballot at the Nov. 6 general election polls, there’s no need to read further. Given the great number of contested races on west Oakland ballots this year, and the large field of candidates in some of those races, we are not able to provide endorsements in every race to be decided by west end voters on Nov. 6. However, below you’ll find our endorsement in some of the more competitive and compelling contests that will be decided in less than a week. Elsewhere in today’s edition, readers will find coverage of some of the races on next week’s local ballots. Go to our website at www.spinalcolumnonline.com through Election Day, Nov. 6, for additional postings on more races for elected offices — and be sure to vote on Nov. 6. 11TH U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT Two-year term (Waterford, West Bloomfield, White Lake, Commerce, Wolverine Lake, Walled Lake, Wixom, Milford, White Lake, Highland) Dr. Syed Taj, a Canton Township Democrat, has inherited a dicey political situation in which his opponent, Milford Republican Kerry Bentivolio, was until May thought to be a dark horse candidate with no real shot at winning against former U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter. Fast-forward to the week before the Nov. 6 general election. McCotter is toast, and voters in the strongly conservative 11th Congressional District are forced to pick between a Democrat who supports universal health care and a Republican whose spotty record, at best, makes us leery. Also couple that with Bentivolio being largely sequestered from the media, virtually unwilling to field reporters’ questions, and you have a recipe that leads us to support Taj. Taj’s political resume may be thin — he’s a firstterm member of the Canton Township Board of Trustees — but Bentivolio’s is much thinner. Taj, in an interview this summer, brought with him a willingness to work with Republicans and a sense of civic duty we found refreshing. He’s fluent on the issues and can address them — as a doctor, particularly on our flawed health care system — with ease. We’re confident he would be a good advocate for the 11th District in Washington, D.C., which is more than we can say about Bentivolio, who even establishment members of his own party view as too extreme.
11TH U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT Partial term (Waterford, White Lake, Highland, Milford, Commerce, Wolverine Lake, Walled, Wixom) Likewise in the 11th Congressional District special general election — which will fill the remainder of McCotter’s term until Jan. 2, 2013 — we’re recommending voters tap David A. Curson, a Belleville Democrat. 14TH U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT (West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake) There’s no question in our minds that U.S. Rep. Gary Peters (D-Orchard Lake, Waterford, West Bloomfield) has earned another term in the U.S. House of Representatives. A former state lawmaker and state lottery official, Peters has proven himself to be an effective voice for Oakland County since he was first elected in 2008. Peters brings to the table not only legislative experience, but also the willingness to work with the
other side of the aisle during a time when Congress is as fractured and partisan as we can remember. A vocal auto industry supporter, Peters is the right choice for lakes area voters. 29TH STATE HOUSE DISTRICT (Orchard Lake) A former county commissioner, state Rep. Tim Greimel (D-Auburn Hills) was elected to a partial term in the state House of Representatives after the resignation of Tim Melton. Greimel brings to the equation not only his nine months of experience in Lansing, but also several years on the county Board of Commissioners, giving him the legislative and policy experience needed to be an effective leader. Although a solidly Democratic district, the 29th does represent the Republican stronghold of Orchard Lake. Greimel has in the past, however, shown a willingness to work in a bipartisan manner with the GOP during his time on the county board. Greimel is the man for the job.
38TH STATE HOUSE DISTRICT (Walled Lake) Voters in the 38th state House District face a choice between state Rep. Hugh Crawford (R-Walled Lake, Wixom), the chairman of the state House Regulatory Reform Committee, and a perennial Democratic candidate who, frankly, gave scant, onesentence responses to our questions. Crawford, a former county commissioner who is seeking his third and final term in the state House, is the easy choice on Nov. 6. 39TH STATE HOUSE DISTRICT (West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wixom, Wolverine Lake) Republican newcomer Klint Kesto and Democrat Pam Jackson are squaring off in the Nov. 6 general election for the right to represent the new 39th state House District. Although we admire Jackson and think she brings solid qualifications to the race, Kesto, an assistant prosecutor, is the best bet for this Republican-leaning district. Both candidates have similar stances on job creation in Michigan by advocating making it easier for businesses to survive and thrive, but Jackson’s significant focus on mass transit — a laudable goal, but one that simply isn’t financially in the cards for the state or region at this point in time — was a negative. Kesto seems to have the policy chops and experience to represent the 39th District the best at this point, but we hope to see Jackson again during future election cycles. She’s thrown her hat into the ring many times over the past several years, and we’re confident she will eventually find a race with an opponent she can easily best. 40TH STATE HOUSE DISTRICT (West Bloomfield) Bloomfield Hills City Commissioner Michael McCready faced a tough four-way Republican primary election for the 40th state House District seat and now is up against a West Bloomfield Township Democrat on Tuesday, Nov. 6. McCready has solid municipal experience, giving him a leg up over his Democratic opponent who, while certainly involved in the community, doesn’t have the direct governing experience that McCready has. We’re comfortable supporting McCready, and residents in the 40th District should be, too. 43RD STATE HOUSE DISTRICT (Waterford) It was an easy decision to support state Rep. Gail Haines (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield) over her Democratic opponent in the Nov. 6 general election. Haines brings to the table four years of service in Lansing, even if we did disagree on some of her policy stances — which is more than we can say about
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IN OUR OPINION
Endorsements ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 47
her Democratic challenger, who first ran against her as a Republican two years ago and, when he lost handily, unsuccessfully and quixotically attempted to recall her from office for a variety of reasons that should serve as no basis for a recall. Haines has been a key voice in the health care debate as chairwoman of the state House Health Policy Committee and a strong ally of veterans with a variety of bills she has proposed in the state’s lower legislative chamber. She’s more than earned the right to serve another two years in the state House. 44TH STATE HOUSE DISTRICT (White Lake, Waterford, Highland, Milford) State Rep. Eileen Kowall (R-White Lake, Highland) faces a little-known Democratic challenger and a Libertarian candidate in the Nov. 6 general election. While we were disappointed a few times this term with some of her votes — on redistricting legislation (and her apparent role in shepherding that fiasco through) and others — she has been an effective, capable lawmaker since coming to Lansing from the county Board of Commissioners in 2008. She is the author of numerous pieces of legislation enacted into state law, showing that she has enough legislative muscle to get the job done. In addition, she has been an advocate against unfunded mandates and other things that have riled us in the past. Kowall should serve a third and final term in the state House. OAKLAND COUNTY EXECUTIVE Vote for one Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson has been the county’s chief executive for two decades. Since he was first elected, he has overseen a county undergoing significant changes and steered it through an economic tsunami the likes of which no one could have foreseen. When all is said and done, Patterson has earned another four-year term — even though his Democratic challenger, Kevin Howley, is one of the most intellectually formidable that we can remember. The county was not immune to the Great Recession as it still suffered painful consequences of the economic collapse. Jobs were lost. Property values sank into an abyss. Revenues plummeted. Yet, remarkably, the county made it through relatively unscathed. That, in large part, is due to Patterson and his leadership — and that of his whip-smart team. Oakland County voters would be doing themselves a disservice to jeopardize that. Although we’ve come to know Howley as a good man who is more than capable of doing the job, and has some outside-thebox ideas to boot, Patterson has been the captain of a prize-winning team that is continually looked at across the state and nation as beacon of sound leadership. Patterson deserves another four-year term. As the saying goes, if it isn’t broken, why fix it?
OAKLAND COUNTY PROSECUTOR Vote for one Facing an upstart former lawmaker from Rochester Hills, Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper has run a largely effective Prosecutor’s Office that has made some significant strides in helping bring to justice murderers in decades-old cold cases. While we’ve not been thrilled with everything Cooper has done, we see no reason to switch gears at this point. Cooper, a former judge, has taken a bit of flack for what her Republican opponent says is a decimated morale in the Prosecutor’s Office. However, that’s a card that virtually everyone looking to become the county prosecutor plays; we’ve heard that countless times, and rarely does anyone provide concrete evidence to back it up. For that matter, there’s hardly an office in the land — in either the public or private sectors — that doesn’t have morale issues. We’ve heard no substantiated claims of a low morale among assistant prosecutors; until we do, it’ll merely be hearsay. Voters should head to the polls next week and tap Cooper for a second term. OAKLAND COUNTY SHERIFF Vote for one In a case of deja vu, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard is up against the same Democrat who challenged him in the 2008 general election. Bouchard, who oversees 1,200 employees and manages an annual budget of over $140 million, was first appointed as Oakland County Sheriff in 1999 and has been elected every four years since. He is someone we’ve seen as an effective, competent leader who deserves another term as the county’s top law enforcement official. The former state Senate majority floor leader, Bouchard would bring back to the table significant law enforcement and legislative experience. A former police officer of 25 years who sponsored the legislation that put into place the Michigan Sex Offender Registry, Bouchard has the chops in a number of key areas to continue serving capably as Oakland County Sheriff. Voters should have no qualms backing him for another four-year term. OAKLAND COUNTY CLERK/REGISTER OF DEEDS Vote for one Appointed to the position following Ruth Johnson’s election as Michigan Secretary of State in 2010, county Clerk/Register of Deeds Bill Bullard, Jr., a Highland Township Republican, is squaring off with state Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wolverine Lake). Although Brown is qualified to do the job, voters should re-elect Bullard, the former chairman of the county Board of Commissioners and a former state lawmaker, to a four-year term as the county’s top elections official. Bullard has been making strides in increasing the use of technology in the Clerk/Register of Deeds Office, and has been a sound advocate for Oakland County in a number of areas. While Brown has some legitimate beefs about Bullard sending out a mailer using taxpayer money in the weeks leading up to the
election — while not illegal, we’re still not fans of that type of thing — we don’t feel that rises to the level of an offense that should result in his ouster. Both Brown and Bullard are qualified public servants, and we were abhorred at the way Brown was muzzled on the state House floor this summer during a debate about an abortion bill. But Bullard, who wasn’t part of that GOP goon-squad, has earned his keep as county clerk. Vote for Bullard on Nov. 6. OAKLAND COUNTY WATER RESOURCES COMMISSIONER Vote for one County Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch faces county Commissioner Jim Nash (DFarmington Hills) in the Nov. 6 general election. McCulloch brings to the job years of experience and a wealth of institutional memory that can’t be beat. He’s been instrumental in a bevy of local and regional water-related issues and battles, and regularly travels abroad to learn about and cull the newest in water technology. He deserves voters’ support on Nov. 6, and another four-year term. A former state lawmaker and county commissioner, McCulloch is well-versed on virtually anything impacting water quality in Oakland County — something that’s particularly important to residents of the lakes area. While Nash also would bring a sound skill set to the position, you can bet your bippy that he would be seeking another term on the county board had it not been ridiculously redistricted in 2011 after the passage of a controversial state law. McCulloch is clearly the best bet. He’s gone to bat for Oakland County time and time again when it comes to bring some semblance of sanity to the Detroit water and sewer systems. That alone earns him another stint as the water resources commissioner. OAKLAND COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT Incumbent positions (Vote for five) Let’s call a spade a spade. The two rogue assistant attorneys general vying for Circuit Court bench seats against five respected jurists this year are gutless, hiding cozily behind over $2 million in advertising from groups that conveniently — a hearty, sarcastic thanks to the U.S. Supreme Court for its Citizens United ruling, by the way — don’t have to disclose their donors. So perhaps the easiest decision Oakland County voters should make this election year is to keep Leo Bowman, Denise Langford Morris, Phyllis McMillen, Wendy Potts, and Michael Warren on the Circuit Court bench. All five — who were appointed by governors of varying political ideologies and bring over a half-century of judicial experience to Oakland County — deserve six-year terms. We’ve counted two — one, two — media interviews the pair of challengers has granted since we first reported on the funding propping up their campaigns. We’ve, on this very page, raised many questions that neither candidate thinks are worth answering on what they know about the anonymous funding going to two groups hell-bent on, for what-
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Notice of Posting
CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF COMMERCE 2009 TOWNSHIP DRIVE COMMERCE TOWNSHIP, MI 48390
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Commerce, Oakland County, Michigan, will meet at a Regular Board meeting on the 13th day of November, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., at the Township Hall, located at 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, Michigan 48390, to determine if the following Special Assessment District will be established and to receive PUBLIC COMMENTS, if any, regarding creation of the following Special Assessment District: Special Projects No. 35 The proposed Special Assessment District involves the following property located in the Charter Township of Commerce, Oakland County, Michigan: Parcel Nos. Sewer Water 17-01-429-001 17-11-431-022 17-07-401-002 17-25-101-013 17-11-427-019 17-11-431-022 17-12-476-027 17-25-101-013 Plans showing the improvement, the location, and the legal description are on file with the Township Clerk for public examination. 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 or having an agent appear at the hearing on behalf of an owner or party in interest, or in writing by filing a letter of protest before the hearing, addressed to the Township Clerk at 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, Michigan 48390. 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 Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the confirmation of the special assessment roll if the special assessment is protested at the hearing held for the purpose of confirming the special assessment roll. Please direct any questions you may have to the Charter Township of Commerce Building Department at (248) 960-7060. Daniel Munro, Clerk Charter Township of Commerce
SC: 10/31/12; 11/7/12
VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE
NOTICE OF ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended, the Village of Wolverine Lake Zoning Board of Appeals will consider the following appeal at their Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 425 Glengary, Wolverine Lake, Michigan 48390. ZBA CASE #12-609 Robert & Sandie Choate, 2368 Ventura, Wolverine Lake, MI 48390 BASIS FOR APPEAL: 1270.08 (b) (1) D.2. Fences. Ordinance requires that fences located in a required or non-required side yard not exceed 48” in height. Applicant proposes a 72” side yard fence. ZBA CASE #12-610 Jenniffer Osler, 325 Wolverine Dr., Wolverine Lake, MI 48390 BASIS FOR APPEAL: 1270.08 (b)(1)(D)(1) Approved fence: Ordinance requires that the maximum height of a fence in the required or unrequired front yard not to exceed 36” in height. Applicant proposes a 6ft. fence in the front yard. ZBA CASE #12-611 Nathan Wilmot, 1440 Thurston, Wolverine Lake, MI 48390 BASIS FOR APPEAL: 1282.03 (b) Nonconforming Building. Ordinance requires that additions and enlargements of existing nonconforming structures comply with zoning regulations. Applicant proposes adding a 2nd floor to an existing nonconforming home. ZBA CASE #12-612 Toni Pepin, 555 Laguna Court, Wolverine Lake, MI 48390 BASIS FOR APPEAL: 1250.06 (a) Setback from property lines. Ordinance requires that a 25ft front yard setback be maintained or the average of the adjoining parcels. The average setback is 119.5ft to the street. Applicant proposes a 91 ft. setback to construct an addition. Sharon A. Miller Village Clerk
SC: 10-31-12
CITY OF WIXOM SURPLUS VEHICLE & EQUIPMENT SALE The City of Wixom is currently soliciting bids for the following surplus vehicles utilizing the on-line bidding service of Michigan Inter-Governmental Trade Network (MITN):
YEAR 1995 2006 2007 2008 2008 1996
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
MAKE MODEL Chevy Suburban Ford Crown Victoria Ford Crown Victoria Ford Crown Victoria Ford Crown Victoria Mohawk Four Post Runway Lift ( 25000 lb capacity)
The site is located at www.mitn.info. Click on Surplus Auctions to view all surplus items up for auction. If interested in bidding for an item, simply click on “Bidders Can Click Here to Register” and complete (free-of-charge) the Registration Form for Surplus Auctions. All information, includes deadlines, is listed on the site. If you have questions, please call the Department of Public Works at (248) 624-0141. The City of Wixom reserves the right to accept or reject any bids. S.C. 10-31-12
for Charter Township of West Bloomfield Township Board
1. Synopsis of the meeting held on: Monday, October 22, 2012 The above synopsis shall be posted (in their entirety) at the following locations: (1) Office of the Township Clerk 4550 Walnut Lake Road (2) Main Township Library 4600 Walnut Lake Road (3) Township’s website www.wbtwp.com Catherine Shaughnessy Township Clerk SC: 10-31-12
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID CITY OF WIXOM WIXOM, MICHIGAN 48393 The City of Wixom will receive bids at the Office of the City Clerk; 49045 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, Michigan 48393, until 10:00 a.m. on November 15, 2012 at which time the sealed bids will be opened and read for the following vacant lot properties: 2036 Millstream (parcel no. 17-31-177-004) 3870 West Maple (parcel no. 17-31-177-008) To obtain the bid information, call Debra Barker (248) 624-3280 Monday through Thursday, 7:15 am to 5:30 pm.
COMMUNITY LEGAL NOTICES CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF COMMERCE 2009 Township Drive Commerce Township MI 48390 (248)960-7020
ABSENTEE BALLOT NOTICE To the Qualified Electors of the Charter Township of Commerce, the last day to apply for ABSENTEE BALLOTS for the Tuesday, November 6, 2012 Election is:
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2012 The Charter Township of Commerce Clerk’s Office will be open on Saturday, November 3, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Electors who wish to receive an Absent Voter Ballot for the Tuesday, November 6, 2012 Election by mail must submit Absent Voter Ballot applications by 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2012. Daniel P. Munro Clerk, Charter Township of Commerce
S.C. 10-31-12
SC: 10-31-12
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Orchard Lake Village Council will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, November 19, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to review community development and housing needs, inform citizens of the availability of funds and eligible uses of Community Development Block Grant Funds, and receive comments on proposed activities. The City of Orchard Lake Village will consider any public comments on this matter at this time. The hearing is open to the public to voice their views or submit written comments. Approximately $5,000 may be available to the City of Orchard Lake Village to fund eligible projects. You are invited to attend the hearing, or you may submit your comments in writing to the City Clerk at City Hall. Rhonda R. McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com S.C. 10-31-12
LAKE MANAGEMENT CONSULTING SERVICES The Village of Wolverine Lake, Michigan will receive sealed proposals at the Village Clerk’s Office, 425 Glengary Road, Wolverine Lake, Michigan 48390-1404 for Lake Management Consulting Services for the Village of Wolverine Lake until noon (local time), Monday, November 19, 2012. Bid forms and specifications are on file for inspection at the Wolverine Lake Village Office and copies may be obtained by qualified bidders. The Village of Wolverine Lake reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, to waive any irregularities in the proposals, or negotiate with any bidder, should it be deemed in its best interest to do so. Sharon A. Miller Village Administrator
SC: 10-31-12
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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IN OUR OPINION
Endorsements ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 49
ever ridiculous or inconceivable reason, getting involved in a metro Detroit court race. It’s been called “unprecedented” and a “national anomaly” — and that’s just in the last two days. This smacks of cloak-and-daggerism, a wink-and-nod ploy to stack a Circuit Court bench. In other words, an effort to buy judges. Let’s not let that happen. Bowman, Langford Morris, McMillen, Potts, and Warren have the experience, legal bona fides and skills, and — yes, to borrow their campaigns’ word — integrity. Voters should resoundingly support them on Nov. 6. 51ST DISTRICT COURT (Vote for one) Voters have a choice between Judge Jodi Debbrecht and a former assistant county prosecutor — whose prosecutorial record has been called into question for her handling of a sexual abuse case that was dismissed due to lack of evidence — for the 51st District Court bench. Debbrecht, appointed by former Gov. Jennifer Granholm after current Circuit Court Judge Phyllis McMillen was tapped for her current position, has earned a six-year term on the 51st District Court, which serves Waterford Township. We know of no concrete reason why Debbrecht shouldn’t serve on the bench. Frankly, it seems as though the only attacks against Debbrecht — who has been a fair judge taking on a leadership and advocacy role in the community — stem from the fact that she was appointed by a Democratic governor, not a Republican. Remember, these are non-partisan races, folks; if a judge does the job competently and fairly, there’s no reason to oust them, save for cases of personal or professional misconduct. There are no such allegations — at least none with any shred of credibility — surrounding Debbrecht. She should earn a full term on Nov. 6. 5TH COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT (Waterford, West Bloomfield) Don’t be confused by the fact that two “John Scotts” will appear on the Nov. 6 general election ballot. The incumbent John A. Scott, the Republican county commissioner first elected in 2002 — not John Charles Scott, the independent candidate charged in a voter fraud scheme earlier this month — is the right choice for voters in the 5th Board of Commissioners District. Commissioner Scott has been a strong advocate for his constituents, and has been a voice of reason among the 25-member board. A staunch opponent of new or increased taxes, Scott takes stands on principle — even when that means ruffling the feathers of some in his own party members. We hope that continues. It would be a shame for the county to lose his voice on the Board of Commissioners, especially if that came at the hands of someone now facing a
misdemeanor charge for election fraud in a silly, sophomoric scheme to apparently siphon votes away from him and tip the scales in favor of the Democratic candidate. Vote for incumbent Commissioner John A. Scott on Nov. 6. COMMERCE TOWNSHIP CLERK (Vote for one) It’s not very often that someone on the ballot is telling his constituents to vote for someone else, but that’s what Commerce Township Clerk Dan Munro is doing since, if elected on Nov. 6, he plans on resigning from the post and recommending the appointment of Janet Bushey to the position. That leaves us with an easy decision: Vote for Janet Bushey on Tuesday. Bushey comes to the fray with significant government experience in Commerce Township and knows the inner workings of the township well. Voting for her, rather than Munro, the incumbent, would eliminate any possible tiffs among the township board over an appointment after Munro resigns if elected. Supporting Bushey at the polls on Nov. 6 is the right thing to do. HIGHLAND TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Republican Rick Hamill and Democrat Doug Bourgeois are vying for a four-year term as the township’s chief executive. Although both men would make sound successors to retiring township Supervisor Triscia Pilchowski, Hamill has the upper hand in the race based on having more direct municipal experience. In a refreshing twist, both men share a mutual respect for one another, saying that no matter who is elected, it’s a “win-win” for Highland. Both also said they would help the other in their new position as supervisor if they didn’t win. Kudos to both men for bringing a sense of civility and respect to the political arena. Hamill brings with him years of experience serving Highland in a number of capacities, and advocates for a better working relationship with the business community while also maintaining the character of the township. He’s the best bet on Nov. 6. MILFORD TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) While independent challenger Jim Crane brings to the equation a fairly remarkable resume that includes a variety of experiences, we see no reason why incumbent township Supervisor Don Green shouldn’t get the nod from Milford Township voters. Having been in the job for over a decade, Green has been a sound leader for the township while also working closely with Milford Village officials in a slew of areas. A no-nonsense leader who has a proven track record of success, Green is the man for the job. WATERFORD TOWNSHIP CLERK (Vote for one) Republican Sue Camilleri and Democrat Teresa
Fortino are squaring off in the Nov. 6 general election for the right to serve a four-year term as the township’s clerk. Though a difficult decision, voters should go with Camilleri. Camilleri would come to the job with significant experience in Township Hall, where she has worked for 16 years. She also showed a bit more extensive knowledge of the issues the township is facing. However, it should be noted that Fortino, we feel, would do a fine job in the clerk position. We’ve heard from numerous people that she’s cut from the same cloth as her mother, long-time Waterford clerk Betty Fortino, who passed away in 2011, and we don’t doubt that. We know this endorsement of Camilleri will anger many in the community, but we’re sticking with that decision. WATERFORD TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Waterford Township Supervisor Carl Solden, who has served in that capacity since 2000, has earned another four-year term as the township’s chief executive. On Nov. 6, he faces Republican Gary Wall, a business owner with significant experience. But Wall admitted in an interview that he doesn’t view himself as being “more qualified” than Solden, which makes the decision relatively easy for us — and it should for voters, too. Don’t get us wrong — Wall has the capabilities and skill sets to be a successful supervisor in Waterford, and we were genuinely impressed with the civility the two men showed toward each other in a candidate interview. But with Solden, there is no proverbial learning curve. He’s been doing the job for a dozen years, and another four years are in order for the former police officer of 32 years. WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) If you want to talk about a conundrum, this would be the very definition of it. On the one hand, you have an incumbent township supervisor in Michele Economou Ureste, who has for four years been the leader of a township Board of Trustees rife with tension and political squabbling. On the other hand, you have a former township supervisor, David Flaisher, who was the leader of a township Board of Trustees also rife with tension and political squabbling. While we suspect that neither are or were the direct source of the farce that is otherwise known as West Bloomfield Board of Trustees amiability and civility, the buck stops or stopped with both of them. It was their job to put an end to it; neither did. So with that, and while Flaisher indicated he’s mended ties with the Republicans on the board during his tenure, we cannot bring ourselves to endorse either candidate in this race. It’s not like it’s a total loss. Both have done the job, so there is no learning curve needed — at least not when it comes to the nuts and bolts of the job. Board relations management, however, is an entirely different story. Sorry. Lots of luck to you, West Bloomfield voters. ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Call for tuba and euphonium musicians for Christmas Concert, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, Lakeland High School Band Room, 1630 Bogie Lake Road, White Lake. Reserve copy of music by Thursday, Nov. 1. 248-889-8660. ■ Views and Visions Art Show and Sale: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at the Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA) gallery located at 205 W. Livingston Road in Highland. Art and All That Jazz! Opening Night Celebration and Awards, live music by Gary Weisenburg and Company, delicious food and drink. Tickets at the door are $10 and $5 youth. If you have any questions, call 248-797-3060. ■ Sierra Club: Meeting, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, Birmingham Unitarian Church, 38651 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills. www.facebook.com/clubSEMG. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Van Go Trip, Pine Lake Glass Artist Studio and Demonstration, 9:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, 205 W. Livingston Road, Highland. Admission is $20; lunch on your own at Victoria’s Delight in downtown Oxford. 248-889-8660. ■ West Bloomfield High School’s Fine Arts Department: “Radium Girls,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov. 1-3, West Bloomfield High School Auditorium, 4925 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Drama inspired by a true story, “Radium Girls” traces the fatal tragedy of the factory women of the U.S. Radium Corporation in 1926. wbhstheatre.com. 248-8656720 or wbhsdrama@gmail.com. ■ Bethany North Oakland Singles Group: “Pre Election” Singles Dance with DJ Tom Tucker, snacks and cash bar, 8 p.m.-midnight, Saturday, Nov. 3, Waterford Elk’s Lodge, 2100 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. Admission $12. 248-891-8938. ■ Orchard Lake Community Church: Women’s Association’s Fall Bake/Arts & Crafts Sale, fund-raiser for Crane Center’s Uganda student tuitions, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, 5171 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake. Arts and Crafts items are from Uganda, Bethlehem and China. Free admission. 248-682-2762. ■ Huron Valley Recreation and Community Education: In conjunction with White Lake Township and Stone Cold Statuary, Inaugural Fall Market Season, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 3, and Nov. 17, Huron Valley Lakeland High School inside the pool entrance, 1500 Bogie Lake Road, White Lake. whitelakefarmersmar-
ket.weebly.com. 248-676-8390, or 248755-1195. ■ Walled Lake Western High School: Performing Arts Department’s “A Christmas Carol, the Musical,” 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9-11 and 16-18, 600 Beck Road between 15 Mile and Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake. Tickets price range, $18-$20 for adults and $14-$16 for seniors and students. wlwmusical.com or 248-956-4625. ■ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: 5th annual craft show, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. Table rental, $25. Apply online at lutheransonline/sllc or call 248-682-0770. ■ Milford United Methodist Church: Holiday Marketplace, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 10, 1200 Atlantic Street, Milford. 6-footby-6-foot booth is $25 or $30 with electricity. 248-684-2798. ■ St. Perpetua Knights of Columbus: Euchre Tournament, 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, 134 Airport Road, Waterford. 248421-0171. ■ Our Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church: Youth Group’s “Harvest to Holiday Craft Show,” bake sale, food vendors, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, 13667 W. Highland Road, Hartland. 248887-4300. ■ St. William Parish: Rosary Altar Society Turkey Bingo, turkey dinner, door prizes, raffle, gifts, home made luncheon, noon, Sunday, Nov. 11, St. William Parish Walled Lake off Pontiac Trail. Walled Lake. 248685-2025. ■ Wixom Historical Society: Antique Appraisal Fair, noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11, Wixom City Hall, 49045 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. A $5 fee benefiting the society is charged for each treasured piece appraised. 248-624-3950 or ndingeldey@sbcglobal.net. ■ Oakland County Genealogical Society:”Computer Program Night (Roots Magic and The Master Genealogist) 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 4400 N. Adams, Troy. Free admission/public invited. 248 519-5064 or ocgsmi.org. ■ Milford High School Theatre Company: “Bye Bye Birdie,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 16-17, Milford High School Center for Performing Arts, 2380 S. Milford Road, Highland. Tickets available at the door or on line at mhsperformin-
garts.com or call 248-684-8091.
or 248-698-8302.
■ St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows: Craft show, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, 1955 E. Commerce Road, Milford. 248366-5394 or email ccathys@comcast.net.
■ 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.
■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Tuba Christmas Concert in conjunction with Arts & Greens Holiday Artist Market, live art demonstrations and one-of-a-kind gifts, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 17-18, Bogie Lake Greenhouses, 1525 Bogie Lake Road, White Lake. Concert, 2 p.m. Saturday. 248889-8660. ■ Faith Community Church: Crafters wanted for Holiday Happiness Craft Show, Saturday, Nov. 24, 2274 Crescent Lake Road, Waterford. Booth rentals, $30. 248249-0204. ■ Waterford Garden Club: Waterford Greens Market, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Nov. 29-30, Waterford Parks and Recreation Building, Crescent Lake Road, Waterford. wjg530@yahoo.com. ■ Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit: Shalom Street Museum, new exhibit, “Be Kind to Our World: Shomrei Adamah,” with butterfly garden, a display about wind energy, and a hydroponic garden, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays, now through the end of November, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. 248-661-1000. ■ Waterford Baptist Cathedral: Crafters wanted for annual Holiday Craft Show, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 7-8, 2640 Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-5022. ■ Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church: Crafters wanted for annual Holiday Craft Show, Saturday, Dec. 8, 2905 S. Commerce, Walled Lake. 248-568-6119. ■ Oakland County Market: Open 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays now through Christmas, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. oakgov.com/cmarket. ■ Catholic Social Services of Oakland County: Senior companion volunteers needed to support adults with developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic mental illness, as well as the physically frail and homebound. 248-559-1147, ext. 3434. ■ Dads of Foreign Service: Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Sundays, VFW Post No. 4156, 321 Union Lake Road, White Lake. vfw4156.org
■ Grace Hospice: Volunteers with reliable transportation needed to visit terminally-ill patients and family members in our communities. Free training and classes are now forming. 1-888-937-4390. ■ Lakes Area Optimist Club: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Thursdays, Walled Lake Big Boy on Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake. Volunteer opportunity available. 248520-4680. ■ Mobile Knit Shop: Knit-Togethers, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Jewish Community Center, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Sessions are $5 each. 248-421-2566. ■ Mothers & More: Book club meeting, 7 p.m., first Monday of the month, Caribou Coffee, Union Lake Road, Commerce. 248-360-7702. ■ Multi-Lakes Conservation Association: All-you-can-eat fish fry, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, 3860 Newton Road, Commerce. 248-363-9109. ■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248-5200095. ■ St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church: Mom’s Day Out, free child care for errand-running moms, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays, 3795 Sashabaw Road, Waterford. 248-674-4322. ■ Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene: Airport Road Childhood Learning Center is now enrolling for its new Young Fives pre-kindergarten programs for fall at 2840 Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-6161. ■ Waterford Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, The Shark Club on M59, Waterford. 248-625-4897.
SUPPORT GROUPS
❐ Orchard Lake Community Church Presbyterian: Free eight-week seminar and support group for people who are grieving, 7 p.m. Mondays now through Nov. 12, 5171 Commerce Road, West
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Bloomfield. Registration, walk-ins are welcome. 248-682-0730. ❐ Age with Grace: Caregiver support group meeting, 6 p.m. the first Monday of every month at 2230 E. Highland Road, Highland. Space is limited, please call to reserve your place. 248-529-6431. ❐ AA Meetings: 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Four Towns United Methodist Church, 6451 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford. 248-6820211. ❐ Alzheimer Caregiver Support Group: Meeting, 1 p.m. Mondays, Canterberry on the Lake, 5601 Hatchery Road, Waterford. 248-674-9292. ❐ 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. 248-6981300. ❐ 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. 248-6821747. ❐ C.A.S.A.: Kleptomaniacs and Shoplifters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Wesley Room, Commerce United Methodist Church, 1155 N. Commerce Road, Commerce. 248-358-8508 or kleptomaniacsanonymous.org. ❐ Divorce Care: Support group meeting for adults and children, 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile, Novi. 248-755-9533. ❐ Families Anonymous, West Bloomfield Chapter: Twelve-step support group for recovery for relatives and friends concerned about the use of drugs, alcohol or related behavioral problems, 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, West Bloomfield area. 1-800736-9805 or familiesanonymous.org. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 866-914-3663 or foodaddicts.org. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 9 a.m. Saturdays, Central United Methodist Church, 3882 Highland Road, Waterford. 248-623-7921 or 248-7620633 or foodaddicts.org. ❐ MOMS Club of Waterford South:
Support group for mothers at home, weekly activities, monthly meetings, third Friday of the month, Waterford area. momswaterfordsouth.webs.com. ❐ Over-Eaters Anonymous: Recovery from compulsive eating, 12-step program, meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Hatchery Road, Waterford. 248-338-9666. ❐ Postpartum Depression Support Group: Meeting, 6:45 p.m. Thursdays, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Commerce. 248-937-5220. ❐ TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): 5:30 p.m. weigh-in, 6 p.m. meeting, Tuesdays, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Conference Room 1-C, 1 William Carls Drive, Commerce. 248-363-6369 or e-mail jr.h@att.net.
SENIOR ACTIVITIES
❐ Active Adult Program: Master Class in Song Interpretation, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit, 6600 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Admission is $5. 248-967-4030. ❐ Dublin Senior Center: Senior Book Group, Helen Simonson’s “Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand,” 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 18, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-698-2394. ❐ Highland Adult Activity Center: Thanksgiving party, Sunday, Nov. 18, 209 N. John Street, Highland. 248-887-1707. ❐ Highland Eagles: Annual free senior dinner, 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, VFW Hall, 3200 N. Duck Lake Road, Highland. Serving a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings and dessert. All seniors from Highland, Milford and White Lake are welcome. Shut ins may sign up with their senior center or by calling 248-8893069. ❐ Richardson Community Senior Center: Soup, Sandwich and Movie Day, noon to 3 p.m. Thursdays, 1485 E. Oakley Park, Commerce. 248-926-0063. ❐ RSVP: Retired and Senior Volunteer Program needs volunteers, age 55 and up to work at hospitals, cultural institutions, food pantries, schools and more. For more information, contact Carol Heckman at 248-559-1147, ext. 3435. ❐ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Senior Stretch and Tone, 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. 248-682-0770.
❐ Waterford Senior Center: Health & Housing Fair- refreshments/lunch, raffle prizes, etc., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1; Art Expression, 9 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, Room No. 2, 3621 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. Five-dollar donation toward art class supplies; $1 per day to help offset Waterford Senior Center costs. 248-683-9450. ❐ West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Senior Programs: Line dancing, 11 a.m. Fridays at the Corners, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration. 248451-1900. ❐ Wixom Senior Center: Coffee Talk, 11 a.m. Thursdays, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. 248-624-0870.
PARKS
❐ Indian Springs Environmental Discovery Center: “Tot Time: Nuts About Squirrels” and “Basic Orienteering,” Saturday, Nov. 3; “Webelos: Scientist,” 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Registration. 248625-6640. ❐ Kensington Metropark: “Survival Saturday-How to Get Un-lost,” ages 10 and up, 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3; “Survival Sunday-Shelter Building,” ages 10 and up, 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4; “Pottery Workshop: Native American Techniques,” ages 6 and up, 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, Kensington Metropark, Milford. Registration, 810-2278917. ❐ Oakland County Parks: Free admission for Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11, at all Oakland County Parks. For more information, visit Oakland County Parks and Recreation at DestinationOakland.com, or find Oakland County Parks and Recreation on Facebook. ❐ Waterford Oaks County Park: Platform Tennis Mixer, 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, 1702 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. Free admission. Registration, 248-645 9671 or 248892-0580.
LIBRARY EVENTS ❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Speaker/ Author Kurt David, “From Glory Days: Successful Transitions of Professional Detroit Athletes,” 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8; Monthly Morning Book Discussion, Chad Harbach’s “The Art of Fielding,” 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 16, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. Registration. 248-669-8108 or commercelibrary.info. ❐ Highland Township Public Library: “See a Juggler! Be a Juggler!” all ages, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 3; Great Parents Great Story, play group for parents and children, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland. 248-8872218. ❐ Milford Public Library: “I Geek Reading,” adult book discussion, Diane Setterfield’s “The Thirteenth Tale,” 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 12, 330 Family Drive, Milford. 248-684-0845. ❐ Walled Lake City Library: Classical Music with “Fabs” Kaldobsky, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6; Afternoon Book discussion, Tuesday, Nov. 20, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake. Registration. 248624-3772. ❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Weaving Demonstration, adult/teen program, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5; Tuesday Evening Book Discussion, Anne Lamott’s “A Journal of My Son’s First Son,” 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. Registration. 248-674-4831. ❐ West Bloomfield Library: “Little Explorers,” stories, songs, science exploration, creative dramatics, ages 3-5, 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1; Music @ Main, Alvin Waddles (reincarnation of Fats Waller), adult program, 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. 248-682-2120. ❐ White Lake Township Library: Honor Flight Michigan: The Legacy Project documentary, adult program, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7; Crafty Saturday: Flower Cornucopia, adult program, Saturday, Nov. 10; Book Bunch Barbara O’ Connor’s “How to Steel a Dog,” grades 3-5, Wednesday, Nov. 14, 7527 E. Highland Road, White Lake. 248-6984942. ❐ Wixom Public Library: 20th Anniversary Birthday Celebration, children’s program, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10; Between the Lines (Adult) Book Club, Adriana Trigiani’s “The Shoemaker’s Wife,” 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. 248-624-2512.
RELIGIOUS ❐ Shephard of the Lakes Lutheran Church: Veteran’s Day Salute, service, luncheon, WWII memorabilia, USO show, 10:30 a.m. Nov. 11, 2905 S. Commerce, Walled Lake. RSVP for lunch, Nov. 7; freewill donations. 248-624-4238 or shepherdlakes.org.
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CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
NOTICE OF ZONING BOARD PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended, the City of Orchard Lake Village Zoning Board of Appeals will consider the following appeals at their Regular Meeting on Monday, November 19, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan: - Oram Appeal – 3294 Wards Pointe (Side Yard Setback Variance for A.C. Condensers & Generator. Open Space Variance) Complete copies of the request are available for review at the Office of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written Comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Office, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing. Rhonda McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
S.C. 10-31-12
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Walled Lake Northern’s Matt Kosmalski came up big in his team’s state playoff debut at home on Friday, Oct. 26. Kosmalski caught four passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns, including a key 72-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter, as the Knights knocked off Howell, 41-27, in a Division 1 pre-district game. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Northern fends off Howell Knights propelled to showdown with CC after 41-27 victory By Michael Shelton staff writer
Last Friday marked a memorable debut in the state playoffs for Walled Lake Northern in more ways than one. In a high-scoring game complete with turnovers and a little tension, the Knights held on to defeat Howell, 4127, at home in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 1 pre-district matchup on Friday, Oct. 26.
“It was exciting. The kids lived it up and it was fun,” Northern Head Coach Brett Moore said. Northern (8-2) stretched its schoolrecord winning streak to eight games with the victory and will have home-field advantage for a Division 1 district final on Friday, Nov. 2. The Knights’ next opponent will be Novi Detroit Catholic Central (6-4). The Shamrocks will serve as the ultimate measuring stick on how far Northern has
come this season. On Friday, Northern faced a Highlanders (6-4) team that started 2-3 before winning four straight to qualify for the state playoffs.
View VIDEO CLIPS relative to this story at www.spinalcolumnonline.com
Northern led Howell 28-7 at halftime and started the third quarter strong as
its defense forced a Highlanders turnover on downs at the Knights’ 25yard line. On the ensuing drive, quarterback Collin O’Donnell threw a 60-yard touchdown pass to Matt Kosmalski for a 34-7 Northern advantage to cap a four-play, 75-yard drive. However, Howell answered right away on the first play of its next drive as Damian Menoch ran 60 yards for a PAGE 59 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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Northern Knights ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 58
touchdown to cut the Knights’ lead to 34-13 with just under 9 minutes left in the third. Then with just under 2 minutes left in the quarter, quarterback Jonny Cheshire found Zebedee Garza for a 27-yard touchdown connection to cut Howell’s deficit to 15. Early in the fourth quarter, Cheshire then found Garza again for a 65-yard touchdown strike before throwing a 2-point conversion pass to Austin Lord, cutting the Knights’ lead to 34-27. “It was just a matter of going into coast mode and you can’t do that,” Moore said. Just when it seemed that Northern was on the verge of a monumental collapse with just over 9 minutes remaining, O’Donnell turned to Kosmalski, who took a pass and fought his way down the sideline, fending off a tackle while staying inbounds and finding the end zone for a 72-yard touchdown. That score put the Knights up 4127 and deflated the Highlanders’ momentum. “I’m not really impressed with (Kosmalski) anymore, because I already know he’s the best player in Oakland County,” Moore said. “We persevered and got back to playing fast football.” Howell then punted on its next drive before Northern was able to eat up some of the clock before turning the ball over on downs at Howell’s 1yard line. The Highlanders worked their way into the Knights’ red zone hoping for a score and an ensuing onside kick, but Northern stood tall and withstood Howell’s attack as time ran down. When O’Donnell took a knee to run the clock out, the Knights stormed the field in celebration. Their only miscue at the end was trying to give Moore a Gatorade bath and missing the mark as Moore saw it
FOOTBALL
St. Mary’s thrashes South Lyon East; Avondale next up Orchard Lake St. Mary’s began defense of its Division 3 state championship by officially initiating a new team to state playoff football.
Walled Lake Northern’s stout defense gave little room for Howell quarterback Johnny Cheshire to throw on Friday, Oct. 26 in a Division 1 pre-district playoff game. But, the Knights will face a much stiffer challenge when they welcome Division 1 state power Novi Detroit Catholic Central for a district final matchup on Friday, Nov. 2. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
coming and moved. Last Friday was a moment that Northern had longed for since its inception, to not only finally play in a state playoff game, but to do so in front of its home fans and come out victorious. Kosmalski caught four passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for 111 yards on 12 carries. O’Donnell completed 9-of-17 passes for 241 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for 87 yards and a
touchdown on 16 carries. Ginster also had 96 yards rushing and a touchdown on 11 carries, along with three catches for 40 yards. On defense, Mike Peer finished with 12 total tackles to go along with a fumble recovery touchdown, while Kosmalski had eight tackles and Aaron Rabaut and Chase Burton each had four tackles. For Howell, Cheshire completed 18of-38 passes for 234 yards and two touchdowns, while Menoch had 18 car-
ries for 116 yards and two touchdowns. It seemed as if it would be Northern’s night from the very beginning, as O’Donnell scored on a 59yard touchdown run on just the third play from scrimmage in the game. Then on the first play of its ensuing drive, Howell fumbled the ball away and P.J. Kern recovered for the Knights at the Howell 31-yard line. However, Matt Finn would then
The Eaglets slammed South Lyon East at home, 59-7, on Friday, Oct. 26 in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 3 predistrict game. Fresh off defeating Novi Detroit Catholic Central the previous week to win the Detroit Catholic League A-B championship, St. Mary’s (8-2) was more than ready for the Cougars (5-5), who were making their first-ever state playoff appearance.
“We tried to get in the trenches and play good defense and have our offensive line get off the ball,” St. Mary’s Head Coach George Porritt said. Tyson Smith kicked off the Eaglets’ scoring with an 86-yard kick return for a touchdown in the first quarter. From there, St. Mary’s was off to the races. When halftime finally arrived, the Eaglets led 45-7 and were clearly leaving the Cougars in the dust.
Parker McInnis also had a 77-yard kick return for a touchdown, while Grant Niemiec had a 36-yard touchdown run. Anthony Renfroe scored two touchdowns on runs of 56 and 31 yards in the third quarter to cap St. Mary’s scoring, while Mark Zanders and Charles Croone, Jr. each had a touchdown run. “In the state playoffs, you expect everything and anything,” Porritt said.
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“We have to be more consistent, get to the ball defensively and do things right all the time.” The Eaglets will face a much stiffer test on Friday, Nov. 2 when it hosts Auburn Hills Avondale (9-1) in a Division 3 district final. The last time the Eaglets and Yellow Jackets met in a 2010 Division 3 district final, St. Mary’s prevailed in a 7144 offensive showcase. Avondale is coming off a 21-19 victory over Bloomfield Hills Lahser in its pre-district matchup. “Avondale has good running backs and a big strong offensive line and defensive line. We have to control their speed,” Porritt said.
Northern Knights ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 59
fumble the ball for Northern and Cameron Englund recovered for Howell at its own 16-yard line. After the Highlanders punted the ball away, Kosmalski then put the ball on the turf and Tyler Lassitter recovered for Howell at its own 36-yard line. Menoch then put the Highlanders on the board with a 12-yard touchdown run with just over a minute left in the first quarter to help tie the score at 7. Northern then started at its own 40yard line and drove all the way to the Howell 1-yard line before fumbling the ball away for a third time. But, with just over 9 minutes left in the second, the Highlanders fumbled the ball on a handoff at its own 1-yard line and Mike Peer recovered the ball in the end zone as the Knights led 14-7 with their defense picking up the points. After a Howell punt, Jake Ginster scored on a 7-yard touchdown run for Northern with just under 5:30 left in the second. Howell then turned the ball over on downs and O’Donnell threw a slant pass to Kosmalski, who took it to the end zone for a 35-yard touchdown connection. The Highlanders drove the ball into Northern territory, but an emphatic sack of Cheshire by Aaron Chretien on fourth down preserved a 21-point advantage for Northern at halftime. It was a fast and furious first half that featured a combined five turnovers by both teams. “I’ve seen this kind of thing before. It becomes contagious. I couldn’t explain it,” Moore said. “But the fumble recovery touchdown was huge for our defense and they held the run well. When you force a team to throw the ball
Lakers prevail, 15-7 Offense lackluster, but defense shines
By Michael Shelton staff writer
Playing in its first state playoff game after a year’s absence, Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes looked about as rusty as a team could be on offense. Fortunately, its defense picked up the slack and helped deliver a 15-7 victory at home over Pittsford in a Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 8 pre-district game on Saturday, Oct. 27. Despite the win, Our Lady Head Coach Mike Boyd let it be known that he was less than pleased with his team’s offensive output. “We have to be a better offense. Our blocking was atrocious. We either didn’t block or we blocked the wrong guy and we didn’t run very hard,” Boyd said. “We won because of our defense. The defense did an outstanding job. They only gave up six yards in the first half.” Leading the Lakers’ (8-2) defensive effort was Richie Cross, who finished with three interceptions on the day, including two in the second half. Saturday’s game also saw the return of Garrett Ross, who had missed most of the season due to injury, and he kicked off Our Lady’s scoring by grabbing a 30-yard touchdown pass from Sal Mastromatteo in 34 times, you take them out of their element.” The Knights know that they can’t afford such miscues on Friday against the Shamrocks, who have won 11 state championships and finished as the runner-up in Division 1 last season. Catholic Central is battle-tested in the Detroit Catholic League and proved its mettle in a 21-15 victory at 8-2 Hartland in a pre-district game last Friday. “We’re going to treat Catholic Central the same way as our other opponents. Every week is big and we’re going to keep it as normal as possible,” Moore said.
Western comes back late to beat Farmington, 31-28 Trailing by 5 late in the fourth quarter and facing fourth down with its season on the line, Walled Lake Western quarterback Kyle Bambard knew exact-
the first quarter. Spencer Howell added a 42-yard field goal to give the Lakers a 9-0 halftime advantage. However, Pittsford (7-3) cut its deficit to two in the third quarter on a 1-yard touchdown run by Travis Wilson on its first drive of the half. Pittsford then intercepted Mastromatteo in the end zone in the fourth quarter, just when it looked like Our Lady was going to score. The Wildcats’ momentum was short-lived for only one play as Ross then grabbed an interception and returned it to the Pittsford 10-yard line. Mastromatteo would then finish what he started by throwing a 10yard pass to Cross with just under 9 minutes left to play. “If you took away Pittsford’s first drive of the third quarter, they would only have 35 yards of total offense,” Boyd said. The Lakers will next host a Division 8 district final on Saturday, Nov. 3 against Melvindale Academy for Business and Technology. The Gators (7-3) defeated Westland Lutheran, 48-22, in its predistrict matchup last weekend. “I know Melvindale is big and fast. This last game was a wake-up call for us,” Boyd said. ly who to turn to. Bambard threw a 25-yard touchdown pass into the hands of Nik Heglin before connecting with him again on a two-point conversion as the Warriors pulled off a 31-28 victory at home over Farmington in a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 2 pre-district game on Friday, Oct. 26. The game-winning touchdown that came with just over two minutes left in fourth quarter saved Western from an early exit from the state playoffs after advancing to the Division 2 state semifinals last season. The Warriors (8-2) have now won six straight games and will hit the road on Friday, Nov. 2 to face 9-1 Fenton in a Division 2 district final. “Our kids kept playing hard and faced a lot of adversity. In the past, 9-0 teams and have lost to 6-3 teams and it’s a different environment in the state playoffs,” Western Head Coach Mike Zdebski said. Josh Jones scored Western’s first touchdown on a 1-yard run in the first
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
quarter before Jordan Degreffenreed tied the score for Farmington at 7 on a 2-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, Troy Mitchell threw a 26-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Gourdine to give the Falcons (64) their first lead of the night, 14-7. Malik Green pulled the Warriors closer with a 33-yard touchdown run before Western had an extra-point attempt blocked, keeping Farmington ahead 14-13. But, Bambard would later find Heglin for a 70-yard touchdown connection, putting Western up 20-14 at halftime. Farmington tied the score at 20 in the third quarter thanks to a 42-yard touchdown run by Josh Craven. Bambard gave the Warriors the lead back with his foot on a 43-yard field goal in the fourth quarter for a 23-20 advantage. But, the Falcons then tackled Western in its own end zone for a safety to pull within one point. Then, Gourdine stung the Warriors on defense as he intercepted Bambard and returned the ball 44 yards for a touchdown to put Farmington up 2823, putting the pressure on Western. The Warriors finished with two fumbles and two interceptions on the evening. But, Bambard led his team down the field for what turned out to be a memorable comeback drive. “They didn’t panic with the adversity, the missed tackles, the interceptions or the fumbles,” Zdebski said. Western then had to hold off the Falcons for the final two minutes as they mounted one final drive. But, Farmington did itself in by snapping the ball over the quarterback’s head at Western’s 27-yard line and the Warriors recovered the ball, sealing a hardearned victory. Bambard completed 6-for-17 passes for 172 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, in addition to 32 yards rushing on 10 carries. Heglin finished with two catches for 95 yards and two touchdowns, while Green had six rushes for 82 yards. Josh Jones was held in check for most of the night on offense as he finished with 32 yards on nine carries while catching 2 passes for 31 yards. But, Jones did finish with seven solo tackles on the night. “They did not let us run the ball, but we were able to throw the ball and the offensive line protected us well,” Zdebski said. Zach Prokes led the Warriors with 11 total tackles, while John Simmons and Timone Jones each had eight total tackles.
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OCTOBER 31, 2012
FOOTBALL
Western Warriors ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 60
John Witkowski also had an interception for Western, while Simmons and Melis Johnson each recovered a fumble. Degreffenreed finished with 169 yards rushing and a touchdown for Farmington, which ended its season with a three-game losing streak. The Warriors will next be tested against a Fenton Tigers team that knocked off state power Farmington Hills Harrison in its pre-district matchup, 22-19. “If you can avoid penalties and turnovers as much as possible, you can go a long way,” Zdebski said.
VOLLEYBALL
C-D title goes to Our Lady with win over Sacred Heart By Michael Shelton staff writer
Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes claimed the 2012 Detroit Catholic League C-D championship with a threegame victory over Bloomfield Hills Academy of the Sacred Heart on Monday, Oct. 22. The Lakers took the first game, 2519, before dominating the second game, 25-9, and then pulling out a 25-23 win in a tenacious third game. “We started off a bit nervous and tentative, but once we won game No. 1, we picked up momentum. In game No. 2, we had some tremendous serves to keep Sacred Heart out of system,” Our Lady Head Coach Stephanie Swearingen said. “Then, in game No. 3, we were down due to some defensive errors. The score was 20-23, we took a quick time out, refocused, sided out, and then my senior captain, Haley Howell, served out the final four points to win. “The final rally ended with a nice block by my middle Devon Valent. It was important for the girls to finish in three (games) and not allow Sacred Heart to gain any momentum.” Howell finished with 32 assists, five aces, four kills, four digs and a block for Our Lady, while Allison Samulon had 10 kills, three aces and four blocks. Courtney Wightman had nine kills, eight digs, two aces and a block, while Valent had seven kills, three blocks and two aces. The Lakers finished the regular season with a 33-6-4 record and will play against Macomb Christian in a Michigan High School Athletic Association Class D
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district semi-final tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 1 at Clarkston Everest Collegiate. The winner will face either Everest or Bloomfield Hills Roeper in a Class D district final at Everest on Saturday, Nov. 3.
Area volleyball teams gearing up for state tourney After an exciting regular season, the lakes area’s volleyball teams will now hit the court to begin play in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Class A state tournament this week. Fresh off winning the Kensington Lakes Activities Association’s (KLAA) North Division and Lakes Conference titles, Huron Valley Lakeland faced a tough first-round draw against the North’s second-place team, Walled Lake Central, yesterday, Tuesday, Oct. 30 after press time. The winner will face Walled Lake Western tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 1 at North Farmington. Meanwhile, Walled Lake Northern faced North Farmington in a first-round matchup yesterday after press time. The winner will face Farmington Hills Harrison today, Wednesday, Oct. 31. The North Farmington district final is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 2. Meanwhile, Huron Valley Milford is in the Fowlerville district and will face KLAA West Division rival Howell on Thursday, with the winner playing in the district final Friday. West Bloomfield played district host Birmingham Seaholm yesterday, Oct. 30 after press time, with the winner playing Bloomfield Hills Andover tomorrow. The Seaholm district final is Nov. 3. And finally, Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott are in the Troy district, as Kettering played against Auburn Hills Avondale on Monday, Oct. 29, with the winner facing Troy Athens tonight. Mott played Pontiac on Oct. 29, with the winner facing host Troy tonight, Oct. 31. The Troy district final is Nov. 1.
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REAL ESTATE FOR SALE 11
Hartland
ALL SPORTS MAXFIELD LAKE! 1735 sq. ft., convenient kitchen, 19x13 living room. Family room with natural fireplace. 1 car detached garage. Nice setting, paved road, sandy beach & good fishing. $110,000.
England Real Estate (248)887-9736 LAKEFRONT HOME! Stylish custom built home on all sports Lake Tyrone. 3 bedrooms, sharp kitchen, dining area with cherry cabinets & granite counters open to great room with soaring ceilings. Deck for relaxing & enjoying the views. Walk-out lower level finished with bedroom, walkin closet & full bath. 4 car gar garage w/finished loft area. Paved road. $244,900.
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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE Advertising published is subject to rate card or contract conditions, copies of which are available from the publishing group. Ads are subject to approval before publication, only publication constitutes acceptance. We reserve the right to edit, reject, cancel or reclassify any ad. If an error by the newspaper should occur, the newspaper’s responsibility for that portion of the advertisement in error is limited to cancellation of the charge or publication in the following issue. The publishing group shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from publication or omission of an advertisement.
Mobile Homes for Sale
42
CRANBERRY LAKE ESTATES Is offering NO RENT until Jan. 1, 2013 for those who wish to relocate their manufactured home to our 55 Plus community in White Lake. We will pay $5,500 towards move on singles and $8,500 on doubles. Customer must sign seven year lease with no increases during the length of the lease. For more details, please call 248-698-1120 BEAUTIFUL 55+ COMMUNITY
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Spotless 3 bedroom ranch. Convenient kitchen w/white cabinets, large living room, fenced back yard w/mature trees, full basement & Huron Valley Schools. $107,500.
England Real Estate (248)887-9736
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$1
RENTALS 47
WATERFORD Warehouse Space/ Shop Various Sizes Low Prices
248-496-7652 or 248-496-7648 Houses/ Condos
55
Looking to rent a house or condo? Call Arlene Keller Williams Realty mihome4u.com
248-912-4628 Sales/Purchase/ Leasing and Relocation
WATERFORD 3 bedrooms, newly updated, appliances, large yard and pleasant neighborhood. $1,000 per month plus $1,000 security deposit
248-909-2222
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CHILD CARE
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Lead and or assistant child care givers needed, Commerce area. Full or part time. Experience preferred. Flexible, paid holidays. Call Becky or Amy Z
2 bdrm ranch. Modern granite kitchen & bath with skylights, modern lighting, a/c, large fenced yard, landscaped, lake access, small pets ok. $850. olivermich@mac.com
248-755-5073
248-360-7743 www.rlckids.com
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Lakefront Pontiac Lake 1 bedroom house 2 car garage $750 per month 586-915-7079 56
Pontiac Lake
248-698-1120
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55
EVENING HOURS MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY NOVI AREA Need Crew members for:
6:30pm -10:30 pm 6:30pm - 11:30pm 10:00pm - 1:00am CORPORATE CLEANING GROUP
248-313-9880
1 bdrm for $459 2 bdrm for $499 Includes all utilities except electric. Security Deposit. For more information & availability call
248-626-7857
WHITE LAKE Near M-59. 1 bedroom apt in new home, walkout on lake, responsible male.
Security Deposit
$425 utilities free. (248)824-0856
HELP WANTED
PIZZA MAKER Liner Cooks, Servers, Delivery Person. Day and night shift Apply in person
Alex's Pizzeria 49000 Pontiac Trail Wixom, MI 48393 CHILD CARE CENTER Seeking infant/toddler childcare provider. Early childhood or child related field degree preferred. Must be able to work until 6 p.m. Commerce Twp area. Call 10a.m.-3p.m.
248-669-6880 General/ Help Wanted
65
NOW HIRING: Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info:
1-985-646-1700 DEPT. MI-2319 WAREHOUSE MATERIAL HANDLERS
2 years min. exp. Receive products, pick/ship orders, operate forklift & other equipment from 11a.m.-7:30p.m. MonFri. $9.75/ hr. Wixom area.
Apply online www.caraco.com
Help Wanted Sorters for Smith's Recycling $8 per hour Apply in person 5790 Terex Ave. Springfield Twp.
TAXI & AIRPORT DRIVERS WANTED Full or Part time Day or Night
248-666-2110 LET US LET YOU FIND that perfect employee to fill that spot on your staff. Give us a call at 248-360-7355 or fax to 248360-5308 or 219-360-5309.
OCTOBER 31, 2012 General/ Help Wanted
65
MACHINE OPERATOR AND SORTERS in Orion Township and Rocchester Hills, must clear back ground check, pay $8.50 hour, call 248-528-1444
Medical/ Dental
67
CAREGIVERS WANTED! Home Instead Senior Care of Waterford & Walled Lake are currently seeking compassionate, trustworthy, reliable caregivers to serve elderly clients in their own homes. Must demonstrate maturity and be 21 years of age, with valid car insurance, reliable vehicle, and able to pass a background check. Retirees welcome! Experience is preferred, but will train the right candidate. Please apply online at our employment website: www.homeinsteadmich.com.
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CNAs and HHAs needed with flexible availability needed for Oakland County. 6 months experience or CNA Certification required. Must have current CPR, TB Test, valid Michigan drivers license and proof of auto insurance. Fax resume to Lesli at 248-972-5529 or email to jobs@inspirehomecare.com
Walled Lake Office offers part-time opening that could lead to full time. Ideal assignment for talented college student. Utilizing Microsoft Office including WORD, Excel, PowerPoint 60+ wpm. Filing, copying, telephone answering. Easy to access Walled Lake location. Fax resume to 877-504-2990 Immediate need.
Office/ Clerical
69
ASSISTANT MANAGER WANTED Full time. Tax knowledge a plus. Salary plus incentives. Waterford office.
CALL: 248-681-1177 OR E-MAIL workingat_jh@yahoo.com
PROCESSING SPECIALIST Full time position, West Bloomfield office. Must have good multi tasking/ communication skills. Real estate experience is a plus. Email resume to orders@eliteappraise.com
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BABYSITTER NEEDED in my home, part time mornings, Wixom 248-747-2370
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Are you Retired and your Bills don’t realize it? Are you looking for Part time employment? Are you familiar with ID Grinding Machines or Handy with a Wrench We could use you knowledge. Wixom or Farmington Area Location. Apply in person & ask for JJ Monday-Friday 9:00 am-4:00 pm 4527 Old Plank Rd., Milford, MI 48381
(248) 685-0961 ext. 233
MERCHANDISE FOR SALE
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. CAT- FIXED MALE, 1.5 year old tabby or/ fixed female, 1 year old long hair. Both need another cat's company, no young children. 248-7384901/ 248-214-9898 LIGHT OAK Entertainment center or Bentwood dark wood rocker - free in exchange for moving china cabinet across the room. 248-742-1110
Auction/ Estate Sales
EVERY SATURDAY 9a.m. to 4p.m. 7285 South State St. Goodrich, MI 48438 Vendors call 248-622-1516
89
SCRAP METAL Aluminum .30-.65¢/lb. Copper $2.10-$2.70/lb. Brass 1.00- 1.50/lb. Auto Rads. .90¢-1.20/lb. 1011 Decker, Walled Lk
Mann Metals Corp. (248)960-1200
101
GOODRICH FLEA MARKET
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90
69
103
WHITE LAKE GARAGE/ MOM to mom sale, Saturday 9-4, Sunday 12-4 Monday 9-3 7221 Capri Drive.
Tools
106
AIR TANK- portable 12" diameter, 15 gallon, $20. 248698-4168
Clothing/Apparel
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CARHARTT HOODED Coatbrown, frayed cuffs, XL, $20. 248-425-1004 GIRLS JEANS, 5 pair, size 6 & 7, $10. 248-666-9444 NEW WINTER Jacket/ vest size small women $10 each 248-960-7285
Appliances
122
AMANA refrigerator $100, Maytag dishwasher $50. 248683-2747
Art/Crafts
128
12TH ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW & BAKE SALE St. Mark Lutheran Church 7979 Commerce Rd. West Bloomfield
Saturday, Nov 3rd 9am-3:30pm Lunch Available
Odds N Ends
138
25' CHAIN Link fence all poles and hardware $25 248-3608485 CLOSING CRAFT sewing room after 50 years. Too much to mention. 248-3639927 TAPPER MICROWAVE $25 OBO 248-684-0108
BOATS/ OUTDOOR Boats/Motors/ Trailers
164
DAVE'S MOBILE MARINE •Pontoon Hauling •Winterizing •Shrink Wrapping "We Come To You" •Buy & Sell Motors
(248)666-9248 PONTOON HAULING
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Household Items
129
COUCH,END table, coffee table, piano , best offer. 248926-6165 GE 30" RANGE. Ceramic cooktop, self cleaning. Bisque, excellent condition, super clean. $300. 248-706-1948
170
PWC & BOAT WINTERIZING Shrink Wrapping & Storage Motorcycle, ATV, Snowmobile Parts & Service
Lakes MotorSports 4713 Dixie Highway, Waterford, MI 48329
248-674-0663 www.lakesmotorsports.com
248-363-0741
10AM-3PM Orchard Lake Community Church, Presbyterian 5171 Commerce Rd. Orchard Lake, Mi 48324
Boat Storage
Winter Storage-$175.99 Snowmobiles, Trailers, RV's Fenced, Gated & Lighted Shrink Wrap & Winterization Let us sell your Pontoon.
Tom 248-681-4250 www.tomspontoonservice.com PADDLE BOAT For Sale. $100 firm. 248-366-8440
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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 Trucks/Trailers
185
FORD F150 1985: Black 4X4, 302EFI, A/C, auto, very clean, 113K, $7,000 OBO. 248-6848741.
Cars
187
FIREBIRD 1979 Make offer. Father & son project. 248613-9354 2008 JEEP LIBERTY Sport, 27,000 miles, mint condition, $15,000. 248-926-6165
SALES GUARANTEE Autos, Vans, Trucks See First Want Ad Page FORD ESCORT 1999 4door, 4 cylinder, auto, 97k, $2,000 248-891-7678 FORD EXPLORER 1991 4x4 Sport, 104k, runs good. $1,500 248-245-3322. SUBARU IMPREZA Outback, 1999. 250K miles, good tires, $1,900. 248-363-1947
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COLLEEN'S CLEANING SERVICE is coming to your neighborhood. Residential / Commercial 20 Years Experience • Insured • Local References upon request. Call for FREE Quote or questions 9am-5pm
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502
TONY'S APPLIANCE SERVICE Servicing all Major Appliances. •Hot water tank
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Classified Connection
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Carpet Installation
Cement/Concrete 513
BOB'S CARPET Mohawk Carpet Great buys! Remnants Living room & Bedroom sized $4 per yd. Low prices on restretching, repairs, pad, & installation.
35 years experience Bob (248)681-5771 Cabinetry
515
Elegant Woodworking •Mantels •Fireplace Surrounds •Furniture •Entertainment Center •Custom Cabinets •Crown Molding •Kitchen Cabinets •Custom Bars Harold Canfield
(248)363-3804 elegant-woodworking.com
Cement/Concrete
517
C & G CEMENT Quality Workmanship Residential-Commercial Over 30 years Experience STAMPED CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS FOOTINGS GARAGE FLOORS BLOCK WORK FREE ESTIMATES Michael (248)363-4783 MILFORD LOCATION
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MARCUCCI CONCRETE As Seen on ABC TV "Extreme Home Makeovers" Satisfying Customers for Over 30 Years •DRIVEWAY •PORCHES •FOUNDATIONS •BRICK •BLOCK •STAMPED/ COLORED Lic/Ins Visa/ MC Wixom www.marcuccicement.com
248-486-5900 Doors
524
THE DOOR STOP Since 1980 Garage door springs and door openers repaired and/or replaced.
Call Anytime 248-624-4042 (cell) 248-640-6298 CERTIFIED OVERHEAD DOOR SERVICE •Garage Doors •Repaired/ Services •New Doors/ Openers •Installed at Factory Pricing •Emergency Service Available
248-624-3161 Drywall
526
R & D DRYWALL & PAINTING •Hang & Finished •Small Repair •Texture Repair •Plaster Repair •Wet Sand
Ron (248)673-7665 Electricians
528
MASTER ELECTRICIAN Insured & State Licensed, 25 years experience. Prompt, courteous service. FREE ESTIMATES. ALL TYPES OF WORK. Competitive Prices
(248)683-7985
Excavating
529
J.J.M BACKHOE SERVICE LLC Backhoe service & landscaping. 38 Years Experience. Small or Large Jobs. Fully insured. Free estimates.
(248)624-6458 Flooring
536
Handy Person
545
D & S HOME REPAIRS REMODELING •Additions •Garages •Drywall •Painting •Plumbing •Electrical •Tile •Marble •Kitchens •Baths •Basements •Decks 33 Years ... Licensed
248-684-4175 810-714-3058
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(248)241-6913 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
• Furnaces • Boilers • Air Cleaners •Air Conditioners •Humidifiers Service & Replacements
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248-363-1615 WILL FOLSOM HEATING & COOLING Commercial/Residential Service & Installation Licensed & Insured •Furnaces •A/C Units •Water Heaters •Humidifiers
248-310-7768 Lawn/Garden Services
553
Licensed and Insured
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Outdoor Services, LLC * Snowplowing * Fall clean ups • Gutter cleaning • Lawn Service • Brick pavers • Mulch & weeding •Insured • Res. & Com.
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"The job your husband will do tomorrow." (248)887-2366
Lawn/Garden Services
Siding 553
COLLEGE STUDENT •Fall Clean Up •Tree Trimming
INSURED Shawn Larkins
248-931-0295 Painting/ Decorating
562
FARR'S PAINTING Exterior & Interior Wood Repairs • Caulking Staining • Wallpaper Removal • Drywall repairs • Water repairs Free Power Washing w/paint. farrshomeimprovements.com
(248) 477-7764 (248) 345-3308 VS PAINTING FALL SPECIAL Save 20% this season on exterior/ interior painting, drywall repair, & wallpaper removal on small or big jobs. 25 years experience. licensed and insured. Same day free estimates.
248-894-3239 567
Premier Plumbing Licensed & Insured Complete Plumbing Service New Construction & Remodel Commercial & Residential
248-363-5864
www.artoutdoorservices.com (248)625-5719
Roofing
LADY LIBERTY ENTERPRISES Land Dec-
D&D Construction * Fall Roofing Specials *
orating & Maintenance, LLC. Flower bed weeding, Mulching, Brick Pavers/Repairs, Boulder Walls, Lawn Maintenance, Clean-ups, Tree & Shrub Pruning. Insured.
248-634-7041
571
$200 per sq./30 year Siding • Windows LeafGuards • Gutters
Doug Dible 248-431-6243
Waterproofing
Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com 585 J.M. TILE & MARBLE CUSTOM WORK •Remodeling •Quality Service •New Construction • Repairs •Grout Sealing • Licensed and Insured
John Miller (248)505-8865
599
I.D.C.
Home Service Siding, Trim & Soffitt Guaranteed Professional Installation. Lic./ Ins. References available.
Tile
Plumbing
577
Dry Basements, LLC We Repair: •Poured Walls/ Concrete Block •Waterproofing •Cracked or Bowed Walls •Foundation Repaired Replaced •Underpinning •Crawl Space & Encapsulation •Licensed & Insured •Ron Heck, Builder
(248)420-0116 Wells
603
McPherson WELL SERVICE
jmtileandmarble.com
Trash/Debris Removal
586
Progressive Transportation Specializing in: •Appliances •Furniture •Debris Removal •We haul cars too! Call anytime for estimates & great service 248-887-4892
Tree Service
587
MAXON'S TREE SERVICE •Trimming •Tree Removal •Stump Grinding •Lot Clearing •Firewood & Woodchips "We now have wood fencing & deliver sand, gravel, top soil."
Licensed & Insured Free Estimates
(248)887-2190
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
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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featured properties:
– HIGHLAND – BEAUTIFUL LAKEFRONT RANCH DUCK LAKE 1ST FLOOR LAUNDRY, ON HALF ACRE 212106612 $349,500
– MILFORD – BEAUTIFUL BRICK/STONE HOME WITH GEO THERMAL - 4 CAR GARAGE 212107794 $675,000
– COMMERCE – LOVELY HOME WITH 4 BEDROOMS 2 STORY ENTRY - FLOOR TO CEILING WINDOWS 212105174 $315,999
– WEST BLOOMFIELD – COTTAGE LIVING NEAR LAKE LAKE PRIVILEGES - APPLIANCES STAY 212110209 $47,000
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UNION LAKEFRONT PRICES ARE RISING IT’S A GREAT TIME TO BUY! •75’ sandy shoreline, 200’ deep lot, seawall •Possible walkout site, existing 2 br, 2 ba home #212088077 • EXT. #205
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$349,900 BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME ON ALL-SPORTS DUCK LAKE! •2,962 sq ft, 4 bed, 2 ba, vaulted dining, library •Fp, granite kitchen, 1st flr laundry, bsmt #212093248 • EXT. #246
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•2 separate-buildable lots, newer 2 car gar. •Existing 3 bed, 2 ba, GR, fp, Florida rm, FR #212084822 • EXT. #279
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#212104263 • EXT. #245 P. TW KE A L
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END UNIT CONDO BACKS TO WOODED AREA •1,060 sq ft, 2 bed, 2 ba, GR, ff mstr w/ba access •Kitch w/appl., 2nd flr mstr, bsmt, att. garage #212105253 • EXT. #226
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$249,900 127 FT. OF BULLARD WATERFRONT GORGEOUS TREED .43 ACRE LOT •2,116 sq. ft., walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 ba, wet bar •Part fin. w/o, ff laundry, elevated deck #212091684 • EXT. #234
•Meeting Client’s Needs Since 1977 •Dedicated Listing & Buyer’s Agents •160+ Negotiated/Closed “Short Sales”
$499,900
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We are full time professional Realtors...
GORGEOUS LAKEFRONT HOME ON WOLVERINE LAKE •2,514 sq ft + fin walkout, 4 bed, 2.5 ba, GR, fp •Mstr-jet tub bath, dock/seawall, ff laundry, 2 car #212089282 • EXT. #255
$104,900
GORGEOUS RANCH HOME CHARMING HOME ON MILLION DOLLAR VIEWS ON ALL-SPORTS BRENDEL LAKE! ALL-SPORTS UPPER STRAITS LAKE! SANDY SHORELINE ON WALTERS LAKE! •1,488 sq ft + fin. walkout, 3-4 bed, 2 ba •3 bed, 2 ba, walkout basement, jet tub bath •3 bed, 2 ba, fin. walkout, fp, needs TLC •GR/DR - hdwd flr, 2 fp, deck, patio, dock, shed •GR w/fp, kitch w/appl., decks, dock, 2 car • 3 story deck, 2 car detached gar, shed #212100812 • EXT. #232 #212105889 • EXT. #210 #212095693 • EXT. #266
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SPACIOUS COLONIAL ON LARGE, FENCED LOT •2,080 sq ft & fin bsmt, 3 bed, 2.5 ba, GR-fp •FR, 1st flr laundry, 3 car, 2nd story storage #212079251 • EXT. #228
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ALL-SPORTS UNION LAKEFRONT BUILDING LOT •210 ft. deep, 45 ft sandy shoreline, w/o site •Utilities, city water/sewer at street, W.L. Schls #212055074 • EXT. #264
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BEACH PRIVILEGES ON ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE! •1,600+ sq ft, 3 bed, 2 ceramic ba, 2 car •GR, FR w/fp, newer kitchen, deck, fenced yard
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ALL-SPORTS BRENDEL LAKEFRONT UPDATED RANCH HOME BEAUTIFUL HOME ON 2.6 ACRES- BACKS 1.4 ACRE LOT ON FENCED LOT TO HEARTLAND GLEN GOLF COURSE! •4,000+ sq ft, 5 bed, 3.2 ba, hdwd flr., newer kitch • 2,172 sq ft, 3 bed, 2.5 ba, w/o bsmt, 9 ft. ceiling •3 bed, 2 ba, LR, FR, jet tub bath, appliances •Mstr suite, fp, sauna, 2 car + 1 car garage • 2 sty GR, fp, ff mstr suite & laundry, lg deck •Newer kitch, ff laundry, bsmt, deck, attach 2 car #212103989 • EXT. #224 #212103190 • EXT. #216 #212096727 • EXT. #290
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BIRKDALE BEAUTY LARGE, NICELY LANDSCAPED LOT! •3,627 sq ft, 4-5 bed, 2.5 ba, LR, DR, jet tub ba •2-story GR, ff laundry, w/o bsmt, 3 car #212073978 • EXT. #237
$539,900
$89,900 ALL-SPORTS COMMERCE LAKEFRONT BUILDING LOT •Private gated community-Island Club, Sub park •Gazebo, tennis cts., opportunity to build a dream #211038619 • EXT. #207
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$399,900 BEAUTIFUL TUDOR W/FINISHED WALKOUT 2.33 ACRES BACKS TO HURON RIVER •2,031 sq. ft. + w/o, 3 bed, 2.5 ba., 2nd buildable lot •GR - stone fp, ff laundry, hot tub-sauna-bar, 3 car #212108541 • EXT. #247
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Our performance speaks for itself! Call today for a private consultation.
LAKEFRONT RANCH HOME ON ALL-SPORTS LONG LAKE •3 bed, 1.5 ba, Florida rm, GR, new snackbar kitch •New flooring, covered deck, dock, seawall, 2 car #212075900 • EXT. #241
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$374,000 10+ ACRE HORSE/HERB FARM WITH CIRCA 1880 FARMHOUSE •2,200 sq ft 2 sty, 4 bed, 2 ba, full basement •14 stall barn, 10 fenced pastures, coop, 8 car #212105137 • EXT. #201
With property inventory down, mortgage rates remain low and home pricing on the rise...
There’s No Better Time To Sell! 800-396-5204 + Ext. # for recorded message 2900 Union Lake, Suite 210, Commerce, MI 48382
248-366-7200
Lakes Area’s #1 Team! Zillow - Preferred Agent
Janet Direct: Steve Direct: 248-755-7600 248-755-7500
janet@TheStocktonTeam.com
steve@TheStocktonTeam.com
www.TheStocktonTeam.com
OCTOBER 31, 2012
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Commerce Market Center David Botsford - Team Leader Call about our new agent and veteran’s scholarship programs. 248-360-2900
Whether Buying or Selling a Home…
Christine Atkinson I Specialize in Referrals and I Appreciate Your Help!
Office 248-406-2909 Cell 248-310-8572 UNION LAKE - WHERE DREAMS NEVER END! Move right into this charming allsports Union Lake front home. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,410 sq. ft. All natural sandy beach, professional gardening, spacious kitchen, formal living and dining rooms with spectacular views! $499,900
CEDAR ISLAND LAKE - LIFE IS BETTER HERE Come see this all-sports Cedar Island Lake waterfront home! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and over 2,100 sq. ft. of living space. New stainless steel appliances, family room with wet bar, natural fireplace and huge deck and basement with doorwalls and heated 2 car garage! $299,900
866.784.0917
Email: christineatkinsonrealtor@yahoo.com Visit my website
CHRISTINEATKINSON.COM KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 2900 Union Lake Rd. Ste. 210, Commerce, MI 48382
GREEN LAKE - HIGHLY PRIZED SETTING New England style home featuring huge heated Florida room overlooking 93’ of sandy beach front. 2 master suites, 4 full baths and 2 half baths, 3,474 sq. ft. Wet bar, 3 fireplaces, finished walkout basement and 3 plus car garage with workshop. $599,900
CEDAR ISLAND LAKE - OWN PIECE OF PARADISE Live the sporting life! Ski, swim, fish...right from the convenience of your all-sports Cedar Island home. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,814 sq. ft. Maple cabinetry throughout kitchen with doorwall to spacious deck, formal living, family room with fireplace, oversized 2 car garage located on a huge lot. $269,900
WHITE LAKE Gorgeous home with open floor plan w/kitchen, hearth room and breakfast area. 5 bedrooms; 5 baths; finished walkout lower level; formal dining; great room; first floor master; 3 car garage; much more. Not a short sale. $325,000
Lorrie Bailey
lorriebailey@aol.com kw.com
Agent
lorriebailey.com
Cell
Keller Williams Realty
248-884-6723 Fax
248-406-2901
2900 Union Lake, Suite 210 Commerce Township
Beautiful Contemporary on 2.5 Acres. Walkout Finished Basement.
I NEED HOUSES! I KEEP SELLING MY INVENTORY.
CALL LORRIE IF YOU WANT IT SOLD
PAGE 68
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
FREE Extended Warranty Ask for details!
From left to right, Duane Nichols, co-owner Mike Knish, Candice Spencer, Katie Nicles, and co-owner Laurie Spencer of Spencer Roofing and Construction are carrying on with the legacy of quality work and support for local charities that was established by Dave Spencer, who died in an Aug. 6 motorcycle accident. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
1st Company in Michigan to be Master Elite Qualified, Factory Certified & Factory Trained
ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION FREE WITH EACH ESTIMATE DAVE SPENCER was recently honored as “Business Person” of the Year
'We're still strong' Spencer Roofing carries on after tragedy
12 Months Same as Cash
By Leslie Shepard staff writer
O
There Is A Difference! Dare to Compare!
We are one of the oldest roofing companies in Michigan
• 36 Years Master With over 33 years in Carpenter business we are now celebrating our • Dormers 10,000th Satisfied Customer • Porches with an excellent track record • Siding
• Gutters • Windows • Attic Insulation • Complete Renovations
• Condominium Experts • Residential Homes • Commercial Buildings
A+ Rating with No Complaints
FREE ESTIMATES
248-360-PROS (7767)
www.spencerroofing.com Fully Licensed #2102121643 • Properly Insured
ver 32 years ago, Dave Spencer built his business, Spencer Roofing and Construction, from the ground up, and it remains one of the rock-solid businesses in the lakes area today, despite the sobering fact that Dave passed away tragically in August. Since then, the staff has banded together to take up the mantle of preserving Spencer's legacy. "We're still strong and carrying on his legacy," said Office Manager Katie Nicles. "It's business as usual — nothing is going to change," said Dave's business partner and long-time friend Mike Knish. "The transition has gone really well. Laurie (Dave's wife) and I will be the new business owners, Katie will stay on as the office manager and advertising advisor, and Dave's eldest daughter, Candice, is getting her business degree and coming on-board." Spencer, 52, died after sustaining a head injury on Aug. 6 in a motorcycle accident in Argentine Township. The early evening accident between Spencer's motorcycle and a pickup truck occurred on Silver Lake Road near McCaslin Lake Road. The westbound truck reportedly turned in front of Spencer's eastbound motorcycle, which struck the back of the truck, throwing him from the bike. Spencer wasn't wearing a helmet at the time. Spencer is survived by his wife, Laurie, and daughters, Candice, Mallory, Averi, and Dana.
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Spencer was renowned in the community for his generous spirit toward various organizations in need. The company continues to honor his wishes by donating to local charities. "He loved these charities, although he wasn't big in getting recognition for his efforts," Nicles said. "We are still supporting local charities, baseball and softball teams, and other events." Spencer was a homegrown boy who graduated from Walled Lake Western High School before heading off to join the U.S. Army. There he was trained in the special forces as part of the Rangers, and was highly decorated. Afterwards, Dave and Knish jump started Spencer Roofing and Construction in 1980. "Dave, Tami and I started the business from a beat up F-150 truck — just a couple of young kids doing a couple of homes a month," he said. "Now we do 200 to 300 homes a year. "One reason Dave was so successful is that he brought a military background to the business and said we all have to work together, and that good enough isn't good enough — it's got to be perfect or nothing at all. He was a tough son of a gun, but he earned a lot of respect for doing things this way," Knish said. Spencer Roofing and Construction takes care of all roofing needs such as re-roofing/tearoffs; roof repairs; inspections; new construction; and roof auditing. For more information, visit www.spencerroofing.com. ❏